Tavern Tales: Come on in and Have a Drink! Part IV

[WhoGuru]

Red came slowly awake, confused by the shake on her shoulder and the feel of another body behind her. In a panic, she struck out, rolling from her furs and to her feet. She ended in a crouch in the frosty morning air and a look of utter embarrassment on her face.

"Oh gods. I'm sorry." She gasped and quickly went to help Echo to his feet. He was rubbing his jaw while Arwin did his best to staunch the blood from his nose. "Oh no." Red covered her face with her hands and laughed. "You really need to be more careful waking me."

"For real." Echo said on a laugh and quickly burrowed into his own blankets to sleep. Red went to Arwin and laid a forgiving hand on his shoulder. He felt warmth spread through him and the pain in his face went quickly away.

"Thank you." He smiled ruefully at Red. "I little thought this would be a consequence of helping to keep you warm." He wiped the rest of the blood from his face as Red chuckled.

"Well, that will teach you to sleep so close without warning me." She grinned at him and then shook violently as the cold ate into her. "Gods." She breathed. Arwin quickly pulled her furs from the ground and wrapped them around her.

"I'll take your watch." He said, concerned but Red shook her head.

"No. I can do it." She had a stubborn set to her jaw as she hitched the furs closer. "This isn't near as cold as it's going to get up there." She looked up into the near peaks and the snow pack they would cross through. "You can take my watch up there, when I can't do it." She smiled at him yet looked anything but happy. "This I can handle. Go back to sleep Arwin." She turned and strode out to the perimeter of the camp, leaving him no room to argue. Resigned, Arwin returned to his bedroll but slept fitfully, waking often to see Red still standing watch.

Several hours later, Red woke both Echo and Arwin. The sun was still trapped behind the mountain peaks and had yet to lend it's warmth to the cold morning air. For once, she didn't help them strike camp, instead huddling by the fire. The last watch had been hard, the cold seeking her through the furs. She forced a smile on her face and swung up into Savior's saddle. She settled the furs more comfortably around her and was thankful for the horses body heat through her legs. She did not see the looks Arwin and Echo exchanged as they set off once more. For the moment, she was warm and moving again and led them further into the mountains.

The trio traveled steadily upward through the day into the snow covered world of the Valus mountains. Their breaths were puffing out before them now as a bitter cold descended upon them. Evening approached as Arwin, bringing up the rear of their party, saw Echo ride forward to Red. He could see she was hunched in her furs in the lead and kicked his own horse to catch them up. Echo threw an arm out around her suddenly and called to him.

"She needs help!" He said, a touch of panic in his voice. Arwin came alongside and saw her eyes closed as she visibly shook within the furs atop her horse. That she had not fallen from the saddle was a small miracle.

"Red?" He shook her lightly and only received the barest crack in her eyes as answer. "You take her on your horse Echo. You'll have to help keep her warm." He'd have done it himself but needed both arms free to defend them if need be. He dismounted and helped the boy thief transfer Red from Savior to his own mount, settling her in front of him and making sure she was well bundled.

"It's helping." Echo said in relief. "She's not shaking so bad now." He held her tight against his chest, willing the heat from his own body to hers. "She's so cold." He whispered to the Elf.

"We'll have to hurry. Andrenthis is only a few hours from here I think." Arwin mounted his own horse again, taking Savior's reigns.He needn't have bothered. As he tried to pull ahead of Echo, Savior pulled at his reigns and insisted on staying beside the two. "Alright you old warhorse." He said on a laugh. "You watch her then." He dropped the reigns and set a fast pace through the mountain pass.

Arwin wished they could gallop the last miles to the town but dare not in the snow drifts. If their horses should fall... he shied away from the thought of what being dropped in the snow would do to the ailing Red. He glanced back several times, making sure they were alright and each time found Savior keeping easy pace with Echo's horse, trying to sniff his mistress in the boy's arms. With a snort he turned back to the trail and far below, saw the lights of Andrenthis flickering below them. "We're nearly there!" He called back to Echo. "A half hour more perhaps!" He turned back once more and Aarow reared with a scream as an Ogre stepped into the path ahead of him.

[WillieSea]

Riding a rearing attacking horse was not the best place to use a bow on enemies so Arwin grabbed his Elven Short sword of Voltage from the saddle sheath. Kicking off the saddle he spun through the air and landed on the shoulders of the Ogre. Aarow kicked with his sharpened front hooves at the beast to keep it away from the other horses and the two humans.

Arwin was dazed for a moment while the Ogre contemplated the thought that something was on its back. It started whipping its huge arms and hands at its unwanted rider but could not seem to connect with it. Arwin drove his blade deep into the lower neck of the creature causing gouts of blood to spray him and making the Ogre scream in pain, it flailed its arms at Arwin and backed up slowly.

Echo watched the combat hoping Arwin could handle the Ogre by himself. They were incredibly difficult to kill with a small group of fighters let alone just one. Echo had to make sure Red stayed warm as he tried to steady his horse. He looked up to see a blood covered Arwin and the Ogre backing away flailing its arms trying to get at Arwin.

Arwin! Echo suddenly called out, but it was too late, the Ogre had pin wheeled backwards over a cliff with Arwin clutching at its back, driving the blade again into the neck of the monster. Echo's heart was now racing as Arwin and the Ogre quickly dropped from sight over the precipice. Arwin? Echo called quietly. A thud was soon heard as the Ogre hit the base of the cliff.

Echo could not get down from his horse to check on Arwin, Red needed him to get her to the town ahead. Echo decided it was a tragic and unfortunate turn of events, but Arwin had risked his life to save theirs and he was not going to let it go to waste. He rode as quickly as he could for the town while still being safe. Arwin's horse did not follow them the whole way, it had turned away when they came to the base of the cliff.

Echo made his way into the city and quickly found a warm inn and rushed Red to the blazing fire in the common room.

---

Arwin had pulled back on the Ogres head, forcing it to back step as it tried to get him. He would drive his sword into the creature to keep it angry and preoccupied with the pain. Sparks of lightning would course around the Ogres body each time he drove the blade home.

Arwin guided the Ogre to the cliff and soon found himself going over the edge with the monster. He spied Echo and Red still on their horse before he dropped below the cliff top out of their sight, he had to make sure they stayed safe and Echo needed to get Red to the city below.

As the Ogre tumbled in midair, Arwin drive the sword into its body and kicked away from it towards the cliff face. With his dagger firmly in hand he drove it into the snow and ice of the cliff face slowing his descent and pulling him closer to the cliff face. At the base, the cliff face angled outward, further slowing him before depositing him in a great snow bank at the bottom.

Arwin stood up and shook the snow out of his hair and dug it out of his eyes. Now he was cold and slightly wet, not a good combination for a cold night. He moved towards the Ogre who had landed badly on some large boulders. He found his sword and pulled it out of the beast and replaced it in its sheath at his belt. Taking his dagger, he split the Ogre open, releasing its heat at him. He then reached his hands inside the creature to warm them after pulling a fur over himself and the creature creating a pocket of warmth.

He decided that as soon as he was warmed up some he would have to head for the city before the night became any colder. He thought back to his old home in Cloudrest. He had often headed into the mountains by himself, it was much like his current situation. He then smiled and remembered the simple spell he had learned to keep himself warm.

A ball of fire formed in his palm, releasing its light and heat into his makeshift tent. He soon heard crunching snow outside and stole a look into the cold dreading another Ogre had appeared. A whinny from Aarow greeted him; a wide smile formed on Arwin's face as he reached out and hugged the horse to himself. He quickly mounted and draped the fur over himself and the horse. Then they quickly headed for Andrenthis where he hoped Echo and Red had gone.

[WhoGuru]

Echo ran into the Inn, the Laughing Highwayman, and all but dragged the Innkeeper from his counter with pleas for help. The man, a Breton from the looks of him ceased his running monologue of complaints when he saw the dark haired woman slumped over the saddle of Echo's horse. Without another word, he lifted Red from the horse and carried her quickly inside.

"She needs to be warmed." Echo said in a panic. His worry for Red vied with his fear of Arwin's fate.

"Been in these mountains a long time, Boy. I know what she needs." He laid Red on the hearthstones by the fire. "There's blankets in the closet behind the counter there. Go get 'em." Echo did as he was bid and returned to find the man peeling Red out of the cold stiff furs and her armor beneath that. "Name's Inwold. How many days you been stuck up there on the peaks? She's fairly bad off."

"A day." Echo said, handing the blankets to Inwold when he'd peeled Red down to her shirt.

"Only a day? Shouldn't be this far gone. Get down here and help me then." Inwold laid the blankets across Red. "Rub her arms, help get the blood flowing." Echo did as he was told and Inwold set to rubbing her legs. "She's near ice herself." He muttered, feeling the chill from her skin. "Traveling alone are ye?"

Echo shook his head. "No, our friend..." He trailed off, focusing on restoring circulation to Red. "There was an Ogre. He went over a cliff."

"Aye, there be a few in them peaks. I'm sorry for that, boy."

"Echo."He said automatically. "My name's Echo and this is Red." As he said her name, she stirred, moaned and opened her eyes. "Red?" She saw him, then turned her head toward the blazing fire beside her and was out again.

"Now don't fret, Boy...Echo. Perfectly natural. As bad off as she is, she'll be in an out for hours yet."

"I have to go." Echo stood. Now that Red was warm and safe, he had to go find what happened to Arwin. "I need to go look for our friend. Can...would you tend her til I return?" Inwold studied the boy, seeing more than he'd thought originally and nodded.

"Aye, lad. I'll care for her. Go find your friend's remains and good luck." Inwold waved him off and Echo left as he was covering Red with more blankets.

Outside, he mounted his horse quickly and turned once more toward the mountain path. He kicked his steed into a gallop in the vain hope he would find Arwin somehow alive at the base of the cliff. As he rounded the edge of the town, another horse stepped out in front of him and Echo drew up short with a gasp.

"Going somewhere in a hurry, Echo?" Arwin himself sat atop Aarow looking cold, the worse for wear and very much alive.

"Oh thank the Nine." Echo cried. Arwin laughed and clasped the young man's arm as he drew near.

"Where's Red?" He asked suddenly. "You've surely not left her somewhere on her own?"

"She's at the Inn back there." Echo gestured over his shoulder. "The Innkeeper, Inwold, is taking care of her. Seems to know what he's doing and I had to find you." He laughed now. "Worried for nothing."

Arwin smiled, feeling a bloom of friendship for him. "I'm honored that you would care so for one you barely know. Let's to the Inn then, for I'm cold myself." As they reached the Laughing Highwayman, Echo took all three of their horses off to the stables so Arwin could get warm himself. He entered the building and broke out in goosebumps when the warmth flowed over him.

"Welcome Sir." A large man by the fire greeted. He rose and Arwin could see Red laid out on the hearthstones, covered in blankets. He went to her quickly and the Breton man stepped in front of him.

'If there's something you need, you'd best ask for it over there." The man said in a menacing tone. "This one's not for you." He fingered a sturdy looking cudgel at his waist and Arwin grinned.

"I'm a friend. I merely want to be sure she's well." Arwin tried to placate the man to no use.

"I'm Inwold, this is my place and this young lady was left in my care. You'll keep your distance." Inwold warned, eying the elf with unfriendly eyes. 'I've only seen one of her friends and until that boy gets back, you're none of the same to me."

Arwin shook his head and laughed, turning as the door opened behind him. Echo blew in with a gust of snow. "Echo, would you please tell this...gentleman who I am."

"This is our friend." Echo said to Inwold. "The one I was going to look for. He found me instead. What's wrong?"

Inwold's attitude changed abruptly and he clapped Arwin on the shoulder. "Not a thing, Master Echo, not a thing. You look cold, sit by the fire with her then and I'll get you something to warm ye." Inwold headed off to the snug behind his counter leaving Arwin bemused with the quick change.

"You picked a good watch dog while you were away." He said to Echo and sat by Red. He peeled the blankets back to touch her face and found her much warmer to his touch. "You did well, Echo." He said, smiling at the young man as he too took a chair by the fire. "She seems much better."

"Cover her back up and she will be." Inwold said, returning with three mugs balanced in his hand. "Drink these, they'll warm ye fast. T'other's for her when she wakes, should be soon." He winked. "I'll make you up some rooms above. You're welcome to the fire long as you need it." With that, he headed up the stairs behind them whistling a jaunty tune.

"He's certainly a character." Arwin murmured and started when a warm hand touched his arm. He looked down to find Red looking blearily up at him. "Welcome back." He said warmly.

"Did I go somewhere?" She asked wearily, trying to sit up. Arwin slipped an arm under her and, ignoring her weak protests, lifted her easily off the hearth and into the chair next to it. "You can argue with me when you have the strength to actually hurt me." He said, laughing softly and let out a whoosh of breath when her elbow went into his stomach. He laughed harder then, rubbing his stomach and took her place on the stones, soaking in the warmth. "A valiant effort but not enough, Red."

She smiled and accepted the mug he handed her gratefully, folding both hands around it and sipping the warmed mead inside with a smile. "Where are we?" She asked, sounding more herself.

"Andrenthis." Echo said. He was relieved, not only was Red better but Arwin had miraculously survived his fall from the cliff and they were warm, at least for the night. Echo asked Arwin then how he'd survived the fall, which meant telling the whole story for Red who'd not been aware at the time. When Inwold returned, they decided to bed down for the night. Red flatly refused to be carried up the stairs and Arwin settled for allowing her to lean heavily on him as they made their slow way to her room.

The stairs sapped the last of her returning strength and he did all but carry her to the bed where Inwold tucked her in and placed a heated pan beneath the thick stuffed mattress for her. She was asleep almost as her head hit the pillow.

Arwin indulged himself, sliding a few strands of the now black hair from her face and softly wished her a good night as he left.

"She'll be herself again by the morning I'd wager." Inwold said in the hall. "Your room's the next one down." He said to them and headed downstairs merrily whistling once more.

"Definitely a strange one." Arwin said and he and Echo took themselves off to bed as well. It would take them most of the following day to escape the cold of the mountains and he worried Red would fall prey to this most unusual weakness once more if they were not careful.

[grond]

As Red, far away across Tamriel, fell victim to the cold, Grond, at Tajo's bidding, dragged the carcasses of the fallen werewolves through the tall brush and lay them down before the fire.

Taking a knife, Tajo shaved a large section of skin from the belly of one of the monsters, roughly in the shape of a diamond, but with long thin ends. She cut another similar shape from another of the beasts. Tying the long thin ends of one to the other, Tajo then set the crude bag to one side. Next she plunged the dagger into the bowels of two of the werewolves, and came out eventually with their bladders. Gore poured from the bodies, and with it came an incredibly strong odor which twisted with the wind. Lily poured perfume onto a shirt she'd taken from her pack, and she held it to her nose as she watched Tajo operate.

Tajo took the bladders to the stream and rinsed them, then returned. Slicing one end of each bladder, she set both next to the furry bag. The others looked on, fascinated, as the quiet Mage took the dagger and, with some effort and cracking of lifeless ribs, Tajo cut the hearts from them, and she set them into the bladders, then the bladders went into the bag she'd fashioned. The Mage wiped the blood from her dagger on a clean portion of the werewolf's fur.

"What have ye there?" asked Grond. "Trophies?"

"No," replied Tajo. "These will keep any others at bay, and they will aid me in making a curative."

Tajo explained to them that the scent of the hearts would reach the nostrils of any beasts left in pursuit of them, and that the odor would confuse them, thinking that their comrades were among them. Failan, looking somewhat ill, agreed. "We will not be accosted again," she said with a thick voice.

They noticed that Failan was seriously affected, both by Tajo's operations, and by the horrible odor which resulted from them. Tajo and Lily drew near to her, with concern, but Grond turned and went himself to the stream, to fill their skins for the journey ahead. When he returned, the others had decided that they would not spend another night there, for they were all sickened by the carcasses and the stench. They had put out their campfire, collected their things, and were ready to travel again. They would turn more south than west now, and head along the Brena to Rihad. Grond and Tajo rode ahead, and Failan and Lily came behind. There, past the stream, the wild grasses grew less tall, and their way was a bit easier. Wilson the Clannfear took up the rear.

After several uneventful hours they came into a lightly wooded place, and they heard before they saw that another river crossed their path, and joined the Brena on its way to Hew's Bay. They came out of the forest and stopped at a high bluff which overlooked Hew's Bay in the first light of the rising sun. A wide vista lay before them.

They gave no thought to how they might descend, as the sweeping vision before them took their speech away. Far off they could see the dark peaks of the lands across Hew's Bay, dark and foreboding Hew's Bane, Grond called it, and they did not want to go to that empty dangerous peninsula, for rumors of evil accompanied its name. Nearer, they saw the sun strike the golden spires and glittering minarets of Rihad. But at their feet, thundering, majestic, a great rushing waterfall curved out upon either side, as the two rivers joined and wore the land away. Dawn sent golden shafts which made the mists there shine brightly.

Amid the noise of the water, Lily was transfixed by the sight of Rihad, blurred though it was by the mists. "It looks so different," said the girl. "It's very pretty!"

"Aye, 'tis that, lass," replied Grond, looking out toward the northern spur of the falls, away from the City, "but don't go thinking that all the people there are just as pretty!"

She gave him a strange look. "Whatever does that mean?"

"He means, Lily," said Failan, "that there are a lot of folks in there who aren't kind. So we need to be careful."

"Oh," Lily said. "Then why didn't he say that?"

Grond, ignoring their words, said, "Follow me!" and he and Mik led them away north, where he spied a natural stair of sorts. They crossed the branch that joined the Brena, and rode easily down the bluff on its northern side. As Red awoke in the common room at the Laughing Highwayman, in Morrowind, they entered Rihad. The first part of their journey was over.

* * * * * * *

The port city of Rihad bustled even in the early morning. Sailors, singing songs of the sea, strode past street merchants who shouted to them of the excellence of their wares; musicians blew tin whistles and long wooden flutes, and closely watched their bowls of gold coins before them; fat nobles floated above the street on seats carried high by dark- and light-skinned slaves; strange scents, of unfamiliar things cooking and of incense burning under the awnings of outdoor vendors, wafted to the traveller's noses as they walked through the colorful silky throng of mostly dark-skinned Redguards.

They had left their horses, and Wilson the Clannfear, at the stables outside the city, and weary from their travel, and the battle of the night before, they longed for a comfortable place to rest, before they would seek out some ship to sail on to Gilane. "But what will we do with our horses?" asked Lily as she rode upon Grond's shoulders through the throng of people. Grond answered, "We'll try to bring them along, lass. But if we cannot, Mik and Auoruuqhrum can lead them home!"

He and Lily were likewise excited by the bustle and color of Rihad and its inhabitants. They walked behind Failan and Tajo, themselves casting their eyes from one interesting sight to the next. Grond had been to the port city many times before, though he'd been away for several years. He savored the exotic assault to his senses, and remembered that he did so each time he'd come here. So, each time Lily pointed and called his attention to something of interest, he was hard put to refuse her - whether it be a many-colored long-tailed parrot calling heartily to them from a vendor, or the sweet and spicy scents of some dainty, delicately cooking nearby - but refuse her he did, for he remembered a place he'd frequented, and he led them toward where he remembered it once was.

Rihad was comprised of square city blocks, and the Nord directed Tajo as she led the way, until they came to the place he remembered: The Baywatch, the Inn was called, as it was nearest to the western gate of Rihad, and Hew's Bay. Grond entered, with Tajo. Lily came next, followed closely by Failan, who rested light hands upon the girl's shoulders.

The common room's tables were mostly empty, but for one where several people sat, and many more gathered round. They had not even passed the first of the many tables within, when they heard a loud voice call from the crowded table.

"Hi! Tajomaki!" came the voice, and they turned toward it, and watched as Tajo left them and embraced the caller, who stood at the table. He was a tall Redguard, wearing a shining white silk vest and golden billowing breeches. Grond went on and at the counter he stood, and Failan with Lily came behind.

Soon a Redguard woman, with tight corn-rowed hair, and wearing a green silk dress with a long cut up either side, and which clung to her as tightly as did her hair, came from the table and flipped herself over the bar. Smiling at first at the strangers, as she drew near, her eyes came wide open. "No," she said to Grond. "We haven't got any Mead, you bastard! Not for the likes of you!"

Upon hearing the words, Failan drew Lily back from the bar. But Grond laughed and in a loud voice answered, "Wouldn'a want yer Guar piss anyways!" Reaching over the counter he drew the Redguard woman into a tight embrace, and lifting her, brought her clean over the bar into his arms. "Jelani!" the Nord cried. "What price for two rooms that are adjoined?"

He set the Redguard down but they still held each other. Jelani, looking up at the Nord, replied, "For you, Grond, the price is what it's always been! But after, if you tarry, I'll cut your thick throat!"

"Why would I ever tarry?" replied the Nord. "Only a hard scrub can cleanse me of yer stink, ye know!"

"I guess they're acquainted," muttered Lily to Failan, whose eyes looked everywhere but at the couple before her.

Grond turned with an arm over Jelani, and he motioned to Failan and Lily. "These two and that one over there--" he gestured toward where Tajo had now taken a seat at the table, "--travel with me. Get yer boy to see to them, will ye?"

"Certainly!" the beautiful Redguard replied, and she whistled loudly, and a Redguard with a somewhat lighter skin came running to them. Grond detached himself from Jelani and clasped hands with the boy. "How goes it, K'gosi?" and the Nord untied his purse and handed it to him. "I've been too long away, I know - and now I've got to leave again."

The boy K'Gosi said, "Nevermind! I'll expect you when I see you. And thanks for the present!" With that, the young man led Failan and Lily up the stairs, while Grond followed Jelani to her rooms behind the bar, his hands massaging the innkeeper's shoulders. It seemed to Failan as she stole a glance at them that Grond seemed eager to begin payment of their bill.

Sometime later they gathered in the dining area of their rooms. Both doors opened into the private dining area and there the companions ate a quiet dinner. Grond ate heartily, as did Lily, but Failan merely picked at the fare. They did not speak until the door came open from Failan's room, and Tajo, excited for the first time since Grond met her, said loudly, "We have a way to Gilane. I've won a ship in a game of cards!"

Grond quickly stood and shouted, "Let's go see her!" The Nord strapped his axe to his back. But Failan demurred. "I'll remain here and get some sleep," she muttered. Lily agreed she too would remain in their room and rest until they set off. Shrugging, Grond and Tajo went out to the docks to inspect the craft which Tajo had won. As they came into the common room, the Redguard man who had called Tajo was there still, and he headed out as the pair did, to see the craft. Tajo introduced him as Baako, an old friend. He stood nearly as tall as did Grond, but was lithe and lean.

They made their way out to the docks where the craft sat in the early afternoon sunshine, rocking gently in the water of Hew's Bay. Grond inspected the small sailing vessel with an approving eye. He had, as did every Nord, some experience with boats, and he said, " 'Tis a fine prize and a great win you've gotten here, friend Tajo! We'll surely be safe aboard this craft!"

The man named Baako proclaimed, "Of course you will, for she was mine! That's last time I play cards with this one. Such a face she's got - impossible to read a bluff!" Tajo said nothing. "Tajo and I," Baako said, "we had ourselves some adventure years ago! We chased a blue Dragon over much of the Alik'r - didn't we now, Tajo?" Tajo nodded but did not speak. At that the Redguard laughed. "Quiet as ever! I like her," the Redguard said to Grond, who felt rather glad that he had brought his axe, for as the Redguard finished speaking, from out of the cabin door there came three pirates, bearing scimitars in their hands. Baako called out: "But I like my ship the more!" And he swung a fist at Grond.

As the Nord caught the fist and twisted, sending an arm out of its socket and the Redguard to the deck, Tajo flipped backward and landed on a stack of crates. She raised her arms, and lightning came into her outstretched hand. She snapped the glittering whip and it hit the first of the three pirates, and an electric charged blast was heard as the tip flashed against the man, and he burst into flames.

Grond had his axe in his hands and he swung, beheading the second pirate, as the burning one tried to jump from the deck, but died before he could. The flames died as he did - they had finished the job they had been called for. That left only the third man, and he dropped his scimitar and raised his hands. Baako writhed still on the deck in agony at his limp dislocated arm. Tajo cracked the whip and cried, "Clean the mess from my deck!" The surviving pirate did his duty, tossing first his burned mate overboard, then his headless mate, and finally the bodiless head. He threw buckets of water onto the gore that remained behind. Then he and Tajo's friend Baako left the ship.

Grond took them off, but he said that if they came into the Baywatch Inn while he or his friends remained there, they would pay with their lives. The pirates fled into the city, the unnamed one aiding Baako. Tajo would remain and guard the craft. Grond returned to the Baywatch, to bid his farewells to Jelani and K'Gosi, and to collect Failan and Lily.

So it was that, as Red awoke in her heated bed, Grond and the others came into the ship, called the Revenge of N'Gasta. They found clean bunks within, and rested there. They would deal with their horses before they set sail.

[WhoGuru]

Red woke in her warm bed to find Echo sitting beside her, adjusting his goggles happily, tongue between his teeth. He made such a funny picture she laughed and startled him. "Good morning." She said as he fumbled, nearly dropping the goggles. He grinned happily at her.

"You look much better today." He said and moved so she could climb from the warm blankets. clasped his arm in gratitude.

"Thanks Echo." She looked around the sparse room. "Where's my armor and my weapons?"

Echo laughed. "Not hey, when's breakfast but where are my weapons." He shook his head. "Downstairs I think, where we left them when we brought you in." He opened the door, gesturing her out. "Can we eat now? I'm hungry." Red went ahead of him with a chuckle and down to the main room. They found Arwin sitting once more by the fire, now with a hearty breakfast laid before him and he gestured them over. Inwold rose from one of the three chairs and pulled it out for Red.

"Morning young lady." He said with a smile. "Good to see you up and about today." He missed the scowl she shot at him and went to talk to some of the new faces breaking their morning meals with them. Red sat and smiled gratefully at Arwin when he pointed at the floor beside her. Her weapons were sitting atop her armor in a neat pile by the chair.

"Now I can enjoy breakfast." She said and began happily piling food on her plate.

"We've a hard ride ahead of us today." Arwin started as they ate. He watched Red closely, assuring himself she was well once more. "It should be near nightfall by the time we leave the snow behind." Red nodded, grim of face once more and forced a smile for him.

"If it happens again, just light a fire and throw me in." She said lightly. She then thought about what she'd said. "You know, that's really not a bad idea. The fire can't hurt me."

Arwin chuckled. "I think we'll hold that as a last resort. If we make good time, we should reach warmer climbs before you're completely overcome once more."

Their meal finished quickly, Red donned her armor and weapons once more. Arwin noted her surreptitiously checking each as she dressed, making sure everything was where it should be he imagined. He turned his admiring gaze to an interested smile when she caught him watching and she shook her head, laughing. "There's a particular Dragonhunter of my acquaintance who'd hurt you I think for that look in your eye." She grinned at him.

He raised his hands with a sheepish grin. "Merely looking. A Mer who does not admire beauty in all it's forms is no Mer or man."

Whatever smart retort she would have made was forestalled by Inwold's return. "I see you're ready to leave." He greeted them and held a great, furred long coat out to Red. "This was my wife's, rest her soul." He said with a happy smile. "She'd flay me if I let you wander out of here into that cold again without it I think." Red took the offered coat and marveled at the heavy, soft furs worked into the leather. The many hues of brown and gold blended into each other and she smiled up at him.

"Thank you." She slipped into it, enjoying the feel of it as it settled on her shoulders and flowed near to her ankles.

"The missus was a bit taller than you." Inwold chuckled. He reached behind Red and pulled a thickly furred hood up for her. "That should help keep you warm til you reach the lowlands." He than passed a flask to Arwin. "Some of my finest fire whiskey. It's a bit rough, but gets the blood flowing when you need it. Good luck to you."

They thanked Inwold many times as they left for his generosity and Red, huddling outside in the folds of the furred long coat, surprised him by placing a gentle kiss on his cheek. He blushed, began muttering to himself about beautiful women and wouldn't his wife flay him and returned to his Inn.

"Let's be off." Arwin mounted Aarow as Red and Echo did their horses. The morning was indeed bitter, the meager suns light doing little to warm the mountain air and a gentle snow began to fall as they rode from the town. The plumes of the horses' breaths led them onto the mountain path again and Red bundled the coat even tighter, trying to keep the vicious chill from finding her.

[WillieSea]

Arwin smiled to himself as he led the trio out of the city and back on the road. He was very familiar with this part of Morrowind having spent a couple of years adventuring here. The trip down the mountain road would be a simple thing to do since they would get the benefit of the morning sun on the Eastern part of the mountains. They would probably even make it to Ouadabridge or even Oldrenthis before nightfall. Once out of the mountains the journey would become quicker.

Inwold would be surprised when he found the small sack of gold coins behind his counter with a quickly scrawled note thanking him for the coat. Arwin did not like handouts and he had never asked for them. The gold did not mean much to Arwin, it was just a tool he used to barter for other things. Besides, the pouch had belonged to the Ogre which he had liberated after its death. The Ogre teeth would fetch a fine price once they reached Mournhold. After his shopping trip at the Imperial City his coin pouch had become very light.

The day wore on and by noon they stopped for lunch. Arwin could tell Red was shivering under the huge fur coat. If there was only something he could do for her, he though to himself. Echo quickly got a fire going as Arwin roamed the countryside in search of fresh meat. He soon spotted a large white rabbit as it ran from bush to bush. One expertly aimed arrow soon protruded from its skull, a nice meal for the three of them.

He brought it back to camp and quickly prepared it for cooking. He then pulled three pieces of long metal from his saddlebags. Two of them were pushed into the ground on opposite sides of the fire while the third was stuck lengthwise through the animal. It was then placed on the two metal poles forming a rotisserie. Arwin touched the metal rod and said some arcane phrase and it started turning slowly leaving him free for his other task.

When he had thought of Red and her situation, he had almost slapped himself for not thinking of it sooner. He took the rabbit skin and dried it over the fire, cleaning it with his hunters knife. Once he had finished that, he sewed it together with the fur on the outside.

Red and Echo had watched Arwin work in silence. He certainly knew his way around in the cold, so much that you would have thought he was a Nord. The self turning spit was amazing enough, but they each exchanged puzzled looks at what he did with the rabbit's fur.

Arwin once again went to his saddlebags and pulled out a small pouch and a vial of liquid, at least after he had dug around for a while cursing under his breath. He returned to the fire and opened the pouch, pouring its contents into the rabbit's skin. He then poured in the liquid from the vial and closed the bag, shaking it for several minutes as whisps of steam or smoke puffed from it. He looked up at Red and grinned, then chucked the bag into the fire in front of Red.

She gasped and reached into the fire to rescue the beautiful pouch Arwin had created. She pulled the bag out expecting the fur to be singed off the leather but found that it was undamaged from the fire. She looked up surprised at Arwin and watched as he carefully pulled some rocks from the blazing fire and cast an unknown spell on them. Taking the bag from Red's hands, he rolled the hot rocks into it and tightened the drawstring. He then handed it back to Red who could feel the warmth instantly in her hands as she took the bag.

Arwin explained, Place that inside your coat and it should provide hours of heat. When it cools, anyone who knows fire magic can warm the rocks again. He then sheepishly looked down, not meeting Red's amazed look, I should have thought about that before, I am sorry Red. It is a trick that I learned in the wilds of Cloudrest in the cold mountains. I had not thought about it in a long time as I have learned to become accustomed to the cold.

After quickly finishing their meal, Arwin explained that they would quickly be out of the snow and into the foothills of the Valus Mountains and well on their way to Oldrenthis. True to his word, they quickly left the snow covered mountains behind them and descended into the warmth of the Morrowind forests much to Red's relief.

Arwin rode up next to Red as she stowed the fur coat away, Make sure you keep that bag of warmth with you, we have other mountains to cross before this adventure is over! He then rode ahead, laughing. Red plucked a pine cone off a passing tree and threw it at Arwin smacking him in the back of the head. Red sighed happily as Arwin rubbed the back of his head, no longer laughing.

[WhoGuru]

The vague swampy feel and look of the forests they rode through now made Red feel at home. For one who had grown up in the stifling heat of Black Marsh, the damp warmth that began to fall beneath the canopy was a breath of relief for her. She sighed deeply, breathing in the scents of wood and swamp and the mushrooms that grew wild everywhere they looked. The change from mountains to rain forest was dramatic. Without thinking, she turned to look south, towards her old stomping grounds and felt a moment's homesickness before shaking her head at herself. That was a life she'd never go back to.

She looked back then to her friends. Echo rode ahead with Arwin who was pointing out the various Alchemical ingredients as they passed. At a glenn of still water, Echo slid from his horse with a grin and waded in after a stand of Luminous Rusula. The softly flickering plant was rare in Cyrodiil and grew everywhere in Morrowind's warmer climate. Red was instantly alert. Without warning, the sounds of the forest stilled. She sat up straighter on Savior, pulling her bow from the saddle. Looking over, she found Arwin's bow already in his hand. He too was listening to the silence, wary as she was.

"Echo." Red said quietly. The thief was humming happily to himself and did not hear. Red slid from Savior's saddle and headed for him. Arwin stayed mounted, calling his augmented sight to him, he searched around them and called out to Red as several lifeforms appeared to him on the rise above her and Echo. A pack of Nix hounds erupted from the rise, bolting down the small hill after their prey. Arwin's arrows took three of them, Red's another two and then they were on them. Red did her best to keep Echo behind her. She drew the Dread Blade and wove it's silvery blade in a killing dance as she fought to keep them from him. There had to be a dozen at least, starving from the looks of them. Their ribs showed through their skin and the eyes were crazed.

"Arwin!" Red called. He was still loosing arrows, picking off those that strayed far enough from the two. Echo's own blade was in his hand now, forcing Red to back away from him and give him room to swing. The hounds seemed to sense the opening and flooded between them. Three more dove out of the water and toward the tasty sight of Arwin and Aarow. They fell long before reaching him. He leaped from the saddle and down to the water as Echo was pulled down, a Nix hound riding his back. Red screamed in fury and her blade erupted in flames. The next hound she stabbed began to burn, falling into it's comrades and setting them ablaze as well. Arwin reached into the water, pulling Echo to his feet and beheaded the nearest hound still reaching for the boy.

Only two of the creatures remained now, circling the three. They should have run, Red thought even as she struggled to contain the wild magic.

"They're not acting as they should." Arwin panted beside her, Echo held against him. That he echoed Red's thought helped to steady her. She swallowed some of the power urging to escape.

"Look at their eyes." She said, clenching her teeth to maintain control. "They're not right."

Arwin looked now and saw the same madness she had seen. Then they attacked, rushing them and coming quickly to their deaths, one on Arwin's short sword and the other bursting into flame as it touched Red's outstretched blade. They stood, waist deep in the water, as if waiting for the next attack. Arwin looked round and shook his head. "That's all of them. Nothing else living I can see." Echo groaned beside him and Arwin did his best to hold him out of the water. "Red." He said softly. Her dagger still danced with flames and she was standing unnaturally still, as if concentrating. "Red, Echo's hurt."

She jerked, hearing him finally and forced the magic down once more. She all but spoke sweetly to it, coercing it to go back where it came from and leave her in peace. She turned then, as the flames on her blade finally died and went to Echo. Arwin actually moved the man back a step from her.

"Are you in control?" He asked cautiously. Red flicked gently flaming eyes up to him and nodded. Arwin stared into those embers for long moments, making sure it was indeed the lovely Imperial looking back at him and moved Echo closer once more. His back had been shredded by one of the Nix hounds. Long furrows oozing blood and Red quickly took his shoulders. Her magic was not done yet and surged into him, healing and closing the wounds in seconds. When she would have pulled back, she found the magic still seeking within him and waited, curious. Though he was healed, Echo still swayed in her grip, eyes half closed and then she saw it. Like a barely visible aura around him that her magic allowed her to see. A poison of some kind, eating away at him. She quickly burned it away and Echo gasped as heat blew through him and then away.

He staggered back into Arwin who steadied him in the water. "Are you alright, Echo?" He asked, looking down at the young man.

"I think so." He said. His back no longer screamed at him and the confusion that had overcome him was gone. He grinned. "I feel great. Thanks Red."

She nodded, re sheathing the Dread Blade and looking around at the fallen beasts. "They're blighted." She said sadly. "I didn't realize that sickness had traveled this far south of the island."

"Then we shall have to be careful indeed."Arwin patted Echo on the shoulder. "We should go, lest more of the creatures appear." He watched Red now as she waded from the water and to her horse. Savior stood over the trampled remains of a Nix Hound with one hoof firmly placed on the creatures head. She laughed abruptly and threw her arms around his neck impulsively, heedless of what the men behind her would think. Once more, she had been scared she would not gain control of the magic, terrified it would turn on her friends. Even healing Echo she had felt the danger. She buried her face in Savior's mane and hid the tears of relief that escaped her.

She felt a hand on her shoulder and turned to find Arwin gazing down at her, understanding in his eyes. "Your control was better that time you know." He said softly. "You are learning." He suffered a bit with her, seeing the sheen of moisture on her face she tried to hide. "Perhaps you fear it too much and that weakens your control."

Red turned back to Savior, swiping the wet from her face. "I don't fear the magic." She said softly and moved aside from him to mount. "I fear what it would do through me." She rode ahead then, to the rise and waited for them to catch her up.

She lead them, having been this way herself once and knew the way to Ouadabridge. It was one of the more beautiful sights she had seen in her young life and looked forward to seeing it once more. The day wore on into early evening and just as the sun was dipping low on the horizon, they came to Ouadabridge, the city that bridged the Thir River, literally. The bridge was ancient and massive, legend said built by the ancient Hlaalu. A low city had sprung up along it's length, small houses and shops, Inns and even a library. Red snorted. What passed for a library at any rate, though the books within ran to more bawdy tales than histories. She heard Echo's whistle behind her.

"Is that where we're going?" He asked, awed.

"It is. That's Ouadabridge." She grinned at the look on his face. "If we pass through, we can be in Oldrenthis in a couple hours." She kicked Savior into motion once more, leading towards the river spanning city as torchlights twinkled into life along it's length.

[WillieSea]

The trio rode through the streets of Ouadabridge taking in the colorful signs and shops. The people wore colorful clothing, skimpy as it was. The heat from the swamp and humidity from the river combined into a stifling heat that caused them to lessen their clothing as well.

Arwin was more used to the cold mountaintops and now only wore black shorts. As they neared the book store, Arwin noticed Red sniff loudly as they passed but he also caught her peaking at a few of the boldly displayed books with colorful covers. Arwin had little use for such books as he found real life much more rewarding. He did have to ride up to Echo who had stopped to stare at the books on display and hit him in the shoulder before grabbing his horse's reins and guiding him away from the shop. With his acute hearing Arwin heard Red chuckle lightly ahead of them as she continued to ride forward.

They rode quickly across the long bridge that was also a town. Arwin could not wait to leave the stifling heat of the town as he wiped the sweat from his bare chest. Red completely enjoyed the heat, soaking it in and was careful not to get caught peaking looks at Arwin.

Arwin sighed in relief after they left the confining heat of the town. A few hours longer and they would be in Oldrenthis. Arwin took the lead enjoying the cool wind as they rode down the winding road.

Arwin pondered on the huge sapphires, the eyes of the wolf as they were called as he rode along. The gems were undoubtedly cursed and would probably be close together. When they reached the great city of Mournhold they would have to start making subtle inquiries as to the stones whereabouts.

As Arwin rode ahead, Red watched the shirtless Altmer, his hairless skin sparkled in the evening sun. She could now see why the rogue was so successful with the ladies as he was young, strong and certainly handsome. She then thought about Garulf and wondered how he fared in his search for Rider and hoped to see both of them again soon.

Suddenly a loud crashing noise came from the forest ahead and with a mighty boom a tree crashed into the road ahead of the three adventurers blocking their advancement. There were suddenly three bandit archers on the tree trunk pointing arrows at the group. Looking behind them six more heavily armed men and women advanced towards them.

The center archer on the tree trunk called out, Ye'll not mind if we relieve ye of yer heavy burdens so ye can continue on unfeathered now, would ye? Arwin cringed at how the bandit had butchered the language and seemed to even make up words.

Arwin looked up at the archer and with a wry smile on his face simply replied, You can try! The self proclaimed leader scowled while the two other archers fidgeted nervously. One of them whispered to the center archer which Arwin heard plainly in the silence of the forest, Let's be off then, right Tomas?

Thomas glared at the other archer and continued to aim at Arwin's head. The three below looked to be very rich and he was not about to let such a prize get by him again so he let fly his arrow aiming for the space between Arwin's eyes.

Time seemed to slow down for Arwin as he saw the arrow seem to slowly come closer to his head and he marveled at the skill of the archer, this Tomas was good but he was also stupid. A challenge he would have!

Red saw the arrow drilling towards Arwin and tried to choke out a scream of rage suddenly burning in her eyes and coming to her dagger which was instantly in her hand. She expected to see the arrow protruding from Arwin's head but was surprised to see the arrow caught in mid-flight in front of Arwin.

Red called out loudly to the bandits calling them an illegitimate child of unmarried parents and fell from her horse to avoid the arrows from the remaining two archers and rolled on the ground coming to her feet in front of the bandits with swords who were advancing on them from behind.

Arwin had his bow out and sent two arrows into the left archer throwing him from the tree to the road behind it with a loud thud. Tomas jumped behind the tree trunk and his footsteps could be clearly heard running as fast as he could from the area with oaths of revenge. The second archer had just released another arrow at Arwin who shot the incoming projectile in midair, destroying it.

Red slashed upward into the abdomen of the closest bandit catching him by surprise spraying the ground where she had been a moment before with blood and gore as he collapsed to the ground with a scream. Echo had his sword out and rushed the flank of the bandits swirling his sword in the air, taking the head from one of them while parrying the blows from two others.

Red parried a blow aimed at her head, the flames billowed on her dagger running up the length of the unfortunate bandits blade turning it red hot. The female bandit screeched and dropped the blade, her eyes wide in confusion. She then turned on her heels and ran into the forest away from the unknown dangers of the now obviously more experienced fighters. Several others of the band also broke off combat and retreated into the trees.

The second archer saw her mates fall quickly to the three marks and decided that a quick retreat was in order. She shouldered her bow and jumped off the trunk following in Tomas's footprints.

[WillieSea]

With the battle won, Arwin jumped off his horse when he saw the flames envelop Red. Echo had jumped off his horse as well and was running towards Red when Arwin jumped through the air and tackled Echo rolling with him away from Red and the flames. The horses being intelligent also shied away from Red and the heat of the fires surrounding her.

Red looked at her burning hands and arms, the fury of the moment still burned within her, she felt she needed to burn the bandits for what they had done, to teach them a lesson of the cleansing effects of fire! She looked around and saw two forms coming to a stop after rolling on the ground.

Echo looked at Red with sudden fear in his eyes, he had never seen Red like this, her eyes were blood red and the flames flickered wildly about her, tossing her hair up into the winds that now blew at her making for a demonic sight.

Arwin watched carefully as the fires seemed to take control of Red, he felt she had lost herself and he would need to help her return but he was unsure of how. Echo trembled beside him so Arwin pushed Echo back away from Red and told him to tend to the horses.

Arwin yelled to be heard over the flames and the sudden wind gusts. Red! Red! Can you hear me Red? Come back to us Red. Come back!

Red's vision was blurred by the fires, the heat and power were intoxicating and she enjoyed the feeling she was having. Something made noises, barely heard over the rumbling in her ears, a word, perhaps a name? It mattered little, the two bandits that were left would soon perish in her righteous fires!

Arwin saw the intent in Red's movements and her eyes. He felt sorry for her and knew she was having difficulty controlling the flames but little good that would do if he perished from them. She dove at Arwin trying to grab him but only grabbed air as he jumped over her lunge and came to his feet behind her. He swirled and called again, Red, you have to fight it Red, you have to fight it!

Arwin watched as the flames burned a brighter Red and danced angrily across her body. He would not be able to dodge the quick assassin forever, he had to figure out how to get through to Red, how to get through the fires of her anger.

He ducked under another thrust and had an idea, the fires seemed to be fueled by Red's anger and strong emotions. He had been going about it the wrong way, he had to calm Red down, not have her fight the flames.

Red, you must calm down, let the flames wash over you, don't fight them, release them! Red! Red! Arwin shouted to be heard over the gale force winds.

Red stumbled slightly, the fires dimmed noticeable but they still burned, she still advanced on Arwin intent on destroying what she perceived was a bandit. Red's mind was full of the feeling of power, but a tiny voice screamed to be heard over the howl of the power, a voice that seemed to be amplified by what the bandit before her was saying

Arwin wheezed with exhaustion, he had been dodging Red's blows for a while and finally determined that he could not hold out much longer. He had been trying to calm Red, asking her to come back to them. It had helped mostly, but he had not broken through the rage that still burned in her eyes.

He suddenly noticed that he was now blocked in by several large boulders, he had nowhere he could retreat to now. He stood up straight, the sweat beading on the skin of his bare chest, his muscles flexing. A grin formed on Reds lips, her prey had finally been trapped.

Arwin stood proudly before Red as she advanced towards him slowly, making sure he could not escape this time. Arwin knew his time had finally come, he was too tired to jump the high boulders and she left no other avenue of escape. He could feel the burning heat from the fires surrounding Red and waited for her advance.

As Red stepped closer, Arwin called out to her, Red, you are my good friend! Red! If you can hear me, hear these words,

Red slowed in her movements, the tiny voice was trying to make itself heard again. The flames tried to crush the voice but could not, something gave strength to that voice and would not allow itself to be silenced.

Arwin continued, I love you as my own sister Red! I will never raise a knowing hand against you! A tear ran down Arwin's cheek as he peered into the flaming red eyes of his destroyer. Red's hand reached forward to finally grab hold of Arwin

The voice burst from the pits of Reds being and blasted at the fires with emotions of love and peace, of sorrow and perhaps fueled a little by fear, but the fear was quickly staunched by the love and caring for the person before her, a person she now recognized as her traveling partner, her companion on the journey.

The flames covering Red went out suddenly with a pop and Red started to fall to the ground. Arwin quickly caught her and picked her up into his strong arms. He quickly brought her to where Echo had the horses, fear still in his eyes. Arwin laid her down on the ground and pulled a vial from his saddlebags. He uncorked the bottle and raised Reds head onto his lap, poured the contents into her mouth, its magic poured through Reds veins.

Red suddenly opened her eyes to find the piercing blue eyes of Arwin looking down into her own still fluttering eyes. She suddenly saw the face of William looking back at her then and opened her eyes widely as she suddenly sat up. Turning quickly with a smile on her face, expecting to see William again, she saw the sharp features of Arwin as he gazed at her with concern on his face.

Red felt shame as she remembered what had happened, how could she learn to trust others with this power? She felt the only way to protect her friends was to leave, to get far away from them. With her power being so uncontrollable they would be in more danger with her around than if she just left.

Arwin saw the conflict on Red's face and took her hand in his own. She was too startled and upset to resist as Arwin held her chin with his other hand and forced her to look him in the eyes. Red, you did it! You succeeded in winning over the flames, you now know how! Can't you see it Red? You have won! You have defeated the unknown and I know you can do it again. I will be her to help you when I must but you have proven that you can do it! Arwin then came closer and looked into Red's eyes where the flames burned still.

Red watched unthinking as Arwin's cold blue eyes stared at her, she could feel the cooling effect those eyes cast on her, the peace and stillness they contained. She then half noticed the rogues lips touching hers, not in a passionate way but as a sister. She just sat there and stared up at the now standing Altmer as he held a hand out to her. She looked at the hand and up the bare arm. She reached up and was quickly brought to her feet where she stumbled unsteadily on her still wobbly legs.

She fell forward into the sweaty bare chest of the Altmer and felt his grip tighten around her to keep her steady. It was comforting to know that somebody cared for you enough to risk their life for you and not expect anything in return. A sister he had called her, perhaps he could be her brother as well. She smiled in the Altmer's arms.

After a minute, Arwin whispered in Red's ear, Come, we have only a short distance until we reach Oldrenthis where we can rest comfortably at an Inn. Food and drink and a good nights rest and you will be back to normal.

Arwin walked Red to her horse and helped her mount. He then rode next to Red on one side while Echo watched the other. They soon entered the gates of the city of Oldrenthis. The gold Arwin had liberated from the defeated bandits would pay for this nights relaxation.

[WhoGuru]

The city of Oldrenthis was barely that, rather an over large town aspiring to be a city. The architecture of Morrowind could be seen clearly here in the rounded rooftops, arches and organic look to all the buildings. Arwin led them through the spacious streets to the Hawk's Inn. It was a large building that boasted it's own stables off the back. Their horses were taken by a young boy and the trio took rooms for the night and settled into the tap room on the first floor for dinner.

Arwin and Echo chatted amiably all through dinner while Red considered the many things that could go wrong in Mournhold. Even with her now unrecognizable hair, there was no changing her face. Mournhold had been the one and only time as an assassin that she had been known for what she was. She looked up to find both of them watching her carefully and steeled herself to tell the tale once more, or at least enough to keep herself safe. The room was empty but for them and the Innkeeper, busily cleaning glasses behind the small bar.

"I need to tell you something." She began softly. "It's the reason I felt the need to hide my hair." She once more ran a hand through the unfamiliar tresses. Arwin placed a gentle hand on her shoulder, smiling.

"Whatever it is, we'll understand." He said with a smile. Red shook her head.

"I hope you will. I was an assassin." She said bluntly. "For all but the last dozen years of my life. My last contract was in Mournhold." She stopped to take a breath, steadying herself against the memories of that night once more. She heard Grond's voice in her ear and took strength from it. "The Listener of my Sanctuary sent me to kill a child." Echo gasped and she saw Arwin's face darken. 'I didn't do it." She said, and felt an echo to that earlier time, when she had said much the same to many who had never believed her. "I didn't kill her. I couldn't. She died anyway, though not at my hand."

"What happened?" Echo asked quietly. She saw the trust on his face and silently thanked him for that.

"I was betrayed. The Listener wanted her dead for reasons I wont go into and sent a second assassin to make sure it was done." She stopped once more, the pain of that night rising into her throat and closed her eyes, seeing her golden curls and the blood again.

Arwin squeezed her shoulder softly in support. He had been momentarily shocked on hearing what she had been asked to do and, briefly, had believed it of her. He berated himself for doubting her heart. Red seemed to see some of that on his face and smiled sadly.

"Don't think better of me than I was. I was very good at my work and I enjoyed it." She looked down once more. "I killed a great many people in the name of Sithis and never questioned my life until that night. He set me up, the other assassin." She looked back up now, her green eyes fierce. "He butchered that child and left me to face the guards. I fled Mournhold a wanted murderer."

"That's why you dyed your hair." Echo said, a look of soft horror on his face at hearing the tale. Red nodded.

"There may yet be those in Mournhold who will remember what happened and more, remember my face."

"Who was the child?" Arwin asked, perceptive as always and Red shook her head.

"The daughter of one of the King's Courtesan's....and of the Listener." She barely breathed the last, feeling the anger wash through her once more and the despair of her last sight of the happy, trusting child in the assassin's arms.

"Stay calm, Red." Arwin warned for he saw fires kindling in her moss green eyes once more. "You can not change the past. Breathe." Red nodded, feeling a twinge of fear herself as she felt her magic wake and took several deep breaths, pushing it back under control. "Good." The flames withdrew again into her eyes.

"It's been what? Twelve years since you were last in Mournhold?" Echo asked. "You'll be alright. We'll watch out for you. No one's going to put you in prison again." He said fiercely.

"Again?" Arwin asked, confused. "I thought you escaped the city?" Echo laughed, not a kind laugh and told Arwin of Red's recent encounter and false imprisonment because of the late Lord Llervu. Red took the time to steady herself, trying to regain the brief peace she had found with the memories in Sutch with Grond. She wished suddenly for Garulf and thoughts of him led inevitable to Rider and she sighed.

"Red?" Echo asked. She shook her head, smiling.

"It's nothing, just missing our friends." She raised her mug, draining the last of the meade. "I'm for bed. We should leave early in the morning. If we reach Mournhold after dark we'll have to camp on the plains beside the city for they close the gates now at dusk." She rose and went upstairs, not explaining that she was the reason the city closed itself to outsiders after dark.

"She'll be alright." Echo said once more. Arwin nodded absently, watching after the surprising woman. He hoped so. He now wished they had chosen a different artifact to search for.

Come the dawn, they were outside, on their horses and quickly on their way to Mournhold. In the early hour, the heat of the day had yet to fall and, once clear of the city, pushed them to a gallop. They would be hard pressed to reach the gates of the city of light before dusk fell.

[WhoGuru]

The road to Mournhold was well traveled and aided them in speeding to the city. Merchants and travelers passed them more often as they came closer to the city. Some shadier looking sorts would eye them speculatively as they neared and quickly step from their path, seeing more trouble than they cared for. Finally, as the days light began to bleed from the world, they reached the edge of the forest and crossed onto the plain surrounding the city.

Mournhold twinkled already in the fading rays of the setting sun. Her gilt spires and windows winking to travelers as they approached. �If there were a monument to avarice anywhere in Tamriel, surely it was here, Red thought with a smile. �The city was a thief's dream and curse. �The riches to be had were legion and dangerous to come by with Ordinators and Almalexia's Hand's watching all that happened within her walls. �Red wondered how much sway Almalexia's Hands still had, with their goddess missing or dead. Things may be very different in Mournhold.

They crossed the short distance to the city and headed for the gates to Plaza Brindisi Dorom. The doors were still open, to their relief. They stabled their horses quickly and made for the gates. Two Ordinators watched the mass of people coming and going through the doors. Once in the Plaza, they heard the Ordinators shout something and turned to find the massive gates being swung closed as they watched. People scurried to leave or enter before they closed until finally they met with a resounding thud.

"That's it." Red said solemnly. "We're stuck in Mournhold til morning."

"Don't you know another way out?" Echo asked with a grin. "You must know one or two."

Red smiled and laughed softly. "Oh aye, I know one or two, but none I'd like to risk unless pressed. The bones of Old Mournhold lay beneath the city." She looked down, as if seeing through the stone and back up to Echo. "It's the lair of the Morag Tong and not somewhere you go lightly."

"Really?" Arwin asked. "They function beneath the royal city itself?" He was a bit shocked to learn that. "Why do the Ordinators not simply clean them out?"

Red laughed louder this time. "Those old streets and tunnels are a maze. I heard they tried once, sent in a whole division." She began walking towards one of the three smaller gates.

"And?" Echo asked, dancing beside her with curiosity.

"Only one of them made it back out. They let him go to tell the others. It worked. They've never tried again." She patted his shoulder. "When even the Ordinators choose not to enter a place, you'd do well to pay attention." Echo sighed, his visions of long lost treasures beneath his feet lost.

Arwin laughed. He could well imagine the uproar the failed mission had caused. No doubt, the King had declared the area beneath the city 'safe' rather than admit the debacle that had actually taken place. "Where shall we begin our search?" He asked.

"The Great Bazaar I think." Red headed for the nearest gate. "If there's information to be had on any subject, that's where it will be found." Another Ordinator pulled the gate open for them as they reached it. Red kept her head carefully down as they passed him. She needed to remember to be inconspicuous. The bazaar was becoming quiet for the evening. The street stalls were closing up, and lights flickered in the windows of the shops near by. Red led them towards one of the tents and around the back. "The Dunmer who runs this shop was always a good source of information." She smiled at them and stepped through the back flap. "Hello." She greeted the dark skinned Elf who looked up at their entrance. He scowled darkly at them.

"Business is done for the day, travelers. Come back tomorrow." He went back to covering his wares, dismissing them. Red stepped closer to him and placed a casual hand on the counter. Arwin heard the ***** of gold striking the counter beneath her hand and smiled. The shopkeeper smiled as well, a shrewd grin and arched a brow at the attractive woman.

"I suppose I may have just a moment for you. I'm Roner Arano. What is it you wish?"

"Only information." Red replied. "We're looking for two unusual gemstones, sapphires. We heard they may be somewhere in the city."

Ronar raised his other brow then and laughed, nudging her hand aside to deftly slide the coins from the counter. "You're a bit late then. There were two such gems on display in the Museum of Artifacts in Godsreach. They were stolen several years ago. Big to do, guards killed, blood on the walls. All very exciting." He pocketed the coins. "The curator may have more information for you."

"Thank you." Red said and turned to leave.

"Do I know you?" Ronar said suddenly from behind her. "Your face seems familiar, though you outlanders tend to look alike to me." He chuckled.

"This is our first time to Mournhold." Arwin stepped in, placing an arm at Red's back and getting her moving once more when she'd stopped. "You're mistaken." They left quickly then, Arwin leading them out and up the stairs by the shop to the level above. He could see the tension on Red's face, the fear of being discovered. He glanced below and saw the shopkeeper, Ronar, with his head out of the flap, watching them for a moment before going back inside. That worried him. "It's alright, Red." He said, keeping a hand at her back as she nodded stiffly.

"We should find somewhere out of the way to stay the night." Echo said, coming up beside her and linking an arm with her. "Just in case. We'll keep you safe." He said with such assurance she laughed. They stepped through the door into the Temple plaza in a lighter mood.

The Temple gardens were lush as Red remembered. Hand's walked the pathways around the soaring temple, greeting each person they passed with the same words Red remembered from her last time in the city and rolled her eyes in disgust.

"Mournhold, City of Light, City of Magic, welcomes you." One Hand growled as they passed. Red slapped a hand to her head and growled herself in frustration.

"You know, the last time I was here, there was more than one reason I avoided those idiots." She laughed as Arwin and Echo chuckled beside her. "Got bloody tired of hearing that and was tempted to go on a killing spree for the sake of my own sanity." They passed two more Hand's on their way to Godsreach and the museum, each one forcing a bark of laughter from Arwin as he imagined Red laying waste to Almalexia's Ordinators.

They studied the temple as they went past. It looked tarnished somehow. It seemed to not have the same glow Red remembered, as if it were lessened without its' Goddess in residence.

'Do you suppose she's dead?" Echo asked quietly, studying the spire above them. "And Vivec?"

"I don't know." Arwin said, equally as soft. "We may never know." They left the Temple behind and entered Godsreach. Here, the homes were tall and sprawling, richly decorated and Arwin and Red watched Echo's eyes light with avarice.

"Forget it." Red patted him on the shoulder. "No thieving while we're here." She watched his face fall. "I know it hurts." She pointed to a corner house across from them. "That one..." and she leaned in to whisper to him. "Has a hundred golden figurines on display in a vault in it's cellar. I've seen them once." She turned the boy away from the house as he all but drooled. "And the floor is rigged to fall away if even one of the statues is disturbed." She told him with a grin. Even as they walked away, further into the city, she looked back, once more longing for the chance to overcome that trap. Oh what a display of skill that would be, she thought and wondered if her considerable skills as a thief were good enough. She thought they were and laughed when Arwin placed a hand on her head, turning her away as she had done Echo.

"We don't have the time for the two of you to show off." He said, chuckling. He could almost see her working through the problem in her mind. "Mind on the business at hand, the pair of you." Echo and Red exchanged happy looks and laughed once more knowing they had both considered slipping away in the night for a chance at it. Arwin went ahead of them shaking his head and muttering about irrepressible thieves and led them to the Museum.

[WhoGuru]

The Museum of Artifacts was quiet and, as they looked about, well guarded. Two armed men stood at the back of the first floor. Obviously alert for danger, they stiffened as Red, Arwin and Echo entered. Arwin took the lead now, wishing to keep Red in the background from now on. He went to the men with a friendly smile.

"Excuse me, we're looking for the curator?" He asked politely.

The guards exchanged a look and the one on the left answered curtly. "She's upstairs. Don't cause any trouble." He warned. Arwin nodded and motioned up the near stairs to Red and Echo. They followed the curving stair to the second floor and found a forest of pedestals and cushioned cases displaying a variety of oddities they'd rarely seen before. Red went to the center display, looking intently at the unique sword laid out beneath a case of glass. It's curved blade gently ran with golden flames and she breathed a sigh.

"It's beautiful." Arwin said, coming beside her to look at it.

"It's the Blade of Nerevar." A woman's voice spoke from behind them. "One of a kind, forged by the Dwemer." The richly dressed Dunmer woman came forward and smiled. "I am Torasa Aram, curator. May I help you?"

Red stayed gazing down at the sword and Arwin understood she may have known this woman once. He greeted Torasa warmly. "We heard of your amazing Museum and came to see the relics, in particular, we were interested in a set of blue sapphires. Rather large and exquisite so we hear."

Torasa's face fell and she shook her head. "I am sorry you came all this way for nothing. They were stolen many years ago." She gestured at the guards who also waited on this floor. "My security was not so good then. I have learned my lesson."

"May I ask, what happened?" Arwin showed sympathy with his face, placing a gentle hand on the woman's elbow. She smiled gratefully at him.

"Assassins came in the night. We only had two guards then and both were slain." She gestured with her hand to a lone empty case at the back of the room. "I keep the case empty in hopes they are one day returned. Though I doubt any will brave that place in search of them."

"Wait." Echo interrupted, stepping forward. "You know where they are?"

She nodded. "At least I think so. There are rumors that an old Assassin took over the daedric ruins north of here more than a decade ago. It was shortly after that the gems were taken and the creatures started to appear." Seeing she had a rapt audience, she continued. "The rumors say this assassin has called near an army of disaffected killers to him, changing them with strange magics, making them more than men."

"More than men?" Arwin asked, intrigued. "How so?"

"I don't really know. Only that they slaughter any they cross. The stories of dead adventurer's found near that place are....gruesome." She shook her head. "Is there anything else you need?"

"Do you know the name of the assassin?" Red asked without turning around. Torasa studied her back and shook her head.

"No, I'm afraid I don't. I do not think any do. I must go about my duties." She nodded to the trio and left, heading upstairs with yet another guard.

"Red?" Arwin asked for she had yet to move.

"We know where we're going now." She said softly and turned finally, face pale.

"What is it?" Arwin asked, concerned. She did not look well. Red glanced at the guards behind them and opted not to give them the chance to overhear. "Outside." She said and led them down and back out to the street once more. Torchlight lit the streets now and they stepped into a shady corner with her.

"I may know who this old assassin is." She said softly. "He always said he liked the looks of those ruins." She breathed, then shook her head. "My Listener." She said and turned to kick the wall behind her and stomp away for a moment. They watched her fume, worried, but waited. Finally she came back. "This isn't fair." She muttered and then kicked the wall again.

"Better?" Arwin asked with a smirk. Red glared at him, kicked the wall once more and then nodded.

"No." She growled. "Why does this keep coming back to me?" She shook her head again. "I'm sorry. I'll deal with it." Echo came and threw an arm around her waist.

"It will be alright." He said. "Whatever it is, we'll deal with it, like we always do."

Arwin too took her shoulder. "He's right. You wont be dealing with him alone." He frowned now. "The stories concern me. 'more than men' the curator said. Not to mention how a Brotherhood assassin leaves and starts his own army."

"They think he's dead." Red groaned, covering her face. She remembered now the hunters overrunning the sanctuary. The cries of her brothers and sisters as they fought and died. They had been hopelessly outnumbered. She remembered the listener, Atelli Magia, struck down as she watched. She had been taken down herself then, the last thing she'd seen had been his bleeding body crawling away from his killer. She had assumed him dead with everyone else and now wondered if she had been wrong. Even knowing he had betrayed her, she had been unable to hate him. He had been the only father figure she had ever known. She had mourned his loss as she did no one else from that part of her life.

"Red?" Arwin was waiting for her to lose control, when she didn't he breathed a sigh.

"I'm alright." She answered finally. "We need to find a room for tonight. Tomorrow we'll head to the ruins."

Arwin wanted to ask what memories had put that mix of sorrow and confusion on her face but knew she wouldn't answer him. Whatever it was was too painful. He allowed her to lead them to the nearest Inn, the Winged Guar. He purchased them rooms for the night and in the morning, wisely didn't comment on the lack of sleep that showed on her face in tired eyes. �They slipped from the city as the gates were opened and, gathering their horses, set out for the ruins to the north and whatever ghosts from an assassins past lay in wait for them.

[WillieSea]

Arwin let Red lead them out the city gates and then crossing the bridge to get on the west side of the river. There were no roads or trails so they followed the river upstream through the wilderness which would lead them to the tall hill the Daedric ruin sat on.

They had not traveled very far when Red and Arwin looked at each other; they were being watched from the trees. Arwin searched with his life trail sense and a blur became visible in front of them. He called out, Red, hold a moment. He then slowly rode up to her as she looked back at him. They were careful to not let their watchers know anything unusual was happening.

Arwin then talked to Red about the path they were taking and how long it would be before they reached Darvon's Watch. While he talked, he made hand signs to Red, signs that only thieves or assassins would know, which raised a surprised eyebrow from Red. Paying more attention to the signs, Arwin told her there were traps directly ahead and that she was to ride exactly where he did.

He then told her loud enough for the watchers to hear that he would lead for a while. As he moved forward to distract the watchers, Red had a moment to relay the message to Echo who nodded.

Arwin waited for Red and Echo to come closer and proceeded to wind a trail through the forested ground ahead, avoiding the obvious trails and blazing his own, the whole time complaining about the thick underbrush in this part of the forest.

Red followed closely and noticed several traps with her keen eyes and smiled as Arwin moaned about the overgrown rough ground he was leading them through. The watchers in the trees would be getting pretty mad by now, wondering how stupid the three riding below them were when there were obvious trails to follow, albeit trapped trails.

As the three left the trapped zone, Arwin heard the sound of a bow string being stretched and quickly turned in the direction of the sound as if to talk to his companions. He gave them the sign of the archer as he stood completely still, hoping to draw the archer to aiming at him. Both Red and Echo rode by as the twang sound of a fired arrow came to him. Time slowed as Arwin focused on the incoming missile and grabbed it out of the air. His bow was already in his hand as he returned the simple iron arrow back to its sender.

There was a thump as the arrow hit flesh followed by a crashing noise as the archer fell from its perch in the tree it had been hiding in. There was a sudden growling noise as the dead archer's companions rushed the three travelers.

Arwin watched as the first of the attackers emerged from the brush behind them, they were human in shape but badly deformed with strange angles to some of their limbs and hair or fur growing in spots. Some had muzzles like a wolf, some had the ears or eyes of a wolf mixed in with human features. They came forward with weapons or sharp claws as they advanced to attack, the whole while guttural growls filling the air in an attempt to demoralize their targets.

Arwin started shooting arrow after arrow into the attackers dropping many of them to the ground dead. Red had dropped from her horse and braced for the oncoming assault with Echo at her back. Six of the deformed creatures lay dead on the ground before Arwin dropped his bow and pulled out his short sword and dagger.

The creatures crashed into their defensive line, the initial thrust parried. They then drove their swords and daggers into the grotesque creatures, felling them almost as quickly as they came. The creature's anger and underestimation of their prey quickly sealed their doom. Red cut the last one open, its intestines spilling to the ground as it looked up at her where it lost its head to a high swing from Arwin's sword.

Arwin looked at Red and saw the fires in her eyes and smiled when he saw them dim. She had not used the flame in the battle and Arwin exclaimed as he patted her on the back, Red, you controlled the flame this time!

With Echo leading the way they searched the dead for parting gifts to the victors. Arwin only took the gold and jewelry while Echo took everything of value, each item disappearing into the sack he carried. Arwin wondered as item after item entered the sack but it never seemed to get filled up or heavier.

Red pondered the dead creatures at their feet, it was almost like they had partially been turned into wolves. Her old Listener was dealing with an evil magic which she wondered if he would be able to control it. She was torn as to what she would do should she meet her old mentor.

[WhoGuru]

Mounted once more and wary of another attack, they pressed on through the heat swamped forest, up the river and toward the ruins whose twisted spires they could now see peeking above the canopy. Arwin constantly scanned the area around them. Several times he raised a hand, bringing them to a halt, only to start forward once more. He was seeing distant images, dozens at a time, skulking through the forest around them and as yet unaware of their presence. He whispered this to Red when she draw next to him and saw her scowl.

"I don't like this." She said, peering through the dense trees to their goal. "How are there so many in such a short time."

"Over ten years, Red, if the Curator woman's information is to be trusted." Arwin replied. "Perhaps they were not all willing participants to his cause." He watched her face darken with understanding.

"You mean he may have taken people, changed them against their will." She nodded. "He would, if he thought he was right." She shook her head and dropped back behind Echo once more. That this was hurting her, Arwin could clearly see and wished there were some way to spare her this. He led on once more, pushing the worry from his mind. A bare half mile from the ruins, they were forced to stop and hide the horses as best they could. There were simply too many of the things wandering the forests now. He saw a clear method to their travels. They were searching as if looking for something...or someone.

"They know." He told Red and Echo. "They know we're coming. I can feel it."

"But how?" Echo gasped. "We didn't even know we were coming until last night."

"The Pawnbroker. I'm sure of it." Arwin looked sadly at Red. "I saw him watching after us when we left. He must have recognized you and sent word ahead."

She nodded and straightened her weapons. "So they know. Doesn't mean they have to see us." She patted Savior as she passed him, wishing him luck. "It's been my experience that the more guards you have looking for you, the easier it is to pass unseen. Too busy looking at each other." Echo snorted and fell in behind her, as did Arwin.

They passed through the lines of mutated men slowly, forced to stop many times. On one occasion, they took a small patrol by surprise. Arwin watched in grim awe as Red, having climbed one of the trees, hung upside down and took one of the creatures by the throat, silently breaking it's neck before dropping soundlessly to the ground beside it. It was becoming easier to believe she had once thrived in that life. The closer they came to the ruins, the harder it came to pass through the patrols. They increased in number, blocking their path at every turn.

Just when Red thought they were going to have fight their way in, a cry rose up in the distance from the far side of the ruins. Many of the patrols in their way answered the call, plunging off through the forest and leaving the way before them almost clear.

"What happened?" Red whispered into Arwin's ear where he crouched beside her. He placed his mouth against her head and answered just as softly.

"Don't know. I can see them converging on a point maybe a mile distant but it's too far for me to make out clearly."

Red shrugged. "Lucky for us." She went forward once more and the few remaining guards outside the ancient city were dealt with quickly and quietly. They entered the twisting, maze like streets, finding more guards here and there, doing their best to slay them before they could cry a warning. Finally, the odd, oval door leading into the ruin was before them. Red pushed softly on it and it swung open on well oiled hinges. She waved a hand and together they stepped into the dimly lit interior. The short entry hall branched off to either side almost immediately. Arwin pointed to the left, sensing life that way.

They followed the strange, tilted corridor. Though the floor was even, the walls bent inwards creating a claustrophobic feel to the place, as if the architecture itself were thinking of crushing them. It was unnerving and kept them alert. At the bottom of the hall, they found a large square chamber, a statue of a daedra at it's center. There was no life in the room, the creatures further down the next hall and Echo cautiously went to the altar beneath the statue. On a golden tray lay several offerings: He saw diamonds, emeralds, the sickly still bleeding heart of some creature and a ruby the size of his fist.

Before Red or Arwin could warn him, he had plucked the ruby from the tray. "Echo no!!" Red yelled, yanking him backwards and drawing her blade. She had been in some of these ruins before and fallen afoul of this very trap once. "Draw your sword." She ordered and then, senses tingling, whipped round with her blade held high and met the clash of a Dremora Lord's dwarven blade on her own. Taking the jewel had summoned him. The impact crashed down her arm, the strength of the blow sending her reeling into Echo as her arm grew numb.

Arwin was instantly there, shortsword and dagger flashing in the light from the flaming cauldrons in the corners of the chamber. The Dremora growled at him, peering over his shoulder to Red and Echo. It was the boy he wanted. Echo crawled out from under Red, pulling her to her feet as she cradled her arm and took the Dread Blade in her off hand. "Stay back." She told him when he would have jumped into the fight. "It's you he wants." She kept her place in front of him, should the daedra spawned monster pass Arwin. Her right arm was a misery of pins and needles and she hoped the Elf was up to the task.

Arwin could have fought more freely if he dared to leave his place before the altar but knew he could not. He too knew how the trap worked. The Dremora would unerringly go Echo if he gave it the opportunity. So furious was the thing's attack, he could not even spare a glance to make sure Red was alright. His blades wove before him, fouling attack after attack and finally, when he felt his strength flagging, he managed to lunge through the Dremora's attack and plant his dagger to the hilt in it's neck. He came back with his shortsword then, a clean swipe that took it's arm at the elbow and quickly finished it off as it fell to the floor and dissolved into a pile of ash.

"Red." He turned quickly and found her holding her ground before Echo, face pale and dagger at the ready. He smiled. He should have guessed. "Are you alright?" He asked. She nodded.

"Arm's numb. The feeling will return." She slipped the Dread Blade behind her belt, unable to put it in it's sheathe at the moment and turned to Echo, who was standing shamefaced behind her.

"I'm sorry." He said softly. "I never should have taken this." He held the fist sized ruby in his palm and looked at with disgust. When he would have put it back, Red stopped him.

"No, it's alright, Echo. I should have thought to warn you. I'm sorry." She closed his hand over it. "Take the others as well, no sense leaving them behind." She smiled at him. "It's safe now, you took just the right stone." She laughed softly at the dismay on his face and clapped him on the shoulder with her good hand. He did turn and take the rest of the gems, pocketing them quickly with an irrepressible smile.

Arwin held an arm out then, silencing them. "We've been heard." He said quietly. The life he had seen further in was now coming their way, quickly. Red tried to flex her fingers and failed, the feeling still not returned. She drew the dagger with her left hand once more and hoped there would not be too many. "Do we meat them here?" Arwin asked.

Red considered and shook her head. "No, let's head into the hall. It will force them to bunch up. They're too big to go more than two abreast through there. We can force them to thin their numbers."

Arwin nodded and led them into the corridor, a mass of brightly glowing, distorted life quickly heading their way as they headed deeper into the ruin.

[WillieSea]

The two had just finished destroying a small group of the deformed creatures setting their souls free from their tormented lives when another group of them saw the massacre. This new group sent the alarm out, howling, calling to their brethren.

The man in golden armor cursed lightly at the bad luck of it and sighed, his partner, a female and he would have to cut their way through the horde of half wolf and half human things. Perhaps Akatosh had a reason for this turn of events, a reason he was not privy to. He was only told where to go and nothing else. Of all the things in his new life this is what bothered him the most. The two warriors waded into the foul creatures dropping them as they progressed forward.

The Daedric ruin was at the top of the hill ahead, the ruin the man in golden armor was to enter. His only instructions had been to put a stop to the foul magics of the place, to stop the half transformations he assumed. With his new closeness to his god, the power of the couple had become almost unimaginable; their wounds would heal as soon as they were inflicted.

Arwin led them through the tunnel as silently as they could go. Looking back, the enemy force had finally entered the chamber they had just vacated, seeming to mill around. He then watched as they split into three different groups, each taking one of the tunnels leading off the chamber. Arwin relayed the good news to his friends and they decided to wait for the arrival of the group following them at a junction in the passage.

Echo hunched down in front, his sword drawn while Arwin and Red stood behind him their bows at the ready. They waited patiently for Arwin to tell them when to attack, his unusual sight giving them the advantage. Red�s hand still tingled but was feeling much better than it had as she rubbed it, trying to force feeling back into it.

Shortly, Arwin whispered, �Prepare, here they come.� The three could hear the growls and heavy breathing of the foul incarnations of wolves came up the tunnel. Both Arwin and Red pulled back on their bows, an arrow each ready to take those first in line. The first were always the strongest in the pack mentality the creatures seemed to adopt.

�Release!� Arwin whispered and two arrows zipped down the passage into the darkness. Arwin with his sight hit the first beast between the eyes knocking it back into its brethren. Red�s arrow just missed the first in line but caught the second creature in the eye, twisting it around where it fell into those behind it. The whole pack growled loudly, alerting all that the prey had been found. They then surged forward as several more arrows zipped down the tunnel tripping the ones behind with their dead carcasses. Only one of them managed to reach Echo who quickly ended its pitiful existence with a deft movement of his blade.

Breathing heavily, the three victors heard answering cries from wolves in other parts of the ruin. They had to move quickly from the area before they became surrounded by the bloodthirsty creatures. They headed downward anytime a tunnel presented itself to go in that direction. They soon came to another chamber much like the one above, another altar and statue, and the plate full of gems and jewels. A large red ruby sparkled brilliantly in the center of them all, tantalizingly inviting itself to be taken.

�Echo!� Red called in a stern voice as he moved towards the gem filled plate. �Perhaps you should let Arwin take these since he defeated the Dremora Lord the last time?� she said. �The reward really should go to the one who slays the beast, don�t you think?�

Echo slumped his shoulders and smiled weakly, looking longingly at the plate of sparkling gems. He then brightened and bowed deeply and extended his arm in the direction of the plate, welcoming Arwin to take his pick.

�We really do not have time for this� Arwin complained, but it did not stop him from taking the jewels, all except the large ruby. He then quickly headed out the opposite side of the chamber with the other two following him. He was leading them down deeper, avoiding passages or chambers that contained the deformed creatures.

The two warriors above them continued their assault on the ruins, coming closer and closer to the ruins entrance. Several dozen of the creatures lay dead in a trail behind the two fighters, their blades cutting and slashing at all who opposed them. The two wondered at the sheer magnitude of the evil magics that filled this place, to have transformed so many humans and mere folk into the vile abominations they now faced. It would end, a fierce determination formed on the two fighters faces, almost as if they could communicate with each other without talking�

[WhoGuru]

Red, Arwin and Echo fought their way through the last hall. They had only one way to go now, leading into the heart of the ruin and here, the strange wolf men waited in force. Arwin held their flank, loosing arrow after arrow into their foes as Red and Echo cut a path through them. His acute marksmanship allowed him to shoot around his companions who frustrated the creatures, keeping them from reaching the Elf as they howled in frustration. Soon, only the trio stood within the hall, surrounded by the bodies of their kills.

"Arwin?" Red asked him. He looked ahead of them, and behind.

"We're clear." He gazed at the door that waited them. "More inside the chamber, not as many." Red moved to the door as Arwin looked up. "More above us as well." He could see the things racing through the tunnels above them and frowned. "I think they're heading away from us now." As if in answer, they heard screams and howls from above.

"Do we go back up?" Echo asked, listening to what sounded suspiciously like a battle above them.

"No." Red placed her hands on the door. "We have to end this." She waited for them and they nodded, coming to stand beside her. She took a breath, swinging the door inward as they rushed through the opening and into another fight.

-----------------------------

Only two floors above, the golden man and his companion laid waste to the creatures the others had avoided. Lightning and flames licked along their weapons, dancing down the blades and into the creatures as they fell before them. They had twice found groups of the creatures already dead and continued deeper in. He frowned, listening as he heard the sounds of battle coming from below. Looking over at his companion, she nodded, hearing it as well. It seemed they were not the only ones clearing this ruin and he wondered again at Akatosh sending them here. With a shrug of his shoulders and a feral smile for the next wave of creatures, he fell upon them with a cry. They were close to the inner sanctum of this place, he could feel it.

-----------------------------

A pack of the misshapen monsters waited for them and rushed as the party entered the chamber. Blades drawn, they waded into the fight, Arwin sending one beasts' head arcing through the air. Red danced through the claws and teeth, coming about behind the group and quickly took the nearest in the back as it lunged for Echo. He finished the beast off with a battle cry as Red turned to the back of the chamber.

It was massive, high domed ceiling far above them and in the center, a raised dais. She could two blue gems winking from a blood covered altar and standing before it, a tall hooded figure wrapped in a cloak, watching. She forgot the battle behind her then, walking to him. She knew who it was. "Atelli." She breathed. As she closed on him, she stopped and gasped, feeling a dark power swirling through the chamber. It curled into her mind, leaving confusion in it's wake and she started forward once more. Without thinking, she sheathed her blade and went to stand before him. "Please stop this." She asked softly. She knew it was him, even as she watched clawed hands rise to pull the hood back and reveal a mutated caricature of the face she had grown up with. One of his eyes was still the cold brown she remembered but the other had changed to Wolf amber. Both stared down at her and the fanged mouth smiled in greeting.

The Wolf men lay dead as Arwin gutted the last, turning at Echo's cry to find Red held by another of the creatures before an evil looking altar. This one was different, taller and robed and he knew it must be her old mentor. As one, they rushed toward her and stopped, pushed back by some force they could not see. Try as they might, they could not reach her. Arwin screamed in frustration and turned as a scuffle behind them warned of more beasts. His sight picked out two forms racing the hall they had just left. "Echo!' He called. "Company!" He turned from Red and the Listener with difficulty, facing the door and was unsure what to do when two, clearly people, burst into the chamber. The man was tall, golden haired and armored as the woman beside him was dark and dangerous.

Echo gave a yell and rushed forward. "Echo, no!" He called, fearing for him and then stood gape mouthed when the boy wrapped the golden man in a fierce hug, turning to do the same to the woman. "Friends of yours?" Arwin asked, walking cautiously forward to meet them.

"This is William and Sherena." Echo gasped. "Will." He said and pointed to Red. William saw her, held by the half man.

"Who is that?" Will asked in a warning voice, watching the creature draw Red's blood and feeling anger rise in him.

"Her old Listener I think." Echo whispered. Will took a step forward, only Sherena's hand on his arm held him back.

"Can you not feel it?" She asked, stepping ahead of her beloved and holding a hand out. "Dark magic blocks our way."

"She's right." Arwin decided these two, odd though they were, must be friends indeed as Echo trusted them so. "There is a barrier we can not pass."

Beyond the magical wall, Atelli Magia smiled down at Red and wrapped his clawed hands carefully round her arms. "I knew you would come. When they told me you were in Mournhold, I knew you would find this place." He reached slowly for her and she let him, unable to think past the confusion of memories in her head and the vision of him now. Red stared at Atelli Magia as he held her. "My little Red." He growled through his now twisted throat. "Come back to me at last. I thought you dead."

"As I thought you." She whispered. "Why? Why all this?" She knew she could kill him, could feel her magic waiting to come forth and could not. Part of her still respected this man, or what was left of him, still thought of him as a father. He laughed.

"To escape the Night Mother's wrath of course. She would have known, would have been told what I ordered done to my own child in her name." His clawed hands squeezed her arms tighter, breaking through her leathers and into the skin below. "The orders your soft heart could not follow." The pain brought her back to herself, clearing some of the strange, disjointed feeling from her mind and she knew he was working some dark magic on her even as she felt her blood trickle down her arms.

"Would you stay with me, Red? Become as me? We could be family again." He offered and let go one of her arms to place a hand over her heart. "You remember what it feels like, I know you do. Come, be my daughter as before."

She stared into his maddened eyes, one wolf, one human and felt pity. He deserved death and now she must give it to him. She closed her eyes on the sight of his gnarled face and shook her head. "No. I was never your daughter, merely your instrument, your tool." She looked at him once more. "I'll never be that again." She gasped when she felt his hand flex, claws digging through her armor.

"Then I can not allow you to leave, for you would surely bring Her down upon me." He dug in earnest now for her heart. Red drew the Dread Blade, struggling to be free of him and stabbed his own heart on a scream. Now the fires came, exploding from her and surrounding them both. His screams now filled the chamber. He burned as he held her, claws so close to her heart and still she poured the magic into him.

Behind her, they stood helpless, unable to reach her. Will paced along the perimeter of the invisible wall, trying desperately to find a way through as he watched Red bleed, hearing the Listener's softly growled words and remembering the once vision he'd had of them, when she was a child holding his hand.

"What do we do?" Arwin watched the pair and these new friends and suffered."We have to do something." William turned gently flaming eyes to him.

"I know." He growled. Arwin gasped, seeing a twin to Red's unusual fires in his eyes. Red screamed, whipping their eyes to the dais. They could see the Listener had his hand at her chest now. As they watched, she drew her blade, plunging it into his chest and the two burst into flames. They erupted from Red, shooting upward in a pillar of light and now they could hear his screams as he burned. The magic barring their path dropped with a whoosh of rushing air and Will immediately started forward.

"Stay away from her." Arwin stepped into his path, stopping him. "She wont know you like this. She'll kill you."

William smiled, gently moving the elf to the side. "Fear not. She can not harm me for we share the same fire." Will brushed by him without another thought, his eyes on his friend now. She stood frozen, flames pouring from her to scorch the ceiling high above. The blackened hulk that was once the Listener collapsed at her feet. "Red." He said her name as he neared, feeling the heat from her magic. She turned, fixing blood red eyes on him, the green consumed, and he knew somehow it was not Red looking back at him. Blood still flowed from her arms and her chest was a red ruin yet still she stood.

She reached for him, arms outstretched and waited for him. "Come burn with me." Her voice flowed out of the flames as Will moved forward. He stepped unafraid into the heat, feeling the fire surge around him and took Red in his arms even as she wrapped hers about him. He saw her eyes widen, confused when he did not burn and he cradled her head, embracing her and whispered in her ear.

"Red. It's Will. Come back to us. Come back to me." He waited but felt no answer from her, only her magic pouring around them.

[WillieSea]

The red flames danced mightily around the two as they stood on the dais, William was not getting through to Red, it was almost as if Red had died and what he held was only the enchanted flame. Tears came to Will's eyes as he held his closest friend he had ever had and he thought about loosing her, it was unbearable to think about.

---

Arwin, Echo and Sherena watched the bright red flames flow around the two figures down below since they could not approach the deadly flames heat. The tapestries and other flammable objects in the room burst into flames and turned to ashes as William held Red close to himself.

---

William called softly to Red, trying to find Red inside the maelstrom of fire and flames, anger and fear. He only saw the red flame, saw the blood flow from her body as it covered his as he held her tightly. He then poured his magic into her as he sought to heal her wounds, to staunch the flow of her life's blood. He felt the wounds pierce his skin, felt the clawed chest aching and he grunted in pain, and then it was over, the wounds were healed.

Red still did not respond to William's soft words to her, she was still too far gone and the red flames were too strong a barrier to him.

William looked upwards and screamed, Akatosh, why have you brought me here? Why do you torment me as I watch my closest true friend in the whole world die before me? Is there anything that can be done? He then buried his face in Red's hair and cried. Her hair had become a brilliant red again in the consuming flames, the black dyes burned out of them.

---

As the three watched from above, Arwin saw something large coming from above and warned the others. The life force was huge and seemed to go through the ruins as if they did not exist. Sherena smiled when she heard Arwin's description of the entity and also wondered at Arwin's unique ability.

In the red fires below, the shape of a golden flamed dragon appeared and spoke, My son, you know what needs to be done, you always have. Use what I have bestowed upon you, only then may you reach out to her. Hurry my son, for time is short The dragon then faded from view, leaving a golden patch of flames where it had been, which was quickly consumed by the red flames.

---

William fumed, what did he know that would help Red, and why couldn't the god's ever give a straight answer, it always had to be a riddle? And then it came to him, the golden flames of Akatosh had banished the red flames where he had been; perhaps that was how he could get through to Red.

---

William thought about the happiness and courage that Red had brought him and his golden flames blasted through the room causing the three on the ledge above to duck down. The golden flames danced and swayed with the red flames, each seeming to fight for dominance. The fear and anger of the red flames could not co-exist with the courage and happiness of the golden flames, yet they still danced with each other, the golden flames slowing the wild dance of the red flame until they danced in unison. It was then that William spoke softly in Red's ear, Red, Red, its William Red, you did what had to be done, there is no blame here, there is no blame Your Listener did it to himself, he was already marked for death by Sithis and you completed the task. If you had not, I would have Red?

The flames dimmed a bit and William could see a glimmer of the green he was used to seeing in Red's eyes. He smiled at her and continued as he held her close to himself, You have faced your fears and you have conquered them. Now its time for you to come back to us, don't loose yourself in the power William then grinned, Red, it looks like you beat me to the target again, you always were a bit quicker than I was. The grin widened on Will's face as the flames went out, the lush mossy green fully returning to Red's eyes. Tears came to both of them as they hugged each other closely and they cried on each other shoulders.

Will, I missed you so much! Red said as she buried her face in his chest, the armor a soft silk against her face. How she had missed that

---

The three above rushed the two on the dais when the flames went out. They waited as the two held each other, tears still flowing freely. Arwin was totally confused by what had happened. Red seemed to have an incredible power, but this man had an almost opposite power which could counter Reds. He had never seen such magical energies released in his life.

After several minutes of waiting, Sherena finally cleared her throat quite loudly, signifying that they had waited long enough.

Red whispered to William, Thank you for coming. It looks like somebody might be getting a bit jealous! She then disengaged from William and left him with a shocked look on his face. Red simply looked back at him mischievously. Sherena quickly gave Red a hug herself. I am so glad to see you two again! How are the others doing?

As they talked, Arwin pulled an enchanted black sack from his pack and scooped the two large sapphires into it. He quickly closed the sack with the ties and replaced it into his pack. There was little else of value left in the room

[WillieSea]

Arwin could not help but smile at the happy reunion Red and Echo had with the man in the golden armor, the one called William and his betrothed Sherena. Arwin was detached enough from them to notice something that the others did not; a feeling of uneasiness or resentment when William spoke of the time when he had left the Tavern.

They left the ruins then, killing the last of the mutated humanoids. Once again the Daedric ruin that overlooked the jungle would know peace.

On the surface, William spoke mostly to Red, Sherena and I have tasks we must complete elsewhere. I hope to see you again Red, but perhaps under better circumstances?!! His one eyebrow lifted in curiosity Red noticed, an irritating and yet endearing trademark of the mysterious man known as Willie Sea.

Once again tears came to Red's eyes as she jumped at William and gave him a great hug, not caring who saw her tears. William held her and finally said, Its okay Red, it appears to be a small world and we may bump into each other again. He then took hold of Red's shoulders and held her at arms length, looking deeply into her eyes. When you feel yourself lost, lost in the power of the flame, remember me, remember the happy times you have had and I am sure you can overcome its hold on you. William then continued cryptically, Akatosh watches out for those who hold his power. He then winked at Red and hugged her to him again. Sherena joined the two of them with a hug of her own. Echo, feeling lost and left out, finally decided to join them.

Arwin watched as the four people hugging each other started to giggle, then laugh out loud, finally stepping away from each other, wiping tears of joy and sadness from their eyes.

They came to their final goodbyes, Arwin, Red and Echo would just make Mournhold by nightfall if they left now, whereas William and Sherena would be able to make Darvon's Watch and then north to let those in power know the corruption of the site had been cleansed. Arwin and Echo both shook hands with William. He whispered to Arwin to keep a close eye on Red as she was still unstable with the magic, a magic without a stabilizing force which perhaps Arwin could fill in his place. To this, Arwin replied he would do his best.

Red hugged Sherena and talked with her while the boy's said their farewells. Red smiled as she was still able to make the Woodelf blush. Red knew that someday the two of them would have to get married

Red then gave William another bear hug and before pulling away, kissed him on the lips causing Sherena to blush again. Arwin was then startled as two giant black horses with golden spots and a single golden horn suddenly appeared. William and Sherena then jumped into the saddles and rode off, waving back at their friends once more. We will see you again soon! William called out as they disappeared into the jungle.

The three of them then started the short walk back to where they had left their horses. They were soon on their way back to Mournhold and then the trek to Elsweyr.

---

By nightfall they were back in Mournhold before the gates were closed. The three wore hoods to avoid detection and quickly went to the largest and most expensive inn the city had to offer, it was also the most heavily guarded. The rooms were expensive but the treasures they had liberated from the ruins paid for it easily. They had a room that opened to each other where they ate their meal together, not wishing anyone to spot them in the grand eating hall down below.

They discussed the route they would travel to Elsweyr. They would make their way to Riverhold where they would wait a few days for Grond's group. If they did not show up, they would head out without them, leaving word with a known friend in the city. The only difficult part of the journey would be crossing the Valus Mountains again. It would be a day journey from Mournhold to Narsis, and then another day's journey from Narsis to the base of the mountains. Red cringed at the thought of the trip and then shivered, even though the heat in the room was stifling.

<img src='http://i97.photobucket.com/albums/l237/WillieSea/QuestTears5.jpg' alt='Posted Image' class='bbc_img' />

[WhoGuru]

Arwin, Red and Echo left Mournhold in the morning as the gates were opened once more, slipping out in the dawn and as they rode away, Red breathed a sigh of relief. To herself she would admit she had been scared she would be caught finally, imprisoned for the one murder she hadn't committed. The irony of that made her laugh, as seeing William when she had needed him most made her feel hope again. Savior, sensing the happy mood, surged into a gallop, outstripping Arwin and Echo's horses quickly. Red laughed as she passed them and sped from the plain into the heat swamped forest once more as they called out behind her.

Within the dense rainforest once more, she pulled Savior to a more sedate pace with a pat on the neck. She thought then of what Will had said to her as she waited for her companions to catch up. Akatosh watches out for those who hold his power. It had never occurred to her that she held a piece of the gods power. Knowing that Akatosh had guided Will and Sherena to her lent strength to what he had said. It was as awing thought and she wasn't sure how she felt about it. A touch jealous perhaps, as Will seemed to have little trouble controlling his magic while hers seemed determined to consume her. She shook her head. She'd not borrow trouble. "Not today." She said happily to Savior. She looked behind her and saw her friends racing through the trees behind her to catch up and grinned. While Echo was smiling and enjoying the gallop, Arwin had a stern look on his face. He was sure to lecture her, she thought and chuckled.

They rode abreast of her and sure enough, Arwin was not happy. He reached over, placing his hand on the pommel of her saddle. "That was not wise, Red." He said angrily. "These forests are not safe." Arwin was furious and did his best to swallow it, knowing she would react badly. He had taken William's order to watch her seriously, having seen her close to death more than once because of the magic. Seeing her lunge alone into the dim jungle that way had given him a start.

Red smiled happily at him and patted his hand before flicking it from her saddle. "I know." She said, surprising him. "Wasn't my idea though." She pointed to her horse, who snorted as if laughing. "Has ideas of his own." With a mischievous grin, she kicked him into the lead once more and left Arwin laughing and shaking his head. They moved at a good pace through the lush forests, finding little in their way. The odd bandit or three, quickly deterred by the well armed trio as they passed. They're meager road curved through the trees before turning south once more, toward Narsis. As they neared the Old Fortress late in the day, they came across a breeding herd of Netch passing overhead. Knowing how vicious they could be, they reigned their horses in beneath the trees and waited for them to pass.

"I think I miss them." Red said softly, watching a massive Betty Netch slowly meander above them.

"Miss what?" Echo asked, confused. "Will and Sherena?"

Red chuckled. "Well them as well, but no." She smirked and shook her head. "Cliffracers. I think I actually miss those flying rats. I must be mad."

Arwin chuckled, then laughed and finally bent double in the saddle. "Oh you must be mad indeed." He gasped.

"Stop laughing so loud!" She hissed with a grin. "You'll spook her!" She pointed up at the Betty over top of them now and Arwin clamped a hand over his mouth, eyes sparkling with laughter.

"You guys are weird." Echo grunted and startled a surprised bark of laughter from Red which she quickly muffled with her hand. The Netch above them growled at the unusual sound. "Uh oh." Echo whispered. The sound had turned several of the Bull Netches following her and they were converging on the companions.

"We need to move." Red whispered, barely audible and gently kneed Savior into a slow walk. The Betty Netch growled again, louder and was this time answered by the Bulls. The three moved faster, wincing with every hoof fall. They were in the center of the Herd now, a dangerous place to be with an irritated female so close by. Red and Echo pushed their mounts through a wall of hanging vines and Red let a yelp of surprise when some of the vines began to move.

She looked up in shock and found a giant of a Bull Netch hanging above them. His tentacles draped down through the vines and she and Echo had rode into them. They curled around the two, grasping and tangling. Small sounds of pain escaped them as they tried to untangle themselves. The tentacles delivered a stinging sensation as they wrapped round them. Red was so focused on freeing her arm, she didn't see the tentacle drop by her head.

"Red!" Arwin called. He leaped from Aarow, drawing his sword and quickly went to help free them. Red gasped as one of them wrapped around her neck, pulling her from Savior's back. She couldn't breathe and in a panic, felt her magic rising. She ruthlessly crushed it back down, not wanting to set the forest on fire. She fumbled at her right leg, trying to reach her blade and instead had to grab the tentacle with both hands to give herself room to breathe. The sting from it's touch was a misery. Below, she could see Arwin cutting Echo free and the Bull Netch roared a challenge as he was attacked. It squeezed tighter around Red, pulling her higher and her vision began to darken as she vainly tried to breathe.

She saw an arrow fly past her head, and another, both piercing the Netch's soft underbelly. A third followed and she felt it's grip loosen on her and finally she was freed, falling to the ground in a heap. She simply lay, gasping for breath and didn't argue when she felt herself picked up and thrown over a horse. Arwin leaped into the saddle behind her, kicking Aarow into a gallop. The herd was in a frenzy now, searching to attack anything they could find. They're only hope was to run and they did. They galloped hard for close to a mile before the Herd fell away behind them.

Arwin called a halt and slid from Aarow's back, pulling Red after him. He set her on the ground as Echo came to sit beside her. His arms were covered in long welts. Red's throat wore a necklace of purpled marks and she still sucked in breaths from the pain and lack of oxygen. "Thank you." She wheezed through her abused throat. She pointed to Savior, who had followed his mistress as always. "Potions. Saddlebags." She managed. Arwin nodded and went to get them while Red took one of Echo's hands in her own. Now she did call the magic and sent the powerful healing force into him. She watched as the long, angry welts faded and vanished.

"Oh thank you." He said with a smile. "That really hurt." Arwin returned with a vial in his hand.

"Here, Red." He handed the potion of healing to her and she gratefully drank it. It slid down her throat and soon she could feel it working, fading the marks on her neck and arm and lessening the pain. She closed her eyes in relief and then began to chuckle. It hurt but she couldn't stop.

"Ow. Only us." She gasped and prayed for the potion to work faster on her sore throat. "Only we could almost be over run by a herd of bloody Netch." She fell back to the ground and laughed. Arwin and Echo joined her, appreciating the irony of three such experienced fighters being laid low by such mindless creatures.

[WillieSea]

They had passed Old Keep by noon and started climbing into the mountain pass on the road to Narsis. There was still a fair amount of traffic on the road since Narsis was the gateway to the merchants in Cyrodiil. They were in a hurry so they passed several slower moving wagons in their attempt to reach the mountain top city before the night arrived and the cold came.

Soon, the snow surrounded them and Red shivered in the thick fur she was now wearing. Arwin came up to her and asked her for the bag of warmth he had given her. Red pointed to her saddlebags where Arwin reached in a pulled out the white rabbit fur bag. He opened the bag and took one of the dark stones from it and held it in his hand at arms length.

As Red watched, Arwin called forth a fireball which coalesced on his hand in a flaming ball before being cast forth. Red's eyes opened in amazement as the stone seemed to absorb the fiery magic and started glowing. Arwin quickly dropped it into the bag and pulled out another dark stone, repeating the enchantment. He then pulled the last stone out and warmed it as well. The bag laces where then tightened and the bag given back to Red who delighted in the warmth it gave her. She still shivered at the coldness that surrounded her, but it was not quite as unbearable now.

As the last rays of sunlight dipped below the mountain peaks, they entered the city of Narsis and quickly found an inn for the night. The Golden Coral had a large room that they could share. They were told that all the inn's would be full at night with travelers seeking refuge from the cold and its was the best they could do in order to accommodate as many people as they could. Red quickly rushed to the fire while Arwin and Echo negotiated the room and then ordered food and drink for them all. After Red had warmed up and they had eaten all they could, the three of them retired to their single room. Echo was the only one to complain about the arrangement where Arwin slapped him on the back and asked, How is this any different than when we camp under the stars? which elicited a laugh from Red.

The three friends slept soundly in the soft down blankets. It had been an expensive room, but split three ways was actually reasonable. It was certainly better than sleeping under those cold stars on a mountain top.

Some time after midnight, Arwin opened his eyes. Something had waken him up, a noise. He was used to sleeping by himself in the wilderness in a tree and had a sort of danger sense that would wake him when danger was near. A scratch by the window, alert now, Arwin slipped from his bed and crawled to the window, something was outside their window.

The window now started to move open slowly, quietly. A cold breeze of air came in the room as the window now rested in an open position, a stick of wood propped under it to keep it open. Arwin sensed one life form outside the window, a humanoid shape. He then saw a black shadowed head peak in and then start to enter the room.

Arwin's dagger quickly sliced upwards into the chest of the mysterious stranger who cracked his head into the sill to avoid the dagger thrust. Arwin was amazed that he had missed such an easy target and was about to stab again when he saw the strangers face, it was Tomas, the escaped archer they had encountered several days before on the road. He had lead the group of bandits that had tried to attack them and had promised vengence.

Tomas fell backwards out the window where he grabbed onto the ladder he had used to reach the room. The ladder, having been placed too close to the building, swung away from the window with the bandit wildly swinging his arms to gain his balance. It slowly tilted more and finally fell completely away from the window where Arwin had been waiting with his dagger. Tomas crash landed on his back into a drift of snow outside their window and gave out a loud Oof as the wind was knocked out of him. He then crawled out from under the ladder and brushed the snow off his clothing. Looking back at the window, he shook his hand at Arwin and stumbled off down an alley.

Red called out, I know you like it cold Arwin, but close that Netch forsaken window!

Arwin smiled as he pulled the stick out and closed the window, placing the stick on top the window so it would not open from the outside. Sorry Red, I guess I was not thinking clearly. He then went back to bed and quickly found sleep once again. He would tell them the tale of Tomas in the morning, there was no reason for them to loose sleep this night, tomorrow would be another hard ride to leave the mountain cold. Red snuggled deeper into her own quilts, cursing the cold air.

[grond]

While Red savored the warmth of rocks in a pouch, Grond and the others woke aboard the Revenge, and paid their visit to their horses. Grond told Mik to speed his way to Udolf, and Tajo gave similar instructions to Auro. Lily held her arms around Lightning's neck and grumbled while Grond sold their saddles to the stable owner. But when they made ready to go into Rihad for supplies, the young Nord girl strongly kept her objections to herself, though she announced they would watch their steeds gallop for home, and they would not leave until the horses - and one pony - were beyond their sight.

So they went into Rihad sometime later, and Grond carried his and Lily's saddlebags with him. Tajo agreed to return to the ship, with Wilson, and guard the craft from any attack by her previous owner, Baako. They did not know that, while they had slept, that morning Baako had found passage to Gilane aboard a merchant craft, and there he was preparing for their arrival.

Grond, Failan and Lily came into Rihad. They traded their saddlebags with the first merchant they came to, and got themselves packs in an even trade. They were making their way toward the city gate when suddenly before them a lounge, upon which sat a nobleman, fell, as one of the slaves who bore it was attacked by a robed figure. The litter fell directly before Grond. Reaching out, Grond caught the large dusky nobleman. Failan, having seen the knife and its wielder take down the slave, gave chase, and after a few yards the figure turned onto another avenue, and came to a cul-de-sac, which ended at the entrance of a temple. The figure turned and made a swipe at Failan, but she parried it with her Katana, and countered, plunging the blade into the assassin's chest. The hooded figure fell, gurgling sounds coming from his masked face.

Meanwhile, the fat nobleman lying in Grond's sturdy arms gazed up at the Nord and said, "You've saved me, Hero!"

 

Grond sighed and righted the man, who, when he stood, came to Grond's navel, and stood eye to eye with Lily. He was a Bosmer and his gratitude was vast. "I have no need for these slaves," said the Bosmer, "for they have shown to me their lack of duty. Look at how they stand bewildered! Please take them from me, my dear hero - two of them at least. I will send the third away so that he can bring with him others to bear my litter. Please Nord, take them from me as my reward for your unrivaled heroism! Else they will be punished for their horrible service to me!" Then the fat Bosmer pointed and shouted an order, and a slave raced away to find others to bear the litter.

Turning from the nobleman with some humor, Grond took Lily into his arms and set her high upon his shoulders, where, looking out under her hand, the girl shouted, "Here comes Failan!"

Failan returned to them, and with her came a Redguard City Watchman, and together they told the noble of the assassin that lay around the next corner. In response, the nobleman hugged her and brought forth a pouch which jingled with coins. Giving it to Failan he began giving orders to the City Watchman, the first being that Grond and the others were above being detained. So they walked out of the open City gate - Grond, still bearing Lily on his shoulders, Failan, and the two slaves. As they came to the Revenge, Grond had learned from the slaves that their names were Esi and Dakarai, and that they had some knowledge of sailing, for their old master had enjoyed going out upon Hew's Bay on easy cruises.

So with the aid of Esi and Dakarai the adventurers set sail for Gilane. Grond persuaded the two Redguards to ignore the fire-hued Clannfear, and he went below with the others, to take his rest. Tajo, however, remained above, and kept watch over them, from her place at the wheel.

They were gifted with a strong wind, and safe waters, and by nightfall, the bright lights of Gilane beckoned to Tajo. Before midnight, while Red ate a late dinner in the city of Oldrenthis, Tajo and her companions came into the port of Gilane. Tajo went below and woke the others. They gathered their things, strapped packs to their backs, and together they disembarked. Before she left the craft, Tajo, turning to the two Redguard slaves, said to them: "You're now free to go where you will, together or apart, and the Revenge is now yours."

The two looked first at each other, then to the dark face of Tajo, now smiling widely. Stunned at first by their sudden freedom, after a silent moment, they returned her smile. Dakarai and Esi, freemen now, thanked her and made ready to sail again. The travellers last heard the two ex-slaves begin an argument concerning their destination, which grew into quite a shouting match.

"Ah, freedom," said Grond, and the others laughed. All but Failan, who strode with purpose toward the gate of Gilane.

Gilane sat at the southern edge of the Alik'r Desert. Its high walls were bleached by the sun, so in the darkness they seemed to glow. Passing into the city, they saw that it was as loud a port town as was Rihad, but there were fewer colors, as the inhabitants and the visitors wore mostly the light colors of those living under a mighty sun. After they visited a street merchant, and bought themselves thin desert gear light-colored robes and headgear Grond and the others blended well with the city folk. Having rested well aboard the Revenge, they spent only enough time there to eat a light meal, and fill their waterskins. Tajo did not complain of weariness; rather she seemed excited to be near the Desert. "I have spent some time here," she said, "and I'm eager to continue. And we would do well to travel by night, while the sun is away." They left the city some hours before dawn, and they took their leave through the northern gate.

Tajo led them to a stable, set well apart from Gilane - an oasis it seemed, where there was a lagoon, surrounded by leaning palms and bushes bearing strangely-shaped fruits. Here the Bosmer Hunter, followed closely by Wilson, spoke briefly with a merchant, and soon returned to the others, and behind her, led by four sets of reins, came the mounts which would take them into the Desert. Grond came to one of them, and with a rough smile, cried, "Guars! I've not ridden a Guar in six, nay, seven years!" He patted the Guar he neared - it was the largest of the four - between its enormous eyes, then leapt onto its shoulders.

They made their way along the northerly route, and into the Alik'r. Failan took Lily and they rode together. They rode abreast on the dusty road, and encountered few travelers as the sky upon their right took on a pre-dawn blush.

 

And far away in the direction of that blush, Red and the others began their journey to Mournhold.

[WhoGuru]

Morning broke cold and white over Narsis. The suns rays were muted by the heavy, silent snow that fell, concealing most of the world. Arwin, Red and Echo mounted quickly, Red with her warmed bag held tight beneath her fur long coat. They'd discussed waiting out the snow and decided against it. If the mountain pass were snowed in, they could be trapped for days or longer and could not know how much time they had to complete their quests. So they set forth into the morning and the high pass for Cyrodiil.

Arwin and Echo both kept wary eyes on Red as they ascended the pass, worried. Red paid their constant glances no notice, instead trying to peer through the snow around them, wary of Tomas' need for revenge. She'd laughed when Arwin had told them of his nighttime visit but now wondered if he'd try once more. It would be easy to sneak up on them through the white wall that surrounded them. They were forced to ride closely just to keep each other in sight. Arwin dropped back beside Red then.

"Warm enough?" He asked and grinned when she scowled at him.

"I'm fine." She growled. She was cold, tremors passing through her constantly but the bag he had made for her was keeping her collapse at bay. She relented then and smiled at him. "Thank you, sorry. This white out makes me nervous." She nodded at Echo ahead. "He's barely twenty yards ahead of us and I almost can't see him."

"I know." Arwin commiserated. "It will be easy to get lost if we're not careful." As he spoke, a rumbling sound reached their ears. "What's that?" He asked, confused. It was muffled and deep and they stopped, trying to see through the veil of snow for the cause. Ahead, Echo stopped as well and yelled back.

"Do you hear that?"

The sound continued, gaining in strength and Red paled, grasping Arwin's arm suddenly and screaming to Echo even as she kicked Savior ahead, pulling Arwin with her. "Echo RUN! Avalanche!!" She just saw the boys eyes widen in shock and then he was gone, into the snow. The horses sped into a gallop, Savior and Aarow reading their rider's sudden fear. The sound grew and grew until it felt as though the very mountain was shaking beneath them. Red saw a collection of boulders across the pass, jumbled against one side and aimed for them. "We're not going to outrun it!" She yelled to Arwin over the roar. She didn't see if he heard and galloped the last few meters to them. She slid from Savior's back, pulling him and forcing him to lay behind the boulders. She saw Arwin come behind her, pushing Aarow into the scant safety and then it came.

A wall of snow poured into the pass, over their meager shelter and roared into the defile with a deafening sound. Red huddled against Savior as Aarow pushed in against her. She only hoped Arwin was there as well. She dared not raise her head to look. The terrible sound and the tremors seemed to go on forever until finally, it stopped. The silence after so much noise was deafening. The boulders had miraculously protected them, forcing the mass of snow over their heads. Red sighed in relief. Savior struggled to his feet in what was now a hollow, several meters deep. Standing, the snow was far taller than Red's head or even her mounts. Aarow still rested on the ground and panic seized her. She could not see Arwin.

"Arwin!" She called. "Arwin!" She heard nothing and pushed Aarow to his feet, forcing her way behind him though there was not much room. Then she saw him, or rather his feet. "Gods." She breathed. He'd been caught at some point and buried. She dropped to him quickly and, ignoring the cold, dug her arms into the snow about his legs, desperate to dig him free before it was too late. She panted with the effort, her hands and arms screaming with the cold. Even as her body started to shake, she didn't give up. She'd freed enough of him finally to grab hold of his legs and she pulled, near screaming with the effort to yank him free of the snowy tomb. He slid out and she fell upon him, looking for signs of life. His narrow, elven face was blue with the cold.

She forced calm on herself and carefully called her magic to her. It flowed into Arwin, spreading warmth where it went. She watched his skin gain more color and felt several broken bones in his chest heal even as she found he wasn't breathing. On a sob, she bent to him, forcing air and magic into his lungs. "Please." She whispered between breaths. "You're not dead. Come back." She breathed for him for several minutes, feeling her magic struggle to pull him back from the edge. At last, he gave a soft gasp, taking in air on his own. Red dropped her head against his chest, shaking fit to rattle her own bones and covered him with her coat as she lay against him. She felt sleep coming to her and did her best to keep the warmth of her magic flowing to him even as she succumbed. She knew the bag he had made her was somewhere back near Savior but she hadn't the strength to find it herself. She'd spent it all saving him.

---------------

Echo pulled himself from the snow, shaking it from himself just as his horse did. They had galloped hard down the back of the pass and found a narrow break in the cliff to hide. The wall of snow had roared past them down the mountain, sweeping all in it's wake. They had been lucky. He climbed out atop the snow and stared back up into the pass. The heavy snowfall had finally eased and he could see nothing but even white snow. He thought he heard a cry then, but it was quickly swallowed in the white. He reached back to help his horse climb out onto the new snowpack and gained his saddle. "Come on. They must be up there somewhere." He grunted to his mount and they started their careful way back into the now snow choked pass.

[WhoGuru]

Arwin jerked awake. For a moment, he was confused. He remembered a wall of white coming for him and then cold even he could not stand, struggling to breathe beneath a great weight on his chest. He felt some of that weight now and tried to sit up. With a half laugh, he found the weight was Red, covering him with her furs and herself.

"Red." He grasped her arms beneath the fur and felt ice. Her arms were wet through, the skin ice cold. He looked round and saw a whole in the wall of snow near them. He realized she had dug him out, despite the danger of the cold. He sat quickly, gathering her in his lap. "Red, wake up." He slapped her lightly on the cheek. "You need to wake up." He slapped her harder but she did not wake. The arms of the fur coat were stiff with ice from melted snow. Panic gripped him. If he could not warm her, she was dead. Savior neighed beside him and Arwin looked to see the horse nudging the rabbit fur sack with a hoof. He let out a choked laugh. "You are a singular horse, Savior." He said and laid Red down. He went quickly and picked up the bag. The warmth was nearly gone and he removed the stones, heating them once more before replacing them. He went to Red, pulling her into his lap once more and placed the bag in her lap, wrapping her fur coat over her.

"Red! Arwin!" A faint call reached him and he listened once more, hearing it again and recognized Echo's voice.

"We're here!" He yelled. "Echo, we're here!" He heard the boy calling once more. "Can't hear me down here." He muttered. Resigned, he propped Red up against the snow wall, her fur behind her and agilely climbed the face. Crawling out at the top was tricky and nearly sent him back down. Finally, he pulled himself over the edge and saw Echo at the mouth of the pass. "Echo!" The boy turned and grinned.

"There you are! Done playing in the snow?" He kneed his horse over to Arwin. "Where's Red?"

"Down there." Arwin pointed into the hole. "She's cold. We need a fire now."

Echo peered over the edge, seeing Red and the horses. "Not to mention some way to get them out of there. I'll start the fire, you figure out how to get the horses up here." Echo dropped off his horse and quickly began pulling things from his saddlebags, looking for kindling. Arwin jumped back into the hole, coming to land near Red and took her up once more.

"Come on, Red." He whispered, wrapping his arms around her beneath the fur. She felt warmer he thought, but not warm enough. "Thank you." He said softly. "For digging me out of that."

"Where you want the fire?" Echo called from above.

"Down here. This hole will hold in the heat." He covered Red's face when Echo scrambled down the snow, dropping a bundle ahead of him. "What's that?"

Echo smiled. "Spare blanket, some clothes. Don't really need more than one change, right?" He began making a pile of the odds and ends in the center of their haven and went about finding a way to light it. After several minutes, and a few muttered oaths, he had a small fire going and helped Arwin move Red next to it. He held her close, lending his body heat to her back as the fire warmed her front. Echo rummaged through the other horses saddlebags for more things to burn.

"If we can wake her up." Arwin started. "I can get the horses out of this hole I think, with her help." Echo looked back at him speculatively, then grinned when he followed the train of thought.

"Horses wont like it, they're gonna get wet." He laughed.

"Better wet than trapped and Red can warm them afterward. I think she warmed me after pulling me from that." He gestured at the hole in the wall behind him. Echo stared.

"You're certainly lucky." He said with a grin and went back to hunting for burnable objects. Arwin rubbed Red's arms beneath the fur, feeling her much warmer to his touch now. She shifted in his arms and he stilled.

"Red?" He asked softly, looking down at her still pale face. Her eyes fluttered open and she looked murkily up at him. "We've got you, Red." She closed her eyes again, falling back to sleep in the warm cocoon and settled more firmly against him with a sigh. Arwin chuckled and wondered exactly how big this Dragonhunter of hers was and if he could take him.

An hour and two blankets later, Red woke once more and grumbled about being attacked by bloody mountains. Echo laughed, dropping next to her and pinching her cheek. Her eyes flew open on a gasp.

"Time to wake up, Red." He grinned at her. She stuck her tongue out at him and startled to find she was being held.

"How long have I been out?" She asked wearily.

"At least an hour." Arwin replied, helping her to sit on her own when she tried to sit up. She felt a cold line run down her back as she shifted away from him and shivered. "Here." He took the furred coat and helped her into it properly, making sure the rabbit furred bag stayed in her lap. She sighed, warm once more.

"Thank you." She looked around their impromptu camp and scowled. "How are we going to get the horses out of here?"

Arwin smiled. "I have an idea." He explained it to her, having worked out the details with Echo and she too grinned.

"Elegant. We should get to it then and get off this damn mountain before something else falls." She rose to her knees and accepted Arwin's hand to help her to her feet.

"Are you strong enough?" He was concerned about pushing her too far too soon. She nodded.

"I can do it." She went to Savior and pulled herself up into the saddle as Arwin mounted Aarow. "You better get topside Echo or your feet are going to get wet." He laughed and quickly climbed from the hole once more, waving as he reached the top and moving out of sight. "Ready?" She asked Arwin. He nodded.

She closed her eyes and called her magic to her. She'd never used it like this before and wondered if she could even do it. Red pushed the doubts from her mind and focused on controlling the sudden burst of energy she felt swirling through her. Immediately, she felt something else pushing at her mind, as if seeking to escape and fear swept through her. An image of Will's face came to her then, telling her she could control it without losing herself in it. She steeled herself against that other feeling and held it back. She could sense it still, waiting, but for now, content to watch. She took a deep breath and opened her eyes.

"Red?" Arwin asked from behind her. She turned to look at him and saw him wince.

"I"m still here, Arwin." She said softly, knowing her eyes were glowing from the look on his face. She turned back to the wall and held her hands out. A ball of fire gathered in her cupped hands, growing larger and larger as she held it. To his credit, Savior barely stirred beneath her, only showing the whites of his eyes as she worked magic on his back. When she thought it was big enough, she released it. It traveled swiftly toward the wall of snow and up at a gentle angle. As they watched, it carved a wide path, sending melt water running into the hole as it passed. It reached the top and dissipated, leaving a ramp of wet, heat packed snow behind and several feet water. Savior and Aarow shifted unhappily in the quickly cooling water.

"That was fantastic!" Echo called from above. He danced into view and stepped carefully on the ramp, then hopping up and down and finding it secure. "It worked!" Red swallowed the power back once more, feeling that other self go grudgingly with it and sighed in relief. She'd controlled it, this time. She promised herself not to get reckless with it. Red kneed Savior to the ramp and out of the water. The wet snow sank beneath his hooves but held. Aarow quickly joined him and in moments they were out of the hole, on top of the avalanche with Echo.

"Can we please get off this mountain now?" Red asked, feeling the chill wind find her once more. Arwin laughed, riding alongside her as Echo mounted his own horse.

"Yes. We'll be out of this cold in a few hours, if we don't have any more unscheduled stops." He said with a wry grin and forced a laugh from her. They set off down the mountain once more, now several meters higher than when they'd started. Several cold hours later, they found the treeline once more and the snow began to give way to scrub and brush. When they had descended to the point where it began to warm again, Arwin called a halt. He could see Red shivering from his horse and knew she needed a rest and a fire.

"It's nearing dusk." He said with a smile. "We should camp for the night. Red, care to have that fascinating horse of yours find one for us?"

Red laughed, despite the cold that was eating at her and bent to her horse, rubbing his ears fondly. "Hear that? How about a nice place to camp for the night?" She asked him, receiving a whuffle in return. Without being prompted, he picked his way forward into the trees and then off the path, leading them deeper in. After a few minutes, he brought them to a sheltered dell, surround by thick boled trees and overhung with their branches. The ground here was free of snow and covered in dead branches from the trees. Red slapped Savior affectionately on the neck. "That's my boy." She said softly and heard Arwin and Echo laugh behind her. They dismounted and quickly went about the business of setting up camp.

[grond]

By late morning, the travelers had ridden with good speed beyond the rocky beginnings of the Alik'r Desert, and into lands unfamiliar to any but Grond: high dunes of bright golden sand their guars now climbed. The beasts ran with wide strides, and even Lily knew that their horses would surely have died in this wasteland. She missed her Lightning even more because of this.

They had drawn their veils across their faces, to protect them from the strong sun, and to keep the sand out, which bit at them in the winds. As they rode up each dune, they could see many miles in every direction, and toward the west, they saw a dark line at the horizon. "That way is Sunkeep," said Grond through the light fabric of his veil. "We'll head there. Let's ride until the sun is at the noon, then we'll rest these beasts and have a lunch. We'll be at Sunkeep and shade an hour or so after lunch!"

The Nord had been to the oasis years before, he and the Redguard Jelani, when they were adventuring together. He thought of the boy K'gosi, his and Jelani's son, with a mix of frustration and pride. Jelani had been adamant. They had fought long about it - physical fights, not arguments - and Grond had relented, though not because he did not enjoy the battles between them, for they usually did end well for the pair. He had been ordered by K'gosi's mother to remain a friend, not a father, so Grond visited whenever he could - which was too seldom - he thought. Neither his son nor Jelani agreed, however. They were a strong pair, and Grond made a promise to himself to come there more often, despite - or perhaps because of - Jelani's outward indifference to his presence. During their last night together she had loudly exclaimed her desires for the Nord.

Thoughts of the past seemed to force Grond's eyes to the present, and he looked now at Failan, sitting behind Lily atop their pale Guar. Her eyes squinted as she looked toward the point where Grond said Sunkeep lay. Failan's hands rested upon Lily's shoulders. Then Failan took out a skin and Grond saw that, seemingly without a thought, Failan gave the skin first to Lily, before she had a bit herself. Another tough pair, thought Grond. Failan did not meet his gaze. She stowed her waterskin and dug her heels into her mount, and with a shout she led them westward.

***************

Finding no shade, they took their midday meal atop one of the high dunes, but there the sun and the boiling sand served to make their lunch last all of a few minutes. They gave the guars the last of their water. They were weary, and their eyes looked westward, so they did not see the dark blur which came toward them from the East.

Tajo said, "If we reach Sunkeep without incident, we won't thirst, for there will be water enough for baths for us all!"

 

Suddenly, as if to protest, the dune at their feet then began to tremble violently. Turning then, they saw the sands of the dune begin to fall away at the edge behind, and the tear came sprinting toward their feet. They scrambled to their guars. The line of collapsing sand separated them, two upon either side.

Wilson the Clannfear fell with a screech into the divide.

Tajo shouted for the Clannfear, and was about to hurl herself into the gap, but the Guar she rode sprang away, as did the other three beasts, for there came a great shower of stinging sand, as Wilson burst back to the surface. The Clannfear was not alone. Wilson clung to the tawny back of a long snakelike thing which erupted from the tunnel it had dug into the dune.

"Worm!" shouted Grond, but his voice was drowned in the worm's great whining shriek, as atop it Wilson dug his razor-like talons into its hide. Thrice the width of Mik's great chest, the worm turned to Grond briefly. Its eyeless face was at first a plain tan rounded thing. Then suddenly a great round hole burst open, and from it came a thick barbed tongue which lashed out at Grond.

But the Nord's Guar leaped to one side, and Grond narrowly escaped the monster's tongue. Then the worm dove again beneath the sand, bearing Wilson under the dune.

 

They raced behind the path of the worm as quickly as their mounts could run, and they watched as it sprang out again, near the top of the next dune, and they saw that Wilson still clung to the monster, still viciously swiping with his talons at the hard hide, and black blood sprayed from it in great founts. Then, as the worm again dove beneath the sands, they heard a thunderous sound, which came from behind them. Turning in his saddle Grond saw that a crowd of riders - the blur they had not seen - galloped upon guars toward them.

Redguards all, the new riders bore down upon the four, and passed them, their guars a light grey, and guar and rider alike wore bright orange gear, with bright strips of orange fabric tied to bridles, and streamers of bright orange were tied also to the riders' long hair, which whipped out in the wind they created as they raced past. Each rider bore a long spear, and held it at the ready, but they took no notice of Grond or his companions as they passed them.

So Grond and the others now gave chase. They saw little in the cloud of sand thrown by the riders they followed, but, after they came to the top of the next dune, they stopped and looked down. Tajo gave a shout of victory, and Grond laughed, for it was the loudest sound his companion had yet to make. He clapped Tajo upon her shoulder and they rode down the dune toward the sight which had caused her to shout.

Wilson sat upon the carcass of the worm, now dead, half buried under the sand. The riders gathered around the orange Clannfear, and his fallen foe. Then, to the travellers' amazement, the riders fell to the sand as one, chanting a word, Yo-Tunde, which they repeated until Grond and the others came down the dune to meet them.

[WhoGuru]

Red woke in the night with Echo's hand on her shoulder. "Your turn at watch." He whispered in a tired voice. Red grunted and tried to convince herself to leave the warmth of her furs. Arwin was once more a line of warmth against her back she was grateful for. She pulled herself up, wrapping her long coat close and took the rabbit fur bag from beside the fire where it had been kept warm and cuddled it as Echo rolled into his blankets and all but crawled into the fire. She'd been adamant that she'd take her watch. She'd done more leaning on her companions than she was used to lately and needed to feel useful again.

She went to the horses, spending a few moments wrapped about Savior's neck as he dozed. The night forest was quiet, the cold and light dusting of snow outside their shelter swallowing the small sounds she was used to hearing. It served to make the sound of stealthy footsteps softly crunching in the snow stand out. Red looked back to the fire and her companions, sound asleep in the warmth of the fire and decided not to disturb them until she knew if there was a threat. She put the heated bag in Savior's saddlebag and slipped silently into the forest. Unlike whatever was lurking out there, she made no sound, following the faint crunching noise. It was moving slowly away from their camp and she soon found man sized footprints in the snow. The further she was led from her companions, the more wary she became of leaving them asleep and unprotected. She shook her head and turned back to the camp. Who or whatever it was would have to come for them. She returned quickly and heard a cry go up. She forgot stealth, breaking into a run and heading for the twinkling of the campfire she could see through the trees. She heard the sounds of fighting then and cursed herself. She'd been lured away, she saw it now and ran faster, ignoring the cold as her coat whipped open around her.

She entered the camp, Dread blade drawn and saw her nightmare. Dozens of masked and leather clothed men filled the small camp. More lay dead, felled by Arwin's short blade as he even now swung at them. Blood ran from a wound on his back and he seemed not to notice the arrow protruding from his leg. Red quickly joined the fight, laying into their attackers. The fire was scattered as the small battle raged. More of the strange men fell before them. Red grunted, feeling something sharp take her in the side. There were so many of them, she called her magic then, the flames dancing up around her. The next man who touched screamed as his hand and arm burst into her fire and ran screaming into the night.

Soon the rest followed, those that could still run and Red and Arwin were left panting, backs to each other. She scanned the carnage and gasped. "Where's Echo?" Arwin stepped from her shaking his head.

"They took him." He said grimly, bending to pull the arrow from his leg. "That's what woke me, oh and this." He threw the offending thing from him. "Terrible shots thank the nine."

Red saw one of the men watching them, his eyes glittering in the light from her magic. She stepped to him, seeing the grievous wound in his belly and knelt before him. He cringed back with a cry and she held a hand out above him.

"Where have they taken our friend?" She growled at him. He stared in terror but did not answer. "You'll tell me." She moved her hand closer. "Or I'll start burning pieces of you." Arwin came behind her, seeing the abject fear and bared his teeth at the man. What Red was threatening to do was cruel and he had no idea if she could actually go through with it, but Echo's life depended on it. He would support her whatever she chose to do.

Red lowered her hand, holding it a bare breath above the man's leg so he could feel the heat begin to warm the skin, becoming uncomfortable after only seconds. He screamed, staring up at her and began to talk. His accent was strange but understandable and they quickly had the strange story from him. His clan worshiped Sotha Sil and in fact lived in the shadow of his stronghold to the East. However, since the Nerevarine had left Mournhold, they had not seen their god, nor been able to gain entry to his keep. They were a superstitious lot and thought if they offered a suitable sacrifice, the god would surely open his doors once more. So they had taken Echo. As the youngest of their party, they had chosen him and his odd, Dwemer spectacles had captured their eye, knowing Sotha Sil was enamored of the Dwemer creations.

He begged for mercy then, looking up at the glowing eyes of Red, and then to the Altmer behind her as the more reasonable of the two. Arwin almost grabbed her when he saw her hand lower to the man, thinking she meant to carry out her threat. To his relief, the flames subsided and instead he watched as the blood ceased to flow from the mans belly. He healed in moments and the Red aimed a wicked chop of her hand to the side of his head, knocking him senseless. She pulled the masked hood from his head and sighed. As she thought, they were Dunmer. She had nearly killed him. For a moment, that other mind had risen in hers, threatening to take over as her hand had hovered just above him. She had fought it back once more, swallowing her fear, healing him instead.

She rose and caught the surprised look on Arwin's face. Shame washed through her, knowing that he'd thought she meant to murder the man. He took her arm suddenly and smiled at her. "You did well." He said kindly. "Your control is getting better I think."

She nodded, turning away. "We should tie him up and go after Echo. Sotha Sil is a day's ride from here down in the rainforests that border Black Marsh." Arwin let her go, confused at her reaction and bent to tie up the dark elf. He hissed, the wound in his back pulling and Red was instantly there.

"I'm sorry." She said softly. "I forgot." She placed her hands on his back and he felt warmth sweeping through him, taking away the pain in his back and leg. He breathed a sigh, taking her hand when she would have walked away once more.

"Thank you. You're bleeding as well you know." He could just see a stain of blood beneath her coat. She looked down surprised, pulling the coat aside and found a great gash on her side. It had not hurt until she saw it, now it burned with pain and she grimaced. "You have another potion?" He asked, concerned and she nodded.

"Take care of him, I"ll get our gear ready." She went to Savior, pulling one of the last two potions she had from his saddle along with the still heated rabbit furred bag. She drank the potion quickly, tucked the bag under her harm and set gathering their scattered blankets. She tied them to Echo's horse and then tied his reigns to Savior's so he'd be sure to follow.

"We're ready." Arwin came to her, gesturing at the still unconscious Dunmer and reached to her. "How's the wound?" He pulled her coat aside as she sputtered and ran his hand over the wound as he grinned. It had closed over nicely, though he felt her wince as he pressed on it.

"It's fine. I'm fine." She grumbled. "We need to go after Echo now." She pushed his hand away and swung up into Savior's saddle. She pulled the coat closed around her as she shivered in the pre-dawn freeze. Arwin mounted as well and with a last look at the destruction of their quiet camp, sped off quickly into the woods, heading east and toward the jungle lair of Sotha Sil, once god.