Tamriel

Allëna Benoch

I gazed sincerely into Elevainia's multi-colored eyes, almost feeling sympathy because she could not admire The Dominion the way I did. "The Dominion has so many wishes for the people of Tamriel... We envision a world without poverty, prejudice, and suffering. We dream of a Tamriel united as one, able to rise to any foe that should challenge us." I laughed a bit, thinking about the emotion that colored my voice. That dream was the reason I had joined The Aldmeri Dominion.

"As a child, I watched as the children around me who did not have the privileges of a noble birth either died of famine, or sickness. We High Elves do have a resistance to disease, but even our bodies cannot resist the chains of mortality when so fragile. What about the soldiers who fell in battle, defending what they believed to be true? Or maybe the grieving mothers and wives who wept for their kin, lost to the void at the hands of a war started by the Imperials. I vowed that I would join The Aldmeri to speak for these souls, who the world had already forgotten." I wiped a tear that had fallen onto my robes. I wasn't quite sure if I was saying the words that Elevainia wanted to hear, but this was the only way I could think to answer her unprecise question. "War is a horrible thing, one that I would never wish upon my greatest enemy. It ravages the souls of those it does not murder. These battles are just the price we must pay for past mistakes. Do'Khaj must see this, his family has been taken prisoner because of this war. Though he chooses not to end these atrocities, and I can't understand why. He would rather resist The Aldmeri Dominion, only to prolong the suffering of the Tamrielic people, as well as his mates and cubs."

By now my eyes had began to leak profusely, as I was frustrated by the day's events. Images of my deceased Mother and Brother ringing through my mind, I did my best to stem the warm flow of tears, but it was to no avail. Silently, I sat staring down at my cloth covered legs, the occasional tear turning my vision into an endless abyss of shining lights. Moments later, the abyss would vanish, leaving behind a drop of water. I was too ashamed to say anything to Elevainia, who as far as I could tell might have been ridiculing me at that very moment.

Do'Khaj extended his gauntleted paw and shook Nirrarien's hand.
"We might not share the same political views, but at least you're not objectionable like Allena." Do'Khaj smiled faintly, "I'm glad to say you're not the stuck-up, stereotypical Altmer noble I expected you to be. I've never really known vast amounts of wealth, but I have known fame, since I was the chief of the Mane's warrior guard. I wonder what the next Mane will be like. I don't mean to try and raise tensions, but I'm afraid I can prove that the Thalmor didn't really conjure up Masser and Secunda. Years ago, an extremely important, and old, Thalmor general visited the Mane and died of a heart attack during that time. I was tasked with clearing his room of belongings and making sure they were distributed according to his will. While clearing out the room, I found a large tome in his room. Already questioning my loyalty to the Thalmor, I looked inside to see that it was written in a strange unrecognisable text. I knew the book contained important secrets, for I could read, write and speak every currently spoken Tamrielic language. I purchased a book written by an important wizard in Skyrim about the language of the Falmer, the language this book had been written in. It turned out to be the diary of the general, a diary he had written in the language of the Falmer for fear that unwanted eyes would read it, a fear that was well founded. It turned out the most important Thalmor, elves even more important than Atalil had agreed to come together and use illusion magic to conceal Masser and Secunda until a counter spell was used. Those Thalmor then spent two years spreading knowledge amongst less important mages of how to cast the counter spell, while at the same time lying to them that they were unaware of the cause of Masser and Secunda's dissapearance. The spell was then cast, revealing Masser and Secunda once more. The reason the top Thalmor refused to let their comrades know is because they couldn't spread the truth if they didn't know it. The writer of the diary even wrote that if any of the Thalmor involved in the plot found his journal and translated it, he would have been executed and his diary burned. I tried to publish my findings, but nobody would publish them, for fear the Thalmor would have them assassinated. I have the diary right here if you wish to see it, but I don't have the Falmer dictionary."
Do'Khaj proceeded to reach into his satchel, removed a leatherbound tome and held it out for Nirrarien to take.

Elevainia looked to the crying Elf. She wasn't ridiculing or laughing at her at all. She felt nothing but sympathy for her. Elevainia reached her hand out and touched her back, lightly patting it, "I understand that what you stand for makes you emotional just thinking of it. It's nothing to be ashamed about." Elevainia tried her best to raise her spirits. "If it makes you feel any better, I can not remember anything from a season ago." she said with a slight giggle. "I came on this journey to find if I can obtain information on who I once was. As well as too make friends since I have been as a prized bird, caged in fear I may fly away or get hurt."
Elevainia looked to the magnificent sheets, pondering who could have wove such fine silk. "Why did you come here? What is your story?"

I ceased my weeping for a moment and raised my head to gaze at Elevainia, who time and time again was proving to be my closest ally on this voyage. I couldn't seem understand her nature. It was strange, unfamiliar, and completely unique from any other I had experienced, with the exception of my Father's, although he now suffered from a disease that had erased all memories of me from his mind, as most other things.

My nerves worked against me for a moment, and all I could muster was a blank stare. When I finally gathered my wits and spoke my voice spilled forward in a jumble of disoriented words, lacking my usual air of conviction. "I... It seems that I have spent too many years among snakes, and false allies. I was taught to condone any ounce of emotion, for the world of politics is a harsh one. Although, yours is a friendship I cannot seem to resist. You gave me acceptance where I could find none with others." My body was bathed in warm emotion, and a joyful grin spread across my face. It was truly nice to know that there was a friend amongst the crowds who criticized me, as well as my faction. Though at the moment, they seemed to be of little significance, petty beings who ceased to exist.

"I am here because my mother, Niara, and my brother, Alyán, were murdered at the hands of the Imperials. The Dominion saw a grieving noble, but the Thalmor saw a woeful warrior, ready to avenge her family. They gave me the tools that I would need to exact my revenge when the time came. I excelled, fueled by my desire to feel the warm blood Cyrodiil upon my body. When they considered me worthy I was inducted into their ranks. After a few battles General Atalil contacted me, requesting that I take on this mission. He explained to me that these keys could reveal our path to victory, and thus cleanse Tamriel of the cancer, that is the Imperials and their allies. I am here to avenge them, as well as all others that have been lost to this war." An austere sigh escaped my mouth, as I meekly smoothed out my crinkled robe.

I noticed that Elevainia had been silently admiring my sheets as she listened to my response. It seemed that she agreed with my high opinion of the grade of the fabric. The alluring appearance of the sheet was enough to make even the most opinionated person like it, but the texture made you fall completely in love with the beautiful cloth. I silently deliberated what my stance on this woman would be.

I will help Elevainia in her quest... She has shown me much kindness. I will aid her in finding who she was, and hopefully remind her of who she is now. I thought to myself with a sense of finality. The expedition to Black Marsh was proving to be much more challenging than I had anticipated. I should also apologize to Do'Khaj tomorrow, I cannot risk the trust of someone I will need in the coming trials. It seemed that the days ahead would bring a whole new array of tests.

Elevainia smiled and turned to the Thalmor, "Your family would be proud of you."
Elevainia began to ponder how this quest was to really start off. Someone was already sent to kill them, and as she could tell that this was the first time of many. Elevainia had began to feel a friendship with this Elf, and she swore that she would protect Allena until her last breath. She began pondering on the quest itself. What would happen once they reached Black Marsh, who was the fifth person, and what was the clue to what was next?

Elevainia reached behind her and pulled her bow off her back and aimed it at a pillar in front of her. There was no arrow set but she breathed as if there was, and released the string. It was as fast as lightning, and if there were an arrow in it, she would've hit her target. With there being two mages, different on the elemental charts, one Khajiit who was a warrior, she was happy that she was the Archer. As she began to think of all her skills, she realized that she may just be where she needed to be. If they needed something they couldn't buy, she could steal it most of the time without being caught. She could pick locks, pick pocket people, and the most important, heal others. Elevainia began to feel that her skills were much needed amongst everyone. She couldn't kill a man with brute force, but she could hide in the shadows and watch his demise from afar. She smiled at Allena, "What are your skills?"

“I believe that every person has their worth,” Nirrarien responds, withdrawing his hand to lay it again on the pole of the whitewood staff, “Mer, Man or otherwise. We were equals in the old Empire – I see not why that should change.” To a similar end, Nirrarien is therefore quiet and attentive throughout the Khajiit's recitation of his tale, though when offered the book the mage lifts his open hand in quiet refusal, “I would prefer not to make an issue of this disagreement. You present 'proof' of a hoax – were we back at my family's estate I could also present 'proof' of genuinity. We have already decided on our truths, just as you cannot convince me that I am wrong, so do I doubt I could convince you otherwise. There are many reasons why the effort to argue the Void Nights a hoax could itself have been a hoax. You cannot be sure this book is a fake. I am also curious as to why the Psijic Order weren't quicker in detecting the simple illusionary cause, and removing it without complication.”

The Altmer's hand lifts and falls in a short gesture of dismissal, “no. I know I am right, just as you know you are right. Attempts by either side to prove differently will be fruitless and exhausting. I am content to agree that we may disagree without incident.”

"Truth is not decided by opinion, but by what was, what is and what will be." Do'Khaj insisted, "The Psijic Order tend not to do anything themselves, just leave others to do it. They would be unable to spread knowledge of how to undo the spell, since the knowledge was bound tightly within the ranks of the Thalmor. You know full well that the Thalmor and Psijic Order are bitter enemies, making it even harder for the Order to gain any information. Surely you heard of the incident at Winterhold where the Thalmor tried to obtain the Eye of Magnus, but were stopped by the puppets of the Pjisic Order. I know the book is not fake as it contains his signature, a signature I have seen him sign. But I waste my breath, no matter what I say you will still believe that the Thalmor did not lie."
Do'Khaj returned the journal to his bag, irritated by Nirrarien's ridiculous ideas about what truth consisted of. You could not know something without it being true, so one of them must not know the truth.

I observed Elevainia's demonstration of her prowess as an archer with a childish fascination. "Ah, you Bosmer are very talented with the bow. In Alinor, I have heard many adventurers weave wonderful tales of the Bosmer's mastery of ranged weaponry." My statement was accompanied by a brief expression of admiration. "How many of these stories hold truth I am not sure, yet I know any would be a fool to draw upon the ire of the Bosmer, especially with your ability to call upon The Hunt."

When the end of her presentation was signaled by the, Twang of her bowstring she craned her neck until her eyes rested on me. "What are your skills?" She asked with a smile blossoming upon her face. My skills? I inquired to myself. I had never really thought about my skills, and where I fit into our small group of nomads. I knew Nirrarien was a mage, who had commited himself to the element of fire, whereas I preferred to keep things more than a few degrees below zero. I hadn't seen much of Do'Khaj, and our disagreements hadn't helped this matter.

"I suppose as an Icemage, my skills mostly pertain to magicks involving ice." I began to name a few spells that I had honed to a deadly mastery. "Ice Storm, Frostbite, Ice Spike, and Summoning Frost Atronachs to name a few. I did various expeditions to Skyrim's College of Winterhold. It blizzards constantly there, which suits me just fine. I thought of having a manor built in the mountains surrounding Winterhold, and getting away from the stress of a world at war. Although, it is just a distant dream." I said wryly, as I let out a small series of laughs.

It seemed that with my father's ailment he would never survive the blistering cold. Not to mention the fact that our family's once abundant wealth had been greatly diminished with my mother and brother's deaths. Frivolously spending money was not something that I could afford, lest I wanted to end my life a poor wench with only my mentally ill father for company.

“Yes, which lends more credence to -why- the Psijic Order did not undo the spell,” if they were to debate then Nirrarien would indulge, having already expressed that he does not expect them to agree. He had been trying to avoid so, if only to remove he and the Khajiit from Allena's expectations that they should bicker, but it seems that debate will occur regardless. “Yes, I am aware of the Eye of Magnus incident, and also aware that the Psijic's were alerted to the Eye by its mere revelation. Once its magic was exposed to the world, despite being situated in northern Skyrim, the Psijics of Alinor were able to detect it. Now an illusion spell large enough to conceal two moons, directly over the Psijic's heads... They would have found it, and outed the Thalmor if they could not counter the spell themselves. And I have every reason to believe...” Here the mage glances shiftily about at the deckstaff that go to and fro along the boat's prowl, and leans in closer to Do'Khaj. The volume of his voice drops, and he slips into the less-widely known high-elven tongue, “... that any magic the Thalmor can construct, the Psijics can undo. I can say no more, and you did not hear that from Nirrarien Falirae. I would rather not suffer the Lady Benoch's interrogations.”

“Still,” this is said more clearly, the Altmer retreating to resome the comfortable distance that the two men had been conversing at, “consider this, a little thought experiment. Let us both assume the Thalmor did hide the moons, then reveal them two years later. Technically, it was still the Thalmor that caused the moons to be seen once again above Nirn... So technically, they are still responsible for Masser and Secunda's return, no?” He pauses to give a little chuckle, “yes, there is a definite truth. But it is very unlikely that you and I shall come to agree on what exactly that truth is. Perhaps, in days to come, I will request to see that book. Right now I would sooner prepare for our arrival in Black Marsh. If agents of Argonia are being sent to exterminate us then I cannot envision we will be welcomed to their shores. Consequently finding our contact may prove troublesome.”

Elevainia smiled as Allena admired her art of her bow. Although she couldn't remember anything about herself, the skills behind a bow had never left her. Elevainia listened to everything as Allena spoke. Elevainia thought hard on what the Elf said about her dream. "I don't believe it is distant, if you really would like that, I think you should do it. I've heard of Winterhold, someday I wish to go there. Snowing all the time, hardly any sun, sounds like an ideal place to be." she giggled a little as her eyes trailed back to the pillar. Elevainia stood up and stretched, "Well I should go to my Chambers."

"Yes, I am growing restless for the coming days to hasten their approach." I raised myself from the luxurious bed and walked Elevainia the short distance to the door. "Rest well Elevainia, I will see in the morn." I promised as she strode from my room, then I closed the door before she could offer a reply. As I replaced the heavy Thalmor robes with a more comfortable white nightgown my elemental counterpart crossed my mind.

Nirarrien was an oddity indeed, being raised in the remote city of Lillandril. Their location had distanced them from the center of Thalmor influence, Dusk, and as such my order's prevalence was far less enforced in their territory. In my brief dealings with the mage, as well as what I had overheard, he seemed to exude an archaic, and aloof disposition. I hadn't heard much of him in Dusk, save that he had gained his say in the government through gold.

Regardless, I felt that I had neglected any conversation with the noble, due to my altercation with Do'Khaj. Truthfully, I had not been more than a babe at the time of the Void Nights, and felt foolish blindly supporting Nirarrien, yet I would have said anything to disprove Do'Khaj's blasphemous theories. As I pushed the heated thoughts to the back of my head I lifted the heavy silk blankets and climbed into bed.

I need rest more than anything. The events of today should not sow seeds of discord in our hearts, that would be very detrimental to how we function on the battlefield. I thought to myself, but my speculation only continued for a few minutes. Soon I was submerged in a fitful sleep, clutching to the silk threads of my blanket every time an unsavory foe flashed into my mind.

Soulrest had earned it's name due to the many Argonians that came here to be buried. Which seemed ironic to me, because I could not envision a soul getting the least amount of rest in this swamp metropolis. The awkward walking pattern of the Argonians filled the area with a dissonant pats, and merchants yelling out the extent of their wares only added to the debacle. A group of Argonians sat on a multitude of barrels and crates, glaring at me with beady eyes. Regardless of my faction, I saw that High Elves were very disliked in many regions of The Empire. I hadn't thought we would be very welcome on the shores of Argonia.

Elevainia walked next to me, taking confident strides, and her presence made me feel a bit more at ease. Nirarrien and Do'Khaj's heads bobbed up and down in front of us as we proceeded to exit the vessel. As I walked past the prejudice Argonians, one had the nerve to spit in my direction. He then laughed and said something sly in his native language, assuming I hadn't already mastered his race's primitive tongue.

I felt my face turn a bit red, then I thought of something very clever. I froze the phlegmy glob which rested on the wooden boards, forming it into a smooth sphere. Next, I built up tension in the small crystalline ball, like an archer tensing his bowstring. The Argonian sat with a smug smile spread across his face, but then the small pellet sliced through the air in the Argonian's direction. Upon impact, the Argonian let out a satisfying yelp, and fled in the direction of the crowd with his friends in tow.

When I rejoined our group I heard Do'Khaj ask, "Well, how do you suppose we are to find our contact in a place like this?" Although his question was quickly proved unecessary. From the mob of busy Argonians appeared a Nordic man, wearing magnificent ebony armor. As he approached us I felt a mysterious shroud form over the man.

I could not see his eyes, as they were hidden by medium length, silver-blonde hair, but I think I saw a glimmer of blue. He seemed a bit more slender than most other Nords, but certainly had the height of one. "It seems as though we have found our fifth companion Do'Khaj." I stated quietly, and if it weren't enough that he wore impressive ebony armor, lions heralding his approach on either of his shoulders, he brandished a fine array of weapons. "He will be useful."

Blue eyes peered through locks of blonde as long legs strode through the crowd of scales. The voices of the loud and haughty Argonians hushed as the Nord made his way towards the docks of Soulrest. The tall stature of the man quickly motivated the Argonians to flee from his path. The sight of a Khajiit in his periphirals caught his eyes as well as a woman of Bosmer decent and two Altmer. The man quickened his pace and approached the small group who were clearly not natives of this land. As he approached the outcasts, he noticed the young Altmer woman's face show signs of discontent. The man smirked inwardly, as he was used to the intimidation he evoked from others around him.

The Nord's feet planted firmly on the ground when reaching his destination. The Altmer woman was the first to break the uncomfortable silence. "It seems as though we have found our fifth companion Do'Khaj. He will be useful." Hmph, companion, his face held the same hard look as always as he thought to himself. To say the least, the man wasn't impressed with what he saw as he was sure these so-called companions would not herald any skills worthy of mention.

The man of few words gazed through his tousled hair as the dim light of the sun behind darkened clouds spilled over the crested lions on his broad shoulders. The man finally gazed up and spoke in his powerful, yet quiet voice. "The name is Kairos Black-Lion." He declined to offer his hand to any. "We must make our way through the city. Come forth." His turned his back to the docks and made his way through the bustling crowd of Argonians not bothering to wait for any to follow.

Nirrarien is a patient man, but their arrival in Black Marsh and the newest addition to their motley assortment, he observes, is quickly pulling the group beyond his control. Unsurprisingly Allena's uncompromising display primes a swift reprimand to the Altmer's sharp tongue, then Kairos has the audacity to make his most insulting of introductions. Allena and Elavainia are given the very sourest of glances, and a short, sharp command, “follow closely.” The mage's tone is dark, and woe betide either elf if they decided to disobey, or talk back.

The mage's steps are hurried to catch up to Do'Khaj and Kairos, so much so that he almost walks into the Khajiit's back when he pauses to address the guards. The Altmer's teeth gnash in fury, though he is composed enough to allow the exchange of words between Do'Khaj and the guards. Then the male spots the exchange of the diary with the guards, and lays a hand firmly on the cat's shoulder. “If I detect but the slightest -whiff- of treachery,” Falirae's eyes burn a warning into those of the Khajiit, and his hand begins to warm in show of his inner rage, “I will roast you like a -chicken-! I empathise that this journey is not one of your choosing, but -I- have been entrusted with its success, and -will- see it through to fruition!”

Nirrarien's hand slips from Do'Khaj's shoulder as he breezes quickly past the armoured Khajiit to catch up to Kairos, who has undoubtedly pressed on without them. “Halt!” barks the firemage, with one hand darting from the depths of his overlong wizard's sleeve to extend a pointed finger at the ground just before where the Nord is about to step. In a flash, and a display of sizzling pavement, a large, intricate, spiralling rune sears itself into the floor – a deadly trap, to explode in a hail of fire were any to step upon it. The surrounding Argonians, distrusting display of powerful magic here in Soulrest, suddenly give the group a much wider berth. “You are in Atatil's employ!” the declaration is sharp, but not particularly loud. The General's name, Nirrarien knows, will be lost to the Argonian's amidst the throng of Jel exclamations, “and he has chosen me as his representative. So it is to me that you will answer, and you will answer this; where do you lead us, and to what end?”

Kairos stared condescendingly at our group for a few moments, and then introduced himself cynically. Yes, I was angered by his arrogance, yet I held my tongue from doing any further harm. When I was a child, my father would tell me, "Never miss an opportunity to silence one's mouth." As such, his words were proven wise by yesterday's fiasco. I was hoping no one would misinterpret my statement concerning the appearance of our rather high-strung companion as some kind of snide remark.

Although on the other hand, Do'Khaj saw it fit to let a stream of blather flow from his mouth. I was disappointed, to say the least. I had been fussing over who our fifth companion would be, and I had been joyous to find we had acquired a mighty warrior, but upon observing his personality my spirits were dampened. After his initial introduction, he only turned his back to us and disappeared into the crowd, commanding us to follow. Do'Khaj set off after the man, which seemed almost comical to me considering how angry he was.

As we watched the Khajiit fade into the distance Nirarrien turned to Elevainia and I. Rage was an emotion I had never seen him don, but it was not harmonious with his handsome features. For a moment, I feared he might strike me, or Elevainia. Although the only thing he did was utter a stern command, "Follow closely." To which I responded with a silent nod. He set off at a furious pace, tearing through the crowd like an enraged animal.

When we found Do'Khaj two guards approached our group, and raised their spears, pointing them towards me. "You Thalmor aren't welcome here!" Said the larger of the two guards. For a moment, I thought I was to be dragged off and hung for being a member of The Thalmor, a faction that had been intertwined with my family's history for generations. Although Do'Khaj spoke to the guard, slipping into Jel, a language that I could only understand sparsely.

I have no idea what Do'Khaj said to the Argonian guards, yet it seemed to make them much more passive. After being handed a leatherbound tome, one went running into the distance, while the other raised his spear and let us pass. He even smiled in my direction, which completely took me off guard. After we had distanced ourself from the guards Nirarrien let his wrath rain down upon Do'Khaj, who I do not think was prepared for such an onslaught. When we found the Nordic man a few minutes later, he fared even worse.

Elevainia bid Allena a good night after the door had been closed. She made her way through the halls of the ship, searching for her room. She had passed Do'Khaj's room as he was just getting in. She pondered if she should start a conversation with him, to let him know that she didn't hate him. Before she could decide what to do, Do'Khaj had shut the door. She continued to the end of the hall where she had finally Found her name scribed in the door. Although she could not read, she could recognize her name as well as write it. She opened the door hesitantly, remembering the attempted assassination earlier.

Elevainia was struck with shock as she opened her door. In it lay a magnificent bed with sheets that resembled Allena's, just green and yellow in color. Elevainia sighed as she remembered the deal she struck with Atalil. He didn't want her telling anyone that they were 'close', yet he ravished her room in expensive things. A chest held itself at the foot of the bed, there was a note on it. Elevainia picked it up and looked at it, everything was nonsense to her except seeing her name and at the end seeing Atalil's. She sighed with discontent. Atalil knew she couldn't read, but supposed he either did it so she would learn how, or suppose he kept forgetting. Elevainia put the note into her satchel and opened the chest. There lined a coin purse, night gowns of fine silk, and the Elven dresses she was so fond of wearing.

She looked to the jewels that lined the dresses and admired them, she wondered how she would take them around. She picked her favorite one and stuffed it into her satchel, then her favorite circlet. She had placed her satchel down, and jumped onto my bed. The cool feel of silk made me smile, and I sighed as Atalil lived to spoil me it seemed. I sat up, and something glimmering caught my attention. I looked to the end table to see that there was a silver ring, with a flawless Emerald placed into a box. I was beautiful. Next to the box was as well a note. Elevainia recognized the same words as last time, but nothing else. She sighed and reached for her satchel, placing that in it as well, she decided that she was to learn while she was on this journey. She plopped to the bed, not bothering to change. She just took her weapons off and drifted to sleep, the rain on the deck singing a sweet lullaby to her.

When she awoke she heard yelling, she quickly packed her weapons and grabbed her satchel, placing the ring in it. Elevainia ran to the deck to see that they were docked. Argonians lined the streets, bartering and selling their merchandise. Elevainia took her place next to Allena. She watched quietly as an Argonian spit in Allena's derection. She growled, but smiled something a little evil when Allena taught him a lesson. Elevainia's mind wandered off, looking to the swamp lands of Black Marsh. She had finally noticed that there was a Nord in front of them. He had very impressive armour. As he spoke though, he sounded very arrogant, then just walked off. I followed the group, keeping quiet like usual. We were stopped by Guards, Do'Khaj talked to them in a different tongue, and quickly we were let through, only to see that a fight were to break out.

As Nirarrien approached the belligerent Nord, the man spun his body like a top, and rested the tip of his blade against the throat of my enraged friend. I had never seen Nirarrien act so dominant, yet I had to admire his initiative. I stood, one hand clutching my staff, anticipating a short, and one-sided battle between the four of us, and this swordsman.

Although before tensions got out of hand Kairos removed his ebony blade from Nirarrien's golden skin, sheathing it. Regardless, he was not off to a good start in our group, having made a horrible impression on me, as well as everyone else I am sure. I loathed the thought of more bickering, yet it seemed that the occurence would be inevitable.

I grabbed Elevainia's hand, and removed it from her bow, which she had grasped in the heat of the previous moments. I needed at least one person to remain calm, and Elevainia was undoubtedly my best chance at retrieving some semblance of peace within our band of warriors. "It's dangerous here." Stated Kairos, maintaining a calm disposition even in this most stressful of situations. "I will not reveal such information where there are prying eyes. I have no intention of engaging in battle with you, or your companions for that matter. I will explain myself once we reach safer ground."

They were wise words indeed. Kairos could have at least introduced himself properly, but he was correct in assuming that it was not safe to talk of our ventures in the open. "Heed his words Nirarrien, we need not delay any longer." I said calmly to Nirarrien as I approached him from behind, laying a firm hand on his shoulder. I let it rest there for a moment, then retreated from the contact, waiting to see if our leader would follow the Nord, who had already pressed on.

I had hoped that our situation would not escalate to something so dire, and I was thankful that Kairos was not a man that was easily angered. If he was, then I feared that he would have layed dead at our feet, his blood on our hands. I had seen many soldiers fall in the few battles that I had witnessed when I served as a Thalmor Justiciar in Hammerfell, and I learned that the responsibility for the death of another being man, mer, or otherwise was not something that was easy to bear.

Hopefully my intervention will help diffuse this situation. If we are to travel together all of these pointless words and impudent actions must be put to an end. I thought to myself, and that was when I noticed the heavy black sleeve of my Thalmor Robes. I knew I was going to have to change my clothing, the Thalmor Robes would no longer suffice. I just hoped that I would be able to find something suitable.

Elevainia took notice to the Nord who pressed a blade to Nirarrien's throat. An instinct took over, she grabbed for her bow. She aimed deadly glares at the Nord, but as he pulled his sword back, she relaxed her hand that Allena had grabbed. He explained himself in a calm manner and instantly Elevainia felt bad for seeing his good intentions as arrogance.

As she placed her hand back to her side, she noticed the Nord's remarkable blue eyes looking at her for a long while. As he did to her, she did to him, looking at him. As Kairos Began to lead them again, Elevainia felt an odd connection with this man as if she knew him. She followed obediently, sticking close to Allena's side, but still just pondering why she felt, some sort of connection she couldn't place, for this man.

Nirrarien is not so close as to enable the pressing of blade to flesh in one fluid movement, yet not so far away as to have ample time to prepare or retaliate. However a radiating simmer from the edge of the poised sword does offer an outlet for violent response – while Kairos is content to stand and stare with sword in place the firemage draws upon his reserves of magicka, letting it ebb and flow through the channels in his arms, to culminate within the whitewood staff now gripped in both hands, and finally released in an inconspicuous pulse. Allena, as a full mage, likely senses the abundance of energy spontaneously rolling, flowing and tumbling in an intricate flow around the stationary firemage, yet Nirrarien doubts the other less-magically attuned members of the group would so easily detect the flow. If Kairos pressed, his Altmer hostage was now equipped to resist.

It proves unnecessary, and the Nord's withdrawal and brief explanation is all that is needed to bring about the cooling of the high-elf's head. Returned to his usual, reasonable self, Nirrarien affords his Thalmor counterpart a quick backwards glance, and short address, “agreed.” All three, Elf, Elf and Khajiit, are the recipients of his following request - “keep close,” - and then in the warrior's wake the firemage strides, off-handedly beckoning for Do'Khaj, Allena and Elavainia to close the gap between them, that they might move safer through the crowd in a tighter formation.

Eyes of deep green repeatedly shoot glances towards the Lady Benoch, until she should be close enough to Nirrarien that she can be quietly addressed in their native Altmer tongue, where the flowing, musical language enables more to be said in fewer words than common Tamrielic, “you are skilled in Illusion, are you not?” a sharp look travels the length of Allena's form, “perhaps there is some way you can disguise those robes of yours.”

As we traveled along the busy streets of Soulrest, condensing into a tigher form, Nirarrien turned his head towards me. He beckoned for me to come closer, and as the gap between us became smaller he adressed me in the beautiful, and hypnotic Altmer tongue. "You are skilled in Illusion, are you not?" He asked, the gaze of his emerald eyes traveling up and down the length of my body. "Perhaps there is some way you can disguise those robes of yours."

"Perhaps you are right. I can cast a spell of Illusion, but it will take a significant amount of time Nirarrien. I shall carry this task out when we reach our destination. Auri-El protect us if I do not." I replied to him, my voice resembling a twinkling bell. I had never been able to stop this occurence, as my voice was already high-pitched, and when accompanied by the musical sound of my native language, it sounded even higher.

To that end, I stayed silent as I followed Nirarrien, who in turn pursued the Nord. Let us hope that Kairos is much more friendlier when away from prying eyes.

Pleased that Nirarrien and the others decided to comply with his brief statement, Kairos continued on with the others following closely behind him. He heard the soft whispers of a strange tongue flow from the Altmer's mouth, though he payed no mind. Obviously, the firemage wanted to keep the information disclosed between the two elves. The sounds from the bustling city quieted as the Nord led the others towards a small dwelling on the outskirts of the city. A small bridge lay before them, closing the gap of a swampy creek running in their path. Kairos began over the bridge, but paused briefly to peer into the murky waters below. The swampy water bubbled beneath the bridge as a school of slaughterfish swam past.

Reaching the entrance of the house, Kairos raised a gloved fist and knocked on the wooden door in a strange pattern. Shuffling was heard from the dwelling as the door creaked open slightly and out appeared an elderly Argonian man. The Argonian looked at Kairos and nodded as silent greeting while opening the door allowing the five warriors inside. "Please, please, come in" the scaly man began in surprisingly good Tamrielic. "Make yourselves at home" the man said while gesturing towards empty chairs by a glowing fireplace. Kairos waitied for the others to take a seat before he made his way over to the kitchen area and began to fill six tankards with ale. Kairos brought each drink carefully over to his companions. "Please, have a drink" he said while placing a the tankards in front of the guests. "Ah, thank you Kairos" smiled the Argonian. The elder peered at his guests through bright yellow eyes "I'm sure you are all wondering who I am and why I had Kairos lead you here. My name is Jeelus-Tei, a former associate of the Thalmor." the old man stated while peering at the young Altmer women clothed in the distinctive robes. "I'm sure you have come to know the Thalmor are highly disliked in this region but I thought I may be of service to you on this journey."

Kairos returned his attention to the others before he spoke. "I must apologize for the simple pleasantries earlier, but outside these walls lies danger I'm certain isn't unbeknownst to you all. As I'm sure you are all aware, the Dark Brotherhood has been tracking the Thalmor's movements in search of the keys. I'm afraid I have come across my own share of those bloody bastards" A gloved hand pushed the locks of silver-blonde from his eyes as he ravaged his satchel and produced multiple letters and placed them on the table before them. "These are only few of the letters I have removed off the bodies of the assassins."

Jeelus-Tei ran his slender fingers through his small beard. "Ah yes, I've had my own troubles with the Dark Brotherhood, which is why I feel as though I can offer some insight on your journey. I have some journals on this key you are seeking that may prove useful. But I think the first order of business is for this young woman over here to change into something that disguises her heritage." The elderly Argonian rose from his chair and made his way over to an old bookcase near the edge of the dimly lit room. He pulled a book from the third shelf and the bookcase itself moved to reveal a small stairway leading downwards. "Please follow me" The man stated.

I found myself taken to the elder Argonian, Jeelus-Tei, I believe was his name. He was very polite and courteous, two traits that I had begun to miss during this venture. "You are correct in that assumption, Jeelus-Tei." I said with a broad smile widening over my face. As I descended the steps I was submerged into an abyss of inky darkness.

For a few moments I stood, anticipating the warm breath of some fearsome creature upon my cheek, yet I was proved childish as the room was unveiled by the glow of an orange candle. Layers of the pervasive blackness retreated to the corners of the room as I observed my new surroundings. The large basement itself was not what made my heart flutter, it was the wardrobes that occupied it's space.

Lining every wall, from floor to ceiling, were dozens of grand wardrobes filled to their brims with clothes that even I had not had the money to afford in Alinor. Set off to the side were eight shelves, on which rested fourty unique circlets. There were five to every shelf, and each was neatly arranged on delicate velvet pillows.

"In all my years... I have never seen such extravagance." I said as my eyes widened in awe of the beautiful assortment of clothes. I faltered a bit when I asked, "M-may I?" I turned my head towards the Argonian, my face contorted into a pleading expression.

Jeelus-Tei let out a hearty laugh and opened his arms wide in a gesture of welcome. "Of course you may." He was not required to speak even another word, for as he finished the last syllable of his sentence I darted in the direction of the mahogany wardrobes. Instantly, I was swept away by the beauty of each individual article of clothing, each one growing in allure until I was not sure if I would ever decide upon just one.

The dazzling red robes to my right called out to me, silver embroidery sparkling suggestively, while the amethyst gown to my left pleaded for my attention. Things continued in this manner for almost an hour if I recall correctly. Finally, I returned to the patient Argonian, holding three items affectionately in my hands.

I had chosen an Azure Mage's Robe, adorned with golden brooches that heavily resembled a vibrant field of roses. Next, I could not resist the silver circlet that was inlaid with milky blue moonstones. Lastly, I decided that my shoes should be something less glamorous and more durable. Out of the corner of my eye I had spotted a pair of clunky leather boots, which were not the most beautiful things, but as luck would have it they were almost completely hidden by the folds of my dress.

Elevainia remained silent through the venture to the wise, and old Argonian's house. She listened closely to his tale as to how he believed he could be of assistance to them. Kairos seemed close to this elder. Her mind began to trail off in wonder as if Argonian's preferred to be recognized as a man, or a lizard? As she opened her mouth to ask, she quickly closed it in fear of upsetting this kind Argonian, who took them in. Her hand mindlessly trailed to the wolf's tooth that hug on the thin, black velvet, clinging to her neck tightly. She traced every outline possible on it, it wasn't uncommon for her to do this whilst thinking or using it as a barrier in uncomfortable situations.

As her mind started to trail off once more, she began thinking of the night she had awoke after losing her memory. This was the only thing that she had on her, the only link she had to her past life. Her thoughts were interrupted when the Argonian had placed a Tankard full of Ale in front of her. She had never tried Ale, Atalil only served her with the finest wine. As she did not want to reject Jeelus-Teis kindness, she sipped it. She took a glance at the liquid in curiosity. A smile spread across her face as she whispered out loud, meaning for it to be kept in her mind, "This stuff is quite delicious!" She took a gulp and enjoyed it run down her throat.

Elevainia noticed everyone sitting normal in their seats, while her slender body allowed her to sit in her seat, with her legs curled up to her body, it was also common for her to do this. She wrapped her arms around her legs, and placed her head against them as well. She began to rock out of boredom as she listened to the conversation. Her head perked up as she heard the Argonian talking to Allena about her attire. A false bookcase cleared a path to a small stairway, and Allena and the Argonian made their way down them. Out of curiosity, she followed silently. As she reached the end of the stairs, she sat amazed at the sight before her. Beautiful attire lined in wardrobes, and circlets lined shelves on velvet pillows. The Agonian allowed Allena to pick something out. She wanted to ask if she may partake as well, but quickly made her way upstairs since there was nothing defining about her attire. She looked to the Three men upstairs who looked to be in conversation, and without a word, left outside quietly.

Elevainia wasn't one to anger over something small, but seeing Allena get all the attention because of her Thalmor robes, upset her. A spoiled side of her, one that Atalil created in her, emerged. She sat at the back of the house in a large field of grass. The grass was relatively tall and for the most part, covered Elevainia's small body. She looked to the swampy earth, and spotted a deer. Instinct took over and she silently grabbed her Bow and an arrow. Since she had awoke, Atalil enjoyed watching her Archery as she practiced on training dolls, but this was the first time she had taken her skills to an actual animal. As she drew the string back, the arrow in perfect place, she inhaled quietly and deeply. She marked where the deer's heart was, and trained the point to that spot. She waited patiently for the perfect chance to strike. When the deer had stopped to graze on the grass, Elevainia found her opportunity. She exhaled sharply, Releasing the string, sending the arrow hurdling towards it. The deer's head shot up as it had heard the whistle of its demise, but before it could run away, the arrow had pierced it's heart. Elevainia ran silently to it, and once she was there, placed her bow back and instinctively recited something in a different tongue she couldn't recognize. She understood it, but could not think of which language it was. Elevainia heard footsteps behind her, she quickly looked to see who approached her.

As I emerged from the small room set aside for dressing, a thought occured to me. Elevainia is always running around in those rags... I am sure she would like to have something of this value also. As I approached the stairs to ascend to the main room once more, I halted and adressed the Argonian in a warm tone, "My companion, Elevainia, would undoubtedly be thrilled to have this experience. If you would be so kind as to supply her as you have me."

Jeelus-Tei stroked his small grey beard for a moment, contemplating as to whether this was necessary I assume, then said, "All in your group are welcome to my wares. The men may be disappointed though. The majority of these clothes are made for females." Upon recieving his confirmation, a grin appeared on my face.

I hastened up the flight of stairs, emerging into the main room to find Kairos and Nirarrien conversing kindly. My heart was warmed a bit at this sight, and hopefully it would be warmed even more in the following days. I proceeded to exit the house in search of Elevainia, although the wandering was a short one.

As I stepped onto the soft grass of the yard in front of this small estate, I was greeted by the sight of Do'Khaj and Elevainia speaking with eachother. Hoisted over Do'Khaj's shoulder was a small doe, an arrow protruding from her chest. I was a bit saddened by the death of the deer, but I did not focus on the emotion for long.

"Elevainia! Come here, I have a suprise for you!" I said with glee flowing through my words.

Elevainia saw as Do'Khaj approched her. His tall stature frightened her, but his voice was calm as he complemented her kill. As she spoke to her about life being precious and she shouldn't waste it. She felt bad, but she had intentions for the deer. As Do'Khaj slung it over his shoulder and asked what was to be done with it, she said, "I actually intended her to be eaten. Jeelus-Tei has shown us great hospitality, so I figured we should do something nice for him." She gave the great cat a small smile. Elevainia heard Allena call to her, "Elevainia! Come here, I have a suprise for you!" Elevainia grew a huge smile, she loved suprises. She began to run to her, but turned around and yelled out to Do'Khaj, "Thank you Do'Khaj! Your words have given me comfort."