'Tis was a peaceful day, like any other day in the Daggerfall. Or at least it seemed to be such before a Breton, simple one truly, ran through the main palace. Nearly knocking down few armour stands and bashing into some tables, he made this way pass the tavern and ran straight up to the castle. Yet determination on his face quickly faded away as he was stopped by the guards at the entrance to the king castle.
And surely they would stop him. His grey hair was a mess, ribbon which once held them in tight bun now was dangling on the piece of hair which was waving left and right from the air; Once finest robe now looked nothing more than peasant clothing, if not worst, being poorly put on and having... But a few stains of beverage which took ill-green color on robe's original blue velvet while a book, which was on side of each respectable mage in the High Rock, now was completely missing; This look was perfectly accompanied with a minor details such as close to madly horrified look in the eyes, few cracks on the lips and bunch of not organized papers in the man's hands.
" Mister Settnce, King Ganeeron informed us to not give you pass before you would look according to your title. Therefore we are..." But before the guard could finish his sentence, which he surely made sound very monotonous and tedious, he was cut off by a protest. Too loud of a protest. It was getting clear that mad looking arcane in front of the guards had no to little time for the formalities.
" Not a word! Like a mad hound I finally got on the scent of our terror and if you won't let me through, I will make sure to move you out of it" True or not, for fear of a mage or simply because of deep weariness, guards slowly parted their spears which allowed an old man to finally enter the castle.
Once inside, he rushed to the main hall and without any care for any guests nor King and Queen themselves, he ran to the King, shoving papers in other arms as if they should've made any sense. "Your Grace, we need to depart into your chamber immediately! I-I think I finally found an explanation to our doom!"
King Ganeeron only shot a truly fearsome stare at the Settnce before waving him off, giving him gesture to go and wait in said chamber. He then quickly made sure to properly apologise to any guests which were in the room before departing himself. "Arnnhul, you fool! Do you wish songs about mad arcane magister of High Rock to keep playing in all the Hammerfell?" Younger male shouted, storming into his chamber. His walk was strong while his rich king outfit made of finest fur and cotton gave but a slight elegance to his fury. He moved his black hair, which flew over his brown eyes, before staring right into the arcane's blue pupils. His appearance suggesting that you could as well call him your gorwn father.
"My Grace, King Etioc, I am most embarrassed myself yet this is not the time for the formalities. I think that reason behind the curse which fell onto our beloved kingdom is finally found!" Arnnhul exclaimed, placing the papers on the nearby commode before pointing at certain symbols which were as well founded by King guards and Mage Guild scholars around the Daggerfall. Mostly in few abandoned ships, some public claims and few private gardens. He then proceeds to take out a glowing gem, soul gem, which hard bizarre crimson glow to it. "I am sure we are dealing with the Daedric Prince, and sadly the very vague one, Vaermina, Prince of nightmares."
King stood there, showing with his appearance that he wasn't surprised in the slightest. Truly, not even muscle on his scarred cheek moved. "In the past days, I had scholars and historians saying that cause of our people curse was everything from necromancers to the Khajiit diseases. What make..."
"Bha! Isn't it obvious?! Vaermina is Prince of nightmares while our people suffer from the vivid night, and some day, images of horror and terror. They are influenced to do very unhuman things because their dreams dictated so. So my King, isn't it obvious?"
"...What are you suggesting? Even if you are correct, I simply can't give you any support"
"M-y Grace...?"
"That's right Arnnhul, I can't. People suffering from oblivion know what, which mean I need all medicine and best goods to keep them as healthy and satisfied as possible. Our warriors are tired to the death itself while our mages, only unaffected by the damn curse, have each theory of their own. And you are first who suggested your version."
Arnnhul looked nearly defeated as if the kid who just got crushed by the harsh reality. And while he was in his own little hell, Ganeeron slowly made his way past the man to the same commode. Take one of the papers, the one had the most little notes on it, he ripped off the part which was clean and then started writing something on it with the feather. Folding it four times, he turned around and got closer to the magister. Leaning in as his tone now sounded much... Quite. Secretive almost. "As a King, I cannot support you, but I might give you lead as a friend. Due to tension between us and Altmer which led to the war in waters, I signed a pact with few pirates of the Hammerfell, as you should know. This is a letter to one of them, Jalon. I do not promise Jalon will give you any good man nor should you hope for it, but there might be someone. More than I could offer." He then slowly placed the letter into the hands of older man before turning around walking over to the exit door "Take next ship to the Stros M'kai and find the loudest tavern. By my spies words, that should be a location of the crew, you should make it in time, if you are fast enough." And with those words he walked off, leaving lone Breton to his thoughts.
Sun already rose all the way up to the skies as Arnnhul, now having a more proper look with his hair finally tied to the bun, walked to the bay. He truly carried little with him, only his mage book and a few potions of truly magical colours on his belt, with also new addition of a silver talisman with the crimson gem in it. He was trying his best to think more positive, that he now have at least some kind of the lead, but his hopes been once again crushed by a look of the ship. Old, small, messy and packed; Just like him this same morning.
The trip itself was worst than his first two years in the mage college. Living mostly high in the tower, waves of the sea truly did make the poor man fear for his stomach few times. Alas, he was greatly glad when he finally was able to place his feet on the ground. Not for long, though, as he noticed just how... Different people were here. Instead of merchants and guards, there was a lot of pirates looking Redguards and Orcs. First had at least two blades on their belts while second look like they could break him in half and fold him just like that letter without even blinking. Arnnhul was happy that he at least he had magic to defend himself as his grown body would have little use in physical battle if you don't count it being used as meat shield of course.
But all the intimidating looking pirates and mercenaries were little to no interest for an old mage. He needed to find that pirate or he could as well given up Daggerfall, and perhaps, all High Rock to the Vaermina. Luckily for him, Stros M'kai had only two populated areas. One he was in currently had only two taverns. And by the sounds...It was obvious which one he was heading to.
Arnnhul, being arcane magister in his sixties, never really visited taverns that often. Times when he did, it was mostly official occasions. Public meeting with Altmer ambassador or alike. Therefore he was quite shocked to see pure mayhem raising in the place. They were talking over each other, spilling drinks here and there while showing off who had a bigger blade. He let off a frown, quickly stepping pass the doors and through the place before his eyes found someone he thought of as a pirate captain. He was larger than any orc with scars covering his bare back while huge mace rested at his side. He slowly made his way to the drinking pirate before tapping other on the shoulder, proceeding by quickly handing him a letter. Man didn't look like he would want talk and nor Arnnhul wanted to talk.
As pirate looked over the letter, he stood up in rather drunk and bulky manner before letting out a loud yelp. "Capitan! Here is Breton from King juvenile!"
Before he could display his confusion, a rather young Redguard women jumped from the second floor of the tavern and landed right on the table, causing it to bend under her. Quickly pulling said letter from her crew's member hands, she ran her eyes over it. She then shrugged and waved for Arnnhul to follow, in rather annoyed manner, as if he was a loud bee and letter was his sting.
Yet as he followed her to the private room, isolated by the velvet drapes, he started to realise that he knew that women. Surely not in person, but he heard of her many times. She was famous for being fearsome Redguard warrior who, for whatever reason, left the Temple of Leki back at Hammerfell. She leads one of the largest pirate fleets in whole Tamriel, was the first pirate captain to sign the agreement with the King Ganeeron, famous for travelling all around the known land and mastering nearly all weapon styles. On top of that, she knows magic, which already made her one of the best spellword. All this just in her late twenties. But alas, she was also known for having rather... Questionable character. Often mocking everyone around her, being extremely sarcastic and therefore rude, paying no respect to the higher authority. And that nickname she gave to the King Ganeeron truly made all the court of Daggerfall gasp in shock.
"Ay, you, eyes here," She said as she sat at the small table, her body being covered by surprising armour. It wasn't leather nor anything light, but a lightly plated outfit. While still giving her enough room to move freely, it has rather hard looking plates protecting main areas. Her boots have though been made purely out of some ore, which would explain why table bent so as it did. Her long dreadlocks being held by few rings here and there while a handful of tattoos and piercings rested on her face.
Arnnhul could say that face tattoo, which was a pattern of line lines across her bridge and forehead with some religious scars on the back of her cheeks and forehead, was a sign of Leki. Some sign. As for her ring which rested right through her septum, a little ball which rested in her philtrum and many rings which covered her ears...Well, truly, it could be just for the look. Though he paid attention that she was only one with all piercings being made out of, yet again, bizarre purple ore. There were, of course, more jewellery here and there, some rings on her fingers and two necklaces, but he paid less attention to them. "Miss Jalon, King Gane-..."
"I know what he wants. I read letter after all...Damn, magisters are worst nowadays" She quickly shut the man with her lower voice before looking up at the ceiling. She sat quietly for few moments before her head swing left and right, giving a shake. "No no, I will call you... Curly! Perfect~" She then proceeded to stand up, paying as much attention to the man in front of her as she would to an annoying merchant, as she walked over to him. "Listen, I am not much interested in giving my good man to your, perhaps, not real cause so... You can have our weirdo"
"We-eirdo?...Excuse me but what are you trying to say?"
The pirate sighed and waved her hand, calling over one of her men as she told them to bring here The Weirdo before turning back to the Breton. "A few weeks ago this Khajiit joined us. Damn good archer as well as true master when it comes to magic knowledge and alchemy. Everything good but by Morwha glorious tits she is creeping my crew out. Some people mistake her with dremora as she has visibly no emotions but a static, annoyed frown. And fact that she can kill said dremora with but a single arrow from mile away doesn't make anyone feel better"
"If she is so bad...Why you didn't just shoved her away?"
"Do you know life beyond your college, Curly? I have the name which I need to maintain. I am known to be one of most accepting and silver-tongued pirates ever!...I tried to annoy damn Cat enough so she would leave herself, alas, she was able to see past my plans."
This slightly awkward conversation would drag on like a lifeless slog if not for a Khajiit, who so nicely adopted the nickname of the weirdo, finally walked out of the extra private room which was in the tavern. She looked not like your any basic Khajiit and that was what stricken Arnnhul first. Instead of having an open outfit, which would be very logical for a place like Stros M'kai, she had the almost Nordic outfit on. A coat with fur hood which had possibly too many pockets on it. It was accompanied with oversized pants, though those were logical as they allowed more movement. To top it all with, she didn't have any shoes nor boots, instead simply a bandages which were wrapped around her ankles and soles. A visible bow rested on her back, visibly made out of a dark wood. Somewhere from Black Marsh perhaps? He also noticed that she had a weird...Sphere shaped things on her belt made out of the tree leaves. Most likely somewhere from Elsweyr, as only it had tropical forests around its area. He couldn't study her outfit and gadgets any longer as she finally approached them, causing old mage to look at her face, a thing he always would study to understand his opponent better. Alas, it was of no help at this moment.
Her expression seemed...Stoic, if not completely emotionless. Perfectly black fur and eyes colour of poisonous spider spit only added up to the whole threatening aura around her.
"Ay, Cat, I have news for you, you got to go on the adventure!... Very and very far away from here."
Female Kahjiit only gave uninterested look to her captain before moving eyes back to the arcane in front of her. After little eye to eye battle two just had, though it hardly could be called battle as they seemed to be studying each other more than anything else, she finally place her hand to the chin, showing off sharp claws. "Arcane. Breton. Old...Speak. I do hope for whatever reason you are here, it has to do something with magic."
"Well, Miss..."
"Dra'ada"
"Miss Dra'ada" He started, while posting mind note that Dra was giving to Khajiits who were known for their wit; something to be on looks out for. "I am on a mission of stopping Deadric Prince influence on my people land, Daggerfall. Since you are fascinated with magic and Daedra study, I realise that would be of interest to you"
"Ah yes, heard of it. Nightmares and horror nights in Daggerfall. Days already too. Vaermina most likely." She said in her surprising voice. It wasn't too high nor had the accent. More than anything, she had a sound of an Altmer. "... That and access to Breton Mage College, then I might be of use."
Arnnhul seemed both surprised at how fast it was to convince her and how she, but a scholar in magic studying, could theorise that it could've been Vaermina. While Jalon seemed both surprised yet also brightly shining of happiness. She laughed before giving an uncomfortable strong pat on magister shoulder as she started walking off.
"Good Grace, we will drink in your name today Curly!"
Khajiit only let off deep, quite annoyed sounding sigh before turning as well and walking off to a room she came from. "I need time to gather my belongings. Meet you at the port.". Arnnhul meanwhile stood there, in pure awe, realising that perhaps he truly was spending too much time at High Rock. Then again, Bretons were known to be way more official and polite than anyone else.
Sun was already heading down as at least an hour passed since he started waiting for her. He stood up and was about to head back to the tavern before the sudden voice behind him spoke. "Heading off? I thought we had the mission". He quickly turned around in the stupor, looking at Khajiit which had now a bag on the back of her waist.
"But when did you...?"
"You either blind or day dreaming. I was here for the hour" She said and started walking off slowly to the ship while Arnnhul was left to follow.
"So, Miss Dra'ada, may I know what magic school you specialise in?"
"None"
"None? But you said you-"
"I study magic, yes. Yet for that, I have no need to use it. I study magic, Daedra and wisps have little interest in me as I am no mage, perfect conditions"
"...If you look at it this way, sound like so. Just I never saw non-mage studying magic back in the College"
"If my memory still right, you were on the quest of saving Daggerfall. What's your plan?"
He coughed slightly and slowly lead her to the ship room, which he already bought from the sailor with one of his books. Once in said room, he pointed at the map which rested on the wall. "Cyrodiil. We need to reach their library so I could gather more information about Vaermina. We keep little information about Daedra in our libraries"
"Is that so? I thought you adopted necromancy practice from Altmer or still wish not to admit it?" Young Kahjiit gave of sigh, which seemed her common and more official way to communicate, before placing arrows holder on the bed and starting looking over arrows. By the look of them, they had bones as their heads. Bosmer most likely. "If you look for an artefact or spell to banish her, forget that. She clearly has an influence over your people using some kind of relic of her own. We need to look for a tool to destroy it. We need another Daedra"
"Another Daedra? Excuse my ears, but how another creature of pain and chaos will help us?"
"Vaermina lurk in shadow. Secretive. Elegant. No one knows enough to build artefact which would go against her. Yet another Daedra could"
He wondered where she would know so much, never being in Breton Magic College while also not having chance to join Imperial College; perhaps Altmer libraries? "And why would another prince betray one of their own?"
"Betray?" She looked up at him, giving him the somewhat surprised look before getting back to arrows. "Friends and allies betray. Daedra, unless Azure or Meridia, don't form friends. Not their nature."
Once again, old arcane was surprised how one would even find information about Daedra outside of the cults but decided to not ask now as he didn't expect an answer. "Still, whatever we will be looking for, Cyrodiil library shall have such knowledge." And after saying that, seeing that his new companion wasn't already listening to him, Arnnhul sat on his bed and close his eyes, entering a meditation state while trying to put all the new information in the right places.
Once the land was reached once more, this time being a land of Cyrodiil, Arnnhul nearly jumped off from the ship as it felt like Stendarr greatest gift. Breathing deeply, as Anvil's air filled his lungs, he looked around while the soft smile came to his lips. Truly, lands of Cyrodiil were closer to his heart than lands of Hammerfell. Yet he could not allow himself rest. His land needed him as he knew, he could've been its last hope. "Alright, we finally reached the port of Cyrodiil. Now all we need to do is take the closest caravan to the Cyrodiil City and we are set."
Luckily for them, as it been already established, Anvil was port city of Cyrodiil, therefore, it had quite a few caravans going from it to the centre city. Catching a caravan was even easier than he expected as it was even guarded by one Imperial guard. Arnnhul wasn't sure why, but perhaps the reason was that caravan merchant was a Khajiit, therefore they wanted to make sure that nothing shady would happen. Somewhat understandable even though the old mage did not fully agree with such policy. Meanwhile, the trip itself was quite peaceful. Calm plains of the land brought security to old man heart while he was studying the map. If everything would go according to the plan, by the time sun is at it climax they would reach Kvatch from which they would make their way to the Skingrad. "I actually was in the North part of the Skingrad when I was but a boy, you know, the rich part. Had quite the libraries and shops there" He spoke, trying to start a conversation with his new companion. Yet she seemed to be as stoic as wild animal looking for prey. He trying to understand where exactly she was looking but all he could see was trees and plains, ending with the mountains in the distance. "Dra'ada, I would advise calming down. We travel with Imperial guard, surely no one would..." Yet before he could finish his sentence, other already managed to jump off caravan side and quickly sprung back away from it. Lucky it was as, to the surprise of old arcane, arrow suddenly flew out of nowhere and went right through the merchant horse head, killing caravan from moving. Next few arrows were already aimed at the passengers and guard.
Arnnhul surely managed to put a quick ward, shielding himself and rushing to another side of the caravan to avoid enemies. Guard used his physical shield while poor Khajiit wasn't so quick, earning arrow which pierced right through his skill, painting once orange fur red.
While guard slammed his shield to the ground and hid behind it, securing the safe position, for now, Arnnhul tried to understand who they were up against. They had mostly light clothes on, bows, covered face and were attacking road from Anvil to Kvatch. He did think of Redguard raiders but before his thought could go any further, Dra'ada jumped from nowhere as she threw one of herself made bombs, shooting it with the arrow above the bushes from which arrows were flying before a rain of acidic green liquid started falling on whoever was there. "Get your mage arse up and help me"
He snapped back into the reality and stood up, seeing as their ambushers rushed from the bushes as he concentrated magic essence in his body, rushing it to his hand before shooting out an ice spear right into one of them, nailing him to the tree. While other three tried to regroup, Ada already shot two arrows at once, getting them in the neck and ending their lives on the spot. The last one tried doing something but he forgot about the guard, which finally did something by slamming shield right into running man. He probably tried keeping him alive, but the impact with the Imperial shield was so great that other dropped to the ground, not seeming able to stand up. And once it was feeling like fire was about to calm down, the guard pointed spear at the two companions while taking a more official stand.
" By the name of the Emperor surrender!"
"What?" Arnnhul said, giving the rather shocked look to the guard "We were in as much danger as you, what make you think we were involved with those bandits you fool?"
"It's not for me to decide but I shall take you and move you to Kvatch prison for interrogation. Stick your hands out and approached me peacefully"
Arnnhul was trying of any way of explaining a foolish guard they weren't involved, perhaps saying he was from King Ganeeron himself before sudden arrow flew and shot right in guard eye, dropping him down. "I have no time for this," Dra'ada said, walking over and picking up her arrow from the guard. She then calmly approached the caravan and started looking through it. Searching for any valuable goods.
"Do you have any idea what you did? This is the crime!" Arnnhul said in quite an upset tone, looking over the Khajiit before pressing the palm of his hand to his forehead.
"No one can prove it was us as much as no one would care. I don't have time. Get this and let's go" She then threw a book to the mage before starting to walk on the road toward the Kvatch. It was the only book in merchant caravan, a guide on speech and lying.
"...Even if we press on with our best, we gonna reach Kvatch by only sunset" He said, feeling just how much his old bones were hurting and pulsating. Most he walked was from College to King and back, half way to the Kvatch wasn't as short as he thought. Even though in reality he barely walked half of the already three-fourth of completed way. "And we gonna have to spend time looking for caravan there because we cannot afford horses"
"Then we move during the night" She simply replied back before hissing at the man "I gave you book. Keep quiet and let me think."
Even though Arnnhul could poorly tell how much they exactly walked, he did a good job on calculating the time they would get there by. It was getting dark, the sky a nice shade of purple as night slowly took over. Arnnhul coughed once they finally reached the town, sitting down on the nearby rock and trying to catch his breath. Truly, he said goodbye to his life during this little trip way too much.
"Alas, we are here" He finally spoke, catching bits and pieces of his breath while looking over at the Dra'ada. "Question is, what we do? Caravans only stop here so we will have to wait as we have no gold to acquire horses."
Khajiit let out a long, deep sigh before tilting her head and pointing at the nearby tavern with her claw. "There. Perhaps we can find people"
"People?"
"Yes. People." And as usual, she simply departed without waiting for him, walking off toward said tavern.
This tavern was way nicer than tavern back at the Stros M'kai. It was rather neat and clean, having soft lights to keep the smooth mood of the place while people were having conversations at the tables while softly sipping their drinks instead of getting drunk and yelling. Arnnhul approves greatly.
The two made their way to one of the free tables and ordered some wine, mostly for the look, before starting to give looks around. Seeing...Arnnhul wasn't all too sure who they were looking for. Nobleman? Knight? Merchant? Traveler? "So, who is that we are looking for?"
"We aren't. Wait. They would approach if they are here"
"They?"
"We were in travel for three days. If word of Daggerfall arcane travelling did spread, someone will approach. If not, we not lucky."
"And this is all your plan? Wait for patron or-"
"You can summon a dragon? Horse? The attraction we can ride? Drink and shut."
For some time it seemed completely pointless. They were just...Sitting. Not even talking nor looking around. Sitting. Arnnhul did try reading this book but in Juliano's name, it was uninteresting and sometimes awful. It can't be that people lie and socialise in such manner! Truly it was one of worst books he ever saw, therefore, he had to go on to see how much more ridiculous it was. Yes, very ridiculous.
But alas, luck smiled upon them as finally, someone approached them. Someone rather unexpected. His armour was shiny colours of bright silver and sun yellow, a prideful griffon was resting on the chest of the armour while elegant sword and massive, oval shield rested on their waist and back. The helmet was missing and therefore his face could be clearly seen. A yellow skin bit darker than that yellow griffon, painted man skin while long, straight, brown hair lay around his sharp face. His green eyes stared at the two before grabbing a seat next to them and leaning onto it. Even though armour did not look special, it gave clear indication that an Altmer was in front of them. Not simple Altmer but one of Skywatch guards. Rather...Respectable title yet also quite an unusual person to see outside of Skywatch.
"Ah, so the tail was, in fact, true. An arcane magister from Daggerfall is on the adventure to save his people. I also heard you were quite of a mad man, alas, I cannot confirm that." He spoke in his voice, giving a slight note of an Altmer noble accent in his high voice while eyeing the arcane and paying little attention to Dra'ada. "So, do tell me how adventure go? Discovered any things? I believe you are on the way to the Cyrodiil City, hm?"
Yet before Arnnhul could answer anything, Dra'ada leant in herself, earning the attention of a new met Altmer. "What is it to you?" Such boldness in her voice! Arnnhul was shocked, wasn't she waiting for someone?
"Oh, well, did not saw you there, cat." He said in much less official voice " I, of course, wish to know because I, Ocarion Sillonus of the glorious knight family Sillonus, wished to aid the brave Breton in his adventure! For he-"
"Why?" Dra'ada clearly cut off the man speech before crossing her arms and leaning back in the seat. "We have no time. Unless your pointy ears can afford us ride to Cyrodiil City, we have no times for likes of you"
Ocarion looked, bit surprised, at the Arnnhul which decided to keep the confident look and only nodded, deciding to simply roll along with the Khajiit. Last time he was that lost when he was learning the school of conjuration, that was truly confusing. Yet it was good enough for Ocarion to shake his head while his confident smirk returned to his lips. "Cat, I am from the family of most noble knights! If you want my intention proven by such simple task, be so. I shall get us horses and lead you safely to the Cyrodiil City by the Dawn. As together we will save your people from-"
"Now"
"...Excuse me?"
"I said. No time. Get us ride now or walk off."
Ocarion gave off a slight cough before standing up and nodding his head. "Then I shall go find said horses. Hope they have white, to match my armour." And with that he departed, leaving two once again alone.
"That was quite daring, but I need to ask, why to keep pushing?" Arnnhul asked as he looked over at the Dra'ada. She only let off miffed growl from depths of her chest.
"Noble Atlmer family members offer help to Breton on Cyrodiil lands," She said, leaning in her chair and taking a sip of wine. "Altmer is known for hating everyone but them, do they teach you this?"
It took the hour before Ocarion came back and led Arnnhul and Dra'ada outside, where there were three horses. One white, one black and one brown. He gave off rather a large smile across his lips before inviting arcane to the horse. "As promised! Three horses for our adventure".
Dra'ada was quite concerned on why he joined them so fast and willingly, but alas decided to drop the matter now. He was perfect for being front body meat and had quite the gold with him, if something goes wrong she can always put an arrow from one of his pointy ears to another.
In any case, they took some time preparing and gathering some food for the way before Dra'ada approached Arnnhul. "We need to skip Skingrad and ride through the plains. This way we will reach the City much faster."
"But we will have much more trouble along the way too. What about bandits and raiders and"
"They attack main roads as caravans go along those. Warriors usually ride plains. They have no interest to attack warriors"
Applying little logic to her words, the arcane nodded and gave off approving sigh. Even though he wanted to see good old Skingrad quite a bit, it was no time for it. Daggerfall was getting worst and worst by the moment, they needed to move faster. Gladly for him, Arnnhul spent much nights and days without dreams in studies, therefore he thought he would handle a restless ride on the horse through plains of glorious Cyrodiil...In theory.
In practice, it wasn't that nice. Somewhat half way through the trip, Arnnhul could feel how he nearly gave in to the sleep even through horse sit was quite not comfortable. Long story short, by the time sun, started finally setting up and first little lights broke through the dark sky on the horizon, out team finally started reaching the walls of mighty Cyrodiil City.
"So" Ocarion looked over at the tired arcane and snapped his fingers few times, slowly riding closer to him. "Once we are in, where are we heading?"
"To the famous Cyrodiil library of course! The one located by the Imperial college."
"But why not to check with mages guilds and colleges?"
"Well, usually as the rule, Mage Colleges don't have in-depth tomes on Deadra and their artefacts. Some fear that those tomes might be cursed while other believe it can lead to increased population of romances and Daedra worshipping." Arnnhul sighed and rubbed his eyes before putting the crimson amulet around his neck under his robe because it was swaying left and right due to the horse. "Mages Guilds do sometimes have Daedric tomes, the Dunmer one especially. But to get to their libraries you usually need gain access."
"And with the fact that Dunmers are currently at non-official war with Nords and trying fight off raging Argonians, they won't welcome us with open arms" The Atlmer finished for the old arcane before letting off the deep sigh. "But why Cyrodiil library?"
"It's biggest public library. Some information must be there. Maybe someone from merchant guild sold the book there or something of a sort. Hopefully at least."
And with that, each of them went back to their own thoughts, not like Dra'ada ever left them. It took them but a few more moments to reach an entrance to the City, enough for the sun to rise properly and shine over the flat plains.
The feeling that Dra'ada got whenever she was riding through the bridge which led to Imperial City, which she apparently been on more than once, could be hardly called nice. For her, it felt so...Unstable. She liked when she had secure ground under her paws, with this bridge she always felt like she was but a one catapult shot away from falling into the water below them.
"Ease up the cat," Ocarion said, looking over Khajiit which had very restless expression painted across her face "It's not like the sky will tear open and some enormous power will level bridge from ground." Ocarion never truly understood people like her. But then again, he did grow up as part of knight family in Skywatch. High towers, bridges, ships and hights were a common thing during his youth.
"I just hope we will get to this college faster," She said, looking around and making sure there weren't anyone around them. "Where is it in any case? I only been at Market and Temple Districts few times I was staying in City"
"Well Mage College, or how it properly called, Arcane University is located on the City Isle," Arnnhul said before pointing to the right, wherein distance could be seen a separate construction. Similar in a shape of City itself but smaller.
After those few words exchanged, everyone went back to their thoughts. Dra'ada to how she hate hights and if Ocarion could stab them in the back. Ocarion to thoughts about if his shield was shiny enough. While Arnnhul only hoped they would recognise Daggerfall magister in him.
And luckily, they did. Once they approached the gates which led from a bridge into the City itself, only a few words and sigil from King Ganeeron were enough to proof who he was. Even though Imperials did not want to allow Khajiit, who they suspect thief in, and Altmer, who they suspect Thalmor agent in, inside their City they had little option but let them pass. Unless those guards wanted to be responsible for worsening relationship between Cyrodiil and High Rock.
"I have little knowledge of magic and Daedra beyond basics, therefore I suggest that I depart to the Marchant District. We could use some extra materials" Ocarion said as soon as they entered the City.
"Sound good, but do look for some book dedicated to Daedra. Who knows, perhaps you will find something"
"Or someone" Dra'ada added before pulling one of her self-made bombs off of her belt, tossing it into Altmer hands "Tropical leaf of Elsweyr. Look for those. And for pristine water... Also for Dragonthorn and Emetic Russula" She then turned her horse and simply started to ride into the City itself, leaving confused Altmer alone as Arnnhul followed soon after her.
The path was peaceful and rather nice to an eye for Arnnhul. Nice houses, welcoming people and trees. Good streets, colours and clean air. Truly nice atmosphere. Plus it did felt nice to finally be on the horse even thought it made their travel to University longer. "Miss Dra'ada, you said you were in City before. On what occasions?"
"Thief Guild"
Arcane kept quiet for few moments, in quite a disbelief, before looking around. He needed to be sure that no one heard them. "You are part of Thief Guild?" He asked, making sure to get close and whisper it as quietly as possible, which earned yet another growl from Khajiit. She did not like closeness. "Why you told me this?"
"I am not part of them, I don't join things. I simply crafter few potions and left." She then proceeds to push, not too hard, arcane away from her as she was looking around the area. As if scanning it for something or someone. "You mage from Daggerfall. If you wish you can cast the spell or do something weird. I study Daedra, I know the lot about weird." Crossing her arms, Dra'ada looked over the old man before giving off sigh. "Why Daggerfall College?"
"I beg my pardons?"
"You had nothing but praises to the Arcane University of Cyrodiil. Why you then joined Mage College of High Rock?"
"Ah," Soft smile stretched on a man old, cracked lips as he looked to the blue sky, letting his grey hair swing back and forth as he adjusted the ribbon which held them. "My mother was Breton and heavily insisted that I studied in Daggerfall. Truth be told, I believe I wouldn't be magister if I been in Cyrodiil University."
"But why University would have in depth toms about Daedra while College did not?"
He looked over to the Khajiit before pointing at the guards which were patrolling the streets. "See them? I saw once kid throwing the rock at them. He looked at the kid, dead cold stare and as he knew it wasn't trouble, went on" Arnnhul chuckled, holding his arms behind the back as he spoke "Their army have much higher discipline. They even have battlemages, special rank for warriors who are in the army but are mages. With such discipline, they allow the more free study of Daedra as the level of corruption is lower."
"And Bretons are known to have quite lot necromancers."
"That too, my friend, that too."
While Dra'ada and Arnnhul walked through the City and made their way to the City Isle for the Arcane University, Ocarion made his way through the Merchant District. "Pff, who she think she is? While I was defending Skywatch from Maormers she probably been stealing some Bosmer gold". While bragging around he walked from one merchant's stand to other, looking at goods they were offering and seeking smallest price. While it was little known about Ocarion and his true skills, it was quite clear that he was quite skilled at seeing a price of things. The skill of usually rich people. "I wonder how much skooma Khajiit need take to have the complete stoic expression...Huh, perhaps she is Altmer who failed at magic spell, she has way too clear of speech"
While talking to himself and buying few things from there and few herbs from here, an even younger looking Redguard boy approached him, eyeing Altmer. It took few moments for Ocarion to notice the boy and then even less moments to wave his hand, showing boy to walk off. "Go on, I don't have a coin for you. I am on the very important quest."
"Ay, I did notice you were looking important" The boy then proceed to slowly place a wooden sigil next to Ocarion, earning his attention. "You surely heard about Vision of Pious, right?"
He looked at the sigil, seeing a symbol of two roses crossing a single coin. He kept quiet for few seconds before tossing the sigil back to a shady boy. "One of most influential Merchant Guilds, yes, I heard of you. But why would messenger of said guild carry but a wooden sigil?"
"Because I am but a carrier. Higher ranks get better sigils. This way Mister Pevia can recognise who is who faster"
Ocarion smiled and before taking his gold bag under his waist's armour, he looked down at the boy with full attention, giving off the prideful laugh. "And you surely noticed my big package, therefore, decide that I would be a good customer, him?"
"Uh, yea, you can say this." The boy said with his own laugh, not as prideful but nevertheless good one, before waving Ocarion to follow.
Altmer was quite surprised when he found himself walking through the whole district, then heading to the district where all house located. Even more, his surprise was when he walked into the house which looked pretty basic. It was the simple wooden house of a brown colour, standing next to other houses like it with trees all between them. But he finally gave off approving hump once in said house, the boy opened the hatch on the floor. With spell nevertheless!
Following down rocky stairs, he was quite amazed when he found himself in a cave. Not basic one. It looked like a castle, a decent hold worth of thane, with its walls made of natural rock. Tables, bookshelves, treasuries and alike were just resting around. Again, like hold, but without walls. There was only one proper structure and it was wooden stairs around giant rock pillar which held the cave, with a wooden platform on top. As Ocarion walked to that platform, he found himself in front of the table with the single man at it. The boy quickly bowed down and left as Ocarion been left one on one with the man.
This man though quickly earned the attention of Altmer. His clothes looked like most expensive outfit which could be found across whole Cyrodiil. They actually looked like...Atlmer nobility clothe! With gentle golden lines and soft cotton material, few green gems and gold pocket outlines, Ocarion could easily identify it as an Altmer nobility outfit. "That is quite small and poor hold for the guild with such big name." He said, walking and taking the seat on another side of a table, trying to not show his interest too much.
"Not when you have such holds all they way from High Rock to Skyrim, kind sir," Pevia said with a gentle smile on his pink lips, making his low voice have quite a velvet touch to it, while his black hair added the certain elegance to him. Even though his hair had quite a messy look, just being in whatever shape and state. "But this is not why I called you...Wine?" He then proceeds to slowly move a wooden cup over to Ocarion and pour the purple liquid in it. "Do not fear it, kind Altmer, poising you would give me bad name across the Thief Guild"
"You part of the Thieves?" He asked, slowly taking a sip and giving off surprised gasp. "Such soft grape texture with light spices-"
"Yes, Altmer wine, knew you would approve." Brotimus caught his opponent off guard before standing up. "My man saw you with Breton Arcane and an exotic Khajiit. Could it be...You are travelling with that famous High Rock magister?"
Now it was the time of Ocarion to feel prideful. He leant in his seat and smirked, nodding his head. "Well of course, how could he turn my suggestion of help? Poor man nearly jumped on me once he saw me!"
"Aw, of course." Brotimus laughed before slowly taking but a single paper from his table and handing it to the Altmer. "You sure know what this is, Sir Sillonus."
Ocarion did saw writings about Daedra and some rose symbols, but couldn't understand past that. He though sure not showed it, nodding his head and letting it slip past him that other man knew his name.
"Of course, you do. Now imagine looking on Arnnhul face when he will see ancient Daedric writings! One he desperately looking for but you so easily found~." Brotimus quickly walked over to Altmer and looked down at him. "And imagine all the praises too! Al this but for a simple price-."
Surely Ocarion could not take the moment to think otherwise this smart merchant could take the offer back so to shock the man, he slammed his hand down and pulled truly...Superior move. "You, Mister, have a deal!"
While this picture unravelled in the deep cave beneath the Cyrodiil City, Arnnhul and Dra'ada safely reached the Arcane University. Luckily for both, the register at the entrance quickly recognised the old magister which was seen by the doors of said University many times in the past, earning the two safe passage. And there it was, the house of knowledge, pure heaven for Arnnhul. Scholars and apprentices, accompanying with few mentors, were roaming the chambers of the place. Books filled the endless shelves as the air was full of that old pages aroma. He even thought that he caught the interest in eyes of his Khajiit fella.
"Hu...Nicely done. I will go search." And with this words Dra'ada departed, walking to upper levels of the building while leaving her companion to search the lower levels.
Dra'ada was actually quite impressed, in a good way. Not just by a number of books, but by an absence of hostility in the area. Perhaps it was due to the difference of races, after all, she even spotted one Argonian among Nords and Dunmers, but no one been bothered by her just roaming around. "Cause no trouble and you will receive none..." She mumbled to herself while looking through the dark purple and blood red books, the dark magic and Daedric knowledge section. It took her quite a few books to finally reach one about less known Daedra such as Sanguine, Hermaeus Mora, Peryite, Vaermina, Yaggalag, Namira and Mephala. Because of the great amount of Daedric Princes, book tried to smash them all together and gave little information about the individual. Alas, she did found few outstanding artefacts, many of which belonged to Vaermina.
The first artefact which did not have the vague description to it was Skull of Corruption, but alas, it only summoned the copy of the one it was cast onto. Book also told about Orb of Vaermina, innocent beautiful blue orb. It looked like it could be what she was looking for, but sadly there was no description of what it could do. But then luck finally smiled at our Khajiit friend as she found pretty interesting section.
It was a section of unknown artefacts which so far didn't identify to any of Daedra. One which caught an eye of Dra'ada was but an amulet, simple neckless. It was shown to come in purple, black, red, crimson, magenta and blue colours. Said necklaces were told to be left in one area after what it will start cursing the land. Not physically, but by bringing nightmares to creatures around it which would eventually start performing horrible actions in waking state. Through the recorded history, necklaces were spotted several times, which led people to believe that there are either many of them or it is impossible to be destroyed by basic means.
While pretty stretched, this was only information she found through reading the book, so Ada had no choice but take this information as her only clue. Hoping that no one will think she is stealing, Ada slowly went to the first level of the University before finding the Arnnhul. Which wasn't too hard because instead of actually finding books, he was reading a single book.
"Ah, Miss Dra'ada! Beg my pardons but I really got lost in this book about illusion magic. So fascinating and-" Of course, before he could finish, Khajiit simply pulled a book out of his hands and simply handed another book she found. "...Huh, yes, that does sound like the most logical piece of information we found for past few days!" Arnnhul said with quite an enthusiastic tone, which surprised her a bit as Ada was pretty sceptical about her own clue.
"Then shall we go find Ocarion?"
"Yes, yes indeed, we shall hope that he found something himself"
"Fool probably bought golden mirror which was attached to his chest armour"
Arnnhul only answered with the soft chuckle, and once he informed one of library keepers that he will be taking this book for some time, departed away. They actually never actually discussed where they would meet but both Breton and Khajiit decided that they will go to one of the biggest and richest taverns in City, thinking that Ocarion would be looking for them there. Or perhaps simply already resting there. The place was actually quite precise and well. The Greedy Squid Inn, one of most well-known places...Mostly for the name. Which actually come from the tale that owner was once the sailor who survived the attack of giant Daedric tentacles when he was at the sea. No matter if the story is true or pure work of fiction, the place is known for a wide choice of drinks from different cultures, some nice meals and soft music. The only problem was that place was truly packed and even magister arcane of High Rock could not get a place there for free. Or with any kind of decrease in price at this rate.
"Mister Arnnhul, finally! I thought you would never show up~" A man said, appearing from the depths of a tavern with the glass of wine. "I and Ocarion bought table here already an hour ago, waiting for you. Do follow me." And with this words Brotimus started walking back into the tavern.
Best case would be that he actually know Ocarion while the worst case would be that he murdered Ocarion and now trying to ambush the two. Deciding that they didn't have a lot of options, Dra'ada simply shrugged her shoulders and walked with the noble look through the, truly envious looking, servants with Arnnhul following in more amateurish manner. Once inside, presented to all the class and rank of place, all three sat at the table where Ocarion was already resting on the plate of bread and poultry in front of him.
"Mister Settnce, finally you are here!" He exclaimed with pride in his voice, barely waiting for a moment when he would show the arcane his glorious finding.
"I told you to find leaves, not Imperial man. Do those perky ears damage your hearing?" Dra'ada intervened with the curiosity rising in her voice.
"Now now, let me explain. I am but a Brotimus Pevia, a simple owner of simple company who had great trading arrangement with your friend here"
"Pevia...The owner of the Merchant Guild. I never heard a lot about you, but King Ganeeron did establish few trading roads with you, correct?"
"Correct indeed. But enough of business, sit down and have the drink."
"What was the deal?" Ada interrupted once again, with much louder and apprehensive tone, making sure that this time she would be heard. "My experience showed me that you can never trust too fast."
"And the good experience that is, my lady" Imperial replied back before turning to her with that uncommon smug "Before I explain, may I know your name? None of my men could find out."
"Dra'ada"
"Aw, I can appreciate women with skill in her sleeve" He smiled and bowed his head slightly, welcoming her in rather official manner. He then proceeds to quickly grab the paper from Ocarion fingers, with a speed of true thief, before presenting it to Dra'ada and Arnnhul. "This, my friends, is an ancient writing of the set of daggers which Mister Ocarion skillfully found," Brotimus said, making sure that Altmer would be too busy basking in his own pride and would leave the three alone to discuss the matter. "Yet not simple daggers. Those are Cataclysmic Carvers, they are known as one of darkest mysterious in our known world; set of magical daggers created somewhere between Mythic and First Eras. It is told that they were created by either good Daedra or one of the Aedra during often fights which occurred during that time, other though claim that it is one of the last relics left by ancient and long gone race. The fact though stand still, those daggers known to be poisonous for Daedric relics. By delivering the blow against relic, the dagger would break as well as the relic, destroying both forever. Ultimate weapon against dark artefacts."
"We all know child stories and mages fairytales, Imperial." Ada cut him off, looking over the paper. She knew of those daggers yet never saw such... Detailed and old looking paper piece. "How simple leader of Merchant Guild can possibly know of something so great? Assuming that it is real."
"I know a certain person, my lady. And if you would provide that person with a service, he will point out the location of one dagger."
"But why are you interested?"
"Isn't it simple? You do a favor for him and he remembers who brought you to him, thus bringing me up the career list." Pevia then proceeds to stand up, finishing his glass of wine and looking over the three companions. "My friends, you are on a truly unique quest while time is money. I am your only clue, therefore, do please take your opportunity."
It was quite obvious that Arnnhul was in deep thoughts while Ada had rather a sceptical expression on. And Ocarion just kept on being an Altmer that he was.
"Miss Ada," Arcane said, looking over at her "We been in travel for quite a time and I trust your knowledge. Therefore I ask you, what is your decision on the matter?"
Khajiit only shot a sharp look over at Imperial before standing up, her raising figure reminding that of a fearsome Dremora before she leant closer to young male and said in half growling tone. "Deal."
Who would know that Pevia had his own room in the said Inn, renting it for already six years without missing the single payment. Usually, he actually would simply pay for the whole year and leave it closed. Owners, knowing from who the money was coming, did not ask further questions and just politely obeyed. Once in the said room, it looked really simple. A bed, drawer, table, window and a single closet. Though once Brotimus got closer and waved his hand in front of said wooden closet, a magical seal flashed before breaking in the air and letting him open the doors, showing that he knew more than selling skills. But it was not the last surprise, as when doors were opened, a whole portal was inside of it. Imperial looked over the people behind him before giving off welcoming smile. "My agents will close doors for us." He said before stepping in. Having little options, our party walked after him.
They appeared in the cave. It was bright due to torches while outside something resembling swamp could've been seen. Also, it had that swamp smell in the air. All three were in slight shock that, from City of the Cyrodiil they managed to end up in the cavern of the Black Marsh, also questioning the new discovered magical powers of their new Imperial friend. But Arnnhul and Dra'ada came in true shock when they brought their eyes up, looking at the top of the cave entrance, which had a mosaic sigil increased in it. A red rose sigil.