Well, I'm back, with another Morrowind story! This one is a tale of a noble and her bodyguard as they attempt to establish an influencial force through House Hlaalu. Or at least, that is how I have it planned for right now. Here's the first chapter:
Somewhere, off the west coast of Vvardenfell, two travelers sat in a small wooden boat after a devastating event. One, the daughter of a powerful noble, had witnessed a tragedy beyond her belief. She had returned home to find her father's estate ridden with Dremora. Her father had been killed, along with the rest of the staff, excluding one being.
That one being was the other fellow in the boat. Armed in full daedric sans helm, it was a wonder they remained afloat, and going so quickly east. Accompanying the lady in her travels, he served as a bodyguard, and a very good one at that. His skills and abilities far exceeded even the armor in quality.
The noblewoman, a Nord name Irena, was clearly troubled by the recent events. She had some magic potential, and had trained a little in various schools. The Nord had blue eyes and long blonde hair. She appeared to be a calm determined spirit despite what had passed. While most would spend so much time mourning, she was willing to continue her life.
The name of the other traveler was uncertain. He was simply called "Dakron". There was something burning in his dark eyes. The mysterious warrior had vowed to protect Irena long ago. Most would say he was a Dark Elf. Others weren't exactly sure. Some knew him as a dark knight, as no doubt he was brutal in combat. The look on his face screamed of madness, but his actions showed distinct obedience to his "client".
"Please forgive me for being unable to protect them, my liege," requested the bodyguard.
"It wasn't your fault. Your job was to protect me, and you have done well. I just don't know where to go…" assured the noble.
"My job IS to protect you, my liege. And we are to Vvardenfell. I know your father had connections with House Hlaalu. We will work something out."
Time passed, and the pair had found themselves on the marshy shore of the province. The Bittercoast Region looked very unwelcoming, but there was nowhere else to go. Upon landing, they abandoned the boat.
"From here, we must head south," advised Dakron. "Then we should reach Seyda Neen in time. The silt strider will take us to Balmora, where we can make contact with Hlaalu."
Irena remained silent. She was slightly worried about running into trouble, as their landing spot was known for thieves and smugglers. Staying too long would guarantee trouble, and Dakron knew it as well. But, in a way, he liked trouble. It was his job to get rid of it. And he enjoyed every second of disposing of it.
The climate was humid in the swamps of the western coast. Fungus of different sorts covered the trees, and ugly small creatures crawled about the land. The path was very worn and easy to miss. Things seemed a bit quiet, until a nix-hound came charging at Irena.
As it jumped it instantly split in two.
Dakron sheathed his daedric dai-katana, and the pair continued their journey south. Things went quiet again, but not for long. A strange-looking Nord with fur armor and a battleaxe could be see off in the distance. The travelers did not alter their course. They met him on the path.
"Greetings. You should take care while in these parts. There are murderous outlaws about. No telling what might happen to an unwary traveler," said the stranger.
"Oh we know that. It can be bad out here…" replied Irena.
"Oh, yes, these are dangerous times. They'll rob you blind and cut your throat without giving it a second thought. It's a bad idea to carry anything of value on your person. In fact, it's probably best if you give me that gold of yours...100 septims, perhaps? I think you'll find the way less dangerous if you do."
Dakron laughed out loud, then slowly drew his dai-katana, obviously catching the Nord's implications. "How stupid can one person be? Do you think my equipment is just for show? I will spill your guts across this very road if you insist on this impotent cockiness." The guardian finished drawing his long blade and pointed it at the outlaw. "Now I highly recommend you reconsider your decision or face a fury greater than that of Oblivion!"
The lowly thief turned and ran. "A much wiser choice, scum." "We had more than enough money to pay him. Couldn't we have tried to work something out instead of scaring him? He may have really needed help…"
"Then you should have spoken sooner, my liege. But if you wish to continue your father's legacy as a nobleman, you must show your force, and use it when necessary to stay on top. Many mortals are corrupt individuals. It is up to you whether or not you wish to sacrifice your time and effort to see if they have the potential of good." His own words bit him deeply. He knew he wouldn't sacrifice, in most any case. But that was no longer his decision anymore. It was her decision, and his views were but advice. That was the way he wanted it in the first place.
They would reach Hla Oad very soon. There would be rest for a little while. Irena was still weary from her father's death, but kept her strength. "This town is rather small, but we can stay at Fatleg's Drop Off until we are ready to proceed. Do not worry too much, it will all be settled in time."
Dakron wasn't quite sure if he was comforting her, but he resolved to keep trying. At least until things became more stable.
As before, if something does not make sense, is grammatically wrong, or sounds stupid, please tell me! I am willing to take many plot suggestions as well, because I'm honestly unsure where I will be going with this.
Oh, and I'm thinking about character submissions too. If there is enough support for this, I will have a sample character form made out at the end of the second chapter. Thank you for reading, and please leave a review!