The Elder Scrolls: Hammerfell [IC]

[Pasong Tirad]

Murzim an-Nasl
Rihad, Prison

---

As soon as the keys landed in our cell, I grabbed it immediately, opened the gate and got everybody to leave. We were all organized well enough, we waited until the last of the Forebears and their foreigner friends left before we rushed off into the storage rooms containing our equipment. We weren't some Forebear rabble: we were Crowns and we were organized - but not today. Today was about escaping, and to escape, we have to separate. I grabbed my scimitar, knife, shield, belt and everything else I had on me before the night before. I addressed my men just as they were gearing up. In this room, there was no Forebear or Crown , no foreigner or Alik'r - there was only dead or alive.

"Sep is angry, men! He won't get to devour our souls today! Tu'whacca is angry! Our souls will not be riding the boats!"

We were as organized as any Crown force. I could see the rest of them rushing off ahead of outside ahead of us - the Dunmer, the Altmer, the Bosmer, the Nords (damn Nords, really?). They rushed off, probably to the northern gate. We have no choice but to follow if we want to live.

"Shields front and split up, boys!" I roared as I lifted my shield and unsheathed my scimitar. "Raiders don't attack Hammerfell. This is an invasion and you can bet the south isn't safe! Make for the safety of Elinhir! You can never kill a Crown!"

"Not even in his bed!" my men roared back, and out we went through the doors - only to be peppered with arrows upon exiting the building. Hooded figures filled the rooftops in Rihad's narrow streets, figures that started hurling arrows, icy daggers, and fireballs down at me and my men. Some of the Forebears and other foreigners were able to escape unharmed from this ambush, but most of them were still behind me, behind the doors to the prison. "Shields up!" I screamed. We were disorganized. We weren't infantrymen. "Shields up, shields up, shields up!" More of my men were dying, but after a few seconds we were able to hold on - a dozen Crowns against an innumerable mass of enemies. We couldn't even see them properly - the sun's glare was on their side. They were facing east. We had to go to the left, then. A fireball hit my shield as I yelled out profanities at the silent, hooded attackers on the buildings above us. Splitting up and rushing out of the city was off the table for now. Now, we had to work together to get out - but my men didn't listen. They were panicking and in this panic and confusion, more and more of them fell.

I and the three men who actually listened to me ran north, zigzagging between the narrow streets, avoiding arrows, actual flames, and bolts of ice and thunder. I don't know what happened to the men who were still alive and left behind. After a minute of running through Rihad's maze of streets, we saw the northern gate: conspicuously left open, with all its guards missing from their posts.

"There's the gate! Let's go!" I yelled. Looking back, however, I found myself alone. I stood there by the gate for a good minute, looking back. I can still hear them: screaming in pain, asking for help, fighting. Thunderbolts, fireballs and ice bolts were flying in the air. Tall Papa forgive me, all my brothers have died. Years of fighting the Forebears only to be massacred in a prison break.

I said a small prayer as I ran out of the gates. There was nothing I could do now. Tall Papa forgive me, may Tu'whacca save them from Sep and guide their souls to the Far Shores.

[Krugmar]

Aureena Anaeduseus
Rihad Prison

---

As the keys flew through the air, towards the Dunmer, Aureena knew that death would have to wait another day to claim her. Bodies piled through the opened door, clamouring for the sweet freedom given to them by the talkative guard. She scrambled with them, pushing those smaller or weaker aside as she made her way to the crate which she believed her items had been placed in. In haste she tore it open, only for a few old helmets, some daggers, and some rusty chainmail to fall out. Cursing, she wished she had paid more attention when they were handling her gear. Then again, she had thought she was destined for the block.

"Jackpot! Wait, damn it, this will never fit me." Said a voice to her right, a scrawny redguard holding her chestplate. A solid hit sent him sprawling to the floor, and he scampered away quickly. It was difficult to find a corner, out of the way of the fleeing people, and it took longer than she had wanted to hastily put her armour on.

It was not the right time to wonder who was attacking, or to join in on their side or that of the redguards. She didn't care about either side, or their fight, and both were more likely to kill her than thank her for the aid. She caught sight of the Thalmor, shouting something at the Dunmer, and made her way towards them. The company of Thalmor was never good, but it would be safer to travel in a group, until they could split at another city and she find work.

First things first, they'd have to escape the wretched city.

[Vacif]

Tarak Sorinvir
Rihad Market

It was a calm afternoon. Gulls flew threw the air, squawking. Light clouds floated through the sun filled sky. Another package delivered, another payment received. With some free time he strode through the town market. Rihad was home, and while there wasn't much family left here it was still full of familiar faces. Father had gone to sea and never returned. Mother waited for his ship to return everyday at noon. Eventually the young ones grew old and took her away to live with them in Sentinel leaving the old home to him, not like he used it very often though. He was often travelling and as such he rented it out to the locals.

Strolling through the market, vendors advertised their wares, townsfolk browsed about and children ran through the streets for one reason or another. Tarak took in a breath enjoying his home. It wasn't often he got to do this. So far today he'd visited old friends, places of business, and just gone over a simple nostalgia trip. It was like he'd never left. Weird though seeing older versions of the people you grew up with, learning what happened to them over the years.

Unfortunately this would not be meant to last. A message he was all too familiar with rained down upon the city. Fires raged near the ports as the market grew deathly silent. Curious faces looked over each other at the growing sounds of battle. Then, as if someone had rung a bell the townspeople sprung into action. Hurriedly did they begin to make their way out of the market. Some to grab loves ones and personal belongings, others moving for the city limits. Some vendors either packed their bags, or straight left their goods. A generous few offered their food stuffs to those evacuating. It was a tough lot of terrain between them and the next town. Tarack himself ran home, clambering up a ladder he sprinted across the roof tops over the crowded streets. It wasn't long before the guard called for an evacuation.

After reaching his home, he jumped down from his position. His knees bending as they absorbed the force of the fall. Looking into the home he found the door ajar, the tenants having already vacated hadn't bothered to close the door. Surprisingly they hadn't taken his horse. Whether out of courtesy or lack of knowledge his trusty steed remained ready to serve him. Mounting the tan mare he could hear the guard declaring an evacuation through the main street up to the north gate. With an entire city moving through one road it'd be chaos. Progress would be slow and if panic were unleashed many would be trampled.

Tarak's facial features hardened as he called out to any that would listen. "Rihad lend me your ears! Take to the back streets and follow me to safety! If you cannot, travel across the roof tops! Main street will be too congested, you won't make it!" Indeed from his mounted position could he see horses and carriages taking up much of the road ahead. This would slow progress significantly as people tried bringing their livelihoods. Understandable but foolish.

Snapping the reigns and speaking out in his native tongue he called for his mare to move. The loyal companion complying as it galloped through the less crowded backs streets and alleyways. As he moved he could hear and feel the presence of others quickly following. Up in his peripherals he could see movement up on top of the short buildings. Good, he was listened too. He wasn't too sure how many he'd helped but hopefully others would see their actions and follow their lead.

As they crossed through the relative safety of the back roads the sounds of battle raged. Whoever attacked had made significant headway. Every so often he'd see something fly through the air. Magic, arrows, men. He'd hoped the townsfolk were okay. The guard was well trained, fighting was in their blood but whoever this was came in fast and hard, and were definitely giving them a run for their money.

In no time did they reach the north gate. Oddly it was nearly devoid of its garrison. A single man stood alone with the gate wide open. The men likely leaving their post to either regroup with an officer or aide with the fight. At least he hoped so. He hoped that his fellow Redguard would do their duty instead of run. Interestingly his group had made it here before the rest of the town. Had a carriage broken down and blocked the way? Had fighting already spread to Main, cutting off the evacuation? His heart nearly skipped a beat at that thought, it would be a massacre. Turning around he could see the masses of fleeing citizens quick in tow behind him from the alley. Luckily it looked as if some had stayed behind in order to guide others. Noble souls, he prayed for their well being. He'd done his part, and likely wouldn't be able to do much more.

Turning to the lone soldier he quickly asked him. "Sir! What's the situation of the city? Why have we abandoned the north gate?"

[The Armed Republic of Dutch Coolness]

Raynila Selehas
Rihad

---

Raynila hummed an old lullaby to herself as she calmly went to look through the chests present, some others seemingly having worked hard on getting them opened, one way or another. Saved her the bother, at least. Managing to find her own, trusted gear after a short moment, changing out of the really unbecoming rags she had been forced to wear, and back into the good stuff, her sturdy old leather armor. Hanging her sword and dagger from her belt, right where they belonged, she took the rest of her belongings from the place, looking around for a brief moment and nodding, satisified.

The Dunmer raised an eyebrow as Larus returned, panting. "Ready as I'll ever be. We shall see where we end up." She sighed at a comment coming from behind her, looking at the woman that had spoken in question, tutting. "No, no. We shouldn't make haste. I think we should go for a nap first, in a proper bed. Can't escape from a burning city that's under attack by... someone without having rested well, no? Of course we're going to have to make h-" She sighed, finding that loudmouth of a Dominion spy practically yelling into her - rather sensitive! - ears. "Yes, yes, I am well aware that that is what we ought to be doing! Now, then, think you could perhaps talk like normal people do, rather than shout all the time? It's very unbecoming, let me assure you."

Letting out another sigh, she raised a finger in protest at the Nord that had just called them all milk-drinkers. "Sujamma, dear. Keep that in mind if you are to bring me a drink." Beginning to make her way for the exit the Redguard guardsman had told them to leave through, Raynila dusted off her armor, speaking once more, raising her voice a little as she did. "Now then, my little ducklings, just follow mother Raynila to the exit!" In a swift and fluid motion, she took her blade from its sheath, increasing her pace a little. "Stick together, hold hands if you must, and do not go with any strange people you don't know."

Humming her little song to herself again, the Dunmer made her way through the prison, up and onto the streets with little trouble, what guard force had been present having left to defend the city, rather than the prison. Stepping out onto the streets, she took in a deep breath of air, scanning her surroundings. "Ah, the sound of a city burning is -that- much better when one is not confined to a prison c-" She blinked, quickly ducking underneath a bolt of fire sent her way. "B'Vekh!" She cursed. "Right, children! To the gate now! Stick together!" Immediately, Raynila herself ran for the northern gate, avoiding any incoming bolts of fire and arrows as she ducked, dived, and hugged whatever cover she could fine while making her way there, the Dunmer clearly quite the athletic one.

As she got closer and closer to the gate, she narrowed her eyes, spotting two figures standing there. One of them was a guard. Opting to not take any chances, she quickly flung a little bolt of fire in the poor bugger's way, hoping that the other figure present wouldn't notice that the fire incinerating the guard's facial features that it was her specific firebolt that had done just that. "Move, you s'wit! Out!" She called towards the man, aiming to push him a bit further towards the gate as she dashed for her exit.

[Hastiaka]

Captain Calia
Rihad | Hammerfell Province

---

As soon as the Dunmer led the way, Calia followed. It was common sense after all. It did not matter anymore whether you were an Imperial, a Thalmor or a Nord. It was a matter of life and death and being mortals as they are, they would take any opportunity to escape the death that would inevitably come haunting them. Calia ran, her elegant elven armor reflecting the bright flames that engulfed the one bustling port of Rihad. It was unbelievable that these ships- whoever manned them, was capable of such feat. The Aldmeri Dominion's armies laid siege to Rihad for months during the First War without any success yet these ships, these mysterious sailors managed to. Calia would only pray that whoever these people were are the Thalmor else it would be a much more bigger dilemma.

Any fleet capable of striking a major port-city in a very militaristic region with ease and surprise must be not taken lightly. As majority of the cities in the homeland Alinor are coastal ones and once these cities fall to the enemy, the cities in central Alinor would be desperately struggle against a more numerical superior foe. Calia had a little bit of hope that these people were soldiers of the Third Aldmeri Dominion. But aany sort of hope that still remains is starting to fade away. Would be possible that these ships were that of the Cyrodiilic Empire? An Empire struggling to maintain itself after the devastating First War with the Aldmeri Dominion or could it be pirates? Or could it even be the ancient Akaviri? No one knows.

"By the gods, I swear, I will be pissed off if this was a Dominion invasion! Too early!" she complained out loud. he group looked at her, probably because of her words. Calia let out a small laugh and said; "Oh my terrible humor. Please excuse my rude attitude. I don't want to do anything with this okay?" she said while raising up her hands while laughing.

[Theodosiya]

Larus Vittorius
Rihad


"By the Nine! Hopefully I'll survive this" Larus raised his shield as he run behind Calia and Raynila. He got pelted by arrows, bolts, darts and many assortments
"Shut up and run, Calia! We have better things to worry about!" Larus shouted, his shield dented by arrows, bolts, rock or spells thrown by the raider. "By Talos!" He jumped as a ice spike nearly hit his leg. "I'd gonna have your head, motherfucker!" Larus cursed. He ducked as another ice spike passed above his head. "Fuck it!" He raised his shield as several additional arrows and bolts flies through the air. "That's it! One day I'll return and blast these raiders off Nirn!" He shouted as loud as possible. He suddenly feel something hit his shoulder. An arrow bounced off the pauldron. "Gotta admit, Redguard steel ain't bad" He grunts as he approached the gate. "So, Raynila, Any plans yet? After we survive this anyway."

[New Finnish Republic]

Ragnar Orthbörk

While by all regards I was a warrior, that did not necessarily make me any more nimble and agile as most others. Thus I didn't seem to have as much luck avoiding the oncoming barrage, as I had an arrow imbed itself into my left pauldron, the armor stopping the arrow before it could cause any serious injury but still deep enough to cause me to curse out loud. I continued running while I reached for the arrow, snapping off as much as I could. That will have to do for the time being, I thought.

When my eyes returned to what was in front of me, they were met with another pair, these belonging to one of the several hens locked in a wooden cage that was right in front of me. No time to avoid it, I lowered my non-injured shoulder and ran straight through the obstacle. Feathers, broken wood, and my own curses filled the air as the poultry scurried away into their new found freedom. It's a good thing that this is not Skyrim, as disturbing a chicken like that would've had the entire town after my head, I thought as I did my best to catch back up with the group.

"By the gods, I swear, I will be pissed off if this was a Dominion invasion! Too early!"

I gritted my teeth at that, even when she tried to play it off as a joke.

"I swear Elf, if you and your damned Dominion are up to your tricks again I swear I will-Ysmir's Beard!"

My threat was interrupted by a fireball which came so close to my face that I could feel my eyebrows being singed. Focus on surviving, Ragnar, then deal with the Dominion dog later. With one last final sprint, I managed to make my way to the gate in relatively one piece. I'd caught up with the Imperial spy, although what would happen from here on was anyone's guess.

[The Enclave Regions]

Teldryn Savos, Telvanni Mage Extraordinaire

Rihad | Province of Hammerfell

Teldryn kept his mouth shut and his head low. After having been beaten half to death by the guards of that foul establishment that passed for a government-owned institution, he was tossed into a cell with a Breton. Both of them were chained up in a way that prevented them from casting any spells and so Teldryn assumed this was a precaution for those that had been foolish enough to reveal proficiency in the magical arts during the "orientation" questioning. The Breton didn't seem very cheery, which Teldryn could understand, and so they shared no words or introductions.

Many agonizing hours passed and Teldryn had somehow managed to fall asleep, even chained in the awkward and upright position that he found himself in. When he awoke however it was to the sounds of panic and commotion. Apparently the city was under siege, but even worse he had a terrible crick in his neck! It soon became apparent to the Dunmer that, in his half-asleep state, somebody had unlocked his chains for him. Perhaps the Breton? Alone in his cell he noticed a few prisoners escaping through a back passageway, stragglers from the larger group that had managed to get out before them not but a minute before. Teldryn, rubbing the sleep from his eyes and rolling his neck with an overly dramatic groan, rushed after them into the tunnels...

---

When Teldryn emerged into the city all was chaos. Luckily he had managed to grab his gear from the prison's evidence container that somebody before him had unlocked, and so he was thankful to not be naked. Just the thought of his proud "magehood" (or as he liked to call it, his "Little Sotha Sil") being on display for everyone to see was quite embarrassing; and doubly so since that cute Ashlander woman that he had noticed when the guards dragged him to his cell was likely still nearby. Steeling himself and trying to gain his bearings he began frantically looking around, his blue robes and leather satchel blowing in the warm desert wind which fed the growing flames engulfing the city. He spotted the Breton which had been chained in his same cell and hurried over to him. The Dunmer hoped that he was the friendly sort, because although he would never admit it aloud he was terrified. He'd need help to make it out of this pickle unscathed and that was certain.

Coming up behind the Breton he gave a hearty shout, "You there! Breton!"

[Pacific Brotherhood of Steel]

Gael Corentin
Rihad

---

It didn't take long for Gael to find his own equipment and get it all on and situated. He had gotten rather good at suiting up his own armor after spending all that time in the pit. Not like others were too keen to help you. Prisoners were milling about and getting all of their own belongings or scrounging what they could. Of course corse the others were still arguing over inane things. The world could be coming to an end and people would still have time to argue. Not knowing how to navigate the prison Gael decided he was going to have to wait for the Dunmer woman to start moving before he could go anywhere. He couldn't afford getting lost in here even if only for a few minutes. It could cost him his life.

Finally after a minutes of banter between the few of them the Dunmer girl, Ranyila, decided she had enough and left. Gael could have jumped into the conversation but he figured he'd just make it worse or they would get mad at him. He'd had enough of talking with a knife figuratively against his neck so he stayed quiet. He followed Ranyila out as she navigated the prison. He probably could've got out on his own but better safe then sorry. They all filed out of the prison one by one out into the streets. A few other citizens ran pass them towards the gates but Gael's eyes were fixed on the harborage.

Much of the harborage was engulfed in flames and the sounds of battle were only growing louder. It seems the defenders were being pushed back farther into the city where they were. Bad news for us. Both sides would attack them on sight so they would find no respite in the city. Their only chance was getting out now. Gael took a second to catch his breath and get his bearings. The Dunmer woman didn't spend anytime mucking about and promptly set a guard on fire who was guarding the gate. So much for not making a scene or anything. Gael raised his hand as he was about to cast a spell of invisibility when someone from behind started yelling over the cacophony of sound. Gael spun around to see the Dunmer that shared his cell with him. He didn't pay much attention to him but here now he could see that he obviously was a wizard.

”What do you want? I don't know if you've noticed but our lives are on their line right now.”

[The Enclave Regions]

---

It didn't take long for Gael to find his own equipment and get it all on and situated. He had gotten rather good at suiting up his own armor after spending all that time in the pit. Not like others were too keen to help you. Prisoners were milling about and getting all of their own belongings or scrounging what they could. Of course corse the others were still arguing over inane things. The world could be coming to an end and people would still have time to argue. Not knowing how to navigate the prison Gael decided he was going to have to wait for the Dunmer woman to start moving before he could go anywhere. He couldn't afford getting lost in here even if only for a few minutes. It could cost him his life.

Finally after a minutes of banter between the few of them the Dunmer girl, Ranyila, decided she had enough and left. Gael could have jumped into the conversation but he figured he'd just make it worse or they would get mad at him. He'd had enough of talking with a knife figuratively against his neck so he stayed quiet. He followed Ranyila out as she navigated the prison. He probably could've got out on his own but better safe then sorry. They all filed out of the prison one by one out into the streets. A few other citizens ran pass them towards the gates but Gael's eyes were fixed on the harborage.

Much of the harborage was engulfed in flames and the sounds of battle were only growing louder. It seems the defenders were being pushed back farther into the city where they were. Bad news for us. Both sides would attack them on sight so they would find no respite in the city. Their only chance was getting out now. Gael took a second to catch his breath and get his bearings. The Dunmer woman didn't spend anytime mucking about and promptly set a guard on fire who was guarding the gate. So much for not making a scene or anything. Gael raised his hand as he was about to cast a spell of invisibility when someone from behind started yelling over the cacophony of sound. Gael spun around to see the Dunmer that shared his cell with him. He didn't pay much attention to him but here now he could see that he obviously was a wizard.

”What do you want? I don't know if you've noticed but our lives are on their line right now.”

Teldryn Savos, Telvanni Mage Extraordinaire

Rihad | Province of Hammerfell

Teldryn was just about to respond to the Breton when he noticed the Dunmer woman not far behind the man. She was in the process of roasting a gate guard alive with an excellently performed fireball or firebolt spell. Teldryn was quite impressed with her, and especially so at her sway. Her hips were magnificent to behold. Noticing that he was staring and blatantly ignoring the Breton, Teldryn managed to snap back to reality. He regained his composure quickly and lifted his chin proudly as he refocused back on his former cellmate.

"What do you take me for? A fool?" Teldryn snarled with a glare, taking a bold step toward the man before him. "I am fully aware of our predicament, and unlike most of these other degenerates you seem to have your wits about you. I simply wanted to advise you that taking me with you in your daring escape from this wretched city." Teldryn, in a very over-the-top and awkward fashion, bent over into a slight bow as if he had just presented the greatest idea in history. "I know, I know. It's a lot to take in... the thought of me travelling with the likes of, well, you. But I assure you it is a very real offer. I'm a mer of my word, you see."

A smoldering boulder of considerable size whizzed over the Dunmer wizard's head, smashing into one of the city's man battlements some several meters away. Teldryn flinched at this, quickly running his hands over his hair to see it any had been singed before he realized how silly this may look to the Breton and ceased. Dropping his hands to his sides and rolling his shoulders back he added, "Not that I couldn't manage on my own of course." There was a brief moment of awkward silence between the two.

The Telvanni wizard's cocky grin turned into a frown as he slowly began to realize that perhaps the Breton wasn't buying any of this. With a quick glance Teldryn checked to make sure that the female Dunmer was out of earshot and then again pleaded his case to the man before him. "Look, I know how ridiculous this may seem but I truly can be of help to you." Teldryn stopped and pointed past the Breton at the female Dunmer before continuing. "You're following her, right? Well just let me tag along and I'll give you back up. Trust me when I say you won't find a better mage to have watching your back in all Tamriel. Consider it... a business proposition. So, whatd'ya say Breton?"

[Pasong Tirad]

Murzim an-Nasl
Outside of Rihad

---

I heard another scream and a burst of fire behind me. I turned around to see a puff of smoke go up in the air. I kept looking back as I ran off. I was still hoping someone would survive. Just one man - but no, nobody ran out. I stopped looking after the first tree that I passed. Trees. How long have I been running? It's daytime, but it isn't noon yet. I haven't noticed. I was a bit thirsty, but my feet weren't tired nor was I hungry. I've never been this far south before except as part of a prison caravan. Sightseeing was never on the agenda.

I had to think of my safety now. Going to Elinhir or Skaven, in the presence of other Crowns, would be my safest bet if I wanted safety. Yes, that would be a good idea. And perhaps off to Dragonstar too. Maybe. It has been a few years. I see more trees in the distance, as well as a few houses. It's a small town. The mountains are almost visible behind the town.

But no, not yet. Now, I had to think of where I can stay for the day. This invasion (no way that was a pirate raid. Pirates don't raid Redguard cities, they know better), if it succeeds, would have to go inland soon. If I want to get away from the imminent wave of refugees fleeing from Rihad, I'd probably have to choose: pass through the mountains north, go around it west to Taneth, or go around them east to Elinhir. But not yet. I have to look forward, and I have to keep running. That small village is getting nearer. The usual Alik'r stone houses (at least I'm still in Hammerfell). Perhaps I'll be able to find shelter there. Find some respite away from the afternoon sun. Shelter by day, travel by night. Sounds like a good plan.

I stop just a mile a way from the village in a small oasis. There's still no movement from the village. A couple of wild horses are either resting or drinking the water. It would take too much effort to try and tame one of them, so I leave them be. I scoop a few mouthfuls of water and rest my feet under the shade of a few trees. A horse lies down beside me, thinking of me as a friend. Perhaps he was domesticated and ran off. It doesn't matter. Not long, however, and I can feel the fatigue of having stayed awake, inciting some shouting contests, and running through Rihad and out of it. The horse allows me to rest my head on its back, and my eyes close. Just a few minutes. It won't harm anybody.

[Pacific Brotherhood of Steel]

Gael Corentin
Rihad

---

“Consider it... a business proposition. So, whatd'ya say Breton?"

It was only getting worse in this city. Whoever was behind the attack had some powerful mages at their disposal as a meteor had just flown over their heads and taken a battlement with it. Now Gael knew pirates were infamous for their attacks and raids on the coasts but this, this was far too big and destructive for pirates. They would've have been gone already. They didn't tend to stick around for long as far as he knew. But that could wait for now. He had to deal with the clown in front of him.

The elf was quite honestly full of himself. But from the looks of him he was made of House Telvanni. Gael remembered quite clearly when the Telvanni mages came to the Imperial City when the Dwemer appeared. They were their to work with the Synod to figure out what made the Dwemer reappear. Of course he didn't see one up close as they only were there to watch the games while he was in the pit but he remembered those robes well. There was no doubt in his mind that this was a wizard of House Telvanni. A stuck up prick at that but he was likely loaded. An easy payday. Gael found himself gazing at the ring that glowed on his finger as it was obviously enchanted. Yes, this would be his big break. All he had to do was rob this Dunmer blind and flee to the nearest Thieves Guild where he could rest easy.

Not to mention he seemed to be a fool. He also seemed quite interested in Raynlila the other Dunmer. Something else he could use against him. He must've realized midway through his bullshit that you can't out-bullshit a man who was a professional bullshitter for good part of his life. The shadowy clothing with the face cover probably gave away what Gael was. A thief. He showed his true colors and overall came off as a bit incompetent. This was going to be easy. Hell he could maybe even learn a thing or two from the wizard. Even if he was a bit incompetent you don't get to be a Telvanni for nothing. Gael gestured with his head towards the gate and began walking off with the Dunmer following close behind. Perhaps he could get a down payment and gouge him a bit ahead of time.

Gael continued behind most of the others for now. Good meatshields if anything. The damn Nord took a arrow to the shoulder and fared well. Gods know what they were made of but those thick headed fools seemed to shrug off pain. He could be a useful tool as well. Gael sized him up for a bit until he looked back at Gael who quickly turned his head away from him but it was obvious that he was staring at him. They reached the gate without much more of a fuss and Gael decided it was high time he discussed his relationship with his new ‘friend.’

“Alright Dunmer, whatever your name is. What's in it for me? As competent as you may be you look out of your element. I could help you get about.”

[Zanera]

Killian Rootbinder
Bandit
Somewhere North of Rihad

---

To Killian, only the gods knew what was happening in Rihad, and he didn't put too much thought into it. His gut said that he should have aided in defending the city, but its voice was softer in his mind. It seemed no part of him wanted to think about what dreaded things might be happening to the people of that city. Then again, his thoughts also lent themselves to his bandit logic, which was screw the city: it might be getting occupied, and professional soldiers would be dangerous. All the sentimental jewelry and expensive family heirlooms would probably be launched right out of the city with the refugee crowd. The refugees would go wherever it would seem safest, and with the distrust and hatred towards the Empire, and the close proximity of that city, the waves of refugees would probably flow towards and lap up against Taneth's shores. There were a couple main roads that would probably be packed. Camps on the land just besides the roads at night for people escaping the freezing desert night, there would be plenty to raid. Refugees would be easy targets, and the more you and others raided them, the more their morale would stay low, lending themselves to poor defense in a never-ending cycle of raiding and theft. It would be perfect for Killian's bandit gang, and it would be easy to convince the boss.

He just needed to find the right landmarks. Killian had done the stupid thing, which was running out into the desert barely even thinking of cardinal direction, never mind landmarks. The sun was getting low but the air and the sands were still scorching. His water was going to start running low, and he was going loony wishing he was back in that cool jail cell. He had even been running around in the desert like a dumbass. You were supposed to trudge. He was hotter than the waters of Oblivion, having overheated himself with literally no shade in sight, and mirages of water from the heat bouncing off the desert sand. The time spent in a cool prison where he could sleep all day didn't do any favors for his desert survival know-how. He knew he had been lucky in that it wasn't midday, when the heat was at its worst. Still, he had already been sweating too much for someone his size, and after the heat of the day there was the cold of the night.

There was a big sand dune in his way now. He had an odd feeling that he needed to climb up it to get where he needed to be. It would require a lot of physical exertion, and with some dehydration, a lot of mental fortitude. He also desperately needed a landmark, and climbing up a large dune would give him the altitude to look around. He began climbing, sometimes sliding down a ways with the sand giving away, but, drinking the last of his water, Killian had finally made it up the dune. He began looking around and his eyes fell downward to the other side of the dune. Down there was an oasis surrounded my some sandstone buildings. It was hard to tell whether they were lived in or not, but it didn't matter. There was shade and water, and that's what he needed right now. He began climbing down and rested for a moment halfway down, scanning the village again. There was two horses, but there was also a Redguard man lying under a palm tree. He actually seemed oddly familiar, but Killian couldn't make out any distinguishing features from this distance. There was just something about the man that raised something in his mind.

He finally got closer to the man and realized it was that Redguard prisoner that was riling people up. If that...bombastic, to put it nicely...man was sleeping, then that was good. Killian wouldn't get his ear talked off. He edged around the oasis to the other side of the water across from the man and began refilling his watersack under the shade of a palm. He wanted plenty of room between himself and that man. If he went the distance to create some distance, then maybe it would send a message of respect and generally," My space, your space. We cool?" If the guy wanted to do what he seemed to really like to do, talk, then Killian needed some conversation points that weren't "What're you in for?" so he started to think some up.

[Vacif]

Tarak Sorinvir
Rihad North Gate

After some foreigner came sprinting down the main road flinging flames did the garrison man run. She however ignored him. A group of others came in tow. They were running as well which told him they were not the attackers, but they probably weren't their friends either. He turned to the citizens behind him. "We need to move, get to Taneth, follow the road north west. I'll ride ahead and give them forewarning!"

It wasn't much, he couldn't help them with the surviving bit. He could only give them directions. He needed to get word out to the other cities about the attack. The boats would probably move faster than his horse and him but he had to try. He needed to get to Sentinel.

Cracking the reins his trusty steed sprinted off into the desert. He hugged the mare making his signature minimal, increasing its speed.

[Hastiaka]

Captain Calia
Rihad | Hammerfell Province

---

Calia looked on as the group neared the safety of the northern gates. In the distance, the roads lighted up with lamps of fleeing refugees. The tens of thousands desperate to escape the hell that had come to them. This was not the first time she'd seen such horrors. It was in the massacre of Moonmont Temple in Reaper's March that she first saw death and destruction. The Thalmor had discovered that the ancient place of worship became a home to hundreds of hiding dissidents and so, the Thalmor's death squads descended upon the temple and burned it to the ground. Calia took part in it, it was something she was not proud of despite being fully committed to the Thalmor. She could never practice what she preached- she can sprout horrible words but cannot stomach doing such horrible atrocities. It was her baptism of fire and the burning of Rihad reminded her of it.

She heard someone saying to go follow the road to Taneth, Calia called out the group and said; ''I have a safehouse in Taneth. Anyone care to tag along?''

[The Armed Republic of Dutch Coolness]

Raynila Selehas
Rihad

---

Raynila growled lowly as she looked behind her, clearly not appreciative of the Altmer's little joke. Her laugh was grating upon her ears. "Try one of those jokes again and I'll turn you into scrib jelly, Altmer." The exact details as to how, exactly, she'd manage to turn Altmer jelly into scrib jelly was something she hadn't figured out yet, but she swore she'd find a way to get it done. Continuing to move her way towards the northern gate, she heard the Altmer yell again, this time about some sort of safe house of her - and how she was practically inviting the others to come towards it. Was she that much of a fool? It had to be a trap, surely.

"Yes, lead everyone to your safehouse. Won't be a very safe house after that, though, won't it?" Raynila growled, moving past the games and out of the city, slowing down just a little as she had by now at least left the burning city. "No, I'm not going to go attend to... whatever it is you have planned, there. I shall be headed for Sentinel, myself. Everybody's free to go wherever they like, but I suggest that for now we at least stick together and follow the road northward. We've no idea who just attacked Rihad, and as such we don't know if they'll be travelling inland, either. Call it strength in numbers. Stick to the road, stick together, kill whatever tries to kill us." She furrowed her brows for a moment. "That includes any of you that try something funny. Now, then..." Letting out a sigh, the Dunmer turned her head back towards the road, beginning to, indeed, make her way northwards and as far away from Rihad as she could.

[Theodosiya]

Larus Vittorius



"I'd follow you to Sentinel. I think i could contact some people there to deliver messages to my relatives and parents" Larus spoke. He sheathed his sword and hang his shield on his back. Now he carried his crossbow on his arm, steel bolt ready to be fired. He looked around, and spoke in lower tone, so no-one would hear it. "If you wanted to, you could ask them to do stuffs. I know many of them. They all are Imperial supporters, or anti Thalmor, at least. I... have relatives, in places". He looked around again. "I have an offer. After I finish some business, I'll go to Taneth. If you know what I mean" he whispers.

He looked at the sky. Clear, no rain. "This dessert. Reminds me of Elsewyr. But its hotter here. And nearly no Khajiit. Except the Cathay J'dran" Larus looked behind. "How far you've gone, Raynila?"

[Pasong Tirad]

Murzim an-Nasl
Outside of Rihad

---

I heard feet. They came close, but they moved away from me. The horse raised its head and then went back to sleep. Maybe the feet aren't hostile? They were light, barely recognizable. I'd have mistaken the footsteps for the wind if they weren't measured. But hostile or not, it didn't sound wise for me to keep sleeping. I was very much aware now of how my shield was on the floor to my left with my scimitar, and how my dagger and all my other stuff was on my belt to my right. I'm hoping I don't need it, but if I do...

I opened my eyes slowly, adjusting it to the light. The horse whinnied as I lifted the pressure from its stomach, but it stayed asleep. I looked around to the other side of the small pool of water to see a small elf sipping water and looking at me with some suspicion (and curiosity). Bosmer, by the look of him. He was looking at me, too. Perhaps he was waiting for me to say something. Filthy foreigner that he is, he didn't look like he was hostile - but he did look like he just came from the same prison I came from. He barely had anything on him. I suppose one of us had to start the conversation. The oasis wasn't big, I didn't need to yell. "From the prison too, Bosmer? I'm heading to Sentinel if..." Why? Why did I tell him? Too late to back out now.

"...if you'd like to come along." Sentinel was a Forebear city, and practically the capital of Hammerfell, says the foreigner-lovers. A Bosmer in Sentinel probably wouldn't be weird. If the attack was actually an invasion, then Sentinel would need to know about it. There were a couple of wild horses by the oasis and I was with a Bosmer - whose race is naturally more in tune with the wild beings. To warn Sentinel was to safeguard all of Hammerfell.

[Zanera]

Murzim an-Nasl
Outside of Rihad

---

I heard feet. They came close, but they moved away from me. The horse raised its head and then went back to sleep. Maybe the feet aren't hostile? They were light, barely recognizable. I'd have mistaken the footsteps for the wind if they weren't measured. But hostile or not, it didn't sound wise for me to keep sleeping. I was very much aware now of how my shield was on the floor to my left with my scimitar, and how my dagger and all my other stuff was on my belt to my right. I'm hoping I don't need it, but if I do...

I opened my eyes slowly, adjusting it to the light. The horse whinnied as I lifted the pressure from its stomach, but it stayed asleep. I looked around to the other side of the small pool of water to see a small elf sipping water and looking at me with some suspicion (and curiosity). Bosmer, by the look of him. He was looking at me, too. Perhaps he was waiting for me to say something. Filthy foreigner that he is, he didn't look like he was hostile - but he did look like he just came from the same prison I came from. He barely had anything on him. I suppose one of us had to start the conversation. The oasis wasn't big, I didn't need to yell. "From the prison too, Bosmer? I'm heading to Sentinel if..." Why? Why did I tell him? Too late to back out now.

"...if you'd like to come along." Sentinel was a Forebear city, and practically the capital of Hammerfell, says the foreigner-lovers. A Bosmer in Sentinel probably wouldn't be weird. If the attack was actually an invasion, then Sentinel would need to know about it. There were a couple of wild horses by the oasis and I was with a Bosmer - whose race is naturally more in tune with the wild beings. To warn Sentinel was to safeguard all of Hammerfell.

So the Redguard did want to make some kind of conversation. He didn't wouldn't be rude. "Aye, was put in there on many charges of robberies. Half of them were false, but I'll admit it makes up for the half they didn't charge me for. You'd think with my family's accomplishments I wouldn't turn out to be a bandit but...anyway, naw, I think I'm gonna hook back up with my gang. I don't run 'em, but it's a nice gig. May I ask why you're heading to Sentinel? Or would that be intrusive?"

[Pasong Tirad]

So the Redguard did want to make some kind of conversation. He didn't wouldn't be rude. "Aye, was put in there on many charges of robberies. Half of them were false, but I'll admit it makes up for the half they didn't charge me for. You'd think with my family's accomplishments I wouldn't turn out to be a bandit but...anyway, naw, I think I'm gonna hook back up with my gang. I don't run 'em, but it's a nice gig. May I ask why you're heading to Sentinel? Or would that be intrusive?"

Well, at least I know he's not hostile. He's still a foreigner, though, but I don't really see anybody else around. "That wasn't just a raid. Pirates don't attack Hammerfell, not in a hundred years. Maybe more. They know they're dead men if they attack Hammerfell, even if the attack was successful. Sentinel is a Forebear city, but it's an Alik'r city and they have the largest army in all of Hammerfell. At times of crisis, Forebears and Crowns were able to set aside their differences temporarily to defend Hammerfell. I go to warn the king - whoever the hell is the king in Sentinel these days - that Rihad is under siege."

"Plenty of gangs in Sentinel, too. Definitely a Bosmer gang there if you're looking. If you're going to be robbing Alik'r, I'd rather you and your gang rob Forebears."

[Zanera]

So the Redguard did want to make some kind of conversation. He didn't wouldn't be rude. "Aye, was put in there on many charges of robberies. Half of them were false, but I'll admit it makes up for the half they didn't charge me for. You'd think with my family's accomplishments I wouldn't turn out to be a bandit but...anyway, naw, I think I'm gonna hook back up with my gang. I don't run 'em, but it's a nice gig. May I ask why you're heading to Sentinel? Or would that be intrusive?"

Well, at least I know he's not hostile. He's still a foreigner, though, but I don't really see anybody else around. "That wasn't just a raid. Pirates don't attack Hammerfell, not in a hundred years. Maybe more. They know they're dead men if they attack Hammerfell, even if the attack was successful. Sentinel is a Forebear city, but it's an Alik'r city and they have the largest army in all of Hammerfell. At times of crisis, Forebears and Crowns were able to set aside their differences temporarily to defend Hammerfell. I go to warn the king - whoever the hell is the king in Sentinel these days - that Rihad is under siege."

"Plenty of gangs in Sentinel, too. Definitely a Bosmer gang there if you're looking. If you're going to be robbing Alik'r, I'd rather you and your gang rob Forebears."

"Aye, I don't recall my grandmother fighting off any pirate attacks when she was stationed in Stros M'kai after the Second Treaty. Her store wasn't attacked either, and that was at the Hegathe dockyards. My father was a privateer for some time, but he never hit up Hammerfell, his ship was hired to attack Dominion ships. If anything, Redguards make the best pirates, and I assume they wouldn't attack home ports," said Killian. Pirates just weren't really that sneaky. And the attack was midday, wasn't it? No, it had to be true professionals. "My gang doesn't mind race so long as you pull your weight, nor do they care who they attack, as long as who they're attacking has good valuables. We don't bother with farmers or vagrants, but oh lords, the loot adventurers can get! All their work ends up in our pockets with a decent ambush."

[Pasong Tirad]

"Aye, I don't recall my grandmother fighting off any pirate attacks when she was stationed in Stros M'kai after the Second Treaty. Her store wasn't attacked either, and that was at the Hegathe dockyards. My father was a privateer for some time, but he never hit up Hammerfell, his ship was hired to attack Dominion ships. If anything, Redguards make the best pirates, and I assume they wouldn't attack home ports," said Killian. Pirates just weren't really that sneaky. And the attack was midday, wasn't it? No, it had to be true professionals. "My gang doesn't mind race so long as you pull your weight, nor do they care who they attack, as long as who they're attacking has good valuables. We don't bother with farmers or vagrants, but oh lords, the loot adventurers can get! All their work ends up in our pockets with a decent ambush."

"Yes, well... I guess we're both criminals. Some people might disagree with me being a criminal, though, but..." I paused. I don't think I've ever talked to anybody about our cause in this way in a long time. It was never even a question with my men. "There are several wild horses around the oasis. I'm taking this one here." I patted the head of the horse next to me, who whinnied in delight at the comfort. This horse must not be as wild as I thought if it was this receptive to people. "Is it true that Bosmers can speak to wild ones? I'm sure getting a horse shouldn't be a problem. We can avoid the day's heat in that village - if it really is abandoned - and make our way to Sentinel in the cover of darkness, if you're interested, that is."

Gods forgive me, ancestors forgive me. I'll be travelling with a Bosmer as an ally. Could be worse, I guess. At least he isn't a Nord.

[Hastiaka]

Captain Calia
Road to Taneth | Hammerfell Province

---

The road to Taneth was soon filled with refugees from the city of Rihad. At the distance, red fire burned and black thick smoke billowed into the sky. The ash fell over a great distance, the sounds of exploding bombs were slightly heard. It was all too terrible. Rihad was not some random town with a couple of hundred residents, It was an entire city with tens of thousands of people and no one in the city could have known that this could've happened. The once proud walls of the Redguard city fell overnight, one could only imagine the horrors that are happening inside the besieged city.

The Dunmer spy replied to Calia's offer and attempted to ridicule her for trying to lead them to a trap. At the moment, Calia hadn't thought much about torturing these imbeciles and extract information from them but instead, she genuinely cared for them; the first time she actually cared for a moment about non-Altmer people. Calia then noticed the Nord's words and gesture. ''Well, if that's what you want so be it. But let me warn you, especially that Imperial-Nord over there, don't you ever suggest killing me because I swear, the Thalmor will hunt everyone of these 'relatives' you speak of!'' Calia then walked faster, to get in front of the group.

[Zanera]

"Aye, I don't recall my grandmother fighting off any pirate attacks when she was stationed in Stros M'kai after the Second Treaty. Her store wasn't attacked either, and that was at the Hegathe dockyards. My father was a privateer for some time, but he never hit up Hammerfell, his ship was hired to attack Dominion ships. If anything, Redguards make the best pirates, and I assume they wouldn't attack home ports," said Killian. Pirates just weren't really that sneaky. And the attack was midday, wasn't it? No, it had to be true professionals. "My gang doesn't mind race so long as you pull your weight, nor do they care who they attack, as long as who they're attacking has good valuables. We don't bother with farmers or vagrants, but oh lords, the loot adventurers can get! All their work ends up in our pockets with a decent ambush."

"Yes, well... I guess we're both criminals. Some people might disagree with me being a criminal, though, but..." I paused. I don't think I've ever talked to anybody about our cause in this way in a long time. It was never even a question with my men. "There are several wild horses around the oasis. I'm taking this one here." I patted the head of the horse next to me, who whinnied in delight at the comfort. This horse must not be as wild as I thought if it was this receptive to people. "Is it true that Bosmers can speak to wild ones? I'm sure getting a horse shouldn't be a problem. We can avoid the day's heat in that village - if it really is abandoned - and make our way to Sentinel in the cover of darkness, if you're interested, that is."

Gods forgive me, ancestors forgive me. I'll be travelling with a Bosmer as an ally. Could be worse, I guess. At least he isn't a Nord.

"I've been relegated to camel-calming several times during my crew's raids, so yes, I think I can get them to let us ride them," assured Killian, not very fondly recalling his close-ups with stinky camels. "I still think I should have had my head lopped off. Then I wouldn't have had to worry about this heat. I'll find a place to sleep the rest of the day away. I'm hot and I'm aching. If we're going to go at night, we need some blankets for when the temperature drops while we're riding. I'll go check out the village then, I've drank enough water I think."

[The Ik Ka Ek Akai]

Lilyarwen
Hammerfell
The previous night

---

Alone. That was all she could feel, really. She had been running for so long. How long? It was hard to tell. There were no Dwemer. to keep track of time for her. She understood not the tongues of the odd traveler that came her way. She had scarce had the nerve to visit cities, for when she first began to run, those cities would only be those of the Dwemer, seeking her enslavement, or of the Atmorans, who had crushed her race as if they were no more than pests. Instead she walked alone, subsisting on wild fruits, eating or even supplementing with the rather large pouch of mushrooms she had brought with her. These mushrooms were clearly chosen by the Dwemer for their properties in efficiency, almost the perfect food for such a logical race. It took hardly any at all to be a filling meal, and thus by conserving them as supplements to whatever else she could find in her eternally dark space, she could make her only steady supply of food last an eternity.

The land she was in now was hot. Very hot. How far had she walked? There was no true way to know, for if she could not keep time, how could she keep distance? She had to admit, though, that it was a very welcome relief from the freezing nights of her prior land. Were it not for her innate cold resistance, she suspects she would've frozen to death long ago. This heat, horrid though it was, could only be called an improvement. Perhaps, just perhaps, the Atmorans had not colonized so far south? Whatever the case, her days were filled with walking. Walking. Walking. Walking. The sounds of the oases through the sand helped her stay refreshed and filled, though her supply of mushrooms was dwindling at a greatly accelerated rate. How much longer did she have before she was out of food? The thought was disturbing as she felt her pouch, realizing her supply was very nearly out.

That's when a smell overcame her. It was the scent of roasted meat, something she had enjoyed in the Dwemer meal halls as she cooked for them, cleaned their dishes afterwards, even as she partook in her own meals nearby. She had known this smell from the Atmoran lands, but only now in her desperation did she feel the absolute need to pursue, to give it chase. She started walking, but her pace would soon pick up. She got faster. Faster. Soon, she was running straight toward the smell. It was irresistible, the meat, the spices, it made her mouth water. She ran and ran and ran right into a man. The starved girl fell onto her behind, and looked instinctively up to the man she had bumped into despite not being able to see him at all. He spoke to her in a confusing tongue, one she had never heard before, and she tried to give a reply in earnest, tried to explain her situation, her hunger, but felt herself being grabbed by the arms by another man.

"This is the weirdest elf I've ever seen."
"Aye, but she's an elf nonetheless. A high elf, too, from the look- what other kind has white hair and light eyes?"
"But she's so pale, she-"
"So she's pampered on top of it? Ha! What did you think you were doing, girl? Trying to barge past us like that?"
She tried to speak, "T-tarn-"
"Oh come on, you won't even speak the common tongue? Petty little..."
"So? What is it? What are you doing here?"

She remained silent. Fearful. She could not understand a single word they were saying. They prodded her so meanly, so rudely, but she simply refused to answer. She could not answer.

"Damn elf, tongue tied are we?"
"Whatever she's doing here, it can't be good."
"Little brat won't even apologize. Shall we take her to town?"
"Aye, that'd be best."

She felt a man tug her arms harshly, coiling a rope around her wrists, and adding a firm knot. She sat idly by, seemingly tied to a pillar for all she could tell, until the group decided to start moving once more. She was released from her anchor, and the group, numbering at least two men and one new elf, set out for the nearest town. It wasn't particularly out of the way, all she had added was extra baggage. All through the night did they walk, and she could tell. The air was cold. She was tired. She had, however, walked for such a long time...this was hardly a pain on her burdened feet anymore.

---

Now-ish

The small party was walking along. She could not tell if there was a road or not. The sand seemed to pad under her feet regardless of where she stood. The group seemed to be venturing forth toward a destination she could not be entirely certain of. It was nice, though, to finally have a place she was meant to be going. Stopping for just a moment to rest, she felt a warm hand on her back push her forward. There was no resting, but at least she had somewhere to go...right? Even if she was a prisoner, there was an odd familiarity to it. It was something she already knew, and for just a second, she felt comfortable with it. She felt okay, even happy, to return to such a state of familiarity. This was more than evident by the time she was allowed to sit down, breaking for a meal. A scrap of meat was tossed her way, which she eagerly devoured. The taste of the spiced meat filled her tongue with delight. It was one of the best things she ever had the delight to taste, and certainly had been the tastiest thing she had eaten all year.

The guards began to chit-chat once more. She, as before, understood not a single word of their tongue, but it offered her a chance to sit back and relax for a little bit. Now was not a time for worry, as whatever these weird creatures were, they were not Dwemer. That was enough to dissuade her from fear, at least momentarily. She had run for so long to avoid being prisoner and slave again, but this was not her worry. She would worry about that later. As the dancing taste of spices lingered on her tongue, she was given a mouthful of refreshing water to complete the meal. Hoisted to her feet, she was made to walk again. It seemed hours of walking, but she was alone with her thoughts. She had time at last to reflect on just how she got here, what her situation was, and that's when her thankfulness began to sink. She was not free any longer, and would need to pay attention to signs that would give her the chance to run away.

No sooner did she think that than an opportunity arose. A loud noise erupted in the distance, off to the side. Feeling her body for her dagger, very well concealed as always, she pulled it out awkwardly. Due to her bindings, she held it like an icepick. That would suffice. Slashing wildly at her captors, she drew little blood. Her guards would feel a brief sting, followed by a chill running through their bones, the desert heat evaporating quickly to feel as if in a tundra, their stamina would drain rapidly and they would feel exasperated, their movements slowing to a sluggish crawl until at last their very joints locked up and endured paralysis. She ran like she had run only once before, when she first entered the outside light. The paralysis was not long lasting, and their stamina may recover quickly, and so she had to be quick in her escape. Straight toward the loud noise she did run, soon leaving the sight of her former captors and just continuing to run. That's when she heard voices, "-Thalmor will hunt every one of these relatives you speak of!"

The sound was a bit distant, but she recognized the word "Thalmor". It was distinctively Mer in origin, and at last she thought she had found a friend. She ran in the direction, getting closer and closer before at last collapsing, dropping to her knees, unable to run anymore. She just needed a brief rest...it had been so long of walking, barely feeding, strange tongues, the collapse was, perhaps, more from emotional causes than anything else. "Mer?" she whispered, looking to the direction the sound had come from. She held her dagger in her hand, though did not begin to cut her binds. She was not thinking clear enough to realize her ability to do so, even if it would be a slow sawing instead of a quick cut. She was too excited at the prospect of finding someone who spoke a tongue she knew, of being able to at last convey her story, not even once considering she only had understood a single word of the sentence.

"Mer..."