Agents of the Queen Part 16: An Elder Scrolls Online tale

• Posted by Tenebrous October 8, 2016 - Filed in TSC: Long Story - 1,263 views

  A Veil Over Mathiisen

   

   

  Ian S. McClure

   

   

  “Ah, hello friends!” Razum-dar said as my group arrived, his customary grin on his face. “This one was just thinking of you all. Don't be alarmed—Raz threat-assesses all new assets to the Eyes, yes?”

   

   

  I blinked, before clearing my throat. Despite the fact that we didn't find Mastengwe, and hence could not cure Elereth's vampirism, my Bosmer friend seemed to have regained most of her former spirits. After about a week of travel, we had arrived at the town of Mathiisen without incident. I said, “Razum-dar, hello. We were sent by Battlereeve Urcelmo about two weeks ago, but we had… delays. What's the situation here?”

   

   

  Raz nodded. “Good, good. You are focused, yes. We are here to investigate, to right wrongs. And maybe—just maybe—slit some throats. We'll see how the day goes. Are you aware of Mathiisen's importance?”

   

   

  Lilinastre hummed. “It's a major smithing town. Supplies most of the First Marines with arms and armor, right?” She asked.

   

   

  “Indeed.” Razum-dar replied. “But not just the Marines, it seems. Anarchists as well… Raz believes the town is vital to the leadership of the Veiled Heritance. And so, we must loosen their grip upon the town.”

   

   

  I nodded. “Just tell us what to do.”

   

   

  “Here is the plan. We split up.” Razum-dar explained, growing a bit more serious. “You, Ardolan, and a companion of your choosing will meet with agent Fistalle, at her home. Another will join Raz in scouting the town searching for possible Heritance members, and one will pose as a merchant to blend in with the people and hear what they say.” He looked at my group. “Be warned, all of you. Even without the idiot racists of the insurgents, Mathiisen is known for not tolerating outsiders. This one suggests those not of Altmeri stock to keep a low profile, and avoid talking to the High Elves when possible. We do not wish to cause a problem… Yet.”

   

   

  “Alright, sounds good.” I said, turning to look at my group. “Lilinastre, you're coming with me. It's less suspicious to see two Altmer walking around than an Altmer and an outsider, and we can fall back on our noble status if necessary. Elereth, go with Razum-dar—you're the best of us at stealth. And that leaves Suhr to be the merchant.”

   

   

  “Very well.” Suhr said, petting the senche-panther at his side. “Kismet and this one will do it. Suhr could use new daggers, anyhow.”

   

   

  “Excellent.” Elereth said, rubbing her hands. “Shall we begin?”

   

   

   

  Lili and I walked through the town, trying to act as natural as possible. As predicted, our golden skin allowed us to escape the bulk of the scrutiny. The sole exception was a Redguard, a smith judging by his clothes, with an aged, bearded face. He approached, seeming suspicious. “Excuse me. May I be so rude as to ask your business here?” he asked, polite despite the narrowed eyes.

   

   

  “Ah, yes. We've just arrived.” Lili said, with a believably cheerful tone. “We're visiting an old friend, my brother and I. Speaking of which, do you know where Fistalle lives?”

   

   

  Suddenly, the Redguard seemed to lose his earlier suspicion, and a smile appeared on his lips. “Ah, the Bosmer lass? It's that house, just over there.” he said, signaling. “I must admit, you two struck me as being the snobbish type. Maybe it's your gear. Most Altmer here are, no offense. But I know Fistalle, she's alright. Not many of your folk would befriend a Wood Elf like her.”

   

   

  I was surprised by his honesty, but pleased nonetheless. “Yes, that's true.” I said with a chuckle. I hesitated, weighing my options, before asking: “Oh, by the way, what's the word around town? I fancy myself something of an adventurer, and I'd be happy to help with any, ah, problems the town might be having.”

   

   

  The man laughed. “Hah! Nothing you can help us with, I'm afraid. But thanks, that's awfully kind. I believe you two are the friendliest High Elves I've met on Auridon!”

   

   

  “How'd a Redguard get to work in Mathiisen, if you don't mind me asking?” Lili inquired.

   

   

  Suddenly, a stern-looking Altmer appeared, walking quickly towards us. The man suddenly seemed worried and distracted, watching the mer approach. “Ah, that's a tale for another time. I've taken too much of yours already. If you need me for some reason, name's Khavas.” the smith said kindly, before turning to the Altmer. “Condalin, I'll be right there, give me a moment.”

   

   

  “You'd better. And why are you bothering your betters? Get back to work.” he said angrily, before leaving. Khavas shrugged, then followed.

   

   

  I watched them go. “That Condalin fellow. You think he's Heritance?” Lili asked in a low voice.

   

   

  “Maybe. No way to tell, yet.” I replied, equally low. “Come on, we have to find Fistalle.”

   

   

  My armor clinked as I walked to the agent's front door, and knocked. “Hello, Fistalle? We'd like to talk to you.” I called out, trying not to sound threatening. Still, there was no answer. “Hello?” I repeated, knocking again.

   

   

  “Ardolan.” Lili suddenly said, sounding grave. “Window's broken.” I looked, and saw that indeed, there was a shattered window. Quickly, I tried the door, which opened without effort. Inside was the Bosmer woman—dead on the floor.

   

   

  “Stars!” I said, rushing over and examining the corpse. “But—why was the window broken? They could've entered through the door.”

   

   

  “It's a message.” Lili said, sounding a bit disturbed by Fistalle's corpse. “The Heritance is here, all right.”

   

   

  I crouched, picking up a note from her hand and began reading it. “One day, a great big kitty with a tawny hide was playing with a little bag. The cat poked his head into the bag. He was a very nosy, hungry cat. He was hoping to find food in the bag. Instead, he found two rats hiding inside! One of them had a blade, and its' head was covered in silk. The other wore a veil, and hissed in annoyance. The cat realized that the only way he could get these rat out of the bag was to let in more light. Under the light, the rats would be forced to fight or flee.”

   

   

  Lili hummed, reading the message over our shoulder. “It's a code of some sort. Raz would know. Let's find him.” she said.

   

   

   

  We didn't have to look long before Elereth found us, and led us to a nearby river. There, Raz was sitting on a rock, clearly awaiting our arrival. “Ah, hello again. How's Fistalle? Raz must admit, her laugh is quite charming.” he said.

   

   

  I sighed, running a hand through my hair. “She's dead, Razum-dar.”

   

   

  That was the first time I saw Razum-dar become completely serious since the murder of the Silvenar, The smile slipped from his face, and his eyes filled with grief. He sighed, and said: “Dead? Dark Moons. Damn these racist fanatics! Was there anything unusual in her house?”

   

   

  “Yeah, she had a note.” Lili said, handing it over.

   

   

  
  “Huh. Can't make heads or tails out of this.” Elereth said, reading it with Raz.

   

   

  Suddenly, he chuckled softly. “Even in death, she laughs at this one. Clever girl. She's telling us who she suspected. She mentions a rat with a blade—perhaps she referred to Condalin, who owns the smithy here.”

   

   

  “We met him. Kind of. Unpleasant fellow, to be sure.” Lili said.

   

   

  “Search the forge at the far end of town. Perhaps there we will find answers. And find Suhr as well, see what he has found.” Raz said, before looking to Elereth. “You, little one, should go with them. Raz can handle the rest by himself.”

   

   

  “Let's go, then.” Elereth said, as she followed us to find Suhr. He was at the market, sitting next to Kismet. “Hail there.” he said, grumpy. “Few wished to speak to this one, on account of being Khajiit. Suhr has learned nothing as a result.”

   

   

  “It's fine, don't worry about it. Come on, we're investigating the smithy.” I said.

   

   

  Suhr nodded, rising to his feet. He looked to Kismet, and said some words in his native tongue. The panther calmly laid down, clearly waiting for us to finish our business as we walked away.

   

   

  “I'm still not certain how one goes about training a panther.” Elereth said, impressed.

   

   

  Suhr snorted. “Many are things Khajiit know that others do not.”

   

   

  “I guess. Still damn impressive.” Elereth replied, before growing serious again. We had arrived at the door leading to the smithy. Warily, we entered the forge area. Strangely, the place was vacant—not a soul to be found. I looked everywhere, analyzing every shadow, every nook where a Heritance assassin could be waiting.

   

   

  Noting a scrap of paper on the ground, Lili picked it up, and quickly read it. “Stars, Raz was right. Heritance is here—they're forcing the workers to forge weapons for them. The canonreeve and Condalin are involved! This is bad—the town's leaders are both under the Veil. We have to report this to Raz, he'll know what to do.” she said.

   

   

  I nodded—before the sound of a fight reached our ears. I drew my sword, and heard my companions likewise draw their weapons, and ran to the source of the commotion. It was an Altmer, clothed in the black armor of the Heritance and wielding a mace, dueling with none other than Khavas! The Redguard was wielding a scimitar, with surprising finesse and skill, deftly dodging the deadly blows. Elereth notched an arrow, aiming for the Altmer as he swung at Khavas, and fired. As the arrow went through his neck and he collapsed, Khavas saw us. “By the Gods, nice shot!” he said, sheathing his blade. “I thought I was done for.”

   

   

  “Why were you attacked by the Heritance?” Lili asked, sounding equal parts amazed and terrified.

   

   

  “Probably because I've been doing some digging, myself. I may not hold loyalty to your Queen, but I still like to do the right thing. And the Heritance are a bunch of crazies. Besides, they've been assholes to me.” he said, wiping the sweat from his brow. “We should get back to the town proper—I'm sure this mer wasn't alone.”

   

   

  I nodded. “Aye. You coming with us?”

   

   

  “No. I should return to the smithy before I'm missed. Also need to hide this bloke's body. But I'll be seeing you all around.” he said, before dragging the corpse away.

   

   

  “Interesting fellow.” Suhr muttered. “But he was right. We should not linger.”

   

   

   

  “What news, friends?” Razum-dar asked, as we got to the meeting spot.

   

   

  “It's bad, Raz.” Elereth said. “The canonreeve is with the Veiled Heritance, as is the forgemaster.”

   

   

  Razum-dar hummed thoughtfully. “Wouldn't have suspected Malanie—the canonreeve, that is… Explains something, too.”

   

   

  “Explains what?” Lili asked, curious.

   

   

  “A guard has been posted in front of her house. Bit unusual, yes? This one would ask one of you to get inside.” he explained.

   

   

  “How do you suggest we get in?” I asked.

   

   

  “There is kindlepitch in a warehouse nearby. Very flammable. Make a fire, and one of you can slip inside. Anything you find, bring to Raz.” he said.

   

   

  “Very well. Elereth, can you get inside?” I asked, turning to my Bosmer companion.

   

   

  “Yeah. Should be easy, provided the distraction works.” She said, shrugging.

   

   

  “Leave that to me. A good fireball works wonders with kindlepitch.” Lili said confidently.

   

   

  “Then that's that. Suhr and I will wait here for your return. Auri-El keep you safe, both of you.” I said. And with that, they were off.

   

   

  It was not long before we heard shouting. “Fire on the deck! Someone get some water!”. Indeed, smoke could be seen rising from nearby Malanie's house. After another ten minutes or so, Elereth and Lilinastre returned.

   

   

  “We have more evidence.” Elereth said, showing us a Heritance uniform. “This was in one of the canonreeve's drawers.”

   

   

  “Then it is time.” Raz said, nodding. “Time for us to step out of the shadows, and into the light. The town's corruption ends tonight.”

   

   

  “And I suppose you have a plan?” Elereth asked.

   

   

  Razum-dar chuckled. “This one does. But Ardolan in particular won't like it.”

   

   

  “What? Why not? And why me?” I asked quickly.

   

   

  “You see, the town leadership is in the barracks, preparing for… Something, Raz does not know what. You are known to them, for killing Astanya. You must go in there, make a big ruckus. And then, they will capture and imprison you.” I opened my mouth to protest, but Raz continued: “You see, they know we're here. You strut in, acting like a foolish hero, they'll let their guard down. Then, the rest of us swoop in, rescue you, and we strike!”

   

   

  “I admit—grudgingly—the plan makes sense… Fine. For the Queen.” I said, resigned.

   

   

  “Don't worry, Ardolan. We'll spring you quickly.” Lili said, trying to reassure me.

   

   

  I grunted, before saying: “Well, best get on with it, then.”

   

   

   

  “You don't look like you belong here.” the guard said sternly.

   

   

  I smiled internally. Might as well have a bit of fun with the situation. Exaggerating my voice, I proudly proclaimed: “Hah! I may go wherever I please, my good sir! For I am a sworn agent of the Queen! Nay—a hero, of near mythic proportions! I have business with your canonreeve—allow me to pass, or suffer the wrath of the Dominion!”

   

   

  The guard blinked. “… Uh-huh. Er—sure, why not, go on in.” Saying that, he stepped aside, still with a bewildered face.

   

   

  I strutted into the building, surprising Malanie and Condalin. “Excuse me, traveler. We're a bit busy here.” the canonreeve said, frowning. “If we could talk some other—“

   

   

  “Scoundrels! Ruffians! Malcontents! On behalf of Her Glorious Majesty, Queen Ayrenn, I have arrived to arrest the lot of you for high treason!” I said, drawing my sword for added effect.

   

   

  There was a sudden silence. “Treason? Are—are you mad?” Malanie asked, quirking a brow.

   

   

  “Mad? Hah! You are the mad ones! I have discovered evidence that you scum have aligned with the Veiled Heritance! And therefore, you shall be sent to the stocks, and shall receive your trials! Nothing can stop the justice of our glorious Alliance!” I continued. I'll be damned—this was fun.

   

   

  “You little fool.” Malanie suddenly spat. “Ayrenn has betrayed us! She should be the one accused of treason—against the Altmeri people! You cannot stop the Veiled Queen!”

   

   

  “That is what you believe, traitorous worms! But the glory of the Dominion will outlast any mere—“ I was interrupted, then, by a hard thud in the back of my head. The deliberate omission of my helm meant I was knocked cold. The last thing I recall is both Malanie and Condalin simultaneously saying a simple word:

   

   

  “Idiot.”

   

   

  “I take it the plan worked.” I said, as Suhr opened my cell door.

   

   

  “It worked too well. I was crying, I was laughing so hard!” Lili said.

   

   

  “Wait, you were all watching? Damn.” I said, shrugging. Then, I grew serious. “How are things in Mathiisen at the moment?”

   

   

  “The Veil has been lifted—the Heritance openly patrols the streets. Get ready for a fight” Razum-dar said, handing me my sword and shield.

   

   

  “Orders?” Elereth asked, inspecting her bow.

   

   

  “Condalin and Malanie must both die. Raz recommends we split up again. Three take on Condalin, three take on Malanie, and the town is saved.”

   

   

  “Wait a moment. That makes six, but there's only five of us.” I asked confused.

   

   

  “Wrong, my boy.” Khavas said, emerging from the shadows. He was dressed in hide armor, and was now armed with a greatsword of Redguard design. “Your friends let me join in on the fun.”

   

   

  I blinked, then nodded. “Well, gods know we could use the help… Alright. Khavas, Raz, with me. Lili, Suhr, go with Elereth. We'll fight the canonreeve while the other group takes on the forgemaster.”

   

   

  “A good plan. Raz is eager to see how you fight.” Raz said. “Let's go. Time is wasting.” I could barely hear him add, in a low whisper, “For Fistalle.”

   

   

   

  “You are under arrest, Malanie! Surrender and live.” Razum-dar cried, as our group faced her, weapons drawn. She was apparently a mage, for she had a staff.

   

   

  She snorted. “More hollow theatrics? You Dominion lackeys are all the same—all bark and no bite. This is why we need the Veiled Queen leading us!” Saying this, she fired a volley of spells at us! We dodged, and Khavas laughed.

   

   

  “Good! We could use the exercise!” He taunted.

   

   

  The battle was brutal. The canonreeve was an accomplished spell-slinger, and every wound we inflicted on her was healed in short order. Every slash, every stab, was negated by her healing. “Damn it! This isn't working!” I cried out, as yet another wound was magicked away.

   

   

  “This one has a plan! Distract her!” Raz cried, before rolling into the shadows and disappearing.

   

   

  “I'll cut your heart out!” Khavas cried, charging and swinging the greatsword wildly. Malanie lifted a ward just in time, smirking as the Redguard's wild assault bounced effortlessly off of the magical wall. She laughed then, cruelly. I charged her as well, hoping that Khavas and I combined could break through and inflict a fatal injury. It was then that she hit me with a bolt of solid ice.

   

   

  It hit my shoulder, and sent me flying. I landed in a heap, dropping my sword. I snarled wordlessly—my arm was no longer working correctly! Malanie aimed he staff at me, and channeled for another spell, clearly aiming to finish me off. I grunted, trying to scramble to my feet to dodge, but the spell never came. When I looked, Razum-dar had reappeared, and had slit the witch's throat.

   

   

  Khavas helped me to my feet. “Nasty wound.” he said grimly, inspecting my shoulder. “Don't know if it'll heal.”

   

   

  I sighed, and procured a soul gem from my pack. I focused, and drained the soul contained therein, which healed my shoulder. “Ah, that's better.” I said, relieved. I looked to Razum-dar. “That went well, didn't it?”

   

   

  “Raz wishes he could say that. Then he remembers Fistalle, and her parents…” he said, eyes briefly downcast. He sighed, then smiled. “But that is unimportant. Your friends approach, and they seem to have survived without major injury.” I looked, and indeed, Elereth's group was approaching.

   

   

  “The forgemaster is dead.” Suhr said. “He was no match for us.”

   

  
  “Wish the same could be said about the canonreeve. Put up a great fight, she did.” Khavas said. “Still, I'd say we killed her pretty nicely.”

   

   

  I smiled, then looked at Razum-dar. “What's our next move, Raz?” I asked.

   

   

  “We go to Skywatch. Report our success to the Queen. And perhaps, you all can take a well-deserved break. If circumstances allow.” Razum-dar said, shaking my hand. “This one travels faster alone—he will see you then. Bright Moons, all of you.”

   

   

   

  “Skywatch! I'm so excited! I love that city.” Lili said excitedly. We had been there many times in our youth, and had always enjoyed it. I admit I too was quite happy to be going there.

   

   

  “Hey, Khavas. You coming with us?” Elereth asked, looking at the Redguard smith.

   

   

  He shook his head. “As the Khajiit said, I travel better alone. But I'm sure we'll see each other again.” He said. “Good luck on the road, all of you.”

   

   

  As he left, Elereth sighed, sitting down on a nearby crate. Suddenly, she looked sad. “Elereth? What's wrong?” I asked.

   

   

  “Hrm? Oh, nothing.” she said quickly.

   

   

  “Come now, Elereth, we are among friends. Speak your mind.” Suhr said calmly.

   

   

  She sighed. “Well… It's just the whole vampirism thing, again. It's—it's stupid, I know, but, well, I can't stop beating myself up over it. And when we fought Condalin, I felt… I felt the bloodlust again. I'm just scared I'll lose control one day...”

   

   

  I frowned, then sat next to her. “Come now, Elereth. You know that won't happen.”

   

   

  “I'm not sure.” She said before sighing again. “But, this isn't the place to talk about this… I'll try and not think about it.”

   

   

  “We're not saying that!” Lili said, loud. “What we're saying is that we trust you. This is big deal, yeah, so you'll be thinking about it a lot, but it doesn't define you.”

   

   

  “I agree with Lili.” I said, holding Elereth's hand. “Besides, I at least have not given up on a cure. One day, we will find it.”

   

   

  “You know, when you say it like that, I almost believe you.” she said, managing a small smile. “Come on… We should probably be leaving town.” With that, we left Mathiisen behind.

   

   

  Well, that will do for one entry. I will write again when we reach Skywatch. Until then…

   

   

  -Ardolan Larethbinder

   

   

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