Agents of the Queen Part 17: An Elder Scrolls Online tale

  • The Defiance Festival

     

     

    Ian S. McClure

     

     

    I can't believe it, Ardolan!” Lilinastre said excitedly. “We've arrived just in time for the Defiance Festival!”

     

     

    Indeed, the city of Skwatch was in a most festive mood. Everywhere, one could see dancers, bards, merchants and more, all contributing to the celebration. I smiled, and looked to my group. “The Defiance Festival, for those that do not know,” I explained proudly, “is a celebration of the retaking of Skywatch from the Sload, in times past. It was a massive battle. But today, we Altmer use it as an excuse to unwind and have a grand party, in which the whole city participates.”

     

     

    Suhr smiled, petting Kismet. “Truly? Well, Jone and Jode know we Khajiit like a party.”

     

     

    Elereth smiled, but only slightly. She was still distressed over her condition, but even she was clearly having her spirits lifted. “Well, I guess we have to find Razum-dar, huh? No time for fun.” she said.

     

     

    I waved a hand airily. “Who said that, Elereth? I'll handle finding Razum-dar. I think you all deserve a rest, hrm?”

     

     

    Oh, come on, Ardolan. You deserve a rest, too!” Lili said. “I'm sure Raz can wait a bit.”

     

     

    Well, perhaps.” I said, shrugging. “Though I admit I've never been one for such festivals. Frankly, I don't find them interesting. Still, you have a point, Lili.”

     

     

    "Bah. You're so boring, brother.” Lili said, rolling her eyes. “You need to have fun every now and then, while you're still young.”

     

     

    I chuckled. “I have plenty of fun as it is, Lili.” Then, I sighed. “But, no matter. I'll participate in this festival. What do you all want to do?”

     

     

    I dunno...” Elereth said thoughtfully. She looked towards a stall, where a rather tall Altmer woman stood. Elereth walked towards her, asking: “Hello. You wouldn't know what this Festival is offering, would you?”

     

     

    Ah, yes!” the woman said cheerfully. “I do know that. I'm Guide Culast. There's plenty to do! You could go to the concerts, or listen to the storytellers, or visit the marketplace. The docks are quite lively, and are known for their frog-racing. And of course, there's Telenger's Emporium—the Artificer has put up displays of his travels, relics from the Ayleids and Dwemer! Truly, a sight to behold. And, of course, the taverns are quite nice as well.”

     

     

    I'm more interested in this 'Telenger' fellow.” I said, likewise walking over. “I've heard of him, but know precious little. What could you tell me about him?”

     

     

    He's a highly respected Altmer mage and scholar.” Culast explained. “He studies pretty much anything you care to think of! Unfortunately, he himself is not here, having just left for Ezduiin, some ancient Altmeri ruins to the northwest. But, his emporium is quite intriguing—even has a functioning Dwemer Centurion. I'd highly recommend it.”

     

     

    We returned to the group. Suhr said, “Well. This one will take Kismet to the stables, and then he will browse the marketplace.” Said panther purred loudly at this, causing Suhr to snort and pet him.

     

     

    Lilinastre said, “I'm probably going to visit the Emporium. Curinure said lots of things about Telenger—I want to see if they're true. Besides, Dwemer Centurions? By Xarxes, yes! Always wanted to see their machines up close.”

     

     

    Elereth looked down at the floor. “I'll—well, I don't know what I'll do. I'll be around, I guess.” she said, somewhat dejectedly.

     

     

    As the others left, I approached her. “Everything alright, Elereth?” I asked, in a low voice.

     

     

    She sighed, running a hand through her messy hair. “Not really.” she finally said. “It's—well. I'm feeling the urges again, Ardolan. The vampiric ones. I just—I can't help but see all of these people as food, damn it.”

     

     

    But I know you can control yourself, Elereth.” I explained, offering a warm smile. “I know it'll be tough, but I'm sure you can restrain your urges until cured.”

     

     

    Well, you have more faith in me than I do, then.” Elereth replied, sighing again.

     

     

    Is there anything I can do to take your mind off of this?” I asked, placing a hand on her shoulder.

     

     

    No. Thank you, but no.” she said. She looked at the grand gates to the city. “As I said, I'll be around. You should go have fun. Hang out with Suhr or Lili. I'll be alright by myself for a while.”

     

     

    I hummed. “Well. I get the impression you want to be alone. I'll find you later, alright?" Elereth nodded, and walked off, quickly becoming lost amidst the teeming crowd. I watched her go for as long as I could, and then I too braved the crowds, hoping to distract myself with this Defiance Festival.

     

     

     

    It wasn't long before I could push my worries about Elereth to the back of my mind. I traveled throughout the city, simply basking in the merriment of the people. Couples held hands as they walked, dancers swayed to the music of the flutes, and all manner of merchants were peddling their wares. The Baandari Traders were particularly interesting people—all of them Khajiit, they sold everything imaginable, and then some. I spied one of them speaking to Suhr, showing him a glinting set of silver daggers, and I decided upon walking over.

     

     

    ...Yes, yes, very good against Daedra and their ilk.” the trader said, his tail swishing about excitedly. “These daggers are the best from the homeland, hrm? A combination of silver, the best steel and, of course, moonstone.”

     

     

    Suhr picked one up, examining it closely. “This one is impressed.” he finally said. “Too many Baandari try to sell shoddy wares, but these seem to be in fine condition! How much?”

     

     

    As they completed their transaction, Suhr noticed me. “Aha, Ardolan! Come, come.” he said, beckoning me over. “This Defiance Festival is great entertainment, no? And Suhr even got new daggers out of it! Have you seen the Bosmeri dancers?”

     

     

    I have.” I said, happy at his obvious excitement. “Admittedly, the only Bosmer I have eyes for is Elereth, but it is interesting, nonetheless.”

     

     

    Suhr laughed. “Oh, you are very loyal to your woman! That is good. Anyways, would you accompany this one? He wishes to see the Emporium, where Lili went.”

     

     

    Sure. Haven't been there, anyhow.” I said, and began to walk with him. I noticed that night was just beginning to fall—clearly, it had been a longer time than I had thought. As we maneuvered through the crowds, I said: “Hey, Suhr? Been meaning to ask you—do you miss your days at sea, aboard the Prowler?”

     

     

    An interesting question.” he said, thoughtful. “In the end, he thinks not. You lot are far more fun than the sailors, and Suhr has always been afraid of water anyways. Honestly, this one feels he has improved, thanks to you.”

     

     

    Really? How so?” I asked, curious.

     

     

    You remember when you first met Suhr? Very timid, too afraid of the world around him, no? But now, he feels braver, somehow. He thinks it is your influence. He is still afraid, of course. But now… Now, Suhr can control his fears.” he said, smiling at me.

     

     

    I nodded. “Ah, yes. Well, anybody who is completely fearless is a fool, frankly.”

     

     

    Suhr laughed again, but fell silent as we arrived at Telenger's Emporium. It was an amazing display—full of artifacts, both magical and mundane, and guides explaining to the crowds their purpose. Lights of every color brightened the darkening sky. In the center was a massive, humanoid statue—the Dwemer Centurion. Though not moving at the moment, it was still a sight to behold.

     

     

    As we admired the sight, I noticed that Lilinastre was nowhere to be found. Humming I turned to Suhr. “Hey.” I said, “You see Lili anywhere?”

     

     

    Suhr looked around, frowning slightly. “Hrm. He does not.”

     

     

    I clicked my tonuge. “Well, we should find her, then. She's always had a knack for trouble, and she certainly was all too eager to get hammered back at Vulkhel Guard. You coming with me?”

     

     

    Suhr shook his head. “No, he thinks he will stay here for a while. We can meet at the inn in town later, yes?” I nodded, and set off to search for my sister.

     

     

    I looked throughout the city, especially the multiple open-air taverns, to no avail. However, just as I left the last one, I was approached. It was Virkvild, from the Prowler!

     

     

    Ah, hello there.” I said, surprised but pleased. “How'd you get here?”

     

     

    Hah!” the Nord cried. “The Prowler's at the docks—the Captain decided to stay at Skywatch for a while, before heading to… Well, wherever fate decides to take us. How's about you?”

     

     

    Just arrived today.” I said. “Actually, I'm looking for my sister, Lilinastre. Have you seen her anywhere?”

     

     

    Virkvild nodded. “Aye. Follow me, I'll lead you to her.”

     

     

     

    Lilinastre, it soon transpired, was at the city docks. She was among a small group of sailors, cheering. I immediately noticed that everyone, Lili included, seemed quite drunk. Sighing, I walked over. “Lili, come now. I don't know how many you've had, but it's enough.” I said.

     

     

    She turned to me, frowning. She was quite red. “Oy! Fun-killer. I'm not going anywhere. Not until I prove to this lot that my formula's the best!”

     

     

    For… For what, exactly?” I asked, quirking a brow.

     

     

    For frog-racing, dumbass.” Lili said, rolling her eyes. “I'm testing a formula that enhances the critters.” She stretched her arm out, and—seemingly from nowhere—pulled a grumpy-looking Orc. “This here's Lamburak.” Lili said, hiccuping. “Her frog's going to be the best, I'm telling you.”

     

     

    And why are you drinking so much?” I asked, stern.

     

     

    Because I know how to have a good time.” Lili said, sticking her tongue out at me. Lamburak strode away without a word, and Lili turned back to the scene everyone was watching. It was a simple, tiny track, where three frogs stood. “Oh!” she cried. “Race's about to start! Run like the wind, Bloodthirster!”

     

     

    I sighed, and observed the race. After a short bit of watching the frogs hop to the finish line, the middle frog eventually won, causing a mixture of groans and cheers from those assembled. Lili laughed, and procured a bag of feed from somewhere. “Yes! Told you all it'd work!” she shouted, followed by another hiccup. “For only ten septims, this magic food can be yours!”

     

     

    But first,” Lamburak finally said, smirking, “Pay up, losers.”

     

     

    As the Orc and my sister received their winnings, the other frog-racers quickly bought multiple bags from Lili. I observed the transactions, and when everyone had dispersed, I went over again. “Alright, you've had your fun. We're leaving.” I said.

     

     

    Lili sighed exaggeratedly, looking at Lamburak. “Ah well. I'll see you around. Remember, you owe me some moon-sugar rum.”

     

     

    As we left, Lili holding onto me for support, I noticed Elereth walk over. She still seemed downtrodden. “Heeey!” Lili said, apparently completely oblivious to this as she waved. “How're you doing, Elereth?”

     

     

    Hmm?” she asked, turning to us. “Oh—I'm alright, I guess. Was just going to find you two. I got us a room at the Barbed Hook. Was thinking of turning in for the night.”

     

     

    Lili opened her mouth, but I was quicker. “Yes, that seems like a marvelous idea.” I said, glaring at my sister.

     

     

    As Lili grumbled incoherently, the three of us went to the inn. Suhr was already in the room, reading a book by the candlelight. I deposited Lili in a bed, noticing how she promptly fell asleep, and sat down in a chair. Elereth sat on the edge of a bed, eyes downcast. We sat in silence for a long while, until Suhr eventually got up and headed downstairs for some food. Only then did Elereth say anything.

     

     

    Did you have fun, Ardolan?” she asked.

     

     

    I did.” I responded, smiling and walking over. “Did you?”

     

     

    Not really. Kind of difficult, at the moment.” she said, sullen.

     

     

    I hummed. “Is there anything I can do to take your mind off of this?” I finally repeated.

     

     

    Don't think so.” she replied. “I'll be headed to another room, soon. Still don't feel comfortable sleeping with the group.”

     

     

    I chuckled. “Want me to come with you?” I asked, mildly suggestive.

     

     

    Elereth grinned, very subtly. “That's a thought.” she said, before sighing and growing serious again. “To be honest though, I dunno. I just—I don't feel like this is something I should distract myself from, you know?”

     

     

    I placed a hand on her shoulder. “As I've said before, it's no good to dwell on it. We'll find a cure for you. Until then, we'll just have to keep on living. I think a distraction—whatever it is—would be good for you… Why don't you try to write? I find that helps.”

     

     

    Elereth was silent for a little bit. “Maybe you're right.” she finally said. She grinned, wider now. “That said, don't really feel like writing...” She stood up, and walked to the door before looking back.

     

     

    “What? Aren't you coming?” she asked playfully. I chuckled again, and went to spend the night with her.

     

     

     

    I believe that will suffice for this entry. Tomorrow, I will go find Razum-dar and continue our mission for the Queen. Until then…

     

     

    -Ardolan Larethbinder

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Comments

4 Comments   |   Karver the Lorc and 2 others like this.
  • Sotek
    Sotek   ·  December 2, 2016
    Why I never liked this I don't know...
  • Tenebrous
    Tenebrous   ·  November 19, 2016
    Telenger might pop up later. Still trying to figure that out. Also, damn, wish I'd thought of drugs for the Lili scene. She'd probably be down for that. Anyhoo, thanks Karver!
  • Karver the Lorc
    Karver the Lorc   ·  November 19, 2016
    Nice. Frog-racing is fun, especially when you get stoned :D Shame Telenger wasn´t around, that is certainly an interesting fella. 
  • Tenebrous
    Tenebrous   ·  November 18, 2016
    Note that this hasn't gone through external editing yet, so feel free to point out any errors or give advice. Thanks!