67 odpowiedzi w tym temacie

[Abelas Forever!]

I'm interested in seeing where this story goes. I have liked it very much especially the relationship between Caius and Nazlik.

[Uccio]

Thank you, there is more to come still.

[Uccio]

Step by step

 

disclaimer: Enchanter Nerva, the Imperator Severus and members of Ordo Silentia are being written by a forum member The Baconer

 

Spoiler

*"Magister Caius of house Vaellanius!" the crier announced with a rumbling deep voice.

 

Caius walked through the hall of dwarven ambassadoria. His guards wearing glimmering armors with dark Vaellanius crest and Nazlik in her own unique armor walked close behind. A stark contrast to Caius pitch black robes. Appearance was as important here as it was in the surface, if not even more.

 

This ancient underground complex rivaled with the remaining dwarven kingdoms with its magnificence. Dwarven paragon statues loomed over the hall in both sides of the walkway casting dark shadows in the ceiling, caused by the fires below. This place could easily have been mistaken for Orzammar.

Members of the ambassadoria nodded to Caius as he passed t hem. Greeting and familiar faces, life went on like it had been for couple of millenias down here. It seemed as time had ceased to pass here and the dwarven imperium would still be in its full strength. 

 

Caius had to walk several blocks before reaching his destination. The house of Aradash. They were still nobles in Orzammar, but here Vartag´s family was more entangled in business than anything else. Sometimes in a more shady ones since they had run out of wealth during recent years.

Caius had significantly bolstered their financial situation hiring Vartag and his men to be scouts in his voyage to the Deep Roads.

 

He was greeted by a butler at the door. Caius left his guards outside but took Nazlik in with him. The butler guided them to the decorated waiting room. Caius sat down in a stone chair while Nazlik stood behind him eyeing the decorations in wonderment.

A raspy deep voice echoed in the room, "Magister Caius, are you here to finally get me killed?". A heavily built black haired dwarf with a black well shaped and braided beard walked into the room wearing expensive clothes decorated with his family crest. 

 

"Master Vartag" Caius stood up and crabbed his hand smiling, "good to see you still up and well my friend".  "Likewise, likewise my friend", Vartag smiled shaking his hand.

 

"What is this?" the dwarf said suddenly gazing at Nazlik, like he had seen her the first time.  "Did you bring me a gift?".

"I am sorry my friend, she is not a gift. Though I did bring you gold, it waits you in the vestibule. I am sure you have more use for it" Caius said calmly.

 

"I don´t know.." Vartag said with a wry smile, then he broke out laughing. "Just kidding my friend" he slapped Caius in the shoulder chuckling, "I still have ears in this town. I intend to live a long life". He sat down before Caius.

 

Caius smiled shortly, it was a cold smile.

 

"So, drinks, or something to eat while we talk?" Vartag rubbed his hands together gazing him expectantly.

"Unfortunately I have to leave soon, Magisterium waits. I can´t stay long. I came here because there is a important issue I needed to talk with you personally, it can´t wait" Caius said regretfully. "It can be dangerous, I do not deny it. But I will compensate you handsomely for it".

 

"Not another trip to Deep Roads?" Vartag said sourly wrinkling his brow, "if it is then I will respectfully decline my friend. I think I used all my luck in our last trip".

 

"No. Just information" Caius smiled, "and it will be worth it". "Well then, please continue" Vartag said leaning forward. 

Caius handed him a parchment, "this. Any information you can bring into my attention is appreciated".

Vartag eyed the parchment and whistled, "Carta eh? I will see what I can do".

 

"Thank you. I will wait for the information. You understand this is important. Be swift but be careful also" Caius said standing up. "Be in touch.".

 

He walked out. Vartag sat in silence reading the parchment, "power sources..".*

 

Spoiler

The front doors of Vaellanius manor burst open. The interior guards, torpid in the sticky heat, were jolted at their posts, arms reaching for their scabbards out of instinct. A man stumbled inside, stopping just inside the threshold to catch his breath. Outside, the slave girls watched inquisitively.

 

Antonius stepped in front of the man, wiping the sweat from his brow. He shot an irritated glance at the door guard, who looked on in confusion, "What is the meaning of this?"

 

The man, hands on his knees, held up a finger, trying to explain himself in between pants, "I'm-I'm with-"

 

The door guard spoke up, "He's one of Livia's men. His name's Mettius."

 

Mettius stood up, "Yes, I'm-" he took one deep breath, composing himself, "I need to see Master Caius immediately. Is he here?"

 

(courtesy of a forum member The Baconer)

 

Spoiler

*Antonius stood there for a moment contemplating the situation. Should this be a hoax his own life would be in line, but then again, so would it be should this be for real. He made a quick decision.

 

"Follow me", he rushed through the manor Mettius in tow. "You are in luck. Lord Vaellanius has just arrived from the Magisterium, I need to see if he is willing to see you now. Wait here". He pointed at the guard room.

 

After a few long moments he returned. He will see you, leave your weapons here", Antonius pointed at the table. As soon as Mettius had removed his sword Antonius escorted him forward. By the study door he stopped, guards standing there nodded to him and he knocked the door. Livia pulled the door open, "come in" she gestured at Mettius. "You can return to your post" she waved at Antonius. The door closed behind them. 

 

"Your welcome" Antonius muttered to himself as he loitered back to his post. A elven slave stared at him with a broom in his hand. "Get back to your work" he snapped at him.*

 

Spoiler

Mettius paused after the door closed, looking at both Livia and Caius. Suddenly, he relaxed, walking slowly about the study. He looked over the maps lining the walls and the various artifacts, sucking air through his teeth.

 

"Mettius." Livia called his name, a harsh edge to her voice. She gave Caius a look, shaking her head.

 

Mettius ignored her, poking through some tomes on display. One in particular seemed to catch his attention, evoking a barely-audible "ah" as he nodded in approval. Eventually, he turned back around, sitting down in the chair before Caius' desk. He tapped on the table with two fingers, and then leaned forward to rub the same spot.

 

"Well." He sat back up in the chair, regarding Caius, "Here we are."

 

(courtesy of a forum member The Baconer)

 

Spoiler

*Caius lifted his hand. A magical sphere appeared around Mettius, second one paralyzed him.

 

"Impressive" he said with a cold smile, "I have to say". Livia stared at him for a moment then at Mettius, she took a careful step backwards.

 

Caius leaned back in his chair, he took a sip of his wine then raised his hand, "you can speak now. And I would suggest not using any magic. You are sitting on a several glyphs and wards".*

 

Spoiler

"I am flattered. I never thought anyone considered me worth such an endeavor, but you have placed me in an uncomfortable position. As a result of the recent... misunderstanding, it seems I am now pursued by two different groups." Mettius frowned, "Now, I have discerned the intention of one of these groups, as I am now on the wrong side of the law. But your motive is not so obvious, I must admit."

 

"Now, I've always had difficulty in interacting with other people, and that is something I am working to improve. I meant this as a courtesy - an, er, a polite establishment of communication, to disperse the present confusion. So, Caius Vaellanius, what do you want?"

 

(courtesy of a forum member The Baconer)

 

Spoiler

*"Nerva my friend. We could have avoided all of this if you just would just have taken my offer". Caius smiled at Mettius. "I have to applaud you for taking the initiative though. I thought you would just disappear but here you are. Well done". He nodded slightly.

 

"Believe it or not, I never intended to harm you. You just provided me with a situation to take the control. My only fault was to underestimate you. It will not happen again, I assure you".

 

"How is this.." Livia said astonished. "Blood magic, new application" Caius said turning to her, "our friend here has found a way to remote control people, along with other improvements we saw".

 

Caius took a sip of his wine, "Now Nerva, I´m not trying to beat my own chest when I say that I am one of the few true masters of blood magic in the Imperium, but even I am impressed of this feature. You did well".

 

He gazed at Mettius for a moment, "but what do I want? That should be simple. I want your study". Caius pointed at him, "think it as a legacy you are leaving behind. Because the road you are on now will only lead to to two possible endings. Death or tranquility. Imperator, whom I happen to know, is a blood hound and will not stop until he catches you. Don´t forget, you are now wanted for the death of Magister and his household". Caius crossed his arms. "I can be either your friend or your enemy, you decide".*

 

Spoiler

"Hm. I'm afraid that I had to leave all of my previous work behind in Vyrantium. Though, the Circle might have a few copies on hand in its library."

 

He sat for a moment, in contemplation. "My current effort is - it's not just something that can be wrapped up and presented as some spectacle for the lords and ladies of Minrathous. This is... the mouth of the Void. The measure of all things."

 

(courtesy of a forum member The Baconer)

 

Spoiler

*"Then Imperator has your work", Caius sighted.

 

"Believe me when I say that I have no intentions to present anything as a spectacle". He grinned in contempt.  "I do, however, have goals I need to achieve. To which end your study would be a great asset to me". 

 

Caius leaned back, taking a small parchment. He wrote a line to it and handed it to Livia. She gazed upon it, nodded and left the room. Outside she bumbed into Publius, "Follow me, we have to try a scrying spell, I need your help!". They hurried to the summoning chamber.

 

"So" Caius said after Livia left the room. "Now it is just for our ears. Figuratively speaking" he smiled coldly. "What can you give me for exchange of 'truce'? Are you in need of safe houses? I can provide".*

 

Spoiler

"No, no, My current accommodations are quite adequate." His eyes followed Livia as she left the room, "Did you know Mettius was positively smitten with that Livia? I found myself preoccupied with thoughts of her, for a time, after I acquired him."

 

He squinted, with an expression of academic curiosity that was unsettlingly genuine. "Fascinating. There's also a betting pool on which one of your daughters gets married first. I am learning so much."

 

(courtesy of a forum member The Baconer)

 

Spoiler

*"I don´t blame him" Caius said with a faint smile, "she is a very beautiful and smart woman. She had several families in line to court her. I´ve wondered why she has not wed anyone".

 

"But I have to admit" he leaned forward, "I am fascinated by this too. Is Mettius still there? Can he regain control of himself or is he permanently gone? Magister Allectus is still in a vegetative state, last I heard". He tapped the desk with his finger, "what about memories, do they overlap or are you in complete control all the time?".

 

He took a sip of his wine, "I would offer you some wine but as the circumstances are what they are I will leave that to another time"  Caius said with regret.*

 

Spoiler

"Mettius and Marcus are part of something greater now. Flashes of consciousness and personality will occur immediately after the assimilation process... but that goes away, in time. There is nothing left of Mettius in the form you see before you. This is merely an accoutrement." he pulled at bits of his leather armor and the skin of his cheeks.

 

"They require a bit of micromanagement; they can't do much of anything beyond breathing, blinking. An elf from this 'Ordo Silentia' tried to communicate with Marcus' old vessel. I listened in for a bit, before leaving his body to wither away. Strange, I didn't think they would let elves work in the Archon's service."

 

(courtesy of a forum member The Baconer)

 

Spoiler

*"So they turn into a kind of extension. Usable but alone will be of no use". Caius stroked his goatee in his thoughts. He pulled another note from the drawer and wrote something on it.

"What about multiple uses at the same time? Is it possible? If it is can you operate several people at the same time or do you have to concentrate on each at the time?", He gazed Mettius contemplating, "what is the distance for the remote controlling, is there a limit?".

 

A knock on the door cut him short. Livia stood in, "I´m sorry for the interruption". She walked to the desk giving Caius a note.

*working on the location, keep him talking*

 

Caius gave her his note. "See to it, I think we can work this out". Livia nodded and left the room closing the door behind her. She read the note in haste, *Last known location of Mettius could help, search sectors around it. The codes he used could indicate when he was in control last time.*

 

 "Where was I?" Caius turned to Mettius as Livia left the room. "Oh yes, is the memory exchange automatic or do you have to concentrate on specific issues to know? How aware are you of your own body´s surroundings at the moment, where ever you are?".*

 

Spoiler

"Memories are acquired naturally. Controlling multiple vessels can be difficult, such as... excuse me." Mettius' face went completely blank as he slumped forward in his seat. A trail of spittle emerged from his lips, traveling down to the floor. 

 

Finally, he sat upward, taking a great breath as he looked about the room, "Where was I? Yes... Distance, numbers, previous boundaries are being broken as my work continues. But I need more - blood, minds, bodies. Mages are preferable, but the bereft can still be of use. Like Mettius, and his companions."

 

He regarded Caius, a friendly smile, "Progress cannot be made without... Contribution. Sacrifice. The means to an end, but you already understand this. I can see it."

 

(courtesy of a forum member The Baconer)

 

Spoiler

*"Interesting, did you just step out of Mettius for a while?" Caius tilted his head. "The vessel indeed does not have the slightest control left".

He stood up, "I do understand you. Goal beyond the ordinary goals of men is what drives us forward. Breaking through the boundaries of mediocrity and old habits. To reach for power and, who knows, godhood? Fear of the unknown keeps their minds chained, but not ours". Caius stepped closer to Mettius.

"I want to try something if you don´t mind", he pulled a small silver dagger from his belt. "It will only last for a moment, you can then tell me what if any effect it had". He gently moved the blade across his hand leaving a small bleeding cut in his palm. He cast a generally used blood magic mind control spell, putting only some power to it. "Tell me, where are you currently?". Caius took a step back and healed his hand.

"How did that make you feel?", he smiled at Mettius.*

 

Spoiler

"Like casting a net over the Void." The barrier flared about Mettius, triggered by a flow of magical energy from within. He turned about in his seat, looking intently as if he were trying to peer through the walls, "Curious vibrations. I have a suspicion, Caius, that you are not truly benign in your intent."

 

(courtesy of a forum member The Baconer)

 

Spoiler

*"Benign?" a cold smile lingered on his face for a moment. "Very few can claim to be one. And my dear Nerva, you are not one of them either". Caius walked back behind his desk. He sat down taking a sip of his wine, "but have no fear. I am still mostly just curious".

 

"I have 30 apprentices, this house is full of vibrations from various spells or attempts at work all the time. I only accept the best ones. You should see what they can come up with", he gazed at Mettius for a moment.

 

"But we have been talking about me all this time. What about you? What does the great Nerva want, or need? Can I be of service? How do you think we should resolve this?".*

 

Spoiler

"Oh, I am getting along quite well, though your offer is appreciated." Mettius closed his eyes, and the barrier started pulsing again. "I would advise against trying to locate me... The incident at the manor ended up being quite the inconvenience for both of us."

 

He opened his eyes, glancing over at Caius, "Alternatively, more subjects would be useful. Again, mages are preferable."

 

(courtesy of a forum member The Baconer)

 

Spoiler

*Caius contemplated for a moment. "So, a truce. By the new Chantry, on the western wall, there is a loose tile in the rear of the pedestal of andraste. Third statue from the left side. Any message or information between us can be left there". He stood up. "In exchange of my leniency you will provide me information about the progress of your work. I can in turn provide you with subjects or material. Think about it".

 

Caius leaned forward over his table cold rage rippling in his silent velvety smooth voice, "but if you ever come in to my house again uninvited wearing the skin of anyone in my household I will personally hunt you down and I will crush you. And no amount of blood magic will save you".

 

He pointed his hand at Mettius. A massive arc of lightning shot from his extended arm burned its way through the sphere cutting Mettius in half hitting the wall behind the chair. Several runes in the wall glowed for a moment consuming the energy released. Caius whispered a command word causing the fire glyph ignite under the remains of what once was Mettius. A blue flame incinerated what was left of him and the chair.

 

Livia charged the room with a grim look and energy glowing in her arms. She stopped by the threshold seeing what had transpired. "So, it is over" she sighted relieved seeing Caius unharmed. She walked by the table looking at the ash pile. "We have a vague location. Shall I send a team?".

 

"No" Caius said silently. "For now we have a understanding, kind of". He leaned back taking a sip of his wine, "send someone to clean this mess, and bring a new chair".*

 

Spoiler

"Oh my." Nerva, shunted back into his body, stood up from his chair. "I'm afraid Magister Caius terminated communication before, uh, you could be mentioned." 

 

Two enthralled agents stood over Allegra, on her knees. A blade was held over her neck. In another corner of the safehouse, two corpses dangled above clay pottery, their ankles bound by rope to the rafters. Another thrall carefully poured the contents of a vase into a smaller bottle. 

 

"Hmm." Nerva took a cup of water from the small table next to the chair, sipping it as he looked over his prisoner. "Well. As it is, we have run out of receptacles, your mundaneness renders you sub-optimal for procurement..."

 

He began to pace about the room, Allegra watched him intently, "... and I feel that I have a suitable number of assistants, for now." He paused, and then waved to the agents. They stepped back, withdrawing the blade and relinquishing the grip upon her shoulder.

 

"You should know that your master and I have worked out an arrangement, and you are not to pursue me any longer. Since you are of no use to me, you are free to leave. As a courtesy, be sure to remind Caius." Nerva gave her a reassuring smile. Allegra, however, did not move; she glanced back and forth between Nerva and the thralls in disbelief.

 

Nerva frowned in confusion and leaned forward "Um. You can go now. Please go away."  

 

Slowly, Allegra stood up, making for the door. The thralls silently watched her as she left. Nerva sat back down in the chair, massaging his temples. He finished his cup of water, then regarded his servants, "Finish up, quickly now. We will depart soon."

 

(courtesy of a forum member The Baconer)

 

Spoiler

*Caius paced around his study. He fought back that black rage boiling inside him. Suppressing it took a lot more willpower than he had anticipated. "That pointy eared worm had dared to challenge me in my own home. Death and destruction, pain. I will give to him, he will beg for death in the end", he gnashed his teeth as the thought ricochet inside his mind.

 

You need to cool down, he thought. Take control of yourself. Hothead will only get you killed. He had to admit to himself that Nerva had a lot less to lose, and he is dangerous. "If I only would be able to find him, to catch him alone on my own". Energy started twirling around him again, his palms were in tight fists. He stopped and took a deep breath. "What is happening to me?". Caius walked to the hall, he saw Nazlik sitting in one of the side tables talking with Miriel. "I have too much to lose, to lose control like that".*

 

Spoiler

*Allegra left the study closing the door behind her. "She has a level head on her shoulders" Caius said looking after her, "excellent eye for details and calm in a dire situation. This will be helpful. Keep her in mind".

 

"So what now?" Livia took one of the grapes in the silver tray and put it in her mouth. "Well, each agent in Minrathous need to be processed. I have a specific blood spell to protect then from mental domination.", Caius eyed Livia picking more grapes. "It prevents any attempt and if pressed will fry the agents mind. I used on the Imperators agents". He shrugged, "bad for the agent but the alternative is not acceptable either. Like we saw. Guards need to be processed too, but the agents are top priority".

 

"The interesting part was the amount of agents he had according to Allegra" Livia said mouth full of grapes. "I bet Imperator is in flames to get his hands on Nerva now". 

 

Caius smiled shortly, "I will process all the agents here and rest when they arrive". He stood up, "in the mean time, I will personally go the location Allegra told us". 

Livia stood up in haste with worried look, dropping grapes in her hand. "You can´t go alone, he has probably trapped the place. Or worse, what if he is there with his thralls?".

 

Caius smiled coldly, "I would hope so". He waved his hand at Livia, "do not worry, I do not fear Nerva. I have not yet faced a mage who could compete with me in magical power". He gazed Livia for a moment, "and don´t tell Nazlik. That is important".

"What about the truce?" Livia tried to come up with something. "I am not making any moves against him. I am just going to see if my friend is still home. Personally", Caius said with a wry smile. He turned around and walked out closing the door behind him.

 

 

Evening brought black clouds and rain. Though it was welcome break from the summer heat It drove most people of the streets. The house seemed to have nothing out of the ordinary. A mid sized stone house in a quieter side street in the more shady part of the town. Soporati family no doubt, Caius thought standing in the dark street before the main door in the rain.

 

A powerful telekinetic burst threw the door in breaking it off its hinges. "Knock knock" Caius whispered walking over the threshold water dripping from his robes. He stood there eyeing the place from the shadows of his hood. Silence lingered in the house, there was no one present. Nerva and his puppets had already left. Caius walked slowly across the main room looking for clues. Putrescent odor made him crinkle his nose. He felt how one of his runes started to heat up in his sleeve. "traps" he whispered. Caius tapped the floor with his staff sending a energy wave across the room. Faint glow revealed few traps in his way. He nodded in silence.

 

It seemed Nerva and his thralls had cleaned this place up well before leaving. Two bodies dangled from the rafters in the corner. "That smell.." he nodded. Caius walked slowly to them. He poked one with his staff causing the body slowly to twirl around.

 

"Blood magic my friend. What are you cooking?" Caius whispered. He was about to turn around when something caught his eye. A small drop of some substance was in the floor by the wall, behind this little table under the dead bodies. He leaned down to see better. Small light appeared in his staffs crystal. "That is blood but it is something else too.." Caius contemplated. He pulled a small vial from his belt. Then a silky figured handkerchief. He placed the handkerchief on the substance and carefully tucked it in the vial. 

 

After a quick glance around the room he silently left the house and disappeared in the heavy rain.*

 

Spoiler

*"Fen´Harel enansal" echoed in the dark chamber. Caius stood in front of the Eluvian waiting, nothing happened. "Maybe you misspelled it?" Nazlik wondered leaning on the tomb of the ancient Vaellanius.

 

"FEN´HAREL ENANSAL" Caius shouted, this time with more desperate tone. He stepped forward slamming his fist in the Eluvian frustrated, "it doesn´t work! something is wrong!".

 

Nazlik didn´t say anything. She knew it wouldn´t help anyway. Despite him being upset deep inside she was happy about this unexpected change of things. Their meeting with the elves had left her nervous.

 

"It must have been changed, somehow those elves know how to change the command word" Caius groused. "Briala, it had to be her" he muttered to himself.

Nazlik walked slowly to him placing her hand on his shoulder, "there is nothing we can do about it now anyway love". 

 

Caius leaned on the mirror in silence, then struck his first to it with a roar. He stood there for a moment then turned around with a grim look, "let´s go, it is dead now". Nazlik walked after him out of the chamber closing the door behind them leaving the Eluvian in darkness. 

 

Caius stormed into his study. These days had been full of disappointments. First the incident with Nerva and now this. What next? He walked to the side table and poured himself some wine. He noticed that there was a new note on his desk as he sat down. "Operation successful, bandit cave located and cleared. Stolen jewelry acquired as planned. Taken to locations". Caius leaned back in his chair taking a sip of his wine with a cold smile, "finally some good news".*

[RoughTumble]

I like this literary dialogue going on between writers.

[Serelir]

Ooooh, I'm in the middle of reading now, but this thing with Mettius reminds me of the on-off switch of consciousness, the claustrum. When I first read about it, I was like, "Wow, that's so cool!" and my friends immediately thought it would be used for evil. 

[Serelir]

"I have 30 apprentices, this house is full of vibrations from various spells or attempts at work all the time. I only accept the best ones. You should see what they can come up with", he gazed at Mettius for a moment.

 

Elowyn's going to have to work hard to stand out. 

[Uccio]

Well she does have a advantage.

[Serelir]

Her cuteness? 

[Uccio]

That too, that too. No question about it.

[Uccio]

Twelfth Chapter: Decision

 

 

Spoiler

I require runes of freezing, cold, frost, whatever the dwarven nomenclature. Fourteen of highest quality possible. Please respond with details for pickup. 
Early results are promising, but the work is resource intensive. As such I will be seeking opportunities for expansion.

 

- optimal method of consumption not yet determined

 

~ Note hidden behind loose brick, alongside a vial of mysterious liquid; Minrathous.

 

(courtesy of a forum member The Baconer)

 

Spoiler

*Caius walked through the Magisterium´s hall. The last vote of the day was over and Magisters dispersed each to their own direction. He was extremely pleased with himself. His speech had tilted the balance of the vote. The look on Tilani´s face was worth the effort. Caius smiled at her at with a wide sarcastic smile as he passed her. All it needed was few well placed insinuations.

 

As he was heading to the main doors a elven slave bumped into him. Caius turned annoyed to see who it was. A red headed elven woman hurried away from him glancing Caius over her shoulder. He got a glimpse of her eyes, there was something strange in that look which caught his attention. Caius turned to her raising his hand, "hey yo... ".

 

Suddenly someone slapped him in the shoulder. "Well done Caius, well done!", Magister Martinus, a older and plumper member of the conservative group, stood next to him with a broad smile. "That speech was brilliant, it totally tilted uncertain Magisters on our side".

 

The old man chuckled jovially, "remind me to throw you a party for this victory".

 

Caius turned to him smiling but tried to glance at the elf. She had disappeared into the crowd walking out. "Yes thank you" he nodded, "such victories, even small ones are sometimes worth a party".

Before Martinus was able to say anything more Caius bowed slightly, "I´m sorry but I have a personal meeting to attend to. Let´s talk about this in later date" and walked into the crowd in haste before Martinus was able to continue. That man could talk all night if given a change.

 

He hurried outside where the evening sun shot it´s last rays over Minrathous. A cooler breeze spoke of the coming night. Before the Magisterium, in front of the wide marble stairs by the huge dragon statues stood a cart with Vaellanius family crest. His guards stood by it relieved to see him finally coming back. "Home" he said as he stepped inside.

 

The sun had set and the Vaellanius manor was being wrapped in shadows when Caius' cart rollen through the second gate into the inner yard. Magical lights illuminated the yard.

 

Back in the tower Nazlik was in the summoning chamber playing with the blood red rubies they had brought from beyond the Eluvian. She was bored and while trying to find something to do she came across these rubies. Caius walked right in to see her juggling with three of them.

 

"Please, put them down my love" he said calmly, "you are juggling with souls". "What?!" she said startled and placed the rubies on the table in haste, giving them a horrified look. "Souls? How is that possible?".

"Well not souls properly speaking, since they are all empty but one", Caius walked to the table. He walked to Nazlik standing by the stone table, "how has your day been my love?" he whispered reaching up to give her a kiss.

 

"It has been such a boring day", Nazlik exclaimed, "I thought you would not come back home at all today". She poked Caius softly squinting her silver eyes, "are you going to start to neglect your wife already so early on?".

 

Caius smirked, "I have a lot to make up to you darling. I have a feeling this is going is to be painful". Caius grabbed Nazlik and whirled her around the room in a swift dance. "I hope my queen is going to have mercy on her ardent admirer. He will do his best to satisfy her all needs", Caius smiled playfully to her. Nazlik giggled delightfully, "I will see about that. At least you have acknowledged your crime dathrasi". She smiled suggestively, "you will have to work hard for your atonement".

 

Nazlik pressed Caius against the stone table with a passionate kiss, "we will talk about it later" she whispered looking into his eyes.

 

With a smile Caius turned to the table touching each ruby until he found the one he was looking for. The look on Nazlik´s face changed suddenly, she stared at him with wide eyes and wry smile. "Way to kill the mood Magister".

 

Caius broke out laughing, "I wanted to show you love. This is the only one holding something I would call a soul, or a presence", he showed it to Nazlik. She recoiled away from it when he brought it closer.

"It is alright, just touch it and concentrate". Caius smiled and placed the blood red ruby in her hand. She didn´t notice anything at first but the silent flow of the red substance inside the ruby, but then her eyes opened wide and she dropped it. Caius moved swiftly catching it just in time.

 

"It... it spoke to me!" Nazlik said horrified with a shivering voice. "No, not actually spoke but.. it had feelings. I felt such a horrible loneliness..." tears started falling down her face. "That is a horrible fate".

 

"You are so emotional these days" Caius said softly, "there are remnants of someones personality inside this ruby. Each of them can hold at least one". He raised it before his eyes looking it closely, "it is so fascinating.. I need to know how this works, I want to duplicate this feature. It is blood magic, that much I can tell you".

He gazed it in his thoughts, "makes you wonder, elves knew this magic long ago. There seem to be so much we don´t know about these people yet, even after all these years".

 

"Please, let it just go. Destroy it" Nazlik whispered sweeping her eyes. Caius placed the blood red ruby on the table. He took her hands gently and pulled her close with a loving smile. "I will do that, for you. But not right away. What ever is in there is completely mad. I´m sure it can´t follow time passing so it gives me time to study it".

 

"As long as you do it", she said frowning wiping her tears. "That should not happen to anyone".

 

Caius wrapped his arm around her waist and slowly walked her out of the summoning chamber, "come love, let´s go get you something to drink. It will make you feel better".

Nazlik blew her nose on her handkerchief. They walked to his study. Guards stood in attention while they walked by. Caius stepped to the silver tray on the side table while Nazlik closed the door. "Here, let me pour you some wine" he said over his shoulder grabbing a crystal glass.

 

Suddenly Nazlik gasped. Her surprised tone made Caius twirl around fast dropping the cup. Magical energy rushed to him, eager to answer to his call. From behind his desk a red haired elf sprung towards the open window incredible fast leaving a trail of parchments behind her. Caius raised his hand and wall of ice grew before the window closing the way out.

 

The elf turned around smoothly without pausing, she threw a dagger at him and bolted for the door. Her dagger bounced of Caius' magical shield harmlessly. Nazlik stepped in front of the door drawing her own dagger.

 

The elf wasn´t distracted by it, she threw a dagger at her too in one smooth move while running.

 

"NO!" Caius exclaimed pulsating a repulsion field ricocheting the dagger mid-air into the bookcase and knocking the elf off her feet. She rolled back on her feet drawing yet another dagger.

"Oh no, not that", Caius said coldly placing a glyph of paralysis on her. "You are done".

 

 

Caius walked through a dank tunnel deep below the Vaellanius manor towards his dungeons with Nazlik, their footsteps echoing in the silence. A small magical light in his staff illuminated their way. Occasional drops of water fell from the ceiling.

 

A guard stood in attention by the cell door as Caius pushed open one of the oaken cell door reinforced with iron. A single torch in the tunnel shed some light inside through the bars in the small window. In the dark chamber the red haired elven woman sat in the corner on a pile of hay chained in the floor with black iron chains.

Caius walked in and stood before her silently for a while watching her closely. She returned his gaze with a blank stare.

 

"Are you ready to talk now?" Caius asked calmly. The elf stared at him for a moment, "bas saarebas" she hissed.

 

Caius chuckled softly, "so it is going to be like this then? Fine, we can work with that", there was a dark promise in his voice. The elf turned to stare at Nazlik for a moment, "ebost issala, Tal-Vashoth".

 

Nazlik sneered at her with comtemptuous look, "katara vashedan, ashkost kata. Ashkost say hissra".

"What she said" Caius eyed the elf amused then turned to Nazlik.

 

"She is called a Tallis" Nazlik said locking her eyes with the elf. Tallis seemed to consider something, then turned to Caius, "basra saarebas, know this. You are involved in a matter that Ariqun finds important. Your companion did something in Seheron. We are here to avenge it".

 

"My companion?" Caius asked surprised. "Enchanter of Vyrantium". Caius said nothing. He gazed upon the elf for a while contemplating.

"Can you tell me, why does an elf loose herself into the qun?" he asked curious changing the subject.

 

"They saved me from the slavers, gave me purpose" Tallis said. "Purpose? And the life of an elf was not enough for you?" Caius smiled shortly at her contemptuously.

"I was born in Tevinter. Elves here are no better off" she responded blankly. "No?" Caius puckered his lips amused, "And now you are just a tool. That is actually quite hilarious when you think of it".

 

"Nehraa qun" Tallis whispered.

 

They heard a knock on the door. Torturer walked in to the chamber with a bag full of tools followed by two guards carrying a large table with chains. His apprentice followed him with a another set of tools and a folding seat.

Caius nodded at the man and turned to the elf, "qunari take pride of knowing how to break a man without magic. My employee here will demonstrate to you that we can do the same".

 

Caius leaned towards Tallis with a cold smile his dark eyes gleaming in the dimm dungeon light, "it is not the goal, but the journey itself of which we should enjoy too, don´t you think? I know I am going to enjoy this. And afterwards I will introduce my magic to you. There is no escape from me, in the end you will tell me everything you know".

 

Later as they were walking away through the tunnel Caius listened the cries of pain echoing from the cell.

"I was going to hand this elf to the Imperator, but now I can´t do that. She somehow knows of my connection to Nerva. I need to warn him" he muttered to Nazlik.*

 

Spoiler

*He reaches out and pulls himself forward. Inch by inch, there is only one goal for him. Nothing else matters. Fingernails crack breaking off causing his fingertips bleed, leaving fumbling bloody fingertips on the marble floor.

 

Those marks mix with his own blood as he pulls his body over them forward slowly but surely. His blood makes it slippery to get a grip of the ground but it also makes it easier for him to move. 

 

The sounds of battle echo in the hallway, some are still fighting in other parts of the manor. Distant screams and shouts, explosions. Smell of smoke and blood lingers in the air. Dead bodies litter the hallway from one end to the other.

 

Gallus Nepos lies there among the bodies wearing nothing but his underwear, body full of wounds. His hand still grasping his sword. Surrounded by the bodies of the attackers. That old veteran did not die easily.

 

Caius doesn´t care. There is only one goal for him. He sees her lying there, in the grand hall. On the stairs leading to his study. Small sob escapes his bloody lips. "No..." he whispers in despair even in his heart he knows.

 

He musters all of his remaining strength, "maybe I can still...". Slowly he raises on his hands and knees. His body trembles of weakness, his wounds are too severe. The only thing keeping him from falling is his iron strong will. He reaches out to support himself on the wall leaving bloody hand prints on it. Vertigo fills his head as he slowly pulls himself up. 

She is so close but still far. Caius takes fumbling steps leaning on the wall leaving a bloody trail behind him. One step.. two...

 

"I am coming my love, hold on...". Each step seems to drain him of strength. He fights just to keep his legs from falling under him.Black clouds try to fill his mind tempting with blissful oblivion. Remain conscious, he tells to himself. For her. 

Doorway, he made it to the hall. Crossing over the threshold is too much. Caius steps on his own blood and slips. He falls straight to the ground, it sends a moist sound as his blood soaked robe smashes against the floor.

 

For a moment his vision blurs, darkness starts to close in from the sides of his field of sight. "No.." he whispers gurgling blood. She is closer now, only sheer willpower is what keeps him going anymore. He pulls himself forward with pure rage. He can see her face now.

 

"My life for yours.." Caius reaches out to touch her cheek calling for his power, the last drops lingering in the edge of his mind. Pooling his power for a final spell.

His fingertips touch her cheek, but there is no response for the magical touch. Nothing. Cold, so cold is her skin. Nazlik stares at him with her silver eyes, but she doesn´t see him anymore. Caius can see the blood in the stairs under her.

 

A single tear drop falls down Caius cheek "I am so sorry my love...".

 

A cold laughter fills the air, "oh how the mighty fall". Footsteps echo in the hall, Mucia steps to his side. She stares at him with scorn in her eyes.

"After I am done here I will find your half-breed bastard boy. No one will ever know he existed".

 

Someone grabs Caius hair from behind and pulls his head up. "Nazlik" he whispers looking into her eyes as a blade touches his throat. He barely feels its cold kiss.

 

 

Caius recoiled from his sleep breathing heavily. Sweat poured down his face, it had wet the bed lining. So vivid dream, almost like a omen. He sat up his heart beating heavily. Nazlik moved a bit, his trashing around had stirred her sleep.

Caius gazes on her for a moment, then stood up silently. It was early morning, sun had not yet risen. He calmed down slowly, it was just a dream. Had to be, even it felt so real. He put on his robe silently and slipped out of the room. Instinctively he circulated through the guard posts just to see if everything was alright.

 

He stepped outside to the yard just as the first rays of a new day appeared over the horizon and the humidity of the night was slowly vanishing. Guards walked on the walls like usually. Then a messenger passed the second gate hurrying towards him. "My lord, message from Seheron" the man bowed handing him a parchment.

 

Caius rolled it open, "stone table acquired, arranging delivery". He smiled, pleased "finally".*

 

Spoiler

*Caius walked towards the dungeon through the dank and dark tunnel Nazlik by his side. Torches attached to the stone wall brought some light in the darkness. The torch light was small and flickering and they were placed so far in between that Caius had cast a small light to show them the way. In the silence of the dark tunnel the echoes of their footsteps were the only sound present.

 

"How did you know what her name was, or role?" Caius asked curious. "My parents told me stories of the qun when I grew up. To warn me of the people living under it", Nazlik said, "they can hide in many forms. We must be vigilant".

Caius nodded silently, "was your father in a position of power?". Nazlik gazed at the tunnel ahead as they walked for a while, "my father was in the benn-hassrath. A Salit. He told me all he knew". 

"What about your mother?"

 

"She was a Tamassran" Nazlik said shortly in her thoughts, "and she wanted children of her own". Caius gazed her from the side of his eye while they walked, he could see the sadness in her eyes. He stopped and turned to look at her for a moment, "I think we should visit them again, once the baby is born. don´t you think?".

"I´d like that" she smiled at him cheering up a bit. Caius touched her cheek, "or I can send a ship to bring them on the mainland. Either way".

 

"That would work too" Nazlik contemplated it delighted, "maybe they could even live closer". She tapped her armor with her finger, "that reminds me, I will be needing a larger armor soon. My belly doesn´t fit into this one for long". Caius smiled softly at her.

 

Nazlik turned wary to look at the tunnel. "It is awfully quiet down here, don´t you think?".

"You are right" Caius said gazing ahead, "there should be three guards here. Still we hear nothing".

 

He walked forward ready, Nazlik drew her sabres and followed him silently. They approached the dungeon observing closely for any movement.

 

A flickering torch light in the tunnel revealed one of the guards assigned to guard the cell. He sat slumped in a chair by the cell door. Caius walked next to him, the man didn´t respond. He poked him with his staff, and the guard fell down lifeless without making a sound. Caius snorted and slammed the cell door open power twirling and pulsating around him.

 

His magic illuminated the dark dungeon revealing every corner. Under his magical light they could see both the other guards laying there in the ground lifeless, partially covered with hay.

 

"Escaped, that bloody elf has escaped" Caius growled.*

 

Spoiler

*Caius sat in his chair eying the maps and books on the shelves. His wondering eye gazed upon a painting of him and Mucia in the wall. It was made by a revered artist when they were married. All these years it had been hanging in the wall, here, in his study. Now It was time to move it away. He had decided to invite a new painter to paint a painting of him and Nazlik and hang it in the tower chamber. At least it would be somewhere he can always see it.

Caius reached out and took his crystal wine glass. He stared at the image of Mucia in the painting holding the cup.

 

Thoughts of his dream haunted him still. Maybe, just maybe it had been a actual omen. He had given her too much leeway, and her actions so far had proven her dangerous. His powers had peaked since he had used that stone table. Maybe his latent dreamer blood had given him a warning. He couldn´t risk it being a vision of the future, he just couldn´t.

 

Anyone threatening Nazlik or their child now or in the future had to go. She had to die. A simple order to a processed slave working close to her would do. A preemptive move.

Caius took a sip of the wine and placed the cup on the table. He contemplated for a moment sweeping his hair. Then he opened a drawer from the desk and pulled a small parchment from there. He took his quill and wrote a single elaborate word in the parchment, "poison".

He placed the parchment into a small pile of similar papers on the corner of the table. Then he took the wine goblet and leaned back with a blank look on his face. It was done.*

 

Spoiler

*Mucia gazed at Cassia casting her spell in the training room. "No no silly girl! You will only exhaust yourself with that. You need to focus on the energy more, you can´t control the flow otherwise". She was annoyed and frustrated, neither of her daughters seemed to have the skill their father had. And the third one was even a mundane! What a shame. Mucia tapped her feet in the ground wrinkling her brow, "do it again. Until you get it right". She turned annoyed "where is that stupid slave?".

 

"Here my lady" a elven girl appeared in the room from the hall with her head bowed. "Bring me wine" Mucia snapped, "and remember to make sure it is cool or I will have you whipped".

The elven girl bowed and ran from the room. "Why is it so hard?" Mucia complained seeing how Cassia´s new spell dissipated. "It shouldn´t be with your blood line".

 

"My lady, here is the wine". The elven girl appeared next to her holding a tray with a wine bottle and two cups. Mucia grabbed the ready cup set for her, "put the tray on the table and leave us". With a bow the elven girl left the room. Mucia took a sip of her wine eying Cassia, "no no, must I do everything here? Let me show you". She placed the cup on the table and stepped forward pushing Cassia aside. "Look how..." she raised her hand but suddenly staggered. She placed her hand on her chest, "I feel strange...". 

 

"What is it mother?" Cassia gazed at her concerned taking a step towards her, "should I call a healer?". "No, I am just fi.." Mucia started saying but was cut short falling down to the floor unconcious.

 

"Mother!" Cassia screamed running to her.

 

 

Dark clouds covered the sky. First heavy drops of rain fell down carried by the rising wind on the crow gathered by the gigantic pyre. Chantry brothers and sisters had just finished their sermon and chant for the departed. Cassia stood before the pyre gazing up at her mother laying on the wooden structure, dressed in her best. Tears fell down on Cassia´s cheeks as she took a step forward, raising her hand. A fire appeared in the bottom of the wooden structure of the pyre. Zera and Miriel rushed to hold her as she fell down on her knees weeping.

 

Caius stood silently in the first row wearing his best robes leaning on his staff along with the other members of the household. He gazed at the flames with a blank expression. Gallus Nepos stood behind him in a glimmering armor standing in attention. A fully armored guard stood in attention around the pyre. Members of the Magisterium and Senate were located in the left side of the family. The house of Florus was located on the right side. Magister Manius Florus, the old father of Mucia stood there with his white hair flowing in the rising wind supported by his sons. He gazed the flaming pyre with tears in his eyes and then turned to look at Caius. 

 

Old man pushed his sons away and started to walk towards Caius. He saw him coming and turned to see him, "thank you for joining us in our hour of...".

 

"You killed my daughter" Manius said silently, he raised his shaking hand and pointed Caius with his finger, "you killed my daughter you monster!" his voice rose high breaking. 

Caius eyed the old man with cold eyes, "I would advice you not to accuse me in public, I would be honor bound to challenge you to a duel otherwise. But I will let you pass now because of this sorrow which has so suddenly struck us both". 

 

"I am not afraid of you" Manius said with a shivering voice, "I knew the first moment I laid my eyes on you that you were not right. I knew you would be the death of her. Those soulless eyes, what are you?".

 

He bursted in tears, "I knew there was something wrong with you, oh why did I take your fathers deal". His sons rushed to escort him back to their family. Tiberius, his oldest son bowed slightly to Caius, "I apologize for my father my lord, please forgive the old man for his sorrow. He doesn´t know of what he is talking about". Caius nodded, "think nothing of it. I understand".

 

The pyre fire burned slowly out. Part of the ashes was gathered in a elaborately decorated urn and sent for the family mausoleum. Heavy rain poured down from the sky like a sign telling everyone it was over driving the crowd away. Nazlik stood in the back row watching the burial. She had no love for Mucia but her death did not make her happy either. She felt bad for her daughters in their sorrow. When Caius walked by her she turned to follow him.

"I hope you did not have anything to do with it" she whispered at him.

 

"No, I had nothing to do with it" Caius said calmly walking towards the family cart.*

[Uccio]

One thing leads to another.

 

Spoiler

*Weeks had passed. Mucia´s death had stirred some strange rumors among the high society of Minrathous. Coincidentally as a result of her death Caius received several marriage proposals from the prominent altus families. Life had to go on.

 

"Look, house Paetina sent you a marriage proposal. It seems they have a free daughter since her husband died in Seheron". Livia twirled the elaborate card in her hand amused. Caius sighted sweeping his face frustrated, "just have them sent the same no-thank-you response like to the previous one".

 

"This is not going to end, you know" she placed the card on the table. "You are now one of the most influential Magister in the Imperium, and probably the wealthiest one too. A widow, and still in a good age to have children. What do you think the odds are you are being left alone?".

 

"I don´t want to think about it" Caius muttered. "Maybe you should marry someone after a proper time" Livia said casually with a innocent look. 

 

"How would that help?"

 

"Maybe marry this time someone who is a better choice. Maybe someone who understands you and provides the cover you need?" she tilted her head.

"mph!" Caius puffed, "I don´t see any options for that. Besides, being a widow suits me". "You never know, there might be someone" Livia smiled gazing him.

 

"I can´t think about that now" Caius said taking his wine cup. "Manius has been stirring people against me in the Magisterium as I suspected he would do. But since all he has is his own suspicion not many people are willing to listen. Good thing that slave made suicide".

 

Livia nodded, "good thing indeed. Magister Florus has been searching frantically for anyone responsible for this".

 

Caius stood up, "I think we are done for today. I will head to my chamber. Let me know if there is anything that needs my attention". "I will" Livia said watching him leave the study.

 

 

Caius stood in the balcony looking over the city lights in the dark. Nazlik wrapped her arms around him, placing her swollen belly carefully against his back, leaning her chin on his shoulder "at least she will not be here to see the baby".

 

"Thank the Maker for small gifts" Caius muttered reaching back and caressing her hair. "You can´t leave the tower anymore. Not before the baby is born. At least not in the daylight or openly. Your condition is so visible that people could put two and two together blaming me for her death unjustly".

"I know" she sighted, this endless struggle for power and prestige in the everlasting Minrathous. They were so deeply entangled in it that sometimes she feared none of them could come out alive from it. And she feared for their safety.

 

She felt like something dark and ominous loomed over them and it made her restless.

 

"Your parents will come to see the baby" Caius changed the subject, "I got the message. Now I will have to arrange a delivery and safe place. It is possible to bring them here but I thought a place north from here in the coast. That little village is one of the places a smuggler group operates from. And they work for me". 

 

"I can´t belive it! That is wonderful!" Nazlik gasped with delight, she grabbed Caius and turned him around giving him a passionate kiss. "You never cease to amaze me my Magister" she whispered with a steamy voice. She took his arms and pulled him inside the chamber.

 

Later Caius laid on his back looking at the ceiling listening her silent breath while she slept. His thought returned to a moment few days earlier.

 

Caius walked into the dark and damp cellar where a team from Seheron had brought the item. He viewed the stone table satisfied. Finally. Now in full health and power he could feel the cold energy emanating from it. And the power. A cold smile appeared on his lips.*

 

Spoiler

*"the Antivan crows send their regards".

 

Caius gazed at the assassin standing in the loft above him. He wore a well tailored black leather armor with sword and daggers. Dark oiled hair and well groomed beard framed a scarred face. He looked down on Caius with a presumtous look on his narrow face.

 

Several masked crow archers were positioned in strategic positions around the hall with their bows pointing at him from the elevated positions. The entrances to the hall had also several armed crows in positions.

His guards lay around him with a expanding pools of blood under them, several arrows stuck in their bodies.

 

Caius didn´t care about them, they were just meaningless losses. The only thing he cared was Miriel. She was on her knees before that assassin tears in her eyes.

A gleaming dagger on her throat had Caius complete attention. He stared at the assassin with cold eyes. A small muscle twitched in his cheek, it was the only sign of the murderous rage storming inside him.

 

"I must apologize for this unorthodox method my lord", the assassin said with honeyed voice. "Your reputation as a dangerous and powerful Magister forced us to rely on this secondary method on which we usually do not do". He relaxed his grip on Miriel mouth just enough to let her scream, "dad! Help me!".

 

"If you hurt my daughter crow I will show you what true pain means" Caius growled with a deep grim voice.

 

"Now now, there is no need for that tone my lord" the assassin said regretfully, "she will not be hurt if you comply. She is not the target". He cocked an eyebrow nodding at Caius, "you are".

 

The assassin gestured towards a spot before Caius. "If you please just take one step forward on the glyphs prepared for you". Caius could feel the emptiness of that place, there was no magical energy present.

"I assure you my lord. She will be not harmed. In fact I will release her the moment you do as I say. I give you my word".

 

"Your word?", Caius said with a wry smile. "A word of an assassin?".

 

"My lord, you wound me" the crow smiled softly, then his expression turned grim. He crouched down, closer to her. There was a dark promise in his voice, "do not test me".

 

Caius concentrated on Miriel. He could see her panic and fear, she had always been so kind and gentle girl. This ordeal had probably run her out of her mind with fear.

He needed to assure her, to make her understand. Caius stressed each word carefully. "Miri, the moment he releases you, you start running. Do you hear me?". She nodded frantically tears in her eyes, her smothered sobs echoing from behind the assassins pawn.

 

The assassin placed his cheek against Miriel´s with a revolting smile, "yes, fly little bird, fly...".

 

Caius took a step forward. He released his grip from his staff letting it fall down on the floor with a faint thump. And then his connection to the fade was cut. It was the oddest feeling to hear the call of his power but not being able to reach it. Magister Florus had really fallen he thought, endangering his gran-daughter in his revenge plan. Caius was sure this was his doing. At least Nazlik was not here. He closed his eyes.

 

Time slowed down. The moment Caius stood inside the glyph the assassin released Miriel. He raised his hand with exultant smile to signal the archers. Miriel rolled away from him and stumbled on her feet ready to run.

 

A arrow flew from the ceiling beams just a moment before the signal was given, it struck the glyph breaking it´s structure. Caius opened his eyes when his power returned to him in a massive flow, crow arrows flew at him whistling through the air from all around him.

 

Energy pulse expanded to all directions from him destroying all the arrows shot at him mid air.

Caius raised his hands and massive chain lightning arcs shot from his extended arms striking both to the archers and swordsmen around him flashing around the hall with deafening strength. Screams and cries filled the air. Second volley crackled around the hall silencing even the last cries.

 

The assassin saw how Caius opened his eyes looking directly into his, their eyes were locked and there was a dark promise in the Magisters eyes.

 

When the energy started to flow around Caius the assassin knew something had went wrong. He knew all was lost. One thing remained still a possibility, and he was a man of his word. The assassin turned around to see Miriel with his dagger ready while the hall behind him was filled with massive lightning arcs.

 

On the hallway, before him stood a young mage. He had a striking resemblance with Magister Vaellanius, and he was already casting energy crackling around him.

 

Assassin turned around in a split second decision. So he was dead now, but he could still try to finish the contract. He bolted over the loft railing to the hall. While flying through the air he threw the daggers he had at the Magister. They were massively enchanted expensive pair of daggers, he had put his whole fortune into making them. And now it payed off.

He could see the surprised look on the Caius face when the blades penetrated his shield striking him in the chest and shoulder.

 

The crow landed on his feet at the hall before before the Magister pleased with himself. For his own surprise and shock the Magister just smiled at him daggers stuck in his upper body. A vortex of red mist rose from the dead bodies around him, the mist spiraled right into the Magister and the effect was instant.

Assassins daggers fell off him falling on the floor. He walked slowly towards the baffled crow with a cold smile on his face.

 

"I believe I promised to show you what true pain means..."*

 

Spoiler

*Caius stared at the blathering and screaming human torso. He lay on the operating table without arms and legs, completely unaware of his lost limbs.

 

In the end they all break in my hands, he thought sated.

 

"I don´t think we can revive him anymore" Livia said, "his mind is completely gone". "Good" Caius blurted. "Send him back to Antivan city". The human wreck screamed momentarily and then started to laugh madly.

 

"Magister sends his regards", put that note with him" Caius said with a silent voice. A cold smile rippled on his lips for a short moment, then he turned around and walked out of the dungeon.

"How is our another crow patient, the other survivor and a current test subject?" he asked as they passed yet another cell.

 

"Well since we had him patched up he was given the vial and he has been quite silent. He just sits there and stares at the wall. It has been two days and no reaction so far" Livia said walking behind Caius.

 

"Make sure the glyphs and wards are operational, I do not know what Nerva had cooked with the vial but what ever it is we should be ready for it. If any of the apprentices feels a slightest hint of strange energies flowing around the cell I want to know about it".

They moved towards the stairs through the stone corridor.

 

"Also, I want the incriminating evidence placed within a 24 hours. There are several Grand Clerics I need to oust. I have a number of rising young clerics ready to take their places in the Chantry, and in the Magisterium. All loyal to me. I am sure Divine will see reason when the templar order represent the evidence to him. So many blood mages about these days".

 

Caius turned to Livia with a contented smile, "that should ensure my hold of the Chantry, don´t you think?".

"Indeed" she grinned, "that is a major move".

 

"Just one among several to come. I have to deal with the Imperator at one point. But for now denying him the power sources will do. I need to have our contacts in Ordo Silentia to report of the plan those power sources were meant to. Then I will see what happens next. So far my allies in the Magisterium and in the Imperial army assure me that I have the support of the commanders of the southern army group. That is still not enough, I need to have more support in Seheron as in east and west too".

 

Livia reached out almost touching him when Caius was not looking while she walked behind him. She hesitated for a moment and then pulled her hand back.

They reached the stairs and Caius turned to her. "Let me know if there are any changes. I will retire for the day".

 

He turned and left for the stairs when Livia nodded. She stared after him for a while in silence.

 

"You know, if you are going to propose him to marry you, you should actually open your mouth", Vel spoke suddenly from her side. The young rogue stood by the doorway to the next room with his usual grin on his face.

 

"Don´t get me wrong, it would be a excellent deal for you. Getting into a altus family. A huge jump upwards", he walked slowly towards her. "But, seriously, as much as I like boss I can´t think any reason to marry him. He is impressive and all but, there is that one. You know...", Vel nodded and placed his index fingers like horns. "There is nothing for you to gain, except the status. That is all".

 

Livia sighted turning to look at the stairs with a tiny sting of jealousy in her heart, "I know".*

 

Spoiler

*The uproar in the grand hall was almost unbearable. It had been a long time since this ancient building had seen such a disturbance. Most of the Magister and senators stood in their place shouting and waving their fists.

 

The revelation of the evidence about wide spread blood magic use among the Grand Clerics had stirred the Senate to a point of mayhem. Opposite political parties accused of each other for orchestrating it. Threats and challenges were thrown around among the heated people. Those grand clerics who had been present in Minrathous were bought to the scene in shackles for the hearing, despite their pleas for innocence.

 

Caius walked to the podium calmly while the storm raged in the hall. He raised his hands calling for silence.

 

"Please, my fellow Magisters! Remember who you are and where you are, respect the Magisterium! This is not some barbarian court!".

His spell enhanced voice echoed over the hall calming the storm slowly down.

 

"Thank you" He said smiling, "I am sure we can all be reasonable". Caius stood there waiting until even the most hot headed ones had cooled down. He cleared his throat. 

"I understand your concern, believe me. I was as shocked as you all when I heard these startling news", he gazed around the hall.

 

"But we must believe that the templar order has been working under divine guidance. Andraste herself must have guided their hands to this discovery. We must root out this evil from among us mercilessly. Remember what just happened with the Venatori traitors. We cannot have this ordeal to crush our dignity and values. Chantry is a Imperial institute despite what those southern barbarians say and we must keep it clean of any stains".

 

Caius took a dramatic pause, "therefore I will now put ahead a proposal of a vote where the accused Grand Clerics are being superseded from their positions".

 

A polyphonic shouting storm exploded again in the hall. Some for and some against.

 

Caius raised his arms again to calm them down, "We must be vigilant and protect the Chantry of corruption. Therefore I also suggest a vote of the successors for the Grand Clerics. There is a list of names of possible clerics, these people are men and women of pure and untainted faith. You will receive them shortly. We must vote for this today, otherwise it would make the Imperium look weak. Delaying will give the wrong signal".

 

"Sure, we all know who these people are Vaellanius. Your pets no doubt!" a younger Magister shouted from the liberal part of the Magisterium.

 

Caius turned to him with a condescending smile on his face. "Well, we all know in who´s legroom you sleep your nights Magister Durio. At least there is no mistake in that", he glanced at Maevaris Tilani. A mischievous laughter broke out among the conservatives in the hall.

He gazed at the Magister for a while smiling at him then turned to the hall. 

 

"I am bit hurt but not surprised of this innuendo. But I assure you, these candidates are not part of any political block. They are people picked solely by their devotion to the one and only faith. The Imperial Divine has approved of this list, there is no room for mistakes. I believe we all trust his highness judgement. I will leave it to your vote my esteemed colleagues".

 

He bowed and left for his seat. The day turned to evening and finally the last vote had passed.

 

Caius walked down the main hall towards the main doors with his guards in tow. A cold smile lingered on his lips, one step completed. He didn´t get all his proteges as new Grand Clerics, but he did get the majority of the seats. Everything was proceeding as planned.*

 

Spoiler

*Miriel sat in the garden watching butterflies play around the flowers and fountain. She stared at the ancient walls around the yard wringing her hands. Nightmares from the incident didn´t leave her alone, suffocating, bag of cloth over her head. Tied hands. She pleaded for mercy, a cold dagger on her thoat. Dad help me!

 

she was abducted while leaving the archives in the evening, by the sunset. Two guards escorting her had been slain on the street in a surprise attack. She could still hear their death cries in her mind.

 

Caius walked close sitting next to to her on the marble bench. For a moment they sat there in silence. "So, tell me what is in your mind. I was told you have not been in the archives since that incident", Caius said softy.

 

She gazed at the garden silently for a while then whispered with a weak voice, "I am afraid".

 

Caius reached out and grabbed her shoulder pulling her to his side, "I know, it must have been frightening". He squeezed her for a moment.

 

"I promise to you, I will never let this happen again. You and your sisters will all have now several personal guards who follow you everywhere, and mages".

 

"I never thought it would be possible" she said silently, "not in my wildest dreams. I never gave any thoughts for it, though I have lived my whole life behind walls and armed guards. I know I am a daughter of a powerful and influential Magister. A member of a ancient Altus family. Worst possible thing in such life became reality in one horrifying moment. In a world where magic is power I have nothing. I am useless, my status or money does not protect me".

 

Miriel turned to him and wrapped her arms around Caius pressing her head on his shoulder. "That man really wanted to kill you, someone really wants to kill you. It frightens me so much. I am a mundane daughter of a powerful Magister and I don´t know how to defend myself. They grabbed me like I was a nobody. I was so helpless, it tears me apart". She let out a muffled sob against his robes tears falling from her eyes.

 

"That was a extraordinary situation Miri, even if you would have been a mage it probably would have made no difference. Those men were trained to fight mages" Caius said with a soothing voice and stroke her hair.

 

"Besides, being a mundane is not something new in our family. Don´t you remember, there are several members in the Vaellanius history who have been mundanes and achieved great things. Faleria Vaellanius for instance, she was a mundane and became a general and was a mighty warrior. Her heavily runed two handed war hammer is still in the memorium hall".

 

Miriel snorted rubbing her wet nose, "I am a archivist. Am I supposed to fight with a runed quill?".

 

Caius smiled, "good thing you have not lost your sense of humor. Archivists are important too, as much important as warriors. If not more, they keep the Imperium running". 

 

Miriel rubbed her eyes, "what if you die? What if someone murders you like mother was murdered? I have never thought of a life without you, you always have everything under control. I would be lost without you".

 

"Nonsense" Caius said grabbing gently her chin, he turned her to look at him in the eyes. "It is true that my life has brought me many enemies, and it is true that one day I might die. From various reasons".

 

She closed her eyes and her lips started to ripple foreshadowing tears.

 

"Miri" he said steadily, "you are a strong person and you do not need to me to keep things running. It is just called a habit. If I die you will take control of things with your sisters. Simple as that. You are not me and your life is your own. You have no enemies. It was my fault".

 

Miriel nodded and buried her head to his robe, "just promise me you won´t die".

 

Caius stroke her hair, "I promise". They sat in silence watching the butterflies twirl in the air around the flowers and fountain.*

[Serelir]

So good! Caius is a master of intrigue.

[Uccio]

Thirteenth chapter: Ambush and deception

 

disclaimer: Enchanter Nerva, the Imperator Severus and members of Ordo Silentia are being written by a forum member The Baconer

 

Spoiler

They had me in chains, Severus! Charged with practicing blood magic!" Marinus jumped in his seat when a servant approached, offering a cup of wine. He glanced over his shoulder, then feverishly snatched it, drinking in hearty gulps. The servant began to withdraw when Marinus grasped her by the sleeve. He returned the empty cup and waved her off, "Another". Wiping his chin, he turned to Severus, "... And you were nowhere to be found!"

 

"My duties drew me away from Minrathous," Severus shrugged, "but it wouldn't have been my concern either way."

 

"Not your c- Caius is lining the seats of the Grand Clerics with his personal cabal of sycophants!" Marinus cleared his throat, looking around the office again.

"Unless he is determined a threat to the greater Imperium, or the Archon, I am under no obligation to stop him."

 

Marinus leaned in close, speaking low, "And you think the seat of the Archon is beneath his notice? You are not at all interested in what he could be planning?"

"And that is not your concern." Severus stared Marinus down, until the cleric averted his gaze, looking toward the door in anticipation. Sure enough, the servant returned, this time with both the cup, and the bottle.

 

Marinus poured himself another cup, "You know, it is funny... When the Divine proclaimed he innocent, he cited my support of your execution of the Venatori. After all, what could have posed a larger threat to his position? And here they always told me I was throwing in with the losing side." He chuckled, lifting his cup toward Severus.

 

Severus did not return his smile, "Will that be all, Marinus?"

 

(courtesy of a forum member The Baconer)

 

Spoiler

In a fortnight, there will be another movement of crystals. Only this time, RED LYRIUM. Total silence on why it is needed, where it came from.

 

There will be two shipments, both out of SOLAS. One will be a heavily-guarded convoy, headed for Minrathous. But this is a feint.

 

The crystals will be transported in a second shipment disguised as a simple merchant caravan. Finding the right wagon or chest will be difficult; as the caravan will be traveling WEST along the Imperial Highway.

 

However, the caravan will make one stop to transfer goods. The chest holding the crystals will be moved to a ship taking slaves upriver to Vyrantium. It will be below decks with the merchandise.

 

~ Ciphered message; dead drop in Minrathous

 

(courtesy of a forum member The Baconer)

 

Spoiler

*A battered and old worn out trade-cog had been anchored for the night in the fast streaming river, close to shore. It had been modified to have larger cargo space as the main commodity it transported was humans. It was a slave ship. Clouds mostly covered the moon hiding the ship occasionally in darkness. The wind had died down and the air was still. The night watch stood on the ships rear deck smoking his pipe. He occasionally gazed upon the river and on the river bench close by. The night was silent.

 

From the shore, at a distance, few small slick boats left the shore. Silently they approached the ship from the rear under the cover of darkness.*

 

Spoiler

Davion sat up against a post within the ship's hold. The air was hot and heavy. Too many bodies. They sat in complete darkness, save for a few specks of light falling through the grate of the main deck. A man, their "slaver", moved beneath the light, anxiously peering through the grate. Sweat stained his shirt, dripped in beads from his forehead.

A hired thug. Terrified, as he should be.

A soft thunk above them. The utter silence in the hold gave way to something deeper. The suffocating heat from the rags, meant to hide maille, the wood digging into his back, all of it fell away. Only an intense focus and anticipation remained, and he knew he wasn't the only one.

The stomping of frenzied feet erupted on the main deck, quickly replaced by another thunk. The thug drew his blade, backing out of the light towards the chest at the other end of the hold, away from approaching footsteps. Davion tilted his head down and tugged at the rags, loosening them. He would have to remove them quickly for what came next.

 

(courtesy of a forum member The Baconer)

 

Spoiler

*Vel sneaked slowly down the wooden stairs. So far so good, the resistance on the deck had been suppressed fast and clean. His steps were light as a feather, years of hard training had made it a inherent feature. Vel straightened his leather armor and weapons, dam this dalish gear he thought. Breathing through the half mask on his face in this heat was a ordeal. His eyes adjusted into the dim light of the cargo hold. Silence lingered, he could see a group of slaves in chains hunching at the back of the cargo hold. He took a few silent steps ahead.

"Shemlen! Look out Feynsas!". Vel bolted blindly left avoiding the crew member charging at him from the shadows slashing with a sword, missing Vel with just by a few inches. His wild leap landed him among the water barrels knocking his head on the broadside of the ships interior.

Varhel, one of the actual elves in the team, shot a arrow right through the eye of the slaver from the stairs. He had a straight view over the cargo hold from his position. A marvelous feature.
"I think that was last of them" Varhel said pleased as Vel stumbled on his feet. He had to bit his lip and just nod. Vel´s mouth had almost spoke before his mind was able to stop it, once again.

The slaves, cargo of the ship, human and elves. Men and women, stared at the with fragile hope in their eyes. Maybe these elves were here to free them after all?

"Hear this! Elvhen will once again claim their ancestral lands back. Death to the Imperium! Enasalin!", Varhel shouted to the would be slaves raising his bow in the air. His dalish accent was perfect. He was truly convincing as a freedom fighter Vel thought watching the elf posture for the slaves. He had broad shoulders and long raven black hair. A handsome and brave elf possessing all the leadership qualities. And he could have been, if he wasn´t such a rotten bastard who was only interested in his own gain and gold. Such is life, Vel thought.*

 

Spoiler

Figures cloaked in rags scurried away from Vel, hiding behind boxes, moving away from the light of the stairwell. A good performance, Davion thought. Sitting to the side of the staircase, he shifted, watching from behind the post. One in the hold, one still on the stairs, more above. Patience.

That armor... elven make. Dalish? The one on the stairs was most-definitely an elf, but the other one had their face covered. Clever.

 

(courtesy of a forum member The Baconer)

 

Spoiler

*Varhel gazed upon the slaves, "ar lasa mala revas, you are free now. Remember this moment, remember the elvhen". His trained eye could see them gaze at each other on the sly and at him, little details. They were too nervous. It was not just their appearance, dalish look with vallaslin on their faces which caused this. It was something else, something was not right.

"Falon ir abelas. Ne na harel. In banal'ras, Din'an. Na melana sahlin" someone spoke from among the slaves. A elderly dalish woman stood up from among them, her eyes were calm but full of sorrow.

Varhel raised his hand just barely giving Vel a imperceptible sign. He whistled three times, two short one long. "We need to search this place. Go get the others, and bring torches".
He gazed at the old dalish woman bowing slightly, "Ma serannas hahren, revas will be yours. You will be with the elvhenan". Her smile was plaintive. "Da'assan, ar sulahn'nehn for you" she whispered.

Vel turned to walk up the stairs, his heart started beating faster. Casually he touched his belt grabbing something and squeezed his hand in a fist.*

 

Spoiler

So be it. Davion grabbed the shoulder of a man sitting next to him, receiving a nod in turn. In one smooth motion, he tore the cloak off of his body, grasping the ragged cloth in his right hand. He surged with mana, bending the Veil into an incorporeal tunnel. Davion surged forward as a ball of lightning, appearing before Vel on the staircase. Stinging arcs crackled from Davion's body, shortsword now drawn. His comrade in turn bolted across the Veil, coming to stand behind Davion and ready to face whatever threats approached from above.

Golden light permeated the hold, as spectral blades sprang to life.

 

(courtesy of a forum member The Baconer)

 

Spoiler

*Everything happened in a flash.

The moment Vel´s eye caught movement by the stairs he bolted running crushing the vial in his hand. Quicksilver effect spread through his body like a lightning shooting him through the cargo hold. "Good thing boss is never stingy with the supplies" he thought.

The translucent flare flickering and moving before him was a obvious sign.
"Mages, should have known" Vel thought flying forward. The first man appeared before him crackling with energy holding a short sword in his hand. Vel charged towards him in a fake attack changing his direction right before the man. With a massive leap he took a side step bouncing from the water barrels by the men throwing a flask of powerful concentrated magebane and dwarven explosive at them.

Varhel stood by the stairs and was barely able to see what happened as the two men appeared before him. At the same heart beat Vel transformed into a silvery light moving with a incredible speed. And then Varhel saw the grenades flying in the air. He bounced instinctively forward flipping over the men as the explosion broke the stairs from below him.

Vel bounced high in the air reaching for the hatch. He got a hold of the edge pulling himself up in one frantic flash of movement.

Varhel landed on his feet rolling down the walkway. He bounced on his feet shooting runed arrows in a rapid pace at the two men with his enchanted bow, and at the others lurking in the shadows while walking backwards towards the slaves. Their spectral blades made them excellent targets in the dark. He could see how few of them fell down as the runed arrows pierced their barriers. Varhel's nickname dead shot was well earned, each arrow found its target.

"This is not going well" he thought. "Maybe I can release these slaves, it might help me to get out of here".
Suddenly he tripped falling on his back, human slaves had wrapped their chains around his ankle.
"We will help you master!" one of the slaves shouted as they bounced on Varhel striking at him hoping to win some favors.

He struggled surprised against the men. "Fenedhis! I am trying to help y... arg!" Varhel´s angry shout was cut short as one of the men had grabbed his dagger thrusting it through his throat. The old dalish woman cried out grabbing him by the arm and pulling him away from the men.

Varhel gurgled blood. It gushed out of his mouth, nostrils and the gaping wound in his throat. He took the old woman´s arm whispering "ma..ghilana.. mir din'an".

She pulled Varhel in her arms. Rocking him silently she started singing the dalish eulogy. Varhel stared at her, his eyes slowly glazing.
She closed his eyes, yet another son of The People had died in a futile struggle against the Imperium. She turned to stare at the imperial men fire in her eyes slipping one of Varhel´s dagger´s in her sleeve.

Kara, Varhel´s right hand and lover had witnessed this through the hatch along with couple of their men. She screamed of rage and sorrow at the sight of what went down, "ar tu na'din!".
Kara started shooting runed arrows tears in her eyes at the slaves and the men down in the cargo with her men, while Vel stumbled on his feet in the deck.
Above her, above the ships deck the air started to ripple when a massive energy concentration started to twirl slowly heating up.*

 

Spoiler

Davion yanked the malleus off the side of the staircase. The Dwarven bomb exploded, the shockwave meeting their barriers and throwing them onto the ground of the hold. Davion sprang up, observing the present situation. The elf was bleeding out, cradled in the arms of the Dalish biddy who tipped them off.

"Kill them both" he announced, making a quick gesture with his hand. The old woman began to reach for something in her sleeve as a spirit blade was plunged into her back, cutting through her body and emerging from Varhel's breast.

Arrows rained down from the hatch; the mallei moved away from the field of vision it offered. "You three, to the bow" Davion pointed to the men, who made their way to the section of the ship beneath the forecastle. The rest stood at the ready. "We take the deck. Now!"

The grate of the hatch was torn away by a wave of force, sending Kara stumbling backward. A small ball of light emerged from the opening, drifting skyward. A wisp from the Fade. It pulsed, radiating a blinding, dazzling light. Kara instinctively shielded her eyes, but something cold and metallic gripped her hand, wrenching it away from her face. It struck her beneath the jaw, sending her sprawling onto the floor of the deck as her legs gave way and her vision went black.

...

White-red light flared above the ship; multiple figures could be seen on the main deck. "There it is. Let's go." Severus patted the man in front of him on the shoulder, who summarily called out the order to embark.

 

(courtesy of a forum member The Baconer)

 

Spoiler

*Vel saw how the hatch and grate was torn by the force from below. "Everyone run, it is the imperial special forces!" he shouted and bolted running again.

His accelerated form shot him over the railing and dived like a arrow into the black river. At that very moment he understood the mistake he had made. His speed had sunk him deep into the water in full gear. Vel struggled towards the surface but his reinforced leather armor and weapons kept pulling him deeper.

"Blasted this dalish gear" he thought struggling with the straps. There was no air, no surface. He felt like his lungs were about to explode, he had lost his direction in panic. Nothing but the pitch black and cold river all around him. His futile struggle became slower and slower. The weight of his armor and weapons pulled him deeper.

"Never thought it would end like this" he thought, "that new tavern girl with the lovely big bosom is going to miss me, I promised to to come back to her". A faint smug smile lingered on his lips, "all my women are going to... miss... me...".

His body sunk deeper into the black fast streaming river.

Gilles De Mont, a bastard son of a Orlesian noble and a self proclaimed sword master of the mercenary group stood few feet away when Kara was attacked. He watched with scorn how Vel stormed away, "bloody void, run coward". He tore off his half mask drawing his sword and dagger charging the imperial agent.

Like a dancer he flew around the agent dodging his spirit blade attacks. He made a feint attack at the agent´s face, and with a smooth swirl avoiding the agents swing Gilles slide to his side sinking his own runed blade through the barrier into the agents armpit.
Right between the armor plates piercing his lung. "There you go tevinter, you just were not good enough" he smiled at the surprised man. With a quick move he pulled his blade off and kicked the man down the hatch.

There was no time to loose, more men appeared on the deck, battle broke out among the agents and mercenaries. Gilles ran to Kara pulling her on her feet. "Snap out of it woman!" he shouted slapping her face. Kara opened her eyes with a confused look. Gilles drew his dagger cutting her armor straps and sword belt. He took a firm grip of her shirt and tossed her over the railing, "get out of here!".

He didn´t like that woman, not at all. Never had, she was controlling and possessive. But Varhel did like her. And Gilles was fond of him. That handsome and charismatic elf had recruited Gilles years ago. He had been secretly in love with Varhel, though he new he would never return his affection. Being close to him had been enough for Gilles. And now Varhel was dead. He was going to make these tevinter agents pay, then leave.

A elven man with a short sword appeared on deck, he had the look of a man in charge on him. Gilles made a battlefield salute to Davion, "en garde!". And charged him.

At that moment the Firestorm spell Publius was casting on the shore ignited on the ship lighting up the dark night.

"Vel!" he shouted, he had seen him plunge off the ship but didn´t see him surface anywhere.

"We have to leave now, more of them are coming!" one of their lookouts rode to the shore in haste. Publius grinded his teeth gazing at the river and boat in the firestorm hesitating for a moment. He then turned and jumped on the saddle, with a frenzy he whipped his horse and rode away with the two men accompanying him.* 

 

Spoiler

Davion steadied himself as the boat heaved from the force of the blast. "Put those fires out! Secure t-"

He sprung backwards, his commands interrupted by the hiss of a blade cutting the air before his face. He had only a fraction of a second to regard this new opponent, who promptly lunged forward with a second thrust. A calculated offense, meant to keep Davion off balance and control his movement. He jumped backwards once more to avoid the strike, and felt the heat from the flames at his back. The stakes were clear: he would either regain control now, or hold court with the Maker.

Fluid, the man turned his blade over, guiding its momentum into an upward cut. Davion saw his chance, knocking the strike aside with the curvature of his vambrace. A glint of light as the man's other hand came about; the steel of a dagger reflecting the radiance of the fire. Davion would be unable to counter it with his own shortsword, as it was grasped by the hand used to deflect the initial attack. Thinking quickly, he rushed forward, slamming into the swordsman with his opposite shoulder. Good, now he had space.

"A fine parry" the man smirked, reestablishing his guard. His accent was undoubtedly Orlesian. Davion repositioned, granting himself the length of the deck to move upon. He elected to keep his shortsword in his left hand; the presence of the dagger rendered it awkward, but he found it preferable to keep his guard in line with the longer opposing weapon. Hopefully, the Orlesian would find the setting awkward as well.

They set about to test each other. Davion parried another blow from the longsword, but a threatening movement of the dagger warded off retaliation. He jostled the angle of his grip, punctuated here and there with a threatening flick. The Orlesian was ever-guarded, but unmoved; he knew the advantage of his reach well, and he would not be baited by the impotent flailing of the elf's shortsword. The Orlesian moved to check Davion with a low slash, a swift cut toward the shin followed by a swift retreat from the shortsword's reach. The elf pivoted backward just beyond the tip of his longsword, then gripped the pommel of his shortsword with his free hand. It was the movement of a thrust; a riposte that could never reach its intended target.

It happened before his eyes, unfolding as if in slow motion, and yet to quickly for him to react. The steel of the shortsword alighted with a spark, then a golden radiance as an ethereal blade constructed itself in an instant, taking form over the original weapon. His eyes followed its length as it rushed forward, finally embedding itself within the armor on his forearm. A sharp, warm pain, as he stumbled backward and released the dagger. Davion strode forward, kicking it aside.

Davion held the spirit blade at length, forcing the Orlesian to cede more and more ground. The mallei moved about, clearing space for the combatants as they went about their work aboard the ship, yet always watching from the corner of their eyes. Davion finally planted his feet, telegraphing one final strike to end the fight. He bolted forward, the spectral blade closing in upon the Orlesian's breast. The Orlesian lunged in turn; he would redirect the force of the thrust, and get in close where the elf's weapon would be of no use.

There was no clatter of metal, no familiar weight of clashing steel. The spirit blade disappeared in a fulmination of dazzling sparks, and his own sword was left sailing through vacant air. Davion had seen it: the sudden expression of shock, the Orlesian squinting in the assault of blinding light. He moved lithely, trapping the Orlesian's sword arm, and then wrenching it behind his back. He called mana through his fingertips, releasing a torrent of electricity through the Orlesian's arm and shoulder. The man roared in pain as his muscles seized.

Davion stemmed the flow of magic, buckling with the sudden weight as the Orlesian collapsed. He lowered his adversary onto the deck, keeping his arm trapped. The longsword had fallen onto the wood, and Davion traced his eyes upon the runes lining its blade.

A cool sensation graced his cheek as a malleus channeled a gout of frost, quenching the flames that engulfed the ship. Davion once again regarded the defeated Orlesian, and his runed blade. The blade crafted to deliver death to his comrades. He began to share is magic once more, unrelenting as smoke began to rise from the man's body.

"Take care not to bite your tongue."

[...]

"Is he alive?"

"He is."

Blotches of orange and amorphous shapes gave way to human figures and the light of a torch. Vel could feel the movement of the river, the undulation of the water nearly lulling him back to unconsciousness. Lucidity returned to him as a gloved hand struck him across the face. He was lying on his back, with the night sky, obscured by boughs, arranged above him. And then, a face.

Sunken eyes, lost in shadow. His lips, a mess of scars. Vel tried to move away, as if he could sink through the floor of the boat. A startled gasp, accosted by water in his throat, instead emerged as a fit of coughs. A hand gripped him by the jaw, forcing his head to the side and pressing his cheek against the scratchy wood. In the upper corner of his vision, he could see boots at rest.

"Human, but in Dalish armament."

He was pulled back to the night sky, and the face. It looked upward, nodding at someone he could not see. A black curtain reached downward; fabric brushed over his face and neck, stymieing his breath and pulling him away from the waking world. 

 

(courtesy of a forum member The Baconer)

 

Spoiler

*Silent tapping echoed in the room. Publius stared at the finger tapping the desk, he tried to swallow unnoticed resisting the urge to lick his lips. Those cold eyes kept staring at him and silence lingered. "There was nothing I could have done master" he said with a more weaker voice than he wanted to. "We were betrayed, they were expecting us. There were too many combat mages on the ship and more were coming when I left".

Tapping stopped. Caius stood up and walked to the window looking out to the yard, "and Varhel?".

"I don´t know, it could be possible he got away. I saw some of the mercenaries jumping ship. But I doubt it". He cleared his throat, "Vel was left behind too. He might have drowned".

Caius folded his arms behind his back. "Varhel is the only one who has any meaning. He had the details of our arrangement in his head. Rest of the men were expendable". Publius took a deep breath, "even Vel?".

"Even Vel" Caius responded. "Learn this lesson my apprentice, don´t get too attached. It will cloud your judgement and can be your downfall".

"Yes master" Publius said, he is right. he thought. I was too concerned about him, my... friend. It is just good that things went the way they did.

"You can go now. Send Livia in as you go". Publius bowed and left the room relieved.

Livia nodded to him as she passed Publius at the door. She closed the door behind her and sat down before the desk, "now what?".

"Caius turned around and walked to the desk annoyed. "Send a message to the agents, their position has been compromised. That information was a trap". Livia nodded.* 

[Uccio]

Spoiler

*"Master! Your mistress, she left! We couldn´t stop her!", a terrified slave ran to Caius who was walking through a corridor towards his study.

Caius stopped in his tracks surprised, "what? When did this happen, did she say anything?". "No master, she just said she wants to get some air", the elven slave girl started to tear up. "I am so sorry master, she was too strong for us".

"Just tell me the exact moment when she left, and where?". We will deal with this later he thought.

"She left just half an hour ago. Linnie followed her to the stables, she took one of your favorite horses". The elven girl stood there wringing her hands then suddenly screamed frantically, "We could not find you before master! Please don´t hurt me!".

She has my signature pass, they would not stop her at the gate, Caius thought. "That is all, you can leave now" he said calmly. The slave stared at him for a moment then realizing she was not going to be reprimanded she practically ran backwards bowing at the same time.

Caius closed his eyes rubbing his forehead. "What was this? Why did she leave? In the middle of the night too?". He turned around and hurried through the manor towards the service exit. This had to be handled with care, and silently. Guards bowed when he passed them stepping outside.

The moon was full, only few lonely clouds wondered the nightly sky. Moonlight illuminated the yard and the ancient walls casting strange shaped shadows everywhere. He wasted no time walking straight to the stables. He stepped inside and stood there for a moment listening the silence. A faint breathing could be heard from among the hay. Caius raised his hand and shot a weak lightning bolt into the hay pile.

A young stable boy jumped high in the air with a high pitch scream. "Prepare me a horse, fast" Caius said at the boy jumping around rubbing his arm. The moment the boy saw who had woken him up he bolted into action scared out of his wits. Magister himself wearing his pitch black robes in the dead of night by his bed. In a few moments one of the horses had been brought out and saddled.

Caius rode off without a word leaving the young boy watching after him with his mouth open.

Outside the gates he stopped for a moment. This is something people are going to talk, there was no question about it. She ran pregnant as ever and he went after her, alone. One would have to be a idiot if could not connect the dots. Caius cursed his own stupidity, "I should have been more with her. This was long time coming. Stupid blind idiot".

He closed his eyes and concentrated on his ring. Her wedding ring was more just a ring, it was magically connected to his, and the enchantment was strong. He would find her anywhere if she still had the ring.
There, he felt a connection. Not far, towards the Imperial park. He sank his heels to horses sides and galloped through the sleeping Minrathous. Caution be damned.

There, by the lake he found her. She had left her horse tied up to a tree. Caius dismounted his horse and tied it next to the other one. He walked slowly to the shore. Nazlik floated in the water gazing the nightly sky. She had not taken off her clothes, still her large belly was clearly visible under the wet clothes like a small island before her. Caius sat down by the shore silently.

"I am not a prize animal" she whispered softly. "No", Caius said "you are my love, my wife and mother of my child". He sighted, "I have been so entangled in preparing our future that I forgot for what I was making it".

"What future? You never speak of it" she said accusing.

"I know, and I am sorry" he said. "It is a future where we and our child can live happily without worrying what tomorrow brings".
The vision he saw surfaced in his mind, a man with white hair and silver eyes sitting on the Archon throne. Feeling of immense power lingered. His son. Imperial flags flying over Qunandar. It can be... silent voice echoed in his ears. Stone table had shown him..

He shook himself off his thoughts. "It is a long and time consuming work. One move here, one there. Something that will happen in years to come. Something that will prevent things from happening".

He stood up, "in the end, there is only you and me. Everything I have done is for you and our child". Caius waded into the lake towards her, "If I don´t have you then the world can fall into abyss". He stood there next to her looking in her eyes. "I love you. Will you come home with me? From now on I will find us time to break away".

Nazlik floated in silence for a while, then she sighted, "I will. I do love you. Sometimes the walls in that tower chamber just close in too much".

"Please, next time tell me when it happens. Then we will run away together that instant. There isn´t a man or a woman in this world I fear. I fear no death, nor pain. But I fear being without you". He took her hand as she stood up, "And I have too many enemies to have you run around Minrathous alone in the night".

He kissed her softly as they stood there in the lake under the moonlight.* 

 

Spoiler

*Lone cloud sailed through the clear sky. Sun shined over the waste Valarian fields outside Minrathous. Smoke and dust covers the ground starting to give away for the persistent wind blowing from the sea. Tears in the smoke clouds reveal slowly a massive battlefield. Thousands upon thousands dead bodies, imperial soldiers and qunari warriors litter the ground. Broken catapults and dead war elephants lay among them. Crows croak of excitement as they fly among the dead. There is no shortage of food for them now. Here and there someone moves, under the scotching sun there is no shadow for the wounded.

A torn Tevinter Imperium war flag flies in the hot wind along with Vaellanius Coat of Arms on a small hill in the battlefield. Caius stands before them holding his hand high, a bloody severed head hangs from it. 

Caius hangs the head of the Arishok from it´s hair presenting the troops with his trophy while blood drips from the freshly cut neck.

A thundering roar echoes in the field as thousands of soldiers raise their weapons cheering over the victory. Tired, wounded and so few men. But still victorious.

"Caius, Caius, Caius!" booms across the army. "They are your men now" Gallus Nepos says from his side. The old veteran kneels before Caius proud look on his face. His right eye is gone and massive scar covers the right side of his face. His right arm is also missing, the shield he carries is tied to the stub above his wrist. "The Imperium will now bow before you".

Caius turns to gaze at the sun, from the corner of his eye it seems like a gigantic dragonic figure glides through the air high above the Valaria fields. 


He opens his eyes and stares at the stone ceiling of the chamber. For a moment he has to remember where he is. This is not Valarian fields thought he can still taste the dust and blood in his mouth, and feel the heat. Even his face seems to glow from the heat of the scorching sun. Slowly Caius stands up. The stone table is easier to use each time, and each time it seems to make his own power more fluent. Those visions are more clear too, but this dream had something new. That dragon...

Caius stood up contemplating, why did it appear? He had a feeling of unlimited power, a god like power. A Old God? Could it be? He stared at the stone table. This required more studying. He walked out of the chamber in his thoughts closing the door behind him.* 

[Uccio]

Somewhere there.

 

 

Disclaimer: Enchanter Nerva, the Imperator and members of Ordo Silentia are being written by a forum member The Baconer

 

Spoiler

Light stung Vel's eyes as the sack was removed from his head. How long? Two, maybe three days, he figured. He saw the elf first, grasping the sack and backing away. Behind the elf, the scarred man, sitting on a stool. The Imperator.

 

The room, constructed of stone, was completely bare, save for a diminutive window directly above him. Not that he could look outside, as he was chained to the wall. He could detect the smell of the sea, his only clue. Vel heard a groan on his left, turning to find Gilles. The Orlesian's arm was terribly burned, the skin turning brownish-green or peeling back to reveal a glossy pink.

 

"This one I've seen before, at the Magister's estate. I never caught his name."

 

"Vel Barrius. Soporoti."

 

"Mm. And the other?"

 

"I am not... A sellsword would be my guess."

 

"An Orlesian at that." Severus turned to Vel, regarding him with the cold scrutiny of an archivist. "Your employer continues to impress with his choice of company."

 

(courtesy of a forum member The Baconer)

 

Spoiler

*Vel blinked his eyes at the light after the sack´s darkness. He gazed around the room trying to turn in his place. His eyes stopped at the chains. 

"I like what you have done with this place, it is so cozy". A wide sunny smile appeared on his face. "I would stand up and shake your hand your highness for saving me, but you know how it is", he raised his chained arms.

 

"I am a little disappointed with the service here thought", he said regretfully. "Nothing to drink or eat? Don´t get me wrong, I had plenty of that river water but after for a while it gets dull".

 

He rolled his eyes exaggerating. He then gazed at Severus with a innocent look, "but what was that you said my lord? My employer? My good sir, I was just simply fishing in that lovely river when a gigantic salmon pulled me under. You should have seen it, true story".

 

Gilles stared at him. He snorted at Vel and turned to the Imperator. "My lord, my name is Gilles De Mont. If you are looking for ransom my father, Alain De Mont, Baron of the Val Foret might pay for me", his accent was thick of the pain.*

 

Spoiler

Severus cleared his throat, ignoring Vel for the moment. "He 'might' pay? For a son caught raiding slave ships in Tevinter, dressed like an elf?" He furrowed his brow, "Would I be correct in assuming your relation to Alain De Mont is illegitimate?"

 

Before Gilles could respond, he stood up and whispered something into Davion's ear. The elf nodded, and silently stepped out of the room. Severus sat back down upon the stool, awaiting Gille's response.

 

(courtesy of a forum member The Baconer)

 

Spoiler

*Gilles stared at Severus for a while, "Yes, I am his bastard son. And our relationship is not that good". He shrugged, "but I am his blood".

 

Vel raised his pawn pointing at Gilles behind it with the other hand forming silent words, he is.*

 

Spoiler

"Well. I can tell you that, without healing, infection will take you before we ever establish correspondence. As I understand it, one of my men died in service to the Imperium, by your hand. As such I can't say I'm very interested in haggling with your father." Severus turned away from Gilles, gazing at Vel in silence.

 

(courtesy of a forum member The Baconer)

 

Spoiler

*Gilles snorted at Severus, "no honor then. What can you expect from a tevinter? Your man had his change, he just wasn´t up to the task. You would also be one elf short if he would not have his magic. I am better swordsman than he is". Gilles smile was cocksure.

 

Vel gazed at his arm nodding, "that is a nasty burn".*

 

Spoiler

Severus did not look away from Vel, even as Davion re-entered the room a moment later. "What do you think, Vel Brassius? Is this man important enough to be a survivor?"

 

(courtesy of a forum member The Baconer)

 

Spoiler

*"Well, if you ask me, I go by the motto live and let live". He smiled, "that way everyone will be happy. Why can´t we all just get along?". Vel gazed at Gilles, "he looks honest enough. I would let him live. Just have him shave that ridiculous mustache, that is the real offence here".*

 

Spoiler

"Hm." Severus nodded. Then, uncomfortable silence.

 

Finally, he seemed to notice Davion's presence in the room, and looked to Gilles. "Very well. Gilles de Mont, you owe your life to the intervention of this fine fellow. The terms of recompense will be discussed after your arm is treated."

 

(courtesy of a forum member The Baconer)

 

Spoiler

*Gilles nodded weary, "thank you my lord".

 

"Excellent!", Vel smirked. He gazed at the window in his thoughts tapping his chin, "I think I am going to compose a song from this. My miraculous return from beyond. Hmm... what would rhyme with drowning..?".

 

Then he seemed to notice Severus, "that is, if I am getting out of here, right? Don´t get me wrong. This is a nice place and all but there are several women who need to know I am back from the dead". He winked suggestively.*

 

Spoiler

Davion opened the door and motioned to someone outside. Two men clad in plate entered the room, approaching Gilles. Beneath their armor, they wore a red-and-gold variant of the traditional Imperium heraldry. The chains binding Gilles to the wall dropped to the floor, sinking into the dirt. The manacles on his wrists remained. Quietly, they lifted the man to his feet and led him out of the cell, Davion leaving with them. Severus paused, as if listening to their trailing footsteps.

 

"I have no use for his father's coin, but workers capable of weaving Lyrium will always be useful."

 

(courtesy of a forum member The Baconer)

 

Spoiler

*"Ouch!", Vel whistled. "Well, it beats being dead anyway. Not much thought". He scratched his groins indifferent, "I think I need a bath".*

 

Spoiler

"Uh huh. Now, let's speak frankly for a moment. I could simply brand you as well, but I believe a lack of emotional perspective would be... inconvenient in sating my curiosity. Of course, depending on your responses, you could always change my mind. Once again, your choice." Severus brushed off the side of his boot.

 

(courtesy of a forum member The Baconer)

 

Spoiler

*Vel flashed his most charming smile, "so, what do you want to talk about my lord?".*

 

Spoiler

"What do you think of this, uh, conflict we have here? What is your commitment, beyond a nice helping of House Vaellanius' wealth?"

 

(courtesy of a forum member The Baconer)

 

Spoiler

*Vel thought for a moment, "I wasn´t aware of any conflict actually. People in high places keep poking at each other for position and power all the time. In the mean time it is the little people who get stomped on in the process". He stared at Severus, "does it really matter from the ground point of view what happens up there?".

 

He leaned back against the wall shrugging, "besides, too much thinking can be unhealthy".

 

A faint smile lingered on Vel´s lips for a while, "my involvement... I could tell you a sob story about a son of a poor shoe maker. He grew up in the slums where his parents scraped their meager living any way they could. Then his father got killed by a local mob for not coughing up enough protection money. Guards did not look into it".

 

He turned to gaze at the window, "the boy didn´t want to follow his fathers footsteps, and he didn´t want his mother to sell herself. So he decided to do something. He found out he had fast feet and nimble fingers. No lock could resist his touch. In years to come he became better and better, and found out that noble women couldn´t resist a handsome scoundrel either". A smug smile appeared on his face.

 

He sighted turning back to Severus, "then one night he broke into this tower. He had heard the stories and knew of the danger, but the master of the house had wealth and beautiful daughters. One of which he had already talked with, accidentally. So he decided to take his change. By a odd change he came face to face with this lord in the dead of night. He was given a option, which he took".

 

He paused for a while thinking, a dark shadow crossed his face. "The boys mother, she got sick of the wasting. He thought she was done for. Then one day when he was out a messenger brought a potion. This medicine was powerful and expensive, he could not have come up enough gold for it if he had worked day and night for years, but there it was. Free of charge. He found out that someone appreciated him. And now she lives in a better part of the town because he can provide for it".

 

He flashed out yet another charming smile, "but those sob stories, they would not change how things are. I sit here in chains and yet another lord sits before me stomping on the little people in process".*

 

Spoiler

Severus rose from the stool, starting to pace in a circle. "Yes, just a high-and-mighty lord. Dancing the dance, 'stomping on the little people'." He came back around, squatting before Vel and grasping him by the back of his neck.

 

"You forget what you are, Vel Brassius, what you were sent to that ship to do. We both know it wasn't to rescue slaves." For a brief moment, his face contorted in a flash of disgust. The first sign he possessed any emotion at all.

 

"Now, why don't I tell you where this grievance began. Some time ago I had moved to take remaining Venatori collaborators into custody, ones who had operated within positions of some authority." He squinted, looking beyond Vel, "These were people who intended to place our country in the hands of a Darkspawn. People who killed Imperial legionnaires across our southern border. Now, the execution of bag men, laborers, foot-soldiers, enslaved or otherwise, nobody cares. They're faceless, expendable..."

 

"But the men and women I captured, many of them were high-born lords and ladies. Magisters' children, or magisters themselves; born of storied pedigree and heirs to their great houses." His grip tightened, "They thought themselves above the law, above justice... that they could play it off as one big lark. I took them, against the wishes of the magisterium by which they would no doubt be coddled, because the price of treason knows no class or status of birth."

 

Severus relinquished his grip, briskly standing upward, "But I was waylaid. A new movement came about, pressuring the Archon to back away from the adjudication of these traitors. Put it to a vote, they said, reserve the sentencing to the fair hand and good sense of the Magisterium. The architect of this scheme? None other than the esteemed Magister Caius of House Vaellanius. At first, I wondered if he could be a conspirator as well, trying to save his allies. Yet the true reason was... so much more mundane, something all too familiar here in Tevinter."

 

Severus leaned down, hands on his knees, "You know what he told me, later? That he needed support from one of the traitors' father. For a 'small endeavor' of his." 

 

He extended a finger, reaching out to prod Vel's shoulder in mockery, "And there it is. The old song and dance; the constant jostling for power. Who am I to inconvenience them in their little game?"

 

(courtesy of a forum member The Baconer)

 

Spoiler

*Vel reached up to rub his neck as best as he could looking uncomfortable, the chains restricted his reach. "I never said I was righteous. Do pawns on the board really have that luxury?".

 

He leaned forward gazing at the Imperator his eyes gleaming, "are you righteous my lord? From the slums you are no different than the Magisters in the Magisterium. Sure there are a lot of grand talk about the glory of the Imperium, about reforms and taking care of your fellow man. You can catch more or less that same inspiring speech each day in the sermon in the Chantry´s grand cathedral. But does anything actually change? People in power swap seats and everything keeps rolling down the same path as before. Poor people die of hunger, sickness and random violence. You get shanked in the alley for a few copper and the corrupt guards do nothing about it despite all this posturing".

 

He leaned back against the wall, "I´ve learned a long time ago that there is a illusion some like to talk about, and then there is the real world. And in the real world no one looks after you but yourself".

 

A amused expression appeared on his face, "besides, has anyone ever told you my lord that you and Magister Vaellanius are much alike? You both seem to have vision of future and what it should be, and damned of anyone else getting in the way of that. You seem to play the game as much as anyone else".*

 

Spoiler

Severus' mouth opened immediately, only to freeze slightly agape. He finally sighed, abandoning his initial response,  "I suppose I shouldn't be surprised. We both spent time... years, in Seheron. We've seen firsthand what Tevinter faces. What all of Thedas faces. It changes you. But... I'm afraid it may have warped Caius' mind for the worse. He loses sight of what he should be, what our country needs to do."

 

He lowered himself back down onto the stool, "You wish to speak of the real world. Well, off the coast of Par Vollen, at this very moment, the Qunari are amassing a fleet of dreadnoughts in numbers we haven't seen since the first invasion. That is world I am concerned with. Now, those gems you had believed were on that ship... they are weapons. Or, rather, parts of them. Meant to be placed overlooking the ports of each city that lay before the Nocen. In fact, I was just recently notified that the first device is now being constructed as we speak in Minrathous. After the gem was delivered via convoy, of course."

 

He tilted his head to the side, "That is what you were sent to steal. But why? Bruised ego? An unyielding desire to have the last word? Tell me, young Brassius, what is so important, as to deprive the Imperium this new defense against the encroaching invaders?"

 

(courtesy of a forum member The Baconer)

 

Spoiler

*Vel raised his eyebrows, "I wasn´t aware of such. But I believe that bo.. lord Vaellanius is aware of the coming attack. Now, I don´t claim to know his thoughts but I would guess he wants to beat you to it. I would not be surprised if there are already his own defensive weapons being built. You did step on his toes with the Venatori issue, he is the kind of guy to hold a grudge. I would not cross him".

 

He adjusted his position on the stone floor, "the bo.. lord Vaellanius hates the oxmen with passion. It is rather funny considering his..". Vel closed his mouth and cleared his throat, "never mind that. But anyway, I would guess he prepares everything for the moment he needs to step forward. I think he wants to be the hero. Why, I have no idea. Maybe he has a long-term plan. Me, I just want to stay alive".

 

Vel gazed at Severus intrigued, "my lord, you do know he has been moving troops out of his province? I am sure that has not gone unnoticed". He smiled amused, "and to my complete surprise he also started to give out free food to the refugees and poor people in his own name. Maybe he want´s to recruit them.*

 

Spoiler

"Ego, then. It's not about doing what's right, but making sure everyone knows his name. One grand icon build atop the bones of his countrymen, as we have seen. That very well could have been your fate, you know, all for a grand spat over nothing. Of course, you would have served your purpose in his courtly game... nothing more than the cost of doing business."

 

Severus paused for a moment, rubbing his forefinger against his thumb, "But, instead, you'll have the chance to be more than that. I would also like you to give Caius a message for me: from henceforth, he will stay out of Ordo Silentia's affairs... far, far away. No more spies, no more conniving. This isn't the first time I've given him terms, as you know. I went to him with the intent to start anew, to discard this pointless hostility... to come clean in his corruption of my agents with blood magic. Well, he lied to my face, and here we are."

 

He leaned closer, scooting the stool forward. "It was more than he deserved at the time, and more than he deserves now. I have more than enough to present to the Archon and the Magisterium, and bury House Vaellanius forever. But it would be a bloody end, costing us men and women we will need in the war that is coming. Convince me not to. If your as concerned with the 'real world' and the common folk as you want me to believe, I expect you'll take this enlightening conversation we've had into consideration."

 

Severus stopped, listening. Footsteps beyond the door. He stood up once more, clearing his throat. "You know what's at risk. I hope you will urge your employer to rearrange his priorities, and quickly."

 

(courtesy of a forum member The Baconer)

 

Spoiler

*"So you are letting me go, in one piece?" Vel asked surprised, "not to look a gift horse in the mouth mind you".

 

Vel rotated his chafing wrist chains, "to be honest my lord, I might disappoint you though. Magister Vaellanius is not the kind of man to take my word for it. Besides, I am pretty sure my involvement in this has been somehow refuted. I am sure there is a parchment where you can find my signature of my resignation from service few weeks ago with several liable witnesses testifying for it". He smiled shortly.

 

"I also believe he has equal amount of evidence about your involvement in something sinister. Imperator is not hereditary title isn´t it? Magister Vaellanius is very good at collecting information, true or not. And he has been mustering a lot of extra support lately. Just saying, but I am sure you already know this" Vel nodded.

 

"My biased advice would be a soft approach, a friendly gesture without strings attached. He is not used of such".

 

He sighted, "Magister Vaellanius is not some Venatori conspirator my lord. The man has his own army, even now there are legions he has brought from his province outside Minrathous, and a lot of troops inside the city. Not to mention his large political support. Too many people in power are attached to him, he has been making deals left and right. Going against him would most likely cost you a civil war, you are not very popular man in the Senate these days. That much even I know. And in the worst case, you know what awaits there. Not that you would be afraid of such end, I´m sure". Vel looked at Imperator sincere. 

 

"This said with all due respect my lord. You seem like an honest man".*

 

Spoiler

"My previous offering of a truce was the friendly gesture, he has no one to blame but himself. Should he not heed the advice you will surely give him, then so be it. We have his blood magic, the bard, this scheme with the gems... Ah." He folded his arms behind his back, "And, of course, his clandestine marriage to a Qunari mistress. How curious that his wife by law would pass away, so soon afterward? Then a sudden spat with her father... The Magisterium does love hearing of such peculiar coincidences."

 

The door creaked open as Davion entered the room, moving to stand at attention. Severus glanced over at him, and then looked back to Vel. "Well, if nothing else, do it for his sake. You seem like the glib sort. I'm sure he'll find you very convincing, if you choose to be."

 

(courtesy of a forum member The Baconer)

 

Spoiler

*"Alright then" Vel flashed again his most charming smile, "that is what we will do then".

 

He leaned forward whispering like a conspirator, "that mistress thing, it is really a juicy gossip. Just be careful with it my lord, it is one of the things boss does not play around with. It seems to be a sore spot for him".

 

Vel tried to stretch himself, "if that was all then I am ready to leave. The boss will most likely grill me too for everything we talked about.". He smirked to Imperator, "In my opinion, you two should go out for a drink. It would a epic song worthy event. If the tavern would survive it".*

 

Spoiler

"I'm sure." Severus motioned at Davion, who pounded the door twice. The two armored men returned, with one grasping a bag in his hand. The Imperator turned back to Vel, holding out his hand, "Make your country proud."

 

A wave of torpor washed over Vel. His eyes, suddenly heavy, began to tear up as he fought to keep them open. His back slid against the wall as he slumped over onto the floor, face in the dirt. The soil was surprisingly damp and cool, generating a deep breath from Vel as he yielded his struggle and fell to slumber.

 

From the sounds of the city, Vel could tell he had been brought back to Minrathous, and the smell tipped him off long before that. The fabric of the bag, stained with sweat, irritated the skin of his face and stung his eyes. Dried blood caked his wrists, and the sharp pain of blisters lining the manacles. Eventually, it became quieter, and he suddenly found the ground beneath his feet moving upwards. The hill then, old Minrathous. The hands grasping his arms finally forced him to stop, then spun him around.

 

The curtain of fabric lifted, and the light bouncing off the stone walkways blinded him. Some distance behind him, someone uttered "What is the meaning of this?"

 

Vel's vision adjusted, and he found himself facing Davion. The elf peered into his eyes, and then nodded to one of the soldiers accompanying him. They spun him around again, to view the black iron gate of Vaellanius manor. Two men of the Order stood in front of him, and beyond, two house guards approached, hands grasping their sheathes at the ready.

 

"I say again, explain yourself!" one of them demanded. The second stopped in his tracks, staring in awe at Vel. Without saying a word, the soldiers parted. Vel felt a sudden tension about his wrists, and then release as the manacles were unlocked. A hard shove to his back sent him stumbling forward, and a guard jumped forward to catch him.

 

They watched as the soldiers, clothed in red and gold, silently made their way back down the hill. Davion, lingering for a few moments longer, finally turned to follow them.

 

(courtesy of a forum member The Baconer)

[Uccio]

Spoiler

*"...and that´s about it. Next thing I new they were dragging my sorry ass through the streets of Minrathous", Vel shrugged. He sat on the chair before Caius table in his study. Caius leaned on the arm rest, gazing at Vel contemplating. Silence lingered for a moment when Vel stopped talking. These two men stared at each other for a while. 

 

Caius broke the silence by standing up, "don´t move". He circled around his table and walked slowly behind Vel. "I really hope this does not hurt" Vel said squirming in his seat readying himself for what was to come.

 

Caius smiled shortly, his fingers started to weave a pattern in the air above Vel´s head. Small glistening sparkles appeared in the air to places where his fingers had been. A small sparkling net hovered above Vel`s head for a moment then started to go down. It disappeared the moment it touched Vel. Caius raised his hand above Vel closing his eyes, a slight glow appeared around his hand. 

 

"You are clean" Caius said putting down his hand, "no geas or spells on you". He turned around and walked to the silver tray by the side table pouring himself a glass of wine. "You can leave now, Livia will brief you soon". 

 

Vel sprang up from the seat smiling, "thank you boss, I need to find Publius. We have a lot of drinking to catch up".

 

Door slammed and Vel was gone. Young punk had no manners but he was a excellent rogue, a master with locks. Caius walked slowly to the window twirling wine in his cup. "So, our mighty Imperator thinks he knows my motives". A cold smile lingered on his lips for a moment, "good, in fact, excellent". 

 

A knock on the door interrupted his thoughts. "Come in" Caius turned around. Livia stepped inside, "I saw Vel storm through the manor, he is back from the dead I see". 

 

Caius walked to the table sitting down, "Imperator had him. Apparently I am a suspect now". Livia waved her hand, "bollocks, there isn´t a shred of evidence pointing at your direction. Only second hand speculations. Vel is not a witness . He resigned to become a mercenary. Your agents in the Ordo Silentia will combust if apprehended. What else is there? The power gems, nothing connects us to it. Only concrete left is the bard". 

 

"That is the tricky part actually. Now that my wife has passed away it looks unpleasantly suspicious. Especially when Nazlik is in the picture. Her current state would make it easy to believe such rumors", Caius took a sip of the wine. "It would most definitely cost me a lot of political support. And it could even bring forth a idea to question my allegiance. Which is something I do not need right now. The situation is volatile as it is already".

 

"So what will we do?".

 

"We keep placing evidence against the Imperator, but it has to be done with great care, it has to be plausible. Nothing too drastic, going full evil will only raise eyebrows. No, it has to look like he is hoarding power. Maybe wants to make a coup. And so that the liberal representatives of the Magisterium will need to get their hands on it. Something Maevaris Tilani might find. We´ll see if they keep supporting the Imperator". He took another sip of the wine, "slowly, one tiny step at a time. There is no need to rush. Besides that we will lay low, make it seem everything has stopped".

 

Caius placed his cup on the table, "in the mean time. I think it might be a good moment for me to pay a visit to our good Imperator. With a peace offering, something concrete. Collect me the information regarding enchanter Nerva. And send word to Gallus, I need him here".

 

"Done. Gallus is in the Valarian fields overseeing the training of the troops. It should take him a half day to get here", Livia nodded.

 

"Tell him to come see me when possible" Caius leaned back gazing the Seheron map on the wall, "step by step..."*

 

Spoiler

*kick* Caius felt that small kick against his ear. He turned to look at her belly and saw the little sole of foot sliding against her belly from the inside. "Our baby is so active" Nazlik whispered watching gently as Caius stared at her belly. Caius was amazed, he had not seen anything like this before since he and Mucia were never that close. When his daughters were born he had been fighting in Seheron every time. He reached out to touch that little foot. My boy is so strong, his chest swelled with pride, and strangely he felt his eyes tearing up. 

 

He turned to Nazlik climbing closer to her side in the bed. Leaning over that huge belly he gave her a soft kiss, "how are you feeling my love?". "Gassy" she smirked, "and everything aches. There is no good position to be in". "I will ask the healer to see what she can do" Caius said softly gliding his hand over her belly mound. 

 

Nazlik watched Caius silently. He was obviously mesmerized by this, she had no idea how much her pregnancy would affect him, but this was something new. "Caius" she whispered. "mm-hm" he said in his thoughts still touching her belly. "Caius, look at me" she continued gently taking his chin turning him to look at her. 

"I know you are doing something" she continued.

"What, what I am doing?" Caius responded surprised. "I know that look, that fire in your eyes" she whispered, "what ever you are doing. please stop it". Now she had his full attention, "please explain".

 

"I know you, and I know you are doing something. Something dangerous. For our sake, for our child´s sake. Please, don´t" she gazed into his eyes. Caius blinked, "I would never jeopardize you or our child, you know that".

Nazlik sighted, "I know, and I hope you remember that too. Sometimes you are so entangled in something I can´t even reach you. Like now. Please, stop it". She pulled him closer for a kiss. "I love you, I hope you remember what is important".

 

Caius walked down the corridor in his thoughts. Her words echoed in his mind. He could never get over it how observant she was, her ability read him was surprising. He stopped by the window to watch the children of the slaves playing in the yard. Little elven girl and a boy had a stick sword fight, the boy was winning. Caius stroked his goatee in his thoughts then sighted. 

 

Livia sat in her office reading reports. The afternoon sun was peaking through the window playing on her desk. There was a sudden knock on the door, then without waiting for a answer the door opened and Caius stepped in, "I think we need to postpone our move against the Imperator. At least until my child has been born".

 

"Are you sure?" Livia asked surprised of this sudden change, "I was just about to set the wheels in motion". "I am" Caius said with certainty, "I will inform you when the time comes".

"Al right" Livia shrugged. Caius stood there for a moment in his thoughts, then nodded, mostly to himself and left. He can sometimes be such a strange person, Livia thought.*

 

Spoiler

*Following the first rays of the morning sun Caius´ army commander Gallus Nepos rode through the second gate into the inner yard with ten fully armored riders tailing him. 

 

Gallus dismounted before the stables and left the horse in the hands of the stable boy. He removed his helmet gesturing his men to get off their horses, "wait here in the guards barracks". His steel blue eyes gazed at the battlements, walls and guards evaluating the place with a sharp military eye. Despite his gray hair and furrows on his face he moved lightly in his heavy battle armor. His armor had collected a layer of dust from the long ride, still the old veteran showed no signs of fatigue. 

 

Gallus pulled his gloves off dusting them while walking through the main door of the manor nodding at the guards. Inside he adjusted his sword belt and headed towards Caius study. This old veteran of the qunari wars had served as a Centurion in Seheron most of his life. 

 

He had achieved the title of Primas Pilus as a fearless and excellent military leader out maneuvering higher ranking officers, but his outspoken attitude and  mundane soporati background had prevented any promotions. Caius was impressed by his talent and the two men became friends. Gallus was one of the few people who could actually call Caius a friend.

 

"My friend, good to see you" Caius greeted him with a extended arm and warm smile shaking his hand. "And you as well. I received your message" Gallus said sitting down on the chair Caius pointed him to. "Care to have some wine?" Caius asked pouring wine to a cup. "Yes please, it was a dusty ride" Gallus took the offered cup taking a sip. "Mmm.. why is it that you have the best wine in the Imperium?" he asked looking into the cup. "I have wast wine fields, some is bound to produce good wine" Caius smirked.

 

Gallus gave a laugh. "To be honest, I have been away few months and already I see too much slacking. Guards need to shape up" Gallus said earnest, "I am going to kick some butt here soon. Too relaxed people".

 

"I´m sure" Caius nodded, "How is the training with the troops going?".

 

"The veterans I hired from Seheron have given your peasants soldiers a good spanking. Most of the Optio´s and Centurion´s are now veterans, enough to keep the army at least semi-professional".

 

"What about my praetorians?"

 

"Your new personal guard consists now only of veterans hand picked myself. I know them all" Gallus said with a hint of pride. "Good" Caius smiled gratified, "when will they be here?".

 

"They are marching here double time and should be within the city limits in a few moments", Gallus gazed out of the window, "they should be here by the afternoon".

 

"excellent, their new armors and weapons will be waiting for them in the barracks", Caius said, "who did you pic as a Optio for them?"

 

"Sestius Sulla, a laetan. He was a battle mage in Seheron. He is a vicious killer. Earned a nickname butcher there. Good soldier though. You will know him by the huge scar crossing his face sideways, his mouth was split by a qunari once" Gallus said, and just for a tiny moment he seemed to fall into old memories.

 

"I trust your judgement. However, I want you to accompany me this evening. You will be my guard commander for tonight" Caius said leaning back.

 

Gallus nodded, "that gives me time to prepare. If you don´t mind, I would like to go and shake up the barracks a bit now". Gallus drank his cup empty and stood up. "By all means, I will see you later" Caius smiled, "it is good to have you back".*

[Serelir]

I love reading about Caius in action. I feel like the war table in DAI could have been more about deploying units and armies rather than guessing which advisor was the best for a minor job. Wouldn't it be interesting to play a game set in Tevinter and feel like the survival of Minrathous actually depended on your choices?

[Uccio]

Exactly, there was a certain element lacking and it was just that. Kind of took the wind out of DAI. Hopefully we get that in DA4, and Tevinter. 

[Serelir]

Catastrophic failure should be an option. People might whine, though.

[Uccio]

Fourteenth chapter: happenings

 

 

disclaimer: Enchanter Nerva, the Imperator Severus and members of Ordo Silentia are being written by a forum member The Baconer.

 

Spoiler

Did you get the deafness last evening as well, sir?"

 

"Yes." Severus ran his hand over the Antivan fabric, feeling it beneath his finger tips. Rialto Blue, they called it. It was a darker shade. Stern. Regal. It had caught his eye over the rolls of green and gold beside it. He looked up from the counter at the stall keeper, who smiled awkwardly, awaiting more of a response.

 

"Well, I haven't met someone who hadn't yet, so... stupid question, I suppose." He glanced down at Severus' hand grasping, holding the fabric, "Ah, yes. That color is quite the fashion back home. Would you like t-"

 

"Perhaps. Will you be here tomorrow?" Severus put on his leather glove.

 

"I... Yes, yes I will."

 

"Good. Have a pleasant day." He gave a nod, then turned on his heels to face the docks. It was the same here, everyone gossiping about the shroud of silence. How far had it gone inland, he wondered. He strode to the edge of the walkway overlooking the docks. It felt strange, moving about. Save for his breastplate and greaves, he was lightly armored, adorned in a burgundy cloak split down the front and back. Did it feel nicer? He wasn't sure. He felt less... grounded.

 

Severus turned away from his view of the sea to look about the crowd. He was expecting someone.

 

(courtesy of a forum member The Baconer)

 

Spoiler

*The clatter of the hoofs echoed between the ancient buildings along with the metallic sound of rhythmic steps as the thirty heavy armored soldiers walked behind the three riders in a disciplined formation.

The cloth under their armors had the red and gold color of the Imperium but the armors themselves had the dark colors of Vaellanius family and crest carved in their chests and shields. Layers of wards and runes dotted the surfaces of the high quality armors and weapons. Mage-killers.
Vaellanius banner flew in the hot air. Bystanders gave way and stopped to watch how the convoy moved pass them in a steady pace. Another Magister on the move.

"So, Sestius" Caius turned to the man riding his left side, "how did you end up with a such nickname?". Sestius shrugged like he would not understand it either, "I follow orders my lord".
"Yes, Sestius does exactly that" Gallus said from Caius right side. "If a area in Seheron required a 'pacification', you would send in Sestius and his men".

"I follow orders" Sestius said again like no other explanation would be needed. The huge scar splitting his face made him look like he was constantly amused but a look into his eyes would clear the onlooker of any such thoughts.

"The Fog Warriors put even a bounty on his head" Gallus said with a wry smile, "no one claimed it thought". "They tried" Sestius said again with that indifferent voice.

A cold smile appeared on Caius face. "Over there, my lord" Gallus said pointing the docks coming closer, their destination was at hand.*

 

Spoiler

The sounds of marching. Severus scoffed inwardly, then walked out into the center of the road awaiting the procession.

 

(courtesy of a forum member The Baconer)

 

Spoiler

*Caius and the two men pulled their reins stopping their horses. Gallus raised his hand and the unit stopped in two steps remaining in formation.

"Imperator, what an unexpected but nice surprise" Caius said with a warm smile, "I was just on my way to see you".*

 

Spoiler

"And here I am." He approached Caius' horse, running a hand along its muzzle. "Good to see you, Gallus. And you..." He walked about to stand before Sestius atop his mount.

"I know you... Sulla, yes? The butcher. Looks like we've each been given... permanent decorations from Seheron. You wear it well."

 

(courtesy of a forum member The Baconer)

 

Spoiler

*"Good to see you my lord, it´s been a long time" Gallus nodded. "We saw last during the battle in the fields outside Akhaaz fortress I recall, it was a bit tight moment".

 

Sulla gazed the Imperator indifferent then shrugged, "Indeed my lord. I wasn´t pretty before and it could have been worse. I will take it". 

 

Caius leaned forward in his saddle, "is it possible for us to talk in private?". He waved his hand at the harbor, "will you take a walk with me?".*

 

Spoiler

"Of course." Severus gave a nod toward Sestius and Gallus, then backed away from the horses, turning once again to view the Nocen.

 

(courtesy of a forum member The Baconer)

 

Spoiler

*Caius dismounted handing his reigns to Gallus. He then straightened his robes and took his staff turning to walk with the Imperator.

 

"It has been a while since I was here" Caius said overlooking the harbor area as they walked side by side. After a moment of silence he cleared his throat, "I thought it might be good to come to see you personally". He glanced around to make sure the dock workers doing their chores around them were not too close. 

 

"I must say, I was completely surprised when got your message. That poor boy Vel had seriously gone astray. He left my service few weeks ago, speaking high of his new friends. And then suddenly he reappeared on my doorstep escorted by your men".

 

Caius gazed at the docked ships, "it seems there has been some major misunderstandings between us. I want to clear them out".*

 

Spoiler

"Strange company indeed. And that Publius," Severus looked over. His nose was hooked, and had been rendered crooked at some point in his life. His eyes were stoic, predatory, culminating in features that could only be described as lupine. "I didn't get to speak with him personally, but I imagine we scared him straight."

 

He turned the rest of his body to face Caius, "If you wish to clear a misunderstanding between us, perhaps we should dispose of all pretense."

 

(courtesy of a forum member The Baconer)

 

Spoiler

*Caius turned to Severus. For a moment he gazed into his eyes contemplating. "honesty then. That works too. Let´s start with a warning. Your friend Enchanter Nerva. He is in Minrathous". He started to walk forward slowly, "your subordinate is responsible for the death of Magister Allectus and his household".

 

He stopped for a moment to give way to a large cart rolling by. "For some reason he thought I was behind the night raid against Allectus. He came to see me remote controlling a body of my employee".

Caius gazed at a group of sailors strolling towards one of the ships, "yes, blood magic. He threatened my family, extorting me to help him. I have a drop point which is my contact point with him. If you put it under surveillance it might be possible to locate him. It is all here". Caius turned to Severus handing him rolled up pile of parchments. 

 

"He has several agents under his control as thralls. His remote controlling ability It is not limited, he can guide more than one person at a time. And what is important is that when he takes someone as a thrall he gains complete control over their memories. You understand what that means? He has most likely infiltrated your little band of merry men".*

 

Spoiler

Severus took the parchments, staring at Caius as he unbound them, "Nerva is a civilian, contracted to find us new magical applications to be used against the Qunari. He was paid, and then cut loose." He looked over the pages for a moment, before rolling them back up, "How long has it been since he first contacted you? What have you provided him with?"

 

[...]

 

"Well, I think today's the last day anyone bet on. Looks like nobody's getting those two gold bits."

 

"Yeah? Who made that bet?"

 

"Pavo." Orthus tapped on the bars of the cell. The test subject, the captured Antivan Crow, continued staring at the wall, as always. He was emaciated, skeletal, even as a clay dish of stale bread sat beside him, untended.

 

The other guard leaned closer to the bars, "What if he is dead? 'An he just... stayed like that?"

 

"Nah. I've gone in there before to replace the food. Sometimes, he blinks. You can see it."

 

"He blinks... but he doesn't eat or drink or **** or ******." He began to whisper, "Someone ought to just kill him. These mages, fooling around with powers that shouldn't be trifled with. Like that... that thing that happened last night, it was probably them what did it. Mark my words, they'll bring about the end of all of us."

 

"But you got no qualm in taking their coin." Orthus smirked, playfully slugging his companion in the gut before he could respond. "Go on then, you're off for today."

 

The other guard removed his helmet, and walked passed Orthus toward the dungeon's entrance "I will admit though, he is a great listener."

 

"Heh, I'll be-" Orthus had looked back toward the cell, to find the Crow now facing them, watching. He drew his blade, jumping back from the cell, "Maker!"

 

The Crow began to convulse, retching and heaving. He slumped forward, vomiting on the floor. Red liquid ran down the cracks between the stones, creeping beneath the bars.

 

"Get Livia, now!"

 

(courtesy of a forum member The Baconer)

 

Spoiler

*"Not long, few weeks" Caius said stroking his goatee, "give or take. He requested runes, fourteen of them, of different elements". He stopped for a moment, a ring in his right hand started to warm up. Livia.

 

"Since then I have not heard of him. But, each rune has specific resonance in their energy, result of their creation. Nothing new in that. But it is something that can be tracked if known". Caius took a small bag from his pocket, "here is a shard manufactured at the same time as one of the ice runes". He handed it to Severus, "you might be able to locate him, or at least the rune he used". Caius stared at Severus, "just make sure you either kill him outright or disable him in one move. Do not give him time to react. He is dangerous".

 

--

 

Livia ran through the cell block with two apprentices at her heels. "lockdown!", her voice activated dormant wards and glyphs in the cell. Energy hummed closing the cell in a multi layered cocoon. "Fire!" her voice activated the wards and glyphs in the passageway, igniting a blue flamed inferno burning everything clean. The apprentices cast force fields to contain any air born component from leaving the area.

 

"I need you here" Livia thought touching her ring.*

 

Spoiler

"You should have told me about this sooner..." Severus took a sharp breath, then exhaled, "but thank you. Finding Nerva, and ending him, is now priority."

 

He nodded toward the sea before them, "As you know, the Magesterium will convene on the morrow, to discuss the phenomenon that occurred last night. According to one of my agents, and several witnesses, it followed in the wake of strange lights, out on the Nocen. Do you think he was behind it, or was somehow involved? And why? Did he say what he's planning?"

 

--

 

A strange tingling graced the back of Livia's head, like icy fingertips. She wheeled about, finding a hunched figure. A sickly, twisting knot of flesh unnaturally folded and merged. Its head swung about, aimlessly, as if drunkenly analyzing its surroundings. One ear protruded, long and thin; elven. The depressions aside the nose, where its eyes should have been, were morphed and discolored, as if covered by melted skin.

 

Its jaw, offset and baring teeth, twitched unnaturally, "Where is Caius?"

 

(courtesy of a forum member The Baconer)

 

Spoiler

*"I thought you had something to do with it" Caius smiled shortly. "I felt the energy shift before the silence came. What ever it was, it was powerful. I do not know if Nerva was behind this. I thought he was mostly concentrated on the blood magic controlling and it´s combat applications". 

 He stood there contemplating for a moment, "I personally followed him to a hovel in the slums. He had drained some of the inhabitants of blood. To create something, something powered with blood. But I thought it would be for more mundane purposes, to extend the mind control effect. Now I am not so sure..".

 

The heat increased in the ring.

"I have to leave now, there are urgent matters to take care off. But before I go I will give you this". Caius handed Severus yet another parchment. "it is a report from Par Vollen. I sent a fast Brireme designed for scouting. They did some ground reconnaissance even. It seems our new Arishok is truly preparing for a ground offensive. I know you already have your own reports but this might give you some new intel, at least cross check with yours to see if it holds anything new". 

 

Caius nodded turning around, "we will talk another moment. Just remember, kill Nerva, do not give him time to talk or cast". He hurried towards his men, "Gallus, my horse! Hurry!".

 

----

 

"Caius is on his way. Enchanter Nerva I presume?" Livia said eyeing into the cell through the bars and force fields. "By the void, it morphs?". The other apprentice gasped to his companion, "is it a demon?".*

 

Spoiler

"I require someone of import, not--I remember, you. Livia, his second." The figure appeared before Livia, its horrific visage filling the entirety of her vision.

 

"Wha-where'd it go? Can you see it?" The apprentices' voices seemed distant.

 

"Where is Caius?" It asked again. Livia's head felt hot, dizzied.

 

(courtesy of a forum member The Baconer)

 

Spoiler

*"Get out of my head!" Livia shouted closing her eyes. A blast of negative energy pulsated of her.

 

Suddenly a surge of massive energy flashed thought the corridor smashing it´s way through the cell bars striking the crow. The former crow flew across the cell smashing against the back wall. Energy nailed it in the wall hands and legs spread apart covering the body with a multi layered glowing shield blocking any energy movement.

 

"You heard the lady" Caius said walking towards the cell power roaring around him. "Have you lost your manners in your studies Nerva?". Energy around him crushed the cell door as he walked inside without slowing down, "What ever that was it is now cancelled".*

 

Spoiler

For a time, the chamber was silent, save for decaying echoes of torrential magic. Muffled voices could be heard above, aroused by the sudden commotion from within the dungeon.

 

"No, Caius." The figure re-appeared, sitting between the two apprentices who were oblivious to its presence. "The work we began... there is no canceling it now."

 

(courtesy of a forum member The Baconer)

 

Spoiler

*Caius wheeled around glaring at this new apparition. His mind raced for a few seconds processing what had transpired. "What happened here?" he directed his question to Livia without looking away from the figure.

 

"The crow started to move, then vomited blood all over the floor. That is why activated all the glyphs and wards to contain anything from spreading out", she whispered to Caius peeking before him not sure to what he was looking at, and not sure what she herself had seen since the crow was still contained against the back wall. Both of the apprentices turned to stare at the spot between them unsure how to react to their masters stare.

 

Caius turned to gaze at the blood on the floor of the cell, then at the body in the wall and then back at the apparition. The power around him vibrated for a moment, then disappeared. "You can leave now", Caius waved at the apprentices. The two young men left relieved, leering over their shoulders.

 

A scarce dry smile dwelt on Caius lips for a moment, "ingenious my good Nerva. You have progressed I see. Projection, through the blood on the floor is it? I´ve sealed the body but still you can do this. Truly, you have not been slacking". He bowed slightly.

 

"What can I do for you? You could simply just have come to my door my friend. There is no need for this, unless you were just out to impress me. In which you succeeded I must say".*

 

Spoiler

Nerva tilted his head upward. His jaw tensed as he swallowed hard, struggling to speak. "I need blood. From where, it matters not." His image began to melt away in a red haze, but finally reformed.

 

"I was... so close, but the fissure destabilized.  The shock wave severed the links to my appendages... distorted my body into the form you see before you. I need blood."

 

(courtesy of a forum member The Baconer)

 

Spoiler

*"You do not look well my friend. Where are you? Maybe I can help you. Let me know what to do. In what form you need the blood, slaves?" Caius leaned forward fascinated of his look. "Can you tell me what happened? I think I have witnessed your test, if that was you behind the wave of silence last night".*

 

Spoiler

"Silence? Interesting. The powers at work are unstable, infinitely primal. I would have become... intrinsic. Formless, yet fundamental. The work must continue."

 

(courtesy of a forum member The Baconer)

 

Spoiler

*"Are you capable of doing anything now, or have you been injured?", Caius pondered over this new information. "And what was that talk about appendages, have you been deformed in some way or are you actually talking about ascension?".

 

Livia stared at him bewildered, ascension, Nerva? Maker help us!

 

Caius sighted with a shrug, "I really can´t help you unless you provide me with something substantial to work with".*

 

Spoiler

The fleshy mass paused, tilting its head back and forth, "My appendages - or... thralls, as you might call them, were released by the power of the shockwave. I was too hasty, so much was lost... and, yet, we have learned so much! I must have blood, to reshape my body, to continue the work. I need you to send a ship. Pack it with slaves, humans, elves, doesn't matter. Send it to..."

 

Nerva sat upward, his twisted hands clawing at nothing. His body shook, erupting in a torrent of giggling that echoed in Caius' head, bouncing between his ears like hot needles. "Fortune smiles upon us, my friend. Salvation delivers itself to me."

 

Nerva's image flickered, then broke apart into red mist, and the magical charge that permeated the dungeon faded away.

 

(courtesy of a forum member The Baconer)

 

Spoiler

*Caius stood there, looking at the place where the disappeared projection had been. "What happened, is he gone?" Livia whispered peering around.

 

"I believe he is, the projection disappeared" Caius said calmly. "Purge the cell with fire, then neutralize the space with glyphs". He turned around walking away in his thoughts. Livia sighted, what a mess.*

[Uccio]

Spoiler

*Caius paced around the hallway in anguish like a caged beast. For a brief moment he stopped gazing at the door hearing voices inside, a cry of pain? She needs me! He reached for the handle in haste but then hesitated. He clenched his hand in a fist pulling it back. She had been moaning the whole time, this was no different. He shook his head, what can I do? What can i do? This was so confusing for him, she was giving birth for their child and there was nothing he could do, he felt so helpless.

 

Time had come in the midnight, she had woken him up when her water broke. Caius had stormed around the chamber feeling like a headless chicken but Nazlik had calmed him down, despite the pain she herself was feeling. Few moments later the old midwife had appeared along with a young healer mage escorted by Livia. Caius had anticipated what would happen and had requested their presence in the tower. Now it had been hours and still the baby took it´s time. Caius had no real experience of this, he had never witnessed a birth despite his three daughters, for he had been fighting in Seheron each time they were born.

 

Then suddenly a silence. Caius stopped in his tracks listening carefully. Power flared up around him twirling and pulsating. Something is wrong, Nazlik! He rushed towards the door when suddenly it opened. Livia stood there smiling, "you can come in now".

 

The power disappeared in a flash. Caius cleared his throat and straightened his robes walking in the room ignoring Livia´s smirk, she had noticed the look on his face. There, in the center of the gigantic elaborated bed lie Nazlik, her hair and face were sweaty, along with her nightgown. She looked tired but happy, smiling at him. There was a small bundle in her arms.

 

Caius approached the bed almost sneaking, holding his breath as if any sound would destroy the moment. He sat next to her, there was faint noise from the bundle. Nazlik smiled at him whispering, "kadan, here is your imekari. You have a son". She reached out and placed the little bundle in his arms.
Caius stared at the baby stunned. A wave of sheer joy and happiness washed over him. He blinked and swallowed several times to keep back tears and that lump in his throat.

 

He could not take his eyes of the baby, the little boy was a human child. Except he had silver eyes and white hair. "He is beautiful" Caius whispered. He turned to Nazlik leaning to her for a kiss. "How are you feeling my love?". "I´m feeling fine, just a little tired" she smiled softly and yawned. "I will be right back" Caius stood up. "That boy is one handsome little man" the old midwife said smiling from the side, "he is going to be such a heart breaker with those eyes".

 

Caius walked slowly to the tower´s balcony holding the baby gently in his arms. He stood there watching the first rays of the morning sun appear over the horizon. "This, all this will be my legacy to you" Caius whispered showing Minrathous to the baby. "I will make sure of it, I swear I will pave the way for your ascension to the throne". He gazed at the city then at the boy, "this will be your Imperium".*

 

Spoiler

*Nothing disturbed the silence in the dark room except the steady breathing sounding from the elaborate bed. Still, there was movement in the dark. The silent rustle of the curtains awoke the Magister Manius from his sleep. It took a few moments from the old man to realize that there was someone in the room with him. A silent dark character stood next to his bed. Manius winced awake when he noticed the intruder. "What is the meaning of this, who are you?" he asked even though the old Magister knew the answer in his heart.

 

"Did you think I could not find out that you were behind the attempt on my life?" the character whispered silently. "Guards!" Manius tried to yell but his voice was strangely muffled and could not rise above whisper. He tried to reach for his magic and stand up from the bed only to notice being paralyzed. Manius collected his self-esteem and gazed at the character defiantly, "So Caius, you finally found enough balls to rise against me and came to murder me in my bed. A old man. Really brave boy".

 

"On the contrary, I am not here to murder you" the character whispered, "I just came to see my master to become a horrible demonic abomination, like a faithful servant does".
Manius stared at the character unbelieving, "Caius?". The dark character by his bed slowly pulled his hood off. It revealed his personal servant, a avvar slave.
"What, Amak?" Manius whispered bemused, this old slave had been his most trusted servant for decades. The last person who would betray him, or so he had thought.

 

Amak smiled, it was a cold smile. "I could have forgiven you the attempt on my life, which is quite the concession on my part actually. If it only would have included me. By involving my daughter in it you sealed your own fate".
"You don´t have a daughter, only a son", Manius spluttered baffled. Amak just smiled that cold smile of his. It was strangely familiar. Amak put his hand inside his tunic and drew out a small blood red ruby. It looked like it was alive, something stirred inside it. Manius stared at the ruby as Amak placed it on his chest. "These are extremely rare. So rare that they don´t even have value, so count yourself truly important since I am willing to destroy one for you", he whispered.

 

"No" Manius whispered horrified when he felt the hunger of the essence inside the ruby. Amak gestured few complicated signs and started to cast. "When did you become a mage?" Manius said in wonderment when he felt the touch of the spell. "That is something for you to ponder, my friend" Amak grinned pulling a dagger from his belt.
"No, my sons are sleeping in the next rooms!" Manius cried realizing what was about to happen. He started to scream strangely silent when the demon bound in the ruby forced it´s way into Manius opened mind causing the ruby to crumble into red dust in the process. While the old man´s body started to shake and warp Amak finished his spells releasing the abomination from the binding spells. When the demon turned to look at Amak with a exultant look on it´s deformed face Amak cut his own throat.

 

In the summoning chamber of his tower Caius winced when his mind returned to his body. He gazed at his own hands reaching out twisting his fingers to feel his own body once again. He stood up shivering unintentionally. Controlling another man´s body and mind made him feel strangely dirty. Like he would have wore another man´s skin while he was alive and conscious. Caius walked slowly to the table and washed his hands in a silver bowl. For some reason he felt the urge to do that.

 

How in the void Nerva can keep doing that, and even with several people at once, he wondered. To control one person felt uncomfortable enough. The memories and feelings of the other person were really strong. Caius gazed at the Nerva´s notes brought by his remaining agent inside the Ordo Silentia. Despite the information he now possessed of this specific branch of blood magic it did not feel inspirational for some reason. I need to work on something else, he thought.*

 

Spoiler

*Hot summer sun scorched from the zenith of the clear sky. Caius walked slowly down the marble stairs of the Senate Nazlik in tow. Her armor glimmered in the sun dazzling anyone watching her too long. A stark contrast to Caius pitch black robes. His guards and elaborate carriage stood waiting by the dragon statues guarding the steps. "Your father-in-law, that was horrible", Nazlik whispered to Caius. "His whole family and household dead, that abomination killed everyone. Good thing your troops were stationed in the barracks next to his manor and were able to stop him in time". Nazlik shivered thinking about it.

"Indeed, despite all this pain and suffering there is a silver lining on this cloud", Caius said calmly. "As a closest living relative, through marriage, I will claim possession of the house Florus. Or what is left of it, and all it´s possessions. They will be merged in the house Vaellanius, and their seat in Magisterium". A cold smile lingered on his lips.
Nazlik hesitated for a moment, "do they tempt you, demons I mean?". This was something she had not thought of much. Caius was a mage and demons prayed on them. Even the thought of him becoming a abomination filled her with painful sorrow. She would lose the love of her life, father of her child and would have to even fight him. For the sake of their child she would have to kill him, or try to.

"Demons are no match for me" Caius said confidently. "Sometimes they do try, that is true. I hear whispers in my dreams but it is easy to dismiss them. And for willpower, none of them can stand up to me".
"Good", Nazlik sighted relieved. The emotional rush made her momentarily to forget where they were, and she reached for Caius gently touching him getting some glances from the people passing by. "Please my love, not here" Caius whispered without turning.

Back in the Vaellanius manor that afternoon.
Caius stood in the training room watching from the sidelines while Nazlik whirled gracefully around the room practicing. Strike, dodge, parry, she went through the training moves like a dancer. Nazlik bounced in the air landing by the obstacle and rolled fluently over it giving a dummy a roundhouse kick. The enchantments made her move incredible fast and her strong kick almost tore the dummy off from it´s fastening.

"You are still unstoppable my love" Caius smirked. Her movement was strangely enticing, even it was meant for combat. Nazlik came across the room making cartwheels, bounced high in the air and landed before Caius crouched one leg outstretched to the side one hand behind her back holding her sabre, gazing at him breathing heavily with her chest heaving. A lock of her long white hair covered partially her silver eyes as her braid had been partially opened by the fast moves. So enticing.

"Amatus" Caius whispered gently. He reached out and touched her sweaty cheek. Nazlik rose up without a word grabbing Caius giving him a passionate kiss. "I see you have not lost your fire" Caius whispered looking into her silvery eyes. She smiled softly at that, "never my love". A sudden knock on the door interrupted their moment. Nazlik turned around heading for the water bottle for a drink.

"Come in" Caius turned to the door. Cassia walked in by the guards. "Why do I need permission to see my father?" she asked annoyed. Cassia, the second daughter of Caius, was a tall brunette with a hint of red in her hair. She didn´t look much like either of her parents but had a resemblance of Caius' grandmother. Even the red in her hair was like in the old picture hanging on the wall. A spirit mage and a strong conservative.

"Well, the recent deaths in the family required me to protect myself even more", Caius said. "But it is good to see you Cass". "Don´t call me that father, I am not a little girl anymore", she said walking to him. "You will always be a little girl to me daughter" Caius smiled shortly. "Did you hear what happened to grandfather?" she asked disregarding his comment. "Mother´s side of the family is all but dead now".
"I know, and it was good to have you here now" Caius said calmly. "There is something I want to tell you. It is not official yet but I might as well tell you now".
"What is is father?" She gazed at him interested. "I have decided to give you the Magisterium seat of your grandfather". "What?" she asked shocked, "me? What about Zera?".

Caius took her arms in his, "Zera will inherit my seat in time. So she will have her seat. And as much as I love all of you my daughters I don´t look forward fighting her with every vote in the Senate. That is why I will leave that to you".
"Well she won´t be getting her seat in a long time then" Cassia said contemplating. "I accept father", a bright smile appeared on her face. Caius hugged her, "good. Don´t tell anyone yet. I will announce it in time". Cassia gave him a kiss on the cheek and ran out of the room thrilled, something that had not happened since she was a little girl.

Nazlik wrapped her arms around Caius from behind whispering in his ear, "I hope Zera will not get mad about this". "No" Caius said firmly, "I have told her long ago how this will go. She has no reason to be resentful". Nazlik bit his ear softly. "What about our son?".
Caius turned around smiling wrapping his arms around her waist, "for him I have something bigger planned. Much bigger".* 

[Uccio]

Spoiler

*Magical energy twirled in the ancient summoning chamber. Caius stood before the summoning circle, it was placed on a small platform above the chamber floor. The circle itself was huge, inside it there were four smaller binding circles surrounding one large positioned in the middle. The complex pattern of the summoning circles glowed with magical energy illuminating the dim chamber and Caius face. His apprentices stood in the shadows their arms extended adding their own energy into the flow chanting.

 

A black staff carved of dragon bone floated in the air, above the largest binding circle in the center of the large summoning circle.

 

The staff was black as night. two third of it was just a simple staff but in the end there were two dragons carved in the staff circling each other, ending face to face at the top. Between the dragons there was one blood red ruby with the blood like substance twirling wildly inside it. Both dragon heads held it in their mouths. 

 

Each other binding circle positioned around the one large had a rage demon in it. Dazed by the spells magical power surrounding them. There was a slight stream of magical energy flowing from the demons to the staff causing it to glow with dark light. Their life force was being merged with the staff.

 

A dazed slave was on his knees before the summoning circle, at Caius feet. Caius had a dragon shaped dagger in his hand, decorated completely with ancient runes. He started to cast drawing complicated patterns in the air with his hands leaving the air ripple with magical energy. He chanted in the ancient tevene words calling magical powers to his service. At the height of the chant Caius suddenly bent down cutting the throat of the slave with a swift move. Instead of gushing on the floor from the wound, the blood of the slave turned into a mist raising in the air while the body of the slave fell down to the ground. 

 

The misty blood twirled raising high in the air then turned into a vortex of red mist spiraling down to the floating staff. The magical chant of Caius had the air itself pulsate with power sending waves of energy across the chamber. Then something happened, a figure started to form from the red mist. It slowly took a shape of a strange horned woman with tail and hoofs. 

 

With a iron clad voice Caius continued chanting faster. His apprentices joined him adding their own voice in the spell. The desire demon felt the pull of the magical power and screamed of rage and pain. It grew suddenly into a massive monster roaring of rage, and this time with fear, causing the ancient chamber to shake bringing down dust from the ceiling. All in vain. The spell performed was perfect, and as Caius and his apprentices kept on casting the demon started to shake and twirl. The power roaring in the chamber pulled the demon down breaking its form. It turned again into a blood red mist spiraling into the blood red ruby embed into the black staff. 

 

For a while ripples of flashing power distorted the chamber, as the spell transformed the demon. The staff itself warped and pulsated in the air for a few moments. Then it was all over. Silence fell in the chamber, and the staff floated calmly in the air. All the life force and power of the demons had been embedded into the staff. The blood red ruby glowed softly in the darkness. 

 

Caius raised his hand and the staff flew into his pawn. It felt warm, and he could feel the presence of the desire demon in it. The staff seemed to emit a darkness on its own. A cold smile appeared on Caius lips.*

 

Spoiler

*The slum. Loud hoarse laughter echoed in the smoky air of the sleazy tavern cutting through the general gabble filling the air. Men and women of the lowest class of the Imperium filled the space drinking and feasting with the few coppers they could muster. Soporati, liberati and occasional slave took they meager living into this place to momentarily drown themselves in the stinky strangely colored swill people here called ale to forget their lives. Ladies and gentlemen of questionable reputation shuttled between the tables preying for poor saps ready to be parted from their coin, willing or unwilling.

Against one of it´s slanted walls Publius sat by a small table on a wobbly seat. He did his best to keep his face hidden under his hood, this was the least place he wanted to be seen. He balanced in the shaky seat and tried to avoid placing his hand on the strangely stained table. Publius didn´t want to think of what those stains were made of, since the odor raising from the table was nauseating enough.
A boisterous laughter escorted Vel approaching the table. Publius shook his head, Vel had stopped to tell someone one of his greasy jokes surely. The young rogue balanced with two pints finding a safe route through the tightly packed tables. Somehow he managed to pinch each tavern wench on the way while coming to Publius despite holding those two large pints. Just before he sat down a empty cup flew at him but Vel avoided it gracefully sitting on his seat. The barmaid shook her fist at him promising a retribution, Vel sent a kiss in response to the angry woman.

"She loves me" he smirked at Publius placing the other pint before him, "they all do". "Why are we here?" Publius hissed silently trying to keep his face in the shadows of his hood. "What do you mean, why we are here? To get royally drunk!" Vel bumped him in the ribs with his elbow with a wide smile. "I told you so". He leaned closer to Publius whispering like a conspirator, "that Lucia over there, the brunette elven wench, she has been eying you from the moment we came here. I think you are set for the night".

Publius shivered, "no.. just no". "Oh I´m sorry. Is your highness too high and mighty for the ladies here?" Vel leaned back imitating Caius terribly well with a pretentious resentful look on his face. "I never said I would sleep with some knife ear!" Publius snapped at him, "you really think it would improve my station if I would mess around sleeping with what ever around the city?".

"Oh right", Vel snapped his fingers amused, "you still hope boss will hitch you up with Miriel? Not going to happen brother, better enjoy your life while you still can". He leaned forward slapping Publius in the shoulder causing him to fumble around for support as his seat sifted creaking threateningly. Publius glared at Vel but remained silent, he took a careful sip of the pint.

"I´m sorry I didn´t stay looking for you", Publius said after a moment of silence. "No need to apologize" Vel waved his hand, "how could you have helped me? If you would have stayed we both would have ended up in a meeting with the Imperator". He took a long sip of his pint wiping his lips into his sleeve, "believe me, you wouldn´t want to do that". Vel burped with a indifferent look. Still, deep inside he was touched of his friends concern.

"I do not fear him" Publius said gloomily. "Of course not my fearless friend", Vel smirked, "still I´d rather not find a new mage friend to torment. It is such a drag".
Publius gave him another glare, "I am very powe..".

Vel interrupted him slamming his pint into the table causing Publius to grab his in haste before it fell off the table. "I just remembered! I saw Caradoc the other day, he still won´t duel me. Locks, love and song, my great challenge" he grinned.
"But, I was still able to fish some information from him. Apparently Caradoc was in the process of bringing this new promising mage talent from Orlais. Some elven lass. Magistra Aurelia has extended her reach to south for new talent it seems". Vel leaned back with a dreamy look on his face. "That woman..she is such a dream, mmm... the things I could do with her...".

Publius punched him in the shoulder cutting his daydreaming quickly, "you better keep your pants on with her, master would not look kindly your play with her". Vel rubbed his shoulder with a offended look, "Hey! Boss knows me, unlike some people it seems".
Publius rubbed his chin, one of the ways he imitated Caius gestures, "maybe this is something master should know. Magistra Aurelia rarely goes into such lengths just to bring someone in her service...".* 

 

Spoiler

*Publius stood before a large mirror contemplating his outfit, still not the combination he was looking for. This coming ball in the Rabirius manor was for apprentices and Publius wanted to look his best. His semi-long brown hair was combed all the way back and tiny goatee groomed precisely. Just like master, he thought pleased. He had chased the butler away from his chamber, the old man had the audacity to tell him how to dress! The gall! All he needed to know what his master was wearing, that was it.

 

Defeated the butler had left to see Gnaeus Angelus, a altus mage, the second apprentice chosen to represent house Vaellanius. Publius didn´t think of much of that young mage. Sure, he was a strong healer but that´s about it. The only reason he was chosen to join was because Magister Caius had taken him with in Deep Road expedition a while back. A weak personality, always whining about the treatment of his father in Magisterium. A tall bean pole looking boy who´s blond hairline was already receding. His presence in house Vaellanius was strictly political. One of the deals Magister Caius had made.

 

Suddenly he heard someone plucking a lute in the corridor, outside his chamber. A out of tune lute it seemed, from the horrible sounds coming closer. Publius sighted.

Vel stepped inside Publius´ chamber with a broad smile plucking his lute. The young man gave him a perfect court bow, "master Vel, at your service!".

"You know, there are bards in the ball. Real bards", Publius said with a dry voice watching Vel plug his lute leaning on the doorway. A elven slave girl walked by with a pile of linen. Vel flashed his charming smile winking at the girl. She glanzed at him speeding up her pace her cheeks blushing. While she turned at the corner she gave Vel a quick look before disappearing in the hallway. Vel sighted softly.

 

"One day you will get yourself killed over a pretty face" Publius shook his head. "A life well lived then" Vel sighted again looking after the elven girl. 

 

"Hmph" Publius snorted, "you should think of your future instead of chasing after every skirt". Vel took a few dance steps into the chamber plucking his lute, "I know I will end up face down in some alley someday with a knife on my back anyway, so why spend time worrying about the future?". 

He twirled gracefully sitting down in a chair raising his legs on Publius table. "I heard that the new elven lass will be at the party, I have composed a song for her to sweep her off her feet". 

"She will just run back to Orlais once she hears you play" Publis shook his head, "you have many talents my friend but playing lute is not one of them".

 

"Everyone is a critic" Vel shrugged plugging his lute. His eyes lighted up suddenly, "do you think she has that cute orlesian accent? I can´t wait to hear her speak".

 

Gnaeus stuck his head in from the door, "time to go Publius". Vel sprang up from the chair, "let´s go then!". "You are not invited" Publius grunted at him, "this is mage only party. We will represent house Vaellanius". 

"Merely a technicality" Vel smiled complacent. "You want to tell that to master?" Publius turned to him raising his eyebrows.

 

"Fine" Vel snorted. "But I will escort you guys there".

 

By the Rabirius family manor Vel stood between the wings of a roaring dragon statue looking at the yard over the wall. Publius and Gnaeus had entered the party leaving him outside. A gondola arrived in the yard, Magistra Aurelie came out with a petite elven girl at her heels. "Ooh!" Vel gasped mumbling to himself, "it is her, she is beautiful! I have to have that!".

 

A spear head poked him at the side, "get down from there" a rugged voice commanded. Vel gazed down, patrol of city guards stood there eying him up in the statue. "Do I need to ask you again?", the Optio leading the patrol grunted. "All right, all right, no need to get all huffed up" Vel said climbing down.*

[Uccio]

at this point the story will cross with Serelir´s  A Peculiar Institution: An Elf's Bondage in Minrathous starting from post #13, Elowyn becomes Caius apprentice.

 

Spoiler

*Caius whirled across the grand hall Nazlik in his arms while the music died down leaving last tunes echo in the hall. He bowed at her smoothly, then took her hand steering Nazlik off the dance floor. The black pearls in her white hair tingled with a barely audible magical tune following her walk. They walked to the side of the dance floor taking drinks from a servant close by. Caius kept walking towards the space reserved for house Vaellanius nodding shortly to the host of the evening, Magister Rabirius, as he passed him. As Caius sat on the seat reserved to him Nazlik stepped behind him silently gazing at the guests passing by. Even she was Caius escort in the party she acted as his bodyguards, two daggers were hidden inside her elaborate gown for emergency use.

 

Publius walked to Caius side leaning towards him whispering, "You see master, that red headed elven girl surrounded by all those apprentices is the new protege of Magistra Aurelie".  "Interesting", Caius said calmly, "where is she from?".

"She comes from Orlais, from Montpellier Circle master", Publius whispered, "she apparently has a talent for spirit magic". Caius stroked his goatee gazing at the elven girl in his thoughts, "I see. Maybe there is a specific reason for her being here... ".

 

"I will get right on it master" Publius said eagerly bowing to him and disappeared into the crowd. "Do you think he can find it out?" Nazlik whispered from the side of his seat.

 

"No" Caius said, "Publius is a strong force mage, and he seems to have a talent to necromancy but a spy he is not".

Caius took a sip of the wine, "I will leave it to Livia to find out what Magistra Aurelie is up to. We have not clashed yet as she understands to keep her distance to me. But if her plans affect mine at any level I need to know". He smiled shortly to Aurelie raising his cup to her as she gazed into their direction. Aurelie returned his greetings with a soft smile and a nod. She turned around and disappeared into the crowd.

 

"I wish I could touch you", Nazlik suddenly whispered with a fervent tone, "I want to feel your touch, your heat my love. This charade of ours, all this posturing, sometimes it tires me so much".

"I know love", Caius whispered smiling softly watching the crowd, "some day all this will be behind us, I promise".

 

Suddenly a familiar tune started to play, one of the bards hired to entertain the crowd had stopped right next to house Vaellanius booth blissfully unaware of who was sitting almost behind her. Nazlik listened to the notes resounding through the air, "power and slave" she whispered after a while.

 

The bard played through the first chorus singing. Then she started to feel that uncomfortable feeling of someone watching, intensively. She took a quick look behind her and saw Caius´ dark robed character looking at her. His cold stare completely knocked her off balance breaking her flow. She stumbled with notes, coughed and left quickly with an apology to her little circle of listeners whom had gathered around her.

 

Caius sighted, "after Mucia´s death and her house´s downfall that song has become even more popular". Nazlik smiled shortly gazing Caius softly, "still, how right that song is".*

 

Couple of scenarions where the new apprentice affects Caius more than he want´s to admit.

Spoiler

*Sparkling laughter filled the chamber, Caius smiled like the sun shining over Minrathous chasing Ashala. She avoided him jumping over his bed but got entangled on the bed sheets falling down. Caius grabbed her and they both fell down on a soft carpet rolling around on the floor. 

 

"Oh you got me my lord", she giggled playfully. "Never call me lord" Caius said partially serious, "I don´t want you to ever think that, not for a second". Caius rolled on his back pulling her on him. Her golden hair streamed down on his face as she kissed him. "One day I don´t have to" she whispered so close to his face.

 

"I will take you away, somewhere there is a place for us", Caius said looking into her crystal blue eyes. "We could try to find my tribe, or just build ourselves a home in the woods somewhere. I still remember what my mamae thought me" Ashala whispered gazing into his eyes. "I don´t care where we are, as long as I am with you" Caius said kissing her while he caressed her slowly.

 

Suddenly a distant bell rang somewhere in the manor. "Dirthara-ma, dinner! I completely forgot it!" Ashala jumped on her feet taking support from Caius chest. She pulled her her simple robe on on. 

"I have to go, there is still work to do" she smiled at him. "And I will prepare, we can leave in a few days. Just few more little things", Caius replied. He felt like time was running out, his father had become suspicious lately. Caius could feel it.

 

"Ar lath ma, ma vhenan" she whispered blowing a kiss at him while she slipped out of the door. "And I love you", Caius whispered after her.

 

 

Caius closed his eyes for a moment inhaling the hot breeze of summer wind. He stood up and walked to the stone railing. I know why these memories surface, he thought. My new apprentice is so much like her. She doesn´t look like her, Arine is almost a mirror image of her. But the way she presented herself, talks. Moves. So much like her, a bitter smile appeared shortly on his face then disappeared. He sighted, she had broken through his walls simply being present.

 

Caius heard a door open in the chamber behind him. He stood up and walked in, Nazlik rushed to him cheering "your messenger brought me a letter, my parents are coming!". She grabbed Caius and they fell on the bed entangled in a wild kiss.*

 

Spoiler

*Caius swam towards the surface. The cold water of the marble pool gave away as he surfaced gasping for air.

 

With few strong draws he swam to the stairs leading off the pool. Caius walked slowly out the water watching the sun shine through the round hole in the dome illuminating the interior, water dripping from his body. Statues and high columns dominated the space around the large pool.

 

He stopped by the bronze mirror watching the sun play on his naked and wet body sweeping his wet hair. 

Several scars dotted his figure, crossing up and down over the muscles. Caius could remember the moment for each one when he had acquired them. The one in his right thigh... a Fog Warrior. A young woman who thought that the power of rage was enough to win a Tevinter battle mage.

 

She had been wrong.

 

Long curvy scar trailing down from his left shoulder over the bicep. A Arvaarad had struck him with one of those spears. Caius had backed down while casting so the blade had trailed down his arm drawing a peculiar pattern.

 

He sighted. At least his face had remained untouched. Years had been kind to him. Thought Caius had kept himself trimmed, training each day, despite not being in the Imperial army anymore. Having a fit body reflected into a fit mind, that is what he believed in.

He had seen enough how the fellow Magisters of his age had let themselves crumble. Men who had been once like a walking sculptures looked like fat cows these days. Content with the daily exercise of just eating and drinking.

 

Caius closed his eyes stretching his arms and body. Then the dream he had seen last night returned to haunt him. He had been here, in this pool once again.

 

Ashala surfaced from under the water right next to Caius who was sitting on the side of the pool, his legs in the water. They had sneaked here for one of their own moments, away from the prying eyes and his father. She spew a mouth full of water on him laughing out loud. Caius splashed water on her grinning. "Come here my love, lean closer" Ashala whispered with a coy voice covering her breasts, "I have something to show you".

 

"Oh, is that so?", Caius smiled, "I have a feeling I´m being tricked here". "Oh you of little faith", Ashala sighted rolling her eyes, "a naked woman wants to show you something and that is your response". She pouted her lips, "just come closer for a little kiss then".

Caius leaned forward ready for a kiss, suddenly she grabbed him by his head pulling him into the water with a large splash. Caius swam into the surface escorted by her melodious laughter. "What do you call that?" he said grabbing her smiling.

 

"I call it a defeat", Ashala giggled at him. "Oh really?", Caius whispered softly pulling her close closing her giggle with a kiss. Ashala pushed Caius away, "and that I would call a desperation". She flashed her eyelashes at him with a fake coy smile.

He dove under the water pulling her with him. They became entangled under the water in a passionate kiss.

 

Caius opened his eyes while kissing her and saw Elowyn in his arms, her red hair floating like a cloud around them.

 

He rubbed his temples closing his eyes. I can´t do this now, I need her and I don´t want to let this mess with my mind.

 

"What have we here?".

 

Caius turned to look for the source of the enticing voice he knew so well. Nazlik walked in the room. Naked. Her eyes wondered up and down Caius naked body. "I see someone is feeling a bit frisky", she whispered with a sultry voice. Caius blinked and looked down. "I.. I was just swimming". 

 

"I bet you were" Nazlik purred walking to him with swaying hips. "I think you need more practice". She whispered in Caius ear biting it softly letting her arms wander on his body.*

[RoughTumble]

Looking foward to catching up on your fiction.  Do I need to read Serelir's for continuity with yours?

[Serelir]

Do I need to read Serelir's for continuity with yours?

No. The stories cross over, but each can be read separately.