From a comfortable reclining position a few meters away. Bruynzeel while puffing on a hand carved tobacco pipe. Says "I have a story. And more." Stands and walks to the fire. Clutching a ragged diary. He places it gently on a near-by log. Then returning to stare into the dancing tongues of the flames. "I will only tell you how it really started."
"Our story begins as many do in the Bannered Mare, twilight just settling in on Skyrim..."
In a far, and otherwise empty corner of the unusually empty Bannered Mare Inn sat a rather preoccupied looking young woman. The wood elf, already out of place, further detached herself from the drunken muttering of the tavern with her nose tucked away in a book. No one seemed to be paying her much attention except for the occasional awkward glance.
A young bard sat slumped by the fire, plucking a lazy tune on his lute as two older Nord men debated loudly nearby. Both of them had obviously had more than his fair share of mead, and were unabashed as they roared angrily about the ongoing hostilities. She found it best not to involve herself in discussions of politics, especially where large drunken men were concerned. The ongoing power struggle had never really been of particular interest to her, and it was probably best if she kept it that way.
Eventually she closed her book, as the tavern began to fill with more patrons and it got too difficult to concentrate. She took a long drink of ale from her mug, and gave the gathering crowd a distasteful look as she swallowed hard. Spending most of her free time near the company of brutish drunks wasn't exactly her idea of time well spent, but if there was one thing the typical drunks were good at, aside from beating each other half to death, it was blabbering about news and rumors. She could take all the history she wanted from books and scrolls, but the only way to keep up to date on current matters was to pick them out of drunken conversations from across a crowded tavern.
"I'm telling you, they've taken over down there." She heard two younger men talking in hurried whispers nearby. "...everyone's afraid to go in! Nasty little buggers, those Falmer." The younger boy shuddered as he took a sip of mead."What, are you afraid to go?" The other man teased, as his friend sloshed his tankard in humiliation. "N-no! Who knows what they've got down there, eh?" His head lolled in wonder. "They've got to be guarding something down there! What kinda coin do you think we'd get if we could haul all their grubby little heads into town? Hah!" His friend shook his head with a smile. "Rocks and rot, most likely, s'bout all they care for. An' prolley no coin at all! They're practically vermin, breeding in their rotten caves like a bunch of filthy Skeevers. Pah, but I'd wager even a Skeever's prettier to look at, aye?" They both laughed, and changed the conversation topic to women; she quickly lost interest. She wasn't sure just where the two had been talking about, but it had been ages since she'd had reason to go outside the city walls of Whiterun and frankly she'd been getting a bit restless. Perhaps she could ask around, surely someone around here might know a thing or two about the situation. The key would be not attracting too much attention...
Ysolda enters trailing along behind a White Khajiit, in markedly unusual white leather armor
"Well do you know any caravaners?"
"NO, Bruynzeel has no contact with them other than to lighten Bruyzneels load"
sigh
"please leave this one alone your ramblings on traders is annoying"
"Can I at least buy you a drink to make up for your time"
"This one does not drink, it makes our nose itch and dulls our senses. please just go." he lies
approaches same corner as Andante, taking up a chair across the table
with pleading eyes,looking forlornly at Ysolda who still follows, he states flatly
"This one has arrived, please leave us to our business"
to Andante with a smooth purr "How are you dear?"
Grasps Andante's hand sqeezing lightly palming a septim as he rolls eyes at Ysolda...
Andante's contemplation was broken as the door to the increasingly crowded tavern swung open again, only this time bearing entrance to a most intriguing looking Khajiit, more out of place than even she, followed closely by a young woman. The latter of whom seemed to be talking excitedly, to a less than interested former. It was an interesting change of pace from the common bedraggled travelers. Things were certainly taking a turn from the mundane this evening.
She followed their conversation for a moment, before recognizing the girl. Ysolda, wasn't it? Most of her time was spent prowling the marketplace, it was strange to see her preoccupied with something other than studying the intricate ins and outs of commerce. Needless to say, it wasn't difficult to see she was harassing the Khajiit in hopes he would share whatever trade secrets she presumed him to have.
She was quickly taken aback as he gracefully pivoted through the crowd and welcomed himself to her table. Her dark, liquid eyes widened as his hand glided across the table and squeezed her's knowingly. She felt the cool metal coin press into her skin, as their eyes met in a glance of understanding. {Hmm she has Archers callouses this might be better than expected.} "Ah..." She said lightly, her dark, earthy voice breaking the awkward silence.
"...there you are. I'm well, but you've kept me waiting as always." A knowing smile.
{Good this pretty elf has a heart and is quick witted, she just might save us from this prattling fool.}turning to Ysolda "As you see I am occupied, hope you understand." "Hmp" Ysolda leaves grumbling
"You saved this one, I thank you" signals for a round "Let me buy you another, I am Qa'Bruynzeel, I both apologize for placing you in this situation and thank you for your wit in extricating me from it."
as barmaid approaches "Two Black Briar Reserves please, unless you have a couple Helgen specials, just love that juniper berry twist.", "Your eye's made you my target from the door, I hope I was not too imposing.","Your hand says your an adventurer, I can't wait to know your name, and what book it was that you were reading?"
Her cautious eyes carefully scanned the charming creature as he dismissed the bothersome girl, who left with a face ignited with frustration. Perhaps she dectected a hint of jealousy, it was uncertain."Hnh, you're a smooth talker, Cat." She said with a sly, and amused grin. "Qa'Bruynzeel, then is it?"Her well-spoken tone stumbling slightly with his name. She adjusted her posture and leaned into the table, seeing this as a welcome opportunity. "You're a stranger here, as well." Her voice falling flat, and empathetic as she slid the coin back across the table. "It isn't necessary. Besides, the commodities I prize can't be easily traded for money." However, she didn't quickly dismiss his hospitality and drank deep from the fresh mug placed before her. "You can call me Andante." She smiled again, with a short chuckle. "...and it's been quite some time since I've had means or reason to have an adventure. But, yes, I suppose that's not too bold of a claim to make. Oh, and this?" She reached down into a black leather satchel at her feet and pulled out the ragged book she'd been so preoccupied in before. She plucked at the loose, fading violet fibers at the spine as she laid it, unopened, on the table. "Just a little something of my own, nothing of any spectacular value." A few loose and fraying pages stuck out at odd angles showing absentminded notations, scratches and verse of varying ages and mediums.
outside of town...
"There we go, Faxi, there now," Signy's voice was hard against the cold night air, as she lead her trusty equine companion into the warmth and safety of Whiterun's stables. The large horse snorted a little and pawed at the hay beneath its hooves, content to finally be out of the cold and safe from the dangers of the wild.
"I'll be back by dawn," His owner murmured, patting his neck gently, before turning towards the hold. She felt she was in need of a good drink after a long day's riding.
The Bannered Mare was a common stop in Signy's travels, but not common enough for her to be a recognised regular. There were a few familiar faces, most of whom had their faces buried smugly in tankards of mead or ale; but there were also strangers here. People and beasts she had never seen before. Immediatly, she became wary, her blue eyes narrowing as she surveyed the pair at the table, who were apparently deep in conversation. A Wood Elf and a Khajiit, an unlikely pair to Signy.
After receiving her usual tankard of ale, two loaves of bread and a leg of rabbit, Signy took a seat in near the burning fire. She kept herself to herself, but would be quick to draw her axe if anyone approached. She watched the pair closely, intrigued by their conversation.
"Ah, the coin was mostly to shorten the need for conversation about someone who didn't need to know that I didn't know you" chuckling purr
"Bruyn, is fine Qa'Bruynzeel to those of a formal nature, Bruynie to those of a intimate one"
drinks some of his mead, and gives admiring nod to barmaid for the Helgen
"And to prove that I, always, reward those that help me out of tight jams"
another sip "But more on that later. I hope you don't mind I am waiting for someone else and I would very much like to remain at your table. Especially if your interested in a opportunity" fingers tome, playfully batting at violet fibers. glances toward door. noticing a female nord get her order and slink to the fireside... in earshot if he's right and alone {one of father's spies?} whispers"know that one?" taps a claw in nords direction. at normal tone "A writer!? Nice, acedemic or lore and fantasy?"
A tall, Light Skinned Dark Elf enters the Inn silently and go to the front desk and in a low voice asks"Give me a room please." the innkeeper responded under her breath " Dark Elves, skyrim doesn't need them"
"What was that!" Dalsaf Yelled
"You dark elves are all the same, always up to no good in some way, i wish you stayed in the gray quarter where you belong!" yelled the innkeeper
"To tell the truth i've never been to the gray quarter before because ive been traveling for 9 years since i was 13 after my parents were killed by the imperials" Dalsaf explained
"That still means your as worthless as those other elves!" the innkeeper shouted
"So help me Azura i will strike you down if you keep this up!" Dalsaf was almost fed up with this innkeeper
"Fine give me the money for the room and you may stay for the night but don't come back again"the innkeeper agreed
"Azura curse these nords."Dalsaf went to sit down...
Andante glanced up at the counter where the Dark Elf stood locked in tense conversation with the barmaid. Her eyes were empathetic, but her common sense kept her firmly rooted to the spot. She'd been raised apart from her Elf kin, and though she was known and and tolerated here in Whiterun where she spent much of her time, she was no stranger to the sharp-tongued comments that could follow in a quiet wake. Most of her life had been spent near the company of the coarse-witted Nord folk, but in truth she was still an outsider in their eyes.
Bruynzeel quickly excuses himself standing quickly and walks over at first sign of conflict with the innkeeper. to Dalsaf "Quiet my friend, more will be gained by ignoring insults and acting civil, than confirming prejudices with harsh action." hands Dalsaf the exact amount as was just paid for room"Come sit with us and have a drink" to innkeeper "Another round of mead, unless even MY gold is no good here." retires to his seat next to Andante and smiles a toothy grin at innkeeper To Qa'Bryunzeel "Thank you my friend im sorry if i stirred up trouble i get heated sometimes." "and yes we should have a drink" Joins Bryunzeel and the wood elf for a drink
"Well this is a sight to see in skyrim, A Dark Elf, A Wood Elf, and A Khajitt all in the same inn"
"I know, it almost sounds like a bar joke" Dalsaf takes a sip of his drink "When i entered before the mishap over there i heard some rumors going around saying that there is a cave in the mountains filled with falmer, are you two interested in adventuring up with me up to this cave or i can go alone either way is good with me" He Takes a large gulp of his drink and sits back.
After finishing his job in Winterhold, Dar'Fariil started on his journey back to the Dark Brotherhood sanctuary near Falkreath. He had much time to think about his current situation on the long walk back. He was a lonely man, beginning to lose connection with the rest of the world. He left his family in Elsweyr and his friends had long passed away in the Ratways of Riften. He seemed to be the only success of characters of his type. The only friends he had at this point were his colleagues of the Thieve's Guild and the Dark Brotherhood, but even they were just in it for the money and had no care for anybody. A sudden idea struck Fariil:
"Why am I working with all these dumbfounded lowlifes who have no care for the outside world, or anything but their money at that? I'm going to make new friends and start over." Upon that thought, the tip of Dragonsreach appeared over the hill against the ever darkening night sky. "This seems like a nice start."
Dar'Fariil walked into town and asked the nearest guard, "Where might I find a good tavern and bed?" After a solid reply, he walked into the Bannered Mare, and immediately spotted whom he would attempt to befriend: a Bosmer, Khajiit, and Dunmer sitting in the far corner shifting gold around. He immediately bought a drink from the bar and walked to the table, exchanging friendly greetings.
{A quick glance at the door gave Bruynzeel a shudder as another Khajiit walks in straight to the bar and then comes directly over} Suddenly Andante's attention shifted to yet another Khajiit who strode gracefully toward her table, as her new aquaintance welcomed him as warmly as family. Though she determined quickly enough they had not met before. It was rare to see one of the elusive travelers within the walls of the city, much less two, but despite her awkward sociability, she was thankful for quiet company, and calm words. A welcomed change of pace from long silences, and acidic murmurs"Hello Brother, how may this one be of service?" "I have no services needed, but I'm looking to start over and I'm in need of some companions to accompany me in starting anew. I saw the shifting of coin over here, and thought this would be a great place to start. So my brother, what brings a Khajiit like you to this unstable province of Skyrim?" {feelings of suspision well up in Bruynzeel but are kept from face and mannerisms} "Take a seat, cause I too have made a effort to make afresh life in this land far from Elsywer" to Andante. "Please I'll read this later, when in more intimate company" hands her a most precious tome. Andante's eyes widened as she quickly stowed the fraying tome from sight. She smiled nervously, and took a distracting gulp from her mug. to Bruynzeel "Hnh, I couldn't imagine you actually wanting to read it." She took an opportunity to smooth the front of her dark leather over robe, worn soft with wear, silver clasps glistening in the dim firelight. "I doubt you would be interested in the daily ponderings of a solitary Mer."to Dar'Farill{testing demeanor} "I apologize if offend, but is that blood on your scent, brother?" Andante then crosses her legs and leaned against the wall behind her. "No dear just its getting a bit too hectic to give it it's proper honor" to Dar'Farill "This is hardly a place of new beginnings, traveler..." She said solemnly
"Yes, yes it is. I work in the -- rather I should say worked -- in the business of doing others' dirty work. I have been a member of the Thieve's Guild and the Dark Brotherhood. It's grown old and dull to me now, doing the same assassinate, steal, repeat cycle for all my earnings. I'm hoping to start down a new path with more friends and publicity involved, so I may one day settle down and start a family. This is where you come in. I entered and immediately saw the flashing of coin across the table, a familiar sight to my kind, and was hoping you and your friends would have similar interests.
{Trying to not sound rude and interrigative, but not succeeding very well.}
"I apologize for my... intrusiveness... but may I ask what that was about, and I may have a part in it?" [Dar'Fariil reviews all he just said, and the manor in which he said it; and takes a large gulp of his Argonian Ale.]
meanwhile...
As Sara walked out of the guards barracks, polishing her dagger, another clean kill under her belt, she ran into one of her old informants, who had left her service months ago to spend more time with his growing family.
"Oh hello, Sara. Funny bumping into you here, isn't it?"
"Hmm? Oh hello Skvar, it has been a while hasn't it?" Sara said, as she dropped her dagger back into it's sheathe. " Any local going ons, that will be, shall we say, important, for me to know about?" " U-U-Uh, let me think mistress" Skvar said, reverting to his old stammering speech, he said it had been with him since he was a child, happened when he was scared. " Aah, well it aappears that there have many many aabnormal aarrivals in the city this night, a Bbbosmer, Dddunmer and several Khaaajiit have entered the city, and made their way to the Bbbannered Mare."
"Is that so" Sara muttered, as she turned on her heel and walked briskly over to the pathway that would lead her to the local inn, "And Skvar, be a dear, and remember I was never in this part of the city, alright? she smirked, some Nords could be so clueless. She decided to head over to the inn, maybe she could pick up on a new job, killing corrupt guards was boring her.
Signy whispers to self "Another foreigner? This is quite strange. I don't think I've never seen a place with more outsiders than Nords. I wonder what will come of this..."
In her short time spent at the Inn, Signy came to realise that the group forming in front of her, now crowding the small table that was meant to hold perhaps three at the most, were talking of adventure. Had someone mentioned a cave full of Falmer that needed disposing of? It seemed that being different within the walls of Whiterun bred companionship, something she rarely desired, but was no less interested in.
Taking another sip from her mug, she clumsily moved out of her seat, for the axe strapped to her back had a habit of knocking things down that need not be knocked over, and made her way over to the group, accidentally shouldering the newcoming Argonian in the process. She offered a hand wave of apology, but no speech, as she was more interested in finding out the intentions of these outsiders.
Upon reaching the table, she observed the group again, attempting to look friendly, although that was something she always failed at. "Forgive me, outsiders, but I have overheard your conversation of adventure and am interested in making some coin, if you are willing to take a Nord." Her eyes flashed, as if it were a challenge rather than a question.
to Signy "I actually am looking for someone who can act as a local guide for a coming venture, please join us in a drink" Signy sat down as awkwardly as she had stood up, nearly overturning the table with the hilt of her battleaxe, a few drinks sloshed over the sides of their tankards, but nothing to cause a fight over. For once, she was glad that she was in more hospitable company than her usual Nord brothers and sisters, who would have leapt into a bar brawl over any wasted drink. "I would be happy to provide some information on certain locations," She answered Qa'Bruynzeel in her usual cold, heavily accented tone. She paused before lifting a finger and adding, "One the condition that I get my fair share of the gold."
Another pause, "And the bloodshed." She smiled, enjoying the thought of hacking Falmer to pieces. She enjoyed hacking anything to pieces really, but she thought it best not to voice that here. She glanced around the table, wondering if there would be any objections.
She was, after all, the minority in this small group. For once, she felt as if she were the outlander, and it made her uneasy. She drummed her fingers in an agitated fashion on the table, suddenly wishing there was something to slice at close to hand. As always, there wasn't.
"Relax dear maiden, there will be plenty of both and you can always relax when I am relaxed, none of us are gonna attack you." to all "Well I was and am waiting for a contact to arrive before discussing business" sips mead "I do hope you'll understand, I only wish to put this forth once, but feel free to mix in with us."
{looks to imperial, that tried to enter unnoticed} speaking to all assembled "Parden me friends I wish to find something out before we continue"
To Andante " Mind taking this coin and seeing if we can get a more private place to discuss that business? Perhaps that loft where we can still see the room?"
Sara, slowly made her way to the inn, glancing in the windows to get an idea of how many people were in the building before she entered. she opened the door quietly and slipped in before anyone could notice the gust of cold air that was sure to follow the opening of the door. She walked over to the bartender, to order a drink.
"Cidered apple please," Sara ordered, ordering a non-alcoholic drink, so she was sure to remain alert. She took her her mug over the the table right behind the conversing group. she heard someone say something about coin, and moving to the loft area of the common room above the fireplace. She was more interested by the coin part of what she had heard. Whatever these people were doing it felt like good money to her. she would follow them for a time, and possibly confront them later, possibly later in the evening when the inn cleared or in the morning when they left. if someone didn't catch on to her spying first.
"Excuse me a sec while you settle in, I'm gonna invite our mouse to the table"
starts back down the stairs to invite the subtle but not quite subtle enough lady trying to listen in, to be the last chair in a already interesting group.
Bruynzeel fades off in his speech. Takes a few more puffs of his pipe realizing it has gone out he reaches down for a twig with a coal on its end. Blowing it back to a flame he then relights his pipe and retires to his previous reclined position. "Many, many more stories than books in Nirn."
