Chapter 296: Interlude 18
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Chapter 296: Interlude 18
Sasaki Kojiro POV
What a wonderful day.
How long has it been since I'd left the Temple – the festival not withstanding. Though, that was quite the event as well. I was able to cross blades with such renown figures and even held my own. As confident as I was in my sword, it's good to know that even my existence as merely a wraith was acknowledged through battling more Servants.
And that one young man who arrived in the middle of our fight and jumped right in. He shouted happily even as he got a thorough thrashing by Scáthach.
It's nice to know that such people still exist in the modern era.
The festivities themselves were relaxing as well. I could scarcely recall attending an event like that even in my life if I pushed past the false idolization that the Grail forced into this vessel.
A world full of Youkai, how amusing.
I would very much like to go visit it again some time
Really, I enjoyed all these new experiences. I had no complaints on how I spent my life atop that mountain, perfecting my sword, but to see new places had its own charm that can't be compared.
"Are ya deaf?"
"Hmm?" I was broken from my idle muse as I looked at the people surrounding me. They wore some rather impressive looking armor, but they were splattered with dry blood stains and I could guess that it did not come from any game they hunted.
"We said, take off them fancy clothes."
".....I apologize, but I do not find men favorably in that light." It was flattering that they were so forward, but I simply prefer ladies.
Well, I didn't think they took my rejection well, because they got angry and charged me with weapons drawn.
"We'll carve up your body and take all your money from your corpse!"
I stepped back, a blade narrowly missing my neck.
"Oh!" I realized my error. "You are bandits, I apologize, I thought you were trying to bed me." Another angry shout reverberated behind me as I ducked under an axe that swung past me. "Not that there's anything wrong with that."
"Die!" The remainder of them charged at me, a large variety of weapons in hand.
"Honestly, you should be flattered." I said as I finally decided to draw my blade. With a flick of my wrist, I knocked an oncoming arrow out of the air.
Tilting my arm forward, I turned my blade and thrusted out, stabbing a man running at me with a large Warhammer in his hands. I pieced right through his throat, a small spurt of blood flying out as I pulled my blade free in one swift motion.
"You bastard! You killed Bord!"
Another arrow came sailing towards me, and I plucked it from the air before it could touch me and threw it at the one who had just screamed and entered a murderous rage.
"My first assumption wasn't that you were bandits, but merely flirting. When I picture bandits, I don't think of a well armed group of individuals such as yourselves." I hummed thoughtfully, jumping into the air to avoid two more individuals who swung at me simultaneously. With gravity following my movement, I whipped my sword down and flowed through the movement, beheading both of them in a single slash.
I calmly flicked my blade, flinging the blood off of it before sheathing it behind my back. I knelt down, picking up a discarded axe, giving it an appraising swing to get a feel for the balance. I held it up at eye level, looking at its curvature and edge.
"What good craftsmanship, and it looks like the other weapons don't lose out." I couldn't hold back my admiration. "Are all weapons here so high quality?" Was it because this was still the Age of Gods that such crafts were more openly studied and accessible?
Well, regardless.
I turned to look at the last bandit who was running away down a dirt path.
I tossed the axe up and caught it with a small smile. "It's good to experience other cultures." I raised the axe up, closing one eye to get a good measure of distance. "I've never used an Axe as a weapon before, lets see how this goes!" I planted my foot forward and threw it with all my might.
The Axe broke the sound barrier, flying towards the running Bandit. He turned at the last moment, most likely surprised at the sudden thunder clap, and his last sight was that of the axe infront of his eyes.
He was picked up off his feet and followed the moment of the axe as he went cartwheeling off the edge of the nearby cliff.
".....perhaps I put too much strength into it." I said quietly, with a tad bit of embarrassment.
I did like how the axe felt in my hand. Maybe I should give other weapons a try for some amusement?
I can't say I've ever tried using a Bow before, not to mention a Warhammer like the first bandit who charged used.
"Oh." I blinked in realization. "I can take everything with me."
I should thank Wilhelm again once I see him next. This has already been more fun than I've had in a very long time, outside of the festival.
***
"Hmm, is this the place?" I saw some large walls coming up ahead.
Wilhelm told me a destination to find this 'Ebony', but.....I got lost.
Oh well, I would let the winds of fate guide my way.
Though, I would appreciate it if someone here could guide me to something good to drink. While I much preferred Sake, the Ale and other alcohol they have here weren't too bad.
Getting closer, the place looked.....not as grand as I had pictured. The walls looked more like they chopped down some trees haphazardly to quickly fortified the area.
Actually, there's a lot of land that looked scorched.
Ah, I did hear that Dragon attacks have been causing such things. Dare I to hope that one may be nearby for me to find?
I would love to hold it over that Rider's head.
"Are you daft, old man!? We said no entry!" I almost stumbled in my steps as the two guards at the gate shouted at a man in a full black armor.
The person in Black Armor grunted and walked to the side under the shade of a tree. Though he seemed to perk up once I approached further, I glanced at him as his head seemed to be staring at me. I don't know what kind of face he was making as he was covered head to toe, including his face.
"No Entry!" One of the guards scowled upon my closer approach.
"Pardon?" I replied.
"Another daft cunt? I said no entry!" He growled. "I'm pissed off as it is boy, don't make me draw my blade."
"I...apologize, but I am new around these parts. Do you mind explaining the situation to me?"
"Do I look like –"
I reached into my Kimono, as if I were pulling something I stored within when in fact I withdrew a few of these gold coins and tossed them to the grumpy guard. I did not know if such Mystic Codes were common, but I would say it was better to be safe and not cause unwanted annoyances.
The Guard caught the gold with ease, his temperament changed immediately. "Alright, I guess I can spare a moment." He spoke, quickly pocketing the coins. "What you need to know, outsider?"
"Would you mind explaining what's going on here? And What happened to the town?"
The Guard's shoulder sunk ever so slightly. "Dragon attack, much like everywhere else in Skyrim. One of the first places to be hit. Riften was never the ideal place to live for common folk, what with thieves and murderers running rampant, but it was home for many of us. Then along comes a Dragon and burns most of it to the ground. We barely recovered this much in the months that passed." He let out a sigh.
I.....would not hold his previous attitude against him. It seemed that everyone had their own problems.
"And why can't I go in?" I questioned.
The guard sighed again. "Tis not my fault. The Jarl commanded that the city be sealed, no one in or out while we search for those Thief Guild bastards." He growled. "Heard they robbed somethin precious from the Jarl and got her in bad mood."
Riften, huh?
I struck at what should have been the weakest part of the armor with a strong blow on my part, and I barely pushed through.
"Magic?" I questioned shimmer of energy around him. It reminded me of a spell I'd seen Wilhelm cast.
"Yes, does it offend you?" He replied.
"Not at all." I smiled. "If you are skilled in such arts, then that means you studied and trained them just as much as I have my blade. I cannot fault someone for seeking skill where they have talent."
"To hear such words from a young man such as yourself....." I couldn't make out his expression, but I believed he was happy. "A different time, I would have enjoyed a friendship with you."
Silently, we both agreed to take a step back. Such things happened sometimes, if you couldn't find the humor in such a situation, then there was no point in having a friendly duel, even if the consequence was death.
"To overcome my greatest pride, my Ebony Armor, in a single slash." He inspected the minor damage. "I am awed beyond words, stranger. Truly I have chosen the most wonderous opponent for my potential final battle. However....." His tone shifted. "....You dishonor me by holding back."
"Ah....you noticed." I breathed out.
"I am usually the one holding back my blows, it is humbling to be on the other end for once." He muttered, shifting his stance. "I ask for a true duel, please defeat me with all your strength."
"Apologies." I closed my eyes for a brief moment, centering myself. "I was enjoying a good fight, I instinctively wished to continue it as long as possible."
The armored man let out a chuckle. "I suppose I can't fault you for that." He shook his head.
"In recompose, I will show you my strongest technique that I spent my whole life creating." I slowly shifted my stance bringing my blade up towards my head.
"You....." His shivered. "I feel the touch of death if I take a single step forward." He let out a hearty laugh. "Yes, I believe this will be my final moment, and I will see with my own eyes what you consider a worthy technique."
Allow me to send you off, Warrior of another world.
"Hiken – "
"ROOOOOOAAARRRR."
We both stopped abruptly, a thunderous roar that shook heaven and earth. Our heads snapped to the source as a Dragon came over the mountains, a rage in its eyes as it bared its fangs right towards the town.
"DRAGON!" A shout immediately went out as bells rang, and people scrambled to attention.
It came in fast, soaring through the air towards the susceptible city, a maw of fire bellowed out upon the first victims.
A house wasn't merely burned, but turned to ash amidst the torrent of fire.
I turned to look at the Ebony Warrior, he nodded at me, another silent agreement to put our fight on hold.
It seemed our honor both dictated a certain action.
Without a second thought we shot off the ground towards the Dragon that was hovering in the air only a few dozen feet above the Gate. The Guards ducked for cover, a few upon the walls were brave enough to take up their bows, but the arrows harmlessly cracked against the Dragon's scales.
"FAAS RU MAAR!" The Dragon made sounds I couldn't quite understand, but an invisible source rippled out.
The Guards that were about to engage suddenly trembled and ran away in fear as if a mental affliction overcame them.
The look on the Dragon's face, it seemed to take great pleasure in the fear by the terror it let loose.
Despicable.
I was the first to arrive, the dragon not noticing my presence.
I channeled a significant amount of Magical Energy around my blade as I jumped up onto the top of the wall, then pushed up, leaping into the air as I ascended towards the flying beast.
It looked surprised at my sudden appearance, my blade flashing out. It instinctively flapped its wings, allowing it to moving backwards, but my blade still sliced its underbelly, drawing a line of blood at my passing.
The Dragon roared, either in pain or anger, as it became disoriented at the sudden wound. It fell down, crashing into the wall, destroying a good portion of it.
It quickly reorientated itself, glaring right at me as I landed not far from it.
"FO KRAH ZIIN" More strange sounds spoken as a torrent of cold air was unleashed from its massive maw. I dashed to the side, its torrent of icy breath turning everything in its path to a frozen wasteland.
"FOUL BEAST, CEASE YOUR DESTRUCTION!" The Ebony Warrior roared as he slammed into the beast's back, his Ebony Sword slicing right into its body.
The Dragon's back arced in an unnatural way before whipping around, throwing the Warrior off its back.
He rolled on the ground before sliding back onto his feet.
"Stranger, do you have a plan? This Dragon seems to wish the destruction of the common folk." The Warrior quickly reorientated himself. With a motion, he withdrew an Axe made of the same material as all his other armaments.
I suppose such spatial items were not as uncommon as I thought.
"My Technique requires that I get close." I lifted my sword over my shoulder, flashing him a grin. It was nice to have someone to fight next to.
"I see." He nodded. "I shall give you an opening then."
I could best this Dragon in pure power, but I didn't trust my blade to hold up. I would end it in one blow then.
The Warrior spent not another word, retrieving a shield as well and bashed his Axe against it. "Cowardly Lizard, dare you fight this Warrior head on?"
"Sahlo joor, zu'u bahlok, yah hin dinok" It spoke in response, intelligible words, if spoken in a language I didn't understand.
I don't think either of us understood it, but we took it as a challenge.
The Ebony warrior dashed to the side, drawing its long head to follow along. It opened its maw again, the strange sounds erupted out followed by a torrent of flames as the Warrior held his shield up and fended them off.
To even hold up against Dragon Fire, impressive material.
"Stranger!" The Ebony Warrior shouted.
I smiled lightly as I took my steps forward.
I pulled my sword back as the Dragon's attention now turned to me.
"Watch closely." I turned serious.
I never thought I would use this technique against a Dragon. I admit in my heart, I wanted to prove that I could reach such heights with nothing but my determination and will. I had no true Noble Phantasm, merely my sword that accompanied me on that lonely mountain.
This was the fruits of my effort.
The uncountable days that I swung my blade with a singular purpose.
As I stared at this beast that descended from the heavens, I only had one simple thought.
Dragons are just bigger swallows.
"Hiken – Tsubame Gaeshi."
***
Originally, I meant for this to be a bunch of different POVs with everyone going about doing random Skyrim things, but this turned out much longer than expected, so i'll do more later at some point in a much larger Interlude.
Anyways, if you want to read 7 chapters ahead or support me, visit my p.a.t.r.e.o.n.c.o.m / astoryforone
Please report us if you find any errors so we can fix it asap!
Chapter 296: Interlude 18
Sasaki Kojiro POV
What a wonderful day.
How long has it been since I'd left the Temple – the festival not withstanding. Though, that was quite the event as well. I was able to cross blades with such renown figures and even held my own. As confident as I was in my sword, it's good to know that even my existence as merely a wraith was acknowledged through battling more Servants.
And that one young man who arrived in the middle of our fight and jumped right in. He shouted happily even as he got a thorough thrashing by Scáthach.
It's nice to know that such people still exist in the modern era.
The festivities themselves were relaxing as well. I could scarcely recall attending an event like that even in my life if I pushed past the false idolization that the Grail forced into this vessel.
A world full of Youkai, how amusing.
I would very much like to go visit it again some time
Really, I enjoyed all these new experiences. I had no complaints on how I spent my life atop that mountain, perfecting my sword, but to see new places had its own charm that can't be compared.
"Are ya deaf?"
"Hmm?" I was broken from my idle muse as I looked at the people surrounding me. They wore some rather impressive looking armor, but they were splattered with dry blood stains and I could guess that it did not come from any game they hunted.
"We said, take off them fancy clothes."
".....I apologize, but I do not find men favorably in that light." It was flattering that they were so forward, but I simply prefer ladies.
Well, I didn't think they took my rejection well, because they got angry and charged me with weapons drawn.
"We'll carve up your body and take all your money from your corpse!"
I stepped back, a blade narrowly missing my neck.
"Oh!" I realized my error. "You are bandits, I apologize, I thought you were trying to bed me." Another angry shout reverberated behind me as I ducked under an axe that swung past me. "Not that there's anything wrong with that."
"Die!" The remainder of them charged at me, a large variety of weapons in hand.
"Honestly, you should be flattered." I said as I finally decided to draw my blade. With a flick of my wrist, I knocked an oncoming arrow out of the air.
Tilting my arm forward, I turned my blade and thrusted out, stabbing a man running at me with a large Warhammer in his hands. I pieced right through his throat, a small spurt of blood flying out as I pulled my blade free in one swift motion.
"You bastard! You killed Bord!"
Another arrow came sailing towards me, and I plucked it from the air before it could touch me and threw it at the one who had just screamed and entered a murderous rage.
"My first assumption wasn't that you were bandits, but merely flirting. When I picture bandits, I don't think of a well armed group of individuals such as yourselves." I hummed thoughtfully, jumping into the air to avoid two more individuals who swung at me simultaneously. With gravity following my movement, I whipped my sword down and flowed through the movement, beheading both of them in a single slash.
I calmly flicked my blade, flinging the blood off of it before sheathing it behind my back. I knelt down, picking up a discarded axe, giving it an appraising swing to get a feel for the balance. I held it up at eye level, looking at its curvature and edge.
"What good craftsmanship, and it looks like the other weapons don't lose out." I couldn't hold back my admiration. "Are all weapons here so high quality?" Was it because this was still the Age of Gods that such crafts were more openly studied and accessible?
Well, regardless.
I turned to look at the last bandit who was running away down a dirt path.
I tossed the axe up and caught it with a small smile. "It's good to experience other cultures." I raised the axe up, closing one eye to get a good measure of distance. "I've never used an Axe as a weapon before, lets see how this goes!" I planted my foot forward and threw it with all my might.
The Axe broke the sound barrier, flying towards the running Bandit. He turned at the last moment, most likely surprised at the sudden thunder clap, and his last sight was that of the axe infront of his eyes.
He was picked up off his feet and followed the moment of the axe as he went cartwheeling off the edge of the nearby cliff.
".....perhaps I put too much strength into it." I said quietly, with a tad bit of embarrassment.
I did like how the axe felt in my hand. Maybe I should give other weapons a try for some amusement?
I can't say I've ever tried using a Bow before, not to mention a Warhammer like the first bandit who charged used.
"Oh." I blinked in realization. "I can take everything with me."
I should thank Wilhelm again once I see him next. This has already been more fun than I've had in a very long time, outside of the festival.
***
"Hmm, is this the place?" I saw some large walls coming up ahead.
Wilhelm told me a destination to find this 'Ebony', but.....I got lost.
Oh well, I would let the winds of fate guide my way.
Though, I would appreciate it if someone here could guide me to something good to drink. While I much preferred Sake, the Ale and other alcohol they have here weren't too bad.
Getting closer, the place looked.....not as grand as I had pictured. The walls looked more like they chopped down some trees haphazardly to quickly fortified the area.
Actually, there's a lot of land that looked scorched.
Ah, I did hear that Dragon attacks have been causing such things. Dare I to hope that one may be nearby for me to find?
I would love to hold it over that Rider's head.
"Are you daft, old man!? We said no entry!" I almost stumbled in my steps as the two guards at the gate shouted at a man in a full black armor.
The person in Black Armor grunted and walked to the side under the shade of a tree. Though he seemed to perk up once I approached further, I glanced at him as his head seemed to be staring at me. I don't know what kind of face he was making as he was covered head to toe, including his face.
"No Entry!" One of the guards scowled upon my closer approach.
"Pardon?" I replied.
"Another daft cunt? I said no entry!" He growled. "I'm pissed off as it is boy, don't make me draw my blade."
"I...apologize, but I am new around these parts. Do you mind explaining the situation to me?"
"Do I look like –"
I reached into my Kimono, as if I were pulling something I stored within when in fact I withdrew a few of these gold coins and tossed them to the grumpy guard. I did not know if such Mystic Codes were common, but I would say it was better to be safe and not cause unwanted annoyances.
The Guard caught the gold with ease, his temperament changed immediately. "Alright, I guess I can spare a moment." He spoke, quickly pocketing the coins. "What you need to know, outsider?"
"Would you mind explaining what's going on here? And What happened to the town?"
The Guard's shoulder sunk ever so slightly. "Dragon attack, much like everywhere else in Skyrim. One of the first places to be hit. Riften was never the ideal place to live for common folk, what with thieves and murderers running rampant, but it was home for many of us. Then along comes a Dragon and burns most of it to the ground. We barely recovered this much in the months that passed." He let out a sigh.
I.....would not hold his previous attitude against him. It seemed that everyone had their own problems.
"And why can't I go in?" I questioned.
The guard sighed again. "Tis not my fault. The Jarl commanded that the city be sealed, no one in or out while we search for those Thief Guild bastards." He growled. "Heard they robbed somethin precious from the Jarl and got her in bad mood."
Riften, huh?
I struck at what should have been the weakest part of the armor with a strong blow on my part, and I barely pushed through.
"Magic?" I questioned shimmer of energy around him. It reminded me of a spell I'd seen Wilhelm cast.
"Yes, does it offend you?" He replied.
"Not at all." I smiled. "If you are skilled in such arts, then that means you studied and trained them just as much as I have my blade. I cannot fault someone for seeking skill where they have talent."
"To hear such words from a young man such as yourself....." I couldn't make out his expression, but I believed he was happy. "A different time, I would have enjoyed a friendship with you."
Silently, we both agreed to take a step back. Such things happened sometimes, if you couldn't find the humor in such a situation, then there was no point in having a friendly duel, even if the consequence was death.
"To overcome my greatest pride, my Ebony Armor, in a single slash." He inspected the minor damage. "I am awed beyond words, stranger. Truly I have chosen the most wonderous opponent for my potential final battle. However....." His tone shifted. "....You dishonor me by holding back."
"Ah....you noticed." I breathed out.
"I am usually the one holding back my blows, it is humbling to be on the other end for once." He muttered, shifting his stance. "I ask for a true duel, please defeat me with all your strength."
"Apologies." I closed my eyes for a brief moment, centering myself. "I was enjoying a good fight, I instinctively wished to continue it as long as possible."
The armored man let out a chuckle. "I suppose I can't fault you for that." He shook his head.
"In recompose, I will show you my strongest technique that I spent my whole life creating." I slowly shifted my stance bringing my blade up towards my head.
"You....." His shivered. "I feel the touch of death if I take a single step forward." He let out a hearty laugh. "Yes, I believe this will be my final moment, and I will see with my own eyes what you consider a worthy technique."
Allow me to send you off, Warrior of another world.
"Hiken – "
"ROOOOOOAAARRRR."
We both stopped abruptly, a thunderous roar that shook heaven and earth. Our heads snapped to the source as a Dragon came over the mountains, a rage in its eyes as it bared its fangs right towards the town.
"DRAGON!" A shout immediately went out as bells rang, and people scrambled to attention.
It came in fast, soaring through the air towards the susceptible city, a maw of fire bellowed out upon the first victims.
A house wasn't merely burned, but turned to ash amidst the torrent of fire.
I turned to look at the Ebony Warrior, he nodded at me, another silent agreement to put our fight on hold.
It seemed our honor both dictated a certain action.
Without a second thought we shot off the ground towards the Dragon that was hovering in the air only a few dozen feet above the Gate. The Guards ducked for cover, a few upon the walls were brave enough to take up their bows, but the arrows harmlessly cracked against the Dragon's scales.
"FAAS RU MAAR!" The Dragon made sounds I couldn't quite understand, but an invisible source rippled out.
The Guards that were about to engage suddenly trembled and ran away in fear as if a mental affliction overcame them.
The look on the Dragon's face, it seemed to take great pleasure in the fear by the terror it let loose.
Despicable.
I was the first to arrive, the dragon not noticing my presence.
I channeled a significant amount of Magical Energy around my blade as I jumped up onto the top of the wall, then pushed up, leaping into the air as I ascended towards the flying beast.
It looked surprised at my sudden appearance, my blade flashing out. It instinctively flapped its wings, allowing it to moving backwards, but my blade still sliced its underbelly, drawing a line of blood at my passing.
The Dragon roared, either in pain or anger, as it became disoriented at the sudden wound. It fell down, crashing into the wall, destroying a good portion of it.
It quickly reorientated itself, glaring right at me as I landed not far from it.
"FO KRAH ZIIN" More strange sounds spoken as a torrent of cold air was unleashed from its massive maw. I dashed to the side, its torrent of icy breath turning everything in its path to a frozen wasteland.
"FOUL BEAST, CEASE YOUR DESTRUCTION!" The Ebony Warrior roared as he slammed into the beast's back, his Ebony Sword slicing right into its body.
The Dragon's back arced in an unnatural way before whipping around, throwing the Warrior off its back.
He rolled on the ground before sliding back onto his feet.
"Stranger, do you have a plan? This Dragon seems to wish the destruction of the common folk." The Warrior quickly reorientated himself. With a motion, he withdrew an Axe made of the same material as all his other armaments.
I suppose such spatial items were not as uncommon as I thought.
"My Technique requires that I get close." I lifted my sword over my shoulder, flashing him a grin. It was nice to have someone to fight next to.
"I see." He nodded. "I shall give you an opening then."
I could best this Dragon in pure power, but I didn't trust my blade to hold up. I would end it in one blow then.
The Warrior spent not another word, retrieving a shield as well and bashed his Axe against it. "Cowardly Lizard, dare you fight this Warrior head on?"
"Sahlo joor, zu'u bahlok, yah hin dinok" It spoke in response, intelligible words, if spoken in a language I didn't understand.
I don't think either of us understood it, but we took it as a challenge.
The Ebony warrior dashed to the side, drawing its long head to follow along. It opened its maw again, the strange sounds erupted out followed by a torrent of flames as the Warrior held his shield up and fended them off.
To even hold up against Dragon Fire, impressive material.
"Stranger!" The Ebony Warrior shouted.
I smiled lightly as I took my steps forward.
I pulled my sword back as the Dragon's attention now turned to me.
"Watch closely." I turned serious.
I never thought I would use this technique against a Dragon. I admit in my heart, I wanted to prove that I could reach such heights with nothing but my determination and will. I had no true Noble Phantasm, merely my sword that accompanied me on that lonely mountain.
This was the fruits of my effort.
The uncountable days that I swung my blade with a singular purpose.
As I stared at this beast that descended from the heavens, I only had one simple thought.
Dragons are just bigger swallows.
"Hiken – Tsubame Gaeshi."
***
Originally, I meant for this to be a bunch of different POVs with everyone going about doing random Skyrim things, but this turned out much longer than expected, so i'll do more later at some point in a much larger Interlude.
Anyways, if you want to read 7 chapters ahead or support me, visit my p.a.t.r.e.o.n.c.o.m / astoryforone
Chapter 296: Interlude 18Sasaki Kojiro POV What a wonderful day. How long has it been since I'd left the Temple the festival not withstanding. Though, that was quite the event as well. I was able to cross blades with such renown figures and even held my own. As confident as I was in my sword, it's good to know that even my existence as merely a wraith was acknowledged through battling more Servants. And that one young man who arrived in the middle of our fight and jumped right in. He shouted happily even as he got a thorough thrashing by Scathach. It's nice to know that such people still exist in the modern era. The festivities themselves were relaxing as well. I could scarcely recall attending an event like that even in my life if I pushed past the false idolization that the Grail forced into this vessel. A world full of Youkai, how amusing. I would very much like to go visit it again some time Really, I enjoyed all these new experiences. I had no complaints on how I spent my life atop that mountain, perfecting my sword, but to see new places had its own charm that can't be compared. "Are ya deaf?" "Hmm?" I was broken from my idle muse as I looked at the people surrounding me. They wore some rather impressive looking armor, but they were splattered with dry blood stains and I could guess that it did not come from any game they hunted. "We said, take off them fancy clothes." ".....I apologize, but I do not find men favorably in that light." It was flattering that they were so forward, but I simply prefer ladies. Well, I didn't think they took my rejection well, because they got angry and charged me with weapons drawn. "We'll carve up your body and take all your money from your corpse!" I stepped back, a blade narrowly missing my neck. "Oh!" I realized my error. "You are bandits, I apologize, I thought you were trying to bed me." Another angry shout reverberated behind me as I ducked under an axe that swung past me. "Not that there's anything wrong with that." "Die!" The remainder of them charged at me, a large variety of weapons in hand. "Honestly, you should be flattered." I said as I finally decided to draw my blade. With a flick of my wrist, I knocked an oncoming arrow out of the air. Tilting my arm forward, I turned my blade and thrusted out, stabbing a man running at me with a large Warhammer in his hands. I pieced right through his throat, a small spurt of blood flying out as I pulled my blade free in one swift motion. "You bastard! You killed Bord!" Another arrow came sailing towards me, and I plucked it from the air before it could touch me and threw it at the one who had just screamed and entered a murderous rage. "My first assumption wasn't that you were bandits, but merely flirting. When I picture bandits, I don't think of a well armed group of individuals such as yourselves." I hummed thoughtfully, jumping into the air to avoid two more individuals who swung at me simultaneously. With gravity following my movement, I whipped my sword down and flowed through the movement, beheading both of them in a single slash. I calmly flicked my blade, flinging the blood off of it before sheathing it behind my back. I knelt down, picking up a discarded axe, giving it an appraising swing to get a feel for the balance. I held it up at eye level, looking at its curvature and edge. "What good craftsmanship, and it looks like the other weapons don't lose out." I couldn't hold back my admiration. "Are all weapons here so high quality?" Was it because this was still the Age of Gods that such crafts were more openly studied and accessible? Well, regardless. I turned to look at the last bandit who was running away down a dirt path. I tossed the axe up and caught it with a small smile. "It's good to experience other cultures." I raised the axe up, closing one eye to get a good measure of distance. "I've never used an Axe as a weapon before, lets see how this goes!" I planted my foot forward and threw it with all my might. The Axe broke the sound barrier, flying towards the running Bandit. He turned at the last moment, most likely surprised at the sudden thunder clap, and his last sight was that of the axe infront of his eyes. He was picked up off his feet and followed the moment of the axe as he went cartwheeling off the edge of the nearby cliff. ".....perhaps I put too much strength into it." I said quietly, with a tad bit of embarrassment. I did like how the axe felt in my hand. Maybe I should give other weapons a try for some amusement? I can't say I've ever tried using a Bow before, not to mention a Warhammer like the first bandit who charged used. "Oh." I blinked in realization. "I can take everything with me." I should thank Wilhelm again once I see him next. This has already been more fun than I've had in a very long time, outside of the festival. *** "Hmm, is this the place?" I saw some large walls coming up ahead. Wilhelm told me a destination to find this 'Ebony', but.....I got lost. Oh well, I would let the winds of fate guide my way. Though, I would appreciate it if someone here could guide me to something good to drink. While I much preferred Sake, the Ale and other alcohol they have here weren't too bad. Getting closer, the place looked.....not as grand as I had pictured. The walls looked more like they chopped down some trees haphazardly to quickly fortified the area. Actually, there's a lot of land that looked scorched. Ah, I did hear that Dragon attacks have been causing such things. Dare I to hope that one may be nearby for me to find? I would love to hold it over that Rider's head. "Are you daft, old man!? We said no entry!" I almost stumbled in my steps as the two guards at the gate shouted at a man in a full black armor. The person in Black Armor grunted and walked to the side under the shade of a tree. Though he seemed to perk up once I approached further, I glanced at him as his head seemed to be staring at me. I don't know what kind of face he was making as he was covered head to toe, including his face. "No Entry!" One of the guards scowled upon my closer approach. "Pardon?" I replied. "Another daft cunt? I said no entry!" He growled. "I'm pissed off as it is boy, don't make me draw my blade." "I...apologize, but I am new around these parts. Do you mind explaining the situation to me?" "Do I look like " I reached into my Kimono, as if I were pulling something I stored within when in fact I withdrew a few of these gold coins and tossed them to the grumpy guard. I did not know if such Mystic Codes were common, but I would say it was better to be safe and not cause unwanted annoyances. The Guard caught the gold with ease, his temperament changed immediately. "Alright, I guess I can spare a moment." He spoke, quickly pocketing the coins. "What you need to know, outsider?" "Would you mind explaining what's going on here? And What happened to the town?" The Guard's shoulder sunk ever so slightly. "Dragon attack, much like everywhere else in Skyrim. One of the first places to be hit. Riften was never the ideal place to live for common folk, what with thieves and murderers running rampant, but it was home for many of us. Then along comes a Dragon and burns most of it to the ground. We barely recovered this much in the months that passed." He let out a sigh. I.....would not hold his previous attitude against him. It seemed that everyone had their own problems. "And why can't I go in?" I questioned. The guard sighed again. "Tis not my fault. The Jarl commanded that the city be sealed, no one in or out while we search for those Thief Guild bastards." He growled. "Heard they robbed somethin precious from the Jarl and got her in bad mood." Riften, huh? I struck at what should have been the weakest part of the armor with a strong blow on my part, and I barely pushed through. "Magic?" I questioned shimmer of energy around him. It reminded me of a spell I'd seen Wilhelm cast. "Yes, does it offend you?" He replied. "Not at all." I smiled. "If you are skilled in such arts, then that means you studied and trained them just as much as I have my blade. I cannot fault someone for seeking skill where they have talent." "To hear such words from a young man such as yourself....." I couldn't make out his expression, but I believed he was happy. "A different time, I would have enjoyed a friendship with you." Silently, we both agreed to take a step back. Such things happened sometimes, if you couldn't find the humor in such a situation, then there was no point in having a friendly duel, even if the consequence was death. "To overcome my greatest pride, my Ebony Armor, in a single slash." He inspected the minor damage. "I am awed beyond words, stranger. Truly I have chosen the most wonderous opponent for my potential final battle. However....." His tone shifted. "....You dishonor me by holding back." "Ah....you noticed." I breathed out. "I am usually the one holding back my blows, it is humbling to be on the other end for once." He muttered, shifting his stance. "I ask for a true duel, please defeat me with all your strength." "Apologies." I closed my eyes for a brief moment, centering myself. "I was enjoying a good fight, I instinctively wished to continue it as long as possible." The armored man let out a chuckle. "I suppose I can't fault you for that." He shook his head. "In recompose, I will show you my strongest technique that I spent my whole life creating." I slowly shifted my stance bringing my blade up towards my head. "You....." His shivered. "I feel the touch of death if I take a single step forward." He let out a hearty laugh. "Yes, I believe this will be my final moment, and I will see with my own eyes what you consider a worthy technique." Allow me to send you off, Warrior of another world. "Hiken " "ROOOOOOAAARRRR." We both stopped abruptly, a thunderous roar that shook heaven and earth. Our heads snapped to the source as a Dragon came over the mountains, a rage in its eyes as it bared its fangs right towards the town. "DRAGON!" A shout immediately went out as bells rang, and people scrambled to attention. It came in fast, soaring through the air towards the susceptible city, a maw of fire bellowed out upon the first victims. A house wasn't merely burned, but turned to ash amidst the torrent of fire. I turned to look at the Ebony Warrior, he nodded at me, another silent agreement to put our fight on hold. It seemed our honor both dictated a certain action. Without a second thought we shot off the ground towards the Dragon that was hovering in the air only a few dozen feet above the Gate. The Guards ducked for cover, a few upon the walls were brave enough to take up their bows, but the arrows harmlessly cracked against the Dragon's scales. "FAAS RU MAAR!" The Dragon made sounds I couldn't quite understand, but an invisible source rippled out. The Guards that were about to engage suddenly trembled and ran away in fear as if a mental affliction overcame them. The look on the Dragon's face, it seemed to take great pleasure in the fear by the terror it let loose. Despicable. I was the first to arrive, the dragon not noticing my presence. I channeled a significant amount of Magical Energy around my blade as I jumped up onto the top of the wall, then pushed up, leaping into the air as I ascended towards the flying beast. It looked surprised at my sudden appearance, my blade flashing out. It instinctively flapped its wings, allowing it to moving backwards, but my blade still sliced its underbelly, drawing a line of blood at my passing. The Dragon roared, either in pain or anger, as it became disoriented at the sudden wound. It fell down, crashing into the wall, destroying a good portion of it. It quickly reorientated itself, glaring right at me as I landed not far from it. "FO KRAH ZIIN" More strange sounds spoken as a torrent of cold air was unleashed from its massive maw. I dashed to the side, its torrent of icy breath turning everything in its path to a frozen wasteland. "FOUL BEAST, CEASE YOUR DESTRUCTION!" The Ebony Warrior roared as he slammed into the beast's back, his Ebony Sword slicing right into its body. The Dragon's back arced in an unnatural way before whipping around, throwing the Warrior off its back. He rolled on the ground before sliding back onto his feet. "Stranger, do you have a plan? This Dragon seems to wish the destruction of the common folk." The Warrior quickly reorientated himself. With a motion, he withdrew an Axe made of the same material as all his other armaments. I suppose such spatial items were not as uncommon as I thought. "My Technique requires that I get close." I lifted my sword over my shoulder, flashing him a grin. It was nice to have someone to fight next to. "I see." He nodded. "I shall give you an opening then." I could best this Dragon in pure power, but I didn't trust my blade to hold up. I would end it in one blow then. The Warrior spent not another word, retrieving a shield as well and bashed his Axe against it. "Cowardly Lizard, dare you fight this Warrior head on?" "Sahlo joor, zu'u bahlok, yah hin dinok" It spoke in response, intelligible words, if spoken in a language I didn't understand. I don't think either of us understood it, but we took it as a challenge. The Ebony warrior dashed to the side, drawing its long head to follow along. It opened its maw again, the strange sounds erupted out followed by a torrent of flames as the Warrior held his shield up and fended them off. To even hold up against Dragon Fire, impressive material. "Stranger!" The Ebony Warrior shouted. I smiled lightly as I took my steps forward. I pulled my sword back as the Dragon's attention now turned to me. "Watch closely." I turned serious. I never thought I would use this technique against a Dragon. I admit in my heart, I wanted to prove that I could reach such heights with nothing but my determination and will. I had no true Noble Phantasm, merely my sword that accompanied me on that lonely mountain. This was the fruits of my effort. The uncountable days that I swung my blade with a singular purpose. As I stared at this beast that descended from the heavens, I only had one simple thought. Dragons are just bigger swallows. "Hiken Tsubame Gaeshi." *** Originally, I meant for this to be a bunch of different POVs with everyone going about doing random Skyrim things, but this turned out much longer than expected, so i'll do more later at some point in a much larger Interlude. Anyways, if you want to read 7 chapters ahead or support me, visit my p.a.t.r.e.o.n.c.o.m / astoryforone
