Grim Tales - Rorikstead Reception - Champion of Fenrir Book IV - Chapter 14 P2
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50 comments
Well done, both pics and story -- and thanks to all the Nexus authors who participated! Good music selections too! (I'll have to remember that version of "The Dragonborn Comes" for if I ever get Andil through the end of the main quest. )
First, the song. Wow. I am loving this song, not only so suitable but just awesome in its own right. You’ll have to tell me who it’s by!
Cool opening with hircine and Sam discussing Sam’s ‘pockets’ of reality and the ominous words… what could go wrong?
Nice seeing Kyn wait on the edges on the tavern to watch and see what the night has in store. I liked the beginning and introduction through Ellandra’s eyes. Her awe at seeing the magic, Sam and DD was a good way to introduce the reader to the evening that will be (no doubt) massive! Nice that Ellandra seemed to put Mralki at ease too (though whether that was because of her beauty or the brandy…. Who knows? Oh ok, it’s the brandy!! )
And there’s Varg – early but handsome!
Trust Dannee to be sweetly feeding Wolfgar! Bet Sofie was enamoured with the ‘pup’.
Ok, first favourite line: "Is there a problem here turban man?" Death Dealer asked, praying to all the Dark Gods that the man would say yes so he could crack some bones. This cracked me up! Good ol DD put an end to the mouthy Redguard but I think he was hoping the dude would put up a bit more of a fight!
Loved also the line after Saarh’s arrival that 3 guests had shown up with Garm. Goes to show how popular the noble husky is! Speaking of Saarh, Erik seemed a little over-awed in the Priestess’s attention. He’s so cute when he’s tongue-tied!
Nice seeing Bryn at the party (especially your Bryn – mmm) and why was I not surprised that Rathe was in a foul mood when Erik wandered across to him (when is that impossible man ever in a GOOD mood ) Oh boy I loved the description of Rathe’s eyes as cold as Grim’s were warm. Bah ha ha ha!!! Loved Grim’s and Rathe’s interaction and the mention of the bouncer! Awesome. Very cool.
Second favourite line: ... Later on ... or earlier ... time seemed to be in flux ... that night …
Snort – I loved Synassa’s entrance to the party – so her style! And Erik’s reaction was just perfect – might as well offer them a drink!
Grim’s best moment so far: pulling his hood on in a vain attempt to keep people from talking to him. I understand just how he feels! Nice little bit of writing about Sissel, Britte and Lucia, each feeling her own teenage angst, insecurity and pride at certain events in her own life (well, not so much Britte maybe! ).
Giggling vampires indeed! Seems Sam MUST be brewing up some strong stuff! Either that or Akiroh’s ‘touch’ is damn near God-like to thaw out Miss Frosty!
Ah, PERFECT choice of music for the part 2 reception. I have chills now listening to it!
Nice seeing Karliah (and in something other than burlap ). Geez, Marissa DOES look good for sixty! Sigh, does EVERYONE have to make comments about Grim’s big ass? I swear the poor guy is going to get a complex! I blame Erik.
Was sweet seeing Velulfr and Grim have an awkward hug (like two big bears). But the emotional moment was over-shadowed by the Captain and Losti’s ‘antics’! “Mephala’s sweaty buttocks’ indeed!!
Loved Brosia’s scenes and how she brought with her an ethereal other-worldliness (although her words telling Grim to stuff it kind of broke the glamour ). Interesting bit about secrets (Grim, Brosia and Stragon being chief among those hiding secrets), and how Brosia exuded power and everyone wanted to talk with her… but she only had eyes for Stragon. Beautiful.
Sheogorath Shuffle? Hehehe.
Nice surprise seeing Frigga and Isaac! I hadn’t expected to see these two here, but Sam’s enchanted Inn seems to be a beacon tonight, drawing in all the souls across time and space.
Wow, I hardly recognised Arnie; he seems almost tamed! It’s a good thing Rathe had gone by the time Arnie arrived else DD might well have had some work to do! Kurdan’s advice seemed well-timed to get through to Erik’s ale-induced jealousy! I guess the old orc could see real love for what it is… and knows that though Arnie might have hopes for Grim, Grim only has eyes for Erik.
Why can I see Mralki becoming a follower of Sanguine after this party? He seems to well enjoy the lifestyle of the Prince of Debauchery!!
Nice seeing Edrelle, Honey and Tacita. Erik looked so out of his depth being surrounded by the three lovely lassies! He handled himself well – the bartender of his youth coming to the fore to rescue him.
Faendal has turned into quite the looker and his companion Nyieve is a stunner. Certainly some strange guests coming to Sam’s shindig! This nature-lover should be right at home with the lads however, maybe she should sneak away out into the woods with Grim for a breath of fresh air and some quietness.
Oh I knew Sofie would develop an attachment to Wolfgar! Two sweet and wise souls would naturally be drawn to one another!
But it seems that even an enchanted party must come to an end. As the sun begins to creep over the horizon, Sam realises it’s time to call it quits.
Third favourite line(s): Nadja found it somewhat amusing and while she might have been annoyed if it had been someone else she knew Erik was a good sort and happy with his partner Grim. She had to stifle a laugh, however, when she saw Grim watching the entire scene. The giant came up behind Erik and let out a deep possessive growl. Poor Erik looked so guilty it was almost comical.
This just slayed me! I can so see Grim getting all possessive of poor little Erik. Best bit was that Farkas had no idea of what was even going on!
To sum up: Fantastic. This was such a pure joy to read (and be part of). You have the best knack for creating community spirit (like with the Caretaker series) and should be lauded for your ongoing commitments and efforts on the Nexus. Love your style hon.
Epic congratulations.
It is this mod and was really hoping it would be expanded even more, it does add some life to the inns when you come across them.
Lokir's Asheshttp://www.nexusmods.com/skyrim/mods/20953/?
not sure what was up with Wolfgar. Either he liked it or hated it...... maybe it was a skeever in the woodpile. His howls were well timed though.
Nothing went obviously wrong that night ... but that doesn't mean nothing happened they are not aware off.
I was nervous with Rathe, especially with his comment to Erik, but Rathe in a bad mood doesn't seem like someone to put up with some farm boy bothering him. This brings me to the second thing - keeping his pride intact.
This is how my mind set things up if curious. Rathe new the inn was "off" which is why he ended up going in. Yet he assumed it was still some type of hick farm village party. So when Grim showed up he wasn't worried. Not knowing Grim he figured he was just some over-sized plow hand; strong but slow. Rathe had his weapons, Grim did not, and Rathe is quick and agile. Hence not impressed. Grim, on the other hand, knew full well what he is capable of so he wasn't impressed either. But he didn't want to shed blood on his party night.
Now DD is a legend to common folks (except in his own world of course) but like many legends based on truth. Those who live in the shadows and darkness know he is real and that he is possibly the greatest killer that has ever lived. Rathe, who has had dealings with greater powers and darkness, also knew of him.
Now perhaps Rathe would still like to test his blades against such a one ... and who knows how that would go. But here is the key thing. He had assumed this was just some country party. If such a party had a legendary immortal killer as their bouncer then what did that say about the rest of the guests who might be there? What kind of guests could hire one such as DD as a bouncer? That was what gave Rathe real pause and made him decide he was best leaving the place in a hurry.
Will leave it at that and just say thank you for taking the time to read this huge story and comment on your favorite parts and aspects of the story. As you can see I did enjoy writing this and tried to add some humor, as it was a party after all.
As for Grim, yeah, I could see him seeing Grim as just a country hick... until Grim got going with his many talents. Then Broody might make a strategic decision to lower his blades and call a truce.
A very cool chapter(s) and again, thanks for getting the community involved.
If you know what I mean.
Been smiling so much while reading all of this that my face is a little sore now.
I don't even know where to start! So much great work here! So many great characters interacting.
I will just say this, as one who enjoys diving into characters minds (or vice versa )
Can you imagine being at such a party?? I guess even Hircine wondered what Sam was thinking and decided to stay clear in case the Caretaker were to get involve!!
FANTASTIC work Wolf! I have already enjoyed it several times!!
Linked a quick episode of mine to this explaining how Sam got Dire and the DD to attend.
Evil Intermission
So I decided to make DD a bit of an otherworldly legend, the famed Death Dealer of myth come to life. Of course those in the shadows (like Rathe) and darkness know he actually exists. He also has a tendency to cross time streams a lot (as your own stories show) and hence I thought it worked out well. Sam, being a Prince and hence existing in all planes of reality (per the Unraveling) can always track DD down wherever he is. I am glad Hircine decided not to attend though ... that could have been awkward even though he forgave DD.
Also appreciate that, like a few others, you wrote a "pre-reception" story to help add some context. Really enjoyed that little side story of yours (as well as all your side comments ... and Death Dealers as well).
Thanks again and glad you enjoyed it!
And the DD was very pleased at how he was portrayed as a dark "legend"
He's almost forgiven me for the whole flower picking thing...well at least he stopped sharpening his axes...
You made a fantastic job, to bring so much characters of our community together - it was a special kind of party with great preparations. How you connected all the different stories in one room - I`m speechless. This is a real masterpiece. Congratiulations
I think, this special day of Grim and Eric we`ll never forget. We wish them all the best for future and hope, to see them again after the time of honeymoon
I read all comments and agree totally
It was a pleasure to have her at the party and luckily Faendal gave me the perfect reason on why she would be invited so it worked out very well. Thanks again for the comment and the images you provided!
It is not surprise that it is the kind Dannee who brought those treats for the four-legged guests of the party, thoughtful as ever she is. The death dealer certainly made for quite the intimidating bouncer, it is fortunate that none provoked him though one would not risk such a thing when they caught sight of him. I really liked those glimpses of Erik's observations about the guests of the reception, like captain Neloth's gaze drawn to the elegant Saarh, really gives that sense of him moving about the room. I see that Rathe was in one of his usual foul moods, the party seeming to make it all the more sour, but even in that mood he did not dare face the Death Dealer, preferring to make a quick retreat from the inn. Of course Synnassa could not resist popping in for a moment, seeking amusement as she often does, finding it in that perplexed expression of Erik as she vanished back to her dimension.
Grim was being the mischievous one, giving Erik a bit of a scare with a simple tap on the shoulder, trying to stifle his laughter as Erik was less than impressed. Was heartwarming how they shared a moment in each others arms, Grim reassuring Erik with his words and presence. Was nice to hear that Sissel had been accepted into the college of mages , soon to be far away from her sister, with a letter from Grim she was sure to make an impression on the arch-mage. It was also nice to see Akrioh and Serana having some fun, Serana accepting that offer of a dance. That reaction of Karliah to Grim's complement and the blush of Grim's cheeks afterwards made me chuckle. Was touching to see Grim spend some time with those who raised him, Marissa teasing him a little about his shout to draw her attention, Velufr trying to hide the emotions he felt as Grim hugged him, being the grizzled old warrior that he is.
Ambrosia sure made quite the impression, with many wanting to learn about the mysterious warrior. Was nice to catch a glimpse of Avrein again as well. Was interesting to see Frigga and Isaac make an appearance as well though they stepped into the main hall only for a moment before buying some beds, fit well with their nature as thieves. It is good that Dannee was there to keep Sam from getting too carried away, Hircine did not have to worry too much with her there as a guest. Was really great how you wrote about Erik's meeting with Edrelle and her friends, them making a bit of a surprising appearance around Erik, Honey Stripes apologizing for that bit of trickery with a grin, that is very much like her. I like how you had Sissel come over, Edrelle was surely happy about her news. Those thoughts of Erik on why Grim admired her and how he warmed up to her sense of humor, that description of her, put a big smile on my face.
Was cute how Sofie was so excited at having met some of the guests of the party, a experience quite different from hearing about them from Dannee or other in her unusual family, she found quite the friend in Wolfgar and I am sure he appreciate her attention. Was good to see that closeness of Farkas and Nadja, both far from the worries of the dangerous realm in which they live, the drink making the usually not very talkative Farkas bolder. I liked those teasing words Grim had for Sam as the party winded down, congratulating him for a party without casualties. It is wonderful how you brought in all those guests, some familiar and other less so, each taking part in the celebration in their very own way, the work you put into doing so really shows. An excellent chapter about a party few will forget, Jonathan
It was fun to have guests coming and going all night, a few very quickly as you noted with Synnassa. Erik played the crowd and was always on the go - meeting folks, passing out drinks, and making sure everyone was happy and getting along. Pretty much his nature over all. I think he was a little drunk, and over-tired, at the end when he let his attention focus on Farkas, a youthful crush he had. Grim enjoyed teasing him, especially since Erik has given Grim some hard times over Losti, Avrein, and Arnbjorn.
Also glad you enjoyed the family moments. Grim has an unusual family and lately most of his family contact has been on the divine side - Hircine, Fenrir, Kyne, and Sam. So thought it would be nice for him to touch base with his mortal side (especially since he is closer to being mortal now than divine).
I am always nervous writing other characters (which is why I used dialogue sparingly) but I tried to recall how your characters act when they visit a village they know ... and to remember how Edrelle is - she seems to have a quiet confidence about her that I like.
So relieved you enjoyed it my friend! Thanks again for the comment and for helping out with your shots of Edrelle and friends!
Awesome!!!!
I loved how Mralki decided to take everything a some sort of surreal dream to avoid thinking of how this was even possible to bring all people here... besides ever changing inn of his sure add to eerie atmosphere! Sam however took everything with humor even asking to call him by that name, while not forgetting to get drunk of course, lol. Thankfully Dannee was there to hold him from throwing another crazy drinking contest! It was very heartwarming to see them and little bit from Sofie's point of view... she sure was happy to attend and et most interesting people and got a great moments of meeting Wolfgar and Grunt!
It was very cool to see many familiar faces, like Death Dealer, Nadja and Farkas, Ambrosia (she looked stunning in her dress) and Stragon, Rathe and Varg... I know not everyone who attended to party but I would sure take a look on stories of the guests I don't know.
This was very heartwarming chapter and you EPIC work with images! I can only imagine how long it took to make such party happen! Thank you very much for sharing your awesome work and it was such a pleasure to take part in it!
I also tried to write Sofie as close as I could to how you present her. It was a nice way to highlight some aspects of the story from a different perspective. Being a big party I wanted to move around a lot - from person to person as well as actually having people moving around in location.
Fully enjoyed all the images you sent me and they worked out great for the party, thanks again for the help and comment!