Skyrim
Grim Tales - Saarthal Recovery - Fenrir Unbound Book III - Chapter 9 P4

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34 comments

  1. AnnaMary
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    (*O*) Fantastic tales!!!=))))) I'm afraid - I would couldn't convey all my admiration from your great Mastery even in their native language...   
    1. wolfgrimdark
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      No worries AnnaMary - thank you for checking out my story and images and your kind comment!
  2. aok
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    Fantastic! I was wondering what Erik's reaction would be to the "New pack member" It was good that he heard the whole story. I don't blame him for being wary, but in time I'm sure he will learn to trust him.
    Brilliant work!
    1. wolfgrimdark
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      Thanks Aok! For now they will have a working relationship with a bit of mixed feelings towards each other. Time will tell how they end up getting along in the end
  3. AaronOfMpls
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    Hmm, a good epilogue! I see Collette had a bit of help when healing Avrein and Grim.

    As Jess mentioned, Erik seems to have matured as an adventurer. I can't help but wonder, though, what might happen to those rebuilding efforts if Winterhold changes hands in the war.

    Erik's reluctance to trust Avrein is only natural, as is his initial anger at Grim sharing his beast blood. Still, it seems he's getting past it, since he does trust Grim and Wolfgar. Looks like dinner turned out all right, anyway, after they got through that initial high tension (and had a lot to drink ). I don't know if Erik and Avrein will ever really become friends, but I wouldn't be surprised to see some mutual respect grow in their mission to Labyrinthian. (And Erik and Avrein both look good in their new armor.)

    Anyway, nicely done, both pics and story! And have fun in DAI -- we'll still be here when you get back.

    (I know what you mean about playing other games for a while. I recently started playing Oblivion, and I've had a few story ideas for that pop into my head after exploring the Alternative Beginnings mod (by the same author as Alternate Start for Skyrim). Who knows, I may even get into Morrowind again sometime. )
    1. wolfgrimdark
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      Thanks for the comment Aaron! I am not sure how the rebuilding will be with the Civil War. From a meta-view I am using a mod that slowly rebuilds the city so that fit nicely into my story. Grim still hasn't picked a side yet when it comes to the war. Fenrir is a Wolf of the North so there are strong leanings for Skyrim ... but he also represents all life even if his focus is on the north areas. So I suspect Grim will side with the imperials in the end.

      Avrein just needs some time and support while he transitions and works through things. I think after a while he will become less dependent on Grim (and the group) and will get back much of his original confidence and strength. He has always been a very strong person just it got shattered so he needs to rebuild. Grim is doing what he can to lend him support during the process. When he gets himself back together he may decide to seek his own fortune. Will have to see.

      I have a hard time going backwards with any game series. After FNV I tried to play FO3 and had a very hard time getting into it. Sometimes going backwards offers more - usually in game mechanics - I much prefer Morrowind for mechanics. The current trend is to keep making games more stupid - removing more and more RPG aspects that we use to have to build and make characters. Guess it appeals to the masses who seem to like things simple and easy. When I level up a character I want lots of things to think about and many different stats to adjust. In DAI you don't even get stats - Skyrim is pretty dumbed down now with just health, mana, and stamina assignment and the simplified magic and other things. But DAI took it a step further.

      Current trend seems to be that every build must be very restricted for "balance" so you end up with everyone really being the same with just some added "flavor". Hate it completely. I could care less if some builds are weak/strong that is part of the fun. Just like in life. Really dislike the current trend to remove all options on creating a character.

      Lol bit of a rant ... pet peeve of mine. Anyhow while I love past game mechanics I struggle with the old graphics.
  4. deleted1123719
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    A very nice wrap up to Sarthaal and transition into the next adventure for the staff of Magnus and freedom for Fenrir’s bound soul. As usual, your images were beautiful and captured the flow of the story perfectly.

    Loved the reunion between Grim and Wolfgar; very moving hon. I think you must have experienced a reunion (or two) with a furry friend in your time! Nice that Erik helped Haran and Dagur at the Inn while Grim recovered, his past growing up in Roriksted must’ve come in handy pouring ale for thirsty customers! But very kind to help them out, they who in turn helped Grim and co so very well.

    Ugh, I can only imagine how tense that first meal must’ve been between Grim, Erik and Av… each eyeing the other over pitchers of ale, Erik eyeballing Av and Av’s own cool gaze kept firmly on his plate. If only the men could see things as simply as Wolfgar!

    Oh that line just gave me chills; “Erik stopped to take a swipe of ale and then looked at Grim pointedly and said, “Imagine my surprise when I was wiping the blood from Avrein’s mouth and I felt a tingle against my skin. A quick taste confirmed my suspicion; it was your blood in his mouth.” ” – yikes!!! Busted! I truly felt Erik’s pain at the apparent ‘betrayal’ and was a little stung by Grim’s admonishment that he hear ‘all sides of the story’ before getting huffy. I think Erik had every right to be grumpy! At least Grim recognized Erik’s distress enough to implore that Erik just be patient and keep his faith until all the story came to light.

    Nice little shared laugh over “Me and Faralda could manage to move Avrein but moving your fat ass takes a small army.”

    I like that Erik is beginning to feel like his own man with the Winterhold project and new found responsibilities. I don’t think he had any reason to feel guilty about his initial reactions to Av; I’d have felt exactly the same… Grim’s blood was on Av’s lips for the Gods’ sakes!! Ah, don’t mind me. I’m too hard on Av. I know he’s your new bae but I’ve never liked him and doubt I ever will (think it’s just because he’s a third wheel and I’m protective of Erik and Grim). I do feel sorry for him; not sure where he stands after betraying both his sister and Grim (at least initially). It’ll be a hard thing to reconcile I guess, added to by his new beast blood which in some ways is a betrayal to his ‘race’. I think Erik ultimately accepted Av too soon (however, knowing his cheerful, carefree nature I can’t say I’m surprised… not to mention the influence of the wine). I guess I’d like to have seen a little more tension in their triangle before acceptance. At least I get the feeling Erik, while ACCEPTING Av, doesn’t yet fully TRUST him… and will be keeping an eye on the elf.

    And so the duo becomes a trio (or quad with Wolfgar)! Onward to Labyrinthian… I hope you get the time to continue their tale while playing DAI… it’ll be tough juggling the two I suspect but your devotion to Grim will keep niggling at you to write, and write, and write I suspect!!
    1. wolfgrimdark
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      Thanks for the great feedback Jess and it echoes some of my own thoughts. I took so long on this chapter for just the reasons you mentioned - tension among the three. While I don't dislike Avrein, of course, I also know it would have been much better to drag out the tension a lot longer - possibly all the way up to the ending with Fenrir and then maybe had some form of acceptance then ... perhaps because of something Avrein does to help out.

      However I went with a much shorter version for two reasons. First is the time and energy. It takes a lot of effort to handle a triangle like that in regards to writing (for me at least as I tend to prefer harmony so I am working against my self). Second while it was short there are a few special circumstances. The mind meld and the fact that Fenrir himself has blessed Avrein as far as being trustworthy; that Avrein did risk everything to save not only Grim, Fenrir, and Tolfdir but Skyrim and possibly Tamriel/Mundus as well. He really sacrificed a lot and I don't think Erik, being a good soul, would be overly viscous or hostile towards him once he realized all that. Now if Avrein were to make a move on Grim, or do anything that might suggest he is second guessing his decision, then all bets would be off.

      Also I haven't completely removed the tension - Erik is accepting Avrein mainly on Grim's behalf and his trust of Grim. That is different than Erik accepting Avrein on his own directly. In other words Erik is willing to give him support, be nice, and avoid any fighting or issues during the current mission, as the mission is far more important than any relationship quandaries, but once the mission is over ... then things may be different.

      From my ow perspective I am doubtful Avrein will stick around afterwards (some of that will depend on how I like having another follower). I suspect he will remain friends but once he fully accepts his new found freedom and liberation I expect he may pursue his own interests and it will be back to Grim, Erik, and Wolfgar ... as those three are really my main team. But for now Avrein is needed and Grim, story wise, feels he owes Avrein at least some company and guidance considering all he gave up plus the beast blood issue.

      I am glad you read it and gave me the feedback - as I said something on my mind as well. In a book, where I am writing hundreds of pages and want to have lots of tension, I would have totally turned it into a long drawn out situation lasting many chapters.

      I already miss Grim, Erik, and Wolfgar actually - so I suspect I will be starting their next story over thanksgiving break at the end of the month when I have a big chunk of time off.
  5. larsaryl
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    Wonderful ending of the Saarthal story. Grim and others enjoy some peace and quiet after their very hectic and dangerous adventure. Wolfgar was absolutely adorable and cuddly. He reminded me of our own dog Asta. She is exactly the same.
    It's nice to see how Erik is slowly changing. It seems to me that he's more confident in himself and his abilities. Tensions between Arvein and Erik were understandable. I would be very surprised if Erik was not suspicious. Arvein was their enemy after all. I hope Arvein can overcome his grief and pain over what happened. He lost all his family. But it could not have turned out differently. And I think he knows this. His comments on Grim and Eric when they labeled Hircine and Sanquin as drinking buddies was hilarious.
    As always, reading your story was very enjoyable.
    I look forward to more.
    1. wolfgrimdark
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      Many thanks for the nice comment Larsaryl! What type of dog is Asta? I love my dog - he is my main company in life and we do as much as possible together. I use him for much of my inspiration when I write Wolfgar. It does make Wolfgar more "doggish" but then Wolfgar is not your typical wolf either. He tends to be a bit warmer and softer - it is just how he was raised and part of his personality.

      Erik is maturing ... something I have wanted to show as he progresses though my stories. It is part of his mod after all *grin*. He is being exposed to a lot (adventure, fighting, princes, gods, monsters, and more) and learning a lot so his experience is really aging him mentally. He is is own man and very capable at this point.

      Glad you enjoyed the way I handled Erik and Avrein's situation and I tried to put some real thought into how it would work. Erik is protective and Avrein has been through hell so there is a lot going on there. Also I think Erik and Grim forget that they have had a lot of exposure to many Princes in a very direct manner, as well as the Aedra Kyne and Dibella, so they are a bit more casual about it. I wanted to show that this is not the norm and hence Avrein's reaction.

      Thanks again for the comment! I have one more story already done which I hope to post tonight once I get the images added and the proofing done.
    2. larsaryl
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      Asta is a german hound. She is full of life and love for our whole family. She was the cutest puppy in the world. As soon as we saw her, it was clear that we had found a new family member. We have a large plot of land which is absolutely ideal for a hunting dog. We found her in a shelter. She immediately ran over to us and allowed us to caress her. It was love at first sight. She even likes and our cat.
      So your love for dogs I totally understand.
    3. wolfgrimdark
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      Appreciate you responding and a rescue is always extra special. My Grim is a German shepherd and a true joy to me. Thank you for sharing a little about Asta - she sounds very sweet!
    4. larsaryl
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      Oh, a German shepherd. That I completely understand. My father coached two German shepherds, when he was in the army. He always said they were the best dogs in the world. Their names were Eros and Alf. Both were extremely loyal and totally reliable. He always remembers them with love. We never had any at home. I think my father thought that he could not love another as those two. His dream is to have an Irish wolfhound.
      So on his sixtieth birthday he gets from the family a little puppy. We really hope he will like it. Although I think that he already suspects something.
    5. wolfgrimdark
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      Awesome names, Eros and Alf. It can be hard to lose a dog as I have lost two. But I can envision my life without one so I just deal with the loss and move on. I hope the puppy works out with your father :-)
    6. larsaryl
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      Thanks. I am confident that it goes well.
  6. derek98
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    Great chapter Jon, nice to see the lighter side of the gang's life! Poor Erik, trying to keep up with the 'big boys' in the drinking stakes and failing! We've all been there I think.
    1. wolfgrimdark
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      Thanks Derek! Erik isn't used to fancy drinks like Snowberry Wine and it went to his head rather quickly. I think all of them over-indulged as they all needed a break
  7. Kamikazekossori
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    Wolfgar was sure enthusiastic as a pup when Grim woke, him unable to fight back against his wet kisses, was quite the cute moment especially with those images Wolfgar sent to Grim, those sights that make him happy. It is nice how Wolfgar was so protective of Grim, making sure his wolf brother was well cared for, keeping most away. Was amusing how Grim teased Haran as she brought in that food, her doing quite the job in countering his teasing with her own, laughing as she told him she was just teasing. It is wise for Haran despite her curiosity to not pry too much into what Grim was up to, better that she not know some of what they faced. Seems Haran saw Avrein in the same way as Grim did, I guess working in an inn does teach one a bit about reading people. Grim is indeed fortunate to have such friend as Haran and Dagur, them being such help and not asking anything in return, they are kind sorts even in that harsh place that Winterhold can be.

    I like how you described Wolfgar's view of the situation with Avrein, him being part of the pack since he helped, I wonder what way he will find to figure out their positions in the pack. Made me chuckle how Wolfgar interrupted the tale as he heard his name, he was acting like quite the boastful sort at keeping his wolf brother safe. There sure was a little tension as Erik told the tale, with him having many unanswered questions about Avrein, Grim sharing his gift did not seem to help things even when he explained. I like how Avrein explained himself, that he was not asking for that gift but that he wanted to survive to undo some of the harm he had done, that seemed to win him points with Erik. It is good that Erik began to understand what Avrein had given up to help Grim. That mention of a small army needing to carry Grim out was amusing, hard to stifle a laugh at that. Was nice that pride Grim had in what Erik had been up to, the way he helped the city, sharing those kind words with him. Also have to say it was lovely how so many came to Grim's aid, he is lucky to have many who care for him.

    Avrein sure seemed uncertain about Grim's offer for him to join them even though he knew he did not really have anywhere else to turn, his trust in himself shaken, good that Erik welcomed him into the odd pack in the end. Seems Avrein did have an easy time tricking that Ancano, his arrogance does making him one easy to fool, especially when given some authority. I liked Avrein's curiosity about wandering with the pack, might teach him a few things.

    I like how you described those memories that the aftermath of the previous nights drinking had woken, thoughts of the bard whom he loved, a touching glimpse. I do like Avrein's sense of humor with his question as they set out, Erik trying to stifle is laughter, I think Grim is right that their trip was going to be a fun one. That family moment had a lovely warmth to it, that return to a peaceful place among the dangers of those lands. A fantastic chapter, Jonathan ^^
    1. wolfgrimdark
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      Been a very busy day so apologies on responding to your comment so late - as I very much appreciated the time you took to read and give me some feedback on the story. It is very much appreciated and I always look forward to what you have to say - whether it be long or short!

      As you saw this was a much more light-hearted story, inspired partly by some of the easy going and casual nature of your own stories with Edrelle. Like Edrelle, Grim has his own group of friends who appreciate who he is as a person and go out of there way to support and watch out for him. Good thing to as he often finds himself in over his head - much as he likes to think of himself as a lone wolf he does much better in a pack.

      Wolfgar was a show stealer in this story but then it might be because he was the only practical one. For him the pack hierarchy is a bit more straight forward ... although I suspect even in the animal kingdom it is not always as "simple" as humans make it out to be. Animals can have their own complex set of rules of behaviors from what I have read.

      Glad you liked how I handled Avrein with Erik as that was a tricky situation to write about and one of the reasons I held off writing this chapter for so long. I spent a lot of time working out both personalities in my head and the merged that with everything I had written earlier so that it would hopefully be believable and make sense.

      Also pleased you enjoyed the humor I tried to interject. Grim tends to have a rowdy, friendly, and robust sense of humor if a bit coarse at times. Erik has a shy humor that tends to be more about practical things and Avrein is more dry and sarcastic.

      So now the three are off to get the Key, find the Staff, and see if they can save the big Wolf! Thanks again for writing and sharing your thoughts on the story Alexi!
  8. Nataly1q2w3e4r5t
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    This is awesome conclusion to Saarthal story, so wonderfully written, filled with lighthearted atmosphere, a welcome change from dangerous and haunting atmosphere that was present all the time during Grim's ordeal. Great shots too, fitting to cozy atmosphere, with lads finally having a bit of rest and fun in the inn.

    Wolfgar was totally adorable with his joy and happiness now that he and Grim have been reunited! I've chuckle while reading about their wrestling match. I love that there are many fun and light moments in this chapter, like Haran taking care of Grim and then telling him to stuff his gold where sun doesn't shine, lol. And him calling her a mother was funny too... it is clear that she liked to take care of him.

    Erik is becoming more and more confident in himself and his abilities, taking care to ask Jarl to start the repair of Winterhold, along with giving hi of what he asked for, gaining a respect and support in process. Avrein seems to me as more introverted type by nature, unlike Erik s it was not surprising he chose to do a research while Grim was recovering.

    It was one great flashback of how lads were tended back into health. Clearly Kynareth's blessing was with Collette all along and with Faralda too, since there is no way they could perform so good without a help. I shudder to think of how badly injured or maimed Grim could remain or Avrein falling dad, since even with such help, a delay could cost his life. Also great news that Toldfir is fine too! I always liked him. and Erik once again called Grim fat, lol. He is not fat, he is just very big and has a lot of muscles, which weight more then just fat.

    And in present time, like I guessed there was a lot of tension between Erik and Avrein, at least at first. Erik is right about Avrein being very handsome yet it has nothing to do with Grim's decision to accept him into pack... even give him his blood. Of course for Erik it sounded offending at first, but sadly he did not see what Grim has seen while being tied to Avrein with memory spell. Maybe Avrein addition to the team and his adjustment there is not going to be easy but he clearly deserved such chance, being already ex Thalmor... His new information about the Staff of Magnus was very valuable and it is clear that he tried to be useful... also distracting himself from recent events which turned his life upside down... And I definitely think he should have killed Ancano! Sadly such maniacs as Ancano are unpredictable and it would be too dangerous to let him walk freely,... sadly he lives and luckily lads have few weeks before Thalmor agents will start to search for Domina...

    also i loved another light moment when Avrein called on boys for being disrespectful towards Hircine, calling him an Old Wolfie, lol. I guess their revelations about their interactions with Daedric Princes was shocking info and if Avrein continues to travel with boys I bet he will never view his life as dull. And they still have much to do, though their little party served perfectly as respite. I did not know Avrein could play flute and that he played for his mother... guess that information about Domina taking had in her demise makes his decision of killing his sister more justified aside from world saving...
    I will be looking forward for continuation and thank you very much for sharing your wonderful work!
    1. wolfgrimdark
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      Many thanks for this wonderful comment Nataly. I was thinking this lighter, warmer, story would be a nice break for everyone after so many intense chapters and stories. I knew I needed a break and some time to just relax with my "pack" as it were.

      As I mentioned in another comment I wrote Wolfgar based on my own interactions with my dog. I altered it a bit, of course, but I felt doing this would make it seem a lot more "real" and believable. I wrestle with my own dog (who is also named Grim although his full name is Grimwolf versus Grimulfr from my stories).

      Some innkeepers are nasty and mean (like the ones in Markarth) or sleazy (like Helgea) or cheap and miserly (Keevara) but I always like these two. Haran seem very genuine and friendly with always something nice to say. So I expanded on that and gave her a somewhat protective attitude towards Grim. I find it amusing as he is 8'3" tall, weighs over 300 pounds, is a werewolf, a deadly fighter, and part divine ... and here she is mothering him. It made me smile to think about it.

      Erik is his own man now. He is still young though - somethings only age can teach. I wanted to stress that as he should not be acting like a jealous teenager towards Grim ... if he does truly trust Grim like he says he does. He should be suspicious and cautious over Avrein, who was a Thalmor and did pretend to be Grims friend at first, yet it needed to be tempered by what Grim and Wolfgar told him. So I tried to balance the whole conversation with that in mind.

      Erik is an extrovert and very outgoing and people friendly - partly from his life in the tavern and partly just his bright and noble soul. Another reason he should be willing to give Avrein a chance. Avrein is very confident, arrogant, and introverted. He tends to be withdrawn and slightly aloof as he was taught to not show emotion. But buried down deep he has some very passionate feelings that he is only just now becoming aware of ... and struggling to deal with.

      Kyne was indeed following Faralda and Collette. She can't act directly but with Collette as a conduit for magical energy she was able to really boost her strength to levels that no normal healer could ever hope to achieve. It was one of the few times Kyne was really able to help her grandson (besides the earrings and Moira which wasn't as much about Grim as it was about Sam and Moria).

      Aye Grim's feelings towards Avrein are mainly freindship based although he does find him handsome. Grim sees him more as a valuable friend and addition to his pack which is why he is helping. There seems to be a bit more attraction between Avrein and Erik ... at least that night.

      As I told Lia killing Ancano would have been to risky as it would have alerted the Thalmor. Sadly you are correct though - that skeever-snake is unpredictable and they may regret what happened later. Still they did not want to worry about a horde of Thalmor after them on their mission so maybe it balances out. They will have enough to worry about in the Labrythian. There Grim may finally see Fenrirs true form as well as get the key the staff. Then its back to the College and what awaits there.

      When I can I also want to show a little bit of Avreins path and playing music, even if not all that well, seemed a fitting past time for a quiet lad like Avrein. Thanks again for the comment and glad you enjoyed the story!
  9. gmg2dave
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    Great entry Grim, this one had me chuckling all the way through. From Wolfgar's puppy dog exuberance at seeing Grim awake (he really stole this one BTW), to Haran's treatment of him, (obviously someone in need of her to look after), and Erik and Avrain's reaction to their new situation, and each other, (and a lot of wine to help ease the transition). Lots of fun to read.

    And I really like Avrein's new armor, as it happens to be a favorite of mine as well. Was going to suggest the evil mastermind armor for him, but I think this one suites him just fine.

    I do have one question though, what mod do you use to change the appearance of the folks from the College? It looks really good, and I like the changes that it makes.
    1. wolfgrimdark
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      Many thanks Gmg2Dave for the comment, always appreciate the comments a lot! I was very relaxed writing this story and in a good mood so I think the humor came easier and more naturally. Plus Grim is over all just one of those positive people - the kind you often hate when you are in a bad mood and get greeted by super cheerful ... luckily Grim is also quiet around strangers so only his friends have to put up with his good cheer ... and usually only outdoors as it is his link to nature that makes him feel good.

      Grim planned the wine hoping it would break down some barriers and make things easier to talk. It could have backfired but luckily things worked out pretty well. Glad you enjoyed the armor, the story, the images, and the humor

      For the college well I don't have a mod that directly changes the NPC's as far as I know. I have mods that add new students to the college and I have mods for hair and head/body textures which would change their looks to some degree. I also have many mods that change clothes which would give their outfits a new look. Lastly I tend to use some extreme ENB presets that can really adjust color and shadows on characters so I suspect it was all those things that made them look different.
  10. Gwanuneg
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    Excellent work, as always
    1. wolfgrimdark
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      Woot, thank you Gwanuneg :-)