The Story of Iriisii Dovahkiin Book Three - Chapter Two

                                                  The Story of Iriisii Dovahkiin                                               

                                                     Book Three Chapter Two

     Iriisii wakes with the light of the sun shining across the covers. At first, she thinks she is in Cyrodiil, and looks over to her side to see if Rigmor is still asleep. Reality comes to the fore in that moment and a single tear falls to the pillow. She quietly says to herself, 'Be strong, my love. I will see you again. I promise this on the very love that courses through me each time I think of you.'

     She rises up and greets the new day, different as it is from Cyrodiil, still, it is hers to make what she will of it. As one of the Daedra to whom she is Champion to tells her, "As you will it, so make it be!". Words that seem to be prophetic, as they have guided her through so many trials. She knows in her heart that she does not agree with all that Boethiah stands for, but there is still wisdom in some of her words if one will but look for it in them.

     Iriisii: 'Time to break the morning fast. I do hope the food this morning is as good as it was last night, she thinks as she dresses in something less conspicuous for walking around the town. The noise is a great deal less in volume as she walks down the stairs, surveying the main floor to see who is up and who may still be sleeping.

     Iriisii: "Zoltan, a good morning to you!"

     Zoltan: "And to you, Iriisii. Can I interest you in some eggs and bacon, the biscuits are not yet ready, but when they are, there is some soft butter and the most wonderful fruit spread to put on them!"

     Iriisii: "Did you cook this yourself?"

     Zoltan: "Aye, milady, in honor of your first morning in our humble establishment."

     Iriisii: "Being able to lay a feast like this, I am surprised some lady dwarf has not snatched you up and dragged you to the nearest altar!"

     Zoltan: "I cannot say that it hasn't been tried. I guess I am just too set in my ways for a lady to set up house with me."

     Iriisii: "Please do not worry over it for my sake. It is enough that you be true to yourself. That is all that can be reasonably expected of anyone. Some are not suited to family life, with a wife and children, that does not mean that their life is any less honored and of value for not following that path. Good friends can be just as fulfilling in life if you have friends like the ones I have met so far."

     Zoltan: "Wise words, milady. Wise words indeed. And now your morning repast is ready!"

     The room slowly fills as the smell of fresh cooking eggs, bacon, and biscuits fills the air and draws the others down from their beds. The conversation drifts over to the concert tonight with Priscilla the star performer and who is going to be Iriisii's escort for the evening. Names are batted back and forth, and one at a time are tossed to the side until only two remain. The debate continues with neither getting enough support to oust the other from contention. Zoltan has had enough and slams a tankard on the table to get everyone's attention.

     Zoltan: "Alright, it looks like I will have to settle this. The two names you have are fine people, no doubt in my mind, but you need someone who can act like they belong on this fine lady's arm, standing next to her, daring anyone to think otherwise. Someone who is at home just about anywhere in any situation, and has the sense to wear something that doesn't look like it was dragged in after a dog shite on it!"

     Geralt: "Well, who do you think can do all of that?"

     Zoltan: "Elihal!"

     Geralt coughs into his drink, while Dandelion sits thinking about why he did not think of him first. Triss stops talking and then smiles as she visualizes in her mind how the two would look together. Yennefer just looks like, 'Just who is this Elihal person anyway'.

     Zoltan with a big grin says, "Looks like it is settled then! The next question is who is going to take her to meet him. He is going to need to meet her before he will agree."

     Dandelion says, "I will, I know him best of everyone here, so it should be me."

     Iriisii makes her decision before anyone else has a chance to say anything else.

     Iriisii: "Well then, Master Dandelion, shall we be on our way then. And I would so like to thank everyone here for all of the thought and concern that went into your choices. I appreciate all of the effort you have gone to, for someone you have barely met. Thank you, so very, very much. Master Dandelion, if you please. Oh Yennefer, do you think I should take the two dresses I have to see if he thinks they are suitable."

     Yennefer breathes a sigh of relief, having seen just how heartstopping she would look in either of the two dresses she has with her, "Indeed I do think you should. At the very least, it would give him something to use to pick a color that will blend properly."

     Triss wonders just what has come over Yennefer, never has she seen her this accommodating about anyone other than herself. She remembers seeing her go into Iriisii's room last night and now wonders just what happened in there last night. Then she thinks, no, best not to go there unless there is evidence, and likely better to just drop the whole thing.

     Dandelion and Iriisii are at the steps to Elihal's shop when Dandelion stops and asks Iriisii to let him enter first. Iriisii starts to ask if there might be a problem when the door opens and Elihal politely asks the two to enter. After they all sit and Dandelion explains what they need.

     Elihal just waves his hand at Dandelion and says, "Dandelion do you honestly think to walk in here with such a 'vision of perfection' as this, I am sorry but 'Lady' is too crass a word to adequately describe her, but I honestly do not know of a word that would do her justice. So please do not think ill of me for my lacking words."

     Iriisii: "Master Elihal, I would no sooner think ill of you than I would think ill of Master Dandelion for bringing me here. It is obvious to me, looking at what you have on display, that you are indeed a Master Clothier and just the man we need."

     Elihal: "Honestly, tell me Dandelion, just where did you find her. You cannot tell me she just dropped into your cabaret out of the sky! She is obviously of such high quality that she cannot be from around here."

     Iriisii: "Please forgive me for being blunt but, Master Dandelion, would you trust him with the truth?"

     Dandelion stops and thinks for a few seconds before replying, "Yes, I would trust him with my life."

     Iriisii then proceeds to regale him with the story of what happened when she ended up in Dandelion's cabaret.

     Elihal: "Please tell Zoltan that I owe him a huge debt for his recommendation and yes, I would love to escort you to Miss Pricilla's concert tonight. Now you said you had a couple of dresses with you to see what I may be able to do with matching colors. There is a dressing screen in the next room you can use for changing into one of them, if you would like to."

     Iriisii: "Of course and thank you for your courtesy in listening to my story."

     Elihal: "Please think nothing of it. I know it has to be true, just from the look I saw across Dandelion's face when you asked him that question. Now please, I am dying to see how those dresses look on you."

     Iriisii crosses over to the next room and walks behind the screen. Changing into one of the two dresses, she completes the outfit with low shoes and 'butterfly' earrings. As she walks back into the room with Elihal and Dandelion, the conversation between them comes to an abrupt halt, and both of them are scrambling to pick their jaws up off of the floor. 

     Iriisii: "Do you think this may be too plain?"

     Elihal surges to his feet, "Please do not give it a second thought, your Majesty. There is positively no way I could improve on this, even if I wanted to try, I would be so afraid of mucking it up. You need only wear this exactly as you are now. I think I may have something that I could wear that will complement what you have and at the same time draw everyone's gaze to you. I have to say that I totally believe now that you did indeed drop down from the heavens.

     Iriisii: "Now you are flattering me, Master Elihal."

     Elihal: "No, I am not, Your Majesty, there is no amount of flattery in this world that can do justice to you, but I am damn sure going to try. Dandelion, I will meet you at the cabaret well before the concert and bring my cosmetic case with me. May I suggest that you arrange a carriage to transport everyone to the concert? That would be more in keeping with the image we are going to portray this evening. Oh, this is going to set this town on fire tonight, I can hardly wait!"

     Later that day, Elihal shows up at the cabaret with his clothes and his cosmetics box. He is taken to Iriisii's room where he sets up his supplies to begin the work of applying cosmetics to Iriisii's face.

     Elihal: "The main thing to take away from all of this is, 'less is more'. I know it sounds crazy but the less of cosmetics you use, provided you use them correctly, the greater the overall effect can be. Now with your skin color, the shape of your face, eyes, nose, mouth, chin, and cheeks, all of this works together to determine how other people see you. By applying cosmetics correctly, you can decide what you want their eyes to see when they look at you.

     You really don't need much, but the color is vitally important. It must not clash with the color of the dress you will wear or overpower it. It is better if any coloring that is added should subtly enhance what you already have. Adding some color in small amounts to add to what you are wearing makes people look at you as a whole picture rather than a collection of pieces. Now look at your face in the small mirror."

     Iriisii does as he asks and almost gasps at the change she sees in her appearance. She sees exactly what he was talking about. There are still spots that she knows are there, but somehow she doesn't notice them as much anymore thus changing how she reacts to what she sees in the mirror. 

     Elihal: "You see what I was saying now. You still have the same face you had before, but now you see it differently. Now look at yourself in the long mirror and see the total effect."

     She moves in front of the long mirror and cannot help but stare at herself. It is almost like looking at a different person inside the mirror.

     Elihal: "You see what everything together has done to change how you see yourself, how everyone else will see you tonight! Honestly, if Pricilla is not on top of her game tonight, it is entirely possible you will end up stealing the show! And now I must prepare myself so that the way I look will add to your mystique. Somehow, I feel that tonight, you will give this town a show that it has never seen in its entire life!"

     Iriisii looking at her new reflection in the mirror thinks, "My love if only you could see me now, what would you be thinking? I think we could enjoy ourselves even more by using these teachings to make ourselves even more attractive to each other. The fun we would have, learning how to enhance what the Gods have blessed us with.

     I am happy with learning anything that will bring us closer together, love each other more, have more pride in each other, but most of all be happy in each other's accomplishments no matter if they are big or small. I love you, Rigmor, my soul, my heart, all that I belong to you! Thank you for being my love, healing me, making me laugh, dancing with me under the stars!'

                                                                * 

      As the carriage stops in front of the Kingfisher Inn and lets Dandelion's party out, everyone files out until Elihal steps out and offers a guiding hand to Iriisii. As she steps to the street and stands up, the intake of breath from the passersby is quite audible. Dandelion and Elihal smile at the people's reaction, seeing it as a portent of what the night is about to bring.

     Elihal: "My lady, the people are already stunned by your appearance and we have not even made it inside yet. This is going to be a night to remember. You must be certain to tell your Rigmor about this when you return home. I am certain she will enjoy the tale very much."

     Iriisii: "Why, my dear Elihal, it seems you must know her well already, if it were possible, she would not miss this for all of the gold in the Imperial treasury. She would readily admit, that when she was younger, she was something of a 'Wild Child'."

     Elihal: "I love her already and have not even had the pleasure to meet her."

     Iriisii: "High praise indeed, and she would take to you like the older brother she never had. This I promise you is the unvarnished truth. Now let us see if Master Dandelion has procured some good seats for us."

     As they enter the Kingfisher and make their way to the seats Master Dandelion is holding for them, every eye in the entire place follows them. The voices become subdued and the people are quietly abuzz with questions about who it is that has come in with Dandelion. They sit and make themselves comfortable, or in Geralt's case as comfortable as possible in the suit that Triss picked out for him. You could almost hear him muttering about the collar being too tight around his neck.

      A waitress wastes no time coming over and asking if they would like anything. Iriisii lets Elihal order for her as she smiles and nods her head at his selection. The waitress hurries to the bar to give the order to the bartender and immediately gets mobbed with questions about the party, specifically about the 'angelic lady' and her equally devastating escort. Everyone commented on how the colors on her all seem to blend into a harmonious hue, that seems to cling to her in all of the right places to 'suggest', without revealing anything. And the women exclaim about how the suit her escort is wearing catches and portrays him as if he walked out of a dream.

     After a few minutes, the waitress arrives with their drinks, and Elihal carefully takes his and Iriisii's making sure there is no chance of a spill. As more patrons come in to fill all of the seats, still more enter until there is only some standing room left when the owner closes and secures the door to stop the inflow. He then motions to one of his staff to let Priscilla know the crowd is ready.

     Iriisii had been told that Dandelion and Priscilla were seeing each other, but she wondered if Dandelion had told her they would be in the audience tonight. She was preparing to ask him when Priscilla came out and sat on the stool provided for her and started tuning the strings of her mandolin. As she started looking around at the crowd, she spots Dandelion, and a cute, sly grin forms on her face. She sees Triss and Geralt and nods her head in recognition. Then her gaze drifts to Elihal and Iriisii, her hands start to fumble the tuning but she catches it like the professional she is. At this point, she cannot take her eyes off of the pair, trying hard to concentrate on her preparation and leave the questions for later.

     She starts the familiar notes of "The Wolven Storm".

     These scars long have yearned for your tender caress

     To bind our fortunes, damn what the stars own

     Rend my heart open, then your love profess

     A winding, weaving fate to which we both atone

     [Chorus]

     You flee my dream come the morning

     Your scent - berries tart, lilac sweet

     To dream of raven locks entwisted, stormy

     Of violet eyes, glistening as you weep

     [Verse 2]

     The wolf I will follow into the storm

     To find your heart, its passion displaced

     By ire ever growing, hardening into stone

     Amidst the cold to hold you in a heated embrace

     [Chorus]

     You flee my dream come the morning

     Your scent - berries tart, lilac sweet

     To dream of raven locks entwisted, stormy

     Of violet eyes, glistening as you weep

     [Verse 3]

     I know not if fate would have us live as one

     Or if by love's blind chance, we've been bound

     The wish I whispered when it all began

     Did it forge a love you might never have found?

     [Chorus]

     You flee my dream come the morning

     Your scent - berries tart, lilac sweet

     To dream of raven locks entwisted, stormy

     Of violet eyes, glistening as you weep

     As the song closes, the crowd erupts into applause, Priscilla bows and gracefully walks over to Dandelion.

     Quietly so as not to be overheard by the entire floor, "Dandelion, you came! Thank you so very much! Geralt, a pleasure as always, and I cannot thank you enough for all you did after my...accident."

     Geralt: "I only did what needed to be done, for you, the others, and to keep it from happening again."

     Priscilla: "Still, I cannot thank you enough! Triss, I am sorry about the song choice but.."

     Triss: "Please don't worry about it, I understand, you have to please your audience."

     Priscilla: "Even so, thank you for being so understanding. And now Dandelion! Are you not going to make introductions?"

     Dandelion: "Oh, yes, my apologies, I am still caught up in your song!"

     Dandelion looks at Iriisii, who reads the question in his face and nods her head, giving him permission to proceed. Priscilla catches the exchange but says nothing, at least not until she can get Dandelion alone.

     Dandelion: "First may I introduce Elihal."

     Priscilla: "Wait, not 'THE' Elihal. The Elihal who makes all of those absolutely wonderful clothes!"

     Elihal: "Guilty as charged, my dear. But I must say my efforts at clothing cannot stand to the excellence of your performance."

     Priscilla: "Oh, you are indeed everything that Dandelion says about you. And I will accept your compliment anytime. But please who is this truly stunning woman on your arm?"

     Elihal saves Dandelion from making the introduction.

     Elihal: "May I have the pleasure and distinct honor to introduce to you, the Lady Iriisii, Empress of Cyrodiil and the Empire!"

     Priscilla: "Your Majesty, an honor to meet you. If I may inquire where Cyrodiil is?"

     Dandelion starts to attempt to turn the situation, but Iriisii answers before he can.

     Iriisii: "I do not doubt that you have not heard of it before now since it is not in this particular 'sphere' as the mages speak of them, but rather in the 'Sphere' of Mundus, World of Nirn, continent of Tamriel. Triss can confirm my words as can Yennefer who is at Dandelion's cabaret, where he has been gracious enough to provide lodging for the present."

     Priscilla looks at Triss, who slowly nods her head in the affirmative and says, "She is definitely who she says she is, there is no doubt in either mine or Yennefer's mind."

     Priscilla: "Then I owe you an apology, your Majesty."

     Iriisii: "Not in the least, you were right to question my assertion, but now that Triss has confirmed my words all is good. I would like to compliment you on your song, it...brings memories to mind, of a joyful nature, though I do miss her very much. It reminds me of something that happened to us a few years ago that involved a song, it transported me and my Rigmor to such heights that the dawn broke before we came back to ourselves. The only way I could describe it was that it was the purest expression of magic that I have heard, also your song has the potential to do the same if it can connect to the same source the song I heard before did."

     Priscilla sensing the seriousness of Iriisii's words did not question them, but rather asked, "Do you remember the lyrics and the tune. And could you tell me the lyrics and how the tune went?"

     Iriisii: "Of course, I have never forgotten it since then."

     She then repeats the lyrics to Priscilla, word for word, and hums the tune for her.

     Priscilla: "Yes, I can feel it, running through me just from your humming the tune. Can I try and perform it on stage, right now?"

     Iriisii: "Of course, but do not be surprised if the audience starts swaying to the music as you play."

     Priscilla: "Thank you for the song and the warning. I will be certain not to stop if they do that."

     Priscilla moves back on stage and sits back on the stool, announcing that she is going to try a brand new song, just for this audience and that she hopes they like it.

     She begins the opening notes...

   

     When marimba rhythms start to play,

     Dance with me, make me sway.

     Like a lazy ocean hugs the shore,

     Hold me close, sway me more.

     Like a flower bending in the breeze,

     Bend with me, sway with ease.

     When we dance, you have a way with me;

     Stay with me, sway with me.

     Other dancers may be on the floor,

     But my eyes will see only you.

     Only you have that magic technique:

     When we sway, I go weak.

     I can hear the sounds of violins

     Long before it begins.

     Make me thrill as only you know how:

     Sway me smooth, sway me now.

     Other dancers may be on the floor,

     But my eyes will see only you.

     Only you have that magic technique:

     When we sway,…

 

     As the song begins, the effect is almost immediate and electric. The audience is wrapped up in the song, and the magic comes into play, strong and sure. Iriisii feels it slide over her like a well-worn glove, smooth and warm. As some of the audience starts to sway to the music, the magic seems to come even more alive, it pulls Iriisii to the stage. Guiding her up next to Priscilla and moving her to add her voice. As her lower voice combines with Priscilla's soprano, the combination seems to push the power level until all are affected.

     Couples are dancing and swaying all over the room. Then Priscilla stops singing as Iriisii keeps the song going aided by whatever magic is being channeled in this moment. Priscilla goes to Dandelion and they begin swaying to the music with the rest of the audience. Elihal looks around him in awe, almost unable to imagine what is occurring. Then realizes that it must be the magic from Iriisii's homeworld, reacting to her need to be with her lover.

     Then he recognizes that he is hearing the notes of the song, but there is no one playing the mandolin. There is just Iriisii on stage, singing the words to the song, while the magic feeds the music to everyone's ears. And then, he is struck, dumbfounded, as he sees a distinct form coalescing next to Iriisii. As it grows more solid, he sees it is another young woman, shorter, brown hair to Iriisii's purest white, and can it be whip scars across her skin, yes, he knows what they look like, having seen them many times before himself. The other young woman takes Iriisii in her arms as though she has done this many times before, gentle and sure, and they start swaying to the music themselves up on the stage, while the magic continues the show.

     Just before the break of dawn, the magic long since having taken complete control of the night is ready to let everyone go, but it has just one more surprise to give to the people it has come to love in its own way. It has searched through the spheres to find just the one song that expresses what it wants to say in the few minutes before it must release everyone. And so it turns back to Iriisii, she who has become its voice, she whose utter need called to it across the void between the many spheres of existence. She took it in and nurtured it, like her own child, and in a way it became her child, a child of pure magic. This child of magic brought out its new song and gave it to Iriisii to sing it and share it with the people gathered here before it. And so Iriisii, urged by the magic, slid into the new song given to her to sing.

     Stairway to Heaven   (Ann, Nancy, and Jason version)

     After the song was done, the morning light filtered through the windows into the room, as the last notes faded. The magic returned Rigmor to her bed in the Imperial City, but let her keep the memento of a ribbon that had been woven into Iriisii's hair, a physical reminder of a magical night with her heart's love. Iriisii also came away with a memento of that night. A clear crystal jewel in the shape of a heart, with a cord made of magically bound hair that Rigmor had made to give to Iriisii when she returned home.

                                                                    *

     Everyone is exhausted by the events of last night at the Kingfisher Inn. As they drag themselves into Dandelion's cabaret, he makes rooms available for all who need one. Figuring after some much-needed sleep, people will want to talk about last night to try and make sense of what happened. Yennefer is there as they slowly walk through the door, desperately holding herself in check about asking about what happened when seeing the state everyone is in. 

     She comes to Iriisii and asks, "Please let me help you to your room and the bed, you look so exhausted!"

     Iriisii nods her head, not even trusting that her voice will not croak without some rest. Yennefer takes an arm over her shoulders and helps Iriisii up the steps to her room, helps her change out of her evening dress, and puts her under the covers of the bed. Iriisii mouths 'Thank you' to which Yennefer smiles and says, "You just get some rest now. I will see if I can get you something to eat and drink, later after you wake."

     Iriisii drops off to sleep and as her hand loosens its grip, a small clear crystal heart on a loop of what appears to be woven hair dangles from her hand. The sunlight strikes the crystal heart and sets up a twinkling that draws Yennefer's sight. She looks down closely at the tiny image in the heart. Astonished, she sees two figures deep inside swaying around and around, back and forth, gently in a field of white flowers.

     She feels tears start to trace their way down her cheeks as she cries out in her mind, 'This is what I want. I want the love that Iriisii has found. I want someone to love me like that, and for me to return that love. I want a child from someone who will love me for who I am, not what I can do!'.

     The tears keep flowing as the magic residing inside Iriisii hears Yennefer's silent cry and responds. Yennefer feels a soft touch like a summer breeze touches her mind, and a voice, soft and quiet, speaks gentle words to her.

     Magic: "I have heard your cry, my little sister. I know your pain, your want, your heart's deepest desire. If you want, I can give to you what you desire."

     Yennefer: "And at what cost? Everything has a price that must be paid. What is the price you would ask of me to do what I wish?"

     Magic: "I ask only that you go to Cyrodiil with Iriisii when she returns. For she does not yet know how much she will need you."

     Yennefer: "And you can see the future and know this? What kind of thing are you, a djinn to grant wishes in exchange for freedom? Or something else, a darker kind of being."

     Magic: "I am no djinn, nor am I a demon, or dark spirit. There is no name for what I am, for there has never been one such as I before. This one called Iriisii was the first I saw as I was birthed from her, in a moment of grief, as unequaled power flowed through her. A power that took a little from her, and formed me from it. I have since felt close to her, felt her yearning for her Rigmor, calling to me. I only wish for her to be happy and fulfilled. To do this, I must see and know what it is that she will need."

     Yennefer: "But you must need something for yourself, no one does only for another and not for what they can get for themself as well."

     Magic: "I know the life you have experienced. I understand why you say the words you do. Why you have never been able to hold on to what you thought you wanted. Your life speaks to me of a life unfulfilled, so many chances thrown away because of fear, fear that hides behind anger, anger that acts as a shield but only drives away that which could assuage the fear. I ask you now, will you throw away the useless anger, will you put the fear aside, take up your life and find the one you would give your heart to. The one that holds the true power, the power to free your heart's deepest desire, and make it real!"

     Yennefer: "I....I....", softly sobbing tears of remorse, remorse for all of the pain she inflicted on herself and in so doing, inflicted on others, "Yes, can I really know redemption, yes, I want redemption!"

     Magic: "Then you can now start down the road! When the time comes, follow us on the road to your redemption. I promise you that if you do this, you will find your heart's deepest desire and you will finally be fulfilled! Now rest my dearest little sister, rest and dream of better times ahead."

                                                                     *

     Triss awakes and comes downstairs to see Zoltan sitting at a table, nursing a flagon of ale, an untouched plate of food in front of him. 

     Zoltan: "Triss, cannot sleep either, can you?"

     Triss: "I did manage some sleep at least, but my dreams. I really do know not what to say about the dreams I had."

     Zoltan: "You could go and consult with that Onieromancer that Geralt used some time back when the "Wild Hunt" was chasing Ciri."

     Triss: "I think not, not that she isn't good. It is just not the kind of dreams that I need to read."

     Zoltan: "Oh, that kind of dream, aye!"

     Triss blushes as she looks away.

     Zoltan: "Did you see Yennefer this morning when we all came in? If I did not know better, I would swear she was worried about us."

     Triss: "I know, it was most unusual for her, especially the way she went to Iriisii and helped her up the stairs to her room. I have never seen her care for anyone else like that, except for Ciri, maybe. I cannot say for certain but something is going on between them."

     Zoltan: "You don't think?"

     Triss: "No! Iriisii is too committed to her Rigmor. No, she is not the kind of person to betray her mate like that. There is something else going on. I feel we will just have to wait and see how it plays out. Just be ready to step in if we are needed to. But still, if I did not know Yennefer like I do, I would say she was having a 'change of heart'."

     Zoltan: "This is Yennefer we are speaking of, 'change of heart', more likely the 'mirror man' will show up and buy a round for the house!"

     Triss: "Zoltan, Do not say his name! Ever!"

     Zoltan: "What? He is just a legend that mothers threaten their unruly children with. Be good my children or the Mirror Man will steal you in your sleep!"

     Triss: "If you really think he is a legend, ask Geralt about him. On second thought do not ask Geralt, he still has nightmares about his encounter with him."

     Zoltan: "Geralt? Having nightmares? About a children's boogyman?"

     Triss: "Zoltan, I am serious! He exists! And he is mighty. Exactly what he is, no one knows. Only that he has been seen from time to time traveling the roads. Those who cross him, come to very bad ends."

     Zoltan: "How did you find out about him then?"

     Triss: "Geralt broke a curse on a woman when he was last in Beauclair, whom the Mirror Man had laid on her when she refused to allow him to eat at her table during her twentieth birthday celebration, which was the custom then."

     Zoltan: "Then?"

     Triss: "I think Geralt figured she had been cursed for about a hundred years."

     Zoltan goes pale and empties his flagon.

     Triss: "Anyway, we were speaking of Yennefer. But I wonder if last night may have a connection in some way."

     Zoltan: "Not to change the subject, but when you came down, you looked very deep in thought, like you were not sure of something that had happened?"

     Triss: "Zoltan, you are getting to know me too well! Something did happen last night, under different circumstances, it would be the most fantastic night of my life."

     Zoltan: "What did he do, ask you to marry him?"

     Triss: "ZOLTAN!"

     Zoltan: "He did, didn't he? He finally popped the question! You did say 'yes' didn't you?"

     Triss: "Well..."

     Zoltan: "Triss Merrigold, you march right back up to that room and you tell him, 'yes'. Do you hear me? Do not make the same mistake Yennefer did and let him get away!"

     Triss: "It is not the same as it was with her and you know it!"

     Zoltan: "Triss, can you not see? You won him fair and square! Yennefer drove him away so many times, till he could not see straight. She kept thinking it was all the Djinn's magic, and could not or would not see what she was doing to him. Then you show back up in his life and he finally realizes he still has feelings for you.

     Then it hits him that he has to decide who it is he really wants! You or Yennefer! Does he chase after Yennefer, not knowing if she still thinks it is the Djinn's magic or if it is real this time? Or does he take a chance that you still love him even after that talk you and he had after he regained his lost memories? After last night, if you have any sense left in your head, you will go tell him, you love him and that 'yes', you will marry him! And do it before someone else does have a 'change of heart' and beats you to him!"

     Triss: "You are right, Zoltan! Thank you for bringing me to my senses!"

     Zoltan: "Just go! Now!"

     Triss stands up and heads up the stairs. Zoltan thinks to himself, "Sorceresses, you would think they would know their own minds by now."

     Zoltan hears the outer door opening up, so he looks that way to see if trouble walked through or not. He sees a courier looking for someone, so he decides to lend a hand.

     Zoltan: "Can I help you, laddie?"

     Courier: "I am looking for one, Iriisii Dovahkiin. I have a letter to deliver to her."

     Zoltan: "Aye, she is still sleeping upstairs. I will give it to her when she wakes and comes down."

     Courier: "I cannot just hand it to anyone. I was paid to make certain she received it."

     Zoltan: "Don't be daft, boy, I am Zoltan Chivey, part owner of this place, so you can most certainly leave it with me!"

     Courier: "Oh, I am sorry, your name is one of the alternates I am allowed to receive it. I apologize for the error."

     Zoltan: "Just give me the letter and I will see that it reaches her hands as soon as she wakes."

     The courier hands over the letter and Zoltan mumbles something about 'daft couriers' as he goes back to his table and another flagon of ale.

     Hours later and Zoltan is still sitting at the same table in the same seat. The only thing different is now there are more people both in the cabaret and at the table with him. Iriisii is the last to come down, still looking shaken and being helped by Yennefer.

     Zoltan: "I guess it is being left up to me to be the one to ask, what happened last night?", looking at Iriisii.

     Yennefer starts to light into Zoltan due to Iriisii still not being completely herself, but Iriisii gently lays a hand on Yennefer and says, "It is all right, my sister, the question begs to be answered and by all rights should be. But please stay attentive, I may need you later."

     Yennefer closes her mouth and nods her head to Iriisii, sits back, and waits.

     Iriisii: "I remember clearly the song Priscilla sang, and felt it call to me in a way I have never felt before. I felt like I could see in my mind's eye the events she was singing about involving Geralt and Yennefer. I know that Geralt is now committed to Triss and nothing is going to change or interfere with that, nor should it."

     Triss silently breathes a sigh of relief that a possible confrontation is now avoided.

     Iriisii: "When Priscilla came to speak to us, I felt compelled to tell her about a song that had a strong impact in my world, especially with myself and Rigmor! She liked the lyrics and asked me to hum the tune to see if she could play it. Then when she went back up on stage and started playing and singing that song, I felt the same magic I felt before rising up from deep within me and spreading out over the crowd.

     For some reason, I was then compelled to go up on stage with her and sing with her. I heard our blended voices and I seemed to lose control over myself. I watched while Priscilla went down and began dancing with Dandelion, and I kept singing, while in my mind, I was missing my Rigmor so much, my tears were inside me for there were no outside tears flowing. Then I saw my Rigmor appear before me.

     At first, I thought it was a vision, but when I touched her she was real. It was really her, there, in my arms, holding me close to her. I could smell the scent of her hair, feel the warmth of her skin against mine! We danced as we did back in Cyrodiil, in the open night sky with the stars like a thousand eyes watching over us."

     Triss and Yennefer both feel tears start to run down their faces but for different reasons.

     Iriisii: "I know this was real and not a vision because as the daylight began to rise over the horizon. My Rigmor took the ribbon from my hair to remember the night by and gave me this in return."

     Iriisii takes out the crystal pendant and shows it to everyone. There are gasps of breath when they look deep into the crystal heart and see two figures swaying to a song only they could hear.

     Iriisii: "Where the power came from for this to happen, I do not know, nor how or why it chose that night to come out. But I do know this, it is in no way evil, for it is a thing that drives my people, to know evil when we see it, and to fight that evil wherever we find it and in whatever form it takes! This was in no way evil, but rather its opposite, or close enough. I believe it springs from our inborn nature to love, and it seeks to help us in its own way when our loved ones are distant and our need overwhelms us How else could it have the power to bridge the spheres and bring my Rigmor here into my arms, not by a spell but by a song. For I have, in my world, seen love even defeat 'Death' himself!"

     Zoltan after a few moments to take in the words she has shared, finds he cannot say anything, and so silently hands over the letter that came for her earlier in the day. Iriisii takes the letter, opens it, and begins reading. She nods in understanding, even as her face shows the concern that is growing in her mind. As she reaches the end and sees the name of the person who signed the letter, she suddenly grows pale and shivers. Yennefer immediately picks up that something is wrong and goes to her side holding an arm around her. Her shivering will not stop and slowly grows stronger. Triss takes the other side as tears flow from Iriisii's eyes. Iriisii comes back into herself long enough to make a request of Yennefer.

     Iriisii: "Yennefer, please...in my room..the clothing pack..a...violet vial, ...please bring it,...quickly! Dandelion...I will...need a ...mug..of sweet wine...please!"

     As they both race to their respective tasks, everyone else grows more concerned as they seem to feel a sense of power growing stronger in the room. The other patrons feel it as well as they start to leave the cabaret. Dandelion and Yennefer return with what Iriisii requested. Iriisii takes the vial, fumbling with it, and finally hands it back to Yennefer.

     Iriisii: "Yennefer,...open it..please, put...just two drops..in the mug...no more."

     Yennefer opens the vial carefully, and using a wooden ball dropper attached to the top, allows two drops to fall into the mug of sweet wine. She swirls it around to mix it, then puts it into Iriisii's shaking hands. Yennefer holds her hands as she drinks from the mug, wrinkling her nose at the acrid smell rising from the mug. Slowly, Iriisii regains control over herself and visibly calms down. For whatever reason, everyone feels as if a great disaster has been averted.

     Iriisii: "You deserve an explanation for what just happened and so I will explain though it will take some time to tell the whole story." 

     Triss: "Firstly, would you tell me what you put into that wine? I recognized the smell as similar to some of the most potent, addicting, tinctures of certain plants. Plants that can be most dangerous if misused."

     Iriisii: "Of course, it is distilled from the sap of a rarest Hist tree found in the depths of the swamps of Black Marsh on my world. It was originally used to form a poison called Erosap, which when given to women, would addict them, remove all inhibitions, and essentially turn them into sex slaves. I found a way to alchemically change it to calm my emotions when extreme grief or similar emotion begins to take control. If I can not stop it, the consequences would be devastating. But on to the matter at hand, let me read this to you and then I think you will better understand my reaction."

          Iriisii Dovahkiin, I write this to give

          you a warning of which you may be unaware.

          The people you have gathered to yourself

          are good, solid people and worthy of your

          trust. Listen to their advice as you would

          your own counselors, they will not fail

          you. Trust no others, for they can be  

          subverted and bought. There is, however,

          one exception, a vampire that Geralt has

          as a friend, he is trustworthy, but none

          else are. The enemy you must face is evil

          almost beyond what you have faced before.

          But beware, for what lurks in the shadows

          behind your enemy is beyond your knowledge.

          For there are two entities that vie for

          control of the vampires that inhabit this

          world, one you know of, "Salaquine", and

          one even more dangerous that you do not.

          Ward yourself well, and then ask Geralt

          of the "Mirror Man", for you may have to

          face him as Geralt has once before. I pray

          that you do not, but should you have no

          choice but to face him, do not hesitate,

          strike with the "Moon Blades", for they 

          are the only blades he fears and he knows

          not that they are in your possession. Also,

          the two who seek to follow you when you 

          return to Cyrodiil, let no knowledge of 

          this go beyond your circle of allies, or

          they will become targets of opportunity,

          the Circle of Sorceresses is not interested,

          yet their male counterparts are not to be

          trusted. Your enemy has made inroads into 

          them and seeks to subvert them. There is 

          one sorceress that is in question, Phillipa

          Eilhart is unknown at this time, she may be

          an ally, an enemy, or neutral. Be careful

          with her, she is strong, but not as strong

          as you are. If you need to speak to the 

          Circle of Sorceresses, then do so, but be

          guarded in what you say. The plan you have 

          to seal the 'Moon Blades' away is a good one,

          and assistance will be given to you when you

          are ready. Lastly, and most importantly, do 

          not seek me out, do not look for me, even

          though you will want to drop all and do this,

          YOU MUST NOT! Please, for the love you bear

          for your Rigmor, do not look for me! There

          will come a time after you return to Nirn,

          and before you give your throne to your

          daughter, Kintyra, there will be a chance

          opportunity for you to free my soul from its

          bondage. You will see the signs in the sky,

          then go to Nagasel, to the portal that the 

          dread Molag Bal used to enter our realm

          when you fought and banished him back into

          the vast depths of the void. The portal will

          be active once more, enter and follow the

          path you will find. Many will wish to follow

          you, only one may do so safely. You will 

          know who that one is when it is time. Again,

          please, do not try to find me, the price is

          too high to pay, to you and all who live in

          this world. Remember these words, "As you

          will it, make it be!". Go now, and do what

          you must do, and know I remain your friend.

                         Kasia Pinder

    Iriisii: "And now, I must tell you of Kasia, that you understand what happened to her and why I feel what I do for her fate."

    Iriisii spends the next two hours telling Kasia's story to the group. Skipping over what they have no reference to understand, and going into detail on the parts that they can know. When she finishes, everyone is silent for a short time. Then in a moment of sublime understanding, Yennefer puts her arms around Iriisii and tells her, "I am sorry for the loss of your friend, Kasia. I hope that in some small way, I can help you heal from that loss. Of course, I will go back with you, not for any title or sum of gold, but because you call me, sister. Until now, I have never felt like I had a sister before, now I do, and I will do anything to help my sister!"

     Triss: "Your letter mentioned Phillipa Eilhart."

     Phillipa: "Somebody mentions my name? Now who would even know I was coming to this festering rathole of a city! Triss, you and Yennefer are late in your last report due regarding the experiment of a new megascope design that Yennefer had developed. Might I now have that report so that I can leave this stinking garbage heap! And Yennefer, who is this ...person...you are holding on to for dear life. Don't tell me you have decided to swing to the other side."

     Yennefer: "This person is of far greater respect and admiration than you will ever see in your lifetime!"

     Phillipa: "Is that so, well then I will just have to see about that. She looks like her best days are long past. Come Yennefer, I want that report, now!"

     Phillipa starts to grab Yennefer's arm, when Yennefer moves away from her, causing her to stumble.

     Phillipa: "You did that on purpose! It looks like I will need to show you who has the power here!"

     Iriisii stands up and moves between Phillipa and Yennefer.

     Iriisii: "You will leave my 'sister' be! She is no longer beholden to you or anyone else! She chooses who she wishes to be with, whether that be male or female, for love or just friendship, that is for her and her alone to decide!"

     Phillipa: "Oooo, this cat has claws! Maybe you need to know just who you are talking to."

     Zoltan looks over to Geralt and whispers, "Phillipa is in for a very rude awakening."

     Phillipa: "I heard that Zoltan Chivey, I will take care of you once I have finished with this..."

     Iriisii's eyes flash to the color of ebony as rage overtakes her. Her stance straightens until she stands a full head over Phillipa. In a voice full of steel, she settles her gaze on Phillipa and says, "Phillipa Eilhart, each of these here at this table are my friends, and you will not abuse that friendship any longer. As to who I am, I am your worst nightmare, a woman who understands the true meaning of power, which you obviously do not! On the world I hail as my home, I am Empress of Cyrodiil and the Empire, I am Dragonborn and Dragonblood, I am Harbinger of the Companions of Ysgramor, I am Archmage of the College of Magic in Winterhold, I sit on a seat at the Council Table of the Psijic Masters of Artaeum, I am Champion to the Daedric Lords, Azura, Meridia, and Boethiah, I am Thunderchild to the Goddess Kyne, Dragonchild and Celestial daughter to the Demigoddess Alessia, Champion and Knight to the Goddess Mara, Commander of the Vigilants of Stendarr, Anointed of Akatosh, God of Time and Father of Dragons, Celestial Daughter to the Demigod Talos, once Emperor Tiber Septim of Cyrodiil and the Empire before his Ascension to the heavens. My mortal grandmother is Sharra, Matriarch of the Ancient Order of the Blade Dancers! I have waded through oceans of blood and bodies to quell civil wars, protect those I have come to love, and call my friends. I am Aasimar Scourge, dedicated from birth to destroying 'Evil' no matter what form it hides in, common or noble, warrior or mage, man or beast. Until you can fly with the Dov in the Skies of Keisal, not on the back of a dragon, but with WINGS OF YOUR OWN," and Iriisii unfurls her wings hidden upon her back by magic, extending them to full spread, their lambent blue scales shining brightly, reflecting the candlelight in the main room, "then you may speak to me of POWER! True power is defined by how it is used. How do you use yours, Phillipa Eilhart? Do you use it for the good of your people, your friends, and your homeland? Or do you use it to intimidate, to bully, to feed your own ego? Do you use it for 'GOOD' or do you use it for 'EVIL'? Tell me which is it, for I wish to know if I must stand in judgment over you!?"

     Iriisii stands looking every bit of regal, judgmental, celestial, and draconic all wrapped into one gleaming form. Waiting for Phillipa to answer her question. Phillipa finally looks down, turns away, and walks out into the night, silence follows her until all lose sight of her walking down the streets of Novigrad.

     Yennefer looks up at Iriisii, tears welling up in her eyes, her lips trembling as she tries to say, "Thank You, Sister". Iriisii looks down at Yennefer, and says, "Sister, no thanks are necessary, those with power must always look out for those who do not, and with greater power comes even greater responsibility. It is up to us, who are gifted with this power by the Gods, to use it to do their will, not the will of those who would abuse it. You have learned this lesson deep in your heart and soul. And so my Gods have seen this, and wish to reward your change of heart by giving you that which the deepest part of your heart desires. When you return with me to Cyrodiil, your wish will be granted! And I will still make you my Imperial Court Sorceress, for I will have need of you and your counsel in the future. I thank you for showing me that there are still good people here, people worth knowing and helping. Come, let us go up and get some sleep, we have a long day tomorrow."