TESO:TES Online/Hirelings/Blacksmithing

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Number Author Text
1 Valinka Stoneheaver It's me, Valinka Stoneheaver. You know, the one you hired to source components for your use. You still want the stuff, right? I've included a sample. I can't thank you enough for this opportunity. This job will really help me pursue my true calling - delver of dungeons and collector of ancient relics! Not what you'd expect from a Nord, huh?
2 Valinka Stoneheaver Valinka again. I hope this package finds you well. Me? I've been better. My brothers are giving me grief about my chosen profession. They say it isn't proper for a Nord maiden to rummage around the countryside, collecting components and crawling around ancient ruins. But what do those horkers know? I'm so angry right now I could punch a mammoth!
3 Valinka Stoneheaver Sorry this shipment is late. Who knew mammoths were such sensitive creatures? I barely gave it a love tap, but it went rampaging through the town square like I really hurt it or something. It took forever to calm it down and clean up the mess. Good thing mammoths like mead-soaked fruit balls. But all my brothers could do was laugh, the horkers!
4 Valinka Stoneheaver I know, I know. Late again. But at least the components arrived, right? I had another incident with my brothers. It involved a lot of mead and a few well-placed blows to the head. Milk-drinkers! They never could best me in a fair fight! Still, I think I'll go farther afield for your next shipment. Give us all a little time to cool off.
5 Valinka Stoneheaver Who do you love? Valinka, that's who! Look at what I was able to find for you this time. Premium grade materials, if I do say so myself. And I discovered a new ruin to explore. I'll tell you all about it when I send your next shipment.
6 Valinka Stoneheaver That ruin I told you about? Turned out to be some Orc's hovel. And he wasn't very happy to find me inside and digging through his stuff. Who knew Orc hovels looked so much like ancient ruins? Live and learn, I guess.
7 Valinka Stoneheaver I shared a fire with a camp of Argonians. After a few cups of some foul-tasting beverage they obviously enjoyed more than I did, they loosened up enough to tell me about a ruin they had passed in their travels. Finally, a real lead to a dungeon! But don't despair. I won't neglect my duties to you while I delve into the unknown.
8 Valinka Stoneheaver Dear patron, please accept this latest shipment of components. Now, to other matters. I must tell you how the search for the ruins goes. Those Argonians provided the strangest directions. Something about how melting water flows to the maw of the ruins or some such. I thought I was wandering in circles, but then—oh! More later. I have to run now.
9 Valinka Stoneheaver Sorry about that. I really had to run! And those horkers that were chasing me were fast! But I'm getting ahead of myself. Let me start at the beginning. When I was a little girl with pigtails—no, that's too far back. I found the dungeon the Argonians told me about! And it was right where they said it would be. More or less.
10 Valinka Stoneheaver Valinka here, with more components and another report about my quest to become the greatest explorer in Tamriel. I'm going to be even better than that show-off, Narsis Dren! I found the ruins. Only a half-crumbled tower of rock jutted from the ground, but I was sure that the structure continued beneath the surface. That's when the Orc spotted me.
11 Valinka Stoneheaver Who knew Orcs could run so fast? I was hoping for Dwarven or Daedric relics, but it turns out the ruins were old Nordic. The Orcs were using the place as a hideout. They were obviously bandits, and obviously mean. I was able to double back and sneak in while the Orcs were out looking for me. That's when I saw the—oops, got to go!
12 Valinka Stoneheaver More components, as requested. Now where was I? Oh, yes. The Orc bandits were using the old Nordic ruin as a hideout. While they were out looking for me, I returned to look around their hideout. It was a single stone chamber beneath the crumbling tower. Hardly a proper ruin at all. And locked in a small metal cage in one corner was a mangy dog.
13 Valinka Stoneheaver When the mangy dog saw me, it whined pitifully. Now, I'm not some milk-drinker with a soft spot for furry animals, but something about the dog touched my heart. He had a noble bearing and a fire in his eyes. And who hasn't found themselves locked in a cage after a night of mead and good cheer? So I did the only reasonable thing—I opened the cage.
14 Valinka Stoneheaver That was when the first of the bandits returned. He was a fat Orc with rotting leather armor and a thick mace hanging from his belt. He was as surprised to see me as I was to see him. We both reached for our weapons. But before we could draw on each other, the dog burst from the opened cage and charged right for the Orc's—um, delicates.
15 Valinka Stoneheaver I hope my tale isn't boring you, patron. Here are more components, as requested. These would never have reached you if not for that mangy dog. "Plucky" clamped sharp teeth on that fat Orc's … private parts … giving me time to unsling my warhammer and bring the business end down with all my might. The Orc dropped like a sack of rabbit meatballs.
16 Valinka Stoneheaver Speaking of rabbit meatballs, that dog Plucky certainly likes the spicy little orbs of tastiness. And who can blame him? I was feasting on the things myself when Plucky helped himself to a meatball or three. Now he can't get enough of the delicious spheroids of rabbity goodness. I must stock up the next time I'm in a town or city.
17 Valinka Stoneheaver It's me again. Valinka Stoneheaver. And Plucky, the brave dog! We escaped the Orc bandits and have left the Nordic ruins behind us. Now we're back to tracking down crafting components for you, full time. Well, at least until we hear about another ruin to explore. Enjoy this shipment, with our compliments!
18 Valinka Stoneheaver While gathering the components for this shipment, I heard the most amazing news. My hero, the famous delver of dungeons, Narsis Dren, is going to be visiting the city in a few days. And even better, he's going to give a talk at the inn about his latest adventure! I think I'm going to hang around so I can meet him.
19 Valinka Stoneheaver Here you go. I hope this suffices, but I didn't want to range too far afield while Narsis Dren is visiting the city. He is my hero, after all. I plan to be just like him! Well, maybe half as good. He is the preeminent dungeon explorer of our time, so I need to set my sights accordingly. I'll tell you all about his talk next time.
20 Valinka Stoneheaver Just wanted to get this off to you before Narsis Dren takes the stage at the inn. Oh! There he is! For a Dark Elf, he doesn't look half bad. Got to go!
21 Valinka Stoneheaver What an amazing tale Narsis Dren told us! The inn was packed. It seemed like the whole city wanted to see the famous explorer and hear what he had to say. You should have heard his story about the time he was trapped in an Ayleid ruin by a group of Daedric cultists. It was so exciting!
22 Valinka Stoneheaver After Narsis Dren got away from the Daedric cultists (what a tale that was!), he read an excerpt from his new book, Narsis Dren and the Lost Ruins of Salinvord. I can't wait to get a copy and see how he escaped from the atronachs! I must sound like a unbloodied cub before her first battle, but I can't help it. He's so … intense!
23 Valinka Stoneheaver How embarrassing! I can't believe I looked up to that skeever! After his talk, I went up to Narsis Dren and asked him to sign a copy of his book, Dungeon-Delving Secrets. He said, "Sure, right after you come to my room and examine my artifact." You know, for a famous adventurer, he dropped like a sack of rabbit meatballs when I hit him.
24 Valinka Stoneheaver Hi. It's me. Valinka. Sorry about going on and on about Narsis Dren. Turns out, he's just like most of the stupid males I've ever met and not a hero or anything. I'm not opposed to a good romp in the hay, so to speak, but a woman likes to be won over, you know? Like in those poems by Fjokki the Bard? Anyway, here's your shipment.
25 Valinka Stoneheaver Valinka has a new mission in life. I plan to become an even greater dungeon explorer than that diseased skeever, Narsis Dren. And I may have a lead on just the dungeon to explore. Turns out, Dren dropped a scrap of parchment when I socked him in the nose. I didn't notice it, but Plucky picked it up and brought it to me. It's a map!
26 Valinka Stoneheaver Even hear of a place called Bthunzel? Neither did I. But that's where this map that Narsis Dren dropped seems to be pointing. And it's covered with notes like "Dwarven ruin?" "Never explored!" and "Treasure?" Needless to say, Valinka is one excited horker. But I promise to fulfill the terms of our contract—no matter how famous I may become.
27 Valinka Stoneheaver While purchasing supplies in a small town—the closest town to the spot marked on Dren's map—I accidentally mentioned that I was a relic hunter of some renown. A small exaggeration, I grant you, but I was anxious and excited. But now I think I'm being followed! I sure am glad I have Plucky with me. He's such a good dog! Oh, enjoy the shipment!
28 Valinka Stoneheaver I hope this shipment of components finds you well. I continue to travel toward the ruins of Bthunzel, intent on reaching the place as soon as I can. As for thinking that I was being followed, it must have been a false alarm. I haven't seen any sign of cultists or bandits since I left the town. Plucky, however, continues to seem ill at ease.
29 Valinka Stoneheaver The oddest thing happened. I was just settling into my camp for the night—after a fine day of gathering components for your use, I might add—when Plucky started barking and ran off into the darkness. As I write this, he still hasn't returned. I feel like a horker waiting for the butcher's cleaver. But he's probably just chasing a rabbit, right?
30 Valinka Stoneheaver Oh, patron, what should I do? I woke up to find a note pinned to the tree above my sleeping mat. "We have your dog," it says. "If you want to see him alive again, tell us the location of the ruins." And it was signed by Narsis Dren's infamous nemesis, Morella the Cruel. Oh, what should I do? By the way, your components are included.
31 Valinka Stoneheaver I am not ready to have a nemesis of my own! Especially not one powerful enough to threaten the mighty Narsis Dren for so many years. Still, Plucky needs me. He's a good dog and he doesn't deserve to be left in the hands of the evil Morella the Cruel. Excuse the quality of this shipment, but as you can see I have a lot on my mind of late.
32 Valinka Stoneheaver The clearing near the river is a perfect place to stage an ambush. I know I'm walking into a trap, but what choice do I have? I have to try to save Plucky from the villainous Morella the Cruel. But my parents didn't raise a milk-drinker. I have a plan of my own. I'll tell you all about it. Next time. Wish me luck!
33 Valinka Stoneheaver Remember the time I punched the mammoth? I learned a valuable lesson that day—mammoths love mead-soaked fruit balls! As it happens, I'm carrying a pouch full of the delicious sweets at this very moment. And that gives me an idea for how to approach my meeting with Morella the Cruel. Oh, and more components are included with this missive.
34 Valinka Stoneheaver I entered the clearing cautiously. Plucky was tied to a stake, growling at the woman beside him. She wasn't as tall as me, but for a Breton lass she was taller than average. By her manner and her impeccable outfit, I knew she was Morella the Cruel. There were six thugs with her. "I hope you plan to cooperate," she said, tugging on Plucky's tether.
35 Valinka Stoneheaver Valinka here. Please find another shipment of components included with this letter. And in case you were getting anxious about it, Plucky is back with me, all safe and sound. Now that the suspense is out of the way, let me tell you what happened. But next time. We're still trying to put some distance between ourselves and Morella's gang.
36 Valinka Stoneheaver So there I was, in the clearing facing down Morella the Cruel and her gang of thugs. I want to tell you how I said something witty, dispatched the evil-doers, and rescued Plucky. What actually happened was a lot more chaotic. And it all started when I tossed the pouch with the remaining mead-soaked fruit balls to Morella.
37 Valinka Stoneheaver Morella the Cruel caught the pouch of mead-soaked fruit balls. The look on her face told me it was reflex and not a desire for one of the luscious treats that drove her dexterity. As the ground began to shake and Morella's eyes went wide with panic, I quickly grabbed Plucky's leash and ran from the clearing. That's when the mammoth arrived.
38 Valinka Stoneheaver Getting a mammoth to follow you isn't as hard as you might imagine. Since they share a particular fondness for mead-soaked fruit balls with Nords, I'm surprised more of us don't have a line of the giant beasts tagging along behind us. Of course, a hungry mammoth was the last thing Morella the Cruel expected to charge into the clearing that day.
39 Valinka Stoneheaver Plucky and I watched from the tree line as the mammoth trampled through the clearing, trying to get to the mead-soaked fruit balls I tossed to Morella the Cruel. We stayed just long enough to make sure Morella and her gang were fully engaged, then we ran as fast as we could. I guess Bthunzel will have to wait until things calm down.
40 Valinka Stoneheaver Another town, another tavern. A letter caught up with me when I arrived. From my brother, Olgath. He never could put two sentences together, so the meaning of the missive wasn't perfectly clear. But I got the intent. He wants me to come home to attend some sort of celebration. Don't worry. This won't affect the shipment of your components.
41 Valinka Stoneheaver What a pain in the arse! I just want to find a fast way to travel back home but I run into obstacles at every turn! Did you ever try to get a portal from those stuffed robes in the Mages Guild? They charge a small fortune if you aren't one of their milk-drinking band of book readers! I guess I'll just have to keep looking.
42 Valinka Stoneheaver A Khajiit trader! Such wonders I've seen since accepting your contract. And he's even willing to allow me to travel with his caravan—all the way back home. If all goes well, I should arrive in time to attend the celebration, even though I couldn't tell from Olgath's letter what we're celebrating.
43 Valinka Stoneheaver Yadus the Khajiit trader tells such wonderful stories. I never know how much to believe, but they're always amusing and he seems so sincere. He also appears quite fond of Plucky and the two definitely enjoy each other's company. I also made a number of connections that should keep you stocked with components for some time to come. You're welcome!
44 Valinka Stoneheaver I got to see a trade caravan in operation. From procuring goods at one location, to selling goods at another, these lessons will prove invaluable in expanding my own procurement services. I'm not sure about dealing with the general public, though. Yadus never gets angry, no matter how a customer behaves—while I just want to hit most of them.
45 Valinka Stoneheaver Plucky and I said our farewells to Yadus the Khajiit trader today. It was with more than a touch of sadness that we parted ways, but at least I'm back in Skyrim. As promised, here's another shipment of components. Now I need to find my brothers and figure out why it was so important I drop everything and return home.
46 Valinka Stoneheaver By all the snow in the Nine Holds, I can't believe what my brothers have done to me! Do you know why they called me home? Do you know what we're celebrating? My marriage! Oblivion take the horkers, I don't want to get married! I'm just furious about this! Oh, and here are your components.
47 Valinka Stoneheaver I seriously want to crack skulls together! In order to settle a debt my foolish brothers have accumulated in my absence, they decided to marry me to old Thorgrim Wartnose. They think to sell me as so much cattle? Well, think again! And Olgath gave the amulet of Mara to me! My brother! It wasn't even presented properly—not that it matters, anyway.
48 Valinka Stoneheaver Dear patron. I am not some commodity to be auctioned off to the highest bidder. If and when I decide to accept the amulet of Mara and enter into marriage, it will be of a time and place of my choosing—and with someone I desire. It will certainly NOT be with old Thorgrim Wartnose! Now to tell my brothers what they can do with their "celebration."
49 Valinka Stoneheaver Another typical family reunion for the Stoneheavers. It involved a lot of yelling, three separate altercations, plenty of bruises, a few broken bones, and gallons of mead. Great times! I love these get-togethers! And I think I got my point across. Olgath will have to figure out another way to clear his debts, because I'm not getting married today.
50 Valinka Stoneheaver So I didn't marry old Thorgrim, but the celebration wasn't a total loss. We got to talking, and one thing led to another, and … well, I let him show me his artifact, if you catch my meaning. Hey, I'm a healthy Nord woman. I'm young and I have … needs. And the poor old horker isn't all bad. Your components are included.
51 Valinka Stoneheaver Dear patron. Plucky and I are back on the road, following up on some component source leads I gathered while traveling with Yadus the trader. I may even head back toward Bthunzel, provided I don't run into Morella the Cruel and her gang again. I'm feeling refreshed and rejuvenated and ready to go!
52 Valinka Stoneheaver I came across an odd sight in the wilderness today. A circle of stones stood in an otherwise empty clearing, and strange runes were inscribed on the ground. It was eerily silent in the clearing, but also surprisingly peaceful. Plucky refused to approach the circle, but I decided to sit within it and take a short rest.
53 Valinka Stoneheaver Not much to say today. I'm just sitting in this circle of stones, taking a short rest. I think I hear Plucky barking, but he sounds so very far away.
54 Valinka Stoneheaver I must have dozed off. When I woke up, I was still sitting in the circle of stones, but someone was kind enough to leave a mug of some kind of liquid in the circle with me. How nice of them! I hope it's mead. I suddenly realized I have a powerful thirst. But why is Plucky still barking at me?
55 Valinka Stoneheaver Bad dog, Plucky! Bad dog! He leaped into the circle of stones and knocked the mug from my hand before I could take so much as a sip of the sweet-smelling liquid. Well, that's interesting. The spilled liquid sizzles and steams as it melts strange patterns in the ground. Perhaps Plucky is a good dog after all.
56 Valinka Stoneheaver It took some effort and a few not-so-gentle nips from Plucky's sharp teeth, but I finally stumbled out of the circle of stones. The place cast some sort of spell over me, but now that I'm outside the circle I can already feel the fog lifting from my mind. It's time to leave this place—and find a worthy treat for Plucky!
57 Valinka Stoneheaver Dear patron. Forgive my tardiness and the tone of my last few letters. Obviously, I was not myself due to the spell cast by that strange circle of stones. I promise I'll be more careful in the future. Please find the components I've included with this message.
58 Valinka Stoneheaver I met the most interesting Argonian. A traveling alchemist, Aleet-Uka. I encountered him on the road, beside his small cart with its potions and reagents. We got to talking and realized we were heading in the same direction, so he invited me to accompany him. After that incident with the circle of stones, I find the lizard's presence comforting.
59 Valinka Stoneheaver Aleet-Uka enjoys showing off his alchemy expertise. He mixed together some foul-smelling components and handed me the concoction. He was extremely pleased with himself, explaining that when poured into an alcoholic beverage, the potion would prevent the imbiber from getting drunk. Really? What's the point of that? Oh. I hurt Aleet's feelings.
60 Valinka Stoneheaver For a creature one step removed from a pair of boots, Aleet-Uka's feelings are easily bruised. I spend most of my time trying to make up for the latest innocent remark I uttered that sent the poor alchemist into a deep depression. Perhaps I should just accept his worthless potions without offering any opinions. But where's the fun in that?
61 Valinka Stoneheaver I have to admit, Aleet-Uka's latest potion might actually serve a useful purpose. He said he was trying to craft an elixir of flight so that he could soar above the mountain peaks. Instead, the potion seems to attract birds to the imbiber. We ate well after all those wild geese perched upon Aleet's head and shoulders. Easiest hunt I ever had!
62 Valinka Stoneheaver With a tinge of regret, I bid farewell to the alchemist Aleet-Uka today. He decided to continue on, while I needed to see a man about a rumor in the little village on the hill. Turns out, he may have a lead on another ruin I can investigate. In the meantime, enjoy this shipment of components!
63 Valinka Stoneheaver On the way to the village on the hill, Plucky decided to run off and chase a rabbit. Stupid dog thinks that if he catches the rabbit, it will magically give him rabbit meatballs—cooked and ready to eat! If only that were true. Maybe if we catch a few of the long-eared creatures, I can find a cook in town who knows how to prepare the delicacy.
64 Valinka Stoneheaver I followed Plucky as he chased the rabbit, but a strange noise ahead gave me pause. I drew my weapon and approached, using what cover I could to conceal my presence. From my hiding place, I saw a sight that made my blood run cold. Daedric cultists! Three robed figures tossed nets over both Plucky and the rabbit. And the day had started so well.
65 Valinka Stoneheaver How do I get myself into these situations? Now I have to save Plucky and his rabbit from a trio of Daedric cultists who are preparing to begin some kind of ritual. And Plucky and the rabbit are the main components in the foul ceremony! Think, Valinka, think! There has to be something—wait, Aleet's potion! I have an idea ….
66 Valinka Stoneheaver Oh, patron! You should have seen the cultists' faces as I came storming into their camp with a flock of birds. Aleet's potion worked amazingly well, attracting winged creatures of all shapes and sizes. They surrounded me like a cloud of wings and talons—like the fury of Kyne herself burst upon them! Now if I had only planned my next move.
67 Valinka Stoneheaver I charged the cultists, surrounded by all manner of birds attracted to me after I drank Aleet's potion. Now we stared at each other, the cultists confused and nervous, me unsure how best to proceed with my daring plan to rescue Plucky and the rabbit. My moment of surprise was quickly evaporating, but I didn't have a clue as to what to do next.
68 Valinka Stoneheaver All in all, I was beginning to feel a bit silly, what with a flock of birds surrounding me and no clear idea how to finish my daring rescue of Plucky and the rabbit. That was when I think Kyne herself lent a hand. A huge eagle swooped out of the sky. It frightened the other birds so much that they exploded away from me—and right into the cultists!
69 Valinka Stoneheaver The eagle scattered the birds in all directions. Then the eagle swooped again, this time right at the three Daedric cultists. I barely hefted my warhammer and got in a couple of whacks before the cultists began to run. The cowards! Not to miss my opportunity, I released Plucky and the rabbit. Then we fled toward the village on the hill.
70 Valinka Stoneheaver In honor of our adventure together, Plucky and I decided to let the rabbit go on its merry way. It considered us for a moment, then tipped its head as if acknowledging our gesture. Plucky whined a bit as his hope for rabbit meatballs hopped away, but it was the right thing to do. Your components are included, as per our agreement.
71 Valinka Stoneheaver I found the man I was seeking in the little village on the hill. He's a Dark Elf. Goes by the name of Ilton Beran. He collects lore of all kinds—fascinating and historical facts from across all of Tamriel. If anyone can point me in the direction of an ancient ruin, it's going to be Ilton Beran. I have an appointment to meet with him tomorrow.
72 Valinka Stoneheaver Ilton Beran is an infuriating little man. Small even for an Elf, he carries himself as though he were a giant. And does he love the sound of his own voice! I came close to driving a dagger into my ear on multiple occasions, as he went on and on about one obscure fact after another. But eventually he got to the subject I originally asked about.
73 Valinka Stoneheaver "The Indaren ruins," Ilton Beran said with a dramatic flair. "You will not find a more haunted location—or a more dangerous one." Turns out, the Indarens were a wealthy family of Dark Elves who lived in a huge mansion a hundred or so years ago. And then something happened to them, but I had stopped listening by that point in the story.
74 Valinka Stoneheaver What a long-winded blowhard! But at least Ilton Beran was true to his reputation. He provided me with exacting directions to the haunted ruins known as Indaren Manor. He mentioned ghosts and lost treasure and something about unspeakable danger, but who can remember all those boring facts when there's adventure waiting? Components are included.
75 Valinka Stoneheaver This could be it, patron. This could be the adventure that elevates me above that pretender, Narsis Dren. All I have to do is slip into the ruins of Indaren Manor, avoid the ghosts and untold dangers, and find at least one piece of the lost treasure. Easy as melting snow in a blacksmith's furnace! Wish me luck!
76 Valinka Stoneheaver Who knew ghosts could be so touchy about their state of existence. And Dark Elf ghosts? Well, they're the only ghosts I've ever encountered, but it seems to me they must be the worst of the bunch. When I refused to show the least bit of fear at their spooky mischief, they became sullen and withdrawn. All except for the Veiled Lady.
77 Valinka Stoneheaver I was exploring the haunted ruins of Indaren Manor when I encountered a most terrifying spirit—the Veiled Lady. This regal Dark Elf floated above the wrecked remains of the manor's banquet hall. I could see right through her, but her face was hidden behind a veil of gossamer ghost-silk. Her soft, piercing voice asked, "Why are you here?"
78 Valinka Stoneheaver The Veiled Lady's question was appropriate. After all, I had invaded her manor without permission. But none of the other ghosts I encountered hindered my advance, so I didn't expect this one to prove troublesome. "I seek the lost Indaren treasure," I said. Suddenly, the air around the spirit churned and swirled, and her veil pulled back to reveal—
79 Valinka Stoneheaver I can't describe the ghostly visage revealed when the Veiled Lady's shawl parted. Really. I've tried. The words come out as gibberish and the letters as undecipherable runes. But I can tell you that the sight frightened me to my very core. I was a child again, standing helpless before an angry spirit. And the spirit was drawing closer.
80 Valinka Stoneheaver I was deep in the ruins of Indaren Manor, held fast by fear and the ghostly power surrounding the Veiled Lady. I couldn't even draw my weapon, for all the good it would do against the spirit. "You have found only doom," she moaned, her voice a winter wind whispering through the eaves. I closed my eyes, happy that Plucky was safe in the village.
81 Valinka Stoneheaver Something had changed. I opened one eye to see the Veiled Lady's shawl was back in place and she had stopped moving. There, between us, stood a rabbit. I couldn't be sure, but I think it was the one I rescued from the cultists. It was locked in a contest of stares with the ghost, thereby shattering the spell that held me. So I ran.
82 Valinka Stoneheaver Dear patron. I wasn't able to recover the lost treasure of Indaren Manor. However, I did learn a valuable lesson. Sometimes an act of kindness can save your life—no matter how delicious the rabbit meatballs may be. Or something like that. Your components are included.
83 Valinka Stoneheaver On the road again, and I find myself heading in the direction of the Bthunzel ruins. You'd think that my encounter with the Veiled Lady would have cured me of my fascination with dungeons and adventures, but you'd be wrong. I'm a Nord! Adventure is what we live for! And mead. We love mead.
84 Valinka Stoneheaver I came across an impromptu camp alongside the road. Tents and merchant stalls had been hastily assembled, and the place had the feel of a carnival or bazaar. The festive mood and genuine excitement of the crowd drew me in, and it wasn't long before I was trying to decide what tasty morsels to sample and which heady brews to drink.
85 Valinka Stoneheaver I've met some intriguing people in my journeys, but few have been as bright and fun-loving as Karamel Little-Leaf. I bumped into the Wood Elf at the Seven Traders Bazaar, the traveling carnival I told you about. She's quick with quips and jokes, and she knows how to acquire free drinks—especially when the buyers are male!
86 Valinka Stoneheaver Karamel Little-Leaf may be my favorite person ever! Even Plucky likes her! We're having a grand old time at the Seven Traders Bazaar. She knows which brewers serve the most potent mead, and she's personal friends with a cook who makes the most amazing rabbit meatballs. She keeps hinting that she has something to ask me. I wonder what it is.
87 Valinka Stoneheaver Why do these things keep happening to me, patron? I hate to burden you with my problems, but you seem to be a good listener. And you do owe my for all the components I send your way. Turns out, Karamel Little-Leaf is a thief! She asked me to help her rob the Seven Traders Bazaar. Oh, what a terrible turn of events!
88 Valinka Stoneheaver I never had a friend like Karamel Little-Leaf, but I won't be pressured into a life of crime. I reluctantly told her I couldn't help her. Not with her scheme to rob the bazaar, at any rate. I can't believe how weepy I got. Not proper Nord behavior at all! But Little-Leaf gave me a good hug and said she understood. She really is a good friend.
89 Valinka Stoneheaver I'm drowning my guilt in mead. I didn't help Little-Leaf, but I also decided not to warn the merchants, either. Now I feel guilty about doing absolutely nothing! Karamel succeeded at robbing the bazaar. She smiled and blew me a kiss before she disappeared into the wilderness. I hope I see her again. I miss her already.
90 Valinka Stoneheaver Plucky has been trying to lift my spirits, but things haven't been the same since Karamel Little-Leaf went away. The high-spirited little Wood Elf really grew on me. You know what I need? I need an adventure! I think it's finally time to investigate the Dwarven ruins of Bthunzel! Now, where did I put Narsis Dren's map?
91 Valinka Stoneheaver I'm so angry with Karamel Little-Leaf right now! Do you know what she did when she hugged me? She stole my map to the Bthunzel ruins! The same one I … acquired … from Narsis Dren! She tricked me. Like I was some milk-drinking Breton wench and not a Nord warrior maiden. There will be a reckoning. Of that, you can be sure!
92 Valinka Stoneheaver Even without a map, I remember the general vicinity of the Bthunzel ruins. If I hurry, I might even be able to catch up with that little thief, Karamel. We'll see how well her jokes and the way she smiles and the funny way she tilts her head serves her when I wrap my fingers around her skinny Wood Elf neck! Your components are included.
93 Valinka Stoneheaver Plucky and I have sneaked up on a camp not far from where I think the ruins of Bthunzel are located. It's worse than I imagined! I found Karamel Little-Leaf—and she's sharing a drink with Morella the Cruel and her thugs! I guess our meeting at the bazaar wasn't an accident. It appears the Wood Elf thief works for Narsis Dren's nemesis!
94 Valinka Stoneheaver I guess I have a nemesis now. Maybe even two. It appears that Morella the Cruel and Karamel Little-Leaf are working together to find the ruins of Bthunzel before I do. And they stole the map that I stole in order to beat me to it! I may just be mad enough to do something reckless. In true Nord tradition, of course.
95 Valinka Stoneheaver Dear patron. My reckless approach didn't work out so well. Before I could get in more than a dozen hammer swings on Morella's thugs, she cast some sort of spell and vines snaked out of the ground to bind me. I was held fast. And what did Plucky do? He went over to nuzzle Karamel's outstretched hand. Betrayed again, and by my own dog!
96 Valinka Stoneheaver Since I'm still writing, I assume you realize I escaped from the clutches of Morella the Cruel. The how of things is what makes the tale interesting. As the vines tightened around me and Karamel stroked Plucky's fur, I saw the Wood Elf smile and wink at me. Morella was delivering a villainous monolog while a dark figure snuck up behind her.
97 Valinka Stoneheaver Guess who rescued me. Go ahead. Guess! I'm sure you'll never figure it out. Shor's bones, I hardly believe it—and I was there! Narsis Dren, the famed explorer who once tried to show me his artifact, slipped into the camp and dispatched Morella the Cruel with a single blow to the head! And then Little-Leaf eliminated her thugs. It was remarkable!
98 Valinka Stoneheaver I suppose I misjudged Karamel Little-Leaf. And Narsis Dren, as well. They were working together to not only recover the map I had appropriated from the explorer, but to also deal with the threat of Morella the Cruel. The Wood Elf explained it all to me over multiple bottles of mead. And she even had rabbit meatballs for Plucky!
99 Valinka Stoneheaver Dear patron. While I intend to honor my contract with you, I also agreed to accept Narsis Dren's apprenticeship offer. I'm going to accompany him into the ruins of Bthunzel. I expect my first encounter with Dwarven relics to be extremely illuminating. And getting to spend more time with Little-Leaf … pleases me greatly. An added bonus, I think.
100 Karamel Little-Leaf Hello. Due to the high demands of learning at the feet of the great explorer, Narsis Dren, Valinka Stoneheaver will be unable to send you personalized notes for the foreseeable future. But rest assured your regular shipments will continue. And don't worry. I'm sure you'll hear from her again—or my name isn't Karamel Little-Leaf!
101 Aksel Rockbiter Greetings! I am Aksel Rockbiter. I heard a lot about you. I am sure you have heard of me too. I am the greatest finder of things ever! I have made my first delivery. I hope you enjoy it. More will come soon! - Aksel
102 Aksel Rockbiter Hello. It is me again, Aksel. Aksel Rockbiter. I hope you used my first delivery to make swords that kill people. I like swords. Sharp ones are best, but sometimes I cut myself with them. Anyway, here are some supplies. Enjoy!
103 Aksel Rockbiter Aksel here. Thank you for the monies. I use them to buy potions for Mother. She has pains in her joints. The potions help. I rub them on her joints. Sometimes I do not like this, but she is my Mother. So I rub. I will write soon, Aksel Rockbiter.
104 Aksel Rockbiter Guess who this is. No, it is Aksel! I write you again to tell you I have found more supplies for you. You sound like a good blacksmith, so I think you need lots of supplies. And so I bring some. Your friend, Aksel Rockbiter.
105 Aksel Rockbiter You have needs, Aksel provides! Once again, supplies for you. I hope you are using them to make swords. Swords are nice. - Aksel
106 Aksel Rockbiter Sorry these supplies are late. Mother had her pains again. Much rubbing was needed. I was late filling your order. Please do not fire me. It will not happen again.
107 Aksel Rockbiter Someone tried to poke me with a sword today. I hope is was not one of yours, as it broke. I know you would not make such a bad sword, not with the good supplies I send you. Best wishes, Aksel.
108 Aksel Rockbiter Mother hit me today. She says my writing is not good. I say it is the thought that matters. She says my thoughts are not good too. I am sad but I still send supplies. I hope you are still my friend. - Aksel
109 Aksel Rockbiter I hope you are well. Mother says that maybe you do not make swords at all. May be you make armor. I like swords, but armor is good too. - Aksel Rockbiter
110 Aksel Rockbiter I am sorry if you ran out of supplies. Here are more. Please do not fire me. I had to travel very far to find them. I was late getting home and Mother was very worried. She hit me many times. - Aksel
111 Aksel Rockbiter Sometimes, I wonder about this line of work. Mother says it is not good for me. Too many people and monsters try to kill me when I look for your supplies. Do not worry, I am still alive. And I am still Aksel Rockbiter.
112 Aksel Rockbiter I hope you like what I found for you today. I am very proud of myself. I had to fight a big bear and two little bears for it! The little bears bit my ankles. That hurt but I can still walk. Slowly. Enjoy your supplies.
113 Aksel Rockbiter Greetings. Very sore today. Sent what I could find. Hope it is enough. - Aksel
114 Aksel Rockbiter Feeling much better today. I know you were worried. Worry no more, my friend. I hope you are happy with your supplies today. I was happy not to be so sore. I think we are both happy. That makes me happy. - Aksel
115 Aksel Rockbiter Sometimes, I wish you were a breadsmith. Bread is easy to find! Your supplies are not easy to find. Also, bread is easy to work with too! It is very soft. And if you make mistakes, you can eat them! Think of it, please.
116 Aksel Rockbiter Mother says I am dumb. She says that a lot. She says that you will think I do not want to bring you supplies anymore. That is not true! I love bringing you supplies. Here are some more. Please do not fire me. - Aksel (Aksel Rockbiter)
117 Aksel Rockbiter I do not like Mother, sometimes. She is mean. Could I come live with you? I could bring yore supplies faster that way. Think of it. - Aksel
118 Aksel Rockbiter Forget I said that thing I said yesterday. I love Mother. She told me so and said I could not leave. I leave yore supplies for you and now go home to Mother. -Aksel Rockbiter
119 Aksel Rockbiter Do you have someone to love? I hope so. I have Mother and she says that is all I need. A Mother's love is the best love, I am told. Enjoy your supplies. -Aksel
120 Aksel Rockbiter I worked extra hard today to get you your supplies. I hope you are happy. Mother sends her love. - Aksel Rockbiter
121 Aksel Rockbiter Today was a good day. Lots of supplies for you. And Mother has gone to visit her sister, so the hut is all mine. It is a very good day. -Aksel
122 Aksel Rockbiter Mother still visiting her sister. My friends visited last night. We drank a lot of mead, which Mother does not allow. It was a good night but today is a bad day. My head hurts but I still found supplies for you. -Askel Bockriter
123 Aksel Rockbiter Another bad day. Mother is back. She is mad. After drinking mead, my friends wore all her clothes. It was funny but now they are all ripped. Mother yelled at me. All night. Here are your supplies. I go to sleep now. -Aksel
124 Aksel Rockbiter Mother took all my monies! To buy new clothes! I say unfair but she hit me until I gave her the monies. Now I need more so here are some supplies. -Aksel
125 Aksel Rockbiter I am not speaking to Mother today. She has all new clothes. With my monies. It is not fair. I will not speak to her until she gives me my monies back. Enjoy your supplies.
126 Aksel Rockbiter I did not sleep in the hut last night. Mother yelled too much. I sleeped in a barn. A cow pooped on me during the night. A little got on your supplies but I scraped it off. -Aksel
127 Aksel Rockbiter I met a girl today! She is very nice. I like her. She says I am big and strong. Mother says I am little and weak. Her name is Narasgi. The girl, not Mother. I am very excited. - Aksel Rockbiter
128 Aksel Rockbiter Narasgi wrote her name on my arm. That is how I remember. She helped me get your supplies today. That is why they are here so soon. Your friend, Aksel.
129 Aksel Rockbiter I am very excited again. Tonight, I bring Narasgi home to Mother. Mother will love her, I am sure. I almost forget your supplies, I am so excited, but Narasgi reminded me. - Aksel
130 Aksel Rockbiter Mother did not like Narasgi. I am sure you are surprised. I was sure Mother would love her like I do. As soon as we got home, Mother yelled at me and hit me. Then Narasgi yelled at Mother and hit her. There was no dinner.
131 Aksel Rockbiter Today was a bad day. Mother was mad at me. Narasgi was mad at me. I hope you are not mad at me too. Have some supplies. -Aksel
132 Aksel Rockbiter Mother and Narasgi are not talking to me today. Not sure if this is a good day or a bad one. More supplies for you. -Aksel
133 Aksel Rockbiter Good day today. Good supplies for you. And Naragsi talked to me today! She told me to shut up and go away. She still likes me!
134 Aksel Rockbiter Hello again. Mother still not speaking to me. I like it. Naragsi helped me get your supplies. May be you can smell her perfume on them? That is the best smell. - Aksel
135 Aksel Rockbiter Mother spoke to me today. Very loudly. She does not like Narasgi. She says Narasgi wants to kill her and eat her. I do not think so. Narasgi is not Bosmer, I do not think. - Aksel
136 Aksel Rockbiter It is Aksel again. Narasgi says to ignore Mother. I cannot ignore Mother. I do not know what ignore means. I am confused. But I left supplies for you.
137 Aksel Rockbiter Narasgi is very good to me. She is teaching me to write better. You may have seen that writing is hard for me. But no more! I will still get supplies for you, never fear! - Aksel
138 Aksel Rockbiter It is me, Aksel. Narasgi taught me to spell the right way. I am very proud. I hope you enjoy your supplies very much. - Aksel
139 Aksel Rockbiter Mother still does not like Narasgi. She says she is bossy and mean. Narasgi tells me to ignore Mother. She told me what that means too, so now I will try. but Mother is hard to ignore. - Aksel Rockbiter
140 Aksel Rockbiter I am better now. Narasgi likes me again, I am sure. And when Mother talks about her, I do the ignore. This makes me happy. I hope you are happy with your supplies. - Your friend very much, Aksel
141 Aksel Rockbiter How is Mother like a tree? They are both best when they leave! Narasgi told me that joke today. I laughed so hard mead came out my nose. I did not tell Mother the joke. I think she would not like it. - Aksel
142 Aksel Rockbiter Mother is mad at me. Every time I see her, I think of Narasgi's joke and I laugh. But I can't tell Mother what is funny. That makes her mad. Enjoy your supplies!
143 Aksel Rockbiter I was bit by wolves today. I was looking for your supplies when I saw a tree. I thought of Mother and laughed again, very loud. Wolves heard me and bit me all over. Some blood is on your supplies. I hope you do not mind. - Aksel
144 Aksel Rockbiter Hello, my friend! Another good day today. I spent it with Narasgi. We looked for your supplies, of course. Enjoy your day! - Aksel
145 Aksel Rockbiter It is very strange, how happy I feel. May be it is Narasgi. May be it is Mother not speaking to me again. May be both. Anyway I am happy. I hope you are too. - Aksel
146 Aksel Rockbiter I like being Aksel very much. Every time Narasgi says my name, I feel funny in my stomach. Sometimes I throw up, which makes Narasgi laugh. I like to make her laugh but I do not like to throw up. - Aksel
147 Aksel Rockbiter I thought a lot today. Thinking hurts my head so I try not to do it. Narasgi is a nice girl. She reminds me of Mother. A lot. I got your supplies. Now I must lie down for awhile, then think some more. - Aksel
148 Aksel Rockbiter It is Aksel again. I think I will ask Narasgi to marry me. I think this is a good idea. I think I need to lie down again.
149 Aksel Rockbiter Hello friend. I am going to ask Narasgi to marry me. Today. My stomach feels very funny. I hope I do not throw up on Narasgi until after I ask her. Wish me lucks! - Aksel
150 Aksel Rockbiter Aksel here. I asked her. Then I threw up. That was a mistake. Narasgi asked for time to think. I hope it does not hurt her head. I got supplies for you while waiting for Narasgi to think.
151 Aksel Rockbiter Narasgi still thinking. I am worried. It does not take me that long to think. Mother says Narasgi does not like me. Sometimes I hate Mother. - Aksel
152 Aksel Rockbiter I am very sad. Narasgi is still thinking. Mother is right. She does not love me. Narasgi, not Mother. Mother loves me. She tells me all the time. May be a mother's love is best. I am still sad though. - Aksel
153 Aksel Rockbiter Happy, happy, happy! Narasgi will marry me! I am so happy. Mother was wrong! Here are your supplies, I must go see Narasgi again. - Aksel Rockbiter
154 Aksel Rockbiter I am happy, Narasgi is happy, Mother is mad. I hope you are happy not mad. Mother yells when she is mad. You do not yell at me. That is why I like you. Plus the monies you send me. - Aksel
155 Aksel Rockbiter Narasgi thinks we should get a hut of our own when we are married. Mother thinks Narasgi should get a hut and live there alone. I like Narasgi's idea better. More supplies for you!
156 Aksel Rockbiter This is Aksel. Sorry I was late with your supplies. Mother and Narasgi were fighting and my head hurt. Mother wants to live with us in our hut. Narasgi said over her dead body. Mother said that would be nice. Then they fought. My head hurts again.
157 Aksel Rockbiter They are still fighting. Mother and Narasgi. I stayed away all day, getting supplies for you. I am afraid to go back to the hut. I will sleep on the ground tonight and hope the bears do not eat me. - Aksel
158 Aksel Rockbiter The bears did not eat me. It is Aksel, if you could not tell. I have not gone home yet. The woods seem safer. I found lots of supplies for you. - Aksel
159 Aksel Rockbiter I went home today. Mother is not speaking to me again. but she did speak to tell me she was mad at me. Then she stopped. It was nice. Here are your supplies. - Aksel
160 Aksel Rockbiter Narasgi says that you are not interested in my personal life. I do not believe that as you are my friend. I will keep telling you things but not tell Narasgi. You do not tell her too please. - Aksel
161 Aksel Rockbiter Is blacksmith a dangerous job? Narasgi thinks my job is too full of danger. She wants me to do a safer job once we are married. But I like my job. Today I found some good supplies for you. - Aksel
162 Aksel Rockbiter Narasgi and me had our first fight. It was about you. I want to keep working for you. She does not want me to. We talked about it all day, sometimes very loudly. We are not talking now. - Aksel
163 Aksel Rockbiter Aksel here. We are talking again. Narasgi and me. She wants to get married right away. Mother says we should wait. I have to go lie down and think. I hope it does not hurt too much.
164 Aksel Rockbiter My head hurts today. Narasgi and me are getting married tomorrow. We found you some good supplies today and did not fight at all. - Aksel
165 Aksel Rockbiter I am married! To Narasgi! Oh, it is me, Aksel. Left you some supplies. Must go now. -Aksel
166 Aksel Rockbiter Married life is good! I do not know why I did not get married long ago. But no one would have me, I guess. Must go now. - Aksel
167 Aksel Rockbiter Now that I am married, I must provide for my family. Mother and Narasgi tell me this. So I am working extra hard to find you good supplies. - Aksel
168 Aksel Rockbiter Narasgi is with me all the time now. Mother has told her she must keep an eye on me. I do not know why. But we find supplies for you very fast now! Your friend, Aksel.
169 Aksel Rockbiter Hello. It is me. Aksel. Narasgi and me worked all morning to find supplies for you. Then we looked at huts. For us to live in. Huts cost a lot of monies. We need to find many more supplies for you.
170 Aksel Rockbiter Here are your supplies, early today. More hut shopping for me and Narasgi. Life was simpler when I lived with Mother but not as much fun. - Aksel
171 Aksel Rockbiter Huts, huts, huts. I am sick of looking at huts! I never want to see another hut! I said this to Narasgi and she growled at me. She never growled at me before we were married. More huts tomorrow I think. - Aksel.
172 Aksel Rockbiter I had a good idea. We could live in Mother's hut! With Mother! It would save lots of monies. Narasgi growled at me again. So I went out and found some supplies for you. - Aksel
173 Aksel Rockbiter Aksel Rockbiter here. I am sending your supplies before Narasgi and me go looking at huts again. I do not say I am sick of looking at huts anymore. Goodbye for now.
174 Aksel Rockbiter Today was a good day. Narasgi said she is sick of looking at huts! We spent all day finding your supplies. I hope you make some good swords with them! - Aksel
175 Aksel Rockbiter We are going to stay with Mother! Oh, this is Aksel. Narasgi says we will live with Mother until we can buy a hut of our own. Now to tell Mother the good news. I left supplies for you in the same place. - Aksel Rockbiter
176 Aksel Rockbiter Mother does not want us! I am very sad. Narasgi is very mad. She told me to find your supplies and she will talk to Mother again. I hope they do not hurt each other. - Aksel
177 Aksel Rockbiter Mother wants us! She and Narasgi talked and talked. Mother has black eyes from all the talking. And now she wants us to live in her hut! I am so happy. I almost forgot your supplies, but here they are. - Aksel
178 Aksel Rockbiter Narasgi moved into Mother's hut today. I moved back in too. Mother made me sleep outside with the pigs since me and Narasgi got married. I will have a good sleep tonight. Supplies are here for you. - Aksel Rockbiter
179 Aksel Rockbiter I had a good sleep. I hope you did too. Narasgi snores but I put mud in my ears and slept. Oh, this is Aksel Rockbiter again. I have your supplies, as always.
180 Aksel Rockbiter Mother complained about Narasgi snoring. She complained loudly. Then Narasgi looked at her and Mother stopped complaining. That has never happened before. I am happy they are getting along so good. - Aksel
181 Aksel Rockbiter A quiet hut is a happy hut. I made that up just now. Me, Aksel Rockbiter! Our hut is very happy. Mother is very quiet. Sometimes I forget she is even here. Life is good. Your supplies are good too. - Aksel
182 Aksel Rockbiter More supplies for you! Narasgi sent me out early today. She and Mother are moving furniture. We have only three tree stumps for chairs and one big stump for a table but it took them all day. I am just happy they are happy. - Aksel
183 Aksel Rockbiter Do you know any more blacksmiths? Narasgi wants me to make more monies. I will be very busy with more customers but Narasgi does not mind. She says it is good for me to be out in the fresh air. She is very good to me. - Aksel
184 Aksel Rockbiter I found another blacksmith! I am very happy. I will try very hard to not mix up your supplies with hers. Narasgi says Mother will help me. I left supplies for you. I hope they are yours. - Aksel
185 Aksel Rockbiter Narasgi found me two more blacksmiths to supply. She says we must diverspiffy...spread out. I am very very busy now. Your friend Aksel.
186 Aksel Rockbiter Do not worry. You are my best blacksmith. The others mean nothing to me. - Aksel
187 Aksel Rockbiter Are you happy with your supplies? Narasgi says your happiness is very important to us. Please let Mother know if you are not happy. She handles all our complaints. - Aksel of The Aksel Rockbiter Supply Company
188 Aksel Rockbiter I am sorry about my last note. Narasgi made me write it. I write this note in secret. I hope you are still my friend even though I find supplies for other blacksmiths. - Aksel
189 Aksel Rockbiter Too busy to write much. Your supplies are here. Your friend Aksel.
190 Aksel Rockbiter Narasgi and me had our first married fight. I am too tired from finding all the supplies. I can not do this any more. I said this to Narasgi and she said I am a bad husband. Today was a bad day. - Aksel
191 Aksel Rockbiter It is Aksel again. Narasgi and me are still fighting. I want to work only for you but Narasgi says that is not enough monies. Mother says she is on my side but when Narasgi is near she says nothing. but I still found supplies for you. -Aksel
192 Aksel Rockbiter Narasgi is mad at me. She says I must find supplies for two blacksmiths but I can stop finding supplies for the others. I am happy. I was getting very tired. You are one of the two of course. - Aksel
193 Aksel Rockbiter I am very happy today. I am not tired and have so much energy! I found good supplies for you. I think you will be very happy. - Aksel
194 Aksel Rockbiter Narasgi and Mother are looking for furniture today. I hope it does not cost too many monies. We do not have many monies. But Narasgi says we need a bed. Mother says straw on the floor is good enough for us. Then she and Narasgi had a fight. -Aksel
195 Aksel Rockbiter I do not like our new bed. It is too high off the ground. I worry about falling out at night and hurting myself. Or landing on Mother on the floor by the bed. Oh, this is Aksel. Your supplies are waiting.
196 Aksel Rockbiter I fell out of bed last night. Five times. My ankle hurts. I had to walk on it all day to find your supplies. I hope you are happy. - Aksel
197 Aksel Rockbiter My ankle is better today. I am getting used to the bed. I fell out only three times last night! but I stepped on Mother once and she is mad at me. More supplies for you. - Aksel Rockbiter
198 Aksel Rockbiter I like our new bed. You should get one. It is good to sleep in a bed. Or under it. Mother sleeps there now so I do not step on her at night. I get more rest now so I find you lots of supplies. - Aksel
199 Aksel Rockbiter Narasgi and me found supplies for you today. Narasgi told me she loves me. Then she hit me so it must be true. I am very happy. - Aksel
200 Aksel Rockbiter Today was a good day. I think tomorrow will be too. I am happy, Narasgi is happy, Mother is almost happy. I hope you are happy. As always, supplies for you. - Your friend always, Aksel Rockbiter