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kagedbird · 16 days

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Cicero Loves You, Listener!

TESSDE AU - Dark Brotherhood route

~ [First] ~ [Next] ~ [Prev] ~

This was going to be… rough. To adjust to.

Something inside my stomach wanted to puke at the thought of being in a den of murderers, but I felt like my hands weren’t clean either. I couldn’t remember if I was like them or not, so I wasn’t sure I had any right to judge.

Not only that, but the Night Mother chose me. That clearly had to account for something, regarding my life. Right?

Either way, I was definitely treated like an outsider by the rest of the ‘family’ despite my supposed position. Only two people outside of Cicero really cared that I was Listener and addressed me as such— that being Babette, the vampire, and Festus Krex, the older man. Both were old enough to remember and adhere to the ‘old ways’ of the religious creed, but not everyone was so quick to fall back to the ancient ways.

Astrid especially. I could feel her cold, distrusting glare everywhere from the moment I stepped out of Mother’s sanctuary. She was clearly waiting for me to make a misstep, of any kind, so she had an excuse to take me out. Cicero warned me plenty enough to not linger near ‘the harlot’ for long.

It was mean, but hearing Cicero call her a harlot definitely made me snort. I had to ‘suffer’ through him trying to get me to do it repeatedly during meal time, much to the despair of my aching sides.

At the moment, I was seated next to Gabrielle as she stitched the last threads into the cloth of my new uniform. I was to match the others in their red and black colour scheme. Something inside felt fond at the colour duality— maybe I’d worn this before? Did I used to belong to another sanctuary?

Those three men in my dreams certainly didn’t wear the colours or anything regarding the family’s design…

I’d dreamt of them repeatedly since the first time. Flickers in time that didn’t really make sense, feelings and emotions I couldn’t really grasp. I think past me was infatuated with them, to some degree. Or she just held a lot of love for them in her heart.

Would they like this new me? Did they still exist?

Perhaps I could ask Night Mother where they were…

“You’re very quiet.” Gabrielle said suddenly, startling me from my thoughts. Curiously, I looked up to her in question, and she smiled. “Sorry. I suppose I was expecting another one like Cicero— er, the Keeper. Loud.”

“I can be.” I said, slowly shrugging. “But I feel like I’ll be threatened with another knife if I am.”

Gabriella laughs, a tinkling sort of sound leaking from her lips. “I think you might be right. I do apologize for it. I for one am glad we have another woman. It’s nice to have some company.”

I smile, feeling assured by her comment. It didn’t feel like she had any ulterior motives to tack on either. Just genuine want for camaraderie.

“Have you been recovering well, under the Keeper’s care?” She asked curiously, eyes flicking back down to her work.

“Yes. Cicero is very… attentive.” I settled on, glancing at where he was in the sanctuary. He was tending to Mother right now, oiling her preserved body.

I didn’t envy the task, I’ll be honest. Not to be disrespectful in any way. But it was… mildly unsettling, as was everything in regards to this guild.

“Attentive is a word for it.” Gabriella huffed quietly. “Just say the word if you need a hand, okay? I don’t mind at all.”

“Thank you. I might take you up on that.” I nodded. “I’ve been feeling this sharp pain in my thigh for a while, and I worry something isn’t healing right.”

“Oh! I’ll see to it after this.” Gabriella said, nodding firmly.

“Thank you.” I murmured, settling my back against the rough chair. It was nice to have a companion other than Cicero. You could only talk about the same five things so many times before it became tiring.

Gabriella’s smile widened as she swiftly stitched the pants in her lap. “Cicero said you were a polite one. I can only wonder how long it’ll last here.”

“Pardon?” I asked, confused. “...Does no one thank anyone here?”

“Well, of course we thank each other,” Gabriella admits, looking a bit sheepish. “But… no offense to you or your position, Listener, but you are… new.”

Ah.

“I’m sorry you all get third degree.” I offer simply, dipping my head respectfully. “While I’m still… lightly disquieted about the tasks that are given, I’m sure they aren’t given without thought. Otherwise, we’d just be killing anyone and everyone, wouldn’t we?”

“As much as Sithis might enjoy having so many souls brought to him in the Void, if everyone were to die, no one would be alive to kill.” Gabriella remarked dryly. “So, yes, you’re right on that one.”

“And…” I pause, looking around to make sure no one would hear, sheepishly glancing back at the elven woman. “...Everyone does their best to remain respectful of the dead, right?”

“Well… I cannot attest to everyone,” Gabriella admits, but gives a small shrug. “I certainly try to. Death is but the time to sleep forever, in the Void, after all. I assure that everyone has a good rest when it’s their time.”

“That’s all I can hope for.” I murmured, squeezing my shorts tightly. “Death isn’t something that should be taken lightly. Murder isn’t to be done lightly. I… I don’t remember what I’ve done, but I don’t feel clean. But I do know I had to have had my reasons. Regardless of the hefty price that was paid.”

Gabriella turns to me and stares deeply into my eyes. I do my best to maintain the eye contact, letting her search for whatever she wished.

“...How strange for the Night Mother to choose someone so… estranged to killing.” She eventually murmured, eyes tight. “One would think she would settle on a serial murderer. Or someone with the taste for blood.”

“Maybe she looks for restraint.” I offer. “You said it yourself, with everyone dead, there’s no one alive to kill.”

She hummed, keeping her stare for a few moments longer, before turning to the clothes on her lap once more. With a flourish, she tightens the thread and cuts the remaining string off, smoothing the cloth down.

“It’s done. Shall we adjourn to your room to see about your leg?”

“Yes, please. Thank you.”

She chuckled again, standing tall and helping me stand with a smile across her lips. “Ever so polite, Listener.”

“As if you’ve been nothing but kind yourself.” I countered with a grin, enjoying her laughter that followed.

“I wonder.”

I followed after Gabriella, slow as I was with a limp in my gait, and entered into the sanctuary with a wave to Cicero.

“Hello Keeper.” Gabriella greeted cooly.

“Hello, hello! And hello to you, sweet Listener!” Cicero said, smiling wide. “Come to pay respects to the Night Mother?”

“Maybe after Gabriella checks my leg,” I offered, giving him a weaker smile in return. “It’s been burning a lot lately, and I’ve been worried—”

Cicero gasped, looking down right appalled. “And you have not mentioned this to Cicero? Your dutiful, helpful, dearest Cicero?!”

I shrunk slightly, feeling properly admonished, and forced myself not to scuff my foot. “I… feel more at ease with a woman checking, Cicero. No offense to you or your capabilities at all. I just…”

Cicero stared heavily before letting out a dramatic sigh and turned back to the Night Mother. “Woe is me, dearest Mother! If only I had been born a woman, so as to take proper care of our dearest Listener! Woe, I say!”

I smiled wider, feeling a little more at ease at his goofy speech. “It’s just my leg, Cicero. You’ve helped with literally everything else, and I’m very grateful. I don’t want to keep having to lean on your kindness though.”

“So the Listener keeps saying.” Cicero sighed again, wiping his hands on a dry rag. “Perhaps the Listener should be the Keeper instead with how often she keeps poor Cicero.”

I laugh, shaking my head. “I would be a poor Keeper indeed. That job is yours, hon. You do a great job of it, and I know Mother is grateful for your efforts.”

“She is?!” Cicero squawked, turning to me sharply. “Has she said? Has she? Oh please, dearest Listener! Tell poor Cicero what she has said!”

“Um…” I blink in surprise, but feel myself soften at his urgency. He’s been without her voice and as her Keeper for so long. Like any child, he’d long to hear her praise…

“My dearest Keeper… though he longs to hear my voice, it does not belong to him. He is the Keeper after all.” Mother’s voice rang in my mind, making me snap to her coffin. The subtle red… “His loyalty, above all, brings his Dread Lord father and I the greatest of joy. As all of our children do.”

I smile, feeling my heart squeeze a bit. Reassured by this… matronly comfort that settled in my chest. It soothed an ancient ache I couldn’t recall. I’m not sure what, but it was definitely nice to hear the subtle compliment to myself.

“...She says you’re a wonderful, loyal Keeper. And that she and Father are proud of you.” I said softly, finally turning my eyes to see Cicero blinking back tears with a fervent relieving grief. A mixture of emotions swirling on his face as his hands clenched tightly by his sides, scrunching up the rag in his right hand.

I felt the urge to go to him. I wasn’t sure if it was Mother’s prodding, or a sense of my old self ushering me, but I strode forward and brought him into a tight hug, rubbing his back softly.

“Silence has ended, my Brother…”

“Welcome home.”

#skyrim #tesblr #tes oc #Cicero skyrim #Gabriella skyrim #Night Mother #Allora #Dragonborn oc #TESSDE AU #Dark Brotherhood

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kagedbird · 19 days

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Cicero Loves You, Listener!

TESSDE AU - Dark Brotherhood route

~ [First] ~ [Next] ~ [Prev] ~

My head ached.

I could hardly open my eyes, the pounding in my head was so loud. My back felt torn apart, my right deltoid and left thigh were burning, and my head was fucking pounding.

It must have been a bodily reflex to test my fingers and toes, as I hadn’t realized I’d done it until my brain mentally relieved itself of the worry I’d lost any. Ten fingers, ten toes, all accounted for.

It was hard to swallow though. My mouth was so dry, my lips cracked.

Would it be so bad to just fall back into the listless void again? To be cradled by the ether and not deal with any of this?

I nearly did, had it not been for a familiar creaking noise of a door a few paces from where I laid. I’d gathered I was in a bed, given the state of my lying position, as well as the blankets surrounding me. I felt like I wanted to violently tear the blankets off my feet, but I had no strength to do so.

Instead, I found strength to crack open my eyes, feeling myself freeze in place at the sight ahead of me.

Cast aglow and sundered by the remaining shadows shrouding his face, I saw a silhouette of a man staring at me just from around the other side of the door in the dimly lit room I was placed in.

I felt a shudder creep up my spine, both from his seemingly thousand yard and yet hungry stare, as well as anxieties I couldn’t remember the cause of bursting from my chest at the sight of someone watching me as I rested.

Had that happened before? Had worse happened?

I couldn’t… I couldn’t remember.

That was far more terrifying.

He must have noticed me staring right back, unmoving, hardly breathing, as his vision changed suddenly. His expression became more joyous and jovial; masking what small preview I had seen that clearly laid underneath.

“Ah! The kind lady is awake! She is, she is!” The man’s shrill voice called out in the silence, opening the door further to clap his hands together joyfully.

I had to wince. Everything was so loud.

“Kind… lady…?” I croaked out instead, watching him skip over to me with a jingle literally in every step.

His attire was like a jester— was a jester. He was a jester. Black and red clothing with golden trimming, certainly a bold choice for a jester, but a jester nonetheless with those bells that curled on his shoes and held down his hat.

His smile was wide as he addressed me, “Oh yes! You helped poor Cicero along the road so very long ago! He is very happy to be able to return the favour!”

I felt my brows crease in concern. ‘I helped him?... I can’t… I can’t remember…’

His smile dropped into something woeful. Mocking? An attempt to be pitious? I couldn’t tell. I couldn’t read him.

“Oh dear, oh dear! It seems your mind is more rattled than poor Cicero’s!” He murmured, fretting about above me, but never touching. Thankfully. “Fret not, fret not! Friendly Cicero is here to help! Does the kind lady have a name?”

A name? Oh god. Please. Not my name, I need my name—

“A-Allora…” I stuttered past dry lips, idly licking them in a vain attempt to speak better. “I think…”

“Allora, Allora! What a wonderful name, so pretty, pretty, for such a kind lady!” The jester sang, rocking in place with his hands clasped and pressed against his cheek. “Well, Miss Allora, Cicero found you outside not too far from home, quite in a state! Yes, yes! Cicero was so beside himself to see such a kind woman injured, he knew he just had to scoop you up into safety!”

I was injured… that much was obvious from the raging headache and bodily pain.

“Do you remember anything at all?” He asked, voice suddenly low as he leaned in.

I craned my head back, tense, and staring right back into his piercing gaze. Why did this feel like I was the one in trouble? What did he think I knew?

“I-I… I really can��t… remember much…” I murmured, turning my head slightly. “My head… really hurts…”

He stayed for a breath of a moment, before pulling back and placing a hand on each cheek. “Oh, Cicero is so sorry you are in so much pain! Please, allow him to go fetch you a potion! And some water! You sound so dreadfully weak and tired, yes, yes.”

That sounded like a thinly veiled insult.

I couldn’t tell. Was it just his inflections? Was it my head?

Either way, I couldn’t trust him just because he said I helped him and he saved me. Something churned in my stomach that something was wrong. I don’t remember him. He didn’t even know my name.

Did he actually know me at all?

I watched as he left hurriedly, flapping his hands all the while, humming under his breath. I peered around the dimly lit room, taking in the various melted candles that sat around the room without any container to hold the wax; merely melting all over various surfaces.

Something in me scratched angrily about the wax coating book covers over on the distant table. I had to agree; it seemed wasteful.

Other than the books, table, a small nightstand with two candles nearby, and a seat— along with the bed I was resting in— the room was fairly empty. Cobblestone lined the walls and were smoothed to make the floor, a chill not quite kept out from the outside leaking in.

I huddled into the warmth of the blankets further, the cold doing nothing to help me stay awake. But I knew despite my need to rest to heal, I didn’t think I could with the mental image of that jester staring at me in my mind.

Maybe he meant well. But something in my gut screamed in terror, so I would listen to it. I could listen to nothing else.

It was long enough to acknowledge the dreary, unsettling silence lingering in the air before the jester came back. He held a cup in one hand and a potion in the other.

Presumably. Were potions just another name for medicine? I couldn’t remember.

Settling the items on the table, the jester carefully helped me sit up enough to drink both liquids— having to pause momentarily during the potion as my body had threatened to reject it immediately— before I was settled once more.

Thankfully, he had gloves on. I felt a little less weary about touch with those keeping skin contact to a minimum.

After the revolting medicine though, I did feel my aches begin to ease near immediately. I didn’t feel drowsy from the effect either; just itchy from the muscles and skin healing at a rapid rate.

I supposed I couldn’t keep the wonder off my face as the jester laughed loudly next to me.

“Oh, how adorable Miss Allora is! Cicero, too, was enamoured with the way potions worked when he was very very little!” He said, patting my head softly. I was proud I withheld my flinch. “Hopefully that will soothe your achey-broken-brain soon enough!”

“I hope so too,” I murmured, sinking into the bedding underneath me. It wasn’t as soft as I expected it to be for some reason. But it was comfortable all the same.

“In the meantime, allow friendly Cicero to gather you sustenance!” Cicero said, clapping his hands together. “What would Miss Allora like to eat?”

“Um…”

Did I have allergies? I must if I was thinking about it so suddenly. But what?

“Oh, foolish Cicero!” He said suddenly, smacking a hand to his forehead. “Silly Cicero! He did not mean to make you feel sad about being unable to remember. He will simply gather something simple! A fine soup! Would that be well?”

“Yes,” I nodded slowly, feeling guilty for my distrust at this point. Weariness aside, he was taking care of me. “...Thank you, Cicero.”

He froze momentarily before laughing again. It was deep from his gut, like it was the funniest thing he’d ever heard.

“Oh, Miss Allora! You are so kind, so kind!” Cicero said, wiping a tear from his eye. “Yes, Cicero is happy he found you and gets to bring you back to health. A true honour, it is!”

“...Sure.” I replied lamely, smiling weakly at his beaming expression.

Was I someone… important? I could only think of that as the reason why he seemed so amused by my thanks.

Cicero hummed to himself, adjusting my covers momentarily, and I bit my lip as he moved to leave.

“Um— Cicero?”

“Yes, dearest friend of Cicero’s?” He replied immediately, turning back around so quickly it made my head spin.

“I’m— I’m sorry, I… really hate blankets over my feet,” I murmured, sheepishly looking away. “...I can’t really move, could you….?”

“Oh! Oh yes!” Cicero perked up, immediately adjusting the blanket to curl over my feet. I felt immediate relief and sunk into the bed fully, unwound from the growing tension along my spine.

“Thank you,” I murmured again, suffused with gratitude.

“Of course, of course! Anything for Cicero’s dearest friend!” He replied, clapping his hands together once more. “He will be off to gather you the heartiest of soups! Be back in a jiffy!”

I watched him scurry out once more, closing the door behind him, and taking the light from the exterior with him.

Ladened in the darkness, with no window to see the outside, my eyes felt more open than they had before.

…There was a presence here.

Here?

Nearby?

Somewhere.

Waiting. Watching. Watching and waiting.

I looked around, swallowing thickly as the anxiety curled in my chest. I hated this. I hated whatever this was. The lights— the sconces and candles— were not enough to pierce the veil of darkness left in Cicero’s wake.

Where was I?

#skyrim #tesblr #tes oc #Cicero skyrim #Allora #Dragonborn oc #TESSDE AU #Dark Brotherhood

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kagedbird · 20 days

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Cicero Loves You, Listener! TESSDE AU - Dark Brotherhood route

~ [First] ~ [Next] ~ [Prev] ~

Something had gone wrong while we were up on the cliff.

I hadn’t been able to put my finger on it. It felt like we were being watched. I was certain the others could feel it to, with the way Inigo’s tail whipped up a storm, ears flicked back tightly against his skull; Lucien nervously kept checking over his shoulder, waiting for something to pop out; Kaidan scanning the horizon line repeatedly for anyone in the close vicinity or far distance.

I couldn’t hold back my own shivers of discomfort as we slowed our pace, feeling very much like we were being corralled to something.

We were not too far from Falkreath, in Reachmen territory. Normally, according to my boys, this usually spelt disaster. But I’d managed to make friends with many of the tribes in the area, and they’d given us clear passage by warning others that we weren’t to be harmed.

They really enjoyed my hurdy gurdy songs I’d shared the first time.

Due to this safety net, however, I knew it wasn’t them stalking us like prey. Shepherded closer and closer to the edge of a cliffside, my hands felt clammy while holding the grip of Kaidan’s bow, and I felt as taut as the bowstring along my entire body.

I just wished something would happen, so we could get it over with all ready!

Suspense was my most despised form of horror. Not knowing when the other shoe would drop raised my anxiety levels too high; pulse skyrocketing in my veins. Sahloknir and Mirmulnir could hardly contain Nahagliiv with the amount of turmoil coiling through me, try as I might to douse it with vague hope.

My heart was palpitating and squeezing too tightly. My mouth felt like cotton had taken over to live on my tongue, and I felt sweat trickle down the base of my arms. I was sure to have an anxiety attack before long if this kept up.

Inigo whipped around, bow drawn, a snarl on his face as we all turned to see what had caught his attention.

But there was nothing in the area behind us.

I whipped my head back around— equal parts sure it had been a diversion, as well as thinking I had heard something this time— only to find nothing yet again. Sequestered between two boulders that hugged the edge of the cliff precariously, we all waited, as still as our breathing, for anything to happen.

…And waited.

…

…And waited still.

Despite nothing happening, none of us were willing to look away and untense to let our guards drop. We’d been through too much for that. We knew better— even Lucien, who I could tell was struggling to keep still.

I swallowed thickly again, trying to hear anything beyond the beating of my blood in my ears. We were on our way back to Whiterun, and all I wanted to do was to fall into Bren’s arms and rest with my family. I wanted to go home and cook for them and not think about being the Dragonborn for five minutes. Not have to think about the Gods that pestered me endlessly about saving the world.

I wanted a break. Not to break.

Kaidan shuffled in place, the sound of his gloves creaking from his grip sounding like blaring sirens in the stillness. Lucien’s breathing was tight, fire alight along his fingers and palms. And though no longer drawn fully to conserve energy, Inigo was still poised and at the ready to shoot anything that remotely popped up out of the blue.

I could feel my magicka swirling just under the surface of my skin, aching to be let out and released, but I couldn’t. Not yet. I couldn’t draw eyes to us just because of this tension. It would only give whatever was out there a hidden third party to kill us all the easier.

I was growing weary with every passing minute though. Why wait this long? Why drag it out? Were they even there anymore?

The temptation to call out grew more and more, but I could hear my sister berating me for outing myself to an enemy and risking my team. So I continued biting my tongue and kept my eyes peeled—

There. A shadow had moved behind the boulder on the right, I had seen it. I silently nudged Inigo and Kaidan, as they were closest to me, and nodded towards that boulder. They nodded back, eyes sharp, as I slowly moved to Lucien’s side to warn him as well.

What I hadn’t anticipated was the sudden and sharp whistle from a fired arrow racing towards me, catching me in the shoulder in mere moments.

All hell broke loose. Kaidan and Inigo immediately went on the hunt, shouting out war cries as they raced after the perceived threat, while Lucien caught me as I fell into his arms. I stumbled, knees hitting the dirt and small rocks painfully; my hand reaching up to the arrow that was surely sunk into my muscle.

Another whistle, I couldn’t think, I just shoved Lucien down, watching as the next arrow shuddered into the dirt behind us.

“RUN!” I screamed past the stranglehold on my throat, getting up as fast as I possibly could and dragged Lucien up with me.

“Where?!” He yelped back, stumbling upright and hurried off as I pushed him.

“Anywhere! Serpentine! Just run!” I croaked. Anxiety was clawing at my insides— I couldn’t think.

Another arrow just barely missed Lucien’s foot as he dodged left, leaving him yelping again. I turned to the direction the arrows were firing from, but saw nothing but open spaces.

Wait—

Along the ground of the cliffside, there were specific pocket markings, as if the dirt had been turned over. Risking the spare moments between an archer’s reload time, I could see that the motions continued in a semi-circle from one boulder to the other.

Exactly covering the section only I remained standing on.

My pupils were dilated as time slowed down. In his haste, Lucien’s feet ripped up the dirt from behind him, loose as it was, sending trickles of it throughout the air.

Another arrow just missed him, sending him skating further beyond the line.

A trap.

I went to run— I needed to get out of here— but another arrow stopped me in my tracks as it pierced my thigh. I screamed in pain, falling forward into the dirt, and felt it shudder under the force of my weight.

I howled in agony as I broke the arrow in my thigh, digging the arrowhead further into my skin; barely seeing past the blinding white pain of Lucien attempting to run back to me. He was stopped by dozens of arrows flying his way, keeping him trapped. Kaidan and Inigo were nowhere to be seen from my position. I couldn’t hear much past the tinnitus ringing in my head.

I was being targeted. By what? Or whom?

It didn’t matter. I needed to—!

The ground shook horrifically, just as predicted, and I turned my head to see the dirt collapsing behind me over the edge. I grabbed fistfuls of grass and dirt, desperately clawing my way across as best I could.

Lucien was braving through the storm of arrows, diving headfirst along the ground to reach out to me—

My fingertips grazed his—

He gasped in pain as his body retracted from being shot in the side again and again; eyes peering widely into my own.

And I let out a terrified scream as my body plummeted down, down, down below.

#skyrim #tesblr #TESSDE AU #Dark Brotherhood #tes oc #Kaidan Skyrim #Lucien Skyrim #Inigo Skyrim #Allora #Dragonborn oc #Starting off strong!!! >:3c

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kagedbird · 18 days

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Cicero Loves You, Listener! TESSDE AU - Dark Brotherhood route

~ [First] ~ [Next] ~ [Prev] ~

Two weeks, I was up on my feet and relearning how to walk and pick things up carefully. My body had weakened considerably after my injuries and constant bed rest, so I needed to work back up to whatever previous strength I had.

Problem was, Cicero didn’t really want me moving too much.

“Miss Allora should not strain herself so much! She has been through so much— let dutiful Cicero gather whatever she needs!” He would say after a mere five minutes of me walking around the room, ushering me back to bed not long after.

Granted, I was sweating and breathing heavily by that point, but regardless; it felt suffocating.

“I don’t want to take up your space forever,” I argued softly, allowing him to herd me back under the covers.

“Tut, tut! Miss Allora just needs to focus on herself.” Cicero argued, wagging a finger in the air. “Cicero will take care of everything until she is better.”

“But—”

“No butts! Dutiful Cicero does not mind in the slightest!” He said, standing tall and clapping his hands together. “He will introduce you to the rest of the family soon enough!”

“Right, you mention they’re normally working,” I nodded idly. “What is it they do? If you can talk about it.”

“Oh, they dole out duties between one another for the sake of Mother!” Cicero explains, swaying on his heels. “We take care of pesky, pesky individuals who need to go!”

Go…?

“Like…” I wracked my head for the word, closing my eyes momentarily. “...Mercenaries?”

“Oho! Very close, certainly close.” Cicero nodded.

When he didn’t elaborate, I looked away slowly, unsure if I should proceed further, or if it was meant to remain vague.

“How many people are in your family?” I asked instead.

“Hmm, including Mother and Cicero?” He taps his lower lip, humming in thought. “Oh about nine? Ten if you include the unchild’s pet.”

“‘Unchild’…?” I furrowed my eyebrows, confused.

“Ah! Yes, yes, all in due time!” Cicero patted my head again. “Rest until you feel your best! That’s what Cicero says!”

“Are you going?” I asked, frowning. It was really lonely whenever he left. I wasn’t sure if that was his goal, but I couldn’t really help it if I was playing into his hand. He was the only company I had.

The darkness had been getting louder when I was alone lately. It felt like something was trying to talk to me.

“Does Miss Allora not like being alone?” Cicero asked, surprised. “Silly Allora, Cicero will not be gone for long!”

“...Okay.” I murmured, scrunching the blanket in my hands. I couldn’t keep him from his duties, or his mother. It’d be cruel.

There was a moment where Cicero just watched me before his hand trailed from the top of my head to my cheek, making me blink and look up at him.

“You are safe here.” He assured me quietly. Far quieter than he had ever spoken. And there was that… look in his eyes again. “This place can be your home. Mother wants you to stay. She wants to talk to you. Have no worries. Cicero will keep you safe.”

I could only stare at him as he slowly pulled away and smiled, falling back into his more happy-go-lucky persona and skipped out of the room with a wave.

What in the hell did that mean…?

The darkness was thicker the moment Cicero left me. The candles and sconces flickered dangerously, as if there was a heavy wind, but despite the room falling more and more frigid, the air was still.

There was something here.

“Wh-who’s there…?” I eked out, trembling underneath the blankets.

“...My Child… my sweet Child…”

I flinched, whipping my head around to find the owner of the voice, but I couldn’t see anything. There was just endless darkness.

“Fear not, my sweet Child… I am here to aid you…”

#skyrim #tes oc #tesblr #cicero skyrim #Night Mother #Allora #Dragonborn oc #Dark Brotherhood #TESSDE AU

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kagedbird · 18 days

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Cicero Loves You, Listener! TESSDE AU - Dark Brotherhood route

~ [First] ~ [Next] ~ [Prev] ~

I've been bedridden for a few days now. Feeling was slowly coming back into my arms and legs. I could sit up without too much help, though Cicero was always there to lend a hand. He chattered endlessly about trivial things, like taking care of his mother or doing basic cleaning duties while his family was out doing work while feeding me meals.

Though some deeper part of me was incredibly embarrassed at being taken care of in this way, I mostly felt relief that he took such meticulous care. I could have easily ended up in someone’s house who didn’t give a damn— or even worse, have never been found.

I make sure to tell Cicero my thanks after everything he does. He still finds it incredibly funny for whatever reason. I don’t bother asking why. Something inside feels like it would ruin his joke.

I could only hope he was just laughing because he thought it was sweet and not because he thought I was an idiot.

Around the third day, someone had come knocking on the door in the middle of meal time. It was the first time I’d seen the jester drop his usual jovial attitude into something more… menacing.

I stayed quieter than a wall when he carefully set the bowl to the side and hopped up to answer whoever had been there.

I never said anything when he returned either, muttering darkly under his breath and sharply grabbing the bowl and spoon once more as he plopped back down on his seat. Merely persevered through his more forceful feeding methods.

He seemed to calm down enough over time to realize his near stabbing motions towards me and apologized, but I just waved him off and gave him a weak smile.

“It’s rude to be interrupted… I can understand the frustration.”

He paused at that, staring intently at me, before a wide grin broke out over his lips. It damn near split his face.

“Oh yes, oh yes! Miss Allora understands. Cicero has a duty to fulfill, to get his dearest friend back to tip top shape! It cannot be interrupted, save for his duties to Mother!”

“And I would be mad on her behalf if I came before her.” I nodded. I was a stranger, she was his mother. Obviously she came first.

He was all smiles at that. Hummed endlessly as he carefully rubbed salvants all over my wounds that he could reach— the ones that hadn’t healed up from the potions anyways.

And yes, potions. Magick was real. It was very, very real.

Cicero had taken it unto himself to teach me the basics of his religion after we had discussed more generalized aspects of the world. The tenets, the father and the mother, his position. He kept it rather vague here and there, but I guessed it was either something he wasn’t allowed to discuss with outsiders or he thought it might be too much for my broken brain to handle.

Now on the fifth day, I was sitting up in bed, watching him make a salve with a mortar and pestle, smiling at the motions he no doubt went through often enough to have such a confident air about it. Something in me was soothed at the sight, finding comfort in the familiarity.

“Cicero is certain he is very handsome in the low lighting, but it is rude to stare!”

I jolted, looking up to his eyes to see them twinkling mischievously. I felt my face burn as I turned my head with a huff.

“I was watching you grind the ingredients. I… it…” I hesitated before admitting, “It’s familiar… and soothing.”

There was silence in the wake of my admittance, but only from his mouth. Round and round the pestle moved, dragging the ground pieces of flowers and whatever else he chose to place into the mixture.

“Cicero also finds it soothing. He is happy to have so many things in common with Miss Allora!”

I glanced back to see him smiling softer down at the mortar, seeing his eyes flicker my way.

I had to look away as the heat on my face became too much, especially at his following low laugh.

Mean jester.

Per my request, I was given an empty journal to use at my leisure to try and kick start my brain to remember anything by just letting my hand roam across the page. Many swirls came about as I just zoned out, filling the pages with endless incomplete circles looping from one end to the other in an attempt to jolt something.

The act of drawing was familiar. As was writing. I wrote my name many times on a few pages, eventually remembering my last name was White.

“Pretty, pretty!” Cicero had complimented, holding his hands together to his cheek. “Pretty name for a pretty lady! It suits you!”

It felt like he was trying to get a reaction from me at this point. Maybe that’s just what he did though.

Because as soon as he made me laugh once, he had spent the whole day trying to get me to laugh again. There had been a certain light in his eyes that flickered on at the sound. Less manic, more… eager.

It was quiet in here without him to fill the silence.

I had never hummed with him around, but I felt the urge to do so swell up in my chest multiple times while I’d been here. Songs faintly on the tip of the tongue, fading if I focused too hard. It drove me insane.

Any time I tried to write the words, they would disappear before I could put my charcoal to the page. And half the time, I wasn’t even sure they were the right words.

Depression was only scratching the surface of what I felt every time it slipped through my grasp.

Looking down at my page, I was surprised to see I had drawn two winged serpent creatures facing each other in the shape of a heart, wings outstretched, and claws holding onto one another for support.

Was this a sigil? Or a simple doodle from my mind?

I turned to Cicero, who had been packing up his things, and chewed my lip. There was really only one way to know…

“Cicero?”

“Yes, dearest friend of Cicero’s?”

I smiled and held out my journal to him. “Is this a symbol you recognize at all? I… I’m not sure.”

Perking up, Cicero dutifully plucked the journal from my hand and looked over the page, his smile widening with every second that passed.

“Miss Allora is very fond of swirly lines!”

I pouted. “It’s just what naturally came out. But I meant the serpents.”

“Dragons!” Cicero corrected with a grin. “Miss Allora drew dragons! But this isn’t any symbol Cicero recognizes. He is so very sorry.”

“No, that’s okay, I just wasn’t sure.” I laughed softly, taking the journal back in hand.

Dragons, huh?

…My brow creased in thought. Something thumped inside my chest as I focused on the drawing. Why did that feel so… pointed? Was something wrong with my heart?

Or—

I flinched lightly as a hand came into view and a finger poked my forehead.

“Miss Allora will gather too many wrinkles if she continues with that face!” Cicero sang out, gently herding me to lie down. He plucked the journal from my hands and set it carefully to the side on the nightstand, tucking me in.

I let him motherhen me, knowing it was fruitless to try and tell him otherwise.

“Cicero must go tend to Mother now, but he will be back to check on you afterwards!” He promised, patting my head softly. It was like a ritual for him at this point.

“All right. Thank you for keeping me company.” I smiled up at him, trying to put the thought of dragons out of my mind.

They weren’t real after all.

#skyrim #tes oc #Cicero skyrim #tesblr #Allora #Dragonborn oc #TESSDE AU #Dark Brotherhood

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kagedbird · 17 days

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Cicero Loves You, Listener! TESSDE AU - Dark Brotherhood route

~ [First] ~ [Next] ~ [Prev] ~

“We’re going t’be late,” a tall, black haired man grumbled in a thick accent on my left, clearly fed up with us taking a scenic route instead of a direct path.

“Oh, stop, we’re nearly there!” Another man admonished the first, much shorter, blonde, and a lighter accent. “I for one am glad we’re not heading over immediately. It feels like all we do is run from one end of Skyrim to the other every hour!”

“That is the best part of adventuring my friend!” A third man called out from my right, idly holding my hand and letting me play with his fingers. He was a cat, but shaped like a human, with the most stunning blue fur. “Though my legs often want a rest, there are so many things to see still!”

“How long would it feasibly take to invent one of your traveling contraptions, Allora?” The blond man asked me curiously.

Contraptions?

“Depends on what you’re wanting,” I heard myself reply. “A bike would take a minute. I could draw up a design, but the parts would be a difficult thing to make. The tires especially.”

“Tires? What a sad thing for a mobility invention to get tired!” The blue cat man joked.

“Some say two tired,” I joked back with a snicker.

“I don’t get it.” The blond man replied.

“I’ll explain it when you’re older.” I teased, shaking my head.

Before he could respond, the black haired man held up a hand, bringing us all to a halt. “Eyes up. Something’s ahead.”

I peered forward, shielding my eyes from the bright sunlight to spy a wagon and a funnily dressed man in the distance.

“Looks like his wagon broke down,” I mused. “We should go help!”

“That’ll take extra time to get to where Delphine wanted to meet with us.” The black haired man argued.

“And you think I want to get to her sooner?” I scoffed, waving a hand and moving forward. “Either way, I’d want someone to help me if I was in his shoes.”

My arm is caught and I look back in surprise to see the black haired man holding onto me.

“Hey, just… be careful, a’right? I’ve got a bad feeling about them.”

“What do you mean? He’s literally just stranded on the side of the road.” I asked, confused.

“Look, there aren’t many jesters around Skyrim anymore. Even less due to the war.” He replied. Despite not being able to make out his features, I could see the wrinkle in his brow. He was scared. For me? “There’s a right reason to avoid loons like that.”

I huffed, taking my arm out from his hand and turned back around. “Whatever. I’m helping him.”

“Allora!”

I ignored the trio in favour of hoofing it over to the stranded man, waving my hand in the air with a smile. “Hey! You okay? Can I help?”

“Agh! Bother and befuddle! Stuck here! Stuck! My mother, my poor mother. Unmoving. At rest, but too still!" The jester bemoaned, dragging his hands down his face in exasperation. “But oh! Cicero so would love assistance, thank you, thank you!”

He dances in place for a moment, making me smile, before he continues, “Yes, the kindly stranger can certainly help! Go to the farm— the Loreius Farm. Just over there, off the road. Talk to Loreius. He has tools! He can help me! But he won't! He refuses! Convince Loreius to fix my wheel! Do that, and poor Cicero will reward you. With coin! Gleamy, shiny coin!"

“Oh, no thank you!” I waved him off with a chuckle. “I’ll get you the help, no worries, but I don’t need payment for it! Be back in a jiffy!”

I hurry off to the farm down the pathway, confused as to why anyone would refuse to help. Even my companion’s wariness confused me. So what if there weren’t many jesters around? They were skilled in making people happy! They had wonderful jobs. And to call out shit that everyone else was afraid to.

Great gig, honestly.

I spied a man just outside his door putting together a bundle of wood into a tied stack and gently knocked on the wooden railing behind him.

“Hello! Are you Mr. Loreius?” I asked with a smile.

He stood and turned, his features also not super defined. The jester was the only one I could make out clearly in the face…

Even without his features though, I could tell he wore a scowl. “Who wants to know? Why are you here?”

I frowned at the third degree burn, tilting my head. “I was going to ask you about the jester down on the edge of your property, and why you haven’t helped him.”

"That Cicero feller? Crazy fool's already asked me about five times. Seems he's not satisfied with my answer. Why can't he just leave us alone?" He griped.

I stared at him deadpan, confused and more than a little baffled at his reaction. “...Because he literally can’t leave otherwise?”

I could tell his face went aflame at my response and tone, and he held up a finger in my face. “I don’t know who you think you are, missy, but I have no want to get involved with that! Ain't been a merryman in these parts for a hundred years. And he's transporting some giant box. Says it's a coffin, and he's going to bury his mother.”

He scoffs, pulling back to cross his arms. “Mother my eye. He could have anything in there. War contraband. Weapons. Skooma. Ain't no way I'm getting involved in any of that."

“Buddy,” I drawled, “You are literally shooting yourself in the foot by not helping him. He’s going to be there. Forever. Until you or some random person who knows how to fix a wagon wheel goes and fixes it. So he’s going to remain. At your house. And continue bothering you. Forever.”

“Pah! Not if I tell the guard he has some sort of contraband on him!” Lorieus huffed.

“And you would be lying to avoid helping him because…?” I asked, raising an eyebrow. What the fuck was with this guy?

“I’m not lying!”

“You literally don’t know what he’s transporting. And he said it’s his mother.” I retort dryly. “You’d be lying. On the very off chance there’s actually something going on.”

"What?” He jolts, gritting his teeth. “And just who in Mara's name are you, anyway? Hmm? Come here, telling me my business. And for what? To help a... a... a fool!"

“He’s a person who needs help.” I countered softer, placing my hand on his shoulder. “If you were in his position, desperate to lay your mother to rest, wouldn’t you seek out help the same as him? Come on. Do the right thing.”

There was a pause. A flicker of something that I couldn’t see due to the lack of defined expression. But he sighed and slumped his shoulders, rubbing a hand over his head.

"Look, I... I... You're right. You're right. Feller might be nutters, might not. But fact is, he needs help. I turn him away, what kind of man am I, hmm?”

I pulled my hand away and smiled as he stood tall again and nodded down at me. “Look, um... Thanks. And I'm sorry for my unneighborly reaction. If you talk to Cicero, you be sure and tell him I'll be down to help soon."

“It’s okay. It’s easy to lose trust in others with days like these.” I waved away the attitude, pleased at his calmer tone. “You never know what kind of person will do something to you at any moment. But we need to care about each other, no matter what. It’s how we all get by.”

“You’re right. Thanks.” He smiles, and gestures to his house. “I’ll grab my tools and be over soon.”

“All right, I’ll let him know!”

I wave and part ways with the man, skipping down the pathway to see my boys warily standing a good few feet away from Cicero.

Who was juggling knives.

I wince, more out of fear of him being injured or myself, and carefully clear my throat. He perks up, skillfully grabbing all of the knives without looking, and pockets them.

“Wow,” I blurt out, blinking in surprise. “That was cool.”

“Oh, thank you, thank you! So very sweet, the lovely stranger is!” Cicero laughed, holding his hands to his face. “So, so? Did Mr. Loreius agree to help poor stranded Cicero?”

“I was able to convince him!” I said, holding up a thumbs up. “He’ll be down with his tools soon. You and your mother will be off lickety split!”

He crowed gleefully, jumping and clicking his heels with rapturous laughter. “Wonderful, wonderful! Oh Mother, we’ll be home so very soon! And you! Cicero’s delightful friend! Please, take this reward!”

“Really, it’s fine,” I chuckled, waving him off as he tried to dig into his pockets for the gold he promised. “I don’t need any gold, I’m just glad you’re able to get on your way. Stay safe out there, okay?”

“Are you certain, dear friend?” Cicero asked, pouting slightly. “He would hate to let you go empty handed!”

“It’s all right. Keep safe for me, and that’ll be reward enough.” I smiled, patting his shoulder gently. He twitched slightly at the touch, making me pull back quicker than intended. “Sorry.”

“No, no! You are quite all right!” Cicero laughed it off, clasping his hands together. “Few have ever been as kind and generous as you! Cicero will remember your face well, he will! If you are ever in need, Cicero will be more than happy to aid you!”

“That’s very sweet. Thank you.”

“Lass, let’s get going. Burnin’ daylight.” My black haired best friend remarked from the side, looking agitated.

I rolled my eyes, motioning him forward. “Yeah, yeah, we’re going. Take care Cicero! See you later!”

“Indeed you shall!” He chirped in return, waving back at my departure.

As the boys caught up and we walked along the pathway, I paused and turned to the giant wooden box in the cart.

…What—?

“My friend? Are you coming?” My cat companion called out, making me flinch and turn back to them. They were all looking at me curiously— I think— and I gave them a weak smile.

“I— yeah. Coming.”

“What was that about?” My black haired friend asked curiously as I caught up to them.

I bit my lip, glancing back one last time.

“I thought I heard something from inside the box,” I admitted slowly, before huffing a laugh. “But it’s probably just my imagination…”

#skyrim #tesblr #tes oc #Lucien Skyrim #Inigo Skyrim #Kaidan Skyrim #Allora #Dragonborn oc #Cicero skyrim #dark brotherhood #TESSDE AU

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kagedbird · 8 months

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Taliesin: You know, Cherub, I believe for all the time we've known each other- Allora: What, seven days? Taliesin: -I've noticed something about you. Allora, dryly: Oh, have you now. Taliesin: Cheeky behavior aside, I've noticed you're adamant about cleanliness but you don't... mind being dirty. Allora, furrowing her eyebrows: ...Yeah? Taliesin: You're nothing like the usual smelly denizens of Skyrim. I know I love being clean, so I can appreciate good hygiene as the next Mer- Allora, rolling her eyes: What, do you want my skin care routine? To bathe with me? Taliesin, wide eyed: Pardon? What was that last one? Allora, cheekily while walking away: My skin care routine?

#I like the idea of teasing him #I know he'd pester me back but I wanna fluster him rn #Taliesin Skyrim #Skyrim #Allora #Dragonborn oc #tesblr #tes #TESSDE AU

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kagedbird · 8 months

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Taliesin: *hovering at the door, grimacing as he peers into the kitchen to see Allora washing dishes. He steps in slowly to hug her from behind, tucking his face into her neck* Allora: Eep!! *flinches, turning and breathing deeply as Taliesin just holds her tighter* A little warning-?! Taliesin: My apologies. I… did not… Allora: *cuts the water from the pipe and dries her hands, ignoring the rest of the dishes as she turns and holds him* Shh. I’m sorry. Would you like to go lie down? Taliesin: Please. -- Allora: *curled up on the couch, humming softly as Taliesin lays on her lap, gently stroking his cheek as her nails slowly scratch his scalp* Taliesin: *secretly been fighting tears for the past half hour, feeling very cherished for the first time in his life*

#Sometimes even very strong handsome Mer just need to be held #Allora #Dragonborn oc #Taliesin #Taliesin Skyrim #tes #TESSDE AU #Short #tesblr

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kagedbird · 11 months

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Allora (my LDB): *groaning and cracking her neck, rubbing it with her hand as they leave Candlehearth Hall Inn* Jeez... those beds sucked...

Taliesin: I'm quite good with my hands you know. Allora: *sends him a wry look* Offering to massage my neck? Taliesin: Or strangle you for making us go in there. Whatever comes first.

#tes shorts #skyrim #skyrim taliesin #Allora LBD #TESSDE AU

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kagedbird · 5 months

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TESSDE AU (+ Taliesin)

Allora: *brushing Lucia's hair while humming*

Lucia: *was literally just picked up off the street by this nice lady and is now being taken care of; had a bath, food, drink, and is falling asleep in her lap*

Taliesin: *was out on his own for the day, knocks on the door before poking his head in* I am home Cherub, did you-?

Allora: Hm? Oh, hi honey. Welcome home.

Lucia: *wakes up a little bit to see a very tall Altmer staring her down, shrinking shyly in Allora's lap and clinging to her*

Taliesin vision: Sees a little blonde tyke on his partner's lap that he has never seen before, almost a spitting image of her aside from the girl's green eyes similar to his own but not quite.

Taliesin: *blushing vibrantly after a few moments, very confused* You- were with child??? How long have you kept her hidden from me? Am I the father????

Allora: *confused but enjoys being a little shit* Yes. Paarthurnax kept her safe while we were out. He enjoys babysitting. Want to hold her?

Lucia: Mama, who is he...?

Taliesin: *feeling faint* Pregnant...? Wait. *stares down his partner* We have never-

Allora: *snickers, putting down the brush and hugging Lucia close* Lucia, this is one of my partners, Taliesin. You can call him papa if you like. And no, honey, I didn't birth her. I found her on the streets near Jorrvaskr. I'm adopting her.

Taliesin: *wheezes a bit* You're incredibly cruel, you know this?

Allora: *beams* You love me for it.

#Cut to Taliesin pampering Lucia like crazy and absolutely becoming the favourite dad #Taliesin skyrim #skyrim #Allora #Dragonborn oc #Lucia #TESSDE AU #tes #tesblr

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kagedbird · 8 months

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Snuggling time was Allora’s favourite time. She loved being used as a pillow, and asked shyly quite a few times whenever the group made to rest.

Taliesin was always quick to steal her as his pillow. She didn’t mind that he was fairly lanky and boney, just enjoyed the pressure he added to her body when she tried to sleep. Told him he was ‘the equivalent of a weighted blanket,’ whatever that meant.

But tonight.

His pillow was taken.

The cursed Imperial boy got to her first, cuddled up on her stomach with her delicate hands massaging his scalp exactly the way Taliesin liked it.

Taliesin knew how to share. He didn’t like to. But he did know how to share.

Unfortunately for them, though, he was going to make it everyone else’s problem.

#TESSDE AU #Shorts #Taliesin #Taliesin Skyrim #Allora #Dragonborn oc #Lucien Flavius #Lucien Skyrim #Skyrim #tesblr #tes #Modded followers

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kagedbird · 11 months

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Continuation from this Taliesin: *grunts as Kaidan ties the rope around his wrists in front of his body like Allora requested* This isn't the first time I've been tied up so roughly, but if you go any tighter, I'm afraid I won't have any blood flow. Kaidan: *sneers, roughly knotting it and yanking them tight* Suffer, Thalmor scum. Be grateful you're even still alive. Talos knows I wouldn't have given ya the mercy. Taliesin: *grimaces as Kaidan moves and sits nearby, keeping his sword out in case, Taliesin looks out to the rest of the camp where only Lucien remained with to keep watch on him* ...And I suppose she's your leader then? Given you're listening to her. Lucien: *sitting nearby, waiting for Allora and Inigo to come back from burying the dead* She is, in a sense. She much prefers calling us her best friends though. Taliesin: *snorts* Best friends... how quaint. Kaidan: Keep yer mouth shut before I shut it for you. We didn't ask for your opinions. Taliesin: *huffs* You're quite the brute. I'm not sure how such a small woman could stand being near you, but her... earlier rage makes me rethink it. What was it that caused that glow in her eye? That isn't any magic I know. Kaidan: *growls loudly* Just cause she doesn't want you killed doesn't mean I can't beat you within an inch of your life. Shut. The fuck. Up. Taliesin: *purses his lips but doesn't ask further, looking away*

#skyrim Taliesin #skyrim lucien #skyrim kaiden #TESSDE AU #tes #Haha hah yeah early days won't be so happy times for him :)#But don't worry they get along eventually~#He's also sad Kaidan wasn't flustered by his innuendo lmao

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kagedbird · 5 months

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TESSDE AU (+ Lucia :]) (??? part 2)

Everyone walks out to the front doors where the priests have been waiting. There are three total, one Imperial, one Breton, and one in the front, an Argonian.

Allora: *clears her throat and nods, looking them all over* …Hi. You wanted to see me?

Argonian: *bows with the other two, smiling wide* Honoured to be in your presence, Great One. I am Athrodite, thirteenth generation of Jeelius, priestess of Arkay. I now run the Temple with my fellow priests, Hilio, and Elona.

Hilio + Elona: *dip their heads reverently* Honoured to be in your presence, Great One.

Allora: *strained, uncomfortable, giving a very awkward smile* …Nice to meet you too. What can I do for you? I apologize for the, ah… sudden destructive stuff that happened yesterday, if that's what this is about.

Athrodite: Your actions yesterday were only a fragment of why we are here. It has been a long time since a chosen of Akatosh has been on our doorsteps. We would be most honoured to have you pray at our Temple, in your draconic scaled form.

Lucien: *blinks, frowning* I… with all due respect, I don't think she should do that.

Allora: *looks to him curiously* Yeah?

Lucien: It's not as if there's a fantastic history of those going in there with monumental status such as Pelagius Septim the First and Calaxes Septim being assassinated in there, as well as Martin Septim's sacrifice, turning him into stone.

Allora: *wrinkles her nose* Yeah. No, I don't feel like having another attempt on my life again so soon. Sorry.

Hilio: Please, Great One, we promise you nothing will come of it! We merely wish to have Arkay's light shine upon our once beloved Temple again.

Allora: I don't really worship Arkay though. I helped Auriel out with vampires and stuff, and got his bow. I guess I'm his champion as well… but Akatosh has my soul. *pauses* …And two others, but it's not that important right now.

Elona: Arkay's blessings have reached you, and He is of Akatosh's closest kin! Please, Great One, we implore you!

Davidicus: *furrows his brow* Are you referring to her as the great ‘One'? As in what the Temple is named after?

Athrodite: Never have we felt this magnitude of power radiate from one so clearly. It is She who must be given such a title.

Allora: *waves a hand, shaking her head* I'm really not… all that…

Athrodite: So humble, Great One. Rarely do we meet anyone such as you with your sense of ease in self.

Lucia: *frowning, looking up at Kaidan, who was carrying her* Papa? Can we go with her if she goes?

Kaidan: *frowns, shifting from foot to foot* …I don't know if we should bring you there, or if it'd be worse to leave you behind…

Allora: *frowns* Yeah, no. I'm not leaving Lucia anywhere. If you want me to go pray, we all go.

Athrodite: *perks up, tail swishing* Yes, yes, of course! The Temple has not seen so many people in ages, it will be most pleased!

Lyra: *crosses her arms, frowning* I should report this to the head of the Imperial Guard before we go. Some added protection couldn't hurt.

Inigo: Should we really bring armed forces to a prayer? Mr. Dragonfly thinks that is like mixing Sweetrolls with vinegar. It just does not work. I agree.

Taliesin: Yes, I have to agree with the dragonfly on this one as well. If we just go in and get out, then the process will be much smoother, and far less contrived.

Allora: *turns and takes Lucia in her arms, feeling anxious* Let's just go all ready. I want this over with, so I can focus on relaxing. As is what we were here to do, but never seem to be able to anywhere we go.

Athrodite: *bows with the other two again* Thank you, Great One, thank you. This way, if you please…

#skyrim #TESSDE AU #Lucia #Athrodite oc #Elona oc #Hilio oc #Allora #Dragonborn oc #Lyra Flavius #Davidicus Flavius #Lucien Flavius #Lucien Skyrim #Kaidan Khim #kaidan skyrim #inigo the brave #inigo skyrim #skyrim taliesin #Too many damn NAMES ugh

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kagedbird · 18 days

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Cicero Loves You, Listener! TESSDE AU - Dark Brotherhood route

~ [First] ~ [Next] ~ [Prev] ~

I peeked out of the door carefully, wincing as the bright light burned my eyes.

I’d been locked in this room for so long, I’d forgotten what anything brighter than a few candles was like. Not that my memory could remember much in the first place, but that was besides the point.

Cicero hadn’t returned as promised, and I was getting antsy. I needed answers about that voice, and… she wanted me to talk to him.

‘Darkness rises when silence dies.’ I repeated in my mind, stepping through the doorway slowly. It felt like I was breaking a rule, but I couldn’t wait any longer. I was going crazy in the emptiness. ‘Darkness rises when silence—!’

“Eep!”

I jolted, startled beyond belief as a giant fucking man stepped from around the corner in front of me. He didn’t even flinch as he stopped walking, merely looking down at me from his nose with a sneer and a glare.

“Who the hell are you, ham hock?”

“H-ham hock?” I echoed, feeling my body shaking endlessly in fright. I hadn’t heard him approaching at all! He was huge!

“Yeah. You look like a bite sized snack.” He huffed, leaning down to sniff me?!

I flinched back, stumbling backwards against the closed door behind me, and clutched the front of my shirt. “Did you just smell me?”

“Yeah.” He stood tall once more, tilting his head. “You must be the pet that jester brought in. Was wondering whose blood it was I smelled.”

“Smelled—” I shook my head, feeling incredibly confused and in slight pain as my left eye started blurring and burning like crazy. “What?”

“You must’ve hit your head hard.” He snorted. “At the very least, I know you aren’t much of a threat. Shaking worse than a leaf in a storm.”

“I’m—!”

“What’s going on here?” A beautiful woman rounded the corner, piercing blue eyes and blonde hair like my own. A large juxtaposition to the white haired, scruffy man in front of me, but no less intimidating as she fixed me with her own glare. “Who are you?”

“Allora,” I said quickly, feeling my pulse thumping aggressively in my throat. “I-I’m just… I was just looking for Cicero. Are you his family?”

A red head, a giant man, and a beautiful woman. What an interesting combination.

The woman raised an eyebrow and looked me up and down slowly. It felt like she was undressing me, but not in any sexual manner, more… assessing me.

“So you’re what he was hiding in there for so long.” She drawled, crossing her arms. “What exactly has he told you?”

“Not much, really.” I admit, shaking my head. “That there are about nine of you, ten including someone’s pet. The religion you guys share, the tenets… that sort of thing. But not really in depth?”

There was a heavy silence that followed, and I felt myself panicking that I inadvertently got him in trouble. But at the same time, he hadn’t mentioned me at all?

That was incredibly suspicious. I needed to know what was going on.

“Cicero said he found me nearby, injured and unconscious.” I continued after neither of them said anything. “I’ve been recovering in there for about two weeks now. I think. I don’t… I don’t remember anything. I could barely remember my own name.”

“How convenient,” the man huffed. “We supposed to just believe that?”

“I-I don’t know how to prove it to you,” I said, shrugging uselessly. “Please, if I could just find Cicero—”

“And what do you need him for that you can’t talk to us about?” The woman interrupted me, making me flinch.

“I-I…”

‘They’re going to think I’m fucking crazy.’ I thought to myself, glancing to the side with a wince.

“If you so much as think of lying to me right now, you’re going to regret it.” The woman snarled, stalking forward to push me against the door.

“N-no, wait! I’m not— I wasn’t going to lie!” I squeaked out, gasping at the sight of a blade being pulled from her waist. “Pl-please—!”

“What is going on? Hm?”

I breathed a sigh of relief despite the position I was in as I looked up to see Cicero at the doorway, holding a plate of sweets. He may look incredibly angry despite his smile, but a familiar face was better than a face that was threatening me with a knife.

“Cicero!” I called out, breath hitching as the knife pressed against my throat more.

“Have you been sharing things with outsiders, Keeper?” The woman mocked, eyes never having left my face.

“Certainly not! Cicero would never betray the Night Mother so!” Cicero answered back, voice strangely tight despite his overall happy tone. “However, if you are to injure Miss Allora, you will!”

“What?” The woman asked incredulously, finally turning to the smaller man.

“Miss Allora, why are you out of bed?” Cicero asked instead, giving me a mocking pout. “Cicero knows you were eager to get up and about, but he cannot protect you if you don’t remain close!”

“Y-you were late, and I got worried, and—” I winced as the blade slipped against my neck, feeling blood trickling down. “And Mother spoke to me and told me to tell you darkness rises when silence dies!”

My heart was hammering in my chest a mile a minute as the three of them turned to me, wide eyed and slack jawed.

Cicero was the first to recover, skillfully hopping over and all but ripping the woman from me, gleefully jumping and clicking his heels. “Oh joyous day, joyous day! Cicero knew he heard you say you heard her before! Oh happy days!”

I clutched my throat to staunch the blood, unable to keep upright as I slid down the door to the floor. I was glad he believed me. This ‘Mother’ said he would, but she was also a fucking voice in my head.

So you can never really know.

“You’re the Listener?” The woman spat, glaring at me with all she was worth.

“That’s— that’s what she said,” I shrugged, letting Cicero help me to my feet when I had feeling in them again. “I-I don’t really know what it means…”

“Dutiful Cicero will explain everything!” Cicero crowed, gently guiding me to a bench nearby. I hadn’t even really noticed the rest of this secluded chamber, and only just noticed an intricately styled coffin and mural behind it.

I was sat down, and Cicero placed the plate of food next to me before gathering some salvant from his pocket. He moved my hand from my throat, tsking all the while under his breath about ‘harlots not knowing their place’, spreading the cold salve over my wound.

It tingled, but did feel better afterwards.

“Thank you,” I murmured softly.

“Dutiful Cicero is always here to help his Listener!” Cicero chirped as he pulled away. “He is so very sorry for being pulled away for so long, but he needed to find proper sustenance for himself and you! That, and he was hoping Mother would talk to you if he was not around!”

“Can you not hear her?” I asked, frowning.

He laughed. It wasn’t like his usual ones, though it was a very well practiced one. It felt slightly strained.

“Oho, Listener is very funny! But no! Cicero is the Keeper! He… keeps!” He claps his hands before motioning to the plate. “But Cicero can explain that another time, please, eat! You need to regain your strength!”

“By Sithis, you will explain what is going on, fool,” the woman spat out, snarling at Cicero with clenched hands. “How in Oblivion is she the Listener? And you just happened to find her?”

As angry as I felt on his behalf for the attitude, Cicero seemed nonplussed.

“Oh Cicero had a feeling Miss Allora was our beloved Listener for some time!” Cicero explained, grinning wide. “She was so kind, so kind! Helped poor Cicero along the roadside when that awful Loreius family refused to help!”

Loreius?

“She had mentioned hearing something from the box that contained Mother’s coffin before she left! Cicero was certain of it!” He clapped and jangled as he danced around.

A flicker of a memory came to mind. The blue sky, covered with clouds. A nearby farm. A giant wagon, a wheel broken.

A familiar jester…

I flinched as a hand came to my face, watching in a daze as Cicero pulled back his glove from my upper lip to show blood.

I gasped, covering my nose and pinching it, leaning forward to stop the blood flow from getting too bad.

“Are you all right Listener? Tell Cicero what is wrong so he can help!”

I shook my head lightly, feeling incredibly dizzy and light headed all at once. Was it because of the memories? Or stress? I couldn’t tell anymore.

I just felt myself slip forward into that listless void that knew me very well by now…

#skyrim #tesblr #tes oc #Cicero skyrim #Arnbjorn skyrim #Astrid skyrim #Allora #Dragonborn oc #TESSDE AU #Dark Brotherhood

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