Journal of the Unmasked

<These entries are made in a leather-bound book with the front cover branded with this symbol, and everything inside is written in Ta'agra.>

Tirdas, 19th of Last Seed

This one writes during the first sunrise she has seen in S'ren-ja in a long time. Much has happened in the village while this one was away, and much continues to happen in her presence.

Bethany is still Captain of the Guard, a fact this one was most pleased to hear. This one will have to speak with her at some point soon about this one's absence and other matters.

Bethany is also now attached to Alijham. That is something this one never thought she would see, especially after learning about some the recent events in Ali's life. This one is happy for them nonetheless. There are more than a few noticable pairings this one has seen in the clan: Dar'Atrabi & Ma'Zha though Ma'Zha has been absent himself lately, Milo & Lucrezia, Ji'Zahni & Do'Maadrul (saw them together during the festival in Marbruk), and now Bethany and Ali. This one wonders now if she will find one of her own at some point in her life.

Speaking of Atrabi, she has had her cub recently. That makes two small balls of fluff about the village, the second being Ja'Kar the son of Ri'sari and Synn. Ja'Kar is old enough to walk now, but this one believes the two little ones will end up playing together at some point.

Due to Ri'sari's recent incapacitation, Arisel, one of the clan's healers, has become standing clanmother. It is unusual to hear one such as her barking out orders, but someone must do so to keep everyone in line.

Dro'Jhala, the original clanmother, was seen in S'ren-ja recently alive and well. This fact confuses this one greatly as she had been there when Dro'Jhala was murdered and eventually cast off during a funeral ritual. Seems her 'untimely demise' had been greatly exaggerated and now she resides in the village as its clanmother, not the Sugar Claws'.

It seems there is no end to troubles outside of the clan though. The Dark Brotherhood has claimed interest and wishes to make some kind of purge upon the clan. This one has heard that it is certain clan members though. This one spent most of that night watching over the clan house and stalking the surrounding areas for more of these assassins along with the rest of the guard after Bethany and Arisel had been attacked. We will be on edge about this for some time.

This one has also decided to go without the mask she has been known for except on special occasions. Many other clan members were still able to identify this one through various means even without it. That is acceptable to this one really. It will fit her new role as a watcher and protector better as opposed to being a spy as a certain striped Khajit seems to think of her now.

Turdas, 21st of Last Seed

Blasted Dark Brotherhood...

This one was part of a group patrolling the village borders in shadow waiting to cut off escape from the clan's fighters, and she was far from pleased about it. Being paired off with a vampire, watching said vampire turn a grievously injured clanmate, and almost seeing close friends die to the assassins' methods nearly tore this one apart. Then one of the cowards decided to hurl at axe at this one! She managed to keep her head, but not her hair. That is the straw that broke the guar's back. *sigh* Perhaps Ma'zura can help this one about it. She will have to find him after looking in on Ali and the Captain.

Poor Ali...there was little this one could really do the help him after the battle, and she was right there. We were never really that close, but it still saddens this one to see him in such a shape.

Loredas, 23rd of Last Seed

This one's head feels odd, and no, it is not because of the celebration of Mo'Jahi's brewery opening. This one recently had her hair cut to match what was recently missing. Others think it still looks good, but this one is not so certain. She cannot wait until it all grows back to what this one is comfortable with.

The brewery party was a relative success. There was much drinking and dancing, but no drunken brawling, thank the moons. This one was even surprised at the behavior of a certain striped Khajit.. Still, it was a pleasant moment amongst all of the recent chaos. This one can simply hope for more in the future.

Oh, before this one forgets, she was glad to see Ali up and about again, even though his neck was still in rough shape. He still has not lost his touch though. We still traded barbs back and forth like before.

It was also surprising to see that there are still clanmates who do not know this one's face even after she has made herself known through the guard roster. This one supposes it will take some more time to get used to seeing her about.

Morndas, 25th of Last Seed

Relatively quiet weekend. So much so that this one left the auction in Marbruk early to catch up on sleep. Seems this one would be needing it somewhat.

Just before the auction, it was found out that Gnarlus, the 'intelligent' goblin that runs the clan tavern, had his special ring--and the finger it was on--taken from him. This one was informed by his Daedric summons of all things and after Gnarlus was found and caged for his and everyone's safety, it was learned that a bearded Altmer who recently visited S'ren-ja had done the need. Lucrezia knows the guy on sight and Milo has methods of tracking and confronting him judging by what this one was told at dinner yesterday so there should be little problem when dealing with the culprit, this one hopes. She wishes for a quick return to what she is used to seeing of Gnarlus, though Milo is no slouch in the kitchen either. Sometimes this one wishes she had that kind of talent.

Some of the clan are still getting accustomed to seeing this one walk about openly since some still use her nickname/codename. This one has even had to actually express a request not to do so, especially to one Krynger Battlecat and his constant use of the term 'Lady'. It is not something this one has ever considered herself really. Prim and proper is far from this one's style, yes?

Middas, 27th of Last Seed

Trouble continues brewing in S'ren-ja one way or another. This time it was another run-in with Thalmor agents. Two of them tracked who they claimed as an Ebonheart spy into the clan's tavern. A fight broke out and one Thalmor was beheaded while the second managed to poison the alleged spy before escaping. It turned out that the 'spy' was Afer's father and left a message for young guard with Ali. Everyone left the tavern in a sickened state from the blood and loose head, leaving this one to clean up afterwards. Not the most glamorous of tasks as a guard.

While the crowd recovered thanks to Mo'jahi's brews, skooma--really bad skooma, from what this one heard--was discovered and an investigation of the brewery began. A skooma-brewing station, which Mo'jahi claimed was for medicinal purposes, was discovered in an iced-over corner, but that was too much just for medicine. Mo'jahi was then jailed for violating village law until a proper trial could be made.

The next day, a strange Altmer visited, which the Guard Captain warned this one of how dangerous he was. During the elf's ramblings, this one heard something about Gnarlus's missing ring and, after telling the captain, helped to contain him and remove the ring. This one was glad to return the ring to the goblin, but she was completely unprepared for what happened next. Once awake again, Gnarlus burst out of his cell and into the Altmer's and used his power to turn his assailant into ash, completely bypassing the Captain's wards in the process, before falling unconscious again. The wards reacted badly and exploded, but thanks to their creator, the damage was generally minimal, mostly throwing everyone to the ground from the resulting explosion.

When this one came to herself, she realized that Gnarlus was gone as well. At first, it was thought he scampered off, but another pile of ash was found where he last lay. Seeing that upset this one greatly, especially after all that was done to finally restore him to what passed for normal. This one was so angry and frustrated that she did something she normally doesn't. She drank. From something she knew not what but it was quite strong. She swears she saw Gnarlus later, but it turned out to be a dark-skinned elf she remembers seeing before. This one also remembers speaking with some sort of knight, but she was not in her best shape then. Perhaps we will cross again so she can make a proper introduction.

Fredas, 29th of Last Seed

Many surprises have graced this one lately, so much so that she is considering writing more often to make sure everything of importance is covered properly.

Gnarlus is not dead after all! He currently resides in Oblivion though and sends letters through Daedra to clan members he remembers in order to piece everything together. This is a great relief to one who did nothing to help him during those supposedly final moments. Kazzah thought Gnarlus's death and disappearance was a bad joke. This one so wanted to slap him for thinking such a thing. Lucrezia is also quite pleaed to hear about the goblin's well-being since the two were somewhat close.

Alijham and Bethany are no longer a couple, this one learned recently. This one knows not the details, but they seem to involve an old friend of Ali's. Ali still wishes to be close and friendly to the Captain, but this one feels he may be trying too hard in the process, which will eventually hurt everyone if he keeps it up. Ali is also one this one would like to smack back into place at times.

Milo approached this one late in the day on Middas with an invitation to an...experiment he and Lucrezia were attempting. This is something she never would have expected to hear from Milo, but it still intrigued her to find out why out of all the clan members, this one Khajit was chosen for such a thing. This one was pleased with the honest answer given, though it did serve as a slightly painful reminder of this one's social status. This one still admits that ever since the idea first came to light, we have become a little closer and friendlier, strangely enough. Now that Lucrezia is back among everyone again, this one will have to do the same with her before anything goes further.

Sundas, 31st of Last Seed

Another week, another report. Despite having cleared the clan with the Dominion, other consequences of past sins have begun to emerge from time to time. This one supposes that will be the norm for some time.
Fortunately, it was relatively quiet up until this one could catch up with friends at the auction, though the next day would be vastly different.

It is still a surprise to this one that there are some intolerable things, despite them being so close for so long. Ser Krynger Battlecat, a 'Paladin of the Two Moons' he calls himself, has displayed an almost disgusting hatred of the goblin Gnarlus for the sole reason that Gnarlus 'concerts with Daedra'. As far as this one has seen, even as far back as being the Faceless', Gnarlus has not done anything to intentionally harm the clan. As this one told Krynger, he is more of a morale booster thanks to his skills in the kitchen. This one still misses those even though she has only eaten his cooking once. She hopes we are able to retrieve him soon so that certain others can see just how unfounded their prejudice is.

For now, this one could not stand to be in the 'Paladin's' presence, instead spending time outside putting her energy to better use than bickering with a light-blinded brick wall. Such attitude still bothers this one, as was evident in her routine today. She admits that her old teachers would not be happy to see that, but it was a better choice than a more direct confrontation.

This one is well worn-out at the moment and hopes for better company the remainder of the day.

Tirdas, 2nd of Hearthfire

Before, this one had asked for better company, but she did not receive it, at least not at first. A new arrival to the village, an Argonian bounty hunter/mercenary named Scares-Daedra has been about lately talking about helping to deal with surrounding threats to the village, including a small goblin tribe attacking random passers-by on the roads. The Argonian, after hearing about our currently-absent goblin comrade, seemed to think that there was a relation involved. This one swears she wanted to turn that muscle-bound backpack into just that for even conceiving such a thought. She continued to watch him and other guard members bounce ideas off of one another in relative silence and made a silent vow to keep clear of this savage-looking arrival. This hopes he does the same for his sake.

Sylvaswift was finally put on trial for crimes against the clan that he himself admitted to. It felt like the entire clan was present for this spectacle, which included a public flogging as punishment. This one knew very little about Sylvaswift except that he was the one she first spoke to to get into the Sugar Claws in the first place back in Woodhearth. Still, there was no reason for such a display. This one quickly abstained from ridiculing him further and took solace behind the clan house once more. She could sill hear voices and six distinct cracks of a whip across flesh. It seemed this one was not the only one to think he did not deserve this punishment.

When she could tell the crowd had broken up, this one made her way inside and found more dire news. Bethany resigned as Guard Captain leaving Kade in charge. Such a day could not get any worse. Fortunately, it did not with a few notable friends present. This one later spoke with Milo and Lucrezia--mostly Lucrezia since Milo had already taken this one's time before--about their experiment and eventually assured them that nothing negative would come of this. As boisterous as she is when she is drinking, Lucrezia is delightfully adorable when she is flustered for words when speaking to others. It is of little wonder she lets Milo speak for her at times. This one only hopes that she does not disappoint her Bosmer friends during the upcoming festivities.

Turdas, 4th of Hearthfire

Not much to speak of this time really. It has been quiet...too quiet. This one expects something big to happen and soon. Calm before the storm and all that. Of course, Sarena was nowhere near S'ren-ja for the last day or so. Where was she? She will not say, at least not here. =^_^;= ((See "The Experiment" for details.))

This one did run into Ji'Zahni recently on the way back to S'ren-ja. She is glad that Ji is no longer a vampire and so is Ji. According to her, it kept her from enjoying drinking too much. Silly Ji as always.

Gnarlus's Daedric friends showed up and said he needed more letters, more things to help him remember about himself. They also spoke about trying to find a way to bring him back, which Ji suggested using the mustached Altmer Tilano, who always seemed to disappear into a portal to Oblivion when the odds were highly against him. This is one plan that this one will not be a part of, but she will be pleased nonetheless if the little goblin is brought back to Nirn.

Another welcoming ceremony was held yesterday for all the new faces seen amongst the village. Both Arisel and Dro'Jhala were present to accept those willing to pledge towards the clan and S'ren-ja respectively. This one still has not approached Dro'Jhala and asked her just how and why she was able to come back after what happened in Woodhearth. This one is unsure if she even really wants to know.

Loredas, 6th of Hearthfire

Excitement and consequences, a constant circle in these parts now demonstrated by a former acquaintance associating with a Deadric Prince. Magik Darkchilde, a wizard of sorts that this one saw much of and spoke little to, dropped a Daedric anchor in the middle of S'ren-ja! Clannfear, twilights, atronachs, you name it, they were everywhere! The new guard captain Kade eventually put down Darkchilde with an unceremonious beheading, and the anchor was broken from this side.

When the smoke cleared, a new surprise awaited. Gnarlus was back! He was in some sort of crystal, but he was still back. Much relief came to this one, and she made a apology for her previous inaction that led to what the goblin had suffered through in Oblivion. She is unsure if he heard her while recovering from his little prison, but it was still something to be done. Anexi, his Twilight companion, said he had taken the swarm of Deadra by surprise and broke the link between planes at the same time we claimed victory and jumped through the closing gateway at the last second. Fortune favors the bold indeed. This one hopes he returns to a more active state soon. She is eager to see him work his magic in the kitchen again.

While this one came away with more bruises than Daedra swarming about, others were not so fortunate. Ser Krynger Battlecat took a blow to the head that took away his memories, albeit temporarily. He has been spending time with the clan to help regain those lost fragments, including those of this one. He still insists on calling her 'Lady' again even she she keeps saying that she is far from one. Perhaps this fresh start can help set aside the differences we last had before this.

Afterwards, this one had a private discussion with Ali. Ali is...complicated, to say the least, but she hopes that what she has said will help him along his way through life. She will also strive not to treat him as roughly as she had before. There have been too many losses lately to try to add more.

The striped Khajit has returned once more from whence he came. This one wonders where he goes for so long and why, but chooses not to ask. Instead, she wants to crack his skull open for trying to lump her in with the the heavier drinkers after seeing her ease her way down the line of stronger fare thanks to Milo and Lucrezia. One step at a time, friends. One step at a time.

Morndas, 8th of Hearthfire

Another week, another report made. This one's superiors were surprised by the anchor crashing into S'ren-ja but were pleased to see the situation handled somewhat professionally. Of course, it helped that this one conveniently forgot about Kade beheading Darkchilde in the midst of everything. There was also no auction this week. It made this one a little sad. The auctioneer may have taken ill, and if so, she hopes that the energetic Khajit running the show will be well enough next time.

Before leaving for Marbruk though, this one overheard a conversation between Milo and Krimie Nightwood, the former Bosmer vampire, and Krimie's advances towards Milo bordered on harassment even. This one stayed out of it though. As close as she is to some of the clan members, she will not intrude on personal problems unless asked directly.

The Guard had its first official training session since Kade took up where Bethany left off. This one admits that we were somewhat lax before, but she honestly did not mind the new routine. Pushups, situps, laps, all of those come easy to one who practices what this one does every day. We also played out a bandit scene to test how to handle hostile situations. It was entertaining to see Geargo as a bandit. He handled it well even if he did get smacked around a little.

Even in the wake of the anchor, new faces continue to grace S'ren'ja, and some of them wish to join the Guard as well. This one wonders just what kind of reputation the clan has out here now.

Now that Gnarlus is back and able to get about again, he is preparing a feast for the clan, most likely to celebrate his return. Sarena cannot wait; she has not tasted the goblin's cooking since before the incident. A celebration is just what the place needs to raise spirits again after all that has happened lately.

Middas, 10th of Hearthfire

This one's friends have serious issues! Milo and Lucrezia have been having problems in their relationship, and in order to keep our promised bond intact, she has had to step in and set both of them straight. Next time, she is just going to lock them both in a storage closet somewhere and not open it again until all the noises stop.

The Thalmor are back in S'ren-ja causing trouble for the clan again. It seems the Blue Skooma is circulating throughout the March and, of course, the Sugar Claws are the first to blame. Those present at the announcement were split up to search for clues, and what was found throughout the village points to the clan being framed. This one seems to think that even after the last altercation, even those that did not follow Stormor have it out for the Sugar Claws.

Gnarlus got arrested...again. He shocked the mess out of Kazzah for getting between him and Lucrezia, and since our prison wards cannot seem to hold him, Kade banished Gnarlus from the village for a few days. So much for that feast, and there was nothing this one could do to defend him this time either. For all of Kade's strictness, she completely agreed with his verdict.

Fredas, 12th of Hearthfire

That thrice-be-damned Darkchilde is back...sort of. Two of her allies have been lurking about recently giving Ser Krynger all kinds of trouble lately. It is times like this that this one wishes the former Guard Captain was at least here among us. Bethany's magical expertise would certainly put a stop to this harassment.

Speaking of Ser Krynger, we still do not see completely eye-to-eye about Gnarlus, but at least we are not hostile to each other about it. It is a step in the right direction.

This one is pleased to say now that her two favorite Bosmer are back together again, which brings Milo back to his originally clever self that she so loves trading wits with. She admits that he is like the little brother this one never had. Or perhaps does not even know about, but that is for another time.

That hard-headed striped Khajit has been in and out on his excursions yet again. He had best return from this latest trip, otherwise this one is going to be very angry and very foolish for finally confessing her feelings for him.

And it has just dawned on her that she will be away on business during the time Shere said he would return. Whiskers...this one needs to come up with something quickly or she will indeed look foolish about this. What good is giving someone a reason to return if that reason is not there to see his return?

Sundas, 14th of Hearthfire

This one writes earlier than usual today because she has much to do to make up for being gone much of the previous day.

The Thalmor returned with news on the recent skooma investigation. The Sugar-Claws are indeed being framed for what has been seen around Reaper's March, but the clan's help was requested to try and find the true culprits. It is believed that there may be a spy amongst us, so we were asked to compare our feet to casts made from footprints found in the village. This one is pleased to say that neither she nor anyone she is close to matched the prints. She would not know how to take it if she knew a traitor was that close to her.

Much to this one's surprise--and delight--Shere'Khaann postponed his trip for one day. That made dealing with the Thalmor a little more manageable. We even shared a drink afterwards to celebrate and as a bit of a send-off for him. She still longs for his safe return while she handles her own business around here.

Arquen, one of the late Magik Darkchilde's associates, was been caught and imprisoned yesterday evening, so that is one less problem for now. Now we just need the other one put away. Or killed, it matters not to this one. Behead both of them for all she cares really. Have they not caused too much strife as it is lately? It would only seem fair, yes?

This one is pleased to see that Milo and Lucrezia have worked things out between them, and they are attempting a new direction in their relationship. However, in the wake of recent events, Sarena has had to politely decline any excessive involvement in that. She only hopes that this does not make things awkward during the fighting lessons Milo has recently requested. This one has her own pursuits in mind and does not wish to tarnish them with undue lies and secrets.

Tirdas, 16th of Hearthfire

There is something severely wrong with the perceptions some of the clan lately. Can two people--of opposite gender, no less--have a conversation without anyone assuming something else is going on? It would seem not to this one.

There has been no end to strange looks and possibly worse directed towards herself and Milo every time they are together. Even Lucrezia has felt uncomfortable around us until this one talked her down from her mood. We joke, we laugh, we tease,and yes, we even flirt a little, but that is because we are comfortable around each other. Is that not to be expected of close friends?

Currently, this one's lessons are on hold until the two of them recover from injuries received during a final showdown with the sorceress Lorys. That gives this one time to figure out how to go about this. She has never really taught anything before and never even considered the idea. Then again, there have been a few ideas she has not considered until more recent times.

Kath is a horse's ass and a bully on top of that. This one had no problem with guard duty, but it is what happened after that rubs this one's fur in a very wrong way. He came over later and asked what we were doing, which was guarding like he said. Then he demanded push-ups from this one and Lucrezia, who was in no position to do so. This one does not know what happened next, but it is a wonder she did not chew him out then and there. Something needs to done about the Guard hierarchy before this one loses it. This tabard is not a symbol of loyalty to a single person, but towards the safety and well-being of the clan--including the guards themselves--a fact that certain people in power seem to have forgotten.

Turdas, 18th of Hearthfire

Donvyn has a brother. A rather skilled brother. This one did not know of such a thing. His name is Korvos and he trains in the Whispering Fang style of martial arts, similar to the Beast Arts this one knows. He makes an excellent sparring partner and perhaps even someone to help Milo out as well once he gets started.

And that will be some time now thanks to an altercation in front of the Clan House. We had a senile old Breton visit looking to 'reclaim' Krimie. He was taken in by herself and a few other guards and thrown in a cell. This one would prefer not to recall the lengths he went to get on her and Bhidul's nerves.

Later, when Sycon found out about the Breton, he swore to fulfill some blood oath he had with Krimie about him. This one would not let him, and neither would Milo nor another recent arrival of a Khajit. Even with the three of us, we could not stop the Altmer warrior from fulfilling his oath, suffering various injuries in the process. The Breton is dead now, and Sycon has been locked up for assault and murder. If you ask this one, a cell is too good for him. Our injuries could have been worse if not for the timely arrival of an old friend.

Bethany Hawke, the former Guard Captain has returned to S'ren-ja, but she is...different. This one did not hear the whole story, but at the very least, Bethany is a vampire, one of Sarena's most hated things in this world. She is also holding some sort of power inside, making her into a time bomb of sorts and causing her to doubt her welcome back into the clan. This one and Milo assured her otherwise, along with Ali and his pretentious self. Hopefully all will be well with Bethany and she can provide her skills and expertise to the clan once more.

Oh, before this one forgets, Milo makes the best sweetrolls EVER! This one could have died just from eating one of them. Lucrezia is so lucky to have someone like that in her life, and this one too. She will always be watching out for him like a big sister should. He seems to have gotten used to that idea fairly quickly, though he does tend to stare at her a little at times lately.

Loredas, 20th of Hearthfire

This one has been through a wild ride of emotions recently. First thing to mention is that Milo and Lu are getting married. About time, this one says. She has watched them for so long and could tell they were right for each other. She showed Milo where Bbigeargo and Jason had their claiming ceremony, and it held some interest thanks to a nearby waterfall. Milo is looking into other options and ideas from others though.

The striped Khajit returned yet again, but in welcoming him back, Sarena was pushed away. She did not understand until he explained that he did not want to get involved until settling some unfinished business that could trace him to the clan and S'ren-ja. Still, such treatment hurt this one and made her angry, so angry that she nearly killed herself doing many things possible to take her mind from what happened despite still nursing the remains of Sycon's puncture wound. She even returned to guard duty where Milo caught up with her. Tired, hungry, and sleep-deprived, this one could not keep from explaining what brought her to her current condition. Then he led her to a bath in the Friend House and kept her company at this one's request. It was then she learned that Lu is also with child. That explains so much about her lately.

Gnarlus's planned feast was brought forth despite his absence and the Thalmor leading the skooma investigation was also present. It was good to see her on the clan's side during all of the commotion, but she and a few others were suddenly poisoned by the ale they had drunk. The room was cleared and the sickened were tended to while available guards finally tracked down the spy responsible for the recent troubles. Afterwards, this one sat down to a small dinner with Milo and Lu to replace the potentially poisoned food from the banquet.

Lucrezia seems to think that Sarena is trying to steal Milo from her, but this one swears that that is not the case. We just have a different kind of closeness with each other. This one admits that our bonds have been disproportionate lately, but she will strive to even things out with the two of them even if she has to leave them be for a while.

Morndas, 22nd of Hearthfire

More visitors approach S'ren-ja lately with intents and purposes as varied as themselves. The first is one who seems to be related to Ser Krynger in some way. His name is Dar'athad Moonstorm and says he is investigating the surroundings to see if Ser Krynger has been abusing his holy powers. As far as this one knows, he is innocent, if not stoic and stubborn as always.

The second is yet another Khajit passing through and perhaps making a place for himself. His introduction to Sarena included a rather tasty crawfish stew that almost rivals a certain Bosmer's sweetrolls. If the two were at the same table, this one could have died most contently. She hopes he stays on for a while as he also expressed interest in the Guard, but either place will be fine with her.

Unfortunately, all is not well with this one despite being fit for guard duty once. She has recently said the wrong words in front of the wrong people. What was said upset Lucrezia greatly, and before Sarena could formally apologize, she was gone for the night. This one still hopes to set things right before the wedding, though she is unsure if she wishes to attend now.

<A creased letter bearing a Dominion watermark and a single teardrop stain sits on the opposite page, and the handwriting for the day's entry is a little shaky at first.>

Middas, 24th of Hearthfire

Another loss in this one's life. As this one has feared, Shere'Khaann has been struck down by the unfinished business that has kept him away from S'ren-ja for so long. However, she will carry on in his stead. He would not want this one to mourn, but to continue the task at hand. Sarena must be strong. For herself and for her friends. And because Lucrezia would threaten her with further harm should the previous pattern continue.

While on the topic of Lu, an impromptu bachelorette party was held in the tavern last night. There was much drinking and dancing, though this one did neither. She only watched in silent celebration as Lu danced and disrobed for everyone. Should someone else have done that for her instead?

A priestess of Mara was present and gave the Bosmer couple her blessing should she not make it to the ceremony today, and Morjoh showed up again with a small gift of his own, both to Lu and Sarena much to this one's surprise. She still continues to wonder if he will be a permanent fixture or not.

For now, it is time to prepare for the wedding itself. During yesterday's trip to Rawl'kha, this one has acquired what she believes is an appropriate gift as well as her first real article of formal wear. It will be interesting to see certain people's reactions at such a precedent.

Fredas, 26th of Hearthfire

Sarena is coping better now and not through means of overexertion. She has returned to her normal routine in an effort to keep a personal promise to her newly-betrothed friends to ensure that the village remains standing for them to return to.

The ceremony went beautifully, and this one is also pleased to say that her appearance received positive reviews. Even John, who is normally rather stoic, had something to say about it. After he picked his jaw up from the sand, that is. He even offered to be this one's escort for the evening, and while he is far from a social paragon, Sarena enjoyed his company for the time being.

During yesterday's patrol route, this one came across a very distraught Ji'Zahni and was even a little upset herself that she could do little to help. Do'Mojiq provided a little comfort afterwards, and so did our visiting priestess Ardalda.

Lucrezia's brother Cesare made an appearance as well, and this one's first impression of him is far from kind considering that the first words she heard from him were generally insulting towards Lu and the Guard. Sarena would have dropped him then and there if she was not as stable as she was. Even Synn marveled at this one's handling of the situation. Cesare later approached this one again later and caused her to regret her former restraint. Instead she ultimately chewed him out for missing his sister's wedding for such petty reasons like her being a werewolf. This one has looked past it herself because we are friends and comrades. Cesare has no excuse since he is supposed to be family. Sarena will be keeping a close eye on him during his tenure here in S'ren-ja while waiting for Milo and Lucrezia to return from their trip to Skyrim.

Sundas, 28th of Hearthfire

The skooma investigation is now over thankfully. We found our culprits in the nearby town of Pa'alat and brought them in after a bit of a tussle. This one took an arrow in her calf in the process, but others had it worse, including Kade and Do'Zhar.

This one had business in Marbruk as usual, but she was still able to attend most of the auction. Afterwards, Bbigeargo offered to help her back to S'ren-ja since her leg was still bothering her. Sarena has never really noticed before, but Geargo is HUGE compared to her. She now knows how some of the Bosmer she has been around before feel. We sat and ate and talked up at his place above the jail cells, just two friends sharing company since he says we have not much. Ser Krynger came in at one point and called forth some sort of healing ritual to help her, but it was quite tiring on the Paladin, which worried her somewhat. Next thing she knew it was late so Geargo laid out a bedroll for the night for her.

The next morning, Sarena got up and left quietly, hoping that her stay would not draw the wrong kind of attention. Her leg was back to normal too thanks to Ser Krynger. She even discovered that Milo and Lucrezia had returned while she was away. They were missed, but not as much with some of the company this one met while they were gone.

Tirdas, 30th of Hearthfire

Another new--and large--face is in town now, a Nord by the name of Manus. He seems to be an old friend of John's and they both went looking for Lucrezia's deranged brother together and dragged him off to our jail. He and Lu are going to have a drinking contest after her baby has been had. That should be fun to watch just as long as no more age-old Dwemer mead is involved. Yuck.

We had a trial for Portia Antonius, the mastermind behind framing the clan for skooma distribution. The result was mostly as expected. Everyone judged her guilty and she was sent into Dominion hands for punishment. The Khajit spy had already been sent off ahead of time, so that saved more time for a small celebratory feast for yet another crisis in S'ren-ja averted.

Dar'athad, the inquisitor for Ser Krynger's order, is still here though. He says he will be until he gets another assignment or something. This one wishes he would leave sooner. She nearly took his head off in front of everyone at the party. Instead, she decided to vent her frustration and anger at something that could not fight back: the air. Korvos came out back a little later too--with more sweetrolls. Moons bless him. Sometimes Sarena's routines get quite tiring. After a brief chat, we rejoined the inside which had unfortunately emptied out, but Milo returned as well with some news.

Sylvaswift is trying to reinstate himself of a clan Favored. To be honest, Sarena has spoken little to him overall. He was this one's first contact in the clan, but that is about it. She does have a few questions for him though that she hopes he will answer honestly. Other than that, there is not much for her to say on the subject.

Turdas, 2nd of Frostfall

There is not much for Sarena to talk about this time aside from some tavern chatter. Slow week in Sren-ja really.

This one spoke with Manus for a time again. It was mostly about John and some of our own similar life experiences, but company is company she supposes.

Sarena witnessed Do'Mojiq get in trouble with another Khajit during one of her patrol shifts. Mojiq broke a window by punching it instead of his counterpart. Both were fined and Geargo had to replace the window. We spoke briefly with each other and Peridota before this one went back inside the clan house.

Korvos asked for this one's name in a book of his own. She offered to show him her locket with her name in Ta'agra, but he does not understand it, so she wrote it for him herself in common script. He says her handwriting is a little 'loopy'. This one says it is just one of her minor flairs really.

Milo and Lucrezia's house outside of S'ren-ja is complete now, and they are hosting a house-warming party, which Milo warned this one would include some 'special' entertainment. Sarena actually has a summons out of town to attend to that day, but Lucrezia still seemed angry at her for some reason. She had mentioned Do'Mojiq, but this one countered by mentioning his history with Ser Krynger and his daughter, a can of worms this would prefer not to get involved in. Perhaps this one should speak with Do'Mojiq and get some answers from the source before she dismisses the possibility completely.

Loredas 4th of Frostfall

Sarena found out what has Lucrezia upset again. Her brother blinded Milo with something when they were trying to help him, and now Cesare is dead as well. He would not be missed much by this one, but he was family to someone so she should show more respect then what she did before.

Keatenda, a sellsword working with the S'ren-ja guard got into an altercation with another in the tavern. This one stepped in the break it up, but after John and Elros joined the fray, Keatenda flipped out and turned into a werewolf. Elros got her to back down with his own change, but not before Sarena suffered a claw swipe across her leg. Donvyn was there to tend to it, but now that this one is off of his pain-killers she is a little worried about what will happen to her because of that.

The Thalmor agent that led the skooma investigation showed up again and gave the clan permission to resume growing moon sugar in the fields. Many went out to help, but this one stayed behind as she had just woken up from before. She did meet an interesting new face in the meantime so it is not all bad.

An overly friendly and open-minded Khajit named Sabirr showed up and made herself known to just about everyone she could. She did settle down and talk with this one and we found some things to talk about. Sabirr is someone this one wished she could be at times if she was not bound by duty, and Sabir thinks the same of Sarena somewhat. She is staying in our guest quarters now, so perhaps we will see more of each other.

Morndas, 6th of Frostfall

For the second time Sarena can remember, she awoke not in her own bunk. This time it was the guest quarters, but she does not recall how she got there. For now, she shall speak of what she does remember.

The auction in Marbruk went off as usual, though attendance was lacking in numbers. Enthusiasm was another story though. Sabirr did her usual dance routine--which this one recalls watching a little too often that night--and another member of the audience was quite generous with his gold, even going as far as tipping the Auctioneer.

This one visited the tavern early Sundas morning to find Ma'zura and Sylvaswift inside talking. She briefly joined the conversation, but lost herself in thought over something Ma'zura had said before excusing herself to her own routine for the day.

Sarena also settled issues with Lucrezia later in the day after being prodded by Do'Mojiq. This one wonders just why he is so interested in such things, but at least it finally got this one off her tail to set things right yet again, this time for good hopefully.

J'vani is back as well! This one has not seen her since after the loss of Ja'Amore. J'vani was quite surprised by many of the changes and events that have occurred in her absence, including Ri'sari's coma and Arisel being Clan-Mother as well as Dar'Atrabi's cub and Milo and Lucrezia's marriage and expecting child. It is amazing how so much can happen in such a short time.

Later that evening is where it gets a little fuzzy. Sarena recalls many things: friends in the tavern, music, dancing, a possible bar fight and...Sabirr. Perhaps she has the answers this one seeks to fill in the blanks.

Middas, 8th of Frostfall

Well, this one got the answers she was looking for. Mojiq passed around some mead the other night and it hit Sarena harder than she thought. Still have a ways to go on that.

Speaking of drinking, there was a small drinking contest in the tavern after the theater Argonian announced a festival and talent show. This one needs to start practicing her music again. She was a little rusty before. Milo was involved in the drinking contest, and with his experience with Lucrezia, this one would have bet money on him. Instead, a recent newcomer, a Bosmer raised by Khajit, won.

Then Elros burst in yelling about how Ser Krynger left and it was all the guards' fault for not keeping everyone in line. Seems there has been some excessive violence lately causing tempers to flare up. Everyone still in the tavern, including two Dunmer visitors, stood up to try to keep him from doing anything else rash. No one was hurt, but there were still loud words thrown about.

Elros and Ser Krynger were seen again the next day, so Sarena is hoping everyone has cooled down by now. Sabirr was also cited for being indecent and disruptive in the tavern again, but she claimed Kade gave her permission to dry her clothes over the fire this time. Gorramn it, this one thought we had talked about this already. Perhaps Sabirr needs a spare outfit in cases like this. She said she was still staying despite the strife, but not making any major commitments to the guard just yet. This one also heard that John may be vying for Guard Captain, so perhaps changes are on the horizon.

Another visitor came to town last night, an Argonian named Chaka-Do. He claims to be able to help with our criminal issues by drinking his foes' life away. He is no vampire though since he claims that their mere existence violates Dominion law. To be honest, this one has not heard such a thing. Perhaps some research and questioning is in order next time she has business in Marbruk.

Fredas, 10th of Frostfall

So much happening in so little time...where to begin?

Later on Middas, Sarena and Sabirr witnessed Afer and the 'Catmer' sparring outside so Sabirr decided to show off a little. She gave Afer a good tussle, but then got her tail soundly handed to her by Korvos. Perhaps this one should have gotten involved herself at one point, but she was having too much fun just watching.

We have had many more visitors in S'ren-ja lately, but many of them say the town is unsafe, despite the clan's insistence. One newcomer is yet another mute traveler named Zi-Xi. She is able to 'write' in Ta'agra in the air so that helps this one understand some. She also claims to have a goal similar to Sarena's despite being something that she hates, a vampire. Zi-Xi does have some sort of trinket that keeps her under control, so that does put this one at ease some.

While Sarena, Sabirr, and Zi-Xi were discussing where we each had come from, Sabirr got really depressed and encased herself in her armor inside the clan house. We were able to talk her out of it somewhat, at least enough to be able to sleep soundly, and this one's dear Sabirr was back to her usual self the next day, thank the moons.

Now Geargo seems to be showing interest in Sarena's unique fighting style. If this keeps up, S'ren-ja may end up being a secondary location to the training camp this one spent over a year at after she left home.

Peridota has been acting strangely lately after the clan has started to use the moon sugar fields again. Peri claims to have blackouts that end up with her in the fields time and time again. This one, along with Afer and Sabirr, was able to convince her to take some time off, and Afer volunteered to take over Peri's shifts in the meantime. Ah, Afer...so short, yet so helpful at times.

And popular, it seems. He has admirers of all kinds, it seems, including our local bard Laltris and this crazy female orc that also chased im around at the last auction. Afer's most noticeable fan though appears to be the 'Catmer' Naharasha. Thanks to some fierce prodding from this one and Sabirr, 'Cat' worked up the nerve to actually kiss Afer, but she could have done better.

The clan had two overnight visitors that Ma'zura was speaking to for some time. Sarena forgets their names, but she noticed one of them one a little on the shy side. The other seemed to take issue with how Sabirr was handling her business. Fortunately, no violence ensued...for once. Sarena is getting better at not lashing out as quickly as she used to.

And now it looks like there is another obstacle in this one's path to her own happiness. Sabirr admitted to this one that a recent client of hers caused her to become a werewolf. This is bad, considering the only thing Sarena finds worse than a werewolf is a vampire. Last night this one could barely sleep because of the thought. She kept seeing her wonderfully flirtatious Sabirr as a savage bloodthirsty beast ripping through everything and everyone this one has ever fought for every time she closed her eyes. Sabir did ask for help in dealing with her condition, which this one quickly pointed out Alijham, but it still does not put her at ease so easily. Right now, Sarena does not know if she can even face Sabirr despite how much she loves and cares about her. It has always been one thing or another with those this one has ever been close to. Shere'Khaann, Ra'zacc, and even those before them that she can barely remember right now have given Sarena some sort of hardship that she has had to work through one way or the other. She is somehow not surprised that this relationship is no different in that regard, but a werewolf of all things makes the situation even more difficult to stomach.

Sundas, 12th of Frostfall

Another shipment of moon sugar saplings arrived, so the clan took to the fields again to plant them. Well...most of us at least. Sarena stayed behind with Sabirr and discussed this one's worries over the lycanthropy issue. It is under control now, thanks to Ali's help, but Sarena cannot help but worry still.

Afterwards, we joined the others outside and witnessed Dar'athad being his usual demeaning self, this time directed towards Peridota for the most part. That fool has no idea how much trouble he would be in if not for Peri's self-control. Even this one wanted to tear him a new one. Instead, she left with a few others to clean up and well...that is all she will say about that here. She does hope that this...inquisitor from Ser Krynger's order leaves soon. He is being more of a nuisance than anything else and everyone knows this.

Loredas brought Sarena to Marbruk again for her usual scheduled business, but she was able to join the auction crowd in time. After a while, Geargo wanted to talk so we moved away from other eyes and ears to help ease his nervousness. Along with a request to learn what this one knows of her Beast Arts, it turned out that he and Peri were giving this one a special invitation much like Milo and Lu had before. It is something to consider, but a complete answer was not given just yet since a familiar presence was felt in the audience during our talk.

Sabirr had showed up later than Sarena and was found talking to Mojiq about an incident with him and John the other day, and this one joined in with her friendly ribbing. However, much was said from all sides--this one included--that was taken the wrong way and the three of us nearly came to blows in the plaza. Sabirr went into one of her low moods again afterwards, but we were able to settle everything with Mojiq after returning to S'ren-ja.

Apologies were made and the subject was dropped never to be spoken of again before Sabirr and Sarena joined Geargo and his friend Stripes (Ma'azha) for a decent meal at the mountainous Khajit's home. This one swears that place gets bigger every time she sees it. Sabirr did leave early though claiming she was tired, and that is understandable to Sarena considering what had happened earlier, and this one continued her earlier talk with Geargo over dinner as well as touching over whether this one is still doing the right thing considering herself and Sabirr. It is not just her that has to do better, but this one as well in providing a better example to her. "There is training in one's lifestyle" indeed.

Tirdas, 14th of Frostfall

The moon sugars fields are haunted now. Lovely. The sight seems to be related to the skeleton and ruby dug up when the fields were first tended to. For now, Guard Captain Kade has directed everyone to leave the ghost be to not stir up any more trouble. The whole time though, Ser Krynger was ranting on about how what was found should have been left alone. Also, the incident spark some inspiration for some rather short horror stories from some of the clan members, some better than others of course, but it was still amusing to listen to.

Sabirr now has interest in the healing arts. This was surprising news to Sarena, and after the initial shock wore off, this one directed her to Calomel or Donvyn for tutelage. Her first lesson came rather quickly when the 'catmer' Nahrasha dragged her self into the clan house beaten to Oblivion and back...and perhaps worse. By the time she was initially tended to and moved upstairs, Donvyn came in to take over the process with Sabirr watching. This one was around the corner listening and taking notes in this very book at the time.

Then 'Cat' freaked out with everyone around her and tried to run away downstairs. By the time, Sarena caught up to everyone, 'Cat' was huddled over and only this one, Sabirr, and Zi-Xi were able to get close to her. 'Cat' started to hallucinate, seeing the three of us as her family. With Donvyn's discretion, we were able to calm her down and Sabirr was able to apply her minor skills to the remaining wounds. Sarena and Zi-Xi returned 'Cat' upstairs once she was stable again, and the pale Altmer and her daedra 'family' watched over the patient for a time.

Downstairs, Donvyn agreed to teach Sabirr about healing and took her out to her first lesson. Sarena believes that with these budding skills and a new presentable wardrobe or two, Sabirr will perhaps be a more worthwhile and respected member of the community in due time.

Turdas, 16th of Frostfall

Now everyone believes S'ren'ja is cursed, most likely due to the findings and happenings out in the moon sugar field. Many clan members have already high-tailed it out of town. What this means for Sarena is that her assignment is essentially over. She has already sent her final report to Marbruk through an express courier first thing this morning and is expecting a reply within the next day or two.

Other recent events have included a close call with a pair of self-proclaimed pirates in the tavern who also claim to be working on the Dominion's behalf. This one, Sabirr, Zi-Xi, and a visiting spellcaster called them out on it, but a fight almost broke out when the then nameless mage tried to throw a fireball at one of the pirates who had pulled a dagger. This one had to subdue and detain her while off-duty to keep the place intact. There may be truth to some people's words after all.

Sabirr is now a member of the guard--for what good it may do now--after being interviewed and initiated by Kade and Ali. One more step towards a better future for her. Sarena could not be prouder and she has faith that the village will be in good hands should she have to leave again.

And now thinking about leaving has her thinking about who she is leaving behind. Her home, her friends, and those even closer to her heart. Sabirr and Ja'Zhen, Ja'Zhen has been here for two weeks now providing various services and assistance to those that ask and those that he asks himself. In such a short time, Zhen has done much to get on Sarena's good side, and we have become more than a little fond of each other. Alas, this one's own personal curse has struck yet again with the possibility of her leaving. Why? Why must this one always be denied her own happiness when she feels she has found it again?