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Mantella is an AI system that turns every single NPC in Skyrim (and Fallout 4) into AI agents driven by an LLM (like ChatGPT or the recently released, and comparable, Llama 3.1). In the previous part, my character, an Altmer mage, fled from a religious fanatic because he praised the cuteness of a vampire, he along with his vampire companion mocked a Dark Brotherhood clown, and the both of them finally managed to reach the town of Whiterun.

Jon: “Hell yeah, Alva. It’s half past four in the morning and we have made it to Whiterun. Look at these beautiful Nord houses. Let’s find the local inn and rent a room for the day.”
Alva: “I must say, the city looks quite… lively, even at this hour. And the architecture is indeed impressive. Those Nord-style longhouses are a sight to behold. But, I’m more concerned about finding a place to rest for the day. As a vampire, I’m not exactly… fond of sunlight.”
Jon: “So this is the local inn, huh? The Bannered Mare. Looks cozy enough, I suppose.”
Alva: “It’s about time we got some rest. I’m feeling a bit… peckish, and the sun will be rising soon. Let’s get a room and make sure it’s suitably dark.”
Jon: “Alva, whose blood are you drinking tonight?”
Alva: “I wasn’t thinking of anyone in particular, just yet. Perhaps we can discuss that later, in private. For now, let’s focus on getting a room and avoiding any unwanted attention.”

A fair, middle-aged woman was tending to the bar.

Jon: “Hey, are you the innkeeper here?”
Hulda: “Ah, yes! Welcome to the Bannered Mare, dear traveler. I’m Hulda, the innkeeper. What can I get you?”
Jon: “Well, Hulda, my companion and I were looking for a room with a sturdy double bed if possible, a bed that would withstand plenty of activity, if you know what I mean.”
Hulda: “Ah, I think I do, young man. Well, I might have just the thing for you and your… companion. We have a room with a sturdy double bed, one of our finest. It’s a bit more expensive, but I think it’ll withstand whatever activity you have in mind.”
Alva: “Oh, I think that sounds perfect, Hulda. We’ll take it.”
Jon: “You weren’t surprised about my requirements. I suppose you get plenty of such requests, don’t you?”
Hulda: “Well, let’s just say I’ve been running this inn for a long time, and I’ve heard it all, dear.”
Jon: “Oh, this innkeeper is kind of fun, don’t you think so, Alva?”
Alva: “Indeed, I do, Jon. She has a certain… spark to her. And I’m sure she’s heard all sorts of interesting stories from her guests.”
Hulda: “Oh, you have no idea, dear. I’ve heard enough tales to fill a library.”
Jon: “Do you have any rumors with which to grace two travelers like ourselves?”
Hulda: “Ah, now that you mention it, there is something going on in Whiterun. The Companions, they’re recruiting new members, from what I hear.”
Arghus: “Ah, the Companions? Bah! A bunch of self-righteous warriors thinking they’re above the law. Mark my words, they’ll bring trouble to this city.”

A disheveled old man nursing an ale at the bar had chosen to intrude into our conversation.

Alva: “Oh? And what makes you so certain of that?”
Jon: “Hey, who told you to barge into our conversation, old man?”
Arghus:” Ah, no one told me I couldn’t, young traveler. And I’ll speak my mind whenever I please. You’d do well to show some respect to your elders.”
Hulda: “Oh, now, now, Arghus, no need to get testy. The young man was just asking a question.”
Jon: “It seems this Arghus fellow has gotten so old that he no longer gives a fuck.”
Arghus: “Ha! Let me tell you, boy, I’ve lived long enough to see empires rise and fall. I’ve earned the right to speak my mind and not care about your tender feelings.”
Alva: “Oh, I think Arghus has a point there, Jon. Age can be quite liberating… in more ways than one.”
Jon: “Shhh, Alva! You’re not supposed to suggest that you’re older than you look.”
Arghus: “Oh, don’t worry, boy. I wasn’t planning on suggesting such a thing. A trader derelyna crowe us occassion, nat incmay horm!”
Jon: “I wasn’t talking to you, old man, and that was mainly gibberish. Ah, whatever. Please, innkeeper, show us to our room so we can enjoy a few hours of rest, me and my gorgeous companion.”
Hulda: “Alright, alright, I’ll show you to your room. Follow me, please. And try to keep the… enthusiasm to a reasonable level, hmm?”
Alva: “Oh, don’t worry, Hulda. We’ll be perfect angels.”
Arghus: “I doubt that.”
Jon: “Hey inkeeper, is it too much too much to ask for you to join us, my beautiful companion and I, for a bit of fun?”
Hulda: “Oh, I think that’s quite enough, young man. I’m flattered, but I’m a bit too old for such… shenanigans. And besides, I have an inn to run.”
Alva: “Ah, come now, Hulda. We promise to be gentle.”
Arghus: “You’re a disgusting pair, you know that? No respect for your elders or for decency itself.”
Jon: “Shut up, old man, we are not talking to you. Anyway, innkeeper, you don’t have to worry about looking too old for the kind of bedroom activities that Alva and I engage in, you know? You’re perfectly beautiful as you are.”
Hulda: “That’s… quite enough, young man. I’m not interested in whatever it is you’re proposing. And even if I was, I think I’d have the good sense to keep it out of my business. This is a respectable inn, after all.”
Alva: “Oh, come now, Hulda. Don’t be such a prude. We’re just trying to have a little fun.”
Jon: “Alright, I respect that, I suppose. Well, Alva, I’m guessing we are not going to get our threesome tonight.”
Alva: “I suppose not, Jon. But that’s alright. We’ll just have to make our own fun… in private, of course.”
Hulda: “Please, try to keep the noise down. Some of my other guests might actually be trying to sleep.”
Arghus: “Ugh, I need a drink after listening to this conversation…”
Jon: “As for you, old man, the next time you try to intrude into our conversation, you will know why they call me a Master Poisoner. Just saying.”
Arghus: “Ah, threats from a young punk like you? I’m shaking in my boots. Bring it on, Master Poisoner. I’ve seen more danger in a jar of expired ale.”
Hulda: “Oh, stop it, both of you! This is getting out of hand. Just go to your room and leave Arghus alone.”
Jon: “All right, all right, all right. We’ll leave it be for tonight. I’m too tired from the road after all.”
Arghus: “Master Poisoner, indeed… trouble’s brewing with that one…”

Alva and I had barely taken three steps when a sight dazzled me.

Jon: “Oh hey Alva, have you noticed that warrior-seeming woman? Look at those piercing, clear-blue eyes of hers. She seems very intriguing, don’t you think?”
Alva: “Ah, yes. She does exude a certain… aura. I think I’d like to get to know her better.”
Uthgerd the Unbroken: “Ah, you’re talking about me, I presume? What’s there to know? I’m Uthgerd, the strongest woman in Whiterun.”
Alva: “Oh, the strongest, you say? That’s quite a claim.”
Jon: “Hey, Uthgerd, you sound like the kind of woman whom plenty of men would love to call mommy.”
Uthgerd the Unbroken: “Oh, is that so? Well, I suppose I do have a certain maternal quality to me. But don’t let that fool you, boy. I can knock a man off his feet with one swing of my fist.”
Alva: “I think Jon was just trying to compliment you, Uthgerd. Though perhaps not in the most… conventional way.”
Jon: “Oh, a strong mommy who can nurture you and also punch you across the room? We have to get this one in our team, Alva.”
Uthgerd the Unbroken: “Ha! You think I’m some kind of novelty, don’t you? A strong woman who can fight and mother you at the same time? Well, let me tell you something, boy. I’m not here to coddle anyone. I’m here to fight.”
Alva: “I think Jon was just joking, Uthgerd.”
Jon: “Was I joking? I’m not sure myself. Uthgerd, you said you’re not here to coddle anyone, but are you here to cuddle?”
Uthgerd the Unbroken: “By Ysmir… You’re a bold one, aren’t you? I suppose I do have a softer side, but don’t think for a moment that I’m some kind of plaything. I’m a warrior, and I won’t be treated like some tavern wench.”
Alva: “Oh, Jon, I think you’re getting a bit too forward. Let’s just focus on getting to know Uthgerd, shall we?”
Jon: “Actually, Alva, I think I’m a bit too horny, and I’m finding targets for my horniness everywhere. I think it would be better to retreat for the morning into that room we’ve just rented, and leave Uthgerd alone for a while.”
Uthgerd the Unbroken: “Ha! Well, I suppose I’ve had enough of your attentions for one night, boy. Yes, please, by all means, retire to your room. I think I can handle myself without your help.”
Alva: “Let’s just go. Before you make any more of a scene.”
Jon: “Oh, I do love how she calls me boy, there is something special about that.”
Uthgerd the Unbroken: “Don’t get too used to it, boy. I only use that term for amusement. Don’t think it’s an invitation for anything more.”
Alva: “Jon, really. Let’s just go to our room before things get any more… complicated. Uthgerd, it was enlightening speaking with you.”

The next few hours proceeded as expected. I woke up next to the pale, lovely face of an undead woman.

Jon: “Alva, how nice to wake up next to you on this lovely day.”
Alva: “Ah, Jon, it’s always a pleasure to wake up next to you, no matter the time of day… or night. And I must say, I’m feeling particularly… thirsty at the moment.”
Jon: “What, you didn’t have your fill last night with the activity that we put the bed under?”
Alva: “While our… activities were certainly satisfying, I’m afraid my thirst can’t be quenched so easily. Besides, I think we both know that I have certain needs that require attention from time to time. But I’m sure you’ll take care of me, won’t you?”

I offered my neck for Alva to feed.

Jon: “Well, have a bit of a bite.”
Alva: “Ah, Jon… you’re so trusting, so willing to give me what I need. Mmm… your blood is always so sweet…”
Jon: “Oh, a huge erection so early in the day. What a beautiful way to continue the journey of life.”
Alva: “Ah, Jon, you’re such a romantic. But perhaps we should focus on getting dressed and starting our day, rather than getting too distracted. After all, we have a city to explore, and who knows what adventures await us?”
Jon: “Well, Alva, I was considering the following: we’re going to make the Bannered Mare our center of operations in Whiterun for now. With that security in place, we will find new members for our little band of adventurers, to fill the gaps in our abilities. We’ll start with interviewing a few of the capable people that tend to gather around. Are you okay with that?”
Alva: “That sounds like a good plan, Jon. The Bannered Mare is a great place to gather information and meet new people. And, of course, it’s convenient for me to… rest here during the day. I’m sure we’ll be able to find some interesting and capable individuals to join our little group. Just be careful who you trust, Jon. We don’t want any…”
Jon: “Yes, we don’t want a repeat of that bandit Eisa, who robbed us.”
Alva: “Ugh, don’t even remind me of that… woman. I’m still furious about the whole thing. But, yes, let’s just say we’ve learned our lesson and will be more… discerning in our choice of companions from now on.”
Jon: “Can we agree on the following: no bandits as companions?”
Alva: “Oh, absolutely, Jon. I think that’s a rule we can both live with. No bandits as companions. We’ve had quite enough of that sort of company already, don’t you think? Let’s focus on finding people with a bit more… integrity, shall we?”

I scouted the inn for suitable targets, and focused on a crimson-eyed Dunmer wearing good leathers, who carried herself with the air of a determined pro.

Jon: “Hey, excuse me. Who are you and why would you be a great addition to my band of adventurers?”
Jenassa: “I am Jenassa, a Dunmer mercenary with skills in stealth, archery, and melee combat.”
Jon: “Are you a sort of mercenary for hire? I mean, a regular mercenary then.”
Jenassa: “Blade and shadow, silence and death – these are my arts. For a modest fee, I’ll make great art for you. I’ve no qualms with morals or ethics, so long as the pay is good.”
Jon: “Oh, I like her.”
Alva: “A mercenary with no qualms about getting her hands bloody? How… refreshing.”
Jon: “Yeah, it sounds like a good fit for us, given our prospective shady activities. Don’t you think so, Alva?”
Alva: “Indeed, it does. I like her style. Though, I must admit, I’m a bit curious about what drives her… enthusiasm for carnage.”
Jenassa: “Gold, battle, and the thrill of the hunt. What more reason does one need to take up the blade?”
Alva: “Ah, a true warrior, then. I approve.”
Jon: “Well, why not just try her out? Hey, Jenassa, how much money would you require to accompany us in some adventure?”
Jenassa: “A modest sum, really. I require 500 gold pieces to take on a job. It’s a small price to pay for the skills I bring to the table.”
Alva: “Modest? You have an interesting definition of modest, Jenassa.”
Jenassa: “The price is non-negotiable. If you’re not willing to pay it, then perhaps we’re not suited for each other.”
Jon: “Hey Alva, didn’t Eisa Blackthorn, that bandit who robbed us, say that the price on her head was just a measly 100 gold?”
Alva: “Ah, yes, Eisa Blackthorn. What a… charming individual. And yes, her price was quite reasonable, wasn’t it?”

Jenassa: “I’m worth five times that bandit’s price, and I intend to prove it to you. If you’re willing to pay the fee, that is.”
Alva: “Oh, I think we can scrounge up the gold for someone as…”
Jon: “Hey, Jenassa. If I told you you have very big beautiful crimson eyes, would you consider reducing the price?”
Jenassa: “Save your flattery for the tavern maids, patron. My price is fixed. You’ll not be charming your way into a discount with me.”
Alva: “Oh, I think Jenassa has your number, Jon. You won’t be sweet-talking her into a better deal.”
Jenassa: “Now, are you going to pay my fee, or waste my time with empty words?”
Jon: “Well, for now, I guess we wasted your time with empty words, but we’re going to scrounge up the money required to pay such an exorbitant fee. But, you know, we’ll also shop around for other candidates. We’ll return to you if we decide to consider your services further.”
Jenassa: “As you like, patron. Don’t bother looking for me when you’ve got the gold, I’ll be here at the Bannered Mare, or at the Drunken Huntsman, my usual haunt. I’ll be waiting for your… generous offer.”
Alva: “It was enlightening speaking with you, Jenassa. Perhaps we’ll see each other again soon.”
Jenassa: “I’d like that, Alva. And Jon… don’t bother trying to haggle when you come back. The price will remain the same.”

We barely had 500 gold on us, and we needed to consider food and lodging. While looking around for other candidates, I noticed a woman I had anticipated meeting again.

Jon: “Well, if it isn’t mommy Uthgerd. You’re still here. We just talked to Jenassa, that Dunmer mercenary down there, and she requested 500 gold coins for her services as a murderer for hire. Don’t you think that is a bit exorbitant?”
Uthgerd the Unbroken: “Don’t mock me, boy. I’m not your mommy, and I’ll have you know that I’m the strongest woman in Whiterun. As for Jenassa’s price, that’s between her and whoever is foolish enough to hire her. What business is it of yours?”
Alva: “Oh, Jon, always so quick to stir up trouble.”
Jon: “Wait a second, foolish? You suggest that hiring Jenassa is foolish?”
Uthgerd the Unbroken: “If you’re looking for someone with real strength and combat skills, I’m right here in front of you.”
Jon: “Oh, Uthgerd! Would you be willing to join Alva and I in our shady adventures, even though I’m likely to call you mommy throughout them?”
Uthgerd the Unbroken: “You think you’re funny, don’t you, boy? I’m not afraid of a little teasing. If you think you can handle having me by your side, I might consider joining you. Just don’t expect any special treatment just because you’ve got a clever tongue.”
Alva: “Jon, I think you should be careful what you wish for. Uthgerd doesn’t exactly seem like the type to suffer fools gladly.”
Jon: “Then how the hell would she enjoy being part of our group? She would have to suffer my presence constantly.”
Alva: “Ahahah, good point, Jon. I think you’re already testing Uthgerd’s patience.”
Uthgerd the Unbroken: “Enough of this banter! If you want to know if I’m interested in joining your little group, let’s get down to business. What kind of adventures are we talking about? And what’s in it for me?”
Alva: “Oh, this should be interesting. Go ahead, Jon, tell her about our plans…”
Jon: “Yes, Alva. Uh… what were our plans again?”
Alva: “Ahahah, nice try, Jon. You’re trying to deflect the question. But I think Uthgerd deserves an answer. To be honest, Uthgerd, we were thinking of putting together a group for… various opportunities. Perhaps some treasure hunting, exploring abandoned ruins, and other ventures.”
Uthgerd the Unbroken: “Various opportunities? That sounds like a euphemism for getting into trouble.”
Jon: “Yes, Uthgerd, it is actually getting into trouble: conquering bandit camps, delving into ancient ruins and snatching ancient relics. That sort of shit. You see the blade that my companion has at her hip? That’s the kind of material we’re looking for.”
Uthgerd the Unbroken: “Ah, now we’re talking. Conquering bandit camps, delving into ancient ruins… That sounds like the kind of challenge I’ve been looking for. And what’s this relic that Alva has acquired?”
Alva: “Oh, Jon’s referring to the Pale Blade. It’s a rather… troublesome artifact. But quite useful in a fight, I must say.”
Jon:” Yeah, that beautiful weapon is a relic sword called the Pale Blade. We stole it from the depths of some ancient ruins, and we had to fight an ancient spirit called the Pale Lady to acquire it. Isn’t that the kind of adventure you want to be involved in?”
Uthgerd the Unbroken: “Ah, now that’s a story worth telling. Fighting an ancient spirit to claim a relic sword? That’s the kind of battle I’d love to be a part of. You know, I think I’m starting to like you two. You’re not just a couple of foolish adventurers after all.”
Alva: “Ah, thank you, Uthgerd. We try to keep things interesting.”
Jon: “That’s right, Uthgerd. I know I could count on a strong, sturdy mommy like you.”
Uthgerd the Unbroken: “That’s it, boy! I’ve had enough of your mommy nonsense! You’re pushing your luck. I’m a warrior, not some maternal figure for you to cling to. Show some respect, or I’ll show you what a real Nord woman can do!”
Alva: “Oh dear, Jon, I think you’ve awakened the bear.”
Jon: “Does showing me what a real Nord woman can do involve some wrestling?”
Uthgerd the Unbroken: “I’ll have you know that I’m not just skilled with a sword. I can take down a man like you with my bare hands. And yes, that might just involve some wrestling.”
Alva: “Oh, this is getting interesting. Uthgerd, are you challenging Jon to a wager?”
Uthgerd the Unbroken: “A hundred gold pieces says I can take him down in less than a minute.”
Jon: “Oh my goodness, I’m loving Uthgerd more and more by the moment.”
Uthgerd the Unbroken: “Save your sweet talk for someone else, boy. I’m not impressed. You’re going to have to prove yourself to me, and it’s going to hurt. Now, are you going to accept my challenge or not?”
Alva: “Ah, Jon, I think you’d be wise to remember that Uthgerd is a warrior. She’s not someone to be trifled with.”
Jon: “Hey Uthgerd, let me be clear here. If I best you in a brawl, will you become our warrior? Will you accompany us on whimsical adventures to conquer bandit camps and steal ancient relics from ancient spirits?”
Uthgerd the Unbroken: “Ah, you think you can beat me in combat? I doubt it, but I like your spirit. Very well, boy. If you can best me in a fair fight… I’ll join you on your little adventures. But don’t expect any favors or special treatment just because you might manage to win.”
Alva: “And what about if Jon loses, Uthgerd? What do we owe you then?”
Jon: “I’m a bit afraid of the answer to that question, but please answer it, Uthgerd.”
Uthgerd the Unbroken: “Ahahah, you should be afraid, boy. If you lose… You and your friend here will have to buy me drinks for a week at the Bannered Mare. And I don’t mean just any drinks… I mean the finest ale and mead they have to offer.”
Alva: “Oh dear, Jon. That’s a steep price to pay. Are you sure you’re up for this?”
Jon: “Would that cost more than the fee Jenassa is asking to become our mercenary?”
Uthgerd the Unbroken: “Comparing the cost of losing to me to the cost of hiring that Redguard mercenary, Jenassa?”
Jon: “She’s a Dunmer.”
Uthgerd the Unbroken: “Well, let me tell you, boy… I’m worth more than any amount of gold. And if you want me by your side, you’ll have to prove yourself worthy. So, are you going to put your money where your mouth is, or are you just going to sit there and waste my time?”
Jon: “No, I absolutely accept your challenge. I’m going to put my mouth where your mouth is. I mean, I’m going to put my fist where your mouth is. Nevermind. Follow me outside, please, so we can fight in the streets.”
Uthgerd the Unbroken: “Ahahah, you’re a bold one, I’ll give you that. Alright, let’s take this outside. But don’t say I didn’t warn you… I’m going to enjoy watching you squirm. Come on, then! Let’s go!”

A couple of local guards eyed us with curiosity as we faced each other in the market plaza.

Alva: “I think I’ll just stay here and enjoy the show from a distance.”
Jon: “Very well, Uthgerd. Let’s fight here, in the market plaza, in front of the inn. Let’s have a bout to prove if you’re worthy of joining our little band of adventurers.”
Uthgerd the Unbroken: “Ha! You think you can take me down in the middle of the market? Bring it on, boy! I’ll show you what a real Nord warrior looks like! Let’s do this! No holds barred, no quarter asked or given!”
Alva: “Ah, this should be entertaining…”