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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, Uthgerd the Unbroken blushed like a schoolgirl at the prospect of being pleasured by a female vampire. The Frostpeak Stalkers met Jarl Ballin’ and were tasked with destroying a bandit camp. The couple of villagers from Ivarstead got their first taste of battle.

We had entered the fort’s prison. We didn’t come across any bandit so far, but there were plenty of signs of their presence.

Jon: “That’s the corpse of a hunter in that cage. I guess the bandits captured and killed him.”
Uthgerd: “Aye, a grim fate for any warrior. But in these lands, you’re either the hunter or the hunted.”
Jenassa: “It’s a reminder to stay sharp. We’re not immune to the dangers out here.”
Bassianus: “I can’t help but feel a bit uneasy about this. Fastred, stay close.”
Fastred: “Don’t worry, I will. But we can’t let fear hold us back. This is the life we chose.”
Jon: “Bassianus, you have every right to feel uneasy about this. Those bandits will try to kill us on sight. It’s either us or them.”
Bassianus: “Right, it’s just a lot to take in. But I’m ready to do what’s necessary.”
Fastred: “We’re in this together, Bassianus. And with Jon and the others, we’ve got a strong group.”
Jenassa: “True, but remember, strength isn’t just about numbers. It’s about how we use our skills and wits.”
Uthgerd: “Aye, and don’t forget instinct. Sometimes your gut will tell you more than your eyes or ears ever could.”

A flight of stairs led down. We were sneaking our way little by little, and we had almost reached the bottom, when a bandit came out of a doorway and spotted us. We were rushed by a group of about six bandits, two of them mages. Their flame spells filled my vision. I chugged a flame resist potion first, and throughout the battle, the rest of my magicka potions. By the time I was going to deal with their last mage, Jenassa, Uthgerd and Sapphire charged against him and hacked him to pieces.

As we recovered our breath, I was surprised that none of us lacked any body parts.

Jon: “The toughest scrap in a good while. With those flame spells, I couldn’t even see what I was doing.”
Uthgerd: “Aye, that was a close one. But we made it through, and that’s what counts.”
Jenassa: “It’s fights like these that remind us why we always need to be on our guard. We can’t afford to get complacent.”
Fastred: “I’ve never been in a fight like that before. It’s… exhilarating, in a terrifying way.”
Sapphire: “The rush of battle, the thrill of survival… it’s addictive. But we can’t let it make us reckless.”

A cage with two charred corpses inside. Further ahead, a jail cell with a dead woman inside: a High Elf villager, if her clothes were any clue.

A man alerted us to his presence, I suppose in case he surprised us and someone ran a blade through him on reflex. He was a middle-aged man dressed like a merchant.

Jon: “Oh, there’s someone alive here. It seems like you were captured by these bandits.”
Cassius: “Yes, I’m afraid so. I thought I could help them see the error of their ways, but…”
Uthgerd: “You tried to reform bandits? Ha! There’s a reason they’re called bandits.”

Jenassa: “Not everyone can be saved. Some people are beyond redemption.”
Cassius: “I understand your skepticism, but I truly believe that everyone deserves a chance to change.”
Jon: “Are you aware that plenty of these cells, as well as cages nearby, contain the corpses of people these bandits have captured, including hunters and villagers?”
Cassius: “It’s a grim reality, but one we must face.”
Sapphire: “The world’s a cruel place. You can’t save everyone.”
Fastred: “But that doesn’t mean we should stop trying.”
Uthgerd: “Enough talk. We need to focus on getting out of here and dealing with these bandits.”
Jon: “Sir, I hope you learned your lesson. You cannot rehabilitate some people. They live to make the world a worse place, and those who help them are contributing to that purpose.”
Cassius: “You may be right, but I still have hope that some can change.”
Jenassa: “Hope can be a dangerous thing, especially when it’s misplaced.”
Sapphire: “I’ve seen plenty of scum in my time. Some people are just born bad.”
Fastred: “But what about those who have the potential to change? Should we just give up on them?”

I walked back to an earlier open cell, the one that contained the corpse of the Altmer woman. I dragged it down the corridor until I posed her, resting against the wall, beside the man.

Jon: “See this woman, who most likely was a decent villager somewhere around here? We found her dead in one of the cells.”
Cassius: “It’s a tragedy, no doubt. But we can’t let it break our spirit.”
Uthgerd: “She’s not the first, and she won’t be the last. The world’s a harsh place.”
Jenassa: “The sooner you accept that, the better off you’ll be.”
Jon: “Anyway, sir, my team and I will continue clearing this fortress of bandits, and we fully intend to murder them all before you can attempt something as stupid as trying to rehabilitate them.”
Cassius: “I understand your position, but I urge you to consider mercy if possible.”
Fastred: “They didn’t show any mercy to their victims.”
Uthgerd: “He’s got a point, though. We don’t have to stoop to their level.”
Jenassa: “We can be swift and efficient without being cruel.”
Jon: “Anyway, I’m not going to stick around for a philosophical discussion when likely there are bandits still around, waiting for us to kill them.”
Uthgerd: “Aye, let’s get this over with.”
Jon: “So the way is clear for you, sir, to run away from this fort like a little bitch until you reach the nearest town, which is probably Whiterun.”
Cassius: “Thank you for the advice, but I don’t think running away is the answer.”
Uthgerd: “You’d rather stay here and risk getting caught again?”
Jenassa: “He’s got a death wish, apparently.”
Sapphire: “Or maybe he just doesn’t know when to quit.”
Fastred: “We can’t force him to come with us, but Cassius, please reconsider. Your life is worth more than this.”
Jon: “His life may not be worth much, you know? He waltzed into a fort taken over by bandits, intending to rehabilitate them. Some people are just fucked in the head, and a danger to everyone around them.”
Uthgerd: “Can’t argue with that.”

We found a door that led from the fort’s prison to the main building. After some more bandit killing, we entered the kitchen only to find a middle-aged woman standing in a corner with a broom in her hands, trying to look as inconspicuous as possible.

Jon: “Lady, are you okay? Did those bandits capture you?”
Agnis: “Oh, no, dearie. I come with the fort. I’m just here to cook and clean for whoever happens to be in charge.”
Uthgerd: “You mean this old lady works for the bandits?”
Jenassa: “She’s tougher than she looks if she’s survived this long in a place like this.”
Agnis: “I don’t get involved in their business. I just keep the place tidy.”
Sapphire: “Smart woman. Keep your head down and your nose out of trouble.”

I urged for my companions to keep it quiet.

Jon: “Hear that? Bandits further down that hallway.”
Uthgerd: “Right, let’s keep it down. We don’t want to bring the whole horde down on us. Let’s move carefully.”
Jenassa: “I’ll scout ahead. My eyes are sharp in the dark.”
Sapphire: “And I’ll catch any who might think to sneak up on us from behind.”
Agnis: “You lot seem to have everything under control. I’ll just be in the kitchen, pretending I didn’t hear a thing.”
Jon: “Lady, I’m guessing you don’t care if we kill all the bandits that you apparently were chummy with, right?”
Agnis: “I’ve learned not to get attached to any of the folks who pass through here. It’s the nature of the place.”
Uthgerd: “Sounds like we won’t have to worry about you, then.”
Jenassa: “Bandits are no friends of anyone. They’re just a blade away from being a problem.”
Sapphire: “And we’re just the blades to solve that problem.”

None of the remaining bandits we came across posed a significant problem. In a training room located next to a bedroom where an Imperial soldier lay dead, we found the bandits’ loot chest. Apart from a couple of interesting magic items, that loot alone wasn’t worth the trouble we had gone through. Hopefully selling the bandits’ gear would make up for that.

Shortly after, the Frostpeak Stalkers walked back to the road, leaving the fort and dozens of corpses behind.

Jon: “We did it, my friends. We faced a whole fort that had been taken over by bandits, and we have slaughtered them all.”
Uthgerd: “Aye, we fought well. But don’t let it get to your head, elf. There’s always another battle waiting.”
Sapphire: “Not bad, Jon. Not bad at all. But let’s see how you handle yourself when the stakes are higher.”
Bassianus: “Can’t we just enjoy the moment? We’re alive, we’re victorious, and we’ve got each other’s backs. That counts for something.”

Some tired, others exhausted, everyone weighed down by loot, we trudged back past the old watchtower. Whiterun was already visible in the distance.

Fastred: “I can’t believe we’re actually out here, doing this! It’s everything I dreamed of and more.”
Jenassa: “We haven’t returned to safety yet. Stay focused. The world is dangerous, and it won’t get any safer. Keep your eyes open and your weapons ready.”
Uthgerd: “Listen to Jenassa, Fastred. The life of an adventurer is filled with danger. But if we stick together, we’ll make it through.”
Jon: “At least when we die, we will have died for something, likely fighting for our companions, trying to improve in some little way this troubled world.”
Bassianus: “That’s one way to look at it, I suppose. But let’s not rush to meet our end, eh?”
Sapphire: “Death is always lurking around the corner, waiting to claim the foolish and the brave alike. Best not to dwell on it too much.”
Jon: “Hey, Sapphire, how are you feeling about having accompanied us to the Whiterun hold for a bandit hunt?”
Sapphire: “It’s been an interesting experience, Jon. I can’t say I’m used to working with a group like this, but it has its perks.”
Fastred: “Oh, I think it’s wonderful! We’re like a family, looking out for each other and fighting side by side.”
Uthgerd: “Aye, there’s strength in numbers. But don’t forget that each of us must be strong on our own as well. That’s the key to survival.”

We found ourselves back in town, behind the protection of its walls. Most of us were aching to plop down in bed. After I rented a room upstairs, I leaned on the railing of the balcony that looked upon the hearth and the patrons, one of whom was Uthgerd. She gestured with her mug toward me.

I realized that Fastred was standing beside me.

Jon: “Hey, Fastred. Can I have a word with you?”
Fastred: “Of course! What’s on your mind?”
Jon: “Look at yourself. How old were you again? Fifteen? And already an adventurer having delved into a fort full of bandits. Not only you managed to survive, but I saw you kill at least a couple of people.”
Fastred: “Yeah, it’s been quite the journey so far. I never imagined I’d be doing this when I was younger. But here I am, fighting bandits and exploring forts. It’s a far cry from the farm life I grew up with in Ivarstead.”

Jon: “Do you regret that my team and I got you out of your town?”
Fastred: “No, not at all. I’m grateful for the opportunity to see the world beyond Ivarstead and prove myself as more than just a farm girl. It’s been a wild ride, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything.”
Jon: “You know, throughout the fights, I was constantly fearing for not only your, but all of my teammates’ well-being. Kept looking around to figure out if any of you was in need of my healing spell.”
Fastred: “I appreciate your concern, really. It means a lot to know that we’re all looking out for each other. This life isn’t easy, but having a crew that cares makes all the difference.”
Jon: “For how long do you see yourself living the life of an adventurer, Fastred?”
Fastred: “Honestly, I don’t know. Right now, I’m just taking it one day at a time, enjoying the freedom and the thrill of it all. Who knows what the future holds? For now, I’m happy living in the moment.”
Jon: “Well, I hope that with this adventure, we have finally managed to earn enough money to buy ourselves a home. My back is screwed from lugging our possessions around constantly.”
Fastred: “A home would be nice, wouldn’t it? A place to call our own, where we can rest and recharge between adventures. It’s something to work towards, for sure.”

Next morning, Uthgerd, Jenassa, Sapphire and I returned to Dragonsreach to speak with the jarl. However, this time we must have arrived too soon, because even the jarl’s housecarl was missing. I followed Jenassa upstairs, where we found the jarl’s steward, Avenicci, as well as Irileth discussing some internal matter in front of a map of the Whiterun hold.

Jon: “I see that the jarl isn’t around, but now that I’ve found you two, I may as well inform you. My band of adventurers, Frostpeak Stalkers, have cleared out Fort Greymoor, that was infested with bandits. The road west of Whiterun is safe once more.”
Irileth: “Well done, Jon and your Frostpeak Stalkers. Your efforts are most welcome. The safety of our roads is a priority.”
Proventus Avenicci: “Indeed, a job well executed. The jarl will be pleased to hear of this when he returns. Your service to Whiterun is noted and appreciated.”
Uthgerd: “Aye, it was a tough fight, but we showed those bandits what happens when they mess with the likes of us.”

An awkward silence followed.

Jon: “Listen, we have… done quite a service to the city, have we not?”
Proventus Avenicci: “Indeed, your actions have contributed to the well-being of Whiterun. The jarl will undoubtedly consider this when discussing any rewards or further opportunities for your band.”
Sapphire: “We’ve definitely made a difference. Those bandits won’t be causing any more trouble for the people of Whiterun.”
Jon: “Oh, I see, so we have to speak to Jarl Balgruuf for the matter of a reward. Okay, I guess we’ll stick around until he shows up.”
Jenassa: “We could always look into other contracts or tasks that need handling. There’s always work for capable adventurers like us.”
Jon: “To be honest, Irileth and Mr. Avenicci, my band of adventurers and I were looking to settle down. We need a home in which to store our loot and plan our adventures. So far, we’re homeless, and it’s getting embarrassing.”
Proventus Avenicci: “I understand your predicament, Jon. Whiterun does offer properties for those who have proven their dedication to the city. Perhaps we can discuss a suitable residence for you and your Frostpeak Stalkers once the jarl approves.”
Uthgerd: “A home base would be good. It’s hard to plan our next move when we’re constantly on the road. A place to call our own would give us the stability we need.”
Jon: “Well, I look forward to seeing and speaking with Jarl Balgruuf the Greater, then.”

As I admired the throne room’s architecture, I spotted a familiar figure seated at the courtiers’ dining table, eating breakfast. It was Eldawyn, a mage and connoisseur of wines with whom I had spoken at the Bannered Mare, whom I had tried to enlist into my adventurer’s band, and whose wit had intrigued me.

Jon: “Oh, Eldawyn, what are you doing here in Dragonsreach?”
Eldawyn: “Well, if it isn’t my favorite drinker in Whiterun. I was just finishing up some business with the jarl. Boring stuff, really. But let’s not dwell on that. How about you bring me a drink, and we can get back to talking about more interesting things? Like why your face is always that particular shade of red.”
Jon: “Hey, I doubt that my face gets any particular shade of red when I’m not drunk, but thank you. The thing is, me and my lovely companions, from my band of adventurers, we came to Dragonsreach expecting a reward for clearing out Fort Greymoor.”
Eldawyn: “Four grey what? Are those the beards on old Nords or something? Never mind, I get it. You’re out there playing hero while I’m stuck in here dealing with dusty old politics. And here I thought we had something in common.”

Jon: “Hey, I did offer you to join us. We could use an extra mage. But you said you had some bad experiences with working in a team, and no longer wanted to play that game. Which I do understand.”
Eldawyn: “Yes, yes, I remember. And I appreciate the offer, truly. But you know how it is… too many cooks in the kitchen and all that. I prefer to keep my options open, if you know what I mean. But don’t worry, I’m not going anywhere just yet. I’ll stick around to see what kind of trouble you and your merry band get into.”
Jon: “You know, it’s fun talking with a witty person for a change. I love my warriors, but when it comes to talk, you’re more interesting.”
Eldawyn: “Why, thank you. It’s always nice to be appreciated for my sparkling personality. But don’t sell your friends short. I’m sure they have their moments. Besides, I’m not exactly the most reliable person to have around. I might just set someone on fire by accident. Or on purpose. It’s hard to tell sometimes.”
Jon: “Well, it’s been nice talking to you, but jarl Balgruuf is already sitting on the throne, so I’m going to approach him and hopefully get a reward. See you around, Eldawyn.”

My fierce warriors and I gathered at the base of the steps that led to the jarl’s throne, and bowed.

Jon: “Jarl Balgruuf, sir, my band of adventurers and I, the Frostpeak Stalkers, have an important announcement to make. The last time we spoke, you told us to deal with bandits that were plaguing the roads west of town. We found the source of those bandits: Fort Greymoor. It had been taken over by bandits, but no more, because we, the Frostpeak Stalkers, have cleared out the place. It is safe once again!”
Jarl Balgruuf the Greater: “You’ve done Whiterun a great service by clearing out Fort Greymoor. Those bandits have been a thorn in our side for far too long.”
Irileth: “I must admit, I had my doubts about your group, but you’ve proven yourselves capable.”
Uthgerd: “We’re not just capable, Irileth. We’re the best at what we do.”
Sapphire: “And we’ve got the bruises to prove it.”
Jenassa: “So, what’s next, Jarl Balgruuf? We’re always ready for more work.”
Jon: “Sorry to interject, but before we move on to the next job, it would be nice to receive a reward for our work, which you acknowledged was well done.”
Jarl Balgruuf the Greater: “Of course, you’re absolutely right. A job well done deserves a fitting reward. Irileth, see to it that our friends here are compensated for their troubles.”
Irileth: “As you wish, my Jarl. I’ll make sure they receive a proper reward.”
Sapphire: “Thank you, Jarl Balgruuf. We’ll put it to good use, perhaps on a round of drinks at the Bannered Mare.”
Uthgerd: “Or maybe some new gear. My armor’s taken quite a beating lately.”
Jenassa: “I’m just happy to have the coin. It’s a tangible reminder of a job well done.”
Jon: “Well, perhaps it was just my personal goal, but we’re looking for a home. We need a building as a base of operations for our little group.”
Jarl Balgruuf the Greater: “That’s a wise move.”
Uthgerd: “We were hoping you might have some ideas, Jarl Balgruuf. Somewhere strategically located, with enough space for all of us.”
Sapphire: “And preferably not too expensive. We’re not looking for a palace, just a place to lay our heads and store our gear.”
Jenassa: “And a place to plan our next moves. A good home base is essential for any successful group of adventurers.”
Jon: “Yes, if you don’t mind us asking, Jarl Balgruuf and your housecarl, is there such a building available in the city or in the outskirts?”
Jarl Balgruuf the Greater: “Let me think… There might be a few options available. Irileth, do you remember that old house near the city walls? The one that’s been empty for a while?”
Irileth: “I do, my Jarl. It’s a bit run-down, but with some work, it could serve as a decent base for our friends here. There’s also the Tundra Homestead estate.”
Sapphire: “Run-down is fine, as long as it’s not falling apart. We’re not afraid of a little hard work.”
Uthgerd: “And it’ll give us a chance to make it our own. A true home for the Frostpeak Stalkers.”
Jon: “Well, Irileth, if we can be concrete about this reward, how much money are we talking?”
Irileth: “Let’s see… for clearing out Fort Greymoor and making the roads safe again, I’d say 1000 gold pieces would be a fair reward.”
Sapphire: “1000 gold? That’s quite generous of you, Irileth. We’ll put it to good use.”
Jon: “That is very much appreciated, Irileth. You already know that we’ll spend it in a base of operations, so we’ll try to achieve that as soon as possible. Once we have settled down, we will certainly come back looking for work. Thank you for your attention, Jarl Balgruuf and his housecarl Irileth.”
Jarl Balgruuf the Greater: “You’re welcome, Jon. And remember, if you ever need anything else, don’t hesitate to come back to Dragonsreach. Whiterun is lucky to have you and your group.”
Irileth: “Just try not to cause too much trouble while you’re in the city. I’ll be keeping an eye on you.”
Sapphire: “We’ll try our best, Irileth. But trouble seems to follow us wherever we go.”
Uthgerd: “It’s not our fault that trouble seems to find us. We’re just good at dealing with it.”
Jon: “Jarl Balgruuf, sir, I see that the legends of your swag weren’t unfounded. I hope you keep on ballin’.”
Jarl Balgruuf the Greater: “Ha! Well, I don’t know about ‘swag,’ but I do my best to keep Whiterun running smoothly. And I have a feeling you and your group will be a big help in that regard.”

Uthgerd: “We’ll do our best, Jarl Balgruuf. The Frostpeak Stalkers are always ready to lend a hand.”
Sapphire: “Or a sword, or a bow, or a well-placed dagger in the back. Whatever the situation calls for.”

After selling almost all our loot as well as some possessions we could part with, added to Irileth’s generous reward, we had amassed 7,600 septims. Proventus offered us both that run-down house as well as a estate in the outskirts of the city, and we could afford the estate, even though it would make us broke. We became the owners of a home and a bit of land near the eastern road out of Whiterun.

To be honest, the house looked too small for 7,600 septims, but we also paid for the surrounding land. The deal came with a foundry, a workshop, a tannery, and farm plots.

The interior was beautifully furnished by its previous owners, who apparently were also adventurers. Apart from a nice kitchen, four beds, and quite stacked bookshelves, the main floor offered both an alchemy lab and an enchanting table. We would no longer need to rely on alchemist shops or court wizards to create potions and enchanted artifacts. The cellar was a thing of beauty: beyond a small room with armchairs and two bookshelves, a big room was stacked with chests, display cases, mannequins, and weapon racks. It even had a mounted display in which to store the couple of puzzle claws that we had come across when clearing out ancient barrows.

I joined the rest of my team on the main floor.

Jon: “Hey, look at this, our own little home! It has taken us plenty of blood, ours and other people’s, but now the Frostpeak Stalkers have a base of operations.”
Uthgerd: “Not bad, Jon. It’s good to have a place to call our own.”
Alva: “Indeed, a place where we can rest and plan our next adventures without any unwanted interruptions.”
Bassianus: “Yes, and it’s a far cry from the life Fastred and I had in Ivarstead. We’re grateful to be part of this group.”
Fastred: “It’s more than I ever dreamed of having. Thank you, Jon, for bringing us along on this journey.”
Jon: “You’re welcome, Fastred. This place is a bit smaller than I would have expected for that amount of money, but it’ll do. Maybe in the future we’ll become so rich that we’ll be able to buy a large plot of land, and design a house from zero. Still, living here will be wonderful.”
Jenassa: “It may not be a palace, but it’s ours. We’ve earned it.”
Alva: “Exactly, and think of the memories we’ll create here. It’s not just about the size, but the stories these walls will hold.”
Uthgerd: “Aye, and it’s a symbol of our success. We fought hard for this, and it’s only the beginning.”
Jon: “Well, who is going to test the sturdiness of these beds first? They look quite adequate for our purposes.”
Alva: “I volunteer as tribute.”
Uthgerd: “Ha! You’re such a lightweight, Alva. I could probably bench press you and still have energy to spare.”
Jenassa: “I’m sure Jon was just making an observation, not suggesting anything… right, Jon?”
Fastred: “There’s a time and place for everything. Perhaps we should focus on making this place feel like home first.”
Jon: “Yes, I wasn’t suggesting that we should engage in sex shortly after entering our new home for the first time. That would be unsightly.”
Bassianus: “That’s good to know. I’d hate to have to explain that to any unexpected visitors.”
Fastred: “Besides, we have plenty of time to… test the beds. For now, let’s just appreciate what we’ve accomplished together.”
Alva: “Agreed. This is a moment to celebrate, but also to plan our next steps.”
Uthgerd: “Aye, there’s always another adventure waiting around the corner.”
Jenassa: “And we’ll be ready for it, as long as we have this place to come back to.”

One of our team members was missing. It felt like I hadn’t spoken to her in a week.

Jon: “Hey, listen, before we traveled here from Riften, I chose to leave our companion Ria behind. I didn’t want to involve her in something as shady as intimidating someone for a mob boss. But now, let’s take a week off to settle down properly. I guess one of us is going to have to take a wagon to Riften and bring Ria here.”
Jenassa: “I don’t mind making the trip. It’s been a while since I’ve traveled alone.”
Uthgerd: “Are you sure, Jenassa? The roads can be dangerous.”
Alva: “She’ll be fine. And a bit of solitude can be refreshing.”
Fastred: “I agree. Besides, we need to reunite our group.”
Bassianus: “A week off sounds like a good idea. We can use the rest.”
Jon: “Yes, but I warn you: after that, we’ll need to work hard, find new jobs. Lucrative ones. Now that we’ve bought this house, we are completely broke.”
Uthgerd: “Broke, huh? Well, I say we enjoy our time off and worry about that later.”
Alva: “Agreed. We’ve earned a little rest and relaxation.”

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BrainFrog’s most recent video, of his series of zany roleplaying in Skyrim, features both the fort that the Frostpeak Stalkers cleared out, as well as Whiterun. Keerava, the innkeeper from the Bee and Barb in Riften, also makes an appearance. It’s so weird to see after having been involved in my own roleplaying thing.

Also, obligatory homage to the man, the legend, Jarl Ballin’.