Roleplaying in Skyrim with Mantella #32

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, the mighty Frostpeak Stalkers obliterated every last bandit that had occupied a fort near Whiterun. Thanks to the generous reward that the adventurer’s band received from the jarl, as well as the sold loot, they bought a small estate east of town.

One of my main roles in this life consisted on ensuring that our assassin Jenassa was pleased, so before she traveled to Riften alone, I approached her regarding our new situation.

Jon: “Jenassa, how do you feel about the fact that now, instead of having to wait around at a tavern for someone to hire you, you have a permanent residence that we have bought with our adventuring money?”
Jenassa: “It’s… different. I’ve never had a place to call my own before. Always moving from one job to the next, one tavern to another. This… feels more stable. But don’t think for a moment that I’ve gone soft. I’m still the deadly blade at your side, ready for whatever comes next.”
Jon: “You know, during your spare time, I wouldn’t mind if you went a bit soft. You have the right to just enjoy your life.”
Jenassa: “Enjoy my life? That’s a luxury I’ve never really had. But… I suppose there’s no harm in trying. Just don’t expect me to take up knitting or gardening. I’m a fighter, through and through.”
Jon: “Actually, what sort of hobby would you be into? Now that you have some spare time and you don’t have to be constantly looking for money to pay for lodging.”
Jenassa: “Hobby?”
Jon: “I mean, you know what a hobby is, right?”
Jenassa: “I know what a hobby is, I’ve just never had the time or inclination for one. But… if I were to choose, I suppose I’d continue honing my skills. Practice with different weapons, learn new techniques. That’s what I enjoy.”
Jon: “Fortunately, this home came with a foundry right outside. We can forge interesting implements of murder.”
Jenassa: “That could be useful. We could create custom weapons, tailored to our specific strengths and preferences. It’s worth considering.”
Jon: “Anyway, Jenassa, you have a corner of your own in this home, one with your own bed. Don’t hesitate to decorate it with posters and stuffed animals if you want.”
Jenassa: “Posters and stuffed animals? I’m not a child, Jon. But… I might consider a few practical decorations. Perhaps some maps or a weapon rack.”
Jon: “For a moment, I thought you were going to say the mounted heads of the people you have killed. Perhaps that’s what I will do.”
Jenassa: “I prefer to leave my kills behind me, not display them as trophies. But you can decorate your space however you see fit.”

Jon: “Well, Jenassa, I must say: it warms my heart to see you smile.”
Jenassa: “I’m not smiling. This is just my usual expression.”

I found Sapphire, our probable Thieves Guild member I convinced to join my adventurer’s band, alone in a corner of our base of operations, gazing out the window.

Jon: “How are you enjoying the headquarters of the Frostpeak Stalkers, a home to which you can return whenever you’re in the Whiterun hold?”
Sapphire: “It’s a fine place, I guess. Better than some of the holes I’ve crawled into over the years. And if it keeps me from sleeping in the rain, I’ll take it.”
Jon: “You do look quite comfortable here. Back in Riften, you always seemed on edge.”
Sapphire: “Don’t let appearances fool you. I’m always ready for trouble, even in a place like this. But you’re right, it’s a step up from the Bee and Barb.”
Jon: “You joined my team due to self-interest, which is completely understandable. I am motivated by self-interest as well. Are you satisfied by the new life I’ve shown you?”
Sapphire: “You’ve kept things interesting, I’ll give you that. And the gold doesn’t hurt either. As long as you keep delivering on your promises, I’ll stick around.”

I stepped closer and caressed her lower lip.

Jon: “I do wish for you to stick around for a good while.”
Sapphire: “Is that so? Well, you’ve managed to keep me around this long. I suppose we’ll see where this goes.”

I took Sapphire in my arms and kissed her.

Jon: “I’m sure you know I’ve wanted to do this ever since I saw you in that corner of the Bee and Barb.”
Sapphire: “You certainly took your time, didn’t you? I won’t say I haven’t been curious myself. But I wouldn’t get too comfortable if I were you. We’ve still got work to do, remember?”
Jon: “Not for a week. We’re taking it off. And there’ll be plenty of opportunities during those days for you and I to enjoy some time alone in one of these comfortable beds.”
Sapphire: “That’s a long time to lie low. But I suppose even I need a break every now and again, as long as you don’t slow me down too much.”
Jon: “Don’t you need someone in your life that doesn’t make you feel the need to be on your guard constantly?”
Sapphire: “I’ve learned the hard way that letting your guard down can get you killed. But maybe, just maybe, you’re different. Time will tell.”

Shortly after Jenassa returned from Riften with Ria in tow, I approached the latter as she was tending to the farm plot behind our home.

Jon: “Ria, I have to apologize to you. Back in Riften, we had that intimidation job thrown our way by Maven Black-Briar. Because you’re an honorable and principled person, I thought that you should sit that one out.”
Ria: “Jon, I appreciate your concern, but you don’t need to worry about me. I’m a Companion; we’re not just honorable, we’re also practical. We do what needs to be done for the good of the group. If that job was important for us, then I would’ve been there with you, no matter what it entailed.”
Jon: “I understand that now. Next time I will bring you along unless… Well, I’m not sure what circumstances would make you not want to come along.”
Ria: “I accept your apology, Jon. And don’t worry about it too much. We’re part of the same team, the Frostpeak Stalkers. We stick together through thick and thin. Just remember that in the future, alright?”

Suddenly, I realized I had forgotten something.

Jon: “Oh my fuck.”
Ria: “What’s wrong, Jon? Did something happen?”
Jon: “I left something on the stove, and it might be burned by now.”
Ria: “Ah, the joys of domestic life, eh? Don’t worry about it, Jon. Go take care of your cooking. We can continue our conversation later. And remember, if you need any help, you know where to find me.”

Throughout that week, as I cooked food or brewed potions, I had the opportunity to listen to my teammates bonding.

Jenassa: “I can always expect you to be awake when the sun’s barely up, Alva.”
Alva: “Well, when your idea of a beauty sleep involved a coffin for years upon years, sunrise tends to mess with your schedule. What about you, couldn’t sleep?”
Jenassa: “Sleep is a luxury, and I’ve learned to do without. Besides, someone needs to keep an eye out for trouble.”
Alva: “Trouble seems to follow our little group like a lost puppy. But I suppose that’s part of the charm. How’s that sword arm of yours holding up?”
Jenassa: “Ready for whatever comes next. I’ve had worse from training alone. What about you? How’s the whole… blood situation?”
Alva: “Managed to snag a bite before turning in. I’m learning to… pace myself. It’s strange, this feeling of almost belonging somewhere. With Jon and the rest of you, it’s…”
Jenassa: “Don’t get too comfortable. Softness can get you killed out here. We’re not playing house; we’re surviving. Remember that.”
Alva: “Oh, trust me, I haven’t forgotten what I am or what I’ve done.”
Jenassa: “Just stay sharp. This crew… it’s not like anything I’ve been part of before. It’s good, but it can make you drop your guard.”
Alva: “Your concern is touching, really. I’ll keep my wits about me, don’t worry. And maybe, just maybe, I’ll let this… ‘crew’ surprise me.”
Jenassa: “Surprise you? With what, their inability to stop talking?”
Alva: “With their stubborn optimism, their… loyalty. It’s almost enough to make you forget the darkness for a bit.”
Jenassa: “Darkness is always there. It’s just a matter of how you navigate it.”
Alva: “Well, with Jon leading the way, at least it’s an interesting path.”
Jenassa: “Interesting is one word for it. Let’s just hope it doesn’t lead us straight into a draugr crypt next time.”
Alva: “With our luck? I wouldn’t bet against it.”

Sapphire seemed to take an interest in the youngest member of our group.

Fastred: “I still can’t believe we’re doing this. One minute I’m tending to cabbages, the next I’m in some bandit fort picking through their stuff.”
Sapphire: “Welcome to the life of an adventurer. It’s not all glamour and gold. Sometimes it’s blood and dirt. You get used to it.”
Fastred: “I thought I knew what I was getting into. I knew it would be different from hunting game, but actually having to fight people, seeing them die by your hand… it’s not something you can really prepare for.”
Sapphire: “It won’t be the last time. You can’t go into this half-cocked. You need to be ready for anything.”
Fastred: “I know, and I want to be ready. I just didn’t expect it to feel like this.”
Sapphire: “Like what?”
Fastred: “Like… like my whole world’s been turned upside down. Everything’s changing so fast. I’m changing.”
Sapphire: “That’s life, kid. You adapt or you die. Especially in this line of work.”
Fastred: “I guess you’re right. It’s just a lot to take in.”
Sapphire: “It is. But you’ve got a good crew, as well as a good head on your shoulders. You’re smart, you’re capable. Just keep your wits about you and you’ll do fine.”
Fastred: “I’ll try. I know I can do this, it’s just… a lot.”
Sapphire: “It is. But you’re not alone. You’ve got a good group around you. Stick with them, watch their backs, and you’ll do fine.”
Fastred: “Thanks, Sapphire. I appreciate it. And maybe someday, I’ll be as tough as you.”

Uthgerd seemed eager to take Fastred under her wing.

Uthgerd: “Fastred, you’ve come a long way from your past as a farm girl in Ivarstead. How are you finding life with the Frostpeak Stalkers?”
Fastred: “It’s been… different.”
Uthgerd: “Hmm, it’s not an easy life, but it’s ours. You’re doing well, kid. Just remember to stay sharp.”
Fastred: “I will. Thanks, Uthgerd. It means a lot coming from you. I just… I suppose I never thought I’d take a life, you know? Even if they were bandits.”
Uthgerd: “Out here, it’s often them or us. You did what you had to do.”
Fastred: “Yeah, I guess so. It’s just… a lot to take in.”
Uthgerd: “That it is. You’ve got a good heart, Fastred. Don’t lose that. But also don’t let it make you hesitate when it counts.”
Fastred: “I’ll try not to. I want to be strong, like you and the others.”
Uthgerd: “You are strong, in your own way. Just keep learning and growing. That’s what this life is all about. You’ll find your place here.”
Fastred: “What about Jon? He’s so reckless sometimes…”
Uthgerd: “Aye, he can be a handful. But, he’s one of us. We look out for each other, no matter what. That’s what being part of a crew is all about. Just remember, Fastred, you’re one of us now. We’ve got your back, and we’ll face whatever comes our way together.”
Fastred: “Thanks, Uthgerd. I’m glad I’m here. It’s the life I’ve chosen.”
Uthgerd: “That’s the spirit, kid.”

Fastred: “I can’t believe we actually have our own place now! Tundra Homestead is so much more than I ever dreamed of when I was stuck back in Ivarstead.”
Uthgerd: “It’s a good stronghold. Plenty of room for training and storing our gear. And it’s ours, earned with blood and sweat.”
Fastred: “I still can’t get over how brave you all were at Fort Greymoor. The way you charged into battle, Uthgerd… it was incredible! I wish I could be that fearless.”
Uthgerd: “You’re brave in your own way, Fastred. It takes guts to leave everything behind and join a band of adventurers. Keep practicing with that bow of yours, and you’ll be a force to be reckoned with.”
Fastred: “I will! Bassianus has been helping me practice every day. I want to pull my weight in the Frostpeak Stalkers.”
Uthgerd: “We all fight together, no one gets left behind. Now, let’s talk about tomorrow’s training. I want you to focus on…”

Our heavy-hitters Uthgerd and Jenassa got to know each other better.

Uthgerd: “So, Jenassa, how do you feel about our new home, Tundra Homestead?”
Jenassa: “It serves its purpose. A base is necessary for any group, especially one as active as ours.”
Uthgerd: “You don’t seem too thrilled about it. I thought you’d appreciate not having to find lodging in towns anymore.”
Jenassa: “I do. It’s just… I’ve never had a place to call my own before. It’s an odd feeling.”
Uthgerd: “Well, you better get used to it. We’re not going anywhere anytime soon.”
Jenassa: “I suppose you’re right. Anyway, I’m going to check on my gear. Just making sure everything’s in order.”
Uthgerd: “Always the professional. But don’t forget, we’re a team now. There’s more to life than just the job.”
Jenassa: “I’ll keep that in mind.”
Uthgerd: “You do that. And who knows, maybe one day you’ll actually enjoy our little chats.”
Jenassa: “Let’s not get ahead of ourselves here.”
Uthgerd: “Ha! Baby steps, then.”

Jenassa: “You seem to be settling in here well, Uthgerd. I’ve noticed your armor and sword are looking sharper than usual.”
Uthgerd: “Aye, the foundry and smelter here are top-notch. It’s good to have a place to call our own. You’re looking more at ease yourself, Jenassa. Given any more thought to what we discussed?”
Jenassa: “About taking up a hobby? I’m still not sure. Honing my combat skills has always been my focus. But, I’ll admit, having a steady place to rest does change things.”
Uthgerd: “It’s not a weakness to enjoy yourself outside of battle, Jenassa. It’s about balance. We fight hard, we should rest well.”
Jenassa: “Maybe you’re right. But don’t expect me to start knitting or gardening. I need something with a bit more… edge.”
Uthgerd: “Hah! I’d like to see that. You, tending to a garden. No, I imagine you’d be better suited to something more intense. Have you ever thought about smithing?”
Jenassa: “I have. It could be useful to know how to repair and maintain my own equipment.”
Uthgerd: “That’s the spirit! And who knows, you might find it as satisfying as I do. There’s something about forging your own blade that makes it feel all the more a part of you when you wield it in battle.”
Jenassa: “I’ll think on it. Maybe I’ll give it a try someday.”
Uthgerd: “You should. And if you need any tips, you know where to find me.”
Jenassa: “I appreciate it, Uthgerd. Perhaps there’s more to this life than just the next fight.”
Uthgerd: “That’s what I’ve been saying. We’ll make a well-rounded adventurer out of you yet, Jenassa.”
Jenassa: “Don’t get ahead of yourself. I’m still the best bladeswoman in this group.”
Uthgerd: “Hah! We’ll see about that. I might just challenge you to a friendly spar later.”
Jenassa: “I look forward to it.”

After a week of lazing about, I decided to gather my whole team in the living room for a meeting.

Jon: “This week that we took off to settle down has been magical. I feel that we’re truly a band of adventurers with bonds forged in blood. I wanted to say that I’m glad to know each and every one of you.”
Sapphire: “Well, isn’t this touching? I suppose there’s a first time for everything, even for a soft-hearted Altmer like you.”
Jenassa: “Agreed. It’s been… different. But not unpleasant.”
Bassianus: “Can’t deny it’s been a hell of a ride. Never thought I’d see the day when I’d be part of something like this. Fastred and I, we’re in your debt, Jon.”
Fastred: “It’s true. We’ve found a home here, with all of you.”
Jon: “Do any of you want to say something to the entire group, before we resume our adventures?”
Uthgerd: “We’ve fought together, bled together, and damn near died together. There’s no stronger bond than that.”
Alva: “I may not be a warrior like the rest of you, but I’ve seen the strength and courage in each of you. It’s… inspiring.”
Fastred: “I never dreamed I’d be part of something so… so extraordinary. Thank you, all of you, for accepting me, for…”
Bassianus: “… for giving us a chance. We won’t let you down.”
Jon: “Well, now I will interrupt this session to inform you that after the provisions we have consumed this week, added to the money we spent on this house, we are truly and utterly broke. I have been looking through my notes to figure out what leads we could follow to earn good loot somewhat nearby.”
Jenassa: “No matter. We’ll find work. There’s always someone who needs a problem solved or a throat slit.”
Bassianus: “Yeah, don’t worry about it, Jon. We’ll figure something out.”
Fastred: “We’ve faced worse odds than this. We’ll manage.”
Alva: “I might have a few ideas. There are always whispers in the shadows, rumors of hidden treasures and forgotten ruins.”
Jon: “Listen, I’m trying to decide between two rumors to follow. I’ll put them out there for you, and I expect you lot to vote for whichever you prefer. Here’s the first one: ‘On the road to Whiterun, I encountered and killed a hostile orc besieged by bandits, and on his body was a ledger that offered additional clues. According to the ledger, the current owners of the staff are two necromancers holed up in Brittleshin Pass.’ I expect those necromancers to have powerful artifacts, so we may as well kill them and steal their stuff. Here’s the second rumor that I wanted to follow: ‘I received a note from a vassal of the Bloodfall Queen stating a group of bandits have stolen her weapon. I should head to Lost Knife Hideout to see what’s become of it.’ We may need to eliminate lots of bandits.”
Sapphire: “Necromancers, bandits… both sound like easy targets. I say we go after the necromancers first. Who knows what kind of valuables they might have?”
Jenassa: “Agreed. Necromancers often have rare ingredients and artifacts. It’s a risk, but the reward could be greater.”
Bassianus: “Yeah, I’m with Sapphire and Jenassa. Let’s hit the necromancers first.”
Fastred: “I’ll follow your lead, Jon. But the necromancers do sound like they might have more to offer.”
Jon: “Uthgerd, Alva, in case you prefer bandits… Wait, who didn’t speak about this already?”
Uthgerd: “I’m with the others. Necromancers are a bigger challenge, and that means better loot.”
Alva: “I can’t fight like the rest of you, but… I agree. Necromancers tend to have more secrets, more hidden away. It’s worth the risk.”
Jon: “Very well, necromancers it is. Now that we have a base of operations, we can prepare our gear and provisions properly, and leave the rest here.”
Sapphire: “Necromancers mean undead. Fire is our friend here. Let’s stock up on fire salts and oil.”
Jenassa: “And silver weapons, if we have them. They’ll be useful against any undead we encounter.”
Bassianus: “POTIONS! Lots and lots of potions.”
Fastred: “And something to ward off the cold. It’s chilly in those passes.”
Uthgerd: “A good, strong weapon and sturdy armor are all I need. But the rest of you make good points.”

We didn’t want to leave Alva behind, particularly because we could use her against necromancers holed up in a cave, but we also didn’t want to head there in the dark, so she geared up in full armor, including gloves and a mask, to ensure no sunray burned her.

As we headed to Brittleshin Pass, east of Whiterun, Jenassa and Sapphire had a little chat regarding our recent bloodbath at Fort Greymoor.

Sapphire: “We’ve both seen our share of death and come out on top. It changes you.”
Jenassa: “It does. Makes you harder, sharper. Or it breaks you.”
Sapphire: “I like to think it’s made me stronger. Smarter. But the shadows… they have a way of getting under your skin.”
Jenassa: “The shadows are my ally. They’re where I’m most at home.”
Sapphire: “I can see that about you. Just be careful they don’t consume you.”
Jenassa: “I could say the same to you.”
Sapphire: “Anyway, enough of this grim talk. We’ve got work to do.”
Jenassa: “Agreed. Let’s focus on the task at hand. The sooner we’re done, the sooner we get paid.”

Past the old watchtower, we came across a burned-down house by the side of the road. We examined the damage, and found a charred corpse in what used to be the house’s main room. It seems that the local authorities hadn’t bothered to investigate this place. In the back of the structure, partially hidden in the grass, we spotted a cellar door. As if we didn’t have anything better to do, we decided to check it out. Turns out that the cellar was a narrow, winding tunnel dug in the bedrock. At one dead end we found a chest, but it was guarded by a huge scorpion. Or perhaps the scorpion just happened to be there, because it didn’t seem too eager to attack us. Too bad for that creature. The chest’s most intriguing content was a staff that shot flames.

Jon: “Well, now we are the owners of a staff of flames. Do any of you want to wield it?”
Ria: “Oh, I’ve always wanted to try out a magic staff!”
Fastred: “It sounds powerful, but isn’t it a bit dangerous?”
Uthgerd: “Danger is just part of the job, Fastred. But if you’re not up for it, hand it over. I’ll put it to good use.”
Alva: “I don’t need it. My vampiric powers are enough for me.”
Jon: “Yeah, I don’t see Uthgerd with that staff. Ria, I’m handing it over to you.”
Ria: “Thanks, Jon! I’ll give it a swing.”
Jenassa: “Just don’t set yourself on fire, Ria. Or any of us, for that matter.”
Fastred: “Yeah, be careful. That thing looks like it packs a punch.”

On our way back to the cellar door, we realized that the path diverged. Unwilling to leave it unexplored, we ventured further in, only to find ourselves attacked by hovering tentacle monsters that zipped around fast and bit at us with their beaks. Fortunately they fell to our blades and a combination of Destruction spells, but I couldn’t tell what they were weak to. Even as those monsters lay dead at our feet, I could barely make out their features. A shiver ran down my spine.

Jon: “These things are horrifying. I’m not particularly keen to continue exploring the tunnels.”
Fastred: “I’ve never seen anything like them either, Jon. But we can’t just turn back now. We’ve come so far, and there’s bound to be something valuable down here.”
Jenassa: “Agreed. We’re the Frostpeak Stalkers, not some milk-drinking novices. Let’s show these tentacle beasts what we’re made of.”
Sapphire: “Nice one, Jenassa. I’m with you on that. This place gives me the creeps, but I’m not about to let it get the best of me.”
Alva: “I’m ready for whatever comes our way. These monsters may be different, but they still bleed, right?”
Jon: “They bleed and die, indeed. But I don’t like tentacles. They’re gross and disgusting.”
Ria: “Well, nobody said every enemy we face would be pleasant to look at, Jon. We’ve fought worse and come out on top.”
Bassianus: “Exactly. We should focus on the task at hand. These tunnels must lead somewhere, and I’m curious to see where.”
Uthgerd: “Aye, and if there’s more treasure, I’m all for it. But we should stay sharp. These caves could be a death trap.”

Bulbous masses of flesh bulging out of the monsters’ undersides called out to me. I reaped them with my blade.

Jon: “Well, at least their testicles look like they may have some alchemical properties.”
Fastred: “Eww! You’re really going to touch those? I guess if they have alchemical properties, it could be useful.”
Jenassa: “A resource is a resource, Fastred. In our line of work, you learn to take what you can get.”
Sapphire: “Yeah, never know when some freaky testicle potion might save your life.”
Alva: “I’ll take your word for it, Jon. I’m more interested in finding our way out of here.”
Jon: “I don’t know about you all, but I got in this line of work to fondle the testicles of tentacle monsters.”
Ria: “Is that… really why you’re here, Jon? I thought we were supposed to be heroes or something.”
Bassianus: “Every hero has their own reasons, Ria. If Jon finds joy in testicle fondling, who are we to judge?”
Uthgerd: “Speak for yourself, Bassianus. I’m here to crack skulls and drink mead. But I suppose there’s no accounting for taste.”
Jon: “I can’t tell anymore if you lot are aware of my sarcasm. I’m just ripping these testicles because they might prove advantageous in the future. I don’t like them any more than you do.”
Fastred: “Ouch, Jon! We’re just messing with you. Nobody thinks you actually like fondling monster bits.”
Sapphire: “We all know you’ve got your eyes on the prize, whatever that may be down here.”
Alva: “Let’s just focus on moving forward and finding our way out. Arguing won’t get us anywhere.”

The tunnels twisted and turned, leading us to many dead ends. Whoever made the tunnels, assuming a sentient creature did, didn’t find what they were looking for.

Jon: “After wandering around for this long and messing with so many testicles, I think I’m going to vomit. I need to find the exit, and quick.”
Ria: “Aha! A challenge! Leave it to me, Jon. My senses are sharp, and I’ll find our way out in no time.”
Bassianus: “And if we run into more of those tentacle beasts, we’ll deal with them swiftly. You won’t have to fondle any more testicles than necessary.”
Uthgerd: “That’s the spirit! Just point me towards the exit, and I’ll barrel through anything in our way.”
Jon: “Bassianus, when I offered you to join our band of adventurers, I knew I could count on you to prevent me from fondling an excessive number of testicles.”
Bassianus: “Ha! Happy to be of service, Jon. I’ll ensure your testicle-fondling is kept to a minimum. We’ve got more important things to do, after all.”
Jon: “Yeah, like finding the damnable exit of these tunnels.”
Alva: “Agreed. Let’s get moving, then. No more dawdling, and definitely no more testicle fondling.”

We finally clambered out of those tunnels and breathed the fresh, foggy air of the Whiterun hold.

Jon: “My goodness, I don’t want to see another testicle for the rest of my life!”
Ria: “Ha! That’s one way to put it. But we made it, and that’s what matters most.”
Bassianus: “Aye, and just in time for the evening air. Nothing like a little adventure to whet the appetite.”

We continued to the point of the road where the map indicated the we should abandon its safety to head southward, to an entrance into the mountain that the locals called Brittleshin Pass for reasons. No signs of necromancers so far.

Jon: “Well, here we are. Any strategy when it comes to entering a cave likely plagued with necromancers?”
Uthgerd: “We’ve faced worse than a few bone-rattlers in our time. Stick close, watch each other’s backs, and we’ll clear this place out in no time.”
Alva: “Hmm, these necromancers might be more trouble than they’re worth. But I suppose there’s no fun in backing down now. Just stay sharp.”
Jenassa: “Keep your wits about you. Necromancers are not to be underestimated. We move quietly and strike fast.”
Jon: “What would be the best protection against necromancers?”
Ria: “Well, that blue mountain flower you just picked up can be used to make potions that increase your magicka resistance. That might help against their spells. But steel in your hand and your friends at your back: that’s the best protection.”