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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, the mighty Frostpeak Stalkers assaulted a necromancer hideout, nearly died to a skeleton bowman, and nearly died to a necromancer. My character, an Altmer mage, was disturbed by the nearly-dying, but they got a great staff out of it, as well as a new companion.

I approached Uthgerd and Jenassa as they chatted at the kitchen counter of our home, Tundra Homestead.

Jon: “Hey, Uthgerd, Jenny, do you know those enchanted weapons of yours?”
Uthgerd: “Aye, what of them? They’re good steel, and the magic gives an extra bite.”
Jon: “I have destroyed them using the Arcane Enchanter table, so I could learn their enchantments.”
Jenassa: “You did what? Those were valuable.”
Jon: “They were valuable, but now we have something in our hands that is even more valuable: an enchanter table, and three black soul gems filled with victims of ours, probably three people. So now I will be able to enchant new weapons at maximum power.”
Uthgerd: “Hmm, I see your point. But next time, don’t go destroying our gear without asking first. We might have had plans for those weapons.”
Jon: “But how could I give you a surprise if I asked first?”
Jenassa: “Surprises are well and good, but not when it comes to our weapons. We need to know what we’re working with.”
Jon: “Alright, noted, but listen: I’m going to read the enchantments that I can use when enchanting weapons, so tell me which of them would you prefer for your new gear.”
Uthgerd: “Alright, let’s hear these enchantments then. I’m listening.”
Jon: “Enchantment one: summoned Daedra up to level 17 are put under your control. Enchantment two: target takes 11 points of shock damage and half as much magic damage. Enchantment three: target takes 11 points of frost damage to health and stamina. Enchantment four: delivers a 10 point static shock, 10% chance to deal 5 times damage. Enchantment five: black Ice deals 9 points of unresistible frost damage to health and stamina. Enchantment six: target is consumed by anger, taking 5 magic damage for 11 seconds or until it attacks or casts a spell. Enchantment seven: does 17 points of magical damage. Enchantment eight: ignites the ground underneath the target, dealing 5 damage for 11 seconds.”
Jenassa: “Those are some interesting enchantments. I’d say the shock damage one could be useful against foes in heavy armor. What do you think, Uthgerd?”
Uthgerd: “Aye, shock damage is good, but I also like the sound of that Black Ice enchantment. Unresistible frost damage could be real handy against those fiery mages we sometimes come up against.”
Jon: “Jenassa, you want shock damage, and Uthgerd black ice damage, or do you want to consider some of the other enchantments?”
Jenassa: “I’ll stick with shock damage. It suits my quick, precise fighting style.”
Jon: “As for you, Uthgerd?”
Uthgerd: “Black Ice for me. It’ll be a nasty surprise for anyone thinking they can take me down with fire.”
Jon: “Very well, I’m going to enchant your new weapons right now. Let me be clear: I’m doing this because I love you both. I love you from the bottom of my heart, and I want you to be armed with the best, most powerful weapons that I can create, because I want you to live long lives and keep murdering people for our sake.”
Jenassa: “That’s… surprisingly thoughtful of you. I suppose I should thank you for looking out for us.”
Uthgerd: “Aye, it’s appreciated. Just don’t expect any soft words in return. We’re warriors, not poets. But we’ll put these weapons to good use, and keep fighting by your side.”

Once I finished enchanting a fancy, enormous battleaxe for our tank, I lovingly presented it to her.

Uthgerd: “Let me see that. Ha, this is some fine work, Jon. I can feel the power coursing through it. You didn’t happen to skimp on the enchantment now, did you?”
Jon: “A huge battle axe in the Colovian style that I have named Black Beheader for you. Does 14 points of unresistible black ice damage to health and stamina. Doesn’t it look wonderful?”
Uthgerd: “By Ysmir, Jon, this is a mighty weapon indeed. The balance is perfect, and the edge looks sharp enough to cut through a giant’s hide. ‘Black Beheader,’ huh? I like it. It’s got a good weight to it, too. You’ve outdone yourself.”
Jon: “Oh, I cannot wait to see you in the battlefield, cutting through our enemies one after the other with that thing.”
Uthgerd: “Ha! They won’t know what hit them. With this axe in my hands and you by my side, we’ll be unstoppable. The Frostpeak Stalkers are going to be a force to be reckoned with. I can’t wait to test this beauty out in battle. Just point me at whoever needs cleaving, and I’ll take care of the rest.”
Jon: “Well, I hope this weapon I created for you makes up for the fact that I destroyed your previous weapon to figure out its enchantment.”
Uthgerd: “You know, I should be furious with you for that, but damn if this isn’t a fine replacement. Let’s call it even, Jon. But don’t think you can go around breaking things just because you can make something better later. That’s not how the world works.”

Once I finished Jenassa’s weapon, I presented to her ceremonially.

Jon: “Hey Jenny, remember that new weapon I was going to enchant for you?”
Jenassa: “You mean the one you promised after destroying my last one? I’m listening.”
Jon: “Here it is a sword in the Eastern style, that I named Flashy Flash. It delivers a 14-point static shock with a 10% chance to deal 5 times that damage.”
Jenassa: “It’ll do. Let’s see how it fares in battle.”
Jon: “Do you like it more than your last one, the one I destroyed?”
Jenassa: “It’s a fine weapon. I can appreciate the craftsmanship. Just don’t make a habit of destroying our gear.”
Jon: “I think you’re right about that. Next time, I shall ask if I can destroy your enchanted gear before making new ones for you.”
Jenassa: “You do that. I’d rather not be caught off guard again.”
Jon: “I hope that my gift has improved your day somehow, and I hope to see you soon in battle killing people with the weapon I lovingly created for you.”
Jenassa: “It’s a good blade. I’ll put it to use.”

With all this nonsense, I hadn’t gotten to know our new recruit, the peculiar and scarred Zora Fair-Child, remotely well enough. I caught her taking a stroll in our garden.

Jon: “Hey Zora, I want to have a one-on-one conversation with you, the new member of our team.”
Zora: “Well, aren’t you just the considerate one? I suppose I should be flattered, being the center of attention and all. So, what’s on your mind, oh fearless leader?”
Jon: “What do you hope to accomplish, belonging to our band of adventurers?”
Zora: “Accomplish? That’s a loaded question. I guess I’m looking for a bit of excitement, a chance to see the world beyond Riverwood. And maybe, just maybe, I’ll find a way to make amends for my past misdeeds. But let’s be real, I’m also here for the witty banter and the opportunity to watch you lot get into all sorts of trouble. It’s entertaining, to say the least.”
Jon: “I can already tell that you and I are going to get along very well. I love witty people. I love being entertained, as well as some fine banter, and you have provided that from the moment we came across you in that cage.”
Zora: “Oh, you have no idea what you’ve gotten yourself into, Jon. I’ve got enough wit to keep you on your toes and then some. And as for the trouble, well, let’s just say I’ve got a knack for finding it. But I’m glad to hear we’ll get along. It’ll make our little adventures all the more enjoyable.”
Jon: “Well, Zora, what are your skills? What are you good at?”
Zora: “Skills? Well, I’m no master swordsman, but I can handle myself in a fight. I’ve been learning a bit of conjuration, too. Nothing too fancy, just enough to summon a ghostly sword and cast Oakflesh. And I’m pretty good at charming people when I need to. You know, when I’m not too busy making sarcastic comments.”
Jon: “I have been looking for another mage. I know that you only dabble in conjuration, but it will be great to have another conjurer by my side.”
Zora: “Well, don’t get too excited. I’m still learning the ropes when it comes to magic. But I appreciate the vote of confidence.”

I took the opportunity to show her a tome I had looted from a bandit some time ago: a conjuration spell that would summon a spectral wolf. It would be great for Zora to learn it.

Zora: “I guess I could give it a try. Just don’t expect me to start slinging fireballs any time soon. I’ve had enough of fire to last a lifetime.”
Jon: “I intend to teach you plenty of conjuration spells if we come across them, assuming that I don’t know them myself already. You’ll be part of our support line, helping the frontliners with spells. If someone comes at us, then hack at them with a weapon.”
Zora: “Support, huh? I suppose I can handle that. And I won’t lie, the idea of learning more magic is pretty appealing. Just as long as you don’t expect me to be some sort of magical prodigy overnight. I’m more of a learn by doing kind of gal. But I’ll do my best to keep the frontliners in one piece. And if anyone gets too close, well, they’ll get a taste of my sword.”
Jon: “On a personal note, you’re a beauty under that mesh of scars that covers half of your face. I can tell that plenty of other scars have marked the rest of your body. But just think about this: in the dark, you can’t see scars.”
Zora: “Oh, you’re a charmer, aren’t you? Well, I’ll let you in on a little secret. I’ve never been one to shy away from a compliment, scars or not. And you’re right, in the dark, it’s hard to tell who’s hiding what. But I’ve learned to embrace my scars, both the ones you can see and the ones you can’t. They’re a part of me, for better or worse.”
Jon: “Well, Zora, I hope to see plenty of you in the coming weeks or years. Who knows how long you’re going to stay with our little band of adventurers.”
Zora: “Time will tell, won’t it? I’m not one for making long-term plans, but I’ll stick around as long as the adventure keeps calling. And who knows, maybe I’ll surprise you and become a permanent fixture in your little band of misfits. Stranger things have happened, right?”

Early next morning, Jenassa and I packed the loot we didn’t need and left home to sell the stuff in Whiterun.

Jon: “Oh, how wonderful! Jenassa and I on a stroll to town for a selling spree.”
Jenassa: “A productive morning, indeed. Let’s get this done quickly. I’ve no desire to linger in this weather longer than necessary.”
Jon: “I don’t know, Jenassa. After the blood spatters that got on us fighting those necromancers, I welcome fresh rain on my face.”
Jenassa: “To each their own, I suppose. I prefer to avoid unnecessary discomfort. But if it pleases you, then so be it.”
Jon: “Did you have fun yesterday, dealing with those necromancers?”
Jenassa: “Fun? It was work, necessary and well-done. The thrill of combat, the satisfaction of a job completed… these are close to what you might call fun. But don’t mistake it for mere amusement.”
Jon: “How do you feel about our team’s performance? We have gathered quite a bunch of people: Uthgerd the Unbroken, my dear vampire Alva, those two lovebirds, Ria the Companion…”
Jenassa: “We’re effective, efficient. Each member brings something valuable to the table. But remember, numbers alone don’t guarantee success. We need to remain vigilant, keep our skills sharp. Complacency is a slow poison.”

Adrianne at her store bought our weapons and armor. We intended to unload our random crap to that cranky bastard Belethor, but he hadn’t opened yet.

Jon: “Well, it must be about seven in the morning. Do you want to do something in Whiterun until Belethor opens his shop?”
Jenassa: “As you wish. We could use the time to gather information, perhaps there’s news of more trouble that needs dealing with. Or we could restock on supplies. The choice is yours.”

We checked out the missive board.

Jon: “Listen to this: a job about recovering a stolen heirloom from some bandits.”
Jenassa: “Sounds straightforward enough. We’ve dealt with bandits before. But don’t underestimate them. They can be more trouble than they seem. We should prepare accordingly.”
Jon: “Oh, Jen, check out this one: a job posted by Balgruuf the Greater. It says, ‘To all able-bodied men and women of Whiterun.’ That is us. ‘The animals located in Graywinter Watch have been attacking and killing citizens and visitors. A reward will be offered to anyone who kills them and clears the den.’ A little monster-hunting, apparently on the other side of the river that passes by our home.”
Jenassa: “That sounds like a task we could handle. It’s close to home and it’ll give us a chance to further prove our worth to the Jarl. Let’s take it. But remember, even animals can be dangerous when cornered. We’ll need to be careful.”
Jon: “I’m looking forward to fighting alongside you once more, Jenassa.”
Jenassa: “As am I. There’s a certain… comfort in knowing who stands beside you in battle. Let’s make this a successful hunt.”
Jon: “Did you truly, in the past, fight as a mercenary in groups without trusting your companions?”
Jenassa: “Trust is a luxury in this line of work. I’ve fought alongside many, but trusted few. It’s a lesson learned through bitter experience. But with this group… Let’s just say I’m not as watchful of my back as I used to be.”

Belethor gobbled up our unneeded crap.

Jon: “We have sold all we intended to sell today. We’ve amassed 860 septims, enough to last us for a little while, in case we didn’t take any jobs.”
Jenassa: “Surviving isn’t the same as living well. We need more than just the bare minimum. But you’re right, we’ve done what we can for today. Let’s see what tomorrow brings.”
Jon: “Do you want us to head home already?”
Jenassa: “Might as well. There’s always work to be done there. And maybe we can discuss our next move.”

As we were walking by the river, two slow mudcrabs attempted to make a meal out of us.

Jon: “I guess we’re eating roasted mudcrab today.”
Jenassa: “A simple meal, but a satisfying one. You’ve got some skill in hunting, I’ll give you that.”

As we were about to enter our small estate, I spotted a woman tending the fields at the neighboring farm. I hadn’t noticed before nor had a good look at their property; I guess that the weather had been that awful recently. I decided to greet our neighbor.

Jon: “Hey, sorry for approaching you in your farm without consent, but I realized that we never introduced ourselves. We’re your new neighbors, from the home across the road.”
Gwendolyn: “Oh, hello there. It’s nice to finally meet you properly. I’ve seen you around but never had the chance to talk. I hope you’re settling in well at Tundra Homestead. It’s a lovely place.”
Jenassa: “We’re managing. The house is functional, which is all that matters.”
Gwendolyn: “Well, if you need anything, just let me know. We farmers have to stick together out here.”
Jon: “Actually, although Tundra Homestead does come with a couple of farm plots, my group is a band of adventurers. We bought that home with the money we earned adventuring, doing harsh and dangerous work. Now we’re living a beautiful life here in the outskirts of Whiterun.”
Gwendolyn: “Adventurers, you say? That sounds exciting. I’ve always wondered what it would be like to explore beyond these fields.”
Jenassa: “It’s not all it’s cracked up to be. There’s a lot of danger, a lot of close calls. But it’s the life we’ve chosen.”
Gwendolyn: “Well, I admire your bravery. It takes a certain kind of person to face the dangers out there.”

Jon: “How about you? What can you tell us about yourself?”
Gwendolyn: “Me? Oh, there’s not much to tell. I’ve lived in Whiterun all my life, working on this farm. It’s hard work, but it’s honest work. I find peace in the simplicity of it, you know?”
Jenassa: “Peace is a luxury. Not everyone can afford it.”
Gwendolyn: “That might be true, but it’s something I’m grateful for every day.”
Jon: “Well, it has been nice meeting you. From now on, if you want to talk, just come to our house. Some of us will probably be around.”
Gwendolyn: “That’s very kind of you, Jon. I might just take you up on that offer someday. It gets a bit lonely out here sometimes.”
Jenassa: “Just don’t expect a warm welcome from everyone. We’re not all as sociable as Jon here.”
Gwendolyn: “Don’t worry, I understand. I won’t overstay my welcome.”
Jon: “Don’t mind my companion here. She may not look it, but there’s a tender and loving heart underneath that sharpness of hers.”
Jenassa: “Don’t go spreading rumors, Jon. I have a reputation to maintain.”
Gwendolyn: “It’s okay. I understand. We all have our own ways of dealing with the world.”
Jenassa: “Hmph. Well, if you’ll excuse me, I have some gear to maintain.”

Post-lunch, I gathered everybody for one of our work meetings.

Jon: “We have a lead for some more money to earn: a job letter at the town’s missive board, about clearing out Graywinter Watch, just across the river from here. Apparently the animals located there have been attacking and killing visitors and citizens. This job came straight from the Jarl.”
Sapphire: “Official jobs mean official pay. I’m in.”
Jenassa: “It is promising. Let’s get this done.”
Ria: “Attacking and killing innocent people? That’s not right. We should put a stop to it.”
Zora Fair-Child: “Count me in. I’ve been itching for a good fight.”
Jon: “Well, I suppose that we could head there right now. How about some exercise to improve digestion?”
Fastred: “I’m ready when you all are. Let’s take care of this problem and make some coin while we’re at it.”
Uthgerd: “Exercise? You mean a good old-fashioned brawl. Sounds like my kind of job.”
Jenassa: “Standing around talking won’t get the job done. The sooner we leave, the sooner we get paid.”