#oc: Tsiyuzi

[padomaicocean]

Heavily simplified + sytilized nightingale armour because it's hell to draw!

This is Tsiyuzi, one of my Skyrim OCs. She's the cats meow

#tes #oc: Tsiyuzi #my art #im funny pleass clap #the elder scrolls #khajiit #this is the only thing i had on twitter worth moving oops

[padomaicocean]

Remain Vigilant

Yuzi has been on the road with her traveling companions for quite some time and they've finally made it to the city of Markarth. The city is strange and new but something appears to be lurking underneath. Questions grow and Yuzi needs answers.

Find it on AO3

"Finally, we made it— Markarth!" 

Yuzi fell to the ground and let out a purr, her feet sore from the long journey from Riften. 

Tiny-One didn't pause, walking past the dramatic Khajiit with Sterling in tow. Sylilron stopped next to his friend worriedly.  

"Yuzi, come on. Before they leave us behind."

Yuzi scrunched her face. "Ugh... But I don't want to! My feet hurt! Hey, do you think Tiny-One can make my feet not hurt?"

"I can cut them off." Tiny-One had stopped, whipping around to glare at the two stragglers. Sylilron straightened immediately, glancing down at Yuzi who had tensed before leaping back to her feet. 

The group resumed pace, approaching the Dwarven city’s large looming gates. Only time would tell if what they were looking for was here or not. 

-

Markarth was bustling, with people milling about as the group wandered in. Tiny-One kept pushing forward, the group trailing after her. Yuzi peered around the market curiously; the atmosphere here was much different than Riften's. While Riften remained gloomy and people wary of strangers, this city appeared as if the people didn’t even trust themselves, throwing looks at their friends and neighbours. 

"The rumour was that a Vigilant of Stendarr was here... But Markarth is large— where do you think we should start?" Sterling addressed the small group leader. 

Tiny-One pulled her hood up over her head, concealing her face before answering. "We split off and ask around. Meet back in the market at sun high." Her eyes flicked back to the three behind her. "Sylilron, be wary. This city is crawling with Thalmor, keep away from the Jarl's keep. Tsiyuzi, don't cause any trouble." She ended the sentence with a glare at Yuzi. 

Sylilron nodded, pulling his own hood over his head to better conceal his identity. 

Sterling glanced over at him before looking back to Tiny-One. "I'll ask around the Jarl's keep then. I'm sure they have some sort of information." 

Tiny-One nodded. "I'll handle the mine area, then. The mines here are attached to the prison so I should be able to get some underground information."

"I can handle the markets then... Unless, you'd like to, Yuzi." Sylilron smiled down at his friend softly. 

Yuzi shook her head. "I can handle the inn. It's not like anything bad is gonna happen." 

"This city is full of unrest," Tiny-One warned. "Be cautious and don't say too much. If people realize what we're here for, there will be trouble. Assume the walls have ears, understood?"

The group nodded before splitting off. Yuzi watched them all go before navigating her way to the inn. Tiny-One had mentioned the unrest and now, as she watched the people, she could see it. The citizens appeared to carry a certain tension in their faces. Watching each other as if none of them knew who they could trust. Her brow furrowed, and she turned away, making her way towards the inn. Whatever lurked in the city to cause such disquiet was not her problem to deal with.

The atmosphere didn't change once she reached the inn. Guests turned their heads to watch her enter, their eyes narrowed with suspicion. Yuzi paid them no mind as she approached the counter. She took a seat, waiting for the barkeep to address her. 

Her waiting paid off as he came over. The barkeep eyed her warily, grabbing a tankard. "What can I get for you?"

"Milk, please." She smiled, and the barkeep gave her a strange look but nonetheless poured her a glass, sliding it over. 

Yuzi took a sip, letting out a soft purr.

"Khajiit, I swear..." the barkeep muttered, turning away.

Yuzi glared at him, clearing her throat. He met her eyes, unwavering despite her clear anger. 

"I heard a rumour and was wondering if you could help clear up some of the details," Yuzi's tail lashed; as frustrating as the Nord's clear intolerance was, she couldn't cause trouble. 

"City is full of rumours," he replied. "You're gonna have to speak clearer, cat."

"I heard there's been strange people passing through lately." She snapped, holding back harsher words. She clenched her fists, the urge to start a scene brewing. /Next time I'm in Markarth... I'll show this guy./ 

The barkeep glared at her. "Only strange one passing through has been you. Strange that the guards even let you in. Who'd you bribe, cat?"

Yuzi's ear laid flat as she unclenched her fists, instead digging her claws into the wooden counter, gouging the wood. She slowly stood up, fur bristling as blood began to pound in her ears. "You son of a-"

"Yuzi!"

Yuzi's head snapped back as Sylilron hurried in. He grabbed her arm, giving her a worried look before turning to the barkeep. "I apologize for my friend. We'll be going now." He tossed some septims on to the counter before pulling Yuzi out onto the street. 

Yuzi ripped her arm out of his grasp. "How dare you? I could handle myself. I wasn't going to do anything!" 

Sylilron flinched, looking away from her. "Sorry... I- I know that. I just... I heard what he said and it's fine. I already got some information so- there was no point leaving you there. I was coming so we could head back together-"

Yuzi watched her friend stammer and sighed, shoulders dropping as her anger faded away. "No, it's fine, Syl. I was gonna do something that would've caused problems for Tiny-One. You were right to stop me. That guy just got under my skin." She dropped her gaze to her feet, ears flat to her head. 

Sylilron wrapped his arms around his friend tightly. "It's okay. Hey, we have time - let's wander around the city? Before we have to meet up with the others." He pulled away holding the Khajiit at arm's length. 

She nodded and Sylilron grasped one of her hands tightly, guiding her further into the city. 

"It's really pretty. It's cool how the people here adapted the old ruins to live in, you know." Sylilron spoke, guiding them up some of the stairs. "I never did come to Markarth back when I was forced along with the Thalmor. I actually didn't know they had a strong presence here until Tiny-One said something."

"Really? You never overheard anything from the Thalmor?"

Sylilron shook his head. "No, they were pretty careful about who was allowed to hear what. While their presence isn't a secret, maybe what they're doing here is." 

They continued to climb the steps of the city, coming to a stop near the temple of Dibella. 

"I heard in the market that despite the Thalmor being here, there's still a temple of Talos. Though it's not really frequented anymore. I guess it makes sense considering all things considered. Just odd they didn't repurpose it, you know." 

"Well, Tiny-One did call the city restless. With the civil war ongoing that might be why. Most cities have a few Stormcloaks sympathizers," Yuzi pointed out, gazing out over the city. 

Sylilron tightened his grip on Yuzi's hand. "Yeah, that's true..." 

"Did you find the information Tiny-One was looking for?" Yuzi changed the subject, eager to move to something less depressing. 

Sylilron nodded, "Actually I did. I overheard some people discussing a strange man hanging out around an old abandoned house. They didn't say if he was a Vigilant of Stendarr or not, but I think he might be our guy." 

Yuzi grinned, "That's great, since I hit a dead end. Maybe the other two can confirm it."

The sun had continued to rise, nearly reaching its peak and warming her fur. Yuzi looked over at Sylilron. "Let's hurry back, maybe we'll beat them there."

Sylilron nodded, walking with Yuzi back down the market. 

-

Tiny-One was already waiting by the time they made it back - the vampire leaned against a wall under an overhang, lurking in its shadow. She scowled at the people walking by before her gaze flicked over, landing on her companions. The two made it over quickly and stood next to her. 

"Don't say anything." Tiny-One spoke, cutting off Sylilron as he opened his mouth. His teeth clacked together as he snapped his jaw shut. 

Tiny-One gestured with her head over to where a guard was watching them, but kept her gaze locked forward. 

Yuzi glanced at the guard, confusion filling her head. Had they done something wrong? Had the innkeeper said something to give them trouble? 

Behind them, some giggles were heard. Sylilron turned his head, hand clenching tight on Yuzi's, and she winced before following his gaze. Sterling was speaking to a woman, a smirk on his lips. Yuzi's gaze flicked over to Sylilron. Her friend's brow was furrowed, his eyes flashing with envy, then hurt. He turned his head away, keeping his grip tight.  

Yuzi rubbed a thumb along the back of her friend's hand before slowly extracting hers. Irritation bubbled up inside her, and she whirled around to give Sterling hell. 

"Tsiyuzi, don't." 

She froze, glancing back at Tiny-One. Tiny-One stood up straight and walked away from Sylilron and Yuzi.

"Don't cause a scene. Come on, let's walk. Sterling already knows where to find us." Tiny-One said, turning and walking up the city path. 

Sylilron and Yuzi looked at each other before following after their small leader. 

Tiny-One acknowledged the guards as she walked past, locking eyes with them before she continued on into the city.

Soon the group ducked under some stairs, into a shadowed corridor. Tiny-One pressed open a door before sliding inside. Their steps echoed off the cobblestone as they descended the steps into an old temple. 

Yuzi let out a gasp as she took in her surroundings. Lit only by the muted amber glow of several candles stood a shrine to Talos. The statue loomed over them. The ground was covered with debris and litter. 

"You weren't kidding, Syl. There really was a temple still," Yuzi said, she was full of awe. She had seen shrines to the other Divines, but never one to Talos. 

"We can talk here - not many people come here, given that worship of Talos is outlawed." Tiny-One spoke, lowering her hood. Sylilron followed suit. 

Yuzi stiffened as the door creaked open behind them, spinning around before relaxing as Sterling appeared. He smiled softly at them all, dipping his head respectfully. 

"I apologize for the wait. I was still gathering some intel."

"More like wasting your time flirting," Yuzi muttered, giving him the stink eye. 

Sterling raised his brows. "Flirting gets results sometimes. You would do well to learn that."

She curled her lip. "Okay, pretty boy. Sounds like a load of shit to me." 

"Yuzi, please," Sylilron whispered, before smiling apologetically at their companion. Sterling met his gaze before shaking his head and looking to Tiny-One. 

"We need to be cautious. It seems that asking questions was enough to draw attention to ourselves," Tiny-One began. "The miners didn't know much about our Vigilant of Stendarr. In fact, they barely wanted to speak to me at all." She cupped her chin thoughtfully. "There's definitely something wrong with this town. I'm not sure how much has to do with him, though." 

"There wasn't much at the Keep, either. They seemed wary to speak to me at all," Sterling said, crossing his arms. 

"All that flirting and you got nothing? I thought you said flirting got results," Yuzi said smugly, smirking as the Breton glared at her. 

"Well, do you have anything to show for yourself?" he shot back. 

Yuzi's ears flattened to her head. "Well, no- but Syl did!" she was quick to retort, turning to Sylilron, who blinked in surprise.

"Oh! Yeah, I did actually. Uh, some folks in the market said a strange man was lingering around an abandoned house for a few days now. They weren't sure what he was up to but it sounds promising," Sylilron said, smiling nervously.

Tiny-One hummed. "Well it's the only lead we've got so I suppose we should follow it. I'd like to leave sooner rather than later, I don't like how the guards have been watching us." 

"Why are they watching us?" Yuzi asked. 

Tiny-One glanced over to Yuzi. "The city is pretty on edge most of the time. Markarth has a long history with the Forsworn who live outside the city. Now there's also the civil war. There's a reason why this temple wasn't destroyed - despite being loyal to the Empire there's a large population here that still worships Talos." She crossed her arms, tilting her head up. "Still, they seem even more on guard than they should be, all things considered..."

Tiny-One shook her head. "Well that doesn't matter, it's pretty early in the afternoon now. Perhaps we should rest at the inn before going to this abandoned house tonight. Did you happen to get a location, Sylilron?"

Sylilron nodded. "Yes I got it. I can take us there tonight."

Yuzi tensed at the mention of the inn, hunching in on herself. "Do we have to go to the inn?"

"What did you do?" Sterling smirked. "You really couldn't go 5 minutes without causing trouble, huh?"

"Shut up! It's not my fault, the innkeeper just..." She scowled at the ground, not meeting anyone's eyes. 

"Yuzi didn't do anything wrong. The innkeeper gave her a hard time earlier. I overheard when I got there." Sylilron was quick to defend his friend, laying his palm on her back softly. 

Sterling's gaze flicked to his hand, and then to Yuzi frowning. 

"It can't be helped." Tiny-One sighed, shaking her head. "We'll just stay here until nightfall. Are we in agreement?" 

Sterling curled his lip but nodded, while Yuzi and Sylilron sounded off their agreement. 

"Good, rest up. We have no idea what we will encounter." 

-

The city was quieter at night, Yuzi noticed. The only ones wandering around appeared to be them and the guards. They walked along the river that ran through the city. It turned out the abandoned house wasn't that far from where the temple was and they quickly came upon a man. 

Studying him from a distance, Tiny-One gave a nod. "That's him, the robes are common among the Vigilants of Stendarr. Let's go."

"Excuse me, sir!" Sterling called, walking ahead of the group. 

The man turned, studying the group before him. "Greetings, what brings you out so late?" 

Sterling smiled pleasantly. "We're simply enjoying the evening. It's rather lovely out, after all. What about yourself? It's rare to see a Vigilant of Stendarr around these parts of Skyrim."

The man nodded. "You would be correct. My name is Vigilant Tyranus, and I am investigating this house. Would you happen to know anything? Seen anyone enter or leave?" 

"Why do you ask?" Tiny-One cut in as she stepped forward. 

"We believe this house was used for Daedra worship. Evil rites and so forth."

Tiny-One nodded. "Do you happen to need any assistance?"

 "I was actually about to head on inside. It would be nice to have somebody to watch my back."

Tiny-One smiled. "We would be happy to assist you. Lead the way."

The group was guided into the house, which had clearly been abandoned for some time. Dust was layered thickly on every surface. Yuzi wrinkled her nose as she watched a spider descend from the ceiling. 

"As you can see-"

There was a loud thud and Yuzi whipped her hand around. Sylilron was covering his mouth in shock, taking a step back into the closed door. Sterling averted his gaze away from the scene. 

Tyranus lay on the floor, blood slowly flowing from his head. A large spike of ice had gone through his skull, protruding out of the eye socket in a grotesque display. 

Yuzi turned to Tiny-One with shock. Her hand was still glowing faintly, light blue and the air was tinged with cold. Her gaze was hardened and unwavering. She stepped over the body, her boot disturbing the growing pool of blood.

"Let's hurry. There should be a shrine around here somewhere."

The other three remained frozen and Yuzi slowly moved forward. "Why… Why did you kill him? He didn't do anything."

Tiny-One stopped and looked at them. "He didn't do anything yet. Remember, we're here looking for a Daedra. He wouldn't have been so friendly once he found out."

She began moving deeper into the house. Sylilron squeezed his eyes shut, taking a step forward. Sterling reached out to grab his hand, pulling him closer to himself and guiding him around the body deeper to follow after her. 

Yuzi stared at the corpse for a moment, then to Tiny-One's back as she moved forward. She shook her head, trailing after the group.

The deeper they went into the house, the atmosphere appeared to grow more oppressive. Sylilron hadn't let go of Sterling's hand, the Bosmer’s gaze directed at his feet. Sterling glanced at Sylilron, and continued along with him. 

"Kill her. Crush her bones. Tear at her flesh. You will kill. You will kill, or you will die."

Yuzi froze, her head whipping around, startled by the voice ringing through the house. Sylilron had jumped, gripping Sterling's hand tighter, leaning closer to the Breton. Tiny-One took pause, her gaze darkening. 

"Looks like we've found who we're looking for."

Yuzi ripped her gaze back to Tiny-One in shock. "Is this a normal Daedra? We shouldn't have killed that guy! He could've helped, he has experience with these things!" 

"Hardly," Tiny-One snapped. "This isn't my first rodeo with this particular Daedra. Just ignore the voices and follow me." 

Yuzi eyes followed warily after Tiny-One, only turning to meet Sylilron's eyes. The Bosmer looked equally wary as they continued after Tiny-One.

"Kill her. What if she does to you what she did to the Vigilant? Crush her." 

Yuzi winced, clenching her first tightly as she stepped forward. The voice seemed louder the further into the house they got. 

"Weak. Crush her before she crushes you." 

Yuzi stopped, her hand drifting to her bow, eyes becoming unfocused. Her fingers closed around her bow, slowly pulling it free. 

Yuzi yelped as lightning hit her hand. The bow clattered to the ground loudly. Tiny-One glared at her from ahead. 

"Are you really so weak as to fall for Daedra tricks?" Tiny-One snapped. "Keep your head, Tsiyuzi, or I will bind you where you stand."

Yuzi bent down to grab her bow, pulling it tightly to her chest. "I'm sorry, I'm just a little uneasy." 

"Just follow me, we'll be fine." 

As the group made it to the basement, Tiny-One looked around, before letting out a hum of approval. "Here we are."

The wall was open, a cave that opened deeper into the underground. The passageway was narrow, forcing the group to proceed single file down and deeper into the Earth. The air’s oppression was intense now, filling the ambience with an unseen hatred. Yuzi shuddered, glancing nervously around, until her eyes landed on a black shape in the distance. 

"An altar?"

"Yes, to Molag Bal," Tiny-One responded. Yuzi squeezed past Sylilron who reached for her. She waved him off and curiously approached the altar.

"A rusty mace? Weird." She stepped up to the altar, reaching for the mace slowly. 

"Tsiyuzi, do not-"

Sharp bars sprung up and Yuzi let out a shout. She covered her ears, crouching down to the ground. 

Tiny-One let out a sigh of frustration. "Tsiyuzi, you should know better than to go touching things you don't understand."

"I know!" Yuzi cried. "Just get me out of here!" She grabbed the bars of the cage, ears dropping. 

Sterling muffled a laugh at the sight and Sylilron elbowed him, cutting off the chuckles. "I'll get you out, Yuzi, just-" 

"Fool! Did you expect to leave here without paying some sort of price? I am Molag Bal, the Lord of Domination, weakling."

Yuzi stiffened, turning to the altar. Sylilron jumped, slipping behind Sterling who narrowed his eyes carefully. 

"Let her go," Tiny-One snapped. "We need information, Molag Bal, you can keep your stupid mace." 

"There is a price for my services, mortal, even for you. Information and freedom comes at a price."

Tiny-One clicked her tongue. "What sort of price?"

"A Daedric Lord has his enemies, and my rival Boethiah had her priest desecrate this altar. Left it here to decay. Until you came."

"I really don't care. Let the Khajiit go, and give me the information I want. We'll just destroy the altar should you refuse." Tiny-One was unfazed, Sylilron and Sterling watching her warily as she spoke back harshly to the Lord of Domination. 

"Fine, your companion will get the freedom your kind enjoys so much. The information I will not give so easily." 

The bars lowered quickly; Yuzi leapt to her feet and jumped to Sylilron, who reached for her and hugged her tightly. 

"What do you want for the information?" Tiny-One crossed her arms staring down at the altar. 

"I want submission. I want the priest who descreated my altar to bend his knee and give me his soul. He comes by to perform Boethiah's insulting rites at my altar, but he's been missing. Captured and bound. Left to rot. Save him. Let him perform his rite one more time. And when he does, we will be waiting for him."

"Do you know where he's located?" 

Sylilron and Yuzi looked at Tiny-One in surprise. She isn't seriously considering this, is she? 

"You mortals call it Hag Rock Redoubt. I await your return with the priest." 

Silence rang out in the small cave, before Tiny-One turned around. "Let's go, no point lingering around here."

"He wants us to kill someone else! You can't seriously be considering this!" Yuzi cried out, stumbling after Tiny-One as she guided the group out of the bowels of the house. 

"A Daedra worshipping priest. I think killing one of those is hardly an issue," Sterling said from the back. "We need information, so we don't have much of a choice."

"Uhm… you know, Yuzi and I tagged along, but will you tell us what it is you need information about? It's strange that only a Daedra can provide what you need," Sylilron said.

"We didn't tell you?" Sterling asked. "Well Tiny-One is best to explain…" 

As they came up to the entryway of the house, Yuzi glanced at the body that remained unmoved before looking back at Tiny-One. "I think it's time you told us what exactly it is we're doing," she said. 

Tiny-One paused and looked at the group before sighing softly. "Alright, I'll explain everything once we're on the road again. It's a long story - I hope you're ready to listen."

#my writing #completed fic #tes #tes online #the elder scolls online #The Elder Scrolls #eso #tes fanfiction #oc: sylilron #oc: Tsiyuzi #oc: tiny-one #oc: sterling

[padomaicocean]

Free to Good Home - Part 2

Tsiyuzi has been alone on the streets of Riften since her parents passed away. Luckily for her, some members of a local crime syndicate have hearts of gold.

I forgot to post this here, also avaible on AO3

Part 1

Brynjolf carried Yuzi into the pub, the door banging shut behind them. Several pairs of eyes turned to look at them curiously. Yuzi met all of them carefully before hiding her face.

Within the bar sat a Redguard woman, a blond Imperial, a bald man, a Nordic barkeep, a large Imperial man and, and a pair of Dunmer. They wall watched with great interest as Brynjolf continued towards the bar, setting the Khajiit down on a stool by the counter. Yuzi looked around nervously, locking eyes with the Dunmer who studied her carefully. She quickly turned away looking up at Brynjolf. He smiled, giving her a pat on the head.

"Vekel. Can I get something for the lass to eat?" He leaned on to the bar, speaking to the other Nord.

Vekel met his eyes with raised brows, shrugging his shoulders as he turned to grab some bread and cheese for her. "I assume it's going on your tab?"

Brynjolf grinned. "Aye. Thanks." He stood up and looked down at Yuzi. "You just sit here and eat, alright? I need to ask a favour of someone."

Yuzi slowly nodded watching him walk towards the blond woman. Yuzi turned back as a plate was placed in front of her. Vekel looked at her with mild interest, meeting her blue eyes. He gave her a soft smile and Yuzi slowly smiled back at him.

"Thank you for the food, sir!" She said earnestly, reaching out to eat the cheese and bread. Yuzi winced as her sore wrist twinged. She lowered her hand reaching out with the other to bring the cheese to her mouth.

Yuzi heard a curious hum from behind her but shrugged it off. She began to eat ravenously, quickly finishing the cheese and reaching for the bread.

"Slow down, kid. Food isn't going anywhere."

Yuzi lifted her head in surprise, meeting the eyes of the blond Imperial. She pulled out the stool sitting next to her. Yuzi slowly returned to munching on the bread, watching her new companion carefully.

"My name is Vex. Brynjolf tells me you're called Yuzi?" The woman smirks watching the kid nod along while eating, keeping her gaze fixed down at the food.

Vex studied the way the small Khajiit was eating. "Yuzi, is your hand bothering you?"

Pausing, the Khajiit turned to look at Vex then down at her other arm. She slowly nodded and Vex prompted her to hand her arm over. Yuzi set the food down and let Vex take hold of her arm gently, studying her wrist. The Imperial gave a hum, her brow furrowed.

Reaching into one of the pockets attached to her vest, Vex produced some ointment. Gently she rubbed Yuzi's wrist while she watched with interest, wincing slightly as the cold ointment met her skin under her fur. The woman gave a hum finally releasing her wrist.

"There. It's just a bruise but that should help the pain a bit." Vex smirked at the Khajiit who studied her wrist in wonder and then looked at Vex with a wide smile.

"Thank you!" She turned back to her food, peeking at Vex as if expecting her to step in and then began to eat again in earnest, eager to finish her meal.

By now most of the guild was watching closely, curious about the apparent stray Brynjolf adopted. Yuzi paid no mind, too focused on her first meal in days.

As she finished, Vex finally spoke again. "You smell like a skeever. Come on, let's get you cleaned up with some soap." She stood up reaching a hand out to Yuzi, who grabbed it gently, hopping off the stool. "Devlin. Don't follow us." The Imperial sent a glare towards the bald man at a far table, who rolled his eyes.

"I ain't got no interest peeping on you and the cat."

Vex sneered, "good, make it a habit." She looked to Yuzi and began to guide her back through the Cistern.

Yuzi looked back at the bar worriedly, quickly spotting Brynjolf speaking to the two Dunmer. He looked up and waved at her with a smile. Yuzi waves back, her worry not leaving her as Vex guided her out of sight.

Vex continued on taking her back to the ladder that led back to Riften. Yuzi looked at it warily and looked at the Imperial.

"Wait here." She wandered away to some of the beds, searching through a chest before producing a small satchel. She walked back over to Yuzi and gave her a nudge. "Up you go."

The Khajiit frowned looking up the ladder and then back at Vex.

"I'm not kicking you out. Now come on. You stink and need a bath like no one's business." Vex rolled her eyes, nudging her a little harder.

Yuzi shuffled forward grabbing the ladder and slowly began to haul herself up with careful steps. At the top she bonked her head and let out a whine, pushing the door she hit her head on up and open. She crawled out, dragging herself through the mud into the secret entrance.

Vex had quickly climbed after her and snorted at what she saw. "Good thing you're getting a bath since you're looking a little muddier somehow "

She reached and pulled the chain so the plate above them moved back. Taking Yuzi's hand she guided her out into the open air, slowly taking around to slip out the front gates of the city. She continued down the main road, guiding them past the farms towards a quiet, unpopulated part of the lake surrounding Riften.

Stopping on the shore, Vex set down her satchel and slowly stripped out of her clothes reaching for Yuzi. "Come now. Take your clothes off so we can get you clean."

Yuzi slowly pulled her dirty tunic and pants off, while Vex grabbed some soap and stepped into the cool water. Yuzi slowly wadded after her crouching into the water. Vex slowly began to scrub some soap on her hands and across Yuzi's face. Removing the muck and grime that had built up for the past few days.

Vex smiled softly as the grime was slowly but surely washed away. She continued rubbing soap through her hair. "You have a lot of hair you know… More than just the fur."

Yuzi blinked in surprise as Vex finished cleaning her off. "Okay dunk down to rinse. I brought some new clothes so let's change and head back. "

Yuzi nodded dunking under the water to rinse any left over soap off before following after Vex. She changed into the new clean clothes and shook her hair out. The Imperial laughed and pulled out a brush from the satchel.

"Alright. Come sit down here." Vex patted her lap as she sat on the beach. Yuzi padded over taking a seat on her lap, relaxing as Vex pulled the brush through her long, curly hair. Yuzi began to purr, fully content.

Vex smiled, brushing gently. She examined Yuzi's light flame point fur, and long brown hair with wonder. She never would've guessed that a grimey homeless kid would clean up like this.

As she finished, she took notice of Yuzi's continued purring but also the droopy eyes. She gave a snort. "Up you go kid. You still gotta walk back."

Yuzi nodded slowly, standing up and reaching for Vex's hand as she was guided back into Riften. They slipped in just as easily, making their way back to the Thieves Den with no issues.

Brynjolf was waiting for them as they descended the ladder. The two Dunmer chatted with him while he waited. He turned as Vex hopped down the ladder and snagged Yuzi as she got closer, looking like she was about to pass out and tumble down.

"Sorry, Dubhyn, Ribyna. I'll put the little one to bed. We can continue later." He nodded stepping over to Vex. He studied the orange Khajiit and smiled. "Well. Looks like someone is ready to sleep."

Yuzi gave a slow nod, reaching her arms up at Brynjolf. He blinked in surprise before smiling and scooping her up into his arms. He carried her over to one of the cots, lying her out and pulling the blanket under her chin.

Yuzi blinked up at him drowsily. "Thank you…" she mumbled, yawning and closing her eyes.

Brynjolf smiled, brushing hair off her forehead. "No need, lass." He patted her head with a firm gentle hand. "I put your things in the chest at the end of your bed okay? Sleep well."

Yuzi nodded again, barely awake anymore as she drifted out to sleep comfortably and safely for the first time in days.

Brynjolf smiled down at her, slowly rising to his feet and walking away to take care of business regarding the Guild's newest member.

#my writing #tes #tes:skyrim #oc: Tsiyuzi #tes fanfiction #completed fic

[padomaicocean]

Free To Good Home - Part 1

Tsiyuzi has been alone on the streets of Riften since her parents passed away. Luckily for her, some members of a local crime syndicate have hearts of gold.

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Tsiyuzi’s origin story begins! This is a cute little 2 Part Story thats 90% Fluff. You Can also catch it on AO3

Part 2 Here

The clouds were pulled over the sun, making the day seem far too dreary. Despite the smell of rain in the air though the market was bustling with people milling about their business. Bright blue eyes watched the people walk about, browsing the stalls while merchants boasted about their goods. The outsider stood hidden between two houses, her stomach giving a growl as she watched a Dunmer purchase some food from one of the stalls. 

The little Khajiit took small steps forward, tail tucked between her legs as she slipped out and attempted to blend with the crowd, heading towards the food stall. 

An adult sneered in distaste as he moved away from the dirty little creature that was heading towards a stall. He narrowed his eyes, watching as she reached it. A small hand reaching out to grab for something to eat.

"Hey brat!" He snatched her wrist, the Khajiit letting out a yelp of pain as he gripped it to the point of bruising. The merchant running the stall turned her head in surprise, taking notice of the would be thief and the man that had stopped her. Her eyes filled with pity for the little girl and she moved over. 

"Let her go." She requested the Nord politely. Kneeling on the ground in front of the little Khajiit. 

The kitten took her hand back, holding her wrist eyes wide with fear as the Nord woman kneeled down in front of her. The man scoffed at the woman's soft heartedness. 

"If I catch her trying to steal again I'll call the guards." He stomped away from the stall leaving the two alone in the bustling square. 

The woman watched him leave with a scowl and turned back to study the would-be thief in front of her, clutching her wrist with wide-eyed fear.

"Can I see your hand, baby? What's your name?" She held out her hand, the little Khajiit watching her warily as she slowly reached out her own hand. The woman hummed, brushing her fur as she inspected the injured wrist. "Hm.... Looks like it'll bruise but otherwise. You'll be okay." She smiled softly at the Khajiit, who was stiff with fear.

"T-Tsiyuzi. That's my name..." She mumbled, her eyes shifted away from the woman refusing to look at her. 

"Well, Tsiyuzi. I understand you're hungry but thieving is wrong, okay?" She patted her head, her smile was gentle. "Why don't you go find your parents? Ask them for some septims and we'll get you a snack. "

Tsiyuzi's ears pressed down against her head, she held her bruised wrist close to her chest and nodded. Her eyes watered. "Mhm. Okay. Thank you." She turned tail, and quickly walked away from the woman. She tried to keep to the edge of the crowd. Her wrist was aching, her stomach ached with emptiness and her heart hurt. She sniffled, tears slowly dripping down her cheeks. Ask your parents for septims the woman had said. 

Tsiyuzi had been in Riften for several days now, she and her parents having crossed the border with their merchant caravan. The group was prepared for most anything but they were met with a large group of bandits. The group had held off all they could but unfortunately were not prepared for such a large scale attack. Tsiyuzi's mother had managed to hide her away off the edge of the road, hidden in the foliage as the bandits had continued to come down on them. Frozen with wide-eyed horror, she had watched her parents die in the attack. As the bandits hard turned, looking for survivors she turned tail, running deeper into the woods. She had spent the first couple nights there, until she saw the watch tower that signaled her return to civilization.

Getting into the city had proved challenging, the front gate having been out of the question as the guards refused to let her in. Forced out she had slept in the hay in the stable before being kicked out the following day. Desperation truly kicked in as she wandered around the Riften walls, taking note of the docks. She waded into the water and struggled to swim towards the docks, hauling herself out of the water. Soaking wet she padded along, until she finally saw an entrance with a lone guard. Despite being cold, wet, hungry and desperate the small Khajiit waited until the Guard had wandered off to slip into the city of Riften. She struggled for days to find some sort of food, failing at all turns before today when she chose to try her hand at the merchant stalls while it was busy.

Tsiyuzi rubbed her tears away, standing back between some Riften homes when she heard a voice boom out. 

"Everyone! Everyone! Gather 'round! I've something amazing to show you that demands your attention!"

Tsiyuzi peeked out around the corner as the crowd began to chatter and move towards the booming voice. A Nord man stood at his cart with bottles behind him. Her blue eyes were wide as he drew the crowd along towards him. 

"I've only a few bottles left! 20 Septims a bottle. Grow back that missing limb, see into other people's thoughts... Learn a library's worth of knowledge in moments. Wield powerful magic incantations, live for thousands of years. Who knows what powers the elixir could unlock!"

Tsiyuzi had moved forward, squeezing through the crowd until she ended up near the front. Her eyes flicked to the Nord speaking and then back to the bottles behind him.

"I can promise that the contents are genuine. One sip of the elixir and your wishes will be granted."

She clenched her fists, glancing around. If her wishes could be granted, then she needed to obtain the elixir from this man. Peering around the crowd she could see the merchant from before as well as the nasty man. She stayed where she was, knowing with the size the crowd was she'd have to wait to make her move. 

"Hurry before my supply is gone! Only 20 gold septims." The crowd began to move people shuffling forward to purchase the elixir from the salesman. 

Tsiyuzi winced as she was pushed aside by the crowd, falling onto the cobblestone street. She crawled slowly to the side before standing up watching as the crowd frenzied.

Slowly the crowd began to disperse and Tsiyuzi stumbled forward. The man looked smug, happy with himself as he moved to clean up his stall and gather his septims. Tsiyuzi scanned the stall padding around slowly, trying to stay behind him and sneak up. She could see a single bottle remaining and she slowly reached out one clawed hand to grab the neck of the bottle.

"Oi! Lass, that costs 20 septims!"

Tsiyuzi jumped back just as a hand clamped down on her bruised wrist. She let out a yelp and began to try to pull herself free, eyes filling with fresh tears. Her paws kicked at the ground and she struggled, fear gripping her heart. 

Brynjolf kept his firm, yet gentle hold on the child's wrist his brows furrowed as she continued to kick out in a panic. "Hey, lass. Calm down." He attempted to soothe the clearly panicked child, giving her glance over. The child was covered in a heavy layer of grime from the city streets, her form somewhat scrawny. He couldn't figure out the colour of the Khajiits fur from all the mud that stuck to her. 

"Lassie. I need you to calm down." He reached a hand out slowly to touch her other shoulder, slowly loosening his grip on her wrist. 

Tsiyuzi blinked large wet eyes up at him, trembling. She sniffled and snatched her injured wrist back as he released it. She moved to step away, to flee the scene but he kept a firm hand on her shoulder to keep her in place. As if on queue her stomach rumbled and she averted blue eyes away from him. 

Brynjolf frowned, "where are your parents?"

She shook her head, keeping her eyes pointed away. His frown persisted and he reached out to touch her other shoulder. 

"Lass. Where are your parents?" He asked again. His tone was firm, no nonsense.

"... Bandits." She mumbled, a small sob escaping her. 

He could feel her sobs shaking her body. "You're alone?" 

He gave a deep pained sigh as she nodded and he looked to the bottle she had attempted to grab. He could only imagine what had been running through the child's head. He reached into his pockets pulling out a few of the septims and reaching them out to her. 

She looked back with wide eyes at the clinking of coins. She looked at the septims and then back at Brynjolf and began to shake her head, pointing to the elixir. 

"No! Please the elixir! It'll help me not be hungry anymore! I won't be alone if it grants wishes, please!" Tsiyuzi began to cry, reaching out for the bottle. 

Byrnjolf shook his head, pained. He could feed her but he couldn't cure her lonely heart. "I'm sorry, lass. None of that was true. The elixir won't help you."

"W-what? W-why?" She gazed at him, a whole new set of tears filling her eyes again. "Did you lie? Why?" They spilled easily, and hope slowly slipped out of her eyes with them.

Brynjolf shifted awkward giving a sigh. "I just did, lass. Now take the septims and-" he paused as Tsiyuzi broke into true sobs. He looked around uncomfortably as some people milling about the square stared at them. "Quit crying. Please quit crying." He whispered, hushing her. He could see guards looking over, and he began to stroke her hair. "Come on, lass. It's okay, you're okay."

As he stroked her hair the small Khajiit began to calm down, she took deep shaky breaths, scrubbing at her eyes. She stepped away from Brynjolf, who watched her with rapt attention. She shook her head. "I'm sorry." She mumbled, turning around she scurried away from the Nord who stood up quickly. 

It would be less troublesome to let her go. Let the guard deal with her but the idea of letting the small Khajiit leave in her state didn't sit right with him. He quickly grabbed items off his stall and followed after the corner she turned around. He watched as she slipped out the back gate. 

Outside Riften he watched her scurry towards one of the farms on the outskirts. She slipped into what appeared to be an unused shed. He frowned deeply. If she was discovered out here, she would likely be removed if not arrested by the city guard. Glancing around he leaned to peek into the shed. It appeared the Khajiit did have some items. A burlap sack to serve as a blanket, and oddly enough, an Akaviri style bow. His brows furrowed in confusion, how did she get her hands on something that rare? 

"I'm back, mama." She whispered to the bow, hugging it close to her chest with a sniff. Brynjolf released a breath as he understood how she retrieved such an item. He shook his head and stood up straight. 

"Lass."

Tsiyuzi stiffened, turning her head to look at the intruder. She clutched the bow tighter, sliding back. She bared small fangs at him, meeting his pity filled eyes. 

Brynjolf sighed. Her reaction only made sense. He stepped forward and crouched down in the little shed. "Lass. How do you say... I take you somewhere? Get a warm meal in your belly, a soft bed to sleep in."

"Are you lying again?" She narrowed her eyes at him, studying him carefully. 

"No, I'm not lying. I'll even throw in a bath for you." He reached out towards her with one hand, waiting to see if she'd grab it. 

Tsiyuzi stared at his hand and then looked back up at his eyes. She only saw a deep sadness in his eyes. Slowly, she reached out with one clawed hand and placed it in his. 

Brynjolf closed his hand around hers, gentle pulling her forward. He scooped her up ignoring her squeak of surprise. Holding her to his chest he slowly walked back towards Riften. Tsiyuzi clutched his clothes in one tight fist, the other gripping her mother’s bow.

Brynjolf walked slowly, persuading the guards to let them through the main city gates. Tsiyuzi watched carefully, hiding her face as guards scrutinized her. Brynjolf turned a corner guiding her through some bushes, towards the back of the Shrine of Mara. Tsiyuzi peered out as he pressed a button and a staircase opened up. She gave a gasp of surprise and he slowly let her down, holding her hand as he guided her forward. 

"I'll go down first, lass. Come after me."

Tsiyuzi nodded and looked at him as he opened a door and revealed a ladder. "What if I fall?"

Brynjolf smiled, and gave her head a pat. "That's why I'll go down first, I'll catch you." He slowly began his descent into the darkness and Tsiyuzi peered after him. As he reached the bottom he looked up. "Toss your bow down, and come down slowly lass." 

She followed instructions, dropping the bow down the hole. Slowly, she sat down and dangled her paws behind her, feeling for the first step in the ladder. Tsiyuzi slowly lowered herself, constantly reaching back to make sure she was getting each rung firmly under her paws. As she got closer to the bottom, she was plucked from the ladder with a small squeak as Brynjolf took her back into his arms. He returned the bow to her and slowly walked out into the cistern. The first thing the Khajiit needed was a meal, closely followed by a bath. He began to make his way to the Ragged Flagon when he was stopped. 

"Brynjolf. What in Oblivion do you have?" 

"What's it look like I have, Mercer?" Brynjolf turned to face the other man, and Tsiyuzi hid her face, peeking out the side of her eyes to look at him curiously. 

The Breton narrowed his eyes. "Why did you bring a child here? Do you know what kind of risk this could-"

"It'll be fine, Mercer." Brynjolf cut him off, adjusting his hold on Tsiyuzi. "It's only until I can find a more suitable home for her. Doesn't hurt us any to give her something to eat and a bed to sleep in."  

Mercer narrowed his eyes. "You should've run this by me first. That isn't your call to make." 

Tsiyuzi held right to Brynjolf, peering up at him and then peeking over at Mercer. "Do I have to go back, mister?" She murmured, looking down at her hands.

Brynjolf stared at Mercer, who stiffened as the Khajiit spoke. He closed his eyes and let out a frustrated breath. "Only until we find a suitable home. And she has to pull her own weight." He gave a snap, turning on his heel and walking away from them. 

Tsiyuzi blinked, watching him go. She turned and looked up at Brynjolf, who met her eyes with a grin. "You heard the man." 

Tsiyuzi slowly smiled, and nodded roughly. "Yea!!" 

Brynjolf hummed, continuing to walk her towards the pub. "I don't think I've caught your name yet, lass."

"Uhm. It's Tsiyuzi, mister." She finally turned her head in order to better see her surroundings. 

"Hmm.. You Khajiit tend to have strange names. Will Yuzi be okay?" 

Tsiyuzi blinked and snapped her head to look at him with wide blue eyes. Another smile lit up her face. "Sure! That's okay!"

"You can call my Brynjolf then." He told her, shifting her to peer at her face. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Yuzi."

Yuzi grinned brightly wrapping her arms around him in a tight hug. "It's a pleasure to meet you too!" 

#my writing #tes #tes: skyrim #oc: tsiyuzi #tes fanfiction