|
|
  |
Season Unending, The Children of Kyne, Vol. III |
|
|
Kane |
Dec 20 2024, 02:36 PM
|

Master

Joined: 26-September 16
From: Hammerfell

|
EPUB Version: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1cJB9nlIIVM...iew?usp=sharing
MOBI Version: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1kX1VB1-iud...?usp=drive_link
PDF Version: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1PHHvETcUim...?usp=drive_link
Content warning: this story should be considered 18+. Sexual content is present, but never described, and I don't shy away from foul language (though it seems to be censored). There is also darker content further in regarding sexual assault.
Prologue It could be said that Skyrim was a cold, harsh land, unforgiving to outsiders and barely tolerant of anyone but a true Nord. Fortunately, those times have passed, and the sun shines brightly upon a healing landscape. The scars of civil war and dragon crises fading to memory as a new High King and his court sought to pull the land up from the depths of a crumbling Empire. An Empire in name only, its once powerful alliance spanning the entirety of Tamriel, now relegated to Cyrodiil (or the Heartland, as the Nibenese and Colovian nobles preferred to call it), High Rock, and, of course, Skyrim. But now Skyrim stood to rise above the rest, and usher in a new era for a floundering society that still scurried from the inevitable boot of the Aldmeri Dominion. Hope began to inflame the hearts of men, for the Dragonborn King was rumored to be setting his sights upon the Ruby Throne, and the weak Mede Dynasty that occupied it. From his palace in Solitude, forces were directed and diplomats dispatched as the pawns of war moved slowly but surely. The Dominion was forced out of Skyrim with an ultimatum, and the land was finally back under the full rule of the Nords, as it ought to be. The year is Two Hundred Twenty-nine of the Fourth Era, and the gears of war have started to turn, as the land braces itself for the Second Great War that was always to come. It was also the year that a mid-level member of the Anvil chapter of the Fighter’s Guild was loaned to the storied Companions of Jorrvaskr, in the city of Whiterun. This talented young warrior of Redguard descent suddenly found himself sailing to a strange land and leaving behind the only home he ever knew. Little remained for him in Anvil after the passing of his mother, so he looked forward to a new chapter of his life, far from the painful memories of home. The first mate, a stout Imperial named Janius, approached the young Redguard with a roll of parchment and a quill. “Name?” “Cain. No surname.” “No surname?” inquired the First Mate. “How can that be, young man? I have it here that you were born and raised in Anvil, and joined the Fighter’s Guild when you came of age. Your mother is listed as Ariessa Janeel, also of Anvil. Do you not share her name?” “In the absence of my father, she did not bestow it upon me.” “Bastard then, eh? Unfortunate, but I see it all the time. What is your business in Skyrim?” “On loan to The Companions. For what reason I do not yet know, but I will follow my orders from the guild and my future employers.” “An honorable attitude for a young warrior, mister Cain. It’s a long voyage to the port of Solitude, so all we ask is that you remain civil and pitch in a helping hand when required.” Cain nodded and the first mate moved on to speak with a different passenger. It was indeed a long voyage, filled with many sleepless nights while the ship bobbed and rocked on the choppy waters of the sea. The occasional storm would blow in and everyone from the captain to the lowest deckhands were grim-faced and determined as they struggled to keep the passengers safe from the onslaught of high waves and powerful winds. Nearly a full month passed before they sailed beneath the great arch of Solitude and nestled the ship into the port. All hands helped to moor the ship before the passengers eagerly disembarked in a new land. A tall Dunmer man of middle years stood in wait on the pier, clad in worn hide armors with a longsword slung across his back. Years of experience lined his weathered face, eyes deep set and wary as he scanned the faces off all those who set foot off of the ship. When Cain approached the man, he flagged the Redguard down and directed him off to the side. “You must be Cain,” he said. “Fresh from Anvil, yes? My name is Athis and I’ve been sent by our Harbinger to retrieve you. The Companions welcome your aid, but we have a long journey to Whiterun yet. Ordinarily I would accompany you south on foot, but we are already short-handed and will be taking a carriage.” “Nice to meet you, Athis. Lead the way �" this is a strange land for me and I defer to your judgement.” They shook hands and departed the port at a quick trot. A carriage sat in wait along the road to the capital city, and soon after Athis handed the driver a bag of Septims, the were trundling along the road to Dragon Bridge, headed for the southern road to Whiterun Hold and Jorrvaskr �" the legendary mead hall of The Companions. Despite being in an unfamiliar land, Cain found himself excited at the prospect of these new horizons and the change of pace from the last few months of misery that followed the death of his mother. He bowed his in prayer for her before striking up a conversation with Athis. “So, what’s it like being in The Companions?” he asked. “Are things much different from the Fighter’s Guild?” “Oh yes, quite different. Every man or woman in The Companions is their own. We have no leaders, just a Harbinger who is wise in counsel and offers a guiding hand. There are no ranks to elevate to and no coveted positions to fight for. We take the jobs we must and your shield-siblings will be ready to stand with you. Honor is valued above all else.” “Interesting. I must admit, the lack of politics seems hard to believe. Everything is so much about rank and station in the guild that often times our true purpose is forgotten when the infighting picks up. Jobs go unanswered in the chaos and brawls turn deadly over simple differences of opinion. I might end up staying here for a long time if life is to be more peaceful in that regard.” Athis chuckled. “While we do strive to rise above such petty squabbles, you’ll soon find that Jorrvaskr is anything but peaceful. However, our brawls usually end with hearty pats on the back and consuming copious amounts of mead, rather than misery and death!” “Sounds like a dream come true, Athis.” “That’s a very Nordic attitude, young one. Are you sure you’re a Redguard?” “The color of my skin betrays that,” laughed Cain. “But who knows, maybe my father was a Nord, whoever he may be.” The Dunmer smiled and their conversation moved onto other topics. Athis went over the finer points of The Companions with him and eventually moved onto the current political climate and powers that be in Skyrim. Cain listened with rapt attention, absorbing all the he could to avoid any run-ins with local laws and to avoid misunderstandings, no matter how small they could be. Just as the sun began to set, the carriage pulled into a small village and ground to a halt. Orthar, the driver, dismounted and told them they would continue on in the morning. Cain and Athis hopped down from the wagon and followed him into the local tavern, the Frostfruit Inn. “This is the village of Rorikstead,” said Athis. “A fine place to spend the night. Grab us some mead and I’ll see about getting a meal. No sense in sleeping on an empty stomach.” He left the inn as Cain was ordering a few pints of mead and a loaf of bread to munch on. Experience had taught the young man never to consume spirits on an empty stomach, and so he found a table off to the side and chewed on the crusty loaf while he awaited Athis’ return. Ten minutes later, his fellow Companion reentered the tavern with a basket of fruit in one hand and a bundle of skewered meats in the other. They ate and drank their fill while continuing to discuss the ins and outs of Jorrvaskr well into the night. Dawn brought forth cloudy skies and the smell of rain upon the air as the carriage rumbled off onto the road, resuming their journey to Whiterun. By late afternoon, the two men were approaching the gates of the tundra city, and making their way through the bustling marketplace. They passed the local tavern and ascended a flight of stairs whereupon Cain was greeted with a breathtaking sight �" the Gildegreen was in full bloom before his eyes and the immense beauty of the towering tree froze him in his tracks as the wind gently whistled through its branches. “Aye, a sight to see, eh?” remarked Athis. “Little matches the serene beauty of our mighty tree, blessed by the Goddess Kyne herself. That’s her temple there and the priestess' maintain the tree and those who seek her guidance within.” “It’s amazing,” sighed Cain. “There is nothing quite as lovely in all of Cyrodiil.” “Yeah, well, the Imperials already think too highly of themselves. Divines know they don’t deserve such a wonderful symbol as our Gildegreen. Let’s move on now �" Jorrvaskr is just over there.” Continuing on, Cain and Athis soon stepped through the solid wood doors of the legendary mead hall and were met with the raucous din of the main dining area where shield siblings dined heartily and drank merrily, roaring with laughter and swapping exaggerated stories of their noble deeds. Athis steered him through the hall and down a small flight of stairs to a much quieter living area, with bedrooms lining the underground corridor. The walls were adorned with centuries of decorations ranging from trophy kills to impressive weapons to woven tapestries and ancient, tattered flags. At the far end of the hall two men sat around a small table and were deep in conversation, only noticing their approach at the last minute. The smaller of the two large men rose to greet them. “Athis, I see you’ve returned with our new shield-brother!” He turned to the Redguard and offered a hand for Cain to shake. “Cain, yes? Welcome to Jorrvaskr! I’m Vilkas, Harbinger of The Companions, and the silent one here is my brother Farkas. He may look intimidating but I promise he is more bark than bite!” Vilkas roared with laughter and sat back down as Farkas greeted Cain. “Pleasure to meet you, brother,” rumbled the towering Nord. He sat back down and resumed his stony silence while Vilkas spoke again. “No trouble, then, Athis?” “None at all. The land seems quiet for a change.” “Good, I’m glad to hear that. But it’s getting late now �" you two head upstairs and eat. We have a long day ahead of us tomorrow!” Athis and Cain took their leave of the Harbinger, and his silent brother, and headed back to the dining hall for a good meal and plenty of mead. All in all, Cain was looking forward to being counted among the ranks of such proud, jovial warriors. Jorrvaskr was everything the Fighters Guild was not, and his mind was made up in short order �" tomorrow he would pen a letter to his chapter leader and tender his resignation. But the night was still relatively young, and after stowing what little gear he had under a vacant bed, Cain met Athis upstairs in the great hall. They ate, drank, and sang well into the night as Cain made the rounds and was introduced to his shield-siblings. More than a few were young like him, and he could not help but eye up some of the female warriors among the ranks, especially Thea, a tall blonde Nord that shared the same birthyear as Cain. He lingered next to her the longest and was in awe at how much mead she could knock back with the rest of the burly men seated around Jorrvaskr. By midnight the two of them had slid out the back door and were getting to know each other better in the moonlit gardens. The next day came earlier than Cain, still sleeping off the merriment and escapades from the night before, had expected it to. Farkas strode into his room just after sunrise and threw a dossier at him before barking out the Redguard’s first orders. “Read that and then come find me in the mead hall. You’re heading to Falkreath today and we need to find you a shield-sibling to watch your back, and see what you can do. Don’t tarry, it’s a long walk to Falkreath and the sun is already up.” Cain sat up and rubbed the sleep from his eyes before leaving his warm bed and heading for the bathroom. He checked himself in the mirror before leaving and sighed at the long scratches Thea had left on the side of his face. Farkas had likely noticed them, too, but it was probably nothing new to the seasoned Companion. He splashed some water on his faced, headed back to general quarters, got dressed, and went upstairs for his first assignment. This post has been edited by Kane: May 6 2025, 01:14 PM
--------------------
Wrapped in furs beneath the northern lights From my cave I watch the land untamed And wonder if some becoming season Will make the angel melt in shame
|
|
|
|
Kane |
Dec 20 2024, 03:18 PM
|

Master

Joined: 26-September 16
From: Hammerfell

|
Chapter I - New Beginnings
Morning at Jorrvaskr appeared to be a much more subdued atmosphere. Cain entered the hall to find those that had already risen to be eating in relative silence while they opened any letters or correspondences the couriers delivered in the early hours. The food, however, seemed to be just as hearty as a supper meal, and there was no shortage of meat to be plucked from the cooking spit set between the long wooden tables. His eyes scanned the room for Farkas and saw the towering Nord seated at a table with an older woman Cain had not met the night before.
Grabbing a leg of lamb on his way past the warm fire, Cain soon joined Farkas and the woman at their table. He ate silently and waited with patience beyond his years for the shield-siblings to finish their conversation. Once Cain had eaten his fill and poured himself a large mug of coffee, Farkas addressed him and made introductions.
“Cain, this is Ria �" she will be your shield-sister for your first job. Ria, Cain: our newest whelp.”
“Pleasure to meet you, Cain,” said Ria, with a slight bow. “Farkas, I thought we weren’t supposed to call them that anymore. Your brother doesn’t like the memories it invokes.”
“Old habits die hard. You two should go get ready. I need to head out myself.”
Farkas drained the rest of his early morning mead and headed for the door. Ria watched him go, shaking her head, a light smile dancing on her lips. “I swear that man will never change. So,” she began. “Did he tell you what we will be doing?”
“Not at all,” replied Cain. “He handed me this dossier, but I didn’t have time to read it yet. Still a little out of it from last night…it was the most fun I’ve had in some time.”
“I’d say so,” smirked Ria. “Looks like you and Thea had a bang-up time out in the gardens.” Cain blushed and murmured something under his breath, but Ria laughed and waved him off. “Ah, don’t worry about it �" you surely weren’t the only ones out there getting familiar with each other last night. Rarely does a day go by in this place without a hedonistic event. The other folks in the city would be lined up at the door, begging for admission into the Companions if they knew half of what we got up to in here.”
Cain took a pull of his coffee and cleared his throat. “Doesn’t surprise me at all, based on my first night here. Er, should we get ready to leave then?”
“I travel light, so meet me out front when you are ready. Falkreath is about two days march south if we don’t take a carriage, which we won’t. I prefer to walk and take in the sights.”
“Give me ten minutes and then we can head out.”
He set his mug down and went back to the living quarters, gathered up his gear, slung his trusty sword over his back, and climbed back upstairs. The Harbinger stood near the front door and handed him a small bag for the journey, which Cain accepted graciously.
“Just some rations in case game is hard to come across. Don’t eat it all at once! Now, get out there and make a name for us and yourself!”
Outside the air was warm under the rising sun of Rain’s Hand. A rainstorm had blown through in the early morning hours, leaving a layer of damp across the city of Whiterun that was now burning off in a cool morning mist. Ria checked the straps of her scabbard and then together they departed, bound for the gates that Cain had first walked through only just last night. He was slightly disappointed to not be spending more time in the city, but duty called and he would not ignore it.
When they reached the outskirts of the city, Cain pulled the dossier from his pocket and glanced through it while they walked, barely registering his surroundings. “Animal extermination? Really? Is this a common thing for us to handle? Surely there are guards or hunters in Falkreath that can handle such a thing, no?”
“Hah. You remind me of an old friend, may Talos guard her. Njada hated these kinds of jobs �" referred to them as “police work”. She turned them down whenever she could, always in search of something to truly test her mettle.”
“Smart woman,” said Cain. He paused a moment while trying to remember some of the details about Nord rites and their afterlife beliefs. Then it came to him when his thoughts landed on Shor. “I take it she was called to Sovngarde?”
“Impressive,” acknowledged Ria. “Not many outsiders are familiar with our customs. But yes, she ought to be there, drinking proudly with the heroes of legend in Shor’s fabled hall. She gave her life in defense of our city, when that scumbag Ulfric Stormcloak tried to invade it. The Companions normally don’t take sides in such affairs, but he was an affront to what a true Nord stands for. Honor and loyalty meant nothing to his rebellion �" it was all about power and control.”
“I was glad to see him put down,” said Cain. “Everyone outside of his army knew that him winning would be a death blow for the Empire. We need to stick together if we hope to have any chance against the Dominion.”
“Quite so. Anyway, Njada rarely took these jobs. Hunters or guards could certainly handle such a thing, but sometimes the regular folk get a tickle out of seeing the mighty Companions stroll into town and put down a beast. And so, they send us a letter and ignore the matter until we can arrive to help. What is it this time? Bear again?”
“Aye, black bear den to the west of Falkreath City. That’s odd enough on its own, isn’t it? Black bears are relatively tame and tend to fear men and mer alike. Could there be something more at play?”
“Hm, maybe. Aggravated bears could point to Spriggans, in which case they would be justified in calling on us to deal with it.”
“Oh, you have Spriggans here, too? That shouldn’t be too hard to deal with.”
“Depends on how many there are,” said Ria. Stopping quickly, she raised a finger to her lips before whispering: “I saw a doe in the trees over there…ah, damn it, something spooked it. Well, let’s get a move on.”
They continued along the western road that Cain and Athis had rode in on just the day before, past an empty home and a half-ruined watchtower. Towards the evening, they came to a junction and stepped off of the road to camp out for the night. Ria rolled out sleeping bags while Cain scrounged up what few branches and bits of wood he could find on the tundra and built a small campfire. The moons rose slowly overhead as they roasted a hunk of venison and spoke amicably, getting to know each other better, and getting Cain familiar with the land.
“So, the watchtower was destroyed during the dragon crisis? But that was almost thirty years ago �" could the Jarl not have it rebuilt in all that time? It’s looks to be an important part of the city’s outer defenses…”
“Balgruuf does what he can, but he is an old man now and will likely step down soon. Keep in mind, too, that when the Stormcloaks attacked Whiterun, they didn’t do so gently. Most of the time and money went into rebuilding the town and it’s walls, rather than the outlying areas.”
“What about that house we passed? It looked pristine, but completely devoid of life?”
“The manor? No one has lived there for a while. Dunno what the story is with that place.”
The fire began to burn down low. Cain added the remaining branches to fuel it as Ria slipped into her sleeping bag and said good night. His back resting on unfamiliar earth, he was left alone to stare up at familiar stars, and wonder what life had in store for him next. Ariessa, his mother, had always been a sort of guiding hand in his life. She had had a surprisingly deep sense of wisdom and her counsel was always meaningful. Life had been uncertain since her passing, leaving the young man partly adrift as Cain struggled with what to do next.
Sleep came eventually, but it was filled with strange dreams unlike anything he had seen before. Hulking shadowy beasts of legend flitted through his resting mind; dark figures conspired in large groups around him; and piercing golden eyes stared unblinkingly, burning into his soul while his subconscious sought to awaken and free him from the realm of nightmares.
It was with a deep sigh of relief that Cain awoke the next morning, the first rays of sun peeking over the Velothi mountains and shining right into his eyes. He rolled out of his bag, and got up to stretch his legs, walking a short way from camp to empty his teeming bladder behind a rock. Shaking his head at the memories of the odd dreams, he tried to parse out the images but gave it up as a lost cause. And then Ria’s voice rang out in the morning air, focusing his attention elsewhere.
“Oi, where’d you go?”
“Be back in a minute,” Cain yelled back. “Just had to take a piss, standard morning stuff ya know!”
“Take your time, I gotta do the same.”
Soon after, they were underway again, continuing their journey west. A few hours later, they reached a set of markers lining a small dirt path that left the road and headed due south, winding up towards the mountain range. Just when the rocky outcrop turned into a sheer cliff face, a cave entrance stood before them.
“Through the mountain?” asked Cain.
“Aye, Brittleshin Pass. Used to be overrun with animals or the undead, but the king has increased guard presence throughout the land, and stationed a few here. Now, it serves as an artery to Falkreath hold, complete with a ferry on the other side. We’ll need to fork over some gold, but it significantly shortens the trip to Falkreath City.”
Ria stepped up to the guard post and stated their business while she fished out some gold from her traveling bag. By midday Cain and Ria stood on the shores of Lake Illinalta, the calm waves of the inland water lapping at their feet while they waited for the ferryman to return from the southern shores. The small rowboat docked near evening time, but they elected to proceed anyway, figuring they could rent a room in the small hamlet of Oakwood. They stumbled through the door inn late into the night and were fortunate enough to get the last room, even though it only had one bed.
Cain insisted Ria take it, and after a heated argument she acquiesced and laid down for the night while the young Redguard dozed off in a chair with one of the innkeeper’s books across his lap.
Breakfast the next morning was a quick affair before Cain and Ria sped out of the inn, bound west once again until they hit the southern fork. It was an uneventful day, and by sundown they could hear the low growling of the aggravated black bears they sought, rumbling from within the dense trees of the pine forest. They were still a good march off from the city, but Cain and Ria were both certain that they were right where they needed to be. Peering through the branches of a low thicket, they spied a crumbling ruin emanating an odd greenish-yellow light, and several bears laying around it.
“Hm. That’s a lot of bears,” noted Ria. “We have our work cut out for us. See the glow? Definitely spriggans inside the dome.”
“Is that an old barrow or something?” asked Cain.
“Yeah, probably a collapsed one or it would be more accessible for worship. These things are dotted all over Skyrim, can’t walk more than a day or two without spotting one.”
“Do the ridges on the side of it lead to an opening up top or is the roof sealed? If it’s open, we can creep up there and get a jump on the spriggans. I know a few restoration spells that could probably calm the beasts after we take care of the source.”
“Magic? Really?”
“Don’t look at me like that, it’s not my fault you Nords are terrified of the arcane,” said Cain. “You do realize that some of the most storied mages were Nords, right? Anyway, you need some familiarity with it in Cyrodiil, even if it is just basic restoration spells. In our line of work, you’ll inevitably be sent to an Ayleid ruin that’s absolutely swarming with the undead. Turn spells are immensely useful in that regard.”
“Well, this is supposed to be your show anyway, and it can be your chance to change my mind. You lead, I’ll follow.”
Cain nodded and began to creep around the perimeter, with Ria by his side, until the ruins were in between them and the bears. Darting silently forward, they scaled the old burial mound and peered down through the opening at the top. Two spriggans milled about in the center of the barrow, their long hands running through the overgrown flowers and shrubs around them.
“You didn’t bring a bow by chance, did you?” whispered Cain.
“Never was much good with one,” answered Ria.
“In that case, I’ll get the one on the left. Jump down and plunge your sword right through the beast, and then I’ll move towards the front and start peppering calm spells at the bears. Once they cool off and the spriggan connection is gone, they should disperse.”
They dropped silently, blades at the ready and quickly hewed down the forest spirits. Cain ducked out of the center ring and after a few flashes of yellow light, he sheathed his blade and strolled back inside to find Ria.
“Worked perfectly, bears all ambled off on their own.”
“Not bad, shield-brother,” acknowledged Ria. “We may yet make a Companion out of you! C’mon let’s get out of here. I don’t want to set up camp with those beasts about, so we’ll double-time it to Falkreath and grab a mead or two from Dead Man’s Drink.”
This post has been edited by Kane: Jan 8 2025, 06:08 PM
--------------------
Wrapped in furs beneath the northern lights From my cave I watch the land untamed And wonder if some becoming season Will make the angel melt in shame
|
|
|
|
Kane |
Dec 20 2024, 03:40 PM
|

Master

Joined: 26-September 16
From: Hammerfell

|
Chapter II - Politics and Intrigue
The heavy door to the council chambers closed with a dull thud as the final member of House Redoran’s internal court joined his cohorts at the conference table. It had been a long journey to Blacklight, but recent events had spurned a quick meeting that required all hands to be on deck in the face of a new uncertainty. The members waited quietly, looking to their Archmaster to kick things off with an opening statement.
“Welcome back, esteemed colleagues. We are pressed for time so I will make this short: the rumor circulating is true. An assassination attempt was made on Divayth Fyr of House Telvanni.” A low murmur rippled through the conference room as the council members whispered among themselves at the revelation. “Thankfully,” the Archmaster continued, “it was thwarted before any action could be carried out. But this does not bode well for the reliability of our intelligence network. If such an act could come near to fruition, Morrowind may be in more danger than we previously thought.”
“Forgive me, Archmaster,” an older councilwoman piped up. “But who cares if a hit is carried out on another House? It only serves to weaken them and strengthen us!”
“Attitudes like that are why Morrowind does not have any allies, Sedura. We stand here now, on the precipice of another great war, and you would have us continue the infighting and bad blood that has plagued our land in the past? No, we must be united against the Dominion, for they surely will set their sights upon us, if the Mede Empire falls. And the death of Fyr would be a disaster for Morrowind, even if he is a member of House Telvanni.”
A heavy silence filled the room while the council members dwelled on his. The Archmaster took his seat at the head of the table and looked through his own notes while the council members conversed around him in hushed tones, wondering where this was leading to. He let them squirm for a while, giving time for the unease to set in before he delivered the news that he had actually summoned them for. After a few tense minutes, he got back to his feet and cleared his throat.
“Ahem. We can circle back to this event later, but we have other items on the docket. Chiefly, a communique that we just received from the High King of Skyrim.”
“Skyrim?” asked another councilman. “What do those barbarians want?”
“Those ’barbarians’ are the ones who tipped us off about the assassination,” said the Archmaster. “This is a new regime in Skyrim, and the king is calculating and shrewd. Already, it would seem they know more about the enemy’s movements than we do, despite being hundreds of miles from here.” He paused to let the shame sink in. Some of these council members were too proud to realize how much has changed in Tamriel. Now was the time to bring them into the future. “The High King also requests that the Great Houses convene here in preparation for a diplomatic envoy.”
“What sort of envoy?” a voice rang out among the clamor of others.
“The only sort that would require all of the Houses to be present. An alliance against the Dominion.”
------------------------------
Sybille Stentor was a Breton of uncertain age but impressive magickal ability. None but her closest advisors know how long ago she was born in High Rock, but in more recent times, she has served as a loyal Court Mage to three separate regimes in the Blue Palace. Despite the questions surrounding her unnaturally long life, Sybille was well regarded and her counsel was often sought by the High King himself. And that was enough to let the questions subside. Loyalty meant everything in the Blue Palace and those like Sybille, who held the court’s deepest secrets, were bound by divine magick to never betray the High King.
Yet her scrying began to trouble Sybille as new signs emerged that had not been there before. Something was happening in Skyrim while their eyes were set abroad, the court’s attention spread over Hammerfell, High Rock, and now Morrowind. They didn’t illuminate certain danger, but neither were they clear on what was to unfold. Deciding it best to stay silent on the matter for a while, she continued to scry in private, when it did not interfere with her normal duties. It was during one of these times that a letter arrived for her that only served to muddy the waters even further.
Sybille,
A curious thing happened in the port today: a Redguard arrived from Anvil, supposedly to aide the Companions in some way. While not all that interesting on the surface, I overheard a snippet of his conversation with a member of said group who had been sent to meet him there. Apparently, he was loaned to them by the Fighter’s Guild. A curious thing, no? Why should the Guild be loaning members to the Companions? Have you ever heard of any such thing happening before?
They left shortly after for Whiterun, so I was unable to glean any further information from them, but it may be worth a follow-up, if you have the men to spare. The Redguard didn’t look suspicious in any way, but there was something about him that I couldn’t quantify. My gut tells me we should be watching him, even if it’s not with our own eyes. -Orleth
Her brow furrowed more and more as the details from the note unfolded. She read the letter two more times to memorize the pertinent bits before discarding it in the flames dancing merrily in her fireplace. Unsure of what this new revelation would mean, she poured a glass of Alto Wine, headed back to her scrying table, and performed the ritual again �" this time with the new information in mind. The signs were still mysterious, but one blazed brighter than it had before, centered directly on the Solitude port.
------------------------------
“Are you sure about this, Anilay?”
“Not, not really. His court is surprisingly tight-lipped on internal matters as deep as this would be. It’s only carried by the faintest whispers from the darkest recesses, spoken by no one of import. But it’s not the sort of thing we can ignore, sire.
“Indeed not,” sighed the old man.
The Emperor of Cyrodiil, Titus Mede the II set down his quill and leaned back in his study chair while he digested the rumor that his chancellor had just brought before him. Could the High King of Skyrim really be so ambitious as to seize the Ruby Throne for himself? Though he may be Dragonborn, that did not (in the Emperor’s mind) give him any legal or divine authority over it, despite what the king may think otherwise. And Skyrim was still their fast ally, working hand-in-hand against the Dominion. It made sense…but it put the Emperor in an impossible position: he could not act without further information, yet inaction could spell certain doom for the Mede Dynasty.
“Do we have anyone we can reliably trust in the Blue Palace?” he asked the chancellor. “We need more information. There is a ring of truth to the intention, but if I make a move in error, it will be my head that rolls.”
“I wish we did, my lord. But all of our attempts at infiltrating the king’s inner circle have failed �" it’s uncanny how they are able to weed out anyone with ill intent. We have men in the legion garrison, of course, but that is a very bloody option, and it will certainly fail. This is not a normal man we are dealing with; the new king is something straight out of Nordic legend, a master of the Thu’um. He could annihilate the garrison himself.”
“Then we must wait, and hope an opportunity presents itself.”
“I agree, my lord. We’ve been patient thus far, and I feel we should continue to be. I will most certainly bring any new information to your attention.” “Very good, Anilay,” said the Emperor. “Now, please take your leave. I have a litany of memos to parse through this evening.”
The chancellor bowed and left the study. Titus Mede leaned even further back in his chair and felt his eyes drift towards the windows while lost in thought. Far below lay the Imperial City, the ultimate prize of his dynasty, and the seat of power in Tamriel. Could there be such a heavy change in the winds already? Would this relatively new king from Skyrim really sweep down from the north and force him to abdicate? The people would no doubt support the return of a Dragonborn Emperor, and mark his return as a new era for the Cyrodiilic Empire, and a return to the mighty days of yore, when Tiber Septim himself ruled the land.
“Perhaps, I ought to step down before it’s too late,” he said aloud.
Sighing deeply, he lowered his gaze back to his overcrowded desk and picked up the next urgent missive that needed dealt with. As his tired eyes scanned the document sent by a high-ranking diplomat, his face became more and more grave, and he wished Anilay had come in after he had read it.
For this Majesty, Titus Mede II eye’s only,
Sire, it is with great urgency and trepidation that I relay this information to you. If it is true, it must be acted upon before it is too late. There are rumors swirling about the various kingdoms of High Rock and Hammerfell that an alliance treaty has been signed in secret with Skyrim. And now there are reports of similar envoys being sent to Morrowind in an effort to rebuild friendship between the Nords and the Dunmer.
We cannot allow a northern alliance of that magnitude to take hold. The Dominion will surely act on this, too, and attempt to sow discord. We must be ready.
-Sarunius Mantol
The faintest zephyr danced in the air within his study as the Emperor’s world crashed down around him. There could be no doubt that his days in power were numbered, and he could not hope to stand against it. If those four realms marched upon Cyrodiil together, then surely the Mede Dynasty would come to an abrupt end. Rising from his seat, Titus Mede II quickly left his study in search of Anilay to discuss what must come next, before taking it to the Elder Council.
This post has been edited by Kane: Jan 8 2025, 06:09 PM
--------------------
Wrapped in furs beneath the northern lights From my cave I watch the land untamed And wonder if some becoming season Will make the angel melt in shame
|
|
|
|
Kane |
Dec 20 2024, 04:29 PM
|

Master

Joined: 26-September 16
From: Hammerfell

|
Chapter III - A Brief Respite
A few days later, Cain and Ria swaggered back into Jorrvaskr just before dinner and helped themselves to a hefty pint of mead while they relayed the success of their mission to the other shield-siblings gathered around them. Some were doubtful about Cain’s reliance on magick, but most were curious and eager to learn more about its benefits. For her part, Ria had become a steady proponent of its application after she watched the bears simply trundle off, back to their homes as if nothing had happened.
“Do you folks really not know even the basics of simple restoration magicks?” asked Cain, curiously. “Even a healing spell ought to be required learning, and maybe even healing hands to aid others.”
“Ya gotta understand, friend,” said Kyr, one of the veterans. “That most of us never had a lick of schoolin’ before our parents had us out in the field workin’ the land. Some of us can barely read at all, let alone have time to play with fire! If we need somethin’ like that, we go to the temple and let the priestess’ attend to it.”
“Well, I would recommend some of the more interested take it up, just to be helpful in battle,” said Cain. “A few healers in the ranks would be a wonderful boon for the work we do.”
Not long afterwards, the small crown began to disperse while the dinner hour set it. Plate piled with food after a fun adventure, Cain was working his way through a stack of bacon when the Harbinger came up from the basement quarters and joined Cain and Ria at their table. He piled up a plate of his own, poured a large tankard of mead and went at it with a gusto. Once their plates had been emptied a by a good measure, Vilkas began to debrief them.
“So, all in all, a successful first job, eh? That’s great news, young mister Cain. And what about you, Ria? Was our newest member honorable and competent?”
“Very much so, Vilkas. We should be honored to have him in our ranks �" Cain is a capable warrior, cunning and intelligent. His magickal talent only adds to that.”
“Excellent! Then you better get a good night’s sleep, Cain. Tomorrow we will get you more familiarized with the city, and the do’s and don’ts of Whiterun, maybe even introduce you to the Jarl. Once you are acclimated, see me again. A unique job has just come in, and your talents might be the best suited for it!”
They all continued to eat as the mead began to flow more profusely, and it was late into the night when Cain stumbled back downstairs and threw himself into an empty bed, poised to sleep off the effects of celebration. Morning came later than it did on his first night in the hall, thanks to his schedule being relatively light for the day. It was approaching midday when he left Jorrvaskr for a stroll around the city, and small tour from Thea, who had volunteered to go with him.
She introduced him to most of the shopkeepers and merchants, before leading him back towards the Temple of Kynareth, where they sat for a couple minutes while waiting for the head priestess, Danica Pure-Spring, to finish tending to an elderly man.
Cain was curious about the temple name, and asked Thea for clarification. “I thought you Nords referred to Kynareth as Kyne �" why the Imperial name for the temple? It doesn’t make any sense to me.”
Thea rolled her eyes. “You can thank the fops that have ruled from the Blue Palace over the last couple hundred years for that. Most of them were too [censored] worried about being in the empire’s good graces to care about what the locals like us thought about it. I’ve heard that the new king wants to revert back to our own traditions, but I think it’s a low priority with everything else going on.”
“Surely the Jarl could make a decision for this temple?”
“He could, but Balgruuf is too damn old for the job these days. Not sure if he plans on stepping down anytime soon, but he ought to. Plenty of younger men in his court that should be running the hold.”
The temple doors opened and Danica came out to introduce herself to Cain. Her eyes lingered on him for a second too long, the barest hint of a knowing smile tugging at the corners of her mouth. She gave him a brief tour of the temple and recounted history of the Gildegreen, and then excused herself to resume her duties. Thea led Cain up to Dragonsreach afterwards, but they were unable to speak to the Jarl directly, and resigned to set up a later meeting via his steward, Adrienne Avenicci.
“Do any of the other Companions ever drink at the Bannered Mare, instead of Jorrvask?” asked Cain as they left the keep. “Sometimes I like to enjoy a drink somewhere less rowdy, maybe with a good book.”
“Rarely,” answered Thea. “Most of us like the noise and comradery, myself included. And you won’t find many of us buried in a book when there is mead to be drunk, fights to be fought, and pleasures to enjoy.” Her eyes flashed mischievously at him. “You had a taste of that last part when you arrived �" was it not better than being alone with a dusty old book?”
“Okay, you got me there,” blushed Cain. “That was indeed a fun night.”
“Good, I’m glad to hear it. Come see me again if you’d like another round.”
“Just go easy on me next time, yeah? Some of the scratches still haven’t healed completely from last time.”
“You enjoyed it and you know it. Now, let’s get back to the hall and see what Vilkas has in store for you �" I’m curious about the job he mentioned.”
After another rowdy evening in the mead hall, Cain awoke early the next morning, pulled on some light clothes in lieu of his armor and went to see if Vilkas had woken up yet. Surprisingly, the Harbinger was indeed awake, sitting at the small table outside of his room with a mug of coffee that he sipped slowly from while going through a stack of parchment. The old man saw Cain approaching and invited him to grab his own drink and sit down.
“Sleep okay last night, young mister Cain? Or did you and the lovely young Thea go for another round in the bushes?”
“A gentleman doesn’t kiss and tell, boss,” grinned Cain. “Let’s just say I slept well enough for whatever you have in store for me and leave it at that, eh? You mentioned a different kind of job this time? I’m interested, especially if it’s not more animal control.”
“You sound just like Njada Stone-Arm…but I gather Ria probably told you all about her? Poor lass had a bright future ahead of her in our ranks, but surely she is in Sovngarde now.” Vilkas trailed off for a few seconds before raising his mug to silently toast an old comrade. “Now then,” he continued, “I hope you don’t mind the cold, because you are headed for the northern coastline! Dress warmly and head for the village of Stonehills �" there is a woman there who needs help exploring an old barrow on the Sea of Ghosts.”
“Alone this time or with another shield-sibling? Also, I could use a map of the land if I’m going to be traveling all around it.”
“Take whoever you want with you this time, and I’ll make sure Farkas gets you a map before you leave. When you get to Stonehills, find the local inn and look for Anska: she is your contact and the one who needs help. I assume she’ll have the rest of the details for you.”
Cain took his leave and went upstairs into the mead hall for a spot of breakfast. He surveyed the room while he ate, unsure of who he would ask to go with him for what sounded like a much longer journey than the last one he found himself on. Part way through a large plate of eggs, the issue resolved itself when Athis joined him at his table and asked to go along with Cain.
“I take it you want to get out and stretch your legs?” asked Cain in surprise.
“Something like that,” said Athis. “Most of the jobs I get these days are boring, sort of like your first one with Ria. It’s been a long time since I was sent far away on a dangerous quest full of unknowns, and this feels like exactly that! I’d be honored to accompany you, if you’ll have me.”
“Then it’s you and me, Athis,” said Cain. He gave the dark elf a hearty pat on the back and offered him a fresh cup of coffee. “Need a heater before we hit the road? I’m still mostly packed from last time, so we can go whenever you are ready.”
------------------------------
The Blue Palace was bathed in moonlight during the early nighttime hours on that very same day, and in a small wing off to the side of the main hall sat Sybille Stentor, staring at her scrying table once again. Still confused by some of the signs, she downed another glass of wine while looking absentmindedly at the glowing orange symbol that had been moving about the province over the last week or two. She was certain that it marked the Redguard who had arrived, but she did not know to what end.
And now a new sign had begun to glow, this time resting on High Gate Ruins �" and old barrow to the east of Solitude that overlooked the snowy shores across from the port inlet. I need a fresh set of eyes on this, thought Sybille. I wonder if Mirabelle is awake at this hour…
Resigned to visiting her old friend, Sybille blew out the candles on her table and got up to find her cloak. Once it was clasped firmly around her, she pulled the hood over her head, and closed here eyes to concentrate on the destination. With a small wave of her hand, the court mage vanished from the Blue Palace and reappeared miles and miles away, in the Arch Mage of Winterhold’s personal study. Mirabelle Ervine nearly had a heart attack at the arrival of the unexpected guest, but quickly regained her composure.
“Damn it, Sybille, don’t just pop in like that next time! I’m getting too old for it!” The Arch Mage’s breathing settled and she offered her friend a seat. “What brings you here at this hour anyway?”
“Have you been scrying lately, Mira? I’ve seen some odd signs appearing across the land and I can’t make head nor tails of what they mean. I’m certain it has to do with the arrival of a young Redguard from Anvil, but I can’t discern why.”
“I’ve seen them, too,” Mirabelle nodded. “The man in question is called ‘Cain’ and he seems to be in the employ of the Companions now. I have a contact there keeping an eye on him, but so far there is nothing concerning about the young man. He seems to be a loyal and talented warrior that’s trying to make a name for himself.”
“But what brought him here? And how does it tie into the new signs pointing to High Gate?”
“I’m unsure about that last part. However, it would seem that his mother recently passed away back in Anvil, and that he was disillusioned with the politics of the Fighter’s Guild. All signs point to this Cain simply needing a fresh start. My contact even said he mailed a formal resignation to his guild chapter, stating his intent to remain in Skyrim.”
“Hm, I wonder if �"“ Sybille suddenly grew quiet as her eyes caught the scrying table behind Mirabelle. “Mira, look! The Redguard’s mark has moved north, almost into Labyrinthian! Could he be headed for the barrow?”
Mirabelle studied the table with her in silence for a minute or two, noting the direction he had moved in. “It’s certainly plausible. I still don’t see how this all ties together though…”
Seconds later there was a loud rap on the window of Mirabelle’s study. She went over to it, flung open the glass pane and let a dark raven fly into the room and land on a perch above her desk. The bird had a small vial tied to its leg which the Arch Mage began to earnestly untie. The vial free from its leg, she uncorked it and out slid a small scroll from within.
“Carrier birds?” asked Sybille. “I thought that was a lost art!”
“So was teleportation, but some things are worth the effort to rediscover.” Mirabelle unfurled the small slip of parchment and read it quickly. “Well, this confirms it �" Cain is on a job bound for the barrow. He’s to meet a woman in Stonehills and assist her with exploring the ruin. But there are no more details as of this time.”
Sybille sighed and sat down in a plush chair next to Mirabelle’s desk. “Well, at least it’s something. But I can’t go to the king with this yet…we don’t know enough and the man seems harmless. I’d better get back to the palace, Mira. Thank you for the counsel �" and for keeping your fingers on the pulse.”
“I’ll send you a note if anything more comes to light,” said Mirabelle. “Good night, Sybille. And good luck.”
This post has been edited by Kane: Jan 8 2025, 06:09 PM
--------------------
Wrapped in furs beneath the northern lights From my cave I watch the land untamed And wonder if some becoming season Will make the angel melt in shame
|
|
|
|
Kane |
Dec 20 2024, 05:09 PM
|

Master

Joined: 26-September 16
From: Hammerfell

|
Chapter IV - Stonehills
A small mining village tucked away on the snowy fringes of Hjaalmarch Hold and The Pale, Stonehills had very little to offer a weary traveler. Two or three houses and a small inn were set just off of the road, nestled against the mountains that bordered Whiterun Hold to the south, and the mine itself burrowing deep within the stone. Cain and Athis sat inside the inn, waiting at a small table in hopes that the owner of their contract, Anska, would return from the wilderness outside. The barman, a wizened old man who went by the name Ikor, told them she had gone hunting to help replenish his larders.
So, they waited patiently for her, the map given to Cain spread out between them. Athis was going over notable locations that were marked on it, and giving the newly arrived Redguard a small history lesson on the holds and their capital cities. They passed the time like this for a few hours, until evening set in and the mine workers all bustled into the tavern after a long day underground. It soon grew too rowdy to continue, so the shield-brothers ordered their own drinks and joined in on a few card games, their eyes occasionally straying to the inn door.
Around eight o’clock, the door opened wide and a flurry of snow blew in around a hooded figure that pushed their way inside where it was warm, and threw a deer carcass on the floor. Pulling off layers of thick clothing, a pretty young Nord woman of about thirty years old started warming her hands over the large fire pit, and yelling back to the old barkeeper.
“Ikor! Come drag this beast downstairs and get some of these louts to dress it, yeah? We can square up later �" I need a hot drink right about now. Any of that spiced wine left?”
“That must be her,” Cain said to his friend.
The Redguard looked back in Anska’s direction, feeling a little warmer than he did before. She was tall for a girl �" nearly six feet he figured, and slender, with blonde hair that had been braided into one long length that fell down her back, stopping just shy of her hips. Unlike most of the Nords he had seen, Anska had deep brown eyes instead of the blue shades that were so common in the northern lands. But that suited her very well and were far more appealing to the young man, who was suddenly shaken from his daze when he received a punch on the shoulder.
“Quit staring, damn it,” laughed Athis. “She’s a beautiful girl but your starting to border on leering �" don’t wanna make the lass uncomfortable!”
Cain shook his head and rubbed a hand over the tender spot where Athis had hit him. “You’re right, we shouldn’t scare her off. [censored], if she isn’t one of the most beautiful women I’ve ever laid eyes on though, mate. Should we go introduce ourselves?”
“I’ll handle that part, said Athis. “You look too nervous. Go to the bar and order us some more mead, and the spiced wine for the lady. I’ll meet you back here and we’ll go over the details with her.”
It was all Cain could to go keep his cool and order their drinks from Ikor without constantly glancing back over this shoulder at Anska. And Athis, too, but his friend’s history lessons were far less appealing at the moment. The barman handed him their drinks and a pot of boiling water to float the spiced wine in so that it would warm up quickly for the lady. Balancing it all on a wooden tray, Cain gingerly walked back to their table and set it down with shaky hands, trying his best not to spill it all over the place.
Drinks ready to go, he sat back down next to Athis and tried his best to keep cool while introducing himself to the young maiden. “You’re Anska, I take it? My name is Cain, pleased to meet you.”
“Redguard huh?” she asked, smiling jestfully at him. “Don’t see to many of you in the colder regions like this. How do you like our snow? Even in a summer month like this, it never fully melts.”
“It’s a nice change from the humid months on the Gold Coast,” said Cain. “To be perfectly honest, I’m surprised that radiant smile of yours doesn’t melt off all the snow around here.”
Athis snorted into his mead and tried to cover up the sound with poor results.
“[censored], that was so dumb,” sighed Cain. “Ignore me, I never was good at this sort of thing.”
Anska laughed and it was a delightful sound that Cain couldn’t help but smile at, and would likely never forget. “Better than what most of these morons around here try,” she said. “Usually one of the miners will just saunter up to me and ask for a quick [censored] behind the smelter, like I’m supposed to be in awe of their blunt ‘manliness’. Not that I don’t appreciate the interest, Cain, but we have a job to get to.”
The dunmer cleared his throat. “Quite right, miss. However, our contract details were lacking just that �" detail. What are we going to be doing exactly? And where are we going? Our Harbinger only mentioned that it was a barrow somewhere up north.”
“I need your help in High Gate Ruins, up on the shoreline. There supposedly is a scroll buried within the tomb that I’ve been after for some time now. But I don’t think it will be easy to find, which is why I called on the Companions for help.”
“Any idea what we’re dealing with in there?” Cain jumped in.
“Dragur, for the most part,” said Anska. “There could also be a Dragon Priest, too, if the old historical records line up. Vokun, was his name, I think.”
“Now I see why Vilkas wanted you to tackle this job, Cain,” said Athis. “Our newest member here is adept at restoration magic, from his time dealing with Ayleid ruins in Cyrodiil. Looks like you’ll be getting your first taste of Skyrim’s undead!” Athis paused for a moment. “I don’t like the sound of that last bit, though. Dragon Priests are no joke, and even the most season warriors would do well to be cautious.”
“Exactly,” said Anska. “We have our work cut out for us tomorrow. Get some sleep and we’ll head north at dawn. If we march quickly we should reach the coast by sundown, and be able to make camp for the night. Hope you dressed warmly, Redguard!”
The young Nord took her leave of them for the evening and headed back out into the cold, bound for her own home on the outskirts of the village. Cain longingly watched her leave and his eyes lingered on the door for a few minutes after she had left. He looked forward to the next day, and even the cold weather and strange lands didn’t seem daunting any longer.
Athis gave him another tap on the shoulder to break the sway over him. “Boy, she really did a number on you, huh? Just keep your head clear when we’re back at it, okay? Last thing I need is to return to Jorrvaskr alone because you couldn’t keep your eyes off her ass while a dragur swung its axe at your head.”
“No promises,” laughed Cain. “S’pose we should get some shut eye, though. I’m turning in for the night �" see you bright and early.”
------------------------------
A loud knock on Ulvon’s chamber door startled him. The Arch-Master had been engrossed in more reports that were shared with him by the High King of Skyrim’s agents, and he was not expecting any visitors at such a late hour. Fuming silently at the disturbance, he briefly thought about staying quiet in hopes that whomever it was would simply give up and leave. However, a second knock dispelled that notion and his response was rather terse.
“Oh, just come in already, you dirty fetcher.”
The door creaked open and one of the new young aides poked his head in. “Sorry, sir, I know you didn’t want to be disturbed, but I felt it was urgent enough to warrant the interruption.”
“Get in here and sit down,” he ordered. The Arch-Master wracked his overworked mind for a few seconds while he tried to recall the aide’s name. “Salis, right? What could be so urgent that you thought to defy my standing orders for the evening?”
“Um. The delegation from Skyrim is going to arrive ahead of schedule. Runners spotted the caravan approaching Blacklight before the sun went down �" they should be here by midday tomorrow.”
Ulvon threw down the document he had been reading in frustration. “Tomorrow? We weren’t expecting them for three more days at the earliest! Have the representatives from our other Houses arrived yet? We cannot even consider to begin the talks without all parties present.”
“House Telvani will, understandably, be the last to arrive, but it won’t be until Fredas,” said Salis.
“I guess we’ll have to entertain the Nords for a few days, then,” sighed the Arch-Master. “Do we know who they are sending? If it’s just diplomats I will pull out what remains of my hair by week’s end.”
“Some diplomats, yes. I believe there will also be some of the king’s own family members �" it’s said he likes to have a personal touch in these matters, even if he can’t be present himself.”
The Arch-Master dwelled on that for a second. He hadn’t heard much about the High King’s family, but if he was willing to send them across the land for matters like this, then he must have a lot of confidence in their abilities as statesmen. Or that they could handle themselves as well as the king himself could. Ulvon couldn’t help but admire the boldness of such action �" in his own long life, the Arch-Master kept his family firmly out of the political machinations he nearly always found himself in.
“I think I should like to meet these family members, Salis. It’s a curious thing to see royalty on long journeys like this, no? Tamriel is a dangerous place, not to be traveled lightly �" even if it is just across the border your neighbors. I can’t help but wonder if they have also been to High Rock or Hammerfell, too. Hm, I guess we shall find out. Thank you for bringing this to my attention, Salis. Please notify the other Houses of the Nords’ imminent arrival.”
“At once, sir,” replied Salis. The eager young aide left in a hurry, bound for the communications office.
Picking up another document to read, Ulvon found he could no longer focus on his paperwork. Instead he began to devise a way to use the current situation to his advantage �" maybe he could host a couple of informal gatherings to let everyone mingle and talk without the onus of diplomacy breathing down their necks. And whether or not the other Great Houses would admit it…Morrowind needed this alliance in the face of an uncertain future.
This post has been edited by Kane: Jan 8 2025, 06:09 PM
--------------------
Wrapped in furs beneath the northern lights From my cave I watch the land untamed And wonder if some becoming season Will make the angel melt in shame
|
|
|
|
Kane |
Dec 20 2024, 05:46 PM
|

Master

Joined: 26-September 16
From: Hammerfell

|
Chapter V - Journey North
The brackish marshlands of Hjaalmarch stretched out before the trio as far as the eye could see, the stench of muck and stale mire wrinkling their noses. Stunted trees and fallen logs were strewn about the dry patches and hindered their progress while Cain, Anska, and Athis slowly picked their way across the treacherous terrain. Sea birds circled overhead in greater numbers as the broad shores of the Sea of Ghosts grew nearer by the hour, and the occasional fearsome charus would emerge from the dimly lit swamp, spitting poison at them and gnashing murderous pincers.
When they finally stood on the rocky beaches, all three sat down and sighed in relief, ready to make a camp for the night and get some long overdue rest. Anska started erecting the tents while Cain and Athis gathered up driftwood and fallen branches to light and feed a roaring campfire. The cold did not bother Anska at all, her Nord blood acting as a natural barrier against the winds blowing in from the northern sea. She found it amusing to see her fellow adventurers seated as close to the flames as possible without being in them.
“I told you two to dress warmly! Even in the summer, the northern shores are cold and blustery �" there’s just less snow then the deep winters.”
“Well, I don’t know what excuses Athis has,” said Cain. “But it’s very warm in Anvil most of the year, with the city being so close to Hammerfell. I’m not that cold right now, just more so than I’m used to. Besides, I’ve been in Skyrim for less than two weeks �" I’m still acclimating.”
“Lack of warm clothing for me,” said Athis. “I should have heeded your warning and wore something more than this hide armor. Didn’t expect the winds to be so cool up here.”
“At this rate, we’ll need a bit more firewood for you to sleep comfortably tonight, boys. I think you picked the area clean, though. Cain, would you mind ranging out further with me to look for some more? Maybe we’ll get lucky and spot a horker to feast on.”
“Sure, beats catching myself on fire here. Athis, you good?”
The dunmer nodded and Cain joined Anska for a walk towards the east, keeping their eyes peeled for more driftwood, or the lumbering beasts that dotted the coastlines. For the first five to ten minutes, they walked in relative silence, making idle chitchat while trying not to let the other catch them staring. This went on for several minutes before Cain had had enough, and steeled himself to make the leap.
“Look, can we stop making this awkward and just admit to each other that there is something here? I’ve caught your eyes resting on me, and vice versa �" let’s not dance around it anymore. Would you like to grab a drink with me after we deal with High Gate?”
Anska blushed, the ruddy hue plainly visible on her pale features. “I don’t know, Cain...” The Redguard’s heart started to sink, but he did not interrupt her. “You’re very handsome and kind�"the latter of which is hard to find these days�"but we live so far apart, and you’re busy with the Companions. It’s not like you can walk up to Stonehills anytime you fancy a visit, and I’m rarely as far south as Whiterun. My home is here, in the northern reaches of Skyrim. I can’t just leave it all behind on a whim, for someone I just met. Neither would it be possible for me to live with you in Jorrvaskr. Or do you have a home I don’t know about?”
“No, I don’t have a home anymore,” sighed Cain, who was more than a little put out. “Nearly everything I own is in the pack sitting in my tent. I sold my mother’s house in Anvil before I came here, so I’ve got a fair bit of gold to my name, but that’s the extent of it.”
“Your mother...did she pass on?”
“Aye. Some sailors brought a strange disease from the southern oceans into the port about six months ago. A lot of people in town got very sick, but it affected Ma more than most. Every potion or spell we tried could not break its hold on her, and I had to endure six weeks of watching her waste away to nothing.”
The helpless feelings of that time returned to him while he spoke, the frustration flaring up inside one again. Eager for any kind of emotional release, he kicked out at a small hunk of wood and sent it soaring away. However, the pain in his foot made him regret it instantly, his toes throbbing from the force of the blow.
“Damn it, we could have used that bit of wood,” said Cain. “Sorry.”
“Don’t worry about it, I understand more than you realize,” said Anska, softly. “Both my parents died in a house fire when I was only fifteen years old. We used to have a beautiful cottage in the foothills north of Stonehills, but a stray barrage of fire arrows during a civil war skirmish struck the straw roof and set it ablaze. I was out hunting at the time and saw the smoke from afar.”
“I’m sorry to hear that,” said Cain. “I’m sure they would have been proud of who you’ve become.”
“That’s kind of you to say,” replied Anska. She dabbed at the corners of her eyes with a kerchief and then offered it to Cain.
“No, I’m okay, thank you though. I wept enough after she passed. These days, I just try to honor her memory through actions, rather than words or feelings.”
“What about your father? Was he around for you?”
“I don’t know who he is. If Ma knew who it was, she never told me. Or she ran out of time to do so.”
“I’m sure she would have liked to tell you eventually,” said Anska. “If you don’t mind me asking...what was her name?”
“Ariessa Janeel. She didn’t give me the surname, though. I think she hoped that one day I would find my father and be able to choose his name if I so desired. Would have been nice to have any kind of lead on him, but life ain’t always fair, ya know?”
“It’s certainly not. Ariessa is a beautiful name for who I’m sure was a strong woman. I’ll be sure to pray for her later.”
“I’ll do the same for your folks, Anska. Now, shall we get back to it? I haven’t grabbed a single piece of wood yet, and we’ve walked nearly a mile by now.”
“Yeah, let’s turn back and keep a better eye out. Don’t want Athis to freeze solid tonight!”
They wandered back into the campsite a short while later, both laden down with bundles of driftwood and the odd loose branch. After dumping some on the fire and setting the rest aside, Cain decided to fashion a makeshift fishing rod from one of the longer pieces and cast a line into the salty waters. He sat on a rock by himself for a while, thoughts dwelling on his mother and Anska’s family, the line bobbing up and down among the coastal waves. It was only when he didn’t even notice a fish had been hooked and struggled on the end of his line that Anska joined him, sitting down on the rock with Cain.
“Septim for your thoughts? You’ve been staring out at the horizon so intently that you didn’t even notice the fish you just lost...”
Cain jumped in surprise when she spoke. “Damn, you startled me! Did I really have a fish on? Could have used that for dinner.”
Anska laughed and it made him weak in the knees again. “Yep, now we’re stuck with Athis’ salted beef. What had you so entranced? Was it our conversations from earlier?”
“Mostly,” admitted Cain. “S’pose I was just feeling sorry for the both of us...and a little wistful on what could have been. We can go back to the campfire if you’d like �" if I stay on this rock here alone, I’ll probably lose myself in the past again.”
“I can stay with you, if you’d like. What was the old adage? ‘Misery loves company’, I think?”
He longed to sit on the shoreline with her all night, staring out at the endless blue waters and talking for hour after hour. But she’d made enough good points earlier about the difficulties involved with having a relationship beyond their current contract, and it would certainly be hard to overcome them. Instead, Cain sighed and cut the line on his makeshift pole, setting it down in the rocky sand.
“Nah, we shouldn’t leave Athis alone back there. Not fair to him that we keep wandering off together.”
The young maiden glanced back at the small campsite and smiled a little bit at the sight of their dunmer companion. “Well, it looks like he nodded off from the warmth of that blazing fire. Sure I can’t change your mind?”
“I don’t know...” mumbled Cain uncertainly.
‘”Is this about me turning you down earlier?” she asked. “Look, Cain, I’m sorry that it has to be that way...but that doesn’t mean we can’t have a little fun while we are together, does it?”
Cain turned his head sharply to face her, noting the coy smile, and the twinkle in her lovely brown eyes. Something began to stir within him, and before he knew what was happening, Anska grabbed his hand and dragged him away from the waters to one of the few trees still standing in the area. Birds scattered from the lower branches of the towering pine, startled by the cacophony of sounds coming from below them. Yet Athis slept on, blissfully unaware of the noises echoing about the coast.
This post has been edited by Kane: Jan 8 2025, 06:10 PM
--------------------
Wrapped in furs beneath the northern lights From my cave I watch the land untamed And wonder if some becoming season Will make the angel melt in shame
|
|
|
|
Kane |
Dec 20 2024, 06:28 PM
|

Master

Joined: 26-September 16
From: Hammerfell

|
Chapter VI - Awakening
The sun was set and darkness reigned over the land when Cain and Anska bashfully walked back into their campsite and took a seat around the fire. They kept catching each other’s eyes and looking away with quick smiles while they set about roasting the few fish they had caught after their brief respite. Athis began to stir when the smell of seasoned arctic char wafted through the air around them, and he awoke with a start to see his fellow adventurers making small talk. “Is that fish ready? Smells wonderful.” He plucked a piece off of the one nearest to him on the spit and chewed thoughtfully on it. “Mmm, who brought the herbs and spices? Did you, Anska? Cause I certainly didn’t and I don’t think Cain did either.” “Yeah, that was me,” said Anska. “I keep a small container of spice in my bag for when I’m out hunting. Sometimes I’ll spend a couple days in the wilds, and you can only eat bland meat so many times before it gets old.” Athis gave her a short bow without getting up. “Compliments to the chef, miss. This is much tastier than the venison jerky and dried fruits we had earlier. How many of these little beauties are there?” “Just the three,” said Cain. “Fish weren’t biting well tonight.” The Redguard plucked his own fish off of the cooking spit and dined on it while Anska did the same. All was quiet in the camp for a bit, but Athis’ keen eyes did not miss the frequent glances passing between his younger companions and tried unsuccessfully to hide the recognition as it dawned on him. Try as he might, the knowing smile would not leave his features, and it wasn’t long before Cain noticed and asked him what was so amusing. “Nothing at all,” said Athis, unconvincingly. “Just reminiscing about the old days �" you know how it is. Been on a lot of adventures like this, and sometimes the memories filter back through.” “Athis…” “Oh, alright, then,” Athis sighed. “I know the look you two keep sharing with each other, seen it plenty of times in my life. You two got, um, familiar with each other while I napped, didn’t you?” Cain and Anska blushed and tried their best to not look at each other, both of them suddenly interested in the fish they were eating or the fire blazing in front of them. Then the maiden giggled and it brought a broad smile to Cain’s face, who simply nodded towards Athis in agreement. “Well, good,” said the Dunmer. “It was obviously going to happen sooner or later, so I’m glad you two got it out of your systems before we went into High Gate. Just keep your heads on straight in there tomorrow, yeah? My gut tells me we’ll have our work cut out for us.” “You got it, boss,” said Cain. Then he yawned and stretched his arms over his head. “I think I’ll turn in for the night. Wake me if anything bad happens.” Anska and Athis bade him goodnight as Cain crawled into his tent and sealed the flaps from the brisk coastal winds and nestled down into his sleeping bag. Sleep did not come right away, but the dull murmur of conversation outside of his tent, and the gentle lapping noise of the tide setting in worked wonderfully as encouragement. Within fifteen minutes, he had fully passed out and was snoring loudly �" much to the amusement of his friends sitting around the campfire. ----- Morning came in hurry and brought an icy sleet along with it, much to the chagrin of the questors who had hoped for another warm meal and an easy load out before heading to the barrow. Instead, the trio left their campsite set up and got underway, hoping that the rain would clear out and that the sun would dry everything off by the time they got back. High Gate Ruins wasn’t very far away, and by ten o’clock they were standing inside the antechamber of the barrow, removing wet cloaks and tossing them aside. Cain look around the dusty room, noting the handful of dead draugr laying on the floor. “That’s odd, I wonder who killed these ones? They don’t seem to be decaying very much, so it must have been recently...” “About a week ago, actually,” said Anska. “I tried coming here by myself before asking the Companions for assistance. But there are far too many draugr further in for me to handle alone, and when I saw the bas reliefs depicting a dragon priest, I decided to abandon it until help came.” “Good thinking, miss,” said Athis. “Definitely,” agreed Cain. “However, I think we should iron out our roles here before we delve further in. Athis, you’re lightly armored and don’t have a shield, so I think you should lag behind me. My armor is not very heavy, but it’s more robust than your hide and furs. Anska, you mentioned a proficiency with your war axe last night?” “Yeah, it’s all I carry for things like this. My bow won’t be much use in these narrow halls.” “Okay, then I’d like you to take the rear. My longsword has a greater reach and I can use restoration magick to draw out the targets, then you and Athis can lock them up once they’re in close. If either of you get hurt, fall back to safety and I’ll tend to your wounds once the danger has passed.” Athis and Anska both agreed. Cain lit a torch from one of the nearby braziers and drew his trusty sword Ariessa, before kicking open the first door ahead of them. There were no undead in sight, so he led them ever deeper into High Gate Ruins, ever mindful for hidden traps and the draugr that silently waited to fend off trespassers that dared to enter the barrow. On and on they crept, clearing room after room and chamber after chamber of the Nordic undead that teemed within the ancient corridors of the ruins until they finally stood before an iron door with an old inscription carved into the center of it. “I think this is it, friends,” said Cain. “Vokun’s throne room lies just beyond this door. Do you want to rest here for a while, or shall we get this over with?” “Let’s kick ass,” answered Anska. “I’ve been waiting a long time to get the scroll and the end is so close! Er, that is, if you two are ready to go on.” “I’m ready, said Athis. “Okay, same plan that worked for us with the other draugr,” said Cain. “Athis, you mentioned a familiarity with these priests, yeah? How difficult will this be? “Very. Dragon Priests were the de facto leaders of the Dragon Cult, back in the Merethic Era. They were the highest ranking �" and most powerful �" men in the cult, and they took their orders directly from the dragons themselves. Expect powerful magicka to be thrown at us, and possibly even the Thu’um. Many priests were said to have achieved lichdom status, so tread carefully.” “Athis speaks the truth, Cain. Do not take this foe lightly.” “Understood,” replied Cain. “Let’s get to it.” He pushed open the door and stole quietly forward with Athis at his back and Anska circling wide to the outskirts of the throne room. The air was still and silent, but without warning the sarcophagus at the center of the room burst open, the heavy lid sliding to the ground with a loud bang, and Vokun floated up from his resting place with an unholy roar of anger. The priest floated about a foot off of the ground, a shimmering aura of magicka crackling around him, and a powerful staff clutched in right hand. Cain and Athis rushed into engage him, dodging powerful fireballs from Vokun’s free hand and the bolts of lightning issuing from the staff. Anska had found an ancient nordic bow and was peppering the monster with arrows from afar. Finally in close enough, Cain expertly swung and stabbed at the priest with his silver imbued sword, guided by an experience far beyond his age. Athis dove in at Vokun whenever he saw and opening, but it took all of his focus to not become mesmerized by the gleaming blur that was his Shield-Brother’s longsword. After several long minutes of furious battle with the dragon priest a final arrow from Anska’s new bow staggered the creature enough for Cain to end it, driving his sword up through its chin and out of the top of its head. Vokun issued one last guttural groan as the blue light faded from his eyes, and the strange mask he donned slipped to the floor while the remains of his lich form disintegrated into ash. Winded from the exertion of the harrowing encounter, Athis took a seat at the foot of the now empty sarcophagus to catch his breath while Anska joined them from her ranged position. Meanwhile, Cain sheathed his sword on his back and reached down to pick up Vokun’s mask, curious about its properties. “Strange,” he said. “What and oddly carved mask to wear, yet I can feel the magick imbued within. But it feels evil, somehow… I think we should hide it away somewhere in Jorrvaskr. Keep it from prying eyes and power-hungry ne’er-do-wells.” “Won’t get any arguments from me,“ panted Athis. The experienced Dumner looked up at the Redguard curiously. “Cain, how in the hell are you not utterly spent from fighting that monster? I get that your young, but you look as if that was just another walk around the gardens, and not a fight for our lives. And where did you learn to swing a sword like that? It looked more like an extension of your arm, rather than a blade to be wielded.” “I’ve always had a knack for swordplay,” shrugged Cain. “But a properly balanced blade should be an extension of one’s self. I forged my sword years ago, and have practiced and fought with nothing else since.” “Well, it sure amazing to watch, Cain,” said Anska, her eyes twinkling again. “And dead sexy, too, if I’m being honest.” “Stop right there, miss,” Athis interjected. “We don’t have time for you two lovebirds to go at it again. Let’s get the scroll your after and then get the hell out of here.” He staggered to his feet and took a drink of water from the canteen on his belt. “It looks like there is another room beyond those stairs up there. C’mon.” Cain and Anska both laughed, and bowed dramatically in agreement. Athis shook his head and muttered something about young people as he climbed the old wooden steps to the balcony above, and strode into the final chamber of High Gate Ruins. They descended another flight of stairs to a large stone table in the middle, its surface laden with parchment and various old books and wrapped scrolls. There seemed to be an altar of some sort just past the table, but an immense pile of rubble had fallen over it from a cave-in high above them. Cain wasn’t sure at first what about it caught his attention, but then a low sound floated into his ears and he turned back towards Athis and Anska, pointing at the fallen stones. “Do you two hear that?” Athis looked up at him. “Hear what? I don’t hear anything.” “Neither do I,” said Anska. “What does it sound like?” “Almost like a low chanting sound �" it reminds me of a choir, like you would hear during a temple service, but much lower, and I can’t make out the words.” “Hmm, are you sure you’re feeling okay after that fight?” said Athis. “Didn’t get hit over the head, did you? Cause all I see is a pile of rubble and all I hear is us.” “Aha!” shouted Anska, holding an ancient scroll in her hand. “Here it is, still sealed and everything! Ugh, it feels like it’s magickally sealed, though. I’ll might to take it to the college and see if they can get it open somehow.” Pocketing the scroll, Anska walked over to Cain’s side. “I still don’t hear anything. Should we get going? Sooner we get out of here the better.” “Yeah, okay,” muttered Cain. He had been straining his ears as much as he could, but still did not understand what he was hearing. Then he shook his head to clear it and looked around for the way out. “Let’s check up there, maybe there will be an easier way out.” Ten minutes later they stepped out of the barrow onto the northern coastline, just as the sun began to sink behind the Druadach Mountains to the west. Breathing deep sighs of relief, Cain, Athis, and Anska headed towards their campsite a short distance away, eager to rest for a while by the warm flames. They had only walked a short way when a deafening roar filled the air around them, and the sound of heavy wings flapped over their heads. Athis groaned in disbelief at their misfortune as the huge dragon glided past them before circling around and flying directly at the unlucky trio. “Ancestors preserve us! Fan out you two!” he shouted. “There’s no running from this fight, weapons at the ready!” Helpless to fight the beast without a bow and arrow, Cain resorted to flinging what few destruction spells he did know at the dragon, hoping that he and Anska could keep it distracted from Athis. The Dunmer had only his sword to fight with, and was resigned to nimbly move about in the hopes that eventually it would be grounded and open to onslaught. The minutes ticked by uncounted as darkness set in before the beast was finally grounded, and the two Companions were able to rush in with their longswords to hack away at the scaly hide. Cain attacked the dragon desperately, calling on every ounce of his innate Redguard adrenaline to whittle away at the monstrous demigod while also keeping it away from Athis and Anska. At long last, he sensed the beasts’ energy waning, and with a final plumb to the depths of his own strength, Cain seized his opportunity to end the fight. He dove forward and grabbed one of the dragon’s massive horned spikes and used it to swing himself up on its great scaly back. Athis and Anska jumped back away from the dragon and shouted in worried fear at the sight of their reckless friend mounting the massive beast, their apprehension slowly turning to awe as Cain leapt onto the dragon’s head and plunged his blade straight down through its skull with a defiant yell. He leapt off and landed on the rocky shore with a slight stagger, backing off slowly with the point of his sword still in the air while the dragon thrashed about in the final throes of death. And then it collapsed with a final, meek roar, and lay still before them. Looking at him in amazement, Anska started to speak, her voice low. “Cain, that was �"“ but she was cut off when the dead beast before them started to glow, its scaly hide disintegrating in front of their eyes, and a mystical surge of orange and white light poured forth from it, flowing straight into the young Redguard. Unsure what was happening to him, Cain dropped his sword with a clatter and knelt down as the overwhelming life force from the slain dragon imbued itself with his own soul, pushing him to the brink of unconsciousness. Finally, the flow of energy ceased and Cain was able to stagger back to his feet and look around, still slightly dazed. Athis and Anska both stared at him in wonder. And then a strange rumble of thunder echoed throughout clear skies, followed by incomprehensibly loud voices speaking in an ancient tongue. DO-VAH-KIINThis post has been edited by Kane: Apr 28 2025, 01:04 PM
--------------------
Wrapped in furs beneath the northern lights From my cave I watch the land untamed And wonder if some becoming season Will make the angel melt in shame
|
|
|
|
Kane |
Dec 20 2024, 06:49 PM
|

Master

Joined: 26-September 16
From: Hammerfell

|
Chapter VII - Unforeseen Events
The esteemed members of the Elder Council were all circled around a massive conference table deep within the White-Gold Tower, grim faced but listening with rapt attention while the chancellor, Anilay, briefed them on the latest intelligence from operatives in Skyrim. Titus Mede II would be arriving shortly, but he had instructed his right hand to get things moving during his brief absence from the chamber.
“So, it is true, then,” asked one of the fat Imperials. “The rumbling echo we heard over the Jeralls came from the Greybeards again? For the second time in thirty years? I find that hard to believe, Anilay.”
“It’s already confirmed, Sentius,” said the chancellor. “There is no mistaking it �" another of the dragon blood has been revealed. Whether or not it’s in relation to the high king is not known at this time. Furthermore, we have no idea who this newcomer is, or where in Skyrim they might be.”
A loud bang marked the entrance of the Emperor, who flung the doors open wide and startled the councilors huddled around the expansive table. He walked purposefully towards the head of the table and took a seat in his small throne, gesturing the others to be seated as well.
“Ahem. I take it Anilay has begun the briefing? Very good. Now, I know we did not anticipate this happening again, but I’m pleased to report that an operative in Winterhold has learned the identity of this latest threat: a Redguard named Cain. I don’t know what machinations led him north to Skyrim, but he just slipped through our fingers. Apparently, he used to be a member of the Fighter’s Guild in Anvil, and only left the Heartland a few weeks ago.”
“What prompted his departure, my lord?” asked another councilman.
“That is unclear, but we are looking into it. He is now currently in the employ of the Companions in Whiterun, and we have men getting into position both there, and in Solitude. If all goes well, we will seize him before the high king’s people can do so, and persuade him to work with the Imperial Legion.”
“But will he be loyal to us, sire? It’s an awful risk to bring him here �" what if he feels a strong allegiance to the dragon blood? There is much about the pure-blooded Dragonborns we do not yet know…”
“In light of the circumstances, it’s a risk we must take to ensure the longevity of the Empire,” said Titus Mede II. “Skyrim cannot be allowed to amass so much power on their own. A single Dragonborn king is bad enough �" two would be unfathomable. That is all I have to say on the matter for now. Please return to your duties and we shall convene again when more is known.”
The various lords and ladies of the Elder Council filed out of the room while the Emperor remained seated, waiting to converse quietly with Anilay, his right hand in all matters. Once the room had otherwise emptied, they began to pore over classified documents and iron out just how they were going to secret the Redguard away, all the way back down to the Imperial City.
-------------------------------
Ulvon looked around the packed dining hall at the gathered council members and diplomats, hardly daring to believe that relations with Skyrim had progressed so quickly in the last five years. However, the absence of certain delegation members did not go unnoticed to the Arch-Master’s keen eyes, and he subtly flagged down his young aide. The young elf bobbed up to his side with an inquiring look.
“Tell me, Salis…were there not supposed to be two members of the king’s family in this delegation? I had looked forward to meeting such people, and hoped to catch a glimpse into his inner circle through such prominent figures.”
“Ah, yes,” answered Salis. “I asked about that when they arrived, while we recorded their information for our records. Apparently, recent events in Skyrim have forced the two missing members of the delegation to hasten back home.”
“Recent events? What could be so urgent?”
“Well, there are rumors that another Dragonborn has emerged. And we’ve also received reports of a dragon attack that resulted in another village being burned to the ground.”
“Hmm,” sighed Ulvon. “Those are both troubling events indeed. It’s been some years since the last dragon attack, hasn’t it?”
“Yes, sir. At least twenty years, I should think.”
“And another Dragonborn emerges from the shadows. Curious. The Elder Council must be feeling very squeamish right about now, with another legendary figure in the picture. Every day, the walls close further in upon their worthless hides.”
“Should we still start the conference without the missing delegates, sir?”
“We’ll leave that up to our guests, Salis. For now, grab a drink and mingle. After all, we are here tonight to forge new connections, not to worry ourselves with matters abroad.”
The young aide bowed his head and departed in search of the wait staff, and a stiff bulb of Sujamma.
-------------------------------
Anska and Athis stood motionless, mouth agape at the sight before their eyes. Cain rose from the ground, sword in hand, and sheathed it in the scabbard slung across his back. He stared at the skeletal remains of the dragon they had just slain, his thoughts in turmoil about what it all meant. Turning to his friends, they noted the faraway look in his eyes and rushed forward to see how he was doing.
“Are you alright, lad?” asked Athis. “That was one hell of a feat, but you don’t look very happy about what’s just happened to you…”
“Dragonborn,” Anska whispered. “I can’t believe it. And here I thought you couldn’t get any sexier after that battle with Vokun,” she laughed. “Never thought I’d see you climb atop a dragon and slay it so easily �" it’s like you were born for it! Oh, I guess you were, eh?”
Despite everything that happened, Cain felt himself smiling at Anska’s ability to inject some levity and disarm the situation. “Bet you wish you hadn’t turned down that date, huh? Anyway, I feel a little shaky, but fine otherwise. Apart from there being the life experiences of a dead dragon bouncing around my psyche, that is. Can we go back to camp now? I’m exhausted.”
“I bet you are,” said Athis. “I’ll lead this time, you two follow me.”
They walked in silence for a few minutes, until Cain couldn’t help but seek answers from Anska, hoping that his Nord friend would be able to share some insight. “This is a big deal, right? Isn’t the king a Dragonborn, too?”
“’Big deal’ is an understatement, Cain. He was supposed to be the last Dragonborn, according to the ancient prophecy. I’m afraid you’re in uncharted waters, and there is little I can offer you in the way of aid. My only advice would be to visit the Blue Palace or High Hrothgar, but I suspect you will be sought after before long no matter what. The entire land knows you are out here somewhere.”
“Keep it secret, Anska, I beg of you,” said Cain. “I feel like a fish out of water right now, and the fewer people that know, the better off I’ll be.”
“I won’t tell a soul,” she replied. “Hey, look at that…” She pointed a finger at a dark shape flying past in a hurry. “Am I crazy, or did that look like a raven? What would such a bird be doing up here on its own? The gulls normally drive off such beasts, and hoard the shorelines to themselves.”
“I think that was indeed a raven. Odd, but maybe it has something to do with the dragon? I swear I saw a hawk earlier, too, and wondered why it was so far from the inland forests.”
“Strange signs indeed, Cain. I’ll ask the wise woman when I get home. She may know something of what those signs could mean. I’ll write to you if she has any insight.”
Back at the campsite, Athis decided the feats they just pulled of were worthy of a hearyt dip into their supplies, and with Anska’s help he soon had a seasoned leg of goat cooking over a roaring campfire while they drank mead and celebrated their companion. Cain was unaccustomed to being lauded so highly, and spent the evening blushing and waving them off. But Athis and Anska were having none of it, and despite being tired, the trio drank and sang long into the night, their odes and toasts filling the coastline with an unnatural din.
But when dawn broke over them the next morning, the joyous feelings of the previous night were subdued. They packed their tents up in silence, regretful that the job was completed and that soon they would be going their separate ways: Anska returning to Stonehills, and the Companions would be crossing the inlet to Solitude where they hoped to grab a carriage ride home.
Cain in particular was feeling down as he hugged Anska goodbye, and watched her disappear into the mist. “I feel like a part of me went with her, Athis, and that I shall never get it back.”
Athis clapped him on the shoulder. “Aye, I think we all go through that at least once in our lives, mate. But the lass is right; you two live very far apart and will likely never see each other again. Now, come on �" she said there was a ferry near here. We might be able to hit the port by sundown, if we are lucky.” The dunmer’s prediction rang true, and the sun had just begun to set when the ferryman nudged the boat into the harbor and let them disembark.
“Did we go back in time, Athis?” asked Cain with a laugh. “Were we not here just a few weeks ago, eager to grab a carriage to Whiterun?”
“Makes the head spin, eh?” said Athis. “Let’s mix things up this time just for the hell of it. Wanna head into town for a drink? The Winking Skeever has a fine selection and we can grab some rooms for the night, too.”
“Works for me, Athis. My ass hurts from sitting in that boat all day anyway.”
And so, they left the port and marched right past the Solitude Stables, heading up the long hill into the city proper. Solitude was a huge city that far outpaced the small town of Whiterun, perched on its hill in the tundra. The capital of Skyrim expanded out over the inlet, towering far above the cold waters below, and it offered every service known to man, mer, or beast. But the streets were quieting down for the evening, vendor stalls closing, and shopkeepers locking up until the morning, when everything would start all over again. Cain and Athis followed a rowdy group of citizens to the tavern, and grabbed a table near the back.
“What do you think of all this, mate?” asked Cain. “You haven’t said much about what happened yesterday…”
“Well, truth be told, I don’t know what to think. I’m sure the Companions will be honored to have you among our ranks, but my gut tells me that everything will be different now, and that you will be destined for much larger things. But my opinion doesn’t matter all that much, friend. How are you holding up?”
Cain shrugged. “I don’t think it’s set in for me yet. There’s so much I don’t know about what’s happened to me, and yet all my thoughts dwell on…something else.”
“Anska?” inquired Athis.
“Mhm,” said Cain. “I just can’t get her out of my mind, and I wish things could have been different. I’ve met a lot of women in my time, Athis, but never anyone quite like her.”
“You’ll come around in time. Eventually, she’ll be naught but a distant memory of the long past. I won’t deny that she was a remarkable woman, and I can see why she has such a hold on you.” He paused to sip his from a tankard of flin before continuing on. “This next bit of advice may seem harsh, Cain, but you would do well to forget about her sooner, rather than later. You’ll need a clear mind and razor-sharp focus for the path that lies ahead.”
“There’s truth in your words, even if I don’t like it,” acknowledged Cain. “Look, I think I’m going turn in for the night. See you in the morning, yeah?” Athis raised his tankard in agreement and downed the remainder of its contents. “Me, too. We’ll head for the stables at dawn.”
Cain tossed and turned for a long while after he extinguished the candles in his room and crawled into the plush bed and soft linens. The young man’s thoughts were filled with images of dragons, blazing fires, and missed opportunities. When he finally did fall asleep, it was a fitful slumber that was no better than the half-awake state he had been in before, but it did leave him with a sense of alertness that roused him the moment his door slipped open. He reached for the dagger on his bedside table, and slipped it under his pillow in case the intruder meant to do him harm.
He was relieved when the husky voice of Athis whisper from nearby. “Cain, are you awake?”
“I am,” came the quiet reply. “What’s the matter?”
“There are strange men filing into the tavern, and more of them out in the streets. I’m not sure what their purpose is, but I saw them accosting the barkeep. They held up a piece of paper to Corpulus - I couldn’t make out what was on it and something feels wrong about it all...”
“Well, if there are that many then we can’t hope to fight our way out of here. Too many innocent bystanders downstairs that could get hurt or killed. I think we’re going to have along with them, Athis… Stash a dagger wherever you can and don’t resist them.”
They stowed their bags away and each picked out a slim dagger that could easily be hidden, and slid them into their boots. Moments later, the door to Cain’s room burst open and five burly men with kerchiefs obscuring their faces rushed into the room, ropes and blindfolds at the ready. Cain and Athis did as instructed and were soon being led downstairs to the inn’s cellar and storage larders. A loud creaking noise echoed around them as a gate clattered open and the men pushed them onwards.
Wondering where they could possible going, Cain risked a whisper to his friend. “Is it just me or the air getting stale? Are there passages beneath the city?”'
“Maybe,” Athis whispered back. “Sewers and catacombs are more likely �" they may know a way out beyond the walls if that’s the case.” “Be quiet back there!” shouted one of the men. “No talking unless I say so!”
On and on they went, further and further through damp tunnels and iron gates, never speaking, and wholly unable to reach the short knives stashed away in their boots. After what felt like an hour of walking silently down winding corridors, they came to the foot of a staircase, and haphazardly began to climb it single file, tying not to trip over their own feet.
A final iron gate clanked open, and the men ushered Cain and Athis into a much warmer room, filled with a fragrance that Cain couldn’t quite place. Then he felt the bindings on his hands loosen and the blindfold was suddenly being removed from their faces, the bright lights of numerous torches and braziers blinding their eyes after the long march in the dark.
He gasped at the scene before him, as Athis muttered something indiscernible under his breath.
This post has been edited by Kane: Jan 8 2025, 06:11 PM
--------------------
Wrapped in furs beneath the northern lights From my cave I watch the land untamed And wonder if some becoming season Will make the angel melt in shame
|
|
|
|
Kane |
Dec 20 2024, 07:53 PM
|

Master

Joined: 26-September 16
From: Hammerfell

|
Chapter VIII - Bloodlines and Reunions
Cain had expected to be standing in the middle of a dungeon, rather than the lavish room that he and Athis now found themselves in so late at night. Two guards were posted near the large gate they had entered through, and by another stout wooden door at the opposite end of the room. Wondering what would happen next, Cain got his answer when the locked clicked, the other door swung open, and the robed figure of a shorter woman entered, a hood drawn over her head.
“Names?” she asked. “And don’t bother trying to lie, we have ways of finding out the truth.”
“Athis, of the Companions.”
“Cain, also of the Companions.”
“Very good, thank you for the display of honesty.” The woman lowered her hood and gazed intently at them. “I am Sybille Stentor, court wizard to the High King of Skyrim. I know that it is a very late hour, but you have been brought here for a reason. Please freshen up in the basin over there, and knock on the door when you are finished. The king has requested an audience with you, mister Cain, but you and I have a few things to go over first.”
“The king?” asked Cain in disbelief. “Are you [censored] serious?”
“Yes, I am.”
“Then what was with all the cloak and dagger? Couldn’t you have just asked nicely? We’re in your own damn city, for Leki’s sake!”
“All will be explained in good time,” said Sybille. “Now, please clean yourself up.” The wizard walked over to his companion. “Sorry for the scare, Athis, but we had to move quickly. Mirabelle and I both thank you for the timely message you sent to us �" without it, we would surely have missed our opportunity. Please clean yourself up and then head back to the Skeever to await further orders.”
The tall dunmer bowed his head. “Of course, ma’am. I’ll be waiting in my room.” Athis turned to Cain and placed a hand on his shoulder. “Good luck, friend. I think you have a long day ahead of you…”
“Are you some sort of spy?” asked Cain. “Is that why you volunteered to go with me on that job? So that you could keep tabs on me?”
“I was asked to accompany you, yes. But not for any nefarious reasons, Cain. I’m still a member of the Companions, I just choose to work for the king as well. We’ll all need to work together in the coming days, and I’m sure you’ll find others like me around Skyrim. Take care of yourself, and trust that our king knows what he is doing. You’re in good hands.”
Cain frowned, but then he nodded, smiling slightly. “Next time I’m in Whiterun, we are going to have a conversation about honesty, mate. Be safe.”
Athis followed Sybille out of the room, leaving Cain to tidy himself up for the long hours ahead of him. The basin she had indicated was filled with warm water, and a bar of lavender soap rested on the edge of it, giving off the light fragrance he had smelled when first entering the room. He rolled up his sleeves and dipped his dirty hands in the water before grabbing the soap and scrubbing down whatever he could without removing all of his clothes and giving the guards a show. Once he finished cleaning up and drying off, Cain moved towards the wooden door and gave it a hard rap.
It opened right away and Sybille Stentor pulled him into the next room. This chamber was a little bigger than the last one, and it had a broad table resting in the center with several ornate chairs around it, and a chandelier sconce illuminating the surface. Cain noticed a curiously long roll parchment laying on the table and he moved in closer to examine it.
“As I said before,” began Sybille. “We have a few things to go over �" the first of which, is this incredible scroll you see unfurled on the table here. Do you realize what it is?”
“It seems to be a rather elaborate family tree,” noted Cain. “Very expansive, but hard to make out the names without a magnifying glass.” The Redguard’s flame of curiosity had been stoked, and he posed a question of his own to the wizard. “Where did you get it from?”
“She didn’t tell you what she was after? Curious.” Sybille beckoned him to step away from the table, then she grabbed the scroll and rolled it back up, then handed it to him. “Recognize it now?”
Cain studied it for a moment, his brow furrowing. “Oh, [censored]. This is the scroll we helped Anska find! How did you get this!”
“We can discuss that later. For now, I would like you to roll it back out and read the name at the head of the tree. Here, you can use my looking glass.” She handed him a small focusing lens, and waited patiently while he smoothed the scroll back out and place weights on the corners, to keep it in place.
Stooping over the table to get a good angle on it, Cain peered through the lens at the name scrawled on the very top of the immense, flowing tree of names. “By the Nine �" Ysgramor! Isn’t he pretty much the most fabled of all legendary Nords?”
“Indeed, he is, and that’s why the girl wanted the scroll, though she didn’t realize how special it truly was.” Sybille gestured to a point near the bottom, far off to the side. “Look here and you’ll see that her theories were correct.”
He moved the lens down to where her finger had indicated, and gasped at the name written there: Anska, daughter of Freca and Astra. “Amazing!” exclaimed Cain. “So, she was trying to prove her lineage! Wait, you have this scroll now, though �" does she know?”
“She does, yes,” said Sybille. “However, I think the gravity of this document hasn’t become apparent to you yet, mister Cain. Think about it �" this scroll has been buried deep in High Gate Ruins for thousands of years �"“
“And her name is on it somehow,” he finished. “Fascinating. Is it some sort of living document?”
“Essentially, yes. A powerful magickal artifact enchanted by means that have long been forgotten. I suspect some sort of charm involved with Ysgramor’s blood was a part of the process, so that it would continue to grow over time.” She paused for a moment before taking the lens from Cain and moved it further down the center, to the very bottom of the ever-long family tree. “But this is why you are truly here, Cain. Take a look, and tell me what you see…”
Cain lowered his head again and peered through the focus, at the short name that Sybille had indicated. “This can’t be right. There is no way �"“
He was interrupted by a sudden clamor outside of the room they were in. Raised voices could be heard growing nearer, shouting about something he couldn’t quite make out. Cain looked over at Sybille to gauge if ought to be concerned, but she merely shook her head.
“Oh, dear,” said the wizard. “I had hoped we had more time. Brace yourself, mister Cain. A lot of things are about to change for you.”
The din outside grew to new heights as it drew closer, and then, quite suddenly, the door swung open very forcefully and thudded heavily off the stone wall it rested in. Two young women stood in the doorway, gazing intently into the chamber. The closer of the two was about the same height as Cain, maybe a touch shorter, with long black hair, hazel eyes, and a long scar down her left cheek. Behind her, the second woman was shorter, but with equally dark hair that fell to her shoulders while a small braid wrapped around her head like a natural crown. Her eyes were a deep blue that Cain found entrancing, and she had a look of worry etched into her features.
The closer of the two glanced Cain up and down, then looked over his shoulder at Sybille Stentor. “Is it him, then?” she asked the wizard.
“Yes, this is Cain of Anvil, now with the Companions,” Sybille stated.
Cain took a step forward just as the tall woman entered the room and walked up to him. She stared into his eyes for a few seconds, and then her mouth formed into a broad smile that nearly stretched from ear to ear. Before he knew what happened, she had grabbed him in a bone-crushing hug that lifted him from his feet with a strength that her size betrayed, all while she squealed with delight.
“Linneá, you put him down this instant!” shouted the other woman. “You’re squeezing the breath right out of his lungs!”
“Oops, sorry,” said Linneá, setting him back down and stepping back a pace. “I got a little too excited �" but can you blame me?! I have a brother now!” She squealed happily again and then led him back towards the door. “Cain, this is Serana, my wife and better half. Oh, and I’m Linneá, if you didn’t already pick up on that.”
They were interrupted by a small cough from Sybille Stentor. “Linneá. Would you please give the young man a few minutes to digest all of this? I had only just shown Cain his place in all of this before you burst into here and accosted him.”
“[censored], I’m sorry, I couldn’t help myself. How are you holding up, brother?”
“I, uh…I,” began Cain. “I need some air. This is too much �" can I go somewhere alone. To think?”
Sybille nodded understandingly, while Linneá looked slightly put out. “Yes, of course. Serana, could you please escort him to the balcony gardens? It’s very peaceful up there.”
“Absolutely. Come with me, Cain,” said Serana. “It’s not far.”
He followed her from the room and up a flight of steps that led further into the Blue Palace, lost in thought and the overwhelming emotions that flooded his mind and soul. Cain walked mechanically, barely noticing his surroundings while he followed his newfound sister-in-law down a long corridor towards a small door set into an exterior wall.
Serana stopped before pulling it open and placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder. “Hey, I’m sorry about Elle �" she’s a very strong-willed woman, and can get ahead of herself sometimes. Take all the time you need out there. The gardens are a serene, peaceful place that are perfect for unwinding one’s self. Or for meditating, if that is something you practice. I’ll wait out here, please rejoin me when you are ready.”
Cain nodded and stepped out into the gardens. They were teeming with plants of various types, flowers blossomed by the swarm summer air, and towering trees rising from massive planter boxes. But it was still the early hours of the morning, and he found himself bathed in the white light of Secunda as he walked towards the edge and looked over the wall at the city below. How long he stood there in turmoil he did not know, but eventually his reprieve was broken by a small sound coming from a pathway behind him.
Curious, Cain stepped away from the balcony’s edge and moved down the path towards the source of the noise, and was surprised to see another person out here with him, seated on a bench beneath a juniper tree. Recognition slammed into him like a bag of stones as he approached and took a seat next to the moonlit figure.
“Anska! What are you doing here! I �"“ Cain stopped short when she looked at him, her eyes puffy and swollen while tears streaked down her face, a small kerchief clutched tightly in her hand. “What’s happened?”
She leaned her head against his shoulder and continued sobbing for a moment before catching her breath. “Stonehills is destroyed, burned to the ground. That [censored] dragon must have done it before it stumbled onto us outside of High Gate. Everything I have, everyone I knew �" gone. Dead. Destroyed. I have nothing left.”
Cain exhaled softly, suddenly unbothered by everything that he’d been through this night. Somehow, it all seemed small in comparison to what Anska must be going through, and he found himself wanting nothing else but to offer some comfort to the grieving woman. He gently ran his fingers through her hair, understanding all too what it was like to lose nearly everything. They sat there for a while, neither speaking a word, just grateful to have some amount of company during uncertain times.
Eventually, Anska dabbed at her eyes with the kerchief and sat up straight, looking pointedly at Cain. “Did Sybille show you the scroll?”
“Aye, that she did,” said Cain, heavily. “But how did you get here with it so quickly?”
“She showed up at Stonehills just after I got back. Found me laying in the snow, completely out of sorts at what I had returned to find. I’m not sure how Sybille knew to find me, but the court mages have practices that we know little about. I think she was only there for the scroll, but recognized that she couldn’t leave me to die there.” Anska sniffled loudly, and then continued on. “Did she show you how you’re tied into all of this?”
“Yeah, she did,” nodded Cain. “And then my half-sister showed up and nearly hugged me to death. I didn’t even have time to process anything �" it all happened so quickly. That’s why I came out here for some air. Didn’t even know you were here…”
“Well, at least you have a home now,” Anska sighed. “I suppose I can settle for bragging that I slept with a prince the next time I hit the bar.”
“Anska, I don’t even know if I want all of this,” he gestured at the palace around them. “Three weeks ago, I was just another recruit in the Companions, and now I’m Dragonborn and heir to the throne of Skyrim. Part of me wants to just run away from it all, and to go live in the mountains somewhere. But I don’t think I’ll ever be able to escape it.”
“You’re also too honorable for such an act, Cain. Like it or not, this may just be the life you were born for.”
“Maybe so. I don’t want to do it alone, though. Would you stay by my side through this �" as a friend? I don’t have any others right now.”
“What about Athis?”
“He’s headed back to Whiterun soon. That’s a whole other story we can get into later.”
Anska got up off the bench and pulled Cain to his feet. She wrapped her arms around him and spoke softly. “Then I will stay by your side for now.”
Cain returned the embrace firmly, and then steered her back towards the door. “We should get back at it then,” he said. “My sister-in-law is waiting for me, and I’m supposed to have an audience with the king himself.”
“Do you really?” asked Anska, her eyes wide. “Tonight?”
“Probably as soon as we get back. And yes �" I want you there with me.”
She nodded and together they stepped back into the corridor where Serana had been patiently waiting. “Ah, I see you found a friend, brother!” her eyes twinkled knowingly, but then she caught herself. “Er, sorry, I can call you by your name if you’d prefer. We did only just meet.”
“’Brother’ is fine, if you’re okay with that. I’m looking forward to meeting everyone.”
“Rest assured, they are excited, too. All of this has caused quite the stir and the air hasn’t been this palpable since Elle and I got married! Speaking of which…” Serana stopped talking and frowned in concentration. “Yes, they are ready for you.”
“Um. How do you �"“
“All in good time, brother. Now, let’s be off! We are headed for Dad’s private study!”
This post has been edited by Kane: Jan 8 2025, 06:12 PM
--------------------
Wrapped in furs beneath the northern lights From my cave I watch the land untamed And wonder if some becoming season Will make the angel melt in shame
|
|
|
|
Kane |
Dec 21 2024, 01:40 AM
|

Master

Joined: 26-September 16
From: Hammerfell

|
Chapter IX - Family
Kirin Windborne, the High King of Skyrim, paced back and forth across the stone floor of his study tucked deep within the Blue Palace, his mind racing at everything that had come to light within the last day. He had awoken that morning with only one thing on his mind �" the delegation arriving in Morrowind and the possibility of allying with a powerful neighbor as a means to safeguard themselves against the Aldmeri Dominion. In hindsight, he found that he cared very little about it now that his family was growing again. I have a son, he thought. A son! I bet Linneá is beside herself…
“You will wear a path in the stone if you don’t stop that frantic pacing, husband,” came a voice from behind him.
Lydia, the High Queen lounged on her favorite ornate chaise and watched the king anxiously tread the same path over and over. Not one for the extravagance that came with their status, Lydia wore a simple white robe and a small tiara woven from vines she herself had pruned from the private gardens behind their residence. Pink blossoms from the Gildegreen had been preserved by her daughter and set into the tiara as gift on her fiftieth birthday, elevating the simple crown to a beauty that was hard to match.
“You’ll have to forgive me, dear,” said Kirin. “This is not something I anticipated �" not in my wildest dreams!” Realizing he hadn’t addressed something important, he stopped pacing and joined his wife on the chaise. “How are you dealing with all of this? I know it’s unexpected for everyone, but it also doesn’t exactly reflect kindly on my, uh, past behaviors…”
“Well, it wouldn’t be fair for me to angry with you about it, so I’m reserving judgement until I meet him. How old did you say he is?”
“Twenty-nine, according to the census records we’ve been able to find.”
“So, then you would have met his mother before you left Cyrodiil? Like I said, I can hardly be angry with you over that, but you’ll have to be patient with me if I show a touch of jealousy. That also would make him about two years older than Linn, and first in line as your successor.”
“Succession is the furthest thing from my mind right now,” said Kirin. “This needs to be about us, first and foremost. All of us.”
“What about Kyne? Does she know yet?”
“Linneá reached out earlier, but I don’t know if she will be visiting tonight. We are throwing a lot on Cain all at once, and introducing our own personal Divine might be too much for him to handle. I’m told he already needed some space after our daughter arrived.”
Lydia rolled her eyes. “Hard to imagine why,” she giggled. “It’s not hard to imagine how that would have gone. Hopefully Serana was there to keep her reined in!”
Footsteps began to echo up the long corridor outside of the study, announcing the arrival of those who would be attending the ad hoc get-together so early in the morning. Kirin gave his wife a quick peck on the cheek and winked at her while getting to his feet and moving to stand impassively behind his desk.
“Er, how do I look, Lyds?”
“Like a king,” she laughed. “And like the patriarch our family needs right now.”
The footsteps grew closer until they ceased, and then came a small knock at the door, followed by the exasperated sigh of an impatient young woman. “Oh, for [censored]’s sake, just open the door Sybille.”
Shaking his head as the door opened, Kirin took a deep breath to steady himself. The door swung open and in marched a small group with two unfamiliar faces in the midst of it. Sybille Stentor stepped forward and started to address the king and queen.
“My lord and my lady, may I present to you �"“
“Hush, Sybille, don’t be so formal all the time,” said Linneá.
“Elle, the occasional bit of decorum won’t kill you, ya know,” said Serana. “Some things should be a little more formal than you make them.”
“Ahem.” Kirin cleared his throat looked sternly at his daughters, indicating them to get on with it.
“Oops, sorry dad,” said Linneá. She grabbed Cain (who had been silent up to this point) by the arm and yanked him forward. “Without further ado, I present this very handsome - and tall - hunk of Redguard meat. Cain, this is Kirin and Lydia: High King and Queen of Skyrim, and our parents. Well, sort of. Ugh.”
“Charming, Linn,” said Lydia, shaking her head. ”Next time, just let Sybille do her job, will you? Please come in and be seated. Sybille, we’ll call for you if needed.”
The court wizard bowed her head and left, leaving the remainder of the group to take a seat among the many chairs and lounges in the cozy study. Linneá and Serana didn’t hesitate to rest on another chaise, snuggled up against each other while they watched with anticipation. But Cain did not sit down yet, and Anska stayed firmly by his side.
“I, um…,” began Cain. “I’m not sure how this works. Should I be kneeling right now, sir?”
Linneá giggled, and Lydia shot her a look of daggers. Rising from her seat, she took the young man by the hand and shook it warmly. “You don’t have to be so nervous, dear. We know this is a lot to take in, and that we probably feel like complete strangers to you. But you’re among family, if you choose to have us.”
“My wife is right,” said Kirin. He stepped forward to join Cain and Lydia, offering his own hand. “Forget about titles and customs right now, they are unimportant. It’s been a whirlwind of a day, but I’m glad you are here. And before you ask…no, I was not aware you were out there somewhere. Sybille mentioned your mother’s name: Ariessa, yes?”
Cain nodded. “Ariessa Janeel of Anvil.” He shook the offered hand and then introduced his friend. “This is Anska, by the way. I’m sure you were only expecting me, but the circumstances surrounding all of this brought us back together. She was the one who hired the Companions, and, as luck would have it, me, to search for that scroll in High Gate.”
Lydia and Kirin both greeted her warmly and offered her to sit down and get comfortable. Anska took them up on it and sat down in a chair next to Cain’s newfound sisters, nervously watching things unfold.
“Sorry about this next part, I know it might be a sore subject,” said Cain. “But for my own sake, I need to know…do you remember her?”
“Your mother?” asked Kirin. “Aye, that I do. I was only in Anvil for a few weeks at that time, and I’m foggy on what job brought me there in the first place. Hunting a vampire, I think? Doesn’t matter. I met Ariessa at the inn �" Fo'c's'le was the name, if I remember correctly. She had just sailed into port from Hammerfell, and was looking to retire from the shipping merchant life.” He paused for a second to reminisce about a much younger time in his life. But he continued soon enough: “Ariessa was…a very beautiful woman with captivating eyes. Strong, too, and fearless - much like my Lydia here. When I walked into the bar, she had just knocked some sod out cold for trying to cop a feel.”
Smiling in spite of everything that was going on, Cain couldn’t help but be glad that she wasn’t forgotten. “That certainly sounds like her. She didn’t take [censored] from anyone and made sure to raise me just the same. Mother was the reason I ended up joining the Fighter’s Guild �" said it would help me learn to fend for myself in a harsh world.”
“We needn’t into any more, ah, detail, but rest assured that Ariessa is not forgotten, nor will she ever be,” Kirin stated firmly. “And should you ever like to return to Anvil and pay respects, I would gladly join you, my son.”
A brief silence lingered in the air when Kirin finished speaking, and it rested solely on those final two words. Linneá and Serana watched with rapt attention while Anska bit her lip nervously. Lydia, had remained steadfast in support of her beloved, despite having to hear him reminisce about past indiscretions. Now, they all waited with baited breath for what would come next.
“I’m glad to hear you say such kind words about her…father.”
Kirin beamed at the young man and immediately drew him into a tight hug.
“Oof, go easy on me. I can see where your daughter gets her strength from - pretty sure she bruised a few ribs earlier!”
Kirin released him and the rest of his new family began to greet him in turn. Lydia stepped out to have a word with Sybille and within ten minutes the palace staff started rolling in trays of food and drink for them to dine on as they conversed and got to know each other. Even though it was nearing dawn, spirits soared and excitement kept them all well awake, the raucous din of a family gathering echoing down the empty halls.
Lydia and Linneá stood off to one side, talking quietly to each other just as the sun began to peek in the study window. “Do my eyes deceive me, or is there something going on between Cain and Anska? Lydia asked her daughter. “He introduced her as a friend, but they can hardly keep their eyes off of each other…”
“Noticed that too, did you? I’ll make you a bet: ten Septims says they already boned.”
Serana walked up just as she finished speaking and playfully slapped her on the arm. “Don’t be so crass, Elle!” She turned to Lydia and expanded on Linneá’s statement in low tones. “But I wouldn’t take that bet if I were you, mum. I spoke to Anska for a little while when Sybille brought her in �" poor girl was in a right state, had just been plucked away from Stonehills and dropped here in the palace with no one to talk to. I did my best to comfort her, and offer some amount of solace.”
“You did?” replied Lydia. “That was kind of you to do so, dear. Could you imagine losing everything like that?”
“Yeah, she’s got a long way to go after returning home to find her village like that,” said Serana. “However, as terrible of a tragedy as that was, the stars may have aligned for those two. Our brother was smitten with her from the get-go, and even asked her out on a date. But Anska recognized the difficulty a relationship between them would entail, what with Cain being so new to the land and living all the way down in Whiterun. She had to reject him, even if she didn’t want to.”
“That doesn’t explain why mum shouldn’t take the bet though, Ana,” said Linneá. “Did they get a little extra familiar with each other or not?”
“Well, Anska didn’t outright say anything, but there was enough to read between the lines…”
“Hah! I knew it!”
“Do me a favor, Linn,” said Lydia. “Please don’t go parading around as a matchmaker. Their entire lives have just been upended for very different reasons. Let them be, and if it happens it happens.”
“Boo, you’re no fun, mum. Hey, speaking of which…does he know about our, ah, other mum? And vice-versa?”
“No, your father and I didn’t want to dump that on him right away. And you two better not either! Kyne is aware, but we’ll leave the rest up to her for now.” Lydia took a minute to glance over at her newfound son. “He looks so tired now…I think the night has caught up to him. You two should head off to bed as well, I think it’s time to end our little soiree.”
“Good, I feel like I could sleep for a week,” muttered Serana.”
“Don’t count on it, love,” winked Linneá. “At least not right away.”
Lydia left their side to go pull Cain away from a conversation with her husband. “It’s time for bed �" that includes you, Kir. I’ll walk Cain to his quarters and show him where he necessities are. Can you do the same for Anska?”
“Will do, my queen!” said Kirin. “Now, where did the lass get to…ah, there she is.”
He went off to wrangle the young woman while Lydia led Cain out of the study and down the hall towards the living areas. The Redguard was silent while they walked, but it seemed to stem from something more than just fatigue from the long day and night he had. Lydia sensed something deeper eating at him, and couldn’t help but give in to her motherly instincts.
“Would you tell me what’s eating at you, dear? Did we come on too strongly?”
Cain shook his head. “No, nothing like that. Everyone was really nice to me, and my father was not at all what I expected. I was glad he set aside the royalty business to just speak as family.”
“But…?”
He didn’t say anything for a minute, despite the one thing that had been racing through his head for the last several hours. Cain was certain it would have come up organically, but everyone had been more interested about his experiences before arriving in Skyrim, and not about all the recent events he had found himself in.
“I didn’t get a chance to talk to him about what it means to be Dragonborn.”
“Hmm, I thought for sure it would have come up, or I’d have forced his hand a little. Tell you what �" after you get some sleep, seek out your sister before she heads back to Morrowind. She can help you if Kirin can’t pull away from his duties to talk to you.”
“Linneá? She’s Dragonborn too? That explains why she’s so strong.”
“Yes and no. She does have the same gift, but there is more to her than meets the eye. And her experience with embracing the dragon blood is much more recent than my husband’s. Linn did not want it and she actively suppressed it until about five years ago.”
“My sister suppressed a gift from the Divines? On purpose?! How is that even possible?!”
“She is uncommonly gifted in more ways than one, as you’ll soon find out. Intelligent, headstrong, precocious �" you name it. Her skill in the Voice possibly outrivals her father’s, she’s an accomplished mage, a practiced thief (don’t ask), and is extremely proficient with a blade.”
There was a lot to unpack there, but what caught Cain’s attention the most was the part about swordplay. “Adept with a sword? I’ll have to test that out with her �" I’m no slouch myself.”
“Just be ready for when she knocks you on your ass,” grinned Lydia. “Ah, here we go…you can have this room. I think Kirin is putting Anska on the floor below, but you don’t have anyone on either side, so it should be quiet for a few hours.”
Cain stepped into the room and nodded appreciatively. It was clean, spacious, and the bed looked wonderfully soft. There was even a tall bookshelf lined with numerous volumes, and a few bottles of mead on a table near the window. He stepped in and kicked off his boots, ready to crash into the plush array of blankets and pillows.
“One last thing before you go to sleep, Cain…”
He turned to face Lydia, the woman who had been kind and gracious to him even though he was a bastard son of her husband’s, dredged up from the past nearly thirty years later. “Yes?”
“I’d like to take a walk with you later today, if you have the time. Just the two of us, on a little stroll through town. And I want you to tell me all about your mother, Ariessa. I know that I will never be able to fill her shoes, but it won’t be for lack of trying on my part. Should you decide to stay here with us, and embrace this crazy family as your own, please understand that you will always be loved.”
This post has been edited by Kane: Jan 8 2025, 06:12 PM
--------------------
Wrapped in furs beneath the northern lights From my cave I watch the land untamed And wonder if some becoming season Will make the angel melt in shame
|
|
|
|
Kane |
Dec 24 2024, 04:04 AM
|

Master

Joined: 26-September 16
From: Hammerfell

|
Chapter X - Moving Forward
For the first time in many months, Cain slept peacefully. He wasn’t sure if being tucked deep within what was likely the safest place in Skyrim (or all of Tamriel for that matter) had something to do with it, but the moment his head hit the pillow, he fell into a deep, dreamless slumber. It was almost midday when he finally woke up, and even that was only due to a small knock at the door to his quarters. Sitting up in bed, he rubbed his eyes, got up and went to see who it was. The door creaked slightly while opening, and Cain found himself looking into the warm brown eyes of Anska.
“Hey,” she began, blushing at the shirtless Redguard, “I-I, uh, wanted to see if you’d join me for lunch? I didn’t sleep very well last night, but I still managed to miss breakfast somehow, and now I’m starving. Join me in finding a bite to eat?”
“Love to,” Cain smiled. “Let me grab a shirt and see if there is something other than my boots in one of these wardrobes. Come on in, should only take a minute.” He began to rummage through the furniture in the room while Anska entered and took a seat on the edge of his bed. Digging through a small chest of drawers, he finally happened upon a pair of soft loafers that were about the right size. He turned to sit down in a chair and caught Anska staring at him. “Everything alright, miss?”
“Oh, yeah, of course,” she said. “Sorry. It’s just that you never did put on a shirt and it was... very distracting.”
“Gimme a sec and I’ll throw my tunic on.” Grabbing the crumpled shirt from the floor, Cain pulled it over his head and then sat down next to her on the bed. “How are you holding up, Anska? I overheard Serana last night and she was talking about you being found in the snow outside of Stonehills...”
Anska looked away for few seconds. Cain could tell she was unwilling to speak any more about it, but he also knew from his own experiences that it couldn’t be kept bottled up. With a heavy sigh, she dried her eyes and turned to look at him again, this time with a different look on her face. He recognized the smallest glimmer of hope that rested there, amid the anguish over her lost home.
“I wanted to die,” said Anska, bluntly. “Everything I knew was gone. I had no one left, and before even that I had turned down the only person I’d met in many years who was kind to me, all because I was too scared to leave my home. I laid down in front of the smoldering remains of the tavern and wept until the tears froze to my face. If I wasn’t a Nord, I probably wouldn’t be sitting here right now. And then the wizard showed up. I didn’t even see her coming �" it was as if she simply appeared out of thin air and then she started looking around. Nearly tripped over me, half buried in the cold snow.”
Neither of them said anything for a few minutes. Cain could tell last night that Anska had been hurting, but he didn’t realize how badly it truly was for her. She was lucky Sybille had found her out there, and Cain was immensely grateful she hadn’t perished, and that they were together again; even if the circumstances were terrible. And overwhelming.
“I’m glad she found you, Anska, and I’m glad you’re here with us. At least we got our revenge on that dragon, even if we didn’t know it at the time...”
“It’s a small consolation,” nodded Anska. “But, I’ll take it.” Taking a moment to wipe her eyes again, she stopped speaking and took several deep breaths to collect herself. “Look, there was something else I wanted to talk to you about...”
“Us?” asked Cain. Anska nodded and opened her mouth to continue, but he soldiered on, not ignorant to how somethings just weren’t that important after recent events. “Anska, don’t worry about rejecting me. I was disappointed, but your reasoning was sound, and with all that’s happened to the both of us, it’s understandable if you want to just be friends. I think we’ll both need someone to lean on in the coming days.”
Anska looked at him with a curious smile, and her brown eyes rolled so far back that he couldn’t help but laugh himself. “Cain...just shut up and kiss me.”
He didn’t hesitate to do so, his mind racing at how much his fortunes had turned. And how glad he was to have misread where Anska was going with all of that. They kissed for several seconds, lost in each other’s comfort, and for that little bit of time, the cares of the world seemed small and unimportant. When their lips parted, Anska leaned back and smiled at him again.
“I appreciate that you were trying to be the good person I know you are, but don’t be so thick next time,” grinned Anska. “Something tells me you didn’t realize how hard it was to turn you down before.”
“Well, no, but -”
“The circumstances that brought me here are terrible, I agree. But I’m not going to ignore the opportunity. And I’m going to need your comfort to get through this �" my home was just destroyed and I have no family left in this world.” Anska paused to dab at her eyes again. “Just ask yourself something first...are you sure you want me right now? I have nothing left, besides your unexpected presence, and it will take me a long time to get over all of this. I’ve never felt as low as I do right now...”
“Of course I do, Anska,” said Cain immediately. “We’ll get through it together and I will help you any way that I can. Even if you do feel that low, you will never be that to me.”
She put a hand on his face and smiled gratefully before kissing him again. This time their lips remained locked together for much longer and they were just about to lean back onto the bed when a small, polite cough came from the door that Anska had left open. They separated and looked towards the doorway, each of them blushing.
“When you lovebirds are ready,” said Linneá, a sly smile on her lips. “Lunch is about to be served upstairs. Unless, you’d rather snack on each other first, that is.”
Cain sighed. “Never thought I’d get walked in on by my sister so soon.”
“Serana says I have a knack for being exactly where I’m not supposed to be at any given time. She may be right, but it certainly does liven things up. Now, come on you two �" My wife and I are departing for Morrowind soon, and mum said you’d be talking to me about something, Cain? Let’s get a move on it.”
A few minutes later they were heading down the hall outside of Cain’s room, Linneá leading them upstairs to a private dining room near the study they had all been in the night before. They stepped into the room and sat down at a large wooden table where everyone save for the High King was already seated and helping themselves to the bountiful food and drink. Cain found himself seated between Anska and Lydia, speaking politely to the latter about his accommodations.
“The room was excellent, ma’am,” said Cain. “Much more posh than I am used to and I slept like a baby. I’d probably still be sleeping if Anska here hadn’t come to find me.” He paused to take a drink, and was about to ask Lydia about the walk she had mentioned when his new sister addressed him instead.
“What did you want to ask me today, brother? We really do have to leave soon, so I want to make sure I can help you if you need it. I know I come off as a goof sometimes, but you have no idea how excited I am about all of this �" just ask Serana. She’s been complaining about me bouncing off of the walls since yesterday!”
“That’s an understatement, Elle,” replied Serana. “I haven’t seen you this wound up since that time we visited Roscrea for what was certainly not a relaxing honeymoon.”
“Can you blame me?! Now, spit it out, Cain!”
“Um. We can wait if you’re too busy �" it’s not exactly a small matter...”
Lydia placed a calming hand on his shoulder and answered for him. “He wants to speak about what it means to be Dragonborn, Linn. It didn’t come up last night during our little get-together. As you can imagine, it’s probably a little overwhelming for Cain right now.”
“Oh,” said Linneá in surprise. “Yeah, I can see why you said it’s not a small matter.” She bit her lip thoughtfully, unsure of when or how they could unpack that particularly large bag. She was supposed to be part of the treaty delegation in Morrowind, but it was also unfair to make him wait for such a large facet of what he’d become. “Tell you what...meet me at Elysium tomorrow night. I’ll make some time to get away, and we can talk privately there, in the peace and quiet.”
“Elysium?” asked Cain. “Where the hell is that?”
“Our ancestral estate outside of Whiterun,” said Lydia. “It’s been empty for a few years, but your sister is right. You’ll be uninterrupted there, which is much less likely to be the case here in the palace.”
“I think I saw that house on my second day in Skyrim,” said Cain. “Anska and I will head there at dawn tomorrow.”
An odd silence fell between them after he spoke, and Cain was unsure why. Even Linneá seemed to have frozen up, which was a strange departure from her normally outgoing demeanor. Anska noticed it, too, and was just about to interject when Lydia cleared her throat. “It may be best if you go alone, Cain. Elysium is a very...special place. You’ll be safe there but I can’t guarantee that you’ll be...alone.”
“Anska goes where I go,” he said, firmly.
Serana chuckled, drawing the attention to her instead. “You’re more like your sister than you realize, Cain. Stubborn to a fault and fiercely loyal to those you care about. I rather think it’s a familial trait, and one that binds us all more closely together than most outsiders realize.” She set down her glass and peered over the table at Lydia. “It’ll be better to get it over with quickly, mum �" I know that, er, she can be a lot to take in all at once, but it has to happen eventually.”
“I’m confused,” said Anska. “What �" or who �" are you all talking about?”
“Serana is right,” said Linneá. “I regretted not telling her sooner when it came to us. Oh, and I’m sorry, Anska, I didn’t mean to ignore you there. You will just have to wait and see.”
“Well...alright then,” replied Lydia. “I guess you two have a point.”
With the matter settled for the moment, everyone returned to their plates of food. Cain and Anska, starving from not having eaten for many hours, dug in eagerly and filled their plates three times before kicking back in their chairs and sighing wistfully. Linneá and Serana bade them goodbye and headed for their room to freshen up, leaving just Lydia in the company of the new arrivals. Something was nagging at Cain, and when he thought about meeting his sister outside of Whiterun tomorrow, it occurred to him what that something was.
“Can I ask you something, Lydia?”
“Certainly. What’s on your mind?”
“So, earlier today Anska and I were talking about Stonehills, and she mentioned your court wizard showing up there mysteriously...and just before, Linneá agreed to leave Morrowind tomorrow night and meet us at Elysium? How can you all possibly move around so quickly? I gather her and Serana are going to Blacklight? I get that that’s right over the border, but that would still take days or even weeks by carriage, right?”
“Ah,” she said. “That. It’s something we try to keep under wraps, so please don’t share it with anyone else, okay?” Lydia waited for both of them to agree, and continued on after they nodded in assent. “Linneá �" with some help �" mastered a lost magical art back when she was on her own. Mark and Recall.”
“Mark and Recall?” asked Cain. “Some kind of alteration spell?”
“I think it actually falls under mysticism. You’d have to ask her, I’m not at all magically inclined. Anyway, the gist of it is that you imbue an object to ‘mark’ it and with the recall aspect, you can teleport back from anywhere.”
Both Cain and Anska’s mouth dropped open in surprise. “And it’s instantaneous?”
“Mhmm,” said Lydia. “Very handy, as you can imagine. It’s how my daughters were able to be here at all last night. Their delegation was nearly to Blacklight already when everything happened yesterday.”
“Wow,” said Anska, a look of wonder on her face. “I never imagined magic could so such a thing. I wish now that I had looked into it more in my childhood.” She looked sideways at Cain. “You have some skill with restoration �" are you curious about learning the spell?”
“You do?” asked Lydia. “I didn’t know that about you, Cain. Linneá is very gifted and I can’t help but wonder if you could be, too. It must run on Kirin’s side...”
“Turn spells and healing are useful tools with all of the Ayleid ruins in Cyrodiil,” shrugged Cain. “However, I never had much interest beyond that. I have a natural talent with blades that outshines everything else.”
“Don’t be so modest,” Anska said. “I watched him slay a dragon priest, and then an actual dragon in short order, miss. Athis and I helped, but the way Cain’s sword moved through the air like a silver blur was...mesmerizing.”
“Interesting,” pondered Lydia. “I’d love to see you and Linn spar sometime. She’s no slouch with a sword herself.” She trailed off in thought for a moment before shaking her head and summoning the staff to clear the lunch table. “Now then, have you thought about what I said last night, Cain? Fancy a walk?” He nodded in agreement and she continued with a pleased smile. “I was hoping you’d say that. But I must insist it just be the two of us this time. Anska, please make yourself at home �" we will be back in a little while.”
This post has been edited by Kane: Jan 8 2025, 06:14 PM
--------------------
Wrapped in furs beneath the northern lights From my cave I watch the land untamed And wonder if some becoming season Will make the angel melt in shame
|
|
|
|
Kane |
Dec 31 2024, 01:49 AM
|

Master

Joined: 26-September 16
From: Hammerfell

|
Chapter XI - The Hawk and the Dove
It was a lively affair in the Arch-Master’s private dining room. The full delegation from Skyrim had finally arrived, leaving just the House Telvanni representatives pending attendance before they could formally kick off the treaty debates. Ulvon sat in an armchair near the roaring fireplace, and he was pressing a councilor from House Hlaalu on what he thought of the newly arrived daughters of the High King.
“They’re a curious pair, are they not?” he asked. “Were there any specifics in the biographical data we have on them? I had assumed they were sisters, but I see now that it goes much further than that. My gut tells me the two of them are spouses. If so, I’m surprised they found a minister in Skyrim that would wed them.”
“Oh, they are definitely married,” said Councilor Llaro. “I saw them share a kiss when they last stepped out for some air. According to the dossier we received; the taller of the two �" Linneá �" is the king’s daughter. There are also rumors of her too possessing the dragon blood, but it’s never been verified.”
“A second Dragonborn? That certainly would have the Emperor feeling a bit uneasy. Thalmor too, I should think.”
“Indeed. And now that another one has been revealed, there could potentially be three...”
“Has that been confirmed?” asked Ulvon. “Last I heard, the empire was attempting to move in on the newly revealed Dragonborn, but, to my knowledge, nothing has come of it since. I was hoping more information would have come to light by now, especially if Mede was trying to get his grubby hands on them.”
“I would wager that something important indeed has happened in Skyrim, Ulvon. Just look at the body language of those two woman. They are happily mingling and enjoying themselves far beyond the mood and atmosphere provided by this little soiree and its reason for happening. My guess is that -”
The tinkling of silverware on a crystal flute brought the noise level in the room down to dull murmur as heads turned to see who was striving for attention. The High King of Skyrim’s daughter, Linneá Windborne, stood confidently in the center of the room with Serana at her side. Smiling around the room at the assembled dignitaries, she cleared her throat and addressed both delegations.
“Ahem. I’m not one for dignified speeches, nor am I an accomplished statesmen, so please bear with me on this.” Linneá took a deep breath, and continued on. “Serana and I are honored to be here with our fellow diplomats, and are eager to formally sit down and begin discussing what we’ve traveled so far to iron out. Our reception in Morrowind, much to my wife’s delight, has been nothing short of pleasant, and we look forward to seeing more of your storied land in the future.” She paused and waited patiently for a smattering of polite applause to die down. “Now, I gather we are just waiting for the House Telvanni delegation? With that being the case, please do not hesitate to seek any of us out if you have any questions for us. Our delegation, Serana and I included, would be honored to converse with all parties on any topic you’d like. And one final thing: some of you may find me to be a bit...blunt, so please, try not to take offense. Among many things, I believe in being completely honest at all times, even if that candor can come off as rude. I also believe that if we can all be that honest with each other over the next few days or weeks, then we will have no trouble coming to an amicable agreement.”
More applause filled the room, causing her to blush while Serana gave her a pat on the ass. “You did just fine, Elle, don’t look so nervous.”
“I’m sweating so much right now. Hopefully no one wants a hug,” she whispered, before turning back to the crowd. “Thank you all very much,” Linneá went on. “I’d especially like to thank Arch-Master Ulvon for hosting this lovely get together tonight.” She raised her flute in his direction while the dunmer bowed gracefully. “Now, then �" this is supposed to be a laid back affair, so let’s crack open more sujamma and have a good time!”
She turned back to converse with Serana while the rest of the party-goers resumed mingling among themselves. Ulvon couldn’t help but appreciate her sentiment on honesty and looked forward to sitting across the negotiating table from the amicable young woman. It had been along time since he dealt with anyone who claimed to be so forthcoming, and her earnestness led him to believe she spoke the truth. Rising from his comfortable seat, he sought out the young princess.
“Excuse me, Mrs. Linneá, might I have a word?” he asked.
“You can have as many as you’d like, provided you don’t call me “missus” again, Arch-Master,” laughed Linneá. Serana rolled her eyes and tapped her playfully on the arm. “Er, sorry. Linneá or Linn is fine, Ulvon.”
“Very well, Linneá” he replied. “I couldn’t help but notice that you seemed quite jovial for an affair such as this… Tell me �" did something happen during your brief return to Skyrim?”
“Heard about that, did you?” asked Linneá. “I thought we kept that under wraps. No matter, it was nothing dire. Just an unforeseen event of which, I gather, my father has issued a formal statement on to the people of Skyrim, meaning I can share it publicly, too. A son he did not know about has been revealed to us! I have a brother!” she finished, excitedly.
“Ah, I suppose that would cause quite a stir! Might I ask: older or younger?”
“Older, thankfully,” answered Linneá. He looked curiously at her, and Linneá expounded on her statement. “I have no desire to rule, Ulvon. My wife and I had only been married for a few hours before we learned of the Moot, and with it, my dad’s ascension to the throne. We were hoping to travel and just be ourselves for a few years.”
“How interesting,” said the Arch-Master. “You know, you and the lovely Serana are not at all what I expected when we learned that you would be among the delegation from Skyrim. However, I think I see why the King sent you, which I’m assuming was more of an order?”
“Um. You could say that,” sighed Linneá. “It was definitely a lively debate in the palace, I can tell you that.”
“I see,” said Ulvon. He caught a quick motion from the corner of his eyes, and turned to see Serana waving for her wife. “It looks like duty calls for you, Linneá. Might I add one more thing before you depart from my company?”
“Certainly, Arch-Master.”
“There’s an old adage I’m reminded of from my days in Vivec City, before it fell to ruin. ‘An excellent leader is not born, but they are often wrought’. You may not aspire to the throne, miss, but my instincts tell me you would lead your people well.”
Ulvon bowed his head and moved off to a group of nearby councilors, leaving Linneá slightly struck, wondering if he knew something that she didn’t. She moved quickly to Serana’s side but the off-kilter look on her face was plain to her wife, who steered her back outside in a hurry.
“Elle, what is it? Did Ulvon offend you in some way?”
“I...uh...no, nothing like that,” said Linneá. “Just got caught off guard by his parting remarks.” She shook her head to clear it, and smiled at Serana. “I-I...[censored]. I can’t move past this. Serana, do you think I’d have been a good queen?”
Serana didn’t expect that, but answered truthfully and without hesitation. “Linneá, you’d have been an excellent queen, and Skyrim would have been lucky to have you. But I thought you didn’t want that? We argued it about it all the time with ma and da...”
“I didn’t, and I still don’t. And I never once thought of myself that way, either,” she paused for a few seconds and took a drink from her crystal flute. “Bleh, I miss your brandy vintages. Anyway, Ulvon seems to think the same way you do. I always know you’ll support me no matter what, but I don’t think I ever asked you that question directly before tonight. I guess a part of me can’t help but wonder ‘what if?’, now that Cain is with us.”
“That makes sense,” said Serana. “Look, why don’t we talk more about it later? We shouldn’t be away from the party for too long.”
“You’re right, it can wait.” Linneá pulled her in close and kissed Serana passionately for a moment before steering them back towards the door.
“Goodness, tone it down a bit, Elle! You’ve got me all flustered now!”
“We’ll sort that out later,” winked Linneá.
-------------------------------
The clamor of furniture being upended, and the endless stream of profanity echoing out of the Emperor’s private study had the guards stationed outside sweating profusely. Hoping he would not turn his wrath on them, they stood erect and motionless, trying desperately to stay completely silent. The noise caused quite a stir, and everyone in the tower within earshot of the study deftly avoided the corridor the two men guarded. Eventually, the noise subsided, and the tired old man inside the room sat down heavily in his ornate chair.
After a few deep breaths, he spoke to the one person unfortunate enough to be stuck in that room with him. “How could this have happened, Anilay? We had everything and everyone in place!”
“Ill preparation of the detachment in Solitude, sire. The men in Whiterun were ready to seize the Redguard, but the others in the capital deemed it highly unlikely he would enter their city, and so they rested on their fat asses while the king’s men secreted him away from the tavern.”
“Have they been punished?” demanded Titus Mede II.
“With extreme prejudice, my lord.”
“Excellent. And, I take it the Redguard’s lineage has been fully identified?”
“Yes. He is without a doubt the eldest of the king’s two children, and heir to the throne of Skyrim. The other unexpected bit of news to come from all of this is that they are direct descendants of Ysgramor himself, which only fuels the legacy of their family, and it’s rightful position of power they seek.”
“My throne?”
“That is the theory, sire,” said Anilay. “I think that if Kirin Windborne were to make a claim for the Ruby Throne, not even the Elder Council would deny him at this point. They hunger for the authority the empire had when a Dragonborn sat upon the throne.”
“Then, you think I ought to capitulate, Anilay? Is that it? That I should just roll over and let those barbarians waltz down here from their damned mountains and take away everything my family built for the people of Cyrodiil? Have you all forgotten that it was my leadership under which the Dominion was pushed back?”
“I would never say that, my lord. But if the rumors out of Morrowind are to be believed, then we won’t have any other course of action. If the dunmer sign a treaty with Skyrim, then we cannot hope to stand against a unified coalition of Skyrim, Hammerfell, Orsinium, High Rock, and Morrowind.”
Titus Mede II rested his head in his hands and sighed wearily, wondering how everything had gone so wrong so quickly. Five years ago, Skyrim was just another vassal state, still thankful that the empire dealt with their Stormcloak problem. The fabled Last Dragonborn had not been seen in nearly two decades, and the High Queen was a willing pawn in his machinations. Now, it all looked to be unraveling just as things were once again beginning to stir in Valinor.
“Fetch me the official parchment, Anilay,” said the emperor. “I must write a formal speech for the Council.”
-------------------------------
Elysium Estate sat on the outskirts of Whiterun City, still and quiet in the warm summer air at sundown. No lights were illuminated, no animals were nested in the stables, and the outdoor forge had long since been snuffed out. Inside the house, a lone figure sat in silence at the dining table longing for the past days when she shared meals here with her children, and laughed with them well into the night. Tears fell gently down her serene, otherworldly face, and dripped onto the empty wooden table. Hearing a small knock at the door, she dried her eyes and formally invited her sister in.
“Come, dear sister,” she called out. “I welcome you in the estate of my champions.”
Mara, the Goddess of Love, entered quietly and joined Kyne at the table, raising a perfect eyebrow questioningly at her sister. “Is everything alright?”
“Yes, quite so,” said Kyne. “I just miss the days when the rest of them were here with me. I’m immensely proud of what they’ve accomplished, but with them living in the Blue Palace, we can’t be as close as we once were. So many nights were spent around this table, but in the end it was not nearly enough. Everything happened so quickly after Linn rescued Kirin and Lydia. We barely had time to breathe.”
“I understand, Kyne,” said Mara, placing a hand on her sister’s shoulder. “Your love for each other is boundless �" it would be hard for anyone, and trust me when I say it’s just as hard for them.”
Kyne nodded and waved her hand absentmindedly. At her command, several windows blew open to let the warm breeze blow through the house, and the lanterns around the dining area sprung to life, flames dancing merrily within the glass enclosures. Everything inside had looked just the way it did when Kirin, Lydia, Linneá, and Serana had departed for their new lives in Solitude. Part of her always hoped they would return some day, but Kyne didn’t see how that would be possible.
“You never know,” said Mara sagely. She had picked up on Kyne’s train of thought, and felt compelled to offer a glimmer of hope. “Linneá seems like one who would just as soon turn away from being royalty if it meant she and Serana could be happy.”
“She certainly would,” laughed Kyne. “And now, it may even be possible...”
“Because of Cain? How did you learn of him anyway?”
“Yes, with him being first in line to succeed Kirin, I could definitely see Linn stepping out of the spotlight,” answered Kyne. “As for how I learned of him… Well… Akatosh owed me big time after what he pulled with Linneá’s dragon blood. Oh! How I yelled at him when he told me Cain had been out there all along, living an unassuming life in Anvil, away from all the hardships Kirin and Lydia went through. I tell you, Mara, I could have throttled him right then and there if I didn’t love him so.”
“I can only imagine!” giggled Mara. “But hey �" at least you got another child out of it. Have you met him yet?”
“No, but Linn reached out earlier and said they would be coming here tomorrow night. I think it’s only fair that I tell him myself. However, he will be bringing a guest, which I had not anticipated...”
A silence fell between them while Kyne wondered what she would do about the presence of Anska tomorrow night, and whether or not it was too soon for the maiden to be brought that far into the fold. I’ll have to ask Linn how she feels about their relationship, thought Kyne. She always did have an eye for that sort of thing.
Mara had also been lost in thought, but for a very different reason. With her divinity governing the broader aspects of love and compassion, the Goddess had a very deft finger on the pulse of such matters. And she did not like the outcome she was foreseeing, nor did she look forward to telling her sister, even if she must know.
“Kyne, you must be careful with this,” she warned.
“Careful?” asked Kyne. “How do you mean?”
“The threads of their love rests on a blade’s edge. Should the wrong steps be taken, or the right path be ignored, I fear that tragedy will strike, and that Cain’s spirit will be crushed under the immense weight of grief. I feel that Anska must be included tomorrow, but that their future is uncertain. They will need guidance, and you must readily give it to them.”
This post has been edited by Kane: Jan 8 2025, 06:14 PM
--------------------
Wrapped in furs beneath the northern lights From my cave I watch the land untamed And wonder if some becoming season Will make the angel melt in shame
|
|
|
|
Kane |
Jan 5 2025, 02:02 PM
|

Master

Joined: 26-September 16
From: Hammerfell

|
Chapter XII - A Walk and a Whirlwind
Tucked away behind the Bards College was a small flower garden nestled against the outermost wall of the city, and nearly teetering over the edge of Solitude’s natural arch. Butterflies floated about lazily while innumerable bees flitted from blossom to blossom, drinking deeply from their nectar. A slight upwelling from the briny waters far below carried a faint smell of salt, reminding Cain of his formative years in the city of Anvil, right on the shores of the Gold Coast.
Lost in the memories of home, he zoned out for a minute or two and failed to hear what Lydia had just said to him. “Er, sorry �" what were you saying? I drifted away for a little bit there...”
“It’s okay,” said Lydia. “I could tell your mind was elsewhere; your sister gets the same dreamy look on her face when something has her preoccupied. It’s endearing, which is why I usually won’t scold her for ignoring me.”
“Usually?”
Lydia chuckled. “Sometimes a mother has to remind her children who’s in charge. Even if said child has seen more danger in her short life than most will in several lifetimes.”
That wasn’t the first time Cain had heard someone speak of Linneá’s past deeds, but in the brief time they had together thus far, his sister didn’t seem to be very boastful. He could sense her strength and he noticed how others respected her...but part of him wondered if she played on her outgoing nature to keep others from looking to closely.
“What sort of danger?” asked Cain.
“How much time do you have?” sighed Lydia. “I’m sure she’d love to talk to you about it on her own some day, but let’s just say she’s been to some...exotic places. Not many people get to traverse a single Plane of Oblivion and live to tell about it, let alone two.”
“I’m sorry, what?” said Cain. The look of incredulity on his face brought a knowing smile to the queen’s soft features.
“Aye, two. Her and Serana had the misfortune of visiting the Soul Cairn twice, and Linneá entered Apocrypha on her own to rescue me.” ...”You can’t be serious.”
“It’s true,” nodded Lydia. “But, like I said, you can ask her about it yourself. Knowing my daughter and her lovely wife, they would both enjoy sitting around a table late into the night with you while the brandy flowed. Talk to her about it tomorrow night, if they have the time to spare.”
“But she seems so, I don’t know, humble? I mean, she’s definitely very outgoing and confident but I’m used to most people being boastful about any feats that would even begin to approach something of that scale!”
“Linn doesn’t like the spotlight, dear,” said Lydia. “Oh, is it okay if I call you that?” Cain smiled and nodded before she went on. “Okay, good. Like I said, she isn’t one for fame. It’s been hard for her since your father became High King. She, and Serana, went through a lot in the year leading up to our return, and then the Moot. If they had the choice, I think they’d have sailed off for distant lands after getting married, instead of moving into the Blue Palace. But enough about Linn �" we’re here for you, Cain. Would you like to start that walk now?”
Cain agreed and rose to his feet, offering a hand to the regal yet approachable queen, and they set off into town under the bright afternoon sun. The city streets were packed with residents of the capital city going about their daily business, from shopping to working to simply enjoying the beautiful weather. Lydia led the way while they spoke at length about Cain’s time in Anvil and his mother. Most people seemed unbothered by the High Queen’s presence among them, usually offering only a smile or gracious nod in her direction. Before long, she led him up the stairs of a tower that overlooked the main gate. The view looking out over the city and port was astonishing and they gazed out in silence for a few minutes.
“I come up here sometimes to think,” said Lydia. “The guards know to leave me be and you’ll notice the din of the city fades to a dull murmur. It’s much quieter than the palace. Despite my best efforts, there always seems to be a servant lurking nearby when I’m trying to relax within its walls.” She paused to study the young man staring out into the spanning northern lands. He looked more like his father than she first realized �" the same intensity that had captivated her nearly thirty years ago came naturally to the both of them. "May I ask what are you are thinking about?”
“Just imagining how much mother would have liked to see this place,” he replied, sadly. “I know she wanted to leave Cyrodiil someday and see more of the world. Had she not gotten sick, we likely would have left Anvil behind anyway and traveled to Hammerfell or maybe even High Rock.”
Lydia placed a comforting hand on his shoulder. “I’m sorry your time together was so short, Cain. It’s hard for both child and parent to be apart for any length of time, willingly or not. I know it’s not the same, but Linneá and I were estranged for several years and it was hard on the both of us. Have you thought anymore about what I said last night?”
“About staying?”
“Yes. Kirin and I would never force you to,” she said. The she added with a laugh: “Although, your sister might! It’s been a long time since she was so excited about anything. Completely ignored us when we asked her not to interrupt you and Sybille.”
“I could tell,” laughed Cain. “Some of my ribs are still sore from when she lifted me bodily in that fierce hug of hers. And to answer your question; yes, I am staying. Without a doubt. “
Lydia’s smile stretched from ear to ear and could have illuminated the darkest corners of the world. She immediately wrapped her arms around him and sighed with relief. “I’m happy to hear that. Kirin will be too, even though he wasn’t able to join us. He’ll be there for dinner tonight though, unless he wants and earful from me.”
The sun began to sink towards the horizon as they descended from the tower and made their way back through the city streets towards the palace. Dinnertime was a lively affair, even without Linneá and Serana. Cain and Anska sat across from Kirin and Lydia while they dined, and they all chatted amicably for nearly an hour before his father had to return to his duties. Insisting they get some time alone, Lydia dismissed the young couple soon after, and refused to let them help clean up the mess.
And so, Cain once again found himself alone in the palace gardens with Anska, still amazed at how fortunate he was to have her around again, even with everything else going on around him. They sat beneath the moonlight for long time, conversing at length in a way that had not yet been able to.
“Do you find it odd that some of your family members keep referencing another woman?” asked Anska. “They are being really cagey about that one thing, while be completely open about everything else. But it also seems like they are...reverent, in a way.”
“I know what you mean,” said Cain. “My gut tells me there is definitely something more at play here, though I’m not sure what that is. Still, I don’t think they are necessary misleading us in anyway.”
“Oh, no, I don’t either. It’s just odd is all.”
“Agreed,” said Cain. Then he yawned loudly and stretched his arms before nodding his head back towards the palace. “I don’t know about you, but I’m still pretty tired from all that’s happened. Should we head back to the quarters? Long day again tomorrow...”
“I suppose so,” said Anska. She interlocked her arm with Cain’s and together they walked back inside, towards the bedrooms they’d been assigned earlier that day. They had just reached Anska’s room when Cain came to a stop. Anska looked at him, her eyebrow raised impatiently. “You’re quarters, Cain. I’m not finished with you yet.”
Catching the hint this time, Cain hastily led them upstairs to his own room. Once inside he shut the door and made it sure it was locked before joining a disrobed Anska in bed.
The next morning brought a quick breakfast before Cain bade his new parents goodbye. Together, he and Anska made their way through town, out of the main gate, and down the sloping road to the stables whereupon Cain booked another passage to Whiterun from a familiar carriage driver. The man did a double-take much the same way Cain had felt a touch of deja vu two nights ago, but he accepted the gold nonetheless and soon they were headed south once again.
It was an earlier start this time though, and thankfully the carriage was trundling to a stop outside of Elysium Estate just as the sun began to set. Heading up towards the door of his family’s ancestral home, he found it to be locked.
“We must have made it here before the others,” said Cain. “Guess we’ll have to grab a seat and wait for them to teleport back to us.” “Maybe we should just knock?” asked Anska. “I feel something different about this place...almost like I can hear a gentle song on the wind.” Raising a hand to the door, she rapped on it once. Nothing happened for a moment, and then, without warning, the lock clicked and the heavy door swung open. “Um. Didn’t expect that to happen. After you?”
Cain placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder and confidently stepped over the threshold. A gentle breeze blew through the opened windows of the house, and flames sprung to life in the fireplaces, candelabras, sconces, and lanterns throughout. Once inside, the door shut behind them with a snap, and they found themselves staring at a woman who had most certainly not been there before. A woman of near indescribable ethereal beauty, seated a the dining table just inside the entrance. Long dark hair flowed gently passed her shoulders, spilling over an azure robe that seemed to shimmer when she moved. Piercing emerald eyes that seemed to stare right through them regarded Cain and Anska with something approaching amusement, and Cain suddenly felt the need to kneel before this unknown being.
“Welcome to Elysium Estate, children. You needn’t bother kneeling, Cain,” she added. “I’m much more relaxed about that sort of things these days. Once upon a time your father couldn’t help but act with pure reverence towards me, but even he has relaxed considerably over the years. And don’t get me started on your sister.”
“...What the hell have I gotten into?” sighed Cain.
He pulled out a chair for a completely stunned Anska and then took a seat next to her at the table and across from the strange woman. Glancing around the dining area, he noticed the symbolism carved into the woodwork, and the small shrine on a nearby shelf. Feeling his mouth drop open in shock as comprehension dawned on him, he swallowed nervously and turned back towards the woman.
“[censored] me,” he muttered. “Oops, sorry. Probably shouldn’t be so rude in the presence of a divine. You’re Kynareth, aren’t you? Or Kyne, I suppose, since we are in Skyrim.”
Anska inhaled a surprised breath and looked at the goddess in wonder. “Are...are you really?”
Kyne nodded. “I am. I’ve been guiding this family for nearly thirty years now. Kirin was my champion in the beginning, but Linneá took over that mantle about five years ago, when he took the throne and left Elysium to her. And I’ve been looking forward to meet you, Cain. Even I only learned of you recently �" it was difficult to not tell the others, but certain events had to play out before they became aware of you.”
“Wait wait wait,” said Cain. “You’ve known about me longer than they have? For how long exactly?”
“Hm. Time flows differently for me, but I think it’s been about a month,” she paused thoughtfully. “Yes, a month feels about right.”
“A month?! Why not come find me if I’m so important to everyone! Why let me stew in Anvil, all alone, when I had an entire family I knew nothing of!”
“I wanted to, Cain,” said Kyne. “You have no idea how much I wanted to after I learned of your existence. But events were already in motion and could not be interrupted. Still, I did speed things along a little bit.”
“You did? How so?”
“Let’s just say I encouraged the Fighter’s Guild to loan you out the way they did. Had I not done so, it may have been nearly a year before you found your way north naturally. And by waiting that long you’d have missed out on knowing the lovely miss Anska here.”
“You know my name?” gasped Anska.
“Of course I do, dear. Linneá let me know yesterday that you would both be meeting her and Serana here. I’d have introduced myself sooner if the Blue Palace wasn’t teeming with curious eyes. My presence on Nirn is known only to your family and a few other Divines. I prefer to keep it that way.”
Despite her reassuring tones, Cain still found himself frustrated about everything he had just learned from her. But that last part about meeting Anska quelled his temper enough to not lash out in anger at Kyne. Instead, he got to his feet and paced back and forth while digesting the fact that a Divine sat before them, something he had long thought an impossibility. Then a new thought popped into his head unbidden.
“Wait, does this mean I should start praying to you instead?” he asked. “Because I’ve always prayed to Leki before a fight, and my mother raised me to worship Tava.”
“Ariessa had good instincts, even if she didn’t realize it,” said Kyne with a coy smile on her lips. In a flash of white light, her form shifted into a face he found much more familiar. Her hair was still dark, but it was now braided intricately with countless gold plaits and woven filigree that fell to bare shoulders that had a similar skin tone to Cain’s own. “Does this suit your image of me more appropriately? You’ve already been worshiping the Reduard aspect of me for years and it’s been lovely.”
Cain stared at her in surprise again. “Wait, years? I thought you only just learned of me?”
“Devotion does not adhere to the flow of time, my child. I’m aware of all those who have ever worshiped me and once I was able to single you out, it all fell into place.” Tava shifted back into her usual form of Kyne and rose from the table. Taking Cain’s hands in her own, she smiled warmly at him. “I know this is a lot to take in - especially after everything else that’s happened. But you are a part of this family now, and you’ll find that I will always love you, much as your siblings and parents will. Speaking of which...were you able to get to know Lydia? I know she was worried about what you would think of her, and she set far too large a burden on herself.”
“She’s kinder than I expected,” said Cain. “I wouldn’t have faulted her at all if she had looked on me in disdain for having a different mother, but I believed her when she told me that she would love me as one of her own.”
“That’s good enough for now, Cain. No one expects you to start calling Lydia ‘mum’, but I’m sure it warms her heart to have you around. She’s a good person and we are all lucky to have her.” Kyne paused for a second to concentrate just the way Serana had shortly after they first met. “And speaking of ‘all’ of us, it appears Linneá and Serana will be here any second.”
“How… There’s something you still aren’t telling us, isn’t there?” asked Cain.
A purple light flashed outside of the nearby window and excited voices could be heard coming around the outside of the house, towards the front door. It opened with a thud as the door bounced off the wall, and Linneá dashed inside to join them while throwing her arms around the goddess and greeting her excitedly.
This post has been edited by Kane: Jan 8 2025, 06:15 PM
--------------------
Wrapped in furs beneath the northern lights From my cave I watch the land untamed And wonder if some becoming season Will make the angel melt in shame
|
|
|
|
Kane |
Jan 8 2025, 06:07 PM
|

Master

Joined: 26-September 16
From: Hammerfell

|
Chapter XIII – Gentle Winds and Powerful Knowledge
The noise level inside Elysium Estate grew considerably when the new arrivals dashed in and hugged Kyne in turn. They spoke eagerly for a minute or two before Linneá joined a dumbfounded Cain and Anska at the dining table while Serana walked over to the empty kitchen. She rummaged around for another minute and then headed back to the dining area with five glasses and a bottle of her favorite Colovian Brandy, poured five very healthy measures, and sat down next to her wife.
“How are things going in Blacklight, Linn?” asked Kyne. “Still too early to tell?”
“Much too early. The Telvanni won’t arrive until tomorrow, so we’ve just been getting to know the other councilors while we wait. Ulvon of House Redoran is the most important of the lot and he seems more willing than I expected, so that’s good.”
“Yeah, he is much more pragma – “ began Serana, but was unexpectedly cut off by her brother-in-law.
“Hold on a damn minute!” he half yelled. “What the hell family did I walk into where my siblings are just casually hugging and talking to a literal DIVINE like they are friends from childhood?! None of you could have given me a heads-up in Solitude? I’m supposed to just think this is completely normal?” Cain began to hyperventilate at the enormity of everything that was just revealed and found himself standing up quickly and heading outside. “I need a minute.”
The front door closed with a snap leaving a suddenly quiet atmosphere around the dining table. Kyne glanced sternly at Linneá and Serana with an eyebrow raised questioningly. “Is that true? Not a single one of you gave him any indication that I may be here? Or that I was around at all?”
“Um. Well, it’s kind of a big deal and neither mum nor dad said anything, so we didn’t think that…”
“Linneá, I would have thought you’d know better, especially after you kept it from Serana at first,” said Kyne. “And you Serana – you didn’t think it fair to give them a warning? I know how upset you were when Kirin let it slip before Linn told you. I’m surprised you didn’t take the initiative!”
“I…no, you’re right, mum,” Serana exhaled. “Just got caught up in the excitement with the rest of them. I should have said something to him. I’ll go and check on him.”
“No, let me do that,” said Anska, who had been quiet up until now. “My brain is about to explode too, so I think it’ll be good for the both of us.”
“Are you sure, dear?” asked Kyne. “I know this has been a lot and I can sense you’re not exactly calm, despite outward appearances. Maybe Linn should –“
Anska shook her head. “I’ll go. Just give us a few minutes, yeah?” She stood up and headed outside to find Cain, leaving a much more somber trio seated at the table. Linneá and Serana both looked bashful while Kyne sighed and stared accusingly at them.
Outside the house Cain stood under a tree, barely discernable from the nighttime darkness that filled the land around them. Only a sliver of his armor gleamed in the soft glow of Secunda’s light, indicating that he as was there at all. Anska walked over to him and took his hand, motioning to a bench against the outer wall of the estate boundary. They sat down together but did so in silence for a few minutes, until Cain spoke softly to her.
“I’m sorry I’ve gotten you involved in all of this…insanity. Dragons, kings, queens, and now goddesses. Life was much simpler a few days ago, eh? One minute we’re both on a simple job and the next we’re wrapped up within the stuff of legends.”
Anska was unsurprised to hear him say that, for it had been a long time since she’d met someone like Cain. Someone who often cared about others more than they cared about themselves. It was a quality of his that she found endearing after being on her own in Stonehills for so long, and it’s what drew Anska to the stoic Redguard in the first place. And somehow, it helped to calm her mind down after everything they just walked into.
“Life may have been simpler but it wasn’t nearly as exciting, Cain. Don’t get me wrong – I was freaking the [censored] out in there and I’m pretty sure Kyne saw me quavering a few times. Then she would smile so gracefully at me that I couldn’t help but be enamored with her all over again.” She placed a hand on his leg and smiled at him. “You’ve found something special here, even if it is overwhelming. How many people in all of history can say they met a Divine in person? Let alone be treated as part of their family? I know it’s a lot to take in, but I also know how capable you are. And look how happy your sister was to see her again – they seem like best friends or something even closer, rather than goddess and champion.”
Cain didn’t say anything for a moment. A lot of what she’d said to him was true and had been racing through his head since he had stepped outside, but it was good to know he wasn’t alone in how overwhelming it all was. He returned her smile, lost in her enchantingly deep brown eyes, and then he kissed Anska deeply, running his fingers through her long blonde hair.
Pulling away after a few seconds, she playfully smacked him on the shoulder. “Don’t get me all worked up before we go back in there!” Anska got up from the bench and offered Cain a hand. “Ready?”
“No. But it’s not like we have a choice.”
They stepped back inside the house a few seconds later, sat back down around the table, and downed their glasses of brandy in unison. Cain wiped the corners of his mouth with a linen napkin and then addressed them. “Sorry about that,” he said, sheepishly. “That was a lot to take in though.”
“Think nothing of it, my child,” said Kyne. “I took the opportunity to scold these two for not warning you ahead of time that I would most likely be here. Please don’t be nervous or scared in my presence. I only ask for one thing from those that are a part of my family – love. If you love me, I will love you, and it will bring us all together. There is nothing more important in this world and it will let us persevere against anything it throws our way.”
“Don’t be so sappy, mum,” said Linneá. “They wouldn’t have come back in if they couldn’t handle us. Right, brother?”
“Hush, Elle,” scolded Serana. “Kyne knows what she is doing and she was right about us not telling them sooner. I was very cross when dad spilled the beans and it was only your immediate honesty and the fact that I could feel how upset you were about it filtering through our connection that kept me from being extremely angry with you about it.”
“I… Were you really that angry?” asked Linneá. “I mean, I could tell you were mad but I didn’t think it went quite that far…”
“If I hadn’t already fallen for you, or been able to sense your distress over it, I don’t know what would have happened between us. It also helped your case that you did summon her not long after.”
Linneá dabbed at the corner of her eyes with a napkin before taking Serana’s hands and leading her away from the table. Anska and Cain had been sitting awkwardly across from them, feeling like they should have been elsewhere during this conversation, but he couldn’t stop himself from asking Kyne about something that had been bugging him for a couple of days now. Something that seemed unlikely, yet could not be called impossible in light of recent events.
The goddess spoke first though, offering some reassurance to them. “Don’t worry, they’ll be back soon. I’ve never met two people that love each other as much as they do – Linn just wants to apologize in a more intimate setting. That room they disappeared into used to be their bedroom.”
“Er, I don’t mean to pry but can I ask you something?”
“Of course you can, dear,” answered Kyne.
“Can you read each other’s minds? There’s been a couple times now where it seemed like you were, and then Serana just mentioned some kind of connection between her and Linneá… What aren’t you three telling me?”
“It goes a bit beyond that,” said Kyne. “We are connected mentally and can speak with each other over vast distances, but the connection they share goes deeper even than that. Not even I can peer that deeply inside their minds.”
“Wait, really?” inquired Anska. “Is that even possible?”
“The ability is innate for my kind. However, in Linneá’s case she is truly gifted in her magickal acumen. When Linn was younger she began to explore the depths of her dragon blood, and devised a way to draw power from it, despite keeping it sequestered. I still don’t think she realizes how incredible of a feat that truly is, even though I told her it shouldn’t be possible.”
“It sounds like she stole a little bit of divine power,” said Cain, awestruck at the thought of his sister doing something that bold.
“A novel way of looking at it that suits her well,” acknowledged Kyne. “She always was a good thief, and why let a pesky thing like normality stop here from pushing magickal depths? I’m glad she didn’t go any further though – some of the other divines wouldn’t take kindly to a mortal tapping into that sort of power.”
Cain shook his head in disbelief and reached for the brandy bottle, topping off his glass and offering more to Anska. She declined and headed for the kitchen instead, looking for mead and a stout tankard to pour it in. The cabinet Serana had looked through before offered a few bottles of aged Honningbrew that Anska gleefully grabbed and returned to the table with, while Cain chuckled quietly at her.
“What?” she asked him. “Did you forget that I’m a Nord from one of the snowiest areas in Skyrim? Mead is in my blood!” She banged the tankard off the table and downed it in one go before uncorking another bottle. “That’s much better than the ritzy stuff you’re drinking. Now then, I have some questions of my own, Kyne. If you don’t mind that is…”
The goddess smiled at her. “Not all, my child. Ask away.”
“You said this all goes back to the king becoming your champion? How did that all come about?”
“I supposed we can get into a little ancient history,” said Kyne. “Give me one moment to see if the others will be rejoining us soon.” She paused and a look of concentration appeared on her delicate features, followed quickly by a deep blush. “Good heavens, those two are incorrigible. At least they are being quiet about it. We’ll continue without them!”
The three of them spoke at length for nearly an hour as Kyne recounted the last thirty years to Cain and Anska, and all the events that his family had been through in that time. He had heard bits and pieces from Linneá and Lydia over the last few days, but he hadn’t imagined just how harrowing it had truly been for the four of them. By the end, he found himself feeling grateful his sister and Serana had managed to rescue the king and queen at all. As short a time as they had been together, Cain couldn’t bear the thought of his father and step-mother succumbing to the fates they had nearly been consigned to. They had showed him nothing but love and compassion and it wasn’t until now that he’d realized just how much of an affect it had had on him so quickly.
“Are you alright, Cain?” asked Anska. She had placed a hand on his shoulder after Kyne finished the tale and was looking concernedly at him. “You’ve been oddly quiet for a few minutes now.”
“Yeah, sorry, I just got…lost in my thoughts.” He smiled at her before turning to Kyne. “I didn’t know what to expect when you started that saga, but it surely wasn’t all of that. Lydia hinted a little at some of the things Linneá and Serana had done, but I never imagined how perilous it was. For all of them. To go through such things and come out so strongly on the other side…”
“You can’t help but feel proud for them,” finished Kyne. “They are a very special family, Cain, and they are completely genuine in their love for you. The excitement radiating from Linn alone right now is so palpable it’s hard not to smile endlessly whenever she is around. And I can sense how much it means to you already. Don’t hold yourself back from them. That goes for you too, Anska.”
“Me?” said Anska. “What do you mean?”
“They can tell how much you two like each other. I know your relationship is young, but their loyalty is fierce and I have no doubts that Linneá and Serana would love to have another sister in their lives. Ah, speak of the devils…”
A door opened from somewhere down the hall leading away from the dining area and they emerged from the dimly lit corridor to rejoin them. Serana was panting slightly when she took a seat at the table and smiled wanly. Linneá didn’t get a chance to sit down. Cain had gotten up from his seat while they approached and he hugged his sister tightly, heeding the advice from the goddess that watched over all of them. Surprised but delighted, she returned the hug warmly as tears of joy flowed freely down her face.
There wasn’t a dry eye in the room when they parted. Linneá held Cain at arm’s length and beamed at him before bringing up the reason they were all there.
“Thank you for that, brother. It means more than you could know,” she cleared her throat and then continued, “Now then, you came here to learn what it means to be Dragonborn, yes? Well, there are a few ways we can go about that but I have a much simpler solution in mind.”
“Wait, Linn!” shouted Kyne. “Don’t do it that way, it’s too much at once!”
But it was too late. Linneá had already let go of Cain’s arms and stepped back as the swirling orange and blue energies of her dragon essence and knowledge poured forth from her being and flowed unbidden into her brother. Unsure of what was happening, Anska had rushed towards them from the table just in time to catch an unconscious Cain and keep him from falling to the floor.
--------------------
Wrapped in furs beneath the northern lights From my cave I watch the land untamed And wonder if some becoming season Will make the angel melt in shame
|
|
|
|
Kane |
Jan 10 2025, 05:18 PM
|

Master

Joined: 26-September 16
From: Hammerfell

|
Chapter XIV - Acceptance
Cain woke up the next morning with a splitting headache. He laid in a strange bed for a few moments and stared up at the rafters while trying to remember exactly what the hell had happened last night that led him to his current situation. He didn’t drink all that much, and the last thing he recalled was standing in front of Linneá as she bowed her head and spread her arms wide, with Kyne in the background yelling something that he could not decipher.
And then it hit him like the strong winds of a storm blowing in from the Abecean Sea. The power, the knowledge, and the roar of a dragon had risen within him and rested calmly beneath the waves of his spirit. Still staring at the ceiling, Cain reveled in the newfound abilities his sister had granted him so effortlessly, and he dared to whisper a single syllable into the calm air above him.
“Fus.”
A small but still powerful buffet of air erupted forth from him and shook the rafters above, dislodging a layer of dust that poured down onto the bed. “No shouting in my house, please,” came a soft voice from the nearby doorway. Cain turned his head to see Kyne silhouetted in the frame, smiling gently at him. “Feeling alright this morning I take it?”
“I’ve got the worst headache, but I feel fine otherwise,” said Cain.
“Good. I was worried she may have overdone it last night. Go take a bath, and then come join Anska and I for some tea and that headache will clear right up.”
“A bath? Whatever for?”
“I prefer my guests to be clean and unsullied. Bath. Now. There is a warm pool out back that is fed by the forge.”
“Yes, mother,” grumbled Cain, rolling his eyes dramatically.
“You jest, but you’ll end up calling me that in end, just like all the others have. Hurry up and go, if you please. Breakfast will be served when you join us, and Anska is getting very hungry.”
She left the doorway as Cain swung his legs over the edge of the bed and slipped on a pair of loafers that had been left on the floor next to his feet. He left the guest room and ducked out the back door in search of the warm bath Kyne had mentioned and stopped short when he saw the elaborate smithing area tucked away behind the house. The fires of a burning forge rested beneath a massive stone statue of a hawk, and under a decent size patio roof sat a tanning rack, workbench, grindstone, several shelves and chests, and even a smelter.
But the goddess’ words bounced around his head while his stomach grumbled, so Cain decided to come back out and rummage through the supplies after they had all eaten breakfast. The bath turned out to be much more enticing that Cain had anticipated, and it took more willpower than he expected to pull himself from the steaming waters, get dressed, and head back inside. All told, he joined Kyne and Anska at the familiar dining table about fifteen minutes later and started sipping from a steaming mug of freshly brewed tea.
“How was the bath?” asked Anska. “It was a little too warm for my taste, but I know you’re more used to that sort of thing.”
“Delightful,” said Cain. “Although now I’m sad that we weren’t able to enjoy it together. Sorta wish you had woken me up earlier!”
“Uh uh,” tutted Kyne. “I get enough of that from your sisters �" let’s just enjoy a nice morning meal and leave the bedroom talk be, please.” Cain and Anska both nodded while trying not to grin, and Kyne continued on: “Now, then… how are you two doing this morning? I’m sure that meeting someone like myself out of the blue was a bit of a shock. Can I do anything to help ease your minds?”
“Honestly, ma’am, I think I’m okay,” said Anska. “I can’t speak for Cain, but after Linneá and Serana showed up the initial shock wore off a bit. It was endearing to see how close you three are and it helped drive home the feeling that I shouldn’t be so nervous. I never thought I’d live to see a Divine in such a… normal capacity.”
Cain had already helped himself to a plate of fruit and took a second to swallow a mouthful before agreeing with Anska. “Same. It was all too much at first, but after Anska came out to see how I was doing, I was able to cool off and sit back down with a more open mind. And then after we spoke for a while things did indeed feel more normal. You really drove home the family aspect of all this in a way that hadn’t reached me yet. I’m very thankful for that.”
Kyne beamed brightly at both of them. “Good, I’m glad. You really did a number on Linn with that hug too, Cain. I don’t think she expected such a heartfelt reciprocation of love like that from you soon, even if she forced you into unconsciousness shortly after it.”
“I took your advice about not holding back and put a lot of unspoken feelings into that embrace,” said Cain. “Until we got here last night and all of that unfolded, there was a part of me deep down that thought everything happening was good to be true. In the span of several hours, I went from having no one to having an entire family that was overjoyed for me to be there. And finding Anska again was the cherry on top, even if the circumstances that brought her to Solitude were terrible.”
The maiden blushed at his words in spite of the sadness still resonating within her over the loss of her home. Kyne sensed the torrent of emotions and moved around the table to comfort Anska while they ate the remainder of their meal in silence. Once they finished, Cain and Anska hurried off with the dishes and cleaned everything up before sitting back down with the goddess for a final goodbye.
“We’ll see each other again, don’t fret,” she assured them. “As long as you aren’t around prying eyes, you’ll find I can’t help but stop by from time to time, no matter where you may find yourselves. However, I do have one more thing for you Cain, before you head back to Solitude. Linneá left her old book on Mark and Recall atop the table near the fireplace down the hall. I can tell you have a touch for restoration spells, so don’t be intimidated by teleportation. It’s an immensely useful skill to have, unless you feel like walking all the way back up to the Blue Palace. Study the theory and practice with short jumps around the estate. Don’t take too long though �" I gather that your father wants to sit down with you tonight.”
Cain and Anska stood up with Kyne and she hugged them in turn. In a flash, the goddess resumed her hawk form and soared out an open window, leaving the two of them behind with a task that Cain found daunting.
“Don’t look so anxious about it, it’s just another spell, right?”
“I guess,” said Cain. “Still pretty advanced though if you ask me. Guess I better go flip through that book before the day drags on. If you get bored, there is a wonderful smithing area out back of the house. I wouldn’t mind it if you touched up the fittings on my armor.”
“Hm, that does sound better than sitting around in here watching you read a book. I might head into town later for a bit, too �" I’ve never been to any city other than Morthal. Well, Solitude too, I guess.”
“If you do, stop by Jorrvaskr and give Athis a bad time for me. Make sure to remind him who the boss is now,” laughed Cain. Anska smiled and gave him a quick kiss before heading outside and leaving him to the hefty book laying on the end table. He picked it up with a sigh and started leafing through the introductory pages until he found the first chapter on magickal theory. It started off about as dry as Cain expected it would, but a few pages in he saw a scrawled notation at the bottom that was written in a very pretty, flowing cursive.
Skip ahead to chapter three unless you want to be so bored that you’ll consider sticking your head in the smelter.
The short message bore all the earmarks of being written by Linneá and he laughed aloud before jumping ahead in the book. It was nearly three o’clock in the afternoon when Anska returned to find him steeling himself for a first practical attempt at using the spell. Cain had marked a small piece of cloth and laid it on the floor near the front of the house, and was pacing back and forth in the the back, reciting the important parts in his head.
“How’s it going so far?” she asked him.
“Um. It’s time to test it out, but I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t apprehensive about it. If all goes well, I should warp up to the front door.”
“Sounds like you need a little incentive.” Anska slipped off her traveling cloak and started to untie the laces of her blouse. “How about this: I’ll wait up there for you, and if it works you can help me finish taking this off.”
“Well, when you put it that way…” He stopped pacing and closed his eyes in concentration. Anska’s footsteps faded away while she walked up towards the marker lying on the floor. Imagining the promised reward vividly, he visualized the destination and in a flash of magickal light, Cain vanished on the spot and reappeared directly in front of Anska. She didn’t expect him to try it that quickly and yelped in surprise at his sudden emergence from a swirling purple vortex.
“Holy [censored]! You could have warned me first! I didn’t think you would try it that fast!”
“And miss out on my prize?” grinned Cain. “Not likely.” He finished pulling her top off and then picked her up and set her on the kitchen counter.
They were kissing passionately for a couple of minutes until things started getting a little too heated for Anska and she pulled away before Cain’s hand wandered further south. “Uh uh, that’s enough for now,” she panted. “We don’t have that kind of time. Keep practicing, I want to get back to the Palace for dinner and we shouldn’t be late if your father is expecting us. The larders are a little barren here.”
Cain made a big show of being disappointed until she gave him another lingering kiss. Then he spent the next hour practicing the spell by moving further and further away from the house until he felt comfortable enough in his ability to return them to Solitude.
“How are you going to get us there?” said Anska. “You didn’t even know how to use the spell until today, so there is no way you could have marked anything that we can recall to. And how does it work for me? Do I just hold on for dear life and hope I don’t vanish forever?”
“You’ll be safe with me,” promised Cain. “As for marking… Linn had some notes in the back of the book about that. She found that things could be marked subconsciously if a meaningful event happened on or with them. I was going to focus on the scroll we discovered. That should drop us right into the depths of the palace.”
Anska bit her lip and frowned in worry. The way her nose crinkled when she did that made Cain a little weak in the knees, but brave as she was, he could tell she needed some reassurance. He took her hands and looked directly into her eyes. “It’ll work. I promise.”
“… Okay. I trust you. When do you want to �" “ Her sentence remained unfinished and hung on the air as they disappeared from the estate in a flash of light. Before she realized what had happened, they found themselves standing in the same room Cain had been brought to a few nights ago, the scroll still lying unfurled on the table next to them. Looking around wildly, Anska saw where they were and proceeded to slap Cain across his face.
“Asshole! Why did you do it like that? I wasn’t anywhere close to being ready! You might be used to magick and spells but I’m not!”
“Sorry,” said Cain with an abashed look. “I just thought it might be easier to get it over with. Didn’t want you to get overly nervous about it.”
“Yeah, yeah, yeah,” she grumbled. “You’re lucky you’re so damn handsome, Mr. Prince of Skyrim. Otherwise I’d have done a lot more than slap you for that stunt.” Anska opened her mouth to say something else, and then quickly shut it again when she noticed they weren’t actually alone. Kirin and Sybille were sitting a table in the corner and they were watching the scene unfold with amused looks on their faces. “Oh, dammit,” blushed Anska. “This is embarrassing. See what you did, Cain?”
The high king waved her off. “Don’t worry about it, lass,” he said. “I’m glad you two are back, but can you excuse yourselves until supper time? Sybille and I still have some things to discuss.”
“Y-yes, of course,” said Anska. “C’mon, let’s get out of here.” She grabbed Cain by the arm and pulled him into the hallway, shut the door behind them with a snap, and rounded on the Redguard. “Nice job, lunkhead. Imagine thinking that was a good idea when we had no idea who would be around. You’re lucky your father is such a kind person!” Then she turned on her heels and marched off for the living quarters, leaving a regretful Cain behind.
“Hey, where are you going?” he called after her.
“To my room for a while. Alone. I’ll see you at dinner.”
Cain watched her leave with a shameful feeling lying in the pit of his stomach. He figured they still had a couple of hours until that dinner, so he wandered alone off in a different direction to explore the Palace while he waited. The corridors and rooms that stretched out around him seemed to be endless: larders, latrines, storerooms, living quarters, and studies were littered throughout, and he eventually stumbled into a vast library teeming with towering shelves upon shelves filled with books and tomes. Smiling at the sight of it, Cain retreated to one of the pantries he had just passed, grabbed a couple bottles of mead, and returned to the stacks intent on getting lost in a book until dinner hour.
Several chapters into a good old-fashioned adventure tale, the sound of the door opening caught his attention and he looked up just in time to see Lydia enter the library and walk towards him. “I see you found your sister’s private collection. Her and Serana spent the better part of the last five years putting this together and they spend most of their time down here.”
“It’s amazing!” said Cain, shutting the book he was reading. “There are more books here than in all of Anvil.”
“She’ll be happy to hear you’re enjoying it. How did everything go at Elysium? Was she able to help you?”
“You could say that,” replied Cain. “First things first, though… You have some explaining to do. About a certain goddess who was waiting for us there.” Lydia cast her eyes downward, blushing ever so slightly. “Yes, well, about that...” She looked back up and found him smiling gently at her. “Wait, you’re teasing me, aren’t you? Great, another prankster, as if Linn isn’t bad enough! So, you’re not put off by Kyne’s presence in our lives?”
“Not at all. It was unexpected, but everything worked out in the end. The arrival of my sisters definitely helped to calm things down after the initial shock. And Kyne was able to give me a thorough recounting of what the four of you have been through in the last thirty years.”
“It hasn’t been easy,” sighed Lydia. “But things are much better now. And happier.” She studied Cain for a moment, trying to pin down what seemed different about him since his return. He seemed less tense. More open. “Did something else happen when you were there? It feels like you are more relaxed then you were before.”
“Let’s just say Kyne has a way with words. She encouraged me to accept how much I mean to you all and I decided to take her up on it. Caught Linneá off guard, but I meant everything I impressed upon her.”
Lydia seemed delightfully surprised and she regarded her step-son with a praising sort of look before demanding that she give him a hug. Once they separated, she took his hand and led him out of the library. “It’s almost dinner time, we don’t want to be late. Kirin cleared his schedule for the rest of the night, despite Sybille’s protests. He wants to spend more time with us. You, in particular.”
“Good, I’m starving,” said Cain. “Lead on, mum!”
The high queen stopped short and stared intently up into his eyes. “Cain, I… You don’t need to call me that. I never expected you to and I would never demand it of you.”
“Is it alright if I want to? Ariessa will always be in my heart, but I’m not going to pretend that you aren’t just as kind. You’ve been so great to me since I arrived… it shouldn’t go unappreciated.”
She pulled him into her arms again and squeezed him tightly while tears of joy and relief dampened his tunic.
This post has been edited by Kane: Apr 28 2025, 01:14 PM
--------------------
Wrapped in furs beneath the northern lights From my cave I watch the land untamed And wonder if some becoming season Will make the angel melt in shame
|
|
|
|
Kane |
Jan 16 2025, 03:27 PM
|

Master

Joined: 26-September 16
From: Hammerfell

|
Chapter XV �" Unexpected Guests
A short time later, Cain was seated around a smaller, more intimate dining table with only Kirin, Lydia, and a still sulky Anska joining him. The food was simple yet delicious and hardy, with plenty to go around. Palace staff waited nearby to fill empty glasses and set out new plates of roasted meats, grilled vegetables, and fresh fruit as the platters were emptied by the small gathering. Eventually it was all cleared away, with only their glasses and a few bottles of wine remaining on the table.
Unable to withstand the dagger-like looks he was still receiving from his girlfriend, Cain poured her another glass of wine and spoke to Anska in low tones while across from them his mother and father conversed about something else.
“Look, I’m really sorry about what happened earlier,” he began. “Is there some way I can make it up to you? I don’t want to sit here in silence with you, barely acknowledging each other all evening. I like you far too much for that sort of thing and I’d also like to think the feeling is mutual.”
She glared at him for a second but her face softened at the earnest, almost pining sort of look in Cain’s eyes. “Fine then. You definitely owe me, but I’ll let it go for now. I understand what you were trying to do, even if I don’t like it.” She gave him a kiss and continued on, “And there is something you can do for me…maybe tomorrow?”
“Name it.”
“I want to go back to Stonehills to pay final respects. Your father says the town will be rebuilt, but it won’t be my home anymore. Can we make the trip down there?”
“Of course,” said Cain. “I’ll make the arrangements tonight and we can head out early tomorrow morning.”
“Thank you, babe” she said. “I know it’s a long walk, but it would mean more to me than you could know. And I’m very familiar with Hjaalmarch - I can guide us through the swamps to save time. We’ll only be gone for a couple of days at most.”
They had been talking about the trip amicably for a few minutes and did not notice that Kirin and Lydia’s own discussion had dwindled down. The king and queen had been trying there best not to listen in, but it was a small table and they couldn’t help but overhear what Cain and Anska were talking about. Kirin cleared his throat after hearing they would be leaving again.
“I don’t mean to pry,” said the king, “but can you make sure are back within a few days. I’m not saying you two can’t go… It’s just that, well, you won’t be spending your time idling around the palace. There is work to be done in Skyrim and abroad, and the two of you will be helping just as much as Linneá and Serana do. That doesn’t mean you’ll be attending diplomatic summits,” he laughed. “However, I do want to get an idea of where your talents lie, my son.”
“We’ll hasten back as soon as we can,” Anska promised.
“That’s all I ask for, lass. Now then, would you be kind enough to leave Cain and I here? I need some time alone with him and I think my wife needs your help with something else.”
Lydia and Anska excused themselves while Cain helped himself to another glass of wine. He had been surprised and delighted to see the vintage bottle of Surlie Brothers wine and was on his third measure of the dark red cabernet that had come all the way from Skingrad, in his old home province of Cyrodiil. He took a sip and set it down just as the door to the dining area closed, leaving Cain alone with his father for the first time since his arrival at the Blue Palace. Unsure of where to start, he was relieved when Kirin spoke first.
“So, how have you been settling in? Lydia tells me you’ve come around a bit and that your trip to our old home was fruitful?”
“Bit of an understatement there,” answered Cain. “Linneá knocked me out for the night when she shared her knowledge of the Thu’um with me. We were having a good time with my sisters and Kyne �" who you forgot to mention was around �" and it ended earlier than I would have liked it to.”
“I’m sure you can imagine why we left it up to her for you two to meet,” said Kirin. “It must have gone well though, if you are still relatively sane. And I’m afraid to say that your sister learned that trick with gifting dragon knowledge from me. I did the same thing to her five years ago and she still brings it up from time to time. Although, she was more unbalanced as a result, so I can see why Linneá hasn’t let me live it down!”
“Unbalanced?”
“That was when she still hid her power. And she was vampire at the time, which didn’t play nicely with a dormant Dragonborn. Messy affair all around.”
“Oh. Kyne did mention that last night. I still find it hard to believe that Serana is that old.”
“Don’t let that trip you up, son,” said Kirin. “There’s a depth of knowledge and experience there, but she’s just the same as every other twenty-seven-year-old I’ve ever met. Linnea included. Probably why they get on so well.”
Cain thought about that for a minute. Nothing about his sister-in-law really did scream ancient vampire, so he saw the wisdom in Kirin’s words. Serana had been just as kind as everyone else and had even been pressing Linnea to not be so brash with him. I should talk to her a little more later, thought Cain. Haven’t really had a chance to get to know her all that well. Realizing his glass was empty again, he poured some more wine in his glass and in his father’s.
Smiling slightly, Kirin shook his head a little while Cain took another sip of wine. “You drink almost as much as Serana does,” he mused. “She loves her brandy and never misses a chance to celebrate with it. A habit from her unenviable past I think. Poor girl had a rough time before Linnea stumbled into her life. Ah well. Let’s take a walk, yeah? My bones are getting stiff from sitting in these wooden chairs.”
The king set his drink down and stood up, beckoning Cain to follow him. For the next half hour or so they strolled through the corridors of the palace and occasionally outside to the gardens while they talked. Kirin was determined to kindle a connection with his unexpected son and had been delighted to hear that Cain had already come so far with his wife and daughter in the short time since his arrival. He also wanted to hear more about Anska �" it seemed the maiden already had a firm grip on Cain’s heart and that pleased him as well.
They were deep in conversation about their shared dragon blood when a sudden clamor reached their ears from elsewhere in the palace. Cain glanced quickly at his father who nodded grimly and they set off towards the source of the noise. Panicked shouting began to echo up and down the empty stone hallways as they drew nearer, until the noise reached a fever pitch. Recognizing the loudest voice, Cain and Kirin began to dash towards the chamber Linnea’s dulcet tones resonated from, alarmed at the fear lacing her screams.
Crashing through a door, they found themselves in Sybille’s alchemy lab. Linnea was barely being restrained by Lydia and a palace guard while the court wizard examined an unconscious form that was awkwardly splayed out on the hard floor. With a sinking feeling Cain realized it was Serana, and the look on Sybille’s face when she saw that Kirin had arrived did not bode well.
“What’s happened?!” demanded the King. “Linnea! Take a deep breath and explain!”
His daughter stopped fighting to be freed and breathed deeply to steady herself. “We were jumped by some Morag Tong thugs in Blacklight. They’re all dead, but one of them nicked her arm with a blade and it must have been poisoned. She started getting woozy almost immediately and collapsed within seconds. My healing spells did nothing to help her.”
“Sybille?” he asked his wizard. “Do you have an antidote?”
“I tried a generic mixture, sire,” she said. “It had little effect. Without knowing what kind of poison it was, I have no way of knowing what specialized potion to mix!”
“GODSAMMIT, SYBILLE!” bellowed Linnea. “YOU HAVE TO DO SOMETHING! I CAN’T LOSE HER!” She started to struggle against her mother and the guard again, furiously trying to break free and be with her wife. Then she went slack, heavy sobs wracking her body while she slumped forward in despair.
“[censored],” muttered Cain, who couldn’t bear to see his sister this way. Serana didn’t deserve this fate either and it strengthened his resolve to try an old battlefield tactic he had learned coming up in the Fighter’s Guild. There was nothing else to do besides place his trust in those around him. “[censored] [censored] [censored].” He stepped into the lab and caught Sybille’s attention while motioning around the room. “Is this all the alchemical stock you have on hand?”
“I �" yes,” said a surprised Sybille. “But Serana has much more in her private lab. Between the two of us, we probably have every reagent from the surrounding provinces.”
“Good, cause we’re going to need them,” said Cain. He unsheathed a small knife he kept on his hip at all times and knelt down next to Serana. Trying his best to ignore Linnea’s desperate cries, he pulled Sybille down next to him. “I need you to trust me and do exactly as I say. Do you have some parchment?”
“On the table there.”
“Grab it.”
She got up and tore off a slip from an old scroll, then she grabbed her quill before kneeling back down next to Cain. “Okay, what now?”
“I’m going to tell you what the poison is and you’re going to follow my instructions.”
“How are you go-?” began Sybille. But her question went unfinished as Cain rolled up the sleeve of Serana’s blouse and studied the healed over wound on her arm. Inky black tendrils meandered out from where the poisoned blade had struck her, and they were slowly spreading down the length of her arm.
“[censored],” muttered Cain again. Then he took a deep breath and slid his own blade across the wound.
No!” shouted Lydia and Kirin in unison. “Cain, you can’t-“
A few drops of blackened blood hung from the edge of his dagger and in one swift motion he raised it to his mouth and licked them off before they could drip to the floor. Shuddering deeply as the poison entered his own system, Cain smacked his lips and searched his field training memories, trying to remember what insidious plant elicited the foul taste in Serana’s blood.
It hit him just as the world around Cain began to get fuzzy and spin at a furious pace. “Em..Eme…” he turned his head and vomited all over the floor before he could get the words out. “Urk… Emetic Ru…russula,” he sputtered. “Emetic Russula. Make a poul… poultice for S-Serana and j-jam the rest down…our…throats.”
The poison settled into his blood and he passed out on the floor next to Serana, spasms forcing his body to flounder against the cold floor until Kirin stepped into hold him down until they passed.
“Sybille!” shouted Lydia. “Go quickly �" get what you need!”
“We should have everything we need, ma’am. Emetic Russula is fairly common. We might get lucky here…”
“Work quickly,” Kirin gently ordered. “Their lives are in your hands now.”
Just then, Linneá regained her composure and broke free from Lydia’s grasp. “I can help, Sybille. I have to help. Just tell me what you need!”
She started scribbling a few notes down on the parchment and handed it to her. “Go get these reagents from Serana’s lab. Quickly! It’s starting to spread more rapidly through both of them.” She watched Linneá dash from the room and then beckoned Lydia over to her. “I need you both to stay with them and let me know if you see any new symptoms. I have to start mixing the antidote.”
Kirin and Lydia both nodded and set about trying to make the two siblings more comfortable. There wasn’t much around the room that could be used, so Kirin unclasped his cloak and rolled it up like a pillow and placed it under Serana’s neck while Lydia did the same for Cain. With nothing left but to wait and hope, the king bowed his head and prayed silently to his goddess to protect them.
A warm breeze fluttered in the through the doorway at the same time that Linneá bolted back in and handed a small satchel to Sybille. The court wizard took it from her and dumped the ingredients out on her alchemy table and began to form the poultice while the antidote burbled away in her alembic. A few minutes later, she dumped the mixture into two vials and poured the rest over the healing poultice, handing the latter to Linneá.
“Strap that firmly over Serana’s wound and then help me get their mouths open!”
With the poultice in place, Linnea forced apart her wife’s lips and let Sybille pour the steaming tincture down her throat. They quickly repeated the process with Cain and then sat back in wait, watching closely and praying the antidote would take effect soon. It didn’t take long for a noticeable improvement to appear �" the pallor of their skin became warmer, and the spreading tendrils of poison on Serana’s arm retreated into nothingness. Even their breath settled, chests slowly rising and falling in a normal pattern.
“I think they’re through the woods,” exhaled Sybille. “We should be able to move them to the infirmary now.”
Linnea sobbed again and wrapped her arms around the Breton. “Thank you, Sybille. I know I can be a cow sometimes, but I’ll never forget what you did here. For both of them.”
“Aye,” said Kirin. “You’ve done wonderfully, Sybille. Now, let’s get these two out of here. I can manage Serana.” He stooped down and lifted his unconscious daughter up in his arms. Linnea, can you and your mother manage with Cain?”
They both said ‘yes’, and together they managed to lift the heavy young man and follow along in the king’s footsteps.
--------------------
Wrapped in furs beneath the northern lights From my cave I watch the land untamed And wonder if some becoming season Will make the angel melt in shame
|
|
|
|
|
  |
1 User(s) are reading this topic (1 Guests and 0 Anonymous Users)
0 Members:
|
|