A Wood Elf in Windhelm, Stranger in a Strange Land? Options

[Grits]

I got a good chuckle out of the double entendres around Stenvar’s big heavy blade. Susanna is a delight!

“So if he isn’t the Jarl of Windhelm, the Stormcloaks would just be a group of rebels?”

Nice assessment of the situation from an outsider.

Leek soup! Yum!! It’s always soup season in snowy Windhelm.

“I’ve been told it’s a place where you can go and look at things,” Stenvar said.

I nearly spit out my tea. I am an insatiable museum-goer, and Stenvar’s words will be with me the next time I’m in awe over some artifact. I did indeed go here to look at a thing.

Lili and Star’s reaction to the House of Creepiness fell right in line with their previous neighborhood tour. Politics aren’t the only stink in Windhelm it seems. Well, apart from the docks.

Stenvar had to move fast to get to pay for something, but he got it done! Nice to see the pair sharing a laugh over Ysgramor’s Soup Spoon!

[Renee]

Kynesgrove is one of those quests none of mine ever got around to in Skyrim, even after all these years, although my traveling elf (Celest Eaal) just picked that quest up. I'm also wondering if Lili will get involved with the Windhelm murders but shhh.... don't want to influence the story with rambling speculations!

Indeed, The Rift has lots of deciduous trees, not so many conifers. 🌲

Stenvar seems pleased Lili is dedicated to learning local terrain & locations & government structure.

Is Stenvar getting his armor repaired and times goes by? If so, I do this. Use the Wait button, that is. Repairing stuff takes time. You're probably roleplaying that though; vanilla Skyrim doesn't include degradation.

I want the Dancer's Pipe! I could see that being useful in our modern world. Not to win wars but to calm down fighting kids on the playground.

Why did Lili (seem to) force herself to walk, not bolt, out of the museum? Oh, cause of "odors".

[haute ecole rider]

@Acadian: You're welcome! Lili isn't as food obsessed as our former Legion pilus but she certainly knows how to appreciate good cooking! Lili had fun rolling with Sten on the flirting, until Susanna questioned their relationship. That reminded her that she's the boss - officially. Heh. And House of Curiosities might as well be a trip to the Shivering Isles!

@Sage Rose: Writing that bit between Lili and Sten was fun, and yes, Lili is quite taken by her investment. And yes, Calixto's house did cause the spidey sense to tingle while she was in there. I always enjoy the tour in the museum, it never fails to make me chuckle.

@Grits: I'm glad you enjoy the doublespeak and Susanna's perception here. She is an absolute delight to write. Like you and me and every Skyrim character I ever rolled, museum going is a thrill. I love going to those historical places and seeing how people lived in the olden days. It really brings your senses back to the past in unforeseen ways.

@Renee: This fiction, like my others, is inspired by my game play through, but does not follow the play through exactly. So Sten's armor being repaired is writer's license, not strict gameplay. Yes, I know there are mods that make time pass for everything you do, but I prefer to just use my imagination for things like these.

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Tirdas 19 Last Seed - Mourning

Da’s blade is wearing out! I’m told it is showing signs of failure, though I can’t quite hear the change in tone. But it looks like Boss and Star can. In any case, I retired it and put it away in the chest with my winter clothing that you sent me over the summer. I now have a new steel zwei-hander. Boss paid for it, so I can still save up for that steel armor. It’s a beaut, Ma. Good size and weight, and well-balanced too. I’m looking forward to breaking it in on our next outing.

We took some time to visit a place called Calixto’s House of Curiosities. It’s supposed to be a collection of rare artifacts, but I doubt that’s really the case. We both found it funny and had a good laugh afterwards. Now we are going to Leifgard’s final interment. I’ve stopped by the inn and picked up his gear so we can bury it with him. Looking forward to getting my armor back so I can start earning my pay. I will write more when I have more to tell. Give my love to Halla and Old Fang.

Sten

Lilisfina turned as Sten approached with the shield and war axe. She met his gaze briefly. “Is that everything?”

“Yes, Leifgard didn’t leave much behind. I’ve already sent the contents of his chest to his family in Morthal.”

“I’m glad you did that,” Lilisfina nodded. “Shall we go?”

“Yes, let’s get this over with.” Sten opened the door and let Lilisfina and Star through into the snowy afternoon. “I’d like to stop by the smithy afterwards to check on the progress of my armor,” he added.

“Bit impatient, are we?” Lilisfina chided him. “Oengul did say a day or two.”

Sten huffed visible breath between the snowflakes. “That’s too long,” he commented. “Not used to waiting.”

“I thought you did a lot of waiting in that inn,” Lilisfina remarked with a smile. “Seemed like you and Susanna know each other quite well.”

Sten felt his cheeks warm at certain memories. “I’ve been staying at the inn long enough,” he said. “And while I’m used to waiting for jobs, I’m not used to waiting for armor while I have jobs to do.”

“Understandable,” the Wood Elf remarked. “I apologize for lining up work so quickly for us, but I’d prefer to delay those until I know for certain we’ll both come back whole and healthy.” She paused to face him, hands on hips. “And the best way to ensure that is to make certain your armor is up to the task!”

“Not going to argue with that,” Sten responded as they wove their way between the gravestones toward the Hall of the Dead. This time Lilisfina reached the door first and held it open for the other two.

Sten stomped the snow from his boots and brushed it off his woolen shirt. Star shook the snowflakes from his black and white coat. Lilisfina lowered her fur cowl and shook out the cloak he had cut down for her. She is definitely getting a lot more use out of that fur than I ever did! He appreciated how she seemed to pull it closer around her when they were out in the cold air. But here she removed it and threw it over one arm.

Helgird greeted them at the entrance to her preparation area. She led them deeper into the crypt, past carved slots in the walls which held wrapped bodies in various states of decay. Wonder how this smells compared to Corrium’s museum? The idle thought passed through Sten’s head, and he regarded the Wood Elf’s expression. He did not see the distinct discomfort she had earlier. Have to ask. Later.

Leifgard and his cousin Einar had been interred side by side. A worn fishing rod and tattered hand net rested beside the aged fisherman’s body. Helgird stopped before Leifgard and gestured Sten to place his comrade’s gear within.

Sten took time to set the war axe at the body’s right side, ready to hand if needed, and placed the shield gently over the torso. He stepped back to pray.

The Wood Elf surprised both Sten and Helgird when she stepped forward and placed two bundles of snowberries beside each. Does she know snowberries are considered protective against evil spirits? Another thing to ask. Later.

“That is not part of Arkay’s rituals,” Helgird remarked softly. Lilisfina turned and glanced at her. “The use of snowberry is older than Ysgramor.”

“It’s not part of Y’ffre’s rituals, either,” Lilisfina said after a moment. “But we have a similar tradition in Valenwood to place holly vines with our dead to ward off predatory spirits.” She cast her gaze around the stone crypts. “We bury our dead at the base of graht-oaks, and cover their graves with the vines.” Now she met Sten’s gaze. “And I noticed Yngol’s tomb had snowberries on the altar. I’m thinking it has similar meaning here.” Now she turned back to Helgird. “My intention is the same here, so unless Arkay objects?”

“He has nothing to say on that subject,” Helgird responded with a smile. “And I’m certain our dead here appreciate your kindness.”

Star, Lilisfina and Sten stood quietly as Helgird spoke the final interment prayers over the two corpses. Once she completed the ritual, Helgird turned to Lilisfina, all business again. “Those reavers you brought back,” she said softly, “have been committed to the fire. When I stripped them I sent their gear up to Oengul - I had heard that’s what you intended to do with them. He is holding that for you, so you should visit him before the supper hour.”

Sten watched surprise pass over Lilisfina’s sharp features. Something’s off with her face - left side doesn’t move with the right side. Wonder what happened? Something else to ask about. Later. Maybe. If the right time comes up.

“Thank you very much, Helgird,” the Wood Elf murmured. Her head turned toward a corridor that branched off the main hallway and ran deeper into the structure. “We’re not alone here?”

Helgird tipped her head at Lilisfina’s question. “Nilsine Shatter-Shield is here with her sister,” she said finally.

Star startled them by dashing down the corridor, his white tipped tail flashing in the gloom. Lilisfina exclaimed softly and started after him, Sten on her heels. Uh oh.

It wasn’t long before Sten heard sobbing. He reached for Lilisfina’s shoulder. “Maybe we should . . . “

“Shh,” she lifted her fingers to her lips. Lilisfina moved around the corner silently, and paused. When Sten joined her, he spotted the tall Nord woman, her shoulders slumped and trembling, standing before a niche filled with candles, silks and silver jewelry.

Star reached the woman’s side and nudged her hand gently with his nose. As she turned to look at him, the Husky sat down before her and whined softly. He nudged her hand again, then licked her fingers. Star, you silly dog.

With a sob the woman knelt down and wrapped her arms around Star, hugging him tightly. Sten watched with his heart in his mouth as the dog, who just the day before had so fiercely attacked brutal reavers, leaned into the woman and licked her face.

“Please forgive Star,” Lilisfina stepped forward. “We did not mean to disturb you . . .”

Nilsine half sobbed, half laughed and lifted her face from the Husky’s fur. She wiped the tears away and rubbed the Husky’s ears fondly. “Oh no, he was just what I needed, at just the right time.”

“Nilsine Shatter-Shield,” Sten said gently, “my condolences.”

“Thank you, Stenvar,” Nilsine released Star and rose to her feet. She almost matched his height. Her light blue eyes, red-trimmed with tears, moved from his to the Wood Elf. “You’re new here, yes?”

“I’m Lilisfina,” the smaller woman nodded. “I just arrived in Windhelm a couple of days ago.”

Nilsine sniffled back tears. “Please forgive me, it’s been difficult for me lately. Have you ever lost anyone close to you?”

“I have,” Lilisfina’s voice roughened. “I heard about your twin sister. I’m so sorry you lost her. How are you and your parents doing?”

“Not good,” Nilsine shook her head sadly. “Da’s been spending more time in the inn, drinking and drinking. And Ma’s been spending all her time in the Temple of Talos with Jora.” She shrugged, but Sten could still see the pain in her expression. “Neither will speak with me, so I’m pretty much on my own these days.”

“It’s hard for all of you,” Lilisfina assured the Nord. “And each of us have our own ways of dealing with our grief.” She was silent a moment longer. Wonder what memories are coming up for her? “What helped me was putting one foot in front of the other,” she offered softly.

Nilsine regarded her for a few moments. “Literally?”

A soft chuckle. “Both literally and spiritually. I still find it hard some days, and some nights too.”

“Thank you,” Nilsine said finally. “I appreciate your kindness.” She met Sten’s gaze. “And yours, as well, Sten.” She gave a final pat to Star and moved past them toward the main corridor. Lilisfina and Sten watched her go, grief still stooping the taller woman’s shoulders. After a few moments Lilisfina sighed.

“Too many memories of your own, ma’am?” Sten asked her softly. She nodded. “Well, what would you like to do next?”

“Let’s visit the marketplace and see what Oengul has to say about the reavers’ gear.” The Wood Elf’s tone turned brisk.

[Acadian]

I laughed that Sten, in his letter home, refers to Lili as ‘Boss’. I see the flirting is not over as Lili tweaks Sten a bit about Susanna.

Touching last rites for Sten’s friend, Leifgard. Perhaps his heirs will invent a home system to prevent leaves from fouling gutters and name it after him.

Nice info on the Nord customs and I welcomed hearing Lili sharing a touch of how things are done in Valenwood.

Who knew that Star was such a consoler as he steals the first part of the scene with Nilsine?

Lili reveals she is not a stranger to grief. I wonder if we’ll learn more about that.

[SubRosa]

I too find myself wondering if the Halls of the Dead smell much different from Calixto's house to Lil's elf nose?

The snowberries and the dead are once more a nice world-building touch, sort of like lilies and funerals IRL.

And we run into Nilsine. I liked that you juxtaposed meeting with her at the end, with the reference to Calixto's house earlier in the episode.

[Grits]

That was a nice touch with the snowberries. I like Lili’s confidence in adding it to their ritual. She is after all a part of things now even as an outsider.

When Star ran off I hoped he wouldn’t come back with a bone. But he made a friend!

Like Sten I am even more curious about Lili. Now off to the smithy, one foot in front of the other.

[haute ecole rider]

@Acadian: Thank you, dear paladin, for continuing to read this. I had a good chuckle over the future patent/invention of Leifgard's descendants! Perhaps we will see the beginnings of such a system in the next book or two! Star is a pretty cool character to write. And yes, we will continue to learn more about Lili's past as we progress through this book.

@SubRosa: Hmmm, that's a perceptive question you ask, Sage Rose! We will find out if Lili can differentiate between the various odors of dead and undead soon! Like the next day in this book! Bookending this episode like this with Calixto's house and Nilsine's mourning as you pointed out was a happy accident, the best kind!

@Grits: I'm glad both you and Sage Rose hit upon the use of snowberries. Lili has become adept at observing and respecting the local customs in her own way, and the snowberries is just the latest touch. And your comments brought back joyful memories of Sai in Miscarcand! And yes, writing this story progresses, one foot in front of the other.

Previously Sten and Lili paid their final respects to Leifgard and Einar, and Lili shared a bit of Valenwood funereal customs. They also met Nilsine Shatter-Shield, and Lili was able to begin to form a relationship with the bereaved family.

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Tirdas 19 Last Seed - New Armor

Star chased the snowflakes on their way to the marketplace. His joy in the falling snow was so contagious Stenvar gathered up a few balls and tossed them to the Skyrim Husky. He’s bonding with Star. Is that going to be a good thing? Lili wondered if Star would choose to stay with Stenvar when they parted ways. Don’t know when, but chances are we won’t be together long. She shook her head, recalling the sellswords she had hired in the past. There was Za’taba in Anequina, we traveled together for twenty eight years before he retired. Then Tamira Saren from Morrowind, she was with me for sixteen years. They were good companions, and I learned much from them. She drew the bearskin cloak closer around her shoulders. This was a good gift from him. It’s come in handy already.

They reached the smithy in time to see a well dressed Nord in deep conversation with Oengul, who nodded curtly at intervals. Hermir looked up from the forge and caught Lili’s gaze and grinned. She waved them over to her with a finger on her lips.

“Best to let them have it out,” she whispered, her voice barely audible over the growling forge. “That Torbjorn pays well, but he always tries Oengul’s patience.”

Lili heard Stenvar’s chuckle and turned to watch the two men, the smith hunched over the tempering table and the pudgy noble nattering on. “Likes the sound of his own voice, does he?”

“Oh, by Talos he does!” Hermir exclaimed softly. “I’m glad Oengul’s the master, not me!” Her gaze shifted from the two men to Stenvar. “And we’ve got some thoughts for you, Stenvar,” she stepped back from the forge and waved the two inside the smithy. “I know it’s warm near the forge, but we need to talk quietly, and inside’s warmer!” She nodded at Lili with a smile.

“Oh, thank you very much for your consideration,” Lili remarked. Where is Hermir going with this? “What can Stennvar do for you?” She ignored Stenvar’s quick glance at her.

“Well, put on your armor, and let me check the fit,” Hermir held out the breastplate. It looked only slightly less battered than before, and Lili frowned at it. “We are trying it with new lining, but there’s a few things we’ve noticed.”

Stenvar buckled the breastplate over his woolen shirt and shrugged his shoulders to settle the armor. “What of it?”

“Hmmm,” Hermir walked around him, her eyes roving over him and her hands tugging here and there. Is she ogling him right now? “These straps are worn in a couple of places - looks like you used to buckle up more than you do now, right?” Her tone remained businesslike.

“Yes, I was just eighteen when I left home and started selling my sword arm,” Stenvar responded. He tugged at the straps as if he could make them longer. “I’ve replaced them once, about eight years ago. Do they need replacing again?”

“Actually, no, that won’t work anymore,” Hermir responded. “You’ve outgrown this armor - the plate is too small for you now.” She tilted her head to one side. “Haven’t you noticed how it’s fraying your shirt over the shoulders, and along the ribs?” She ran one finger beneath the edge of the plate down his side. Stenvar flinched. Oh ho, he’s ticklish! Hermir looked over at Lili. “Do you see what I’m talking about?”

Lili shook her head. “I’m no expert when it comes to armor. I rather trust my sellswords’ judgment since they’re the ones wearing it!”

“And mine?” Hermir tipped her head at Lili, who responded with a grin. I think I see where she is going with this now. The apprentice gestured for Stenvar to remove his breastplate.

“But this is Da’s armor!” Stenvar protested while obeying Hermir’s unspoken instructions. “It can’t be too small for me!”

“I don’t know how big your Da was,” Hermir countered, “but I doubt he was as big as you are now from all your fighting.” She set the iron breastplate down and picked up another piece of armor. “Now this one I think is more your size. Try it on, let’s see how it fits.” Her briskness overcame Stenvar’s reluctance and soon the buckles were fastened, and once again Hermir walked around the sellsword, assessing the fit of the new plate.

“Wait,” Stenvar looked down at the carved steel, “Isn’t this Black Cleitus’s armor?”

Hermir stepped back and crossed her arms with a glance at Lili. “Move around in it, pretend you’re swinging that shiny new zwei-hander of yours. Let’s see how it feels.”

Still Stenvar hesitated, glancing at Lili. “Do you have an issue with wearing a dead man’s armor, Stennvar?” she asked him.

“No, that’s not it,” Stenvar shook his head, his gaze returning to the scuffed iron plate resting on the table. “I still have to save up the coin for something like this . . . “

“Don’t worry about it, it’s yours by right of combat,” Lili assured him. “What matters is does it fit you? How does it feel?”

“Heavier,” Stenvar admitted. “But not by much.”

“Now that I see you in both,” Lili remarked, “Hermir’s comments do make sense. This looks better on you, Stenvar. And I’m not talking about beauty, either.”

Stenvar snorted. “Call me what you like, just don’t call me a pretty boy.”

Lili laughed. “I save that for the Mer, actually. All you Nords are just . . . big.”

Hermir scoffed. “That’s relative, lass,” She cast a speculating eye at Stenvar. “Very well, that armor just needs a bit more work and it’ll be ready. Just a new lining of leather. I do recommend you get a padded tunic to wear beneath that armor, though. It will minimize the chafing better, and you won’t run through so many wool shirts.” Now she slid a sly glance at Lili. “And it’ll keep you warmer, too, without the need for a cloak.”

In spite of herself, Lili shivered. “I love this cloak, thank you very much,” she responded. “Stenvar gave it to me, and cut it down to fit.”

Hermir grinned. “And that’s something else I want to talk about,” she added. “You can’t go adventuring in a dress, not in Skyrim.”

“What’s wrong with this dress?” Lili looked down at the blue-green wool.

“Oh, it’s fine for around town,” Hermir took the steel breastplate back from Stenvar and set it aside. “But when you’re spelunking through caves and exploring ruined crypts, which I hear you’ll be doing soon, it will just tangle around your legs and slow you down. A short robe and trousers will work just as well.”

“I don’t want to wear armor,” Lili protested. This time it was Stenvar’s turn to smile at her discomfort.

“I’m not talking about armor at all,” Hermir responded. “I know mages don’t wear armor. I also know mages in Skyrim don’t wear dresses, either. Not in this cold.” She shook her finger at Lili. “But I think I might have something that would fit.” She turned to Stenvar. “Now shoo. Shatter-Shield should be done, and if he’s not, Oengul will be happy if you interrupted. Smith needs to know we’re to finish up this steel armor by tomorrow.”

Stenvar caught Lili’s gaze. “Are you certain, ma’am? I’d be happy to pay you back.”

“As long as you keep me alive that’s worth the value,” Lili assured him. “Like your zwei-hander, it’s an investment in you.”

Stenvar regarded her silently for a few breaths, then murmured thanks to Hermir and left the smithy. As the door closed behind him, Hermir turned to a chest near the hearth. “My ma made this for me when I turned twelve,” she opened the lid and pulled out a bundle wrapped in faded brown linen. “It was before I apprenticed to Oengul and started bulking up. It wasn’t long before I outgrew it, but I’ve hung onto it.” She unwrapped the bundle to reveal forest green and white leather, fur trimmings and simple metal buckles. “Try this on, let’s see how it fits.”

Lili didn’t breathe as Hermir shook out the robe and held it against her shoulders. Her hands came up to touch the soft leather as Hermir cast her eye up and down Lili’s figure. “It should work for you. Here, let’s put this on first - take your dress off first.” She held out a dark brown under-tunic made of thick wool, incredibly soft against her arms and body. It fell from a round neckline to knees, sleeves reaching halfway down her forearms.

Hermir checked the fit, and muttered to herself. “Take in a little bit here at the waist, take up the sleeves two fingers, and it will fit you just fine,” she declared confidently. “Now the robe.”

The tabard itself, a soft pine green, had contrasting gold trim at the collar, the short sleeves, and along the the bias cut hem and up the sides to the waistline. Again, Hermir decided it needed to be taken in at the waist, but the length suited the Bosmer just fine. “And one more piece - the bodice.” She took the wide leather, the same deep brown as the under-tunic, and held it against Lili’s torso. It extended from just below her small breasts down to the top of her hip bones. “You’re shorter in the torso, Lili. Not a problem, just a couple of fingers off the bottom of this and it’s ready to go.”

She nodded to herself with satisfaction. “Yes, that will do. And it’s not armor, Lili. It’s just more resilient, practical and warmer for adventuring than that dress you’ve got!”

“I can’t - I can’t take this,” Lili stammered. “Your mother made it for you . . . “

“And I grew up too fast to get full wear out of it!” Hermir exclaimed. “No, you take it, you wear it, and that will best honor my Ma.”

“How much do you want for it?” Lili looked down at herself again. “And how soon can you make the modifications?”

“Oengul can work on Stenvar’s new armor, and I’ll work on this outfit for you,” Hermir put her hands on her hips. “We’ll have both ready for you tomorrow after breakfast!” She held up her hand. “And this is no charge. Mind you, if you were to wear it out, come back to me and I’ll make up a new set for you, and that’ll cost you fair!”

[Acadian]

As Lili contemplated her previous sell-swords, it really highlighted the vastly differing lifespans of elves versus the other races. Let’s hope she can get at least similar mileage out of Stenvar, for methinks he’s a keeper.

She is indeed investing quite a bit of coin into him, but quality weaponry and armor are essential. Hermir even gets Lili into something more practical for adventuring – and that looks pretty stylish as well. After all, what fun is adventuring if you can’t look good while doing it?

[Lena Wolf]

A tabard... a bias cut hem... how delicious! I've not touched my sewing since Covid. I might just do it now... time to get that cat hair out of the machines!

[SubRosa]

Lil's perception of a short while really glares here, 28 years, 16 years, hardly any time at all. For an elf...

Ah, so the fix is in. Sten's gotten too big for his britches armor. Looks like he is going to need to upgrade to Black Cleitus' rig. What a coincidence that they still happen to have it laying around...

It sounds like Lil is about to get herself a Jedi Robe. Close, a 12 year old Nord's outfit! Once again, you really bring home the differences between an elf and a Nord here.

[Grits]

Ah, now Lili’s investment in Stenvar makes even more sense. She’s not thinking they’ll work together for six months or so, but rather that Stenvar could possibly retire in her employ.

I enjoyed the banter as much as I enjoyed the process of getting Stenvar through the decision to take the steel armor.

Hermir’s tunic and robe sound lovely. Lili will certainly get a lot more use out of it than twelve-year-old Hermir did. And hats off to the young smith! She got Lili out of her dress as fast as she got Stenvar swapping breastplates!

[Renee]

Seems they do know snowberries act as wards.

I like the gentle jabbing between Sten the Nord and Lili.

Can't go adventuring in a dress!! Yeah, makes sense. Hermir definitely has a point.

This post has been edited by Renee: Sep 18 2024, 03:34 PM

[ghastley]

I'm hoping that your "finger" measurement is the transverse one used by bartenders, not the longitudinal one used in other contexts (like cloth-measuring). Reducing a 12 year old's garment by nine inches / 23cm is a bit drastic.

Not sure what to make of the pondering of longevity of sellswords; you're telling us Lili keeps them, at the same time as she's suggesting this could be a shorter term. That could mean she's expecting to move on soon, and doesn't expect Stenvar to be much of a wanderer, and stay in Skyrim. Or a lot of other things. I'll just have to wait.

[haute ecole rider]

@Acadian: I agree, Stenvar is a keeper. And yes, Lili is the sort of person to form lasting relationships with her hirelings - if she's going to trust them with her life, it makes sense to her that they be friends (at least). The two particular hirelings that stand out in her memory (Za'taba the Khajiit and Tamira Saren the Dunmer) became very close with Lili over the years. Her prior experience with other sellswords including those two is deep enough that she feels Stenvar has potential to become her next long term relationship.

@Lena: Nord Tribal Armor (Clothing) is the inspiration for Lili's new outfit from Hermir. Thought you might like to see it for yourself!

@SubRosa: I was delighted to have the opportunity to contrast both the perception of time and of physical norms between Bosmer and Nords. It was a fun episode to write!

@Grits: Lili has always taken the view that if you take care of your hirelings, they will take care of you. It's a view that has been proven in the past, as we have seen with Za'taba and Tamira Saren. On a deeper note, it helps her to deal with the void left behind by the loss she experienced so many years ago (as we will eventually learn more about).

@Renee: I think Lili was just observant - she noticed snowberries being left at tombs (remember Yngol's Tomb) and in crypts, so she felt it was appropriate in lieu of flowers. And keep reading, the "gentle jabbing" will progress into something more! Eventually.

@ghastley: My finger measurement is that used by horsemen - four fingers equals a hand, which is the unit of measurement of a horse's height. So yes, it's transverse, aka two fingers of Scotch, not longitudinal. As for short term vs long term, Stenvar's term of employment is currently for a month, and she'll reassess at the end of that month whether or not she wants to keep him on, and also it's long enough for him to decide if he wants to continue working for her. The idea that she's already considering keeping him on for years rather than a month does suggest that she likes his style, personality and intelligence.

And having gotten Sten into new britches armor and Lili into a more practical cave-delving outfit, it's time to venture out on their first real quest together! Which shall it be - Forsaken Cave for the White Phial, or Cronvangr Cave for Queen Freydis's sword? Let's find out!

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Middas 20 Last Seed - A Cold Walk

Ma,

I’ve got new armor to go with my new blade now! The smith sent it over before breakfast this morning. I still can’t believe it. The smith’s apprentice told me I’ve outgrown Da’s plate. I still don’t understand it, but she says it’s because I’ve been a fighter for more years than Da has been.

We are off to a cave today to look for a magical vial. Apparently the old alchemist in town, Nurelion, has traveled all over looking for it, and now that he knows where it is, he’s too ill to go find it himself. So Boss said we would go and look for it.

It’s a good opportunity to break in this new armor. I’ll let you know how it goes.

“Oh, Lili, you look fabulous!” Susanna’s voice reached Sten from the common hall upstairs. “Where did you get these clothes?”

Sten barely heard Lili’s response. She must still be in her room. “Hermir gave it to me - it hasn’t fit her since she was twelve.”

“Hermir? I can’t recall that she was ever as small as you,” Susanna mused. “But then, she’s lived in Windhelm all her life, I must have arrived right after she apprenticed to Oengul. She was a tall one, even at fourteen!”

“She did have to take this in a little bit to make it fit,” Lilisfina’s voice became clearer as she apparently stepped out into the hallway. Sten shrugged the new armor over his shoulders to settle the plate, then turned for the stairs that led up from the cellar.

Sten reached the top of the stairs in time to see Lilisfina secure the white cowl around her shoulders. The soft green tabard beneath fell to her knees, and dark brown boots trimmed in white fur reached up to the slanted hemline. Her face had that lop sided smile as Susanna fingered the leather and exclaimed over the details. She does look good in that outfit.

Sten paused as Star pranced down the hall to nudge his hand. Lilisfina’s green gaze slid to his and lit up. “Looks like you’ll be considerably warmer in that outfit than when we went to The Winter War,” he said gruffly. “Good call by Hermir, it’s a lot more practical for delving in caves and crypts and what else you may get into here.”

Susanna turned around and gasped as she took in Sten’s appearance. “You too, Stenvar?” she exclaimed as she walked up to him, her eyes roving over his form with a look he remembered rather well. “You look so good in this plate,” she continued, her hands coming up to check the fit of his armor. “And you’ve got the padded tunic, too. Smart!”

“Might be too warm,” Sten mock grumbled. “But Hermir’s insistent I wear it beneath the armor.” He reached up and caught her hands before they became too familiar. No. Those days are past now. He smiled at her fondly. “So you think it looks good on me?”

“More like you look good in it,” Susanna exclaimed, turning to glance at Lilisfina over her shoulder. “Would you agree, Lili?” She stepped aside to give Lilisfina full view.

Sten caught the mischievous glint in her eyes as she motioned for him to spin in place. As he obediently turned around, flexing his biceps, he heard her chuckle. “I would agree, Susanna,” she said wryly. “Are we ready, then?”

“Got your backpacks? Susanna asked. Lili picked up her own backpack in response.

“I’ve got everything we need in this,” she said. “Stennvar needs freedom of movement.”

“I can fight with a backpack on,” Sten protested. “I’ve done it before.”

“And it’s like the cloak, more of a hindrance than an asset,” Lilisfina shook her head. “Besides, I’ve got the feather spell, I can use it on myself if needed.”

“I’m still taking mine,” Sten held up his own battered pack. “I’ll just drop it at the entrance when we go in.”

Lilisfina considered him a moment, then nodded. “Fair enough.”

“Did Nils give you your rations?” Susanna asked the two of them. They nodded, and Lilisfina smiled down at Star. “And a bone for the dog, too?”

“Of course,” Lilisfina responded. “In my pack along with our food and drink!”

“Best pack that fur cloak, too,” Sten remarked. “Looks like we’ll have a snowstorm soon.”

“Ugh,” Lilisfina made a face, but disappeared into her room. A moment later she was back, fur cloak rolled up on top of her backpack. “Better safe than sorry, yes?”

“Indeed,” Sten walked up to her, Star dancing back and forth between them. “Ready to go, ma’am?”

In short order they turned west on the road outside the city gates. While it ran down the hill to follow the White River, Sten glanced up at the sky ahead as they trudged over the snow-covered stones. Does look like stormy weather later - those clouds aren’t yet dark enough but it sure feels like snow. Here where the path was relatively clear, Lilisfina walked at his left side, Star between them. Snow everywhere gleamed in the subdued sunlight. She had her hood up, so he couldn’t see her face.

A sudden remembrance slid into Sten’s thoughts. “Mind if I ask you a question, boss?” Boss? Not so formal as ma’am. Got to be careful.

“Boss?” Lilisfina countered. “Hmm, I do like the sound of that. What’s your question?”

“Would you prefer I address you as ma’am?” Sten asked. “And my question has to do with something you said yesterday.”

“Just Lili is fine, actually.” Lilisfina turned her face to peer at him around the edge of her hood. “And what did I say yesterday?”

“You said there was so much death in Corrium’s house,” Sten cast his glance at the sky, trying to recall her words. “But when we were in the crypts, you didn’t seem so uncomfortable.”

“Hmm, you’d think I’d be more uncomfortable in the crypts because there are actual dead there?” Lilisfina turned her face forward. “Death comes in different forms, right?” she said after a few steps. “Old age, disease, war, murder, and so on.”

“Right,” Sten matched his strides to hers. “But it all comes to the same place, no?”

“No, not really,” Lilisfina responded. “The crypt and graveyard in Windhelm, the dead are quiet there. Peaceful. The smell is merely that of decomposing flesh and bone.”

Sten considered her words. “And in Corrium’s house?”

“It reminds me of zombies and other necromantic entities,” Lilisfina’s voice grew soft, as if to speak of such things aloud would summon them. “Undead, rotting but not really decaying into dust. Held together by evil magic.”

“Are you saying Corrium is a necromancer?”

“Not sure,” Lilisfina shook her head. “It could be the house itself, it could be a necromancer once lived and practiced there, and the scent is soaked into the fabric of the house itself.”

“And you’ve encountered such beings before?” Sten asked as they approached the junction with the River Yorgrim.

“Yes, I have,” Lilisfina responded. Sten waited to see if she would say more, but the Wood Elf remained silent. They crossed the bridge over the White River where it ran north before turning east to flow past Windhelm. The River Yorgrim spilled from the western hills and ran into the White. The road continued past the two rivers and followed the River Yorgrim toward the waterfalls.

Another road, this following the White River where it flowed down from the southern mountains, joined the east-west road. A tall narrow bluff towered over the intersection. Sten glanced up at the statue at the top of the bluff.

“Who’s that?” Lilisfina’s voice reached him.

“That’s Talos,” Sten responded. “Those statues mark his shrines all over Skyrim.”

“Hmm,” Lilisfina’s tone turned musing. “What are you, Stormcloak or Imperial? No offense intended, just curious.”

“Nord, Empire, Talos,” Sten dropped his gaze from the stern statue above. “Who cares?” He shook his head. “Such a silly reason for a civil war.”

“You think?” Lilisfina paused beside a snowberry bush and swiftly stripped it of its red berries. “Some folk might argue with you about that. Banning Talos worship is like waving a red flag at a Minotaur.”

“What do you mean, waving a red flag?” Sten asked.

“If you’re stupid enough to wave a red flag at a Minotaur, those things will charge you and kill you. And they’re intelligent, so you have to watch out for the shamans - the magic users.”

“I’m not stupid, so it doesn’t sound like something I’d do.” Sten shrugged. “And of course, I don’t belittle Talos worship, especially in a place like Windhelm.”

“No, I don’t think you’re stupid,” Lilisfina strode down the road toward the bridge that crossed the River Yorgrim. “But we’ve all done stupid things when we were young.”

Sten opened his mouth to protest, but laughter came out instead. “And what was the stupidest thing you did as a young child?” He walked a few steps before he realized Lilisfina was no longer at his side. He turned to see the Wood Elf standing, hands on hips, her green gaze piercing his. Uh oh, have I overstepped my bounds?

[Acadian]

Plenty of goodness packed into this episode from Stenvar’s perspective as Boss and Sell-sword continue to learn more of each other. Susanna’s nice – and perceptive. It’s clear she’s still a bit hot for Stenvar and says much about him that he’s decided to discourage her.

Sten is right that it is not Stormcloak, Empire or Talos that is the problem to be concerned about. Depending on one’s perspective, I’d offer that the real mammoth in the hall is either Thalmor, dragons or both.

Wonderful banter between the two well-dressed adventurers. Skyrim did a nice job with making mage robes practical instead of the drag the ground robes used in the other games. We’ve found the Falkreath Thane costume in ESO does a reasonable job of impersonating that Skyrim robe look of a knee length robe over pants and boots.

So. . . is Lili going to shut down her mercenary or spill some of her elven guts to him?

[SubRosa]

It is not a criticism, but Sten's name being shortened to Sten out of practicality does make me think of the Sten submachine gun. That simple, effective, yet sometimes temperamental tool for anti-fascism. Thankfully our Sten does not jam, or go off on full auto when we don't want him to.

Lil and Sten are both dripped out with their new fits. Time to go smite evil, and look good while doing so!

Packs, rations, bones, looks like a bag of holding would be a handy thing for these quests.

It seems Lil's intuition concerning Calixto is pretty good. But she is evidently old and wise enough to start accusing strangers of being necrodudes without having real, concrete proof either.

What is the dumbest thing you have ever done? Now that is a question!

[Lena Wolf]

@Lena: Nord Tribal Armor (Clothing) is the inspiration for Lili's new outfit from Hermir. Thought you might like to see it for yourself!

Yes, this is how I pictured it! (Without seeing that mod.) Based on mages' clothes.