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

[SubRosa]

Where Obi-Wan preferred to avoid Imperial entanglements, it seems that Lil is constantly getting herself into other entanglements.

I just realized something. You need to create two more characters for Lil to fall in with. Nas and X. Then their group name can be Lil Nas X.

Sten's description of Khajiit pretty much sums up Anarchists.

It looks to me that Icicle is a good judge of character...

I see Lilsten are directing their sights upon Calixto. But how to find if it is really him? Granted, now that they have the 'Wheelstone' that in itself is a good reason to consult the Wuunferth. The court wizard might have some light to shed up on the mysterious amulet.

Well, I guess a nightshade shipment is another way to meet the court mage.

There are those Imp chips again!

[Acadian]

Are those imp chips made with real imps?

A gray tabby who quickly proves herself to be a worthy familiar. Different than Star for sure and valuable in a much more subtle way. We know Star well, and it was fun to see you so ably ‘show’ the dog/cat difference with Icicle’s behavior.

Hopefully the court mage will be able to shed some light on the investigation. I’ll be interested to see Icicle’s take on this Wuunferth.

[Grits]

Ha, Lili left a dog but gained a cat. I love how the animals weave themselves into the story.

Corrium seems an odd one, plus he stinks? And the court mage gives him the creeps? Hmm.

“Three drakes for a bunch of weeds?” Sten blurted, then bit his lip.
Sounds like my husband at the farmers market.

Not just any cat, but a quest-finding cat! Icicle has proven her worth already. It seems that a visit to Wuunferth is in order. The Windhelm climate is its own character in this story. I make sure to put on a sweater when I’m reading. At least their next stop (maybe) will be indoors!

[Renee]

Thanks for detailing your approach to writing. Wow, 22 chapters/posts ahead of the story, that's incredible!!

Sofie is convinced to reveal Silda's hiding spot after Star 'convinces' her to do so. Poor thing, that flower child.

Ah, I wonder if... hmm. No that can't happen, since Lili hasn't got a home yet.

Well, now I’ve made a promise I must keep to this child. How am I going to do that when I’m in Winterhold?

Yeah, that's a toughie.

Some investigative help from Silda, but not sure it is enough.

It's at least a start in the right direction. Hmm.... the man Silda saw was "not a Nord, or an elf". What is Calder's race? "Calder is a Nord Warrior from...." DanG!!!

Anyway, what is left? Not beastfolk (that would be too obvious, with the tail and all). So Redguard, Breton, or Imperial. 🔍 Still... doesn't mean Calder's not involved...

Yeah Corrium was skittish perhaps, but only seems interested in the amulet's value...

Nightshade, for the court mage... mm hm.

[haute ecole rider]

@SubRosa: Perhaps the next two animals that fall in with our pair can be Nas and X? That made me LOL so much. Especially since that's one rapper I actually like. And Lili just can't help but get involved with the folks she meets along the way. It's a burden . . . I agree that Sten's description of Khajiits are similar to that of Anarchists - he's a bit of one himself. Icicle is another example of what happens when a veterinarian writes fiction and brings in animals - they pretty much take over the keyboard. I'm sure you recall Paint, Blanco and Sai taking the spotlight as well. Having that nightshade shipment does give them an excuse to visit the court mage and discreetly question him about the murders.

@Acadian: I can see it now - a crinkly bag printed with "IMP CHIPS! - made by real Imps! Wonder if the cost is a drake per bag . . . I'm glad you could feel the difference between Star's and Icicle's behavior when confronted by the same issues. You'll see more of this in this installment, I hope you enjoy.

@Grits: Your comment about the husband at the farmer's market made me spit my tea! I had to sit back and laugh for a good minute or so - the image that conjured up was not only funny, but also unexpected. It's great that Sten is real enough to you that you can see men you know in him. While Windhelm is chilly enough for a sweater, wait until we get to Winterhold!

@Renee: Believe me, Lili would love the chance to adopt this child! She's so adorable in game - even when I promise myself "this is a no kid play through" I end up adopting Sofie and of course Lucia in Whiterun. No child should have to beg in the streets. So you suspect Calder of being somehow involved in the murders? That's interesting. Silda's information is actually the first evidence pointing toward suspects, and we'll see this developed further in this post.

And now we move forward with the evidence we've collected so far, and start developing leads to follow. Of course Silverblade needs to be involved again at this stage. And as promised, more Icicle in this post!

*************************************************
Fredas 22 Last Seed - Collecting the Evidence

“Let’s stop at Candlehearth,” Lili said as they drew near the inn. “I’m getting a bit hungry, what about you?”

Stenvar’s breath soughed visibly for a few heartbeats. “Something light, maybe? Definitely some ale to warm my bones.”

“I think we should fill Silverblade in on what we have so far,” Lili remarked as they turned for the steps leading to the upper door. Icicle paused in her strut, considered their change of direction, then leaped for the inn as Stenvar opened the portal. She streaked through first, followed by Lili, while Stenvar brought up the rear, as usual. She’s telling the world coming inside here is her idea, not mine. Typical cat. Wonder if she’s Alfiq? Nah, too small. Memories of the smallest, sassiest Khajiit from her Elsweyr days made Lili smile as her grief temporarily eased.

Icicle led Stenvar to his customary table as Lili watched. As he took his seat, Lili caught his gaze. “I’m going downstairs to drop this off,” she hefted the backpack in her right hand, “and see if Nils needs any help. I’ll get soup for myself, what about you?”

“Soup sounds good, and ale, too, if you can manage it.” Sten held her gaze. “Do you want me to help you?”

“Thanks, but no,” Lili responded. “I can handle it. I’ll return shortly.”

Nils was only all too grateful for Lili’s offer to serve herself and Stenvar. He assembled a tray with a large tureen of fish soup, a pitcher of ale with two mugs, and two stacked bowls. He gave her an odd glance when she refused the bone he offered and requested a small plate instead, but complied without question. Lili helped herself to a couple of spoons and a small fork before heading upstairs, tray balanced on one hand.

Lili found Icicle seated in her usual chair at Stenvar’s table. She stifled a chuckle at the cat’s posture, which resembled a regal queen awaiting her meal, her green gaze on the table surface.

“Hope you don’t mind,” Stenvar waved toward Icicle as Lili set the tray down. “I didn’t have the heart to tell her it wasn’t her chair.”

“It is now,” Lili pulled another chair to Stenvar’s side opposite Icicle. “This one will be mine.” She set the bowls for herself and Stenvar, and laid the small plate beside hers. While Stenvar poured ale for both of them, Lili ladled the steaming fish soup into each bowl. She used the fork to scoop out several chunks of fish and placed them on the plate, then set it in front of Icicle.

Discreetly Icicle set one paw on the table, rose slightly, and picked a piece off the plate. She ate with delicate relish, as Stenvar watched with quiet amusement over his mug of ale. “She’s quieter than Star, that much is true,” he remarked softly.

Lili chucked as she spooned up the savory soup. “This is quite good,” she murmured after the first sip. Stenvar only grunted as he dove into the meal. Before long, man, Mer and cat were finished. Icicle sat back on her seat and began grooming herself while Lili and Stenvar lingered over their mugs of ale.

Silverblade entered much as she had that morning, in a swirl of cold air and blue cloak, and made her way to their table. She faltered momentarily at the sight of Icicle on the chair next to Stenvar, and pulled up another seat to sit opposite him. “I see you have some appetite back,” she remarked by way of preamble.

“We needed something hot after being out in the cold all day!” Lili exclaimed with a shiver for emphasis.

“So I’ve heard,” Silverblade nodded. “When last we spoke, we had just examined Susanna’s body and traced her trail to Hjerim. What have you been able to learn?”

Lili was glad for the light soup in her stomach as she told the night watch leader what they had found at Hjerim, and what they were able to learn from Silda the Unseen.

“A man, not a Nord or Elf?” Silverblade mused softly. “If she’s right, that does narrow down the suspect list.” Her wandering glance settled on Leotelli. “I think we can rule that one out,” she remarked softly. “Not just because he lost his niece, but also because Elda gave me a list of guests in Candlehearth last night, and he was among them.”

“He’s here every day and night,” Stenvar remarked. “Rents a room downstairs.”

“Right,” Lili responded. “Across from me.” She propped her elbow on the table and rested her chin in her upraised palm. “So that rules him out. Who else?”

“While Giordano’s not a Nord, she’s not a man, either,” Silverblade’s voice held a tinge of regretful sarcasm. “And Quintus Navale can be counted out - his employer Nurelion has been ill and tells us Quintus has not left the shop for the past three days and nights.”

“Dalan Merchad is with the North Wind crew,” Stenvar volunteered. “But he’s been here most nights.”

“He’s on Elda’s list, too,” Silverblade added. “And Orthus Endario of the East Empire Company practically lives in his office. The guards on the docks never saw him.” She shook her head resignedly. “Honestly, that doesn’t mean much.”

“And there’s Calixto Corrium,” Stenvar leaned back in his chair, avoiding Lili’s glance. “Women say he’s creepy, but considering the oddities in his museum, it’s not surprising, really.”

Silverblade’s gaze sharpened. “Do you have something on Corrium?” Stenvar slid his gaze over to Lili. The Watch leader regarded the Bosmer silently for a few breaths. “I’m remembering something you said earlier, Lilisfina,” she said finally. “You said it didn’t smell like Dark Elves - I mean Dunmer. Did you mean that literally?”

Lili sighed. “I have a very sensitive nose, as Stennvar will confirm. But it means I pick up on things that are not noticeable to folk like you. Only Khajiit and maybe other Bosmer share that sensitivity. That means I really can’t bring my suspect to you on the basis of something I alone can smell.”

Silverblade regarded her silently for so long that Icicle lifted her head above the table and gave the Nord leader an eloquent glare with an impatient miaow.

“So you smell something on Corrium. What is it?” Silverblade’s tone turned implacable.

“I wasn’t certain at first,” Lili rested both elbows on the table, hands clasped in front of her. “When I first came to Windhelm, Stennvar gave me a tour of the city.” She glanced over at Stenvar. “He showed me the Stone Quarter, and I could smell something emanating from that abandoned house - Hjerim. Necromantic spells and necromantic entities have a certain - odor - that is more than typical rotting flesh. I caught a whiff of it there. Then again in Corrium’s House of Curiosities.”

“The house, or Corrium?” Silverblade leaned forward. Lili noted the stern curiosity in the taller woman’s gaze.

“I couldn’t be sure, at the time I wondered if the house had once been the home of a necromancer and the odor had sunk into the structure.” Lili responded. “But we spoke to Corrium in the street today just before we returned to Candlehearth for the afternoon respite, and I could smell it on him.”

“Hmm, would it be from living in that house, or from Hjerim?” Silverblade tapped her chin in thought.

“This amulet,” Lili waited as Stenvar laid the necklace in front of Silverblade, “we found it in Hjerim, along with these journals,” she placed the books beside it. “Neither Torbjorn nor Nilsine recognize the handwriting. I showed the amulet to Corrium, because Nilsine suggested he might know what it is. He told us it is called the Wheelstone, and is typically carried by the Windhelm Court Mage.”

“Really?” Silverblade’s gaze sharpened on the amulet. “Wuunferth? There’s a rumor he practices necromancy.” She regarded Lili again. “If you were to speak with Wuunferth, would you be able to scent necromantic spells on him?”

“That rumor is just that to me, a rumor,” Lili answered. “But I do want to speak with Wuunferth.” She smiled at Icicle when the cat miaowed again. “We have a delivery from Hillevi in the market for him. I thought I would ask him about this amulet, and maybe these journals.”

“Good,” Silverblade nodded curtly. “Better you than me, I should think so. In the meantime, I will try to get a sample of Corrium’s handwriting to compare to the journals.”

“Do you have someone who is experienced in comparing handwriting samples?” Lili lifted her brows at Silverblade. “It’s not always as easy as it sounds.”

Silverblade chuckled. “Of course we do! Jorleif the Steward is an expert at spotting forged signatures. It’s part of his job.”

“And we still have to speak with Viola Giordano,” Lili added.

“Don’t worry, I’ll handle her,” Silverblade assured them. “She can go berserk if she gets the wrong idea, and it can take two or three guards to physically restrain her.”

“So I’ve noticed,” Lili said dryly. “Do you think it will take us long to get in to see Wuunferth?”

“Not if you have a delivery for him,” Silverblade shook her head. “He’s usually impatient about these things, and no one wants to delay his orders.” She leaned back. “Let me work on Giordano, confirm where Endario spent yesterday evening, and try to get handwriting samples from our two suspects.”

“I’m certain you can do it without letting on they’re suspects in the murder of Susanna,” Lili nodded.

“Of course!” Silverblade nodded emphatically. “I’ll catch up to you when I’m finished.”

[Acadian]

Nice meal and break from the cold. No bones under the table for Icicle. She’ll have her fish cut into bites and on a plate if you please.

‘Before long, man, Mer and cat were finished.’
- - And right on cue, Silverblade breezes in to share progress on the investigation and get an update from the man, Mer and cat trio of sleuths.

Silverblade seems quite no-nonsense and efficient. . . perhaps at the price of subtlety. I'm not surprised Lili gently suggested not alerting suspects while garnering handwriting samples if possible.

A productive brainstorming session ensues, and a coordinated plan emerges.

[SubRosa]

I found a picture of Lil, Sten, and Icicle eating dinner...

So some strategizing, and now a path forward with more interviews. Judicious Jorlief, Worrisome Wuunferth, Vicious Viola, and Creepy Calixto. I like how you are weaving this tapestry through many of the notable people in the city.

[Renee]

I agree, Sofie's a heartbreaker. I can't help but feel *something* (compassion.... worry ... even empathy if I'm with the right character) even with Evil type characters.

So you suspect Calder of being somehow involved in the murders? That's interesting.

He just seems shady. Like he's hiding something. Said awkward things when they were in the home with the crime scene, and so on. Could be nerves, of course, but even so, why would he be nervous?

"Leotelli, we can rule him out..." Okay, here is Adonato Leotelli. Seen the guy often, didn't know his name. Yeah, he doesn't seem so much like a serial killer. Hmm... not that looks have anything much to do with it. But he's always scribbling in his book. Doesn't strike me as the type, but of course, there often isn't a "type".

Phew, quite a few people on this list. Hmm, but Corrium's under the magnifying glass. Indeed, he's got that museum. Somewhat of a public figure I'm assuming. But not everyone's always around to see what he's up to. Also, let's consider that the odor in the museum could be just some innocent curiosity he's acquired recently...



This post has been edited by Renee: Feb 5 2025, 08:34 PM

[haute ecole rider]

@Acadian: Yes, Silverblade is very efficient - she is not one to waste time when the game's afoot! And yes, Icicle is much daintier when it comes to eating habits. ;P

@SubRosa: I spewed when I clicked on that linky! Also loved the comic book appellations you assigned to our Usual Suspects. I'm glad you liked that I included several lesser known Windhelm residents in this episode. I will admit I spent a fair bit of time on the character pages over at UESP.

@Renee: Your suspicion that Calder is hiding something may be right. Not sure I would call him nervous, so much as angry. I included Leotelli for two reasons: Isabella, the second victim, was connected to him somehow (he mentions. her in conversation) so I made her his niece. Not 'niece', but a bona fide niece who was helping him with his writing. And yes, there could be some innocent curiosity in his house causing the odor - we'll see . . .

And now Icicle escorts Lili and Sten to the Palace to see Wuunferth. He was another character that just leapt off the page for me (like Sofie running away from me in the first draft - I had to catch her by her braids and stop her from taking over the story).

****************************************************
Fredas 22 Last Seed - Wuunferth: Court Mage or Necromancer?

Boss welcomed a new investigator to our team. Star was reassigned to guard duty with our witness, but a local tabby cat volunteered to come with us. She steered us to someone who gave us an excuse to see the court mage. Boss is going to talk to him about evidence we found.

Icicle entered the Jarl’s Hall first, tail weaving arabesques in the air as she strolled regally past the guards at the door. Their gazes missed the small cat and instead settled warily on Sten and Lilisfina. She paused as they shifted slightly and hands dropped to sword hilts.

“We’re here to see Wuunferth,” Sten made his voice a soft rumble. “We have a delivery for him.” He held up the package from Hillevi. Though the guards remained silent, he could see a flicker of unease pass through their gazes. Then one glanced toward Steward Jorleif, in his usual spot near the empty throne.

The lean Nord caught the exchange and made his way past the feast table. Something in his demeanor reassured the guards. “Stairs on the left, turn right at the top, end of the hallway,” one of the guards said. They resumed their posts as Lilisfina followed the cat toward Jorleif. Sten followed close behind, the bundle tucked beneath one elbow.

“Good afternoon, Steward,” Lilisfina paused to greet the Steward. “We have a delivery for Wuunferth.”

Jorleif met Sten’s gaze for a moment, then turned his face to Lilisfina. He bent slightly to keep his voice down. “I see,” he murmured as Sten made a show of waving the package in his direction. “And how goes the investigation? Silverblade mentioned she was to meet with you.”

“Yes, it is proceeding well,” Lilisfina responded. “We’ve spoken with Silverblade, and now we are looking for further evidence, and would like to speak with Wuunferth.”

Jorleif straightened up, his face still impassive. “Good then, please proceed. You do know where to go, yes?” Lilisfina nodded. “Don’t let his demeanor mislead you, ma’am, Stenvar.”

“I won’t,” Lilisfina smiled up at him. “You’ll be updated regarding what evidence we have later today.”

Now a flicker of pleasure moved through Jorleif’s gaze. “That is good news, I look forward to hearing more.” He waved them along and returned to his post near the throne.

As the trio moved toward the indicated staircase, they heard voices coming from a room next to the archway. Sten glanced into the room as they passed to see Jarl Stormcloak and Gjalmar Stone-Fist leaning over a table, heads together as they studied a map. Plotting their next skirmish, I bet. He stopped himself from shaking his head at his thoughts. Icicle streaked up the stone steps to the second floor, Lilisfina following more sedately. As they reached the top of the stairs, another pair of guards regarded them warily.

“Delivery for Wuunferth,” Sten waved the bundle yet again. In response one of the two guards jerked his head down the long hallway which ran to the front of the Palace.

“Room at the end,” he said shortly.

“Thank you,” Lilisfina murmured as she passed between them. Now they seem less hostile toward Boss. Wonder if they know she’s working with Silverblade? They moved past another pair of guards stationed halfway down the passageway, where servants moved in and out of bedrooms on either side. Their eyes followed Lilisfina as she, in turn, followed Icicle to the room at the end of the corridor.

Weak sunlight slipped through tall, narrow windows along the opposite wall of the room, and cast the furnishings into shadow. It took Sten a few breaths before his eyes adapted enough to make out the workbench to one side, cluttered with gems and glowing stones. On the right wall scrolls and books spilled out of cases that rose to the top of the walls and covered the floor, tables and chairs in irregular piles. An alchemy table stood beside the workbench in the left corner. On the left a narrow bed rested against the wall, a table with wine bottles and tipped goblets near one end. Snoring rose from the rumpled blankets and furs.

Icicle leaped onto the bed and perched on the highest point, which turned out to be a shoulder of the man napping there. She purred and pawed at the coverings, her claws catching the material. The snoring turned into grumblings, and a hand appeared from beneath to brush the disturbance away, but stopped when it touched Icicle’s fur. She purred louder, then chirruped as a wizened face, framed above and below by wild gray hair, followed the hand into the land of the waking.

“Well, kitty, I’m awake, I’m awake,” the old man rubbed at his eyes as he sat up, careful to keep Icicle on the bed with him. He stroked her face with a finger, then glanced at the window. “But it’s not supper time yet, kitty,” he frowned. “Why have you woken me so early?”

“Do you know Icicle?” Lilisfina asked as the cat meeped at the old man, then leaped gracefully down to sit beside Lilisfina.

“Icicle?” The court mage peered toward Lilisfina and Sten. “Is that the cat’s name? Huh, I’ve always called her kitty. Seemed happy enough with it.” Now he frowned. “Who are you? And why are you here?”

“We have a delivery of nightshade from Hillevi for you,” Sten stepped into a bar of light from the window so the old man could see him better, and held the package out to him.

“Hillevi?” The wizard struggled out from beneath the pile of coverings and slipped his feet into slippers. He rose and shook out his robes, then ran his hand down his beard. “And she sent a Bosmer and a Nord to do her deliveries? What is Nirn coming to?”

“You are Wuunferth, I take it?” Lilisfina moved to stand in the light beside Sten. “You have heard of the murder of Susanna the Wicked?”

“Yes, and I have heard you stood accused of it, Lilisfina of Valenwood,” Wuunferth plucked the package from Sten’s hand and moved to a table near the workbench. He opened the package and sniffed appreciatively at the plants within. “Hillevi always delivers the quality products,” his tone held satisfaction. He set them down on the table next to a mortar, then turned to face the pair. “But that’s not really why you’re here, is it?”

“No, Mage,” Lilisfina responded. She stepped forward. “We were tasked to find the location of the murder.”

“It wouldn’t be the graveyard, where her body was found,” Wuunferth stroked at his beard again. “Too obvious, one would think.”

“You are correct, Mage,” Lilisfina nodded. “We were able to locate the murder site in an abandoned house in the Stone Quarter. Hjerim, I believe it’s called.”

“Hjerim?” Wuunferth’s gaze grew distant. “That’s Friga Shatter-Shield’s house, isn’t it?”

“Yes, and it is where three other women - Friga, Isabella and Fjotli Cruel-Sea - were also murdered.”

“Really,” Wuunferth’s tone and gaze held no surprise. “I rather expected that. The whole thing reeks of ritualistic murder to me.”

“Perhaps,” Lilisfina agreed. She nodded at Sten, and he held out the amulet they had found in Hjerim. “We found this, and Nilsine Shatter-Shield denies it belongs to either her or her sister. She suggested we show it to Calixto Corrium, who identifies it as the Wheelstone. Something carried by Windhelm’s court mages.”

“Ah,” Wuunferth’s eyes gleamed with sudden understanding. “And so you are here to ask me about this?”

“If Corrium is correct, I would like to know how it got from here,” Lilisfina waved her hand around the disordered room, “to the site of four grisly murders.”

“As would I,” Wuunferth nodded. “But Corrium is not correct. There is no such thing as a Wheelstone, and I’ve never seen anything like it.” He leaned closer to study the amulet in Sten’s hand. “May I?”

Sten glanced at Lilisfina momentarily before he surrendered the necklace into Wuunferth’s fingers. “Do you know what it is, Mage?”

“Hmm, I would need to confirm it,” Wuunferth mused as he turned the object over in his fingers. “Come, there is something we can do to prove it.” He waved Lilisfina and Sten to the workbench cluttered with the glowing crystals. “Do you know what these are?”

Sten recognized them from their foray into the laboratory hidden deep within Forsaken Cave. “Boss, we saw those before, didn’t we?”

“Yes,” Lili responded. “Welkynd stones, yes?”

“Yes!” Wuunferth’s tone held approval. “And you know they have their uses, correct?”

“I know one can restore one’s own depleted Magicka with these, but I’ve never needed to use them.” Lilisfina shrugged. “And I know a few enchanters like to collect them.”

“They do have other uses,” Wuunferth set the amulet down on the table, nestling it within a worn depression in the wood. “With mysterious objects, a Welkynd stone can be used to reveal hidden enchantments.” He picked up a smaller Welkynd stone and held it over the amulet. In the bluish glow from the crystal, a wispy green and purple mist swirled up from the carved skull. “Just as I thought,” Wuunferth mused as he set the crystal back down. “Interesting that this should be found in Hjerim, of all places.”

“Do you know what it is?” Lilisfina asked.

“Of course! It is the Necromancer’s Amulet,” the old wizard regarded the jewelry warily, as if reluctant to pick it up. “It has been lost a long time - centuries, even. I only know of it through my studies,” he waved his hand vaguely in the direction of his disheveled library. “It was last seen about the time of the Oblivion Crisis two hundred years ago.” Again he stroked his beard thoughtfully. “Hmm, wonder how it ended up here?”

“Is someone practicing necromancy with it?” Lilisfina asked. “I’m sure you’ve heard the rumors about yourself —?”

“Nonsense!” Wuunferth drew himself up indignantly. “I have nothing to do with necromancy! You can ask at the College of Winterhold, where I am a member in good standing!”

“Thank you,” Lilisfina held up a placating hand. “I appreciate your confirmation that such rumors are incorrect.”

“It does appear that you are on the right track, however, little Bosmer,” Wuunferth mused. “I too have been following the murders. I’ve investigated the bodies, secretly of course. All four carry the same magical signature, and this does too.”

“Really?” Sten leaned past Lilisfina to peer at the amulet. “Like a smell, perhaps?”

“Smell?” Wuunferth repeated. “Magicka is not smell!”

“Boss here can smell undead,” Sten tipped his head to Lilisfina, who held Wuunferth’s disbelieving gaze steadily. “Says they smell different from regular dead. Zombies, draugr, lich, anything necro -” he glanced at her, momentarily at a loss for the correct word.

“Necromantic,” Lilisfina supplied. “My instincts can detect traces of necromantic ritual, and it does work like a smell for me.”

“Indeed?” Wuunferth’s shaggy brows rose above his faded eyes. “And has this led you to me?”

“No,” Lilisfina shook her head. “Someone else. But I need proof people like Stennvar can see.”

“Hmph,” Wuunferth scoffed. “Bring your suspects before me, and I can test this amulet to see if it links to any of them!” A feral grin appeared within his beard. “And it’s something anyone can see!”

[Grits]

Wuunferth’s quarters sound like a real mage lair. A total mess but he can probably put out his hand and pick up exactly what he wants on the first try.

Hah, Icicle is quite the cat about town! She seems on good terms with Wuunferth, which of course speaks highly of him. I love your take on Windhelm’s Court Mage.

What a great scene, and an excellent plan! Time for a suspect roundup.

[Acadian]

It seems Her Royal Highness (Icicle / Miss Kitty) has some history with the court mage. You quite brought Wuunferth and his disheveled lair to life!

I love how you used a welkynd stone to identify the necklace’s enchantment. Identifying that necklace is a good step, but Wuunferth inferring he can link it to its user is a huge break for the case.

I’m guessing Lili and Sten are going to need some help getting suspects in front of Wuunferth. I bet Silverblade can help. And a couple witnesses to observe the proceedings would be helpful too I should think. Oh, a bit of secrecy as well to help keep the perp from bolting.

[SubRosa]

The palace is certainly well guarded. Then again, that is to be expected during a time of war. I wonder how often Wuunferth receives visitors. From the reaction of the guards, I suspect not very often. Not only do Lilstencicle seem to be persona non grata at the palace, but the court wizard as well. Though I suspect it is more a case of dread when it comes to Wuunferth.

Wuunferth certainly delivers in this episode. He's everything one would expect from a court wizard. Somewhat distant, somewhat grouchy, open-minded, and experienced in the ways of magic. And he knows a Necromancer's Amulet when he sees one.

I liked seeing the differences in how Wuunferth and Lil experience magic put on display here, and how that fact that both are different does not detract from the validity of either. That is always something I have tried to stress in the Stormcrow fic - that magic is personal to its users, so everyone experiences it in their own way.

[haute ecole rider]

@Grits: Of course Wuunferth has a method to his chaos! And yes, time indeed for a suspect roundup!

@Acadian: Yes, Miss Kitty does get around town! And using the Welkynd stone to identify the magick encapsulating the amulet was a stroke of momentary genius on my part. Hmmm. The things that pop into one's head at times, yes? And yes it's time to get the usual suspects together for Wuunferth to work his magick on.

@SubRosa: Thank you for your kind words regarding Wuunferth - he was a fun old man to write. I'm also happy you picked up on the different ways they perceive magick - while most folks regard magick detection as being visual (smoke and mirrors, anyone?), I don't see why one can't use the other senses as well - smell in Lili's case, for example, and sound in the case of a bardic mage, say.

After interviewing Wuunferth the court mage and identifying the true nature of the odd amulet, it is time for Lili and Sten to meet up with Silverblade and Jorleif and share findings. What happens next is a little more than Lili anticipated.

Forgive me for the length of this post - I struggled to find a natural break around the 1500 word mark and failed.

********************************
Fredas 22 Last Seed - Closure

Wuunferth decided to walk down with Lili and Stenvar after their conversation. He had tucked the amulet away in a small pouch at his waist. “I see you don’t like to touch it,” he remarked softly as he did so.

“It makes me feel ill,” Lili responded. Stenvar glanced sharply at her. “And my fingers hurt when I touch it. Better you than me, Mage.”

“And the light is nearly gone, so I may as well head down for my supper,” Wuunferth added as he led them down the long corridor to the staircase, Icicle leading him.

“Does Jarl Stormcloak have much need for magick?” Lili asked as they passed the guards midway down the hallway.

Wuunferth snorted. “Not really, but then, I don’t have much need for Ulfric. His father and I had a closer relationship. In any case, we leave each other well enough alone.”

“I see,” Lili murmured. Wuunferth glanced back over his shoulder and scoffed. “I suppose I’d do best to avoid him, as well.”

They entered the Hall to see Silverblade and Steward Jorleif near the head of the long table, table settings pushed to one side as they pored over sheets of paper. Lili recognized the two handwritten journals that she had turned over to the night Watch leader earlier in the day. They’re comparing handwriting samples. Looks like Silverblade’s made progress.

Silverblade looked up as the others approached the table. “Hello,” she greeted them as Icicle leaped up onto the table and sniffed at the papers. The gray tabby laid down on one pile and purred up at Steward Jorleif. He picked her up and set her to one side, not taking his gaze off the journals. She pfft’d at him and turned her back on him, her tail twitching in disgust.

“We’re comparing handwriting examples,” Silverblade remarked to Wuunferth. “I presume the Wood Elf has brought you up to date on our investigation?”

“Ah, so she has,” the court mage nodded. “Now I want my dinner.”

“You may have to postpone that a bit,” Steward Jorleif shook his head. “We are about to call the court.”

“Court?” Lili repeated.

“Yes, the Jarl has been notified, and the thanes will be coming shortly with the victims’ families and certain suspects.” Jorleif glanced up at Lili. “You are ready to conclude your investigation, correct?”

“Just about,” Lili glanced at Stenvar. “I didn’t think this would be so public.”

“It has to be,” Jorleif grunted. “Four murders have been linked, and so many people have been affected. It’s best that this matter is settled in the eyes of all involved.” As he finished speaking the doors to the courtyard opened and several people entered. In their lead strode the two Thanes, Free-Winter and Shatter-Shield.

Behind them Lili could see several Imperial and Breton men, all residents of Windhelm. She recognized Adonato Leotelli and Dalan Merchad from Candlehearth, and frowned at Quintus Navale’s presence. She made her way to him and touched his elbow. “How is Nurelion?”

Navale shook his head. “The recommendations you made have alleviated his symptoms somewhat, but they don’t last long. At least I’ve been able to ease his pain for short whiles.”

“Sometimes that is all one can do, while one waits for the inevitable,” Lili squeezed his elbow comfortingly.

“Do you know what is going on?” Navale indicated the small gathering at the head of the table as the two Thanes moved to join them.

“We’re bringing this murder to a resolution,” Lili responded softly. “And we need to do so in front of many folk,” she tipped her head toward the Hall doors, where already a growing crowd of Windhelm residents gathered. “Don’t worry, you’ll be able to go back to your master shortly.”

“I do hope we can bring this grisly business to an end,” Navale whispered back as he stepped behind the Shatter-Shield family. For the first time Lili spotted Tova, the mother of Friga and Nilsine, as she leaned on Nilsine’s arm for support.

“This is the second time you’ve interrupted my meal,” Jarl Stormcloak groused as he entered the hall and took his seat on the throne. “Steward?”

Jorleif waved to the night watch leader. “Jyta Silverblade has been leading the investigation into the murder, with the assistance of Lilisfina of Valenwood and Stenvar Strongsword.” He stepped back and nodded at the tall Nord woman.

“My Jarl, people of Windhelm, we have made significant progress today.” She turned to include the townsfolk gathered behind her before returning her gaze to the Jarl. “Lilisfina, Stenvar and I investigated the scene where Susanna’s body was dumped, and examined Susanna’s body itself. We were able to determine that one, the crime was not committed in the graveyard, and two, the way Susanna was murdered matches that of three other women - Friga Shatter-Shield, Isabella the niece of Adonato Leotelli, and Fjotli Cruel-Sea.” Murmurs passed around the hall at her words, but a fierce glare from Gjalmar Stone-Fist from his place beside the throne soon quelled the folk.

“Next, the three of us were able to trace a blood trail from the location where Susanna’s body was found to an abandoned house in the Stone Quarter, Hjerim.” Silverblade continued at Jorleif’s nod. “Yes, the same place where Friga Shatter-Shield was found. It was locked, but we could see signs of recent entry.” She turned to Lilisfina. “If you would please continue, Lilisfina.”

Lili took a deep breath and gazed at the faces now staring at her. Stenvar moved to stand behind her, which eased her nerves. “We spoke with Thane Shatter-Shield and his daughter, Nilsine. They confirmed that Nilsine has the only key, and they have not entered the house since it was shut up after Friga’s death. But Nilsine did tell us that Friga’s key to the house was missing and is still missing. They were kind enough to lend us Nilsine’s key and give us permission to enter Hjerim with their carl Calder.” She indicated the younger man next to the Thane. “He will vouch what we found in there.” She took another deep breath. “Within, we found evidence of recent activity as indicated by footprints and blood streaks in the dust on the floor. We could also smell dead flesh. Upon further exploration, we found two journals,” she pointed at the small volumes on the table, “and an amulet with a carved skull. We also found a secret room, which is the location where the crimes occurred. Also,” Lili swallowed against a suddenly dry mouth, aware of the shock her next words would generate, “we found a chest containing body parts from different victims.”

Startled exclamations and cries of grief rang around the hall as people shifted and exchanged glances among themselves. Silverblade held up a hand for silence, but it took several breaths for folk to overcome their collective shock. “Helgird,” the night watch leader called up the priestess. “Please tell the folk what you found in that room.”

The thin woman stepped to the table and breathed deeply. “I examined the contents of the chest Lilisfina refers to. I was able to identify, despite the advanced stage of decomposition of some of the items, all of the missing parts from the four murdered women - Friga Shatter-Shield,” as she named the first victim, Tova cried out and sagged against Nilsine. Torbjorn caught her before she slumped to the floor, and father and daughter eased Tova into a nearby chair. “Isabella, Fjotli Cruel-Sea, and Susanna the Wicked,” Helgird finished, deep sadness in her voice. “I have collected all the parts and will be restoring them to the interred. They will be complete by tomorrow morning.” She bowed in turn to each of the grieving families - the Shatter-Shields, Adonato Leotelli, the Cruel-Seas, and Elda and Nils from Candlehearth. Finally she turned to Silverblade.

“Thank you very much, Helgird,” Silverblade spoke softly. “Your work is much appreciated. You must be anxious to return to your restoration of the dead.” Helgird nodded at the night watch leader and left the hall, avoiding contact with the townsfolk. Silverblade drew their attention back to herself by clearing her throat loudly. “As many of you know, Silda the Unseen was the one who found Susanna’s body. The experience has traumatized her badly, and she is still in hiding. But Lilisfina,” she nodded at the Bosmer, “was able to find her, and speak with her.”

“It was very difficult to speak with Silda,” Lili picked up the narrative, “since she was still terrified. But I was able to determine that she did, indeed, see who left Susanna’s body in the graveyard, and while she was unable to name the culprit, she did say it was a man, not Nord, Elf nor Argonian.”

“And that narrows our suspects to a few Imperials and Bretons,” Silverblade continued. She turned back to Lili. “And you were able to follow one more lead?”

“Yes, the amulet. Neither Thane Shatter-Shield nor Nilsine were able to identify it, and denied it belonged to them. Nilsine suggested we take it to Calixto Corrium, as he was interested in such arcane objects. When we showed him the amulet, he identified it as the Wheelstone, carried by court mages of Windhelm.” As she spoke, Lili noticed a shifting in the shadows behind most of the townsfolk, and recognized Corrium’s slight form as he sidled toward the courtyard doors.

Apparently Silverblade noticed the same covert movement, for she signaled the guards. They closed the tall doors and bolted them, then stood in front of them. Silverblade’s gaze returned to Lili with an indication to continue.

“Of course, we took it to Wuunferth to confirm what Corrium had said. Wuunferth denied that the court mages of Windhelm possessed such an artifact, and instead was able, via magicka, to identify it as a long lost relic of Mannimarco, the Necromancer’s Amulet.”

Viola Giordano leaped forward. “Necromancy! I knew it!” She pointed at Wuunferth. “Everyone knows that man practices necromancy when the rest of us sleep!”

“No, Wuunferth is not the murderer,” Silverblade’s voice brooked no argument from anyone. Her eyes chilled on Giordano. “We will now present the evidence and the suspects, and we will let the evidence show us who the murderer is.”

“Silly woman,” Wuunferth muttered under his breath. “Of course I don’t practice necromancy!”

Thane Free-Winter blocked Giordano’s spluttering with his arm. “Please explain the evidence to us, Silverblade.” So Giordano will shut up for once and for all. His unspoken meaning was clear to several folk present.

“Of course, Thane,” Silverblade inclined slightly toward him in respect. “First, we have Silda’s witness statement that a man - Imperial or Breton - left Susanna’s body in the graveyard. We started with a list of our male Imperials and Bretons, and accounted for their whereabouts the night of the murder.” She held up a sheet of parchment. “Of this list, half of them were at Candlehearth Hall, as verified by both Elda Early-Dawn and Nils. One, Quintus Navale, was with his ill master in The White Phial, and another, Orthus Endario of the East Empire Company, was known to live in his office near the docks. However his location on that night could not be verified, as no one saw him anywhere. And one last one, Calixto Corrium, was unaccounted for as well.” She nodded again at the guards, who brought forward the two named men. Both looked nervous at being the center of attention, but Lili could smell the fear coming off of the museum owner. He knows he’s about to be exposed.

Stenvar moved to stand at Lili’s side, his gaze hard on Corrium, his stance watchful. He knows Corrium might do something. He’s ready. Lili noticed Calder shift position slightly as well, to give himself a clear path to the two suspects. And Calder has noticed Stennvar’s wariness as well. Good man.

“We have the journals,” Silverblade laid the list down and tapped the two volumes. “Both handwritten, both indicating intent to murder the four women with the express purpose of collecting specific body parts. We asked all of our Imperial and Breton men to write statements of their whereabouts last night.” She turned to Jorleif. “Then we asked Steward Jorleif, who is known for his ability to recognize forgeries, to examine the handwriting. We were able to eliminate all but one.”

“The statement that matches the handwriting in the journals belongs to Calixto Corrium,” Jorleif spoke, his gaze hard on the museum owner. “Guards, take hold of this man and do not release him!”

Endario stepped back in stunned relief as two burly men seized Corrium’s arms in mailed grips. Calixto winced and did not struggle. Nor did he protest, but only glared at Lili.

“One more thing,” Wuunferth stepped forward and held up the Necromancer’s Amulet. “I can trace who used this nasty thing for the past several months.” He waved the fingers of his free hand at it, and a faint purple and green glow, similar to the one Lili and Stennvar had noticed before, appeared around the carved skull of the amulet. Another wriggle of his fingers, and the glow trailed to Corrium, where it increased in intensity about the man’s neck. “Ah, so Corrium is the one who wore it and conducted necromantic rituals with it.”

“And there is your murderer, Viola Giordano,” Silverblade addressed the shocked woman. “Guards, search the man!”

A third guard stepped forward and patted Corrium very thoroughly. He paused over a pocket in the man’s vest, and pulled out two keys.

“Let me see that!” Thane Shatter-Shield stepped forward and plucked the objects from the guard’s hand. “This - “ he turned to Nilsine for confirmation.

“It’s Friga’s key to Hjerim!” Nilsine stepped to Corrium and raked her fingernails down the startled Imperial’s face. “You - you Butcher!”

Calder moved then. He pulled Nilsine away from Corrium and drew her back to her sobbing mother. The daughter collapsed beside Tova and shook with weeping rage.

“Well, that’s that,” Jarl Stormcloak’s cool voice slid over the subsequent uproar in the hall. “I declare you, Calixto Corrium, guilty of the following: the murder of Friga Shatter-Shield, the murder of -” he glanced at Jorleif, who murmured something in response, “- Isabella, the niece of Adonato Leotelli, the murder of Fjotli Cruel-Sea, and the murder of Susanna the Wicked. Additionally, you are also charged with practicing necromancy within the walls of Windhelm, and of trespassing on the property of the Shatter-Shields. The sentences for these charges is death, death, death, death, death, and a fine of fifty septims to be paid to the Shatter-Shields. All sentences to be carried out simultaneously and to immediate effect.”

Jorleif stepped forward. “Everyone please withdraw to the courtyard. The sentences will be carried out there.”

Now Corrium began to struggle against the inevitable. As he was dragged outside the Palace, he alternatively protested his innocence, cursed the families of his victims and entreated his dead sister’s soul for forgiveness. His swift execution by Gjalmar’s efficient battle axe was anticlimactic.

[Acadian]

Eeep! Lili and I were expecting the quiet sharing of findings with Silverblade to formulate the next step in the investigation and Lili finds herself in the middle of a full open court proceeding as one of the prosecutors!

A fascinating scene as you show the power of numerous people providing mutually supporting and detailed information – and Lili was just one of those people.

Not only was there strong enough evidence to convict but the nail in the coffin was the DNA amulet’s magical evidence provided by Weenferth.

You really gave us a clear picture of what was going on with everyone in the court, from Icicle to those testifying to the victim families.

Ulfric’s judgement was unsurprisingly swift and sure. After all, his dinner had already been interrupted twice!

[SubRosa]

Time for dinner. Wait, what, they are holding court now? Again? It seems like they are really jumping the gun here. They have not even finished investigating yet.

Well, on the bright side at least if they can expose the Butcher as publicly as possible, then it might alleviate the genocide rhetoric being aimed at the Dunmer population. For now.

I am glad we readers are not the only ones who noted Calixto's cautious sidling toward the exit. It looks like he will not have a way out of this. But a man like him might take one or more innocent victims with him when his time comes. Hopefully Team Lil can avert that. Perhaps Icicle might play a decisive role in tripping the dastardly villain at an opportune moment?

So Calixto is exposed! And Wuunferth has a spell to reveal to whom the Necromancer's Amulet is attuned to. Another nail in Calixto's rather literal-looking coffin.

I loved the little addition of the trespassing charge at the end, and the monetary fine it confers! It is just so deliciously and obviously petty, that Jarl Stormcloak is twisting the knife one last time so Calixto can feel it hurt all the more. Don't interrupt the boss man's dinner, twice!

Well that is quick justice. Not even going to wait to construct a gallows. Not that I am complaining. At least now Calixto won't be escaping from his prison cell. Though given that he was a necromancer, now that he is dead, will he stay that way? Or might he be getting up and walking around to carry out those threats soon? Revenants are a classic after all.

Still, at least Vinegar Joe Gjalmar got to kill someone. I bet that made him happy at least.

[Grits]

Wow, it all came together quickly at the end. What a cascade of evidence! I enjoyed watching the various investigators play their roles in the trial. It was very satisfying that Nilsine’s furious testimony was the final nail in Calixto’s coffin.

I had to snort at the trespassing charge tacked onto the quintuple death sentence. But hey, he did trespass, and 50 Septims is 50 Septims!

Head’s off, now time for dinner. At least for the Jarl’s court. They may not feel like celebrating, but I imagine that Lili and Stenvar will be glad to have this whole business behind them.

[Renee]

"Sofie taking over the story!"

Feast table indeed. That table is huge! TableS, really.

Wuunferth is really tricky to find; those directions the guard gave are necessary. My elf healer wanted to check out Windhelm's Court Wizard, whom we assumed hangs out somewhere in the actual court, only to find him tucked way in that upper room. That comprised at least a couple or three in-game hours of searching. UESP says Windhelm, definitely has a Court Wizard...

Sten & Lili are lucky to have gotten directions! == Anyway, that 'flicker of unease' between the guards is telling. They're like "uh oh..."

Whoa, Necromancer's Amulet.

Yes, I imagine Ulfric's need for a magical court wizard are pretty light. He needs Wuunferth to maybe confirm some magical matters once in a while. He needs a specialist, just 'cause magic is here to stay; he can't not have a dedicated wizard; this is Tamriel after all. But he's not going to rely on the wizard. Maybe this is why Wuunferth is not so easy to locate.

Trial scene is intense. Yeah stop eating and attend to the masses, Ulfric Stormie.

Corrium sidles up... doors get locked, hmmm. I agree that a chapter break at 1500 words wouldn't feel right, btw.

The sentences for these charges is death, death, death, death, death, and a fine of fifty septims

This post has been edited by Renee: Mar 15 2025, 02:41 PM

[Acadian]

With the wonderful Murder She Wrote / CSI, Windhelm storyline resolved, I can't help but notice the break in your posting here. I hope all is well in Riderland? Surely there's a baby dragon stuck in a tree that needs rescuing by Lili and her sell sword or some other diversion to distract her from Winterhold? More Lili soon?

[haute ecole rider]

@Acadian: Both Lili and I felt her words would have more impact with the notoriously Elf-phobic Jarl if her findings were reported by those other than this Bosmer. And everyone in the court had a part to play. Yes, the Jarl was impatient with the proceedings, and confronted with such strong evidence he wanted things over and done with so he could get back to dinner - and drinking.

@SubRosa: Good job describing things from the Jarl's perspective. As I was listing the charges for our dear Calixto, I realized that he had indeed been trespassing in Hjerim, and that Lilsten's investigation had borne that out. Seemed silly to disregard that little detail, right? And if it struck you as humorous, good. Typical Nord outlook, that.

@Grits: I see you did not miss the Jarl's irritation at having his meal interrupted by this ridiculous farce of a serial murder (hey, planning the next attack on the Thalmor and getting in a night's worth of drinking is more important!) either. And yes, that trespassing charge was the Jarl doing "his job" - supposedly Corrium has to pay that fine to the Shatter-Shields, dead or alive.

@Renee: Thanks for your validation to keep the overlong post intact as is. Wuunferth is quite fun to write - I had T. H. White's vision of Merlyn in mind as I wrote Wuunferth, also the Disney version. I wanted something a bit more light hearted than the usual sword and sorcery wizard.

And now that the mystery of the multiple murders have been solved, our company wakes up to a new day and takes stock of things.

************************************
Loredas 23 Last Seed - Aftermath

Ma -

Sorry I never finished my letter last night. What a day! Boss and I, with the help of some good folks, solved Susanna’s murder. The Jarl’s justice was swift and merciful - though I’m sure the families of the victims would have preferred to have meted out their own justice on the evil man.

I don’t know what we will do next, or what will happen. I’ll keep you posted as best as I can. I will send both yesterday’s letter and today’s together.

Sten found Lilisfina and Icicle already seated at the usual table. The Wood Elf waved Sten to sit down and offered him the platter full of eggs and smoked mutton. As Sten took his usual chair, he noticed Icicle already daintily nibbling a small amount of egg on her own plate. “I hope you don’t mind that I got breakfast for us today, Stennvar,” Lilisfina spoke softly as he poured steaming klah into his mug. “It’s hard for Nils and Elda to keep up meal service without Susanna.”

Sten set the mug down at the surge of grief as the memory of the past day washed over him. “I’m sure they’ll find someone to take her role,” he murmured.

“But not her place, not in our hearts,” Lilisfina responded gently. “Will you be all right to stay here without her presence?”

“Where else can I stay?” Sten answered. “This is the only inn in town.”

“That’s true,” Lilisfina nodded to herself. “Then perhaps we should start thinking about moving on to Winterhold. At least we won’t be constantly reminded of our loss here.”

“Don’t worry about me,” Sten said gruffly. “It’s not the first time I’ve lost someone.”

“Nor I,” Lilisfina agreed. She set her fork down and sat back with her klah in her hands. “Part of me does not want to leave Windhelm yet, but another part of me is anxious to move on to Winterhold before it gets too cold to travel.”

“It’s never too cold to travel,” Sten corrected her. “But it does require more preparation.”

Lilisfina lifted her brows at him. “More furs?”

Sten shrugged. “Maybe. There are other ways to stay warm, you know.”

Lilisfina regarded him silently for several breaths. Uh oh. Overstepped again? Then she laughed. “We’ll figure things out as we go along, no doubt,” she sent him a sly wink.

Once again the night watch leader made a cold entrance and strode over to their table. “Hello,” Silverblade greeted them. “I wanted to update you on a few things since we parted ways at the Palace.”

“Oh?” Lilisfina offered her the eggs, but the leader shook her head. “I thought we wrapped things up thoroughly yesterday evening.”

“So we did,” Silverblade nodded decisively. “First, the Jarl sent this for you.” She handed over a small coin purse. "You should find five hundred drakes in there. Fair reward for the work you did, so he says.” Why do I feel like Silverblade doesn’t agree with that assessment? Sten kept his expression neutral. Silverblade took a deep breath before continuing.

“We went to Corrium’s house - the second key we found on him was for the museum. Nothing of value there, so we are not able to collect the fine for trespassing. I’ll have Wuunferth go through his ‘oddities’ to ascertain if any have value to magick users.”

Lilisfina glanced at Sten before shaking her head. “I doubt any of those items are true relics. My feeling is that everything there is a fake.”

“But we did find something more,” Silverblade laid a thin journal, similar to those found the day before, on the table before Lilisfina. “That has the motive for these murders and the necromantic rituals.”

Lilisfina skimmed the pages, and Sten caught her wince. “He was trying to recreate his sister?” She held the journal to Sten, but he shook his head. No need to read that, once she said what it’s about. “That’s both sad and disgusting.”

“Quite so,” Silverblade agreed. “Despite this, he committed evil acts, and was suitably punished for said acts.”

“Oh, of course,” Lilisfina nodded. “The motive is not justification enough for those unspeakable deeds.” She sighed. “It’s funny though. We’ve all lost those close to ourselves, yet Corrium is the one driven to necromancy, while the rest of us find other ways to move on. As we will from these most recent losses.”

“One would hope so,” Silverblade agreed. “Well, I also wanted to say thank you both for the invaluable assistance you provided us yesterday. We would not have been able to get this resolved so quickly. Being able to speak with Silda and find out what she saw was key to identifying the murderer.” Her gaze sharpened on Sten and Lilisfina. “Where is she, by the way?”

“Oh, we promised not to tell anyone,” Lilisfina smiled. “Silda was still terrified yesterday. We should go find her and assure her all is well this morning, and she is in no further danger from what she witnessed night before last.”

“Hopefully she’ll feel brave enough to come out today,” Sten added. And hopefully Star will rejoin us, though it’s clear he loves the girl Sofie too. How will Boss keep her promise to share Star with the girl?

“Well,” Silverblade tapped the table with her palms and rose. “I wanted to fill you both in on those last details. I’m off to my bed for the day.” She stifled a yawn. “Stayed up too many hours yesterday.” She nodded at both of them and left the common room as directly as she had entered.

“She doesn’t waste time, does she?” Lilisfina turned back to Sten. “Are you finished eating?”

He pushed his plate away. “Yes,” he responded with a final gulp from his mug. “What’s the plan for today, boss?”

“Like I told Silverblade, I’d like to find Silda and let her know all is well. But first we need to go see Helgird to make sure we don’t come down with Sanguinare Vampiris.”

“I forgot about that,” Sten hung his head into his palm.

“I almost did!” Lilisfina assured him. “But thinking of Silda, I remembered that we were going to see Helgird when Silda came screaming out of the dark.” She shook her head. “What a horrible end to the day, and what a horrible day that followed.”

Sten took a deep breath and met Lilisfina’s gaze. “But we got through it, and though it’s small comfort right now, we saw justice not just for Susanna, but for three other women and their families as well. So I suppose that’s the one good thing we did yesterday.”

Icicle led them down to the Hall of the Dead, where they found Helgird leading a ritual of restoration for the four victims at each interment. They waited while the priest comforted the grieving families, including Elda and Nils. Once the last of the mourners left, Lilisfina moved from corpse to corpse, laying a sprig of snowberries beside each as she had done for Leifgard and Nils. She left Susanna for last, where Sten and Icicle waited for her. The grey tabby wove between their legs as Lilisfina and Sten stood together beside Susanna, each lost in their own memories of the Candlehearth server.

Finally Lilisfina took a deep breath and turned to Sten. She laid her hand on his arm to keep him in place. “Stay as long as you like,” she murmured. “I’d like to talk to Helgird for a bit.”

Sten shook himself. “Need to move forward,” he gruffed. At his voice Icicle leaped to his broad shoulder and balanced herself as she swiped her face against his beard with a purr. His hand automatically came up to stroke her back and to help her stay in place. She chirped with pleasure as his fingertips dug gently into her thick coat. Sten glanced past the cat at Lilisfina and caught the amused glint in her gaze as she turned away.

Helgird greeted them with a small bow as they approached her. “Thank you both for what you’ve done,” she spoke softly. “When I recovered the body parts from Hjerim, I could feel the house sigh with relief. It’s no longer haunted, though it may take a while to clear the smell out of it.” She nodded toward the interment area. “And with these ladies now at peace, their families will come to their own peace in time.”

“I did notice that Tova still seemed very distraught,” Lilisfina commented as they followed Helgird to the small altar that she maintained in a side alcove. “Has she not sought peace from Arkay?”

“She spends all her time with Jora in the Temple of Talos,” Helgird tipped her head upwards, where the old Temple overlay the Halls of the Dead. “Doubt she’ll find much comfort there, though, as Talos is not known for compassion.”

Sten grunted. Known for war, really. Though the man Talos did bring law to a lawless land. Too bad the Divine isn’t worshiped so much for that as for his battle prowess.

Lilisfina dug into her mage’s pouch and pulled out a small bronze amulet. “We found this with Queen Freydis’s sword,” she held the necklace out to Helgird. “Is it a token of Arkay’s?”

Helgird accepted the amulet and examined it between her fingertips, tipping it toward the cold light above the altar. “It is very old,” she commented. “From Queen Freydis’s time, no question. And yes, this is an older version of Arkay’s sigil.” She manipulated the intertwined rings. “See, the design is High Rock - two rings.” She indicated the large bronze Nordic sigil on top of the altar. “Our Nordic design is two entwined carved squares which form an eight pointed star, with a globe in the middle. The older designs are not so ornate.”

Sten found himself peering at the carved squares. “But this is old Nordic design,” he exclaimed. “How can this be newer than that,” he indicated the delicate amulet, “when the Nordic design dates back to Ysgramor in the First Era?”

“Arkay wasn’t widely accepted in Skyrim until later,” Helgird responded. “Initially the High Rock design was used as Arkay’s token, but with time and acceptance, Nordic artists reinterpreted it with the old Nord elements of angles and carving.” She moved to hand the necklace back to Lilisfina, but the Wood Elf shook her head.

“Does it still hold Arkay’s blessing after all these years in a dusty, abandoned chest?” she asked. Helgird’s gaze grew distant as she considered Lilisfina’s question. She turned back to the altar and held the amulet, cradled in the palm of her hand, in the light which descended to the shrine. She murmured a few words, until the ancient bronze glowed with its own silver-white light.

“It does now,” Helgird said softly as she laid the fine chain in Lilisfina’s hand. “It will bring peace and balance to the wearer, as part of Arkay’s blessing.”

“Thank you,” Lilisfina carefully wrapped the amulet in a scrap of the green silk Sten remembered from their adventure in Forsaken Cave. Was that only three days ago? Feels like a lifetime. As she tucked it into her mage’s pouch, Lilisfina met Helgird’s curious gaze.

“And the both of us fought vampires the other day,” she added. “Would you please ensure we have not contracted Sanguinare Vampiris?”

“Of course,” Helgird held out her hands to Lilisfina first, then Sten. Her eyes moved past them as she searched for someone else. “Did Star come with you?” She asked softly.

“He was in the cave with us, yes,” Sten responded. “Do dogs contract Sanguinare Vampiris as well?”

Helgird shrugged. “There are such things as Death Hounds that accompany vampires sometimes, though it is not known how such creatures are created.” She winked up at Sten. “Better to be certain, no?”

[SubRosa]

Lil being concerned that it might become too cold to travel, and Sten pointing out that it is never too cold, really underscores the differences between both mer and Nordic outlooks and physiologies. I bet 50% Frost Resistance makes winter treks a lot easier to bear.

I was not expecting a reward from the Jarl at all. Though it sounds like it was a little light compared to usual. Not surprising considering the shape of Lil's ears.

So Calixto was driven to necromancy to reanimate his sister? I did appreciate Lil's observation that this is not a laudable motive, but rather a sign that he simply lacked the courage to mourn the loss as the rest of us do and move on.

I hope Icicle does not stop off in the tomb to have a snack on someone! That just popped into my head due to the Grateful Dead video where the band is all depicted as skeletons, and a dog runs off with the drummer's leg...

Some nice world-building in the form of Arkay's Amulet. Which is now topped off with its magical bonus once more thanks to the priestess. Also, nice to make sure that they are not going to vamp out. Though Sten needs to be around for that.

I also liked the observation on Death Hounds. They never did explain whether they are simply zombies animated by vampires, of actual vampires themselves. The latter is a trope after all.