Fredas, 11^th Evening Star, 4E 201

We decided to visit the Largashbur Stronghold first. It was not far from Riften, and I wanted to enjoy the beauty of The Rift.

After teleporting into Honeyside, we walked through Riften, waving and saying hello to the many citizens who recognised us.

The parts of Riften in shadow always seem far too dark for the time of day. I think that fact contributes to the ill reputation of the city. It is a reputation supported by no children running carefree through its streets. The rare child spotted is always hurried along by attendant adults or older siblings.

There was quite a bit of foot traffic on the road.

When Largashbur came into sight, it was being assaulted by a giant. The Orsimer have a strong gate and walls, but the defenders thought it prudent to ignore those and fight the giant outside their defences. If the giant connected with his club, even a tough Orsimer would die.

Ice and fire spells rained down from the rampart and aided their battle.

I Blinked to the melee and ended the giant with a sword thrust to the back.

As the others headed back inside the walls, a young Orsimer stared at me and almost got my boot up her backside.

The Dragonguard had sprinted and caught up.

• Ugor: Halt! You have no business here, outsider. Leave at once!
• Atub: Ugor, no! This person may be the one we need. You did not see how fast he moved, and he killed the giant with one blow!
• Valdimar: Master Urag gro-Shub made Lord Welkynd Blood-Kin for his services to all mortals, including the Orsimer of Skyrim!
• Ugor: We need nothing from outsiders! Yamarz will provide for us.
• Gregor: Did Yamarz, whoever he is, save you from being enslaved by Alduin?
• Wulf: I helped and asked for nothing in return. However, manners would be fitting.
• Atub: Ugor, we cannot carry on this way! You know we are doomed if we do not do something! It is The Dragonborn to whom you show disrespect!
• Ugor: Yamarz charged me with keeping outsiders away from Largashbur. You would have me disobey him, Atub?
• Wulf: Would you disobey a Thane? I am Blood-Kin, a citizen of Skyrim and a Thane of The Rift. Therefore, I have every right to go where I please within this Hold except the private abodes of your stronghold.
• Atub: You were charged with keeping us inside the walls, not insulting visitors. Have faith, Ugor. I only wish the best for our tribe.
• Ugor: Fine, Atub, it is your neck.
• Rayya: Wulf, you should have waited till the giant squished this one.
• Kogo: Come now, Rayya. Ugor might not have had her morning coffee yet.
• Gregor: Yeah, she is probably as docile as a kitten after a hot mug of coffee.
• Ugor: Do not anger me, outsiders!
• Rayya: Do not be a rude bitch! I can use that word, being female. It is very sexist coming from males, don’t you think, Ugor?

Ugor stormed off. We followed, with Rayya unable to resist mimicking the aggressive stomping of the Orsimer warrior. Those antics were awarded with laughter from others who had witnessed the exchange.

We climbed to the rampart where Atub awaited.

• Atub: Forgive Ugor’s harsh words. She is merely doing as she has been told. You may not be a member of our tribe, but you are an Orc nonetheless!
• Wulf: Has Chief Yamarz replaced Chief Shagrol?
• Atub: He defeated Shagrol in battle, which none of us thought possible. But the winner is made chief. That is how it is done.
• Wulf: And you are the tribe’s shaman?
• Atub: Indeed, as is the usual position for mothers of past chiefs.
• Valdimar: Shaman Atub, has Chief Yamarz ordered your tribe to isolate?
• Atub: Yes, and our tribe suffers, and Lord Welkynd may be able to help.
• Wulf: Please explain the problem.
• Atub: Chief Yamarz was once a strong and proud warrior. Now he is stricken, cursed. He is weak, and so our tribe is weak. The giants have sensed this and intruded on our territory. Now, they assault our very home. Yamarz refuses help, but you may be just what we need.
• Wulf: What type of help do you need?
• Atub: Our chief is weakened. He will not rest, will not sleep. He suffers, and so the tribe suffers. Yamarz is proud and refuses to see that we need outside help. He needs someone to confide in. Perhaps it will be you if it is not one of us.
• Gregor: Why would Chief Yamarz listen to Wulf and not a tribe member?
• Wulf: Did not you hear the whispers or see the pointed fingers when we entered the stronghold? I am The Dragonborn, and you are The Dragonguard. To people who revere martial prowess, we are legends.
• Kogo: Be careful, Wulf. We do not want Gregor to think people like him. That would not be kind.
• Wulf: Isolating the tribe will not resolve the problem. Talking about the problem is not going to resolve it. I do not believe in curses, but if Chief Yamarz does, he might know how to lift it.
• Atub: Chief Yamarz has demanded we stay inside the walls. We cannot leave, but I must petition Malacath for relief. However, I cannot travel to Malacath’s central shrine. Therefore, the ritual must be done here, and I do not have the needed materials. I beg of you to bring me Troll Fat and a Daedra Heart. I have no wish to depend on a stranger, but I have no choice.

I opened my journal case, stuck my head inside and rummaged through my alchemical reagents. Seconds later, I handed the stunned shaman a jar of Troll Fat and a Daedra Heart.

Atub quickly regained her composure and said, “Excellent. You have become a part of this. Now, you must accompany me and be present for the ritual.”

“You want me to be present when you speak to Lord Malacath?”

“Yes, there is no need to be afraid.”

“I am not afraid, Atub. However, I am curious what he will say if he realises I am here.”

“Does Malacath know you?”

“Yes, we have spoken in The Ash Pit several times.”

Once more, Atub quickly changed speechless amazement into assertive action. I admired the elderly shaman.

As we walked towards Largashbur Longhouse, we passed by Lord Malacath’s shrine. He spoke, and a stunned Atub turned to face him.

“Malacath, I have not yet performed the ritual.”

“No, but I sense a visitor of interest. Greetings once more, mortal champion.”

“Greetings, Lord Malacath.”

“Why are you visiting my people?”

“I am gathering information on Evermore. I thought the best place to begin would be to seek those who have fled the kingdom.”

“But now you are diverted by Largashbur’s problems.”

“I cannot ignore those who ask for my aid, Lord Malacath.”

“Bring Yamarz before me, and I will tell him what needs to be done.”

“Come, Shaman Atub. The Dragonguard will remain here. Chief Yamarz may be more open to reason if armed outsiders do not surround him.”

The aged shaman laughed and replied, “You are wise, Lord Welkynd. Seeing how you deal with Yamarz’s stubbornness will be interesting.”

As we approached the longhouse, some residents gathered around The Dragonguard, who were happy to answer a barrage of questions. Other residents would not allow the end of Nirn to interrupt their martial practice.

Atub knocked on the longhouse door and was rewarded with a fierce, “Enter, and it had better not be you, Atub. The answer is still no.”

We entered the longhouse and approached Yamarz. I tried to hunch a bit but still towered over the chief.

I stood to the side as Atub faced Yamarz. One was a skinny mage dressed in fur, and the other was a seasoned warrior in plate armour. The skinny one was more formidable.

• Atub: It is time to speak to Malacath, Yamarz.
• Yamarz: You dare bring an outsider in here and insist I call on Malacath for help! Why, when he has forsaken me? You try my patience, Atub.
• Atub: Doing nothing will not grant our tribe relief from this curse. We must ask Malacath for advice.
• Yamarz: Ugor had strict orders to keep outsiders out. Her chances of breeding are getting slimmer with each failure.
• Wulf: Ugor had no right to prevent me from entering Largashbur, Chief Yamarz. I am Lord Welkynd, Dragonborn and a Thane of The Rift. I am also Blood-Kin, as communicated to every stronghold by Master Urag gro-Shub.
• Yamarz: Why would you help us, outsider? Why would you help me?
• Wulf: I endeavour to help all mortals, including the stubborn, rude ones. I see your people need assistance, and I will provide it with or without you by my side.
• Yamarz: Can you banish spirits? For that is the aid I need.
• Wulf: Tell me about the spirits.
• Yamarz: They are the kind that haunt you in the dead of night. There is nothing you can do. There is nothing anyone can do.
• Wulf: And why would spirits haunt you?
• Yamarz: Shagrol was unhappy with his demise and has made a deal with Malacath to curse me.
• Wulf: Shagrol would not be unhappy if bested in fair combat.
• Atub: It was fair combat, as witnessed by the tribe.
• Wulf: Then I doubt spirits are your problem, Chief Yamarz. Have you tried a mug of warm milk before bed? That often helps with children who cannot sleep.

Yamarz stared at me in horror as Atub chortled. I waited a few seconds, as laughter was a balm against my memories of Oblivion. Then I continued.

• Wulf: Chief Yamarz, Lord Malacath will tell you what needs to be done, and if necessary, I will aid you.
• Yamarz: I would sooner slit my own throat than accept help from an outsider.
• Wulf: Then I shall lend my dagger to you. Its edge is keener than any other I have seen. Please do the slitting outside so your successor does not have to worry about the mess.
• Yamarz: Why do you laugh, Atub?
• Atub: Because Lord Welkynd is quite amusing. Are you going to accept his offer of aid or his dagger?
• Yamarz: He does not understand. To even consider help from an outsider would be such a sign of weakness that I might as well abandon my tribe.
• Wulf: I understand your warped priorities. Do you think your people will admire you for your stubbornness?
• Yamarz: I am the one cursed by Malacath. It is my burden, and I bear it. I continue to lead, and others see how strong I am. That is how I rule.
• Wulf: A powerful chief would challenge and try to break the curse. Instead, you do nothing, and your people suffer with you.
• Yamarz: Breaking a curse is not a simple thing. It is dangerous.
• Wulf: If you succeeded, would that not be a victory over Lord Malacath and Shagrol?
• Yamarz: To win over Malacath would be seen as real power!
• Wulf: Then allow me to help you break this curse.
• Yamarz: You persist? Fine. You go tell Malacath to lift this curse from me. See how well he listens to you. Offer yourself up as a sacrifice while you are there.
• Atub: Malacath knows Lord Welkynd and asked that he bring you before him.
• Yamarz: What?
• Wulf: I could hold your hand if you are afraid, Chief Yamarz.
• Yamarz: How dare you!
• Wulf: I dare because I am the better warrior. Your strength is puny compared to mine. Would you like to test yourself against me and die like thousands before you?
• Yamarz: My tribe needs me, so I will not die needlessly. I am not afraid of Malacath!
• Wulf: How long has this curse existed?
• Yamarz: Several weeks. It seems like I have not slept properly in months.
• Wulf: Come, Chief Yamarz, and listen to the wisdom of Lord Malacath.

Atub smiled as we exited the longhouse, for she realised I knew her people’s ways. Prowess in battle is revered, and I just asserted my authority over her chief.

Atub made her way close to the shrine. Yamarz was visibly nervous and stopped further away. The entire stronghold fell silent as they witnessed the interaction between their god and chief.

• Atub: Great Malacath, we beseech you to aid us in our time of need.
• Yamarz: Why are we bothering with this?
• Malacath: You pathetic weakling!
• Yamarz: What?
• Malacath: You dare ignore me and blame me for your troubles, Yamarz!
• Yamarz: What?
• Malacath: You do not deserve to call yourself an Orc! You are weak, small, and an embarrassment! You let giants overrun my shrine, and now they attack my people. Bring me their leader’s weapon as an offering, and release yourself and this tribe from your self-inflicted curse!
• Atub: It will be as Malacath desires, Yamarz. Your path is clear.
• Malacath: Lord Welkynd, explain why you are aiding my people again.
• Wulf: I fight for all mortals, be they Man, Mer, Argonian, Khajiiti or other species. I will help with this task, but it must be Chief Yamarz who proves himself worthy of leading the tribe.
• Malacath: The mightiest mortal I have witnessed and a craven Orc. This task will be amusing.

Malacath’s laugh faded, and the Orsimer stared at their chief.

Yamarz yelled, “You, outsider, come here! I want a word.”

I walked up to Yamarz, and I did not crouch this time.

• Wulf: Use come courtesy, Chief Yamarz!
• Yamarz: This is all your fault, you know. I am stuck fighting a giant now, thanks to you. Therefore, you are going to help me. You are going with me, and make sure I do not have any trouble reaching that giant.
• Rayya: Should I tear his tongue out for you, Wulf?
• Yamarz: As if a female of your species could do such a thing.
• Wulf: Every member of the Dragonguard has fought beside me against Dragons and in many battles against incredible odds. Any of the Dragonguard could kill you in seconds.
• Valdimar: Chief Yamarz, you challenged and defeated Shagrol and are rightly chief, as the common interpretation of The Code of Malacath dictates. Yet you proved weak and ineffective long before Wulf arrived in this stronghold. So please, tell us how this is Wulf’s fault.
• Gregor: We are only here to help.
• Yamarz: Oh, of course! Because Malacath would take pity on us only if useless outsiders lend a hand.

I had enough and used my Thu’um, “CHIEF YAMARZ, YOU HEARD LORD MALACATH CALL ME THE MIGHTIEST MORTAL HE HAS WITNESSED. IF YOU CONTINUE TO SHOW DISRESPECT, I WILL CHALLENGE YOU TO PROVE YOUR WORTH. SO, TELL ME NOW, WHAT WILL IT BE?”

Self-preservation allowed Yamarz to become meek and ignore the disgusted looks of his tribe.

• Yamarz: This giant is not the only dangerous thing in Fallowstone Cave. Also, reaching it will not be easy.
• Wulf: I agree. It is quite a distance to Fallowstone Cave from here and fraught with hazards. However, we shall not escort you there. Your ability to reach the cave will be part of the test to confirm your right to be chief. We shall aid you once inside the cave. When located, you must fight the giant without assistance.
• Kogo: Do you have a horse?
• Yamarz: No, I shall run the distance.
• Wulf: We shall meet you there in a few hours.

As Yamarz sprinted to the exit, we approached Atub.

• Wulf: Shaman Atub, Orsimer in the Kingdom of Evermore suffer. Many have fled to other kingdoms and provinces, including Skyrim. I wish to speak to such people to understand the situation better.
• Atub: Despite being against The Code of Malacath, Yamarz refused entry to some who asked for assistance. Such is his paranoia.
• Kogo: I think he may be ashamed of the state of himself and this tribe.
• Atub: You may be right.
• Wulf: Did you learn anything from their brief visits?
• Atub: Most turned away quickly, disgusted with Yamarz’s actions. One such unfortunate is a trader named Yatz Olomba. She was looking for her fellow traders and tried Dushnikh Yal first, which was closest to the border. She said she would return there and wait for news as Chief Burguk showed concern for Blood-Kin.
• Wulf: Yes, I have heard he is a strong chief but displays kindness and compassion that is missing in others.
• Atub: Yatz said she was accompanied across the border by two Legionnaires who had quit The Imperial Army. One was Ghorbash Iron-Hand, Chief Burguk’s younger brother.
• Wulf: Was Burguk the chief when Ghorbash joined the Legion?
• Atub: No, he became chief a few years after Ghorbash’s departure.
• Valdimar: Isn’t it a tradition that male siblings must fight to the death to confirm who is chief?
• Atub: It is tradition but not written in The Code of Malacath. Yatz explained that Burguk did not wish to fight Ghorbash, so now they co-exist.
• Wulf: Do you know the name of the other retired Legionnaire?
• Atub: Yatz said she was young and probably not yet of age. Her name is Borgakh Steel-Heart. I know of her. She is on our chief’s list of potential wives from Mor Khazur. She could not have been in The Imperial Army for long.
• Gregor: I understand that many Orsimer enlisting in The Imperial Army adopt nicknames. But Yatz does not use her stronghold’s name.
• Atub: Many Orcs who regard themselves as High Rock citizens and not members of a tribe do not.
• Wulf: Thank you for your assistance, Shaman Atub. I plan to visit Dushnikh Yal. That is why I insisted Yamarz reach Fallowstone Cave unassisted. I will talk to Ghorbash and Yatz to better understand the problems within Evermore.
• Atub: But you must also make your way to Fallowstone Cave!
• Wulf: We will have plenty of time and may even reach there before Yamarz.
• Valdimar: We use teleportation, Shaman Atub.
• Wulf: I have not visited Dushnikh Yal, so we shall walk there from Markarth.
• Rayya: If Yamarz must await our arrival, perhaps he can use the time to contemplate the advantages of diplomacy and manners.

Atub laughed once more as we vanished into the ether.

When we appeared on the outskirts of Markarth, a few guards shouted hellos and waved.

• Kogo: It is good we are recognised. It decreases the chance of encountering arrogant guards.
• Rayya: I think Wulf likes growling at rude guards.
• Wulf: I must admit, petty one-upmanship does have its charms.
• Kogo: I am positive he has made a few shit their breaches over the years.
• Gregor: Sometimes it is not easy being a guard.
• Wulf: They represent the citizens they guard, and no matter how crappy their mood, they should remain civil.
• Gregor: That is easier said than done.

After we crossed the river, the squad waited for me to Blink over a mountain and summon them.

After summoning the squad, we continued our journey.

We encountered some Reachmen and a Vigilant of Stendarr tackling a wild werewolf. They thanked us for our aid.

A lone bandit was attacking a goblin. We were not far from Dushnikh Yal, and the goblin was probably on its way to arrange trade with the stronghold.

I Blinked, then stood between the goblin and bandit with my sword drawn.

I advised, “Find some other prey. If you harm this goblin, the whole tribe will seek vengeance, and innocents may be hurt.”

“Get fucked!”

The idiot swung his mace, so Gregor put an arrow in his side.

The goblin chittered something and then ran ahead. We heard the gates of Dushnikh Yal open to admit him.

We reached the gates at a more sedate pace and stood at the entrance. I told the group, “I will speak to Chief Burguk before any tribe member.”

A sentry said, “I recognise you, Lord Welkynd and know you to be Blood-Kin. You may enter.”

We entered, and the goblin we had encountered earlier rushed past from the direction of the chief.

 I stood before Chief Burguk and waited for him to speak.

• Burguk: Lord Welkynd, Stregtz told me you saved him from a bandit not far from my stronghold.
• Wulf: Stregtz is a citizen of The Empire. He deserved my protection as do all other mortals, Chief Burguk.
• Burguk: After reading news sheets and gossiping over drinks, I have concluded that your visits often precede chaos. Please, tell me you are not here to announce dire problems for this tribe.
• Wulf: No, I am looking for people who have fled Evermore. I believe your brother and a visiting trader might fit that description.
• Burguk: Ghorbash hoped you might get involved. I am chief of a prosperous stronghold. However, the problems in that kingdom are beyond my experience and comprehension.
• Valdimar: Chief Burguk, I am Valdimar of The Dragonguard. As a Master Mage, I am knowledgeable in many subjects. I doubt I will comprehend the problems in Evermore.
• Rayya: Lucky for us, Lord Welkynd is a smartarse.
• Burguk: Seeing Lord Welkynd’s comrades speak freely without wasting breath on superfluous grovelling is refreshing. I am trying to introduce such a concept amongst my people. The Code of Malacath does not say that Orcs must stick their noses up their chief’s butt.
• Wulf: You have a reputation for progressive thinking, Chief Burguk. You are also famous for cracking open the skulls of the stubborn or rude.
• Burguk: Some Orc traditions are too much fun to dispense with.
• Wulf: Can you enlighten me on the problems in Evermore, or should I ask the other two?
• Burguk: Please ask Ghorbash and Yatz. If you are investigating, I assume the situation is dire.
• Wulf: Gods and His Imperial Majesty have asked me to investigate. Therefore, without knowing the intricacies of the situation, dire might be an accurate summation.
• Burguk: It is refreshing to speak in sentences without grunts and many monosyllable words.
• Kogo: Why does monosyllable have more than one syllable?
• Burguk: Tamrielic is a mongrel language of Old Nordic and various Mer dialects. Much of it makes little sense.
• Wulf: Chief Burguk, would there be an issue if Ghorbash desired to travel with me?
• Burguk: Far from it. Ghorbash was proud of his service in The Imperial Army. However, even though that institution appreciates and respects Orcs, the hatred in Evermore is too much. When his twelve years were up, he did not reenlist. However, he grew fond of Evermore’s citizens.
• Gregor: Ghorbash would appreciate a chance to aid them.
• Burguk: Yes.
• Gregor: I assume your refusal to fight your brother for the chief’s position is causing tension.
• Burguk: Indeed, as that is denying ancient customs. But, as with noses up arses, The Code of Malacath does not dictate we continue to weaken our bloodlines.
• Wulf: Like others before you, you killed a seasoned warrior to become chief. I have no doubt his death also robbed this tribe of valuable knowledge and wisdom. Whoever won between yourself and Ghorbash would have killed another worthy warrior. How does that strengthen the tribe?
• Burguk: It does the opposite. Also, bringing in brides from other strongholds still leaves a narrow bloodline in Skyrim’s Orcs, and many inherited problems plague our leaders.
• Valdimar: Similar problems occur amongst many species where a cousin marries a cousin and sometimes siblings.
• Burguk: I must introduce reforms slowly. I fear that allowing others to father children would be a step too far. So, I will indoctrinate my children with these radical concepts and hope that they become the norm after my death.
• Rayya: Many Orsimer I meet have left their strongholds to marry for love and have children. Their offspring are not weak!
• Burguk: We all know that, but my motto is one radical idea at a time.
• Wulf: Lord Malacath’s mannerisms are a result of his creation. Still, he seems accepting of ideas that will benefit his people.
• Burguk: Have you spoken to Malacath?
• Wulf: As close as you are in The Ash Pit and another time within his realm. He spoke to me earlier today inside Largashbur Stronghold.
• Burguk: Yatz said Yamarz was less than accommodating.
• Wulf: He believes that Lord Malacath has placed a curse upon him. I do not think that is the case. However, Lord Malacath has given Chief Yamarz a task and asked me to accompany him.
• Valdimar: We will help Chief Yamarz reach the place of his task but will not aid in its completion.
• Burguk: Malacath does not curse his people.
• Wulf: Lord Malacath speaks with clarity, if bluntly, when consulted. Yamarz was afraid to do so.
• Burguk: I will not ask about the specifics of the task. That is between Malacath and Yamarz. However, I desire Largashbur and its people to prosper, which benefits all Orcs in Skyrim.
• Wulf: Strong Orsimer strongholds benefit the entire Imperial Empire.
• Burguk: This has been enlightening, Lord Welkynd. If you are to steal my brother, I ask that you wait a few days so we can send him away with some traditional feasting and drinking.
• Wulf: Does The Code of Malacath dictate that?
• Burguk: No, but it is another tradition worth keeping.
• Wulf: It has been a pleasure, Chief Burguk. Perhaps in the future, I can visit without the risk of bringing chaos with me.
• Burguk: Bring one or two of your dragon friends. I have not spoken to one and am intrigued by them.
• Kogo: Do not invite them to supper unless you have an entire cow to offer.
• Wulf: I assume the warrior smashing the practice dummy with his axe is Ghorbash.
• Burguk: Yes. I think he imagines the practice dummy to be a noble of Evermore.

Chief Burguk grabbed one of his wives and whispered to her as we made our way to Ghorbash. She giggled like a courtesan but could probably snap a Nord’s spine with her bare hands.

I did not want to approach Ghorbash from behind as he was concentrating. I have seen startled warriors turn and injure innocents. Therefore, we approached from his side, hoping he would notice us in his peripheral vision.

He did so, stopped whacking the practice dummy and turned toward us.

• Wulf: Ghorbash Iron-Hand, I am Lord Welkynd, and these are some of The Dragonguard.
• Ghorbash: Did Burguk beg you to take me away?
• Wulf: Yes, but the offered dowry was too low.
• Ghorbash: Haha. What can I do for you, Lord Welkynd?
• Wulf: I am investigating the issues in Evermore.
• Ghorbash: Ahh, so you are getting involved in that mess. Good luck!
• Wulf: I do not believe in luck, Ghorbash. However, I am keen on knowing what I can about a situation before tackling it. What rank did you reach?
• Ghorbash: I was a captain of heavy infantry and was garrisoned in many parts of The Empire.
• Gregor:  Was Evermore your most difficult posting?
• Ghorbash: Yes, the garrison is too small, and the support from Cyrodiil is inadequate. Morale suffers, and the citizens treat the rank and file with disdain. In the last two years, the Orc population have become pariahs. When spat upon and insulted by those you protect, it is hard to do your duty.
• Wulf: It may be difficult, but can you summarise the root issues?
• Ghorbash: I can only say what I observed from the limited perspective of a serving soldier.
• Wulf: That is more than adequate.
• Ghorbash: The Kingdom of Evermore is backward in many ways. Serfdom still exists and is a fancy word for slavery, in my opinion. Although they claim to be followers of The Nine, there are no female clergy, and they do not follow the Ten Commands.
• Valdimar: Much of The Empire is the same, Ghorbash. Nobility pays lip service to The Divines but ignores the Ten Commands.
• Ghorbash: And that breeds nobles like the people of Evermore suffer under. I have seen much disparity between rich and poor, noble and peasant in my travels. However, in Evermore, the gap is exaggerated. The nobles are aided in this by the priests. Evermore’s citizens believe that The Divines bless nobles and have generally accepted their fate.
• Wulf: I have encountered references to troubles involving Reachmen about twenty years ago. However, the histories of that occurrence are scarce.
• Ghorbash: When arriving in Evermore, you are told not to ask questions about that incident. As far as Imperial Army command is concerned, His Imperial Majesty took no action against Evermore’s nobility, so we should not stick our noses where they are not wanted.
• Kogo: You must have learned something in time there.
• Ghorbash: Yes, but much of it may be mead talking. None of this is recorded in official records, and I had to pry it out of a few residents.
• Wulf: A few meads and laughter over a tavern table often provide valid sources of information.
• Ghorbash: It is often the only place where some individuals are brave enough to speak their minds and tell the truth.
• Wulf: Please summarise it as best you can.
• Ghorbash: The interactions between Evermore’s different factions are complex. However, one incident two decades ago is the primary catalyst for the current unrest. Reachmen offered the citizens of Evermore equality and a better way of life. The concept of fair wages for a fair day’s work was attractive, and many serfs left their lands. The nobles of Evermore were at risk of losing their enslaved labourers. The priesthood declared the serfs as blasphemers and the Reachmen as primitive Daedra-worshipping savages. The result was inevitable.
• Rayya: Was it another Markarth Incident?
• Ghorbash: I have read many descriptions of The Markarth Incident. From what I could discover, the events in Evermore are eerily similar. Thousands of serfs and Reachmen were guilty of living peacefully with freedom of worship central to their community. Their punishment was slaughter without pity. Serfs not with the Reachmen were also killed, and Ulfric Stormcloak would have approved it. However, the nobles needed to spare some serfs as they were their only source of labour. It was profits, not pity, that ended the culling.
• Wulf: I assume the Orsimer are scapegoats. When things go wrong, the ruling class need somebody to blame. Otherwise, citizens might realise the real cause of the problems.
• Ghorbash: That is a good summation. It has happened in the past, and pogroms enacted.
• Wulf: Is there friction with neighbouring kingdoms?
• Ghorbash: Yes, and the citizens are scared. The nobles use that fear to demand more taxes for Evermore’s defence. They rightly say that Legionnaires are too few to prevent an invasion. Various unsavoury mercenary groups now outnumber The Imperial Army garrison.
• Valdimar: The citizens grumble about the taxes, so Orsimer are presented as an internal threat to give them something else to worry about.
• Ghorbash: That is another good summation. The problem is exasperated by the emergence of a new faction called Orsinium’s Sons. They are militant and have transformed the false accusations of Evermore’s nobility into reality. More than propaganda, their actions fuel the rekindled hatred and distrust of Orcs.
• Rayya: Evermore’s nobility, supported by the priesthood, is trying to maintain a feudal economy by inventing an internal threat, the Orsimer. However, this threat became real when Orsinium’s Sons emerged.
• Ghorbash: That is one of the many issues plaguing the kingdom.
• Kobo: I am sure it is far more complicated than that. Two or three factions squabbling are a constant source of trouble within Akavir provinces. We became adept at diplomacy first, with swords as an alternate solution.
• Rayya: I understand that the High Rock kingdoms are far more stable and less likely to invoke civil war than in the past.
• Ghorbash: A weakened neighbour is often too tempting to resist. The entirety of High Rock is at risk of war.
• Wulf: What are the other factions?
• Ghorbash: Reachmen outside the cities and towns are called Witchmen within Evermore. After the culling twenty years ago, they have become hostile and want to carve out their kingdom rather than wait for Mede to gift them one. The merchants of Evermore wield almost as much power as the nobility. They will do anything to protect their profits. Add to the mix a deadly plague decimating the population, and that summarises the mess you would be walking into, Lord Welkynd.
• Wulf: I have no doubt a Daedric Prince or two is involved.
• Ghorbash: Many Legionnaires and locals expressed the same thought. However, what gods are involved is uncertain as they are not openly declared. I saw the aftermath of rituals involving sacrifice and dismemberment not seen since the days of The Ayleid. Orc, Witchmen and Bosmer practise such things.
• Wulf: Tell me about the plague.
• Ghorbash: Those who are infected have been named The Afflicted. The plague is contracted from the breath of The Afflicted or by contact with the green sputum they expel with great force. The sputum is acidic. I have seen it quickly eat through flesh and armour.
• Rayya: Wulf, this squad encountered an Afflicted a few months ago when dealing with the dragon attacks.
• Wulf: Yes, I remember it was mentioned, but I have not acted upon it, as chaos determines our current course.
• Valdimar: Please, Ghorbash, tell me if this description matches Evermore’s Afflicted. We encountered a dishevelled Bosmer whose ragged garments were remnants of fine clothing. He was being attacked by a wolf pack that regarded him as lunch. As we ran to his aid, he killed several wolves by spewing forth a green liquid in quantities beyond what his stomach could contain. The wolves hit by this liquid screamed in pain as their organs and bones dissolved. Such were their cries of pain that the surviving wolves ran away.
• Rayya: His skin was red with black encrustations. He told us he was Afflicted and a religious pilgrim who wanted to return home to High Rock.
• Ghorbash: That sounds like the same plague. It seems Skyrim is not as unfortunate as Evermore. I do not know if the plague has spread to other High Rock kingdoms. It is another thing the Orcs were blamed for because we seem immune to the disease.
• Wulf: Rayya, you said Lord Peryite caused the plague.
• Rayya: That is what the Bosmer insinuated. He said he lived because Lord Peryite gifted some of his followers with protection. The disease was not cured, but it would not kill the gifted.
• Valdimar: The Afflicted did not say where he visited in Skyrim or why. His calling himself a pilgrim suggests Peryite worshippers have a commune or similar within Skyrim.
• Wulf: I will ask The Vigilants. They may know of it.
• Ghorbash: Why has the plague not spread in Skyrim?
• Wulf: Orsimer immunity suggests it could be species-specific. However, that is speculation. I will need to investigate further to answer your question with certainty.
• Ghorbash: If you are to enter Evermore, I ask that you allow me to accompany you. My local knowledge would be of great value.
• Wulf: That is true, Ghorbash. However, you must commit to becoming a Dragonguard to travel with me. That is not a commission with a set term. Until certain secrets need not be kept, you would remain a Dragonguard with necessary restrictions imposed.
• Ghorbash: I have recently returned to Dushnikh Yal after serving many years in The Imperial Army. My enlisted name was Ghorbash gro-Dushnikh. Iron-Hand is my family name, not a nickname like many Orc Legionnaires adopt. The Legion provided a greater purpose where I served all the people of The Empire rather than just my Blood-Kin. Orcs honour the bravest fighters, but I have seen many types of bravery in my travels, which widened my perspective. I have decades of remaining strength in me. I want to use my skills and strength to help the people of The Empire once more.
• Valdimar: We fight undead and creatures of nightmares. It seems that every day, Lord Welkynd gathers new enemies, mortal and otherwise, who desire his demise. The situation in Evermore sounds complex but likely pales compared to the myriad allies and enemies we deal with.
• Ghorbash: Young lady, what is your name?
• Rayya: Rayya.
• Ghorbash: Your people are reluctant to destroy the undead. Rayya, have you become a pariah amongst Redguard for fighting beside Lord Welkynd?
• Rayya: Yes, I have. I was appointed Wulf’s housecarl when he became a Thane of Falkreath Hold. He gave me a choice of remaining housecarl or joining The Dragonguard. He emphasised he often deals with the undead. I chose, knowing his purpose was more important than my pariahdom. Besides, like it or not, I had already sworn an oath to fight by his side.
• Wulf: I ask for no oath of allegiance, Ghorbash. I do not command like an officer but work as part of a squad, such as those who accompany me today. Each squad becomes a cohesive entity that flows across a battlefield as one. The Dragonguard have fought beside me for years in Akavir. Now Tamriel benefits from our presence.
• Ghorbash: How critical are the secrets entrusted to The Dragonguard?
• Wulf: Their disclosure would decrease our ability to perform our tasks. The danger to me and those I associate with would increase manyfold. Elements of the secrets could alter the very social structure of some societies.
• Ghorbash: I have read your published journals, knowing they are redacted and still, what you have disclosed within them sounds like plots from cheap penny dreadfuls. But one thing is apparent, and that is the willingness of Lord Welkynd and The Dragonguard to risk everything for the ordinary people, no matter their race. I ask for the chance to do the same.
• Wulf: Chief Burguk hinted you may wish to join us. However, he said you must remain for a few days to…ahh…
• Ghorbash: We must consume significant amounts of alcohol in an extended goodbye.
• Gregor: What a cruel thing to inflict upon one’s kin!
• Ghorbash: I am willing to suffer for the cause.
• Wulf: You and another Legionnaire, Borgakh Steel-Heart, escorted Yatz across the border. What can you tell me about Borgakh?
• Ghorbash: It is a pity they sent such a promising recruit to Evermore. Seasoned Orcs grow thicker skins and are not so easily provoked by the racists and bigots. Borgakh was destined to be given to another tribe as a wife or end up an unmarried embarrassment. Borgakh would have to be exceptional in combat to attract certain chiefs.
• Rayya: I assume Borgakh did not want to be a wife of a stranger and birth children that would kill each other.
• Ghorbash: That is correct. Borgakh wanted to do more with her life, and she had heard how well The Imperial Army treats their Orc Legionnaires. Enlisting was a chance to live the life she chose.
• Rayya: We have many associates who are nobles fleeing arranged marriages. Many of the great leaders in history are women who fled arranged marriages.
• Ghorbash: Borgakh’s martial skills are exceptional. However, the relative isolation from typical bigots that Skyrim strongholds provide did her no service in Evermore, where she was faced with undisguised contempt. She was confused about why her uniform did not shield her from it.
• Wulf: Did she lash out?
• Ghorbash: Yes, too many times. They were going to court-martial, imprison and then send her home with a dishonourable discharge. I used my influence to blame the idiot officer who assigned Borgakh to Evermore. She was given the chance to leave with an honourable discharge. Still, it is a stain on her reputation.
• Rayya: She is likely to be one of those unmarried embarrassments.
• Ghorbash: I intervened to have the honourable discharge offered to Borgakh, not because she is an Orc. I did it because I saw her potential not just as a warrior but as a person. Most of the incidents, and there were a few, came about when she intervened in visible injustice.
• Kobo: She was angry due to the injustices, and the bigotry pushed her into the red.
• Ghorbash: Yes.
• Wulf: Would Borgakh work well within The Dragonguard?
• Ghorbash: She would be content if she saw justice done and the wicked punished. Of that, I am sure.
• Wulf: In the next day or so, we shall visit Mor Khazur and talk to Borgakh. I shall send one of our mages to collect you in three days. You will be housed in Solitude until Vayu, our Shaman, checks your records from The Imperial Army. Hopefully, you will be given his approval and have time to acclimatise to our ways before we enter Evermore.
• Ghorbash: Would a recommendation from General Tullius shorten the process?
• Wulf: Certainly. Did you serve under him?
• Ghorbash: He promoted me through several ranks to lieutenant before he was sent here to deal with The Stormcloaks. He wanted me to go to Evermore because he could see trouble brewing. I would probably have been a legate if I remained on his staff in Skyrim.
• Wulf: Do you think your efforts in Evermore were fruitless?
• Ghorbash: I did what I could. All the troops there are doing what they can. Morale is not the best, but they are still proud to serve. Some citizens still have faith in The Imperial Army.
• Wulf: Where will I find Yatz?
• Ghorbash: She is helping our baker. Just follow the smell of the fresh loaves. She wears the standard merchant garb of Evermore.

As we walked towards the enticing smell of fresh loaves, Ghorbash returned to attacking the defenceless dummy with much vigour. 

Yatz seemed surprised that ‘outsiders’ approached her.

• Wulf: Excuse me, are you Yatz Olomba?
• Yatz: Yes.
• Wulf: I am Lord Welkynd, The Dragonborn, and these are some of The Dragonguard.
• Yatz: It is an honour to meet you all, but curiosity can be a demanding master, and it wants to know why you speak to this humble trader.
• Wulf: We may be entering Evermore to investigate reported problems. I was hoping you could enlighten us further.
• Yatz: I saw you speaking to Ghorbash. He has probably covered the various factions. I do not understand all the issues.
• Valdimar: What kind of trading did you do in Evermore?
• Yatz: I had three carriages pulled by six fine donkeys and guarded by eight excellent guards. We went from village to village, providing farmers and goodwives with essential items. Quite often, we were paid in produce, but that was okay. The road and company, more than profits, motivated me.
• Wulf: Why did you leave Evermore?
• Yatz: Six dead donkeys, eight dead guards, three stolen wagons, and several nights hiding from the thieves were the motivation. My friends died so I could escape. Ghorbash and Borgakh avenged them.
• Kogo: Who robbed you?
• Yatz: Ustase Mercenaries. They fell upon us expecting an easy target but found themselves in quite the melee. I am not a warrior, and I was pushed into the forest. No words were needed, for I knew if I were killed, my friends’ deaths would have been for nothing. However, I circled back to witness the aftermath. I wish I had not!
• Wulf: There is no need to go into details, Yatz. Who are these Ustase?
• Yatz: I am not sure who private army they are. The ones who robbed me made it look like Orsinium’s Sons did the deed. They used Orc arrows and butchered two Orc prisoners while they dragged their dead away.
• Rayya: You said Ghorbash and Borgakh avenged you.
• Yatz: I was heading towards Skyrim’s border when they saw me, and we talked. We backtracked to where my caravan was ambushed when they heard my tale. We buried my friends, and then Borgakh tracked the killers. Three days after the attack, the Ustase were still drinking my wine and gorging on my food. They had scattered the goods around, hoping to find something of great value. They did not appreciate how simple pots, pans, and farming equipment are of tremendous value to my customers.
• Kogo: How many Ustase were there?
• Yatz: Thirteen, but most were drunk and their sentries inattentive. Borgakh and Ghorbash fell upon them in a frenzy of violence. I have my revenge, but I would rather have my friends.
• Wulf: Did your trade suffer because of the increased hatred?
• Yatz: Not amongst the simple farm families I had been dealing with. They knew I dealt fairly and for reasonable prices. They will pay far more if they must rely on the Bosmer traders. That is if any of them bother to stock such low-value items. The Bosmer traders cater to wealthy clients, not the rabble.
• Wulf: The Khajiiti stopped trading in that kingdom decades ago after thousands of years following the Moonpaths. Bosmer merchants seem close to monopolising all trade to and from Evermore.
• Yatz: That is their objective.
• Valdimar: Would you return to Evermore if things were to improve?
• Yatz: Yes, that is my home, and the farmers and their families are my neighbours.
• Wulf: Thank you for the information, Yatz.

We teleported to Riften’s stables and started our trek to Fallowstone Cave.

Half a dozen bandits decided the five heavily armed and armoured people coming their way were fair game. They died.

As we approached the cave’s entrance, we heard Yamarz cursing. The crunchy sounds suggested he fought giant spiders.

We stepped up and helped him despatch the last couple.

• Yamarz: Oh, so they finally appear. It is not like I have nothing else to do but stand around a drafty cave’s entrance.
• Wulf: We were visiting Dushnikh Yal. Chief Burguk is a true Orsimer and popular with his people.
• Kogo: And he is not cursed!
• Rayya: All his wives are so pretty. Does he have more wives than you, Chief Yamarz?
• Wulf: Do not be rude, Rayya. It is not Chief Yamarz’s fault his curse scares away the ladies.
• Rayya: Oh, are you wifeless, Chief Yamarz?
• Gregor: That would explain his hairy palms.
• Yamarz: Have you finished trying to be funny?
• Wulf: They did not try, Yamarz. Like always, The Dragonguard completed their mission.
• Valdimar: Are you ready to get turned into a bloody pile of icky goo by the giant?
• Yamarz: Ha de haha. If there is a chance this will save me, then I am taking it. I will lead the way, but you had better back me up. Let us get this over with.
• Wulf: You would be safer following me. I cannot use The Voice if you are in front of me.
• Yamarz: Well then, you can show me why Malacath thinks so highly of you by using that milk drinker’s sword you carry.
• Kogo: Wulf’s sword is worth hundreds of thousands, if not over a million septims. He could slice you into tiny Orsimer chunks in seconds.
• Valdimar: Wulf has fought through the Ash Pit twice and killed dozens of Malacath’s minions.
• Gregor: He has stood feet away from Malacath while you were too scared to leave your longhouse.
• Yamarz: Do you expect me to believe he confronted Malacath in Oblivion?
• Wulf: I do not care what you believe, Chief Yamarz. I expect you to fight this giant and die. Anything else is superfluous. Now, let us proceed.

We entered Fallowstone Cave, and not far in, a Minotaur charged me.

In Ayleidoon, strengthened by The Voice, I said, “HALT, SON OF AL-ESH. WE DO NOT WISH YOU HARM. I AM LORD WELKYND.”

I sheathed my sword and stood with my head bowed.

The Minotaur was startled but no more than I.

His accent was strong, but his Ayleidoon was perfect. It is a hard dialect to master, but it is his native language.

“I have never heard Man or Mer speak Ayleidoon. From whence did you learn it?”

“Al-Esh taught me.”

“Why would our Lady of Heaven, Queen-ut-Cyrod, teach a mortal the language of old?”

“I am Champion of The Divines as well as Saint Alessia’s. I was taught many languages to aid in my tasks.”

“And why does thou bow as if I am a lord?”

“How mortals treated your people brings me great shame.”

“Look at me, Lord Welkynd, with your head held high. You are not responsible for sins of the past and are favoured by Al-Esh.”

I looked him in the eyes and asked, “What is your name?”

“I am Hunzak. Further in the cave, you will encounter Lord Tyrsus.”

“Your people have remained hidden for many centuries. I have never met a Minotaur before, except for Lord Morihaus.”

“I know of you, Lord Welkynd, so do not question your honesty. Tell me, did my celestial father have his wings?”

“Yes, Hunzak, he had his wings. All Minotaur in Aetherius have wings and soar amongst the stars while laughing.”

“Many of us found shelter in the caves near Sancre Tor. However, large numbers of soldiers, whom you call Stormcloaks, have infringed and do not hesitate to kill my people. We do not wish to perish fighting, so we have retreated to darker, deeper caverns where the danger is not mortals but spiteful spirits. Lord Tyrsus and I are seeking a new home for Al-Esh’s children.”

 “It is disturbing to hear that people still identify as Stormcloaks. They are outlaws and foolish not to have accepted their defeat. Unless His Imperial Majesty declares Minotaur as citizens of The Empire, there is no protection under our laws. You will find no suitable place to hide in Skyrim.”

“Then what do you suggest we do?”

“Before your people fled to caves and ancient ruins for survival, they lived under the sun. The Great Forest of Cyrodiil is enormous. Nobody ventures far into it. Your people could survive and probably thrive within its depths.”

“Some Sylvan Nixads have offered to show us our abandoned cities under its canopy. It may be our new place of refuge. But be aware, Lord Welkynd, that many Minotaur have tired of hiding. Some approached Reachmen in High Rock and Skyrim. Those in High Rock are not amiable and have dark souls. However, the ones you call Forsworn find commonality and welcome fellow displaced. Some of my people will strengthen Forsworn tribes. However, this may encourage them into violent action, and I fear that will attract the retribution of Empire soldiers.”

“Forsworn have a legitimate right to parts of The Reach. But those who break Empire laws are dealt with harshly. Any Minotaur amongst the transgressors will not be shown reverence. They will not be slaughtered as beasts but as outlaws. Alas, dead is dead, no matter the label given to the corpse. I do not want to kill any of your people, but neither will I allow harm to the innocent.”

“We are unsure about our path, for Al-Esh had not given us guidance for several years.”

“Saint Alessia is in a battle of wills against an entity that desires harm to all mortals. It is a solo contest, but we are trying to aid her as best we can.”

“Ahh, that shows the spirit for which she is known. It is of concern she is in danger, but an answer has been provided which will stop some Minotaur from joining The Forsworn.”

“The Minotaur are blessed with free will. Each will decide their path accordingly.”

“You understand us, Lord Welkynd. Please, do not sneak up on Lord Tyrsus. I am supposed to warn him of danger. He never gave instructions on what to do about friends.”

When I rejoined my friends, they all had broad smiles. Yamarz looked terrified.

• Yamarz: What is that thing?
• Wulf: He is Hunzak of the Minotaur people.
• Valdimar: Hunzak is no more a thing than an Orsimer, Khajiiti or Argonian. He is a person.
• Yamarz: Why do you know how to speak his language?
• Wulf: Mother taught me the language, and it is called Ayleidoon.
• Gregor: Wulf has learnt many languages to aid in his task of protecting mortals.
• Yamarz: How come I have never seen a Minotaur before?
• Wulf: Like dragons, the Minotaur were also driven to near extinction. They have been hiding for a long time. Apart from their god, that is the first Minotaur I have met.
• Yamarz: What god?
• Wulf: Lord Morihaus. He was Saint Alessia’s husband and is the celestial father of all Minotaur.
• Yamarz: How many gods have you spoken to?
• Wulf: Many. Now, let us keep moving before the giant dies of old age.
• Valdimar: Will you tell us what Hunzak had to say?
• Wulf: Yes, later. But I must warn you, Yamarz. A Minotaur Lord is ahead, and if he sees you running towards him, I might be unable to stop him before he turns you to mush with his hammer.

We encountered bears and wolves who watched us curiously but did not attack. This phenomenon encouraged Yamarz, who continually ignored my warnings about running ahead. I decided to let the matter be. If he dies before reaching the giant, so be it.

Fallowstone Cave was home to many Atronachs. Others had killed some of them. I assumed Lord Tyrsus was one of the killers.

Yamarz regretted being in front of me when attacked by a Draman. He shrieked in fright before I Blinked and cut the enemy down.

Rayya impersonated Yamarz’s shriek, which made us erupt in uncontrolled laughter. Yamarz decided to start running and hoped we would follow.

I called after him, “Don’t you want to know what it was that made you shit your breeches?”

For some reason, he kept running.

I heard the grunt and then hoofbeats of Lord Tyrsus. I called out, “Stop, Chief Yamarz. Do not raise your weapon.”

Lord Tyrsus peered around the corner, and to his credit, Yamarz stood still with his weapon lowered.

In Ayleidoon, I said, “Greetings, Lord Tyrsus. I am Lord Welkynd, Champion of Al-Esh and celestial son of Lord Akatosh.”

“Come forward, Lord Welkynd. I know of you, as Al-Esh has mentioned you.”

I stepped between Yamarz and Lord Tyrsus.

I replied, “I was unaware until recently that Al-Esh was in contact with Minotaur.”

“Would you have been curious and sought us out?”

“Al-Esh would not have told me where you were. Besides, I have not had spare time to pursue such things. But I hoped to meet your people one day.”

“Why didn’t Hunzak tell me of your presence?”

“He is guarding against enemies, Lord Tyrsus. We are not enemies.”

“Did he discuss our predicament?”

“Yes, and I think he has developed a plan.”

“Then I shall speak to him. This place is not safe, as I saw a shrine of Malacath. I assume pilgrims and devotees traverse these tunnels.”

“That is correct.”

“Then farewell, Lord Welkynd. Perhaps we shall meet again one day, and you can reveal your secrets to me, as they will be redundant.”

“Al-Esh has been saying too much.”

“She likes to talk. But you would know that.”

Lord Tyrsus ran towards the entrance where Hunzak stood watch. He growled at Yamarz as he passed by, making the Orsimer squeal again.

We soon reached the clearing containing Malacath’s shrine. The giant stared at the intruders.

The giant soon lost interest. I used Zoom Vision and studied him

He looked no different than other giants, except his weapon was not a crude club but a well-made hammer.

I turned to Chief Yamarz, who said, “All right, I will kill the giant. Unless, of course, you would like to make some extra gold.”

“What do you mean?”

“I am tired as I have not slept well in weeks. You kill the giant and bring me his weapon. Then we shall return to Largashbur and tell everyone I did it. You keep your mouth shut, and I pay you. Handsomely.”

“You will face the giant, or I will cut you down. You have a chance of defeating the giant.”

Without another word, Yamarz drew his sword and ran at the giant, yelling obscenities.

Rayya remarked, “I assume he is not saying hello to the giant.”

“My Orcish is not that good, but I think Yamarz is questioning the giant’s penis size.”

Yamarz parried the giant’s first half-hearted swing and sliced the giant across the leg with his counter strike.

The wound enraged the giant, and Yamarz fell back. The Orsimer hoped to find an opening as the giant swung in anger.

The giant stomped on the ground, unbalancing Yamarz, who barely dodged the next swing.

As they manoeuvred for position, the giant’s fire obscured the combatants.

There was a loud crunch after a few seconds of grunts and clashing of weapons. Yamarz flew to the far corner of the cavern and did not move.

Yamarz was probably dead, but the giant ran over and hit Yamarz many times. As the crunches turned to squelches, we all grimaced.

I Blinked to the giant and ended its life.

I stood before Malacath’s shrine and placed the giant’s weapon at my feet.

Malacath’s voice echoed as he said, “Yamarz was a fool and was always trying to scheme his way out of responsibility. But you took care of him and the giants. Two problems were solved at once. Take Shagrol’s hammer back to Largashbur, and we shall see about whipping the rest of them into shape.”

“Since completing The Master’s games, I have been thinking more about your alliance with The New Order. I accused you of betraying the Orsimer, but on reflection, I believe you had other plans.”

“The Altmer offered me a chance to return to Nirn. You have my word, Lord Welkynd, that I would have destroyed them, and my people would have ruled beside me.”

“We defeated Alduin, but AKA has restored him and ensured he is ready to do his duty. If you had made it to Nirn, Alduin would have waited to see if mortal champions could thwart your plans. If not, he would have found a way to end the Kalpa.”

“Boethia tore me asunder, and I do not have all the faculties I once possessed. It was not the first time I have failed to see the desired outcome of a plan is unobtainable. I am also ashamed of my false claims of kingship.”

“I pity your plight, Lord Malacath, and I am no friend of Boethia though she named me her champion. However, I will consider aid from any god that does not compromise my honour or morality.”

“Then I shall gift you my champion’s weapon on your return to Largashbur. Perhaps the title of Malacath’s Champion may prove useful within Evermore.”

“I am honoured to receive the title Lord Malacath.”

“Yamarz’s soul has arrived. He will enjoy his afterlife. Ultimately, he faced the giant with courage and demonstrated skill.”

“We shall arrive in Largashbur soon.”

“Atub will arrange the cleansing of this shrine and the burial of the dead. Many are not Orsimer but do not deserve to rot in piles.”

I briefly inspected some of the remains. As Malacath said, they were not all Orsimer. The giants had been eating humanoids, which is a scarce phenomenon. There are no mammoths or cows that other giants rely on for sustenance.

We teleported to Largashbur’s entrance and entered.

Atub was at the stronghold’s well and was informed of our arrival. She joined us, and we approached Malacath’s shrine.

• Malacath: Yamarz was a coward and a weakling. His deceitful ways have cost you all greatly.
• Wulf: Yet, in the end, he fought bravely.
• Malacath: His soul has earned peace within The Ash Pit.
• Atub: What of us? What fate shall we suffer?
• Malacath: You must prove yourselves, and I will give you a chance. Gularzob is your new chief. Let us hope he is better than Yamarz.
• Atub: Gularzob will be an exemplary chief if given time to adjust.
• Malacath: Lord Welkynd, I name you as my champion. As such, you need a suitable weapon. Place Shagrol’s Hammer on the shrine and then take Volendrung.
• Wulf: I shall do so. It has been an honour to help the good people of Largashbur.

I balanced Shagrol’s hammer on the antlers of a deer skull.

Without unnecessary theatrics, it transformed into Volendrung.

I lifted Volendrung and was impressed with its balance.

• Wulf: Lord Sheogorath’s curse has been removed.
• Malacath: Yes, he will have to find amusement elsewhere.
• Wulf: He once wielded Volendrung when a mortal.
• Malacath: I gave it to him as a reward, as I now gift it to you. History is yet to determine if restoring Jyggalag was a boon to mortals or a mistake.
• Wulf: You should be safe from Jyggalag’s righteous scorn and need for revenge.
• Malacath: He would see similarities between our fates.
• Atub: Does your shrine need cleansing, Malacath?
• Malacath: Yes, and many remains need burial.
• Atub: Do you need to perform rituals over the dead, Lord Welkynd?
• Wulf: No. I do not think any souls will linger in that place.
• Malacath: Farewell, for now, Lord Welkynd.

We talked to Atub about the situation in Evermore, then teleported to Aurane.

I was exhausted and staggered into my bedroom.

Despite my desire for sleep, Rigmor and I talked via Mara’s Rings for over an hour. She sensed my excitement when I met Hunzak but did not contact me during the day. She knew I was weary beyond words and needed to concentrate without interruption.

Rigmor agreed that I would have to talk to many more people to understand Evermore’s problems and how to begin tackling them.

I do not know what time I fell asleep. I know I was in the middle of telling Rigmor how much I love her for the millionth time.