Loredas, 13^th Evening Star, 4E 201

Light rain started to fall as we entered The Blue Palace’s gardens.

I warned Kharjo and Jo’rassa, “Do not shake the water off when we enter the palace. We shall remove it with a bit of Magicka.”

We paused outside the entrance to dry ourselves, then entered.

People envision The Blue Palace as a centre of controlled chaos with lines of supplicants, scurrying clerks, and busy household staff. It is the opposite. The number of Palace Guards seems small, but they are handpicked from The Imperial Army and are formidable warriors. A rotation through the palace is regarded as a significant honour amongst Legionnaires.

I bowed before Elisif, which she was not expecting.

“Lord Welkynd, please, do not bow before me. I know you dislike such protocols.”

“My Queen, I dislike bowing before nobility that has not earned my respect. Therefore, indulge me in this display of admiration.”

“You are an enigma, Lord Welkynd. You can display impeccable courtly manners but ignore them when agitated or trying to express a point of view. Any conversation with you is unpredictable. Therefore, they are always a welcome change from grovelling sycophants or nervous citizens. And, of course, I regard you as a friend and confidant.”

“The next month will be busy, Your Highness.”

“Yes, indeed, with Vittoria Vici’s wedding, the opening of your museum and my coronation.”

“I assume the leaders of counties, kingdoms and holds will converge upon Solitude.”

“I understand the impracticality of such a long trip and absence from their responsibilities. Therefore, many will be represented by career diplomats or family members. I am nervous about security, even with the substitutes being sent. I would probably turn grey worrying about the actual leaders being present.”

“The Penitus Oculatus will be in great force along with Tullius’ elite troops.”

“History has shown that nothing stops a determined and skilled assassin.”

“Those of The New Order failed, Your Highness. I am sure Ulfric sent a few as well, being the coward he was.”

‘Yet you, Lord Welkynd, live somewhere that no assassin can find, never alone breach.”

“And it has many elite guards, in case they do. So yes, we are both wary of determined assassins. Has Lady Stentor been busy scrying and divining on your behalf?”

“The events of Wolfskull Cave showed her magic is far from infallible. However, she did tell me you would be visiting on a matter other than pleasantries and Olette’s adoption papers. As usual, she could not tell me specifics. Was she correct?”

“Yes. Have you heard of the problems in Evermore?”

“Of all the kingdoms, counties and holds of The Empire, Evermore is the most silent and seemingly secretive. I have heard there are issues but do not know their specifics, including cause or severity.”

“I am still gathering information, but one of their problems has made its way to Skyrim. Lord Peryite created a plague that first infected several villages in High Rock. The sufferers are called Afflicted. He sent one of his mortal minions, a Wood Elf called Orchendor, to those villages. Orchendor promised Afflicted they would not die if they joined his commune. Dozens of Afflicted came to Skyrim, and the commune was created in the Dwemer ruins called Bthardamz.”

“Did Lord Peryite intend to spread the plague here?”

“Yes, but Orchendor became power-hungry and refused to send Afflicted outside the commune. He planned to ransom the nobility, including you, Your Highness. I assume he intended to point to the plague’s devastation in High Rock and threaten the same in other provinces. Unfortunately, I had to kill him before gathering more information.”

 “What happened to the Afflicted?”

“I did not kill any of them. They are trapped inside Bthardamz, with Dragonguard protecting the only two exits. Vayu will have barred one exit, and a portcullis protects the other. He will have disabled the internal mechanism, meaning the only way of lowering the portcullis is unreachable by Afflicted.”

“Do you think Afflicted would have willingly spread the plague?”

“Some of them would, for Lord Peryite keeps them alive. They are ordinary people dealing with a terrible disease. They might not die, but they suffer. I do not blame some of them for becoming devotees of the god that created the disease who keeps them breathing. That gives them hope and creates willing minions.”

“There are protocols, not used for many years, on how we must deal with plague carriers.”

“I assume there are strict rules of engagement for The Imperial Army amongst those protocols.”

“I do not know. Falk will have to dig out the dusty books of Imperial Law and find the relevant section.”

“Inigo became infected, and Lady Mara’s shrine cured him. However, finding an alchemical cure for the disease is best, as that does not necessitate the Afflicted travelling to consecrated shrines. To that end, I will visit The College of Winterhold with samples I collected whilst in Bthardamz.”

“It would be best if General Tullius takes responsibility for the guarding and welfare of those within Bthardamz.”

“The Afflicted within Bthardamz will prove invaluable as we develop a cure. However, their assistance should be voluntary.”

“There is no way I will allow forced experiments on the sufferers! I am sure Imperial protocols disallow such a thing.”

“If written with The Ten Commands of The Nine Divines as guidance, then yes. However, The Empire uses torture, so I would not guarantee the protocol forbids such barbarism as forced experimentation.”

“Well, a decree from me will forbid it!”

“I will give General Tullius a heads up on the issue so he can start preparations. I am sure he will visit to advise from a martial perspective, Your Highness.”

“Once Falk finds the protocols, we shall meet and formulate the decree. We must also write a letter for the Afflicted outlining what is happening. We shall do those things as a matter of urgency. What else can you tell me about the problems in Evermore?”

“It is serious enough that gods and a senior noble have asked me to investigate.”

“How senior?”

“There is none higher.”

“Oh, how did they do that?”

“A god visited them and then me.”

“Oh. So apart from the plague, what is happening?”

“I only have the basics so far. Many factions, including Witchmen, their version of Forsworn, are vying for power. Of course, being High Rock, neighbouring kingdoms are looking for an opportunity. The Orsimer are scapegoats and fleeing Evermore in numbers. The kingdom is a serfdom, and the citizens are no better off than enslaved. A few decades ago, they had their version of The Markarth Incident. That turned the Reachmen hostile, as happened with the Forsworn. Orsimer, tired of being victimised, have also become militant.”

“That sounds like chaos.”

“Lady Mara thinks one or more Daedric Princes are involved. We already know Lord Peryite has contributed to the chaos.”

“When are you crossing the border?”

“I am waiting on instructions from His Imperial Majesty. He is preparing for a military solution if my diplomacy fails. I will cross the border with a big stick.”

“Oh, bigger than General Welkynd can wield?”

“Much bigger!”

“Have you recovered from your injuries?”

“The injury was to my soul. I am not fully recovered, but our enemies are not patiently waiting for a healthy Dragonborn.”

“I appreciate Vayu keeping me informed.”

“He is teleporting all over the place, keeping key people informed. We have found in Akavir that it makes for quicker responses to emergencies. Not everything goes to plan, and sometimes a problem is larger than we thought.”

“I don’t know where we would be without you and The Dragonguard.”

“Apart from Alduin, solutions would have been found for the other problems.”

“Maybe, but with far more casualties and suffering amongst the civilians.”

“Lady Ramsbottom will be taking my daughter shopping soon. I might be wealthy, but giving them the freedom to spend may make me destitute.”

“Oh, how I would love to be able to join them. Shopping must be more fun than having tailors and designers visit.”

“If you requested, I am positive the vendors would bring much of their stock here and set up temporary stores. Having you as a client is worth a fortune to them.”

“Ooh! That would not be too ostentatious, would it?”

“It would not be much of a burden on the vendors. I cannot imagine anybody thinking less of you for wanting to support local trade.”

“I might as well enjoy some freedom before the heir and spare stuff starts.”

“It will be many years before motherhood will be difficult or dangerous. Tell your advisors to shove it.”

“Hahaha. I may do that.”

“I do not envy you, my Queen. Perhaps love will find you once again.”

“Few people are lucky to experience it once. Experiencing it twice must be very rare. But I can hope, can’t I?”

“Yes, keep hoping. The right person will not try to replace High King Torygg but respect what you had.”

“Bah…this topic risks making me morbid. Tell me, how did Olette react to the news of her adoption?”

“Her joy contributed to my recovery. We will be visiting Riften’s Hall of Dead to tell her mother. That might test my composure.”

“Lady Ramsbottom is right. You are a big softy!”

 “It has been a pleasure, my Queen. However, I have several visits today, so I must be going.”

“Falk has the papers ready for your signature.”

I approached Falk, who watched as I signed the adoption papers, one copy for me and another for Skyrim’s records. Both copies had Elisif’s signature and were stamped in wax with her new High Queen of Skyrim seal.

I handed Skyrim’s copy back to Falk, who shook my hand and said, “Congratulations, Wulf. You are now a father.”

“Thank you, Falk. Will you have difficulty finding the protocol concerning plagues?”

“No. The law books are large but well-indexed. However, there is a chance that conflicting protocols are found. In the end, Elisif’s decree is the law. As you indicated, we might rely on Tullius to fine-tune the decree.”

“From my experience, the most important thing is to make the quarantined feel safe. Real empathy via regular and good quality supplies is paramount. They should not feel like they are being imprisoned for something they did wrong.”

“That seems obvious, but I would not be surprised to find such empathy is a rarity.”

“When people fear a disease, that empathy can be lacking. The Afflicted cannot infect those guarding Bthardamz if common sense is used. There is nothing to fear.”

“The Legion will take over guarding Bthardamz as soon as possible.”

“Thank you again, Falk.”

As we walked to Castle Dour, one of the vampire orphans walked past. Like Sybille Stentor, very few people would ever know he is undead.

When we entered Castle Dour’s map room, General Tullius, Legate Rikke, and an Altmer Lieutenant were discussing the larger bandit gangs near Whiterun.

They turned, and once they saw me, all discussion ceased. As I walked towards Tullius, I felt like a harbinger of doom.

I stood before the concerned general and said, “Relax, General Tullius. I am not a bringer of dire news.”

“That makes a change, Lord Welkynd.”

Tullius visibly relaxed.

I asked, “Is everybody in this room trusted, General Tullius?”

“Yes, even Lieutenant Chamore.”

“I would have asked whether or not somebody of Altmer heritage was present.”

“Yes, of course. I did not mean to imply otherwise.”

“I am sure you are aware of problems in Evermore. His Imperial Majesty and The Divines are concerned those problems may engulf The Empire if not all of Tamriel.”

“Mede has expressed this to you?”

“Yes, via an intermediary. Lord Talos visited him and then came to me.”

“It is that serious?”

“It has been a long time since Lord Talos has involved himself directly in mortal affairs. So yes, it is dire.”

“Are you aware of the preparations we are undertaking?”

“I was not told anything in detail, but I assume His Imperial Majesty has asked for one or two legions to be assembled on the border.”

“Yes. We are concerned that other High Rock kingdoms may exploit Evermore infighting.”

“A martial response would be too late to stop excessive civilian casualties and probably contribute to them. The Divines think that one or more Daedric Princes are involved and would prefer a diplomatic solution. I shall attempt to achieve that before His Imperial Majesty sends troops across the border.”

“The details of the problems have not been fully communicated to us. We know that Orcs are fleeing the kingdom and that many factions are at each other’s throats.”

“I am still gathering information, but that is a good summation. Some Orsimer are not running but have become a militant force known as Orsinium’s Sons. Reachmen, whom Breton have named Witchmen, are fighting for the same reasons as the Forlorn. They are two factions of many that threaten a civil war with, most likely, Daedric Princes adding to the chaos.”

“It is bad enough when you only have two sides to a war.”

“One Daedric Prince, Lord Peryite, has introduced a plague into High Rock. As far as I know, a few villages in Wayrest are affected, but much of Evermore is infected. Those who carry the disease are called Afflicted. Dozens of them entered Skyrim and won’t die due to Lord Peryite’s protection. They were supposed to spread the plague here, but their leader disobeyed Lord Peryite and wanted to bribe High Queen Elisif and other nobles. I have killed their leader, and the Afflicted are imprisoned in Bthardamz. The Dragonguard protect the two exits, but that duty must fall to The Imperial Army.”

“What is to be done with the Afflicted?”

“They are to be treated humanely according to Her Highnesses’ decree. Falk and the queen are studying Imperial protocols concerning forced quarantine, which will be the decree’s basis.”

“What danger would there be to guarding troops?”

“None. There are two exits. One can easily be welded closed or blocked by other means. A portcullis protects the other. Supplies and so on can be placed on the other side of the portcullis without any Afflicted being in proximity. If a Legionnaire contracts the disease, sanctified shrines of The Nine can remove it.”

“I assume I will be summoned once the decree is written.”

“Do you have any experience with quarantines, General Tullius?”

“None whatsoever.”

“Even so, it may benefit those involved if you contribute to the decree. Like you, neither Falk nor Her Highness have experience in such things. Since it will set the rules of engagement, I think your input is vital.”

“Very well, I shall make my way there soon.”

“I hope to take a few people with first-hand experience of Evermore with me. One person who has expressed a keen interest is Ghorbash Iron Hand. He recently finished his twelve-year tour and returned to his stronghold. However, he wants to help find a peaceful solution and accompany me. He says you might vouch for him.”

“I am surprised to hear he did not continue another tour. His enthusiasm for The Imperial Army was limitless, and his competence exemplary.”

“The bigotry in Evermore wore him down. That, combined with severe morale problems amongst his comrades, forced his hand. If he becomes a Dragonguard, he could help protect civilians after we resolve Evermore’s issues.”

“His skills would be wasted inside a stronghold or as a mercenary or guard. He is a fine soldier, Lord Welkynd, and I vouch for him without hesitation.”

“When I learn more about the situation in Evermore, I shall send Vayu to discuss it with you. Such knowledge would be beneficial to any troops sent over the border.”

“Yes, it is always best to know who will greet you with smiles or arrows.”

“I am going to visit The College of Winterhold with specimens so they can work on a cure for the plague. If we treat them well, some Afflicted may volunteer to help find a cure.”

“They will have nothing to fear from my soldiers, Lord Welkynd.”

“That is a certainty if the soldiers do not fear Afflicted. I doubt many of them would have deliberately spread the disease. However, if some contemplate doing so, their predicament must be considered.”

“I am sure that will be emphasised. May I ask, under what capacity will you be entering Evermore?”

“We shall be representing The Imperial Army and be placed in charge of Evermore’s garrison. I am coming out of reserve with the rank of General but will be His Imperial Majesties’ Emissary. I am sure some fancy armour will be worn to make us look important.”

“Will you enlist Dragonguard into the army?”

“Yes. We want our success attributed to The Imperial Army, not The Dragonborn and Dragonguard. We might wear fancy armour, but it will be unmistakably Imperial Army.”

“The reverse also applies, Lord Welkynd. Fuck it up, and my beloved army gets blamed!”

“As is appropriate for Talos-hating, milk-drinking Imperial scum!”

“If you see him, say hello to Emissary Vaeser for me. We campaigned together during The Great War. If there is poor morale in Evermore, it will not be caused by poor leadership. The current Regional Commander, Legate Drugo, is also a fine soldier and leader.”

“Oh, I almost forgot. A sizeable force of Stormcloaks has settled in the cave network near Sancre Tor.”

“The mountains have many hidey-holes for those outlaws. I shall send some scouts, although that is nominally within Cyrodiil.”

“Yes, but they must have found a route via Skyrim.”

“True. That is as good an excuse as any if Cyrodiil brass complains about jurisdiction. Are you about to vanish?”

“Yes.”

“This old soldier will never get used to all this magic stuff.”

“That is why I am going to Evermore and not you. I think you have the better deal.”

I retrieved Volendrung from my Journal Case and strapped it to my back. Tullius stared and shook his head as I cast teleport. It would be hard for the old soldier to comprehend what he saw.

As soon as we exited the ether, we ran towards the sound of battle. Dushnikh Yal was under attack!

The assailant turned out to be a single Sabre Tooth. It did not last long against angry Orsimer.

I approached Feldush, one of the few Orsimer mages in Skyrim.

“I see your Atronach summoning has improved, Mage Feldush.”

“I have spent some time at The College of Winterhold since you saw me last, Lord Welkynd.”

“And you are displaying the college’s banners.”

“I am an official outlet for their potions and other mage-related goods. It brings income into the stronghold, so Chief Larak accepts it.”

A gruff voice behind me asked, “Are you mocking Malacath, Lord Welkynd? I would hate to die teaching you a lesson.”

I turned to Chief Larak, who was laughing heartily at his jest.

I approached him and said, “It is the real Volendrung. It was given to me by Lord Malacath after he named me his champion.”

“Malacath told our shaman why you are his champion. Some of my people were shocked. Lord Malacath does not always select one of his people for that honour, and they would know that if they were more attentive to our oral histories.”

“Perhaps your shamans should throw in a few jokes amongst the droning oration. That might keep the audience awake longer.”

“I doubt your second visit in months is to advise on shaman lectures. What can I do for you, Lord Welkynd?”

“I am looking for Orsimer to become Dragonguard. Our Grandmaster will have the final say, but I think Borgakh may be a suitable candidate.”

“If she were accepted, that would save my manhood. She has threatened to castrate me with her teeth if I arrange a marriage to another chief.”

“I am going to Evermore to see if I can sort out their problems. Borgakh’s captain, Ghorbash Iron Hand, thinks highly of her, and I am here on his recommendation.”

“Is Ghorbash another potential recruit?”

“Yes. Ghorbash wanted to help the citizens of Evermore but could do little within the constraints of The Legion. I will have more authority and will get things done.”

“Borgakh thought she brought shame to the tribe by her early discharge. On the contrary, I am proud she managed to leave before killing a loudmouth bigot and getting strung up after a court-martial. We were allowed to punch some sense into Orc haters, but then the army got all soft and a hands-off approach was mandated. Ghorbash has my eternal thanks for the honourable discharge he arranged.”

“Why did the sabre-tooth enter the stronghold?”

“It chased one of our goats, not realising the danger it faced. It will not go to waste, and all parts will find use within the tribe.”

“If I have your leave, I shall speak to Borgakh now and see if she is interested.”

“I hope she is. Otherwise, I will have to send her to another tribe as a wife, and I am quite fond of my gonads.”

“Would her dismissal from the army lessen her marriage prospects?”

“Not after I explain the reason for her dismissal. Other women may challenge her, but I doubt any can best her in combat. Borgakh can have the life she chooses or one I bargain for.”

Another warrior had been at the practice dummy, but he moved aside for Borgakh. She had not yet started belting into it when I approached her.

I did not need to say anything. Borgakh sensed my approach and sheathed her sword. Then she turned to face me.

“I know of you, Lord Welkynd. Even in Evermore, your name is revered as a living god.”

“Greetings, Borgakh. I can assure you that I am no god and have died once and almost again not long ago.”

“Normal people do not die and talk about it as flesh and blood.”

“I did not say I was normal, but I am mortal.”

“My father and you were talking like old friends. That is a change from his chieftain persona.”

“Leaders must recognise and adapt to the persona of those before them. It avoids clashes, especially when traditions and beliefs differ greatly.”

“I did not adapt to the hatred of the ignorant. Hence, I am back here, waiting to be auctioned to some aged chief in a distant stronghold. My worth measured by the dowry offered.”

“What would be your preference if you could choose your path?”

“I joined The Imperial Army as I yearned to aid others outside of this stronghold. That was my motivation.”

“You were a skilled warrior before becoming a Legionnaire.”

“Whatever stronghold became my new home would need strength. My new tribal sisters would know I was not weak and contributed to the tribes’ strength.”

“Was aiding others your only motivation for joining the army?”

“Avoiding a loveless marriage and breeding children whose fate was one of conflict and jealousy was a bonus. But I yearned to see new places and people. Ultimately, I realised how fortunate we are to live in Skyrim.”

“Evermore does not reflect the wonders and peoples of other kingdoms and provinces. Unfortunately, you were sent there as your first experience outside of Skyrim. That mistake was argued on your behalf by Ghorbash. Even he, as a seasoned veteran, found Evermore a challenge.”

“Indeed, he saved me from a dishonourable discharge.”

“I will be entering Evermore soon to try and fix what is broken. Not by force but by diplomacy. If you have heard of me, I hope the Dragonguard were also mentioned.”

“They are as legendary as you, Lord Welkynd. I assume the four that entered with you are Dragonguard?”

“Yes, they are. There are several dozen in Skyrim, but we find ourselves spread thinly and with little chance to rest between crises. So, I am recruiting new members. It is not like being in the army. We are holders of secrets that must be kept to protect the mortals of Nirn and the existence of Mundus. We combat mortal and immortal enemies, sometimes involving entering Oblivion.”

“Is an oath taken to keep these secrets?”

“No. If a person desires to aid others, they would never divulge them.”

“And how does one become a Dragonguard?”

“I sometimes recruit a new member without the assistance of Vayu, our Shaman, our Grandmaster in Skyrim. Ghorbash vouched for you, which is why we are discussing this. General Tullius vouched for Ghorbash. If you want to be a Dragonguard, Vayu will vet you. I am an excellent judge of character. He is better.”

“I cannot leave the stronghold again. I have already shamed my father, mother, and foremothers.”

“Chief Larak says the choice is yours. As a former Legionnaire, he understands what happened in Evermore and, like Ghorbash, does not blame you. Borgakh, you could help bring justice to the Orsimer and serfs in Evermore. For a short time, you would be a Dragonguard and Legionnaire. However, when our work in that kingdom is done, you will remain a Dragonguard.”

“If I say yes, what happens next?”

“Vayu may talk to you privately or in a group of potential Dragonguard. I will accept his decision on who is suitable and who is not. If you become a Dragonguard, secrets will be shared, and you will have time to acclimatise. Perhaps you may have a chance to accompany us on tasks before we enter Evermore.”

“The hammer you carry. It looks like the one that Malacath wields.”

“It was a gift from Lord Malacath to his mortal champion.”

“You are Malacath’s champion?”

“Yes, and I am not the first non-Orsimer to carry that title.”

“You are said to be the greatest warrior alive. To other Orcs, that would be enough to earn their allegiance. But I have read and heard of what you and the Dragonguard have accomplished. Not the battles won, but the selflessness of your endeavours would earn my loyalty. I want to be a Dragonguard.”

“Then I shall tell Vayu. He will take it from there. Farewell for now, Borgakh Steel Heart.”

I did a hand-to-the-chest salute used by Legionnaires of equal rank. Borgakh looked surprised but then smiled and returned the salute.

We teleported to the entrance of The College of Winterhold.

• Wulf: Opinions of Borgakh?
• Jin: Both Borgakh and Chief Larak are well-spoken.
• Wulf: The grunting, short sentence Orsimer choose to be that way. Unfortunately, that paints the entire species as knuckle-dragging brutes when that is far from the reality.
• Jo’rassa: Like Khajiiti, Orsimer walked these lands for thousands of years before the first Atmoran came ashore.
• Kharjo: They have chosen to live in strongholds. Orsinium was an example of what city-dwelling Orsimer can achieve.
• Wulf: And that scared other species. Orsinium galvanised racism.
• Dae: Borgakh genuinely needs to help others and see more of Nirn. As she said, escaping an arranged marriage is a bonus, not the primary motivation.
• Wulf: Vayu will sort out our potential recruits. I have watched him and still do not understand how he gets them to tell their deepest, darkest secrets.
• Jin: At first, he is intimidating with his red eyes and size. That makes people wary of him. But then he uses his charm, and instead of simply relaxing, they pivot one hundred and eighty degrees and trust him completely.
• Jo’rassa: His training in The Dibellan Arts accentuates his natural charm.
• Wulf: Am I not charming?

That question was met with silence as my ‘friends’ looked at their feet or anywhere else but me.

I grumbled, “Okay, arseholes, it is time to meet the Arch-Mage.”

We silently climbed the many floors to Savos Aren’s rooms, apart from the occasional snigger from the traitors behind me.

I knocked on the door, and it automatically opened.

Savos moved from behind his desk to greet me.

The College of Winterhold once hosted many Dunmer mages and refugees. The Great Collapse of 4E 122, when much of Winterhold slipped into the ocean, was unfairly blamed on the college. People pointed to the minor damage it suffered, and false logic made them suspect the mages caused the catastrophe. An anti-Danmer and mage movement began. As a result, nearly all Dunmer left for less racist pastures. Arch-Mage Savos Aren and the colossal statue of Lady Azura are remnants of that large Dunmer population.

“Greetings, Arch-Mage.”

“Greetings, Master Wulf.”

I placed several vials, boxes, bottles, and other containers on Savos’ desk.

I told him, “A plague created by Lord Peryite has affected many people in High Rock. The kingdom of Evermore is the hardest hit. Afflicted is the name that Lord Peryite calls the infected. As far as I know, it is invariably fatal unless Lord Peryite blesses the Afflicted. They are then carriers but will not die. However, they do suffer from many symptoms and constant pain.”

“Are those specimens from which we are to find a cure?”

“A cure, a way to ease the suffering and perhaps prevention.”

“I see. What can you tell me about the disease?”

“Sufferers produce green phlegm that is so acidic that it eats through most metals. Dwemer metal seems impervious. The amount of phlegm is copious, and Afflicted can use it as a weapon. Dragonguard witnessed an Afflicted killing wolves by regurgitating this phlegm. Afflicted develop pustules, like pox, all over their bodies and their skin changes colour. On light-skinned individuals, they turn noticeably red, like severe sunburn.”

“What kills the infected?”

“I am not sure, for I have not autopsied a deceased Afflicted. At a guess, they drown on the phlegm, or their body heat is excessive.”

“It is a blessing from Lord Peryite or some mundane form of treatment such as a potion that keeps some alive?”

“Intuitively, I think it is a potion, but I found no evidence of such in Bthardamz.”

“Are there Afflicted in Bthardamz?”

“Yes. The plague originated in High Rock, Wayrest, to be precise. However, Lord Peryite planned to release it to a more devastating effect in Skyrim. Several dozen of the ‘blessed’ Afflicted were lured to Bthardamz by a Wood Elf who pretended to be an acolyte of Lord Peryite. He intended to use Afflicted as a threat and extort the nobles and leaders of Skyrim and other provinces. I killed him but have not harmed the Afflicted. They are under enforced quarantine in Bthardamz.”

“What else can you tell me about the disease?”

“I have included skin scrapings, blood, and saliva samples from a Khajiiti who contracted the disease. A Divine shrine cured him. We know the plague is spread via the phlegm and breath of Afflicted. I collected samples from modified plants within Bthardamz that may also spread the plague. The samples are labelled, and where possible, I have gathered several of each. I have also drawn pictures of the plants. I believe them to be modified versions of plants often seen in tropical gardens. I have many of the unmodified ones in my palace gardens.”

“We have consecrated shrines to most gods within the college and an isolation wing. There, we can start working on the samples provided. Will the Afflicted within Bthardamz cooperate and aid us in finding a cure and prevention?”

“They will be asked. We shall not force them to do so. Some will likely cooperate, as they want to return to High Rock and became disillusioned with Lord Peryite.”

“Can you think of anything else before I get Tolfdir and our Masters of Restoration to start work?”

“I think Celestine would be eager to help.”

“The best Restoration Mage we have seen in centuries aiding us would be a boon.”

“Orsimer seem to be resistant to the disease. If you can find a syringe strong enough, you might want to take a sample of Master Urag’s blood.”

“He may volunteer his blood, but I would not like to be the one who jabs him.”

“I believe Lord Peryite ensured Orsimer are resistant to that plague to add to the chaos in Evermore. There is great unrest in that kingdom, and The Divines think one or more Daedric Princes are behind it. I will investigate the situation on behalf of His Imperial Majesty, The Divines and Lord Malacath.”

“You know I am many centuries of age. I cannot recall a period of such intense Dark Lord activity. The Oblivion Crises was Mehrunes Dagon with minor support from a handful of others. Currently, you are countering plans of several Dark Lords.”

“The Liminal Barrier has been slowly weakening since Alduin’s return. Saint Alessia foresaw the phenomena, but the metaphysical reasons elude The Divines. Perhaps Lord Magnus might know, but I doubt there is much communication between him and the Aedra. Daedric Princes have sensed the weakness and are trying to exploit it.”

“Will it fail?”

“It may. If it does, I think Alduin will end this kalpa.”

“The natural cycle of Mundus.”

“Many like to think so. However, The Divines do not want this kalpa to end, nor do many Daedric Princes.”

“What is that hammer on your back? I see you still have your katana at your side.”

“It is Volendrung. Lord Malacath gifted it to me, for I am his mortal champion.”

“Does Boethia know?”

“No, for I have not told her. No doubt she will have something complimentary to say about the matter.”

“We have resumed our excavation of Saarthal. We had not made much progress when the civil war intervened.”

“That might be an interesting undertaking. Perhaps the mystery of why The Night of Tears occurred will finally be solved.”

“That is our hope. Dismissing the Atmoran, or Nord, interpretation of events as propaganda is too easy. But we must be careful, for there are no Falmer or Snow Elves if you want to use the Nord name to argue their case.”

“I have a theory. I think the Atmoran who became the Dragon Priest named Ahzidal discovered a relic of great power within Saarthal. That artefact allowed his knowledge of magic to surpass all his mentors and teachers in that city. Like many mages, his lust for knowledge trumped other desires, such as being a good father and husband. He left his wife and child in Saarthal to study with Mer. When he returned, he discovered that every Atmoran, including his family, had been killed by the Falmer. I think that a relic known to the Falmer but not used by them was the catalyst for The Night of Tears. The Atmoran destroyed all literature of the Falmer in their quest for racial annihilation. But I cannot think of any other reason why the formerly peaceful Falmer turned so quickly against Man.”

“What about the Atmoran claim that the Falmer were concerned about how quickly Man bred and their lack of respect for the land and nature?”

“The victor writes the history. Ahzidal equipped Ysgramor’s Five Hundred Companions with weapons and armour enhanced by powerful dweomer. The Dragonguard has shown how a couple of dozen warriors with such equipment can defeat armies that outnumber them by a hundred to one. The warriors had to have some skill, but their equipment made the difference, and the Falmer had no answer to their brutality. I hope the excavation provides some answers even if my hypothesis is shown to be a fallacy.”

“We have concluded Ahzidal is not buried within Saarthal. Do you concur?”

“Ahzidal fled to Solstheim and is buried in Kolbjorn Barrow. I stopped a foolish Dunmer from excavating that site. Well, I think he listened to me. I should visit and ensure that is the case because Ahzidal would strive to destroy all Mer on Solstheim if released from his tomb. However, if a powerful artefact was behind Ahzidal’s initial mastery of magic, it might still be in Saarthal.”

“Many have warned us about excavating Saarthal.”

“Some Nords would not want the real history of Saarthal discovered. The Night of Tears does not validate Ysgramor’s genocide. If the Falmer were Man, not Mer, they would still be a species sharing Skyrim. It was racial hatred that drove the Falmer to extinction.”

“As always, it has been enlightening to speak to you, Master Wulf. Please, when there is a break in unruly Daedric Princes trying to destroy or enslave us, join us here for a time.”

“I promised to share my Psijic and Thu’um knowledge with the college and will do so.”

I wanted to inform Urag of Chief Yamarz’s demise. Therefore, we visited his kingdom, often called The Arcanaeum.

I placed Volendrung on his desk and approached the grumpy mage.

He grumbled, “That thing had better not scratch my desk!”

“I know you are not a devotee of Lord Malacath, but referring to his relic as a thing is a bit rude.”

“So, Master Wulf, are you here to bore me with how you came to possess that thing.”

“I assume you have friends amongst the Orsimer of Skyrim. Perhaps that was a foolish mistake. Anyway, I performed a task for Lord Malacath. During that task, Chief Yamarz was killed in combat. The message is delivered. Therefore, I shall take the thing and leave.”

“Yamarz was foolish to want the position of chief. They never live long as fitter and younger hopefuls are in plentiful supply.”

“For the traditionalists, it is the only way they can have children. That must be a motivating factor for many.”

“The whole thing is insane. But I do appreciate the visit, Master Wulf. If you do not mind, I saw an apprentice with ink-stained fingers touch one of my books. I am not allowed to feed them to hungry bears, but I can scare them so they quiver and cry. Such are the joys of this position!”

“Was Yamarz a friend?”

“Yes, so grief turned to anger will aid in my retribution against the offending apprentice.”

“Have fun!”

“Fun? What is that?”

We teleported to the entrance of the Hall of The Vigilant.

• Jin: Is Urag always like that?
• Wulf: He is a kind soul, Jin. However, the books they allow apprentices to handle are often irreplaceable.
• Kharjo: Khajiiti caravans spend significant amounts to find and deliver books to that one.
• Wulf: Master Urag was born in the 2^nd Era into a tribe of warriors. It took a lot of effort and bravery to overcome his urge for combat and warfare and pursue knowledge and magic instead.
• Dae: How can an Orsimer live that long?
• Wulf: I believe he owns a relic that stops his ageing. He hardly sleeps and is almost constantly within The Arcanaeum.
• Jo’rassa: How long has he maintained the library?
• Wulf: Since late in the 2^nd Era. He became custodian and Loremaster early in the 3^rd Era.
• Jin: Does he have friends in the strongholds?
• Wulf: Yes, many. He is an influential figure amongst Skyrim’s Orsimer. Master Urag, Auryen and Professor Marassi have known each other for centuries. It is rare to see scholars robustly discuss opposing theories and remain friends.
• Kharjo: Does that one’s disdain for Volendrung stem from rejecting a martial background?
• Wulf: Yes, Kharjo.
• Kharjo: Khajiit understands.
• Jin: I think we all understand Master Urag a bit better.

Apart from a few Vigilants on the ramparts, the Hall of the Vigilant grounds seemed deserted. They need replacements from Cyrodiil!

When we entered the hall, it was silent. It is supposed to echo with the laughter and chatter that are byproducts of comradeship. Instead, the wind outside was the only voice heard.

We exited and found Keeper Carcette in one of the sheds, preparing some planters for seeding.

“Good afternoon, Keeper Carcette. I thought I would update you on our investigation into the plague.”

“Is there a commune?”

“Yes. Lord Peryite created the plague, and the first infected were villagers in Wayrest. Those with the disease are called Afflicted. Several dozen Afflicted were lured to Skyrim with the promise that Lord Peryite would not let them die. However, they would not be cured.”

“Did Peryite plan to spread the plague here?”

“Yes. Orchendor, a Wood Elf, led the Afflicted. They established a commune within the Dwemer ruins called Bthardamz. Orchendor had other plans, and instead of sending Afflicted to spread the plague, he would hold nobility to ransom. I killed Orchendor, and the Afflicted are now under forced quarantine within Bthardamz.”

“What about Kesh, the devotee?”

“He was killed by a bear when he drew weapons on me. Skyrim’s wildlife provides extra bodyguards thanks to Lady Kynareth.”

“Thank you for informing me.”

“Keeper Carcette, I am shocked at how few Vigilants there are.”

“More have gone missing, including two of my most senior Enforcers.”

“Whereabouts?”

“In The Pale.”

“Tell me what had happened, Keeper. There is nothing urgent that prevents us from helping if required.”

“Just before the issue with Vonos and his cultists, a Vigilant reported sighting a creature that looked like a gargoyle but used blood magic. That was in the ice fields near Dawnstar. There are records of such creatures in the past. They are mortals who, like lycanthropes, can turn into a Daedra-cursed creature. I sent a patrol of three, including Enforcer Fenrik, to investigate. They failed to send an update or return from their patrol of The Pale. By the time they were a week overdue, we became involved with Vonos’ cult.”

“Patrols are relieved each month, is that correct?”

“Yes, and we allow a reasonable time for their return before declaring them overdue.”

 “Did somebody investigate?”

“We sent a relieving patrol the day after Vonos was killed. We have not received a status report from them.”

“Did the relieving patrol consist of three Vigilants?”

“No, I was paranoid and sent a patrol of five.”

“What have you done about it?”

“I was going to wait another week, but Enforcer Azarain convinced me to send him to investigate. He and Enforcer Fenrik were close, and both come from Cyrodiil. They were always critical of the methods used in this Vigil and tried to change things.”

“How close were they?”

“They were lovers who both owed the other their life. They took turns saving each other in combat at different times.”

“Then I understand Enforcer Azarain’s eagerness to investigate.”

“He would have reached Dawnstar by now, and I fear I may have sent him to his doom.”

“He volunteered knowing the risks, Keeper Carcette. No blame can be attached to you if Enforcer Azarain comes to harm.”

“Enforcers Fenrik and Azarain are our most competent warriors. They would not be easy to kill, even if outnumbered.”

“Was Enforcer Azarain staying at Windpeak Inn? I have often seen Vigilants there.”

“That was going to be his initial base of operations.”

“You are hesitant to ask, but I know you want us to investigate. I told you I would aid you when I can. The emptiness of this place disturbs me, as does the thought that Vigilants in The Pale are coming to harm. Therefore, we shall visit Dawnstar immediately.”

“Thank you, Lord Welkynd.”

We teleported to Dawnstar’s outskirts. The Khajiiti caravan was moving, so I could not ask them for information. I must visit and look at their new warehouses when I can. Soon, they will trade when the caravan is not present.

• Kharjo: Khajiit wonders about the creature seen by Vigilant.
• Wulf: If it was the type of undead I have read about, then it was a Perfect Blood Hybrid. Gargoyles are unpleasant, but combined with vampiric powers, they would be terrifying. Very little is known about them.
• Jin: I doubt Hircine and Bal got together and decided a hybrid was a good idea.
• Wulf: I can predict what Daedric Princes do according to individual personalities. If two or more cooperate, then their behaviour is unpredictable. Whether or not Lords Hircine and Bal have cooperated is unknown but unlikely.
• Jo’rassa: If we encounter a Perfect Blood Hybrid, I think Dae should fight it while we observe.
• Wulf: That is an excellent idea. We can take copious notes while Dae struggles to survive!
• Dae: Is this Pick on Dae Day?
• Kharjo: That one owes Khajiit many septims from playing cards badly. This one does not want Dae to die before the debt is paid.
• Wulf: You are gambling, Kharjo?
• Kharjo: I am sober, so it is controllable. Taking money from fellow Dragonguard is an enjoyable pastime.
• Dae: Nobody warned me!
• Jin: We all suffered at the hands of Kharjo. Watching you do even worse made us feel better.
• Wulf: None of you need to spend your monthly stipend, so consider it a harm-free lesson, Dae.
• Kharjo: This one will soon have enough coin to buy a share in Skyrim’s Khajiiti caravans.
• Wulf: I doubt Ri’saad needs the investment, so he must be doing you a favour.
• Kharjo: When all our enemies are defeated, I want to travel the roads with Ri’saad again.
• Jo’rassa: You might be a grey-haired, grumpy old cat with bad arthritis by then.
• Kharjo: Riding in a wagon or donkey would still make Khajiit content.
• Jin: How can that be more fun than being outnumbered in battle against various enemies?
• Kharjo: If Khajiit must do these things till old with arthritis, then the answer is obvious.
• Wulf: Okay, the first stop is the inn.

As we approached Windpeak Inn, I admired Dawnstar. It is not all hustle and bustle like some bigger cities, but it has charm, even if constantly windy and blanketed with snow.

The inn was relatively quiet but would be packed when work finished for the day. The end of a day’s labour depends on a person’s occupation, so it is not like a giant wave of hungry and thirsty people barge through the door.

Many locals recognised us and greeted us with waves and verbal hellos.

I approached Thoring, the barkeep.

“Good afternoon, Thoring.”

“And a good afternoon to you, Lord Welkynd. What can I do for you?”

“I am looking for Enforcer Azarain. I believe he was staying here.”

“Yes, he booked a room for several nights. However, he did not return from an errand last night, and I have not seen him today.”

“When was the last time you saw him?”

“He was halfway through his evening meal when he abruptly got up and headed for his room. He came out fully armed and told me he had an urgent errand. He seemed worried.”

“Did anything happen before he abandoned his meal?”

“One of the local urchins handed him a note.”

“Which room was he using?”

“The one to my left. Enforcer Azarin is the only Vigilant who has spoken to Dawnstar citizens with respect and not threats, so I hope he has not come to harm.”

“The Vigilants of Skyrim are changing their ways, Thoring. However, dozens of them have been killed defending the people of Skyrim in the last few weeks. Several Vigilant patrols in this area have vanished. So, despite their misguided priorities, they performed their duty with bravery and commitment.”

“Oh, I did not know that.”

“Not many people do.”

We entered Azarain’s rented room. On a set of drawers was a note. I read it to the squad,

“Meet me at the Windward Ruins tonight. I have some information.

Come alone.”

• Wulf: I doubt Azarain would go alone to this meeting unless he recognised the handwriting.
• Jo’rassa: Windward Ruins are not far from here.
• Wulf: It is far enough for the sounds of a small melee not to reach Dawnstar.
• Jin: The rest of you should hurry along and check out Windward Ruins. Meantime, I will stay here in case Azarain makes a welcome appearance.
• Dae: You are a mage. Typically, that precludes copious alcohol consumption as it might damage their delicate brains. But you are a Nord, so your brain is damaged from birth. Plus, you have consumed copious amounts of alcohol since you were a baby. Even your mother’s breast milk was eighty per cent proof. Therefore, if we leave you unattended, you will upset the residents of Dawnstar by drinking their inn dry.
• Kharjo: Khajiit thinks that is a valid and undeniable reason for dragging that one out into the frozen wastes of Skyrim.
• Jo’rassa: I cannot imagine why Jin would prefer a lovely, warm inn and mead to the pleasures of frostbite and wild animals that think he is dinner.
• Wulf: Alas, Jin, we might encounter Perfect Blood Hybrids and would stand no chance without your mage skills.
• Jin: I did not notice a hint of sarcasm in that remark, Wulf.
• Wulf: Luckily, you cannot hear my inner voice, which is sniggering.
• Jo’rassa: Besides, we agreed to take notes while Dae fights any Perfect Blood Hybrids valiantly.
• Jin: Oh, I would not want to miss that!
• Dae: I hate all of you.

The inn had become considerably busier in the few minutes since our arrival.

Our emergence from a dim tavern amplified the brightness of the day.

It is a relatively short walk to Windward Ruins from Dawnstar. However, even a short distance from the city can be hazardous. Therefore, we moved in silence as we did not know what was hiding in the peaks and troughs of the ice field.

Once close to Windward Ruins, I scanned it with Heat Vision.

I said, “Nothing is living there that I can detect, but something is burning.”

We slowly and silently made our way to the lip of Windward Ruins. Below us was the corpse of a Vigilant Enforcer. Arterial blood surrounded a burning torch.

I leapt down. The others took the long route.

I turned the body over and inspected it. A journal identified the deceased as Enforcer Azarain. When the entire squad was assembled, I read the relevant section aloud.

“Fredas, 12^th Evening Star, 4E 201. Dawnstar.

The investigation will move slowly, but that was to be expected. The townsfolk pay scant notice of Stendarr’s chosen. It does not help that the Vigilants in Skyrim have garnered little respect and much suspicion. I will summarise what I have pieced together so far, hoping it provides some clarity.

From what I have gathered, Fenrik and his patrol came to Dawnstar to investigate rumours of Daedra worship. They must have only patrolled in the local area because they returned to the inn each night. Then, one night, Fenrik and his patrol did not return without a word to the innkeeper or anyone in town. Then, the bigger patrol sent by Keeper Carcette went missing without a trace.

The disdain the locals have for Vigilants worked in my favour. My different approach took them aback, and once relaxed, they cooperated and answered questions.

Locals scrutinise newcomers to any town or city in Skyrim. This habit led to two individuals being mentioned.

One is Vereth, an Altmer constantly complaining about the cold weather. So, the fact he stayed in a cold place, despite his dislike of the weather and his race, heightened suspicion.

I talked to Vereth, and he was not hesitant or nervous. He is a clerk with exceptional skills in bookkeeping. Therefore, he has been hired by various businesses in Dawnstar. He travels from one cosy place of business to another within the city, thus going from comfortable warmth to bitter cold. I concluded he was unlikely to be a cult member, and his complaints about the weather were simple preambles to start conversations.

Irene was a victim of the Nord dislike of anything magic-related. That is until they need a potion or other assistance from the gifted. She is a Dunmer and knowledgeable alchemist. As with Vereth, she was neither hesitant nor nervous when I spoke to her. When I asked if she worshipped the new or old Tribunal, she laughed and showed me the amulet of Dibella she wore. She was born in Markarth and came to Dawnstar to visit Frida, the owner of one of Dawnstar’s apothecaries. Irene was Frida and her husband’s apprentice years before.

Therefore, local suspicions proved fruitless. However, one Nord miner named Harald was nervous and curt. His hostility was palpable when I spoke to him in the street.

According to others, Harald has worked in the local mine for decades. He used to be an amiable fellow and almost a permanent fixture in the tavern after his shift finished each day. Then, about the time Fenrik came to Dawnstar, Harald changed. Now, he is never seen in the tavern, and his fellow miners say he rarely sleeps within the mine’s barracks.

Harald works in Quicksilver Mine. I shall visit the mine tomorrow and talk to him further.”

• Wulf: Enforcer Azarain’s throat was cut by an assailant behind him.
• Dae: Azarain would have been on high alert, so they must have exceptional skills if the killer took him by surprise.
• Jo’rassa: Enforcer Azarain was a veteran and would be cautious. We suspect he recognised the handwriting on the note. He may have trusted the person who killed him and dropped his guard.
• Wulf: We do not have enough evidence to conclude the note writer was the murderer. However, Jo’rassa’s theory is sound. If Azarain had trusted the murderer, he might not have been concerned about them being behind him.
• Kharjo: Khajiit wonders why Azarain’s journal was not taken.
• Jin: If they were friends, the killer may have fled the scene out of guilt.
• Jo’rassa: They may have been reluctant to touch their friend’s corpse.
• Dae: Harald may be worth investigating.
• Wulf: Yes, as a veteran’s intuition is not to be ignored. Several hours remain before Harald’s shift ends, so I shall go invisible and observe him working.
• Dae: And what shall we do?
• Wulf: You will have to entertain yourselves inside Windpeak Inn.
• Jin: You are such a cruel master, Lord Welkynd!
• Wulf: Please be quiet while I conduct Arkay’s Rights. Not only will that guide Azarain’s soul to Aetherius if lost, but it will also protect his body from predators.

I performed the rights with The Pale’s wind for accompaniment.

We then went to Windpeak Inn, where I spoke to Thoring again.

“Did you find Enforcer Azarain, Lord Welkynd?”

“He has been murdered. That is another blow to Skyrim’s Vigil.”

“Oh!”

“Dawnstar has dealt with Vaermina’s dreams, dragons, and the civil war. However, its citizens seem to have been more relaxed recently.”

“After that idiot Jarl was replaced, without a battle in our streets, there was a sense of optimism.”

“There was? I still see positivity in most residents.”

“Oh, most of us are enjoying life far more with fewer worries, but a few of my regulars have stopped frequenting this inn. I see them on the streets, and they seem distracted and unwilling to chat.”

“I have heard that about Harald.”

“Harald was always welcomed here, for he enjoyed a mead or two without getting drunk, but he was loud and everybody’s friend.”

“Do not mention Azarain’s death to anybody. His body will be collected and returned to the Hall of The Vigilant.”

“Okay. I hope you catch the killer!”

I signalled Dae, who met me in Azarain’s room.

I told him, “The innkeeper says Harald is not the only local acting strange. I do not think we are dealing with a large cult. Well, not one with willing members.”

“What then?”

“I think a few citizens are either ensorcelled or are vampire thralls.”

“Are you still going to visit Harald alone?”

“I cannot make a squad invisible, although that is a spell I am working on. Besides, I can always summon the squad if need be.”

“You know we shall remain sober, but we are famished!”

“I worry when my friends eat tavern food!”

“The dweomer you placed on our armour protects us.”

“I am more worried about the privies in Aurane.”

“They survived the unfortunate aftermath of Kharjo’s Elsweyr Chowder!”

“Yes, but the marble bowls were pitted!”

Dae laughed as he rejoined the other Dragonguard.

A snowstorm hit Dawnstar. I fully understand Vereth, the Altmer clerk, whinging about the cold. The bitter wind bites after the warmth of an enclosed building.

The Legionnaires dressed in Dawnstar Guard attire had taken to their weird face masks. They were not compulsory, but most chose to wear them.

Hardly any sunlight penetrated the cloud cover.

I welcomed the brightness within the mine.

I cast Shroudwalk and proceeded further in.

All the other miners were busy earning their pay. Harald was the exception. He was standing and staring at the far corner of the mine.

I scanned his soul, and there was a familiar taint. A vampire enthralled him.

The ensorceled on Solstheim recovered from Miraak’s control. Most individuals enthralled by a vampire never recover. They lose most of their free will and attack anybody or anything that is a perceived threat to their master. If their master dies, most will remain where they are, eventually dying of starvation.

There are exceptions, and those enthralled by Cyrodiil vampires are more likely to recover than victims of other types.

After ten minutes of not moving a muscle, Harald shook his head as if coming out of a haze. He then proceeded to chip away at some ore.

I headed in the direction Harald had been staring and ended up in a disused part of the mine. The ore had been cleared long ago, and the area is now used for storage. To me, the secret door I found was obvious. Heat vision showed two living entities behind the door. I scanned for auras and counted several undead. My educated guess was vampires and thralls.

What was even more evident than the hidden door was a button to open it. That suggested this was a new addition, and they had not yet hidden it behind a rock or illusion as in many other places.

I pushed the button, and the secret door noisily slid upwards. I was not yet visible, but some vampires could detect me as they see body heat.

None of the occupants bothered looking my way.

When I saw the head devotee was a Vigilant, I guessed who it was. He said, “You are a bit early, Harald. Are there more Vigilants for harvesting?”

I walked up behind him and made myself visible. Then I said, “Fenrik, you have betrayed The Divines and your Vigil.”

The startled traitor turned with mace drawn.

I growled, “Do you think Molag Bal will save you? He will be waiting to punish you for your failure!”

I easily blocked Fenrik’s mace.

I added, “Enforcer Azarain will be in Aetherius, surrounded by the love of Lord Stendarr, family and fellow Vigilants who have fallen in service. You will spend eternity in Coldharbour deciding who got the better deal.”

I blocked his mace again, laughed, then said, “You might be a decent warrior for a Vigilant, but you face the Champion of The Divines. You have not earned Stendarr’s Mercy. Therefore, it is time to deliver Righteous Might.”

Any of the Dragonguard, including the Aurane guards, would have no trouble defeating Fenrik. Since the cultists were looking upset and closing fast, I ended Fenrik quickly.

I knocked his mace aside again, then plunged my sword into an unarmoured spot next to his left pauldron. It pierced his lung, then his heart. Even if that was not fatal, he was a vampire, and the fire dweomer on my sword would have ended him.

The unarmoured civilians would not have attacked a warrior in full plate armour if they were not enthralled. But they were mindless puppets, and I cut them down as easy as chopping firewood.

The vampires tried blood magic and seemed surprised it did not harm me.

They died as quickly as the thralls.

The fight lasted seconds and would not have been heard from where Harald was working. However, he detected his master in danger and came running.

Like the other thralls, he stood no chance but had no choice. He wielded an impressive dagger but might as well have been bare-handed.

He died the same way as Fenrick, as my sword penetrated his lung and heart.

I did a inspection of the cavern. Rigmor sensed my rage and talked to me via Mara’s Rings.

“What is wrong, Wulf? It has been some time since you have felt such anger.”

“Keeper Carcette asked us to help investigate missing Vigilants in The Pale. I have found them! They are all around me, lying in coffins, sacrificed to Molag Bal by a Vigilant turncoat. That same Vigilant murdered his lover, all to please Molag fucking Bal!”

“Can The Vigilants of Stendarr in Skyrim survive at this rate?”

“No, they cannot. Cyrodiil had better send replacements soon, or the Skyrim Vigil will be no more.”

“Are you angry because of the betrayal by that Vigilant?”

“I am angry because the lover he killed, Enforcer Azarain, was the type of Vigilant I want the rest to be. I need people like him to help reform the order in Skyrim. But he was taken from us by slime who deserves whatever miserable eternity Molag Bal decides.”

“Did you have to kill civilians?”

“I did not have to, but I chose to. I could have summoned the squad but decided to personally deliver what Vigilants call Righteous Might and what I call Divine Wrath. They were vampires and thralls, so their deaths will not haunt me.”

“I can join you in the morning.”

“I think we might make ourselves scarce for the day. Just you and me at Tundra Homestead.”

“And the day after, Olette and I can send you broke!”

‘I am sure you will try. I should be home, showing her the adoption papers with her name on them.”

“Talk to me when you are back home if need be.”

“I will be okay, Rigmor. My anger is already subsiding. I dread telling Keeper Carcette.”

“Remember the light among the darkness, my dear Dragonborn.”

“I do, and she has wheat in her curls.”

“We will need a bigger farm than Tundra Homestead.”

“I have been asking around. Rarely are farms sold on the open market.”

“I am sure you will find one. I had better pay attention to the next supplicants. It is another bastardry hearing. Sometimes I feel like saying, ‘I used magical Countess powers and watched you knocking boots, so do not tell me you are not the father!’”

I laughed and felt satisfaction via the rings. Rigmor always knew how to help me fight the darkness.

The vampires had caught and dissected a Silver Sword. Ironically, several werewolf heads were impaled on tall spikes surrounding Molag Bal’s altar. A note indicated it was a slow death for the werewolf hunter.

Most of the dead Vigilants were placed in coffins. One exception was a female Enforcer floating in a casket full of blood. I have no idea of the significance of that oddity.

A pile of bones suggested the small vampire clan had been active for some time. But that was deceptive, as the bones were not overly old. I believe them to be the bones of recently deceased removed from their graves. On inspection, many of the bones had been split to gain access to the marrow.

I stood before Molag Bal’s shrine. Like other Daedric Princes, he probed my mind barriers.

He soon gave up and did not need prompting to speak aloud.

“Mortal, you have proven worthy. Become my champion, and I will make you a Vampire Lord.”

Before I could reply, the Daedric Prince bellowed, “What is this trick? How? Is it real?”

The cavern vanished, and I stood before a sitting Molag Bal, who was trying to hold his guts inside. Blood pooled around him.

The scene was devoid of contrast and unfocused. Colours were muted. I have experienced such phenomena when my soul travels the ether, but I am physically elsewhere.

Bal yelled, “ENOUGH!” and the scene changed.

I found myself at the entrance to Aetherius. It is a long corridor of arches leading to the gates where Lord Arkay greets the souls of the departed. My parents showed it to me when I was thirteen, and it was as I remembered, except for a statue of a kneeling Molag Bal and the poor contrast.

I walked over and studied the statue. Then I realised it was not a sculpture, but the Dark Lord turned to stone. He had a spear jutting from his stomach. The point was towards me, suggesting it was thrust into Bal’s back. The spear was unusual and seemed familiar. However, try as I might, I could not remember where I saw it.

I was not where or when I should be. After the events of Helgen, Father placed a dweomer on my amulet to anchor me to the correct timeline. I held it tight and was no longer in Aetherius but standing before Bal’s shrine again. The difference was it was no longer active. I could not detect the Dark Lord’s presence.

Mother was born a seer whose visions were unmatched in clarity and accuracy. Like some of my unusual talents, such as an extraordinary memory, that talent was natural and not a blessing from a god. However, we do not know who gave me Lord Akatosh’s blessing. Similarly, the origin of Mother’s seer abilities is a mystery. So, perhaps a god or gods unknown have been interfering.

I have often wondered if I inherited some of Mother’s seer ability, but it is somewhat muddled by my affinity for time.

I currently have no hope of sorting out what I saw. I have no context. Like the girl with corn in her curls, what I saw is a possibility, not a certainty. If I were to combat Molag Bal, I would thrust my katana into his stomach from the front. I would not use a spear to stab him in the back!

The fact that Molag Bal shared the first vision is interesting, but I have other things to concentrate on.

I searched Fenrik and found his journal. I read it and then decided I needed company.

I summoned my squad, and several gasped when they saw the cavern.

I told them, “I summoned you because I need some friends nearby. I find the darkness harder to fight each time. The armoured corpse at my feet is Enforcer Fenrik. He killed Enforcer Azarain and the Vigilants in his patrol. He also killed the Vigilants in the second patrol. Let me read to you part of his journal.”

“Azarain once told me I was Tamriel’s strongest warrior. But that is a lie.

A strong man would have ended his life long ago. He would have delivered Stendarr’s justice upon his soul. I am a weak man, and so, I live.

The Vigil teaches us that vampires are an abomination to be destroyed without mercy. But in my cowardice, I began to entertain the blasphemous thought that Vampirism had a cure.

Never has the subject been broached by the Keepers. After all, the very idea that these creatures were capable of salvation would threaten the principles of the order. So, to learn more, I sought the aid of the very monster I had sworn to oppose.

Molag Bal’s price was steep. I was to gather thralls and build an altar deep in the mines of Dawnstar for purposes that would only become clearer as the nights went on. To that shrine, I was to sacrifice the lives of nine of my brothers and sisters, one for each divine.

My resolve has sometimes wavered, but the Dark Lord has offered proof through Galur Rithari. His excerpts prove that a cure exists through a dream of being ‘sliced by thousands of tiny knives from my bowels inside out.’ As the city’s residents recover from the recent nightmares caused by Vaermina, there is still a sense of foreboding and fear. I understand why Dawnstar was chosen for this unholy vigil.

With only two sacrifices left, the ritual is almost complete. Undoubtedly, Azarain will see this as treason. I cannot sacrifice him because he is my Shield Brother and lover. But every Vigilant that dies at our hands calcifies my resolve. The weakness of my mind does not betray the strength of my will.

For all my cowardice, I am worth the souls of these unfortunate Vigilants. If I rejoin the Vigil, more souls will be saved than I give to Molag Bal.

Perhaps when the accounting is done, Stendarr will show me mercy.”

• Jin: The hubris of the man is astounding!
• Jo’rassa: I hope Molag Bal tells Fenrik there are other ways to cure Vampirism.
• Wulf: Oh, he will. Molag Bal will enjoy watching Fenrik wail in despair.
• Jin: Visit Falion in Dawnstar or sacrifice fellow Vigilants. The choice would have been easy, but I am guessing Molag Bal did not mention the less bloodthirsty option.
• Wulf: Falion’s work on a cure is not well known. I was told by the Arch-Mage when discussing the undead problem in Skyrim. He was forbidden from continuing his research in Winterhold’s college, as the process uses a filled Black Soul Gem.
• Kharjo: Khajiit thinks Falion would not live long if vampires heard of this cure.
• Wulf: If Falion has been successful, Bal would know a vampire was cured. However, the Dark Lord would not know who did it, how and where they did it.
• Dae: I am not a mage, so I am uncertain why a Black Soul Gem would be needed.
• Jin: Vampirism is a contamination of the Lifeforce half of a mortal’s soul. I assume that Falion’s cure involves the replacement of a vampire’s Lifeforce with the untainted Lifeforce within the Black Soul Gem.
• Wulf: The Lifeforce is consumed whenever a filled Black Soul Gem is used for enchanting or another purpose. Where the conscious part of the entrapped soul goes is a matter of great debate.
• Dae: Can entrapped souls be released?
• Wulf: Yes, but the entrapped mortal dies unless you have a host.
• Jo’rassa: So, Black Soul Gems are like a prison?
• Wulf: In a way, but the entrapped soul is unaware.
• Kharjo: Fenrik was tricked! 
• Wulf: Daedric Princes will fulfil a bargain. Their word is sacrosanct. But they will not stop a mortal from making a poor deal.
• Jo’rassa: Fenrik would have asked Molag Bal if there was a cure. Molag Bal told him of one and negotiated Fenrik’s side of the bargain. Being who he is, Molag Bal created a deal full of spite and an insult to The Divines.
• Dae: Who was Galur Rithari?
• Wulf: Galur Rithari was a Dunmeri champion of the Buoyant Armigers. Vampires of The Aundae Clan attacked and killed a squadron of Buoyant Armigers but spared Galur and fed upon him. It was an insult to Vivec to use his champion as cattle. It was a bigger insult to turn him into a vampire eventually. These events occurred in the Second Era in Vvandenfell.
• Dae: What or who are Buoyant Armigers?
• Jo’rassa: Each member of The Tribunal had their military order. A Buoyant Armiger was a Knight of Vivec.
• Dae: And who were The Aundae Clan?
• Wulf: In Vvandenfell, there were three large vampire clans. The Aundae Clan was one of them. All members were Altmer mage vampires specialising in mind control magic.
• Kharjo: Khajiiti do not worship Molag Bal.
• Wulf: Some Khajiiti worship Daedric Princes equally unpleasant. Varmiina, Namiira, Merrunz, Mafala, and Boethra for instance.
• Kharjo: Many Khajiiti who worship Azura think that the goddess killed Varmiina.
• Wulf: But you know, as I have said before, that Daedric Princes cannot die. They can be diminished and banished to The Void for some time. Or, if their opponent is powerful, altered like Jyggalag and Trinimac. Many Daedric Princes fear Jyggalag’s retribution, which will happen when he has enough Knights of Order to invade a realm of Oblivion. Molag Bal is probably the first on Jyggalag’s list.
• Dae: What bargain did Galur make with Molag Bal?
• Wulf: Unlike Fenrik, Galur chose to oppose vampires. He only fed on animal blood and hunted members of The Aundae Clan. When he pursued them to their seat of power in the Daedric ruin of Bal Ur, he came upon one of the most powerful of Molag Bal’s Altars. There, an avatar of Molag Bal offered him a cure in return for a specific cursed soul gem from a deep cavern on the northern slope of Red Mountain. Galur was one of a few mortals with enough skill to survive the retrieval of the soul gem. He gave it to Molag Bal, who then cured him.
• Dae: Did Galur suffer during the cure?
• Wulf: Yes. As Fenrik wrote, Galur described it as ‘sliced by thousands of tiny knives from my bowels inside out.’ It was unnecessary, but Molag Bal is the Prince of Spite.
• Dae: What about the soul gem Galur delivered to Molag Bal? Was it special?
• Wulf: There are dozens of theories and no hard evidence for any of them. I believe we shall find out what that soul gem was one day, to our detriment. That is intuition, not a premonition. After all, it was a soul gem exposed to the latent power of Lorkhan for millennia. 
• Jo’rassa: Did Dragon Breaks remove knowledge of vampire cures?
• Wulf: Dragon Breaks and religious dogma. What did Fenrik say about Vigilant doctrine?
• Jo’rassa: The Vigilants teach that vampires are an abomination to be destroyed without mercy. Fenrik thought that seeking a cure for Vampirism was blasphemous and that evidence of one would threaten the principles of the order.
• Wulf: And there lies the problem with the Skyrim Vigil. In the First Era, an Archbishop of Stendarr’s Temple in Chorrol named four abominations to be destroyed without halt or mercy. They were Daedra, lycanthropes, undead and vampires. There was never any proof this declaration was the will of Lord Stendarr, and to me, it is blasphemous. Stendarr is part of many pantheons. In all of them, he extols the virtue of mercy. His followers are urged to offer medical and other aid to believers and pagans without prejudice. Vampirism is a disease of the soul that can be cured. Many vampires have demonstrated they are not evil. Galur for instance. Vampires are mortals loved by The Nine who have a disease but, unless enthralled, maintain free will. It is the same with lycanthropes, except those who have no control when forced into beast form by the cycles of the moons. Many werebears and werewolves remove themselves from civilisation so they do not inadvertently harm the innocent. Members of The Companions are werewolves. I confirmed this by scanning their souls. There are undead roaming my museum who are not evil nor undeserving of mercy. Not all Daedra are evil. You know my reluctance to label Daedric Princes with good and evil labels. Vigilants like Enforcer Azarain are needed to steer the Skyrim Vigil in the right direction.
• Jin: You are deliberately doing as Fenrik feared and threatening the principles of the order.
• Wulf: When principles are based on a demonstrable lie, they must be threatened. I will continue to argue that The Vigilants of Stendarr are needed, but in the form Lord Stendarr desires. I might be naïve and be called a blasphemer, but unless The Divines tell me otherwise, I will pursue this goal. The Vigilants and Dawnguard should uphold The Nine’s will by slaying those who harm innocents. They should not be spending time hunting beings simply for existing.
• Jin: Apart from the Dawnguard, are there other offshoots of the Vigilants?
• Wulf: Yes, there are The Agents of Righteous Might. After the signing of The White-Gold Concordat, many veteran warriors sought ways to aid the citizens of The Empire. An Imperial veteran called Nirtius Pontanian and five ex-Legionnaire comrades joined The Vigilants of Stendarr. They were more skilful warriors than the majority of Vigilants. Therefore, they were tasked with the more dangerous missions. They often took other Vigilants with them, especially if the target was a fortress or extensive cave system. It soon dawned on Nirtius that tackling vampires, necromancers, and the like in this fashion led to unacceptable losses. He decided to try the stealth approach, which reduced casualties but was not guaranteed to destroy an entire clan or cult.
• Jo’rassa: They started going undercover, didn’t they?
• Wulf: Yes, like many of you did with The Blades. A large percentage of Penitus Oculatus agents still do such undercover work.
• Jo’rassa: You infiltrate the enemy and destroy them from within.
• Wulf: That is the idea, and I would be very good at that task. The problem is, when dealing with Daedric cults, you may have to go deep undercover.
• Kharjo: Khajiit does not know what deep undercover means.
• Jo’rassa: If you are deep undercover within a Daedric cult, you may be asked to assassinate or sacrifice somebody.
• Kharjo: Khajiit will not ask if Jo’rassa had to do such a thing.
• Jo’rassa: Good, because I would hate to lie to my friend Kharjo.
• Wulf: I have sworn to protect the innocent. If I infiltrated a Daedric cult and was required to sacrifice an innocent, I could not do so. I would risk myself and the loss of further intelligence to defend the life of the intended sacrifice. Boethia is known to demand the sacrifice of an innocent. Mehrunes Dagon often requires the sacrifice of family or other loved ones.
• Jin: What is the name of the clandestine Vigilants again?
• Wulf: The Agents of Righteous Might.
• Jo’rassa: Those who go deep undercover risk losing their morality and sanity. Finding somebody willing to undertake more than a couple of deep undercover missions is rare.
• Wulf: Martin Septim never had to compromise his base beliefs. Neither did Mother. Father did, and he is uncomfortable with those decisions even though he defends their necessity. Some enemies may rightly regard my reluctance to accept collateral damage as a weakness that can be exploited.
• Dae: I know you fear a scenario where an unwillingness to accept collateral damage costs far more lives than you save.
• Wulf: I can command armies and send them to war, knowing casualties are inevitable. I could not kill or let be killed an innocent that I could save, no matter the consequences.
• Daenlyn: Fenrik killed eight Vigilants. He must be included in the tally, so that is another nine losses that Keeper Collette must be informed about.
• Kharjo: When sacrificed, are their souls lost to the Daedric Prince?
• Wulf: Sometimes they roam The Void, or place of death until the bargain is complete. Sometimes, they are taken immediately to the Daedric Prince’s realm.
• Jin: So, the souls of the seven Vigilants Fenrik killed might never reside in Aetherius. They may be guests of Molag Bal in Coldharbour. That makes Fenrik’s actions infinitely worse than murder.
• Jo’rassa: Have you spoken to Rigmor?
• Wulf: Briefly. She will join me tomorrow, and we shall spend time together at Tundra Homestead.
• Jo’rassa: It is a peaceful place. Apart from Honeyside, it is Inigo’s favourite.
• Kharjo: That one is obsessed with The Rift!
• Wulf: Nobody says Vlindrel Hall in Markarth is their favourite.
• Jin: Have you stayed in Vlindrel Hall since you purchased it?
• Wulf: I cannot think of anything worse than staring at Dwemer stone and metal all day. So, no, I have not bothered.
• Jo’rassa: Are we going to tell Keeper Carcette now?
• Wulf: Soon. However, I will first perform Arkay’s Rights over each Vigilant, except Fenrik. His soul is Bal’s. The others may not be in Coldharbour but have lost their way. Plus, we must inform the city guards, who are mostly Legionnaires. This place must be guarded from prying eyes and returning cultists, if there are any, dealt with.
• Kharjo: If the dead thralls and vampires are locals, Khajiit thinks they should be identified.
• Wulf: You are correct, although some people may be reluctant to claim the corpse even if it is a close relative. The Hall of the Dead is not a place for such corpses, which will be burnt.
• Jo’rassa: Something is missing in all of this.
• Wulf: Who turned Fenrik?
• Jo’rassa: Precisely.
• Wulf: He was a Volkihar Vampire, the most common form in Skyrim. Bal would have told a clan to expect Fenrick and the Vigilant where to find them. Now, I must perform Arkay’s Rights.
• Jo’rassa: It might take days for Keeper Carcette to have enough Vigilants to collect the bodies.
• Wulf: Jin, after supper at Aurane, please fly the airship here and collect the bodies, including Enforcer Azarain.
• Kharjo: Then we take them to Carcette, yes?
• Wulf: Yep. Recruit some other Dragonguard if you want to ease the burden. They will not be light in their armour.
• Jo’rassa: Some of the Dragonguard are yet to fly in the airship. They will be eager to join us.
• Wulf: Okay, I want to do Arkay’s Rights, then get out of here.
• Jo’rassa: We shall remain silent, Wulf.

My friends roamed the cavern, and I could see a mixture of sadness and anger in their eyes. I refuse to label Daedric Princes as good or evil. However, Fenrik’s actions were irrefutably evil despite his misguided excuse.

I stood over each fallen Vigilant and performed Arkay’s Rights.

After we exited the cavern, I pushed the button to close the ‘hidden’ door.

We approached the nearest Legionnaire and explained the situation. I ordered him to gather at least five more guards and to remain inside the cavern, with crossbows or bows, in case more cult members enter. He was to inform the Jarl of what had occurred before joining the others in the cavern. I could see fear in his eyes, but I had no doubt he would do as ordered. He was told Dragonguard would arrive to remove some of the bodies. They would announce themselves so as not to get shot by a nervous guard.

We teleported to the Hall of the Vigilant. Once again, I was struck by how few Vigilants I saw inside and outside.

We found Carcette alone in a large chapel. Many pews remained empty where once dozens of devout sat for sermons and prayer.

Carcette must have detected my sombre mood as her face was one of despair.

I handed her the journals of Enforcer Azarain, and Fenrik then said, “I shall be writing a full report and shall give you a copy, but for now, I can summarise. Reading those journals will tell you much of what occurred.”

“You look exhausted, Wulf. So be as brief as need be.”

“Fenrik was responsible for the missing Vigilants. He had become a vampire and sacrificed seven Vigilants in a deal with Molag Bal. He did not sacrifice Enforcer Azarain but murdered him. The reasons are outlined in his journal. The remains of the Vigilants are in a cave within Dawnstar’s Quicksilver Mine. Enforcer Azarain’s is in Windward Ruins, not far from Dawnstar.”

“Fenrik sacrificed them! Their souls are with Molag Bal!”

“Not necessarily. It depends on the ritual and agreement with Bal. I performed Arkay’s Rights over them in case their soul needed guidance. Fenrik had enough love for Enforcer Azarain to not inflict that fate on him.”

“Why did Fenrik do this terrible thing?”

“Read his journal, Keeper Carcette. I will discuss it with you soon. I am so sorry. I wish the news were better. The bodies will be collected in our airship and brought here.”

Carcette started to weep, and a young Vigilant came running to console her.

I teleported the squad into Aurane’s tavern. I then wandered the familiar paths with Meeko and the whispers of the stars for company.

“Woof!”

“Yes, the spirits in Aetherius are dancing with vigour tonight.”

“Woof?”

“Not tonight, Meeko. Rigmor is visiting tomorrow, and we shall show Olette the adoption papers together.”

“Woof.”

“Yes, she will be thrilled to see her name. They print the new names of the adopted in large letters, knowing the importance placed upon them.”

Rigmor contacted me via Mara’s Rings, and Meeko lay down as we spoke. He did not bother chasing a rabbit that hopped past us. They know he would not harm them, so why bother running?

Rigmor noted, “You are struggling, Wulf. Do you want me there?”

“Nah, Meeko is doing his best to cheer me up. I will be okay. I need to spend a few hours writing my journal and a report for the Jarl of Dawnstar and Keeper Carcette.”

“I take it you will not show Olette the adoption papers?”

“Tomorrow, we can do that together before we head for Tundra Homestead.”

“My connection to you failed for several seconds. Why was that?”

“I had a weird experience when talking to Molag Bal. I may have to speak to Silah about it. I will try and explain tomorrow, but be prepared for major gobblygook.”

“How weird?”

“I stood feet away from him. Bal was on the floor, surrounded by blood, with a big hole in his belly. Somebody, or something, had pushed a spear in his back and out the front. Bal saw the same vision as me, and he panicked.”

“Is there more, not that you could increase the weirdness?”

“Yes, I was then at the entrance to Aetherius, and Molag Bal was there. He had been turned into rock and had a spear protruding. How he entered Aetherius is both a mystery and a concern.”

“Wow, I cannot wait to hear the explanation for that!”

“Rigmor, when we spoke to my father last, you asked if Dragon Breaks can affect Oblivion.”

“Yeah, I remember asking that.”

“Why did you ask that question?”

“Umm…I do not know. It was a bit of a random question, come to think of it.”

“Yet Father was not surprised by it. I am at the mercy of what The Divines want to divulge. Mother’s premonitions are not guaranteed outcomes but possibilities.”

“Like our curly-haired girl in the wheatfield.”

“Yes.”

“And if parts of Saint Alessia’s premonitions come to pass, it increases the chance of others later in time from happening.”

“You are getting good at this gobblygook stuff. Now, apply that newly discovered logic gland of yours.”

“Get over it, smartarse. Anybody would think I am a dribbling idiot.”

“I never said that you dribble.”

“Oh, I will be busy doing my hair tomorrow. Too bad for our planned visit to Tundra Homestead.”

“Please, Countess Ragnarsdottier, continue with your brilliant analysis.”

“The Divines will have plans based on Saint Alessia’s premonitions. You will only get fed certain information to increase the chance of the next preferred phase of the premonitions.”

“Exactly. Being the Son of Talos does not exempt me from divine manipulation. I take comfort in thinking that beings unknown to The Divines are manipulating them.”

“The girl god in The Void.”

“Yep. But it could have been a male or hermaphrodite or without gender.”

“So, before you speak to Silah, what does your intuition tell you?”

“I can cause Dragon Breaks, but I am also susceptible to them. The events in Helgen proved that, and tonight, I used my amulet to return to the here and now.”

“Talos placed a dweomer on it for that reason.”

“Yes. But in this instance, the Consciousness part of my soul travelled to whenever that was.”

“Like when you travelled back to spy on Alduin and the tongues.”

“That makes sense, as far as gobblygook goes, but why Bal shared the vision is the mystery. That is why I am thinking a Dragon Break was involved.”

“I am getting dizzy thinking about it!”

“Behave, Wulf. Do not make a joke about Rigmor getting dizzy from thinking. She will know, via Mara’s Rings, that it was me, not my Dovah part, that is to blame if I do so.”

“I can’t hear your inner voice, so why are you saying it out loud?”

“It was a way of delivering the insult with some safety. Clever of me, don’t you think?”

“Idiot!”

“I look forward to seeing you, Rigmor. More than you can know, even via these pesky rings.”

“So, should I wear something easily removed in the morning?”

“I can control myself until we get to Tundra Homestead.”

“Yeah, right. Pffft!”

“Goodnight, my Countess.”

“Goodnight, my weirdo.”

I started walking, and Meeko took up his position to my right.

“Woof?”

“Yes, Rigmor is visiting tomorrow.”

“Woof!”

“What do you mean it is unnatural for foxes and rabbits to live together peacefully? The foxes are happy with the leftovers from our kitchens and need not hunt for their supper.”

“Grrr!”

“Get over it, fleabag. It is better than the children finding half-chewed bunnies as they wander the gardens. And you do not chase them anymore. Probably because you are getting old and fat.”

“Grrr!”

“Yes, I know you do not age. Do I have to explain my jokes every time?”

“Woof.”

“They are funny, you mangy mutt!”

 A Dragonguard laughed and asked, “Is Meeko giving you a hard time, Lord Welkynd?”

“Do not let his goofy grin fool you, Dragonguard Vigrod. Meeko is an evil Daedra sent to make my life miserable.”

“Oh, the endless games of chasey and fetch he plays with laughing children are a ruse.”

“Yes, he waits for victims to fall for his cute doggy impersonation, and then, instantly, he has stolen their Sweetrolls.”

Vigrod laughed as he continued his patrol.

It was well past midnight when we returned to my rooms. Meeko took his place in the children’s bedroom, where Merlin waited. They can talk telepathically and not wake the children.

I spent two hours writing a journal entry and a report for the Jarl.

I crawled into bed exhausted and should have slept soundly.

Gobblygook had other ideas.