Fredas, 19^th Evening Star, 4E 201

I was preparing for the day when Rigmor contacted me via Mara’s Rings.

“I have looked at today’s schedule and have decided I need to be with you!”

“Is it that bad?”

“No, but I am not needed. We promised Malesam he could be a proxy for the day, and Mother will supervise him.”

“Supplicants won’t run away like they do when you sit on the throne.”

“Ha de haha. Malesam is not allowed to sit on the throne but must stand beside it. Mother’s bum will be the one going numb.”

“I assume the supplicants are told beforehand they are to address Advisor Malesam.”

“Yep. Anyway, I want to visit Lady Azura’s shrine and, if her relic is missing, help find it.”

“I have not visited the shrine since paying to refurbish the temple. I hope Priestess Aranea has been sleeping in it, not her tent.”

“You told me Priestess Aranea spent almost eighty years living in a tent and cooking over an open fire. She must be tough!”

“Even before the racist mob destroyed the temple, she spent most of her time at the foot of the statue, dealing with pilgrims and other visitors. That is almost two hundred years of dedication!”

“Have you found any clues to the cause of The Great Collapse? Is there any logic to the College’s blame and resentment of Dunmer?”

“No. Savos kept some notes, mostly things he discovered in reports written then, but they rehashed several theories already known to me. Mer have always been a convenient scapegoat for the Nords.”

“Priestess Aranea doesn’t have foresight, does she?”

“No, but Lady Azura passes on information to her via visions. Many of the shrine’s visitors come to consult Priestess Aranea on subjects, hoping the goddess has given her relevant information.”

“Apart from when the mob destroyed the temple, has Priestess Aranea ever been in danger?”

“Many times, but she is a powerful Sorceress. If Priestess Aranea were of House Telvanni, she would have been a Wizard Lord. She originally came to Winterhold to join the College. But then Lady Azura asked her to be a priestess. Most of those who desecrated the temple paid with their lives. More recently, she decimated a platoon of Stormcloaks determined to harm the shrine and statue.”

“Can you check the war records of retired Legionnaires?”

“Yes.”

“Would Vayu have to approve somebody who wanted to be my bodyguard?”

“Yes, if you wanted them to know our secrets and possibly accompany us. Why do you ask?”

“A veteran who did not fight under Father’s command but beside him in many battles has asked if he can become a personal guard. He says we met once, but I do not remember. It is probably due to that stuff that The New Order made me drink.”

“Although I respect those veterans, you need younger guards who can keep up with us.”

“He has Mer blood, although he looks Nord with a bit of Imperial. He is unsure how long he will live but seems to be in his prime.”

“Where did we meet him?”

“He said it was near Deepwood Redoubt and that he was fighting marauders.”

“Felix Decimus Varrus. He wore expensive glass armour and left High Rock to seek work in Skyrim.”

“Mmm…that is starting to sound familiar.”

“We were on the way to retrieve the slaver’s list. It was no far from there to Mr Bear.”

“Aha, it is all coming to me! Many memories of the few days before the Black Diamond Mine are lost to me. However, small things seem to jog memories loose. Your mention of glass armour has done that. We had a few skirmishes along that road.”

“There were many bandits and Stormcloaks along that road. I advised Felix to seek employment with Ri’saad’s caravans. He ended up helping them with their new warehouses and being a guard. Ri’saad said his grasp of logistics, from decades in The Legion, was invaluable in establishing the warehouses.”

“He read about me leading The Sons of Talos and other things in your redacted journals. He respected Father and feared that I may still be a target of The Dominion. That is why he wants to be my bodyguard.”

“When did he approach you?”

“I spoke to him briefly a few days ago. He is staying at one of the inns waiting on a decision.”

“It would take time to get his records from whatever battalion he was in if they were stationed in High Rock. But Ri’saad seems impressed, and if Vayu thinks he is okay, you will have a new bodyguard.”

“That would be good. My old one smells and says Albatross a lot.”

“I have some things to do at the College, and I will summon you to the Safehouse around 9:00 a.m.”

“Okay.”

When I teleported into my rooms at the college, I checked Savos’ notes on Skyrim’s defence. Phinis was one of the Master Mages who aided the Dragonguard in eliminating New Order officers. So, I was angry with him, but collecting the apprentices’ bodies, writing letters to their loved ones and organising transport would be sufficient punishment.

I gave Phinis a map with the locations of the bodies. His regrets were sincere and perhaps sobering. His next batch of apprentices will find a more reserved and cautious tutor.

Whenever I visited Savos, an orb on a pedestal caught my attention. I never asked him about it, but I was eager to discover its purpose. Before looking at his journals, I tried to deduce its function. I could tell the orb’s dweomer was portal-related, but not for transporting its user.

When I found a reference, I ascertained it was ancient and belonged to one of the first Arch-Mages. Savos discovered it amongst many other relics in a college storeroom. He spent considerable time researching the orb and figuring out how to use it.

I placed my hand on the orb and said, in Tamrielic, ‘Grove!’

My desk was replaced by a small grove lit by two Mage Lights.

I next issued the command, ‘Spa!’

A large spa replaced the grove. When I checked the water, it had healing properties, like the natural hot springs.

The following command was ‘Lab!’

A well-equipped laboratory replaced the spa.

In addition to the usual apparatus, it had a Staff Enchanter and a Disenchantment Font.

‘Meeting!’ was the following command. A large round table plus several high-backed and costly chairs replaced the laboratory.

When I stood next to the table, I sensed an anti-scrying barrier. The College had reasons to be paranoid when The Mages Guild was disbanded. Both The Synod and College of Whispers were keen to increase their power, and dissecting the College was an option. Eventually, a royal decree safeguarded its existence.

I then uttered the command, ‘Study!’

Bookcases, writing desks and other paraphernalia replaced the table and chairs.

I approached a shelf full of canopic jars and ash-filled urns. I do not know who the deceased may be, so I will have to ask others if they know of them.

I commanded, ‘Desk!’ and the room was returned to normal.

The dweomer on the orb was impressive. It was lost magic and, therefore, worth studying further.

Most of Savos’ belongings had been gathered to be returned to his family. Thus, the rooms were sparse, but I doubt I will spend enough time in them for that to bother me.

I teleported to the Safehouse and asked Seiko if she minded Rigmor replacing her in the squad for the day. She did not mind, and Remiel soon planned the day for both. There were still storerooms of ‘stuff’ to look at, plus Seiko had not seen many of the relics we collected in Skyrim.

I summoned Rigmor and then gathered the rest of the squad.

• Wulf: Countess Rigmor Ragnarsdottier of Bruma, I am honoured to introduce our latest Dragonguard recruits. Borgakh Steel Heart is the daughter of Chief Larak of Mor Khazgur. Ghorbash Iron Hand is the brother of Chief Burguk of Dushnikh Yal. Both are recent retirements from The Legion.
• Rigmor: We have more royalty! Soon, we shall run out of sticks to shove up our bums.
• Borgakh: Lucky for us, Countess, we have read the unredacted journals. Otherwise, that reference to anal sticks would be somewhat confusing.
• Ghorbash: Forgive me for staring, Countess. I am confused about how a petite Nord can wield such a sword.
• Rigmor: If you have read the journals, then you know my father trained me for years, and then Baa’Ren-Dar hired sword masters at my request. The Dragonguard Swordmasters have also contributed to my expertise.
• Vayu: Do not forget that whenever Wulf steps outside, somebody or something tries to kill him. That phenomenon provides plenty of practice.
• Borgakh: If you are quick enough to get a swing in before he has killed them all.
• Wulf: There will be times when we are vastly outnumbered, and you will have plenty of practice dummies.
• Vayu: Shiva will start Remiel’s dual sword training tomorrow. I think she will do well.
• Rigmor: Wulf, can I learn to use the kai-katana?
• Wulf: The sword forms are different, as it does less damage per hit, but I am sure you would quickly adapt. And I just so happen to have a kai-katana I set aside, hoping you would want to change.
• Rigmor: A good one?
• Wulf: Second only to mine in terms of craftsmanship.
• Rigmor: Cool!
• Wulf: We will visit Lady Azura’s shrine and ask about her relic. I could teleport us there, but I prefer that we walk.
• Ghorbash: Are you still hoping to encounter some of those Perfect Hybrids?
• Wulf: Yes, that is one reason. But I am tired of zapping all over the place, which contributes to the feeling of chaos. A relaxing walk will do me good.
• Rigmor: What was that phenomenon you mentioned, Vayu?
• Vayu: Slaughtering stupid bandits is relaxing.
• Rigmor: True. And did everybody hear Wulf say zapping? He tells me off for using that word for teleporting.
• Wulf: You say zapping when it is evident that the correct word is zipping.
• Rigmor: I say zipping sometimes!
• Wulf: When should you be using zapping!
• Rigmor: Guess what, Dragonbum?
• Wulf: You hate me.
• Rigmor: A lot.
• Vayu: Let us get moving before there is bloodshed.

We teleported to Winterhold’s stables and then started our trek.

Nahfahlaar startled us by exiting the ether with a roar before hovering.

• Nahfahlaar: I forgot to mention yesterday. In some nearby ruins, out in the open, is a Celestial Half-Zeymah. He is Lord Syvak.
• Wulf: Does he have any warpaint?
• Nahfahlaar: No. We had an excellent tinvaak yesterday. He does not want to join the Forlorn or return to hiding in caves. He plans to wander Skyrim and perhaps work as a labourer or farmhand.
• Wulf: Some people, especially ill-educated Nords, will try to kill him.
• Nahfahlaar: Syvak told me that a few groups have tried to kill him and died for their efforts.
• Wulf: A Minotaur Lord is not to be messed with.
• Rigmor: At last, we know what you are talking about!
• Vayu: I knew that zeymah means brother.
• Rigmor: Yes, but you have been a smartarse in training for years.
• Wulf: A smartarse second class.
• Borgakh: Why is Lord Syvak a half-brother to Wulf?
• Rigmor: Who is Wulf’s mother?
• Borgakh: Saint Alessia.
• Rigmor: Who is regarded as the Celestial Mother of Minotaurs?
• Borgakh: Oh, so Minotaurs are Wulf’s half-celestial brothers.
• Wulf: Some Minotaurs have joined the Forsworn as they sympathise with their cause. They were displaced from caves near Sancre Tor by Stormcloak outlaws.
• Ghorbash: Lord Syvak sounds like elderly Orsimer looking for a good death.
• Wulf: It is not the same, Ghorbash. He wants to live free. However, Minotaurs are now in danger again, and I must do something to protect them.
• Nahfahlaar: Speak to His Imperial Majesty. Minotaurs need to be declared citizens.
• Wulf: Yes, that is the first step. If they are protected by Imperial Law, killing one without just cause will be regarded as murder.
• Rigmor: I suspect you did not come here just to tell Wulf about a Minotaur Lord, Nahfahlaar.
• Nahfahlaar: I felt peckish and saw some wonderfully blubbery Horkers yesterday.
• Wulf: I was wrong. You are not a flying ego. You are a flying stomach!
• Nahfahlaar: That is infinitely better than being a walking weirdo.

My squad of traitors laughed as Nahfahlaar flew away.

Miles out of Winterhold, Azura’s statue became visible. We still had many miles to go.

The speed of Roadrunners always amuses Rigmor.

We spotted a noble and single guard ahead.

• Wulf: They are probably here for Vittoria Vici’s wedding.
• Ghorbash: Don’t they know how dangerous the roads are, even though there are many patrols?
• Rigmor: There are very few bandits in Cyrodiil, mainly along the borders.
• Vayu: Why not get off the ship at Solitude if they are here for the wedding?
• Wulf: They probably wanted to do some sightseeing, but it is a long way to the next inn and will take weeks to reach Solitude.

We caught up to the clueless pair.

• Wulf: Greetings, I am Lord Welkynd. May I ask your name, good lady?
• Faudina: I am Lady Faudina Pulia, daughter of Sir Plitalus Pulia of Leyawiin.
• Wulf: Where are you travelling to?
• Faudina: Why should I answer? Where and what I am up to are none of your business.
• Rigmor: Listen, you snotty cow! Lord Welkynd in a Thane of this Hold and all the others. His rank is much higher than yours or your father’s, so show respect!
• Faudina: And what are you? A well-dressed bandit, perhaps?
• Rigmor: What a strange horse. It has an arsehole on its back!
• Vayu: Lady Faudina, Lord Welkynd is The Dragonborn. We are members of The Dragonguard. If you can read, which seems doubtful, you would realise how stupid that comment was.
• Carilis: Milady, I suggest keeping your dainty mouth closed and letting me deal with these heroes of us all. Sir Plitalus would disapprove of such disrespect to your betters.

Faudina sat fuming but silent. If stares could kill, Rigmor’s eyes would leave two pinprick wounds, and the rude noble would drop dead. I approached Carilis, who tried hard to suppress a grin. He was a Redguard, but his name was Imperial in origin.

“Carilis, It is unsafe for a woman to travel in Skyrim with a single guard.”

“I tried to tell Lady Faudina that, but you have no idea how her whining erodes willpower.”

“Does she use a pout and crossed arms to amplify the evil effects?”

“Indeed, she does. It sounds like you have experience with spoiled young noble ladies.”

“There is one from Bruma whose whining is more annoying than a thousand Nirnroots. I used to pretend I was listening and nod my head occasionally.”

“Sir Plitalus has permitted me to act on his behalf and that his daughter must obey. So, we shall return to Winterhold and travel by ship to Solitude.”

“Are you here for Vittoria Vici’s wedding?”

“Yes.”

“Then I suggest you take a carriage to Windhelm and book passage from there. Carriages are rarely attacked.”

“Then that is what we shall do, even if I have to tie and gag my charge.”

We watched Carilis grab the bridle and turn horse and rider towards Winterhold.

We continued towards the shrine, but I knew Rigmor would not remain silent.

• Rigmor: How dare you say my whining is worse than a thousand Nirnroots!
• Wulf: Sorry, I meant to say ten thousand.
• Vayu: I have heard your whine, Rigmor, which is impressive. You also deploy the same pouty lips and eye blinking as Celestine.
• Wulf: Lucky for me, I am immune to her wily, whiny ways.
• Vayu: Yeah, right. Pfft!
• Rigmor: Well said, Vayu.

 We came upon a lone Legionnaire who recognised me and saluted.

• Wulf: At ease, soldier. What is your name, and why are you patrolling alone?
• Ofastus: I am Private Ofastus Alforneson. I am not patrolling alone, Lord Welkynd. I had to stop to, ahh, make yellow and brown snow. My patrol should not be far ahead.
• Rigmor: Yew! Too much information!
• Wulf: It is good to see patrols once more. Continue, Private Ofastus.
• Ofastus: Yes, sir!

Ofastus jogged ahead. We continued at our slower pace.

Ruins came into view, and we could see some people battling Ice Wraiths. I did not know if they were honest travellers or bandits. Therefore, I Blinked to them to lend a hand.

It turned out they were bandits, and we quickly killed them. One of them had an Orsimer arrow sticking out of his forehead. I heard a deep rumble from nearby ruins, which I assumed was laughter.

I used Zoom Vision to look at Lord Syvak. He was at least ten feet tall and all muscle.

The others caught up to me.

• Wulf: Who shot the arrow in his head?
• Ghorbash: That was Borgakh. While garrisoned in Evermore, she gained a reputation for her marksmanship.
• Wulf: Lord Syvak is in the nearby ruins. I think it used to be a Temple of Nocturnal decades ago.
• Rigmor: Are we going to talk to him?
• Wulf: He probably only speaks Ayleidoon.
• Rigmor: You can translate.
• Wulf: Okay, keep your weapons sheathed and do not bombard him with questions.
• Vayu: He looks pretty large.
• Wulf: I would say he is ten or eleven feet tall.

Lord Syvak watched us approach and showed no fear or concern.

He was sitting next to a Shrine of Nocturnal that emitted a bright blue light.

I bowed slightly and, in Ayleidoon, said, “I am honoured to meet you, Lord Syvak. I am…”

“You are Lord Welkynd, The Dragonborn. Nahfahlaar told me all about you, and I should be bowing.”

“Were those bandits harassing you?”

“Yes, I was about to enjoy the skirmish when Ice Wraiths attacked them. Then I sat to watch the spectacle, and you cut it short. Oh well, they are not the first and will not be the last that believe I must die. It is to be expected.”

Rigmor piped up, “Some translation, please, Dragonbum.”

Syvak replied with a heavy accent, “There is no need. I can speak this variance of Cyrodiilic well enough.”

• Rigmor: I was told and read scary stories about the monsters that once roamed Tamriel. Monsters called Minotaur. Then Lord Welkynd told me the history of your people and what was done to them. Your plight saddened Lady Alessia, but she could do nothing to aid you.
• Syvak: We understand the limitations of the gods within Mundus. Racists had usurped our Celestial Mother’s Empire, and we were not the only people vilified.
• Vayu: A couple of months ago, most of Skyrim’s citizens would have thought your people and dragons were myths.
• Syvak: The Stormcloak attack on our home proved that our voluntary isolation was correct. However, I can no longer live like that. I present no threat but realise the ancient bias against my people still exists.
• Wulf: Minotaur are renowned for their hunting prowess in The Great Forest of Cyrodiil. There is not much game in the ice fields.
• Syvak: A passing Khajiiti caravan spotted me, and their leader approached. They were thrilled to meet one of my kind. We once shared most of this continent with them and the Falmer long before Man arrived from Atmora. They are willing to trade for Horker meat and tusks, bear furs, and wolf furs. I am content.
• Wulf: The histories they teach this country’s young do not mention the prior inhabitants.
• Syvak: That is not surprising. You do our Lady of Heaven proud, Valdr Septim.
• Wulf: Do all Minotaurs know my secrets?
• Syvak: Yes, but we also know your need for deception.
• Wulf: I wish you good hunting and peace, Lord Syvak.
• Syvak: Oh, I am guaranteed of the first. The second is dependent on the stupidity of the local populace.

We had to backtrack to reach the road that passed Azura’s shrine.

• Borgakh: Lord Syvak was impressive!
• Wulf: I have met Lord Morihaus, the Celestial Father of Minotaurs. He and all other Minotaur in Aetherius have their wings. They are a majestic race that built beautiful cities and lived peacefully with others for thousands of years.
• Vayu: But along came The Alessian Empire.
• Wulf: Yes. Minotaur were not Mer, but they were not Man. Therefore, they were hunted, their wings torn from their bodies, enslaved, and almost made extinct.
• Ghorbash: Isn’t it strange that those who claimed to worship Saint Alessia tried to eliminate her celestial children?
• Wulf: The Alessians worshipped no god. Mother’s name was used for recruitment and propaganda and nothing more.
• Rigmor: Your anger is rising, my dear Dragonborn. This trip was supposed to be a relaxing stroll through Winterhold’s countryside.
• Wulf: This is not the time for such anger to surface. Let us talk about your whining instead. That is a fun subject!
• Vayu: If somewhat dangerous.

Not far along the road to the shrine, we encountered Ofastus’ patrol. 

The local wildlife must have been Ulfric supporters, as they suicidally attacked the Legionairres.

Two bears, two trolls and a Draman fell to our combined forces.

We moved faster than the patrol and soon reached Azura’s Shrine.

I told the group, “I want to see what my money paid for before speaking to Lady Azura.”

When I first visited, the temple was only rubble and destroyed furniture. It has been restored to its former glory, and many pilgrims were present when we entered. It was money well spent.

I quickly looked around, and then we headed outside, where a snowstorm greeted us.

We went to the altar, Aranea’s home, for almost two hundred years.

Aranea watched us with curiosity. Before speaking to her, I checked her tent. There was no bedding inside.

Then I walked over to her.

• Wulf: Greetings, Priestess Aranea.
• Aranea: Lady Azura’s blessings, Lord Welkynd.
• Wulf: Is that large crate in your tent the shipment of amulets I ordered for you?
• Aranea: Yes, indeed it is. Are you satisfied?
• Wulf: Satisfied with what?
• Aranea: You cannot fool me, young man. You were seeing if I was still sleeping outside.
• Wulf: Indeed, I was. If you were still sleeping outside, I might have been tempted to have an accident with a Fireball.
• Aranea: Being Azura’s champion would not save you from a clip across the ear.
• Wulf: You have met Shaman Vayu before.
• Aranea: I had several enlightening conversations with Vayu and Erandur about various deities and forms of worship.
• Vayu: It is a pleasure to see you again, Priestess.
• Wulf: The other three are new Dragonguard. They are Ivana, Ghorbash and Borgakh.

Aranea was about to greet the three when Azura spoke.

“My Champion, I told Priestess Aranea you would visit today.”

“Of that, I have no doubt. But do you know why I am here?”

“No, for my seers did not reveal that.”

“I am now the Arch-Mage of The College of Winterhold. Savos Aren was killed trying to protect the citizens of Winterhold.”

“That is sad news. Savos did not visit as often as he would have liked and was not religious. However, he was respectful of those that are.”

“His absence will be felt for a long time. As I was perusing his piles of notes and other paperwork, I came across a mention of your Star and how a rogue mage had been trying to alter it.”

“Malyn Varon. He must have succeeded with his corruption, for I do not know where it is. Are you going to retrieve it so it can be cleansed?”

“I hope so, but I have some questions first.”

“Then ask.”

“Malyn said that you taunted him via the Star. Others claimed you made him insane with those taunts.”

“His insanity was not my doing. I asked him simple questions, and perhaps his selfish need to survive his illness battled with his conscience.”

“Please tell me what you asked?”

“I asked him why the College banned experimentation with or use of Black Soul Gems on its grounds. I asked if he knew what happened to the entrapped soul when a Black Soul Gem was consumed. I asked if his life is worth the torment those souls endure when their Conscience does not reach an afterlife. Those were the questions, and if he felt guilt, that was the cause of his insanity.”

“Can your Star be repaired?”

“I do not know until it is retrieved and placed where my power is greatest, such as the altar before you.”

“Where was the last place you detected your Star?”

“I don’t know the name of the place. You must go to a fortress, endangered by water yet untouched by it.”

“I think that might be Ilinalta’s Deep. It is close to Little Vivec.”

“Many of my faithful live in that place.”

“That is a strange name for a town populated by your worshippers.”

“As you discovered in Solstheim, The False Tribunal can never be forgotten. New Vivec’s residents honour the city that was once their home. You believe that real history needs to be taught no matter how uncomfortable.”

“What makes you think that is one of my beliefs?”

“You have a museum in Solitude that champions the truth. Many of my faithful have visited, and thus, I have gained some knowledge of its stated purpose.”

“We have allowed people to visit before its official opening. And yes, Lady Azura, I believe the truth must be told. Otherwise, mortals will not learn from previous mistakes, increasing the chances of similar occurrences.”

“We shall speak more upon your return, for I have faith you shall find and retrieve my Star.”

“I shall speak to Malyn’s apprentice. He resides in Winterhold and may provide more information and confirmation of Malyn’s location.”

Before discussing topics Aranea should not hear, I teleported us to Winterhold.

• Rigmor: I would like to have spoken to Azura.
• Wulf: We must be cautious, even around Lady Azura’s most devout followers.
• Rigmor: If I have the statue in Bruma consecrated, will Azura be able to speak to me?
• Wulf: Yes. You need a Priest or Priestess of Azura to do a ceremony involving Lady Azura. You will not need an altar.
• Ghorbash: This speaking with gods seems so normal. Am I being gobblygooked into submission?
• Vayu: Oh, you will think you are accepting of it all. Then, in the middle of the night, you will awake, sit upright, and exclaim, “What the fuck?”
• Wulf: Orsimer Shamans speak to Lord Malacath.
• Borgakh: But contacting him is ritualistic, and Lord Malacath does not speak so casually. He grumbles orders and expects obedience.
• Ghorbash: What was Lord Malacath’s aspect like when you stood before him in The Ashpit?
• Wulf: He could be mistaken for a mortal Orsimer, except he was about twenty feet tall. Many Daedric Princes think that size is intimidating. Lady Boethia was probably taller than Lord Malacath.
• Borgakh: The story of Lady Boethia defecating to create Lord Malacath is a forbidden topic amongst the strongholds. What do you believe?
• Wulf: We use the term gobblygook because we recognise some truth within a phenomenon without understanding how it can be. One Daedric Prince swallowing another and somehow changing them into a lesser being is illogical. Boethia squatting in front of an audience and shitting out Lord Malacath is ridiculous. However, she did have the power to create Malacath from Trinimac. I think Trinimac still exists in some form.
• Vayu: It is not just Daedric Princes with idiotic myths attached to them. Do you know the one about Reman Cyrodiil’s conception and birth?
• Ghorbash: I started a riot at an inn when I laughed at a Captain who told that myth as if he believed it.
• Borgakh: I do not know this myth.
• Wulf: King Hrol, Reman’s father, was said to be leading his army to war when he saw a good-looking, muddy hole in the ground. The hole was supposed to be my Mother’s birth canal. In front of his troops, King Hrol dropped his pants and underwear and then made love to this muddy hole. After he finished, he pulled up his trousers and continued the march as if nothing unusual happened.
• Borgakh: I would have laughed at the Captain who told this idiotic story!
• Ghorbash: It was a fun brawl.
• Vayu: The myth gets worse!
• Wulf: The ground under this muddy hole rose higher over nine months. Then, one day, a shepherd heard the wailing of a child coming from a hilltop. He climbed the hill and found infant Reman with The Amulet of Kings on his forehead. That hill, supposedly Mother’s pregnant belly, was later called Sancre Tor.
• Borgakh: Did you ask Saint Alessia about this fable?
• Wulf: No, because she told me it. It took some time, as she kept having laughing fits.
• Rigmor: I look forward to the day I can speak to Saint Alessia.
• Wulf: I dread it. She will probably disown me!
• Rigmor: Idiot!
• Borgakh: You described the two parts of our souls in your journals. But you did not mention what happens to souls entrapped in Black Soul Gems.
• Wulf: The soul’s Lifeforce is consumed to empower spells or enchantments. The Consciousness no longer has access to that Lifeforce. Therefore, it cannot travel to the individual’s chosen Afterlife.
• Vayu: The loss of Lifeforce would normally condemn the Consciousness to roam The Void until collected by a god or other entity.
• Wulf: However, the Consciousness within a Black Soul Gem does not end up in The Void. Instead, it goes to a realm of Oblivion called The Soul Cairn. The once mortal, godlike beings that created The Soul Cairn also created Soul Gems.
• Vayu: There is much speculation, rumour, and very little definitive information about The Soul Cairn.
• Wulf: The beings that created and now control The Soul Cairn are called The Ideal Masters. All memories are intact when a soul reaches the individual’s preferred Afterlife.
• Vayu: In The Soul Cairn, their memories slowly fade. The Ideal Masters believe this benefits individuals as they no longer have regrets or wants.
• Wulf: Some necromancers are known to have visited The Soul Cairn. For what purpose, I can only speculate.
• Borgakh: No wonder the College and Lady Azura want nothing to do with Black Soul Gems!
• Vayu: They are immoral things!
• Wulf: Rigmor, I do not think Nelacar has a high opinion of Lady Azura. You are to promise me that you will not slice and dice him, punch him or physically harm him in any way.
• Rigmor: Why would he badmouth Lady Azura?
• Wulf: He was Malyn’s apprentice. During the College’s hearing into the deaths of the students, Nelacar supported the theory that Lady Azura deliberately made Malyn insane and was, therefore, responsible for the murders.
• Rigmor: The College did not believe him, did they?
• Wulf: They found Malyn not guilty due to insanity. They did not believe Lady Azura deliberately caused the insanity. Malyn, Nelacar and other junior mages were to be expelled for using Black Souls on College premises before the murders occurred. Their expulsion was too late, in my opinion, but I do not know all the circumstances or timing.
• Rigmor: I will not harm him, but I will not remain silent.
• Wulf: I would not ask you to do the impossible.
• Ghorbash: Wulf likes to live dangerously.
• Borgakh: Nah, they are like an old married couple that constantly grumble at each other.
• Ghorbash: Some of those marriages end with murder.
• Wulf: The most likely outcome is the husband’s permanent thumb marks on his forehead and selective hearing.
• Rigmor: What do you mean by selective hearing?
• Wulf: What was that, Rigmor? Did you say something?
• Rigmor: I need another word that means idiot. Otherwise, I will be constantly repeating myself.
• Wulf: You need a synonym for idiot.
• Rigmor: Wulf will become synonymous with idiot.
• Wulf: As Rigmor will become synonymous with beauty.
• Borgakh: I just vomited in my mouth.
• Rigmor: Jealousy will do that.

We were in a merry mood when entering The Frozen Hearth. As usual, many College mages were in attendance.

Nelacar was talking to Dagur, the innkeeper. He did not notice us as we listened to the conversation.

• Nelacar: I say, Dagur, you did not hear any loud noises last night, did you? Maybe, ahh, explosion sounds?
• Dagur: No, I did not. Is there a reason you are asking me?
• Nelacar: No, certainly not. A small experiment may have gone awry but clearly with no discernible consequences.
• Dagur: I… see. And is this something I will need to worry about in the future?
• Nelacar: Oh, I certainly hope not! That would be pretty unfortunate for my research.
• Dagur: There was a horrible smell coming from your room.
• Nelacar: I am sorry. Could you describe the smell?
• Dagur: Like somebody left a large fish in the open for a week without curing it. What did you do?
• Nelacar: It was a minor miscalculation. I have already corrected it for future experiments.
• Dagur: This is why people have a problem with your college, Nelacar.
• Wulf: Nelacar is not a member of the College. He was expelled!

Nelacar turned, recognised who spoke, then quickly retreated to his room. Of course, we followed.

Nelacar stood with arms crossed. He oozed Altmer arrogance, which immediately soured my mood.

• Nelacar: Can I assist you with something, Arch-Mage?
• Wulf: Why have you returned to Winterhold?
• Nelacar: It is not your business. However, I will tell you so you will leave me alone. I returned to Winterhold because I still have research that keeps me busy. Being in Winterhold ensures I have access to former colleagues.
• Wulf: Not my business? I am Thane of Winterhold, so that makes it my business. College mages interacting with a disgraced former member is also my business.
• Borgakh: Not very bright for a mage, is he?
• Nelacar: What is this all about?
• Wulf: Malyn Varen.
• Nelacar: Arch-Mage Savos and the previous Jarl agreed that there would be no more questions. So, you are wasting our time.
• Ghorbash: Throw him in jail. That might loosen his tongue.
• Nelacar: He cannot do that!
• Wulf: Yes, I can. The Chill is aptly named. The Atronach guards are not good conversationalists, and nobody has ever escaped. I would decide the length of your incarceration. So, if I were you, I would change my attitude.
• Nelacar: But what about the agreements?
• Wulf: I have no agreement with you. Therefore, I am going to ask questions, and you are going to answer. These questions could be part of an ongoing murder investigation.
• Nelacar: Okay, let us not be hasty. I will tell you everything.
• Wulf: Tell me what you were doing with Azura’s Star.
• Nelacar: Some of us wanted to find out how it functioned. I was working under Malyn Varen then. If only we knew what he was planning.
• Wulf: He was dying and desperately tried to alter Azura’s Star so it would capture mortal souls. Did he plan to store his soul within the relic?
• Nelacar: He thought he would become immortal if he could store his soul inside the Star. His desperation increased as his health deteriorated.
• Vayu: Did he expect others to wait for him to draw his last breath?
• Nelacar: He planned to kill himself with trusted mages nearby and ready to entrap his soul.
• Wulf: Did he kill students to test the capturing of mortal souls?
• Nelacar: He was insane. Students started dying. Eventually, the College exiled him and several others, including me. He took a few loyal students to Ilinalta’s Deep and has not been heard from since.
• Vayu: Did all the others who worked with him leave the College and go to Ilinalta’s Deep?
• Nelacar: Half a dozen did. Others, like myself, were disgusted with what he did and cut all ties. Some stayed at the College, wiser after the events.
• Wulf: During the College’s questioning, you claimed you did not realise what he was doing. I find that odd since you were his senior apprentice.
• Nelacar: I do not care who asked you to find the Star, but do not take it back to Azura. The Daedric Princes are evil. Azura is the reason Malyn went insane.
• Ghorbash: Did any of us say we were looking for Azura’s Star?
• Nelacar: Well, it is a logical assumption.
• Ghorbash: Yeah, well, we are looking for it.
• Wulf: Nelacar, I did not know you were an expert on Daedric Princes. Please tell us how Azura drove poor Malyn insane.
• Nelacar: Azura is no ordinary Daedra. She commands an entire realm inside of Oblivion. The more Malyn worked on the Star, the more she was able to damn him. It started slowly at first. Malyn would see things that were not there. Then, he would yell at students over words they had not said. One day, I walked in, and Malyn had… killed a student, and in a horrific moment of inspiration, he started using her soul for his work. I did not know about the previous murders.
• Wulf: The College would have been concerned about missing apprentices. Do not pretend you were unaware of that fact or that you did not suspect Malyn.
• Vayu: It is stupid to try to alter a Daedric relic. Malyn asked for trouble, it seems.
• Nelacar: The College would agree with you, but do you know how many innocent lives were cut short so Azura could have revenge?
• Rigmor: Zero. Lady Azura would not do such a thing!
• Nelacar: She is a Daedric Prince and would not hesitate to do such a thing!
• Wulf: You have no idea what the fuck you are talking about!
• Nelacar: And I suppose you and this woman do?
• Wulf: Let us start with the obvious. All seventeen Daedric Princes have realms in the plane of Oblivion. So, Lady Azura is not unique in that regard.
• Rigmor: A Skooma-addicted Skeever would know that about the Dark Lords.
• Wulf: Daedric Princes are neither good nor evil. Those concepts mean nothing to them. They are forces of nature and act on their instincts.
• Nelacar: And what makes you the expert?

I stepped closer to Nelacar, and most others would get the hint, but he continued his disrespect.

• Wulf: I have been to several realms in Oblivion, spoken to many gods of different pantheons, and stood with gods as close as you are now. I am Champion of The Divines and several Daedric Princes, including Azura. I have told you a small part of my credentials. Tell us why you think you know more about gods than me.
• Nelacar: I know what I saw.
• Wulf: I asked Lady Azura if she deliberately taunted Malyn. She did not. What she did do was ask him three questions.
• Rigmor: She asked Malyn why the College banned using or experimenting with Black Soul Gems.
• Ghorbash: She asked Malyn what happens to the entrapped souls when Black Soul Gems are consumed.
• Vayu: She asked Malyn if his life is worth the torment those souls endure when their Conscience does not reach an afterlife. However, I doubt he or you know how souls consist of two parts.
• Wulf: The most likely explanation is that those questions caused Malyn’s morality to conflict with ambition and perhaps the fear of death. Insanity resulted. Usually, I am sympathetic, as insanity is rarely the result of free will. With Malyn, he chose to pursue an unethical path, so he deserves no sympathy.
• Vayu: You are supposed to be a mage. However, instead of logically thinking about what was occurring, you believed the rantings of a madman. Without knowing the basics about Daedric Princes, the duality of souls, or Lady Azura’s history, you believe she did something she has never done before. You are a disgrace to those robes you wear!
• Rigmor: Like Lord Welkynd, Vayu is a Master of all five Schools of Magic. So, his criticism is backed by knowledge.
• Wulf: Did Azura destroy the Chimer or curse them?
• Nelacar: She cursed them. They became Dunmer.
• Wulf: Why didn’t she kill them all instead? After all, in your opinion, she went into a lot of trouble to kill a few student mages who did her no wrong.
• Nelacar: I… I do not know.
• Wulf: Even after being changed from Chimer to Dunmer, they still worship Azura. You had better tell them they have got it wrong and that she is not the benevolent god they believe. The Khajiiti need to know as well.
• Borgakh: Keep battering away, Wulf. Some of this might get through his stupid barrier.
• Wulf: If Azura is evil, why did she create her Star so it would not store sentient, mortal souls?
• Rigmor: Mighty Nelacar, please answer the question using your infinite knowledge.
• Borgakh: His face has gone blank. I think we hurt his brain.
• Ghorbash: A combination of evil and stupidity tried to change Azura’s Star into an item that harmed mortals.
• Wulf: Nelacar, you and Malyn knew so little about Azura’s Star that you did not consider the failsafe Azura had placed upon it.
• Vayu: Every one hundred years, the Star returns to Moonshadow, Azura’s realm in Oblivion.
• Wulf: Do you think Malyn could maintain his place in the Star when subjected to Azura’s full powers in her domain? I am one of the most potent mortals on Nirn. However, I have stood before gods and realised my powers are minuscule compared to theirs. Similarly, your and Malyn’s powers are tiny compared to mine.
• Rigmor: The tragedy of the students who died is amplified because Malyn’s ambition was impossible to achieve.
• Nelacar: All I hear are lies from the mouths of Azura’s faithful.
• Ghorbash: Does this moron realise who he accused of being a liar?
• Borgakh: Stupid is as stupid does.
• Wulf: On several occasions throughout history, Azura has played a crucial role in saving the mortals of Nirn. She recently saved my life. What would have happened if I had died, Nelacar?
• Borgakh: He is starting to dribble. Perhaps you need to answer for him.
• Rigmor: Lord Welkynd has closed four Oblivion Gates in the last few months. Each one had the potential to start another Oblivion Crisis.
• Ghorbash: If he had not closed those Oblivion Gates, everybody would have been enslaved or dead.
• Rigmor: If Lady Azura had not saved Wulf, we may have lost the war against The New Order.
• Ghorbash: Wulf’s demise would ensure the Civil War lasted longer, with The Dominion waiting to conquer the weakened Empire.
• Vayu: Wulf stopped a Thalmor Wizard from destroying Mundus a few days ago.
• Nelacar: Azura’s lackeys will say anything in defence of that slut!

I prodded Nelacar on the chest, and he almost toppled over. He realised he had gone too far, and fear replaced arrogance. I used a bit of Thu’um, so everybody in The Frozen Hearth would hear my proclamation.

“NELACAR, YOU ARE AN IGNORANT FOOL WHO IS A DANGER TO THOSE WHO FREQUENT THIS INN. AS VAYU SAID, YOU DISGRACE THE ROBE YOU WEAR. AS A THANE OF EVERY HOLD, INCLUDING WINTERHOLD, I FORBID YOU TO CONDUCT ANY EXPERIMENTS WITHIN THE BOUNDS OF ANY CITY, TOWN, OR VILLAGE. IF I FIND YOU HAVE DONE SO, YOU WILL BE JAILED. AS ARCH-MAGE, I WILL ISSUE A DECREE FORBIDDING ALL COLLEGE MAGES FROM ASSISTING YOU IN ANY FORM. EXPULSION WILL BE THE PUNISHMENT FOR A BREACH OF THAT DECREE. I DO NOT BELIEVE YOU WERE IGNORANT OF MALYN’S DANGER TO OTHERS. THEREFORE, A CHARGE OF MURDER IS STILL A POSSIBILITY.”

Wisdom came too late, and Nelacar did not dare say a word as we turned and left his room.

I approached Dagur.

• Wulf: Do not allow Nelacar to conduct experiments within this establishment. Any harm to others may cause you legal issues.
• Dagur: I knew nothing about Mage Malyn and murder. You believe Nelacar did not prevent those deaths. Therefore, he is not somebody I want in my establishment.
• Wulf: We have to adhere to the law. If Nelacar has been living here for more than three months, you must give him a minimum of seven days to vacate his room.
• Rigmor: Did Nelacar help when the Magic Squiggles attacked?
• Dagur: No. Both times, College mages did not hesitate to step outside this tavern to protect the city. Nelacar locked himself in his room.
• Vayu: One of the most common things we encounter, Innkeeper Dagur, is people who blame gods for their woes or immoral behaviour. The gods can only guide and suggest. It is up to individuals to decide what actions to undertake. People such as Nelacar want a scapegoat for their guilt. In his case, he blames Lady Azura.
• Dagur: Many worship Lady Azura. How does Nelacar explain the numerous Dunmer and Khajiiti who frequent this tavern? They are, for the most part, decent people.
• Rigmor: He does not try to explain them. You cannot allow facts to get in the way of your delusion.
• Wulf: Magic is dangerous. College students and teachers conduct experiments within concealed rooms or away from the city. Nelacar was expelled from the College for conducting immoral and dangerous experiments. Conducting any magical experiments where non-mages gather in numbers is incomprehensible and unforgivable.
• Dagur: I shall give him his notice.
• Wulf: Do not hesitate to contact me via the College if you have an issue regarding Nelacar or other magic.
• Dagur: I will do, Lord Welkynd.

I told the group, “We shall teleport to Lakeview Manor. The stewards have banned me from teleporting into the houses, so we shall appear near the main entrance.”

Rigmor asked, “Were you scaring them?”

“Ahh…once or twice, I might have seen things I shouldn’t have.”

“Oh, you will have to give me the details later.”

We came out of the ether to find Lakeview Manor under attack by ensorceled creatures.

Princess Akiho exclaimed, “Another chance for some exercise!”

One of the farm dogs was in danger of being torn apart by an Alpha Male wolf.

The wolf lunged at me, and I thrust my katana into its chest.

Simultaneously, Vayu struck it with lightning.

Nestor yelled, “A Bonewolf is attacking!”

Akiho and a couple of the farm dogs ran to his aid.

We decided to let Akiho get her exercise and watched as she deftly eliminated the Bonewolf with her beautiful katana, which she wielded with both hands.

We leapt down.

• Rigmor: That was well done, Princess.
• Akiho: Thank you, Countess. This annoyance happens when you ban a sleazy conjurer from using Lakeview Manor as a shortcut.
• Rigmor: Did they offend you somehow?
• Akiho: He tried to grope me. I broke his arm, kicked him in the nether region and banned him from using the pathway through this estate.
• Rigmor: Excellent!
• Wulf: He summons animals and gets them to attack for revenge.
• Akiho: Yes, but nothing overly dangerous. However, if a single chicken or cow or innocent bystander is harmed, I shall kill him.
• Wulf: You would be justified.
• Akiho: Can I help you with something, Lord Welkynd?
• Wulf: No, we are just passing through, Princess. Have fun!

We made our way to the lake’s edge.

• Wulf: We shall swim to Ilinalta’s Deep.
• Ghorbash: Okay, I know we will not drown because of the dweomer placed on our armour. But…
• Rigmor: But it seems counterintuitive to swim in full plate armour.
• Wulf: Woah, did somebody swallow a dictionary?
• Rigmor: You know I am well educated, Dragonbum!
• Vayu: Wulf would walk across the water if he wanted to mess with your brain.
• Rigmor: Sometimes he rides Hashire on top of the water!
• Wulf: You will not feel the cold. You can swim on top or underwater. Kyne’s Peace will keep the Slaughterfish and Mudcrabs at bay.
• Borgakh: Who are those people on the island?
• Wulf: Tazita’s hunting party. They have several camps on Lake Ilinalta’s small islands. We shall pay a quick visit.
• Vayu: They sell Princess Akiho many furs and other produce. Like some of Wulf’s other estates, Lakeside Manor does a lot of trading. The profits help fund the orphanages.

As we swam to the small island, I looked at Little Vivec. Many Legionnaires were stationed there during the Civil War. Otherwise, Stormcloaks would have killed its Dunmer residents.

I quickly chatted with Tazita and her Argonian companions, Hunts-in-Rain and Nakumu. They make good money hunting and do not want to live in a town or city.

We continued our swim towards Ilinalta’s Deep, accompanied by curious ducks and swans.

Soon, it was shallow enough for us to stand.

• Wulf: Did you enjoy the swim, Ghorbash?
• Ghorbash: Swimming in armour, I can accept it. Please, do not ask me to fly!
• Rigmor: The airship is terrific and very safe.
• Wulf: And you have not lived till you fly on the back of a dragon.
• Ghorbash: Then I shall happily remain dead.
• Rigmor: I agree with you, Ghorbash. There is nothing safe about riding a dragon!

We waded ashore and then climbed a hill overlooking Ilinalta’s Deep.

• Wulf: It was once called Fort Ilinalta. When the Imperial Legion abandoned it, necromancers moved in.
• Vayu: They conducted magic experiments that somehow sunk the fort.
• Wulf: The ruins have been cleared several times, but the Civil War allowed its repopulation.
• Rigmor: There is a trapdoor on the roof.
• Wulf: Yes, and I could float to it and enter that way. However, I would prefer to start at the front door.
• Ghorbash: You can fly?
• Wulf: No. I can use telekinesis to lift myself from the ground, but cannot fly great distances.
• Borgakh: Will there be many mages inside?
• Wulf: I do not know. Half a dozen mages followed Malyn into the keep, but he has probably recruited other necromancers since then.
• Vayu: Very few mages would be powerful enough to harm you with the dweomer on your armour.
• Rigmor: Sometimes the spells do not tickle, so charge them and cut them down!
• Vayu: They cast their best spells, and nothing happens to their target.
• Rigmor: The expressions on their faces are amusing.
• Borgakh: Educated and bloodthirsty! No wonder Wulf is smitten.
• Wulf: It is just as amusing when vampires realise Blood Magic does not affect me. I do like to laugh in their faces before ending their life.

The original entrance could not be reached. Therefore, we entered via another trapdoor.

I growled, “Nothing announces a necromancer’s nest like a hanging skeleton.”

A journal was in a backpack under to the skeleton. I read the relevant entry to the group.

“A decent catch of fish is getting harder to come by. I do not think we will survive the following winter without a good spot soon, so I am travelling further south towards Lake Ilinalta. Folks say it is cursed. An entire Imperial Fort just sank into the water one day, and they say the ruins have been haunted since.

I got ghost stories when I asked, such as tales of people who went out near the lake and never returned. They say spirits haunt the hallways of the sunken fort and steal little children from their mothers’ cribs. No amount of coin could convince any nearby villagers to guide me there, so I am following the White River.”

• Wulf: It is common among necromancers to create myths about hauntings and ghosts.
• Ghorbash: They did that with Wolfskull Cave.
• Vayu: Yes. The stories keep people away so they can do their nefarious acts in peace.
• Rigmor: Ooh! I like that word.
• Vayu: Nefarious?
• Rigmor: Yeah, it sounds evil.

I used Heat Vision as we travelled. A bit further in, I whispered, “There are a lot of necromancers in the next two rooms. Let us listen before we start killing.”

We silently approached and then stopped to eavesdrop.

• Necromancer One: More souls are needed for the Star. The last one died before he could be harvested.
• Necromancer Two: We cannot take another villager from the surface so soon.
• Necromance Three: I told you to prepare everything properly!
• Necromance One: We will have to sacrifice another disciple.
• Necromancer Three: Apprentice Haerlon will be no significant waste.
• Necromancer One: Yes. He will do. He is down below. I shall tell him he is needed in Malyn’s Chamber.
• Necromancer Two: Haha! He was begging to be involved in the next soul entrapment.

As the necromancers laughed, I started my slaughter.

Soon, there was a pile of bodies and ashes.

• Vayu: Malyn must need his Lifeforce renewed regularly.
• Rigmor: How many people have they murdered to keep Malyn alive?
• Wulf: How many souls have they sent to The Soul Cairn?
• Borgakh: I assume that we kill everybody without mercy.
• Wulf: Yep.
• Rigmor: Wulf is angry. I doubt we shall bloody our weapons.

Rigmor was correct as I demonstrated what an efficient killing machine I am.

After many deaths and rooms, we arrived at Malyn’s Chamber.

Skeletons of victims were strewn over the floor.

A young huntress, recently killed, lay with Azura’s Star leaning on her. Malyn and the necromancers had damaged it. It was also black, and diagrams I have seen show it to be vibrant with rainbow hews.

Malyn’s skeletal remains were seated on a chair.

Next to the chair was a book titled, “Malyn Varen’s Grimoire.” I read the relevant section to the group.

“An Achievement of Magic over Daedra by Malyn Varen, Master Enchanter and Conjurer:

Though some scoffed, some scorned, at the very notion of experimenting on a Daedric artefact, I have succeeded where the ignorant and superstitious would not even dare to try. The Black Star’s conversion was my achievement over the Daedric Lord Azura, a re-envisioning, a remastering of the ultimate soul gem. It shall become the vessel of my immortality. It is proof that mortals can live as indefinitely as the denizens of Oblivion.

Azura taunted me, first with questions and then with visions. While some called me mad, I knew the truth. Nothing can be held sacred in the pursuit of advancing the very nature of magic itself. Let the Daedra send their foul images into my mind. They have given me the burning desire and unrelenting discipline to shut out all influence, all morality.

My disciples and I have built a new site, free of the prying eyes of those primitive minds in Winterhold, called Fort Ilinalta. We had been conducting a few minor experiments before our exile, some of which led to the disruption of the island. Still, a few enchantments have kept the ruins intact, and beneath the waters of Lake Ilinalta has been the perfect place for the final phase of the Black Star.”

• Rigmor: Malyn caused this fort to sink!
• Wulf: That happened before the Civil War, so he must have been experimenting for decades.
• Vayu: He used the College to recruit disciples.
• Borgakh: It is easier if sacrifices come to you!
• Wulf: Let us get out of here. My anger will not subside while in here.
• Rigmor: Will you perform Arkay’s Rights for this poor woman?
• Wulf: No, her Consciousness is now in The Soul Cairn. It cannot be retrieved.

We exited Ilinalta’s Deep via the first trapdoor we had seen earlier.

In the distance, a familiar sight startled Rigmor and the new Dragonguard.

I zoomed in on the phantom boat and sailor.

• Rigmor: I have seen ghosts when travelling with you, but a ghost ship?
• Wulf: That is Hidte Fair-Brand. She was a successful trader who sailed Lake Ilinalta for many years.
• Ghorbash: Did she die on the lake?
• Wulf: She was raped, robbed and murdered by Stormcloaks in the early days of the Civil War.
• Rigmor: Is she waving at somebody?
• Wulf: Yes, she is waving to Tanita and her group. Hidte has docked at Lakeside Manor several times and chatted with Princess Akiho and the others.
• Borgakh: Why hasn’t she moved on to an afterlife?
• Wulf: A Priest of Arkay offered to help her transit. She explained she was not ready and still enjoyed sailing the waters of this lake, which is her preferred afterlife.
• Rigmor: Can necromancers do her harm?
• Wulf: No. Like many other spectres, her soul is safe from necromancy. Do not ask why, as it is gobblygook.
• Rigmor: Ha, Lord Smartarse does not know something!
• Wulf: As I said, it is gobblygook. If I did know the answer, it would be Albatross.
• Ghorbash: Vayu, am I mistaken in thinking these two sound like an old married couple?
• Vayu: No comment.
• Rigmor: Vayu and Celestine are no different.

We teleported to Azura’s altar, which startled Aranea. I held out the relic.

Aranea’s startled look quickly turned to a smile.

She exclaimed, “Azura’s Star! The Lady of Twilight was confident you and Countess Rigmor would succeed.”

“I am not surprised you know who my companion is.”

“Lady Azura says you are a mortal with many secrets she cannot unravel. However, she knows you have a purpose. You endeavour to protect all mortals, and those secrets are likely needed to allow you to do so.”

“She is correct. Rigmor travelling with me is one of those secrets.”

“The Star is damaged!”

“I do not want to restore it to use it, but it was once beautiful.”

“Place it on the altar.”

I placed Azura’s Star on the altar and waited.

A few seconds later, Azura said, “Malyn’s soul still resides within, protected by his enchantments. Until he is purged, my Star cannot be repaired.”

“Will he be ejected when the Star returns to Moonshadow?”

“Yes, but I am not willing to wait for justice, and I doubt you are.”

“No, I am not. What Malyn and his ‘disciples’ were doing was evil. Many innocent lives were lost to Malyn’s ego.”

“Then I propose you enter the Star. From within, you can banish Malyn’s soul.”

“Would I be entering a pocket plane of Oblivion?”

“No. Like that artefact you carry, it is four-dimensional. It is constructed of large crystalline structures but reduced in size.”

“Then I am willing to enter and cleanse your Star. First, I must speak to my friends.”

• Wulf: Rigmor, Mara’s Rings should work while I am inside the Star.
• Rigmor: It is no weirder than walking inside a dead emperor’s mind. But I will not try to talk to you, for I want you to concentrate.
• Wulf: Malyn is a skilled Conjurer. Therefore, he may summon Dremora. They will pose no threat.
• Aranea: Please, Lord Welkynd, do not underestimate Malyn.
• Vayu: That is sage advice, Wulf.

I turned and said, “Lady Azura, I am ready to enter your Star.”

I was instantly teleported into Azura’s Star. The crystalline structure was beautiful and reminiscent of Welkynd Crystals.

Malyn’s avatar greeted me with, “Ah, my disciples have sent me a fresh soul. Good. I was getting hungry.”

“All of your disciples are dead. Lady Azura sent me. Also, it will be difficult to eat anything after I remove your head.”

“And who are you to challenge me? I have conquered mortality itself. I have spat in the eyes of the Daedric Princes. This is my realm now. I have sacrificed too much to let you take it from me!”

“I am Wulf, Dragonborn and Champion of The Divines, as well as several Daedric Princes, including Lady Azura. I am here to send your soul screaming into The Soul Cairn. I hope The Ideal Masters are not too keen to remove your memories. I want you to realise what a total failure your plan was and how you have wasted your life and afterlife.”

“This is my realm! I will not let you take it away from me!”

“It looks like a very boring realm to me. Perhaps The Soul Cairn will have better views?”

Malyn ran.

As expected, several Dremora were summoned but provided little challenge as I cut them down.

I was not in a hurry as I casually approached Malyn. He cast several spells but soon realised they had little effect on me.

I stood in front of him as he drew his weapon.

I told him, “You have not spat in the eyes of any Daedric Prince. Only Lady Azura knows or cares for this achievement of which you are proud. As mentioned, all your disciples are dead. How many copies of your grimoire are there? I will display one in my museum, and a plaque will tell all visitors about your idiocy, evilness and total failure. That is the only way anybody will hear of Malyn Varen.”

I could see my words were battering Malyn’s ego and insanity. Suppressed emotions were surfacing. This taunting was not my Dovah being cruel. It was me, meting out some justice before I killed the despicable slime.

I continued, “You were afraid of dying but have now lost your chance to enjoy an afterlife surrounded by love and empathy. You never achieved immortality, for Azura’s Star will automatically return to Moonshadow every one hundred years.”

“You lie!”

“When I destroy your avatar, The Ideal Masters will claim your soul and drag it into The Soul Cairn. I hope they allow your memories to linger so you have time to regret and perhaps feel guilt.”

“More lies!”

“You are not worth even one of the souls you sacrificed. It is not Lady Azura who is evil. You are a pathetic idiot that history will forget. Even the armour you wear has a fatal flaw. You see, its gorget protects against horizontal sword strokes, but not diagonal.”

Malyn watched in horror as my katana was raised with a speed he could not counter.

He had barely lifted his sword before I sliced diagonally, severing his head.

The avatar collapsed, and I stood silent as Malyn’s soul was claimed by The Ideal Masters.

Then, I was teleported to the altar where a repaired Azura’s Star lay.

I picked it up and admired its beauty. I wonder if Malyn realised Star Metal was used in its construction.

Lady Azura said, “You have done well, my champion. It would be a boon if you helped Priestess Araena with her transition. Farewell.”

I turned to Aranea.

• Wulf: What did Lady Azura mean about your transition?”
• Aranea: Azura gave me a vision while you were in the Star. She said it was the last she would ever share with me.
• Rigmor: I thought something had gone wrong when Priestess Aranea moaned and almost fell. But I knew you were okay, my Dragonborn, via Mara’s Rings.
• Wulf: What was the last vision, Priestess?
• Aranea: It was terrifying. Moonshadow, her beautiful realm, wilted like a flower and then vanished. As did our mortal realm. Azura did not know the cause, but she said Rigmor, and you are fighting many dangers to Nirn and Mundus. Therefore, you are probably aware of this horrendous possibility.
• Rigmor: Why was it the last vision she would share with you?
• Aranea: I told Lady Azura I would like to aid you before she shared that vision. She said I would be a boon to you both and deserved that opportunity. However, she said if I take that path, it would be best to no longer communicate directly with her. Without knowing the reason for that restriction, I chose this new path. Do you know why this restriction would be required, Lord Welkynd?
• Rigmor: I can answer that, Priestess. If Lady Azura were to learn certain things, she may feel compelled to act upon them. Her unrequested aid may be detrimental to our efforts. I assure you that we would not hesitate to ask for aid from her if circumstances necessitate.
• Wulf: Rigmor and I have discussed this on several occasions. We trust Lady Azura, but like all Daedric Princes, she must act as her imprinted personality dictates. She shows faith that we are doing what is necessary to safeguard her beloved Khajiiti and Dunmer people. I am humbled and appreciative of that trust.
• Rigmor: We could not blame her for interfering when The Nine know not to.
• Wulf: Lady Azura can only provide visions by accessing your mind. I allow very few beings, mortal or god, to access my mind and only a portion of it. That discipline has taken years of, sometimes unpleasant, training and mental exercises to achieve.
• Aranea: If Azura were to continue providing visions, she might inadvertently uncover those secrets.
• Wulf: Yes, and the fact she recognised that proves her motive is to help us, not uncover those secrets.
• Rigmor: She has made it more likely we shall accept your aid, Priestess.
• Aranea: Since escaping Morrowind, I have never been without Azura’s foresight. I do not know what to do. If you need me, I would be honoured to accompany you.
• Wulf: Is there a Priest or Priestess here that would perform your current duties?
• Aranea: Yes, there are several who could share the burden.
• Wulf: Vayu, would you object to Priestess Aranea becoming a Dragonguard?
• Vayu: Not at all, Wulf, for I have evaluated her during our enlightening discussions out of habit.
• Wulf: Priestess, Vayu is our Shaman and has the last say on who can become a Dragonguard. It is not simply a matter of trust or distrust.
• Rigmor: I have an idea! Priestess, do you know I am having a giant statue of Lady Azura constructed?
• Aranea: Yes.
• Rigmor: Many visitors find a lack of shrines distressing. Perhaps you can live within my castle and be available to those visitors who would find comfort as they pray at a consecrated altar.
• Aranea: Without visions, my services would be less than they were.
• Rigmor: If access to visions is important to them, they can seek those elsewhere. However, the majority would value your presence.
• Aranea: That is true. Most visitors to this shrine do not seek information from the visions.
• Wulf: We can transport you to this shrine whenever you desire, Priestess.
• Aranea: If I live in Bruma, could I still accompany you?
• Wulf: Being based in Bruma is not a restriction. However, I know you are a Sorceress of considerable power, but it would be best if you learned more magic. Therefore, I suggest you spend some time at The College of Winterhold. Once I am satisfied that you can protect yourself against the enemies we face, you can accompany us on occasion. There are a few dozen Dragonguard, and I do not travel with the same ones each time.
• Vayu: We usually travel as a squad of four with at least one mage within that four. That is the ideal number to provide Wulf with the support required whilst not getting in the way.
• Wulf: We already have several new Dragonguard living in Solitude. They are told the secrets there and are slowly introduced to our methods and aims.
• Ghorbash: Slowly? Priestess, you are thrown into the deep end, and you had better be able to swim!
• Aranea: It cannot be more daunting than what I faced when The Red Mountain destroyed my home. We arrived here with nothing, and yet here I am. Lady Azura thinks I can benefit your cause. I will adapt to changed circumstances again.
• Rigmor: Are you sure? You would have a private room, a comfy bed, three chef-prepared meals daily, and endless gossip sessions. It is a hard life!
• Aranea: Thanks to Lord Welkynd, I have already had to sacrifice sleeping outside and cooking over an open fire. I could cope.
• Wulf: I suggest Vayu take you to our Safehouse in Solitude. I will give you a few days to adjust, and then we can discuss the College further.
• Aranea: Can I have some time to arrange things here?
• Wulf: Yes. Vayu and the others will remain and then accompany you to the Safehouse. I must take Rigmor home as she has duties that require her attendance. Oh, and from now on, I am Wulf, not Lord Welkynd.
• Aranea: Then I insist I am Aranea and not Priestess.
• Rigmor: You will love Bruma!
• Wulf: Yes, just like here, it is constantly freezing and smelly due to the abundance of Nords.

Aranea smiled as Vayu took charge. I escorted Rigmor home, but we planned to spend a day or two together soon.

If Lady Azura has seen the end of all, do other Daedric Princes know of it? I hope not, for they may get desperate and further chaos would ensue. Of course, one of them may be the cause of the end of time.