Middas, 31^st Evening Star, 4E 201

& Turdas, 1^st Morning Star, 4E 202

Urag and Auryen need more time to research. Reman Cyrodiil’s shield reacting to the shards was a riddle that kept both awake for many hours. I doubt they will find much in their libraries. Therefore, I expect their answer to the riddle to be pure conjecture based on questionable lore.

I needed a distraction, and Olette provided it. She suggested that we use the airship to do some sightseeing. Rigmor, the children from Aurane and several others joined the day trip. Valminoor and Nahfahlaar escorted us. The 30^th was full of laughter, a million questions from inquisitive minds and a surplus of love.

Rigmor had to return home. Over the last few days, farmers from around Bruma brought wagonloads of produce to the city. Cooks will spend hours preparing a banquet to be served outside, weather permitting, or within the chapel and castle if the weather turns sour. It is impossible to feed all the city’s citizens, so a thousand have been chosen by lottery. Rigmor is the host, and it will be the first banquet since the passing of the Count and his family. Therefore, she wants it to be memorable.

Those who missed out on the banquet would enjoy streets full of food vendors, visiting bards, and other entertainment.

The tenants of Aurane were going to have a feast as well. I have no doubt all my stewards have planned the same at my various properties. Feeding hundreds is a thrice daily event at Dragons Keep, so Wujeeta will not be stressed.

I took Rigmor home and then teleported to the Safehouse.

I gathered the squad, which consisted of Inigo, Vayu, Urdr, and Felix, and chatted with other residents.

We entered the museum and found Auryen in The Hall of Heroes.

Before I could greet him, he exclaimed, “Guildmaster, I have some incredible information about the relics to share with you!”

“Okay, but I am going to be paranoid. I do not think we should discuss this here. Normally, I would suggest my room in Aetherius, but the slow draining of Lifeforce can be distracting. Therefore, I will teleport us into Aurane. Mother ensured that no scrying can penetrate its protective dweomer.”

“If you think that is wise, then let us proceed.”

We teleported into Aurane. I never teleport into my rooms as I want others to know I am present.

When we materialised from the ether, Auryen, Urdr and Felix all gasped.

“Woof?”

I turned to Meeko.

• Wulf: Meeko, you know Auryen from the museum. Urdr and Felix are new Dragonguard recruits.
• Meeko: Woof!
• Urdr: You are glad to meet us. Well, I am glad to meet you as well.
• Felix: Meeko, you are the favourite when people read Wulf’s redacted journals.
• Inigo: My full magnificence is revealed when they read the unredacted ones. Then I am the favourite!
• Meeko: Woof!
• Inigo: I am not delusional, you mangy mutt!
• Wulf: Urdr will be living here. Felix is one of two new bodyguards for Rigmor. You have met the other new bodyguard, Priestess Aranea.
• Meeko: Woof.
• Felix: I am older than I look. Well, yes, I am. There is some Mer blood from a couple of generations ago.
• Inigo: They are doing it but do not realise.
• Vayu: It is the same for everybody when they first talk with Meeko.
• Urdr: What are we doing?
• Inigo: Repeating what Meeko says before answering.
• Urdr: Oh, that was in the journals. We should stop doing it after a while.
• Wulf: Do not overeat at the banquet, Meeko. You know what your stomach will produce if you do. Even marble can melt.
• Meeko: Grrr!
• Wulf: I would not warn you if not necessary. Not that it will do any good.

Meeko did a good impression of a snigger.

I turned to the group and said, “I would love to give you a tour of Aurane, but my rising anxiety levels will not allow that. So, follow me to my private quarters.”

Four of the group sat on the couches. Inigo insisted on standing as it helps him concentrate better. I stood as I knew some lecturing would be involved.

• Auryen: As I said, I have some incredible information about the relics to share!
• Wulf: Calm down, Auryen. The others might have difficulty following the conversation if you speak too quickly.
• Inigo: Comprehension might go missing no matter how fast Auryen speaks!
• Auryen: Ah, good, well, where to begin?
• Wulf: Try the beginning, Auryen. I will cry if you start with the end and ruin the plot for me.
• Auryen: Okay, but I tend to expound upon things. I will try and be to the point for brevity’s sake.
• Vayu: Can you teach Wulf how to do that?
• Auryen: Yes, well, if you would like to know more about anything, ask. Otherwise, I will assume you know what I am talking about.
• Felix: I might be unable to ask a question if my brain shuts down.
• Wulf: Even if I think I know, I will allow your point of view, Auryen.
• Auryen: A wise move because you never know what you do not know, you know.
• Wulf: Yes, but I usually know what you know, so we both know, you know.
• Felix: Do not surrender yet, brain.
• Auryen: Master Urag and I conducted much research to confirm some theories. From what we can tell, the connection between the shards and shield is their relationship to the Covenant that Akatosh made with Alessia.

I quoted,

“Akatosh drew from his breast a burning handful of his heart’s blood, and he gave it into Alessia’s hand, saying, ‘This shall also be a token to you of our joined blood and pledged faith. So long as you and your descendants shall wear the Amulet of Kings, then shall the Dragonfires burn, eternal flames, as a sign to all men and gods of our faithfulness. So long as the Dragonfires shall burn, to you and all generations, I swear that my heart’s blood shall hold the Gates of Oblivion fast.”

• Auryen: That is from ‘The Trials of St. Alessia.’ It has its critics and opponents, like most historical texts.
• Wulf: Mehrunes Dagon proved the Covenant to be true. The Oblivion Crises would not have happened if the Dragonfires were not extinguished. I will believe the actions of a god and subsequent disaster over the ramblings of dissenting historians. The only conflict is how the Chim-el Adabal was created.
• Inigo: My friend, do you know how it was created?
• Wulf: Yes, and we can have that discussion another time.
• Auryen: I find it fascinating because, in many ways, Akatosh only came to be because of Saint Alessia’s actions.
• Urdr: I can tell Wulf does not believe what you are about to say.
• Auryen: How his eyes looked to the heavens and his loud sigh is a bit of a giveaway.
• Wulf: Please, Auryen, I will listen to your and Urag’s point of view. I will resist any raspberries or laughter.
• Auryen: We believe that during the ‘Middle Dawn’, a period of the first era that lasted one thousand and eight years, which the Marukhati Selective brought about, a group within The Alessian Order, used The Staff of Eight to ‘dance upon the tower and reshape the nature of Akatosh.’ By their dancing ritual, they were able to purge the elven aspects of Auriel from Akatosh and instead bind the time element of ‘AKA’ to the Colovian Shezzar, which was a sort of heartland version of Shor, the god of mortals. By doing so, they established Akatosh as the god of time across ALL time, past, present, and future, as if he had always been there, essentially breaking the concept of linear time briefly, but that resolved itself on its own. They did this to appeal to their Nordic allies, who would never have accepted a central deity tied closely to the elven Auriel.
• Wulf: The Marukhati Selective did not believe in Marukh’s teachings but used them to justify their actions. Marukh’s bullshit and The Alessian Order are the greatest blasphemy against Saint Alessia and The Divines in history. They resulted in almost two thousand years of Mer persecution and monotheism instead of the worship of The Eight and racial tolerance. Even the Marukhati Selective’s own warped ‘Exclusionary Mandates’ shoot down this bizarre theory about Akatosh. One of them states, ‘That the Supreme Spirit Akatosh is of unitary essence, as proven by the monolinearity of Time.’ In other words, Akatosh was the principal God of Time according to the mandates written before they tried their bizarre ritual!
• Inigo: You told me once that there is more than one God of Time.
• Wulf: In a way. Auri-El, Alduin, Alkosh, Tosh-Raka, Ruptga and others are shards or avatars of AKA, also called Aka-tusk or Ald. He is the ‘Dragon Made Whole’ whose different aspects take on features determined by their worshippers. Auri-El appears as a bipedal elven character in the Falmer pantheon. Alduin is a giant black dragon in the Nordic Pantheon. Saint Alessia made Aka-tusk the chief deity of The Eight but called him Akatosh. Aka-tusk, Akatosh, has always been the principal God of Time. That makes the most sense to me and destroys the lie that the Marukhati Selective removed the elven bits of Akatosh.
• Urdr: How did Aka-tusk become many aspects or shards?
• Wulf: The shards or aspects were created at the Convention, where linear time was forced upon Mundus. I think this was foreseen and not an accidental shattering, as some claim.
• Felix: Can you explain the Convention?
• Wulf: Anu and Padomay created the Cosmos from the Aurbis. The natural forces of that creation formed Aka/Aka-tusk/Alb/Akatosh. Other et’Ada were subsequently created. When Nirn was first built, and gods walked upon it, chaos reigned, and the Cosmos was unstable.
• Felix: I understand up to that point.
• Wulf: The Convention at The Adamantine Tower was where linear time was first forced upon Nirn and ended the Dawn Era. The Cosmos stabilised. Magnus left the mortal plane after the Convention, and some other et’Ada followed him to become the Magna-Ge. Some et’Ada become the Earthbones. Some became Elfhoney, the ancestors of Man and Mer. Others became Aedra, what we call The Divines. Others became what we now call Daedric Princes.
• Vayu: Auryen, does this difference of opinion make the rest of your theory unpalatable to Wulf?
• Auryen: Maybe we will reach the same conclusion despite the differences.
• Wulf: Before we move on, I want to clarify some other points concerning Auryen’s theory. The Nords had already accepted Saint Alessia’s pantheon, which existed for many years before The Alessian Order. There was no need to remove elven aspects of Akatosh to convince the Nords to worship Akatosh over Alduin. The Nords at that time recognised Alduin as part of Akatosh. The two aspects were regarded as the beginning and end of a kalpa.
• Auryen: Anything else?
• Wulf: The Marukhati Selective caused a Dragon Break, the Middle Dawn, with their meddling. They did not remove the elven aspects from Akatosh, as there wasn’t one! However, it is theorised they did damage Akatosh and maybe sent him insane. I think that is bovine excrement, but I could be proven wrong. The Dragon Break did not fix itself. Female Dov, called Jills, wove the parallel timelines into the single timeline we now experience.
• Auryen: Your objections are valid. I will have to think more on the subject.
• Wulf: We are at the mercy of the myths and mixture of truths and untruths handed to us. However, logic is a tool we can use to see what is sensible and what just does not fit in. Blasphemous mortals dancing atop The White-Gold Tower cannot change the nature of what was created at the beginning of the Cosmos! They may damage it with their meddling.
• Auryen: Do you not use the word ‘gobblygook’ to describe the illogical? You have learnt to accept such illogic as factual.
• Inigo: My friend’s acceptance depends on how many Sweet Rolls he has consumed.
• Felix: Mine depends on how many meads I have consumed.
• Wulf: I openly admit that many things are beyond my comprehension. If I accepted a theory or supposed history without giving it much thought, I would endanger myself and every other mortal. You all owe your lives to my ability to identify what is fact and what is fiction!
• Inigo: I am sorry. I did not mean to belittle what you said.
• Wulf: I fear secrets withheld from me are about to be revealed. So, if I seem short of patience or humour, you now know why.
• Vayu: These secrets might fundamentally change Wulf’s perception of self. He has cause to be anxious.
• Auryen: Moving on then. Saint Alessia’s soul was bound to The Amulet of Kings by The Covenant. It was entrapped within the gem upon her death. We believe it is still entrapped despite The Red Diamond being shattered.
• Wulf: If that is the case, explain how she gave birth to me on the small island near Roscrea. How does she battle Molag Bal in a contest of willpower as we speak?
• Auryen: Urag and I have taken the literal meaning of several texts. Are we wrong?

I paced back and forth as I said,

“Yes and no. Part of Saint Alessia’s Consciousness and copies of her memories were stored within The Red Diamond. The same happened to all the Septim emperors, except Lord Talos, upon their death. This process created an Oversoul within The Red Diamond that an emperor could consult. Saint Alessia’s fragment of Consciousness was the anchor for the Oversoul. When The Red Diamond was shattered, all other Consciousness fragments were rejoined with their souls. However, I think Mother’s fragment is still within the shards. If so, returning it to aid in her battle with Molag Bal would be beneficial.”

• Auryen: So, you think part of her soul must still be bound to the Chim-el Adabal even in a shattered state?
• Wulf: No evidence or logical reason supports that theory. However, as sometimes happens, my intuition defies logic. Her soul resided in Aetherius after being escorted there by Pelinal Whitestrake. Upon arrival, she ascended to godhood. I believe that part of her Consciousness, and therefore part of her soul, may be bound to the shards. However, all her Lifeforce and most of her Consciousness are not.
• Auryen: The relics react to you because your soul is directly bound to Akatosh.
• Wulf: I do not think my dragon soul is the only reason, but that is a gut feeling. I have no evidence to support it.
• Auryen: If you gathered enough relics that tie to The Covenant, you might be able to appeal to Akatosh to reform the amulet.

I started to laugh, and Auryen looked startled and then offended.

• Wulf: No offence, Auryen, but you have not provided a single piece of evidence to support that massive pile of speculation. Nothing we have discussed so far even hints at it! But you honestly believe what you are saying, don’t you?
• Auryen: I am confident we are right in this matter.
• Wulf: If I asked you to prove the validity of this plan, could you?

Auryen was about to answer, then he paused. His angry retort was terminated when he realised he could offer no proof.

• Wulf: The Divines, through a mortal agent, are using you to direct me on how to proceed.
• Auryen: That is a disturbing concept!
• Wulf: It is not mind-control, but suddenly, this idea about the relics seems logical and plausible to you without supporting evidence. Has anybody seen a street entertainer make somebody act like a chicken or out of character?
• Felix: I have seen the chicken routine. One of my corporals made a complete fool of himself but swore he had no choice.
• Vayu: It is called ‘Power of Suggestion.’ Some societies call it hypnosis.
• Wulf: You can be having a normal conversation with somebody, and they implant an idea without you realising they have done so. The implantation does not rely on skills in Illusion, but that can make it easier.
• Vayu: The Divines and other gods have many mortal agents.
• Wulf: And if skilled implanters visited both Urag and yourself, then you may both come to the same, unsupported, and illogical conclusion.
• Vayu: It is not as sinister as it sounds, and you cannot be forced to act on a suggestion that your morality forbids. Forgive the crudeness, but Felix’s corporal could not be persuaded to fuck a chicken.
• Felix: I do not know about that. He did not have much success with the ladies.
• Wulf: The reappearance of the Chim-el Abadel shards surprised The Nine. They decided to use them to teach me what they consider essential.
• Vayu: Using mortal agents was the quickest way to start their plan.
• Wulf: Auryen, have you recently had an interesting conversation with somebody knowledgeable where they discussed many obscure theories? It would have to have been in the last day or so.
• Auryen: We get many such people in the museum even though we currently allow only a limited number of visitors. Many of them know me by reputation, so seek me out. One such gentleman yesterday pounced on me as I took a break from the research. He immediately grabbed my attention when he discussed Tiber Septim’s meetings with Cyrus. He was very persuasive despite his ideas not being accepted by most historians.
• Wulf: If you changed the subject, was he still as knowledgeable and confident?
• Auryen: Yes. We quickly discussed many subjects that few people would know about, let alone have extensive knowledge of.
• Vayu: He was the implanter. I bet you never asked his name.
• Auryen: No, I did not. That is strange because he was somebody I would like to talk to again.
• Wulf: There you go. The mystery of random suggestions is solved.
• Auryen: Why wouldn’t The Divines tell you what to do?
• Inigo: You read his journals, Auryen. My friend has said on many occasions that how he resolves a task is just as important as achieving a resolution.
• Vayu: That is why they never leave him with clear instructions.
• Inigo: Or a map with an X marked on it.
• Wulf: By working through you and Master Urag, I am subjected to opinions I would otherwise miss. Any of them may be significant contributions to my overall understanding.
• Felix: Urdr, does that make sense to you?
• Urdr: If I said yes, would it make you feel better?
• Felix: No, because we could both be delusional.
• Vayu: I doubt a restored amulet will have all the dweomer and powers it once had.
• Wulf: It may strengthen the White-Gold Tower. It would not allow the Dragonfires to be relit or contain an Oversoul without corruption. Rigmor could take the repaired amulet to the Imperial City and have Imperial Mages investigate. I recommend against The Synod or College of Whispers gaining access to it.
• Vayu: Auryen, what relics do we need to find?
• Auryen: One of them should be something associated with Reman Cyrodiil. He had a rather… mythological origin. We have that one.
• Wulf: Please, not that rubbish! Everybody who hears it gets a little bit stupider.
• Urdr: You said Auryen could tell his gobblygook, and then you would have your say!
• Wulf: Okay, but I warned you.
• Auryen: The story states that Reman’s father, King Hrol, begot him with the spirit of Saint Alessia upon the site of Sancre Tor, the ‘Golden Hill.’ The spirit was the land itself, and Hrol later placed the Chim-el Adabal into the dirt where Reman was ‘planted’, and then he died. Reman was then ‘born’ from the soil and bore the gem upon his forehead.
• Inigo: My friend, that does not sound as far-fetched as some gobblygook.
• Wulf: That is because Auryen toned it down a bit. Would you like the uncensored version?
• Vayu: They could all benefit from hearing the Wulf version.
• Wulf: As his loyal troops watched, King Hrol dropped his trousers and stuck his willy into a muddy hole on the side of a hill. After ejaculating into said hole, he did up his pants, and everybody carried on as if this was normal. Over the next few months, the hill grew like a pregnant woman’s belly. Then, one day, baby Reman sprung from the ground like a potato with the entire Amulet of Kings on his forehead, not just The Red Diamond.
• Auryen: That does make it sound a bit silly.
• Wulf: A lot of these myths make no sense logically! Why would The Divines bother with such one-off showy phenomena? Especially when it mocks Lady Mara, Lady Dibella, and Saint Alessia?
• Felix: Then why is such nonsense written and accepted as fact?
• Wulf: There must be something special about our mortal heroes. They cannot be conceived and born the same way as the town blacksmith! A stupid myth is constructed, and laypeople lap it up as truth. We are supposed to revere the processes involved in making and birthing children, yet The Divines shunned such things to make Reman? No, they did not! Reman was conceived during regular intimacy and came into this world covered in the blood of his mother!
• Inigo: Did you ask Saint Alessia about this myth?
• Wulf: Mother told me the myth, and it took some time because she laughed so much.
• Felix: Did the myth provide legitimacy to Reman’s rule?
• Inigo: Felix, you are thinking like a politician! Rigmor needs opinions like yours. Currently, she relies on old men set in their ways.
• Wulf: Rigmor is quite astute and can figure things out herself. More opinions can, in most cases, help with decision-making. Of course, many disparate opinions can be a hindrance.
• Felix: And what is the answer to my question?
• Wulf: Reman could wear The Amulet of Kings, so he must have carried Saint Alessia’s bloodline, but no records proved it. This myth linked him to Saint Alessia, which is why it was created.
• Vayu: Pelinal Whitestrake predicted Reman’s birth a thousand years before it occurred.
• Wulf: Pelinal often challenged the heroes and leaders of his enemies to a duel rather than try and find them on a field of battle. He duelled Haromir, where Sancre Tor now stands. Pelinal was insane and tore out Haromir’s throat with his teeth. He then praised Reman more than a thousand years before Reman the Potato was harvested.
• Urdr: Do you believe that happened, and if so, how?
• Wulf: Many believe that Pelinal came from the future, so Reman’s birth was history to him. I think he had foresight, and in his madness, he would yell out what his visions showed. There is also a third theory that relies on metaphysics that I am uncomfortable with and will not discuss.
• Vayu: Both Reman and Pelinal may have been Shezarrine.
• Wulf: As I said, that is something I will not discuss. If you want to know about Shezarrine, many tomes and scrolls are in the museum’s library.
• Felix: Auryen, we have Reman’s shield. What other relics should Wulf seek?
• Auryen: Wulf, do you know the history of the ‘Battle of Sancre Tor’ that Talos won?
• Wulf: Yes, let me narrate what I remember.

“In 2E 282, Nords and their Breton allies occupied the passes and strongholds of the Jerall Mountains. Most of their forces used Sancre Tor as their headquarters as they awaited the winter to pass before continuing their push into Cyrodiil.

King Cuhelain sent his brilliant young general, Tiber Septim, or Talos as his troops called him, to assault the fortress.

Talos’ troops were tired from continuous fighting and were not equipped for such an assault.

A turncoat whose name and race are lost to history told Talos of a secret passage at the rear of Sancre Tor. I believe he was another agent of The Divines.

Talos risked all by believing the stranger. He left a small but noisy force outside the front gates who taunted and insulted the defenders, hoping they would sortie and crush the insolent mob. Predictably, with many being Nords, the defenders did precisely that. Most of Talos’ troops followed him through the secret entrance, quickly overwhelming the undermanned fortress. They captured nearly all the Nord and Breton generals and then forced them to surrender.

After the battle, Talos had some of the Breton Battlemages executed for war crimes but released the Breton troops. However, the Nords were so impressed by Talos that they swore allegiance to him and helped with the rest of Tamriel’s conquest.

Talos went into the Sancre Tor catacombs, where he retrieved The Amulet of Kings from the tomb of Emperor Reman III. He then received Akatosh’s blessing, which made him Dragonborn.

The Blades had aided Talos to such an extent he gifted them his armour. Because that was the armour he wore when blessed by Lord Akatosh, it probably has a connection to The Red Diamond and The Amulet of Kings. Tiber Septim was also of the Alessian bloodline.”

• Auryen: We know the armour was still there during the Oblivion Crises. Martin Septim gathered the blood of Tiber Septim from the armour for use in a ritual.
• Wulf: Only the blood of a Divine could open the portal to Paradise, Mankar Camoran’s realm of Oblivion. The Hero of Kvatch retrieved Father’s breastplate from Sancre Tor. Martin Septim recovered some blood from the breastplate.
• Auryen: They used that blood to send The Hero of Kvatch through the opened portal to Paradise.
• Wulf: That is just one piece of evidence proving Talos’ divinity that the Thalmor pretend does not exist.
• Auryen: The chest piece was returned to Sancre Tor after the Oblivion Crises ended.
• Vayu: You want Wulf to travel to Sancre Tor? That is quite a trip over the mountains.
• Auryen: Wulf, have you heard of Ayleid Waystones?
• Wulf: Yes, Auryen. I recently found some here that conveniently turned up when most useful. A certain Khajiiti Emissary uses them to travel.
• Auryen: So that is how Baa’Ren-Dar seems to be in several countries simultaneously.
• Wulf: I have not put that in my journals.
• Felix: What is an Ayleid Waystone?
• Wulf: It is a piece of Welkynd Stone imbued with a teleport dweomer. You wear the Waystone and get teleported to its imbued destination. When you remove the Waystone, you return to your point of origin. The ones I discovered here had only one purpose: to return you to Aurane. They do not teleport you anywhere else.
• Auryen: I have gathered a few. The inscription on this one indicates it will take you to Sancre Tor.

Auryen handed me an Ayleid Waystone.

• Wulf: This Waystone has more than one possible destination. I do not know how to trigger the second destination.
• Auryen: Are you sure?
• Urdr: Are you sure, Arch-Mage and one of the most powerful mages alive?
• Auryen: That was a silly question.
• Wulf: This Waystone should not exist. Does anybody care to guess why?
• Vayu: Why would the Ayleid make a Waystone for a location that did not exist? Sancre Tor was a small hill called Tor during the Slave War.
• Urdr: Perhaps they heard about the beautiful mud hole?
• Vayu: I should have noticed your poor sense of humour. It is a disqualifying factor for a potential Dragonguard.
• Wulf: That was very funny, Urdr. Do not listen to the jealous, ungifted critics.
• Inigo: Conveniently, Auryen had a Waystone in his collection that takes my friend to a fortress that did not exist when Waystones were made. Does anybody else smell Divine meddling?
• Felix: Will Sancre Tor be dangerous?
• Wulf: It is well protected against grave robbers. Blade volunteers were turned into Draugr. They are far deadlier with their katana and dai-katana.
• Urdr: Would they attack The Dragonborn?
• Wulf: I doubt it. However, there is a dangerous being interred there, and I do not think Auryen or Master Urag found any reference to it.
• Auryen: We both read the most respected works on Sacre Tor. I do not recall any mention of somebody or something dangerous being interred there.
• Wulf: Father told me. The Underking is sealed in Sancre Tor.
• Auryen: Which one?
• Wulf: Zurin Artus. And I warn you, Auryen, do not declare anything written in The Arcturian Heresy as valid history. I know my father, and he is incapable of what is in that blasphemous garbage.
• Auryen: Has he told you what happened with the Mantella and Numidium?
• Wulf: No, for that infringes on the forbidden subject of his apotheoses. I think my trip to Sancre Tor will peel away that secret.
• Vayu: And there lies the real danger to Wulf.
• Wulf: I may not be who I think I am.
• Inigo: What is it you say, my friend?
• Vayu: He says cobblers! Balderdash! Codswallop! Bollocks!
• Inigo: Yes, all the above plus more. Wulf is Wulf, and however he became Wulf is irrelevant.
• Wulf: Not if it affects my future, Inigo. But enough speculation. If any of these subjects are interesting, visit the museum’s library. If you cannot find relevant books in the index, try searching for bullshit.
• Auryen: You would categorise half of the library under that heading.
• Wulf: And I would not be wrong to do so.
• Felix: The gobblygook was not as bad as I thought.
• Wulf: We have not touched on the gobblygookiest myths about Father and the other Divines. They might be subjects you can look forward to when I return from Sancre Tor.
• Urdr: Why don’t you ask Lord Talos for a piece of armour?
• Wulf: Worldly possessions do not travel with your soul to Aetherius. He could point me to some armour in a private collection or dingy ruins.
• Urdr: But that would not provide the education The Divines think you need.
• Wulf: Precisely. If Father does not discuss certain subjects and the other eight Divines think I should know, they will allow me to learn the truth through other means.
• Vayu: The Divines did not allow the assassinations of the Guardians to enable these lessons. But they are adept at taking advantage of situations.
• Wulf: I also think Mother provided a lot of guidance. Her foresight was far-reaching and detailed. She has dominated my dreams, where lessons taught as a child now have more meaning within the current context.
• Inigo: Hurry back, my friend. The New Year celebrations in Aurane will not be the same without you.
• Wulf: I shall try, Inigo, but I doubt Sancre Tor will be easy to unravel.
• Vayu: Are you leaving from the Safehouse?
• Wulf: Yes, so everybody, please stand before I teleport. It is embarrassing to materialise sitting when there is nothing to sit upon.

When we materialised in the Safehouse, Auryen handed me a map of Sancre Tor, and then the group scattered.

I had a quick talk with Inigo and then Vayu. Like with Rigmor, I had infected them with my worries. I assured both that I would be okay. They knew I did so without conviction.

I contacted Rigmor via Mara’s Rings.

I asked, “How is the New Year’s feast going?”

“Mother has used her years as a teacher to organise the rabble into a coherent force of progress. She declared it was like a class of miscreants. Thanks to her, we shall feed the citizens a meal to be remembered.”

“I am going to visit Sancre Tor. I do not know if Mara’s Rings will work when there.”

“But it is on Nirn.”

“Yes, but there may be dweomer isolating it.”

“Then let me know as soon as you arrive. If I do not hear from you, I will assume an isolation dweomer and nothing more sinister.”

“I might miss out on New Year’s celebrations.”

“I think I can eat and drink enough for both of us.”

“What do Mara’s Rings tell you?”

“You are scared and anxious, Wulf. We have discussed your fears for hours, and procrastination will not resolve the issue.”

“Sancre Tor is one of the most sacred places on Nirn. I know that my time there will be life-changing. Along with the fear is excitement. However, I like this Wulf and what he has become. I want to return a wiser Wulf, but still me.”

“I thought we agreed that free will is the force that shapes your future, not the label given.”

“That was when you were in my arms, and Our Peace was not diluted by distance.”

“Summon me, and we shall visit Sancre Tor together.”

“No, Rigmor. This journey is something I must do by myself. I know this.”

“How are you getting there?”

“Auryen found an Ayleid Waystone that will take me to Sancre Tor.”

“That was convenient.”

“That was Divine meddling. Sancre Tor did not exist when the Waystones were made.”

“Well then, off you go. No dawdling.”

I placed the Ayleid Waystone around my neck and was instantly teleported inside the entrance of Sancre Tor.

I was immediately assailed by hatred. Undead Blades of various types surrounded by a black miasma converged on me.

Rigmor stated, “The rings work! Ahh, I assume you are in Sancre Tor.”

“Yes, I am, and undead Blades are attacking me!”

“Why would they attack you?”

“Let me dispose of a few, then we can discuss it further.”

Sancre Tor was unnaturally dark, so I used Night Vision.

Two types of undead Blades attacked me. One type had glowing red eyes and wore armour over their misty bodies. The other type was skeletal with glowing blue eyes.

The skeletal undead began as regular Skeletal Warriors but soon turned black as the miasma surrounded them.

Undead hate living beings. However, I can sense that these undead are enraged not by what I am, a living being, but by who I am. The miasma surrounding both types seems to catalyse this palpable and personal hatred.

Some of them spoke Tamrielic, and others spoke Dovahzul. None of what they said was complimentary. These translations are based on the context in which the words were spoken.

“Aav Dilon” means ‘join death.’ In other words, die.

“A swift death is all you deserve!” is self-explanatory.

“Faaz! Paak! Dinok!” translates to “You will die in pain and shamefully!”

“Kren sosaal” means “You will be destroyed as punishment.”

“Di volaan!” means “Die, intruder!”

“Bolog aaz, mal lir!” is “Beg for mercy, little worm!”

These greetings were from the first half a dozen undead I cut down. Every undead in Sacre Tor had a unique taunt.

I retreated to the entrance steps and spoke to Rigmor again.

“Rigmor, the undead are attacking me for who I am. You would think that a Dragonborn would be welcome in Sancre Tor. Unfortunately, at least one resident is not pleased I am here.”

“Who might it be?”

“The Underking, Zurin Artus. He is supposed to be sealed within Sancre Tor. Perhaps the seal imprisoning him has failed.”

“Why would he hate you?”

“I do not know. Zurin may have reason to hate Father, but Lord Talos has never confirmed or denied the accusations made in The Arcturian Heresy. If I pressed for the real story of Tiber Septim, I was met with silence or anger.”

“Concentrate on surviving, Wulf. Mysteries should be contemplated in a friendlier environment.”

“You are right, as usual.”

“Do the undead pose a danger to you?”

“No, but there are many. I will eliminate the undead and look around without worrying about an ambush. I will talk to you soon.”

“In the meantime, I must convince the chef that more spices are needed in the Elsweyr Chowder. It should dissolve the spoon as you stir it.”

“I hope there are plenty of privies!”

 I could not pick the lock of the main entrance.

Other entrances were blocked by external and internal debris.

Another entrance was very tall. It was used for siege engines built within Sancre Tor.

I climbed some ramparts to confront the last remaining undead Blade. It was surrounded by the miasma and seemed to be guarding a chest. I felt no animosity from it, but it watched me intently as I approached. Then, it saluted me with its sword and took a familiar stance. It is a kai-katana sword form taught to advanced students by Akaviri Swordmasters. I saluted, then took up the normal counter stance of a board and sword opponent.

This undead Blade was a much stronger opponent than the others. Despite the miasma, it did not taunt me or show signs of dislike. They were likely a commander or hero of some sort when alive. The sword they wielded was a beautifully crafted kai-katana covered in intricate runes and was used with superb skill. We moved up and down stairs as we traded blows. I could have defeated them in seconds, but I let them display their skills again. When I delivered the final blow, the undead Blade said, “Cleanse this place, Son of Akatosh. Hate and darkness do not belong in Sancre Tor’s halls.”

I hope the warrior’s soul is now at rest in Aetherius. The chest contained one item, the key to Sancre Tor.

I stood before the entrance and told Rigmor, “I am about to enter the main building. I will talk to you from inside if the rings still work. If not, I will come back outside and let you know.”

“Because I can feel your anxiety, I find myself pacing up and down while directing our staff. They think I am worried about the feast and keep reassuring me that it will be wonderful.”

“I have a map of Sancre Tor made by a Blade pilgrim visiting Father’s Shrine. It is strange to think that the Talos I know is revered by so many.”

“His love for you is real. The childhood you had was full of love. That is why you cannot believe some of the things written about him.”

“But why the secrets, Rigmor?”

“I expect you will discover a valid reason for them.”

“Maybe.”

“Woah! I think the Elsweyr Chowder would melt the pot if any spicier!”

I was laughing as I entered the ancient fortress.

An undead Blade attacked and was soon reduced to a puddle of ectoplasm.

The rings were working, so I asked, “Will you still be able to taste the rest of the banquet?”

“Not if I swallow a larger sample. However, I think the Khajiiti residents will find it mild.”

“The hate is intense. It is as if the very walls despise me.”

“Sancre Tor does not belong to the Underwear King. Tell him that Rigmor thinks he is being very rude.”

“Now I am picturing some wrinkly old man in underwear.”

“Do not blame me for your perversions.”

“Zurin Artus was probably a more powerful mage than me. His ability to summon the undead over a large area suggests his Necromantic ability is superb. I will need to be cautious if I face him.”

“Do not try to chat with him. He probably has nothing nice to say, so quickly dispose of him.”

“You just told me to tell him he is rude.”

“So?”

“Nothing, my Countess.”

“Ooh, the first batch of Sweetrolls is ready for inspection!”

“Leave some for the citizens.”

“Maybe. This is the last of the cooking. It will soon be time to address the hungry mob.”

“Can you hear my stomach rumbling over Mara’s Rings?”

“Look for Sancre Tor’s pantry. Something would be edible!”

“I do carry food in my Journal Case.”

“Well then, stop whining.”

“How come, even over the rings, you sound like you are talking with a mouthful of Sweetroll?”

“Dunno. Mmm…delicious. I better try another, as this one might be a fluke.”

Sancre Tor’s fortress showed damage from battle and decay. The dust on the floor had no sign of disturbance. I was likely the first person to enter it in hundreds of years.

There were dozens of intricate sarcophagi adorned with the symbols of the deceased favourite deity. Unfortunately, none had a simple plaque or inscription telling me their name.

However, some sarcophagi have their occupants’ stories written in Akaviri. If I ever have the chance, I will revisit and record their stories for posterity.

The undead were numerous but posed little threat.

Sancre Tor was not freezing, yet some formations resembled stalactites and stalagmites. On close inspection, they were crystalline structures, mainly quartz, with blue banding. I have no idea what the blue bands consisted of. I did not chip any away for later inspection, as that seemed somewhat sacrilegious.

According to the ancient map I carried, the part of Sancre Tor I was in is called The Entrance Hall.

A runestone caught my attention.

Dovahzul glyphs are challenging to read when the correct way up, but whoever made the runestones turned the glyphs ninety degrees to the right. So, I had to hold my head at an angle to read them! The one in The Entrance Hall says never to forget the father. I assume that refers to Lord Akatosh.

The runestones are similar in concept to the Standing Stones of Skyrim, except their blessings are temporary. The one in The Entrance Hall increased several skills for five minutes.

I doubted Father’s Shrine would be unlocked, but I headed there anyway.

Several undead did not like my plan and tried to stop me.

In the area close to Father’s Shrine, I encountered Akaviri Draugr. They did not attack and seemed quite curious.

However, as I was disposing of a shadowy undead Akaviri, a black miasma covered the Draugr, and they attacked.

The Doors to Father’s shrine were covered in ancient cobwebs.

I cleared the cobwebs.

A plaque above the doors says, “The Shrine of Tiber Septim,” in several languages. As I expected, the doors had an unpickable lock that barred entry.

I decided the next part of Sancre Tor I should visit is The Hall of Judgement. It may contain information about the imprisonment of Zurin Artus and, if there is a broken seal, how to repair it.

I took a detour on the way to The Hall of Judgment.

At the end of a corridor was a bust of The Watcher. There were quite a few statues of The Watcher in Sancre Tor, but unlike those in Sovngarde, they did not swivel to face me. Lord Shor controlled them there, but nobody controlled them in the ancient fortress.

Next to the bust was a chest. In front of it was a fancy, but not overly remarkable, katana. There was also a trapdoor.

The trapdoor was placed to dispose of grave robbers. I triggered it to see what was below.

The trapdoor does not drop victims onto spikes, as they often do, but into a chamber with an exit into Sancre Tor’s Catacombs, its Hall of the Dead. The catacombs will be teaming with the undead, and any trespasser will not survive.

Curiosity sated, I continued to The Hall of Judgement.

I eliminated a few undead before arriving at a platform overlooking the hall.

Clouds of black miasma floated near the ceiling.

On the platform were two inert skeletons. In front of them was an open book. Between them was a chest.

As I approached the book, the two skeletons became enveloped in miasma, and they attacked.

They were more powerful than all the other undead, apart from the one protecting the key. After cutting them down, I approached the book again.

The book outlined individual crimes and the punishments inflicted. It was open to a page, and no matter how often I turned to another page, it would automatically return to the same one.

It read, “Within this place shall forever be sealed away the evils of the Underking so that the spirit of the Great Tiber Septim may forever contain his presence within.

Bound to his sealed tomb by three Keyblades of the Dragonguard, his tomb shall never again be opened without them.

Safeguarded within Sancre Tor’s fortress, these blades will have places of reverence within, only to be removed during the turning of The Wheel, when the dead walk again and the Underking’s restless evil may once again stir.

This outcome has been foreseen.

Arktheius, Judge of Sancre Tor and Khal, Lieutenant of the Guard.”

I assumed that Arkethius and Khal were the two powerful undead I just fought.

Alduin’s return is regarded as the start of the turning of The Wheel. The last line of my prophecy reads, “The World-Eater wakes, and The Wheel turns upon the Last Dragonborn.”

The Wheel refers to this kalpa. Its continuance depends on me. Defeating Alduin was the first task to stop him from ‘eating the world.’ Perhaps my final task will result in the Nirn-wide peace I know is possible.

My commitment to continue fighting for that potential peace and championing all races counters my possibility of being a Shezzarine. They do not fit the description of Shezzarine according to various sources. Perhaps they are wrong. Perhaps I can overcome a Shezzarine’s natural tendencies via free will.

Being Shezzarine would explain why Lord Shor tried to occupy my body when I summoned him. It would also explain my knowledge of Creatia.

I put those speculative thoughts aside and applied some logic to the proclamation. If Zurin were free of his imprisonment, he would confront me rather than send undead minions. Therefore, he is aware but still trapped. I must find the three Keyblades and release him to end his second infiltration of Sacre Tor. Then I must send him back to The Void or wherever his soul had been entrapped.

I say the second infiltration because, sometime in the past, Zurin entered Sancre Tor and placed four undead Blades to guard a cursed Tiber Septim Shrine. In 3E 433, The Hero of Kvatch had to defeat the four undead Blades to retrieve Father’s breastplate. They told him of Zurin’s infiltration.

I eliminated all undead in The Hall of Judgement and explored it without further interruption.

About a foot of water covered the floor, which looked clean but was tainted by the miasma.

A once common depiction of Lady Mara was intact and undamaged. In her hands, she held two ribbons tied together. They represent the bonds of matrimony.

In front of Lady Mara’s statue was an open cage occupied by an inert skeleton.

Underneath the skeleton was a piece of paper. It was a judgment and severely water-damaged. What I could read said,

“For edit of the Blademaster of The Imperial Royal Guard, I condemn you to death for high treason. This judgement is final and will be processed….”

Another statue of Lady Mara lay toppled.

In front of it was a Shrine of Akatosh. In front of the shrine was a superb katana.

I lifted the katana from its holder and had no doubt it was a Keyblade of the Dragonguard. A powerful fire dweomer was on its notched blade. The notches were deliberate, as the katana was a key.

In an alcove was an entrance to Sancre Tor’s Catacombs, its Hall of the Dead. Another way into the catacombs can be found in The Entrance Hall, but I decided to use this one. Lord Arkay’s symbol was above the entrance.

Upon entry, I could hear many Draugr. A flag displayed an archaic symbol of Lord Arkay. Above it was a stone skull.

The Draugr became covered in miasma and aggressive long before I reached them.

For brevities sake, I started to use my Thu’um to dispose of the many undead.

I was fascinated by the transformation of the Skeletal Warriors. They arose because I was alive and, therefore, the enemy. However, when the miasma covered them, their animosity became pure hatred.

I eliminated dozens of undead before reaching the exit to The Entrance Hall. However, I had not yet finished exploring the catacombs.

I found another Keyblade in front of a Lord Akatosh runestone.

This one had different notches, and a strong lightning dweomer had been applied.

A third exit from the catacombs led to the pit I saw earlier. Bones were piled several feet high.

Many victims would have been killed or severely injured from the fall. However, I doubt the skeletons in the pit are those of tomb robbers. I needed a unique key to enter Sancre Tor, and I doubt any tomb robbers have ever entered the complex.

A different runestone in the pit provided different benefits than others. It would turn you invisible for several minutes at the expense of Magicka reserves.

I decided to return to The Entrance Hall via The Hall of Judgement.

My next destination was Sancre Tor’s Prison.

Only a few undead remained within The Entrance Hall and were quickly dispatched.

Before entering the prison, I contacted Rigmor.

“Guess who?”

“Oh, one of my many lovers, I suppose.”

“Yes, I was just wondering where I am in the queue?”

“That depends on how many Sweet Rolls you have.”

“I have never encountered so many undead in one place.”

“Have you conjured some help?”

“I would not feel right conjuring Dremora Lords or Dragon Priests within Sacre Tor, so I have not done so. I do not think summoning any of The Sentinels here is a good idea. They may be overcome by the miasma that permeates the place. A black mist makes the undead hate me for who I am and turns the Draugr guards, who should be friendly, against me. We experienced a weaker version when we first travelled together. It turned the rats and Skeevers against us in droves.”

“In that mine? I remember. That was creepy enough!”

“The dweomer this time is far more powerful. I would not mind a few hundred Skeever instead.”

“Remember the burnt miners?”

“I disliked the Thalmor before then, but that pile of bodies made me detest them beyond words.”

“What do you have to do now?”

“I suspected the evil in Sancre Tor was The Underking. I found a book that confirmed his imprisonment here. A seal that used part of Father’s Consciousness has failed. This situation was predicted to occur when The Wheel turned.”

“That is part of your prophecy. The Wheel turned when Alduin returned.”

“More accurately, The Wheel is the present kalpa, and it is up to The Dragonborn to keep it revolving. Why prophecy must be written in mumbo jumbo is beyond me.”

“The seal is broken. Does that mean Zurin is roaming Sancre Tor?”

“No. The seal kept Zurin asleep. He has awakened but is still locked in his prison. I must find three Keyblades of the Dragonguard to unlock his prison and dispose of him.”

“You seem less anxious.”

“I have been too busy surviving to be anxious.”

“Well, keep surviving. I have plans that require your assistance.”

“You are a big girl. You can undress without my help.”

“Ah, that is only the beginning of my devious plans!”

“Your perverted plans?”

“Maybe.”

‘How is the feast going?”

“It is like watching a pack of ravenous wolves. The cooks put much effort into making tasty dishes, but my citizens would have been happy with roast meat and potatoes. It is amusing watching them take a mouthful of Elsweyr Chowder as if it was a mild stew.”

“You are an evil woman!”

“Evil has more fun.”

I entered the prison and then made my way downstairs.

As expected, there were plenty of unfriendly undead to eliminate. By using The Voice, I hardly had to slow down.

I came upon a torture room. A skeleton on a rack seemed happy to see me. If I were Emperor, all forms of torture would be forbidden within The Empire.

In the distance, I saw a Draugr with a battleaxe. My guess was he was either the jailor or headsman. Sometimes, a person is both.

I could see somebody hanging. I guessed it was suicide, and curiosity dictated I should investigate.

The axe-wielding Draugr was not hostile until the miasma changed him.

I cut him down and retrieved a key. I hoped it would allow entry into Father’s Shrine.

I eliminated several more undead on the way to the suicide location.

Suicide, I can understand. However, hanging yourself while still wearing your backpack is a bit strange.

From the backpack, I retrieved a journal and patchwork cloak.

The cloak has a strong dweomer for protection against fire, ice, electricity, and magic.

The journal read,

“My travels have finally come to an end.

After many years of travelling Tamriel far and wide, avoiding bandits and beasts, wars, plagues, horrid storms, and sweltering sands, I now find myself confined to this place. I have barricaded myself into this cell, which will end up as my tomb, I fear.

I hear the dead lurk through the halls and the wails of the angry spectres echoing through the corridors. They occasionally pass my hollow cage and glance my way but make no effort to enter if they even could.

Despite my cloak’s dweomer, I am bitterly cold. I have no more food, and the water at the foot of this place is fouled with the touch of the dead. I have precious little time and would prefer to end it now than wait for these foul creatures to overwhelm me.

If anyone reads these final thoughts, take my cloak and protect it well. Along with my writings, it is the legacy of a long life of journey.

Sir Jesto.”

Sir Jesto’s travel commentaries are popular. His curiosity often resulted in great peril to himself. I do not think Jesto was a prisoner. His skeleton does not seem that old, and I think he died close to when Alduin returned. I assume he found his way into Sancre Tor, driven by his insatiable curiosity and was trapped by the undead. I am positive Auryen will know of Jesto and find space in the museum to tell his story. It is a pity he did not say how he managed to enter the fort.

A corridor from the prison ended in an impressive set of double doors. A sign above them said, “Sealed Halls.”

As I approached the doors, the intensity of hatred directed at me grew uncomfortable.

At the foot of the doors, a broken seal lay amongst rubble.

The lock was unpickable. However, even if I could pick it, I dared not enter until I had all three Keyblades.

I headed to the doors of Father’s Shrine.

The key I obtained in the prison worked, and I unlocked the doors.

Before entering, I contacted Rigmor.

“Can you talk to me, milady?”

“Yes, even though everything is starting to get a bit fuzzy. Perhaps I should slow my mead intake.”

“I am standing before the doors to Father’s Shrine. I have unlocked them but fear to enter.”

“Whatever your past, you are the man I love. Would a Shezarrine bother building orphanages? Tell me why you rarely visit Dragons Keep?”

“I must be careful. My enemies might endanger the children if they cannot harm me.”

“The orphanages are one example of your countless sacrifices for the good of others. Despite your desire to visit and interact with the children, you have put their welfare first. Nothing from your past can change who and what you are right now unless you let it. But we do not even know if you will learn anything.”

“My intuition, my gut feelings. They are the senses I use to survive against the odds. They are telling me I will learn things hidden from me. Perhaps they will explain the hatred that the Underking has for me.”

“Who knows? Maybe? Listen to yourself! Wulf, do not let conjecture get in the way of discovery. What is there to fear from Lord Talos’ shrine? You should be excited beyond belief!”

“I will enter and try to enjoy the experience.”

“I look forward to you telling me about it and laughing at your unnecessary worries.”

 There was a pause, and then Rigmor exclaimed, “I just claimed the most impressive belch of the night. Nobody can better that one!”

I laughed and asked, “Bruma citizens wouldn’t be 90% Nords, would they?”

‘I am demonstrating one of the essential skills of a Nord Countess. Guess who my biggest belching opponent is.”

“Surprise me.”

“Jimmy Ten Fingers. Do you remember him?”

“The odorous little man with the boat from Riften?”

“Yep. Jimmy is still just as stinky and retained his ten fingers. However, he seems to have lost more teeth. I have no idea how he eats so fast with so few teeth. His burps are a works of art.”

“Perhaps his lack of teeth helps produce a better burp.”

“I might make him the Town Cryer. Instead of ringing a bell, he could burp the time!”

“Three o’clock and all is well…burp…burp…burp….”

“The more I think about it, the better it sounds.”

“The more mead you drink, the better it sounds.”

“Maybe.”

“I will talk to you soon, as long as you have not slipped under the table in a drunken stupor.”

When I entered Father’s Shrine, a calmness came over me. None of The Underking’s hatred survived the sanctity of the place.

There were four Blade spectres and four tombs with inscriptions in Dovahzul. I could not ascertain what each inscription meant. They made no sense to me. They were probably their names, but dragons have three runes per name, not mortals.

One of them was a devotee of Mephala. Another spectre revered Shalidor.

A Runestone offering similar blessings to others in the name of Lord Akatosh was there.

I took a close look at the Blade spectres.

The Blades first revered this location within Sancre Tor because it is where Tiber Septim received Lord Akatosh’s blessing.

The armour he gifted them was placed here long before he died, and many Blades made a pilgrimage to view it.

When Tiber Septim was still alive, a curse was placed upon this room by Zurin Arctus, his deceased Battlemage and one of the most powerful mages known. Zurin had died confronting Wulfharth when constructing The Numidium, the massive Dwemer automaton. Both Zurin and Wulfharth are called The Underking in different texts. They both are because some of their souls were entrapped in the Mantella, a soul gem that powered The Numidium. However, that type of gobblygook makes me dribble, so I will not get into it.

A disputed book claims Tiber Septim lied and said his loyal Battlemage, Zurin Arctus, died trying to kill him and take the throne.

Another claim is that Tiber Septim used The Numidium to wipe out entire families, even those who had shown no hostility to his rule. A thousand-foot-tall metal monster killed countless men, women, and children so that he could feel safe in his rule. I know Father did questionable things to provide the citizens of Tamriel, and therefore all of Nirn, a long period of stability. However, such a sacrifice of innocents is not something I believe he would order to be done. The forced removal of many Khajiiti to enable the reconstruction of The Numidium in secret was something he may have ordered.

Zurin cursed Father’s Shrine from the afterlife because he believed how Tiber Septim used the Numidium was an insult to him. Zurin had died to make the Numidium work, so the perceived insult generated extreme anger and a thirst for vengeance. Tiber Septim sent his four most competent Blades to remove the curse, but they never returned. The spirits of the four Blades had been trapped by Zurin and forced to be guards over the corrupted shrine. The curse remained till the Hero of Kvatch defeated the four undead Blades in individual combat. Martin Septim had sent the Hero of Kvatch to Sancre Tor to retrieve Tiber Septim’s breastplate. Tiber Septim’s blood inside the breastplate was required to open a portal to Paradise, Mankar’s realm in Oblivion.

The four Blades trapped by Zurin were all male. However, two spectres are female, so they are not those fabled four.

They must be volunteers who now guard the cleansed tomb. There is a Nord male and female, a female Redguard and a male Dunmer. They watched me as I moved about but did not respond to questions. Finally, I told them, “Sorry, but I do not know your names or history or how long you have been here. But I thank you for guarding this shrine. Like The Hero of Kvatch, I need to borrow a piece of Tiber’s armour. I promise to return it soon.”

On a table before the statue of Tiber Septim was an Elder Scroll and the modern helm of an Imperial Legate. That was the only visible piece of armour.

I looked at the statue and asked, “Is this a joke? I know that style of helm was only recently introduced. So, what is going on?”

The modern helm vanished, and an older Colovian General type that matched Father’s favourite armour appeared. Then, a red flash from my gem bag simultaneously occurred as one emanated from the helm.

I growled as I retrieved the helmet and placed it in my Journal Case.

I asked, “Is this your attempt to remove my anxiety? Rigmor has already achieved that without being a complete bastard!”

Father replied, “Son, I sympathise with your plight. Lord Akatosh has deemed it time for you to learn some truths. So please, do as instructed, and then I shall answer, fully and truthfully, any questions you have.”

“And who is going to instruct me, Father? Poor Auryen is not comfortable with being manipulated.”

“We had to get you started on this path with little time to plan. The manipulation was deemed necessary then, but not in the future.”

“Why does Zurin hate me so much?”

“I do not know. Perhaps Zurin knows your familial relationship to me. Perhaps he thinks you are me. As for his hatred towards me, it is misguided and ill-deserved. However, it is real, and he is powerful, so be cautious in dealing with him.”

“You know what I fear, Father. Will that fear find an answer?”

“I am not endearing myself to the other eight by aiding you this much. Please, do as required and ask for answers after.”

“And sometimes you wonder why I am still rebellious in nature.”

“The Blades know who you are. They helped hide the rest of my armour and know what you are about to do. Look down. You will need the key. Take the circlet as a keepsake. I once wore it, and the centre ruby is named The Regal Jewel.”

“Who am I, Father? What am I?”

“You are who and what you have always been. Nothing will change.”

“That is the sort of mumbo jumbo I expect from Lady Mara.”

“Who do you think provided me with that answer?”

I picked up the superb circlet and placed it in my Journal Case. The key was intricate, as were the others that fit the unpickable locks.

Father said, “Go forth with courage, my son. You are more powerful than Zurin, and The Nine have faith you will succeed. Oh, and do not forget the third Keyblade!”

Father’s presence faded as I retrieved the third Keyblade from a case before his shrine.

Predictably, the katana had an intense cold-based dweomer.

When I turned to leave, the Blade spectres stood and saluted in the Akaviri style. I saluted and said, “I will find your stories and share them. You are heroes and deserve to be remembered.”

I rapidly made my way to Zurin’s prison.

Before entering, I contacted my rather tipsy fiancé via Mara’s Rings.

“Woah, lucky I cannot get drunk through the rings!”

“Hey, I can still stand, sort of.”

“My dear pickled Rigmor, I am about to confront the Underwear King. I talked to Father, and he is unsure why Zurin hates me.”

“Was Lord Talos disobeying Lord Akatosh by talking to you?”

“He encouraged me, so I do not think Old Scaly would be upset.”

“Isn’t that a bit blasphemous, calling your celestial father ‘Old Scaly’?”

“Probably. I will remember to donate a septim and ask for forgiveness next chance I get.”

“Did you ask your father about your suspicion?”

“He promised to answer all my questions after I receive instructions.”

“And who is going to give you the instructions?”

“I do not know. It will not be Auryen. The Divines formulated a plan quickly after Byron handed me the first shard. Manipulating Urag and Auryen was the best solution at short notice.”

“It is almost midnight. I must give my speech and welcome the New Year. Now, if only I knew which was the real door to the Grand Hall. I wish they would stop moving so much!”

“Concentrate on that, my beloved, and do not worry about me. Father said I am stronger than the old man in his underwear.”

“Aha! I have grabbed the real, not illusionary, door handle!”

“That is an achievement you can be proud of.”

“You are calm and full of determination, my Dragonborn. Arm yourself with our love, and the Underthing has no hope.”

“Underthing?”

“Underthingy?”

“Do your speech and try not to upchuck in front of the thousand guests.”

“Malesam and Freathof look pale, and I dunno why. I am treading an exact ziggety zaggety straight line to where they are pointing. I might pretend I am about to do the world’s biggest multicolour yawn and watch them panic.”

I pitied Malesam and Freathof on occasion.

I entered the room, and Rigmor was correct. I was calm and determined.

A lowered portcullis was designed to keep things in, not to keep me out.

A twist handle raised the portcullis.

As soon as I stepped into the central chamber, a massive wave of Magicka washed across the room from a closed sarcophagus.

Several undead Blades arose from the many bones scattered throughout the chamber. However, they were no more potent than the hundreds I had already destroyed in Sancre Tor. I rapidly disposed of them, which allowed me to investigate my surroundings uninterrupted.

The lid to Zurin’s sarcophagus was tightly sealed. The hate that came from within was intense.

Two sets of ancient Nord reliefs repeated themselves around the room.

One set had The Wolf, which represents Lady Mara, next to The Snake, which represents Orkey.

The other pairing was The Moth, representing Lady Dibella, next to The Hawk, which depicts Lady Kynareth, or Kyne, to the ancient Nords.

I do not think there is any significance to the pairings or why reliefs of other gods of the old Nord pantheon were absent.

There were three alcoves, each with a Watcher statue. In front of each statue was a slot designed for a Keyblade to be inserted. There was no indication which Keyblade was to be inserted into each slot, so I assumed it did not matter.

The Watcher statues would explode when I inserted a Keyblade into the slot, but my armour and its dweomer protected me from harm.

After the third statue exploded, so did the lid of Zurin’s sarcophagus, and he materialised.

He took the form of a Dragon Priest. That meant he was a lich.

He approached and stared at me with a spell prepared.

He rasped, “You are not him. No, you are his child. How? It does not matter, for killing you will cause him grief.”

Zurin moved faster than any opponent I have faced before as I pursued him. His Destruction spells significantly harmed me despite my armour’s dweomer and other protections. I regretted not Shouting Dragon Aspect before inserting the third Keyblade.

I did not have time to admire the phenomenal strength of Zurin’s spells, and closed quickly.

I Shouted, “SU GRAH DUN.”

Elemental Fury increased my katana’s speed and the damage it inflicted.

It was the first time I ever needed to use that Shout. It was necessary if I were to destroy Zurin before he ended my life. Without Elemental Fury, I would have lost the contest.

My katana was a blur as it cut into Zurin many times per second. The Underking screeched as he was reduced to a pile of ash. While the ash settled, I cast Grand Healing on myself.

A red flash let me know a needed artefact was within Zurin’s ashes. From them, I retrieved his signet ring.

I said to Rigmor, “Happy New Year! Zurin is defeated!”

“You were badly injured. Now you are fatigued.”

“I had to heal myself. You know that can leave a badly injured person fatigued.”

“Was he that powerful?”

“Without the protections on my armour, he would have killed me with his first spell.”

“Well, that shock has sobered me somewhat. Are you leaving for home?”

“Yes, I have had enough of this place for now.”

I tried to remove the Ayleid Waystone but could not budge it.

Rigmor asked, “What is wrong?”

“I cannot remove the Ayleid Waystone. Perhaps a dweomer is stopping teleportation in and out of Sancre Tor’s Fort.”

“Can’t you cast a spell instead?”

“I think it is best if I exit the fort first.”

“Well then, hurry outside and remove the Waystone so I can stop worrying.”

“Yes, milady.”

I quickly made my way to The Entry Hall.

A portal had replaced the central runestone.

I approached the portal. It was atop a symbol of The Empire and led to a pocket plane of Aetherius.

I told Rigmor, “A portal to Aetherius has appeared. I do not think The Divines want me to go home yet.”

“Perhaps that is where you will receive those instructions?”

“That is likely, and I admit, I am curious.”

“Our rings will not work while you are there, so contact me as soon as possible.”

“Yes, of course. You have helped me through this, Rigmor.”

“Even drunk, I can be of use!”

“I love you.”

“And I love you.”

I stepped through the portal and was soon enveloped by Aetherius’ peace. However, my contact with Rigmor was severed.

I stood upon a large emblem of The Empire inside a small vaulted room. The walls and roof looked fragile.

A book sat on a pedestal, and curiosity reigned. However, before I stepped towards it, the roof and walls collapsed.

I was surrounded by floating debris. A wall of energy prevented me from travelling further than the floor’s perimeter. The barrier also prevented access to the portal.

I could sense the teleport before it triggered. In the field of weightless ruins, a magnificent Dovah appeared. His colours are orange and black.

He roared and then settled for tinvaak.

I stepped closer, and the Dovah’s voice boomed, “The wayward son returns home.”

I was shocked by those first words. But protocol demanded an introduction before questions. Therefore, I asked, in Tamrielic, “You are not Bormahu. May I know your name before we tinvaak? Do we have to speak in Dovahzul?”

“I am the voice, the eyes and the breath which makes Akatosh’s will be known. I am his Qolaas, and you are his child, Dovahkiin. Speak the language of The Empire, for it makes it easier for you.”

“Qolaas means herald. May I call you Herald?”

“If you so desire.”

“Then Drem Yol Lok. Greetings, Herald of Akatosh.”

“Ahh, the archaic greeting of Paarthurnax. It has been a long time since last I heard it.”

“I am puzzled by your greeting. The term ‘wayward son’ generally refers to a son who is disobedient, unruly, or difficult to manage. It often implies a sense of straying from what is considered proper or expected behaviour, particularly from the perspective of parents or authority figures. It can convey frustration, disappointment, and concern for the son’s well-being and future. I fail to see where I can be categorised as a wayward son.”

“I speak the words of Akatosh. That does not imply I know the meaning of all he conveys.”

“And how am I returning? I am a mortal of Nirn, not a god or soul who resided in Aetherius.”

“I speak the words of Akatosh. That does not imply I know the meaning of all he conveys.”

“Albatross!”

“Fiddlesticks!”

“Why doesn’t Lord Akatosh address me directly?”

“There are reasons you may learn in time. At this moment, I am his voice.”

“Did you prevent the removal of the Ayleid Waystone?”

“I have no such abilities, but your father’s power was strong inside Sacre Tor.”

“Father said I would receive instructions. What are they, and why must they be followed?”

“I am afraid several steps must be taken before the entirety of the answer may be given. At this moment, you are the gatherer of the symbols of those who came before you, brought here to beseech his lordship to do your bidding.”

“I have thwarted the plans of Mehrunes Dagon and recovered the shards of The Red Diamond. I fail to see the need to beseech Lord Akatosh. It is not for personal gain that I request, not demand, Lord Akatosh reconstruct the Chim-el Adabal from the shards and recreate the Amulet of the Kings.”

“I was warned you might ask without the humility others would exhibit.”

“I reiterate, I do not ask for selfish reasons but for the benefit of the mortals of Nirn. As far as I know, Lord Akatosh desires this reconstruction to happen, so I am not asking for something he has not already agreed to.”

“Many of us questioned the wisdom in having your parents educate you. However, I can see they have done well.”

“A mortal existence has strengthened the lessons of my parents.”

“Undoubtedly.”

“Herald of Akatosh, will Lord Akatosh do as I have asked? Will he reconstruct the Chim-el Adabal and The Amulet of Kings?”

“Yes, but you do not have the complete offering. The blood of the mother you have in full. The breath of the father you have yet to obtain fully.”

“Why the riddles? Why not tell me what needs to be recovered? Why do I need to gather these offerings?”

“The Nine are sympathetic to your plight. The threads of time are infinite, and we do our best to steer you in the direction needed to maintain a timeline that gives us all, gods and mortals, the best chance of surviving the coming darkness. You are learning as you perform this task. The Nine believe you must uncover truths rather than present them as lessons. This methodology has worked for you in the past. Have faith it is best for this task. You possess the shards and setting, so the urgency is not as great as it was.”

“Will the reconstruction of The Amulet of Kings aid Saint Alessia?”

“Yes, it will strengthen your mother, who battles the one that may be the catalyst for the darkness. She has fought him for several years, and we are not sure of when her burden will cease.”

Before I could ask more, the Ayleid Waystone started to slip from my neck. I held it in place as I grabbed the book. It was a pristine first edition of Amulet of the Kings. It will be interesting to see if it differs from later editions.

I let the Waystone slip into my hand and found myself in the ether.

I exited the ether to the spot in the Safehouse where I had equipped the Ayleid Waystone.

I told Rigmor, “I need some answers and am unwilling to play the games of The Divines.”

“And where might you get those answers?”

“Mother may provide them. Please, let me be tonight, Rigmor. Get some sleep, and we shall talk further when you awaken.”

“Will Saint Alessia be able to speak to you?”

“I do not know. But I must try.”

“Did you receive instructions?”

“Yes, via the Herald of Akatosh. Think of him as a puppet who knows nothing of the puppeteers’ thoughts.”

“Explain it to me when you can. Do what you need to do. I will not worry and will sleep well. Goodnight, my Guardian.”

I approached Vayu and asked, “Why are you not enjoying the festivities?”

“We had a good celebration in the museum with Auryen and The Explorers Society. The others have headed into the city to continue the merriment. I thought I have better stay here in case you returned from Sacre Tor.”

“There is much to discuss, but that can wait until later today.”

“Valminoor flew for many miles in the direction Mede’s ship will approach Solitude. He says they are three or four days away with the prevailing winds.”

“I do not know how long it will take to resolve The Amulet of Kings problem. But it has priority over Evermore. I am sure His Imperial Majesty’s religious advisor will tell him that.”

“Okay, Wulf. Do what is needed. I am heading to Aurane and Celestine.”

“Goodnight, Vayu.”

I teleported to Mother’s shrine.

I looked up and explained, “Mother, I am confused. I struggle to function with the unanswered questions plaguing me.”

“My power is limited. Sleep, and I shall watch over you. Let memories answer some of those questions.”

“You taught me many lessons. I do not know which ones answer the questions.”

“You will know. Now, place a sleeping roll and close your eyes. You are tired, and slumber will soon embrace you.”

I did as Mother instructed, and within minutes, I was dreaming.

Mother and Father being gods was always abstract to me. Mother was an exceptional alchemist, and Father’s martial skills were impressive. They were full of compassion and empathy and well-liked by all who met them. People from far away would make an effort to visit our remote home. It is where I first met a Khajiiti and Argonian. The fact that my parents never slept and did not have a bed was not something I thought was odd. I never saw them ill or even have a sniffle. They never displayed the great powers or mysticism associated with gods.

On my thirteenth birthday, they took me to Aetherius to further educate me on what they, and The Divines, are.

We floated in the almost perfect darkness, with the light of distant stars the only intruders upon the black vista.

• Valdr: Why do we have to talk via telepathy?
• Tiber: There is no air to move your vocal cords. Therefore, vocalisation is not possible.
• Valdr: But couldn’t you make a pocket of air?
• Tiber: Yes, but that would negate the lesson we are teaching you.
• Valdr: How come I am not dead without air? And I thought mortals could not live long in Aetherius.
• Perrif: Okay, we shall get the inquisitive questions answered before the lesson.
• Valdr: I hope it will not be as dull as algebra.
• Perrif: Your father negates your need to breathe. You can learn spells to do the same. Therefore, it is not a demonstration of great power.
• Tiber: Your Dragonsoul allows you to exist in Aetherius without your Lifeforce draining.
• Valdr: There is no Sun to warm me, so why am I not an icicle?
• Perrif: Now you are being lazy. Use logic and answer that yourself.
• Valdr: Father protects me against the cold. I can learn spells to do the same, so it is not a demonstration of great power.
• Tiber: Anything else?
• Valdr: Nope.
• Perrif: All your senses are currently deprived of input except touch and sight. Do not be frightened as your father deprives you of those.
• Tiber: Are you frightened, Son?
• Valdr: It is strange, without smell, sight, touch, or hearing. Even if I concentrate, I cannot feel my heart beating or my blood circulating. It is interesting, not frightening.
• Perrif: Concentrate, Valdr. Your five mortal senses are muted, but what can you detect?
• Valdr: Magicka.
• Tiber: Oops. Let me rectify that.
• Perrif: Your father has muted your sense of Magicka. Tell us, what can you sense?
• Valdr: Your souls. However, I can suppress that sense and will do so.
• Tiber: That is good because I have no idea how to suppress that sense.
• Valdr: Ahh, time is not moving. I cannot suppress my sense of linear time.
• Perrif: We have frozen time in this small pocket plane.
• Tiber: Concentrate, Valdr. What can you sense?
• Valdr: There is a power. It surrounds me. Intuition tells me it fills Aetherius.
• Tiber: Name that power.
• Valdr: Love.
• Perrif: When Aetherius came to be, love filled it. When Lorkhan designed Mundus, he ensured that the love in Aetherius could also exist within the new plane. Lady Mara ensured that love could be detected and experienced by the mortals of Nirn and some of the creatures that coexist with them.
• Valdr: So, I am correct. Love radiates between us three, but if Father could suppress that mutual love, I would still sense it while in Aetherius.
• Tiber: Love is why some et’Ada willingly became Ehlnofey and Earthbones. All actions of The Nine Divines are extensions of their love for mortals and the realm in which they live. That is the lesson you must remember, Valdr.
• Perrif: You will encounter many questions for which you desire answers. Often, especially when dealing with gods, those answers will not be forthcoming.
• Valdr: Why? You and Father have not just taught me by rote but by example. You have let me ask as many questions as I desire but rarely withhold answers. Why withhold any answer?
• Perrif: Many answers are best found through experience, which puts them into a personal context. Some answers may bias your perception before experience balances it. Sometimes, we do not know the answer, or the answer is ambiguous.
• Tiber: You like to deal in absolutes. When it comes to gods and metaphysics, absolutes are not always possible.
• Valdr: You are skirting an admission, and I fail to see why. I have known for some time that gods are not omnipotent, nor do they have full knowledge of metaphysics. They are subject to the rules of nature, as are the mortals on Nirn. However, the et’Ada selected which rules of nature mortals are subjected to. On the contrary, the et’Ada did not design or control the rules of nature that created them. Lord Lorkhan had superior knowledge, which enabled him to trick some et’Ada into creating Mundus without knowing all they would sacrifice. Still, I doubt his knowledge approaches anywhere near complete comprehension.
• Perrif: I told you he would grasp the reality without effort.
• Valdr: We never underestimate you, Valdr. But knowing something and completely accepting it as fact are two different things.
• Perrif: Love drove us to have a mortal child. Love drove me to wage The Slave Rebellion.
• Tiber: My love of people, not just Man or Tamriel’s citizens, drove me to govern the way I did. Remember that when you decide to question my morality, which is inevitable.
• Perrif: The Divines do not wield power to pursue adoration or wealth. They gave up much to create and populate Mundus. Their motivation was and is love.
• Valdr: Does love exist in Sovngarde?
• Tiber: No. Why Lorkhan created such a realm is one of those questions without an answer.
• Valdr: Both of you expect me to forget this lesson.
• Perrif: You will when answers to your questions are elusive, and you grasp for understanding. This simple truth will not be remembered in your despair and confusion.
• Tiber: We shall endeavour to help you remember.

I woke briefly and whispered, “I remember, Mother.”

“Good. Now rest, for this basic truth will be challenged.”