Loredas, 10^th Morning Star, 4E 202

Everybody was washed and ready for breakfast before 6:30 AM.

I told Celestine, “I like to keep the original pieces when restoring armours. I think it is important to recognise the skill of the armourers and smiths.”

“Is that why you had a problem with the armour you want to wear?”

“Yes. Some of the leather straps were dry after decades of not being used, so I did what I usually do. I rehydrated the leather. That is usually all I must do, but the leather on that armour was too far gone.”

“Are you going to have to replace all the leather?”

“No. For the straps, I can sew thin new pieces of leather along their length. That will allow me to keep the original leather by strengthening it.”

“How long will that take?”

“About thirty to forty-five minutes. So, I should be back soon after the squad finishes breakfast.”

“And we are heading for Arnima first thing?”

“Yes. It sounds like a wonderful place, and I look forward to it. Poverty, brutality and possibly insanity in one compact city!”

“Are we going to see Lord Mortifayne or just that Jackos person?”

“I want to know more about the situation before speaking to Mortifayne. I also expect he will invite us sooner or later. So it will be Jackos and then Commander Drugo at the Imperial HQ.”

“Okay. See you soon.”

I teleported into the Safehouse. Then, I repaired and strengthened all the straps on the armour. After donning it, I ate a quick breakfast before returning to Mara’s Rest.”

I gathered the squad, and then we stepped outside. The sky was red and orange as the sun had yet to appear over a mountain range.

There were very few people on the streets of The Divide. That starkly contrasts with most Skyrim cities bustling with people before 8:00 AM.

The exception was the farmers. They are early starters no matter the country.

In the far distance was Evermore City.

• Wulf: There is a protective barrier around Evermore City.
• Celestine: I wonder how much Magicka is required.
• Wulf: More than any mage in Evermore could sustain.
• Sarah: They have a Great Welkynd Stone. Some senior Evermorin Aventurier were skilled enough to learn a spell that utilised it to maintain the barrier.
• Wulf: I would prefer to enter the city unannounced.
• Sarah: There may be a way through the sewers.
• Lydia: There is always a sneaky way into a city. Dishonest types find them very convenient.
• Ghorbash: So do invaders.

We thought we had encountered two Witchmen attacking two everyday citizens.

As I eliminated the two Witchmen, those we were rescuing attacked us!

They soon joined the Witchmen in death.

• Sarah: I think they were Exiles.
• Lydia: Please explain who they are again.
• Sarah: Although some nobles have a long list of crimes that earn capital punishment, not all criminals are executed. Some are exiled with the clothes they wear and nothing else.
• Lydia: And they have created bandit gangs that the Evermorin call Exiles.
• Sarah: Yes. Some of them have been affected by Witchmen incantations and are insane. They will attack anybody except for other insane Exiles.
• Wulf: So, the Witchmen have returned the favour. One plan to wreck the harmony of Munstor was to release all the prisoners and send them to the commune.
• Ghorbash: That is fair enough. Sad for an Exile, but it serves them right for stealing a loaf of bread to feed their starving children!
• Sarah: Some of the insane exiles were scouts and guards. Now, do you realise the reality of Evermore?
• Ghorbash: I have seen more of it in two days than I did during my years garrisoned here.
• Lydia: How do we tell friends from foes?
• Wulf: Like we always do, Lydia. If they attack us, they die. They have chosen to be our foe.

We were approaching the flood plains. Instead of healthy trees that thrive on abundant water, most of those we could see had recently died.

We deviated from the path to Arnima’s front gates to investigate a fire.

We discovered many dead civilians and a few recently killed Arnimain Guards. The wounds on one guard seemed to be caused by a Black Powder explosion. I sniffed a wound, and the distinct smell confirmed my suspicion.

• Wulf: It seems the Redguard corsairs visited this part of Forlorn.
• Sarah: They have large weapons, called canons, that use Black Powder. But they also have exploding arrows and crossbow bolts that use it.
• Wulf: I have a Black Powder weapon in my Journal Case. It fires a projectile much further than a bow or crossbow and does enormous damage. I suspect the weight of the corsair projectiles will decrease their range.
• Sarah: The more affluent corsairs have the type of weapon you describe. Those that invaded Wayrest did. I think if these corsairs were that well off, they would not be bothering with the poor people of Forlorn.
• Ghorbash: Are we investigating further?
• Wulf: Yes. They probably have a main camp nearby, but I do not want to tackle that yet.
• Ghorbash: But if they have frontline sentries, it would be good to know where they are.
• Lydia: If we accidentally kill them, that would also be good.

We approached three watchtowers. I could see a Redguard sentry on a bridge spanning two of them.

As soon as a Redguard saw us, they prepared to attack. Unrelenting Force ended their life.

A Black Powder bolt hit me. It did minimal damage to me, but an ordinary guard or Legionnaire would have died.

We eliminated ten corsairs and decided that was all their frontline sentries. Therefore, we headed back to the road leading through Forlorn to Arnima.

Our next pleasant surprise came in the form of a farmer begging for compassion from an Arnimain Guard.

• Farmer: Sir, give me a moment if you will.
• Guard: Spit it out.
• Farmer: The taxes, Sir, are too great for what we produce. Could you be so merciful as to have our Lord hear of this? We will not slacken if his Lordship is generous.
• Guard: That coin is going to a better cause. It is for the realm and the gods-appointed lord so that this land does not descend into chaos. Are you selfish enough to forgo our welfare for another loaf of bread?
• Farmer: Sir, forgive me for what I speak. The people starve, and anger simmers. Whispers of dissent are heard from those most in need. We cannot face more disorder in these trying times!
• Guard: If those whispers become loud enough that I overhear them, we will see more heads adorn the spikes. There is only one way to reason with rebellious scum, and it is not with mercy. Now get back to your duties, serf, lest my temper sours further.
• Wulf: Guard, I would like to speak to you.

 I stepped closer to the guard, and I could tell he would not enjoy our conversation.

• Simine: But I do not want to talk to you, so fuck off!
• Lydia: I strongly advise you to change your tone.
• Simine: Ha, all that fancy armour, and you need a girl to speak for you. Now fuck off before, as I said to the serf, my temper sours further.
• Celestine: Let me try to reason with him, Envoy Wulf.
• Wulf: No, it is okay, Knight Celestine. I will handle this.
• Simine: A female knight? What is next, female priests?
• Wulf: Knight Celestine called me Envoy. Do you know what that means?
• Simine: It means you are a higher-class of whore than other Legionnaires.
• Wulf: I am Sir Wulf Welkynd, Envoy of His Imperial Majesty, Emperor Titus Mede II. I speak and act with his authority. You are required by Imperial law to answer my questions.
• Simine: And what will you do if I tell you to fuck off again?

I drew my sword and used my Thu’um.

“I WILL KILL YOU!”

I have no doubt everybody in Forlorn and Arnima heard my threat and its echoes.

The guard’s eyes went wide. He looked at my sword and then cowered before me.

• Sarah: Envoy Wulf is the Dragonborn, and that was The Voice.
• Wulf: What is your name?
• Simine: Simine Aubertin, my Lord.
• Lydia: You are speaking to an Envoy. Address him as Your Excellency!
• Simine: My name is Simine Aubertin, Your Excellency.
• Wulf: Do you claim to worship The Nine, Guard Simine?
• Simine: Yes. I am a pious man.
• Wulf: If so, you should be familiar with The Ten Commands of the Nine Divines.
• Simine: I am. The Commands were taught to me at an early age.
• Wulf: What is Lord Stendarr’s Command?
• Simine: Be kind and generous to the people of Tamriel. Protect the weak, heal the sick, and give to the needy.
• Wulf: What is the tenth Command?
• Simine: Above all else, be good to one another.
• Wulf: Does your treatment of the farmer honour those Commands?
• Simine: I am obeying my god-appointed Lord, Your Excellency.
• Sarah: Lord Mortifayne is not god-appointed, and no man can force you to disobey The Nine.
• Lydia: There was no compassion in your treatment of the farmer.
• Wulf: We will obey Lord Stendarr’s Command and give to the needy. You may watch if you so desire. However, I want you to warn every Arnimain Guard. What we give to the farmers is a gift from His Imperial Majesty. If anybody takes it from the farmers, they will steal it from Emperor Titus Mede II. Do you understand, Guard Simine?
• Simine: Yes.
• Wulf: Yes, what?
• Simine:  Yes, Your Excellency.
• Wulf: Such theft will cause the thief to have a lengthy prison sentence. Also, warn every Arnimain guard that insulting and disrespecting a Knight of The Order of the Dragon will be met with a challenge. The insulted knight will wait for a few seconds, and whether or not the insulter has armed themselves, they will be cut down. Do you understand, Guard Simine?
• Simine: Yes, Your Excellency.
• Wulf: Stay or go. I care not.

Simine scrambled to his feet and ran past Celestine, who had been watching to see if any other guards tried to intervene.

The farmer witnessed the confrontation and looked unsure. He probably has no idea what The Voice is. I signalled to the squad, and they stayed back while I spoke to him.

As I approached the farmer, I noticed a table with a bowl of congealed stew, probably the farmer’s supper. Also on the table was a Shrine of Stendarr.

“Relax, good farmer. I am Envoy Wulf. May I ask your name?”

“Lonel Ren, Sir. Farmer Lonel, when not being addressed as ‘serf,’ Sir.”

“I have been sent to Evermore by His Imperial Majesty, Emperor Titus Mede II, to investigate reported problems in Evermore. Lady Mara also requested I come here, for she loves all mortals and is saddened by the state of this kingdom.”

“We pray to Mother and Lord Stendarr, yet nothing changes.”

“The Nine rely on mortal agents to do their bidding. I am one of their agents. They asked me to save the world from Alduin, and I did that.”

“Then we all owe our lives to you.”

“Alduin was going to enslave everybody, not kill them.”

“Oh.”

“I want to avoid bloodshed and am not beholden to a lord like that guard is. Would you like to avoid bloodshed, Farmer Lonel?”

“Yes, we all want peace. That is why I risked so much to speak to that guard. If things do not change, there will be an uprising, and we will be slaughtered. But only enough of us butchered to make a point like twenty years ago. They would still need fit and healthy serfs to do all the hard work so nobles could enjoy multiple courses at supper time. I am not patriotic for wanting a loaf of bread for my family.”

“I will not ask questions about who might be planning this uprising. I need you to ask them to be patient. They must wait and see what we can achieve before taking action.”

“It is hard to reason with starving people.”

“Then we shall prevent them from starving. You heard me tell Guard Simine that we would provide gifts to the farmers. I shall summon my flying ship that has tons of stores aboard. Knight Dhali shall talk to you and provide what is needed for all the families in Forlorn for the next two weeks.”

“A flying ship?”

“Yes, Farmer Lonel. I have access to many resources. Before I summon it, I have some questions about enslaved girls. Do you know Farmer Montitte?”

“I did. Lord Mortifayne was upset that Montitte attracted the attention of The Penitus Oculatus. Montitte did not survive the punishment.”

“Do you know why The Penitus Oculatus investigated Farmer Montitte?”

“He enslaved two young girls and used them to help on his farm.”

“Forlorn farmers enslaved six girls in total. Tell me the truth, Farmer Lorel, did you have enslaved girls on this farm?”

“No. We are enslaved, but the nobles call it serfdom. I cannot imagine inflicting the same existence on another.”

“We only recovered four of those girls. Two of them now live with me. We assume the missing two died when trying to return to Skyrim.”

“I am sad to hear that. I hope the four recover from the ordeal.”

“All four girls were untouched by their captors. That makes their recovery easier, but enslavement leaves its mark, as does serfdom.”

“Were you truly sent here by The Nine?”

“One of my titles is Champion of the Divines. My fellow knights and I have dedicated our lives to helping the mortals of Nirn. We do not differentiate between race, religion, country, or social class. Now, watch as I summon my airship. And before you speak to her, Knight Dhali and the knights accompanying her are not Khajiiti. They Ka’Po’Tun from Akavir.”

I placed a Temporary Beacon and used it to summon the airship. A minute later, it emerged from the ether. A ladder was lowered, and Dhali climbed down.

My squad came to meet her as Farmer Lonel looked on.

• Dhali: This place looks a bit soggy.
• Wulf: It is called Forlorn. Floods have recently inundated much of it.
• Lydia: The farmers were not well off before the floods. Now, they are starving and cannot expect help from Evermore’s nobles.
• Dhali: You thought this might occur. That is why you had us prepare a cargo of common foods and goods.
• Wulf: Yes. What Sarah told us and our research hinted at the possibility.
• Dhali: Who do I need to talk to?
• Wulf: The wide-eyed and stunned gentleman watching is Farmer Lonel. I said we would provide whatever was needed to sustain the residents of Forlorn for two weeks. He is a devotee of Lord Stendarr and can be trusted.
• Dhali: Okay. The longer we linger, the more likely we will attract unwanted attention. I will speak to Farmer Lonel and set things in motion.

We watched Dhali introduce herself to Lonel. She soon had him relaxed and confident, so it was time for us to leave them be.

A large statue of Lady Mara caught my attention. I could also see Grey Belmor in the distance. So, curiosity demanded I have a gander.

The statue was wood covered in gold paint. When new, it would fool many into thinking it was solid gold.

Magelight shone down on the statue. It is a simple spell that needs to be renewed several times daily.

On a stone table near the statue was an inactive Shrine of Mara. Around it were expensive items of jewellery, well-made weapons, pieces of armour, and simple produce likely from starving farmers.

I asked, “Sarah, does Lord Mortifayne or his priest claim these donations?”

“I cannot be sure, but I doubt any noble would claim what is considered property of the Priest Circle.”

I used Zoom Vision to study the outside of Grey Belmor.

• Wulf: The undead outside of Grey Belmor are surrounded by a miasma.
• Celestine: That suggests the magic used by the Orsimer Shamans is still active.
• Wulf: It seems Mados oversaw Legionnaires and Evermorin troops. The undead wear remnants of both types of armour.
• Ghorbash: That would be unacceptable now. In Mados’ time, there was greater trust between King Sigmayne and Imperial commanders.
• Sarah: Now that animal hires rapists and murderers to protect Evermore. The Ustase are beyond degenerate.
• Lydia: Simultaneously, he decries the brutality of Witchmen and Orsinium’s Sons.
• Wulf: King Sigmayne is a problem for another day. Let us enter Arnima and see what delights it holds.
• Sarah: Prepare to be disappointed.

The main entrance to Arnima was recently breached. Instead of replacing the stone with stone, half the entrance was wooden.

We entered to find Lisrier arguing with two guards.

• Lisrier: You cannot keep it all, Guard Quentin. That is my earnings for the season. Listen, I can treat you lads to a round of ale at the inn if you just let me take back half my stuff. That is a good compromise, right, boys?
• Quentin: I can and will keep it all. Why is it always Evermore and never Arnima that you care about? Is gold more important than blood? No, we are keeping the whole lot of it.
• Gaering: Besides, the inn stopped selling quality ale a while ago. They serve nothing but piss pints now.
• Quentin: It has been ages since we have had a good drink. We could probably buy a whole fortnight’s worth of rum on your behalf, Merchant Lisrier. Those rich bitches in Evermore will have to wait for their next batch of fancy jewellery.
• Lisrier: I could bring a few barrels of good ale with my next visit, Guard Gaering. However, to do that, I must be able to keep trading.
• Gaering: Hear, now we are a generous lot, so take your horse and those rags you are wearing and leave. This situation is only temporary, so do not feel too glum.
• Quentin: Yeah, bugger off before we get ol’ Morty involved.
• Lisrier: Word spreads, lads. Do not be surprised when us men of coin stop appearing.
• Wulf: Relax, Merchant Lisrier. I am positive the guards are only keeping your cart and goods temporarily.
• Quentin: Who are you? His lover? We are doing our duty by ensuring no munitions for our enemies are in the cart. The rest of it may be distributed to the people of Arnima to help relieve their suffering. We are doing a good thing.
• Gaering: That is Envoy Wulf, The Dragonborn, you idiot. Simine warned us about him a few minutes ago. Remember how he threatened to kill rude bastards?
• Wulf: You know that there is nothing but jewels in that small chest. I checked during our trip over the mountains. Merchant Lisrier has already sold the equipment we left in the back of his wagon.
• Lisrier: Lord Aurane?
• Wulf: I told you we were not what we seemed. I shall explain later.
• Lisrier: That should be interesting.
• Wulf: Making life difficult for traders is causing severe problems between ol’ Morty and the other nobles. Also, fewer coins will flow into Arnima. So, if you do not want increased poverty, you will return everything to its rightful owner.
• Quentin: Merchant Lisrier is free to leave with all his stuff. Gods know this town does not need more enemies.
• Gaering: We are both quite attached to our heads and would like it to stay that way. With you and ol’ Monty being chop happy, a merchants’ best profit in Arnima is found in metal spikes for the severed heads and sharpening stones for the headsman’s axes.
• Lisrier: Lord Aurane, you have put your neck on the line for me once again, and all I can offer is my thanks.
• Wulf: Lisrier, I am Ser Wulf Welkynd, Dragonborn and Champion of the Divines. Please wait for us outside.
• Lisrier: Okay, I will take Jenna and wait for you just outside the gates. I will collect my wagon and stuff later.
• Wulf: And all Merchant Lisrier’s stuff will be waiting for him, I trust, Guards Gaering and Quentin.
• Gaering: Yes!
• Quentin: We would not have it any other way!

As Lisrier led Jenna outside, I continued my discussion with the guards.

• Wulf: Guard Simine did not empathise with Farmer Lonel’s predicament. Arnima’s guards have earned a reputation for being heartless, drunken bullies. I would like to believe you are concerned about the poverty of Arnima and its citizens, but that seems counter to the evidence.
• Quentin: Envoy Wulf, you will find us tight-lipped and hesitant to accept or place blame. Investigate further, and you will understand what we used to be and what we desire to be again.
• Gaering: Lord Mortifayne is not what he once was, nor is Arnima. The guards suffer along with the citizens. However, we get three meals daily, more than what can be said for people like Farmer Lonel. Simine was merely obeying orders, and the brutal manner is how we get the results ol’ Monty demands. If you fail an order, your three meals are removed along with your head.
• Lydia: What made Lord Mortifayne change?
• Quentin: Nobody knows. He started slowly with increased whippings and more people being placed in stocks for public humiliation. Then ol’ Morty suddenly switched to the infamous Arnima brutality. He had to bring in unique individuals who could follow his orders. Many guards lost their lives for refusing to do so.
• Gaering: So, you see, Envoy Wulf, that we are willing to risk our necks telling you these things. But if ol’ Monty asks us to do something that tests our faith in The Nine, we survivors would probably obey and worry about our souls later. The martyrs are already dead.
• Wulf: I thank you both for your honesty. I now have a better understanding of the situation.
• Quentin: Envoy Wulf, we sincerely hope you can stop the violence that threatens to explode all over this kingdom, our home.
• Wulf: I swear on The Nine that we will try our hardest. These are some of the Knights of The Order of the Dragon, and together, we have accomplished much, including the defeat of Ulfric Stormcloak and Alduin.
• Gaering: Are you responsible for that floating ship above Forlorn?
• Wulf: Yes. It is provisioning the people of Forlorn so they are no longer starving. Such charity fulfils Lord Stendarr’s Command and prevents desperate people from rebelling. If I find the people of Arnima are equally as desperate, I can arrange the same. However, Lord Mortifayne will need to be consulted first.

We exited the main gate and found Lisrier conversing with Jenna, his horse.

When approached, he waited for me to speak.

• Wulf: Merchant Lisrier, I am Sir Wulf Welkynd, Champion of The Divines and Dragonborn. I have many titles, but I am here as His Imperial Majesty’s Envoy. Lady Mara also requested that I visit Evermore to see if I could reduce the tensions and aid the people.
• Lisrier: You entered Evermore in disguise to catch people of interest off guard. I can understand that.
• Wulf: You must recognise the potential for chaos within this kingdom. One of the guards suggested that you lived in Arnima, so you also know it is not what it once was.
• Lisrier: I was content being a trader who only left home to open his shop and go to the inn for a few ales with friends. When the seemingly random executions and violence got to a certain point, being a travelling merchant seemed the better prospect.
• Wulf: Do you truly believe in The Nine?
• Lisrier: You have no choice in Evermore. But on my travels, I have discovered that the teachings of our Priest Circle are at odds with those in Skyrim and Cyrodiil. My faith has waned as I wonder who is telling the truth. Are we commoners of less importance to The Nine than nobility? Are we supposed to obey nobles because our gods placed them above us?
• Wulf: Saint Alessia was born enslaved and became Empress. Tiber Septim was a soldier who became Emperor.
• Sarah: I am an Acolyte of Mara. I can assure you that The Nine make no mortals a noble. Historically, many commoners have been promoted to the highest ranks of nobility. It is obvious they were not born to rule but earned that burden.
• Lisrier: Sarah? Even with that outfit, I should have recognised you. But I must ask, what burden? Is it the weight of the gold they carry or the meals they consume?
• Sarah: The burden of responsibility. Ensuring your citizens are safe, employed, and well-fed is no easy task. Being more concerned for your citizens than your wealth and prestige is the nobility that The Nine desire.
• Wulf: If you want to renew your faith in The Nine, obey their Ten Commands. Bring in goods that aid the citizens, not make nobles glitter. There is still profit to be made. You must decide what is more important. Is it your eternal soul or piles of gold you cannot take into the afterlife? Thus ends my sermon. I wish you the best, Merchant Lisrier.

We entered Arnima again and stopped to have a better look. Whatever ol’ Monty was doing with the money wrenched from starving peasants and honest merchants, it was not being spent on maintenance. Much of Arnima had a tired, worn-out look. Rat and Skeever roamed the streets. We could see no sign of domesticated dogs and cats. They are usually the first things to vanish when citizens are starving. Horses and children follow if those sources of protein are extinct.

A statue of Father caught my eye, so we looked closer at it.

It was well maintained. I do not know whether it was by city employees or devout citizens. However, there was no shrine accompanying it.

Further up the steps was a statue of a griffon.

• Lydia: The griffon’s placement is higher than Lord Talos’. Do you think that is a reference to their importance to Lord Mortifayne?
• Wulf: They may have been here and in that position longer than he has been the ruling noble.
• Ghorbash: What is it with these people and the lion chickens?
• Wulf: If you want to start a riot, just call a gryphon a lion chicken to a citizen of Evermore.
• Ghorbash: Well, why do they revere them so much?
• Wulf: I honestly do not know. The Altmer respect them, and Summerset Isle is where most of them live. But they are among the most unpredictable species and are more cunning than intelligent. Many Altmer died when futile attempts to domesticate them failed. Eventually, a few were tamed enough to serve beside Altmer in battle. I have certainly not read anything indicating they have the capability of speech. But The Griffon is a Daedric Prince’s minion, so who knows what changes were made.

We climbed to a high vantage point and studied Arnima for a few minutes.

• Lydia: Parts of it looks well-maintained and clean. Other parts are decrepit and rundown.
• Celestine: That is especially true of the roofs. Whether shingle or straw, their condition varies greatly.
• Wulf: Governor Frumpy did not tell us where we could find Jackos. I do not think asking a guard for directions is in his best interest.
• Sarah: No, it would not. The paranoia is extreme here, and snitches are on every corner.
• Wulf: When we find him, we should ask if a task needs doing.
• Celestine: If we did a task for Jackos, that might squash any concerns about why we spoke to him.
• Lydia: Ol’ Morty might be more friendly towards us if it was a dangerous or difficult task.
• Wulf: Okay, we shall try to find him. Tell me if you see somebody who looks like a Jackos.
• Lydia: I see somebody! He is an Orsimer in the armour of an Imperial Knight.
• Celestine: Wulf said Jackos, not jackass.
• Ghorbash: Hey!

During our search for Jackos, we heard jeering and name-calling. It was the sound of a crowd baying for blood at an execution. We rushed over to see what was happening and quickly climbed onto a platform. A prisoner was being readied for his beheading. An Arnimain Guard addressed the crowd.

Let this be a warning to all those tempted to steal from nobility!

• Harnold: You lord is insane, Dorard, and you sons of bitches are doing me a favour! At least I will not have to suffer in this shithole any longer.
• Dorard: You should have kept your hands to yourself, Harnold.
• Harnold: You should listen to three children crying from starvation and say the same. To think you were my man of honour when I married Amalette. You cried at her funeral last month and swore to help me look after my children. You and all the other Mortifayne sycophants should feel enormous shame for what you have become.
• Dorard: We all do what we must to survive.
• Wulf: In the name of His Imperial Majesty, I order you to halt this execution!
• Flordand: Oh, look, some more spectators. Show some courage, Harnold. Put your head where it belongs.
• Dorard: We obey Lord Mortifayne, not foreigners.

Harnold knelt and placed his head on the block.

I Shouted the first Word of the Ice From Shout. Dorard collapsed, encased in ice. He would remain immobile for a few minutes but not suffer any harm.

I then used my Thu’um to enforce my authority.

“I AM ENVOY WULF WELKYND, THE DRAGONBORN. DISPERSE! THIS FARCE IS OVER!”

The crowd, who had been calling Harnold names with voices full of venom, went silent. Then we heard whispers of the type, “That was the Voice!” and “I told you The Dragonborn was in Evermore, I heard a guard say so.”

As the crowd dispersed, I said, “Move back, Harnold. Guard Flordand, I advise you to leave my sight before your head is on the block!”

Flordand quickly left. He would be a fool to involve other guards, but the squad kept watch in case he did.

“Knight Ghorbash, make sure if Harnold thaws before I have finished, he doesn’t go anywhere.”

Ghorbash moved into position.

As I approached Dorard, I retrieved parchment and quill from my Journal Case. The poor bloke looked dazed by the turn of events. I do not blame him.

• Wulf: What is your name, prisoner?
• Harnold: Ah, Harnold Georlle, Sir.
• Wulf: I am Envoy Wulf. You are to address me as Excellency or Your Excellency.
• Harnold: Oh, okay, um… Your Excellency.
• Wulf: Are you a resident of Arnima?
• Harnold: I live in Forlorn. Well, I did until the floods destroyed my home and drowned my crops.
• Wulf: And you recently lost your wife?
• Harnold: Yes, Your Excellency, to the affliction sweeping the kingdom.
• Wulf: What is the name and age of your eldest child?
• Harnold: Amalette, she is seven on her next name day, which is in a few weeks.
• Wulf: Named after your wife?
• Harnold: Yes, Your Excellency. She has her eyes and hair. Everybody says she will become as beautiful as my wife. Well, that was before her ribs started to protrude, her belly bloat, and her limbs became like sticks.
• Wulf: And the names and ages of the other two?
• Harnold: My eldest boy, Fraard, recently turned five. My little boy, Noleeus, is barely three years of age.
• Wulf: What horrendous crime earned you a trip to the headsman’s block, Farmer Harnold?
• Harnold: I stole a couple of sausages and a loaf of bread, Excellency.
• Wulf: What is the name of the frozen guard?
• Harnold: Dorard Gaerin.
• Wulf: Guard Dorard said you stole from the nobility. Is that true?
• Harnold: No, I stole food from a trader who has no shame paying a pittance to farmers for their produce and then charging ten times the cost for the same farmers to repurchase it. Other traders are ashamed, but not that bastard! But please, do not ask his name, for he has done nothing wrong according to the laws of Lord Mortifayne.
• Wulf: Why were you accused of stealing from a noble? Is this unnamed trader a noble?
• Harnold: The traders pay taxes to Lord Mortifayne. If they have fewer goods to sell, they make less income and pay less tax. By stealing, I cost the trader a septim or two less profit. That, in turn, would result in a fraction of a septim less tax owed and paid to Lord Mortifayne. Therefore, I have stolen from Lord Mortifayne, who was born noble and has never had an empty stomach.
• Wulf: Look at me and answer truthfully. Have you stolen food before?
• Harnold: No, Your Excellency, I swear. The farmers have been looking out for each other. But Lord Mortifayne demanded even more tax from the farmers, and charity was no longer possible.
• Lydia: Several guards look this way as Flordand speaks to them.
• Celestine: If they get too close, I shall put a fire barrier before them.
• Wulf: Did you go to trial, Farmer Harnold?
• Harnold: Trials are things of the past and were rarely needed. Once, not long ago, all the people of Forlorn and Arnima were clothed and living with roofs over their heads. Lessons were learned twenty years ago, and an effort was made to keep us happy. Forlorn farmers kept plenty of food, and neither they nor their children starved. Trials were held for every breach of the law, including minor infractions, but few were needed, and they were a novelty. Nowadays, all an execution needs to proceed with is an accusation from a guard. Lord Mortifayne does not even sign the execution orders anymore.
• Wulf: Was Lord Mortifayne informed of your arrest and charges?
• Harnold: No. The guards do not bother him with such trivial matters.
• Wulf: Then I, as His Imperial Majesty’s Envoy, find your conviction invalid and the proposed punishment immeasurable excessive.
• Harnold: Bless you, Your Excellency.
• Wulf: Thank The Divines, for they sent me to help the people of Evermore. Please wait while I write my findings on this matter and organise your pardon and compensation.

Harnold watched with renewed hope as I wrote the various documents.

• Wulf: Farmer Harnold, I could not arrange a royal seal before arriving in Evermore. But my signature suffices and makes this exoneration a legally binding document. You are acquitted of all crimes. You were falsely charged with theft from a noble and not provided a trial as required under Imperial Law for capital punishment cases. You are immune from further prosecution and, theoretically, should be left alone by Lord Mortifayne and the guards. However, I can transport you and your children to Skyrim if you choose.
• Harnold: I am unwilling to leave my country of birth, Your Excellency. But I cannot watch my children starve. I will either be caught stealing again or join a rebellion.
• Wulf: As we speak, some of my fellow knights deliver two weeks of food and provisions for all Forlorn residents to Farmer Lonel for distribution. This delivery is possible due to my flying airship. If you want to leave Evermore, that airship can take you to one of my estates.
• Harnold: Farmer Lonel agreed to house my children when we both expected me to die today. I will live with him and help with his farm until mine is no longer underwater or I get allocated new land.
• Wulf: I understand. Take this bag of one hundred septims and let me get some clothes for you.

The already bemused Harnold shook his head in disbelief as I stuck my head in my Journal Case and rummaged through a pile of clothes. I decided to give him an expensive outfit from Cyrodiil and pretend I had no choice.

Harnold took the clothes off me and stared at them.

• Wulf: I am sorry I couldn’t find something more suitable for farm work. With the compensation, I am sure you can purchase something suitable.
• Harnold: I have never owned such fine clothing!
• Ghorbash: Envoy Wulf. Our happy headsman is on his feet. He is okay but a bit frosty.
• Wulf: Please ensure he does not tumble off the platform, Knight Ghorbash.
• Harnold: What is going to happen to Dorard?
• Wulf: That depends on his excuse and honesty. He may be as much a victim of circumstance as you.
• Harnold: He is a good man, Your Excellency.
• Wulf: Are you wearing undergarments?
• Harnold: Ahh, yes. I almost soiled them, though!
• Wulf: Then dress in the clothes I gifted you while I talk to Dorard.

I walked up to the shivering Dorard. To his credit, he met me eye to eye.

• Wulf: Guard Dorard, was Lord Mortifayne informed of Harnold’s alleged crime?
• Dorard: No, my Lord.
• Sarah: You are speaking to a Royal Envoy. Address him as Excellency or Your Excellency.
• Dorard: No, Your Excellency. We do not like to disturb Lord Mortifayne.
• Wulf: There are times when discretion can be used. If ol’ Monty did not know about your friend’s alleged theft, why did you try and kill him?
• Dorard: Other guards thought they saw me catch him in the Forlorn market. What they witnessed was me noticing the theft and trying to warn Harnold. One of Arnima’s knights was amongst those who witnessed the clumsy theft and came running over. He congratulated me on capturing the ‘thieving mongrel’ and ordered me to execute Harnold. I played the game from then on, or I would have ended up with my head rolling next to Harnold’s. I have a wife who is heavily pregnant with our first. What choice did I have, Your Excellency? Please tell me as I cannot think of one.
• Wulf: There are times and places to risk all, and this was not one. The Divines do not expect mindless sacrifice. You are free to go.
• Dorard: Now I will die! There is no excuse for disobeying one of Lord Mortifayne’s knights. The two of them are not even natives of Evermore or even High Rock. They are thugs brought in and paid ten times my wage because they will do whatever is commanded. I think they would do it without pay because they enjoy it. Sadistic bastards, they are!
• Sarah: That is Mek and Sek. The twin brothers I told you about, Your Excellency.
• Dorard: I think their mother was a giantess by their size. They are not Breton, but nobody knows their origin for sure. They were mercenaries until their actions at Munstor brought them to Lord Mortifayne’s notice. He hired them sometime after. They are his enforcers. You know that torture and death are part of your immediate future if they are sent after you.
• Wulf: Are they sworn knights, and if so, from what order?
• Dorard: They might have uttered knightly oaths as dark as their armour to Lord Mortifayne. But they use two-handed hammers and no shield with a coat of arms, so I do not know. When somebody towers over you by more than a foot and tells you he is a knight, you nod and tell them how wonderful that is.
• Wulf: Do you think they will harm you?
• Dorard: Without a doubt.
• Wulf: Where can we find these them?
• Dorard: On the stairway, past the griffon monument. Please do not ask me how you tell them apart, for I do not know. That is a game they like to play. Address them by the wrong name and get a backhand.
• Ghorbash: Will we talk with large, violent men in full plate armour?
• Wulf: Knight Ghorbash, do not get your hopes up. They might not fight us.
• Dorard: They will attack as soon as they see an orc. His uniform will make no difference.
• Ghorbash: Should I shout, ‘TIMBER!’ when I cut them down?
• Wulf: I shall warn them that you and Flordand are guilty only of obeying my orders. I am of noble rank many levels higher than ol’ Monty on the ‘who’s arse should I kiss’ scale.
• Dorard: I will not run away but continue my duty. I must do so for my wife and child.
• Lydia: You seem a good man, Guard Dorard.
• Dorard: I could claim that to be the case once, and perhaps I will be able to do so again one day.
• Wulf: On your way, Guard Dorard. We will visit the knights and let them know the new rules of Arnima.

As he ran past Harnold, I saw a nod pass between them. I would not be surprised if Harnold invited his executioner to dinner soon.

I stood before the smiling Harnold and told him, “Go and hug your children, Farmer Harnold. I am a physician, and it would be remiss not to advise you. After being deprived of a good meal for some time, gluttony can lead to death. Feed them small meals until their stomachs are no longer extended.”

“We have witnessed that happen, Your Excellency. We have endured cycles of plenty and starvation at the whim of Lord Mortifayne.”

“Divines bless you and the people of Forlorn. Now, off you go.”

Harnold walked away with a spring in his step. He passed several guards, who said nothing to him.

I told the group, “I think it is time we spoke to the twin mountains.”

As we made our way to the steps, we reminded ourselves of the depravity Lord Mortifayne encourages.

At the bottom of the stairs, I told the squad to wait until I summoned them with a whistle. If they did not feel threatened, I had a better chance of getting information from Mek and Sek.

At the top of the stairs were two tents with beds but no other furniture.

One twin was heading to the palace entrance. Another was sitting at a table.

I hurried to the one walking and said, “Excuse me, Sir Knight, I wish to speak to you.”

He turned to face me, and I was the short one for once!

• Wulf: Good morning, Sir Knight. I am Sir Wulf Welkynd, Envoy of His Imperial Majesty, Emperor Titus Mede II.
• Sek: You are the ones stirring up trouble with our guards and making them piss their pants. It is a good trick but not amusing. I suggest you voluntarily stop before our Lord asks us to stop you.
• Wulf: Are you Sek or Mek?
• Sek: Guess.
• Wulf: Tell me your name. You have until I count to three.
• Sek: This will be amusing.
• Wulf: One…
• Sek: Aren’t you supposed to draw your little sword and scare me?
• Wulf: Two…
• Sek: Oh no! Only one to go! What shall I do?

I shoved the knight hard, which made him lose his footing. He fell backwards, landed with a clang, and his two-handed hammer dislodged, then slid along the ground.

I drew my sword and pointed it at the head of the prone knight.

His brother had moved to stand behind me but did not approach within striking range.

• Wulf: Three.
• Sek: You cheated!
• Wulf: This sword had taken the lives of many dragons. It will cut through that shitty armour of yours and remove your head as if you were naked. You refused to answer a question I asked. That is tantamount to denying His Imperial Majesty. That is enough to get you jailed for a long time. Then you made a threat to an Envoy, which is a threat to His Imperial Majesty under the laws of the Imperial Empire. What is your name? I would hate to have the wrong one engraved on your headstone.
• Sek: My name is Sek, and I advise you to let me live if you want to avoid a disaster.
• Wulf: Leave your hammer where it lies and stand with your brother, Knight Sek.

I whistled, which was the signal for my squad to join me.

Ghorbash and I faced the twins. Celestine and Lydia stood to my left. Sarah stood to my right and watched in case trouble came up the stairs.

• Wulf: Knight Sek, explain what disaster you refer to.
• Sek: Lord Mortifayne will unleash dark magic upon this city. Mek and I are the only ones to whom he listens. We are the ones who have stayed his hand. He listens because we have helped perpetrate the depravity that appeases his insanity. Perhaps you can find a solution to the problem. However, I strongly advise that an attack upon him or this city will result in disaster. That is what the other nobles will eventually do now that the merchants are being targeted.
• Celestine: I believe he speaks the truth.
• Ghorbash: As do I.
• Sek: I admire your courage, Orc. Most would use a full helm and hide what they are.
• Ghorbash: Does that work for you and your brother? No, I can still tell you are both cowardly pieces of shit despite the helms you wear.
• Wulf: I want you two to assure Lord Mortifayne that I am not here to remove him from office but am investigating the unwarranted attacks upon his reputation. Advise him to be patient while I do so.
• Sek: Lord Mortifayne has been fascinated by you since he was told about your recent actions in Forlorn. First, you tackled the corsairs. A little later, you aided a farmer with a flying ship. He laughed when we reported your threat to kill rude guards. I was on my way to report the interrupted execution.
• Mek: We shall tell him that lie, and he will believe it. We will do so because we do not want Evermore reduced to a pile of ashes.
• Wulf: It is not a lie. I must believe you are sincere about Lord Mortifayne’s intentions and capability. So, for now, I will continue my investigations and not allow him to be threatened with removal or armed conflict.
• Sek: Then let us return to our duties. We might have to start filling the dungeons full of miscreants instead of summary executions. Will that stop actions that may make Lord Mortifayne a little more anxious each time?
• Wulf: I will stop violence against the innocent. But this bullying can be put aside for now. I think it has served its purpose.
• Lydia: Your Excellency, the execution.
• Sek: We know what happened. We will not bother Flordand or Dorard or the unfortunate farmer.
• Wulf: Have you anything to add, Sir Mek?
• Mek: Your Excellency, Sek’s and my souls are darkened for eternity. But you are wise to listen to Sek’s council. The threat is real. We are soldiers and do not understand the wickedness that controls Lord Mortifayne. We know who you are and who you represent. We want you to stop all of this.
• Wulf: Then do as I ask and reassure Lord Mortifayne that I am not another threat but the opposite.
• Mek: We will.

We continued our interrupted search for Jackos while ignoring citizens and guards staring, whispering, and pointing.

As we walked towards a man leaning against a well, he stood and gestured with his head that he wanted to talk to us.

I noticed he picked a place where a building would shield our conversation from prying eyes.

• Jackos: I am Jackos. I keep my ear to the ground so I know who you are, Envoy Wulf. Tell me, what do you think of Arnima?
• Wulf: I can see it was once a place that citizens proudly called home. But now, despite excessive taxes being collected by its lord, it has fallen on hard times.
• Jackos: Oh, the sheer state this town must be in for a newcomer to notice. Or were the rampant Skeever and rats a giveaway?
• Wulf: The health and welfare of the people concern me more than the buildings.
• Jackos: If you are willing to stay a while longer, then you will come to witness that some of us retain our civility. Do not judge a book by its cover, they say. I wish that were utterly true in our case.
• Wulf: I am in Evermore to investigate the problems plaguing the kingdom and hopefully find peaceful resolutions. A frumpy friend of yours said you might need some help.
• Jackos: Usually, I warn her spies that they could find themselves on the end of a rope or worse. But I do not suppose that is a concern to you.
• Wulf: No, it is not. Even if I was not an Envoy with Diplomatic Immunity, I could stick my nose in ol’ Monty’s business for as long as I wanted, and he would not know. I have deliberately been noisy. I want people to tell others we are here and what we are doing.
• Lydia: I think the airship floating over Forlorn and Sir Wulf’s use of The Voice prove that.
• Wulf: If you have kept your ear to the ground and know of our accomplishments, you would realise there are not enough guards in Arnima to survive a confrontation with us.
• Jackos: I am unlike others who bury their heads in the sand and pretend the rest of Nirn does not exist. I keep up with the news and know some of your accomplishments, but I am sure not all. You could tear this place apart.
• Wulf: But I will not. That is what I am trying to avoid.
• Ghorbash: Jackos is asking the right questions. He is careful and knowledgeable.
• Jackos: That is how I have survived so far.
• Wulf: What about Governor Frumpy?
• Jackos: Tell her that a helping hand is more than welcome. She will get the gist. Take this letter as well. The seal is supposed to keep prying fingers out, so she will know if you start sticking your nose in.

Jackos handed me a letter. I immediately broke the seal and read it.

• Lydia: Naughty Sir Wulf, the Governor might have to spank you.
• Wulf: Please forgive Knight Lydia. She has not been the same since fighting beside me against Alduin.
• Jackos: You are Lydia of The Dragonguard.
• Lydia: No longer, Jackos. His Imperial Majesty resurrected The Order of the Dragon, of which we are now members.
• Wulf: The Dragonguard are now Knights of that order. It was a political move by His Imperial Majesty, but one we are proud of, for the order was created by Emperor Tiber Septim.
• Jackos: Just in time for your trip to Evermore, where knights are revered.
• Wulf: Purely coincidence.
• Jackos: And I am Mek and Sek’s younger sister.
• Sarah: I thought I saw a resemblance.
• Wulf: Are the twins stealing your scouts?
• Jackos: They are trying to. Unlike the Arnimain Guards, most of my troops have yet to cross to the dark side.
• Wulf: I assume ol’ Morty’s spy network is so good that nobody in Arnima dares hint at a plot.
• Jackos: Yes. Plans tend to be outed upon leaving a person’s lips here. There are ears all around town eager to earn an extra septim for themselves by getting on the lord’s good side. Besides, our hands are ultimately tied through forces beyond Mortifayne.
• Wulf: What forces?
• Jackos: There is a more significant fear among the royalty in the province for uppity peasants than mad tyrants. We do not want to be setting any precedents with our unruliness now.
• Wulf: After the defeat of Ulfric, His Imperial Majesty is no longer hesitant to interfere in High Rock. His priority, as is mine, is the safety of Evermore’s people. Several Imperial Legions are ready to cross into Evermore, and, unlike Munstor twenty years ago, the serfs would not become victims of false nobles protecting their revenue.
• Jackos: Ask the Governor about Munstor. I guarantee you do not know the whole story. She is one of the few nobles who will even talk about it and knows the truth of that tragic event.
• Wulf: I will. The Witchmen have been active near The Divide. I take it that until now, they were mainly a problem in the north. What do you think they hope to achieve?
• Jackos: That is the question on everyone’s lips. Abandon any hope of reasoning with those savages. Trying to understand them will earn you a dung-covered arrow in the gut. They damn wiped out nigh eight-tenths of the men I have sent their way. Either maddening sorcery or toxic weaponry felled all. The other two-tenths returned with missing limbs or sanity.
• Wulf: How insane are they?
• Jackos: It is as if their brains were knocked clean out of their skulls. They are raving mad and regurgitating the exact strange words that those fanatics vomit from their black lungs.
• Wulf: How many Witchmen are there?
• Jackos: You do not know, do you?
• Wulf: There are many things I do not know despite the assistance of gods and excellent scouts. So, enlighten me.
• Jackos: How does such a force as destructive and incoherent as the Witchmen maintain their numbers? It is not because they breed like rabbits, although that plays a role. Their numbers are increasing as many of our people defect from all over the kingdom.
• Wulf: Is it the people who return uttering the strange words that join the Witchmen?
• Jackos: Yes. The dark prose seems lodged between their ears and messes with their thoughts.
• Celestine: I am a healer. Can you describe how these people who join the Witchmen act?
• Jackos: A Breton as well. High Rock, especially Evermore, could use your skills more than Skyrim or Cyrodiil.
• Celestine: Nobody needs my help more than Envoy Wulf. And Nirn needs nobody more than they need Envoy Wulf.
• Jackos: Well said. My apologies for such a rude assumption.
• Celestine: Symptoms?
• Jackos: They are violent and unpredictable. We have made it an unspoken law to exile those affected by this mind poison rather than take them in. Rehabilitation had proven futile.
• Sarah: That is not what Lady Mara asks of her followers.
• Jackos: I recognise you despite the Imperial uniform. You must be one of the scouts His Excellency mentioned.
• Sarah: I am an Acolyte of Lady Mara. She asked me to scout for Envoy Wulf. Lady Mara asked him to try to resolve Evermore’s problems.
• Jackos: Making the deranged exiles is a cold and heartless measure. And cold begets cold, with the whole land freezing in its misery. The other exiles, who are various criminals of mixed severity, seem to accept their new insane companions.
• Wulf: I assure you, Jackos, that we will endeavour to prevent further misery and return Evermore to a peaceful kingdom.
• Jackos: Our only ally has been time as we wait for the lord to pass on. Hopefully, he will then be replaced by a more just ruler. However, knowing The Reach, this hope is based on fantasy.
• Wulf: But now you have an ally with more power than Governor Marosa, Lord Mortifayne, and King Sigmayne.
• Jackos: You could take direct action with the authority you carry. Is there a reason you hesitate in doing so?
• Wulf: There is a far greater danger than you or the nobility realise. Lady Mara would not send me here to deal with a single tyrant of a single city. What Mortifayne is doing endangers the whole of Nirn. I must gather proof of what that is before he is pushed too far.
• Jackos: Then I hope you find a solution quickly. Governor Marosa will not wait much longer before drastically moving against Mortifayne.
• Wulf: The twin mountains said Lord Mortifayne is watching me closely. Before I meet with him, I think we should display our willingness to aid Arnima. We noticed the corsairs had destroyed part of Forlorn that was not taken by the rising waters. We killed the frontline sentries but hesitated to proceed as we did not know their positions and numbers.
• Jackos: We can discuss the Reds in a minute. First, though, there is an encampment of Exiles and bandits nearby. I need somebody to scout them out and seek evidence of collusion with our guards. They may be dealing in Skooma or other drugs.
• Wulf: Easy enough. Mark the camp on my map.

Jackos marked my map and returned it to me.

• Jackos: You can gander at the whole camp on that humble knoll. Just make sure you are discreet with this venture. These Exiles may be dumb, but they are not blind.
• Celestine: His Excellency could assassinate every person in Arnima, and nobody would catch a glimpse of him.
• Jackos: As improbably as that sounds, I believe it is true.
• Wulf: It is true, Jackos. But I will not hide from bandits. We shall approach them with sheathed weapons and let them choose their fate.
• Lydia: If they attack us, they die. Then, we will seek proof of collusion on their bodies and in their tents.
• Jackos: Okay, that will work.
• Wulf: Bandits will not turn up at Arnima’s gates and trigger Mortifayne. Are there any immediate threats?
• Jackos: Yes, the Redguard corsairs you encountered. They have raided up and down the river system after the recent floods. There is a considerable force of them not far from here. I fear they may try raiding the biggest target of them all, Arnima.
• Wulf: Are they all members of the same corsair outfit?
• Jackos: Yes. They call themselves Dragonstar.
• Wulf: Is there any sign that such a raid is imminent?
• Jackos: My scouts have reported a build-up of numbers over the last few days. Nobody knows the name of Dragonstar’s commander, but he has a reputation for daring exploits. Sacking Arnima is the sort of thing his ego would find appealing.
• Wulf: From which direction would they likely approach?
• Jackos: They would almost certainly cross the southern bridge of Forlorn. The only alternative is a long trek to avoid the floodwaters.
• Lydia: That fits in with where we found their frontline sentries.
• Wulf: Tell me what the Dragonstar have been doing since they arrived in Evermore.
• Jackos: These raiders, corsairs, pirates, or whatever you want to call them swarmed our southern mines during the storm that brought the rivers crashing to our walls. Canon had levelled The Bog, and we soon saw the rats feed among the rubble.
• Wulf: They fired Black Powder Crossbow bolts at us.
• Jackos: They use Black Powder because the Reds have impotent minds incapable of handling magic.
• Celestine: My Redguard fiancé is a Master of all Schools of Magicka. Many other master mages within The College of Winterhold are also Redguard.
• Wulf: Cut out the xenophobia, Jackos, or I will save Knights Ghorbash and Celestine the trouble and smash your teeth in myself.
• Jackos: Pardon the jab. It is challenging to deal with this much dung thrown at you from every corner of the land.
• Wulf: There is no excuse, Jackos. The four with me are not the only Knights of The Order of the Dragon who risk their lives to protect the people of Nirn. Amongst them are many different races and religions. They are volunteers, and every racist comment you make is an insult to them.
• Jackos: We know the Dragonstar are preparing to attack and soon. If you hear our horns blowing, we need help.
• Wulf: You will receive help from the Legion and us. Ideally, Dragonstar will not get anywhere near the walls of Arnima. We will not play games with them if they do attack.
• Jackos: I will make myself scarce before my mouth gets me in trouble.

I told my squad, “It is time we introduced ourselves to Commander Drugo. Plus, I want some Legionnaires stationed at the bridge.”

As we headed for Arnima’s exit, we saw an Aventurier Scout practising. I measured his Magicka levels, and they were not high.

• Wulf: I thought all the Aventurier were under Sigmayne’s command.
• Sarah: They were when Evermore invaded Wayrest. Since then, several nobles have integrated them into their guards and scouts.
• Celestine: I have seen apprentices with more, pardon the pun, firepower.
• Wulf: It is enough to set houses on fire and incinerate civilians in the open.
• Celestine: Show him how it is done, Wulf.
• Ghorbash: I love watching Wulf make new friends.

I stood beside the Aventurier and said, “No, no. You are not allowing the Magicka to build before release. Watch.”

I had to reduce my Fireball’s strength, or both scouts would have been engulfed in flames.

As it was, I blew the smithereens out of the practice dummy.

I turned to the Aventurier and said, “Oops! I just realised that was all the Magicka you could summon. How rude of me!”

He replied, “Scoff if you want, but we are good enough to keep the cattle in line. Gods know when and where the next traitorous whore-son will strike. All we can do is keep vigilant and trust the cut of our blades and the devastation of our fire.”

“Are Afflicted cattle? Are they worth no more than a slab of beef? What about the Orsimer who are not Orsinium’s Sons?”

“It sounds like you might be one of the traitors I am talking about. You ought to see what Ranney does to turncoats. He can even make the Witchmen squeal.”

“Congratulations! You are the stupidest of all the people I have met in Evermore.”

“What?”

“How can I be a turncoat when I have not sworn allegiance to Lord Mortifayne?”

“Well…um…”

“My allegiance is to The Imperial Empire and The Nine. I am Sir Wulf Welkynd, The Dragonborn, you moron.”

“Oh…”

“I am terrified, so I beg you to please not send Ranney after me! Alduin could not kill me, but perhaps Ranney is tougher than The World Eater!”

Not only did my friends laugh, but several observers, including other scouts, joined the merriment.

I then turned serious and said, “Listen closely. If I see Aventurier harming Afflicted or innocent Orsimer, I will kill them. I do not care if they are from Arnima, Evermore, or elsewhere. That is not a threat but a guaranteed promise.”

Celestine added, “And before you say Envoy Wulf has no right to do as he says, let me explain. He is an Envoy with complete diplomatic immunity and could roast you here and now without consequence. Therefore, I would shut up before his temper rises further.”

We left the frightened Aventurier and silent witnesses behind. If being a ruthless bastard saves one innocent life, it was worth lowering myself to the Aventurier’s level.

We exited Arnima and headed for Forlorn’s southern bridge. The airship had departed, and an orderly line of people stood before Farmer Lonel’s shed, awaiting a portion of the bounty we provided.

Harnold stood out as his new clothes contrasted with the dull colours of the others. As he handed parcels of food to people with one hand, he had his youngest boy in the crook of his other arm. His older boy and little girl were using all their strength to lift the parcels to their father. All four were smiling, as were those who received the parcels.

Tears came unbidden, and I was not alone.

Celestine sniffled, “That is why we kill and subject ourselves to horrors unimaginable to most.”

Sarah replied, “That scene illustrates Lady Mara’s gift of love more eloquently than any painting or sculpture.”

Lydia was overcome with emotion and could not talk.

Even Ghorbash found he had to clear an annoying tickle in his throat.

We moved on. When we reached the Arnima end of Forlorn’s southern bridge, I placed a Mark.

We then headed for the Legion’s headquarters in Evermore, called The Procul Praesidium Reach. It also houses the Thalmor Embassy.

As we walked, I recited the letter Jackos sent to Marosa.

“M continues to reprimand those who deter his acquisition of trade goods.

M continues to resist counsel from Evermore. Further negotiation on behalf of the town Priest has brought no results.

M has regressed further from duties, only appearing to dispense punishment on those accused by him or the guard.

It is increasingly difficult to control the guards. They answer to the knights, who themselves answer to M.

Incidents:

1: Roughly a fortnight ago, the guard had seen it fit to murder a transient from The Divide, convinced of him being a spy from Merosa. The victim was left hanging and rotting for five days before I ordered him to be buried.

2: I was approached by ‘G.R,’ who was recently wed. He reported that Knight S had insulted his new wife. The husband confronted S and received a skull fracture, three broken ribs, and a dislocated arm as a result. The wife was raped by Knight S, and the husband continues to regress into himself.

3: It was recently discovered that confiscated goods from Merchants are being bartered for substances provided by the Exiles. The guards who were responsible for this illicit trade have been punished accordingly. However, we do not know how long this occurred or the extent. I believe that more of the guards are complicit. I cannot suffer a possible mutiny with hasty accusations.

You have received prior reports detailing similar activity, yet as you can see, the frequency is increasing. All of this is a direct result of M’s rule. Now that the Merchants are being targeted, S will have to intervene.

I hope to hear from you soon.

~J”

• Ghorbash: Please let me cut up Sek when his usefulness ends.
• Lydia: You will have to beat me to it!
• Ghorbash: How about I hold him while you stab him?
• Lydia: You have a deal!
• Wulf: We must stop King Sigmayne from intervening. But we do not have evidence of ol’ Monty’s capacity to destroy Arnima except what two crook knights say and the mumbo jumbo Lady Mara told me.
• Lydia: Can you please repeat what Lady Mara said that makes you think Mortifayne is capable of great destruction?
• Wulf: Lady Mara said, ‘If this horror transpires, then neither the restraints of distance nor time will thwart the canker that will be birthed there. I make this plea to you, Special Child, mediate between opposites and seek resolution in the chaos.’
• Lydia: You surmise that the canker is an Oblivion Gate!
• Wulf: Can you think of anything else that would endanger everyone on Nirn and for all time?
• Sarah: Lady Mara did not tell you this plainly because The Divines need you to probe and ask questions.
• Wulf: Precisely. They have some idea of what is happening. However, we must discover the who, what, where and when of their concerns.
• Lydia: When Boethia planned her Oblivion Gate, many deaths in the Imperial City were needed to open it. ‘The Culling’ as she called it.
• Celestine: But Malacath and The New Order only needed the death of Rigmor due to her royal bloodline and, ahem, intact maidenhood.
• Wulf: Without understanding the metaphysics, we cannot understand how these triggers open an Oblivion Gate. The virginity part seems to be a belief held by those performing the ritual rather than an actual physical requirement. After all, a young boy child of royal blood was supposed to be the sacrifice, not Rigmor, so where was the maidenhead?
• Lydia: What is the trigger in Arnima?
• Wulf: A valid assumption is that the brutality being exercised in Arnima is the trigger for opening an Oblivion Gate there. Some Daedric Princes gain power from the physical and mental suffering of mortals.
• Sarah: Mara, please help us! The severity and rate of brutal acts are increasing, according to Jackos’ letter.
• Lydia: Which means the ability to open the gate is getting closer!
• Wulf: Now you understand why I believe what the twin knights said.
• Lydia: We need proof, but you do not want to walk into Lord Mortifayne’s castle and search for it.
• Wulf: If he is on the edge of triggering this catastrophe, an uninvited visit could trigger his paranoia enough to push him over that metaphorical edge. I want him to invite me in, but I will not wait for more than a day or so.
• Ghorbash: He cannot ignore your presence. He must invite you in to meet him soon.
• Wulf: In the meantime, we must do what we can to stop The Council, Governor Merosa, and King Sigmayne from militarily confronting Lord Mortifayne or performing other actions that may trigger a disastrous response.
• Lydia: What if we fail and an Oblivion Gate is opened?
• Wulf: Then I will enter it and close it as I have done several times before. I would have to destroy or move a Sigil Stone or other anchor to close it.
• Celestine: The Solitude and Morthal Oblivion Gates anchors were soul gems called Black Hearts.
• Lydia: What could pass through from Oblivion?
• Wulf: I do not think the Dark Lord will. If that were the danger, we would not be trying diplomacy. However, many Daedric minions would step through. Daedra of all sorts would swamp Arnima. The regular troops and guards would be slaughtered. All Knights of the Order would be needed to defend the civilians until I can close the gate. I might call upon a couple of dragons as well.
• Lydia: This is a terrifying scenario you are predicting.
• Wulf: We must find the proof and decide what to do from there. If Mortifayne invites us in, we must drop everything else and accept the invite.
• Sarah: Please explain why you will not let others help you in Oblivion.
• Wulf: Two reasons. Firstly, removing or destroying the anchor does not guarantee a return to Nirn. It is more likely that the one closest to the anchor will be returned, but the probability decreases dramatically for other mortals nearby. Secondly, many minions will defend their home. That means my Thu’um is the best offence. Having others around me decreases the effectiveness of The Voice and increases our danger.
• Celestine: Rigmor, Wulf, and I almost died closing the Solitude Oblivion Gate.
• Wulf: I almost died closing the Markarth Oblivion Gate. Anybody accompanying me would have died.
• Sarah: Okay, I understand.
• Celestine: The Daedric minions that streamed into Markarth and Solitude were not numerous enough to conquer those cities. However, we do not know which Daedric Prince Mortifayne obeys. Therefore, we do not know what minions might pour into Arnima.
• Wulf: If I feel that we cannot stop Mortifayne, I shall position squads at strategic places inside Arnima. Guiding civilians into the temple or other stone structures would be our aim. Wooden structures would be death traps.

We reached The Procul Praesidium Reach’s front gates, where a lone sentry saluted me.

“At ease, soldier.”

The sentry dropped his salute.

“I am Envoy Wulf. Is Commander Drugo in residence?”

“Yes, Your Excellency. He is expecting you.”

“Well done, you are the first person in Evermore to use the correct address for an envoy without prompting.”

“Well, this place does act as an embassy, and we have been trained in such things.”

“Are there any representatives of The Dominion present?”

“Justiciar Naruman is in residence, Excellency.”

“Thank you, soldier.”

We entered and had a quick look around.

Lydia asked, “What is that model ship all about?”

Sarah replied, “It is a tribute to a ship named Pluk Longfin. A group of heroes used it to rescue Wayrest’s crown jewels from corsairs. I do not think you would find that celebrated anywhere else in Evermore.”

We came across a Shrine of Akatosh that was, surprisingly, active.

After our quick tour, we entered the main building. Command Drugo had his back to the entrance.

I coughed, and Drugo turned to face us. He then saluted.

I returned the salute, which signalled for him to stand at ease.

“Commander Drugo, I am Envoy Wulf.”

“Also known as Sir Wulf Welkynd, The Dragonborn. I am honoured to meet you. Your very presence will boost the morale of our troops.”

“Commander Drugo, please do me a favour.”

“Yes, Your Excellency, of course.”

“Cut the protocol crap unless we are in a meeting with others.”

“Of course, Envoy Wulf. Such protocol gives me the shits as well.”

“It is unusual to see a Commander of the Penitus Oculatus in charge of Legion troops.”

“Evermore is an unusual place. I spent a lot of time with Mede, and he recognised me as a fine soldier and a diplomat. The latter skills learned while trying not to fall asleep at formal meetings between Mede and other dignitaries.”

“Did His Imperial Majesty outline what I will be doing here?”

“There is only so much you can write on those tiny scrolls the pigeons carry. Mede wrote that you would be here because The Divines and himself want you to investigate and hopefully find a peaceful solution to Evermore’s problems. I assume you now act as Field Marshal and Mede’s voice?”

“Yes, I am supposed to command the troops, but I will leave you in charge unless some pitched battles are on the horizon.”

“That will work.”

“A small deployment is required, which I shall discuss in a minute.”

“A guest room has been prepared for you, and accommodation is available for the knights in our barracks.”

“That is generous, Commander, but I find it impossible to sleep with the stench of Thalmor in the air. We have purchased a house near The Divide that will be our accommodation.”

“That is understandable.”

“How do you regard The Reach?”

“It is important enough for us to have been entrenched in this swamp for centuries. I feel its value will be immeasurable in the immediate future.”

“You suspect a continuation of The Great War.”

“Yes, and last time, most of The Empire’s trade to High Rock was conducted by sea. Vessels skirted the shores of Tamriel to this province.”

“That relied on our naval superiority. We might not have that next time around,”

“Precisely. The Reach during The Great War was too dangerous even though a trip through it would take a fraction of the time of the sea route.”

“It does not matter how long it takes as long as ships leave regularly. But we risked supply to High Rock being cut off completely if we could not use overland routes through The Reach, and the navy were hard-pressed.”

“Correct, and The Dominion would have learned and be much more likely to target those shipping routes the second time around.”

“Therefore, we need a safe passage through The Reach, which is why it is important.”

“Yes, and now, there is great danger from Reachmen and maybe the Orsimer if we do not squash Orsinium’s Sons. Others are hassling our troops as well, including Redguard pirates using Black Powder weapons.”

“I have little doubt I will recommend an increase in troop numbers. How is the current moral?”

“We are not ecstatic about our stay. But we have and will continue to perform our duties here to the best of our abilities. My troops are seasoned and are experienced with long campaigns. However, this place tries to destroy morale with its shifting alliances, treatment of its civilians, and snobby nobility. Add to that the blatant racism against anybody who is not Breton, and it is a difficult place in which to live. Only the Legionnaires’ comradery prevents many of my men from running away to where love exists. They would not abandon their comrades to survive alone in this stinking hellhole.”

Ghorbash said, “I hope you do not think I abandoned my comrades, Commander. I was becoming ineffective due to my race.”

“I understood, Captain, or should I say, Knight Ghorbash. I am not surprised you have returned to aid the people of Evermore.”

I continued, “Borgakh is also a Knight. She may join me here in the next few days.”

“This was an impossible posting for a young Orsimer. I am glad she has a chance to escape the planned marriage she was keen to avoid.”

“Is there anything I should know about Naruman?”

“He takes Thalmor arrogance to the next level. Please do not dice him into little pieces. He may prove valuable to your cause.”

“Oh, good old Justiciar Naruman will become a valued friend!”

“What is this small deployment you need?”

“I need a third of a platoon stationed at the Arnima end of Forlorn’s southern bridge. Arnima Scouts reported a build-up of Dragonstar forces. We killed a few forward sentries, so an attack on Arnima seems imminent. A token force of Legionnaires will prove our commitment to Arnima and ease Mortifayne’s worries somewhat.”

“Do you expect Dragonstar forces to reach that end of the bridge?”

“They will try. We shall be there to stop them.”

“Was that flying ship yours?”

“Yes. It was provisioning the people of Forlorn with essentials for the next fortnight. We may do the same for Arnima, depending on Mortifayne’s disposition.”

“Have you met him yet?”

“No. We shall wait for Mortifayne’s invitation. Mortifayne could trigger a danger to not just Evermore but all of Tamriel. He must see us as protection, not a threat.”

“What kind of danger?”

“An opened Oblivion Gate allowing Daedric minions to stream into Evermore. Lord Talos explained this threat to His Imperial Majesty. Lady Mara asked us to investigate and see if we can prevent it through diplomacy. You will be fully briefed when I have the proof I seek.”

“Didn’t you close some Oblivion Gates in Skyrim recently?”

“Yes. In the last few months, I have closed four. The public only knows of two.”

“Would an Oblivion Gate in Evermore prove more troublesome?”

“If this kingdom descends into chaos, a Daedric Prince may have time to establish a beachhead. If enough Daedra enter Nirn, other Oblivion Gates can be opened. It would be another Oblivion Crises.”

“Then let us hope you and the knights are successful.”

Celestine whispered, “A stink is approaching.”

Justiciar Naruman swaggered into the room, raised his eyebrows in my direction, and then sat on a bench to my right.

“Arrange the deployment now, Commander.”

“Yes, Your Excellency.”

“I may seek a briefing on some matters in the morning.”

“Of course, Your Excellency.”

“You are dismissed.”

We swapped salutes, and a smiling Drugo exited the building. We could hear him barking orders like a seasoned sergeant, which made Ghorbash grin from ear to ear.

I walked over to Naruman, who did not have the courtesy to stand.

• Naruman: The Legionnaires have been busy gossiping with the news of your arrival, Envoy Wulf.
• Wulf: I should think that the arrival of an Envoy is crucial information rather than idle gossip, Justiciar Naruman.
• Naruman: I am pretty peeved that I was not informed beforehand of your imminent arrival. I must write a strongly worded letter to Mede and remind him of the protocol.
• Celestine: If you are concerned about protocol, Justiciar, it is prudent to address our Emperor as His Imperial Majesty.
• Naruman: Oh, of course. My apologies. May I ask, Your Excellency, why I have never heard of you mentioned in diplomatic circles?
• Wulf: Because I was formally known as Lord Wulf Welkynd. Recently, my title changed to Sir Wulf Welkynd, Knight Commander of The Order of the Dragon. I was made Envoy at the same time as being knighted.
• Naruman: Is that a new order?
• Wulf: No, it was established by Emperor Tiber Septim. His Imperial Majesty reinstated it when Lord Talos visited and suggested it.

That revelation took Naruman aback, but he was wise enough not to discuss Talos further.

• Naruman: Oh, I did not associate the two. Wulf and Wulf. How silly of me!
• Wulf: Why do you think I have become Envoy to Evermore?
• Naruman: I have no idea. Perhaps your first task is to apprehend a fugitive the local cretins have been shielding from justice.
• Wulf: Who is the fugitive?
• Naruman: He is a Blade hidden for decades yet now revealed. We had scouts follow his trail to a decrepit ruin west of here.
• Wulf: What is this Blade’s name?
• Naruman: Titalo Brolicius.
• Wulf: Is there anybody else hunting him down?
• Naruman: Yes, an Imperial named Vaeser festering within Evermore City. He has contracted many to find this fugitive, and I fear he intends to warn the Blade of my intent.
• Wulf: Knight Celestine, do you know Titalo Brolicius?
• Celestine: Only by reputation. He worked closely with Delphine’s group when I was undercover on Somerset Isle.
• Wulf: You see, Justiciar, Celestine was a Blade. Many of my Knights were. Therefore, I shall speak to Ambassador Vaeser as he understands I pose no threat to Blade Titalo.
• Celestine: Delphine will be delighted to be reunited with her fellow Blade.
• Wulf: Justiciar, as Dragonborn, I am the leader of The Blades. I have already provided a haven to Blades that your inbred pompous asses cannot touch. We have also been recruiting new Blades. Their numbers have grown steadily. Blade Titalo will be taken to the haven and continue to work on behalf of The Imperial Empire.
• Naruman: A list contains details of those who will soon suffer fatal accidents. And it may so happen that your name could be inked onto that list. That is unfortunate, for we could have worked well together.
• Ghorbash: Was he stupid enough to threaten Envoy Wulf?
• Sarah: Even when measured against other Thalmor, Justiciar Naruman seems thick.
• Lydia: Envoy Wulf kills annoying Thalmor without making a list.
• Celestine: But it never looks like an accident. How do you accidentally cut your head off?
• Wulf: Justiciar, I have killed hundreds of Thalmor and assassins. The only reason why I do not separate your head from your puny body is I do not want to start a precedent. You slaughter one Justiciar, and you must keep cleaning your sword after killing those seeking vengeance. It gets boring.
• Naruman: You would not dare!
• Lydia: Why do people always say that?
• Celestine: Because they do not know Envoy Wulf very well.
• Wulf: I will do what is necessary to protect the people of Nirn, Justiciar. If you are a danger to my knights, Imperial Troops, or anybody else, I will kill you. You are a piece of shit. Do not give me a reason to step on you and scrape the remains off the bottom of my boot.

We left Naruman shaking with anger and no small amount of fear.

• Wulf: It is time to say hello to the Exiles.
• Celestine: Delphine and Titalo were lovers.
• Lydia: Oh. I wonder if they will be lovers again.
• Wulf: Titalo would have to break through the cobwebs.
• Lydia: WULF!
• Celestine: You need to practice more, Lydia. When Rigmor says, ‘WULF!’ there is a level of menace behind it.
• Lydia: Rigmor can get away with veiled threats. I cannot.
• Celestine: Then explain your objection.
• Lydia: WULF! That is disgusting!
• Wulf: I agree. The thought of Delphine knocking boots with anybody is disgusting.
• Celestine: I advise a tactical withdrawal. Live to fight another day.
• Lydia: Rigmor will teach me her stare, and then we shall see who is victorious.
• Wulf: Do not forget the pout and hands on hips with a slightly tilted head.

We passed a Hall of the Dead.

I grumbled, “What is a statue of Lady Mara doing in a graveyard? If you are going to be so crass as to erect one, it should be a statue of Lord Arkay.”

The southern walls of Arnima looked sturdy. If Daedra managed to create a stronghold, it would not be easy to dislodge them.

Recently destroyed farms and homesteads displayed the dangers of living outside protective walls.

We came upon a skirmish between two Arnimain Scouts and two Orsimer. I did not know if they were Orsinium’s Sons, so I was not willing to kill them.

I cast Calm, and the fighting stopped.

I approached one of the Orsimer.

• Wulf: What are your names?
• Begnar: Why should I tell you?
• Ghorbash: Because your lives are in Envoy Wulf’s hands. He could easily have cut you down without a word.
• Begnar: I am Begnar Bongub. My friend is Mahuk Bargorn.
• Wulf: Are you Orsinium’s Sons?
• Begnar: No. We are hunters who have lived in these parts for decades.
• Wulf: What caused this confrontation?
• Begnar: Those Manmer attacked without provocation. Not a word was spoken, but luckily, we have grown wary of such treatment and had time to defend ourselves.
• Wulf: My spell will wear off in a few minutes. I suggest you and Mahuk leave this area while I talk to the scouts.
• Begnar: I think we shall head for the border. There is nothing left for us in Evermore.
• Wulf: That is up to you.

I stood before one of the scouts.

• Wulf: I am Envoy Wulf. What is your name?
• Escamel: Escamel Virien.
• Wulf: Why did you attack those hunters?
• Escamel: We are keeping the kingdom safe, and if that means clearing the land of their ilk, then so be it.
• Wulf: They are not Orsinium’s Sons. They are non-combative Evermore citizens, making them citizens of The Empire. Killing citizens without cause is murder. Trying to kill citizens without cause is attempted murder. Tell me why I should not throw you in jail.
• Escamel: We are only obeying orders?
• Wulf: Whose orders? Jackos’ or Sek and Mek’s?
• Escamel: Does it matter?
• Wulf: As you can see, Begnar and Mahuk are leaving the area. From what I saw, they would have killed both of you without breaking a sweat. I advise you to return to Arnima and practice some more. Your skills are pathetic. And if we see you attacking civilians again, we shall defend them.

The disgruntled scouts headed towards Arnima. We continued toward the Exiles.

• Lydia: I have never seen you cast that spell before.
• Wulf: I know hundreds of spells and Shouts you have not seen me use.
• Celestine: Wulf does not carry staves like the other mages, and I do. They can fire spells instantly. As you saw, it took time for Wulf to cast Calm.
• Wulf: If I am to intervene in a melee, it is quicker for me to use my sword than a spell. Since I did not know who the enemy was, I chose to use Calm and talk to them.
• Sarah: You are having to issue a lot of threats.
• Wulf: I do not like bullying. However, if it saves innocent lives, I will do it.
• Celestine: Effective use of Wulf’s status requires lording it over others.
• Wulf: Some people respect noble rank. Others respect past actions. People such as those scouts only respect fear.
• Ghorbash: They would be obeying the two knights, not Jackos. That would be out of fear.
• Sarah: So now they must weigh up who they are more afraid of.
• Wulf: They will not mention this incident to the knights.

We walked into the Exile camp with weapons sheathed. They attacked. We fought back.

A few minutes later, two dozen Exiles lay dead. We quickly checked the bodies and camp but found no Skooma or other illegal items they may have sold to Arnima’s defenders.

Somebody blew a large horn. That was the signal that Forlorn and Arnima were under imminent attack.

We teleported to the Mark I had placed earlier. One of the knights and a dozen Legionnaires were there.

With a bit of Thu’um, I said, “DO NOT GET IN FRONT OF ME. LEGIONNAIRES REMAIN HERE, EVEN IF WE PURSUE THE CORSAIRS. RETURN TO BARRACKS IN EIGHT HOURS.”

The enemy conveniently attacked in a long, straight line. A full power, Unrelenting Force, killed them all.

The Legionnaires excitedly talked among themselves as we waited for Jackos to arrive.

• Jackos: I thought you agreed to scout out the bandits?
• Wulf: Jackos, I will tell you what we did not because I like to boast or kill. It seems the only way to earn respect here is through martial prowess. Today, we will demonstrate that prowess and your troops will finally realise who is fighting beside them. If that does not improve their morals and morale, nothing will.
• Lydia: As Envoy Wulf told you earlier, we entered the Exile camp with weapons sheathed. They attacked.
• Ghorbash: We killed all the bandits. Do not worry; there was no evidence of them conspiring with your men.
• Jackos: And what happened here?
• Wulf: As soon as we heard the alarm, we teleported to the bridge, and I killed the first Dragonstar wave.
• Jackos: Was that The Voice I heard?
• Wulf: Yes. I killed twelve of the enemy with Unrelenting Force.
• Jackos: Well, let us see if we can remove the current threat altogether. They tested our defences, but let us not give them time to regroup and attack.
• Wulf: I see you and one of the metal mountains but no other Arnima forces. We shall not wait for them to arrive.
• Jackos: Are you sure?
• Wulf: Yes, Jackos. Guide us, for we have no idea where they are holed up. But I warn you, do not get in front of me when the fighting starts. My Thu’um will kill you as quickly as it does the enemy.
• Ghorbash: Hey, metal giant, can you keep up?
• Celestine: Did you say metal giant or mental giant?
• Ghorbash: There is no way he is a mental giant!
• Sek: Fuck you!
• Lydia: That one is Sek.
• Sarah: How can you tell?
• Lydia: He smells like shit. His brother has a more pungent piss odour.
• Sek: Watch it, little lady, or I might have to break you.
• Lydia: I am not G. R’s wife or another defenceless civilian. When the time comes, I will gladly gut you.
• Wulf: Knight Lydia fought beside me against Alduin and can carve you into tiny, smelly chunks.

Jackos laughed and started running.

We passed by the scattered remains of the first attackers. Some were in contorted shapes with numerous broken bones. Others were piles of ash.

Jackos saw them and repeated, “Do not get in front of Envoy Wulf. Do not get in front of Envoy Wulf.”

We approached the Dragonstar mustering area. Jackos wisely moved behind, and then I used Unrelenting Force to kill many opponents.

The knights and I slaughtered the rest. Dozens lay dead at our hands. Jackos did not kill one. Sek was still to catch up.

I told Jackos, “Let us hurry. The problem with using The Voice is the enemy for miles around would hear it. They will be waiting for us.”

He replied, “I heard you and your friends routed Ulfric’s army at Whiterun. I thought that was Imperial propaganda. Now I wonder if it was the truth.”

“This is five of us. A couple of dozen of my knights did destroy Ulfric’s army. If need be, I can call upon dragons and dozens of Master Mages to aid us. History will tell you, Jackos, that an army supported by a Dragonborn has never lost a battle.”

“How many have you killed in battle?”

“Many thousands of mortals. Over a thousand undead. A few dragons. Dozens of rabbits. I can give you the exact numbers if you are that curious.”

“No, no need. How many have you killed in a single encounter?”

“Over three hundred several times. I was placed on Nirn by The Divines to help all mortals. Sometimes, I do that with kindness and empathy. Sometimes, I do that by slaughtering those who would harm the innocent. I much prefer the former but am exceptionally good at the latter.”

“Your knights are the most efficient killers I have ever seen!”

“They are also some of the best warriors I have seen. Their prowess is boosted by the dweomer I place on their armour and weapons. But their biggest advantage is they are certain our cause is righteous and that many gods, not just The Divines, rely on us to protect the everyday people.”

“Would you have defended the Reachmen and serfs at Munstor?”

“Not at two years of age. But if the same were attempted now, Evermore would need a new batch of nobles. Now get moving before Sek catches up and gets in the way.”

We arrived at a mine entrance.

Jackos said, “No doubt those thieves are also holed up here. Keep your wits about you, as these Reds will lash out when cornered.”

“Do they have a main compound?”

“Yes, on the other side of the mine. The Dragonstar have palisades and so on.”

“Then stay behind, but tell me where to turn. We shall soon eliminate these Dragonstar pests.”

Ghorbash said, “I can hear what sounds like a tin can rolling down a hill. It must be Sek.”

I replied, “He might have a chance to catch up as we clear the mine but will probably be too pooped to swing his hammer.”

The first thing we saw upon entering the mine was a statue of Lady Dibella.

Sarah remarked, “It looks like the miners wanted straight shafts.”

We were still chuckling as we cut down the first Redguards.

With Jackos’ directions, we scythed through the enemy and soon exited into the fresh air.

Sek finally caught up with us as we surveyed Dragonstar’s defences.

I said, “I bet a Sweetroll they have not barricaded their entrance. They have no sentries, so they are not expecting to be attacked.”

We ran to the entrance and burst into the enemy compound. They were taken by surprise, and most of them died before realising we were there.

It took a few minutes to kill them all, including a Dragonstar in fancy armour. We think he was their leader.

I saw Sek, so I approached him.

• Wulf: Did you kill any, Sek?
• Celestine: I doubt it. The Dragonstar, with their scimitars, were way too quick for Sek.
• Lydia: I had to save his arse from a dual wielder who would have slaughtered him.
• Wulf: Is that right, Sek? Did Knight Lydia save your arse so she could gut you later?
• Ghorbash: I do not think he has anything to say, Envoy Wulf.
• Wulf: I hope you were in time to see what real knights can do in battle.

I walked over to Jackos.

“I see some of your scouts have arrived. I will leave it to you to search the bodies and camp for information.”

“We have rescued several involuntary camp whores. I will make sure they are returned home. Sek will not touch them.”

“I doubt this will be the end of Redguard incursion.”

“No, it will not be. Redguards and piracy are not easily parted, but dogs should know when to avoid a fire. We will make sure to have the flames of their ships burn bright enough for the whole river to see.”

“There you go again, Jackos. When I thought there was hope for your soul, you resort to racist generalisations. Most Redguards are city or desert dwellers who never board a ship. A small percentage, probably no bigger than Bretons who become bandits, resort to piracy.”

“I will keep trying, Envoy.”

“What will happen to the mine?”

“Sigmayne will spare some of his precious treasury to repair it. The Bog was one of the chief contributors to our kingdoms’ wealth.”

“There were a lot of dead miners. Who is going to man The Bog?”

“I am sure Sigmayne will find volunteers amongst those enjoying his dungeon’s hospitality.”

“I will deliver your message to Governor Merosa in the morning. The Legionnaires will remain stationed at the bridge for some time to prevent leftover Dragonstar infiltrating the area.”

“Nothing else I can think of now needs your assistance. However, Kegor, Sigmayne’s steward, may have problems you can help resolve.”

“I do not know when we will enter Evermore City. I feel Arnima and ol ‘Monty will be our priority for some time.”

We teleported into Mara’s Rest.

Sarah helped Celestine with a beef stew. We ate our meal eagerly as we had not eaten since morning.

As per the night before, I contacted Rigmor via Mara’s Rings.

“Hello, my beloved. Have you been busy?”

“I tried but could not avoid being dragged along with Mede to endless minor functions. It was not as tedious as a day on my throne but close.”

“I doubt he will make you attend his tour of Skyrim.”

“I would fake an illness if he did. One city of minor officials kissing his backside was enough.”

“Well, it was not overly exciting here either. I stopped an execution. We fed the poor people of Forlorn. Wiped out a bandit gang and stopped Redguard corsairs from attacking Arnima.”

“Just another routine day for Ser Wulf and his knights.”

“I have yet to meet Lord Mortifayne, and it may be days before we talk to King Kid Diddler.”

“Will you take Sarah when you meet him?”

“No. Sarah blames Sigmayne for her father’s downfall and that of Wayrest. Plus, he abused her. I do not think her presence when diplomacy is needed would be helpful.”

“If you ever confront Sigmayne with his crimes, she should be there.”

“Definitely. Let Sigmayne deny the allegations when one of his victims is standing next to me.”

“Olette was in her element again. She did give a tongue lashing to Count Chorrol, but he deserved it.”

“Oh, is this gossip? Should I indulge and break my oath?”

“You had better because I have been dying to fill your ears with court intrigue all day.”

“I will listen, then flagellate myself later as penance.”

“Do you have the knotted rope for that?”

“No, I shall have to use a feather.”

As per the night before, I know not what time I fell asleep. I know it was after hours of gossip delivered by my Rigmor.