Loredas, 8^th Last Seed, 4E 202

to Morndas, 10^th Last Seed, 4E 202

I spent some time with the Divine Knights, explaining the situation and advising that they should all be on standby.

I then spoke to Emperor Titus Mede II via Corb, so he was up to date on what was happening. He reminded me that I have his authority when dealing with Emperor Temujin and that I should regard myself as an envoy.

The ten hours at home with Rigmor and amongst my friends rejuvenated me.

At around 10 A.M., I teleported to the entrance of Wind Dwelling Temple and entered.

There were two guards on either side of the door to the temple. Yamagata almost ran into me.

“Not staring at the door, Yamagata?”

“No, Sir Wulf, today I am a Runner. I am supposed to rush between battlefields with orders whilst not getting killed in some painful, horrendous fashion.”

“Have fun!”

I watched Yamagata leave, hoping he was fleet of foot, for the battles were guaranteed to be large.

Word of my arrival quickly spread, and I saw Tairo and others heading for a conference table.

I towered over the others, and all eyes turned to me.

• Hanbei: How did your lesson go, Sir Wulf?
• Wulf: I eliminated every guard in Kanematsu’s palace and Mikoi. There was no sign of the Coil-Lord or his brother, but I did not search for them. Their time will come.
• Hanbei: How many did you kill?
• Wulf: Over sixty.
• Roka: Hanbei said the only body you saw in Ayo was Ru-Ta-Shan’s
• Wulf: You are looking healthier after a few good meals, Roka.
• Roka: I am glad you took revenge on those bastards!
• Wulf: It was not revenge, Roka. It was a lesson. I cremated Ru-Ta-Shan and spread his ashes over his home as is their tradition.
• Roka: He could have joined me here, but decided one fighter should remain to protect Ayo.
• Wulf: The more I think about it, the more convinced I am that the residents were not killed. Leaving bloodstains but no bodies is less effective if you are seeking revenge. I think they are at one of the Blood Farms and will be free once we defeat the enemy.
• Roka: I hope you are right.
• Wulf: I believe we are here to learn of Tairo’s plans. I suggest we get on with it.

• Tairo:  I want to tell you, my friends, my brothers, that there is no greater honour for me than to fight with you again, shoulder to shoulder!
• Hanbei: The feeling is mutual, Tairo!
• Tairo: I am ready to prove my loyalty to my people. I will lead you all in a battle that may be my last one.
• Wulf: Because what the rebellion needs right now is the needless sacrifice of its leader!
• Seibei: Sir Wulf has a point, Tairo. I did not rejoin to watch you die.
• Wulf: Explain this battle, and we shall see about preventing it from being your last.
• Tairo: Some time ago, our agents planted false information about our headquarters’ location.
• Roka: And they took the bait?
• Tairo: Yes, they think we are camped in the ruins of an ancient fortress with only our personal guards with us.
• Wulf: They are not proving to be the brightest of foes.
• Tairo: The three Coil-Lords have assembled an army to destroy us with a quick and, they think, unexpected blow.
• Wulf: Being new to the politics of Tenno Island, which three clans are opposing the rebellion?
• Seibei: Clans Kanematsu, Odonaga and Kotimaru.
• Wulf: It seems the other two Coil-Lords are as dumb as Kanematsu.
• Roka: Dumb, they may be, but they have done well to suppress the existence of our rebellion. Not many enslaved people know of it.
• Wulf: How many troops can the three Coil-Lords field?
• Tairo: Five to six thousand. It is expensive to keep a standing army in a time of peace.
• Wulf: Is that all? Then we should be able to defeat them with minimal losses. Why do you need to risk your life with this false headquarters plan?
• Tairo: I want to be knocking on Emperor Temeju’s door before clans from the mainland arrive. We shall have other attacks occurring whilst the enemy is distracted by the false headquarters.
• Wulf: Please, continue.
• Tairo: The bait shall be me and a dozen other warriors.
• Wulf: Where is the fort?
• Tairo: It is called Ko-Tavashir, on the very edge of the desert.
• Wulf: I know it, as I visited there out of curiosity. If the enemy attacks across the open desert, I will kill most of them within seconds.
• Tairo: How?
• Wulf: With my Thu’um, what some call The Voice. You saw me use a small part of its power when travelling to Meiruji Shi.
• Tairo: You killed enemies that were further away than a bow can reach using words.
• Wulf: The Voice will just as easily kill dozens, or hundreds, or even thousands if I want it to.
• Hanbei: It does not sound much like a suicide mission anymore, Tairo.
• Wulf: If the enemy spreads out, we may still have to fight many from either or both wings.
• Iguthi: What if the Tsaesci do not split their forces but send their entire army after us?
• Tairo: Then our other attacks are assured of victory, and our deaths will not be in vain.
• Wulf: If things get desperate, I will summon help. The Divine Knights are on standby. I do not want them fighting your war for you, but I will not allow the rebellion’s leaders to be slaughtered.
• Iguthi: Would a few knights make much difference?
• Wulf: They defeated Ulfric Stormcloak’s army when he attacked Whiterun. The other day, four Divine Knights and I stopped Longwang’s attack on the royal palace. They fought for thirteen hours against endless hordes of Daedra when an Oblivion Gate opened in Evermore. I doubt any army has fielded a more lethal combination of martial and magic.
• Tairo: The Divine Knights are legendary, Iguthi.
• Wulf: Who is leading the other attacks?
• Hirotaro: I am leading our main force. I will allocate other commanders after we understand what we face.
• Wulf: I do not think the Coil-Lords would send their entire force into what could be a trap.
• Tairo: I agree. They will send a large force, perhaps with reserves waiting to see the outcome before committing, but not their entire army.
• Wulf: One wave or two, they will die before reaching the fort’s walls.
• Tairo: Tagamori will create a sandstorm, allowing Hirotaro to get close to his target without detection.
• Wulf: This has the potential to start widespread unrest.
• Tairo: That is the hope. When enslaved Akaviri hear how a few of us defeated an entire army, they will take up arms.
• Wulf: It will take you some time to reach Ko-Tavashir. I will organise the delivery of the arms and weapons I promised Shinoda.
• Shinoda: How are you getting it here?
• Wulf: I have over two tons of equipment aboard my airship. I shall summon it from Tamrilei, and it will appear seconds later. Divine Knights will quickly unload the cargo for you.
• Shinoda: An airship?
• Wulf: Yes, a ship that flies.
• Tairo: Okay, Sir Wulf, we shall see you at Ko-Tavashir.
• Wulf: Anybody who is accompanying Tairo is advised not to get in front of me before the melee is joined.
• Tairo: I shall remind them when you join us.

Seieri had been watching the meeting.

“Greetings, Seieri.”

“I wanted to thank you, Sir Wulf, for removing that stain from Edogama. I have inherited Master Sando’s house, and I am assured his wish to make me free will be fulfilled.”

“If word spreads you are a property owner, potential suitors will be queuing at your door.”

“I can think of worse dilemmas.”

“I wish you all the best.”

Emiko was preparing a hide, and I could see she had been crying.

“I am sorry about the people of Ayo, Emiko.”

“Hanbei says they might still be alive and on a Blood Farm.”

“That is a possibility.”

“Then they will be free when this war is won!”

“Yes, and Coil-Lord Kanematsu will be dead.”

“We knew our enemies would victimise the defenseless.”

“It is always a risk with rebellions, but still, it was an act of evil, not war.”

“It is good to see Roka in his armour once more. Tairo had to forbid him from pursuing justice and said to leave you to do that for us.”

“I am hoping for a swift end to the killing, and Longwang. It was my choice to come here alone, but seeing the Windguard together makes me more than a little homesick.”

“Tairo’s face lit up every time one of the other Tavazei-Hen’Lan arrived. He was not complete without them, so I understand how you must feel without your Divine Knights.”

“I also miss my daughter, stewards, and other staff. It has been too long since I spent time at my orphanages. There is much I miss, but this is the burden I chose for myself. I could not enjoy my freedom knowing I did not aid others in obtaining theirs.”

“You have a daughter?”

“Yes, her name is Olette. I adopted her. She has been accepted into Solitude’s Bards College and started her training last week.”

“You must be very proud of her.”

“Very much so, Emiko.”

“How many orphanages do you have?”

“I own four, but have convinced other people, not only in Skyrim but other provinces, that they need not be a financial burden. More orphanages will result, and although, sadly, they are needed, that is good news.”

“We must concentrate on the gains, not the losses, although they are not to be forgotten.”

“That is what my parents and The Divines have taught me. However, I feel every loss, and it has been a long battle to overcome the melancholy that follows. But I must do so, and only through the love of others have I gained the courage to continue.”

“You will be able to visit again when this is over and see Akaviri children free and laughing.”

“Akaviri and Tsaesci working together to make this nation prosper would make me smile.”

I left Emiko to her task. She is likely good enough with the katana to contribute to Tairo’s forces, but the Windguard are exclusively male, as was the Dragonguard when they invaded Tamriel.

I spotted Ciel and retrieved some boxes of chocolates from my Journal Case.

I handed three boxes to her.

“What are these, Sir Wulf?”

“Chocolates with different centres. Make sure Vhian and Mei get their boxes!”

“What do you mean by different centres?”

“They have fruit centres, nut centres and so forth. Some of them are pure chocolate but of different kinds and less bitter than the type I gave you.”

“Wow! Vhian and Mei are helping in the laundry, but they will get their boxes, Sir Wulf.”

“The noise and bustle of this place must be a shock after living so remote from everybody.”

“I like it. There are lots of people to talk to and interesting things happening.”

“Some different people will arrive soon to deliver armour and so on. Do not be afraid to say hello to them.”

“You are not much different, except for your funny eyes.”

“Bha-Zen is a Tang-Mo. His people are very hairy, and some people call them monkeys, but that is disrespectful.”

“I have never met a Tang-Mo!”

“Some of the visitors will be Ka’Po’Tun, and some will be Khajiiti. They do not mind being called cats.”

“Ka’Po’Tun hate Tsaesci!”

“People do not always hate those they are at war with.”

“I do not understand why there have to be wars.”

“It is complicated, and each war has a different reason for starting.”

“Sometimes I think grown people are stupid.”

“They are. Another visitor is much bigger than I am. He is a Minotaur called Gravel. Cruel and jealous Neh-Tamrilei almost wiped out his people.”

“Then he must be very sad and angry.”

“The Minotaur do not seek revenge, and they have no room for hate. They are a noble people and will one day be as widespread and accepted as they once were.”

 “Father says you can fly. Is that how they are getting here?”

“They are coming on a ship that can fly. That way, they can bring lots of armour and weapons for the Akaviri fighting for their freedom.”

 “A flying ship! I cannot wait to see that!”

“Unfortunately, it cannot stay here long. That is why many people will help offload the cargo. Otherwise, I am sure they would let you have a ride in it. Everything looks different from way up high.”

“Everything sounds more exciting in Tamrilei.”

“This country can be the same, Ciel. That is what your father and others are fighting to achieve.”

“It is scary, knowing Pa will be fighting in a war. He used to do it, but I was too young to understand.”

“Hug him and tell him you love him before he leaves. That will help him fight better.”

“Oh, he is leaving soon! I had better go do that right now!”

Ciel placed the three boxes of chocolates on a shelf and ran off to find her father.

I approached Shinoda and told him, “I will go out the front and summon the airship. There will be two squads of Divine Knights aboard, so the unloading should be quick.”

“It will be an honour to meet the legendary Divine Knights.”

“They will be wearing our colours, so warn others that they are not Kanematsu.”

“Yes, I had better do that.”

“One of them was a Kanematsu Guardian till a few days ago. He was being hunted for stopping an uncoiling in Ayo village. I killed the assassins hunting him and offered him a position in our order.”

“Then he must be of good moral standing.”

“Our Shaman has the final word on recruits, but I am fairly adept at picking suitable candidates.”

“I shall meet you out front soon, Sir Wulf.”

I made my way outside, set a beacon and summoned the airship.

Seconds later, it appeared from the ether.

The ladder dropped, and Jin made his way to the entrance, where Shinoda and I waited.

• Wulf: Windguard Shinoda, this is Divine Knight Jin, a native of Akavir, ex-Dragonguard and Master Mage.
• Shinoda: Welcome to Rebel Headquarters, Divine Knight Jin.
• Jin: It is like the old days, well, just over a year ago, when we did this all over Akavir, but without a convenient airship.
• Wulf: I will leave you to do the unloading. The airship is as low as it can go, but any patrol that sees it will still investigate.
• Jin: With Gravel and Bha-Zen trying to outdo each other, it will not take long to unload.
• Wulf: Gravel is a Minotaur. Bha-Zen is a Tang-Mo I rescued during the prison break. Both are Divine Knights, although Gravel does not wear our uniform.
• Shinoda: I warned the others about the uniform. It will be amusing to see how they react to a Minotaur and Tang-Mo.
• Wulf: Let Ciel have a look at the airship if she wants. I told her we may return one day to give her a ride on it.
• Shinoda: Okay, and thank you again, Sir Wulf.

I cast Shroudwalk and Shouted Volar.

The airship was hidden from view except if a patrol wandered down the rarely used path.

It was not a long flight to Ko-Tavashir. I could see a dust cloud indicating a large force was approaching. Behind them was a sandstorm. It is likely the artificially generated one created by Tagamori.

I landed and became visible. The Windguard were still huffing and puffing after their jog from the temple.

I said, “Relax, the enemy is at least thirty minutes away.”

Tairo replied, “We did not hide our entry, and scouts were spotted. It seems they have taken the bait.”

“Remember, do not get in front of me till melee begins. Depending on how wide the enemy deployment is, we may have to fight on one or both flanks.”

Thirty minutes later, we stood before the old fort and watched the enemy approach.

A spokesman stepped forward and shouted, “Surrender, rebels. It is better to serve as cattle on one of our Blood Farms than die with my katana in your belly.”

Using the full strength of my Thu’um, I replied, “YOU DID NOT BRING ENOUGH TROOPS, FOR YOU FACE SIR WULF WELKYND, DRAGONBORN AND CHAMPION OF THE DIVINES. NO BATTLE HAS EVER BEEN LOST BY THE SIDE FIELDING A DRAGONBORN. YOUR RELATIVES LEARNT THAT WHEN YOU WERE FOOLISH ENOUGH TO INVADE TAMRILEI.”

The spokesman yelled, “Kill that fool, then follow me to victory!”

Arrows fell short as Unrelenting Force travelled rapidly across the sand and killed dozens of Tsaesci as it passed through their ranks.

Tairo said, “Fuck me!”

I advised, “There is another wave waiting, and they are too widely spread for me to stop them all. Prepare to fight!”

A second Shout eliminated dozens more.

Then I Shouted Slow Time, and my Dance of Death began.

Some of the troops were high-ranking Guardians of Emperor Temujin. They probably expected to witness a victory and report back. Despite their fancy weapons and armour, they died as quickly as the others.

A few of the enemy had time to raise their weapon before mine ended their life.

A large force tried to flank us on our left. I dismissed Slow Time because I could not use other Shouts while it was active. I then eliminated most of the flanking troops with Unrelenting Force.

As predicted, a second wave attacked just as we were eliminating the last of the first wave.

They were more hesitant than the first wave, which allowed me to kill more from a distance.

Some troops tried to run away. I did not let them.

After the last enemy was eliminated, I approached Tairo.

“How many did we lose?”

“Three. And half of their army is destroyed! This victory will embolden the enslaved Akaviri.”

“Where are the other Windguard headed?”

“Hirotaro should have engaged the other half of the opposing army at their muster point, an outpost on the edge of the desert.”

I had a look at my map and said, “I see where that is. I will fly there and arrive within half an hour.”

“I doubt Hirotaro’s force could eliminate them all, but hopefully we have them on the run.”

“I will aid the rebellion with the major battles, but I must pursue Longwang and his minions. So let us see what kind of damage we can do in the next twenty-four hours.”

“We shall march toward Hirotaro and join with him.”

“There are likely to be Ash Spawn between here and there, but I am sure you can handle them.”

“We have learned to run towards them without hesitation as the ones who cast fire are a problem.”

I became invisible and began my flight.

Chaurus and Ash Spawn were on the path Tairo’s group would use.

The outpost came into view. There was no sign of a continuing battle.

I stayed invisible as I surveyed the scene. A fraction of Hirotaro’s force remained. I assume a large part of it was busy pursuing the fleeing enemy.

The fight had been fierce. The Coil-Lords had deployed two defensive lines. One life fell in front of a stone wall, and another behind it.

Once both lines were breached, the fighting turned into a chaotic melee where tactics are useless and grit and skill reign.

The casualties on both sides looked even, but I think the morale of the rebels proved to be the difference.

I used The Voice and announced, “It is Sir Wulf. I am about to become visible, so would appreciate it if no arrows sped my way.”

Startlement turned to laughter as I landed and became visible.

As I walked past Hirotaro, I said, “I will attend to the wounded, then speak with you.”

I am sure a lot of the survivors had wounds, but there were only two critical ones. I cast Grand Healing on them.

I then approached Hirotaro.

He asked, “How did Tairo fare against our foes?”

“We killed hundreds for the loss of three Windguard. Tairo and the others are on their way here.”

“Would they have survived if you were not there?”

“No. Tairo’s small force would have been swarmed. Neither side has experienced a battle involving a Dragonborn. Not the Tsaesci fakes, but a real Dragonborn like me or Reman Cyrodiil. Most of the Coil-Lords’ forces died before getting within bow range of us.”

“What did you just do to our wounded?”

“I cast Grand Healing. They will fully recover after a day or two of rest. What happened here?”

“We destroyed the centre of their army as reinforcements from Bone Hill Castle arrived. Their commander assessed the situation and ordered a retreat. The remnants from here fled the field and joined the newly arrived troops. Sinando is pursuing them, but I do not know if he has enough troops to take the castle.”

“Then I shall head there and see if I can assist.”

“Surei is with us!”

I vanished, then began my flight to Bone Hill Castle.

It was not a long flight, and when the castle came into view, I saw many dead Windguard.

As before, I used The Voice and said, “It is Sir Wulf. I am about to become visible, so would appreciate it if no arrows sped my way.”

There was no laughter this time, for there was no victory to lift the troops’ spirits.

I stood in front of Sinando and could see that he was uncertain.

I asked, “What has happened here, Sinando?”

“Too many of them reached the castle. We do not know if they will sally and counterattack or wait for us inside. Either way, we do not have the numbers to win this battle.”

“Let me see if I can remedy that.”

“You are going to accomplish what half the rebel army could not. Forgive me if I think that is ridiculous.”

“Think what you want. I will let you know when I have finished.”

I entered the castle, and enemy troops were preparing to wipe out the rebels with a counterattack.

I Shouted Slow Time and hacked my way through them.

When I thinned the numbers enough, I dismissed Slow Time so I could use Unrelenting Force when the opportunity arose.

When numbers posed a problem, I returned to using Slow Time.

I noticed some enemies entering a central tower. So, once I had cleared all those outside, I entered the tower.

When the last enemy fell, I used The Voice.

“ALL OF THE ENEMY TROOPS ARE DEAD. BONE HILL CASTLE NOW BELONGS TO THE REBELS!”

That announcement was greeted with loud cheers.

When I exited the tower, an exhausted Yamagata ran over to me.

I asked, “Are you enjoying the fresh air? It must be better than staring at a door all day.”

“Doors do not try to kill you in painful, unpleasant ways.”

“Do you have a message?”

“Hirotaro sent a smaller group of rebels to Tanaga Farm. If we can take that, it will prevent an easy path for Tsaesci reinforcements coming east. The food supplies would also come in handy.”

“It is a good idea to keep striking while the enemy is in disarray. There should be enough troops to hold this castle and the farm.”

“Unless the Tsaesci have a Dragonborn on their side.”

“Oh, I am sure a few Tsaesci Dragonborn are members of these clans, but they will not face me. They are charlatans who disgrace the name.”

“I suppose they would have shown themselves by now if they thought they could make a difference.”

“I know at least one of them is a member of the Sohei. I look forward to meeting her.”

“Are they going to help us?”

“The Sohei have already aided the rebellion and will continue to do so.”

“Oh.”

“I know where Tanaga Farm is. I will head there immediately.”

It was a short flight to Tanaga Farm. Half of it was in ruins, but it looked like the fighting was over.

I used Heat Vision as I approached the remaining buildings. Dozens of Tsaesci troops were approaching, and there were no rebel sentries.

I landed and used my Thu’um.

“REBELS, DOZENS OF ENEMY TROOPS APPROACH. I WILL KILL AS MANY AS I CAN, BUT SOME ASSISTANCE WOULD BE GOOD.”

I turned towards the enemy, who were rude and fired arrows at me! Unrelenting Force stopped that nonsense.

The survivors soon swarmed me, and once more my Dance of Death left a pile of twitching bodies.

Hanbei came running up to me.

“That was amazing!”

“Why didn’t you have sentries?”

“Well…umm…”

“If I had stopped to take a piss or some other delay, you would be dead.”

“Ahh….”

“Position sentries! Create some defensive positions! There is nothing between this farm and several main roads to stop more attacks!”

“Okay.”

“I will head back to Bone Hill Castle. I assume the plan was to make that the headquarters for now.”

“Yes, that was the plan.”

I flew back to the castle. At least somebody had posted sentries there, and they told me where to find Tairo.

I noticed Yamagata having a well-earned meal and walked over to him.

“The farm is ours. Today had been a good day for the rebellion.”

“Do not be surprised if Tairo asks more of you. He thinks you never need rest.”

“I need far less rest than others, but I do get weary of fighting.”

“Tell them that. They did not plan for your assistance, so they should be able to win without it.”

“I agree with what Tairo said this morning. Success in these early stages will generate enthusiasm amongst the enslaved Akaviri. So, I will help until I think it is enough to give the rebellion the momentum it needs.”

“As soon as I have filled myself to bursting, I am going to sleep for ten hours, and nobody had better try and wake me!”

I entered the main house and found Tairo and Hirotaro sitting at a table.

• Tairo: Sit, Sir Wulf, and we shall discuss today’s events.
• Wulf: I will remain standing, Tairo.
• Tairo: As you please.
• Hirotaro: When I saw our flag above the castle, I thought this victory was worthy of bard and song.
• Wulf: I did not know the rebels had a flag.
• Tairo: The Windguard flag.
• Wulf: Oh.
• Hirotaro: Did Hanbei’s force capture Tanaga Farm?
• Wulf: Yes, and he almost lost it. He had not set sentries, and a large force of Tsaesci descended on them as I arrived. He has learnt his lesson and will hastily create defensive positions and set a sentry roster.
• Hirotaro: You fought like a tiger! We have agreed to assign a squad of Windguard under your command.
• Wulf: Can they fly? Can they run as fast as a horse? Can they turn invisible?
• Hirotaro: No.
• Wulf: Then they would be a hindrance. Besides, I must soon concern myself with Longwang. He is a danger to all the people of Nirn.
• Tairo: We ask you to do one last task for us.
• Wulf: And what would that be?
• Hirotaro: The Tsaesci will not recover soon from this defeat. But we also need time to recover and strengthen our forces.
• Wulf: The enemy will not recover soon. Must I remind you that not all Tsaesci will oppose the uprising?
• Tairo: Okay, but if we do not do something, the enemy will eventually crush us with sheer numbers.
• Hirotaro: While there is a lull in fighting, we need to look for allies.
• Wulf: So, go out and recruit the enslaved Akaviri. I thought that was one of the purposes of our battles today.
• Hirotaro: We also need the support of the Sohei. Give this letter to a Tsaesci named Nurendo Sur. He is in the Sohei’s village. Ask him to take our side.

Hirotaro handed me the message, which read,

“Clear sky to you, my comrade and companion. Someone you have known for hundreds of years is writing to you. Now I have the name Tagamori, but before I was known as Yashimano Suda, the glorious descendant of the extinct family. The one who was loyal to the Emperor until I was betrayed. Remember that day, the 16th day of spring in 601 from the last dragon war. It was the day we tried to put an end to the standoff that had destroyed so many lives. You and I then knelt before the Emperor, but he did not listen to our words. You wanted peace, but you got war. I wanted to save the brotherhood, but all I was left with were its ashes. Now it is time for payback. I have rebelled, and this time I will fight to the last. You see what our nation has become over these hundreds of years. Our people die. The rich flash their money surrounded by poverty. Akaviri, our former loyal allies, became miserable and enslaved. Our homeland is abandoned and forgotten, yet it remains possible to live there as before. Now we have a chance to make our nation what it was a thousand years ago, during the era of peace and prosperity. Let us unite! You can call, and Sohei will come. Together, we can crush the Emperor. If you agree, I will wait for you in the ruins of the desert shelter.

Yashimano Suda.”

I smiled, for it seems Tairo is not aware that Tagamori, aka Yashimano Suda, is a member of Sohei. Whatever the reason for deception, I was not going to ruin it.

• Wulf: Imagine that! Tsaesci fighting for Akaviri freedom!
• Tairo: Tagamori said they have known each other for a long time and that Nurendo was once a Dragonguard.
• Hirotaro: Alas, if he refuses, you will have to kill him. I know it is not honourable, but we do not have much choice.
• Hirotaro: But…
• Wulf: The abandonment of honour because things get too hard is the start of a decline that is inevitable. Your noble cause becomes as dark and evil as the forces you oppose. Torture, the slaughter of captives, the use of assassins, rape and pillaging become as accepted as the killing of a person with whom you parley.

“SHUT UP AND LISTEN!”

My Thu’um shook the building, and both warriors flinched.

• Wulf: Parley is one of the most sacred and civilised aspects of diplomacy and war. I have parleyed with gods regarded as evil by many, and felt safe, for even they would not break the sanctity of parley. Those gods were as close as you are and could have squashed me like a bug.
• Tairo: I warned you not to suggest that course of action, Hirotaro.
• Wulf: You saw me kill many today. I could have done that while invisible, flying, and invulnerable. I could breach their defences and kill all the opposing Coil-Lords and Emperor Temujin. But I will not, as I am not a murderer or assassin. Although slim, my opponents still have a chance to kill or harm me. That allows me to accept the fact that I slaughter them in significant numbers. I do not want to be a killing machine without a conscience.
• Hirotaro: I apologise, Sir Wulf.
• Wulf: Look deep into your soul and find out why you thought such a suggestion was acceptable. Then work to remove that dark stain and maintain some moral superiority over the evil we face.
• Tairo: Will you deliver the message to Nurendo?
• Wulf: I was going to revisit him anyway, as I have some information about The Manuscript. I know who used it last time Longwang threatened this land and who may still have it.
• Tairo: Revisit him? Have you already spoken to Nurendo?
• Wulf: Yes, but even before speaking to him, I knew the Sohei were helping the rebellion. It seems secrets amongst allies are prevalent on Tenno Island, but that is understandable. Longwang could be controlling any one of you. That is why I will not disclose how I plan to defeat Longwang or any other information I am privy to.
• Tairo: And the Sohei are on our side.
• Wulf: They have always been on your side. If there were not so much hate for Tsaesci, you would have realised that the Sohei are natural allies.
• Tairo: It is my tolerance for Tsaesci that caused a fracture in our ranks, Sir Wulf.
• Wulf: You either have the strength to maintain your moral code or do not. That is up to you. I will visit Nurendo now and check back later to see if there is anything else that I can assist with.

One of the priorities after any battle is the disposal of the dead. Windguard and their adversaries lay where they fell hours after the battle. In many ways, the Windguard are similar to the Dragonguard and Divine Nights. In other ways, they are vastly different.

I placed a Mark, went invisible, then started my trip to Nurendo’s.

I listened to the murmuring of the stars as I flew.

I landed and became visible before approaching Nurendo’s estate.

Before I could knock on the door, Shimana hurried towards me.

“Greeting, Shimana. Is Nurendo at home?”

“Sorry, no, Sir Wulf. A Monk of the First Tree Temple visited and asked Nurendo to investigate the Cave of Tsaenmong. The monks think evil spirits have inhabited it.”

I looked at my map and said, “It is marked and not too far. I shall see if Nurendo needs assistance.”

“Thank you, Sir Wulf. He told me not to follow him, and I am worried.”

“Things like this are likely to be associated with Longwang. He seems to have many pockets of necromancers and other minions doing his dark deeds.”

“That is what Nurendo said, and why he instructed me not to follow.”

“Nurendo is a skillful warrior and mage. He will be okay, Shimana. Now I shall turn invisible, so do not be startled.”

Invisible and flying seem to be how I have spent most of my time on Tenno Island.

I entered the cave and saw several Skeletal Warriors that had recently been destroyed. The only live encounters were with Fire Beetles.

I saw Nurendo, and he saw me.

He said, “Follow me, Sir Wulf. We must figure out what is happening in this cave.”

We continued walking as we talked.

I asked, “What did the monk tell you?”

“Monks from the First Tree Temple performed a ritual and saw a black aura over this place. I decided to investigate.”

“It was not wise to do so alone.”

“You are right. I feel… I do not even know how to explain it.”

“It is likely familiar to you.”

“Yes, it is familiar to me. That is a bad sign, but how did you guess?”

“It is Longwang’s dweomer. You would have been exposed to it in the past. We need to find its source.”

“Am I in danger?”

“If you were exposed to it for a length of time, you would succumb to it. It is how Longwang recruits people. ”

 “But you are immune. You mention your mind block in your journals.”

“Yes, I am immune, but the constant battering against my mind block is not pleasant.”

“I am sure there is much to discuss, but let us concentrate on the task at hand.”

“Let me lead. I am better at detecting and disposing of danger.”

Nurendo saw the logic and let me lead.

We came to a sealed door. A Will-O-Wisp flew in circles between three small columns.

Nurendo said, “This looks like a magical riddle locking the door ahead. It seems that the flying thing was created for a reason. It could be a clue!”

“It is a clue. It is telling us that the three columns must be touched in sequence, clockwise. However, it does not tell us which is the first of the sequence.”

“The door leads to the tomb of a mage called Caenmun.”

“I can see no obvious mechanical traps nor detect a magical one. I think if I touch them in a clockwise order, it will not matter which one I start with.”

“I will stand away, just in case.”

“That would be wise, Nurendo. Much wiser than visiting this tomb by yourself.”

Nurendo stood away as I touched the first column. Nothing bad happened, and after touching the next two in clockwise order, we heard a click.

The doors were unlocked, and we continued our investigation.

A bit further along, we encountered an Akaviri who stood and stared at us. He wore a loincloth and was armed with a spear.

I used Heat Vision and said, “He is alive and not a construct. He is likely ensorceled, and therefore hostile. There is another person to his right.”

As we approached, the Akaviri charged, weapon drawn.

I killed him, and we continued.

A woman, dressed in furs like the man, also attacked and died.

I asked Nurendo, “Did you notice their eyes?”

“Yes, they had no pupils. Like they had cataracts.”

“Longwang is trying different methods of recruitment. Do you remember the name of the priest that Ishiano spoke to when he first encountered Longwang at Nian Rong Monastery?”

“Yes, but only because Ishiano wrote it in his journal. It was Zirato.”

“Longwang was using the power of the columns at the Temple of the Forgotten Guardians to create constructs that looked identical to Shinzaemon. Zirato did not possess the necromantic and metaphysic knowledge to create the required dweomer, but Longwang did. He used Zirato as a puppet. Yesterday I killed Zirato and rescued Shinzaemon.”

“Could you create such a dweomer?”

“I likely could, given enough time. Anyway, there is more to that tale, but the important thing is that Longwang is not using a single method to recruit the army he needs. This place may contain another of his experiments.”

“And that would explain the Akaviri with strange eyes.”

“Correct. I can sense a similar, but slightly different, dweomer here. The monks saw the dweomer emanating from here as a dark aura.”

“I am sure there is more news I need to hear.”

“Yes, but the longer we linger, the more danger you are in. So let us find and destroy Longwang’s minions and plan first.”

We face a few more of the almost naked Akaviri, a few insane Tsaesci and an ensorceled bear before reaching a destroyed bridge.

I said, “We must be getting close. The occupants went to great effort to destroy this bridge.”

“It was nice of them to have lit the way for us.”

“You can jump from one island to the next. I have a quicker way.”

“Are you going to fly across?”

“Nope, I am going to Blink across.”

“Huh?”

“I pick a place I want to be, then go via the ethereal plane. No spell or Shout, just a thought.”

“A gift from a god?”

“A blessing from The Divines. So yes, a gift from nine gods.”

I Blinked to the other side and waited for Nurendo to take the slower route.

A bit further on, I warned him, “There are more Skeletal Warriors ahead.”

“I hate the way their bones rub together. It is like somebody scraping their fork on a ceramic plate!”

We eliminated a few Skeletal Warriors before entering a large cavern. Longwang’s dweomer was emanating from a cauldron in the centre.

A flame arose from the cauldron as we approached, and Nurendo asked, “What is happening?”

I warned, “That is now a portal. Expect company.”

Skeletal Warriors and Thu’um using Draugr attacked.

An ancient Dragonguard also attacked.

A necromancer kept appearing and vanishing. He was quick, but I was quicker and managed to cut him down.

The final enemy was a Kamal, who did not last long.

All was quiet, and Nurendo said, “I cut down two skeletons and you disposed of the rest.”

“Your Nagata is not the quickest of weapons.”

“It has been a long time since I have seen something like this. Do you know anything about it?”

“I can no longer sense Longwang’s dweomer. I think it needed the necromancer to keep it active, unlike other sites I have visited.”

“Is this place cleansed?”

“As far as I can tell.”

“I assume Shimana sent you here?”

“Yes, she did. I came to deliver you a message from the Windguard. I had no idea they were unaware of Tagamori, or should I say, Yashimano’s membership of the Sohei.”

I handed the message to Nurendo, who chuckled as he read it.

He then remarked, “There are many of us, Sir Wulf. Most people who work and live with us are unaware that we are Sohei. That has been our strength.”

“Including a Zi-Khuliin named Ushevi Aina.”

“She is an important member of the Kotimaru Clan.”

“I did not see her on the battlefields today, which is fortunate for her.”

“Battlefields?”

“The Windguard went on the offensive and, with my help, destroyed about a third of the opposing army. They now occupy several strategic positions, including Bone Hill Castle and Tanaga Farm. Their success against a much larger army will encourage the enslaved Akaviri to join the revolt. I have supplied them with tons of supplies to arm the recruits.”

“But they need time to organise before mainland clans get involved.”

“Yes, and that is why they reached out to the Sohei.”

“Have you spoken to Ushevi?”

“No, I have not. If the Zi-Khuliin is Kotimaru Clan, would she answer your call if you summoned the Sohei? I do need to speak to her.”

“She would answer the summons, but that does not mean she would betray her clan. Why do you need to speak to her?”

“Sorry, but I must keep some things to myself.”

“What do you think of Tsaesci Dragonborn?”

“They have not earned that title. They can call themselves Zi-Khuliin, but Dragonborn and Dovahkiin they will never be.”

“Did your visit to the Temple of the Forgotten Guardians colour your view of Zi-Khuliin?”

“I regard dragons as celestial brothers. Lord Akatosh is our celestial father. The usurping of a dragon’s identity and enslavement is abhorrent to me for many reasons, even without that metaphysical connection. The Three Coils of Ascension would require great sacrifice and willpower to complete. To learn that some of them cheat by subduing a dragon with a dweomer barely different from Longwang’s was not a surprise.”

“There were many reasons mages were attacked and outlawed. The fact that we knew many of the secrets of the Zei’Mirakhaal and, therefore, Zi-Khuliin, was one of them. They were not thorough enough with the cleansing, and that knowledge still exists and poses a threat to the religious doctrine that justifies the status quo.”

“Too much of Tsaesci identity requires The Way of the Coil. Some of its needs to be excised, but it can never be abandoned.”

“No, as the gods of the Akaviri could not and were not. I shall meet with Yashimano at his hideout and plan our meeting with the rest of the Sohei. They will hear the summons no matter where they are on Tenno Island.”

“Coil-Lord Kanematsu massacred the people of Ayo as retaliation. Inform any Sohei who oppose Akaviri freedom that this is what they will condone. I am sure those who witnessed the betrayal will remember such brutality. I met Liraiya in Dasyu, and she remembers with bitterness what happened to the innocents of that city. I helped the lingering Akaviri spirits to their afterlife, and they still did not understand how friends turned to enemies so quickly and viciously.”

“I doubt there will be any dissenters amongst the Sohei. We knew this was coming. The rebellion needs our support, and Longwang needs our combined strength to oppose.”

“I shall see you at Yashimano’s after I report back to Tairo.”

I cast Recall and appeared outside the residence of Bone Hill Castle.

When I entered, Tairo and Hirotaro were discussing developments.

• Tairo: If all the Coil-Lords on Tenno Island oppose us, they can field fifty thousand troops. Then we will be crushed.
• Wulf: Nurendo confirmed what I told you, the Sohei will aid where they can.
• Tairo: We need to persuade some of the smaller clans to support us.
• Hirotaro: Sir Wulf, we have heard that more soldiers, an entire army that supports our cause, have landed on Tenno Island and have started a northern front.
• Wulf: Then you must keep up the momentum. Two armies will keep the enemy guessing.
• Tairo: It would be good to coordinate with them, but they are having trouble getting through.
• Wulf: They will cause damage to the enemy and buy you some time.

Yamagata burst into the room.

• Yamagata: Tairo, I have an urgent message! A large enemy force was detected in the west! They are travelling towards the Western Outpost.
• Tairo: How far away are they?
• Yamagata: Their vanguard has already engaged ours.
• Hirotaro: Who do we have in reserve, Tairo? They should be sent there immediately!
• Yamagata: Wait, there is more. One squad managed to get around our defensive positions and was heading for the Wind Dwelling Temple!
• Tairo: I am going to the temple! Hirotaro, gather our forces and deal with the western incursion.

Yamagata and Hirotaro left the room, and I confronted Tairo.

I asked, “How many Windguard defend the temple?”

“Half a dozen, including Shinoda and Roka.”

“There are noncombatants there, including children!”

“I did not think they were in danger.”

“You do not know who is in league with Longwang, nor can you trust that nobody has been bribed by one of the Coil-Lords. The fact that they broke away and headed for the temple indicates they knew that was your headquarters. You have been betrayed.”

“They might be okay. We must go and see…my sister is there!”

“Place your hand on my shoulder and I shall teleport us to the temple’s entrance. You will then run to the rear entrance and enter. Do not engage the enemy till you hear me fighting them. You would stand no chance in a frontal assault in a confined space.”

“Okay.”

I teleported us to the front entrance, and Tairo dashed to the rear one.

I Shouted Slow Time and entered.

There were no sentries, so I caught the enemy by surprise and killed several before they fought back.

More slaughter. More gore and blood on my armour and blade. More faces added to my tally. But there was no darkness, for I am what I am.

There was seething anger that I suppressed when I saw Tairo kneeling next to his dead sister.

He was a fool to leave so few defenders, but no matter what I said, Emiko lying in a pool of blood was a lesson he learned too late.

As he wept, I looked around.

Mei and Seieri lay close together. It looks like they were killed but not defiled. They were promised safe shelter.

I found Ciel standing near the table where we held the planning meeting. She was staring at a decapitated Tsaesci but turned when I approached.

Tears came unbidden when I saw her face. War is an obscure concept to children until it roars into reality with its brutality.

The child asked, “Why do people do this, Sir Wulf? Dad wants to build bird cages and lanterns and not hurt anybody.”

“There are many reasons why wars happen, Ciel. Where is Vhian?”

“She will not leave our hiding place. Shinoda put us in the room with all the armour and stuff you delivered. He piled it all up so we could not be seen, but we had to be quiet. That was hard as we jumped at every sound and felt like crying and screaming. We know Shinoda killed some people who tried to enter the room, but then everything went quiet for a long time.”

“The enemy was waiting for Tairo and others to arrive. They hoped to capture or kill the rebellion leaders.”

“I do not know where Mei is.”

“They killed her, Ciel.”

“Dad will be so sad. They loved each other very much!”

“Go and join your sister. It does no good to see the bodies, even those of the soldiers who hurt Mei.”

“Okay.”

Ciel wandered away, but she was not the bright, effervescent child who was delighted at my gift of chocolates. I have seen so many like her when they first enter one of my orphanages. The difference lies in the infinite compassion of other children, which helps heal the mental and emotional wounds. Ciel and her sister will not have that assistance.

I found Shinoda exiting the storage room as Ciel entered it.

He said, “Tairo was a fool! Another half a dozen Windguard would have made all the difference here and not depleted the forces he commanded.”

“Have you even commanded an army, Shinoda?”

“No.”

“Yes, Tairo made a mistake, but he did not kill these people. Do not lose sight of who committed these murders. The responsibility of command is enormous, and Tairo is needed. Therefore, you must provide him with the necessary support as he mourns his sister and the others. And do not forget Seibei. He lost his wife on the mainland and now his new love, Mei, lies dead. You protected his daughters, but still, he will be devastated. This tragedy could cause a new rift between Tairo and Seibei. A wise head like yours will be needed to prevent that from happening.”

“You are right, Sir Wulf. I will not tell Tairo of his mistake, for he can see it. I will try to prevent any rift between him and Seibei.”

“The enemy is currently pressing our forces on the Western flank. Hirotaro is heading there with our reserves. Another group of rebels has arrived from the mainland but has not been able to break through and join us. Who they are, I do not know. The Sohei are mobilising and will provide invaluable support.”

“A runner reported what you did at the desert fort and the castle. I cannot imagine what you and the Divine Knights are capable of.”

“We have accomplished much, but there are always enemies working in the background until they announce, or we discover, their schemes.”

“I had better see to Vhian. She is terrified and was close to Mei. Does Ciel know of Mei’s death?”

“Yes, but I sent her to the storeroom, as she has seen enough death.”

“Okay, Sir Wulf. Tell Tairo that Roka fought well and took down many trying to defend his sister.”

It was time for me to concentrate on Longwang, so I went looking for Tairo.

I passed Roka’s body. He stood no chance, no matter how hard he fought.

Tairo was still next to Emiko, katana in hand.

“Shinoda protected Ciel and Vhian by fighting in a doorway. The enemy could not swarm him. Roka fought hard to protect Emiko but had little chance against such numbers.”

“What about Mei and Seieri?”

“Dead.”

“This is my fault! I did not leave enough guards.”

“You must continue to lead with confidence, Tairo. You must also face the fact that you have at least one traitor amongst your ranks. The enemy was told where the Windguard’s hideout was. They only sent a platoon here compared to the army they sent against the desert fort, so they knew there were few defenders.”

“Why would somebody turncoat like this?”

“That is a question with many possible answers. The easiest to digest is that they have involuntarily become ensorceled by Longwang. He would want the war to drag on and the rebellion to fail eventually. The other possible answers are less palatable, but just as likely.”

“What do I do?”

“As I said, you must continue to lead with confidence. Do not let vengeance and hatred dictate your decisions. What your planning and leadership have accomplished so far has been extraordinary, and despite this counterattack in the west, you have the enemy scared and scattered. So, tell me, what do you plan to do next?”

 “The enemy is pushing us from both sides. I do not know how long we can hold them off. We must strike them hard without delay!”

“The three clans may seem to be cooperating, but the Coil-Lords are waiting to gain an upper hand on their business rivals. Emperor Temujin sent observers, but he did not commit large numbers of troops. Your best strategy would be to drive a wedge in the fragile alliance. If one of the Coil-Lords believes the rebellion will succeed, they will either withdraw their troops or ally with you to gain an advantage over the other two. I have no doubt the Sohei will use their influence to try and drive such a wedge into the alliance.”

“I am not adept at such political manipulation, but Tagamori is. Tell him your plan, and he might assist with it.”

“Nurendo was on his way to meet Yashimano, and I said I would join them.”

“It will be a long time before I call him anything but Tagamori. I need time to bury my sister and the others and mourn. So, the rebellion will have to proceed without me for a little while.”

I teleported to the entrance of Yashimano’s hideout.

I did not announce my arrival, and I caught the two Sohei in conversation.

• Nurendo: What will you do when you kill Emperor Temujin? Will you take his place?
• Yashimano: No, I will not. The positions of Court Wizard and head of the reborn brotherhood will be enough for me. It is not for me to decide who will rule the people.
• Wulf: To kill Emperor Temujin, you would have to get past me, and I doubt you are capable of that.
• Nurendo: How long have you been listening?
• Wulf: I have not tried to sneak up on you and was rather noisy opening the trapdoor and coming down the ladder! But do not digress, Nurendo. Emperor Temujin will not be harmed!
• Yashimano: Sir Wulf has made that point quite clear from the start.
• Nurendo: Yes, his reasons are sound, but I also think there is an agreement between Emperors Mede and Temujin.
• Wulf: The Akaviri will be free, and Emperor Temujin will prevent reprisals from the mainland. That is all that needs to be known.
• Yashimano: Do you have news of the war?
• Wulf: Another rebel army has landed and is fighting southwards. The three clans are counterattacking, and fighting has been joined on our western flank by most of Tairo’s forces. A platoon of enemies attacked the temple and killed Eriko and others who had fled there for protection. Tairo had only left a token force to protect them.
• Yashimano: Oh. Does Tairo know?
• Wulf: Yes. He will be busy burying his sister and mourning for a while.
• Nurendo: What are his plans? Has he left instructions?
• Wulf: Hirotaro has been tasked with blunting the counterattack. I think Tairo is at a loss as to what to do, as he fears they will be caught between two large armies. I do not know who this new lot of rebels is.
• Yashimano: What do you suggest should be the rebels’ next move?
• Wulf: I have no idea what influence the Sohei will have, but I believe the alliance of the three clans is fragile. I assume they are usually rivals, competing for business, influence, and the ear of Emperor Temujin.
• Nurendo: You ascertained that while slaughtering their troops?
• Wulf: No, it is the same to some degree in every nation. Skyrim was not divided by deep beliefs but by political expediency. Those who supported Ulfric did not care about religious freedom or anything else. They thought he had a better chance of winning. The politics in Cyrodiil seem placid, but even minor changes could easily spark a civil war. As Dragonguard, we dealt with nothing but inter-clan rivalries or nobles within a clan clambering for their Coil-Lord’s favour on the mainland.
• Yashimano: You are correct, and feeding the clan rivalry would be a wise tactic. That is why I have prepared a letter for you to take to Coil-Lord Haigo Kotimaru.

Yashimano handed me the letter, which read,

“On behalf of all the leaders of the rebellion, I, Yashimano Suda, appeal to you and appeal to your prudence! Our goal is to end the emperor’s power, and not plunge all Akavir into bloody chaos! Now you are standing like a shield between the capital and us. The Odonaga clan will use you if there is an opportunity to ward off the threat from its own possessions. But there is another way. If we make a secret agreement, you will remain the owners of your land. We will not attack your settlements, engage in robbery, or commit acts that discredit the honour of a warrior. Is it worth enduring the imperial requisitions and fighting for someone else’s wealth and power? Our next goal is to seize the lands of your adversary, the Nagamatsu clan, and, I hope, you will not obstruct us. Formally staying at the emperor’s side, you can refer to the need of defending your province and will not try to return what has already been lost. Then we will stop the senseless bloodshed.

Yours in hope of peace, Yashimano Suda.”

• Wulf: I will be at risk delivering this, for we do not know who is a puppet of Longwang.
• Nurendo: You asked about the Zi-Khuliin named Ushevi Aina. She would know if her Coil-Lord is working for Longwang.
• Yashimano: It has recently come to my attention that the Kotimaru clan owned The Manuscript that ended Longwang’s plans two hundred years ago. Is it a coincidence you asked about Ushevi Aina?
• Wulf: For reasons I have explained before, there are some things I will not divulge. Longwang’s powers are greater than you realise. He did not plan for my interference and is scrambling to counter it. I will not inadvertently provide him information that allows him to escape.
• Nurendo: Do you know who used The Manuscript two hundred years ago?
• Wulf: I will not discuss what I know.
• Yashimano: Sir Wulf is excellent at not answering questions.
• Wulf: Your letter suggests the Odonaga Clan is a significant rival to the Kotimaru Clan. Are they the most powerful of the three?
• Nurendo: Yes, and by themselves, they could defeat the rebellion. Coil-Lord Haigo Kotimaru knows this, and as Yashimano’s letter claims, the larger clan will wipe out the smaller if an opportunity presents itself.
• Yashimano: The Kotimaru Clan suffering substantial casualties would be an opportunity his natural enemy could not resist exploiting.
• Wulf: How many Sohei will answer your summons, Nurendo?
• Nurendo: There are about five hundred members. However, many of them will remain in the monasteries and remote villages to provide protection and aid. We will not significantly enhance the military might, but will have profound effects in other areas.
• Wulf: The enemy cannot pause and allow the Windguard to recruit, train and equip enslaved Akaviri. There will be no lull in the fighting, and Coil-Lord Kotimaru knows this. Therefore, I think this offer of truce has a reasonable chance of success. However, your letter does not state that all Akaviri will be freed. You suggest his clan can conduct their business without change.
• Yashimano: It may be that not all Akaviri will get freedom.
• Wulf: No, that is not acceptable. I will deliver this letter, but if asked, I will tell Coil-Lord Kotimaru that his enslaved people will be freed.
• Yashimano: Do as you wish, Sir Wulf.
• Nurendo: I will now head back home and summon the Sohei. They will gather at the western outpost.
• Wulf: I think we are at a pivotal moment. The next day or two will decide the fate of this nation, all Akavir and possibly the whole of Nirn.
• Yashimano: Then let us hope you succeed with Coil-Lord Kotimaru, for things will be far more complicated if we do not fracture the alliance.

I started my flight to Sumon and saw Nurendo walking past Chaurus with a torch in hand. The creatures were too far away for Kyne’s Peace to be in effect. One of them had been marked by Lady Kynareth. Perhaps they are members of Sohei, and that is why they do not attack him?

I chuckled to myself.

“I have left you alone all day, because I knew you were fighting and killing. But I sense some amusement, so spill the beans, Dragonbum.”

“Nothing in particular, my beloved. It has been grim, so anything slightly amusing will swing my mood to the positive.”

“How grim?”

“I have killed many hundreds. But that does not trigger the darkness anymore.”

“No, but I bet you still tally and remember them.”

“Yes, I will never stop doing that. However, like Ayo, there was more slaughter of innocents, and that is something I will never easily accept.”

“I will not ask for details, but you know what to do if it gets too much.”

“I am heading to Sumon to offer a peace treaty to one of the three clans opposing us. It just so happens to be where that Tsaesci Dragonfake lives.”

“Dragonfake? Did you make that up?”

“Yep. It is appropriate for a Tsaesci Dragonborn.”

“Do you know anything about the Coil-Lord you are parleying with?”

“Nope. I know that any Tsaesci noble who follows The Way of the Coil would not dare break parley. However, if he is a minion of Longwang, anything can happen.”

“Could that Dragonfake be ensorceled by Longwang?”

“If Ushevi completed the Three Coils of Ascension, she would have an unyielding will and sense of self. That would give her some immunity to Longwang’s dweomer. However, empirical evidence suggests not all Zi-Khul have the willpower or discipline to complete them without cheating.”

“You will not know till you meet her.”

“Even a scan of her soul would not necessarily show she is under Longwang’s control, and I would also sense the dragon’s soul, and if he is in distress, I might have to act.”

“Will the rebels win?”

“I will not let them lose.”

“Even if you have to involve the Divine Knights?”

“Yes.”

“I am heading for dinner, and it is Aranea’s first meal with us. I do not want to be late, or Malesam may drive her away with his exciting banter.”

“How long before the smelly one discovers where she is?”

“Lady Azura might tell him!”

“Issue a picture to all your guards and tell them Sethri is banned from the city.”

“He is sneaky and would find a way in.”

“Say hello to Aranea for me.”

“Will do.”

I landed in Sumon but stayed invisible as I walked to the Coil-Lord’s residence.

I became visible before turning the corner and approaching the entrance. Three guards watched me approach, but did not reach for their katanas.

One of the Guardians said, “Stop, Neh-Tamrilei. Coil-Lord Kotimaru does not receive anyone! Especially not barbarians such as yourself.”

“I am Sir Wulf Welkynd, and an envoy to Tsaesci on behalf of His Imperial Majesty, Emperor Titus Mede II. I am here to discuss matters of great importance with your master. I realise you are but an unimportant underling, so I will forgive your lack of manners, but be a good boy and announce my arrival.”

“I… ahh…”

“Let me do it for you.”

I used a bit of Thu’um so all inside the palace would hear me.

“HIS EXCELLENCY, SIR WULF WELKYND, DRAGONBORN AND CHAMPION OF THE DIVINES, ENVOY OF THE EMPIRE, HUMBLY REQUESTS AN AUDIENCE WITH COIL-LORD HAIGO KOTIMARU.”

I heard some roof tiles dislodge and hit the ground. A few muttered curses and noisy activity followed. Then a person on the other side said, “Allow him in.”

The Guardian warned, “They are allowing you inside. If you try to draw your katana, you will die!”

“You are meant to say, ‘You have permission to enter, Your Excellency.’ It seems training amongst Kotimaru Guardians is worse than I have been told.”

The other two Guardians tried to stifle sniggers as the doors swung open.

I entered the courtyard, and the entry doors were slammed shut and secured with a heavy wooden beam.

As the Coil-Lord approached, I noticed a flame floating in the background. I would have to get closer to figure out what it was, but I suspected Longwang had at least one minion amongst those living in the castle.

When Haigo was in position and pleased with the placement of Guardians, he began.

“I have never seen a Neh-Tamrilei before. You are uglier than I could have ever imagined.”

“I know many Tsaesci, so I have a larger pool of examples to choose from. You are not the ugliest I have met, but those uglier were undead and rotting. However, do not fret, you came close to being the ugliest.”

One of the Guardian’s hands strayed towards his katana as he snarled, “Show respect to our master or die, barbarian!”

“If you break the parley, I will slaughter every one of you. My behaviour will mirror Coil-Lord Kotiimaru’s. Respect will be rewarded with respect. I am a high-ranking noble, so do not presume to speak above your station, Guardian.”

Haigo signalled the Guardian, who returned to a watching stance.

The Coil-Lord said, “Okay, we shall play your game, Sir Wulf. Why are you here?”

“His Royal Majesty, Emperor Titus Mede II, would like to start trade negotiations with Tsaesci. However, I find it is embroiled in a civil war and therefore, all talk of trade is delayed till it is resolved. Therefore, I have agreed, on behalf of the uprising’s leaders, to deliver a letter to you. May I approach?”

“Yes.”

I stepped towards Haigo and held out the letter. As he took it from me, I concentrated on the flame. It was not a teleport but a projector. There was probably one at the monastery where I first saw the Phantom of Longwang, but I could not see it while Ethereally Travelling. Unless a mage trained to detect such things, none of the Guardians or Haigo would see it. It must be conjured, which supports my theory that there is a Longwang minion in the castle.

Haigo read the letter, then handed it back.

He then snarled, “Such barefooted impudence to show up here and make such an offer! The Kotimaru Clan does not make agreements with rebels!”

“Yet you ally yourself with Coil-Lord Odonaga, who would kill your people and steal everything you own if given the opportunity. Worse of all, you aid Coil-Lord Nagamatu, a minion of Longwang and enemy of you all.”

“Why would I believe a barbarian?”

“The rebels trounced your combined armies and weakened Nagamatu. They are on his doorstep, and soon it will just be you and Odonaga. It will be a war of attrition, and when you are weakened enough, Odenaga’s troops will turn on yours.”

“I know all this, but I will protect my lands to my dying breath, as a true warrior! Only in a fair fight will we see who deserves the ultimate glory.”

“Then you are a fool. There is no glory in war, and you have not asked the innocents of your clan if they desire such an outcome. Are you positive that when Odonaga’s Guardians slit the throats of the peasants and their children, they will think you a hero worthy of song?”

“I have had enough. Tell the rebels there is no deal and leave!”

A noise and burst of Magicka announced the triggering of the projector. A couple of Guardians drew their katanas. Haigo turned while asking, “What is happening?”

He and his Guardians were then frozen in place.

I drew my katana, not knowing what to expect.

The burst of Magicka dissipated, and the Phantom of Longwang stood with hands on hips.

I said, “Sorry about all your minions that attacked the Zei’Vaaz-Ruhk. I hope you were not too fond of them. Oh, and how can I forget poor Zirato? All that time and effort invested in that plan was to no avail. It is sad what is happening to Nagamatu. The rebels will soon be kicking his door in and then, oops, there goes your army.”

“How banal it is. A great hero fighting a great evil! Or maybe it is not me who opposes you? Was it me who made the Tsaesci betray the Akaviri long ago or more recently? Is it I who drives the Tsaesci into madness if they try to stop consuming Akaviri blood? Is it me who forces them to forget The Way of the Coil and follow primitive lusts?”

“You are speaking through your arse, Dagoth Ur. I do not blame you for any of that. Like many parasites, you take advantage of a weakened host. You saw this society’s degradation and decided it was ripe for the picking. You imitate the tactics of the Daedric Princes, but do not have their resources or abilities. I am here to send you back to The Void, and there is nothing you can do to stop me apart from hiding in whatever pocket plane you have made home.”

“The Tsaesci have been patiently growing the destruction inside themselves for thousands of years. They are preparing the fall of their society with their own hands! I am merely helping them finish what has been started.”

“They still have time to mend their ways and do not need their destruction hurried along or guaranteed by you. Do you expect me to stand back whilst you use their suffering for what, revenge? One of them bettered you two hundred years ago, but I suppose you might blame an entire race for your shortcomings rather than face the fact that a mortal outmatched you.”

“When their lust for destruction is satisfied, the new cycle will begin!”

“You do not believe the entropic cycle theory, and neither do I. It is not supported by abundant evidence and is nonsense. So do me a favour and stop pretending you are doing something benevolent. What was next? Were you going to claim you reflect my dark self?”

“Why not? Some call me Master. They even gave me that name! Poor fools. They do not realise they worship the darkness inside themselves.”

“What a load of crap! You know nothing about me, Dagoth Ur. If you did, you would know your attempt to convince me of your nonsense has no hope of succeeding. However, I know a lot about you, especially after my recent discussions with The Nerevarine, Lady Azura and what The Eye disclosed to me. Oh, I forgot to apologise for getting rid of that before your minions found it. So, sorry I disposed of The Eye. There, that is more guilt removed!”

“It is you who know nothing. If you did, you would realise that I am part of you! As I am part of every sentient being in Nirn!”

“I must admit, you are persistent. But I am not interested in childish banter. I am the son of two gods, blessed by many others, and my knowledge of how souls work and metaphysics exposes that lie. You did not plan for my interference and have no way of stopping me. I expect I will have possession of The Manuscript within a day or two. Did you know this clan had it last time you visited Tenno Island? It was they who gave it to the monk who sent you back to The Void for a while.”

Dagoth Ur battered against my mind shield to no avail.

I laughed and said, “Real gods. Malacath, Boethia, Hermaeus Mora and others have failed to penetrate my mind. Therefore, a weakling like you, hardly more powerful than the minor demigod he has ensorceled, has no hope. Send your champion, Vel’Zhak-Kuro, to me instead of hiding behind him!”

The Phantom of Longwang vanished, but not before controlling Coil-Lord Haigo Kotimaru.

I sheathed my sword, then Haigo yelled, “He has his katana drawn! Kill him!”

So be it. Parley was broken, and it was not by me.

A single Word Frost Breath Shout encased Haigo and a Guardian in ice.

Then every Guardian, and many others, in and around the palace attacked, and over half an hour later, they were all dead. There were now dozens of bodies scattered in the courtyard, gardens and buildings. Many servants and other noncombatants were hiding or running for their lives.

Unfortunately, my attempt to disable Haigo failed, and Frost Breath had killed him. None of my Shouts are harmless, even though the strength of my Thu’um is still to peak.

I was inside the palace when I heard a dragon approaching. I guessed who it was and waited, with weapon sheathed, for her to find me.

Ten minutes later, Ushevi burst into the room with her katana drawn.

“You will die, monster, for what you have done!”

I drew my katana and disarmed Ushevi in one fluid movement. She stared at me, so the next part was easy.

“Look into my eyes, Zi-Khuliin Ushevi Aina!”

She did so, saw the power within me, and like all those before, became temporarily paralysed.

While Ushevi was collapsed on the floor, I retrieved her katana and placed it in her scabbard.

Ushevi recovered faster than most. Malesam was out of it for twice as long.

I said, “Sit up and place your hands on either side of your head. You probably have a headache anyway.”

Ushevi did as instructed.

“Good, now we can have that conversation I promised two hundred years ago. I am Sir Wulf Welkynd, Dragonborn and Champion of The Divines. You are Zi-Khuliin Ushevi Aina, and I want to know why you rescued the monk who was guilty of killing Teacher Ishiano Tere and several of his students. I want to know if he is the one who used The Manuscript to defeat Longwang. I want to know where The Manuscript is.”

“Why should I answer the murderer of my clan?”

“I have no doubt that you are of a privileged class and not kept ignorant like the Akaviri and most Tsaesci. Therefore, since you would like to be a real dragonborn, you have read my redacted journals. Hence, you would know I would never break parley and am not a murderer. So, assuming you can still think after the Three Coils of Ascension, why don’t you tell me what happened here?”

“Coil-Lord Kotimaru would never break parley. He was honourable and a devout follower of The Way of the Coil.”

“And what if the Phantom of Longwang was mere feet behind him for several minutes as that god and I discussed deep philosophical matters? Could Coil-Lord Kotimaru resist Longwang’s ensorcellment like Ishiano did?”

“No. He could not. I do not know if I could.”

“So, what happened if I did not break the parley?”

“Coil-Lord Kotimaru did, under Longwang’s influence. The Guardians were either ensorceled or believed you to be the one who broke the parley. You defended yourself.”

“You would have found live servants and other noncombatants when you were looking for me. That proves I was not in a killing frenzy but simply defending myself.”

“Yes, I can see that now.”

“I understand your first impression, and I am sorry Coil-Lord Kotimaru and the others died. But that was Longwang’s doing, so if you desire revenge and closure, assist me in defeating him.”

“Why did you visit here?”

“Yashimano and Nurendo asked me to deliver an offer of peace to Coil-Lord Kotimaru. Here, read this. Stay seated, but you can take your hands off your head.”

“You drew and disarmed me before I could react. I am not going to attack you, Sir Wulf.”

“It is funny how Longwang and other despotic gods can make somebody paranoid. Read the letter.”

Ushevi read the letter, then handed it back.

She said, “That is all logical and true, but I could have told them Coil-Lord Kotimaru would never agree to it.”

“Yes, you would think your fellow Sohei would have consulted with you. Has Nurendo issued the summons yet? He was on his way to his house to do so.”

“No, you would hear it, like everybody heard The Greybeards summon you. Tell me, Sir Wulf, how did you manage to talk to me all those years ago?”

“I can see past events, and even current events, by ethereally travelling. It is what allowed me to witness how the Ancient Tongues banished Alduin. I saw Ishiano confront Zirato and then Longwang at the monastery. I witnessed the Kamal attack on a monastery after a barrier failed. I saw your monk friend murder Ishiano. I witnessed you rescue the monk, and my questions remain unanswered. Who is he? Why did you rescue him? Did he use The Manuscript to defeat Longwang? Where is The Manuscript?”

“I rescued the monk because he could read The Manuscript.”

“The Manuscript is an Elder Scroll. I can read them, but apart from me, only Moth Priests can do so.”

“I do not know why he could read them. Just that he could. I did not know why he killed Ishiano, but we needed him to stop Longwang. I took advantage of the chaos to save him. He told me later that he did not make the Guardians and civilians fight. I believed him. He did not want to kill Ishiano, but Longwang controlled him. He said he had since learned to resist Longwang.”

“What or who started the melee is a mystery, but not the most pressing. Longwang wanting Ishiano dead is logical. He resisted Longwang at the monastery and was a threat, as were those gathered to hear his speech. When Longwang heard that the manuscript had been found, he had the monk attack before Ishiano could reveal its location. All he said was that the Sohei had found it, meaning you.”

“I do not know the name of the monk and do not know if I ever did. Much of what occurred is fuzzy, and I am unsure if I can trust my memory. I do not know if what I recall is real or something my mind has created to make sense of it all.”

“Longwang has affected the memory of most Tsaesci and Akaviri. What else can you tell me about the monk, even if unsure of the reality?”

“Before he read The Manuscript, his behaviour was strange. I say he, but I am unsure as to the monk’s gender. Sometimes he would fly into a causeless rage. Other times, he would sit for hours without reacting to anything, as if he were in a trance. You could prick or burn him, and he would not flinch. He rarely spoke and never removed the hood that hid his face.”

“What happened after he read The Manuscript?”

“He became unconscious and, after a while, died. He is buried in Takamaro Kofun, and The Manuscript is with him.”

“Get to your feet, Ushevi. Do not betray my trust. I need to leave before I am forced to kill more of your clan. Tell me about Takamaro Kofun as we walk.”

As we made our way outside, Ushevi explained, “I did not see any seal then, but I recall the gates of Takamaro Kofun automatically opening when I approached with the monk’s body draped over my shoulder.”

“I need to get The Manuscript before one of Longwang’s minions does. However, your memory cannot be trusted. Who else might have knowledge that can aid me?”

“Go to the Glade of Qilin. There, you will find a strange girl. She is an unusual child, but she may be able to help. Do not be frightened if you see animals that look like a cross between a dragon and a deer. They are harmless.”

“I fear no animal, natural or otherwise. The animals are called Qilin, hence the name of the glade. I am surprised to hear any survived the slaughter Tsaesci inflicted on them. I am certain Qilin exist on the mainland. What is the child’s name?”

“I am positive I knew it once, but I cannot recall it now.”

I looked at my map, and the Glade of Qilin was marked.

I said, “I know where the glade is.”

Just then, a loud gong reverberated.

Ushevi said, “That was Nurendo summoning the Sohei. The gong would have been heard across Tenno Island, and perhaps the mainland as well.”

“Nurendo said he would be meeting the Sohei at the western outpost.”

“That is our traditional meeting place. Nurendo has not had the time to tell us of an alternative.”

The main gate opened, and a platoon of Kotimaru Guardians swarmed into the courtyard.

“Go, Sir Wulf. We will meet again, as I think a combined effort is needed to defeat Longwang.”

“You are welcome to accompany me, Ushevi Aina, but if you ever transform into a dragon in front of me, I shall forcefully separate you from him!”

“Could you do that?”

“Yes, I could. However, I am uncertain as to what that might do to you.”

“Oh.”

“I have not scanned your soul, because I know I would see the dragon’s as well, and he would be in distress. He is my celestial brother, Ushevi. What you and other Zi-Khuliin do is abhorrent to me. I understand that it makes sense to you as a follower of The Way of the Coil, but you must understand my objection if we are to work together.”

“You can scan souls?”

“You saw the power of my soul. There are many things I can do thanks to the blessings from many gods and innate abilities due to my unique parentage. Go to Nurendo. He will know what to do about the death of Coil-Lord Kotimaru. The Odonaga Clan must not be allowed to take what belongs to your clan.”

I teleported to my room. I needed time to think. I needed Our Quiet to help me think. I needed Rigmor.