Tirdas, 11^th Last Seed, 4E 202

Rigmor and I had breakfast with Inigo and Jo’rassa. I told Inigo how I had purchased some land in The Rift, where a new village for Khajiiti is to be built. It is along a Moonpath and will provide a place of rest for Khajiiti merchants as well as opportunities for Skyrim-born and expatriate Khajiiti. If they want the roles, he and Jo’rassa can help design and then run the town as mayors. They were enthusiastic about the idea, so I will get that up and running when I return from Akavir.

I teleported to the entrance of the Windguard’s temple. The skies were overcast, and tropical rain poured down.

I was curious about the mysterious child who lived amongst the Qilin. There is much magic on Tenno Island and not all of it familiar to me. A child prophet is not overly rare, but always intriguing.

The direct route to the Glade of Qilin involved flying over Kofun Dainsenre. The ancient ruins were swarming with undead.

When I reached the glade, I could see four Qilin grazing and a young Akaviri girl sitting on a rock.

I landed and made myself visible.

The Qilin are scaled, and their faces resemble the unique Tenno Island dragons. They are not related to dragons, but that did not stop the Tsaesci from almost wiping them out during the last dragon war.

The girl was barefoot and appeared to be around nine or ten years of age. But her eyes told me a different story. She was ancient.

I learned not to scan the souls of odd little girls when floating in The Void. If they are a god or an avatar of a god, I can become insane. I used Heat Vision, and the child was afire. No mortal generates such body heat.

“Greeting, I am Sir Wulf Welkynd, Dragonborn and Champion of The Divines.”

“Hello, Sir Wulf, I am Syana.”

“I am looking for The Manuscript. Zi-Khuliin Ushevi Aina said you may be able to help.”

“They are beautiful, aren’t they?”

“Yes, the Qilin are beautiful. Are they good company?”

“They do not say much, but I am content to watch them.”

“Can you help with locating The Manuscript?”

“I have been watching you, and now that you are closer, I am confused. I see a sadness in you and something else that is hidden by a thick veil of darkness. It is strange.”

“If you were trying to read my mind, that is shielded.”

“No, I cannot do that. I can sense the past of people and some of their immediate future. Not specifics, for I am not a seer. Their past and future emotional journeys are what I can sense, but yours are hidden from me. Of course, future emotions are subject to infinite variables, so I can only advise on possibilities.”

“You are not an Akaviri child, are you?”

“In this life, I am an Akaviri child that will never age. I was also an Akaviri child in my past life, and I remember an Akaviri Emperor and a palace where I lived. Perhaps I was his daughter?”

“You are an empath.”

“I have heard that term before. I can see other people’s past by sensing previous emotions and associating events with those emotions. But I cannot remember much of my past. Just bits and pieces without context. The only thing for certain is it was a long time ago, before the first betrayal.”

“It is an extraordinary gift you have.”

“We are both unique, Sir Wulf. Why did Ushevi think I could aid you?”

“I ethereally travelled back in time and witnessed various events through the eyes of those who lived them. They have provided some of the information I need to stop Longwang.”

“Perhaps there is more to these visions than you believe. Describe them in detail.”

I then told Syana about Ethereal Travels and Dreams, as well as the memory shown by The Eye. She stared at me as I spoke, and they were not the eyes of a little girl. Some people might find that disturbing, but I found it fascinating.

When I finished, she blinked for the first time in over thirty minutes! She then said, “You must follow in the monk’s footsteps. You saw him kill Ishiano. You saw him rescued. Did Ushevi say the monk read The Manuscript?”

“She thinks he did, but cannot rely on her memory. Longwang’s dweomer has had two centuries to seed doubt in people’s minds or make them forget the past entirely. Ushevi thinks the monk read The Manuscript and died soon after. I can think of no reason why somebody would need to die to banish Longwang for a period.”

“I am still confused by the darkness I see in you. It is not your soul or thoughts that are dark. It is your potential futures that elude me. My mutterings are only ever advice on possibilities, but they are generally found to be useful for those seeking direction. With you, there is nothing. It is not death, for that is not darkness but a transition.”

“When all else fails, fall back on logic.”

“Ahh, that is when the wise sound the wisest. Did Ushevi say where The Manuscript is?”

“She thinks it is buried with the monk in Takamaro Kofun.”

“Wait…did Ushevi say the crypt is sealed?”

“Yes, but the seal vanished when she approached with the monk’s body.”

“I think you may be the only person who can unseal it. Go there.”

“That was my plan, but I thought it was worth talking to you first.”

“The Qilin are upset. They say there is a big battle and lots of death.”

“I am not surprised you can speak with them.”

“They can sense death and violence near Mikoi. Do you know what it may be?”

“The rebels have probably attacked Coil-Lord Nagamatu’s army. It would be the next logical step of their campaign.”

“Will peace come from this violence, Sir Wulf?”

“Enslavement is not peace. Therefore, it does not currently exist in this country. The rebellion has a chance of creating peace. I will investigate before heading to Takamaro Kofun.”

“Will you revisit me, Sir Wulf?”

“So that you can puzzle over me some more?”

“There is that, but more importantly, I think we could discuss odd things others never understand or contemplate.”

“If chance allows, I would be glad to visit again, Syana.”

I moved away from Syana before casting Shroudwalk and Shouting Volar.

Mikoi was almost deserted. Nagamatu’s castle also seemed deserted, and there were signs of looting.

A significant battle had occurred, and the main road to Mikoi was littered with death and destruction.

Black Powder weapons had been used. Many of the deceased never saw the enemy, as random death landed upon them. Canons remove skill and tactics from the battlefield. They have slowly been infiltrating the armies of Tamriel. I had never seen them used anywhere on Akavir before.

The enemy dead consisted of the Nagamatu and Odonaga clans, along with mercenaries. The rebellion casualties were Windguard and Sohei.

Rigmor asked, “What has upset you?”

“I am witnessing the aftermath of a large battle. There are bodies everywhere, but not one of them is female. It does not matter which side they fought for. They were fathers, sons, friends, lovers, fiancés, and so on. They should be living and enjoying the life gifted to them by whatever god or gods they worship. Now the defeated will be bundled into a mass grave. The victors will sing songs and toast the brave fallen. I must stop it, Rigmor. I must!”

“Where was this battle?”

“The outskirts of Mikoi. I assume the rebels attacked. It seems they won, but barely.”

“You were going to visit the little girl.”

“I did, and her name is Syana. She is an immortal empath, but she couldn’t read me, and that worried her. I do not know enough about empath abilities to determine if that is something I should be concerned about.”

“You see them at county and city fairs, next to the fortune tellers and clairvoyants.”

“Real empaths exist, Rigmor. Syana said she died long ago when she was a little girl, and now she is an immortal one who will never age.”

“Like that vampire you killed.”

“The vampire’s name was Babette. She had been locked in the body of a ten-year-old for hundreds of years. Syana is around that age as well. We have made the orphan vampires aware of a cure if they wish to pursue it later in life.”

“How close to ending the problems are you?”

“That depends on Dagon Ur. The Nagamatu and Kotimaru clans are out of the fight. The Odonaga clan is still formidable. There is supposed to be another rebel army fighting in the north of the island. I think as soon as Longwang realises the rebels will win, he will make his move.”

“Killing Emperor Temujin would ensure the war continues.”

“Clans on the mainland would attack Tenno Island. If the war became larger, Emperor Tosh Raka might make a move. Dagoth Ur could recruit people unopposed and then all Nirn would be at risk.”

“Will Lady Azura’s plan work?”

“Yes, if the Shadow of Longwang confronts me. The dweomer placed on Azura’s Bane would remove Dagoth Ur’s ensorcellment and send him to The Void. But the sword must land the killing blow on whatever mortal Dagoth Ur is controlling.”

“Do you have Azura’s Bane with you?”

“No. Only when a confrontation seems inevitable will I retrieve it. I can see some rebels ahead. I will talk again later.”

“I love you, my Dragonborn.”

“I am yours, now and forever.”

“Well? Where are those three words?”

“I love you.”

“Good. Now hurry up and end all that crap so you can come home.”

“Yes, Milady.”

There were a few rebels wandering about, but it seems they were almost wiped out.

I found Tairo barely conscious. He had been hit by several arrows, which a field surgeon had removed.

I told him, “Do not talk. Let me heal you first.”

I cast Grand Healing.

I helped Tairo to his feet and asked,“What happened here?”

“We won this battle, but at a great cost. Almost all the Windguard and Sohei warriors have been slain.”

“What of the other rebel army? Who are they and where are they?”

“They are my old comrades, the other Sei’kuro, who are nearly all Tsaesci, along with free Akaviri and Zho’vul-Tah.”

“You protected The People of the Pale Flame from persecution. It is why your friends left the Windguard. Free Akaviri must have risked all and entered Tsaesci to join them. The other Sei’kuro decided your cause was just. Therefore, as happened when the emperor betrayed the Akaviri, a combined army opposed him. As was the case then, the army consisted of those with martial expertise and civilians.”

“They have kept the northern army of the enemy busy. That provided us with a chance to eliminate Nagamatu.”

 “Only two clans opposed you, but I see mercenaries amongst the dead.”

“We saw the Kotimaru troops withdraw before we attacked.”

“I visited Coil-Lord Haigo Kotimaru and offered him a truce. He did not accept it, but before I could leave, the Shadow of Longwang appeared and ensorceled Haigo. Haigo ordered his Guardians to break the parley and attack me. I had no choice but to cut them all down. Until the politics of the clan are sorted, the Kotimaru will not be participants in this war.”

“Still, the two clans, with the addition of mercenaries, almost crushed us. They fled after Hirotaro slew their general. He repulsed the attack on our left flank at the cost of his life. Otherwise, the enemy would have captured our cannons.”

“Cannons are cruel and random bringers of death. If I cast a spell or use The Voice, I have some control over who will be killed. When you fire a cannon, you hope it kills more enemies than allies!”

“I did not think you would approve of their use, but we are outnumbered, and it will be some time before the enslaved Akaviri are recruited in numbers.”

“I am sorry for Hirotaro’s death. He was a fine warrior.”

“As were those you see around you. I do not know the names of the Sohei who died beside Windguard!”

“Did Coil-Lord Jiro Nagamatu lead the enemy?”

“No, we did not see Jiro. His brother, Naoshige Nagamatsu, led the enemy. His body lies somewhere near Hirotaro’s.”

“Unless the other rebels greatly weaken the northern army, you will have no choice but to pick somewhere, fortify it and rebuild your army.”

“I want to visit Mikoi.”

“I have healed you, but you know the effects of exhaustion. You will not be in a fit state to fight for several days. I do not think it is wise to enter Mikoi.”

“I need to. So, Sir Wulf, will you accompany me?”

“Do not try to run, Tairo. A slow jog might be possible.”

“We can discuss this further as we proceed. Other survivors are organising what is left of our army. I will return to them once I have done this.”

Tairo’s exhaustion was evident. But he was determined, so we started our jog towards Mikoi.

We talked as we jogged, in between Tairo’s gasps for air as he abused his still recovering body.

He said, “The more Tsaesci die, the less they will want this war. Today, they tried to overwhelm us with numbers.”

“You attacked without knowing their strength.”

“We were preparing to attack. However, the enemy took the initiative and attacked us when we were at our most vulnerable. We did underestimate their numbers.”

“You were not in defensive positions.”

“No, we were out in the open and were caught unprepared. We still managed to repel two of their attacks and thought their army would rout. Then Naoshige Nagamatsu, flanked by his personal guards, led their third attack.”

“I wonder if Longwang had control of him. Naoshige sacrificed any chance of his clan surviving by wasting his remaining troops. If the rebellion fails, Coil-Lord Odonaga will take the lands of his allies.”

“It is people like Naoshige who are our greatest threat. They are prepared to fight to the end.”

“Haigo was the same. They are idiots to think there is glory in sacrificing your soldiers and your civilians once you lose.”

“They abandoned or killed most of their seriously wounded, so as not to burden themselves. But as you can see, the convoy was looted by the mercenaries. It was not an army, but a bunch of marauders and bandits.”

“I have seen it before. Mercenaries are not invested in the reason for the battle. They want payment, and if that is endangered because their hirer is defeated, they will turncoat and claim their spoils by force.”

We entered Mikoi, and the streets were not wholly deserted.

Tairo stopped to speak bullshit.

He claimed, “Just as I thought. Mikoi is empty. There was no panic amongst the residents. They left the city, hoping to return soon.”

“You just said the mercenaries started looting. Surely that would cause panic.”

“The Tsaesci pretend to escape. Then they hide and will strike a sudden blow. That is a favourite tactic of theirs. But we are ready for this.”

“Bullshit, Tairo! The last few days have been your only experience at fighting Tsaesci. You have no idea what their tactics are, but I do. These buildings are not empty. Civilian Tsaesci are huddled in their homes and businesses, waiting for a war they did not ask for or agree with to be over. What you need to do is prove the Akaviri are not murderers, rapists, and looters.”

“Perhaps some of the enslaved Akaviri escaped in the commotion and will return once we control Mikoi. It will become the first free city of Akaviri!”

“That is not going to happen. Both races will populate cities and towns. You had better understand that, or be left by the wayside when I make that happen.”

A band of deserters charged us from an alley. I quickly cut them down.

I growled, “Get back to your army! You could hardly lift your katana just then.”

“I will, Sir Wulf. I want to speak to some of those wandering the streets first.”

“I cannot stay. I must stop this war, and that will be done elsewhere.”

I received no reply from Tairo, who walked towards an Odonaga Guardian. I did not wait to see the outcome. The rebels are their own masters.

It was a long flight to Takamaro Kofun, and I didn’t pause for sightseeing.

Upon arrival, I noticed a magical barrier protecting the entrance.

I could also see Ushevi hiding in the jungle, watching the entrance.

I landed and inspected the barrier before saying, “You can approach, Zi-Khuliin Ushevi Aina.”

“Ahh…where are you?”

I dismissed Shroudwalk, and Ushevi came up to me.

“I am not surprised you are here.”

“I was thinking that two dragonborn are better than one. Longwang has people also searching for The Manuscript, so my aid might be needed.”

“Two dragonborn are better than one, but I left the other one in Tamrilei. Should I summon him?”

“You are not afraid to express your opinions, Sir Wulf. Are all Neh-Tamrilei the same as you?”

“I get a bit grumpy after visiting a battlefield and witnessing the senseless deaths of so many.”

“Where was the battle?”

“The rebels destroyed Coil-Lord Nagamatsu’s army outside of Mikoi. That leaves the Odonaga clan as the last Tsaesci resistance, for Emperor Temujin will not commit his troops when Longwang is still a threat.”

“Do the rebels have enough troops? The Odonaga is by far the largest on Tenno Island.”

“There is another rebel army that arrived from the mainland. They are keeping the main Odonaga army busy in the north.”

“Another rebel army?”

“Yes, the other Sei’kuro, who are all Tsaesci, along with free Akaviri and Zho’vul-Tah, have combined to form an army.”

“Then history repeats. Such forces once opposed the Akaviri emperor who had betrayed his own people.”

“That army was slaughtered at Komori Castle, well, most of them were entombed and starved to death. So let us hope that history does not repeat.”

“The rebels have achieved much in a short time. The Kotimaru clan is quickly descending into chaos as they squabble for power. They have forgotten the people we are supposed to protect and nurture.”

“It would have been different without my aid. The rebels might eventually have won, but the war would have dragged on for months. That risked mainland clans getting involved and Emperor Tosh Raka taking advantage of a civil war.”

“Longwang would want that.”

“Yes, it would aid his plans.”

“I cannot watch my people die without trying to end the conflict. Perhaps The Manuscript will cleanse Tsaesci souls from the filth that has accumulated in them over the centuries.”

“No relic has that ability, Ushevi. A victory by the rebels will provide your people with a chance to reflect and remember the true meaning of The Way of the Coil. Akaviri and Tsaesci founded this country together. Their history of cooperation and mutual respect is far longer than the periods following the two betrayals.”

“If the cultists win, they will direct the flow of this filth on those who have not yet succumbed to its influence. That is what Teacher Ishiano taught us.”

“Longwang’s dweomer does not instill entropy. It slowly replaces the morals and beliefs of individuals with a desire to serve him. Entropy is the default state of things. It is chaos. That is why most Daedric Princes claim that chaos is Mundis’ natural state and that other gods are trying to force an artificial state of order upon it. However, the desire for order is a fundamental need of most species. Ant and Bee colonies are not chaotic. Wolf packs are not chaotic. I can provide endless examples of species that reject chaos without religion or other forms of persuasion forcing it upon them.”

“Then why did Longwang tell Teacher Ishiano that entropy was to blame for what happened?”

“Longwang knew of Ishiano’s interest in entropy and the theories surrounding it. While the Sohei were worrying about combating entropy, they were not concentrating on the real problem of Longwang’s ensorcellment of others.”

“That makes sense.”

“It makes sense when you have the time and energy to think about it. When you were all running around in a panic, the entropy theory sounded reasonable. Without an effort, conscious or otherwise, to combat entropy, it will become dominant.”

“Your journals show you must always struggle to find the real motives and dangers.”

“Yes, and I sometimes discover those too late. That can result in more death and destruction, and so I used to believe I had failed, even if the problem was eventually resolved. My desire to reduce chaos for the sake of all mortals has been my motivation. Therefore, I have been slow in accepting that I cannot get it right all the time. Wise words from those I love, gods and mortals, have broken through that barrier. Like the battleground I inspected earlier, I must accept the collateral damage that results from the decisions I make. Such things still sadden me, but no longer send me spiralling into a darkness few people experience and remain sane. History has shown what happens when the powerful get consumed by that darkness. Depravity finds an excuse, and those whose morals and motivation were once pure become perpetrators of chaos.”

“Like Pelinal Whitestrake. Religious teachers often used him as an example. There were plenty of Tsaesci and Akaviri examples they could have used, but it is more palatable to pick another species.”

“Pelinal is a fascinating entity, and I hope to talk with him further.”

“You have spoken to Pelinal Whitestrake?”

“I have spoken to many legendary people, Ushevi. Some of them I detest, but there is wisdom in those who have passed on.”

“Well, we know what needs to be done. We must stop Longwang. But how do we get inside? I tried to pass the barrier but could not.”

“You said that when you approached the gate with the monk’s body, it opened. You did not mention a magical barrier, but I think your recollection was mostly right. Watch.”

When I touched the barrier, three symbols appeared. The left-hand one was the Takamaro Kofun. The right-hand one was of a porcelain warrior, like those I have in my museum and the ones I saw when escaping Komori Castle. I did not know what the middle symbol represented.

The symbols vanished, and so did the barrier.

I asked, “Did you see those symbols?”

“Yes.”

“What was the middle one?”

“Have you seen the huge statue of the Akaviri with a bowl on his shoulders?”

“Yes.”

“That is the temple below it.”

“Okay, I do not understand their significance, but the barrier is gone.”

“Why did the barrier drop for you?”

“I am Dragonborn. So was the monk.”

“Are you sure? I know my memory is vague, but I would have remembered that!”

“You are not even sure what gender the monk was.”

“Oh.”

“This is not the first place on Tenno Island I have encountered that needs a Dragonborn to open.”

“So, if The Manuscript is inside, Longwang had no way of recovering it.”

“That assumes it is inside. Once again, we cannot trust your recollection of the events. I have visited places where only dragonborn are supposed to enter, but others inhabit them.”

“There is only one way of finding out what is inside, and that is to look.”

“I expect this place will be protected by powerful undead, so let me lead.”

“Okay.”

“First, I shall cast a Mark on the entrance. That will give us a quick exit if need be.”

“Ahh…okay…again…”

I do not blame Ushevi for her lack of magical knowledge. It has been suppressed for centuries.

I cast the Mark, and then we entered.

Braziers were lit. Thankfully, Ushevi did not ask who lit them.

Oblivion Vines were not something I had expected, and they spelled trouble.

We arrived at a lowered portcullis with a pull chain next to it.

I asked Ushevi, “What does it mean when the apparatus to open a door or raise a portcullis is exterior to the room or cavern?”

“The people who installed the portcullis are either stupid, or they wanted to keep something inside, not prevent entry.”

“Quite often it is stupidity, but occasionally it is to keep something nasty inside.”

I used the pull-chain and the portcullis lifted.

When we entered the cavern, Longwang’s voice echoed.

“Do not try to fight yourself. There is always going to be a craving for destruction inside you and all sentient beings. You cannot change that or prevent the inevitable!”

“You are very tedious, Longwang. I cannot detect your dweomer here, so my companion is safe from you. Therefore, do me a favour and keep quiet.”

Ushevi sounded concerned, “How does Longwang know where we are?”

“It would not take a great mage to place an alarm on the magical barrier. When it dropped, it is logical to assume I entered this place.”

“I know nothing about magic.”

“That is apparent. Anyway, where is the monk? This place is quite large.”

“I remember him being on a ledge above a precipice. But…”

“But that might be a false memory.”

“Yes.”

We came upon a burial crypt, and experience told me which Draugr were active. So, I was ready for them to arise and cut them down before they drew their weapons.

Ushevi used a ring to summon a Phantom Dragonguard.

I cut it down while saying, “Please, do not summon anything. I will deal with enemies and do not want to be distracted.”

The next enemy encountered was a Kamal.

I disposed of it, then said, “Somehow, Longwang’s minions have entered this place. Unless the corpse of the monk is magically protected, they will already have recovered The Manuscript.”

Another room full of Draugr was dealt with by Unrelenting Force, knocking over lanterns and lighting pools of oil.

Skeletal Warriors and undead Dragonguard posed little danger.

We came to a precipice, and I Blinked across to the other side.

I waited for the bemused Ushevi to reach me via a bridge.

A bit further on, she pointed to a closed sarcophagus and said, “That is it! That is where the monk is buried!”

I told her, “There is a disturbance in time around it. I have encountered it before on Tenno Island. A famous mortal hero called Nerevarine visited here not long before Longwang appeared two centuries ago. He returned to Tamrilei, and I spoke to him a couple of months ago. However, a Nerevarine from another time stream exited The Eye and died soon after. Whoever is in that sarcophagus is from a parallel time stream.”

“I know nothing of time streams but have read about Nerevarine.”

“I think Syana is also from a different time stream but has somehow been transformed.”

“I do not understand, but I assume this is of great significance.”

“At the moment, it is an interesting fact, and I cannot determine its significance. I would have to speak with Silah. She is a Jill and an expert on wibbly-wobbly, timey-wimey stuff.”

“Wibbly-wobbly?”

“Oh, sorry, I said that in Tamrielic. Silah is an expert on Zua-Keir da’Tai-Varun (Coiled flow of varied timelines.)”

“The Tamrielic words are more suited to those concepts. I did not pursue them beyond my instructor’s introduction.”

“Even powerful Dovah, such as Paarthurnax, bow to the knowledge of time that the Jills possess. Now, let us see what is interred with the monk.”

As I approached the sarcophagus, a projection of Jiro Nagamatsu appeared.

I told Syana, “Do not bother. Jiro is not here. More magic to confuse you.”

I stepped up to Jiro’s projection.

“Looking for The Manuscript, Sir Wulf? Do not bother. I have it, and soon we will win. While we are having this nice conversation, my Master’s armies are storming Zei’Vaaz-Ruhk!”

“What armies? I killed Zirato, so that was one army denied Longwang. A squad of Divine Knights aided me in eliminating the last army he sent against the Imperial Palace. The rebels have destroyed your army and half of Odonaga’s. The other half of Odonaga’s army is battling another rebel army in the north. Coil-Lord Haigo Kotimaru died thanks to Longwang’s failed attempt to control me, and the remainder of that clan has withdrawn. When we arrive at Zei’Vaaz-Ruhk, we shall quickly dispose of whatever pathetic ragtag bunch of minions Longwang has scrounged together.”

“No! It is only a matter of time before Emperor Temujin falls from power. Then we will rule the whole of Akavir! You will no longer be able to stop us.”

“It is too late for you, Jiro. Like Zirato, you do not realise how much Longwang treats you like a puppet. He pulls the strings, and you have no choice but to respond. Your brother died at rebel hands earlier today.”

Jiro recoiled at the news of his brother. There is part of him that still resists Dagoth Ur, but not enough to break the ensorcellment.

Dagoth Ur soon regained complete control, and Jiro snarled, “The rest of you will not be able to resist for long. When my Master bends them to his will, I will be at the head of a new Empire!”

“You will be dead the second you are of no use to Longwang. Discarded like a broken sword. But we are wasting time. Go, wait for us at Zei’Vaaz-Ruhk. We shall be there soon.”

“No. You will stay here. Now and forever!”

“I do not think so. The décor is boring, and where is the mead?”

Jiro’s projection vanished.

Shades appeared, but one combated another. They were constructs of pure chaos and could not be harmed.

Familiar screams echoed, and I knew I had to get Ushevi out of the place.

She asked, “What are those things? And what is making that horrible screeching sound?”

“They are Shades. We cannot harm them, but they can and will tear your soul apart. The screeches are a form of ghost. If you cut one down, it will reappear seconds later. You would eventually tire and die.”

“So, what do we do?”

“Place your hand on my shoulder and do not let go. I shall teleport us to the Mark I left earlier.”

“And then we head for Zei’Vaaz-Ruhk!”

“After I retrieve another sword.”

“Huh?”

“I will explain later. Now, hand on my shoulder and do not let go!”

Ushevi placed her hand on my shoulder, and seconds later, we exited the ether where I placed the Mark.

I turned to her and said, “I can teleport us into Zei’Vaaz-Ruhk, as it is familiar to me after my last visit. Not all places imprint immediately. Wait here, I shall not be long.”

I teleported into my rooms and retrieved Azura’s Bane. I quickly strapped it to my back and placed my sword and shield into my Journal Case.

I then Recalled to the Mark where a worried Ushevi was waiting.

She asked, “What is that sword?”

“It is a gift from a god. Now, place your hand on my shoulder again. As soon as we appear in Zei’Vaaz-Ruhk’s courtyard, we are likely to be surrounded by Kamal, mages, Dragonguard and other assorted minions of Longwang. If I think the numbers are against us, I shall summon some Divine Knights to aid us.”

Once again, Ushevi gripped my shoulder and we teleported.

We were greeted by heavy rain, the noise of melee, but no hordes of enemies.

I drew Azura’s Bane and said, “Follow me. As predicted, Longwang does not have much of an army left.”

My Dance of Death looked more like somebody cutting down trees or chopping wood. Rigmor makes Greatsword and Bastard Sword forms look far more elegant.

We did not find a single Royal Guardian alive.

Ushevi killed her fair share of enemies. There was no denying she possessed Swordmaster-level skill with the katana.

I said, “Longwang will have no choice but to confront me. The Shadow of Longwang will challenge me. It will look like an ancient Dragonguard in the armour worn when they invaded Tamrilei. However, that armour will be pitch black and inside is a Kamal. You are not to say a word to it. You are not to approach it. You are not to aid in my fight with it. The closer you get to it, the more likely you will be ensorceled, and I would hate to have to carve you in two.”

“Ahh…thanks…I do not think I would enjoy that much.”

“I know you probably did not recognise some of the creatures we just fought. I will tell you about them later. Let us approach the castle’s entrance and force the confrontation.”

“You sound like we are going for a Sundas stroll.”

“Well, I will be admiring the architecture and gardens as we go. I can sing a happy tune if that helps your nerves.”

“I did not see you get hit in the head.”

“Albatross!”

“What?”

“Nothing. Let us get moving before Longwang realises I have set a trap.”

“Oh, ahh, undoubtedly a clever trap. Whatever it is.”

As we crossed the Royal Guardian’s mustering square, the Shadow of Longwang appeared.

I Blinked to it and cut it down before it had a chance to draw and parry.

Unfortunately, Ushevi had summoned a Phantom Dragonguard, which stabbed the Shadow of Longwang in the back.

As Dagoth Ur was dragged into The Void, he asked, “How?”

I did not have time to answer before the empty suit of armour clanged to the ground.

Jiro appeared, but this time it was not a projection. He had been watching while invisible. The spell had dissipated, and now he was visible. He also had only seconds to live.

• Jiro: I will still win! Even if you kill me, my Master will not let me die. Damn all of you!
• Ushevi: That is enough. You have lost. Give us The Manuscript!
• Wulf: He does not have it, Ushevi. They are large and cannot be hidden under clothing.
• Jiro: My Master’s influence should have been growing in you day by day. But you persist. You do not want to understand!!!
• Wulf: It is you who do not understand Jiro, but you will have eternity to learn.
• Jiro: Your world is coming to an end! You cannot change our inner core! We will all serve Longwang or perish!
• Wulf: And what would stop Alduin from ending this kalpa if Longwang were victorious?
• Ushevi: That is an excellent point!
• Wulf: Longwang is a demigod who served the fishermen and sailors living along the mainland’s eastern shores. A god that even you would have heard of, Dagoth Ur, was trapped in The Void after The Nerevarine defeated him. Dagoth Ur managed to ensorcel Longwang. That is who you have been serving, Jiro.
• Jiro: No! You lie!
• Wulf: The Nerevarine told me how to defeat Dagoth Ur without using The Manuscript. A Daedric Prince, Lady Azura, once gifted me this sword. I am her champion, as The Nerevarine once was. She placed a dweomer on it that banished Dagoth Ur from Mundus. He is now in The Void, and all those he used as Shadow of Longwang will now die and end up in that infinite darkness and cold as well.
• Jiro: What have I done?
• Wulf: You have aided evil, destroyed your clan, and condemned your soul. Goodbye, Jiro.

I turned and cut down Ushevi’s Phantom Dragonguard.

I then returned to Jiro.

Jiro no longer had the strength to talk. His Lifeforce was being drained. Other people ensorceled by Dagoth Ur will fare better, although some will go insane. Jiro had given his soul and now paid the price.

Jiro closed his eyes and then dropped dead.

I walked to Ushevi and told her, “As I mentioned, the Shadow of Longwang was an ensorceled Kamal. If my blow killed the Kamal, then the dweomer on the sword would have provided a permanent solution to Dagoth Ur. As it was, your Phantom Dragonguard may have delivered the fatal blow. Therefore, Dagoth Ur may return one day.”

“I am sorry, Sir Wulf. I did not know.”

“It is my fault. I should have been clearer with my instructions. I shall have to discuss this outcome with others and decide what to do.”

“What is next?”

“I will ask Emperor Temujin to drop the barrier.”

My Thu’um rattled the foundations of Zei’Vaaz-Ruhk.

“EMPEROR TEMUJIN-XHIK, THIS IS SIR WULF WELKYND. LOWER THE BARRIER. LONGWANG HAS BEEN DEFEATED AND WE HAVE MATTERS TO DISCUSS.”

The barrier vanished, and we headed for the palace entrance.

As we walked, I told Ushevi, “You will not understand much of what Emperor Temujin and I discuss. I will answer all your questions later. Please, do not interrupt.”

“I will just stand there, confused. I have perfected that in the last hour or so. However, my list of questions is getting quite large!”

We entered a grand hall. There was nobody present apart from Temujin, Ushevi and me.

Temujin remained seated. The only clue to his race was the reptilian eyes behind his gold mask.

“Greetings, Emperor Temujin-Xhik.”

“Are you happy, Sir Wulf? I knew you would come for me sooner or later. Everything favours you. Even my courtiers and officials have fled like cowardly rats.”

“What makes you think I mean you harm?”

“Is Emperor Mede dissatisfied with what I did to my country by obeying his orders. Was I not diligent enough?”

“Are the Akaviri free? Have the Blood Farms been transformed into places where blood donation is voluntary for a fee? Or have you been too busy enjoying the luxury and illusion of power?”

“I confess I have not done a perfect job. But with some assistance, I can do as asked. So why kill me?”

“His Imperial Majesty did not send me to kill you, Emperor Tejumin.”

Endyval appeared from the ether and started climbing the stairs. It was soon apparent that he had only heard the last part of my conversation with Temujin.

I growled, “Stop at the top and do not take a step closer.”

Endyval smiled and did as I instructed.

• Endyval: Temujin, I am here on behalf of Emperor Mede. Sir Wulf is here on behalf of the rebels, although our goals are the same.
• Wulf: I was wondering when you would show up.
• Endyval: You must be mad at me.
• Wulf: What is our mutual goal?
• Endyval: Why, the death of Temujin, of course.
• Wulf: So, the expedition was bogus. Why did you need me, apart from the tens of thousands I invested to pay the crew?
• Endyval: I was not going to take you at first. But then I thought we might need you. I was not mistaken.
• Temujin: What is this? Who represents Emperor Mede?
• Wulf: Patience, Your Majesty. It will be made clear in time.
• Ushevi: That sounds familiar.
• Endyval: I did not want to throw you overboard. Usanagi ordered that. It was stupid to take the entire crew captive and send them to the mines and Blood Farms.
• Wulf: The ship did not sink in a storm?
• Endyval: Is that what you thought? I just apologised for something you were unaware of?
• Wulf: Continue, I am finding this very interesting.
• Endyval: Somebody had to stay free, and Usanagi chose you. Fortunately, he did not know my true purpose.
• Wulf: Why would you want to kill Emperor Temujin?
• Endyval: He is not an Emperor. He is a fake and a puppet placed on the throne by His Imperial Majesty. He has been our agent for twenty years. He served us well until he thought he was a real monarch. That is why I was sent here.
• Wulf: It all makes sense now. Has the Imperial Empire decided to annex Akavir again? That did not turn out well for Emperor Uriel Septim V.
• Endyval: In a way, yes, we will annex Akavir, starting with Tsaesci. But there is no need for a military incursion. A different fake Emperor on the throne can plunge this country into poverty!
• Wulf: Then you and your business partner, Usanagi, will offer a solution. Trade with the Imperial Empire and restore this nation’s wealth.
• Endyval: Yes, but I am not after wealth. Such trade will allow the flow of resources into the Imperial Empire that it needs.
• Wulf: What resources and for what purpose?
• Endyval: For the promise of money and fresh blood, we can recruit entire armies of mercenaries. Then we can attack the 3^rd Dominion and eliminate the Thalmor!
• Wulf: Wow. That is a clever plan!
• Endyval: Thanks to the wealth of Akavir, the Imperial Empire will once again be great, as in the time of Tiber Septim!
• Wulf: Ushevi, watch Endyval while I discuss something with Emperor Temujin. If he tries to cast a spell or draw a weapon, cut him down.
• Ushevi: With pleasure.
• Wulf: Endyval, you shall keep quiet till I allow you to speak again.
• Endyval: How…
• Wulf: How dare you? Was that what you were going to ask? Talk again, and I will make your mouth disappear. You called me by name, so you know who I am and what I am capable of.

Ushevi drew her katana, and she did look intimidating. Endyval was shocked, but wisely kept very still with a closed mouth.

I retrieved a velour parchment from my Journal Case and handed it to Temujin.

I said, “Your Majesty, please read this and then answer my questions.”

Temujin took the parchment, and as he read it, his eyes grew wider. No doubt his mask hid a growing grin.

Temujin handed the parchment back.

I turned to Endyval.

• Wulf: Your Majesty, what is my official title?
• Temujin: You are His Excellency, Sir Wulf Welkynd, Envoy to Tsaesci on behalf of the Imperial Empire.
• Wulf: Whose seal is on that document?
• Temujin: That of His Imperial Majesty, Emperor Titus Mede II.
• Wulf: What rights does that paper bestow upon me?
• Temujin: You, and only you, have the right to decide my fate. Battlemage Endyval is a fraud and has no authority in this matter.
• Wulf: Endyval, you can speak now, so start your denial.
• Endyval: You are a traitor!
• Ushevi: Wow! What a comeback! Tamilei’s most famous hero is a traitor.
• Wulf: You were not content with your lot as a respected Battlemage and wanted to move your family to a prosperous quarter of The Imperial City. That is why you turned to piracy. When caught, you were offered a chance of redemption. You returned to your duties as Battlemage, and your pirate crew worked for the Imperial Empire. Am I right so far?
• Ushevi: The look on his face and silence tell me you are correct, Sir Wulf.
• Wulf: It is Your Excellency, Ushevi. Now that you know my title, use it. And sheath your katana, you are scaring Endyval, and at his age, bowels are a tricky thing.
• Ushevi: Yes, Your Excellency.
• Wulf: When Thalmor occupied The Imperial City, Endyval’s entire family, including his wife, three children, parents, and in-laws, were killed. They were sacrificed as part of General Naarifin’s attempt to fulfil The Culling Prophecy. From that point on, Endyval developed an obsessive hatred for all Altmer, not just the Thalmor.
• Endyval: Wouldn’t you, Sir Wulf?
• Wulf: To cut a long story short. Endyval lied to his former crew, who agreed to accompany him to Akavir. A couple of them were in on the plan, but even they fell foul of his treachery.
• Endyval: You know nothing of what happened!
• Wulf: You did not know the most famous person in Tamriel was aboard your ship for months! Now you do know who I am, do you think I could be drugged and thrown overboard? I was awake and listened to every word you said. Another mage, Merlin, was invisible and witnessed what you did. Nearly every night, I travelled back to Tamriel. I was in constant touch with His Imperial Majesty.
• Endyval: I did it for The Empire!
• Wulf: You did it out of a misguided hatred for Altmer. You lied to the Akaviri, who thought you had their best interest at heart. You did not care if they died mounting a rebellion! Dhalraj was a hero and deserved more than to die so far from home!
• Endyval: You have commanded armies and know of necessary sacrifice!
• Wulf: I lead armies from the front. You hid behind magic and lies! 
• Ushevi: Tairo would kill you for your misuse of his people, Endyval.
• Wulf: You did not know the Windguard would get involved. You did not know I would help the rebels. You did not know the biggest threat to the Tsaesci Empire was Longwang. If I had not stopped that god, he would have conquered Akavir and then Tamriel.
• Ushevi: You did not mention Endyval to me.
• Wulf: I had an idea what he was doing and that it would fail. I came to Tenno Island to stop Longwang. Supporting the rebels shortened the war, saved lives, and weakened Longwang. Endyval was insignificant and not worth wasting time on.
• Endyval: Are you going to kill this liar? He made promises that were not kept!
• Wulf: The rebels have won on Tenno Island, but it requires an established emperor to maintain the peace on the mainland and enforce a truce. I will give Emperor Temujin a chance to be a real leader for his country, not the puppet you falsely claim him to be.
• Ushevi: Without the rebellion, it would have been impossible to free the Akaviri and reform Blood Farms.
• Temujin: My political skills, not manipulation by the Imperial Empire, led to my ascension to this throne. However, I knew that Empire assassins were waiting on the nod from somebody within Tamriel to dispose of me if I proved unsuitable. So, I agreed to their demands and had every intention of freeing the Akaviri and changing the Blood Farms to a volunteer service. But I had to wait for an opportunity.
• Wulf: I will leave the Divine Knights as protectors, rotating them every week. You can announce your reforms in safety, Your Majesty.
• Temujin: There will be dissenters on the mainland.
• Wulf: I do not doubt that further bloodshed will be needed. However, given the prevailing political climate on the mainland, most Coil-Lords will likely agree to the reforms.
• Endyval: If you will not kill him, I will!

Endyval tried to cast a Fireball. I Shouted Frost Breath, and he fell backwards down the steps and froze in place.

I stood over him and said, “You will be transported to The Imperial City by airship. The Penitus Oculatus will then find you accommodation while you await your court-martial. It is up to the Imperial Magistrates to determine the charges. I cannot think of any scenario where you will avoid the headsman’s axe.”

I then summoned Vayu’s squad. I was surprised to see Atheris with him instead of Seiko. Many Tsaesci feel uncomfortable around Atheris, for she reminds them that they can breed with barbarians from Tamrilei. In Atheris’ case, her grandsire was a Dunmer.

• Wulf: Decorum, please. You are in the presence of Emperor Temujin-Xhik of the Tsaesci Empire. Speak Tsaesci.
• Vayu: Who is the ice block?
• Wulf: That is Battlemage Endyval. His Imperial Majesty is aware of his crimes. He is to be tied and gagged and transported to The Imperial City by airship. The Penitus Oculatus will take possession of him.
• Vayu: He can teleport, so we shall be extra careful.
• Wulf: That is why I suggest using the airship. The less travel time, the less chance of him escaping. The prison they will place him in cannot be teleported into or out of.
• Kogo: I bet he feels silly. He travelled with you for months and did not realise who you were.
• Taku: He asked you to help finance the trip to Akavir. An official delegation sanctioned by Mede would have been fully funded.
• Wulf: You should know by now, Taku, that we rarely encounter intelligent enemies.
• Atheris: It is more disappointing when a mage displays stupidity.
• Wulf: He will start to thaw soon. Prepare him for travel whilst I speak to Emperor Temujin.
• Kogo: Who is the pretty Tsaesci?
• Wulf: That is Zi-Khuliin Ushevi Aina of Clan Kotimaru. She has been aiding me.
• Atheris: You have always been keen on the Tsaesci ladies.
• Kogo: The Akaviri are better endowed than the Tsaesci, so the keenness is returned.
• Atheris: It would serve you right if she turned into a dragon while knocking boots.
• Wulf: Decorum. Remember that advice?

The squad laughed and then attended to Endyval as I spoke to Temujin and Ushevi.

• Wulf: Forgive the brashness of the Divine Knights, Your Majesty.
• Temujin: I was a bandit. Many of my advisors were bandits. I am not one for strict protocol.
• Wulf: You must end the enslavement of the Akaviri. You must end the involuntary Blood Farms. You must make Zi-Khuliin Ushevi Aina the Coil-Lord of Clan Kotimaru.
• Ushevi: What?
• Temujin: Everything is reasonable so far.
• Wulf: Ushevi, you are of Clan Aina. When that was wiped out during an inter-clan war, you were adopted into Clan Kotimaru. That makes you eligible to be a Coil-Lord of that clan.
• Ushevi: You know my history?
• Temujin: The Empire would have extensive dossiers on us, Zi-Khuliin Ushevi Aina. Legally, you can be Coil-Lord.
• Wulf: Your Majesty must agree to two squads of Divine Knights being rotated weekly for your protection.
• Temujin: And to provide guidance, no doubt.
• Wulf: They will be in constant contact with diplomats in Cyrodiil. Therefore, they will provide guidance. It seems your current advisors soon fled when danger loomed.
• Temujin: That is true, and therefore, I cannot trust them.
• Wulf: Clan Nakamura has been eliminated. The rebels now occupy its palace and Mikoi. I suggest you appoint Windguard Tairo Kiromatsu, the rebel leader, as Mikoi’s mayor, with the proviso that no current Tsaesci families or business owners are displaced. Tairo will be crucial in the transition period as a voice of reason amongst the Akaviri.
• Temujin: I assume we would have difficulty removing them anyway.
• Wulf: I do not know how many of his army survived their last battle, but the other rebel army will soon boost his ranks.
• Temujin: Who is this other army?
• Wulf: They are free Akaviri from other provinces of Akavir and the remaining Sei’kuro, who are all Tsaesci. The Zho’vul-Tah also joined that army.
• Temujin: That means our northern borders on the mainland are open to Kamal incursion.
• Wulf: Pardon the Sei’kuro and Windguard, and most of them will return to that border.
• Temujin: All rebels will be pardoned.
• Wulf: Do not pardon Usanagi. He was not a member of the rebellion, but his plan with Endyval was treasonous.
• Temujin: He can join the Tada Family members awaiting execution.
• Wulf: The Royal Guardians have been eliminated. Your best defence would be mages under the control of Yashimano Suda. Reverse the ban on magic, which does not exist in Kamal or Ka’Po’Tun. It puts your nation at a disadvantage.
• Temujin: I always thought that was a senseless act. Consider it done.
• Ushevi: Your Excellency, may I ask about one of the Divine Knights?
• Wulf: Ignore Kogo, he is not as popular amongst the ladies as he thinks.
• Ushevi: He only spoke the truth about female Tsaesci preferences when it comes to mating.
• Temujin: This discussion has taken an interesting turn!
• Ushevi: Is the female mage a Tsaesci?
• Wulf: Atheris is Tsaesci, but her grandsire was a Dunmer. Surely you are aware that Tsaesci and Akaviri can reproduce? Despite the many Creation Myths, which are all true, every sentient race on Nirn originates from the same source.
• Ushevi: I found out about interspecies progeny after enquiring about my hair. It is not something I have seen on other Tsaesci.
• Wulf: The Way of the Coil, in its original form, did not discriminate against mixed-race individuals or those who maintained their more reptilian form, tail and all. Like many religions, it has evolved to become a tool for controlling the population.
• Temujin: That is why I have reduced its influence on Tenno Island.
• Ushevi: I am sorry for this interruption to your discussion.
• Temujin: Any reprieve from talking politics is welcome.
• Wulf: Longwang was not what you think, Your Majesty. Longwang is a minor demigod, popular amongst the fishermen and sailors of the mainland’s west coast.
• Temujin: That is what my advisors said. They could not understand how a benevolent god could undergo such a drastic change.
• Wulf: Do you know of the mortal turned god called Dagoth Ur?
• Temujin: Yes.
• Wulf: His soul was banished to The Void when The Nerevarine defeated him. Somehow, Dagoth Ur escaped The Void and ensorceled Longwang. Dagoth Ur could not overcome the Liminal Barrier and manifest on Nirn. Therefore, he used an avatar, the Shadow of Longwang, when he needed to exert his full power of ensorcellment.
• Temujin: Did the use of an avatar make Dagoth Ur vulnerable?
• Wulf: Normally, the avatar of a god cannot be harmed. However, after speaking to The Nerevarine, a plan was developed. I am champion of many gods, including the Daedric Prince, Lady Azura. The Nerevarine was also her champion before leaving her service to pursue an independent life.
• Temujin: Did Lady Azura provide the means to defeat Dagoth Ur?
• Wulf: Yes, she placed a dweomer on the sword on my back. We do not know how The Manuscript banished Dagoth Ur two hundred years ago. Elder Scrolls are a mystery, even to the gods I champion. However, we knew this dweomer would banish him for eternity. The proviso was that it had to kill the mortal being used by Dagoth Ur’s avatar.
• Ushevi: The Shadow of Longwang appeared, and before it had taken a step, Sir Wulf attacked it.
• Wulf: Unfortunately, Ushevi summoned a Phantom Dragonguard to aid me. That was my fault for not giving clear instructions before the battle. Anyway, I am uncertain if my blow killed the Kamal used by the avatar, or if the Phantom Dragonguard killed it.
• Temujin: You said that Longwang, or Dagoth Ur, is defeated.
• Wulf: He is, but I am not sure if he can return in the future.
• Temujin: Can’t one of your advisors, or a god, provide an answer to that question?
• Wulf: Dagoth Ur will be in The Void, but I cannot guarantee he will remain there. The gods do not know everything, Your Majesty. It would be a wasted effort to ask them, and there may be a limited time to at least ensure Dagoth Ur remains in the void for an extended period.
• Temujin: How will you do that?
• Wulf: Ushevi, did you notice something about the monk’s sarcophagus?
• Ushevi: The lead seal we applied was still intact. Oh, The Manuscript will still be inside!
• Wulf: That is, if your memory is correct.
• Temujin: The Manuscript is not inside that sarcophagus. It has been in the possession of subsequent emperors, including me.
• Ushevi: You have The Manuscript?
• Temujin: Yes.

Temujin pushed a few gems and twisted others, then a drawer slid from underneath his throne. Within it was an Elder Scroll.

I picked it up, and it appeared no different from the others I have collected.

• Ushevi: Is it The Manuscript?
• Wulf: If I was meant to find The Manuscript, then yes.
• Ushevi: Huh?
• Wulf: The odds of my finding the same Elder Scroll used by the Ancient Tongues were remote. The same long odds were in place when I searched for specific Elder Scrolls containing the Volkihar Vampire Clan prophecy.
• Ushevi: I always thought that was extraordinary luck on both occasions!
• Wulf: It was not luck but how they function. An Elder Scroll’s content will change to what is required by the person who finds it.
• Ushevi: Thanks for that explanation. I am left with a bigger ‘huh?’
• Wulf: You need to accept some things and not worry about the how and why. If I hadn’t done that, I would be insane by now.
• Temujin: What are you going to do?
• Wulf: Most Elder Scrolls need to be read aloud if they involve a dweomer. Some will trigger once a Moth Priest, or I, view them. Either way, I will have to view this Elder Scroll.
• Ushevi: The monk died soon after reading it!
• Wulf: I do not think The Manuscript killed him. Visiting The Eye did not kill The Nerevarine from a different timeline. I think the complexities of existing outside of your timeline did. That does not happen to everyone who does so. Perhaps there is something different between the two timelines that causes it.
• Temujin: Are you willing to take the risk of reading The Manuscript?
• Wulf: I came to Tenno Island to prevent Dagoth Ur from ever returning to Mundus. My mission is not complete unless I look at this Elder Scroll.
• Vayu: Wulf, speak to me!

I approached Vayu. Endyval was kneeling, head bowed. His hands were bound, and a tight gag prevented speech and spells.

• Wulf: I have no choice, Vayu.
• Vayu: Can’t we wait for advice from Silah and others?
• Wulf: They will not and cannot know if I landed the killing blow. Therefore, they cannot guarantee that Dagoth Ur will be prevented from returning.
• Atheris: What does your intuition tell you, Wulf?
• Wulf: That I need to open this Elder Scroll at least. I do not believe The Manuscript killed the monk.
• Vayu: This is a considerable risk, Wulf! What about the thing only you and Rigmor can prevent?
• Wulf: That is all conjecture. It is a series of ifs, buts and maybes. Dagoth Ur is a known threat with a known solution. The blessing called The Watchful Eye of The Nine will prevent immediate death from most things.
• Atheris: We must let Wulf do as his intuition suggests. It is also logical if you remove the emotions.
• Wulf: I will speak to Rigmor and then look at the Elder Scroll.

I stared at Endyval as I spoke to Rigmor via Mara’s Rings. He dared not look back at me, for my anger, rightly or wrongly, was directed at him.

“My darling, can we talk?”

“Although subdued, your emotions are easy to read via these rings. You are scared. Why?”

“I do not know if Lady Azura’s dweomer worked, so I am going to look at The Manuscript.”

“I am sure there is a logical reason, or just one of your hunches, why you think this is necessary.”

“Both logic and intuition have led me to this decision.”

“You are not afraid of death.”

“I was afraid of your reaction to this.”

“How many times do I have to reassure you? I understand you must take risks. That is who you are, and the risks are always in the service of others. I have no right to try to stop you. So no, Wulf, I will not try to talk you out of it. If Nirn’s deadliest poison and two swords in the belly cannot kill you, then I doubt reading an Elder Scroll will.”

“I do not think reading The Manuscript killed the monk. When I approached his sarcophagus, I felt the same disturbance in time as that around The Nerevarine’s sarcophagus. He was a person from a parallel time stream, and some gobblygook mumbo jumbo metaphysical bullshit killed both the monk and The Nerevarine.”

“You just made me chuckle, my dear Dragonborn. Perhaps that needs inscribing on their headstones.”

“Killed by some gobblygook mumbo jumbo metaphysical bullshit!”

“We made a deal last night, in between you taking advantage of this innocent teenager.”

“Are you sure you want to look around Bruma for a farm? You quite like The Rift.”

“It would not be politically wise to live outside of Bruma County.”

“Okay, I shall be a humble Bruma guard accompanying his Countess as she surveys her holdings. Will I be required to evict those who occupy a farm you particularly like?”

“I am not that cruel. We will give the family at least a day’s notice.”

“Okay. I am about to unfurl the Elder Scroll.”

“I love you, Valdr Septim.”

“And I love you, Countess Rigmor Ragnarsdottier.”

Vayu and the others watched Wulf unfurl and look at The Manuscript.

Wulf cried, “Trap! Multiple timelines! I am sorry…”

Wulf vanished. His empty armour collapsed with a clang. Lady Mara’s ring, now visible, rolled along the floor.

In her bedroom in Bruma, Rigmor screamed.

On Tenno Island, a dog that is not a dog howled and then ran faster than he ever had as he raced towards Zei’Vaaz-Ruhk.

Inside a crystalline matrix, Saint Alessia’s soul recoiled, and Molag Bal laughed.

In Aetherius, confusion reigned. As Wulf often said, The Divines do not know everything. Wulf just proved it.

Silah and the other Jills gasped as the neat, parallel strands of time turned into a knot of unknowns.

Paarthurnax roared. Other dragons joined his chorus of despair. Their sensitivity to linear time was now pummeling their thoughts. Something was wrong, and it threatened their sanity.

A father asked the same question that had plagued him before. Who does a god pray to when he needs help?

Wulf knew nothing of these events.