After Rigmor’s dash to the privy, we made our way to Aetheron’s inn.

On the way, an orphan named Emily stopped us.

• Wulf: Glad to see you here, Emily.
• Emily: I have been shown around both kitchens, and a table has been set aside for me.
• Wulf: You will have to learn the common confections for now. It may be some time before cacao arrives.
• Rigmor: Ahh…hello…
• Wulf: Oops, I did it again. Emily, this pretty woman who will forgive my manners is Rigmor.
• Emily: Glad to meet you, Rigmor.
• Rigmor: And I am pleased to meet you, Emily.
• Wulf: Emily wants to train to be a confectioner.
• Rigmor: Oh, and they have given you a table for your learning.
• Emily: Yeah. I can make as much mess as I want without being growled at by the cooks.
• Wulf: They will growl anyway. It is a hobby of theirs.
• Emily: Haha.
• Wulf: Rigmor, we will need apprentices when chocolatiers arrive from Elsweyr. Emily will be one of them.
• Rigmor: What do you say, Emily? Should I forgive Wulf for not introducing me immediately as well-mannered gentlemen do?
• Emily: Nope!
• Wulf: I think we shall name a confectionery after Rigmor. It has to be sour and not much fun.
• Emily: Haha!
• Rigmor: I hope you do well with your apprenticeship.
• Emily: Thank you, Rigmor.
• Rigmor: Get moving, Dragonbum. I am starving.

After Rigmor and I had a meal together, we separated and mingled with the other patrons.

“Lydia, how do you like the armour and weapons of a Dragonguard?”

“The armour is fantastic! Vayu explained the dweomer you have placed on it.”

“What about the katana?”

“Dhali tested me with my longsword, and I passed her tests even though I felt like a beginner.”

“And the katana?”

“I failed miserably, but Dhali assured me I would adjust quickly. Several Dragonguard were kind enough to spar and teach me and build my confidence.”

“You can accompany me to the tomb of Jurgen Windcaller. He is the founder of the Greybeards. We shall leave within the hour.”

“What kind of enemies will we face?”

“Probably Thalmor hunting Rigmor within or near Morthal. We will be travelling the marshlands northeast of the city, and all sorts of creatures live there. Vampires hunt the marsh at night. A dragon or two might feel like challenging my Thu’um. In the tomb, I expect powerful Draugr capable of using The Voice.”

“Jarl Elisif was asking me questions about the New Order. She understood that I do not know much.”

“When I know more, I shall speak to her.”

“We were several stories down, in a bunker. Yet your Shouts, and those of the dragons, could be clearly heard. When the fighting was over, and despite the objections of her advisors, Jarl Elisif left her palace and helped her people. I worked beside her, and she smiled when assuring her people and cried when they couldn’t see her. She will make a fantastic High Queen.”

“Let us hope Jarl Balgruuf comes to his senses and tells the kingslayer to fornicate himself.”

“His wife, Ivy, is nagging him about it. He has to admit that his friend is not worth dying for.”

“Okay, be ready to leave, Lydia. It might be a hectic introduction to what we do.”

Merria was one of the thirteen Dragonguard who were injured while defending Solitude.

“How are you feeling, Merria?”

“Just tired. Exhausted really. I got smacked across the middle by a dragon’s tail and went splat against a wall. Mizu ran through the chaos to get another mage, as I was in no condition to heal myself.”

“We survived nine dragons. I think thirteen unfortunates such as yourself was a fair outcome.”

“I agree. It seems we caught Alduin’s allies by surprise.”

“Alduin would have studied recent events and known the Dragonguard existed. But he would not have realised how deadly you are.”

“Centralising the battle on Castle Dour’s courtyard was clever.”

“It was chaos. The enemy were determined to test my Thu’um, and willing to risk Silah and Nahfahlaar midair attacks to do so. I was being battered from all angles. I would not have done it if the numbers were smaller.”

“Even after we had been fighting for hours, confused people wandered the streets.”

“It was only at the start when they were frightened and huddled together that the dragons attacked them. Soon, I was their target, so a few non-combatants were safe from direct attack.”

“We spellcasters are ready to fight again. Our efforts are not as physical. I think our warriors will need several days of rest before they are of use.”

“They will be honest with their self-assessment. If they say they are ready for battle, I will not argue the point.”

I moved over to Ki-Ro.

“Ki-Ro, I was impressed with your sword work when we tackled Naxinoraalvut in the palace gardens.”

“I am glad you turned up when you did. Merria was down, Mizu had left to find a healer, and Algren was pinned under Naxinoraalvut. So, when he landed, I was the only one facing him.”

‘The important thing is you did face him. He died; you didn’t.”

“I did get stomped on by another dragon, but I am pleased I got to fight one of them beside you.”

I spoke to several others who had been injured, including Nexendia.

Rasha.

Karo. His brother, Kian, was also injured.

And Seiko.

I did not get to talk to all thirteen who were recovering, but they would know my thoughts were with them.

I approached my apprentice.

“You finally got to use your Thu’um in battle, Mizu.”

“Mulqidoommiir did not laugh at me, but I do not think he was impressed.”

“He must have given you his name, for he was not one of the slain ones.”

“He gave me his name so I could challenge him when my Thu’um was stronger.”

 “That is a complement to your bravery. Mulqidoommiir saw you as a worthy opponent.”

“He fled the battle, so I question his bravery.”

“That is a mistake. If you die, you have an afterlife. If Mulqidoommiir died anywhere near me, he would be erased from this and future kalpa. The stakes were much higher for him. He was wise to flee when the odds turned.”

“I had not considered that.”

“You are to accompany me to the tomb of Jurgen Windcaller to search for any information about Alduin’s defeat. Follow me as we are leaving soon.”

I talked to Vayu before leaving.

“Vayu, I am taking a mixed squad to investigate Jurgen Windcaller’s tomb.”

“Rigmor told me you were. She said you were firm with the Greybeards, but not disrespectful.”

“I made it clear they have no right to judge me. If they persist, I will not be polite.”

“Auryen did mention Jurgen’s tomb as a possible source of useful information concerning Alduin.”

“It was on our list, but I am not optimistic. However, it is worth the effort. I intend to visit Delphine sometime tomorrow. I want you to observe that meeting, discreetly.”

“Invisible?”

“Yes. I want Delphine to think I am unaware of her being a Blade.”

“I would expect some paranoia, Wulf. You do not survive this long as an ‘outlaw’ without being clever. Delphine was an excellent intelligence agent.”

Mizu and I approached Rigmor.

“Tell me honestly, Rigmor Ragnarsdottier, are you capable of accompanying me?”

“Yes, Wulf, I have enough energy to accompany you.”

“Then it is time to go.”

The mixed squad consisted of Cian, Linora, Lydia and Mizu.

We teleported to the south end of Morthal.

There were no New Order troops there, but two odd-looking people approached. Some locals were staring at them with such distaste that violence seemed inevitable.

They stopped but kept staring at me, so I talked to them.

I could detect they were both mages of mediocre ability. One was male, the other female. Their clothes had armour additions similar to Dragon Priests. The masks they wore were made of Dragonbone and reminiscent of Hermaeus Mora.

I asked, “Can I help you?”

In a heavy Ashlander accent full of sarcasm, the male asked, “Are you the one they call Dragonborn?”

“That is what Alduin, The Divines, the Greybeards and others call me. Who are you?”

“Your lies fall on deaf ears, Deceiver! The True Dragonborn comes, and you are but his shadow.”

“Well, you had better tell the Greybeards they got it wrong. Then you need to pray to one of The Nine at a shrine and tell them that they, too, have it wrong. I don’t fancy your chances of convincing Alduin, but give it a go.”

“Then it is too late. The lie has already taken root in others’ hearts. So, we shall expose the falseness in their hearts by tearing out yours, Deceiver! When Lord Miraak appears, all shall bear witness. None shall stand to oppose him!”

They both drew daggers and attacked. It took two seconds to kill them.

I removed their masks and confirmed they were Dunmer. The male was an Ashlander by his accent. I assumed the female was as well.

Both of them had notes that read,

“Hire the vessel Northern Maiden docked at Raven Rock. Take it to Windhelm, then begin your search. Kill the False Dragonborn before they reach Solstheim.

Return with word of your success, and Miraak will be most pleased.”

• Rigmor: Why would anybody think you are not a real dragonborn?
• Wulf: I have no idea. However, the Miraak they mention was the first dragonborn.
• Rigmor: I thought Saint Alessia was the first dragonborn.
• Wulf: Mother was the first with the specific bloodline that could light the Dragonfires. Miraak was the first mortal blessed with Dragonblood and a Dragonsoul by Lord Akatosh.
• Rigmor: If Miraak is still around, why isn’t he fighting Alduin and not you?
• Cian: Nobody has heard of Miraak since the Dragon War.
• Wulf: Miraak and three other Dragon Priests rebelled against Alduin. They were defeated in battle, but before Miraak could be killed, Hermaeus Mora provided a portal to Apocrypha, which Miraak used.
• Cian: Miraak has been a guest of Mora’s for just over forty-five centuries.
• Wulf: He helped the Ancient Tongues by providing new Shouts and so forth, but refused to fight beside them against Alduin.
• Rigmor: Yet he rebelled against The World Eater.
• Wulf: Logically, he thought he had a better plan than the Tongues. I must discuss this with Vayu.

I summoned Vayu and explained what just happened. Then we discussed the implications.

• Wulf: They need a name. Miraak’s Morons has a good ring to it.
• Vayu: When you next meet the Greybeards, ask if they have detected the use of The Voice on Solstheim.
• Wulf: I do not think Miraak has been freed from Apocrypha to do so. But that is speculation based on logic.
• Rigmor: And intuition.
• Wulf: Yes, intuition supports the logic.
• Vayu: Somebody needs to investigate the Northern Maiden and visit Solstheim.
• Wulf: Speak to Auryen and see if he has anything useful on Miraak, and then I would like you to visit the Northern Maiden. I will ask Silah if The Nine can shed any light on Miraak.
• Rigmor: This is getting complicated, Wulf. You are juggling the New Order, finding my mum, Alduin and now Miraak.
• Wulf: The greatest danger to the general population will always be my highest priority. I cannot measure Miraak against the others without further information.
• Vayu: Okay, I will head for Dragonborn Gallery and then Windhelm’s docks.
• Rigmor: Dragonborn Gallery?
• Wulf: It was the planned name for the museum once I was no longer hiding my dragonborn status. I noticed the name change when dealing with the dragons. I hope the new sign survived!
• Rigmor: The locals are staring at us.
• Wulf: They are paranoid about mages. Therefore, I will not summon Silah till we are in the marsh.
• Vayu: Let me feed their paranoia!

Vayu vanished, and a few citizens of Morthal grumbled to those nearby and stared at us with hostility.

I used my Thu’um and said, “I AM LORD WELKYND, DRAGONBORN AND CHAMPION OF THE DIVINES. PUT ASIDE YOUR DISTRUST OF MAGIC, FOR IT STANDS BETWEEN YOU AND ENSLAVEMENT TO ALDUIN OR DAEDRIC PRINCES OR DESPOTIC MORTALS!”

As expected, the use of The Voice, something revered by Nords, held more weight than if I had yelled.

The crowd started to disperse.

I told my group, “We shall give them a minute to return home.”

The street was almost clear when a Morthal guard ran towards us, yelling, “Lord Welkynd, some Thalmor are heading this way with weapons drawn!”

I decapitated a New Order soldier.

Then I blinked to the bridge and decapitated a New Order Justiciar.

Rigmor and the other Dragonguard killed the other New Order troops.

I recognised Rigmor’s arrow and said, “You shot her in the knee, Rigmor. She wanted to be an adventurer.”

“What was that, Dragonbum?”

“Oh, just something I read somewhere. Let’s get going. We haven’t even exited Morthal yet but have been attacked twice.”

I commented, “Cian, your Firewolves are doing nothing to alleviate the locals’ fear of magic.”

We exited the northern gate and walked along the main path towards the marsh.

We were a fair distance from Morthal when Silah appeared from the ether in dragon form.

As she landed, Vampires and their minions attacked and were eliminated.

I could then speak to Silah.

• Wulf: Greetings, Silah. Please speak aloud and in Tamrielic.
• Silah: Valdr, Lady Kynareth has detected Thu’um use on Solstheim. But not a Shout, something else.
• Wulf: We just had an encounter with two Dunmer, one of them definitely an Ashlander, dressed like Dragon Priests. They were devotees of Miraak and accused me of being a false dragonborn.
• Rigmor: The idiots attacked us!
• Silah: I assume you learned of Miraak during your training.
• Wulf: Yes, I did. But I was left with unanswered questions.
• Silah: Such as?
• Wulf: Did Lord Akatosh make a mistake when he blessed Miraak?
• Silah: Lord Akatosh chose Miraak because he needed a mortal champion to end the Dragon War. Miraak had the courage, skills and moral compass to be a legitimate candidate for the blessing. However, Lord Akatosh does not control mortal free will, and Miraak’s actions were his choices, not those of the Divine.
• Wulf: What do The Nine want me to do about Miraak?
• Silah: Nothing as yet. I will investigate Solstheim and report to you what I find. We shall make plans from there.
• Rigmor: Wulf already has his hands full, Silah.
• Silah: If Valdr is the only one who can deal with Miraak, then he will have to accept the burden.
• Wulf: Rigmor, we do not know enough to start worrying about Miraak. Alduin is the immediate danger, so we shall concentrate on the task at hand.
• Silah: I shall speak to you when I return.

More vampires and minions were battling a Daedroth. We eliminated all of them.

Silah took off then vanished.

Rigmor commented, “Strolls with Wulf are always fun!”

As we approached Ustengrav, we saw and heard magic being used and Shouts. Some mages were fighting Draugr. The battle was brief and soon all was quiet.

I told the group, “We shall skirt around and approach the tomb from a high vantage point.”

The weather changed quickly from clear to rainstorm.

We saw a necromancer and two warriors near a campfire.

I whispered, “Let them choose their fate.”

We approached with weapons sheathed.

The grave robbers prepared to attack.

Unrelenting Force killed them. Two were torn limb from limb. The other became a pile of glowing ash.

Lydia exclaimed, “I never thought I would see The Voice being used. That was brutal!”

Draugr emerged from the tomb.

I cut down one.

Unrelenting Force damaged another that Rigmor finished off with her bow.

Rigmor killed the third with her sword and the aid of a Firewolf.

The necromancer and her allies had not gone unscathed in their brief encounter with the Draugr, as one of them lay dead near the tomb’s entrance.

• Wulf: The Draugr did not pursue the grave robbers. I think their only interest is removing trespassers from the tomb.
• Mizu: Every Draugr used The Voice.
• Wulf: But only Two Word Shouts, and without much strength.
• Mizu: Still, they staggered the rest of us, but not Rigmor.
• Rigmor: I was ready for them, put my weight forward, and braced myself.
• Wulf: That helps against the weaker Draugr using Unrelenting Force. It would not help against the stronger ones or other Shouts that can freeze you in place. Remember what Alduin’s Two-Word Unrelenting Force did in Helgen.
• Linora: I lost count of how many times I was sent flying in Solitude.
• Rigmor: I am more than happy to use this giant barbarian as a shield. So, after you, Dragonbum.
• Wulf: I cannot see any living, but there are fresh corpses close to the doors.

We entered and crouched down. Mizu farted.

Cian whispered, “Eww! When bending down like this, our faces are even closer to the smell.”

We could see two fresh corpses and a necromancer in the distance.

Unrelenting Force killed the necromancer, but undead had been summoned.

The Voice destroyed the undead and killed several more necromancers.

Heat Vision let me know there were more fresh corpses. The sound of magic vs Thu’um let us know more grave robbers had encountered more Draugr.

After killing several Draugr and mages, Rigmor whined, “Let me have a go!”

So, I watched as she advanced and cut down several more enemies.

The tomb was looking worse for wear, so I used Dragonfire against more Draugr.

A raised walkway allowed us to look down on the carnage we had left behind.

As we progressed, Lydia, who had been fairly quiet, said, “I am getting better with the katana, but need more training. I still feel awkward compared to using my longsword.”

I advised, “Dhali will be more than happy to leave you with countless bruises.”

We came to an overhang overlooking a walkway and large cavern.

I eliminated a Draugr near us, then Skeletal Warriors and more Draugr in the cavern.

I told the group, “There is a Word Wall to the right. Let’s jump down to the walkway and head for it.”

We leapt down and noticed a puzzle behind us. However, we decided to visit the Word Wall first.

We eliminated more enemies before reaching the Word Wall, which was at the bottom of a couple of natural inclines.

The others stood motionless as the Word Wall tried to teach me a Word of Power.

• Wulf: It tried to teach the Word of Power, feim, which means fade. It is the first Word in the Become Ethereal Shout. I already know all three Words of Become Ethereal and can use the Shout.
• Rigmor: And the message?
• Wulf: Nonvul bron dahmaan daar rot do fin fodiiz bormah-nii los heyv do enook mun wah lahney voth ahkrin ahrk zin leh rok feim vodahmin kotin vulom.
• Cian: I don’t know about Rigmor, but my Dovahzul is a bit rusty. As in, I don’t know a single word.
• Wulf: Dovahkiin. You know that one!
• Rigmor: Smart arse!
• Cian: That nickname for Wulf is accurate. It suits him.
• Wulf: For those interested in learning rather than picking on the poor dragonborn, I could tell them the Tamrielic.
• Rigmor: We had better pretend to be interested. Otherwise, Wulf will sulk.
• Cian: Yes, please! I am so excited I will have to adjust my trousers!
• Rigmor: Eww!
• Vayu: Sorry. I forgot a lady is present.
• Wulf: Three ladies, namely Lydia, Mizu and Linora.
• Rigmor: I can’t punch you in the nose, but I can reach other places!
• Wulf: The translation is ‘Noble Nords remember these words of the Hoar Father. It is the duty of each man to live with courage and honour lest he fades unremembered into darkness.’
• Rigmor: Uh, who is the Hoar Father?
• Wulf: A philosophical figure revered by the Nords. Nobody knows if he was an actual person or just a name used for anonymous authors of ancient lessons such as this one.
• Rigmor: Some of Dad’s friends used to say, ‘by the Hoar Father!’ when expressing surprise.
• Wulf: Well, Bruma is a bit backward because it is full of smelly Nord barbarians.
• Rigmor: Wulf, yava zuubka!
• Lydia: Did you swear at Wulf in another language?
• Rigmor: Yes. I told Dragonbum to get fornicated in Ta’agra.
• Lydia: I congratulate you on your thorough knowledge of a complex language.
• Rigmor: They are the only words I know, and I lived in Elsweyr for four years.
• Wulf: And I taught them to her very recently.
• Lydia: Well, it is a start.
• Wulf: Rigmor read and learned a lot in those four years. She also became very adept at killing Thalmor.
• Lydia: Congratulations!
• Rigmor: Thank you.

As we travelled through Ustengrav, we searched every inch for something useful concerning Alduin and the Ancient Tongues. We did not find anything.

We returned to the puzzle we had seen earlier.

There were three columns, each with a dragon etched on it.

Ahead were three lowered portcullises.

When I approached the first column, it lit up, and the nearest portcullis lifted.

When I approached the second column, it lit up, and the second nearest portcullis lifted.

When I approached the third column, it lit up, and the furthest portcullis lifted. However, if I moved further, the other two lowered.

I returned to the first column and said, “This is a test of the Thu’um. If I use the Whirlwind Sprint Shout, I will be able to travel past the three columns and the raised portcullises before they lower.”

I Shouted Whirlwind Sprint twice, once to clear the columns and once to clear the raised portcullises.

The way was clear, and the others joined me, with Rigmor reaching me first.

We came upon an area where three spiders lived. Kyne’s Peace was in effect, so we ignored them.

I used Dragonfire to clear webs blocking the exit.

That gave us access to an unlocked door.

That door gave us access to a lowered portcullis, operated by a pull chain.

Rigmor concluded, “If there is no pull chain on the other side, then there must be another entry into this part of the tomb.”

I pulled the chain, and we entered a large cavern.

I could see Jurgen Windcaller’s sarcophagus and his horn.

I turned to the others and said, “I can’t see anywhere for Draugr to spring from.”

As we approached the sarcophagus, the water began to rise.

I used Whirlwind Sprint to reach the sarcophagus, and the water stopped rising.

I lifted the horn from its holder.

• Wulf: What is strange about Windcaller’s sarcophagus?
• Cian: His name is written in Daedric script, not Dovahzul or other language.
• Lydia: That is a bit strange for a Nord.
• Wulf: It does not imply Daedric worship. The language was widely used at the time of Jurgen’s death.
• Rigmor: Still, I would have thought some other language would be used.
• Wulf: It is an oddity, but not sinister.
• Rigmor: There is a door behind the sarcophagus. I bet that leads outside.
• Wulf: I bet it leads to one of the many ‘not so well hidden’ doors we passed.
• Rigmor: You did not mention any hidden doors.
• Cian: I noticed them.
• Linora: As did I.
• Mizu: Do not worry, Rigmor, I never noticed them either.

A corridor led to a ‘secret’ door. A lever opened it.

We made our way outside.

• Wulf: Rigmor and I will go to High Hrothgar. You can return home.
• Cian: We did not find anything useful in there.
• Wulf: As tombs go, it was particularly boring. But then again, so are the Greybeards.
• Mizu: Whirlwind Sprint is not much of a test of the Thu’um.
• Wulf: You have to remember that at the pace the Greybeards teach, that basic Shout might take years to master.
• Lydia: This has been an interesting experience. You work together like a machine. Everybody knows what to do without Wulf having to tell you.
• Linora: It is even smoother when you are with your normal squad.
• Wulf: You did well, Lydia, and did not stab yourself. That is a bonus!
• Lydia: I am starting to get the hang of the katana.
• Rigmor: Is there that much difference, Lydia?
• Lydia: Compared to my longsword, the katana is much faster, but does less damage per hit.
• Wulf: You would find a kai-katana strange at first, Rigmor. But once you got used to one, a normal sword will seem slow and clumsy.
• Rigmor: Would you have a good kai-katana I might like?
• Wulf: I have the twin to my blade with a slightly larger pommel.
• Rigmor: At the moment I will stick with Dad’s sword. But maybe I will try a kai-katana in the future.
• Wulf: You all did well today. Now, I know Rigmor is dying to visit High Hrothgar again.
• Rigmor: Yeah, right. Pffft!

I teleported us inside High Hrothgar.

Rigmor asked, “What is going to happen now?”

“I do not know.”

I escorted Rigmor to the corner. She remained standing this time.

I then approached Master Arngeir.

I handed him Jurgen Windcaller’s horn.

“Thank you, Valdr Septim.”

“You must have spoken to Paarthurnax about the obstinate dragonborn who visited.”

“Indeed, and he informed us you are the son of Lord Talos and Saint Alessia. We have not been told how this has come to be, but we accept what Paarthurnax told us. It is time for us to recognise you fully as Dragonborn.”

“What do I have to do?”

“Stand in the middle.”

I did so, and a Greybeard stood at each corner, equidistant from me.

“Before you start, Master Arngeir. Please introduce the others.”

“Yes, of course, Dragonborn. To your left is Master Einarth.”

As each Greybeard was introduced, I gave a slight nod of the head. It was a small sign of respect, adequate for the occasion.

“The next, going counterclockwise, is Master Wulfgar.”

“And finally, Master Borri.”

I again faced Arngeir.

“Prepare yourself, Dragonborn. Few can withstand the unbridled Voice of the Greybeards. Are you ready?”

“Yes, Master Arngeir.”

“STRUNDU’UL, VOTH NID LINGRAH KROSIS SARAAN BALAAN KLOV PRAAN NAU.”

The first line of the Greybeards’ chant shook High Hrothgar, and the pressure on my body was immense. I would have been thrown across the room if it had not come evenly from all four directions simultaneously.

Occasionally, the Greybeards held their arms horizontally while chanting. That can’t possibly improve the strength of your Thu’um, so I assume it was purely ceremonial.

Even above the Thu’um, I heard Rigmor exclaim, “Cool!”

I smiled as I looked at her.

The second line of the chant also shook High Hrothgar.

“NAAL THU’UMU, MU OFAN NII NU, DOVAHKIIN, NAAL SULEYK DO KAAN, NAAL SULEYK DO SHOR, AHRK NAAL SULEYK DO ATMORASEWUTH.”

A second brief pause allowed me to quickly look around and see if there were any expressions at all on the Greybeards. Nothing. Blank. If this was important or noteworthy, they showed no signs of it.

“MEYZ NU YSMIR, DOVAHSEBROM. DAHMAAN DAAR ROK.”

The third and last line of the chant shook High Hrothgar even harder. I doubt the words would be heard far beyond the front door. The Greybeards focused all the power of their collective Thu’um on me. The power to level a city was uncomfortable but did me no harm.

High Hrothgar stopped shaking. Arngeir bowed, saying, “Dovahkiin. You have tasted the Voice of the Greybeards and passed through unscathed. High Hrothgar is open to you.”

“I am honoured to be named Ysmir, Master Arngeir. It is not a title I take lightly.”

“Perhaps one day you can tell us how a son of two gods now lives amongst us.”

“I will be glad to visit when time permits, Master Arngeir. You must realise that despite the Divine status of my parents, I am mortal. Tackling Alduin carries the same risks for me as for the Ancient Tongues. When Alduin destroyed Helgen, he could have ended my life, for I am not yet ready to defeat him in battle.”

“You told me you were dragonborn at birth.”

“Yes, I was born with Lord Akatosh’s blessing, Master Arngeir. I am a Dragonchild, the first mortal born already blessed. I am twenty-two, and the fight with Mirmulnir was the first time I used The Voice on Nirn.”

“May I ask why?”

“We did not want the Greybeards to know I existed, for you would have summoned me.”

“Yes, no matter where on Nirn you used your Thu’um, we would have detected the natural power of a Dragonborn.”

“We hoped to keep Alduin or any of his allies ignorant of my existence. Unfortunately, he knew, so the time I could have spent honing my Thu’um was wasted.”

“Did Lady Kynareth foresee Alduin’s return?”

“The Nine knew the approximate date of Alduin’s return. I have spent years developing my other skills. I arrived in Skyrim six months ago to await The World Eater’s arrival, and now the wait is over. I must act fast before Alduin revives many allies and many more Dov come to Skyrim to support him. The Dragon War has restarted, and my focus is to reduce casualties.”

“Tell me about your Dov allies.”

“Throughout history, Nahfahlaar has aided mortals against powerful enemies. He once served under Lord Talos in the Imperial Army. He has a weakness for gold and can sometimes seem self-centered, but Nahfahlaar is a loyal friend. Jormungandr and Krahzunmaar were introduced to me by Nahfahlaar. They are powerful dragons that managed to avoid being recruited by Alduin during the Dragon War. Staying neutral at that time was inviting death, for Alduin wanted to be overlord of all Dov and mortals and allowed no neutrality. Silah acts as an intermediary between myself and The Divines. She can appear in a mortal form and has been speaking with Paarthurnax for some time.”

“Wasn’t Nahfahlaar killed by Cyrus the Redguard?”

“Yes, in 2E 864. However, when I accepted the role of Champion of The Divines, Lord Talos used divine powers to restore Nahfahlaar so he could aid me. He is arrogant, greedy and sometimes seemingly dim, but he is loyal, fierce and a good friend.”

“We have felt a disturbance in the air, the wind, coming from somewhere north of Skyrim.”

“Miraak has been active on Solstheim. I do not know what he is doing. Silah is investigating.”

“It is no coincidence Miraak reappears the same time as Alduin.”

“As I said, I am waiting to hear what Miraak is doing. I need detailed information before drawing conclusions or deciding what must be done.”

“Sky above. Voice within.”

“Blessings of The Nine.”

I walked over to Rigmor, who looked stunned by what she had witnessed.

“I heard you say, ‘Cool!’ and had to laugh.”

“That was amazing, Wulf. What would have happened to me if I stood in the middle?”

“You would turn into a cloud of red mist.”

“Not so cool!”

“First up, let me translate what was said, then you will understand the importance of what was done. I will then break it down for you.”

“Long has the Stormcrown languished, with no worthy brow to sit upon.

By our breath, we bestow it now to you in the name of Kyne, in the name of Shor, and in the name of Atmora of Old.

You are Ysmir now, the Dragon of the North. Hearken to it.”

“Stormcrown is a formal title, such as king or emperor. It derives from Father’s use of the Thu’um at The Battle for Old Hrol’dan. A quote from The Arcturian Heresy describes what occurred.”

“That night, a storm came and visited Hjalti’s camp. It spoke with him in his tent. At dawn, Hjalti went up to the gates, and the storm followed just above his head. Arrows could not penetrate the winds around him. He Shouted down the walls of Old Hrol’dan, and his men poured in. After their victory, the Nords called Hjalti, Talos, which means Stormcrown.”

Rigmor asked, “Do you think that description of the battle is accurate?”

“No, it is mumbo-jumbo designed to make what happened more mystical. Like other well-known texts about Father, The Arcturian Heresy contains bits of truth. However, that book is sensationalist in its descriptions.”

“What do the titles mean?”

“Literally, Ysmir is the king of Dov and mortals. It is the overlord role that Alduin covets. Stormcrown refers to The Voice and is the symbolic crown of Ysmir.”

“The Greybeards have declared that you should be the High King of Skyrim at the least. Emperor, if possible.”

“Which is why we must keep this ceremony a secret.”

“You would become a pawn in The Empire’s political games.”

“Even if I stood at the summit of this mountain and told all of Nirn I wasn’t interested, I would become that pawn.”

“Apart from Lord Talos, who else has been named Ysmir?”

“Wulfarth and Pelinal Whitestrake. The stuff written about Wulfarth is laughable, yet people believe it. Undoubtedly, he was a gifted leader and strong in The Voice. Dragonborn Gallery will separate fact from myth.”

“Pelinal never sought power, did he?”

“No, he didn’t. However, he might have been a good ruler until insanity turned him into a butcher.”

“That was after his partner, a spearman, was killed in battle.”

“So, you do listen to me!”

“Only on the rare occasions you say something interesting.”

“But you would have to listen to everything to know what is interesting.”

“Logic, the natural enemy of humour, strikes again.”

“You are spent, Rigmor. You have done well, but now it is time for you to rest.”

“Tirlineth makes it pointless to argue. But I am afraid of what I shall dream without you near me.”

“You faced your nightmare, and he ran like the powerless coward he is. He should no longer haunt you, Rigmor.”

“Isn’t that speculation?”

“How about intuition instead?”

“Okay, let’s hurry because…”

“You need to use the privy.”

“Yep.”

I sat next to Rigmor till she fell asleep.

The door to Coranelor was open, which is an invitation for people to enter. Olette did just that.

“Hello, Cap’n.”

“Hello, my favourite guttersnipe. Sorry I have not spent much time with you.”

“I understand. Remember I was a good information broker, and the Dragonguard are a great source of it.”

“So, you know what I have been up to?”

“Well, The Throat of the World would have told me if I didn’t snoop, just a day later.”

“I have not read the latest editions, so do not know how accurate the reporting is.”

“Very accurate according to some Dragonguard.”

“You have been having lute lessons.”

“It is so much fun, and I am picking it up quite quickly.”

“I promise, when things are not so hectic, I will give you lessons on the basic instruments.”

“I want to learn to sing as well. Apparently, the basis of a good singing voice is there, but hidden by horrible screeching noises.”

“The bards can be bastards!”

“Well, it is true. But I will be singing like a nightingale before long.”

 “I also heard you pretend to have an interest in marksmanship.”

“Pretend? I have spent many hours being taught.”

“And it has nothing to do with the practice range being next to the blacksmiths.”

“What makes you think that?”

“If I ask the trainers, will they say your focus is not where it should be?”

“What are you implying, Cap’n?”

“Dragonguard are good for gossip, and they are also observant. A couple of them commented on how you are fixated by Oliver when he is shirtless and sweaty at the forge or anvil.”

“People should mind their own business!”

“Says the information broker.”

“I might have noticed, but I am not fixated.”

“Okay.”

“I am not!”

“Aha.”

“Cap’n!”

“Why don’t you try talking to Oliver instead? There is a nice, polite boy underneath the muscles and sweat.”

“I wouldn’t know how. I would probably sound silly and mess things up.”

“Just be yourself, Olette. You might find Oliver is a bit awkward speaking to a pretty young lady.”

“Pretty?”

“Olette, if nobody has told you, that is a shame. Yes, you are pretty and will be turning the heads of boys, and later on, men, forever.”

“Even when I am old and wrinkly like you?”

“Wait till you turn twenty-two. I go to sleep worrying I might not wake! That old age will take me!”

“Haha. I have a lute lesson now and will see you later, Cap’n.”

“Not if I see you first.”

“Keep trying. One day you will say something funny.”

I care for all the orphans, but Olette is worming her way into my heart.

I summoned Vayu.

He asked, “How did it go with the Greybeards?”

“I am now Ysmir, Dragon of the North.”

“We better keep that quiet!”

“It is a title that may have some use in the future.”

“Are we going to visit Delphine now?”

“Yes. Perhaps Delphine is a good Dragonguard candidate. She might direct us to other hidden Blades.”

“It was standard practice not to know where other Blades were hiding.”

“We can always ask.”

“Auryen gave me a book for you to read concerning Miraak.”

“Is it ‘The Guardian and the Traitor’?”

“Yes, a first edition. Auryen said it might differ from later editions.”

“I will read it, but the Skaal’s shaman will tell the real story.”

“Do you think they might know something about the Ancient Tongues and Alduin?”

“I doubt it. The Skaal concern themselves with Solstheim problems.”

“Okay, let’s visit Delphine.”

I teleported us to Riverwood’s entrance.

“Go invisible before we enter the inn.”

“Okay.”

We spoke to Lai’Shr.

• Wulf: Have you and the other Khajiiti decided to help the guards?
• Lai’Shr: Yes. Khajiiti and guards have practiced herding the people of Riverwood into the stone basements of some buildings.
• Vayu: Let’s hope Dry Sands isn’t targeted before you move into your new home.
• Lai’Shr: Buildings can be fixed or replaced. But this one thinks Alduin would not risk dragons on small targets.
• Wulf: If I were Alduin, I would look for massed troops. A quick strike before we can respond could kill many.
• Lai’Shr: Is there a reason for Grandmaster’s visit?
• Wulf: We are going to talk to a hidden Blade.
• Lai’Shr: So, Delphine’s secret is out.
• Vayu: You knew?
• Lai’Shr: Khajiit guessed when speaking to that one over many meads.
• Wulf: Hopefully Alduin will soon be gone, and we can see about helping Elsweyr.

As we walked past a guard, he said, “All is well in Riverwood, Thane Welkynd.”

Just before we entered Sleeping Giant Inn, Vayu cast Shroudwalk and became invisible.

Vayu whispered, “The grumpy-looking one with the scars is Delphine.”

Delphine stared at me as I approached.

“Greetings, Delphine. I am wondering if we can have a chat.”

“Yes. Follow me.”

We entered Delphine’s bedroom, and she said, “Close the door!”

I did so, and she opened a cupboard with a false back.

I suppressed a laugh. A cupboard with no clothes in it screams hidden door.

I followed Delphine down some stairs to her not-so-secret room.

Delphine stood on the other side of a table with a map in front of her. She had circled the Dragon Mound of Odahviing, then made a line to the next one near Kynesgrove. Sahloknir’s remains were interred there, and he would be the second dragon revived by Alduin.

Delphine said, “The Greybeards seem to think you’re the Dragonborn. I hope they’re right.”

“I am a dragonborn.”

“You’ll forgive me if I don’t assume something’s true because the Greybeards say so.”

“Irileth and some of her guards heard a Dovah name me Dovahkiin as he died. They witnessed me absorb his soul. They witnessed me use The Voice, after which The Greybeards summoned me. Alduin, when he attacked Helgen, announced to General Tullius, Ulfric Stormcloak, First Emissary Elenwen and hundreds of others that I am The Dragonborn. The Throat Of The World’s headlines proclaimed me to be the dragonborn of prophecy. The Divines sent me to Skyrim to stop Alduin.”

“I’m part of a group that’s been looking for you… well, someone like you, for a very long time. If you really are The Dragonborn, that is. Before I tell you any more, I must ensure I can trust you.”

“I do not know if I can trust you.”

“Then you are a fool to have followed me here.”

“Why? Do you think to stop me if you deem me untrustworthy?”

“Yes.”

“You are a Blade. Is that your big secret?”

There was a katana near the table. Delphine moved to grab it, so I leapt across the table, drawing my katana as I went. I held my weapon to her throat and said, “Show yourself, Vayu.”

Vayu appeared with sword drawn.

• Wulf: You are going to listen without interruption. Am I clear?
• Delphine: Yes.
• Wulf: I am The Dragonborn of prophecy, and, as a Blade, you are sworn to my service.
• Delphine: Who says I am a Blade?
• Wulf: The katana you try to reach is a standard Blade issue. You have a painting of Dragonguard on your wall. Other Blade weapons are spread around this room, and you are paranoid because The Thalmor have been hunting you for decades. Plus, Vayu confirmed it when I mentioned your name to him.
• Vayu: Greetings, Delphine.
• Delphine: I thought you were dead!
• Vayu: A lot of Blades are now Dragonguard.
• Wulf: I will not tolerate my honesty being questioned again.

We sheathed our weapons and returned to the other side of the table.

• Wulf: You and Court Wizard Farengar figured out that the prophecy was almost complete. You wanted the Dragonstone to compare against the Atlas of Dragons to determine what order Alduin might restore the entombed dragons.
• Delphine: Farengar swore to keep my identity secret.
• Wulf: He did. I could have ordered him to tell me as his and your Thane, but I did not need to.
• Vayu: Thane Welkynd is the Grandmaster of the Dragonguard. We resided in Akavir until The Divines sent us to wait for Alduin’s arrival. That was six months ago.
• Wulf: You know Alduin destroyed Helgen. You may not know that nine dragons attacked Solitude yesterday. We killed six of them. The other three fled.
• Vayu: Odahviing was the first dragon restored by Alduin. He has been recruiting allies from all over Nirn.
• Wulf: You believe, according to the map in front of you, that the second dragon to be restored will be Sahloknir. That is correct, and that restoration is likely to occur soon.
• Vayu: We have killed seven dragons so far. Alduin will be desperate to restore as many dragons as he can or lose momentum, giving us time to counter his new war.
• Wulf: Come with us to Kynesgrove. We shall camp and wait for Alduin. There you can witness the Dragonguard in action and end Sahloknir before he even leaves the ground.
• Delphine: Can you defeat Alduin?
• Wulf: Not at the moment, but he will not attack me for reasons too complicated to explain quickly.
• Delphine: Give me time to change and meet me out the front.

We made our way outside, and I summoned the rest of Vayu’s squad. We filled them in on what we were going to do.

Half an hour later, Delphine joined us.

• Wulf: Let me introduce some of the Dragonguard. Omoi, who is your father?
• Omoi: Glero Sacilius. He was a Blade who infiltrated many Thalmor strongholds during The Great War. After The White Gold Concordat made them outlaws, he fled to Akavir with several other Blades.
• Wulf: Who is your father, Shouken?
• Shouken: Sir Basinius Durullus. A Blade knighted by Emperor Titus Mede II days before becoming an outlaw. He fled to Akavir with Omoi’s father and other Blades.
• Wulf: Seiko, who is your mother?
• Seiko: Swordmaster Kaalla-agik. A free Akaviri. I have no idea who my father is.
• Wulf: All three are Swordmasters. Vayu is also an expert wielder of the katana and one of the most powerful mages I know.
• Delphine: I know your parents, Omoi and Shouken.
• Wulf: Intuition tells me that Alduin will try to restore Sahloknir soon, as he needs allies. If Alduin appears in the next day or so, nobody but me is to speak to him. Do not provoke him with taunts or fire bows or spells at him.
• Vayu: Alduin is unlikely to attack us unless provoked.
• Wulf: If Alduin does attack, we shall teleport to safety.

I told Delphine, “You must place your hand on my shoulder. That will allow me to teleport you to Kynesgrove. We shall walk to Sahloknir’s burial mound from there.”

Delphine did as I asked, and we teleported to the small town.

As soon as we came out of the ether, we heard the roar of a dragon.

I said, “It seems we are just in time. That was Alduin!”

As we ran toward the burial mound, some locals headed for the mine.

Delphine gasped when she saw Alduin. To many, he is a nightmare come true. A monster from childhood stories.

Alduin flew several times around the burial mound as we approached.

He then hovered above us.

I used my Thu’um and said,

“ODAHVIING FEN KOS WAH LAHVRAAN HIN MIDDOVAHHE MOK, ALDUIN. HIN MIR LOS MAL.

MU VIIK NEN KO GEIN GRAH.

SOK DO NIIN LOST WAH DAAR LEIN AHRK LEINNE MINDIN.

FOS ZU’U KOS DOVAH, ZU’U NI MINDOK WAH AAV HIN MIR.”

(Odahviing will have to gather your loyal dragons quickly, Alduin. Your cause is diminished.

We defeated nine in one battle.

Six of them are lost to this world and the worlds after.

If I were a dragon, I would not choose to join your cause.)

Alduin did not reply, but returned to his ritual of restoration.

Whatever Alduin had done before we arrived had started the restoration process. Lifeforce streamed from the Dragon Mound as The World Eater hovered overhead.

A mage of limited ability fired weak spells at Alduin. I admired their courage, but not their wisdom.

Alduin said, “SAHLOKNIR, ZIIL GRO DOVAH ULSE!” (Sahloknir, I bind your dragon spirit for eternity!)

Then he used a Shout I did not know.

“SLEN TIID VO” (Flesh Time Undo)

Sahloknir roared as he burst through the lid of the Dragon Mound.

Sahloknir asked, “ALDUIN, THURI! BOAAN TIID VOKRIIHA SULEYKSEJUN KRUZIIK?” (Alduin, my lord. Has the time come to revive our ancient realm?)

Alduin replied, “GEH, SAHLOKNIR, KAALI MIR.” (Yes, Sahloknir, my champion.)

I used my Thu’um to full effect and yelled, “STRUNMAH FAAL SAHLOKNIR, DII LOS DII DOVAHKIIN, AHRK DILON ZAHKRII DO NIRN!” (Sahloknir, I am The Dragonborn, and you will never fly the skies of Nirn!)

I then addressed Alduin once more.

“KORAAV, ALDUIN. HIN THU’UM GEVILD SAHLOKNIR SLEN, NI TIID.

ROK FEN KRII US ROK BO WAH LOK AHRK ZU’U NI VOTH DII THU’UM.”

(Watch closely, Alduin. Your Voice gave Sahloknir flesh, not time. He will die before his wings taste the sky, and I will not spend my Thu’um on him.)

Alduin roared, “SAHLOKNIR, KRII DAAR JOORRE!” (Sahloknir, kill these mortals!)

Alduin lifted higher and hovered. Sahloknir roared, “I am Sahloknir! Hear my Voice and despair!”

I yelled back, “I am Wulf! Feel my katana and die!”

A few slices across Sahloknir’s snout shut him up. Vayu was busy giving the dragon a bellyache.

Sahloknir’s mouth full of razor-sharp teeth headed for me when a backward swipe of my katana stunned him.

I leapt on the dazed dragon’s snout.

I fought to keep my balance as Sahloknir realised the danger and tried to dislodge me.

I plunged my sword into Sahloknir’s ear canal and into his brain. The fight was over.

Alduin flew away as the group watched me absorb Sahloknir’s soul.

The unknown mage was dead. Squished by Sahloknir.

A familiar roar told me Nahfahlaar was approaching.

I said, “Vayu, explain to Delphine that Nahfahlaar is friendly. She might also want to know what was said in Dovahzul.”

As Vayu spoke to Delphine, Nahfahlaar landed, and I walked over to him.

“It is good to see you, Proud Jewel of the Imperial Crown.”

“You had another fight and did not invite me. That is very rude of you!”

“But you haven’t had time to repair that chipped scale on your right shoulder.”

“What chipped scale? Where is it? Climb on and point to it!”

“There is no chipped scale, Nahfahlaar.”

“You are almost as annoying as your father.”

“Did you detect the use of The Voice?”

“Yes. Expect the others to visit. We agreed to investigate any use of The Voice to see if we can assist. Jormungandr and Krahzunmaar will always be slower than me when hunting the source of the Thu’um.”

“Alduin was here, but he is still hesitant to attack me.”

“That is wise of him. I must return to my patrol. Perhaps we can speak more when Alduin is no longer a problem.”

“I look forward to it.”

As Nahfahlaar flew away, Krahzunmaar landed.

I told him, “The fight is over. We interrupted the restoration of Sahloknir.”

“He never was a bright one, but still, it is unpleasant to see him erased.”

“If I could have prevented that, Krahzunmaar, I would have.”

“Let us hope we end Alduin before more of our brothers suffer the same fate.”

“We shall try.”

Krahzunmaar took off, and a second later, Jormungandr appeared.

Jormungandr is like a chameleon, able to change colours at will. He was now bright green.

He landed, and I walked over to him.

I remarked, “You can be spotted from miles away!”

“That is the point, Wulf. When red, I could easily be mistaken for a fire dragon. I dislike friendly fire, so adopting this colour allows me to be easily identified.”

“Do you recognise the victim of Alduin’s folly?”

“Sahloknir. I am sorry you have to do this, Dovahkiin. I am ashamed Celestial Brothers defy the will of Akatosh and side with Alduin.”

“They pay a heavy price for their foolishness.”

“I will return to the Western Watch Tower. The people of Whiterun are used to my presence. Some of them refer to me as Whiterun’s Dragon.”

“Farewell for now, Jormungandr.”

Delphine was waiting to speak to me.

• Wulf: Are you convinced I am dragonborn, even though I did not use The Voice?
• Delphine: Yes. Vayu told me what you said to Alduin. He suggested you did not want Alduin to know the strength of your Thu’um.
• Wulf: That was my plan. Do not think all dragons are as easily defeated as Sahloknir. He was particularly vulnerable so soon after his restoration. If he had taken to the air, the battle would have been significantly more difficult.
• Delphine: Are those three dragons allies?
• Wulf: Yes. When they detected The Voice in use, they investigated. The large red dragon is Nahfahlaar. The dragon on The Empire’s flags represents him, so highly regarded is he.
• Vayu: We need help, Delphine.
• Wulf: The Ancient Tongues used two things to defeat Alduin. They created a shout called ‘Dragonrend’ that brought Alduin to ground. The World-Eater is invulnerable when flying. They then banished Alduin into the time-stream using an Elder Scroll.
• Vayu: We need information on the Shout and Elder Scroll.
• Delphine: I cannot aid you with either. But other Blades may still be alive who might.
• Vayu: You would not know their locations as per standard Blades protocol.
• Delphine: Correct, but the Thalmor would have a list of Blades they have found, and those they suspect might be a Blade.
• Wulf: Well then, I shall visit their embassy, have a nice chat and cup of tea with Elenwen and politely ask for the list.
• Delphine: Elenwen has a party once a month where brown-nosers and potential brown-nosers attend. This month’s party is on the 3^rd. I had already planned to visit in disguise, but perhaps you would have more chance of infiltrating than me, Dragonborn. It is easy enough for me to organise an invitation.
• Wulf: Please, call me Wulf. Elenwen knows me, so my disguise will have to be good. Make the invitation for Makes-Them-Moan, a famous Argonian gigolo visiting Skyrim to spread carnal cheer.
• Delphine: This is serious, Wulf!
• Vayu: Wulf is one of Nirn’s most powerful mages. For all intents and purposes, he will be an Argonian. It is not an illusion, but a physical transformation.
• Wulf: An eccentric Argonian will not register as a potential threat to Elenwen. And I find it easier to act the part of a fool than to pretend to be interested in business or to brown-nose.
• Delphine: What if they discover you snooping around?
• Wulf: I could infiltrate the embassy without an invitation. But this sounds like fun, and if they try to stop me, they die.
• Vayu: Wulf could kill every Thalmor in their embassy without breaking a sweat.
• Wulf: The Thalmor are my enemy, Delphine. I have no qualms killing them.
• Vayu: They capture, torture and kill people whose only crime is the worship of Lord Talos. But that is only one crime for which they are guilty.
• Wulf: Vayu, please teleport Delphine back to Riverwood and then head to the palace.
• Vayu: What is next, Wulf?
• Wulf: I have a plan. I will speak to you later.

I watched Delphine place her hand on Vayu’s shoulder. Then they teleported to Riverwood.

I teleported to Coranelor, where Rigmor was fast asleep, nightmare-free. Still, her breathing was more relaxed once enveloped by Tirlineth.

I would let her sleep longer, as I wanted her to travel with me to the ancient home of Skyrim’s Blades.