Morndas, 3^rd Hearthfire, 4E 201

We arose early, bathed and enjoyed breakfast well before the children were up. Aetheron was relatively quiet until around 7:00 AM, when the sounds of the village and the internal hustle and bustle permeated the air.

Rigmor wanted to see my Argonian transformation. I donned the attire I would wear to the embassy and transformed in front of her.

Rigmor stared at me for several seconds before asking, “Is every bit of you Argonian?”

“Yes, including my long, forked tongue. There is a reason why Makes-them-Moan is such a popular gigolo.”

“Sometimes, Wulf, you sound like an old pervert.”

“As I explained to Delphine, it is easier for me to act the fool than pretend to be a brown-noser.”

“Do all the Jarls attend her parties?”

“Not all at once. Still, there will be a mixture of Imperial and Ulfric supporters amongst them. A lot of trust is shown, as it can take many days for some of them to travel from their holds.”

“Will Ulfric be there?”

“After he was captured and almost executed, I doubt he will leave the safety of Windhelm. Besides that, some of the opposing Jarls are competent warriors, and even if violence within the embassy is forbidden, a formal challenge could be delivered and not ignored.”

“Would you challenge him?”

“Unless I am named champion by a Jarl, Ulfric could refuse my challenge. I have not asked Jarl Balgruuf as he is still neutral. But I have no doubt he will declare for The Empire, then I shall ask for his blessing and challenge Ulfric.”

“That would save a lot of lives.”

“I wish I could say that would be my only motivation.”

“You hate him.”

“I despise him, and his death would be one I would find pleasurable to replay in my mind.”

“I worry the darkness is not being fully erased, Wulf. Some of it remains and grows.”

“It was a problem before we left Akavir. Even though we have killed many bandits and other scum in Skyrim, the violence has been less intense and not personal. Some warlords in Akavir were detestable. Think of Ulfric multiplied by dozens. My darkness grew, and I was not the nice, cuddly Valdr Septim you love.”

“I would still love you, as I know the real you.”

“The Thalmor do not allow any weapons to be carried by guests or armour to be worn. So, I shall place some items in Aethsela. Then, when the opportunity arises, I shall will myself there and alter the flow of time.”

“You could don your armour and be back in seconds.”

“Yep.”

“The Thalmor will be searching in vain for Makes-them-Moan after they discover the ruse.”

“Any witnesses will be confused as to what species I am.”

“Huh!”

“Come, I shall show you.”

Several sets of my armour were on display in the central hall of Aetheron. We walked over to an ebony set.

I explained, “I have several suits of armour I used for infiltration. All of them have a mask, a mempo, that emits a strong illusion. Unless they know it is me inside the armour, they could see an Orc in heavy armour or a Bosmer in light armour and so forth.”

“Haha, so if there are several witnesses, they might all report something different.”

“Yes, and they would be certain of what they saw.”

“Are you going to do this quietly, or kill Thalmor?”

“If I can kill Thalmor without risking the lives of innocents, they will die.”

“You are not a murderer!”

“I will be visible. If a trespasser is discovered in Imperial territory, they are to be apprehended and questioned. That is the civilised response. Therefore, if the Thalmor attack what might be an innocent but lost guest, they die. I could kill every single Thalmor without being seen. That would be murder.”

“Here I am, lecturing you about killing Thalmor after what I did.”

“You exercised your darkness. You are no less for that.”

“We both feel guilt at some of the killing we do.”

“Yes, and that is the difference between many of our enemies and us.”

“There is no shield.”

“I will be using the kai-katana twin of my katana.”

“Ooh, can I see it?”

“I thought you would never ask. It is quite big!”

“Pervert!”

We retrieved the kai-katana from Cethnelor.

Rigmor observed, “It does not look different from other chests in Aetheron.”

“It did at first. There is a dweomer attached to it as a disguise.”

We returned to my rooms, where Rigmor spent several minutes doing sword forms with the Nichirin kai-katana.

When finished, Rigmor remarked, “I can see why the Dragonguard like them, but I would have to practice more before changing from Dad’s sword.”

“Yeah, I feel a bit guilty asking Lydia to change to a katana with little preparation.”

“I really like her! All of the Dragonguard are wonderful people, but there is something about Lydia.”

“She comes from a long line of Legionnaires and truly believes in The Empire. She only became a Whiterun guard because Jarl Balgruuf declared neutrality and her father served with him during the Great War.”

“What are your plans?”

“I will place the things I will need in Aethsela. I will place other items in Cethnelor in case I have a use for them. Then I shall visit Delphine. The party at the embassy starts at two, but I want to scout it out first.”

“I am going to help with some lessons with the children. Mainly reading and poetry.”

“Following in your mother’s footsteps.”

“I try not to think of her too much. But I saw what the dragons are doing, and I understand why our search for her is delayed.”

“Baa’Ren-Dar dealing with the leaders of provinces is not a quick process.”

“We shall find her, Wulf.”

“Yes, we will, and the New Order will pay for what they have done.”

“Just be careful.”

“Aren’t I always?”

“Ahh…no.”

I gathered the armour and willed myself into Aethsela.

I placed the armour on a mannequin and the kai-katana into a weapon rack. I placed my bow and arrows into a chest in front of the armour.

I then cast Shroudwalk and teleported into Riverwood.

I dismissed Shroudwalk just before entering Sleeping Giant Inn.

I walked up to Delphine and said, “Excuse me.”

She turned and replied, “Yes, can I help you?”

“I heard there is a party that needs the services of Makes-them-Moan.”

“Forgive me for my caution, but what do you hope to achieve at such a party?”

“The names and locations of those in hiding.”

“Well then, follow me.”

I followed Delphine to her not-so-secret room.

She looked me up and down and then remarked, “Incredible!”

I replied, “And very useful. I can transform into any bipedal species.”

“Is that what you intend to wear?”

“Yes. I assume no weapons or armour allowed. This outfit is very expensive.”

“It is more than acceptable, and you are correct. There are no weapons or armour allowed.”

“I could kill everybody in seconds with The Voice or Magicka.”

“Still, if you want to use armour and weapons, I have an inside contact who can smuggle them in for you. You need to meet with him anyway, so he knows who you are.”

“Who is this contact, and can he be trusted?”

“His name is Malborn. He is a Wood elf with plenty of reasons to hate the Thalmor. He is not a dangerous character like you, but he hates the Thalmor at least as much as I do. The Thalmor wiped out his family back in Valenwood during one of their purges that we never hear about. Luckily, they don’t know who he really is, or he wouldn’t be serving drinks at the Ambassador’s parties.”

“Where do I meet him?”

“I asked for him to meet you in Solitude, at The Winking Skeever.”

“Do I have a code phrase to gain his trust?”

“You say, ‘The old blade is still sharp.’ Malborn should ask, ‘Is it sharp enough to cut yellow silk?’ You reply, ‘Perhaps you can help me test it?’”

“Shouldn’t that be ‘The ancient blade is still sharp.’?”

“Haha. Here is your invitation. It is not forged, and it took a bit of old-fashioned espionage to get your name on the invitee list.”

“I am glad to see you have retained your skills and a network of assistants.”

“It is not difficult to find people opposed to the Thalmor.”

“Does Malborn have somewhere to go? They will undoubtedly suspect him.”

“He has arranged passage to relatives in Cyrodiil. All he has to do is reach Windhelm’s port.”

“I will be fashionably late to the party after I have scouted it out. I will fly there, invisible and undetectable.”

“Could you infiltrate the embassy without this ruse?”

“Yes. I could infiltrate the embassy, kill every Thalmor, including Elenwen, and nobody would know who did it. But that is murder, and not my way of doing things. I might kill a few, but they will see their killer. Let them hunt for Makes-them-Moan, I doubt they will ever find him.”

“Well, you had better meet with Malborn and give him time to reach the embassy before two.”

“This might be fun!”

Delphine looked at me worriedly, then I vanished as I teleported to the Safehouse.

I exited the Safehouse and looked around. The repairs from the dragon attack were thorough and completed rapidly. It helps when you have access to Imperial Army engineers, artisans, and labourers.

The streets were busy, but subdued. The usual laughter and light-hearted banter were missing. The buildings were repaired, but the people of Solitude will take longer to recover.

It has been some time since I visited The Winking Skeever. It is always crowded. I hoped there were not too many Wood Elves inside.

I had a good look around and only saw one Wood Elf. He was a weedy-looking specimen. Just before he munched on an apple, I noisily sat in the seat opposite him.

Malborn’s mouth dropped. He was at a loss as to what to say.

“The old blade is still sharp.”

“Oh… um… is it sharp enough to cut yellow silk?”

“Perhaps you can help me test it?”

“So, you’re the one she sent? I hope she knows what she is doing!”

“She didn’t pick me, Malborn. I am her superior, and I know what I am doing. However, I am not so sure about you. I am not used to relying on somebody who will attract attention by impersonating a chicken.”

“Hey, I have been amongst the enemy for months now!”

“And our friend had been avoiding capture since The Great War. Do not judge people so quickly, and you will not be judged.”

“Well, here is the deal. I can smuggle some equipment into the embassy for you. Don’t plan on bringing anything else in with you. Our hosts take security very seriously. I’m ready to go. Give me what you can’t live without, and I’ll get it into the place. The rest is up to you.”

“I do not need anything.”

“What?”

“Do you think you could sneak a full suit of armour, greatsword and bow into the place?”

“Ahh, probably not.”

“Then I shall meet you there.”

“I’ll find you at the party, don’t worry.”

“Are there many seven-foot-tall Argonian guests?”

“Ahh…no.”

“Then it should not be difficult finding me, should it?”

“Good point.”

“I am not worried, Malborn. I will kill all who get in my way. You, on the other hand, might want to carry a spare pair of underpants.”

Malborn’s eyes widened before he hastily stood and rapidly left The Winking Skeever.

I made my way to the Safehouse and spent time reading some dusty tomes before leaving for the embassy.

I flew, invisible, to the embassy and scouted it, noting guard numbers and positions.

At 2:05 PM, fashionably late, I entered the compound. Carriage drivers were dropping off guests and then waiting in tents outside the embassy’s perimeter. The Thalmor were overly cautious.

The Third Aldmeri Dominion had a smaller embassy in Solitude, but this was the centre of their operations in Skyrim.

I noticed a rather grubby Redguard sitting on a snow-covered rock. Not good for avoiding hemorrhoids!

I asked, “Have you forgotten your invite, good sir?”

“Ah! A fellow latecomer to Elenwen’s little soiree. I have my pass, and my lateness is due more to getting lost on the way up this god-forsaken mountain than to any desire to arrive late. I prefer to arrive early. Often, the day before the party. So as not to miss out on any of the drinking.”

“I am Makes-them-Moan. You are?”

“Razelan, a senior broker with The East Empire Company. I make lots of money for The Dominion. Otherwise, they would have shortened me by a head long ago.”

“And you are here for the free booze?”

“Well, Makes-them-Moan, there’s not enough drinking in the world today, wouldn’t you agree? I was resting briefly, although it was damnably cold out here. I don’t look forward to the trip back down. Perhaps we might share a carriage after the party? I know, I know, we’ve just met. But think, by the time the party ends, we’ll no doubt be fast friends.”

“We shall see. Anyway, I am heading indoors before my tail freezes off.”

My sword hand twitched as a Justiciar Ondolemar walked past me. He is the head of the Talos hunters in Skyrim. The scum looked at me with distaste, then continued.

I look forward to the day I slaughter him, as he has done to so many innocent civilians.

Razelan was not far behind me.

A Thalmor Wizard asked, “Do you have your invitation, sir?”

I handed him my invitation. He glanced at it, checked my name on a list and said, “All is in order, sir. Go right in.”

The process reminded me of Lieutenant Hadvar ticking off the condemned prisoner list in Helgen.

As I headed up the stairs, I overheard Razelan’s conversation.

• Razelan: Now then. Here’s my invitation. I don’t have a poisoned dagger strapped to my thigh, et cetera, et cetera.
• Thalmor Wizard: I’m just doing my duty, sir. Everything’s in order. Welcome back, sir.
• Razelan: Yes, yes. Now, am I free to find myself a drink?
• Thalmor Wizard: All is in order, sir. Head right in.

I let Razelan catch up and enter before me.

As he passed Elenwen, she warned him, “I expect you to behave yourself, Razelan.”

She then turned her attention to me and looked genuinely interested in who I might be.

She said, “Welcome. I don’t believe we’ve met. I am Elenwen, the Thalmor Ambassador to Skyrim. And you are…?”

“I am Makes-them-Moan, famous gigolo of Cyrodiil. I decided the women and men of Skyrim deserve my special talents. I will take their minds off dragons and civil wars and other unpleasantness.”

“Oh, and you think carnal activities will do such a thing?”

“I have skills, Ambassador Elenwen. For instance, my forked tongue is ten inches long and, since I am Argonian, I do not have to come up for air.”

At first, Elenwen looked shocked, then began considering the possibilities.

I said, “Satisfaction is guaranteed or your money back! Not that anybody has ever complained, except to whine that their inability to walk for a day or two can be inconvenient. Hahahaha!”

“Yes…well…um…”

I glanced at Malborn, who had a panicked look on his face. If I didn’t resort to humour, crude as it may be, I might give in to my desire and turn Elenwen into a torch. Malborn finally found his voice.

• Malborn: Madame Ambassador, I’m so sorry to interrupt…
• Elenwen: What is it, Malborn?
• Malborn: It’s just that we’ve run out of the Alto wine. Do I have your permission to uncork the Arenthia red…
• Elenwen: Of course. I’ve told you before not to bother me with such trifles.
• Malborn: Yes, Madame Ambassador.
• Elenwen: My apologies, Makes-them-Moan. We’ll have to get better acquainted later. Please, enjoy yourself.
• Wulf: Yes, of course.

I left Elenwen to deal with Malborn and looked around the room.

There were not as many attending as I expected. Perhaps the civil war, numerous large bandit gangs and hostile dragons are deterrents? Some expert brown-nosers were amongst them, including Mavis Black-Briar and the infinitely annoying Thane Erikur.

Thane Erikur is as crooked as a dog’s leg. Jarl Elisif keeps him close, as he may prove an ally if Ulfric were to win the civil war. I do not doubt that once that threat has been eliminated and Elisif is High Queen, Erikur will be swiftly removed from his position. He may even escape with his head intact, which would disappoint his sister, Gisli, who despises him.

I was surprised to see Jarl Elisif, especially since she has been warned she is one of the New Order’s targets for assassination. There is a large contingent of Legionnaires waiting with the carriage drivers. I assume most of those are Elisif’s escort.

Elisif seemed content to remain aloof. She did no politicking and knew that the support amongst the Jarls was already decided. If an individual Jarl supported Ulfric’s claim, it was too late to change their mind. To them, Elisif represented the Empire. Elisif was Emperor Titus Mede II’s niece via some illegitimacy, but the blood connection was there. I doubt His Imperial Majesty would dare break convention and name her as Heir Presumptive.

There was some talk about the dragon attacks, but I could sense the Jarls were being careful. They did not want to mention casualties or damage to opponents in the civil war.

Razelan was observing the conversations, but looked like a lonely figure, so I approached him.

I said, “Razelan, Thane Erikur is telling everybody who is behind the dragons and what should be done to ensure money is made from the situation. Surely you should listen to his words of wisdom.”

“I am too thirsty to care.”

“Then why have you not attended the bar or asked the waitress for a drink?”

“I can have as much to drink as I like. However, Elenwen told the staff I should not be served alcohol.”

“I know the Thalmor have a reputation for barbarism, but that depravity is beyond words! I shall rectify this injustice immediately!”

As I walked towards the waitress, many guests openly stared at me. I was new to them, and no doubt they measured me regarding political gain. Who is he? Whose side is he on? Should I be concerned about him? However, I did hear the word ‘gigolo’ a few times. Elenwen had told them who I was.

Aventus Aretino was in attendance, but not Jarl Balgruff. As I passed him, I said, “Five hundred septims per hour for an experience you will never forget.”

“Oh!” was his only reply.

I quipped to the waitress, “That drink tray looks mighty heavy. Perhaps I can lighten the load somewhat.”

“Haha. Indeed, you can, sir. These goblets are full of the finest Colovian Brandy.”

“Then I shall take two goblets because talking bullshit creates quite a thirst.”

I took two goblets off the tray and headed back. Once again, I was subjected to stares, and I could imagine the shallow, selfish thoughts of some attendees.

I handed a goblet to Razelan and said, “Here, I have one to sate your thirst and another for you to consume slowly, as Colovian Brandy deserves time on the palate.”

Razelan eagerly gulped down the first goblet. He then took a sip of the second goblet and sighed before saying, “You are a rarity, a generous soul amongst a gathering of pinch-pennies and lickspittles! If there’s anything I can ever do for you, do not hesitate to call upon me!”

“Well, Razelan, my generosity was not entirely charitable. I need a noisy distraction, and you seem just the fellow to create one for me.”

“It just so happens you’ve come to the right person. You could say that causing a scene is a speciality of mine. Stand back and behold my handiwork.”

Razelan walked to the centre of the room, and there was instant silence. It seems that Razelan is indeed a specialist in causing a scene, and the crowd watched with eager anticipation.

As I made my way slowly towards Malborn, I found myself smiling at Razelan’s performance.

• Razelan: Attention, everyone. Could I have your attention, please? I have an announcement to make! I propose a toast to Elenwen, our Mistress!
• Elenwen: Razelan, what are you doing?
• Razelan: I speak figuratively, of course. Nothing could be more unlikely than someone wanting Elenwen in their bed.
• Elenwen: Ugh.
• Razelan: Although… most of you are already in bed with her! But again… I speak figuratively, of course!

Just as I reached Malborn behind the bar, some guards converged on Razelan and grabbed him by the arms.

• Razelan: Fine. Fine. Take your hands off me. I’ll be a good boy now.
• Elenwen: You are important, Razelan. But I warn you. My patience is running out!
• Razelan: Well, I wouldn’t want to offend our Thalmor overlords, would I?
• Elenwen: Stick him on a carriage and tell the driver to bill the embassy.
• Razelan: Hey, before I go, can someone bring me a drink, quick?

Malborn whispered, “Let’s go, let’s go! Before anyone notices us.”

I entered through a door, which Malborn I closed behind me.

He stopped before another door and explained, “So far, so good. Let’s hope nobody saw us slip out. We need to pass through the kitchen. You can infiltrate the embassy via the larder. Just stay close and let me do any talking. Follow me.”

I appreciated the risk Malborn was taking and was surprised at how calm he seemed. Perhaps I underestimated him?

A Khajiiti servant watched us as we approached the larder.

When Malborn opened the larder door, she objected.

• Tsavani: Who comes, Malborn? You know I don’t like strange smells in my kitchen.
• Malborn: This guest is feeling ill. Leave the poor wretch be.
• Tsavani: A guest in the kitchen is against the rules!
• Malborn: Rules, is it, Tsavani? I didn’t realise that eating Moon Sugar was permitted. Perhaps I should ask the Ambassador?
• Tsavani: Ts s! Get out of here. I saw nothing.

We entered the larder, and Malborn locked the door from inside.

He said, “When you exit through that other door, you will be in the heart of the embassy. I’ll lock that door behind you, or the patrols might notice something is wrong.”

I warned, “Do not shit your trousers or scream, Malborn.”

“Why would I do that?”

I willed myself into Aethsela, then removed my noble Argonian clothes. I changed back into Ningheim form and donned the ebony Akaviri armour. I retrieved the kai-katana from the weapon rack and my bow and arrows from the chest.

I performed some sword forms to reintroduce myself to the Nichirin kai-katana. I much prefer sword and board, but can appreciate the attraction of chopping somebody asunder with a two-handed weapon.

I had altered the flow of time in Aethsela. Therefore, I returned to Nirn less than a second after leaving.

Despite my warning, Malborn shrieked.

I said, “It’s okay, Malborn. I won’t tell you my name, but I was disguised as Makes-them-Moan.”

Malborn asked, “How can you look like an Argonian so convincingly when you are a Khajiiti?”

“I am not a Khajiiti or Argonian. Another person who sees me may think I am a Redguard, and another may swear I was a Dunmer.”

“This is fascinating, but I had better return to the party.”

“Do not squeal again when I vanish. Tsavani might think that Makes-them-Moan is giving you your money’s worth.”

I cast Shroudwalk, then stepped through the door. Malborn quickly locked it behind me.

In the first room I entered, one Thalmor soldier was talking to another.

• Soldier One: What is with all the new wizards? Are they interrogators?
• Soldier Two: No, they are high mages who have recently arrived from Alinor. Elenwen would not share the fun of interrogation with others. However, she has handed some of it to Third Emissary Rulindil as a training exercise.
• Soldier One: That is why I have my own fun with the Talos worshippers and rarely bring them in alive.
• Soldier Two: Haha. Yeah, listening to the heretics beg for mercy and scream is one of the only perks of being in this desolate country full of barbarians.

I let them walk away and dismissed Shroudwalk. I then said, “Hello, I seem to have lost my Talos amulet!”

They turned, drew their weapons and died. As their bodies and weapons clanked onto the floor, a wizard wasted time summoning an Atronach and casting Barkskin on himself.

He shrieked as my kai-katana whistled through the air and removed his head.

I used Heat Vision and couldn’t see anybody else in this part of the embassy. I had studied the floor plan of the place and knew that most of the senior Thalmor lived in what they called ‘Elenwen’s Solar.’ Dozens of elite Thalmor soldiers and wizards guarded it.

I looked through several rooms, and the only thing of interest I found was a unique mace with a strong dweomer that inflicts frost damage and reduces health and stamina. I sent it to Cethnelor in case it was museum-worthy.

I cast Shroudwalk again and exited into the courtyard.

I walked the perimeter wall, but there was no conversation amongst the guards.

As soon as I made myself visible, I was attacked. There was no, Halt! followed by questioning. I could have been a guest who took a wrong turn. That aggression was my justification for what I did next.

I looked upwards, and my Thu’um echoed as I Shouted Storm Call.

The sky immediately became a rolling mass of storm clouds.

Then lightning started to strike, each bolt hitting one or more Thalmor. One dragon who attacked Solitude used the Shout, but its lightning strikes were far less accurate and a fraction of the power of mine.

Within a minute, the two dozen Thalmor guarding Elenwen’s Solar were dead. The guards at the front of the embassy also died. The carriage drivers and Legionnaires were further away, on the road, so they were safe from the tempest.

Three dozen Thalmor died, and those inside would be oblivious as all they would hear was the sound of a violent thunderstorm.

Somebody may stumble upon the corpses, so I moved quickly.

I looked up once more and Shouted the Clear Skies Shout.

The storm dissipated as quickly as it had formed.

I opened the solar door and entered. A cold gust of wind followed me.

Who I assume was supposed to be a front door sentry had their back to it and didn’t bother turning around.

I shot them in the back, and they quietly fell to their knees and then face-planted.

Then I listened to a conversation between a snitch called Gissur and Third Emissary Rulindil. Rulindil is a Thalmor Wizard and the chief torturer in Skyrim. He is somebody I am keen to remove from the current Kalpa.

• Gissur: But I need that money. I earned it! I have my expenses, you know.
• Rulindil: Silence! Do not presume, Gissur. You are most useful, but do not presume. We have more informants who are less offensive.
• Gissur: But no one else has brought you such valuable information, have they?

There was silence from Rulindil. It seems he was hesitant to hand Gissur his just reward. No matter. I will soon rectify that. I knocked an arrow and aimed at Gissur’s back.

• Gissur: Etienne has talked, hasn’t he? He knows where that old man you’re looking for is, he told me himself.
• Rulindil: You’ll get your money when he’s told the rest of his story, as agreed.
• Gissur: So, he has talked! I knew it!
• Rulindil: Everyone talks in the end. Now, I have work to do. Leave me to it if you want to see the rest of your payment.
• Gissur: I could help you. He’d talk to me. He trusts me.
• Rulindil: You’d like to come downstairs with me, is that it, Gissur? Shall we loosen his bonds and put you in a cell together? You can ask him anything you like and see how he answers.
• Gissur: No! Ahh… I’ll wait outside.
• Rulindil: That would probably be best. Now get out!

I released the arrow, and Gissur died.

Rulindil was a Wizard. If he had half a brain, he would have summoned an Atronach or Dremora. Instead, he walked around to inspect Gissur and died.

Both bodies still twitched as I approached them.

I searched Gissur and found the following note.

“Description of target:

Race is unknown. He is described as very tall, with a tanned complexion and a neat beard. He wears distinctive black-and-red armour.

He is believed to go by various names, including Lord Welkynd, Wulf, and that imaginary hero, Dragonborn. He is suspected to be a Blades sympathiser and is likely to seek information regarding an individual called Esbern and The Ratway.

Do not approach. Inform your assigned contact immediately if spotted.”

I wonder how many snitches they paid to gather that information?

I searched Rulindil, and there was nothing useful on him except a set of keys.

On Rulindil’s desk were various notes and letters. They were all useless except for one, which read,

“First Emissary Elenwen,

We anticipate a breakthrough in uncovering the party or power behind the dragon resurrection phenomenon. An informant has identified a possible lead, whom we have brought back to the Embassy for a full interrogation. The subject is obstinate but, by all indications, is holding back the information we seek. I have authorised Intermediate Manual Uncoiling. I do not expect more will be necessary unless you feel time is of the essence.

I know you prefer to be present for the final questioning, so I will inform you immediately when the subject is fully receptive.

In the meantime, if you wish to audit our technique, your expertise is welcome, as always. I have placed the prisoner in the cell closest to your office stairs for your convenience.

–Rulindil, 3rd Em.”

Manual uncoiling involves a small incision being made into the victim’s stomach. A hook is then used to pull out a portion of their intestine. Then more of the intestine is slowly dragged out. Even if the victim tells the executioner what they want to hear, they will inevitably die from infection unless a Restoration Mage helps them soon after.

The Ratway is a maze-like system of tunnels under Riften. It will save time if Etienne is alive and knows where Esbern is hiding. We don’t want to wander around for hours dealing with Skooma addicts and worse. Time is of the essence, as Rulindil hinted. The longer we take, the more likely it is that other cities or towns will be attacked.

Heat Vision showed that this part of the embassy was empty. I walked to the room next to Rulindil’s, where his keys opened the locked drawers and cabinets. In one cupboard, I found a pile of dossiers. Many familiar people had earned an entry, and I would read the majority of them when somewhere safer. However, three dossiers caught my attention, and I read them immediately.

The first dossier was on my friend, the curator of my museum, Auryen.

“Status: Passive

Description: Curator of the Legacy of the Dragonborn museum.

Race and Gender: Altmer male.

Age: Unknown (possibly over 500).

Background: Morellus is a recent immigrant to Skyrim. He came to the attention of our agents in Solitude with his acquisition of the abandoned Macnarian Hall, previously a temple of Talos, the Ninth Divine.

Morellus is currently renovating the hall into a museum for historical artefacts.

Operational Notes: Observe but do not engage. Ensure no heretical artefacts get smuggled into the museum.”

The Thalmor suppress far more than Talos worship and would regard many items on display as heretical. If they tried to remove any of them, they would meet armed resistance. If they cried to Jarl Elisif, she would tell them to shove it. In a more ladylike manner, of course. The idea that we smuggle anything is idiotic. Smuggling means bypassing legal checks. We do not have to seek approval from any authority for what we choose to display!

The next dossier I read was Delphine’s.

“Status: Active (Capture or Kill), High Priority, Emissary Level Approval

Description: Female, Breton, mid-50s

Background: Delphine was a high-priority target during the First War for operational and political reasons. She was directly involved in several of the most damaging operations attributed to The Blades within the Dominion. She had been slated for the initial purge but was recalled to Cyrodiil just before the outbreak of hostilities. During the war, she evaded three attempts on her life, in one case killing an entire assassination team. Since then, we have only indirect evidence of her movements, as she has proven extremely alert to our surveillance. She should be considered very dangerous! No move against her should be made without overwhelming force and the utmost care.

Operational Notes: She is believed to be actively working against us within Skyrim, although we have no location for her. She is assumed to be working alone, as no other Blades are known to be active in Skyrim, and she has in the past avoided contact with other fugitive Blades for her security (one of the reasons she has so far evaded elimination). Her continued existence is an insult to all of us. Any information on her whereabouts or activities should be immediately forwarded to the Third Emissary.”

The first thing that struck me was the reference to the First War. Everybody suspects that The Dominion will eventually renew hostilities. However, it is one thing to suspect and another to find proof of their intention. They would find a far more prepared and formidable opponent the second time. Part of the problem at the beginning of The Great War was the Empire’s forces being spread out. They are now only required to defend three provinces in more significant numbers.

It is impressive that Delphine wiped out an entire Thalmor assassination squad. They are not amateurs and were responsible for eliminating many high-ranking military targets, including more senior Blades.

If Delphine is an insult, most Thalmor would collapse, frothing at the mouth if they discovered who lives in my various properties. Eventually, I hope to have the outlaw status of Blades revoked. His Imperial Majesty will owe them and me much after we eliminate Alduin.

Ulfric Stormcloak’s was the third dossier I read.

“Status: Asset (uncooperative), Dormant, Emissary Level Approval

Description: Jarl of Windhelm, leader of the Stormcloak rebellion, Imperial Legion veteran

Background:

Ulfric first came to our attention during the First War against The Empire. He was taken as a prisoner of war during the campaign for The White-Gold Tower. Under interrogation, we learned of his potential value as the son of the Jarl of Windhelm, and he was assigned as an asset to the interrogator, who is now First Emissary Elenwen.

Ulfric was led to believe that the information obtained during his interrogation was crucial to capturing the Imperial City, and then he was allowed to escape. The city had fallen before he had broken. After the war, contact was established, and he has proven himself a useful asset. The so-called Markarth Incident was particularly valuable from the point of view of our strategic goals in Skyrim, although it resulted in Ulfric becoming generally uncooperative to direct contact.

Operational Notes:

Direct contact remains a possibility under extreme circumstances. However, in general, the asset should be considered dormant. We should remain hands-off as long as the civil war remains indecisive.

The incident at Helgen is an example where an exception had to be made. Ulfric’s death would have dramatically increased the chance of an Imperial victory and thus harmed our overall position in Skyrim. The coincidental intervention of the dragon at Helgen is still under scrutiny. The obvious conclusion is that whoever is behind the dragons is also interested in continuing the war, but we should not assume that their goals align with our own. However, a Stormcloak victory must be avoided, so even indirect aid to the Stormcloaks must be carefully managed.”

Ulfric’s dossier confirmed the suspicions expressed by General Tullius in Helgen. He was not my priority at this moment. However, one day he will be, and I will expose him for what he is. I will make his name reviled by all free-thinking citizens. Ulfric will have loyal followers who may choose to die with him. I will give them one chance to abandon him, that is all.

I had to continue with my mission and will decide what to do about Ulfric later. I placed the dossiers in my Journal Case.

One of Rulindil’s keys unlocked the door to the prison and torture chamber.

Its layout was identical to the one where I witnessed Rigmor’s whipping. I could see a Bosmer prisoner in shackles. I assumed it was Etienne and was relieved to see they had not yet uncoiled his insides.

I silently descended the steps, then killed the only guard.

Before attending to Etienne, I opened a chest with one of Rulindil’s keys.

It contained standard Thieves Guild armour and more dossiers, including Esbern’s, which I quickly read.

“Status: Fugitive (Capture Only), Highest Priority, Emissary Level Approval

Description: Male, Nord, late 70s

Background: Esbern was one of The Blades’ loremasters before The First War Against the Empire. He was not a field agent but is believed to have been behind some of the most damaging operations by The Blades during the pre-war years, including the Falinesti Incident and the breach of the Blue River Prison. His file had remained dormant for many years in the erroneous belief that he was unlikely to pose a threat due to his advanced age and lack of field experience. This assumption was an inexcusable error by my predecessor, who has been called to Alinor for punishment and re-education.

I remind all operational levels that no Blades agent should be considered low priority! All are to be found, and justice exacted upon them!

Operational Notes: As we are still in the dark about the cause and meaning of the return of the dragons, I have made capturing Esbern our top priority, as he is known to be one of the experts in the dragonlore of The Blades. Regrettably, we have yet to match their expertise on dragons derived from their Akaviri origins. It is far superior to ours, which remains largely theoretical. The archives of Cloud Ruler Temple were the primary repository of the oldest Blades lore and were largely destroyed during the siege. Great effort has been made to reconstruct what was lost. However, it is now apparent that most of the records related to dragons were removed or destroyed before our attack. Thus, Esbern remains our best opportunity to learn how and why the dragons have returned. It cannot be ruled out that the Blades themselves are somehow connected to the dragons’ return.

We have recently obtained reliable information that Esbern is still alive and hiding somewhere in Riften. Interrogation of a possible eyewitness is ongoing. We must proceed carefully to avoid alerting Esbern to his danger. If he is indeed in Riften, he must not be allowed to flee.”

The Thalmor are thicker than two planks and denser than lead bricks!

Another of Rulindil’s keys opened the cell door.

I approached the prisoner and asked, “Is your name Etienne?”

Without looking at me, Etienne said, “You know I am. I have told you countless times that I don’t know anything more about it.”

I said, “I am not here to torture you, Etienne.”

I unlocked his manacles, and he fell to the floor.

I cast Grand Healing on Etienne, who then stood, looking at his wrists and ankles in disbelief. He then felt all over his body and pressed hard against his ribs.

I laughed and said, “All your broken bones, bruises, and internal injuries are gone, Etienne. It is as if the Thalmor had not been tickling you for days.”

Etienne stared at me, then asked, “Who are you? What do you want?”

“It is best I keep my identity secret. I want to kill every Thalmor in Skyrim, but alas, I have other priorities at the moment. I must stop the dragons who have attacked many cities and towns while you have entertained Third Emissary Rulindil.”

“They kept asking about somebody called Esbern. From their description, it may be the old man that The Thieves Guild is protecting. From what I can gather, the Thalmor think he may know something about the dragons.”

“You are a member of The Thieves Guild and know more than that, Etienne. If you value innocent lives, you will tell me where to find him. He is a Blade, and I provide a sanctuary for them. He may also have information crucial to resolving the dragon problem.”

“How can I trust you? You could be an agent for the Thalmor, hoping to trick me with smooth words and kindness.”

“I killed about forty Thalmor, including Rulindil and the snitch responsible for your capture and torture. His name was Gissur. I assume he was a fellow thief.”

“That bastard! How many coins did he get, I wonder? He is dead, you say?”

“Yep. Here, read this report on you.”

I handed Etienne the letter from Rulindil to Elenwen.

When he finished, he stood with a stunned look. I held out my hand, and he shakily handed back the letter.

I asked, “From your reaction, I take it you know what uncoiling is?”

“Yes, it is the most barbaric of tortures, yet the Thalmor boast how civilised they are.”

“I am sure we could find Empire torturers very proficient in the method, Etienne.”

“Yes, most likely.”

“How about you look for a way out while I search this place? That will give you time to decide if I am a Thalmor plant or The Dragonborn.”

“Yeah, sure, okay. I’ve seen the guards use a trapdoor to dispose of bodies. It must lead somewhere.”

“Well, you can decide you don’t trust me and run or wait at the trapdoor for me. Your armour is in the chest I just opened.”

A voice called down from the balcony, “Listen up, spy! You’re trapped in here, and we have your accomplice. Surrender immediately, or you both die!”

Malborn whined, “Don’t bother. I’m dead already!”

The Thalmor soldier said, “Silence, traitor!”

As I walked to the stairway, I said, “Thalmor are uneducated sheep shaggers!”

The guards ran to deal with me.

As I decapitated them, Malborn tried to sneak past. He ended up covered in arterial spray.

As the bodies lay twitching, Malborn complained, “The Thalmor will be hunting me for the rest of my life. I hope it was worth it!”

I looked at him and growled, “Hundreds, if not thousands, of people lost their lives and homes to dragons in recent days. I am trying to stop that slaughter and destruction from continuing. So, tell me, Malborn, was risking your life worthwhile if that goal is achieved?”

“I…ah…umm…”

“You have done well and should be proud of yourself, but your whining does you no justice. I doubt many Thalmor remain alive in the embassy, but let’s get out of here before I have to slaughter more of them. It’s not that I don’t enjoy the exercise, but time is of the essence. There is a way out through a trapdoor, so follow me.”

Etienne was waiting for me at the trapdoor. He had recovered his armour and donned it in an impressively short time.

I asked, “Do you trust me now, Etienne? Or was slaughtering those Thalmor part of a cunning plan?”

Malborn said, “I don’t know who you are, Etienne, but your rescuer has killed dozens of Thalmor tonight, so you had better make up your mind before he has to fight more of them!”

“Okay. If I had something to write on, I could draw you a map to Esbern. The Thieves Guild supplies him with food and necessities for a reasonable fee. He is under our protection as long as he has the coin.”

I opened my Journal Case and brought out a portable writing desk, a wad of blank paper and my endless quill.

I handed the quill to Etienne and said, “Start drawing. It doesn’t have to be the work of an artist.”

“Ahh, I will need some ink.”

“No, you won’t. Go ahead. I will keep an eye out for Thalmor. I will see them before they enter this room.”

“You know, I believe you could.”

Etienne drew an excellent map and was kind enough to mark some traps for me.

I put the equipment and map away and said, “There is a dead person and a live troll below. The troll should leave us alone.”

Neither of them asked how I knew that.

The troll did leave us alone. The dead person was a mage. Next to his corpse was a gem. It was a Stone of Barenziah. Auryen had asked me to keep an eye out for them. There are twenty-four of them, and they were part of an artifact called The Crown of Barenziah. Barenziah was Father’s lover and became the Queen of Mournhold.

When we exited the cave, Etienne and Malborn ran towards Solitude.

I teleported into Coranelor.

Rigmor came over and asked, “How did it go?”

“I think Elenwen wants to hire Makes-them-Moan for a week!”

“Wulf!”

“A Blade is hiding in the Ratway. That is Riften’s underground passages and the home of Skooma addicts, thieves and the mentally unstable. So, Lady Ramsbottom, I will take you, a squad and Inigo to visit Delphine and then Riften.”

“Do you know anything about the Blade?”

“He was a Loremaster in Cloud Ruler Temple. Hopefully, he managed to rescue some useful information before the Thalmor burnt its library during The Great War.”

“Do you know how clever Olette is?”

“I regret that I have not spent as much time with her or the other children as I would like. But I know she had to be smart to survive as an information broker.”

“Olette helped the other children with our lessons. She told me that members of The Thieves Guild educated her, and never once tried to recruit her.”

“Compared to the bandits of Skyrim, Riften’s thieves are placid and quite likable. They are still capable of killing if cornered by a guard.”

“Tell me when you are ready to go.”

I retrieved my items from Cethnelor and donned my usual armour.

I then gathered a squad of Raikou, Kogo, Lydia and Ko’rassa. I asked Inigo to come along, as his humour is always welcome.

We teleported into Riverwood and headed for Sleeping Giant Inn. Heavy rain clouds made it seem much later than it was.

The others stayed in the common room while I talked to Delphine.

Delphine asked, “You made it out alive, at least. Did you learn anything useful?”

“I know the Thalmor have no clue about dragons.”

“Really? That seems hard to believe. Are you sure about that?”

“No, Delphine. I am an idiot and even forget my name sometimes. Lucky for me, my mummy has embroidered it into my underwear.”

“I apologise, Wulf.”

“The Thalmor are searching for an elderly Blade called Esbern.”

“Esbern is alive? That crazy old man. I thought the Thalmor must have got him years ago. It figures the Thalmor would be on his trail if they were trying to find out what’s happening with the dragons.”

“They know he was a Loremaster and the Blade’s authority on dragons. There is a slim chance he knows something useful or saved some vital information from Cloud Ruler Temple’s library. Even if he were a normal agent, such as yourself, I would not leave him to the mercy of the Thalmor.”

“Do you know where Esbern is?”

“He is hiding in the Ratway under Riften. We shall head there now.”

“Talk to Brynjolf. He’s… well-connected and a good starting point.”

“The last person I want to speak to is that crook. I rescued another member of The Thieves Guild from the embassy. He has drawn me a map.

“What happened? Is Malborn okay? Did you have to kill any Thalmor?”

“I will give you a detailed debrief another time. To sum it up, I killed dozens of Thalmor. Malborn made it out alive and was last seen running towards Solitude.”

“We had a passphrase. Ask Esbern what he did on the 30^th of Frostfall.”

“The day the Great War started in 4E 171.”

“Yes. Esbern should reply, ‘I counted one hundred heads.’ You reply, ‘From whence did they come?’ His counter is, ‘They were a gift from Alinor.’”

“Did Esbern count the heads?”

“Yes. Emperor Titus Mede II wanted to know the identity of every agent killed in Summerset and Valenwood. Esbern and a few other Blades managed to name all one hundred. Their names are recorded on a Roll of Honour, buried deep in some archives. Perhaps one day, they will receive the public honours they deserve.”

“That was a grim task on a terrible day.”

“It shaped Esbern’s perspective on the world.”

“The Thalmor suspect that Blades might have something to do with the dragons returning.”

“They are clueless, aren’t they?”

“They have snitches looking for me. I haven’t kept a low profile, but they are convinced The Dragonborn is a figment of Nordic imagination. They have no idea of the reality of the situation. Even they can’t claim the Dragon War never happened. Perhaps the news of the recent attacks might convince them the prophecy has come to pass.”

“The Ancient Tongues were Nords, Wulf. So, it is inevitable that the Thalmor will deny the banishment of Alduin happened or somehow claim it as their victory.”

“I will bring Esbern safely here. Then, depending on what he can tell us, decide on our next step.”

“I look forward to greeting an old friend.”

I gathered my companions, and we teleported into Honeyside.

• Inigo: This is a wonderful home you have here. The build quality is good, and it smells woody.
• Lydia: I thought it smelled mouldy, then realised that pong was you.
• Rigmor: Those two seem to have declared war. The pair were shouting insults so loud and inventive that the children we were trying to teach were laughing so hard they could not learn.
• Inigo: It is not my fault that Lydia is remarkably jealous of my good looks and intelligence.
• Ko’rassa: Ignore that. His brain is still recovering from years of Skooma.
• Lydia: Ahh, a partner in Inigo baiting. What fun we shall have!
• Inigo: My Friend, will you help defend me?
• Wulf: Sorry, but crossing these two ladies is too risky, even for me.
• Inigo: Be sure to keep watch on the fireplace. It would be a shame if all this place went up in smoke unless Lydia is inside.
• Lydia: That was pretty lame, even by your less-than-lofty standards.
• Wulf: If the children have finished, there is an old man who needs our help.

Riften was overcast and gloomy, with the same dark rain clouds as in Riverwood.

A notice was pinned to the main entrance of the Ratway. I read it aloud,

“WARNING – STAY OUT OF THE RATWAY!

It has come to our attention that some misguided citizens have been venturing into the Ratway late at night. To complicate matters, others have seen fit to spread rumours of their disappearance, stirring up talk of ghosts and phantoms haunting the sewers.

We would remind you that the Ratway is not a safe place for commoners, and any talk of ghosts is nothing more than tavern gossip. We will investigate the matter shortly, but in the meantime, take heed and do not enter the Ratway!

The Riften Guard”

• Raikou: There are many spectres that laypeople will see and claim to be ghosts.
• Wulf: A real haunting usually has a tragic story behind it. The deceased has unfinished business and cannot move on to their afterlife.
• Raikou: Some spectres are violent and have nothing to do with being a tragic deceased. Therefore, you must always be wary when encountering them.
• Inigo: As long as there are no Zoombies in the Ratway, I will be brave!
• Raikou: I have explained to you, Inigo, that Draugr are not zombies.
• Wulf: Inigo had a terrifying encounter with several Draugr, so his phobia is understandable.
• Rigmor: I have not heard that tale, Inigo.
• Inigo: We shall sit and talk over a good meal. Then I can regale you with unbelievable but true tales of Inigo the Brave.
• Lydia: Or Inigo the Not So Brave.
• Inigo: Have you ever seen something so horrific it makes you scream in terror, Lydia? Oh, wait, we do have mirrors in Aetheron.
• Ko’rassa: You missed the mark with that one, my love. Lydia is quite beautiful, for a hairless one with small ears and no tail.
• Lydia: You are not so bad yourself, for a hairy one with large ears and tail.
• Ko’rassa: Rigmor, when Inigo tells his tales, remember that they only happened after he abandoned me to go adventuring.
• Inigo: Are you ever going to stop reminding me of that terrible mistake?
• Ko’rassa: Ahh… no… I do not think so.
• Kogo: Ko’rassa will remind you every time you have a spat, Inigo. And deservedly so!
• Rigmor: Haha. It seems that mistake will haunt you, like the ghost of the Ratway.
• Wulf: Rigmor does not have such a thing to hurl at me.
• Rigmor: Not yet.
• Wulf: Let us try to be a little quiet in the Ratway. It is a maze and an easy place to stage an ambush.

We entered The Ratway and, not far in, overheard a conversation between two idiots.

• Hewnon: I dunno, Drahff. They’d skin us alive if they knew we were doing this.
• Drahff: Why are you always acting like such a big baby, Hewnon? I’ve gotten us this far.
• Hewnon: This far? You said we’d have a house as big as the Black Briars’ by now. We’re livin’ in a sewer!
• Drahff: You worry about bashing people’s heads in, and I’ll worry about the Guild. Okay?
• Hewnon: Okay, okay.
• Drahff: I will check the entrance to the Ratway and be right back.

I stepped into the tunnel, and Hewnon nodded toward me to indicate company.

Drahff turned and said, “Hey, you. Stop right there! Empty your pockets or end up as Skeever food.”

“There are two of you and six of us. Stand aside, or I shall turn you into a torch.”

Drahff reached for his bow. Hewnon reached for his axe. Dragonfire killed them both.

We walked past the smouldering corpses and around a corner.

• Wulf: The drawbridge is up, so we shall have to go the long way.
• Rigmor: Couldn’t you Blink or fly over and lower the drawbridge?
• Wulf: Yes, or we could use the hidden entrance in The Bee and Barb. But I think a walk through the Ratway will be entertaining.
• Rigmor: You hope to see the ghost, if it exists.
• Wulf: No, because if it is a soul in need, I could not ignore it.
• Raikou: It would be an unwanted distraction at this moment.
• Wulf: You wanted to see more of Skyrim, so here is your chance!
• Rigmor: Idiot!
• Lydia: Wulf and Inigo have that in common!
• Inigo: My Friend, we are outnumbered. I suggest a tactical withdrawal.
• Wulf: They are merciless, Inigo. They will pursue us and ignore any pleas for mercy.

We leapt down, and a curious Skeever came to say hello.

I deactivated a wire trap on a door.

We entered a large room where a balding man stood. He immediately took a pugilist stance and started throwing punches.

I advised, “He is wearing gloves with a dweomer. It would probably be best not to get hit.”

Inigo stepped up to the pugilist and blocked blows with his swords while saying, “Calm down before you get hurt! We are just passing through.”

I said, “He is insane, Inigo. If we do not stop him, he will attack somebody who cannot defend themselves.”

Inigo reluctantly stopped blocking and cut the madman down.

The gloves the madman was wearing had a powerful dweomer that greatly increased the damage from a punch. As per usual, I sent them to Cethnelor and will allow Auryen to inspect them when I get a chance.

In the next room, we encountered the spirit of a woman standing and staring at a body.

The spirit turned and stepped through a grating within the wall when we approached. A closer inspection of the grating revealed that it could pivot on a hinge, allowing access to the tunnel behind it. I sensed a portal not far down the tunnel.

I moved the corpse that the spirit had been standing over to get a better view.

The corpse was that of an elderly Imperial. He appeared to be a mage by his attire, maybe a necromancer.

I searched the body, found a journal, and read the relevant section for the group.

“7th of Morning Star, 4E 171

My son, I do not have long for this world, but before the winter night embraces me, I would confess a great regret that has burdened my heart for many years.

Long ago, my brethren and I were commissioned to hunt down and ensnare a dark and powerful renegade captain. He was a man who, once a proud soldier, had become corrupted by a powerful artefact and turned to great darkness of deed. We fulfilled our commission, but not without significant cost, for I alone managed to survive the encounter.

But, in the many years that have followed this venture, I have often wondered if our deed in ensnaring him was equally evil. We have bound him to an eternity of misery with our combined enchantments, for we bound him to the guardianship of the thing that drove him insane, the artefact. It is a powerful weapon that now, despite his yearning for it, he cannot yield while he lives.

It is a cruel fate for a once-great man, for he was just that until grief and anger laid him bare to such utter corruption and malice. That story is indeed a sad tale.

But now, these many years on, my heart sees the truth, and I would undo that which was done and free him from his misery. But alas, it is too late for me to take on such a quest. Therefore, I pray that you, my son, will do this task in my stead.

I beg you to seek him out as a father’s last wish and set him free.

Your father, Sellonus.”

We discussed the corpse and ghost.

• Wulf: What do you think of Sellonus’ corpse, Raikou?
• Raikou: It has been preserved but is not mummified.
• Wulf: Yes, it should be nothing but bones after thirty years.
• Raikou: We probably won’t know how Sellonus was preserved or why unless we rescue the entrapped soldier.
• Rigmor: I think the reports of spirits are recent.
• Lydia: Yes, and why has nobody found and searched this body in thirty years?
• Wulf: Because, Lydia, I don’t think the body was here until now.
• Lydia: Gobbledegook?
• Wulf: Yes, it is, and my intuition.
• Raikou: Wulf’s intuition is rarely wrong.
• Rigmor: Okay, Dragonbum, tell us what your intuition suggests.
• Wulf: The spirit was waiting for somebody with the right skills or powers to release the soldier. It was hard to see, but she was wearing a dark headscarf. I would say it was dark enough to be black.
• Rigmor: That is a traditional sign of mourning in some parts of Cyrodiil.
• Kogo: She may have a connection to the soldier who is entrapped. Perhaps she is his widow, lover or even mother.
• Wulf: Yes, and like many spirits, she may not move on to her afterlife until a task is complete.
• Raikou: The spirit thinks we can help and, therefore, allowed us to find the body. Then she showed us where we needed to go to help the soldier. That is why the body is fresh.
• Wulf: See, gobbledegook can be logical sometimes. Sellonus’ body has been held in stasis somewhere, another plane such as Aetherius or Oblivion. It appeared in Mundus, the mortal plane, after the spirit decided we could free the soldier.
• Rigmor: But you are not going to spend the time to pursue this.
• Wulf: No, not now. I will ask Auryen to research Sellonus and see if he can find out what guild he belonged to and the artefact behind this tragedy. That way, I can tackle the problem with a greater chance of success.

I spoke aloud, “Lady, I am Wulf, Dragonborn and Champion of The Divines. I will return soon and release the soldier from his prison. This oath I swear on The Divines.”

A whisper came from beyond the grate, “You are Blades and will not leave my husband behind. I have chosen well. We wait and hope.”

I said to the group, “She is right, and we will not leave her husband behind.”

Rigmor replied, “That is because you are a big softy!”

“We are close to The Ragged Flagon. We have to cross it to reach the next part of the Ratway.”

Rigmor asked, “Is it a tavern?”

“Yes, run by The Thieves Guild. It is supposed to be quite fun, but keep an eye on your coin purse.”

A woman with a katana and a Thalmor shield was reading a book. We did not say a word to her or pose any threat. That did not stop her from attacking us.

I leapt back, saying, “Whoa! Don’t die for nothing!”

She was determined to hurt somebody. Ko’rassa killed her just before Rigmor could.

I pulled a lever to lower the drawbridge, so the next person visiting The Ragged Flagon does not need to take the long route.

We entered the tavern.

• Inigo: My Friend, this looks like an excellent place to enjoy a few drinks!
• Wulf: It seems a bit subdued. Olette told me The Thieves Guild was having a run of bad luck.
• Rigmor: What has luck got to do with being a thief?
• Wulf: Say you are trying to pick a lock and have only one lockpick left. If it breaks, you may think it was bad luck rather than poor skill.
• Ko’rassa: You are trying to be sneaky, but step on a creaky floorboard. That might be regarded as bad luck.
• Inigo: Say you are a thief close to starving to death but can only find some of Lydia’s Apple Cabbage Stew. That would be seriously bad luck!
• Lydia: Hey, lots of people in Aetheron like my Apple Cabbage Stew!
• Inigo: So what? Some males like to wear rubber outfits and get flogged by women in high heels.
• Kogo: I like both.
• Wulf: There you go. If Kogo likes those things, it must be normal.
• Kogo: Thank you, Wulf.
• Raikou: Kogo is not good with sarcasm, is he?
• Inigo: Where can I get a durable rubber outfit?
• Ko’rassa: No, Inigo. Just no.

All eyes followed us as we crossed the tavern. Brynjolf looked relieved when we didn’t stop to have a drink.

Before opening the door to the rest of The Ratway, I said, “Don’t be surprised if we meet Thalmor. Be careful, as sometimes it is hard to distinguish them from Skeevers.”

I opened the door, and three Thalmor ignored the sound of its squeaky hinges. They stood facing the opposite direction, and I wondered if it was some mental disorder prevalent in our Dominion friends. If you guard a door, it is easier to do so when facing it. It would also be difficult to locate a hidden Blade if you are standing around admiring cobwebs.

They were hunting Esbern, and that earned them death.

I killed a Thalmor Wizard with Dragonfire. Two Thalmor Soldiers were riddled with arrows from my friends.

Later, I disabled a trip wire, and when we entered the room, Lydia growled, “It seems they killed a homeless person. After Alduin, Ulfric and Miraak, can we eliminate the Thalmor?”

“Sure, why not. Just because the entire Empire failed to do so in five years doesn’t mean it won’t be easy peasy!”

“We can at least kill a few.”

“A few hundred? A few thousand?”

“As many as we can, Wulf.”

“I would like nothing better, Lydia.”

“Good!”

A bit further on, a Thalmor Soldier charged at me, yelling, “Death to all Blades and their friends!”

That was rude, so I roasted her.

We continued, and I was surprised by how few people we encountered. However, each one we met seemed intent on killing me.

One lovely fellow wore a chef’s hat and carried a bloodied axe. When he saw me, he said, “Aha, come here, tasty morsel!”

I was enjoying myself, dodging his axe and reciting my favourite roast beef recipe.

Eventually, Lydia walked over to the cannibal. She almost sliced him in half with a backhand swing. His arm lay next to the rest of his corpse.

I remarked, “Your katana skills are improving!”

“I like the speed and it made a nice whooshing sound!”

At the end of a corridor was an iron-bound door with many keyholes.

Ko’rassa remarked, “I think we have found Esbern. I have seen treasure vault doors less secure than that one!”

I banged on the door, and an elderly Imperial voice said, “Go away!”

“Esbern, I am Lord Wulf Welkynd, Champion of The Divines and Dragonborn. Surely, even down here, you have heard of me. Delphine and I need your help regarding Alduin.”

A cuff port opened, and I crouched down so Esbern could see my face.

Esbern said, “You must have found Delphine and tortured her. That is how you found me, and here I am, caught like a rat in a trap.”

“Delphine gave me a passphrase about one hundred heads, but I can’t be bothered.”

I used my Thu’um and said, “LOREMASTER ESBERN, I AM DRAGONBORN AND GRANDMASTER OF THE DRAGONGUARD. I ORDER YOU TO OPEN THIS DOOR BEFORE I BLOW IT OFF ITS HINGES!”

“No, no, that will not be necessary. You’d better come inside. Quickly now, Thalmor agents have been seen in the Ratway.”

“They are dead, Esbern. But more may come, and I am sick of killing today.”

“Oh, well, wait a minute. The unlocking won’t take long.”

It took Esbern a minute to unlock his door. There were chains, deadbolts, and quite sophisticated locks to be dealt with.

At last, Esbern opened the door, and we stepped inside.

• Esbern: It is good to hear that Delphine keeps up the fight. I tried to tell her years ago. I thought she’d have realised it was hopeless by now.
• Inigo: You are a very depressing old man. As my friend said, Thalmor are hanging around, and he would like to hurry.
• Esbern: Yes, yes, Thalmor are here, but so what? The end is upon us. I may as well die here as anywhere else. I’m tired of running.
• Inigo: I am curious as to why the end is upon us. I hope this is an exciting one! There are so many boring ways it could all end.
• Esbern: Haven’t you figured it out yet? What more must happen before you all wake up and see what’s happening? Alduin has returned, just like the prophecy said! The dragon from the dawn of time, who devours the souls of the dead! No one can escape his hunger, here or in the afterlife! Alduin will devour all things, and the world will end. Nothing can stop him. I tried to tell them. They wouldn’t listen. Fools! It has all come true! All I could do was watch our doom approach.
• Wulf: Don’t you think that The Divines would figure it out? Are you smarter than they are?
• Esbern: Well, no. But the Liminal Barrier prevents them from aiding us.
• Wulf: Esbern, what is the last line of The Dragonborn Prophecy?
• Esbern: The World-Eater wakes, and the Wheel turns upon the Last Dragonborn.
• Wulf: Didn’t I say that I am The Dragonborn? Didn’t you hear the power of my Thu’um? That is why you let us in.
• Esbern: What? You’re… can it be true? Dragonborn? Then… then there is hope! The gods have not abandoned us! We must… we must… We must go quickly now. Please take me to Delphine. We have much to discuss.
• Wulf: Get what you need, Esbern. I doubt you will ever return to this place.
• Esbern: Yes, give me… just a moment… I must gather a few things…

Esbern whizzed around, looking in desks, on desks, in crates and other places, as he muttered to himself. We had to hurry out of his way or risk being run over in his haste.

The elderly gentleman’s running commentary made us smile.

“I’ll need this… No, useless trash… where did I put my Annotated Anuad?”

“One moment, I know time is of the essence, but I mustn’t leave secrets for the Thalmor… there’s one more thing I must bring…”

“Well, I guess that’s good enough… let’s be off…”

• Wulf: Have you ever teleported or used a portal, Esbern?
• Esbern: Such magic has been lost for centuries. I am not that old, young man!
• Raikou: I am!
• Esbern: You have three eyes! What are you?
• Raikou: I am Va-Kalein’Sei Raikou of the Va-Kurosei’Dovah. I am of the Kamal race.
• Wulf: In other words, Raikou is the chief shaman of the Dragonguard.
• Raikou: You really are Dragonguard?
• Rigmor: We all are, Esbern.
• Wulf: Delphine lives in Riverwood. She is the innkeeper there. Place your hand on my shoulder, and we shall be there in seconds.
• Raikou: I will soon follow with the others.
• Esbern: The physical contact allows you to teleport an unfamiliar entity. I remember reading the theory decades ago.
• Inigo: I suppose such books might seem interesting when you stare at the same four walls for decades.
• Lydia: Inigo, I noticed you are stuck on the B page of ABCs for Barbarians. Perhaps you should try something easier?
• Inigo: Keep trying, Lydia. You might eventually luck on something amusing.
• Wulf: Ahem!
• Inigo: Ready when you are, my friend.

Esbern placed his hand on my shoulder.

Less than a second later, we materialised at the outskirts of Riverwood.

Raikou and the others were a second behind.

I didn’t want to discuss the wonders of teleportation, so I said, “Follow me, Esbern. It is not far to Delphine’s.”

We entered the inn, and Esbern rushed over to Delphine.

• Esbern: Delphine! I… It’s good to see you. It’s been… a long time.
• Delphine: It’s good to see you, too, Esbern. It’s been too long, old friend. Too long. Well, then. You made it safe and sound. Good. Come on. I have a place we can talk.
• Wulf: It is a super-secret place, Esbern! In a million years, the Thalmor would never look for a sliding door in an empty cupboard!
• Inigo: It is not quite as obvious as Esbern’s vault door in the Ratway, but close.
• Raikou: It has been hundreds of years since I read the basic lessons on staying safe while undercover. I am sure a golden rule is always to have more than one exit from your hidey-hole.
• Esbern: I will whack you all with my walking stick. You might have to wait till I get one, but whack you, I will.

We entered Delphine’s not-so-secret room and spread out.

• Delphine: Esbern, I assume you know about…
• Esbern: Oh, yes! Dragonborn! Indeed, yes.
• Wulf: Delphine, Esbern took my word for it. None of this mindless disbelief!
• Esbern: What’s that?
• Wulf: Even though I could use The Voice, speak Dovahzul, had been called to High Hrothgar by the Greybeards, and killed a Dovah who also called me Dovahkiin in front of witnesses, Delphine refused to believe I was Dragonborn.
• Delphine: It was a bit paranoid.
• Wulf: Just a little. But when I read you had survived three assassination attempts, I understood you more. It does not matter. We are together now and can plan Alduin’s demise.
• Delphine: Where did you read that?
• Wulf: Your dossier from the embassy.
• Delphine: You never mentioned you had that.
• Wulf: You never asked.
• Esbern: Well, having a Dragonborn changes everything, of course. There’s no time to lose. We must locate… let me show you. I know I had it somewhere…Give me a moment…
• Wulf: It’s in the left pocket of your robe. It is a rather large book, so hopefully, you can find it.
• Esbern: Ahh, yes, I knew I had it with me.

Esbern placed a good condition volume of Annals of the Dragonguard 2800 – 2879 on the table. It was not as pristine as the one I had in the museum, but it was still worth a fortune to a collector.

Delphine looked at me, and I silently mouthed, “Play ignorant!” She nodded.

• Esbern: We need to visit Sky Haven Temple. It was constructed around one of the main Akaviri military camps in The Reach during their conquest of Skyrim.
• Delphine: Wulf, do you know what he is talking about?
• Wulf: Maybe.
• Esbern: Shush!
• Wulf: Yeah, shush!
• Lydia: I think he meant both of you.
• Ko’rassa: I think he meant everybody.
• Esbern: Can I continue?
• Wulf: Is that rhetorical?
• Esbern: Sky Haven Temple is where they built Alduin’s Wall to set down all their accumulated dragonlore in stone. A hedge against the forgetfulness of centuries. A wise and foresighted policy. Despite the far-reaching fame of Alduin’s Wall at the time, as it was one of the wonders of the ancient world, its location was lost.
• Delphine: Esbern, what are you getting at?
• Wulf: We must visit Sky Haven Temple and look at Alduin’s Wall. Is that correct, Esbern?
• Esbern: Yes.
• Delphine: Esbern, what are you getting at?
• Esbern: You mean… You don’t mean to say you haven’t heard of Alduin’s Wall? Any of you?
• Delphine: Let’s pretend we haven’t. What is Alduin’s Wall, and what does it have to do with stopping the dragons?
• Esbern: Alduin’s Wall was where the ancient Blades recorded all they knew of Alduin and his return. Part history, part prophecy. Its location has been lost for centuries, but I have found it again. Not lost, you see, just forgotten. The Blades archives held so many secrets… I was only able to save a few scraps…
• Delphine: So, you think Alduin’s wall will tell us how to defeat Alduin?
• Esbern: Well, yes, but…there’s no guarantee, of course.
• Wulf: Okay, enough of letting poor Esbern put his foot in his mouth.
• Esbern: Excuse me?
• Wulf: First, in The Ratway, you said, ‘Alduin will devour all things, and the world will end.’ No, he won’t. Alduin is not the one to end a Kalpa unless instructed, and he certainly doesn’t want to end this one. That was never his intention when he waged the Dragon War, which the current crisis continues.
• Raikou: Alduin surrendered to his base Dov instincts and desired to be the overlord of all Dov and mortals. He wants to enslave mortals, not destroy Mundus.
• Wulf: When Alduin revived Sahloknir, the lesser dragon asked, ‘Alduin, my lord. Has the time come to revive our ancient realm?’ To which Alduin replied, ‘Yes, Sahloknir, my champion.’
• Raikou: Alduin does not have the power to end a Kalpa unless lent to him by Lord Akatosh. If Nirn and the mortal plane were destroyed by accident or the deliberate actions of a god, then Alduin would gather the raw materials for use in the next Kalpa. That is what his role as World Eater entails.
• Wulf: Since this is not the first Kalpa, it is apparent that Alduin has performed his duty in the past. Our task is to defeat Alduin, for he cannot be killed, so his soul is returned to Lord Akatosh. Hopefully, after some scolding and redirection, Alduin could be relied upon to perform his duty in the future.
• Esbern: I see. What other errors am I guilty of?
• Rigmor: Sky Haven Temple can be seen for miles around.
• Inigo: It sticks out like a Senche’s scrotum!
• Wulf: Esbern, you are not being chastised. We are trying to correct your errors so you can better understand what we face and why we must do certain things.
• Raikou: Many cities, including Solitude, have been attacked by dragons. Days ago, Helgen was destroyed by Alduin. Haste is of the essence.
• Esbern: Okay, I understand. It is, however, a bit of a shock when you find all your research has led to false conclusions.
• Wulf: You have done remarkably well with limited resources. But let’s not digress. I have visited Sky Haven Temple and searched for the information I need. But we shall visit it with you, Esbern, and see if you have insight or knowledge I lack.
• Esbern: You have seen it? Is it in good condition?
• Wulf: Sky Haven Temple is in remarkable condition because undead Akaviri Dragonguard guard it, and the entrance to the main temple requires the blood of a Dragonborn.
• Esbern: So, there is a Blood Seal?
• Wulf: Yes, attuned to those who can trace their ancestry to Saint Alessia. If I were Reman Cyrodiil, I would have attuned it to a Dragon Soul instead.
• Esbern: But a Dragonborn doesn’t have to be related to Saint Alessia?
• Wulf: Luckily, I am.
• Esbern: But that means…
• Wulf: It means I have a noble right that The Divines and I don’t want to be publicly known. I will have many tasks after Alduin, and being Emperor is not one of them. You are bound by sacred oaths to keep this secret because it threatens me. If I am regarded as a legitimate heir to The Ruby Throne, I will be targeted for assassination by countless nobles playing their political games. Therefore, I cannot emphasise the importance of keeping my bloodline secret.
• Delphine: I will keep that oath, Dragonborn.
• Esbern: As will I.
• Raikou: The Blades did not exist when Alduin’s Wall was constructed. Dragonguard lived in Sky Haven Temple. They are not and were not ancient Blades.
• Wulf: Alduin’s wall does not show all the Akaviri accumulated dragonlore. That was not its purpose, and it would be impossible to achieve. I will let you recite your interpretation of the wall once you see it. You may say something or notice something that aids us.
• Raikou: A different set of eyes often notices things missed by your own.
• Inigo: Even when you have three!
• Esbern: Yes, I understand the concept.
• Wulf: I cannot teleport us into the temple or most of the surrounding infrastructure. The Akaviri placed wards to prevent that possibility. Those wards did not become inactive when I opened the temple via the Blood Seal. I may remove them eventually. Therefore, I will teleport Esbern and me to the caves’ entrance leading to Sky High Temple. I will then summon Raikou, who will, in turn, summon the others. I will summon you, Delphine.
• Delphine: Summon?
• Inigo: You will feel a tugging feeling in your brain. If you don’t resist it, you will know who is summoning you and to where. Accepting the summoning is the same as if Wulf teleported you, except you are alone in that infinite darkness and ultimate cold. You can refuse if you want, which is handy if you are on the privy or in a compromising position with a friend.
• Delphine: You make it sound so pleasant.
• Inigo: Do not worry. You must be in that dark place for many minutes before a god-like being claims your soul.
• Lydia: Inigo became an expert on summoning after a mage pulled his brains out of his nose. It is incredible how it popped out of one nostril without even touching the sides.
• Inigo: Keep trying, Lydia. That one was only 95% unfunny.

I walked over to Esbern, who knew the drill and placed his hand on my shoulder.

We had barely finished the summoning when Nolokhovrilaak (Night Ice Lord), an Ancient Ice Dragon, attacked.

Alduin had recently revived him, and his Dragon Mound was nearby.

He hovered and said, “Zu’u fen Dovahkiin? Zu’u fen kos daar tol do yol.” (So, you are Dragonborn? I am keen to test your Thu’um.)

I replied, “Mul na viik fin fodiiz, Nolokhovrilaak. Nu los dii tol, ahrk Alduin nuz bok.” (You should have flown free, Nolokhovrilaak. Now you will be lost to time, and Alduin cares not.)

I told the group, “Get down from here. If Nolokhovrilaak uses Unrelenting Force, it is a long way to fall!”

Spells, arrows and Dragonfire hit Nolokhovrilaak, and he soon regretted his foolish challenge and flew away to rethink his strategy.

We all made it to ground level before Nolokhovrilaak renewed his attack.

Dragonfire enveloped him, and he flew to his Dragon Mound, critically injured.

I Blinked across to the other side of a river and ran towards Nolokhovrilaak.

He stood beside the mound where Alduin had revived him. That would have happened since we visited Sky Haven Temple yesterday. I ended his existence with Dragonfire less than a day later.

As I absorbed Nolokhovrilaak’s soul, the others caught up with me.

Esbern said, “That is amazing. You truly are Dragonborn and have absorbed that beast’s power.”

I snarled, “Dragons are not beasts, Esbern! Am I half a beast? They are knowledgeable and sociable beings. I just wiped Nolokhovrilaak from existence. He cannot live in a future Kalpa. The process may look amazing, but it is an abomination! And I do not absorb their power! I steal their soul and use it to learn Words and Shouts.”

Esbern looked stunned by the tone of my reply. I didn’t care.

I rushed to the entrance, and Esbern lagged far behind. I impatiently tapped my feet as I waited for him to catch up.

Rigmor gave me a Sigunn Stare. I had no excuse for my actions. I must control my emotions, as they can harm others without advancing a solution.

When Esbern finally reached us, wheezing, I apologised, “I regret my mood, Esbern. I do not enjoy killing dragons. They die for no other cause than Alduin’s ambitions. The penalty for their idiocy is far too harsh.”

“I understand, Dragonborn. It seems I have much to learn about dragons.”

“Esbern and Delphine, remain close to me, and the undead Dragonguard will not attack you. We are not stopping to admire the craftsmanship or discuss what we see.”

“Yes, you mentioned undead Dragonguard earlier.”

“It is a story of honour and sacrifice, Esbern. One that I will share with the world via my journals and my museum.”

“Museum? Journals?”

“We do not have time to fill you in on what occurred in the world while you kept Riften’s Skeevers company. You will have plenty of time to catch up later.”

We hurried past the undead Dragonguard and entered the Blood Seal room.

Esbern wandered around and said, “Wonderful! Remarkably well preserved, too. Ah… there’s the ‘Blood Seal.’ Another of the lost Akaviri arts. Look here! You see how the ancient Blades revered Reman Cyrodiil. This whole place seems to be a shrine to Reman. He ended the Akaviri invasion under mysterious circumstances, you recall. After the so-called ‘battle’ of Pale Pass, the Akaviri went into his service. That was the foundation stone of the Second Empire.”

Ko’rassa replied, “We may have forgotten to mention, Esbern, but we lived on Akavir and were trained by The Dragonguard. We heard their history from their shamans, and nothing was mysterious about the Akaviri invasion’s end. But even our history books tell the truth. The Akaviri invaded Tamriel in search of a Dragonborn. They knew they had found one when they heard Reman Cyrodiil’s Thu’um. Their purpose was fulfilled, and they swore allegiance to him.”

“You lived on Akavir?”

I explained, “Many Blades, some with families, fled Tamriel after being outlawed. A Tsaesci shaman of The Dragonguard was informed of their imminent arrival by an avatar of Lord Talos. The Dragonguard intercepted the refugee’s vessel and offered sanctuary to its passengers. If that ship had landed on any of the many islands, the refugees would most likely have been enslaved.”

“There are other Blade survivors from The Great War?”

“Most of them have since died from age, or were killed in a recent attack on our headquarters in Akavir. I have many sons and daughters of Blades living with me or within my many estates. They are Dragonguard, Esbern.”

“Are you Akaviri?”

“No, Esbern. I was born in Roscrea, under the rule of the Jarl of Haafingar. I wasn’t an Empire Citizen until I purchased a castle near Whiterun. My race has been altered, and now I am Ningheim.”

“You received other blessings on top of Lord Akatosh’s.”

“Yes, that was done to aid me in my tasks as Champion of The Divines. Once again, Lord Talos used an avatar to inform The Dragonguard of my existence. When I was eighteen, they escorted me from Roscrea to Akavir. I spent years being trained there in preparation for Alduin’s return. Due to my ability to exist in a pocket plane of Aetherius, I have spent many years training, but I have only aged four.”

“There is a lot more to your story, Dragonborn.”

“There is, and maybe I can tell you soon. But right now, we must concentrate on removing Alduin’s menace.”

“Of course.”

• Wulf: Kalein’Sei Akamizu, we must speak in Cyrodiilic once more.
• Akamizu: As you wish, Grandmaster.
• Wulf: The people not in Dragonguard uniform, apart from Dragonguard Rigmor, are Esbern, Loremaster of the Blades, and Delphine, a senior agent of the Blades.
• Akamizu: I am not aware of the Blades.
• Wulf: The Dragonguard morphed into the Blades over the centuries. The histories we provide you will outline that transition.
• Akamizu: Are they to be given access to the temple?
• Wulf: Yes.
• Akamizu: Is this your judgment, Va-Kalein’Sei Raikou?
• Raikou: It is.
• Akamizu: The guards will know of this decision.
• Wulf: Did my explanation of Alduin’s Wall answer some questions?
• Akamizu: I understand what the things we sculpted represent, but I still lack the context for each part of the prophecy.
• Raikou: I shall endeavour to get the histories to you soon, Kalein’Sei Akamizu.

We made our way into the temple.

Esbern kept getting distracted by the temple’s features. He would wander over and examine something, forgetting why we were there.

After ten minutes, I said, “Esbern, please examine Alduin’s wall. Tell us what you see.”

He replied, “Of course. Not everyone appreciates the artistic wonders of the world. Let me see if I can find the right panel…”

Inigo told Esbern, “My Friend, Wulf, owns a huge museum in Solitude and shows much appreciation for the world’s artistic wonders. However, the people currently being killed by attacking dragons do not appreciate the world’s artistic wonders. What they would appreciate is Wulf stopping the dragon attacks.”

Esbern worked his way across Alduin’s wall, giving us his interpretation of what he saw.

He eventually got to the part that counted.

• Esbern: This central panel shows how Alduin was defeated. You see, here he is, falling from the sky. The Nord Tongues, masters of The Voice, are arrayed against him.
• Delphine: So, does it show how they defeated him? Isn’t that why we are here?
• Esbern: Patience, my dear. The Akaviri were not straightforward people. Everything is couched in allegory and mythic symbolism.
• Wulf: It is evident to me what they did.
• Esbern: Yes, yes. You see what is coming out of the mouths of the Nord heroes. That is the Akaviri symbol for ‘Shout.’ But…there’s no way to know what Shout was used.
• Wulf: That is all you can tell from that panel?
• Esbern: Hmm? Oh, yes. The Shout is presumably something somewhat specific to dragons or Alduin himself. Remember, this is where they recorded all they knew of Alduin and his return.
• Wulf: Okay, for a start, that is not the Akaviri symbol for a shout. It is just a representation of Thu’um power leaving the mouths of two of the Ancient Tongues. The only Akaviri symbol on the entire wall is above The Dragonborn on the third panel.
• Esbern: Oh.
• Kogo: I am Akaviri, and hate allegory and mythic symbolism.
• Esbern: Ah…
• Wulf: The middle Tongue is Felldir the Old. Take a close look. What is he doing, Esbern?
• Esbern: He is using The Voice…no, wait, he isn’t. He seems to be talking.
• Wulf: The Ancient Tongues used a Shout called Dragonrend to make Alduin land. He could not be defeated while airborne. But even on the ground, he was too powerful for them. So Felldir used an Elder Scroll to cast Alduin into the time-stream. Now Alduin is back, and I need the Dragonrend Shout to defeat him. Have you ever heard of it?
• Esbern: No, but I could only rescue a small part of our library when The Dominion sacked Cloud Ruler Temple. Perhaps amongst the lost dragonlore, there was mention of it.
• Wulf: It was a long shot. However, I am pleased to have rescued you, Esbern, but there is no way either of you can return to Riverwood. I propose this to be your home, and we shall find other hidden Blades and recruit new ones.
• Raikou: You would not be Grandmaster, Delphine. You could be the senior Blade, but would answer to Lord Welkynd as both Grandmaster and Dragonborn.
• Wulf: When we defeat Alduin, there will still be the odd dragon who cannot peacefully coexist with mortals. We will need Blades to bring them to justice. The Blades will not hunt a dragon unless he has broken Imperial Law and used violence against the innocent. You will be barred from this temple if you disagree with those conditions. If you agree with those conditions, this will be your home, and you can help train recruits and plan missions against rogue Dov.
• Delphine: If I prepare the paperwork to gift The Sleeping Giant to Orgnar, will it be delivered to him?
• Wulf: Yes, of course. One of our mages can take it to him.
• Delphine: Then I am content to live here and rebuild the Blades.
• Esbern: I would need a supply of tomes to keep me occupied, Dragonborn.
• Wulf: That is easily arranged.
• Esbern: Then I would be honoured to join forces with Delphine again.
• Delphine: What will you do next, Wulf?
• Wulf: I wasn’t planning on visiting Paarthurnax until I had the Elder Scroll. However, I want to understand more about the Time Wound. So, I shall visit him.
• Esbern: Paarthurnax is alive?
• Wulf: Yes, and he is my ally.
• Esbern: What is this Time Wound?
• Wulf: The Ancient Tongues consulted with Paarthurnax about using an Elder Scroll to cast Alduin into the timestream. He warned them that the consequences were unknown and unpredictable. When Felldir used the Elder Scroll, part of linear time got displaced. It has resulted in a phenomenon at the summit of The Throat of The World called a Time Wound. I don’t know how I will learn Dragonrend or how an Elder Scroll may be used, but I assume I will travel back in time and witness the battle.
• Raikou: Esbern, you are one of only a handful who realised The Dragonborn Prophecy was fulfilled. Your knowledge did not fail you, but was incomplete.

Esbern stared ahead as if in a trance. He whispered, “I had a recurring dream where I found myself standing in a place of great height. It was atop a tower or perhaps a mountain peak. The world was plunged into darkness, the only light on the horizon a flash of brilliance within the clouds that marked the border between worlds. It might have been lightning, but there was no thunder, no rain. A growing sense of dread clawed at my heart as I watched, powerless to move or even to wake up.

The light came again, closer this time, more distinct. It was the colour of dawn and hearth, brilliant orange that seemed to sear the darkness. A sound, too faint at first but growing stronger, echoed in the air. I strained to place it, to understand its meaning, but it eluded me, slipping away like smoke on the wind.

Still, I knew that something terrible was coming and that I needed to find shelter. But in the way of dreams, I was trapped, forced to watch, and wait as the orange glow grew brighter and hotter until it became a wall of flame that filled the sky. The sound was no longer faint or indistinct but a deafening roar, the challenge of an ancient language that I somehow knew I should recognise.

And then, the terrible truth struck me with the force of a hammer blow. The orange light was not a natural phenomenon but a dragon’s fire, not just any dragon, but Alduin, the World Eater, who feasted on the living and the dead alike. At that moment, I knew there was no escape or hope. The dragon was upon me, descending from the sky like a thunderbolt.

Mercifully, I woke up. But even as I tried to shake off the dream, I knew it was more than a nightmare. It was a vision, a warning, a prophecy of a future that was hurtling towards me faster than I could ever imagine.”

• Wulf: Do you suffer from foresight?
• Esbern: No. I never had a vision before that one, and I have never had another.
• Wulf: You tried to warn others.
• Esbern: They wouldn’t believe me, and besides, we were struggling against a real, tangible opponent, The Dominion.
• Rigmor: And in the years since, you gave up hope.
• Esbern: I became afraid and decided my doom was inevitable. I had built my prison and could tell nobody of the importance of my conclusions or have any way of convincing them I was anything but an old dithering fool.
• Wulf: Now you have purpose again, Esbern. We shall assign mages on rotation to stay here until we have a mage or two who join The Blades. That way, you and Delphine can travel with little chance of the Thalmor catching you.
• Esbern: I could visit your museum!
• Wulf: Yes, you could, when we open it. That depends on how quickly I can build up the collection. We are close to what we want for the opening.
• Delphine: We are not in the position to find recruits, Wulf.
• Wulf: But we are. Don’t worry. Vayu and Raikou will vet possible candidates. Their shaman skills ensure that no enemy spy will become a Blade.
• Delphine: Are there any supplies in here?
• Raikou: I shall visit tomorrow aboard our airship, as long as a dragon doesn’t attack it, with supplies and books. In the meantime, there are many dusty tomes lying around, and Kalein’Sei Akamizu would appreciate you talking to her.
• Wulf: Write your transfer of ownership of The Sleeping Giant to Orgnar. Raikou will take it to him after delivering supplies here.
• Rigmor: The garden has lots of edibles if you are peckish before then.
• Wulf: Now, if you will excuse us, we have a mountain to climb.
• Rigmor: Not again! My thighs are big enough.
• Wulf: I was metaphorically speaking.
• Rigmor: Oh, of course. I knew that!

I could not teleport us onto the plateau of The Throat of the World, but close to it. We came out of the ether to a clear sky and little wind.

Rigmor said, “Look at the moons, Wulf! They are beautiful!”

I looked and replied, “Their beauty is overshadowed by yours, my beloved.”

Ko’rassa elbowed Inigo and said, “That is romantic. You need to learn the basics!”

The stars were talking, but I still do not know their language.

I told the group, “Do not crowd Paarthurnax. Think of him as dragon royalty and show respect.”

Paarthurnax was on the ground.

Per protocol, I walked over and allowed the senior Dov to speak first.

“Drem Yol Lok. Greetings, wunduniik. I am Paarthurnax.”

“And I am Valdr Septim, Dragonborn and Champion of The Divines.”

“Silah said you would not visit till you had the Kel, the Elder Scroll.”

“I changed my mind, as mortals often do. I desire to understand more about the Tiid-Ahraan and clarify what it is and if it can be used to defeat Alduin.”

“Then I suggest you walk to it, around it and even enter it. Then return, and we shall discuss possibilities.”

“I shall do so in a moment. Tell me of your pursuit of Odahviing.”

“It was sport, Dovahkiin. As we flew, Odahviing told Paarthurnax and me about how he was sabotaging Alduin’s plans. He knows of many powerful dragons and their locations, but only recruited the weakest.”

“Weak or not, they were Celestial Brothers, and did not deserve their fate.”

“Odahviing could not defy Alduin’s orders and live, but do not mistake him for an ally. Self-preservation was his motive.”

“The Greybeards seemed surprised I am not fond of your Way of The Voice.”

“Silah warned me, and I understand. However, it has helped me overcome my nature. For that reason alone, it has value.”

“I will enter the Tiid-Ahraan.”

“Good, that will settle a wager I had with Silah.”

With undeniable grace, the huge dragon flew to an inert Word Wall and perched upon it. Over time, he has worn down the rock where he alighted.

The Time Wound was visible as it bent the light passing through it. It was like peering through a distorted glass lens, but one whose distortion was random and changing.

Raikou had entered and left it without any issues.

I felt vertigo that intensified as I approached. It was wrong, and its name, Time Wound, was accurate. It was a scar upon linear time and assaulted my Dov sense of time.

I stood in the middle and was assailed by rapid images. I was in the same place but at a different time. Many dragons flew, and a battle raged. I fell to my knees and vomited.

My friends approached, and I put up my hand to halt them. I had to get control. Otherwise, any possible use of the Time Wound would be impossible.

I held my Amulet of Talos and reminded myself that Father had anchored me to the correct timeline with a dweomer he had placed on it. I continued to see brief flashes of the Dragon War from the summit of The Throat of The World.

I was at risk of my Consciousness travelling through time to a random moment, not to the moment when the Elder Scroll was used. I stood, turned and looked at Rigmor. She was my here and now and more of an anchor than my amulet and the power of a god.

I was no longer nauseous as I walked to Paarthurnax. I offered my hand, and Rigmor joined me.

• Paarthurnax: Dovahkiin, I have lost the wager with Silah. She said you would, ah, what is the word?
• Wulf: Vomit. Up-chuck. Multicoloured yawn. Puke. Spill my guts. Chuck chunks.
• Paarthurnax: It is a mystery how mortals accomplish anything with such numerous and different names for an object or action!
• Wulf: I saw glimpses of fighting at this summit during the Dragon War. But I could not anchor my consciousness in the past to the right moment.
• Paarthurnax: Silah says your sense of time and ability to ethereal travel are inherent to you and not added blessings of The Nine. You do not have the extensive knowledge of time that Jills have. However, Silah says you have an intuitive feel for it and an understanding that they lack. You were overwhelmed by your senses when you entered the Tiid-Ahraan, yet soon overcame your nausea, stood, and walked out of it on steady feet.
• Wulf: A dweomer that anchors me to this timeline helped, as did the presence of Rigmor. Her connection with me, more than the dweomer, allowed me to use logic to recognise and counter what caused nausea.
• Paarthurnax: I ask that you explain this connection, Dovahkiin.
• Wulf: Dovahzul has words for kin, oath, battle, rule, and the sky, but few for this. She is not my possession, nor my follower, nor a prize taken by strength. She is the soul that found mine. If Dovahzul needs a word, let it be sil-aav.
• Paarthurnax: An introduction is in order.
• Wulf: Paarthurnax, daar los Rigmor Ragnarsdottier. Rek los dii sil-aav. Rek los dii vaat do suleyk se hah. Zu’u ros rek. Zu’u staad voth rek.
• Rigmor: I hope they were kind words, Dragonbum.
• Wulf: Paarthurnax, this is Rigmor Ragnarsdottier. She is my soul-joined. She is my oath of the heart’s power. I love her. I stand with her.
• Paarthurnax: Drem Yol Lok, Rigmor. It seems the Dovahkiin relies on you in these troubled times, for you are more than allies. It is a connection not unknown to Dov, but our nature rarely lets us express it openly.
• Rigmor: I am honoured to meet you, Paarthurnax. I must admit, I have never considered the prospect of dragons knowing love.
• Paarthurnax: Silah loves the Dovahkiin, as does Nahfahlaar, as he once loved Tiber Septim. Dovah can love Dovah. Dovah can love Jill. Jill can love Jill. I understand the concept of sil-aav, soul-joined, but have not experienced it.
• Rigmor: What does Wulf have to do now?
• Paarthurnax: If he returns with a Kel, it will be the correct one. That is their way.
• Rigmor: Huh?
• Wulf: We are not going to search for the Elder Scroll used by Felldir, but trust the first one we find will be the correct one.
• Rigmor: Oh, you explained that weirdness once.
• Paarthurnax: I believe the Kel’s bond with Tiid-Ahraan will allow you a… a seeing, a vision of the moment of its creation. Then you will feel – know – Dragonrend, in the power of its first expression. You will see them… wuth fadonne… my friends, Hakon, Gormlaith and Felldir.
• Wulf: I learned Alduin’s revival Shout via observation, so I can’t see why Dragonrend will differ. I can travel via the ethereal plane to different places, and via a conduit to a different time. Being present in the past explains why Alduin recognised me. He sensed my soul way back then. And I am the cause of the Time Wound for part of the past travelled with me when I returned. However, it only showed itself when Alduin appeared.
• Rigmor: That makes sense, but it shouldn’t!
• Paarthurnax: Where the Tiid-Ahraan is, was not where Felldir used the Kel. It is where the Dovahkiin will use it to travel to that time.
• Wulf: Alduin was cautious about killing me, then changed his mind. He must trust my death will not cause a Dragon Break, but in a sense, my living has. For the Time Wound is a form of Dragon Break. The difference is that Jills will not have to weave parallel time streams into a single one. Using the Elder Scroll, I will place the small piece of this timestream back to where it belongs, even though its use also brought it here.
• Paarthurnax: Even though your use of the Kel created the Tiid-Ahraan in the first instance, the same act will repair it. Logically, you should perform two distinct acts, but that is not the case.
• Rigmor: Any more of this and I will start dribbling while rocking back and forth.
• Paarthurnax: The Dovahkiin will trust his instincts and intuition. Sometimes logic is not enough.
• Wulf: Rigmor, I caused the Time Wound. It only showed when Alduin appeared, as we were together in the same, if you will, now of this timeline back then. When he returned to Nirn, we were once more together in the same now. That also makes sense, and if I don’t stop thinking and just doing, I will end up that dribbling mess.
• Rigmor: So now we must find an Elder Scroll and return with it.
• Paarthurnax: Then we shall see if the Dovahkiin’s intuition is correct, or if he splits time asunder and makes the Jills rather upset.
• Wulf: Alduin will not be able to ignore the use of an Elder Scroll, especially if time is repaired.
• Paarthurnax: He will attack, so I suggest you prepare for a long fight. I doubt Alduin will fall as easily as those you have recently defeated.
• Rigmor: Paarthurnax, do you know how Dragonrend made Alduin land?
• Paarthurnax: I cannot tell you in detail. I never heard it used. Kogaan. It was the first Thu’um created solely by mortals. They said it forced a dragon to experience mortality. That is truly vonmindoraan… an incomprehensible idea to the immortal Dov.
• Wulf: That makes sense and hints at the Words of Power used. A dragon does not fly by muscle and wings alone. Flight is sustained by their innate magic and governed by a mind born outside mortal time. Every movement of the wings, every shift of balance, every current of air is understood without conscious thought. Flying is as natural to them as walking is to us.
• Rigmor: Dragonrend stops this natural process, but how?
• Wulf: Dragonrend forces an immortal mind to comprehend its own limitations. For those few moments, the dragon no longer experiences himself as an eternal child of Akatosh. He feels the weight of his body, the danger of the ground, and the possibility of an ending.
• Rigmor: Does the dragon forget how to fly?
• Wulf: No. The contradiction caused by Dragonrend tears apart the harmony between a dragon’s mind, innate magic and wings. They can still beat them. They may even glide. But they cannot maintain controlled flight, because movements once governed by timeless instinct have been dragged into conscious thought.
• Rigmor: So, Dragonrend does not break the wings. It interrupts the certainty that lets a dragon use them without thought.
• Paarthurnax: That is an excellent summary, Rigmor.
• Wulf: Silah told me you enjoy tinvaak, Paarthurnax. When I am not being dragged from crisis to crisis, I would enjoy long discussions on whatever topics you desire.
• Paarthurnax: Silah said you would offer, for you also enjoy such discussions.
• Wulf: And unfortunately for you, the Greybeards do not have much to say when they visit.
• Paarthurnax: Since only Arngeir can moderate his Thu’um, he is the only one who says anything at all! Nahfahlaar is interesting. His mind works differently from other Dov.
• Wulf: Likely because he has substituted The Way of The Voice with The Way of The Septim.

Paarthurnax laughed, and it was both amusing and disturbing as small rocks began tumbling from the summit.

I gathered the group, and we teleported to Aetheron. I dismissed them, warning them to get some rest. Rigmor headed for the kitchen to get us some supper.

Lydia asked, “I am the newest Dragonguard, but I want to fight Alduin. I know many who have lost their lives in Ulfric’s war, and the thought of them being consumed by the World Eater fills me with rage.”

“I would be honoured to have you fight beside me in such a perilous encounter.”

“Thank you!”

I retired to my rooms and discussed the day’s event with Rigmor between mouthfuls of wonderful stew and freshly baked bread.

Auryen likely knows where to look for an Elder Scroll. I shall contact him in the morning.