Sundas, 7^th Hearthfire, 4E 201

We awoke refreshed and proceeded with our morning routine. With the aid of many, I had accomplished a major task. Something I had trained for years to do. But I knew Alduin was one of many dangers to mortals I would have to deal with. Therefore, my celebration was muted.

After breakfast, Rigmor asked, “What are we doing today?”

“I am worried about what is inside that Dwemer Lockbox. Therefore, taking the lexicon to Septimus is the first thing that needs doing.”

“And?”

“We shall be doing these things alone. I promised to show you some of Solitude, so that is next.”

“Do I get to see Aunt Rikke?”

“I will ask her to visit you in the Safehouse.”

“Yeah, it is probably not wise for me to be seen entering Castle Dour.”

“We shall teleport into the Safehouse, so no spies or snitches will know you are inside when Legate Rikke visits.”

“And then?”

“I must visit Jarl Elisif. I can do that while you and Legate Rikke chinwag.”

“Chinwag?”

“Talk.”

“Okay, another one for Lydia’s book.”

“After, we can wander around Solitude. You did not get much of a chance to see it last time.”

“You said the evidence of the dragon attack has been erased.”

“The buildings were repaired, but I want to see if the carefree attitude of the people has returned. I have no doubt the news of Alduin’s defeat has spread, even if the facts are unknown.”

“I am eager to look for Mum.”

“I know, Rigmor, but Auryen has had no luck finding Diamond Ridge Mine. I think Baa’Ren-Dar may know something, as I am positive it is associated with Lady Azura. I do not know why.”

“Intuition?”

“Yes.”

“Baa’Ren also likes some of The Nine as well.”

“The Khajiiti pantheon is a mixture of Daedric Princes, The Nine and ancestor gods.”

“So, now that there are no dragons, Baa’Ren might be able to forward plans for countering The New Order?”

“All the senior Nobles and leaders would have been waiting for our victory or defeat before committing to a plan. Alduin winning would have negated the danger of The New Order, for no fleet would have been safe.”

“But a plan will have been ready to implement.”

“Yes.”

“Shouldn’t we talk to Delphine and Arngeir?”

“There you go, spoiling my light mood with facts!”

“Haha.”

“Yes, we shall inform Delphine and Arngeir.”

“Then let’s visit the fruitcake!”

“Septimus is nuttier than a fruitcake. He is not a fruitcake.”

“Sorry if I do not have a copy of Weird Sayings of a Weirdo to consult.”

I Recalled us to the Mark I had placed outside of Septimus’ dig site.

Rigmor commented, “The icefields are quite beautiful, in a freezing, danger to dangly bits, sort of way.”

“Yes. There is hidden beauty in many things that you, my beloved, seemed to recognise.”

“I will always remind you of that beauty, Wulf. If only to keep the darkness at bay.”

As we entered, I reminded Rigmor, “Please, let me do the talking.”

“Yes, of course. You speak weirdo, but I do not.”

We entered, and as we descended the spiral path, Septimus continued to mutter the same nonsense he had days earlier.

I stood before Septimus, and there was no flicker of recognition.

I said, “Master Mage Septimus, I used the round object for tuning, and we gained access to Black Reach. Then we found Mzark’s Tower and the transcription machine within. With it, I focused the knowings of the Elder Scroll onto the cube until it brimmed with the glow. The lore is now laid upon the cube!”

Septimus’ eyes widened as he demanded, “Give it to me! Quickly!”

As soon as Septimus saw the lexicon, he snatched it from me.

Septimus did not have the means to read the information in the lexicon. The Dwemer created machines to transcribe lexicons and other machines to interpret them. Therefore, it was evident that he was parroting information placed into his mind by Hermaeus Mora.    

He said, “Extraordinary. I see it now. The sealing structure interlocks in the tiniest fractals. Dwemer blood can loosen the hooks, but none alive remain to bear it. A panoply of their brethren could gather to form a facsimile. A trick. Something they didn’t anticipate. No, not even them! The blood of Altmer, Bosmer, Dunmer, Falmer, and Orsimer. The elves still living will provide the key.”

“You want to combine the blood of Mer species to trick a Blood Seal.”

“Yes! Bear you hence this extractor. It will drink the fresh blood of elves. Come when its set is complete.”

From a bench, Septimus retrieved a complex contraption made from Dwemer metal. Nobody knows how to work Dwemer metal, and the cave has no equipment, even if he did have the knowledge. And why would he have the Extractor prepared before reading the contents of the lexicon?

The Extractor was of superb craftsmanship.

I told Septimus, “We shall return shortly, for I already have blood samples from those Mer species. But why just those, Septimus? Surely Chimer would be better than Dunmer? Snow Elf must be better than Falmer. What about Maormer, Ayleid and Sinistral?”

As expected, I received a blank look and no reply. Septimus is a puppet who only repeats what Hermaeus Mora planted.

As Septimus wandered away, we ascended the spiral walkway.

Something at the exit tunnel caught my eye. One of Hermaeus Mora’s avatars had appeared. This one was called The Wretched Abyss.

I told Rigmor, “Hermaeus Mora wants to talk to me. Do not engage with him, for that invites him into your mind. Just stand back and listen.”

Rigmor looked up at Mora, shuddered, and said, “Ah…okay.”

I approached Hermaeus Mora’s avatar and stood a few feet from it.

I felt the Daedric Prince probe my mind’s defences, tentatively at first and then with power, anger, and intent.

I said, “Lord Mora, you cannot penetrate Cethera, my mind’s barriers.”

In a slow drawl, he replied, “Come closer. Bask in my presence?”

“There is nothing to bask in. You are just another avatar of another Daedric Prince.”

“I am the guardian of the unseen and knower of the unknown. I have been watching you, mortal. You are most impressive.”

“Prove it! List the places I have been in the last week.”

“Your continuing aid to Septimus renders him increasingly obsolete. He has served me well, but his time is nearing its end. Once that infernal lockbox is opened, he will have exhausted his usefulness to me. When that time comes, you shall take his place as my emissary. What say you?”

“No.”

“Be warned. Many have thought as you do. I have broken them all. You shall not evade me forever.”

“Oh, cut the crap! You lie to me yet think I would trust you. You have no idea who I am, where I have been or what I have been doing. You have no power here. I have far better sources of information than you, and I do not deal with liars. You will never break me, for my morals are stronger than any temptation you dangle before me!”

“Go forth. Do the bidding of Septimus, for he is working my will in your plane.”

“A plane in which you have no power. That is why you needed the aid of a mediocre mage. I will gather the blood and open the Dwemer Lockbox to prevent you from obtaining its contents. Feel free to stop me if you can.”

Mora growled, and his avatar vanished.

I turned to Rigmor.

She asked, “Is it wise to antagonise a Daedric Prince like that?”

“Hermaeus Mora is one of the worst liars and deniers.”

“Denier?”

“He refuses to acknowledge mortal free will. He thinks he can manipulate any person into doing what he desires. As for antagonising him, what is he going to do? He has no power in Mundus that can harm me. If I ever visit Apocrypha, Mora’s plane in Oblivion, he would not harm me if I am not actively seeking to harm him. I will always be a potential source of knowledge to him.”

“What about the mad mage? Was he telling lies as well?”

“Septimus is a mindless puppet. He had no way of reading the information in the lexicon. The extractor, the device he gave me, is the work of an expert in Dwemer metal. There is nobody alive with the required skills. Also, there is nothing inside this place to melt the Dwemer metal or make the device. Tell me, Rigmor, why would he already have the device since he didn’t know it was required till he ‘read’ the lexicon?”

 “Hermaeus Mora must have already known how to open the Dwemer Lockbox.”

“Yes, but Mora needed somebody with my skills to accomplish the last part.”

“The collecting of the blood.”

“Yep. But I don’t have to collect blood samples, as I already have them.”

“Why have samples of blood?”

“Blood is sometimes used as a reagent. Also, it is sometimes necessary to test alchemical formulas on different blood types. The samples are kept in sealed containers so they remain fresh forever.”

“Okay, not weird, but icky!”

“I will transport us to the Safehouse and make the blood concoction there. Then I shall ask Legate Rikke to visit.”

“Will Hermaeus Mora make another appearance?”

“Absolutely. The Tentacled Turd has more lies to tell!”

We teleported into the Safehouse and made our way to the workroom.

On a shelf was a box with the needed blood samples. I used the needles on the Extractor to suck the blood from the sealed bottles. Then I poured the mixed blood into a vial.

Rigmor asked, “Is that it? How does it work?”

“You smear the combined blood on your palm and press it against the Dwemer Lockbox. In theory, that should be enough to fool a basic Blood Seal. It would not be enough to fool a complex Blood Seal, like those designed to test for Saint Alessia’s bloodline.”

“Hermaeus Mora probably thinks you must kill one of each type of Mer to collect the blood.”

“Yes, because he has no idea about who I am or what resources I have.”

“You have said that all Daedric Princes are big fat liars.”

“They all lie. However, as I keep telling people, if you get an agreement from a Daedric Prince, it is sacrosanct. They will keep the bargain made. You have to be sure you have worded the agreement properly. Hermaeus Mora trades knowledge. Septimus opened his mind to Hermaeus Mora to receive knowledge. However, that allowed Mora to eliminate the mage’s free will. He has murdered and spread plagues for his master.”

“What do you think is in the Dwemer Lockbox if not the Heart of Lorkhan?”

“I don’t know what is in there.”

“Take a guess.”

“An endless barrel of mead.”

“Cool! No way would I let Lord Mora have that!”

“A never-ending supply of Sweetrolls!”

“I might be tempted to become Mora’s champion if that was in there.”

Rigmor was looking with interest at my jarred reagents.

I told her, “Collecting reagents is something I have done from a young age. Mother used to take me searching for them around our island, and sometimes rare ones would be delivered to the docks.”

“You have them locked away in Aetheron.”

“Yes, because some of them can be harmful to curious children.”

“Are you going to fetch Aunt Rikke now?”

“Yes, so relax. There is plenty of food in the larder if you are peckish. There might even be some Chaurus Eggs!”

“Bluck!”

As I made my way to Castle Dour, the mood of the population was more relaxed.

I saw the posters for the latest edition of The Throat of the World. The battle on the mountain is known, but our trip to Sovngarde is not.

Confirmation of Alduin’s defeat will be fed through authorities, such as Jarl Elisif and General Tullius. People will have to wait for my redacted journals to get the full story. I am determined to ensure many people are credited with Alduin’s defeat, not just me.

I entered Castle Dour and made my way to the War Room without challenge.

General Tullius is the perfect example of a Colovian military leader in both looks and mannerisms. Legate Rikke was listening to our conversation.

• Wulf: Good morning, General Tullius, Legate Rikke.
• Tullius: Have you decided to sign up, Lord Welkynd?
• Wulf: For now, I must remain neutral. But logic tells you what side I support in the war.
• Rikke: We know, Lord Welkynd. Perhaps you and Jarl Balgruuf will stop fence-sitting at the same time?
• Wulf: Jarl Balgruuf has his reasons for neutrality, and I have mine. We shall see.
• Tullius: The news sheets are full of rumours about Alduin.
• Wulf: The Dragonguard and I defeated Alduin at The Throat of the World. We then confronted him in Sovngarde, and with the aid of the Ancient Tongues, defeated him again. His soul returned to his Celestial Father, Lord Akatosh, and he no longer poses a threat.
• Rikke: You travelled to Sovngarde?
• Wulf: Yes, after travelling back in time to learn some crucial information and then trapping Odahviing in Dragonsreach. I flew on Odahviing to Alduin’s portal to Sovngarde.
• Tullius: You say such things with little hint as to how extraordinary they are.
• Wulf: When dealing with gods and immortal megalomaniacs, such things become routine.
• Rikke: Was she with you?
• Wulf: If you want to learn that, come and visit the house attached to my museum.
• Rikke: I cannot leave General Tullius’ side.
• Tullius: You have my permission, Legate Rikke. Do not force me to order you.
• Wulf: Nobody saw her enter, so there will be no connection to you, Legate.
• Tullius: There are many reasons you may want to visit the museum.
• Rikke: Okay.
• Tullius: I have been informed you are to broker peace with the rebels.
• Wulf: I have yet to receive such a request.
• Tullius: No doubt everything has been delayed due to the dragons.
• Wulf: I cannot comment further until I am informed of what is required.
• Tullius: I have told His Imperial Majesty who should be our spokesperson. He has close friends amongst the senior Stormcloak officers.
• Wulf: The commander of The New Order’s troops in Skyrim has not proven to be competent. However, I have been warned he is not to be underestimated. There is also a question of what we do not know. Nobody thinks their invasion could work without something else to bolster their ranks.
• Tullius: Tell the Dragonguard who fought beside you when Solitude was attacked that they have my eternal gratitude. We lost too many good people defending the city, but would have lost far more if you and the Dragonguard had not fought beside them.
• Wulf: Okay, I shall vanish now. Therefore, anybody who saw me enter will not see me leave.
• Rikke: I shall come visiting in the next ten minutes or so.

I teleported to the Safehouse and informed Rigmor of her aunt’s impending visit. She paced up and down with anticipation.

A while later, there was a knock on the door.

Rigmor said, “Well, answer it!”

“I will, but the knock only happened a second ago!”

“Wulf!”

I laughed, opened the door and invited Rikke inside.

A look of surprise dominated Rikke’s face, and then tears formed.

Rigmor rushed over and grabbed her aunt. They cried into each other’s shoulders, and I gave them some privacy.

I tinkered around in the workroom for a couple of minutes.

I then walked past the two women who were deep in conversation in front of the fire.

Rigmor knew where I was going, so there was no need to say goodbye.

The statue of Stendarr I had commissioned escaped damage despite the battle with a dragon in the Blue Palace Gardens.

I think Elisif’s guards have one of the best-looking uniforms in Skyrim. They are all sword-and-board trained, which is obviously the superior fighting technique preferred by intelligent warriors.

Jarl Elisif is usually more feminine in her demeanour. I was surprised to see her slumped in her chair, as if the weight of the world were on her shoulders.

I bowed and said, “Good morning, Jarl Elisif.”

“Are there many supplicants in the waiting area, Lord Welkynd?”

“None that I could see.”

“Thank goodness. It has been chaos since the dragon attack.”

“I need to speak to you in private concerning several matters.”

“I trust my advisors.”

“It has nothing to do with trust, but there are some things I can only tell you in private. Why will become apparent.”

“Very well. Falk, we are on a break until my return. Lord Welkynd, we shall talk in the rooftop garden.”

“Then let me lead, Jarl Elisif, and ensure the way is safe.”

“One day I will not have to be paranoid in my own palace.”

Elisif followed me to the rooftop garden. It was now fully enclosed with Dwemer technology automatically watering the plants. The roof tiles could pivot, ensuring sufficient sunlight.

Elisif asked, “Tell me, Wulf, has Alduin been defeated? Not just at The Throat of the World, but also Sovngarde?”

“I am not surprised you would know of the need for us to visit Sovngarde. Your Court Wizard is well read.”

“Sybill is a font of knowledge. She said that Alduin cannot be killed but must be defeated in Sovngarde for his soul to be claimed.”

“That is true, but I did not absorb Alduin’s soul. Lord Akatosh reclaimed it, and Alduin will be restored. However, I doubt he will ever try to be an overlord again.”

“So, I can announce to my people that Alduin is no more.”

“Yes, there is no need to complicate it with the fact that he will always exist. The danger to Solitude from dragons has ended. Now you only have to worry about Ulfric and The New Order.”

“My people have great trust in the Legion, our guards and our walls. They will take the news of The New Order in their stride. Till I know an invasion is imminent, nobody shall announce the threat.”

“The reason I wanted to speak to you in private concerns High King Torygg.”

“Sybill also told me that Alduin consumes the souls in Sovngarde, effectively wiping those people from existence.”

“Yes, that was how he gained the energy to dominate other dragons and fight the Dragon War. It is why I worked quickly to end his plans. It is bad enough when people are killed, but eliminating their souls is abhorrent and needed to be stopped.”

“My husband died months ago. Was his soul in danger?”

“I can see you are worried. Yes, High King Torygg’s soul was in danger, but I know he avoided Alduin’s hunger, for I spoke to him.”

“You… you spoke to Torygg?”

“Yes. I met several souls in Sovngarde. Some I recognised as famous heroes of the past, while others were normal soldiers who died in Ulfric’s war. I do not ask The Divines about individuals, and I did not ask your husband’s name, for I recognised him.”

“I think I know why you follow that rule. You would be overwhelmed by people begging to know if their deceased loved ones reached their afterlife. If Alduin absorbing the souls of the deceased becomes well known, people would demand to know the fate of their loved one’s soul.”

“Correct. So, I am telling you about Torygg because it does not break my rule about asking names, and because you deserve to know his soul survives.”

“I will keep it to myself, Wulf. What did Torygg say?”

“I will let you see him and hear what he had to say.”

“How?”

“It is called an Empathetic Link. Using skills I learned from the Psijic Order, I can replay a memory, and you will share it. It will be exactly as it happened.”

“What do I have to do?”

“You will feel me probing your mind. It is uncomfortable, and I promise it is only to create the Empathetic Link. I can, but I do not read people’s thoughts. To me, that is barbaric and a betrayal. If you trust me, relax, and the Empathetic Link will be created.”

“I trust you, Wulf. You have only ever shown empathy for my situation, and apart from saving this city, you have helped my people even with seemingly minor problems.”

“Then I shall begin.”

Elisif looked surprised as I reached out to her mind. It is not so much uncomfortable as unusual. It is a feeling never experienced before, and therefore, can be frightening. To my surprise, her barrier dropped almost immediately. I smiled, as her trust in me was appreciated.

The memory was fed via the Empathetic Link. Elisif saw her husband through my eyes. Heard his voice through my ears.

“I am honoured to meet you, my King.”

When Ulfric challenged me, I faced him fearlessly, knowing it meant my death. My honour was upheld. Was Ulfric’s?”

“Ulfric has no honour. He used the guise of friendship as an opportunity to issue that challenge. Then, when faced with an unblooded but brave opponent, he dismissed his martial skills and used The Voice. That is one of many offences that label Ulfric Stormcloak a traitor, murderer and blasphemer. Yet he will find his way to The Hall of Honour when I kill him.”

“My fair Elisif did not try to prevent me from fulfilling my duty. That is the only thing I regret, leaving her forlorn and alone in that cesspool of politics.”

“You fulfilled your duty. You could not refuse Ulfric’s challenge. Although you showed courage, it is your devotion to duty that should be honoured. Yet you have been summoned to Sovngarde for your courage and your Nord blood. This afterlife is not the place for you, my King.”

“You said you will kill Ulfric.”

“I am here to put an end to Alduin. Eventually I will confront Ulfric and challenge him. He stands no chance, but neither did you. It will be interesting to see if his sense of duty will allow him to accept the challenge or if he will once more display his cowardly ways.”

“Please, tell Elisif I am sorry. She deserves to be loved and to love.”

“Elisif will be High Queen. Let us hope she does marry for love, and not allow the cesspool of politics to choose for her.”

Torygg stared into infinity. The conversation was over.

As expected, Elisif was overcome with emotion. I let her cry. I let her compose herself.

After several minutes, she wiped away the tears and said, “That is truly a gift, Wulf. Thank you.”

“I asked for Torygg to be allowed to enter Aetherius. He did not belong in Sovngarde, and you would never meet him again if he remained. He will now be among loved ones, not a bunch of braggarts who think there is glory in war and combat.”

“That was not something we ever discussed. It must be a problem for many who marry a Nord warrior.”

“I assume it is.”

“You told Torygg you will challenge Ulfric.”

“For many reasons, I have to remain neutral at the moment. When the time is right, I shall challenge Ulfric using the same tradition that allowed him to challenge Torygg. However, unless I am declared a Jarl’s Champion, he does not have to accept the challenge.”

“You have more than earned the title of Thane.”

“I accepted the position of Thane from Jarl Balgruuf, for Whiterun is still neutral. I cannot accept the same from you, Jarl Elisif, for that would remove my claim of neutrality. If I am seen taking sides, I become a target when I need as much freedom of movement as possible while preparing for The New Order’s invasion.”

“I cannot declare you Champion until you become a Thane.”

“Have the paperwork prepared, and when the time comes, I will carry it with me to Windhelm and end the civil war. Now, I have less pleasant duties to perform and must depart. I will teleport from here, so any spies will not see me leaving, which must confuse them sometimes.”

“Are there spies in my court?”

“Not that I know of. But I have not read all the information somebody stole from the Thalmor Embassy.”

“We all know that was you, Wulf.”

“Me? Where is the proof? I demand the proof!”

Elisif laughed, which was a pleasant change of mood.

I assured her, “I know you are careful, Elisif, and if I find proof of a spy, I shall tell you immediately. I am sure Sybill would invite them to dinner.”

“Did you know from the start she was a vampire?”

“Yes, she is a Cyrodiilic Vampire, and they look like mortals. But I had my suspicions and asked her.”

“Sybill has served the throne I sit on faithfully for generations.”

“Many Cyrodiilic Vampires have not only served nobility but reached its dizzying heights as well.”

“When will I get to meet Rigmor?”

“When it is not politically inconvenient for you to do so. I doubt the Thalmor would make a fuss if she visited you, but they would not be pleased.”

“I will have our town criers announce the news about Alduin’s defeat.”

“Please, ensure that it is Lord Wulf Welkynd and the Dragonguard who are the ones who defeated him, not just me.”

“I will do.”

“Do not get startled when I vanish.”

“Thanks for the warning.”

I teleported into the Safehouse.

Rigmor was sitting on the floor, staring into infinity.

She finally realised I was there and stood up.

I asked, “How did your chat with Rikke go?”

“She always spoiled me as a kid. She could be a general but prefers to work with General Tullius.”

“Was she surprised at how you look?”

“Aunt Rikke approved of the sword training my father gave me. She was not surprised to see me carrying one. I didn’t remove my wig. That would have led to questions I was not ready to answer.”

“Did she think your father was guilty?”

“No, she confirmed what you said. Nobody believes that rubbish about Dad. The people of Bruma protested on the streets and demanded we be released or tried in Cyrodiil. The Count agreed with them, but had no choice but to arrest a few people and place a curfew.”

“What did she think happened to you and Sigunn?”

“Apparently, we became very ill while in custody and died. Aunt Rikke was not surprised when my face appeared on those wanted posters. She did not believe that cock and bull story.”

“Cock and bull story?”

“Oh, isn’t Bruma allowed to have colloquialisms?”

“I am merely interested in its origins.”

“I dunno. I just use it.”

“Did Legate Rikke try finding you and Sigunn?”

“She assured me she tried every avenue, but Thalmor bureaucracy is impenetrable.”

“Your aunt must be excited about the prospect of reuniting with Sigunn.”

“You would be proud, for I tempered her excitement with reality. I explained that we do not know if we will rescue her or what condition she will be in.”

“Cruel kindness is a difficult thing.”

“Hey, that is a good description of how I felt telling her that.”

“Like me warning you about Tilar.”

“Imagine how I would have been without that warning. I could not let Aunt Rikke think that Mum will be okay and they will be reunited for certain.”

“You did the right thing.”

“What now?”

“I still want to show you a bit of Solitude, but…”

“Hermaeus Mora and Septimus are worrying you.”

“Yes, it is something that needs to be resolved.”

“Then let’s go!”

“Yes, Lady Ramsbottom.”

“Ramsbottom and Dragonbum are a natural pairing.”

“Clever. It might have even been funny if I said it.”

“No, Wulf, it would not.”

I Recalled to the Mark.

We entered the dig site again. Not surprisingly, Septimus was wandering around muttering the same gibberish.

We went to Septimus, who stared at me with no recognition.

I held out the vial of mixed blood and said, “He is the blood mixture!”

Septimus took the vial from me and replied, “I can almost… hear them. I feel their life energy.”

That was rubbish, but who am I to argue with his delusions?

He poured the mixture on his hand and then held it against the Dwemer Lockbox.

It slowly opened, creating a metal tunnel to its central chamber.

Septimus ran, eager to see what was uncovered. If it were Lorkhan’s Heart, he would have regretted his eagerness.

I told Rigmor, “Come on, I sense nothing dangerous.”

Rigmor followed me at a more sedate pace than Septimus.

The elderly mage stared at a pedestal upon which lay a book. It was not Lorkhan’s Heart.

Septimus was confused, for he believed his master’s lies. He lamented, “What is this… it’s… it’s just a book?!”

I replied, “The cover is made of mortal skins. It is the Oghma Infinium. How it ended up in a Dwemer Lockbox is a mystery.”

In an ecstatic voice, Septimus declared, “The world beyond burns in my mind. It’s marvellous…”

Septimus floated into the air.

Rigmor screamed as the mage disintegrated when falling to the ground.

Only a pile of ash remained.

I told Rigmor, “Hermaeus Mora has claimed Septimus’ soul. He could only kill him this way because the mage had let him inside his soul. But Septimus is not really dead. He will become a Seeker.”

“And what is a Seeker?”

“Daedric Princes cannot create life. They can, using the Creatia within Oblivion, transform one life form into another. What do you think was used for the Daedroth?”

“Crocodiles.”

“Yes, and Azura used unformed Forest Spirits to create Khajiiti. Y’ffer used the same type of Forest Spirits to create Bosmer. Daedra are morphotypes. They are beings changed from one species into another using Creatia, but unlike Bosmer and Khajiiti, they do not multiply. You will never see a baby Daedra.”

“Okay, so what is a Seeker?”

“Think of them as Mora’s librarians. They have four arms, tentacles and float rather than walk. Their mouth is in the centre of their abdomen, and being the gentleman I am, I will not mention what they look like.”

“No!!!”

“Yes, but with teeth.”

“Oh, you must show me a picture!”

“A name given to Hermaeus Mora is Gardener of Men. That name makes sense when you consider devotees like Septimus are nurtured and then harvested.”

“Mora is a tentacled turd!”

“Yeah, I don’t think I will invite him to my house for a meal and talk.”

“What is that book?”

“It is called the Oghma Infinium. Lord Xarxes wrote it from information provided by Mora. It can make its reader smarter, stronger, or sneakier, but it would not benefit me. Once read, it returns to Hermaeus Mora.”

I sent the Oghma Infinium to Cethnelor. I planned to place it in Aethsela later. In either place, Hermaeus Mora could not detect it or have somebody retrieve it.

Rigmor said, “The Tentacled Turd is blocking our exit. I won’t try to speak to him, but please, try and be more polite this time.”

I stood before Mora.

“Ahh, my champion.”

“Call me what you want, but know I will never serve you.”

“Now you have my Oghma Infinium. It contains the knowledge of the ages as revealed to Xarxes, my loyal servant. For hundreds of years, it’s been shut away from the world. Septimus was a useful tool for unleashing it. Now it is in your hands. Let us work wonders together…”

“Xarxes was a loyal servant to Auri-El and used you. And I told you, Lord Mora, that I will never serve you.”

“Who do you think brought Septimus here? Who do you think protected you on your journey to open the box and release my knowledge into this world?”

“Name a single danger you protected me from? And do not claim it was something I was unaware of.”

I was met with silence, so I continued, “Countless mages, including me, can control a mortal as you did with Septimus. That is no great feat of power! As for protecting me, that is just another lie. As we established earlier, you don’t even know who I am or where I have been, and you have no power in Mundus.”

“Your free will is an illusion. Whether you acknowledge me or not is your own business. But I will be in your mind.”

Rigmor laughed and said, “Yeah, right. Pfft!”

I flinched.

Mora growled, “Mockery cannot alter that which has already been written!”

Rigmor replied, “I was not mocking, just dismissing you. Surely the know-it-all god understands the difference?”

I stared at Rigmor. She shrugged and said, “What? I didn’t ask him anything.”

I turned back to Mora’s avatar and asked, “Where is the Oghma Infinium now, Lord Mora? You can’t detect it, can you? How did it end up in this Dwemer Lockbox? It seems another mortal used their free will to lock it away as I have. I chose to do that as I chose not to read it. But if I do read it, I will do so in Aetherius, and your dweomer would fail. It would remain there. You will never be able to use it to bribe another mortal.”

Mora remained silent.

I continued, “You lied to Septimus because the pathetic knowledge within the Oghma Infinium was not worth his soul. He would have rejected you if that was your only offer. But Lorkhan’s Heart was irresistible to him, and so a bargain was struck based on your lies. As for being inside my mind, you could not breach its barriers. You have no lingering presence in my conscious or subconscious.”

Mora’s avatar faded away, and we exited the lockbox.

I asked, “Well, was I more polite this time?”

“You didn’t call him Tentacled Turd. So, I suppose you were polite enough.”

“Let’s have that walk around Solitude, and get something to eat.”

We teleported into the Safehouse, then exited to a Solitude that seemed more familiar than even an hour earlier. Elisif’s town criers must have spread the news about Alduin’s defeat.

I told Rigmor, “Solitude’s citizens now know that Alduin was defeated in Sovngarde. I told Jarl Elisif, and she had her town criers announce it.”

“It sounds like Bruma on a sunny day. Vendors are spruiking their wares, people are gossiping and laughing, and that thing missing from Windhelm is prevalent. Children laughing!”

“Yeah, but I do not get to punch racists.”

“Idiot.”

We stopped in front of the museum’s new sign.

I asked, “Well, what do you think?”

“When you are not looking, I might change it to Dragonbum’s Gallery.”

“Ahh, you gave away your sneaky plan.”

“Oops.”

I showed Rigmor the statue of Stendarr I had commissioned and installed.

“Is that goblet real gold?”

“No. Imagine how quickly it would be stolen if it were. It is painted wood, and that is general knowledge. Only an ignorant visitor might try to steal a wooden goblet.”

As we walked along the main street, I pointed to a large house.

“That is one of mine. It is called Proudspire Manor. It is quite luxurious but not different enough to spend time visiting.”

“Oh, the noble doesn’t think Proudspire Manor is up to standard.”

“I did not say that!”

“I wish fish would take the bait as quickly as you, Wulf.”

“How droll, stealing my words.”

We almost got trampled by a herd of children playing tag.

I laughed and said, “Some of them are from my orphanage. It seems they have found new friends.”

Rigmor smiled and whispered, “The Dragonborn is a big softie.”

We entered Castle Dour’s courtyard.

I asked, “What do you think of Lord Akatosh?”

“He is much nicer now that his Celestial Sons are not smashing me against him.”

We walked to the ceremonial square.

I explained, “Many couples get married here.”

“I want to get married in Bruma’s chapel.”

“That used to be dedicated to Father.”

“Yeah, those Thalmor bastards objected to that. It is now dedicated to Lord Akatosh.”

I stopped to talk to Evette San.

• Wulf: I am glad to see my favourite Spiced Wine Merchant in Solitude survived the attack.
• Evette: Those scaly bastards destroyed my stall, but I was more fortunate than others. I did not lose anybody I love.
• Wulf: I will be placing another order soon. The Dragonguard have taken a liking to your family’s secret recipe.
• Evette: That is good to hear, and thank you for saving our city.
• Wulf: I did not do it alone, Evette. Many Dragonguard helped, including young Rigmor.
• Evette: You fought the dragons here?
• Rigmor: Yes. Here and other places.
• Evette: Did you fight Alduin?
• Rigmor: Yes, at The Throat of the World and in Sovngarde.
• Evette: I cannot imagine how terrifying that must have been.
• Rigmor: Lord Welkynd gives us courage. It is a privilege to aid him.
• Wulf: I will have the order delivered within a week, Evette. Farewell for now.

I pointed to the statue of Father.

“That is my favourite depiction of Father, except he was sword and board, not one of those uncouth greatsword wielders.”

“You are asking for a kick in the cobblers, Dragonbum.”

“Did I say all greatsword wielders are uncouth?”

“Ahh, no.”

“Then my cobblers are safe.”

“For now.”

We stood in front of Zenithar’s statue.

I remarked, “For some reason, this statue cost me more than the others.”

“They probably charged extra for the fantastic moustache.”

Some time later, Rigmor caught me staring at a passing woman.

“Pervert!”

“What? I was contemplating the practicality of her outfit. One good sneeze and out they flop.”

“I bet that wasn’t the only thing you were contemplating.”

“Okay, I admit I was tempted to cast a sneezing spell.”

Rigmor laughed, and we continued towards one of my favourite food vendors.

Rigmor laughed again when she saw the sign for Solitude Sausages.

• Wulf: Good morning, Arrectus. How is business?
• Arrectus: Very good and growing. New patrons hear friends rave about my sausages and try them. Then they tell others and so on. I might licence out a few carts in other Holds and maybe a couple of Counties in Cyrodiil.
• Wulf: Lady Ramsbottom, would you like to peruse the menu?
• Rigmor: What are they?
• Wulf: Different types of sausages with condiments and other things inside a bun.
• Rigmor: Okay…let me look.

Arrectus handed Rigmor a menu, and as expected, she giggled.

• Wulf: What is so amusing, Milady?
• Rigmor: These names are meant to be rude, as is the sign.
• Arrectus: The crudity of the names and the sign is a product of the consumer’s mind, Lady Ramsbottom.
• Rigmor: Are they all the same size?
• Arrectus: All of them can be ordered in six-inch or twelve-inch servings.
• Wulf: For your first sausage, I recommend a six-inch Wiener. A twelve-inch Wiener might make you gag.
• Rigmor: Wulf!
• Wulf: The crudity of the suggestion is a product of your mind, Lady Ramsbottom.
• Rigmor: Okay, I will have a six-inch Wiener.
• Wulf: And I shall have the same. Thank you, Arrectus.

Arectus handed us our food, and Rigmor asked, “How do you eat them?”

“I have found that using your mouth is the easiest method. Sticking a Wiener in your ear might be fashionable in Bruma, but we are more conservative here.”

“Wulf!”

“Some people take the sausage out and eat that, then the bun. That is uncouth.”

I started to chew on the bit of sausage sticking out the end of the bun.

Rigmor claimed, “That looks rather suggestive!”

“Only if I sucked on it, Milady. Try the Wiener. Not everybody enjoys their first time.”

“You are doing this deliberately!”

“Yes, I am deliberately enjoying my Wiener.”

Rigmor shook her head in resignation and then nibbled on the end of her Wiener.

She thought about it for a second, then scoffed the rest in three mouthfuls and produced an impressive belch.

• Rigmor: Oh, pardon me!
• Arrectus: Lord Welkynd and his friends made it fashionable to burp after a sausage. I regard it as a compliment and free advertising.
• Rigmor: It was delicious. I wouldn’t mind another.
• Wulf: Another sausage for Milady so soon after the first? That sounds familiar.
• Rigmor: Keep that up, and you will get a kick where it hurts.
• Wulf: It would be uncouth to display such affection in public!
• Rigmor: Arrectus, can I please have a six-inch Beefstick?
• Wulf: One for me as well, thanks.

Arrectus prepared two Beefsticks. I put mustard on them and handed one to Rigmor.

Rigmor gobbled hers down and did another very impressive belch. I ate mine slower and belched with a bit of Thu’um applied. Everybody looked our way and laughed.

I paid Arrectus and then headed for Listens-to-Letters’ stall.

“Good morning, Listens-to-Letters. Do you have anything interesting in stock?”

“Yes, Lord Welkynd. I have a pristine first edition of Corpse Preparation, Volume 3.”

“The one with the practical joke?”

“That’s the one.”

“Splendid! Send it to The Dragonborn Gallery, and Auryen will deposit the payment into your account.”

“It is always a pleasure, Lord Welkynd.”

Rigmor asked, “What is the practical joke?”

“If you follow the embalming instructions in the book, the corpse comes to life.”

“I should be horrified, but I find that very amusing. It must be your influence, Dragonbum.”

“It is time to visit the Greybeards.”

“They are probably in the middle of eating soup.”

“As long as they have finished dipping their beards, they will not mind our interruption.”

We teleported into High Hrothgar’s entrance.

The Greybeards were sitting around a large table.

Arngeir rose to greet me.

He said, I see it in your eyes. You’ve seen the land of the gods and returned.”

“We saw the land of one god, and it is not the first I have visited.”

“Does this mean… it is done? Is Alduin truly defeated?”

“We destroyed his body but not his soul. That returned to AKA, and Alduin will appear when this Kalpa needs to end.”

“Perhaps, perhaps not. Dragons are unlike normal mortal creatures, and Alduin is unique even among dragons. He may be permitted to return at the end of time to fulfil his destiny as the World-Eater. But that is for the gods to decide. You have done your part.”

“The gods have already agreed that Alduin will return at the end of this Kalpa. That decision was part of the Convention. You are not an expert on gods, Arngeir.”

“You’ve shown yourself mighty, both in The Voice and in deed. To defeat Alduin, you have gained mastery of dreadful weapons. It is up to you to decide what to do with your power and skill. Will you be a hero whose name will be remembered in song throughout the ages? Or will your name be a curse to future generations? Or will you fade from history, unremembered? Let the Way of The Voice be your guide, and the path of wisdom will be clear to you.”

Rigmor growled, “How dare you?”

The other Greybeards had risen, thinking all discussion was concluded. They stopped and stared as Rigmor pushed past me and poked the startled Arngeir in the chest.

Arngeir drew himself upright. “Young woman…”

“No. You’ve had your turn. Now shut up and listen!”

Rigmor poked him again.

“You sit up here worrying about what Wulf might become while he’s down there proving what he already is. He is very rich, but does not waste money on luxuries. He funds orphanages. I have seen him take the time to talk to beggars and make sure they are fed and clothed. He offers gainful employment to the destitute and provides havens to the neglected of society. He is known and respected by all, from the highest level of nobility to the most destitute commoner.”

Arngeir’s expression hardened. “The power he has taken into himself…”

“Most of Wulf’s power was gifted by The Nine, including Lady Kynareth. Do you think she would provide a temple within High Hrothgar for him if there were any question about his morality? He will do what he has always done with it. He’ll stand between innocent people and whatever wants to hurt them. He’ll offer mercy when everyone else demands blood. And he’ll carry burdens that people like you are very good at adding to. Wulf knows what power and weapons to use and when, according to the strictest set of morals I have ever seen in an individual. There is no wisdom Wulf can learn from your religion. The Divines wanted and needed Wulf to use his Thu’um to save us all from enslavement. He has continually put himself in harm’s way, as that is his chosen purpose and not something forced upon him. It is a purpose he pursues to benefit others and not for reward or praise. Yet you imply he might be a curse to future generations if he doesn’t adhere to The Way of The Voice. What is wrong with you? I saw you use Unrelenting Force and other Shouts that harmed the dragons attacking this place. How is that less evil than using Dragonrend, which does no physical damage?”

Rigmor poked Arngeir again.

“Alduin tried to conquer the world. Wulf saved it. Alduin demanded that dragons kneel. Wulf told them none would be forced to serve him. Alduin devoured the helpless. Wulf crossed into Sovngarde to defend them.”

I had never heard such anger in my beloved’s voice.

“And the first thing you do when he takes the time to inform you of our success is warn him that he might become a tyrant?”

Rigmor shook her head.

“You should be thanking him!”

I tried to calm her, but I would have more success turning the tide.

I quietly said, “Rigmor, you have made your point.”

Without breaking her stare that seemed to paralyse Arngeir, she said, “No, Wulf. You try to avoid confrontation as it may harm the ignorant. Well, I don’t have that problem. Ignorance is a poor excuse.”

She continued he berating, “So, Arngeir, you now know what Wulf will do with his power.”

One final poke.

“Perhaps, before you lectured him about the monster he might someday become, you should have acknowledged the man standing in front of you.”

Rigmor stepped back and folded her arms.

“He defeated Alduin, and there is not the tiniest hint of evil in The Champion of The Divines!”

She looked around at the silent Greybeards.

“You have not aided Wulf at all, and The Way of the Voice failed when Ulfric murdered your High King!”

The Greybeards shuffled out, heads bowed.

I laughed and said, “The only evil thing in this room was the Sigunn Stare.”

“Yeah, it is amazing how well that works.”

“I know what will soothe your temper.”

“Not more sausages!”

“No. How about we visit the highest place on Nirn?”

“The summit!”

“Yes. But first I must pay my respects to Lady Kynareth.”

We made our way to Kynareth’s Shrine, and to my surprise, she spoke so Rigmor could hear.

• Kynareth: Dragonchild, The Nine are proud of you. Rigmor, your courage is unrivalled. Your love for Valdr is infinite.
• Rigmor: There is nothing more powerful than our love.
• Kynareth: Indeed, that is true and something to remember if trying times are ahead.
• Wulf: Our plans worked, despite the glitch with Alduin already knowing of my presence.
• Kynareth: Alduin was surprised by your strength in The Voice. He had no answer to the Dragonguard. He relied on Odahviing, who deliberately supplied weak allies. The outcome was not definite, but the chances of success were high because you did not let Alduin adjust to the reality he faced.
• Rigmor: Are there trying times ahead?
• Kynareth: We cannot say for certain, but logic says forces, not just Daedric Princes, will take advantage of a weakening Liminal Barrier.
• Wulf: We shall deal with whatever appears on the horizon.
• Kynareth: Keep uniting people, Dragonchild. That will help with whatever you face.
• Wulf: That is a lesson Father taught me. While the Empire was united, it was stronger than the individual provinces combined.
• Kynareth: As you and Rigmor are more than the sum of your individual selves.
• Rigmor: If Arngeir or the others complain, I do not regret speaking out on behalf of Wulf.
• Kynareth: I do not know what occurred, but I assume Arngeir said something with little tact. Forgive the Greybeards. Their sheltered existence does not lend itself to polished communication. If Arngeir said something offensive, it is a lack of social skills, not spite, that is behind his words.
• Wulf: We have some mortal enemies to deal with. So, I must take my leave, Lady Kynareth.

I teleported us to the entrance of the plateau. Wards prevented teleporting any higher.

We made our way to the foot of the summit.

I told Rigmor, “I shall climb to the highest point where you can safely stand, then summon you.”

“Why don’t you fly up there?”

“Why do people like to climb mountains?”

“Dunno.”

“Because they are there.”

Rigmor shook her head in resignation. I have been making her do that quite often.

I climbed to a small plateau about a hundred feet below the highest point. Then I summoned Rigmor.

My beloved was transfixed by the view and rendered speechless for several minutes. Then Rigmor said, “On the other side of those mountains is Bruma. I thought we would be able to see further into Cyrodiil and catch a glimpse of The White Gold Tower.”

“I have never seen it.”

“It is not as magnificent as it used to be, but still impressive.”

“My other senses would likely bombard me if I got too close. So, we shall have to find a good spot where we can both enjoy the view.”

“Do you think it contains a lot of magic?”

“Yes, and memories and things that may trigger my ethereal travelling.”

“I would love to see the Ruby Throne, but I doubt that will ever happen.”

“Who knows, you might become Empress Ivanitchy Ramsbottom the First.”

“Only if you are my royal consort.”

“What about court jester?”

“You would have to be funny, not strange, to fulfil that role.”

“I shall take you even higher in my airship.”

“I haven’t even seen this mythical airship.”

“You have seen my dragon form. You could ride me, as I did with Odahviing.”

“Ahh… no!”

Odahviing was obsessed with the thermals and circled endlessly.

Paarthurnax was getting dizzy watching him.

After another few minutes of silence, I said, “We had better visit Esbern and Delphine.”

“You would never have defeated Alduin without their aid!”

“The Greybeards have brought out your sarcasm.”

“Part of it is you, Wulf. You worked so long to achieve what you did, but seem less than excited about your success.”

“Our success, Rigmor. You, me, The Nine, the Dragonguard, Silah and so on. We accomplished what we set out to do, and the thanks and sense of achievement are theirs to share. I am relieved, but know Alduin will not be the biggest threat I will have to deal with.”

“Do you know that for certain?”

“Intuition tells me so, and that, in my case, is confirmation of a fact.”

“We shall face the future together.”

“Ready?”

“Oh, the anticipation is getting to me!”

“Yep, your sarcasm gland is working overtime.”

We teleported into the temple. Esbern and Delphine were discussing Alduin’s Wall when we approached. They turned to greet us.

• Wulf: I travelled back in time and observed the Ancient Tongues battle with Alduin. That allowed me to learn the Dragonrend Shout.
• Esbern: You travelled back in time?
• Wulf: If you want a detailed explanation, that will have to wait. I used the power of an Elder Scroll to open a conduit to the moment Alduin was banished. I used Ethereal Travelling to send my Consciousness through that conduit.
• Rigmor: Wulf created and closed a Time Wound with a single action. How weird is that?
• Esbern: Huh?
• Wulf: Esbern and Delphine are not as fluent in gobbledegook as you, Rigmor.
• Rigmor: Oh, of course. I might as well be speaking that weird language of yours.
• Wulf: Dovahzul or Ayleidoon?
• Rigmor: Roscreacean.
• Wulf: That is not a recognised language.
• Rigmor: It will be when Lydia publishes her book.
• Wulf: When I returned to the present, Alduin was waiting, for he detected the changes in the Time Wound.
• Rigmor: I thought Alduin was ugly in Helgen. His time in Sovngarde did not do his complexion any good.
• Wulf: We fought Alduin for several hours, but he could not be defeated in Mundus. He fled to Sovngarde to rebuild his strength.
• Rigmor: Paarthurnax said Alduin had never been defeated in battle. We were the first!
• Wulf: We knew Alduin had a portal to Sovngarde, but not where it was. Paarthurnax did not know, so I captured Odahviing in Dragonsreach. I flew on him to where the portal is.
• Rigmor: Odahviing could not challenge Alduin and survive. However, he only recruited weaker dragons to aid the World-Eater. Far more people would have died if more powerful ones attacked the cities and towns.
• Wulf: After fighting our way through Alduin’s last allies, Dragons, Thu’um using Draugr and a Dragon Priest, we entered the portal and ended up in Sovngarde.
• Rigmor: As a Nord, I should have been excited to be there. But it was fairly boring.
• Wulf: I entered The Hall of Valour and recruited the three Ancient Tongues. We forced Alduin to face us and fought for several hours.
• Rigmor: Wulf almost died many times. Our mages kept him and others, including me, alive.
• Wulf: When Alduin was finally defeated, his soul left via a portal and was claimed by AKA, the time god oversoul. Alduin will be restored, but I doubt he will forget his true purpose ever again. He is the World Eater, not Nirn’s overlord.
• Delphine: Gods above… that’s better news than I had hoped! I never imagined where it would all lead… dragons out of legend… Sovngarde…
• Esbern: The world owes you a great debt, Dragonborn, but the danger is not over.
• Wulf: There may be some dragons who want to challenge my Thu’um, but the threat of Dov enslaving mortals has ended.
• Esbern: Not while Paarthurnax still lives! He must die!
• Delphine: We are not ungrateful for what you’ve done. However, Esbern speaks for both of us. Our oath as Blades binds us. Paarthurnax must die. There’s no excuse now that Alduin is dead. Until that happens, we cannot aid you further.
• Rigmor: Aid? You haven’t done a single thing to aid Wulf!
• Wulf: Rigmor, I can feel your temper via Tirnileth. Let me deal with this absurdity.
• Rigmor: Just cut their heads off, and we can enjoy the rest of the day.
• Wulf: Rigmor!
• Rigmor: Okay, okay. Get the undead Dragonguard to do it.
• Wulf: Please. There is a lesson to be taught without bloodshed.
• Rigmor: Make it a good one.
• Wulf: Let’s start with you demanding I do something, Esbern and Delphine. I could state I am a noble and do not answer to peasants, but that is not how I use my status. However, you have no authority over me. On the other hand, I have authority over you.
• Rigmor: You said your oath as Blades binds you.
• Wulf: The Blades no longer exist. You are outlaws. However, the oaths you took as Blades are binding. You are sworn to obey those with Dragonblood, which is one definition of Dragonborn. I have Dragonblood and a Dragonsoul. Therefore, your oath binds you to accept my decision concerning Paarthurnax. So, if I decide to kill him or not, you have no say in the matter unless you want to be oath-breakers.
• Rigmor: Does their oath state that Paarthurnax must die?
• Wulf: No, it does not. That is a personal grudge passed on through the years.
• Rigmor: Tell us why Paarthurnax should die. He has aided us far more than you two!
• Delphine: Paarthurnax committed atrocities so infamous, they are still remembered, thousands of years later.
• Wulf: Lady Kynareth, with the blessing of Lord Akatosh, offered Paarthurnax a chance for redemption. Paarthurnax accepted the offer and taught mortals The Voice. He then kept a vigil, for thousands of years, knowing where Alduin would return. He did not know if a Dragonborn would be there to face Alduin. However, he was willing to face Alduin alone, knowing he would be defeated and erased from this and future Kalpa.
• Esbern: But what about his past crimes?
• Wulf: Lord Stendarr teaches the value of mercy, and as Champion of The Divines, I adhere to the Ten Commands of the Nine Divines. Paarthurnax’s actions have redeemed him for his crimes. His actions have saved far more lives than he took during the Dragon War.
• Rigmor: So, do you two know more than The Nine? They have not asked Wulf to kill Paarthurnax.
• Wulf: The Imperials will defeat Ulfric Stormcloak. Using your logic, we should then round up anybody who wore a Stormcloak uniform and put them to the sword!
• Rigmor: Wars would never end if victory is followed by retaliation.
• Esbern: But you do not understand the danger!
• Wulf: I bow to your superior knowledge. So, please tell me what that danger is!
• Rigmor: That was sarcastic.
• Wulf: You are a good teacher.
• Esbern: Not now, but in thousands of years, when Paarthurnax, the right hand of Alduin, takes his place, only a Dragonborn can stop him.
• Rigmor: Is Esbern an oracle?
• Esbern: Only a Dragonborn could stop Paarthurnax, and there will not be one, because you will be dead!
• Wulf: Paarthurnax could not replace Alduin. Think of Alduin as a demigod. He may have looked like other dragons but had powers gifted to him by Lord Akatosh that Paarthurnax does not have. A dragonborn is not needed to kill Paarthurnax. That is why the Blades were frustrated they could not get to him, for they could have slayed him. So, your worry is unfounded, even if Paarthurnax decided to become overlord.
• Rigmor: And who says Wulf will be the last Dragonborn? He isn’t even the only one alive today.
• Delphine: What?
• Wulf: I am the latest Dragonborn. The first one still lives, and no, it was not Saint Alessia. At the moment, he is an enemy, but I hope to offer him redemption.
• Rigmor: You might have to fight the Tentacled Turd to do that.
• Wulf: Hey, Hermaeus Mora called me his champion. He might hand him over because I am so likeable.
• Rigmor: You know what? If you killed Paarthurnax, they might demand you kill Odahviing as well!
• Wulf: Yes, he was Alduin’s right hand, his lieutenant, and he did bring dragon allies that killed people.
• Rigmor: So, was that going to be your next demand?
• Delphine: Well…
• Esbern: I had not given it much thought, but now you mention it, it would be logical.
• Wulf: So now we have included Odahviing in the retaliation. What about the dragons who attacked the cities and towns but we did not manage to kill? They will also have to die.
• Rigmor: Can you be sure which ones they were?
• Wulf: No. Sometimes I do not know the name of the dragon until it is slain and I absorb their soul. Therefore, it looks like we shall have to kill every dragon except my allies.
• Rigmor: Can you two see how senseless your demand to kill for past actions is? We were at war with the dragons, and now we are not. You are part of the Empire. The Imperial Army does not slaughter defeated enemies.
• Wulf: I hope you realise the immorality of your comment, Delphine. You said, ‘There’s no excuse now that Alduin is dead.’ You thought to use him while he was useful and kill him when he no longer had value to you.
• Delphine: I apologise, Dragonborn.
• Wulf: My name is Wulf, or Grandmaster. I am a dragonborn, but that is neither my name nor the defining aspect of who I am.
• Delphine: I apologise, Wulf.
• Wulf: You cannot function as Blades, but I need specialist dragon hunters. I do not wish to kill and erase every dragon who succumbs to their desires for domination and battle. Paarthurnax and Odahviing are taking many of them under their wings, and that will help those who have only ever experienced Alduin’s tyrannical leadership.
• Rigmor: If there are trained dragon hunters, Wulf does not have to get involved. He does not have to absorb their souls. The dragons can be reborn next Kalpa or restored in this one.
• Wulf: However, those dragon hunters must be Dragonguard. If you two want to be part of that group, you must swear the Dragonguard oath. I will give you a copy of the oath so you can read it and decide. If you do not want to join the Dragonguard, you must leave this temple.
• Esbern: Leave this temple?
• Wulf: When I first arrived in Skyrim, I made inquiries with the Imperial record keepers and Jarl Elisif, who will be High Queen. All Imperial records list this temple as being the property of the Dragonguard. As Grandmaster of the Dragonguard, I am its landlord. You two are guests who invited yourselves. I am under no obligation to let you remain.
• Rigmor: That is a bit difficult for you, Delphine, since you gifted your inn to somebody. I am sure Esbern could fit another bed in his wonderful home in the Ratway.
• Wulf: It took my blood to unseal this place. I can easily reseal it. But I will not, as Dragonguard will start to occupy this temple as they always have. Some will arrive within the week.
• Delphine: Leave your oath with us, Wulf. We shall discuss it.
• Wulf: It is not my oath, Delphine. It is an ancient oath that has existed for thousands of years, and which the Blades copied part thereof for their own.
• Esbern: What positions would we hold within the Dragonguard?
• Wulf: Senior positions, although you will find that ranks are fluid. Every Dragonguard defers to expertise, no matter their position. The Dragonguard who will arrive soon have been approved and taken the oath, some of them decades ago. They currently guard some of my properties, but have shown interest in the dragon hunter roles. Recruits will have to be approved by our head shaman. He has the final say, even over me, in that regard.
• Rigmor: You had better study more dragon lore, Esbern, for you know very little. That rubbish about Paarthurnax needing a dragonborn to kill him proved that.
• Wulf: Warm Sands is finished, and most of the Khajiiti have moved into their new lodging, so that is our next stop, Dragonguard Rigmor.
• Rigmor: A town full of Khajiiti. Sounds like fun, Grandmaster.

I retrieved the Dragonguard oath from my document case and handed it to Delphine.

We then teleported into my manor in Warm Sands.

Rigmor said, “You tore them to shreds without raising your voice. I could tell you were seething but controlled your anger well.”

“If I let my anger dictate my actions, my dragon instincts call for violence. I could not let that happen, because I would be justified in executing them, and my dragon would not hesitate.”

“They tried to justify breaking their Blade oath by asserting another part of it.”

“The Blade’s oath does not dictate they kill dragons. That is a path some of them chose.”

“And the Dragonguard oath sets strict rules about dragon killing.”

“They cannot function amongst the population as Blades. They can as Dragonguard. I intend to have dragons declared citizens. His Imperial Majesty and Elisif will owe me many favours, so will not decline.”

“Come on, show me around Warm Sands.”

“I had better talk to Dragonguard Belofa first. This house was empty. Now it is full to the brim with Khajiiti.”

Belofa was leaning against a wall and looked exhausted.

• Wulf: It looks like our new residents are keeping you busy, Belofa.
• Belofa: I expected a bit of chaos as Warm Sand’s new residents arrived and settled in. They are already allocating work, including domestic duties, so all will be as it was.
• Wulf: Quiet, you mean?
• Belofa: As quiet as very talkative Khajiiti can be.
• Wulf: Some cubs might arrive soon. That will make the place brighter.
• Belofa: I look forward to that.
• Wulf: Before she berates me, this young lady is Dragonguard Rigmor.
• Belofa: Hello, Rigmor. How is Wulf’s training going?
• Rigmor: Slowly, but he is not all that bright.
• Wulf: Celestine has been busy elsewhere, so it must have been Dhali who gossiped about Rigmor.
• Belofa: Honestly, Grandmaster, you do not expect me to deny or confirm that?
• Wulf: Has there been any trouble?
• Belofa: A platoon of Stormcloaks appeared, took over the tavern and generally made a nuisance of themselves. They tried to kill one of the Dragonguard who asked them to leave. Minutes later, they did leave, feet first, on wagons that took their bodies to Windhelm, with a note telling Ulfric to stay away.
• Wulf: The Khajiiti at our other settlement have experienced the same. If they had not been warned away from Whiterun, I have no doubt the Argonian ladies looking after Tundra Homestead would also be harassed by Stormcloak idiots.
• Belofa: I know you were busy with other minor inconveniences like Alduin and those fake Thalmor, but do Nirn a favour and deal with Ulfric as soon as possible.
• Wulf: Work before play, Belofa, you know that.
• Rigmor: You have set up another Khajiiti village?
• Wulf: Not all Moonpath caravans will pass this way. So, we have a smaller village called Two Moons near Markarth.
• Rigmor: And Tundra Homestead is your small farm along the river.
• Wulf: Yes, and it is run by eight Argonians, two of whom are Dragonguard. They are all female, although a couple of them used to be male.
• Rigmor: Huh?
• Wulf: The power of the Hist allows Argonians to change gender.
• Belofa: Knowing that females are the superior gender of any species, a couple of them transformed.
• Rigmor: Wise but weird!
• Wulf: I hope to visit more often now that Alduin is no more and the village is complete.
• Belofa: You must try our local ale.
• Rigmor: Yes, Wulf, we must try their local ale.
• Wulf: Another time, Rigmor.
• Rigmor: Party pooper!

One room was full of sleeping Khajiiti, so we did not disturb them.

The only awake Khajiiti in the house was Dar’do, one of those who protected Riverwood during the dragon crisis.

• Wulf: Are you finding Warm Sands a bit busier than Riverwood, Dar’do?
• Dar’do: I only arrived a couple of hours ago, but it seems very industrious, and its people are friendly.
• Rigmor: The Khajiiti must have made many friends in Riverwood.
• Dar’do: We did. The first thing I noticed here is the lack of children running around.
• Wulf: Several children live here, but I think when a few more arrive, they will end up making a racket like every other village, town and city.
• Dar’do: Another thing I noticed is all the residents carry swords.
• Wulf: This is the only bit of civilisation for many miles. Stormcloaks have already caused problems, but there are also many large bandit gangs in the area. Most of the residents are competent with sword and bow, and there are some powerful mages amongst them. Now that a couple of Dragonguard and dozens of Khajiiti live here, only fools would attack the town.
• Rigmor: Skyrim does not lack fools, Wulf.
• Dar’do: The population of fools would be culled efficiently and with great prejudice if they attacked my new home!
• Rigmor: That would be a shame.
• Wulf: Woah. Your sarcasm level is still high.
• Rigmor: If you don’t use it, you lose it.
• Wulf: We shall visit again soon, so that Rigmor can try the local ale.

We had a quick look around the manor. It was as I designed it, and I was pleased with the craftsmanship.

I knew as we toured Warm Sands that Rigmor was distracted.

I asked her, “Spill the beans, Rigmor. What is worrying you?”

“Can’t you guess?”

“Alduin is dealt with, and now your mind is occupied by thoughts of Sigunn.”

“I have enjoyed today, even though some morons in Sky Haven Temple and High Hrothgar tried to ruin it. But I want to find Mum!”

“Auryen has had no luck finding Diamond Ridge Mine. I do not think that is its real name.”

“Can we go home and see if Auryen has found something?”

“Okay, Rigmor. If Auryen has not discovered anything, I will ask my dragon friends to look for it.”

“Cool!”

“Who knows, somebody might have been trying to contact me. I have yet to develop a portable CORB.”

We teleported into Coranelor, my private chambers in Aetheron. However, when I spoke to Auryen via CORB, he had not located Diamond Ridge Mine. Like me, he thought it had something to do with Lady Azura.

Rigmor was upset, and I was at a loss for how to keep her spirits up when my CORB started chirping.

It was Celestine, who had taken up residence in Angi’s camp again.

• Wulf: Yes, Celestine.
• Celestine: Baa’Ren-Dar just arrived at Angi’s. He said he needs to speak to you and Rigmor.
• Rigmor: Tell him we shall be there in a few seconds, Celestine.
• Wulf: Yes, Mistress. Your wish is my command.
• Celestine: Keep up the good work, Rigmor!

Celestine laughed, and the CORB went dormant.

I warned Rigmor, “Baa’Ren has not been told about Diamond Ridge Mine. We have not seen him since finding the slaver’s list.”

“But you think it has to do with Lady Azura. Therefore, he might know where it is.”

“Well, we can speculate or investigate.”

As soon as we came out of the ether, Sorella made a beeline for Rigmor. Baa-Ren-Dar waited patiently in a corner.

• Sorella: Hi Rigmor!
• Rigmor: Hey! Hi there, Sorella. Are you okay?
• Sorella: Yeah! Angi is so cool. She will teach me everything I need to know so that I can be a huntress someday.
• Rigmor: That sounds great.
• Sorella: Yeah, and if any bad guys come, she will show me how to put an arrow in their heads.
• Rigmor: Is that so? Hahaha! I’m glad I’m not one of those bad guys, then.
• Sorella: Celestine said you helped defeat an evil dragon.
• Rigmor: He is called Alduin, and he wanted to enslave everybody.
• Sorella: Was he scary?
• Rigmor: Dragons are very big, so when you first see them, they are scary. But not all of them are bad. Wulf has many dragon friends.
• Sorella: No way!
• Rigmor: Yes way!
• Sorella: Wulf, can I meet a dragon friend?
• Wulf: Yes, of course, but it would have to be down the trail a bit. A dragon landing would make a mess of Angi’s camp.
• Rigmor: Where is Meeko?
• Sorella: Probably doing his business somewhere. He moves away from here because it stinks!
• Rigmor: We all stink when we go to the privy.
• Wulf: Not like Meeko, Rigmor. His pong can melt armour.
• Rigmor: I see Nexendia is here as well.
• Sorella: Yeah, she said she will stay with Celestine for extra protection, and I think she likes being somewhere quieter.
• Wulf: Do you like her robes?
• Sorella: I dunno. Their colour reminds me of something.
• Wulf: It is the same colour as newborn baby pooh.
• Sorella: Haha, yeah, it is.
• Rigmor: We have to speak to Baa’Ren. I will try to have a long chat with you soon.
• Sorella: Okay. Oh, stinky is back!
• Meeko: Woof!
• Rigmor: Yes, Meeko, I am happy to see you and would have said hello if given a chance.
• Sorella: He can be a bit rude.
• Rigmor: Isn’t it cool how he can speak inside our heads?
• Wulf: Unfortunately, Meeko’s voice echoes in Rigmor’s head.
• Meeko: Woof.
• Sorella: No, I will not laugh at something that isn’t funny.
• Meeko: Woof.
• Sorella: Wulf is a grown-up and will not cry!
• Wulf: Yes, Meeko, it is wonderful that we defeated Alduin.
• Sorella: I didn’t hear him say that.
• Rigmor: Wulf was being sarcastic. He needs more practice.
• Meeko: Woof!
• Sorella: Meeko is very happy you both survived and thinks it was a great achievement.
• Wulf: It was a great achievement, and Rigmor’s name, along with others, will be recorded in future history books.
• Sorella: Cool!
• Wulf: See what you have done, Rigmor! You have impeded Sorella’s development by introducing the word cool into her vocabulary.
• Rigmor: Cool is not just a word, Dragonbum. It is the definition of coolness.
• Meeko: Woof?
• Rigmor: Yes, of course you are cool.
• Sorella: Who is not cool?
• Rigmor: Wulf will never reach any level of coolness.
• Wulf: Come on, let us speak to Baa’Ren.

Sorella was giggling, and I did not mind being the source of her amusement.

Celestine was watching, so I gave a hand signal, asking her to join our discussion with Baa’Ren.

• Wulf: Hello, Emissary. It is a pleasure to meet you again.
• Baa’Ren: This one is pleased to see both of you are healthy.
• Rigmor: Why didn’t you tell me who Tilar Aedriath was?
• Baa’Ren: You needed the courage to find your destiny. Knowing who Tilar Aedriath was would have brought fear into the equation.
• Rigmor: We had to fight Tilar and his minions, Baa’Ren! Even though Wulf had warned me who Tilar was, I was terrified. It would have been much worse if I had not been informed beforehand.
• Wulf: I thought that the chances of a confrontation with Tilar were high. Rigmor knew Tilar was heading the hunt for her. I told her who he was. Rigmor had time to come to terms with that fact. However, seeing him affected her more than I thought possible. I dread to think about what would have happened if she saw him without warning.
• Rigmor: Remember how I was when you first rescued me? That is what I would have been like without Wulf’s warning.
• Wulf: How were you back then?
• Baa’Ren: When Khajiit smuggled Rigmor out of Valenwood, she was gravely ill. Khajiit bought her the best physicians that coin could buy. Khajiit nursed her back from the darkness. This one thought she was mute. Rigmor never uttered a single word for six months.
• Wulf: Now Rigmor talks frequently and enthusiastically about even the most mundane things. She finds beauty where I never looked.
• Rigmor: It was books that brought me back.
• Baa’Ren: One day, Khajiit couldn’t find her anywhere. In a panic, this one searched high and low, and there she was, in my library.
• Wulf: Was it memories of your trips to the Imperial City that brought you back, Rigmor?
• Rigmor: Yes. Those times when Mum would leave me in the library while she did boring things are precious memories.
• Baa’Ren: Rigmor had rediscovered herself. She knew her name, who her father was, and….
• Rigmor: I remembered what happened to my family and my time as an enslaved person.
• Wulf: You never told me about your memory loss.
• Rigmor: I forgot.
• Wulf: Careful, your drollness is approaching mine.
• Rigmor: You were already upset about what happened to me. I did not want to make you sadder and madder.
• Wulf: Well then, we are truly fortunate I had warned you about Tilar’s identity.
• Baa’Ren: You met Tilar Aedriath and brought Rigmor back to me alive! Khajiit is again thankful to the gods for their excellent choice of a Guardian. They have chosen wisely, indeed.
• Wulf: The gods did not choose me to be Rigmor’s Guardian. I accepted that role without consulting them, Emissary. As for Aedriath, I could have killed him easily and perhaps will regret not doing so. He is a mortal, not a god and certainly not as powerful as Alduin or many other adversaries I have bested.
• Baa’Ren: Khajiit humbly apologises for his wording.
• Wulf: Let us move on from this subject. You made a choice not to tell Rigmor about Tilar’s identity. That has proven to be the wrong choice, not malice.
• Rigmor: I am not mad with you, Baa’Ren.
• Baa’Ren: Tell Khajiit where you encountered Aedriath.
• Rigmor: Sethri told us Mum might be mentioned on a slavers’ list and where to find it.
• Wulf: It was inside an old fort, part of a harbour, near the border. The place serves as a staging point for slavers working on an island off the coast.
• Rigmor: We had to fight through the fort to recover the list. Mum is on it. Aedriath was waiting with many Altmer, Orsimer and wolves to apprehend us when we exited.
• Wulf: We killed dozens, and I could easily have killed Tilar. But I wanted to capture him. I reasoned that if he were our prisoner, The New Order would realise their plans were compromised and not invade. The bastard would save more lives alive than as a corpse.
• Rigmor: Tilar escaped but sacrificed many people to do so.
• Wulf: He will tell The New Order that they now face Rigmor, the Dragonguard and Lord Wulf Welkynd!
• Bar’Ren: Capturing him was a good strategic plan, but Khajiit has warned the Dragonborn that Aedriath is a master at deception. When you think you have won, he will produce a winning hand when it seemed he had nothing.
• Wulf: I have remembered that warning, Baa’Ren, but so far, Tilar has proved incompetent and a coward.
• Baa’Ren: Where does the slavers’ list say Sigunn is being kept?
• Rigmor: A place called Diamond Ridge Mine.
• Baa’Ren: This one thinks he knows where that is. It is not far from the border with High Rock. This one will investigate and find a place on the map. Meanwhile, I have a very special mission for you and Rigmor.
• Wulf: Is Diamond Ridge Mine associated with Lady Azura?
• Baa’Ren: If it is the place Khajiit believes it to be, then yes. I will ask an associate to investigate.
• Wulf: Rigmor, remember The New Order was giving up on replicating your father’s sword and starting a new operation at a secret location.
• Rigmor: Yes, it was mentioned on a note you found on that wizard near Sorella’s cell.
• Wulf: I now know why I think Diamond Ridge Mine is associated with Lady Azura.
• Baa’Ren: Black Diamonds.
• Wulf: Yes, but I still do not know where it is.
• Baa’Ren: Its location has been kept secret. The Divines are not the only gods with mortal agents who can change records and even maps.
• Rigmor: Tell us where you think it is, Baa’Ren, and we shall investigate.
• Baa’Ren: No. If Sigunn is there, and that is the ‘super-secret’ base of New Order operations, great caution must be shown. The place of slavers was heavily guarded. This place will be overflowing with guards. Dragonborn and Rigmor will help by brokering a truce so we can prepare for the invasion. This request comes from Emperor Titus Mede II. In the meantime, Khajiit and other resources shall investigate Diamond Ridge Mine.
• Rigmor: But…
• Wulf: Rigmor, let Baa’Ren do his part. We have been given ours.
• Rigmor: Why do you have to be right all the time?
• Wulf: It comes with being a smartarse.
• Baa’Ren: Tullius and Ulfric must be persuaded to break off their civil war plans, but The New Order is not to be alarmed in any way. We must use deception and have that truce.
• Wulf: And there are two trusted men you want us to persuade so that they can persuade their commanders. General Tullius mentioned to me that I was supposed to broker a peace deal and that he had informed His Imperial Majesty of who he wants involved. I did not press him for more information. It would not have been forthcoming anyway.
• Baa’Ren: Khajiit forgets that Dragonborn also deals with important people in high places.
• Wulf: We would not have to persuade General Tullius or his intermediary. A signed order from His Imperial Majesty is all that is needed. I assume that it was delivered by a Legionnaire runner to General Tullius, who will then send orders to his subordinates.
• Baa’Ren: That is true, but there is a reason Rigmor and Wulf should speak to both leaders.
• Wulf: The New Order knows we attacked Fort Black, so they must suspect we know their plans. Why not let them know His Imperial Majesty will not fall for their ruse, and The Empire will be ready to repel any invasion?
• Rigmor: I was thinking the same thing.
• Baa’Ren: Dragonborn knows of Thalmor arrogance. The New Order is worse. They will dismiss the raid on Fort Black as inconsequential. They will think their plans are infallible. We will spring the trap and crush them when they think they have defeated us. We will no longer have to worry about them trying again.
• Wulf: Yet we will probably lose cities, villages, and maybe even Holds before stopping them. We should be preventing their invasion, not allowing it! Both the collateral damage and lives lost will be too great!
• Baa’Ren: This one has learned to accept the least offensive solution rather than none at all. This plan is agreed to and is better than doing nothing.
• Wulf: Then let the important people in high places know this. My duty is to The Divines and the mortals of Nirn. I will act accordingly and will not ask permission. I will use my resources to defend places and people others are willing to sacrifice.
• Baa’Ren: You should not interfere with our plans, Dragonborn. It is for Rigmor’s sake that you may have to accept these unpleasant things.
• Rigmor: No, Baa’Ren! Do not pit Wulf’s love for me against his duty to The Nine and mortals.
• Wulf: I will do what is required to fulfil my Champion of The Divines role. Do not dare presume to tell me what I am fighting for, Emissary!
• Baa’Ren: Khajiit sees that you carry a terrible burden, Dragonborn. This one again apologises for his poor choice of words.
• Wulf: Even if we knew nothing of their plans, The New Order would fail! You and I hope those you have spoken to know this.
• Baa’Ren: They are aware but suspect a hidden element, as does Khajiit and Dragonborn.
• Rigmor: And me.
• Celestine: And me.
• Wulf: You have been quiet.
• Celestine: I am observing the dynamics, Wulf.
• Wulf: Do you like gambling, Baa’Ren-Dar? I think The New Order are playing a shell game, what some call three shells and a pea.
• Baa’Ren: That is not true gambling, for sleight of hand ensures the player will lose.
• Wulf: The sleight of hand only works because the gambler is distracted via banter and the weaving of hands and shells. The plans of The New Order are inadequate to accomplish what they desire.
• Baa’Ren: And Dragonborn thinks they are a distraction.
• Wulf: That is the logical conclusion.
• Celestine: That is conjecture, Wulf, no matter how logical. We must take action on what is known.
• Wulf: You can keep being quiet and observing the dynamics if you want.
• Rigmor: Celestine is correct, Dragonbum.
• Wulf: Okay, what is the plan, Baa’Ren?
• Baa’Ren: Mede will lead the armies in Cyrodiil.
• Wulf: Outlying Legions will not be brought in from the borders, as that would make The New Order suspicious. Combined Empire and Stormcloak units must stop The New Order’s Northern Army Group in Skyrim.
• Baa’Ren: You have a good strategic mind, Dragonborn. Hjaalmarch and Morthal will be our focus points. Stop them there, and we can throw them back into the sea.
• Wulf: They will mimic invaders of old. Therefore, they will besiege Solitude and Windhelm, making Whiterun the pivotal city. If it falls, it will make it difficult to win the war without great loss of life. If Whiterun fell, all Legions would be brought inland to defend Cyrodiil, and His Imperial Majesty would cross into Skyrim. The New Order would inevitably lose if the Dominion did not interfere. But that is a worst-case scenario. We need to stop them from taking Whiterun.
• Baa’Ren: Even if that means allowing higher acceptable losses?
• Wulf: I want the defeat of The New Order to be so thorough that anybody contemplating something similar will have second thoughts. Those who issue the commands can battle with their conscience. Their plan leaves a relatively unguarded corridor that The New Order can exploit. If, as I think, this is all a distraction, they will want to cause as much confusion as possible and use that corridor to spread fear and destruction. I will do my best to minimise death by helping defend Whiterun and protecting that corridor.
• Baa’Ren: The planners say all is lost if Whiterun falls with Solitude and Windhelm besieged. The New Order’s Northern Army Group will march south and join their Southern Army Group forces. They would then crush Mede’s army in Cyrodiil. Tamriel will be theirs for the taking.
• Wulf: What a load of bollocks! You already said they know The New Order cannot succeed without a hidden element.
• Rigmor: Wulf means, ‘What a load of rubbish!’
• Wulf: The Imperial Army currently has 24 Legions. Let’s say not all of them are at full strength, so average that to 4500 Legionnaires per Legion. That is over 105,000 troops. If His Imperial Majesty wanted to crush the Stormcloaks, he could send three or four extra Legions over the border and get the job done in a month. But he won’t, because General Tullius can win with his current allocation and not weaken our protection against the Dominion.
• Rigmor: I did not realise how many soldiers we have!
• Celestine: Read the reports on the Umbriel Crisis, Rigmor. They illustrate exactly what Wulf is saying. We have rebuilt the Legions since then and since the Oblivion Crisis. Only the Dominion can field an equivalent force. The New Order cannot.
• Wulf: If we lost Whiterun, the war would drag on, but there is still no possibility of The New Order winning. Not unless The Dominion joined in. If I were worried about us losing, I would burn their ships by myself or with my dragon allies. I will not ask dragons to fight battles, but burning ships has no risk and is easily accomplished. I would not let the enemy set foot in Skyrim or Cyrodiil!
• Celestine: But we will not lose. And letting them reach Whiterun while protecting towns, villages, and other cities along their route is the best option. If we do it right, we will prevent a drawn-out war and destroy them in a single, decisive battle.
• Wulf: Thinking these rebels could achieve what the entire 3^Rd Dominion could not is senseless!
• Rigmor: Wulf, they want a unified army to defend Skyrim. Who will be their commander?
• Celestine: I know who they will ask.
• Wulf: Baa’Ren, do they intend to ask me to lead this combined army?
• Baa’Ren: Well… possibly.
• Rigmor: I know you well enough, Baa’Ren. That is as good a confirmation as you will get, Wulf.
• Celestine: It is the logical choice, Wulf. You are revered and respected by both sides of the civil war.
• Wulf: Hypothetically speaking, Emissary Baa’Ren-Dar, if His Imperial Majesty wanted me to lead this army, I would want two favours in return.
• Baa’Ren: And what would they be?
• Wulf: Ragnar’s titles are restored, including the family crest and his entry placed back in the lists. I am sure Mede can provide a suitable reason why such a terrible mistake was made. Perhaps misleading information was provided to The Dominion by a disgraced commander trying to redeem himself. Or, being Emperor, he does not need to give a public explanation even if The Elder Council need pacifying.
• Rigmor: Wulf, you would be the best choice and be able to reduce casualties. You would not sacrifice lives to have Dad’s name cleared.
• Celestine: Rigmor knows you well, Wulf. If the offer is made, you will accept the position to save lives.
• Baa’Ren: From what Dragonborn has told Khajiit in the past, this one also thinks this is not a true condition.
• Wulf: Okay, that may not be a condition, but these are. Anything they want Rigmor and I to do will be politely requested. We are not tokens in a game. You did not ask us, Baa’Ren. You just assumed we would do as ordered by ‘important people in high places.’ If I were to command this combined army, I would want a real Imperial rank backed by the standard oath. But the commission would cease immediately after The New Order is defeated. I will not be constrained by a Legion oath past the current crisis. Understood?
• Baa’Ren: Would Dragonborn accept being marked as inactive, not resigned?
• Wulf: Inactive can be ordered back to duty. Retired is preferable, as I would have the choice if asked to return to the fold. I could also continue to use the rank as one of my titles. I like to have a collection of them for various scenarios.
• Baa’Ren: Khajiit cannot foresee any objections to a reasonable request.
• Wulf: I will also choose my armour. I just so happen to have a suit of Colovian armour worn by Tiber Septim. It will be a reminder to both Imperial and Stormcloak troops that Talos’ legacy is at risk not just from The New Order, but from the civil war.
• Baa’Ren: Is this one mistaken, Rigmor? Khajiit thought Dragonborn was not interested in politics. However, he seems very skilled in it.
• Rigmor: I am yet to find something Wulf is not good at.
• Celestine: Telling jokes.
• Rigmor: Oh, of course. Wulf has a terrible sense of humour.
• Baa’Ren: Will Rigmor and Dragonborn please meet with representatives to organise a truce between Imperial and Stormcloak to combat The New Order?
• Rigmor: I was going to wash my hair, but I suppose that can wait till later. So yeah, I will talk with them.
• Wulf: Such commitment and sacrifice by Rigmor cannot go unnoticed. Therefore, I shall also risk everything by talking to these people.
• Baa’Ren: Khajiit wonders if Alduin smashed the Dragonborn on the head.
• Celestine: No, Emissary. Weirdness is Wulf’s natural state.
• Rigmor: It would be good to know who we are supposed to talk to.
• Wulf: Rigmor is a stickler for details like that.
• Rigmor: Oh, another one for Lydia’s book!
• Celestine: I have offered to help with words heard but not understood.
• Wulf: Do I get a percentage of the profits?
• Rigmor: You will have to discuss that with Lydia.
• Baa’Ren: Khajiit is confused. What book?
• Rigmor: The working title is ‘Weird Sayings of a Weirdo.’ We are gathering Roscrean colloquialisms.
• Wulf: So says the woman who thinks cool means good or great.
• Baa’Ren: This one believes that is accurate. But Khajiit is not cool enough to use cool.
• Wulf: Huh?
• Rigmor: Cool also means fashionable or laid back.
• Wulf: So cool has a few definitions, but I bet there are not as many as penis.
• Celestine: I think the latest count was two hundred and seventy-five, and that was in Tamrielic. Imagine how many if we incorporated other languages!
• Rigmor: You counted how many words mean penis?
• Celestine: It can get boring waiting for a battle to start. It helped that Vayu, being a Practitioner of Dibellan Arts, already knew quite a few.
• Wulf: So, Baa’Ren, moving on from shlongs, who are we to meet?
• Baa’Ren: You all faced Alduin, correct?
• Wulf: Yes.
• Baa’Ren: Khajiit thinks that has hurt those ones’ brains.
• Wulf: ALBATROSS!!!
• Baa’Ren: What?
• Wulf: Names, please, Emissary.
• Rigmor: You were not surprised by Wulf’s albatross, Celestine.
• Celestine: He uses it occasionally to prove he is not insane.
• Rigmor: Weird. Just weird.
• Baa’Ren: You will need to visit Casius Varon and Yngol Storm-Blade. Military runners will have informed them of your planned visits.
• Wulf: I know where their camps are. They both served under your father, Rigmor. I think they are close friends.
• Baa’Ren: Dragonborn is correct, and that is why you are crucial to these discussions, Rigmor. They both served under your father in Cyrodiil and Hammerfell.
• Rigmor: Were they at Brema River?
• Baa’Ren: Yes. Casius was with the last of the Redguard soldiers, trying to defend the civilians from the Thalmor onslaught. Yngol was with your father and the berserkers who arrived in time to rescue the civilians.
• Wulf: Perhaps they can tell you something about Ragnar during the war years.
• Rigmor: He rarely mentioned his service. It would be good to learn more.
• Celestine: Do not let them convince you there is glory in large battles, Rigmor. There is duty, and that is incentive enough.
• Rigmor: Wulf emphasises that fact.
• Wulf: Guess what I said to Ysgramor in the Hall of Valour?
• Celestine: You told him how much you admire his dedication and work ethic during the genocide of the Snow Elves.
• Wulf: I felt like asking who had cut his balls off, because he sounded like a little girl.
• Baa’Ren: Back to speaking about genitals. Good, they are not discussed often enough when Khajiit meets important people in high places.
• Wulf: I said to Ysgramor, ‘Spare me the welcome. I came to offer genuine heroes a chance to fight Alduin by my side, not to trade courtesies with somebody whose greatest legacy is genocide. How many times have they toasted your vengeance, Ysgramor? Do you ever tell them what the women screamed when being raped? What about the cries of the babies and children butchered because of their race? Did any of the elderly beg for mercy? Lord Shor should have let you fight Alduin and made this place more palatable.’
• Celestine: Savage, but restrained. At least you didn’t draw your katana on him.
• Rigmor: Wulf did beat up some racists who tested his temper.
• Baa’Ren: Dragonborn was in a tavern brawl in the Nord’s holy place?
• Wulf: They say with death comes wisdom. I imparted some wisdom.
• Baa’Ren: Rigmor, you must tell Khajiit of these adventures soon.
• Rigmor: Yes, of course, Baa’Ren.
• Baa’Ren: And this one apologises for making the wrong decision about Tilar. Khajiit had no right to keep this information secret.
• Rigmor: I have already said I am not mad at you, Baa’Ren. You know I love you very much.
• Baa’Ren: And Khajiit loves Rigmor, even after naming a gelded horse after this one.
• Rigmor: A certain maid suggested it after…
• Baa’Ren: Khajiit requests that nothing about that unfortunate incident be mentioned.
• Wulf: We visited Warm Sands. Many travellers will soon use its main roads. Profits for Khajiiti and other residents are guaranteed.
• Baa’Ren: What about Two Moons?
• Wulf: I have not yet had a chance to visit. But it is much smaller, so it should be finished by now.
• Baa’Ren: Thalmor are intruding further into the jungles and deserts of Elsweyr. They say they are looking for illegal goods and smuggling. Khajiit thinks they are searching for a Mane.
• Wulf: If they ever gain enough evidence that a Mane exists, they will not bother with small patrols.
• Baa’Ren: They will tear apart Elsweyr in their search, and not all Khajiiti will oppose them.
• Wulf: Okay, while we still have daylight, Rigmor and I will pretend to be diplomats.
• Baa’Ren: Khajiit will continue meeting important people in high places. He will leave a message with Celestine or Nexendia if another meeting is needed.

Baa’Ren handed me orders for Casius Varon and a tome of information for Yngol Storm-Blade.

He then hugged his adopted daughter and sprinted away at a pace belying his age.

Sorella called us over.

• Sorella: Meeko says I am something called a Wolf Friend. I don’t know what that means.
• Wulf: Back when the Nords worshipped the Old Gods, many followers of Kyne were blessed by her. Wolf Kin or Wolf Friend was a blessing whereby wolves, dogs, foxes, coyotes, and even wild werewolves would regard the Nord as a friend and not attack them or those with them.  Meeko is not a dog or wolf, but he would be able to detect such a blessing.
• Meeko: Woof!
• Sorella: I promise I will not walk up to a pack of wolves to test the blessing, Meeko.
• Wulf: Rigmor might have a similar blessing, but with bears.
• Sorella: That is so cool!
• Wulf: It seems there are different levels of coolness.
• Rigmor: Forgive Wulf, Sorella. He has difficulty understanding how cool the word cool is.
• Wulf: Well, it has not been explained to me.
• Rigmor: It is easy. For instance, I could say something like, ‘Cool it. I know it’s cool outside, but this is still a cool place, and your armour looks cool, and if you stop complaining, we’ll be cool. Cool?’
• Wulf: Yes! Now I understand! Not!
• Sorella: That was really cool, Rigmor!
• Rigmor: We have to leave again, Sorella.
• Sorella: Now that the dragons are gone, you are going to get the bad guys who killed my parents.
• Wulf: Did you figure that out by listening to adults?
• Sorella: Meeko explained some of the complicated bits.
• Rigmor: There are a lot of bad guys, so Wulf and I are going to ask others to help.
• Sorella: Okay. I will not worry because Meeko says you two are strong.
• Wulf: Rigmor stood in front of a dragon whose mouth was big enough to swallow her whole. She kept hitting him with her sword and was very brave and strong.
• Sorella: I wouldn’t want to be swallowed by a dragon.
• Wulf: That would be terrible! You would be turned into dragon poop!

Sorella laughed, then climbed on Meeko’s back, and he gently walked around the camp while the child talked to him.

We walked over to Celestine.

• Wulf: Have you rested sufficiently, Celestine? You were quite busy casting spells for hours.
• Celestine: Nexendia has allowed me to sleep when necessary. I do not think she has had much to do with a simple life, or children, in her hundreds of years on Nirn. She started treating this like an experiment and something to report back to the Psijic Order. However, her heart has been stolen by a young orphan and a strong-willed, matter-of-fact huntress.
• Rigmor: Anybody who watched Meeko and Sorella right now would have their heart stolen.
• Wulf: To some people, the simple folk we protect are an abstract thing. The best leaders are those who have lived simply for extended periods. They understand.
• Celestine: I thought you might have some time to rest before being dragged into another drama.
• Wulf: Dealing with The New Order and the search for Sigunn were always going to be the priority once Alduin was taken care of.
• Rigmor: I will listen to your advice, Celestine. We are going to talk to career soldiers, and they may try to glorify something I am yet to experience.
• Celestine: Battling the dragons in Solitude was similar in many ways.
• Rigmor: Wulf removed me from there before I could take in the carnage and death.
• Celestine: In some ways it was worse, as unarmed civilians were the main casualties.
• Wulf: Apologise to Nexendia and Angi, but we have to leave now and do not have time to chat further.
• Celestine: They understand, Wulf.
• Wulf: Ready for a horse ride, Rigmor?
• Rigmor: It is only a short one from that little town to Yngol’s.
• Wulf: The one from Tundra Homestead to the Imperial camp is much longer.
• Rigmor: Cool!

I teleported us to Kynesgrove.

I warned Rigmor, “Mad Monks are headed this way. Do not look at them. Do not say a word to them.”

“Mad Monks?”

“Devotees of Lord Sheogorath. They can be violent or amusingly insane or both.”

“Okay.”

One of the monks looked at us and prepared an Ice Spike spell.

I drew my katana and cut them down.

The other monk also died while casting Destruction spells.

Rigmor said, “Well, we got past midday before you had to kill something or somebody.”

I summoned Hashire and asked, “Please summon Ren.”

Ren appeared, then we mounted and rode the short distance to Yngol’s Stormcloak camp.

Several Stormcloaks recognised me as we rode through the camp and called out. I was happy to acknowledge them with a wave. I didn’t see any indication that Rigmor was recognised.

We dismounted next to what I assumed was Yngol’s horse.

• Hashire: My first outing in ages, and this is it?
• Wulf: We shall be riding across the Whiterun Tundra later, so stop whining.
• Rigmor: Wow! Look at the size of that horse!
• Hashire: Size isn’t everything, Rigmor.
• Wulf: Is that what you tell Surilana when she laughs?
• Hashire: Haha. Stop it. My sides are hurting from your hilarity.
• Rigmor: Now, that is excellent sarcasm.

I was about to ask one of the Stormcloaks where Yngol was. Then a deep baritone voice issued orders.

We followed the voice and soon found him.

Yngol stood atop an overhang, saw us approaching and waited. I was tempted to ask why he carried a hammer if called Storm-Blade, but resisted.

I asked, “Excuse me, are you General Yngol Storm-Blade?”

“That depends. Who’s asking?”

“I believe you were told to expect us. I am Lord Wulf Welkynd, Dragonborn and Champion of The Divines. The young lady is Rigmor Ragnarsdottier, daughter of Sir Ragnar Fjonasson.”

Yngol moved to stand in front of Rigmor. She looked tiny next to him.

• Yngol: As I live and breathe, Ragnar’s daughter!
• Rigmor: Hey, I’m sorry I…
• Yngol: I served with your father in Hammerfell, child. If there’s anything you need, anything, say the word. My sword is yours to command.
• Rigmor: That is very generous, General, but I do not command people.
• Yngol: A runner came this morning and handed me a note from Ulfric. It said you were coming and our meeting was about something important, but it didn’t mention what.
• Wulf: Before we get to that, I heard you mention a missing patrol and breaches in the wall.
• Yngol: An Imperial charge breached the east wall just before you arrived. They tested us all night by probing our defences.
• Wulf: It sounds like they are only keeping you on your toes. An attack on this camp would be a significant escalation.
• Yngol: Up until now, it’s been a phony war. Then that sly old dog Casius Varon decided to sit his Legion on The Pale’s border with Whiterun. I advised Ulfric to set up a garrison here to counter any move.
• Wulf: I believe you are familiar with Legate Varon.
• Yngol: Yeah, we both served under Jonna in The Great War. He was in the Legion then, and I was in a Nord Volunteer Brigade. After the treaty, he disappeared for a time, and then we found and saved his sorry ass near the Brena River in Hammerfell. Apart from the occasional skirmish, we have kept a respectful distance…for now.
• Wulf: I have seen many Imperials and Stormcloaks butchered in your phony war. Bandits run amok because there are no patrols. The Dragonguard and I have been trying to clean up the mess.
• Yngol: That is the nature of war.
• Wulf: I am glad to see your camp is back in order after the dragons attacked.
• Yngol: Yeah, we lost a lot of good people. If not for the Dragonguard, we would have lost everything.
• Rigmor: The dragons should no longer be a threat. We defeated Alduin in Sovngarde and sent his sorry ass back to Aetherius.
• Yngol: You fought Alduin?
• Rigmor: Twice. Once at The Throat of the World, and then in Sovngarde.
• Wulf: Rigmor has fought beside me against many enemies, General. But time is pressing, so those stories can wait. If you are concerned about your missing patrol, I suggest we look for them.
• Yngol: A large band of marauders and bandits has been causing a problem for the locals here in Eastmarch. They have been quiet lately since we set up camp here, but they’ve been spotted near Narzulbur.
• Wulf: Narzulbur is the Orsimer Stronghold east of here.
• Yngol: Yes, we trade with them. There are some good people there. A few hours ago, I sent a patrol to check on a smaller compound. That patrol hasn’t reported back. I was about to head out myself and search for them.
• Wulf: And as I suggested, Rigmor and I will accompany you.
• Yngol: Are you sure? It could get too dangerous for Rigmor.
• Rigmor: I am not a little girl or a child, Yngol! Some of the best Swordmasters have trained me. Plus, my father taught me from an early age.
• Wulf: I told you that Rigmor has been fighting by my side. She is one of the finest greatsword wielders I have ever seen. She is more capable than you or anybody else in this camp regarding combat!
• Yngol: That is a hollow boast, Dragonborn.
• Wulf: Without aid, Rigmor killed an entire company of Thalmor in Bruma. I have killed countless enemies on the battlefield, so I am more than qualified to judge her ability and am an Akaviri Swordmaster. Pick a champion and let them spar if you are sure your men can beat a young woman! She fought Alduin and survived! She fought the nine dragons that attacked Solitude!
• Rigmor: You could save time and let us search for your missing patrol. We will happily exact justice on the bandits if required.
• Yngol: Okay, I have to see this. Let’s head out.

We mounted our horses and headed towards Narzulbur.

I let Yngol get a bit ahead, as I knew Rigmor wanted to talk.

• Rigmor: Why are we going with Yngol? This little trip wasn’t in the plan!
• Wulf: If Yngol sees us in battle, we will earn respect. He will therefore be more likely to believe what is in that book. It might be we only have to escort him there and back. That still shows our willingness to put ourselves in danger beside him.
• Rigmor: Baa’Ren-Dar would be impressed by your sneaky diplomatic skills!
• Hashire: Don’t feed his ego, Rigmor. Wulf is heavy enough as it is.
• Wulf: Yngol’s horse is impressive! So big and strong and silent!
• Hashire: I can make myself bigger, and I bet I can run faster!
• Wulf: But you can’t make yourself silent. I wonder if Yngol will swap.
• Hashire: Sometimes, Wulf, I hate you!
• Rigmor: You did start it, Hashire.
• Hashire: Poor Rigmor has caught the truth-and-logic disease!

I called ahead, “Ignore the Spriggan, General. It will not attack while I am with you.”

Not far from Sahloknir’s burial mound, Yngol dismounted and walked towards three corpses.

I asked, “Is this your missing patrol, General?”

“Yeah. I wouldn’t be surprised if the scum suckers also took the compound. They may have killed the Orcs. Gods damn it!”

“These soldiers were not killed in combat. They have been tortured.”

“I thought as much.”

“Before we take care of the bandits, I would like to aid these souls to find Sovngarde. Sometimes, a lingering death can confuse them.”

“How will you aid them?”

“I will perform Arkay’s Rite.”

Rigmor and Yngol stood in silence and watched as I removed my helm and intoned,

• Behold, faithful of The Divines, the beauty of your transformation.
• Do not fear the journey but rejoice as the gate opens.
• Enter Aetherius with joy in your heart and a smile on your face.
• The gate opens for all mortals.
• Not riches, rank, nor power can deny this return to Aetherius.
• As you approach the gate, Aetherius will approach you.
• Do not turn from the gate, as that is to reject your new life.
• Walk through the gate without reservation and with dignity.
• Welcome your transformation.
• You need not fear losing your way, for Arkay will guide you to your reward.
• Your body will decay.
• Your soul will remain safe behind the gate.
• Once the gate closes, you may never return.
• This is Arkay’s Law.

Silence remained while I donned my helm once more.

• Yngol: Will that help them find Sovngarde?
• Wulf: Yes, General. Sovngarde is part of Aetherius. Once they arrive in Aetherius, those who desire Sovngarde will find themselves within its gardens. Alduin no longer terrorises Sovngarde, so they can safely go to Tsun, the Whalebone Bridge and The Hall of Honour.
• Yngol: And you accompanied Lord Welkynd into Sovngarde, Rigmor.
• Rigmor: Yes, I did.
• Wulf: Our time in Sovngarde will be published along with other memoirs, General. You can read about it then, or if we get a chance, we can sit and talk about it sometime. Right now, we need to exact justice on the bandits and then discuss the important matter for which we came.
• Yngol: The murdering scum will not get away with it this time. This far and no further. It’s time for some payback!

We walked closer to a small Orsimer compound. It was much smaller than Narzulbur Stronghold and would have been home to at least a dozen Orsimer. The compounds are sometimes used for trading, as Orsimer only allow Blood-Kin to enter their strongholds.

It soon became apparent that the bandits had taken the compound and probably butchered those who called it home.

Yngol called out, “Hey, assholes! Prepare to meet your makers! Yngol Storm-Blade is going to cut you a new one!”

The bandits threw back pathetic insults such as, “Where is your army, Yngol? Back at that holiday camp of yours?”

The last one they uttered before they died was, “Who is that you have got with you, your mother?”

I used my Thu’um and said,

“IT IS NOT HIS MOTHER BUT RIGMOR OF BRUMA. SHE IS A MIGHTY NORD SWORDMAIDEN WHO COULD KILL YOU ALL WITHOUT BREAKING A SWEAT BUT WON’T NEED TO. YNGOL NEEDS NO ARMY. FOR I AM LORD WULF WELKYND, THE DRAGONBORN, AND YOU ARE ALL ABOUT TO DIE!”

Dragonfire killed half a dozen, then we charged the gate.

As we ran, Yngol exclaimed, “By Talos! Ulfric could never do that!”

Fourteen bandits died. I killed twelve. Rigmor killed two.

Yngol looked stunned at the ferocity of our attack.

I said, “General, we shall see if any Orsimer need our help and talk in a minute.”

Rigmor and I searched the compound and found eight butchered bodies.

As we searched, I said to Rigmor, “Yngol will have experienced many battles. Yet he looked at us with shock, Rigmor.”

“Your Dance of Death is disturbing, Wulf. You do not give your enemies time to adjust to your fighting style, and the speed of a katana is foreign to them.”

Nearly every dead Orsimer was a non-combatant. A couple of warriors in the compound would have been rapidly overwhelmed.

We returned to Yngol, who had been wandering the compound with a forlorn look on his face.

• Wulf: I am afraid all the Orsimer are dead. We found ten bodies.
• Yngol: These were good people, Lord Welkynd. I should have come sooner. Maybe they would still be alive.
• Rigmor: We make the best decisions we can at the time. This atrocity was not your fault, Yngol.
• Yngol: I have seen Ulfric use The Voice, but your power seems stronger than his.
• Wulf: I am Dragonborn, blessed by Lord Akatosh. My Thu’um is far more potent than Ulfric’s, and as I learn to focus it, it will get even stronger. I know many Shouts, more than any other mortal in history, while Ulfric spent ten years learning one. I can call meteors from the sky, storms that kill with lightning, tornadoes that freeze and toss enemies to their death and many other deadly Shouts. It doesn’t matter if it is six, sixty, six hundred or six thousand in my way. My Thu’um would carve through them.
• Yngol: Your sword is thin and looks like it would break.
• Wulf: It is called a katana and is the standard weapon used by the people of Akavir, the Dragonguard and the Blades. It is faster to wield than other weapons and ideal for fighting dragons.
• Yngol: You said you had killed many in combat.
• Wulf: I have in Skyrim and Akavir. I am Champion of The Divines, and they ensured I have the skills to fulfil that role. The number is over two thousand and rising as I deal with troubles in Skyrim.
• Rigmor: You should send somebody to care for the dead, Yngol.
• Yngol: Yes. I will ask some men to tell the Orcs what has happened. They will care for their people, and we shall care for ours. Let Skeevers care for the vermin.
• Wulf: Come then. Let’s head back and talk about what brought us out here.

We mounted and sped past Sahloknir’s burial mound. Hashire was being conservative so Ren could keep up. We still outdistanced Yngol and his horse, who was galloping as fast as he could.

• Wulf: Is your ego better now, or does it need more massaging?
• Hashire: He hasn’t even given him a proper name. He just calls him Horse!
• Rigmor: So, you felt empathy for Horse, then made him feel better by outrunning him.
• Wulf: Hashire did slow down for Ren, so there is that.
• Rigmor: Hey, yeah, but Ren was still faster than Horse! Wow!
• Wulf: Ren is not carrying a mountain, although your thighs have become bigger.
• Hashire: Do not take the bait, Rigmor.
• Rigmor: Do not worry, Hashire. Revenge shall be mine!

As Yngol slowly trotted through the camp, I looked around it, and Rigmor detected my anger rising.

She whispered, “We do not have to like it, Wulf. We have to do what is required and persevere.”

“They are rebels, yes. But it is Ulfric’s lies that have convinced them to do this. My anger is towards him, Rigmor. I do not want to have to kill these people!”

While dismounting, Yngol called out, “Lieutenant Grom, attend!”

A fairly young Nord came running. Not many of his age would have reached that rank.

Yngol ordered, “The Orcs probably already know, but send a squad with a sergeant to speak to Chief Mauhulakh at Narzulbur. They are to tell him that bandits attacked his compound and there are no survivors. He is to be told the bandits have been eliminated. The squad is then to retrieve the bodies of the patrol and return them for burial. They are between the dragon grave and the compound.”

The Lieutenant saluted and said, “Yes, General.”

As we approached Yngol, the Lieutenant said, “Rigmor, my father fought beside you and General Yngol!”

Rigmor replied, “Nice armour, Lieutenant. But it cannot be an heirloom, as your father would have proudly worn Legionnaire armour as my father did.”

Rigmor’s remark left the Lieutenant speechless. Her subtle barb was intended to make the young soldier think about his choice to join the Stormcloaks.

We followed Yngol into his hut and sat at a small table.

• Yngol: Hey, you want a drink, something to eat? Knock yourselves out.
• Rigmor: Thank you, Yngol, but I am okay for now.
• Yngol: Did your father ever tell you about the war, Rigmor?
• Rigmor: He didn’t talk about it much at all. I knew he had been a soldier, but I never knew anything else until his arrest. I didn’t want to believe what I read about him. It wasn’t the person I knew.
• Yngol: Yeah, those scumsuckers in the Imperial City changed all that. Your father was a hero, a true Nord.
• Rigmor: That is what Wulf said, and many who study war know the truth and greatly respect my dad.
• Yngol: Our berserk army sometimes had them running even before we drew our swords. The Altmer fought with courage, and I respected them for that. But we were all betrayed by the concordat. Mede sold us out, the bastard!
• Rigmor: What was my dad really like?
• Yngol: As I said, he was a true Nord. He never broke the rules of combat and all that about war crimes! That is all dog crap and character assassination dreamed up by Imperial politicians with their noses buried in Thalmor backsides.
• Wulf: Many people on both sides of this civil war think The Empire sold them out.
• Yngol: Well, they did! But we weren’t done with the Elves until they rescinded their blasphemy against Talos and restored him to his rightful place.
• Rigmor: Wulf said my dad was only concerned with helping the people of Hammerfell. He never complained about the ban on Talos worship to me.
• Yngol: Ragnar had his captains gather all the men, then said, ‘You can either go home to your farms, family and occupations or join me in Hammerfell!’ Every single man, every one of them, roared and bashed their swords against their shields. Girl, that was a sight to behold, and they yelled, ‘Ragnar, Ragnar, Ragnar!’ We spent a year in Hammerfell. I believe, true to my word, if we weren’t there side by side with the Redguard, Hammerfell would have fallen. The Dominion hated him for that.

Rigmor looked across at me and could see my restraint slipping. She held my hand under the table. Yngol was full of shit. How does Baa’Ren-Dar do this diplomacy stuff without going insane?

I retrieved the sealed book from my Journal Case and handed it to Yngol.

I said, “The seal is that of Emperor Titus Mede II. You will find information about a planned invasion of Tamriel and how we intend to combat it.”

Yngol broke the seal and opened the book. He spent ten minutes reading it. I sought and found Rigmor’s hand, and kept a firm grip on it.

Yngol eventually closed the book, and the biggest test of my composure began.

• Yngol: This all seems to make sense. But why should I believe all this? I will look like a damn fool if it’s not true. Ulfric will have me crucified.
• Wulf: I give you my word as Champion of The Divines that it is true.
• Yngol: What if it is a pack of lies? What if it is not true?
• Wulf: I just gave my word. I don’t take kindly to people questioning it, General!
• Rigmor: Yngol, it is true, it is! Please!
• Wulf: You would look like a greater fool if The New Order conquered Skyrim! If you are not willing to take it to Ulfric, I will. He would not dare question my honesty!
• Yngol: There is no need, Lord Welkynd. Rigmor’s word is enough. It will be an honour to fight and die by her side when the time comes.
• Rigmor: No! I didn’t mean…

Yngol abruptly stood, indicating that the parley was over. I stood as abruptly. I needed to get out of the camp while my temper still held.

Rigmor rushed out to the horses because Yngol’s bullshit about dying for her upset my beloved.

Yngol said, “Lord Welkynd, go tell your man Rar Bendar, or whatever his name is, that he has his army. Leave Ulfric to me.”

“His name is Emissary Baa’Ren-Dar, and he is not my man but a highly respected Khajiiti ambassador. Show some respect for him, as he saved Rigmor’s life by rescuing her from Thalmor enslavement.”

“I didn’t know about the enslavement.”

“There are many things you do not know, General. The army is for the citizens of The Empire, not for the Khajiiti Emissary. Do you know why they have offered such a large reward for Rigmor, dead or alive?”

“I assume it is because she killed the Thalmor in Bruma.”

“No, General. It is because of who her father was. They are afraid that Rigmor will be a beacon of hope like Ragnar and as competent a commander. But people must fight and be willing to die for their homes and loved ones, not because Rigmor leads them into battle. I hope you have your priorities right when we gather our forces against The New Order.”

“Are you visiting Casius?”

“Yes, he has received his orders from General Tullius regarding The New Order. However, we shall visit him so he knows Rigmor and the Dragonborn will fight beside him.”

“Tell the old goat I give him my regards.”

“I will. If Ulfric is smart, we shall meet again under that truce.”

When I stepped outside, the lieutenant asked, “Can I have a quick word, Lord Welkynd?”

“Yes, of course.”

“Why did Rigmor say what she did?”

“I do not want to be responsible for you being declared a deserter and executed. Therefore, I will keep it simple. Rigmor does not want to know those who wear a Stormcloak uniform because she may have to cut them down. She knows what Ragnar would think of anybody associated with The Sons of Talos backing a usurper. Obey your orders until you do not have to, and hope this insanity ends before we face each other on a battlefield.”

I made my way to Rigmor and told her, “We shall teleport to Tundra Homestead and summon the horses from there.”

Rigmor sensed my anger and nodded.

We teleported into the home but did not look around it.

We exited, and I could see a dragon next to Whiterun’s walls. It was not being aggressive.

Rigmor remarked, “This place is beautiful!”

“And next to a river with fantastic fishing spots!”

“I said beautiful, not boring.”

“Come, I want to have a quick talk with one of the Dragonguard here.”

We found Sharava amongst the vegetables and newly planted wheat.

• Wulf: Good afternoon, Sharava. This young lady is Dragonguard Rigmor.
• Sharava: It is pleasant to meet you, Rigmor.
• Rigmor: Hello, Sharava. This place is wonderful!
• Sharava: I think it is Wulf’s favourite.
• Wulf: It is one of them.
• Sharava: Vayu visited and told us of the victories over Alduin. That must be a relief.
• Wulf: It is, Sharava, but other problems leave me little time to celebrate.
• Rigmor: I notice a lot of Whiterun guards around this homestead.
• Sharava: They patrol the main road. Also, we did have problems with the small racist element within this Hold. The Whiterun guards prevent more corpses from being delivered to Whiterun’s House of the Dead.
• Wulf: I hope to visit with Rigmor again for an extended stay.
• Sharava: We shall make her not want to leave.

We made our way to the main road where I summoned Hashire. He summoned Ren.

As we mounted, I told Rigmor, “We shall not follow the main road but cross the tundra.”

“Isn’t that dangerous?”

“We have cleared most of the bandit gangs in the area, and Kyne’s Peace is active.”

“Okay. I get to see some more of Skyrim!”

It was a pleasant ride till a suicidal dragon roared a challenge. Why would a solitary dragon think he could defeat me?

I could not be bothered talking to the fool and hit him with Dragonrend.

It did not take long for Rigmor and me to end his existence.

After absorbing his soul, I said, “His name was Mulqithiimkrii, which means Thunder-Lightning-Blade. Now he is nothing, not even a soul. There cannot be many as foolish as him.”

We continued the ride in silence.

I deliberately chose a difficult path, so Rigmor and Ren could feel pride in negotiating it.

The Imperial camp came into sight. As with the Stormcloaks, many soldiers recognised me and greeted me.

Legate Casius Varon saw us approaching and met us at the entrance to his command tent.

I approached and asked, “Are you Legate Casius Varon?”

“Yes, indeed. An Imperial runner delivered a message this morning. I was told to expect a visit from Lord Welkynd, the Dragonborn, and perhaps another.”

Rigmor laughed and said, “I have never been ‘another’ before. I do not feel any different.”

Casius looked at Rigmor then said, “The pretty young thing with you must be Rigmor.”

I told him, “Ahh… here are some orders sealed by General Tullius.”

I handed the orders to Casius, who quickly read them, then said, “Come and sit. Help yourself to refreshments.”

I looked at Rigmor, and she had an ear-to-ear smile. I would suffer dire consequences if I called her a pretty young thing.

I stood aside and said, “Pretty young things before weirdos.”

Rigmor laughed and said, “Ladies before peasants.”

I followed her inside, and we sat at a table with Casius.

• Casius: Have you spoken to Yngol?
• Wulf: It might have been Yngol, or it could have been a mountain. It was hard to tell. But I did speak to it, and it did send its regards.
• Rigmor: Wulf was happy to meet somebody larger than him.
• Casius: Sends his regards? I bet he does, that old fox.
• Wulf: Why have you set this camp up near The Pale’s border?
• Casius: There have been raiders crossing that border and ransacking farmsteads. I had this outpost built to stop them. Well, try to stop them.
• Wulf: Yngol thinks you are planning an offensive.
• Casius: Haha! I like to cause him a few sleepless nights from time to time. But the raiders are my main concern at the moment.
• Wulf: Are they taking advantage of the war and crossing from Stormcloak territory to Imperial territory, then scampering back?
• Casius: Yes. Their base of operations is Fort Dunstad.
• Wulf: The Stormcloaks have not bothered manning that place. Ulfric would not bother when the bandits are his allies.
• Casius: I can’t cross over The Pale’s border to deal with them.
• Rigmor: The Jarl might regard that as an act of aggression.
• Casius: That’s right. Things could escalate very quickly.
• Wulf: We Dragonguard hate bandits. Would you assist us with a pesky group of bandits?
• Casius: Are you suggesting a special operation? I like the sound of that, Lord Welkynd. You would have my gratitude.
• Rigmor: We would have to get in and out quickly and leave no witnesses.
• Wulf: Removing a nest of bandits is never frowned upon. Jarl Skald the Elder would not complain. However, it might get messy if Stormcloaks did see you there, Legate.
• Casius: Excellent! But I would like to talk to Rigmor first.
• Wulf: Go ahead. Let the bandits enjoy a few more minutes on Nirn.
• Rigmor: Yngol and Wulf said you knew my dad.
• Casius: I learned a lot from him during The Great War. His men were unparalleled on the battlefield. We fought at the Battle of the Red Ring together. Later, in Hammerfell, he saved my life. I remember it as clearly as if it were yesterday. Would you like to hear about that battle?
• Rigmor: Yes, please. I know so little of what my father did as a soldier.

I don’t think Casius knows it was not Titus Mede II who led the army that day.

In 4E 171, Lord Naarifin and his army invaded Cyrodiil after sneaking out of their hidden camps near the Elsweyr border. They successfully flanked Imperial forces near the border of Valenwood, which led to the conquest of Leyawiin. Soon after, Lord Naarifin’s army marched on to besiege Bravil.

By 4E 172, Lord Naarifin’s army had made significant progress and reached the Imperial City’s walls. During this time, there were numerous clashes between the Aldmeri and Imperial Navies on Lake Rumare. As the year progressed, the Imperial City was besieged from almost all sides, with only the supply route to Bruma remaining open.

In the year 4E 174, Lord Naarifin’s army received a significant boost in strength from Aldmeri reinforcements, and they launched an attack on The Imperial City. Emperor Titus Mede II fled, knowing his death would end the Empire’s resistance.

The Dominion forces captured The Imperial City and plundered its riches. In their greed, they did significant damage to The White Gold Tower. Following this victory, Lord Naarifin began to fulfil a dreadful prophecy called The Culling. Some say he did it to secure a victory for the Dominion. I believe he did it to please his mistress, Lady Boethia.

The prophecy said that if enough citizens of The Imperial City were killed, their Lifeforce would open a portal, allowing armies of Boethia’s minions to invade Tamriel. Eventually, Boethia may have been able to cross the Liminal Barrier.

Lord Naarifin reopened The Arena, where endless mock battles caused much loss of life. This action helped disguise some of the countless deaths and entertained the citizens of The Imperial City. If left unchecked, all citizens of The Imperial City would have been sacrificed even after the portal was opened.

However, this course of action changed due to The Battle of The Red Ring, where The Forgotten Hero led the Imperial forces that retook The Imperial City.

Like me, The Forgotten Hero was a mortal champion. Much has been written about his exploits, but what is important here is the deception at The Battle of The Red Ring.

A failed assassination attempt severely injured Emperor Titus Mede II. His Imperial Majesty asked The Forgotten Hero to lead a surprise attack by Imperial forces by impersonating him. The Forgotten Hero wore the Emperor’s armour and led the Imperial armies to victory using the plan of attack designed by His Imperial Majesty and his generals.

Although Lord Naarifin was on the brink of fulfilling The Culling prophecy, The Battle of the Red Ring proved a turning point, and the Dominion forces were defeated. Following his defeat, Lord Naarifin was hanged from the White-Gold Tower for thirty-three days, but on the thirty-fourth day, rumours circulated that a flying Daedra had taken his body away.

The truth of that battle is starting to be known due to the courage of a rogue Moth Priest. He is now hiding in exile, and I would aid him if given a chance. The Moth Priest told the truth, which is more important than who led the army. However, I understand that such revelations could cause untold harm to Imperial morale while the civil war rages.

It is not my task to tell Casius the truth. Also, it was not the appropriate time for him to learn it. So I listened as he told of the battle as he saw it.

• Casius: The end was drawing near. The battle had been raging for two days, and it was the Dominion’s final push. Their Elite Guards were at the front, with the rest of their army following behind. They thought they had the victory in their hands and sent in everything they had.
• Rigmor: I can’t imagine how frightening that must have been!
• Casius: Trumpets, conches, shields bashing, horns, tremendous noise! The Dominion arrows blotted out the sun and turned day to night as they made their way steadily up the hill. The wind blew in dark storm clouds from the east, and it began to rain. It poured as thunder rolled above our heads.

Casius’ monotone delivery conveyed the facts without the glorification a Nord, like Yngol, would inject. But he also missed out on delivering the horror.

• Casius: There was a roar of one hundred thousand men as General Jonna rode down from the hill to direct the battle personally. Jonna gave the order, and the Nords charged the Altmer Elite Guards head-on. There was an almighty crashing of shields on steel armour! The Altmer frontline was shunted back ten yards by the sheer force of the Nord shield wall. They tried desperately to break through it, but the hammers and broadswords behind the wall fell on them time and time again. Still, the arrows rained down on us. Still, the rain poured down on us, but Jonna made us stand. We waited and waited. Finally, Jonna gave the signal. The Legion advanced in tight formation on the Dominion’s left flank. We inched our way forward, horns and conches sounding. The bashing of swords on shields drowned out the roar of the battle. When we were ten yards from them, they charged us, but our lines held, and inch by inch, we pushed them back. The clash of steel was deafening.

I pictured the similar battles I have fought. I felt like asking Casius why he doesn’t mention how people you knew fell screaming as their insides spilt onto the ground or their brains splattered as skulls were cleaved open. Where is the part where you almost lost your footing on blood, guts, and shit? I bet that made keeping your neat lines of shiny armoured rank and file hard! What about those pleading to their gods, mother, or lover to rescue them from the unfolding nightmare?

I knew what was coming next. It would be the joy of victory without the hollow reality of its empty meaning.

• Casius: Word swept through the ranks that Titus’ army had entered the Imperial City. TITUS, TITUS, TITUS, we roared! Then it happened…the Dominion command left the field, and their army faltered and broke ranks. One hundred and fifty thousand troops fled the battlefield. They threw away their weapons, armour, and anything else that would slow them down. Such was their panic. The Altmer Elite Guard stood and died, refusing the quarter offered. Your father was decorated on the field by Jonna himself.

Tell me, Casius, how were the Elite Guard offered quarter? Was a clear corridor made through the victorious Empire forces to allow them to march with dignity from the field? Or were they surrounded by a snarling wall of hate in Imperial uniform? How fucking moronic is it to glorify such a last stand when there was no strategic value in their deaths or even a need to kill them!

I kept all this bitterness to myself and hoped Rigmor only saw a neutral expression when she glanced my way. I knew she was picturing her father in the middle of this ‘glory.’ It would do her no good for me to sour the vision.

If Rigmor is ever in such a battle, she will learn that reality is not the glory that Casius portrayed. She will finally realise what Ragnar experienced and why he could not tell her about it.

• Rigmor: You mentioned my dad saved your life?
• Casius: I was in the ranks when the war ended. I was planning on leaving the army and settling in northern Skyrim after buying a mill with my army pension.
• Wulf: But you heard of the planned annexation of part of Hammerfell, didn’t you?
• Casius: Yes, that was a part of the White-Gold Concordat many of us could not let happen. I heard of the Resistance in Hammerfell and offered my services to the Redguard High Command.
• Wulf: Emperor Mede did all he could to support that resistance without being seen to breach the Concordat. Something Yngol seems to have forgotten.
• Casius: That is correct. He declared all serving Legionnaires who wished to join as invalids. That means they were honourably discharged. They were not forced to desert, and their families would receive a pension if they should die. It also meant they could be declared medically fit again and re-enlist in the Legion later if that was their wish.
• Wulf: Are many of your current command those who were able to get medically fit and re-enlist?
• Casius: Yes, quite a few.
• Wulf: I am sure many such re-enlisted men are on both sides of this civil war. Forgive me for interrupting. Please continue.
• Casius: I found myself commanding a battalion, primarily volunteers. We had been attached to the Fifth Army and became stranded in the enemy-held territory when the treaty was signed.
• Rigmor: So Redguard and Imperial soldiers had been fighting Dominion Forces when the withdrawal order came?
• Casius: Yes.
• Rigmor: Were the Legionnaires fighting beside the Redguards expected to abandon their comrades?
• Casius: Yes, but the bond forged with those who fight beside you can’t easily be broken.
• Wulf: The exception is a megalomaniac who wants to be the High King. Once again, I apologise, but I want Rigmor to understand why men like you, like her father, voluntarily returned to the horrors of war. Yngol would have her believe that Ragnar did it because of the ban on worshipping Talos.
• Rigmor: I told Yngol that he did it to help the Redguards. Not because he had the chance to fight ‘elves’ and not because of the Talos ban.
• Casius: Your father never hated the Altmer, Rigmor. The Thalmor are a different matter. He never fought to restore Talos worship, as that could never be stopped if people were circumspect in doing so.
• Rigmor: Please, continue.
• Casius: We had been ordered by the Redguard High Command to withdraw from Dominion-controlled territory but found our retreat cut off. Panic started to set in, and it became a rout. The Dominion forces descended on us and began cutting us to pieces. Men, women, and children.
• Rigmor: Women and children?
• Casius: Dark days, Rigmor. The baggage train was five miles long, and the rivers ran red with blood. It was a massacre! The army was scattered, and we had taken on thousands upon thousands of refugees, all running for their lives.
• Wulf: You had to cross the Brema River to reach safety.
• Casius: Yes, but we were stranded on the bank fighting a desperate rear-guard action. It seemed there was no hope, and the despair was almost too much to bear. I was at the helm of my men. About two thousand fighting men were left trying to protect at least a hundred thousand refugees. Boats were slowly coming across, and women were throwing their babies into them. Grown men were sobbing on the bank. Some just gave up and waited to be slaughtered. The Dominion troops hacked and cleaved their way freely through the mass of bodies.

Rigmor was on the verge of tears. I, too, felt like weeping for the parents as, once again, that most precious of things, family, was taken away when it should be sacrosanct.

• Casius: Then we heard it, and everything stopped. Even the children ceased crying, and Dominion troops held their swords, stunned by what they heard, then saw. All heads turned in the direction of the sound. It was like a pulsating rolling thunder, as if the sky itself was being torn apart. Then we saw The Sons of Talos’ banner coming over the crest of the hill, two golden, gilded longhorns, one on each side, that sounded like the anger of the gods. The thunder was the Nords bashing their swords against their shields. Then came the battle cry of six thousand Berserkers as they charged into the mass of Dominion troops even though they were outnumbered three to one. There was a roar and cheer from both sides of the river. And the Berserkers slew and slew and slew. The Dominion forces routed, and oh, how they ran! They were shown no mercy, and no quarter was given, an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth, a life for a life. Ragnar rallied the remaining Redguard and held the rear guard until every survivor safely reached the other shore. I owe your father a debt of gratitude I could never repay.
• Rigmor: And then they blamed him for that massacre!
• Casius: Rigmor, if ever you need me to testify to clear your family’s name, I will be there in a heartbeat. You should be very proud of your father. He was greatly feared by his enemies and loved by his friends.
• Rigmor: I now know why he never talked about the war. Thank you, Casius. I will remember that offer.
• Casius: Now it seems things have come full circle, and total war could again be upon us. It is such a pity that fool Ulfric appears to think it wise to pitch brother against brother, and for what, freedom from The Empire?
• Wulf: No, Casius, he uses that reason and his blasphemy about Talos to recruit. He is simply after the title of High King. It could be a short-lived reign, for The Dominion would soon invade a weakened Tamriel. But first, we must deal with The New Order in a way that does not undermine Skyrim or Cyrodiil.
• Casius: Hopefully, many Stormcloaks will realise that Skyrim needs the Empire. What is it they shout?
• Rigmor: Skyrim is for the Nords.
• Casius: I wonder what he has in store for those poor souls who are not Nords. The Stormcloaks and the Thalmor deserve each other.
• Wulf: But the citizens of the Empire and Dominion do not deserve to die for other people’s bigotry and ambitions. Your experience at Brema River was repeated countless times as the Nords wiped out the Snow Elves and many nations wiped out the Ayleid. These are not dark days. They are regular days on Nirn.
• Casius: Once, we all fought the same common enemy together, side by side. The enemy of my enemy…
• Rigmor: Is your friend?
• Wulf: They are not friends! They are convenient allies against a common enemy. The differences will continue to fester under the false veneer of a temporary friendship. Individual soldiers may forget their enmity when fighting together, but their leaders will stoke hatred once more at the first opportunity.
• Casius: I will talk to General Tullius and start making the necessary plans.
• Wulf: I have faith he will obey the orders of His Imperial Majesty.
• Casius: Your problem will be convincing Ulfric Stormcloak. I hope Yngol can knock some sense into his thick skull.
• Wulf: Let’s take care of those bandits. I might not be openly killing Stormcloaks, but their lawless allies regularly feel my wrath.

We mounted our horses and followed Casius at a distance so we could speak. He rode fast, but we rode at a more sedate pace.

Rigmor asked, “We are not doing this so that Casius trusts us more, are we?”

“No, he has his orders, and trust is not a factor.”

“You want to get rid of some bandits.”

“I hate vermin taking advantage of the war to prey on civilians.”

“You couldn’t get two more opposites in looks.”

“A huge mountain of a bearded Nord and a well-groomed Imperial gentleman.”

“And they ended up being friends. Now they might have to fight each other.”

“Too bad about Casius’ eyesight. It must have been damaged in battle.”

“What do you mean? I didn’t notice anything wrong with his eyes.”

“How else would you explain, ‘pretty young thing’? He must be partially blind!”

“Wulf, you are asking for a kick in the bollocks!”

“He should have said, ‘unbelievably gorgeous woman’!”

“Was that sincere, or is it you protecting your manhood?”

“Rigmor, I love you and will not lie to you. Ever!”

“Oh, in that case, you can stop worrying about your dangly bits.”

“You are too kind.”

Casius looked behind and realised he was getting too far ahead. He waited for us to catch up and continued at our safer speed.

A while later I advised him, “Do not worry about the wolves. They will not attack when I am near you.”

We reached Fort Dunstad, and Casius, being a typical Imperial officer, did not dismount before confronting the bandits with nasty words.

Casius yelled, “Bandits, raiders, and thieves, you have been warned to stay out of Imperial territory! You have chosen to ignore the warnings, but I give you one last chance to disband and disperse!”

The bandits saw a Legate, a tall person in strange armour and a skinny noblewoman wearing expensive armour. They were not intimidated, so the insults came thick and fast.

After listening to their nonsense, it was my turn,

Using the full strength of my Thu’um, I said, “LEGATE VARON WAS MISTAKEN TO GIVE COWARDLY VERMIN A CHANCE. I AM LORD WELKYND, THE DRAGONBORN, AND I HATE BANDITS!”

Two bouts of Dragonfire eliminated the badmouths and a few gate sentries.

As Casius dismounted, Rigmor and I charged the gate and began the slaughter.

In less than three minutes, about thirty bandits lay dead.

I approached Casius, who looked as shocked as Yngol after witnessing our bandit extermination expertise.

• Casius: Now that I have seen The Voice in action, I can start to believe old tales.
• Rigmor: Did you see Wulf’s Dance of Death?
• Casius: Yes, that was impressive and frightening.
• Wulf: Frightening is when multiple Swordmasters carve through the enemy’s ranks.
• Casius: Have you fought in battles?
• Wulf: Many of them, and always against great odds in Akavir as we aided the just against oppressors.
• Casius: Let’s check inside this tavern to ensure we got them all.
• Wulf: We didn’t. There are two bandits upstairs and three downstairs. There is also the fort’s interior, but I suggest we leave that task for now, as it would take considerable time to hunt the vermin.
• Casius: How do you know who is inside?
• Rigmor: Wulf can see their heat as a dragon can.
• Wulf: What I can’t see is the family that lives here, but there are three corpses downstairs.
• Rigmor: Perhaps they were allowed to leave, and the dead are other unfortunates?
• Wulf: I hope so, Rigmor.

We entered and quickly eliminated the bandits.

On a bed in the basement lay the Sendu family.

• Wulf: The father is Barak Sendu. The mother is Areanna. The little girl is Bindi, who is only eight years of age.
• Casius: Did you know them well, Wulf?
• Wulf: Yes, we supplied them with food free of charge. We urged them to move, but they thought the Stormcloaks would take over the fort. It was their home, and I respected their decision.
• Rigmor: They killed a little girl, Casius! Why was that necessary?
• Casius: Dark days, Rigmor.
• Wulf: These people are victims of the civil war. Every coin they had was invested in this tavern. It provided a good life for a while, and they were happy. Then Ulfric decided he wanted to be the High King. For years, the soldiers here risked their lives protecting the citizens of The Pale. Then they fled as the same citizens repaid their service with hate and bigotry! What was this family going to do? Abandon all they own? As I mentioned, they hoped the garrison would return, or the Stormcloaks would occupy the fort one day. The bandits may have killed them, but their deaths add to Ulfric’s tally.
• Casius: I will send a message to the Jarl telling him he has citizens that need burying. Anonymously, of course.
• Rigmor: Will you do Arkay’s Rite for them, Wulf?
• Wulf: Yes, for they met a violent death. At least there is no sign of rape. Even eight-year-olds are not spared that final degradation on occasion.

I removed my helm and performed the rite.

I then advised, “Let us get out of here before a Stormcloak patrol sees us. I have had enough killing for today.”

We made our way back to the Imperial camp without incident.

On the patio of his tent, Casius said, “Rigmor, before you go, I have something for you. As I said, I owe your father a debt of gratitude for my life. I would like you to have this.”

Casius passed a beautiful necklace to Rigmor. The darkest of gems were set in onyx.

Rigmor gasped, took it gently from him, and then exclaimed, “Oh my, Casius, it’s gorgeous!”

“It was my mother’s, and I want you to have it. Please say you will take it.”

Rigmor examined the precious gift and asked, “The stones are beautiful! What are they?”

“Black Diamonds.”

“Black Diamonds? I have never seen or heard of them before.”

Casius’s reply was strange. He said, “When the time comes, Rigmor, you will know what to do with them.”

Cassius wandered off to have a meal with his men. Rigmor stood transfixed by the necklace.

I stood in front of Rigmor and waited. Eventually, she noticed me and looked up.

I asked, “May I have a look at the necklace?”

Rigmor handed the necklace to me. I studied it, then handed it back.

I told Rigmor, “I know what the Black Diamonds are.”

“Well, Dragonbum, what are they?”

“They are Azuran morpholiths.”

“Yeah, of course. That is obvious.”

“Oh, so you do not need an explanation then?”

“I am hungry, need a bath and wanna sleep for a week, so can you summarise?

“People with foresight are often confused. Was their vision real or metaphorical? When was it? Past, present or future? Sometimes they pass their vision onto Azura, and if she has enough from different seers, she may be able to interpret them and give the seers answers. However, if the seers can use something like a Black Diamond to clarify the vision, they may be able to provide the answer themselves. There have been recorded instances where several seers have combined to clarify a vision and crystals of some type were used. I would have to read some dusty tomes to research that further.”

“Your father placed a dweomer on your amulet to help you clarify where and when you are.”

“Yes, it is a similar concept. The Black Diamonds do a lot more, but that is one use for them.”

“And these are what The New Order are using enslaved to mine?”

“Yes, and it explains why Diamond Ridge Mine is so hard to find. Azura would use mortal agents to obscure its location. My map of Skyrim cost a fortune, and if it is not shown on it, then I doubt any map shows the mine’s location.”

“Okay, you can explain some of the other things they can do another time. Perhaps you can figure out why The New Order want them.”

“I have a theory on why Casius said what he said, but that can also wait.”

“Food! Bath! Bed!”

“Okay, we will do a quick stop at Angi’s, but I promise, we shall be home soon!”

We teleported to Angi’s. I summoned Hashire, and he summoned Ren.

Sorella came running over.

She asked, “Have you found more people to get the bad guys?”

“I think so. We will have to wait a little bit to find out.”

“Good. Anyway, I have to have my bath now.”

“Oh, I wondered what that pong was.”

“A fox smells his own scent first!”

 Sorella ran off. I talked to Celestine while Rigmor chatted with Angi.

“Celestine, what do you know about morpholiths?”

“Only the basics taught at The College of Winterhold. Azura’s Crystal was used to capture the essence of Daedra. Azura’s Star is a reusable Soul Gem. The Chim-el Adabal is one. Sigil Stones are another type.”

“Azura has Black Diamonds, and The New Order have shown interest in them. We think they have captured the only Black Diamond mine in existence, and that is where Sigunn, Rigmor’s mother, is being kept.”

“Vayu might know something about morpholiths. Do you think they are used for foresight?”

“That is one theory I have.”

“How did the diplomacy go?”

“I think we shall have a truce and a combined army, unless Ulfric is dumber than I thought.”

“Stormcloak fighting beside Imperial for a common cause might frighten Ulfric. His followers will see how the combined strength is more important than other considerations such as Talos worship.”

“I will have a surprise for them as well. How do you think Nords would react to an avatar of Lord Shor fighting beside the Dragonborn? And then, later, the Dragonborn sides with the Empire in the civil war?”

“Ulfric would lose much of his army.”

“I am going to do all I can to reduce his army without having to kill the misled. Most of Ulfric’s claims are lies, and if I make his followers question them, they will go home.”

“The two men you met with today. Would they try to kill each other?”

“No. From what I have read and heard today, the bonds forged while fighting under Ragnar’s command are unbreakable.”

“So, Legate Casius Verone’s choice as mediator was strategic by General Tullius. Legate Frostreaver might be more respected, but not publicly connected to Rigmor or a friend of General Strong-Blade.”

“They call her Legate Rikke, which is against Imperial Army regulations. Being associated with Frostreaver, and therefore the wife of a traitor, might not be desirable, whatever your thoughts on the charges against Ragnar. Rikke met Rigmor today, but it was done in a way nobody saw them together.”

“Ragnar’s name will be cleared, Wulf. You do not have to make it a condition of anything. Just ask.”

“Oh, I will ask, and I do not care if Mede makes up another piece of fiction or admits to the political reasons.”

Rigmor came over and did not need to hint. It was time to go home.

I teleported us into my rooms where we ate, bathed and crawled into bed.