Morndas, 16^th Hearthfire, 4E 201

While enjoying a good soak in the spa, Rigmor asked, “Is the number of times we made love last night normal?”

“Last night and this morning, you mean? Why ask? Did you get bored?”

“What do you think?”

“Since you are the one who kept attacking me, no, I don’t think you were bored.”

“Ahh…you aren’t mentioning anything about it in your journal, I hope.”

“It was a historically important event. Future scholars will want to know the details to discuss it for hours while drinking wine and eating cheese.”

“If you dare, Wulf, I will…I will…”

“You will what? Rip my clothes off and ravish me?”

“Only if you get some details wrong, and I must remind you how it went.”

“I will mention we made love, Rigmor. It was a special moment in both our lives.”

“Yes, of course. It was beautiful, and we got pretty good at it. But we need more practice!”

“We have many things to do, so don’t get any funny ideas!”

“Wulf, I had another dream last night. It was more vivid this time. The little girl was waiting for me on the battlefield outside of Whiterun. It was pouring, and the fighting was over. The dead and wounded lay everywhere. She laughed and skipped through the butchered and cleaved, scaring off the crows. When she saw me, she approached and picked up a sword from the ground. It was very heavy, but she smiled at me and lifted it as high as she could above her head. Then she shouted at the top of her voice, ‘Freedom!’”

“Did the little girl do anything else?”

“Yes, she drew a line in the dirt with the sword. Then she held it out for me to take. As I tried to take it, she held out her other hand. She wanted something in return. But I didn’t have what she wanted, so she stopped smiling. Then it went dark. I heard her sobbing again, but I couldn’t find her.”

I knew what the girl wanted, but Rigmor had to figure it out and unblock more memories. I was starting to suspect what those memories were.

I told Rigmor, “The girl is the key to more memories. Sooner or later, you will figure out what she wants.”

“Nah, I don’t know what she wants and probably never will.”

“No, Rigmor. You will figure it out. Of that, I am certain.”

“Okay. I won’t worry about it for now.”

“I thought you might want to speak to Jarl Elisif. She can advise on the countess position.”

“Do you think she would?”

“I am certain she will. Elisif will be High Queen, and Skyrim trades a lot with Bruma. Therefore, she has a vested interest in who runs Bruma. She is only twenty years of age, Rigmor. However, she was trained from a young age to deal with politics. She deliberately acts naïve, which has proved effective against those who underestimate her. She can turn from a giggly airhead to a snarling predator in a split second.”

“Elisif might be able to tell us about Count Carvain. Knowing what happened to him might help me decide if I will accept Mede’s offer.”

“Let’s get dressed, stay dressed, break our fast and then head for the palace.”

“Is there bacon?”

“The larder here is quite large. However, I doubt it is big enough to hold your usual serving of bacon and eggs.”

“Haha.”

It is a mystery how Rigmor can consume so much bacon and eggs in one sitting without gaining weight. The children who witness it are amused. It leaves me puzzled, so I call it gobbledegook.

After finishing our meal and cleaning up, which does not take long with a few spells, I contacted the farm via CORB.

Lydia answered the impossible-to-ignore chirping.

• Lydia: Good morning, Wulf and Rigmor. Celestine is with me. The others are helping prepare breakfast.
• Rigmor: Good morning, Lydia and Celestine.
• Wulf: Good morning.
• Lydia: You sound a lot more cheerful, Rigmor.
• Rigmor: Yes, most of my memories have returned.
• Lydia: Hashire lost the bet, then.
• Wulf: Did he think Rigmor would run away after she remembered everything?
• Lydia: He was only joking. He only wants the best for you both.
• Rigmor: Well, Wulf is stuck with me, no matter how bad his sense of humour is.
• Lydia: Everybody will be relieved to hear that.
• Celestine: What are your plans for today?
• Wulf: We are visiting The Blue Palace to learn more about Count Carvain and why Bruma needs a replacement.
• Celestine: We have discussed your heritage, Rigmor, but only among ourselves. You decide when to discuss it with Sigunn.
• Rigmor: I am unsure about accepting the countess position. It would be a tremendous responsibility.
• Lydia: Daunting at first, as there would be so much to learn.
• Rigmor: Yeah, and I would be relying on advisors I have yet to meet.
• Wulf: Sigunn will provide wise, motherly advice.
• Lydia: I am sure you have plenty of time to decide.
• Wulf: We shall also visit Legate Casius Veron. That might help Rigmor with some more recent memories.
• Rigmor: It is weird. Memories keep popping up just when I think my brain is full.
• Lydia: That mountain called Yngol spent a few hours here yesterday. They are quite smitten with each other.
• Celestine: I think Yngol has been rehearsing his gentlemanly manners. I don’t think they come naturally to him.
• Rigmor: Legate Casius Veron is probably advising his friend.
• Celestine: Angi has been weeping, but seems fine when Yngol visits.
• Rigmor: Angi deserves any happiness she can find. I might talk to her and see if I can help with what is upsetting her.
• Wulf: I know what it is, Rigmor, and shall talk to you later about it.
• Rigmor: Oh. Okay.
• Wulf: We’ll likely visit the College of Winterhold.
• Lydia: Rigmor, you must be amazed at how well the mages have protected you.
• Rigmor: How could I have survived without their and Azura’s help?
• Lydia: Your family being torn apart, father killed, and enslavement must be part of some detailed plan.
• Rigmor: They control Wulf, but he doesn’t know it.
• Wulf: I bet this Jonte Malesam thinks he has the right to tell you about your heritage and His Imperial Majesty’s offer.
• Rigmor: Yeah, why would you know what is best for me?
• Wulf: I will never tell you what to do, Rigmor. However, I can judge when to tell you these things better than a stranger.
• Lydia: Celestine said that Jonte is a devotee of Boethia.
• Wulf: Yes, but that is not of concern unless he believes every word that Daedric Prince says.
• Celestine: Silah visited. There are two New Order fleets. Both are three days away from landing. The fleet heading for Cyrodiil with The New Order’s southern army consists of 75 transports, 15 supply ships, and 20 warships. The fleet heading for Skyrim, with The New Order’s northern army, consists of 50 transports, 10 supply ships and 15 warships.
• Wulf: Using standard troopships, that means they will land approximately 10,000 troops in Skyrim and about 16,000 troops in Cyrodiil. Just over three legions’ worth, and The Empire has 24 legions in service. If Trinimac had come through with an army of Dremora and Imps, The Empire would have been locked in a long conflict. Even with Trinimac, they could not have hoped to defeat us in less than a year. Their plan was flawed from the start.
• Rigmor: What if The Dominion decides to join them?
• Wulf: It would still take a year or more to defeat us. That assumes Elsweyr and other provinces don’t aid us.
• Rigmor: Will the combined army be big enough to protect Whiterun?
• Wulf: Rigmor has been having a premonition, so I am certain Whiterun will be where the major battle occurs. Both sides of the civil war will hesitate to commit most of their troops. We shall likely field five to six thousand against whatever New Order troops make it to Whiterun. We shall be outnumbered, but, depending on the composition of their forces, I think our troops will be vastly superior.
• Celestine: Silah said there are Orsimer heavy-infantry mercenaries, Dunmer mercenary archers, and New Order infantry, both light and heavy. Our dragon friends do not know how many wizards there are. The New Order troops outnumber the mercenaries by 8 or 9 to 1.
• Wulf: If Rigmor’s premonition is accurate, their archers will be rendered useless by a heavy storm.
• Celestine: Do you have faith in Rigmor’s premonition?
• Wulf: Yes, but we shall not deploy our forces assuming terrible weather. We shall be predictable, up until we aren’t.
• Rigmor: Huh?
• Celestine: If the Stormcloaks and Imperial troops use standard defensive formations, New Order commanders will use standard attack formations.
• Wulf: Then we do something unexpected. The Stormcloak shield wall will not remain in place. Instead, there will be a charging mass of Nords yelling their war cries as they head for the enemy archers.
• Rigmor: If the weather is bad, the archers will be closer than usual. The New Order will commit their infantry before their archers are overrun.
• Lydia: Did your father teach you tactics as well as the sword?
• Rigmor: No, but there is a logic to tactics. Why would we stand still as death rains down?
• Wulf: I have only committed the Stormcloaks so far. What should I do next, Rigmor?
• Rigmor: Enemy infantry will come to their archers’ aid. The Stormcloaks will soon be facing the infantry and surviving archers in close combat. Legionnaires can then flank the attackers. An impenetrable shield-wall in front and Nirn’s best soldiers attacking from the side will prove too much. New Order casualties will quickly mount.
• Celestine: Why does Wulf want to face them on the open plain and not behind Whiterun’s walls?
• Rigmor: It is impossible to force a quick defeat from behind city walls. The attacker can choose a long siege and commit only the troops needed to maintain it. The tundra near Whiterun allows more flexibility and a rapid defeat of the enemy.
• Lydia: Would you have understood the logic, and therefore the tactics, if Wulf wasn’t near you?
• Rigmor: Eventually, yes, but with less certainty. I will have to make decisions as Countess of Bruma without the benefit of Our Quiet.
• Lydia: I should think that many decisions you would make as a countess would rely on logic.
• Celestine: Empathy and compassion are the two factors that differentiate respected nobles from the unloved majority.
• Rigmor: I would have to learn quickly. Bruma’s citizens would depend on me.
• Wulf: Does Vayu know about the enemy fleet?
• Lydia: Silah was going to visit him as well.
• Celestine: I think Silah, dressed as she is, has somewhat ensorceled General Tullius. Vayu doubts the veteran could tell you the colour of Silah’s eyes. He is fixated on cleavage and mumbles incoherently when speaking to her.
• Wulf: Well, Silah is looking for mortal mates out of curiosity.
• Rigmor: Eww!!!
• Wulf: Talk to you again soon.

We exited the Safehouse and were greeted by light rain.

It was not long before Rigmor asked about Angi.

“Wulf, what has upset Angi?”

“You have hinted to me that Angi told you what happened to her family in Helgen.”

“Yes, but I promised not to tell anybody.”

“Her family was murdered after trying to defend Angi from rapists.”

“Do you know what happened?”

“Yes. Angi did not tell me the details. I found them out by chance.”

“Yes, we had long discussions about it. Angi was raped by Legionnaires and her family was murdered. She eventually killed her attackers. She doesn’t trust men and can’t handle crowds. That is why she made her hut and lives in that remote place.”

“I explained to you why we moved from Angi’s to Sethri’s farm.”

“The New Order sent troops to kill Angi and everybody else there.”

“After eliminating the attackers, I visited Falkreath. Its inn was full of New Order and Imperial traitors.”

“Scum!”

“Three Legionnaires, I hate to call them that, were boasting about how they raped Angi and killed her family. They never mentioned her name, but most people around them knew who they were referring to.”

“Oh, no!!! That must have made you angry.”

“Angi never got revenge on those who harmed her and her family. I think we can forgive the mistruth. She did not want others to seek it for her.”

“Yes, I would have tried to hunt them down. You would have as well.”

“I was livid, but The New Order and traitors were eliminated by Dragonguard and civilians. I did not have to kill.”

“You didn’t want people to see your Dance of Death. That is why you allowed me to eliminate the bounty hunters in Riften. Plus it showed I can defend myself, if any watchers had ideas.”

“On one of the rapists, I found Angi’s locket. He kept it as a reminder of his ‘victory’ over a defenceless woman and her family. I have imagined countless atrocities as Ysgramor’s forces eliminated the Snow Elves. It happens in every war, but these animals were not at war. Angi’s family were not citizens of an enemy province. I do not use the term evil very often, but those three were evil in its purest form.”

“Did you give Angi her locket?”

“Yes, and I tried to reassure her that she was not to blame and there was no shame. She ran off crying.”

“Is that why she is weeping now?”

“I do not know if she is worried about Yngol’s reaction or if she feels ashamed or is worried about intimacy or a combination.”

“Yes, it could be a mixture of all three.”

“Perhaps you can speak to her again. Find out what is worrying her. I would hate to see whatever it is be unresolved and cause a rift between her and Yngol.”

“Angi and her family did not deserve that, Wulf.”

“No, they didn’t, and there is no convenient god to blame.”

We entered The Blue Palace, and no supplicants were waiting to see Jarl Elisif.

However, somebody was speaking to Elisif and her court as we approached.

• Varnius: I swear to you, unnatural magics are coming from that cave! There are strange noises and lights! We need someone to investigate!
• Elisif: Then we will immediately send out a legion to scour the cave and secure the town. Haafingar’s people will always be safe under my rule.
• Varnius: Thank you, my Jarl.
• Sybille: Your Eminence, my scrying has suggested nothing in the area. Dragon Bridge is under Imperial control. This fuss is likely superstitious nonsense.
• Falk: Perhaps a more… tempered reaction… might be called for?
• Elisif: Oh. Yes, of course you are right. Falk, tell Captain Aldis I said to assign a few extra soldiers to Dragon Bridge.
• Varnius: Thank you, Jarl Elisif. But about the cave…
• Falk: I will have someone take care of the cave as well, Varnius. You can rest easy. You’re dismissed.
• Wulf: Excuse me, Varnius, I am Lord Welkynd. Does this cave have a name?

Varnius turned to me.

• Varnius: Are you the Dragonborn?
• Wulf: Yes, Varnius. Please, tell me about the cave.
• Varnius: It is called Wolfskull Cave. Locals have avoided it for as long as I can remember.
• Wulf: I know the cave and its reputation. Did you see anything near the cave?
• Varnius: I have passed it countless times, but yesterday I heard chanting and saw lights flickering.
• Wulf: Did you approach the entrance?
• Varnius: No, I was afraid, and made my way here. I had to wait till this morning to see the Jarl.
• Wulf: Sybille, your scrying can be blocked by certain spells.
• Sybille: Yes, that is possible.
• Wulf: I assume everybody knows the history of that cave.
• Elisif: The Wolf Queen, Potema, used it for necromantic rituals.
• Falk: That was over 500 years ago. Nothing much down there now. But everyone’s always convinced the cave is haunted.
• Wulf: Necromancy cares nothing for time, Falk. Varnius’ concern should be taken seriously, so I shall investigate the cave.
• Elisif: Then that matter is settled for now.
• Wulf: Can we please speak in private concerning another matter, Jarl Elisif?
• Falk: No others are waiting for an audience, my Jarl.
• Elisif: A calm before the storm, no doubt. Yes, Lord Welkynd, let us speak in the gardens.

We made our way to the rooftop gardens and waited for Elisif to sit. Rigmor and I remained standing.

• Elisif: At last, I get to meet Lady Rigmor Ragnarsdottier.
• Rigmor: You know who I am?
• Elisif: Of course I do. Your likeness is plastered on every news sheet.
• Rigmor: Oh.
• Elisif: Before that, countless wanted posters were seen all over Skyrim.
• Rigmor: Well, I can explain those.
• Elisif: There is no need. I know why The New Order were after you, Rigmor. More importantly, you fought to save this city and stood with Lord Welkynd against Alduin. You are a hero and have earned my deepest respect. So please, sit next to me.
• Rigmor: I feel more comfortable standing, Jarl Elisif. I was taught protocol from an early age, and I hesitate to break it.
• Elisif: Do you wish to sit, Wulf?
• Wulf: Rigmor would call me nasty names if I did, Elisif.
• Elisif: Oh my, Wulf called me Elisif and didn’t burst into flames!
• Rigmor: But he is a barbarian and can be forgiven for his uncouth ways.
• Elisif: Okay, Wulf, what do you need to speak to me about?
• Wulf: Do you know what happened to Count Carvain?
• Elisif: Yes, I do. Just over a month ago, Count Virellus Carvain died when his horse was spooked, and he was thrown down an embankment. His only child, Sofia, became Countess at age twelve. The Count’s Consort, newly widowed Lady Aviefre Carvain, became Regent of Bruma until Sofia came of age. That is eighteen in Cyrodiil.
• Rigmor: At eighteen, Sofia was supposed to be mature enough for the position of Countess?
• Elisif: Yes, and I thought she would make a fine Countess one day.
• Rigmor: Were you close to the Carvain family?
• Elisif: Very close, so what happened next broke my heart.
• Wulf: I am sorry to ask these questions if they pain you.
• Elisif: I know you well enough, Wulf, to realise this is of some importance.
• Wulf: Indeed, it is important, as we shall explain shortly.
• Elisif: About a week after Count Carvain’s passing, Sofia vanished. Professor Freathof Pulonicus, the Carvain tutor and advisor for over forty years, was adamant that nobody kidnapped Sofia and that she wandered away from the castle after having many nightmares. He said the young girl told him people were whispering to her in her dreams and told her to come to them as they could help bring her father back. He dismissed what she said because she was grieving for her father, and he expected nightmares as a natural effect.
• Wulf: I assume authorities undertook a thorough search.
• Elisif: Have you heard of Lord Chancellor Liottus Blackwell?
• Wulf: Yes, for he is infamous for not following the letter of the law when pursuing threats to the arse on The Ruby Throne.
• Rigmor: Wulf! Language, please!
• Elisif: Well, Blackwell decided there might be a threat to the arse on The Ruby Throne, so he oversaw the investigation. He didn’t believe Freathof and thought the old man was involved in some plot with The Elder Council. A plot that Blackwell said would hand Bruma to somebody with the ambition of putting their arse on The Ruby Throne.
• Wulf: That sounds a bit paranoid to me.
• Elisif: Paranoid or not, Freathof was in danger of torture until His Imperial Majesty reminded Blackwell that many parents had reported the same behaviour as Sofia’s. Only because Priests and Priestesses across The Empire discussed issues that might be Daedra-related did the widespread problem get recognised. The Penitus Oculatus have an open investigation across all three provinces of The Empire. A report I read said that for several years, children have reported voices urging them to come to a particular spot, which is different for each individual. The voices occur day and night. Many children have vanished across Cyrodiil, High Rock and Skyrim.
• Wulf: I know a child this has happened to.
• Rigmor: Sorella! I was missing, and she came looking for me, ended up with the vampires, and had those voices in her head.
• Wulf: What happened to Rigmor and Sorella is a long story for another day, Elisif. I believe a Vampire Clan led by someone they call Broodmother is luring the children. I am not surprised to hear it has happened across several provinces. It has probably happened outside The Empire as well.
• Elisif: Is Sorella safe?
• Wulf: I gave her a ring that keeps the voices from reaching her. Therefore, as long as she wears it, she is safe.
• Rigmor: Those monsters wanted to harm an eight-year-old!
• Wulf: The New Order sent troops to kill everybody, including Sorella. Evil exists amongst all people, not just vampires.
• Elisif: Perhaps you should tell The Vigilants of Stendarr of your suspicion.
• Wulf: Skyrim’s Vigilants are being reformed and currently lack the skills needed to investigate.
• Rigmor: Poor Regent Carvain. Her husband died, and then her daughter vanished.
• Elisif: Indeed, Rigmor, it was a double blow from which she never recovered. Last week, she also passed away. All who saw her in the days beforehand said grief claimed her.
• Wulf: Grief can kill. The will to live ceases.
• Rigmor: They were lovely people, Jarl Elisif! Wulf would say they were proper nobles who cared for their citizens more than wealth and prestige.

Rigmor sobbed for the Carvain family. Elisif handed her an expensive silk handkerchief, with which Rigmor ritualistically dabbed her eyes and blew her nose.

• Rigmor: Oh, I am sorry, Jarl Elisif!
• Elisif: Just Elisif in private, Rigmor. And why be apologetic about empathy?
• Rigmor: But your handkerchief!
• Elisif: You helped save my city from dragons. That is worth more than a single piece of silk.
• Wulf: Who is to replace Count Carvain?
• Elisif: It would have been his brother, Plautis Carvain. He and his wife, Lady Salonia Carvain, and their single Legionnaire escort were robbed and murdered just outside Dragon Bridge a fortnight ago. Lady Vittoria Vici says they planned to stay with her.
• Wulf: They travelled to Skyrim with a single guard?
• Elisif: What is safe to do in Cyrodiil is foolhardy in Skyrim, but they ignored all advice. I hate to speak ill of the dead, but Plautis was not a noble you would admire, Wulf. He was a self-centered stick-up-the-arse snob who thought the sun shone out of the aforementioned arse.
• Wulf: Which is impossible with the stick in the way.
• Elisif: Precisely!

Rigmor laughed, the turnaround Elisif had hoped for.

• Elisif: The news about the Carvain family has been remarkably quiet, considering the political consequences. I suppose the people of Skyrim had far more to worry about than the death of a Count.
• Rigmor: What! Civil war and dragons attacking are more important than a dead Count?
• Elisif: It was mentioned in the more popular and believable news sheets.
• Wulf: Plautis is dead, so who is next in line?
• Elisif: Nobody. That was, unfortunately, the end of the automatically eligible Carvain line. Like the Septim lineage, it has ended despite there once being many of them.
• Rigmor: I am the proud daughter of a hero. His name is Sir Ragnar Fjonasson. He was knighted on the battlefield for his actions during The Battle of the Red Ring. He was also, for a short time, Imperial Duke of Hammerfell. Then, when it was politically convenient, Emperor Titus Mede II allowed The Dominion to accuse my dad of war crimes and arrest and execute him. My family was stripped of its noble status, and my mum and I were enslaved.
• Wulf: It was politically expedient at the time, but one of many distasteful things needed to maintain the White Gold Concordat. His Imperial Majesty will reinstate Ragnar’s title. Therefore, Rigmor will be nobly born again. He has also offered Rigmor the vacant position of Countess of Bruma. His official reason will be compensation for what happened to Rigmor’s family, but I doubt other nobles within Cyrodiil will accept that explanation.
• Elisif: Rigmor has earned that position by merit.
• Wulf: That is what I shall suggest Mede says is the official reason. Rigmor also has Mede blood. It is a direct, if bastard, line from Titus Mede I. That must be kept secret.
• Elisif: Indeed, knowledge of that could cause issues.
• Rigmor: I only found out about that lineage very recently.
• Elisif: So, you have a choice, Rigmor?
• Rigmor: Yes, but I doubt I have long to choose.
• Elisif: You do not. Bruma needs a central administrative point. Bruma’s citizens and trading partners will soon demand an appointment. His Imperial Majesty does not have to justify or explain his choice. The Elder Council cannot interfere with it nor reverse it upon his death unless crimes against the crown, insanity or negligence are proven in court.
• Wulf: However, without a valid reason for appointing Rigmor, rumours and suspicion would make her task harder.
• Rigmor: Would my firstborn inherit the title on my death?
• Elisif: Yes, but only if somebody admits to being the sire. That is automatic if married, or by a signed legal declaration otherwise. That is more common in Cyrodiil than Skyrim because of their Coverture Law.
• Rigmor: Wulf told me that Coverture defines the legal status of a married woman if their spouse is male. The married woman’s identity is subsumed or covered by her husband. The married couple is regarded as a single legal entity. If I married, I would no longer be Countess of Bruma but Consort.
• Elisif: Which wouldn’t be bad if the administration of Bruma was a shared responsibility.
• Rigmor: Shared control is how it works in Skyrim and High Rock. Under Cyrodiil’s Coverture Law, I would lose all control over Bruma, my assets and children. I might guide my husband privately but could never sit beside him at court.
• Elisif: You would also be convicted if your husband is found guilty of a crime. You could not defend yourself or enter a plea if you are accused of a crime. You would rely on your husband to do those things.
• Wulf: We have discussed this extensively.
• Elisif: May I be frank?
• Wulf: Yes, of course. We wouldn’t have asked if we didn’t value your knowledge and advice.
• Elisif: I can see the love you two share and felt a pang of jealousy, as that is what I lost when Ulfric murdered Torygg. But that jealousy has given way to an honest, heartfelt wish for your happiness. I will pray to Lady Mara that it is so. However, even without Wulf beside you, I think you would be a popular and deserving Countess of Bruma, Rigmor. If you married Wulf, you would still be Countess in everything but name.
• Rigmor: But why? I still don’t understand why Mede chose me. I don’t feel worthy or prepared for such a high noble position.
• Elisif: It may have started as compensation for what your family has endured. However, your service to the Empire has earned the position. His Imperial Majesty will make that clear.
• Rigmor: My concern is for Bruma and its people. It was my home. My decision to accept the position of Countess will be based on several factors, and competence is one of them. I don’t give a stuff what the other nobles think!
• Elisif: I expect I will eventually be the High Queen of Skyrim. I know how crucial the relationship with Bruma is to this province. Therefore, let’s pretend I speak as High Queen when I say that you, Rigmor, would make a fine Countess. How easily you bear the burden and responsibility will depend on your advisors.
• Rigmor: I have difficulty imagining myself in that position.
• Wulf: Unlike Lydia’s assumption, you have little time to consider the pros and cons, Rigmor. That is why I told you as soon as you were well enough. His Imperial Majesty will await your decision and will not expect it till after The New Order is dealt with.
• Rigmor: I thank you for your advice, Elisif.
• Elisif: Rigmor, I am only a few years older than you. Yes, I had extensive training in politics, but governing for the people effectively takes common sense and empathy. I am glad I could offer some advice, but only you can decide.
• Wulf: Okay, Rigmor, it is time for a horse ride.
• Rigmor: We are visiting Legate Casius Veron. Do you know him, Elisif?
• Elisif: I have met him at official functions. Legate Veron is a Colovian gentleman and well-versed in courtly matters.
• Wulf: Legate Veron is also an excellent field commander and will serve under me as we combat The New Order.
• Elisif: Do they pose a danger, Wulf?
• Wulf: The New Order cannot possibly defeat The Empire. However, they could cause many civilian deaths and much damage, so that is what we shall be trying to prevent.
• Elisif: It must confuse those who hunt Rigmor and you when you enter a building but never exit.
• Wulf: I think most enemies now know I can teleport. But still, they have no idea where we are going.
• Rigmor: It has been a pleasure meeting you, Elisif.
• Elisif: Has Wulf told you about the wonderful gift he gave me when we last met?
• Rigmor: He allowed you to see Torygg in Sovngarde.
• Elisif: Yes, and the empathy Wulf has is mirrored in you, Rigmor. The citizens of Bruma would be blessed to have such a countess.

Elisif rose and shocked Rigmor with a hug. Then headed for the throne room.

I teleported my speechless beloved into the Tundra homestead.

We exited to the sounds of a busy farm, rushing water and the distant cacophony of Whiterun.

I declared, “I love it here!”

“It might be acceptable if you had a veranda.”

“That could be arranged.”

“There would also have to be a pile of wood that needs chopping close by.”

“Why is that?”

“I could sit in a comfortable chair and watch you get all sweaty chopping the wood. No shirt allowed.”

“Like a certain young girl we know likes to watch a sweaty blacksmith’s apprentice.”

“The difference being I could drag you inside and have my way with you.”

“Yes, I hope that is the difference. Celestine has had discussions with Olette about responsible relations.”

“Haha, poor Baa’Ren asked his housemaid to give me those talks. Mum had already done the same thing, but he wasn’t to know. I embarrassed him by asking all sorts of questions for which I already had the answers.”

“You are evil!”

“We ignored advice given, Wulf. We were not cautious.”

“Any child we made would be a blessing, and the status of bastard is meaningless. Legal documents would declare me the father. Nobody argues after Martin Septim was accepted as the son of an Emperor.”

“And if it weren’t for Coverture, we would marry.”

“We can ask for dispensation from Mede.”

“So, my dear Dragonborn, do you now accept that I would never leave you or could have happiness without you?”

“It will always play on my mind, Rigmor.”

“Perhaps we should go back inside so I can convince you?”

“You will have to control yourself until our chores are done.”

“Do any of your other properties have a veranda and convenient chopping block?”

We were laughing as we made our way to my two draft horses.

“This is Emfy and Sunchaser. We lend these horses to other farms for ploughing, cart pulling and so on.”

“They are beautiful!”

“Sunchaser is also trained to pull my caravan. Would you like to see it?”

“Duh!”

We walked over to my caravan.

I told Rigmor, “I look forward to seeing more of Skyrim with you and camping. We can sleep inside during inclement weather, or pitch a tent next to it when the weather allows.”

“That sounds like fun!”

“I had better say hello to the Dragonguard.”

“Okay.”

Most of the farmhands were on a short break. I introduced Rigmor to Sharava and her wife, Eutei, before heading for the Tundra.

I summoned Hashire, who then summoned Ren.

We mounted and started our ride to Casius’ camp.

Rigmor was fascinated with a rhinoceros.

She asked, “Are there many rhinocerooses in Skyrim?”

“No, but there are lots of rhinoceroses.”

“Smart arse!”

As we rode, I explained to Rigmor, “There used to be many bandit gangs around here. We spent a month clearing them out.”

“I thought there would be more animals.”

“The bandits killed wolf packs, sabre cats and other wildlife. It won’t take long for the rightful inhabitants of the tundra to return in numbers.”

A bit further on, Rigmor stopped and asked, “Did we fight a dragon here?”

“Yes, his name was Mulqithiimkrii, which means Thunder-Lightning-Blade. He was a fool to attack me, and now he is nothing, a soul lost for eternity. He was the last dragon I had to kill. But I have no doubt there will be others.”

“There are many things you would rather not remember.”

“Yes, but as you know, I force myself to remember those I kill. Without those memories, I could become an uncaring killing machine.”

“But you still think of yourself that way occasionally.”

“If I see piles of dead and reflect on how easily I cut them down, then darkness threatens.”

“You understand why I do not want to carry a sword.”

“Being a Swordmaiden is one part of Rigmor Ragnarsdottier. Even if you didn’t have the memory loss, you may have abandoned that part of you. It is not a crucial part, so that desire is possible. But those skills are part of you, and not so easily abandoned. Deciding not to seek combat, whether small skirmishes or battles, is possible. Refusing to wield a sword when others endanger you or those you love is not an option, Rigmor. You cannot embrace pacifism.”

“I know that and will likely always have a sword nearby. But, as you said, voluntarily placing myself in situations where I must use a sword is something I can avoid.”

“I will support whatever you choose, Rigmor.”

“I know that. What happened to the dragon’s skeleton?”

“Dragons, well, those I have encountered, do not like to leave their fallen, intact soul or not, in the open. There are several graveyards full of dragon skeletons. Where they are, I do not know. But a dragon has taken the skeleton to one of those graveyards.”

“Can weapons and armour be made from Dragonbone?”

“Yes. I doubt any blacksmith alive has the skill, but they could relearn it. I would never wield a Dragonbone weapon or wear Dragonbone armour. Dragonscale can also be used to make armour, and I wouldn’t wear it for the same reasons. Dragons are my celestial brothers.”

“Perhaps dragons remember when their brother’s remains were desecrated for weapons and armour?”

“That is likely. I have never asked.”

As we passed a curious giant, Rigmor pondered, “I wonder how big his dangly bits are?”

“Last night you said I have woken the woman in you.”

“That is true.”

“I think I woke the pervert in you.”

“Maybe your pervert tendencies are contagious?”

“Perhaps you are naturally a pervert.”

“Nah, it is only your proximity that causes my perversion.”

As we rode through Casius’ camp, Legionnaires would stop what they were doing and salute. I was not required to return the salutes, but I did.

We dismounted, and I placed my helm, shield and cloak in Cethnelor.

• Rigmor: Casius has seen us and is inviting us into his tent.
• Hashire: I do not think this Nord barding is very popular here.
• Wulf: You might as well have Stormcloak symbols on your saddle blanket.
• Rigmor: So, the unicorn deigns to speak to us. We are humbled!
• Hashire: I enjoyed the tundra’s quiet and listening to you two.
• Rigmor: I only wish we could enjoy more peaceful rides before chaos takes over.
• Wulf: The New Order’s invasion will not be chaotic. Busy, but not chaotic.
• Rigmor: It seems you and Vayu already know what to do.
• Wulf: I am good at field command. Logistics are my weak point and Vayu’s strong point. I assume Yngol and Casius are also more skilled at logistics than I am. But if we treat The New Order the same as the enemies we faced in Akavir, then our task will be easy.
• Hashire: Our troops must protect the infrastructure and civilians but not bog down the enemy.
• Rigmor: We must avoid lengthy, pitched battles.
• Hashire: Precisely.
• Rigmor: Whilst pretending we are reacting with surprise, not a cunning plan.
• Hashire: Hand over your general’s armour to Rigmor, Wulf.
• Wulf: Rigmor does have a natural talent for warfare.
• Rigmor: But I will not be needed. Let’s talk to Casius.

Casius stood as we entered his tent.

As we approached the table, he said, “Sit and help yourselves to refreshments.”

We sat, and the idiocy started.

• Rigmor: Hey, Casius.
• Casius: Greetings, Rigmor. It is so good to see you looking so well.
• Rigmor: We are going to The College of Winterhold. I’m hoping to learn about my family.
• Casius: On second thought, you don’t look the best. Is there something wrong?
• Wulf: Rigmor was forced to drink a concoction by The New Order and suffered a very traumatic experience. As a result, she suffers from memory loss and is far from well, Casius.
• Rigmor: Wulf has taken me to several places to help me recover. Yesterday, he took me to a scenic lookout. Today, I met Jarl Elisif, and we rode across the tundra from Wulf’s farm near Whiterun.
• Wulf: I am now a General of the Imperial Army, Casius, in charge of Skyrim’s defence.
• Rigmor: I think Lord Talos told Mede to do that.
• Wulf: He may have suggested it via his religious advisor, Rigmor. I doubt Lord Talos has manifested in front of His Imperial Majesty.
• Casius: Why would Talos have anything to do with Wulf?
• Rigmor: Wulf is Champion of The Divines and speaks to many gods. I have met Lord Talos in Aetherius! Well, Wulf’s rooms in Aetherius.
• Casius: I can see what you mean, Wulf. Poor Rigmor is not well.
• Wulf: What she is saying about the gods and Talos is true. This visit has nothing to do with the invasion, Legate. Rigmor is still unwell but wanted to visit you, hoping more memories are recovered.
• Casius: I see.

Casius ignored what we said about Rigmor’s illness and started speaking to her as if she were a soldier under his command.

• Casius: I noticed you aren’t wearing armour or a weapon. You’ll need both soon, so I hope this isn’t permanent.
• Rigmor: Hey! I don’t want to go back there, okay? As far as I know, I’m done with my part.
• Casius: Rigmor, an invasion is imminent. Have you forgotten that?
• Rigmor: I’ll let you all take care of it. Armies fight armies, not young civilian women.
• Wulf: You are correct, Rigmor. There is no need for you to wear armour or carry a weapon. You do not need to fight in the upcoming battles. And Casius, I told you that Rigmor is not well. Stop harassing her!
• Casius: What if this young girl were to lead an army?
• Wulf: What are you talking about?
• Casius: I don’t know how or why, but scores of old Nord warriors have arrived at Yngol’s camp. They have come from all over Tamriel over the last few days. They want to see Rigmor.
• Rigmor: Why would they want to see me? Why are you telling me this?
• Casius: They are your father’s old legion, The Sons of Talos. They have come to pledge their swords and lives to you. They have sworn loyalty to you and you alone, like it or not.
• Rigmor: They don’t even know me. I won’t do it! I can’t do it!
• Wulf: This is ridiculous! If they think they are fit to fight, their loyalty should be to their friends and family, not some warped reverence for their old commander’s daughter!
• Casius: You need to get a grip on yourself, young lady. We will need these men in the coming battle. The fate of Skyrim, no, Tamriel even, could depend on you.
• Wulf: All the battle plans that have been and will be discussed are based on what we already have. You are saying we will fail, and that adding these geriatrics is our only hope. That is bullshit, Casius! I don’t want troops who are only loyal to a dead man’s daughter. We have enough troops willing to fight for their home, country, and loved ones!
• Casius: You need to sort this out, Dragonborn. Whatever it takes, Rigmor needs to address these men.

Rigmor stood, and was visibly upset.

Then anger surfaced, and she gave Casius a perfect Sigunn Stare.

Her voice quivered as she yelled, “Hey! I’m right here, okay! I’m not invisible…and the answer is no!”

Rigmor ran off, saying, “I won’t do it. I can’t do it. You can’t make me!”

I watched Rigmor exit, and then she stood and sobbed. My rage was immense.

I wanted to comfort my beloved, but decided to deal with Casius first. I bellowed, “Stand to attention, Legate, and don’t drop your salute till I say so!”

Casius stood straight with a perfect salute. He looked worried as I towered over him.

I growled, “I do not tell Rigmor what to do. She is a grown woman and can make her own decisions. And you have no right to demand anything of her. Rigmor is not under your command!”

“I didn’t realise she was in such a bad way, Dragonborn.”

“General!”

“I didn’t realise she was in such a bad way, General.”

I was unconsciously flexing my hands. Casius looked at them, then returned to staring into my eyes.

I told him, “Rigmor is a hero, Legate! She fought beside me against Alduin. She helped defend Solitude and other places against many dragons. She infiltrated New Order forts and strongholds. She has done her share of defending The Empire, and you have no right to demand more!”

Casius’ fear was mixed with shame. But it was not enough!

I continued, “Rigmor was moments from the most painful death imaginable. I faced two Daedric Princes and killed many Daedra and mortals to save her. Therefore, I am not inclined to watch you hurt her!”

Casius mumbled, “I am truly sorry.”

“It seems you think of everything in military terms, so I am happy to comply. Stand at ease while I deal with Rigmor.”

I shook my head, and Casius could see my anger was unabated. I turned and headed to Rigmor.

Rigmor sensed my approach and turned to me. The sadness in her eyes fuelled my temper. I was seething.

I took a deep breath and let Tirnileth calm me somewhat.

I whispered to her, “I am sorry, Rigmor. That was thoughtless of Casius.”

“It is stupid! Those soldiers either fight for what is right or stop calling themselves Sons of Talos. Dad would be ashamed of them!”

“Yes, it is stupid. I know that some Sons of Talos proudly wear Legion armour and serve in whatever capacity they can. The fact that those idiots ended up in a rebel camp says much about them.”

Rigmor sniffled, “Why do people want me to kill and fight? I am more than that, Wulf!”

“Yes, as we discussed on the ride here.”

“Casius has filled me with doubt. Should I address those men even if we don’t need them?”

“You are an adult, Rigmor and make your own decisions, yet Cassius seems to think you are incapable of doing so.”

“Please, say goodbye to Casius. I want to get out of here and visit Winterhold.”

“I won’t hurt Cassius, but neither will I go easy on him. I will be back soon.”

I was a few feet from Rigmor when my anger returned. I stomped towards Casius and towered over him again. He looked worried and stared at me fearfully.

I told him, “You have no idea what Rigmor has endured! You have no idea how hard it has been for her to crawl out of the darkness where evil had tossed her!”

“Please forgive me.”

“If you have dragged her back to that darkness, forgiveness will be a long time coming, if ever!”

“I will go and apologise.”

“No, I don’t trust you to shut the fuck up and not harass her even more! If Rigmor does not speak to those men, I will. If the Dragonborn can’t get them to fight, I will ensure their reputation is forever tarnished. They would not be worthy of the title Sons of Talos! What would Ragnar say about such idiocy?”

“He would say the same as you. If they think they can fight, they should do so for the right reasons.”

“They will not be part of our battle plans, as they are unnecessary. However, they have a chance to demonstrate that Ragnar’s troops in Hammerfell were honourable and not murderers, as the false records claimed. I have been informed that His Imperial Majesty will publicly declare that the accusations against Ragnar are false. Ragnar will not have to be forgiven, for he committed no crime. His Knighthood and titles will be reinstated. The Fjonasson name and crest will be re-entered into the lists. Rigmor and Sigunn will have their noble status reinstated.”

“I did not know that.”

“There are so many things you do not know, Legate. And you seem willing to ignore what you have just been told. I am Champion of The Divines. I do speak to gods, including Lord Talos. Rigmor is not some young girl or child. She is a woman and a hero. If she no longer wants to spill blood, that is her prerogative. Do you understand?”

“Yes, General.”

“Ragnar and The Sons of Talos will be honoured in our histories. However, I will take note of those who refuse to fight The New Order if Rigmor cannot lead them. They will have a notation attached to their name. Future readers of that honour roll will see their service rendered during The Great War and in Hammerfell sullied by that notation. Let Yngol know of this next time he discusses these veterans.”

“Yes, General.”

“You are dismissed, Legate. And in the future, I expect you to treat Lady Rigmor Ragnarsdottier with the respect she deserves!”

I walked toward Rigmor casually, though my anger still burned.

She said, “You didn’t use The Voice, but I still think every soldier heard that dressing down.”

“I swear by The Divines, the next person to upset you like that will get my fist in their face.”

“Forget it. Can we go now?”

“Whatever you decide concerning The Sons of Talos, you have my full support. If you do decide to visit, it will be sometime tomorrow. We have more important matters after The College of Winterhold.”

“Oh, and what might that be?”

“I think we need more practice.”

Rigmor laughed as we approached Hashire.

• Wulf: I see you have got rid of the Nord armour.
• Hashire: I think that spooked a few of the soldiers. Serves them right!
• Wulf: And a horse suddenly changing armour would not have spooked them?
• Hashire: Oops!
• Rigmor: You are too pretty to be covered in armour.
• Hashire: Careful, Ren will get jealous.
• Rigmor: I remember your swivelling ears and habit of eavesdropping.
• Hashire: All for a good cause.
• Rigmor: What do you think about these veterans who want to swear allegiance to me?
• Hashire: Would moronic be too harsh a term?
• Wulf: Too lenient.
• Hashire: Hundreds of experienced warriors will defend their homes, their families, and their country, provided a young woman who has repeatedly said she doesn’t want to fight agrees to carry a sword for them. Truly, Ragnar would be bursting with pride.
• Rigmor: Wow! Perhaps you can speak to them instead of me?
• Hashire: Perhaps they should rename themselves The Sons of Waiting Around for Rigmor.
• Wulf: I am proud of your sarcasm!
• Rigmor: If I decide to speak to them, I might ask for further words of wisdom.
• Hashire: Casius seems like a nice person. I cannot believe his behaviour was typical.
• Rigmor: I don’t either.
• Wulf: The veterans are not needed and will not be part of our plans. However, when Ragnar and The Sons of Talos regain their rightful place in the histories, defending Skyrim against The New Order would be a fitting addition to their legacy.
• Hashire: Please calm down before speaking to Jonte Malesam, Wulf.
• Wulf: I will be asking some questions of Boethia’s pet, and he had better answer truthfully.
• Hashire: I’ll take Ren back to the farm, then spend time with Surilana.
• Rigmor: Weren’t you avoiding her? I can’t remember why.
• Wulf: None of us knows why, Rigmor. Undoubtedly Hashire did something that deserved Surilana’s anger.
• Hashire: I might have mentioned how attractive Emfy is.
• Wulf: And?
• Hashire: I just happened to add the observation that Emfy was in heat.
• Rigmor: You are lucky Surilana did not geld you with her teeth!
• Hashire: I wouldn’t mate with a horse, knowing it would upset Surilana. It was a badly worded, unnecessary observation.
• Wulf: You are very intelligent, Hashire. However, your wisdom is poor.
• Hashire: Hopefully, Surilana’s temper has abated by now, or that risk of gelding is real.
• Wulf: Good luck.
• Rigmor: Wait till Silah hears this gossip!
• Wulf: Nahfahlaar will have so much fun with this!
• Hashire: Bastards!
• Rigmor: Wulf is training me.
• Wulf: One day, you might be a Master Bastard.
• Rigmor: How I yearn for that honour!
• Wulf: We had better stop off in Aethsela so I can change armour.
• Hashire: Wise choice. You cannot guarantee all Stormcloaks or Winterhold guards will honour the truce.

I willed us into Aethsela, and Rigmor suggested, “We can practice here for hours and still arrive in Winterhold at a reasonable time.”

“This place is part of Father’s Consciousness.”

“So, he would know we were knocking boots.”

“Yes. Father would never breach my privacy when in Mundus, but here, it would not be guaranteed.”

“Well, that puts an end to that idea.”

“Patience, Rigmor. You can molest me later.”

“We were one, Wulf. I never imagined how special it would be.”

“I am certain Tirlineth enhanced it for us. There was far less fumbling than I expected.”

“We did seem to learn and respond instinctively.”

“Why are we even trying to understand what happened?”

“Yeah, we know what happened. The why is not important.”

“We have reduced our lovemaking to gobbledegook.”

“I remember the gobble part!”

“Rigmor!”

I changed into my normal armour while Rigmor made ribald remarks.

Rigmor was still giggling when we exited the ether at Winterhold’s entrance.

As we walked down the main street, Rigmor asked, “Is it true that part of this city fell into the sea?”

“Yes, although not much of the terrible damage can be seen here, as new buildings have been erected. It is a mystery what caused the great storm and The Great Collapse. The locals blamed the mages because their buildings were mostly undamaged.”

“Do you think the mages caused it?”

“No, I don’t. The College’s buildings survived because of the dweomer placed on them. I want to solve the mystery of that night and not just out of curiosity. The tragedy caused resentment toward mages, who used to be respected. That resentment was mainly directed towards the many Dunmer mages who attended The College. Perhaps if I showed it was not the fault of mages, some of that resentment and racism would vanish.”

We reached the bridge, and a Master Mage greeted us.

• Faralda: Welcome to The College of Winterhold, Magister Welkynd and Lady Ragnarsdottier. I am Faralda, a sorceress and Master of Restoration.
• Wulf: You were expecting us?
• Faralda: The Arch-Mage said you would be visiting. He wasn’t sure when, but he assured me I wouldn’t be standing here for days.
• Wulf: Where are we to meet Jonte Malesam?
• Faralda: The entrance to his private rooms is next to that of the Arch-Mage.
• Wulf: On the highest level.
• Faralda: Correct.
• Wulf: Does Jonte have an official title?
• Faralda: Just Mage. He has very little talent in magic, but the Royal Decree states that advisors to Rigmor’s bloodline must be mages. Jonte, however, is an expert on Imperial Law and politics.
• Rigmor: I have been told his daughter is nice.
• Faralda: Cerys is undoubtedly one of the kindest souls you will ever meet. She is also an excellent Master Mage of Restoration.
• Wulf: Thank you for your welcome, Master Mage Faralda.
• Faralda: Please speak to the Arch-Mage before meeting Mage Jonte.
• Wulf: We shall do so.
• Faralda: We have had to lock down The College due to militant Stormcloaks. I shall open the way for you.

Faralda ran ahead. We followed at a more subdued pace.

As we crossed the bridge, I told Rigmor, “I am glad I paid for this.”

“What did you pay for?”

“Repairs to this bridge. The College and the Jarls had been bickering over who was responsible since The Great Collapse. I read in a news sheet about the death of a young mage blown off by a sudden gust of wind. When I investigated, I found that a dozen people had lost their lives, and it didn’t seem the bickering was ending soon. So, I sent an anonymous donation to the Jarl to fix the bridge.”

“You should have told him who you were. They could have named it The Dragonbum Bridge.”

“I should have said the donation was from you. Then it could have been named The Bitchy Bridge.”

“We shall call that round a draw.”

“What? My jest was the better!”

“Yeah, right. Pffft!”

Flanking the main gate were Storm Atronachs. They guarded The College and Winterhold.

We passed a couple of Thalmor in a heated discussion with a Magister.

• Mirabelle: I believe I’ve made myself rather clear, Wizard Ancano.
• Ancano: Yes, of course. I’m simply trying to understand the reasoning behind the decision, Magister Ervine.
• Mirabelle: You may be used to The Empire bowing to your every whim, but I’m afraid you’ll find Thalmor receive no such treatment here. You are a guest of The College, here at the pleasure of the Arch-Mage. I hope you appreciate the opportunity.
• Thalmor: Yes, of course. The Arch-Mage has our thanks.
• Mirabelle: Very good. Then we’re done here.

We entered the main building.

Rigmor said, “I hope you know where we are going.”

“Didn’t you look at the maps as we entered?”

“No, and neither did you!”

“I had looked at a map before we came. We only have to climb about a dozen floors.”

“Oh, but I am so tired. Can’t you go up and then summon me?”

“The exercise will help with your flabby thigh problem.”

“I don’t have flabby thighs! They are muscly and toned.”

“Then you will have no problem climbing the steps!”

“You tricked me.”

“DUH!”

“Skyrim is designed specifically to give me thunder-thighs.”

“Yes, when The Divines were creating Mundus, foresight told them to design Skyrim for a future teenager whose thighs would need some work.

“Idiot!”

“I am amazed they are letting Thalmor reside here.”

“It seems they have placed some restrictions on them.”

“They should use them as target practice for the apprentice mages.”

“Sometimes I get the impression you are not fond of our Thalmor friends.”

“No more than you, Rigmor.”

“I find it hard to separate real Thalmor from The New Order.”

“It was The Dominion, and therefore real Thalmor, that arrested Ragnar and enslaved you and Sigunn. No need to separate them. Both groups deserve our hatred.”

We climbed some stairs and entered The Arcanaeum.

Rigmor looked around in awe and loudly exclaimed, “This is so cool!”

That loud announcement earned us disapproving looks and a lot of shushing.

I whispered, “This is a tiny part of their collection. The College of Winterhold has many scrolls and books not in The Imperial Library.”

“Do they edit them to make The Dominion happy like the Imperial scholars?”

“Never! Many mages are also historians. They like to search for the truth in all things.”

“Can we just live in this library for a few years?”

“You can visit here as my guest whenever you want. The library in my museum is also quite large.”

“I assume food isn’t allowed in here.”

“The librarian, Magister Urag gro-Shub, would feed you to angry Daedra if you dared.”

“Then I will rely on you to drag me out before I starve the next time we visit.”

A few scamps were in The Arcanaeum. They can be reliably used for menial work, as long as you treat them kindly.

I approached Urag.

• Wulf: Good afternoon, Magister gro-Shub.
• Urag: What is good about it? There are apprentices in my library.
• Wulf: Live ones?
• Urag: Unfortunately.
• Rigmor: This is quite an impressive library!
• Urag: I assume you are Lady Rigmor Ragnarsdottier?
• Rigmor: Yes, I am.
• Urag: A mage is only as good as what he knows. I try to keep as much knowledge as possible available. We’ve been keeping this collection since the Second Era. Books have come and gone during that time, but it’s mostly intact.
• Rigmor: You have been a librarian since the Second Era?
• Urag: Yes, and I warn you that I dislike humour based on my age.
• Rigmor: I doubt you like humour at all. You seem to take your work very seriously.
• Urag: Of course I do. If I didn’t, most of the books would’ve been burned to ashes or dissolved to nothing before the Third Era. Mages need reminders to be careful around research materials.
• Rigmor: And violence is a legitimate reminder?
• Urag: Indeed, and I do have a sense of humour. An apprentice once asked what would happen if he dog-eared one of my books.
• Rigmor: What did you answer?
• Urag: Nothing. I showed him the last apprentice that did that.
• Rigmor: That doesn’t sound like much of a lesson.
• Urag: The apprentice who abused one of my books was in several jars, still alive and profusely apologising. The questioner’s look was hilarious.
• Rigmor: Did the apprentice in the jars die?
• Urag: No, of course not. I reassembled him, and he was almost back to normal afterwards. Dog-earing only earned him a week of living in pickle jars. Food stains will earn a month.
• Wulf: It has been a pleasure meeting you, Magister.
• Urag: It has? My sunny demeanour must have shone through.

As we headed for the exit, I said, “Only ten floors to go.”

“A gentleman would not make his lady climb all these steps.”

“You told everybody in The Bannered Mare that you are not a lady.”

“No, I asked that bitch, ‘Who said I am a lady?’”

“Vivienne is not a bitch. Now, stop the whining and exercise those muscly and toned thighs.”

“I will show you how toned when I kick you in the knackers!”

“I would demand you kiss them better.”

“Salty.”

“Pardon?”

“Oh, just a dim memory from last night.”

Rigmor was in the throes of another giggle fit as we quickly exited the library before we were lynched. A few seconds later, we reached The Arch-Mage’s rooms.

I told Rigmor, “This is as high as we need to go.”

Rigmor exclaimed, “There were only three floors! You lied to me!”

“You can use those stairs ahead to reach the roof.”

“Waiting for your excuse and it better be a good one!”

“I wanted to experience your whining as extra evidence you are back to normal.”

“Haha. I did whine a bit.”

“It was music to my ears. Now, a bit of decorum.”

“I promise to behave.”

The doors to Savos’ quarters automatically opened as we approached them.

The Arch-Mage had been working at an Enchanting Table and waited for us to approach.

Savos said, “Welcome, Magister Welkynd and Lady Rigmor Ragnarsdottier.”

Rigmor asked, “Did you know it was us before opening the doors?”

“I wouldn’t be much of an Arch-Mage if I didn’t know some magic, Lady Ragnarsdottier.”

“Please call me Rigmor.”

“Then I insist you call me Savos. Magister, please wear your amulet when attending The College.”

I retrieved the Magister Amulet from Cethnelor and donned it.

Savos remarked, “That was impressive. I saw no incantation.”

“It was stored in a four-dimensional storage chest gifted to me by The Psijic Order. I can retrieve it with thought alone. I have named it Cethnelor.”

“Ayleidoon for Thought-Sanctum or Mind-Enclosure.”

“The most accurate translation would be Mind-Kept Vault. I am surprised you know Ayleidoon.”

“When you are my age, you struggle to discover new knowledge. Studying Ayleidoon kept me entertained for several years. The challenge was having no Ayleidoon speakers with which to test my knowledge.”

“Well, I was taught Ayleidoon by native speakers, so I can answer any questions you may have.”

“Excellent! I am keen to know who speaks Ayleidoon.”

“I was taught the language by gods. Plus, there are several Minotaur and Unicorns that live with me, and it is their native language.”

I placed the Magister amulet around my neck and said, “I am honoured but feel odd for being so readily promoted to such a lofty position.”

“Nonsense. Two people I admire, Master Mage Celestine and Loremaster Quaranir, explained to me how you had done more to uphold The Royal Decree than any current member of The College. You are a Master of all Schools of Magicka and a powerful Tongue. Nobody is more worthy of that amulet than you, Lord Welkynd.”

“Quaranir’s visit must have been a shock.”

“He just appeared and started talking as if we had kept in touch over the centuries. I hadn’t seen him since I was an apprentice long ago.”

“He is an insufferable arsehole.”

“That he is, but other Psijic Monks are less palatable.”

I handed him a book and said, “I had my museum’s scribes make a copy of this book. It describes how the disciplines of magic study can be applied to The Voice. A Master Mage who later became a powerful Tongue wrote it. His name was Hodir Thunder-Fang.”

“Ahh, yes, many college resources were utilised in his research. It is fitting we finally get to see the results of that investment. I thank you for the gift.”

I stepped back a bit so Rigmor could feel more involved in the conversation.

• Savos: Do either of you have questions?
• Wulf: Arch-Mage, can you tell us about Jonte Malesam? Why did The College decide he would be Rigmor’s protector and potential advisor?
• Savos: Jonte is no mage, but we gave him that title to meet the requirements of the Royal Decree. His legal knowledge and political savvy make him an ideal candidate. His adopted daughter, Cerys, is a highly competent Master Mage of Restoration and would protect Rigmor. She would also offer advice and friendship from a young female perspective, an area outside Jonte’s expertise. Recently, she has shown more willingness to stand up to Jonte and correct him if required.
• Wulf: That might be due to my influence the first time I met the pair. I did not know she was adopted.
• Savos: It is a sad tale but probably similar to many of the orphans you are housing. Ask Cerys about it, Rigmor.
• Rigmor: I shall.
• Wulf: Does Cerys outrank Jonte?
• Savos: Strictly, yes, as she is a Master Mage. However, Jonte is the principal advisor. It depends on Rigmor, whose advice she follows, if any.
• Rigmor: Please, tell us what you know of the Carvain family’s demise.
• Savos: Count Carvain died in a riding accident about a month ago. His only child, a daughter called Sofia, inherited the title of Countess at twelve. Count Carvain’s wife, Lady Aviefre Carvain, was named Regent until Sofia came of age. Shortly after Count Carvain’s accident, Countess Sofia vanished without a trace. Her mother last saw her and kissed her goodnight. Sofia had been complaining about voices telling her to go somewhere. It is thought the young girl wandered out into the wilderness that night and became prey for a wild animal or perished due to exposure. Extensive searches found no traces of her. Not a scrap of clothing, hair, or anything else. The losses took a toll on Lady Carvain, who died of grief. As a Restoration Mage, Magister Welkynd, you would know that is possible and not as uncommon as it may seem.
• Wulf: Indeed, a mortal can lose the will to live. Equally, the will to live can overcome great deprivation and injury, as Rigmor has shown on several occasions.

Rigmor started to tear up even though she already knew the sad tale.

• Savos: I can see you would make a fine countess, Rigmor. The Carvain family was well loved and ruled Bruma for centuries, with empathy and compassion as their cornerstones.
• Rigmor: Thank you, Arch-Mage. Can you tell us about existing advisors I would inherit with the position?
• Savos: As far as I know, only one has shown interest in remaining and only if there was a young person they could aid. His name is Freathof, and he is a renowned scholar.
• Wulf: Professor Freathof Pulonicus. I have read some of his books. He doesn’t seem to specialise in one area, but has a broad range of interests. Jarl Elisif told us he was a suspect in Sofia’s disappearance until His Imperial Majesty intervened.
• Savos: Freathof has been with the Carvain family for decades and tutored Sofia. He has taken her loss to heart, and it would be good to give him purpose again.
• Wulf: You seem well informed of the goings-on in Bruma.
• Savos: The College has a duty, as do you, as Dragonborn, to the people of Nirn. We have our informants to keep us appraised of political situations and alliances. Bruma has always been a close ally of Skyrim.
• Rigmor: Wulf is concerned about Jonte Malesam’s loyalty to me, whether or not I accept the position in Bruma.
• Wulf: His devotion to Boethia may conflict with his duties, Arch-Mage.
• Savos: We considered that, along with many other factors, before choosing him. Cerys is not a devotee of Boethia, and we have seen no actions by Jonte to question his dedication to the Royal Decree.
• Wulf: I have some doubts, and I will ask him a few questions.
• Savos: Speak to me after you have spoken with Jonte, and give me your verdict. Your dedication to Rigmor is unquestionable, and I think it goes beyond the guardian role. It is only fitting that you two have the last say on who The College appoints to fulfil the position.
• Rigmor: Agreed. After visiting him, we shall speak to you.
• Wulf: Will he be in his rooms?
• Savos: As soon as you crossed the bridge, I had an apprentice find him and inform him of your imminent arrival.
• Wulf: It has been a pleasure meeting you, Arch-Mage. I look forward to contributing to this college and its students.
• Savos: And thank you for finally repairing the bridge. It was a senseless argument that cost lives.
• Rigmor: So much for your anonymity, Wulf.
• Wulf: Ahem.
• Savos: We didn’t know it was Wulf, but we suspected it. Thank you for confirming our suspicion, Rigmor.
• Rigmor: Keep reminding yourself, Rigmor. Mages are smart arses. Mages are smart arses.
• Wulf: Come, Rigmor. We have more smart arses to visit.

We exited the Arch-Mage’s rooms and entered Malesam’s.

At the bottom of some stairs was a long corridor.

All the doors on the right were closed, so we continued to the end of the corridor.

An open door revealed Cerys, seemingly asleep on the only bed in the room.

We entered the room, and Malesam was sitting, waiting for us.

I stood back as Rigmor walked up to him.

Malesam said, “Ahhh! Rigmor’s Guardian, and the famous, or should I say infamous, Rigmor of Bruma. I am honoured to make your acquaintance at long last.”

Rigmor replied, “Hi, I’m hoping to find out about my ancestry.”

“Ahhh, yes! Rigmor, go with Cerys. She will take good care of you and explain a little about all that. She also has some heirlooms left in good keeping at The College for your perusal.”

Cerys walked over and stood next to Rigmor.

Rigmor looked at me and asked, “Wulf? Should I go with Cerys?”

I asked, “Mage Malesam, how far away will Lady Rigmor Ragnarsdottier and Master Mage Cerys be?”

“In the room at the end of the corridor. A few doors away.”

“It will be okay, Rigmor. The doors will remain open, so I am only seconds away. Go with Cerys while I discuss some things with Jonte.”

“Okay.”

Cerys said, “Come this way, Rigmor. There is so much to talk about.”

As they walked down the corridor, Rigmor said to Cerys, “This place is so cool!”

“Cool? Are you cold?”

“Cool means great from where I come from.”

“Oh! I have never heard of that. How interesting.”

I moved a chair and sat opposite Malesam.

I stared at him, and to his credit, he did not flinch or show fear.

I asked, “We are here as you requested. What did you want to tell us?”

“It is a rather long story.”

“Malesam, to keep Rigmor safe, I must know everything.”

“A long time ago, two hundred years to be precise, there was a mercenary by trade known as Rigmor of Cyrodiil. She had a pretty uneventful early life, taking petty contracts until she joined an outlaw army. The same outlaw army led by Titus Mede, the Colovian Warlord.”

“He started the Mede Dynasty when he ousted Thules the Jibbering in 4E 17.”

“Yes, and it was a sad tragedy that after giving birth to a baby girl three years later, Rigmor of Cyrodiil became gravely ill and died shortly afterwards, aged thirty-eight. Physicians attributed her death to an unwanted pregnancy at a late age.”

Malesam’s dates didn’t match the family tree I was given. I will have to investigate the discrepancy later.

I asked, “What happened to the illegitimate child of The Emperor and Rigmor?”

“So, you have guessed the scandal already. Titus Mede was beside himself with grief, and arrangements were made for the child to be adopted by The College of Winterhold by Royal Decree. The infant was duly adopted, and her belongings were stored therein.”

“An unusual arrangement, to say the least!”

“The child was named Morgan of Winterhold and she was summoned to the Imperial City at her coming of age. She became Imperial Court Mage to the Mede Dynasty and a powerful influence. Before she left to take up her newly appointed duties, it is rumoured she had used her late mother’s armour to create an Amulet of Talos.”

“It is in the shape of an Amulet of Talos but does not carry his blessing. The dweomer on it is average.”

“She also used a Daedric ceremonial blade her mother had kept as a souvenir to strengthen a bastard sword’s properties.”

“That was impressive work! Its blade was keen and proved a fine weapon when I placed dweomer on it. However, it was no better than many swords I have in my collection and what Akaviri warriors wield.”

“The New Order could not reproduce her work.”

“The New Order are morons. However, it seems Morgan was a fine mage, and I assume she became quite influential in court?”

“Emperor Titus Mede the First would always seek Morgan’s guidance in the Empire’s affairs. She overshadowed the Heir to the Dynasty, Attrebus Mede. Attrebus was fiercely jealous of the foreign ‘Witch.’ So much so, at the event of his father’s death, Attrebus Mede struck. Morgan and her husband, a Palace Guard captain, were accused of a plot to usurp power. Her husband was slain, and Morgan escaped, fleeing Cyrodiil with their only child.”

“Do you believe that nonsense, Malesam?”

“It is the history I have been provided.”

“I would expect Rigmor’s advisors to do some research before regurgitating rubbish. Before Attrebus Mede came to power, he was a hero of the people and had no reason to be jealous of Morgan. However, his early hero status was false. His father had propped him up with staged heroic events. Later on, Attrebus became one of the greatest heroes in Tamriel’s history! He travelled to Oblivion and helped defeat Lord Umbriel, saving Tamriel from destruction! Attrebus married a commoner against all conventions. They named their first child, and future Emperor, after an Argonian who helped defeat Lord Umbriel. Attrebus was a man of high morals who believed in serving the people. If anybody accused Morgan, it would have been The Elder Council. They would not want Attrebus to have a strong advisor. They would have wanted a puppet emperor.”

“Even if what you say is true, Morgan’s disappearance only confirmed the rumours that she was the bastard child of Titus Mede I and Rigmor of Cyrodiil. She and her child, Morganna, were never heard from again.”

“It is true, Malesam. Believe me when I say I know more of The Empire’s history than you ever will. It is one advantage to having gods as teachers.”

“Oh, well, um, one fine day, Morgan’s heirlooms miraculously surfaced. The Thalmor had found them in a chest belonging to Sir Ragnar Fjonnoson of Bruma. The College learned Rigmor’s identity and history. Unfortunately, we were too late to intervene. The College, you see, is duty-bound to protect and serve the descendants of Morgan of Winterhold.”

“The College has no political power. It could not have intervened and has done an abysmal job of protecting or serving Rigmor. I am sure Rigmor has many cousins, whom The College has also failed to protect.”

Jonte’s arrogance came to the fore as he announced, “Before she leaves here, it is my duty to tell Rigmor of her ancestry. Emperor Titus Mede II is to restore her name and accept her family as part of the Mede Dynasty. He also offers her the recently vacated Countess of Bruma position if she desires it. All she has to do is accept, and it is hers.”

“You don’t know Rigmor’s mental state, overall health or what she had been subjected to! Telling her these things at the wrong time may severely impact her recovery.”

“I am afraid this doesn’t concern you anymore, Guardian. Tell her I must.”

“I swore to Rigmor to be her guardian when she was fourteen. Only Rigmor can release me from that oath. I have risked my life many times upholding that oath. Yet you dare sit there and tell me some ancient pledge of The College somehow trumps that oath! If I think this information is detrimental to Rigmor at this time, and you try to tell her, I will stop you by whatever means necessary.”

“I shall ignore the threat, Guardian. Killing me would serve no purpose. She will eventually come to know. Unless you intend to lock her away in some dark dungeon or gallivant around the wilds of Tamriel like a common bandit.”

“You fool! Why would the richest person in Skyrim need to gallivant around the wilds of Tamriel? If I need to protect Rigmor from knowledge that would harm her, I have many options, including my rooms in Aetherius or my hidden palace. Rigmor would learn the truth when I am certain she is ready for it! How dare you insinuate I would keep this knowledge from her for any other reason.”

I hadn’t raised my voice, because I didn’t want to alarm Rigmor or Cerys. But my tone was enough to instill fear in Malesam.

I continued, “I slaughtered Boethia’s champions and am now her sole champion. Even if you don’t respect my other myriad titles, some respect to the Champion of Boethia is due, don’t you think?”

“I…umm…”

I pointed to the visible Magister’s Amulet.

“Also, as a Magister of The College of Winterhold, you are my underling. I like that term, don’t you?”

“I didn’t know!”

“Of course not. Boethia didn’t tell you! You know fuck all, Malesam, yet your arrogance would suggest otherwise.”

Silence from Malesam.

“I never suggested that Rigmor was never to be told. As I said, you have no idea of Rigmor’s mental and physical health or what The New Order did to her. If you tell her about Mede’s offer or her Mede bloodline, it may impede her recovery and even reverse her progress. That could harm Rigmor, and as per the Royal Decree and my oath to Rigmor, I would be justified in silencing you and would not hesitate to do so!”

“You believe you would be protecting Rigmor by killing me?”

“I would not kill you, Malesam. There are many other ways to silence you without depriving Cerys of her father. She does not deserve to be hurt due to your idiocy. Now, I will ask you a question and advise you to answer truthfully. Deception will prove you are untrustworthy and unfit to be assigned to Rigmor as The College’s representative. Tell me the truth, and we shall discuss the situation further.”

“Okay, ask your question.”

I stared into his eyes and said, “When I defeated Boethia’s champions and returned to Nirn, you knew where Rigmor was and had organised a boat. The organising of a boat strongly suggests prior knowledge of Rigmor’s whereabouts. If you did know and didn’t tell me, you failed in your duty to protect Rigmor by withholding that information. Therefore, Jonte Malesam, I advise you to answer truthfully. Did you know where Rigmor was being held before I entered Oblivion to fight Boethia’s champions?”

“No, I did not know Rigmor’s location before you entered Oblivion. Boethia asked me to organise a boat, any boat, from Dawnstar. A leaky old rowboat was the best I could do at short notice. No captain would let me charter their vessel without giving the destination first. Some threatened to punch me when I tried. Boethia told me Rigmor’s location moments before you materialised in front of me.”

I continued to stare into Malesam’s eyes for ten seconds more. To his credit, he did not look away. He showed no signs of deception, and I believed him.

I told him, “I did not need the boat, Malesam. I flew to the island, invisible, and slaughtered everybody there by myself. After a pleasant walk through The Ash Pit, I had a friendly chat with Lord Malacath, as close as you are now. I told him some truths he needed to hear and closed the Oblivion Gate. Rigmor was minutes away from being sacrificed, and Boethia’s games delayed me. You are not lying, Malesam, and you had no chance to tell me of Rigmor’s location.”

“Dragonborn, if we had continued the conversation past the point of your anger flaring, I would have agreed that now is not the time to tell Rigmor.”

“I did not lose my temper, Malesam. I don’t need to be angry to deal with someone threatening a person under my protection. I have done so thousands of times! However, as you witnessed in that unpleasant cave, I don’t take kindly to arrogance from the ignorant. Now tell me why you would have agreed to delay telling Rigmor.”

“With an imminent invasion looming and all that, it would be prudent to await the outcome of such an event. We would, after all, need to make sure Mede is still in residence at the Imperial City.”

“So, in your expert opinion, Rigmor would need to be kept ignorant of her Mede blood if The New Order wins and His Imperial Majesty is deposed?”

“Yes.”

“The New Order targeted Rigmor because of her noble blood. We might have been better prepared and done things differently if you had done the right thing and told us weeks ago about her noble blood. Instead, Rigmor has suffered once again and asked herself why. You failed to protect Rigmor by only telling me this information now. You would fail in your duty to protect her again if Rigmor were not told, because Emperor Titus Mede II no longer sat on The Ruby Throne. His three children died, and so has his wife. If His Imperial Majesty were to die before naming an Heir Apparent, The Elder Council would select his replacement. Rigmor, due to her Mede bloodline, could be regarded as a threat to those aspiring to sit upon The Ruby Throne. People who knew of her bloodline would tell others, and Rigmor’s life would again be in grave danger whether or not she knew of her Mede blood. It does not take The New Order to depose Emperor Mede II for this to occur!”

“Oh.”

“Oh? Is that all? You are not proving to me you know how to protect Rigmor, Malesam.”

“Give me your word of honour that as soon as she is fit and well, you will deliver to Rigmor her legacy.”

“I would be derelict in my duty as her sworn Guardian if I did not tell her for the simple reason that ignorance has been and would be a danger to her. No, Malesam, you will not get my word as I am already bound by oath to tell Rigmor for her protection. It also seems I must remind you that I am a Magister of The College and don’t have to do anything you say.”

Silence from Malesam once more.

I asked him, “Rigmor’s father, Ragnar, carried the Mede bloodline. At least three generations before him were of the same Mede bloodline. You said her noble blood made the gods take notice of Rigmor. The College lost track of them, so you have no idea how many other descendants of Rigmor of Cyrodiil and Emperor Titus Mede I exist! Why did the gods show interest in Rigmor and not those before her with Mede’s blood? Under Imperial Law, a person more than three generations from an emperor or empress is no longer regarded as royal, and the terms prince or princess cannot be used. Unless recognised by Royal Decree, even the first generation of a bastard line is not regarded as royal. But even if mislabeled as a royal, Rigmor’s Mede blood is not why the gods have taken notice of Rigmor. The Daedric Princes cannot know these bloodlines via dweomer or innate abilities. Any claim to the contrary is a lie. Lord Dagon didn’t know of Martin Septim’s bloodline. Lady Boethia did not know I was Dragonborn till I told her, so how could she know Rigmor had highly distilled Mede blood in her?”

Malesam looked disturbed once more. When will he realise Boethia is not to be trusted?

Eventually, Malesam said, “I don’t have much choice, do I?”

“No, Malesam, you don’t. As a Magister of The College of Winterhold, I have decided that to protect Rigmor, as is the duty of The College, she must be told of her royal blood and legacy no matter the outcome of the invasion. As Rigmor’s sworn guardian, I am telling you that I will decide when Rigmor is told.”

Malesam sat silent and deep in thought.

About twenty seconds later, Rigmor called my name as she ran towards the room.

I stood and waited for her.

She said excitedly, “Wulf, you have so gotta see this! Come on, this way!”

Rigmor then ran back to the far room.

An amused Malesam and I walked to the far room at a far more dignified pace than Rigmor.

We entered the room, and upon a table was an ancient set of armour and a magnificent greatsword.

I stepped back and smiled at my beloved.

• Wulf: Rigmor, my love, what has made you so excited?
• Rigmor: Morgan of Winterhold, you know, my great-great-great-grandmother, left this armour. Cerys says it belongs to me. Isn’t it wonderful?
• Wulf: It is a fantastic suit of armour and sword.
• Rigmor: Did you learn more about my Mede blood and His Imperial Majesty’s offer?
• Wulf: A little. Some of the dates on the ancestral tree we were given might be wrong.
• Malesam: You said Rigmor wasn’t ready to learn all that!
• Wulf: I said it was not up to you to decide when she learned about it and that, as Rigmor’s Guardian, I would decide. The New Order used a concoction to prepare Rigmor for sacrifice. After rescuing her from the sacrificial altar and taking her to a secure location, it was found that she had severe memory loss. Several Masters of Restoration, including Celestine, whom Cerys knows, believed Rigmor needed time to purge the toxins and recover. During that time, we gently worked to restore her memories. I know Rigmor better than most and, as a physician, am the best qualified to judge when Rigmor should learn of her bloodline and His Imperial Majesty’s offer. When I judged Rigmor ready, I told her, and we discussed it at length.
• Malesam: Would you have stopped me if I tried to tell Rigmor, even though she already knew?
• Wulf: That would have proven to me you were not a suitable protector, and I would have informed the Arch-Mage of my decision.
• Cerys: After observing them and speaking to Rigmor, I know they are deeply in love, Father. Wulf would most likely have punched you in the mouth before talking to the Arch-Mage. I don’t know if I would have healed your injuries or punched you as well.
• Rigmor: I can’t believe a stranger thought they had a right to dictate what was best for me! Who do you think you are, Jonte Malesam?
• Malesam: I…um…well…
• Wulf: Rigmor, why don’t you try the armour on? You don’t need to touch or wear the sword.
• Rigmor: Do you think I should?
• Malesam: Please do, my child. We await with anticipation.
• Wulf: Please do, Rigmor, who is a woman and not the child of a balding Altmer.
• Cerys: Father, Rigmor has endured so much and is eighteen. She can no longer be regarded as a child, even as a term of endearment!
• Rigmor: Okay, it is only fitting that I try the armour.
• Wulf: Master Mage Cerys, will you please assist Lady Ragnarsdottier?
• Cerys: Yes, of course, Magister Welkynd.
• Wulf: When did you notice my Magister’s amulet?
• Cerys: From the moment I saw you. Did Father miss it?
• Wulf: Yes, he did. Ego got in the way. Jonte and I will wait in the other room.

We walked to the other room, where I warned Malesam, “You may have to comfort Cerys.”

“What do you mean?”

“Just listen. Cerys is about to learn more about Rigmor than you think you know.”

A couple of minutes later, Cerys let out a loud gasp. Then she started sobbing uncontrollably. Rigmor talked to her in soothing tones.

Malesam’s voice was worried as he asked, “What is happening?”

“Cerys just saw the scars on Rigmor’s back. They result from multiple whippings inflicted by her Thalmor captors when she was enslaved at fourteen. There are dozens of welts that are so painful that Rigmor cannot sleep on her back.”

“I didn’t know!”

“You know nothing about Rigmor! You know nothing of how The Thalmor has made her suffer. We recently learned that the one who ordered and supervised the whippings was Tilar Aedriath. You failed to realise what it was like for her to fall into the hands of the same person who did such things to her. You said when we first met, ‘She is unharmed.’ Rigmor witnessed me being shot in the neck and gurgling as I drowned in my blood. Then she saw me stabbed twice. On top of that, the monster that has plagued her nightmares for years dragged her away. She was reliving those nightmares and then forced to drink the concoction! She was far from unharmed, Jonte!”

“I have been wrong about so many things.”

“That is because you believe everything Boethia tells you and carry a false sense of superiority, leading to arrogance. I expect that trait in Thalmor, but I rarely see it in other Altmer. Whether or not Rigmor accepts the countess position, The College wants to appoint you and Cerys as her protectors. You would be some of her advisors if she is Countess.”

“Yes, I am not a mage, but I have the relevant skills for the position.”

“I am a good judge of character. I have to be to survive. Cerys is full of compassion and empathy. That is why I foresaw her response when she saw Rigmor’s scars.”

“Cerys would help Rigmor more than me concerning many matters. As a team, we could protect and advise her well.”

“For that to happen, you would need to respect Cerys more than what I have witnessed.”

“Cerys has made that clear after our first meeting. You treated her with the respect she deserves and gave her the courage to confront me.”

“Rigmor and I know there may be long periods when I am away performing my duty as Champion of The Divines. If Rigmor accepts the position of Countess, I would be trusting the welfare of Rigmor to others in that cesspool of Cyrodiil politics. The Arch-Mage wants to know my assessment of you. What do I tell him?”

“I would not harm Rigmor if Boethia asked me to. She has never asked me to do something that would harm another. I have nothing to fear from telling her no if she did ask.”

“Boethia may continue to show interest in Rigmor not out of concern for her well being but for potential gain. Remember that, and you can better judge that Daedric Lord’s motivations concerning Rigmor.”

“You will not speak against me to the Arch-Mage?”

“I am sure he was meticulous in selecting you, and I am not in a position to second-guess him. I am satisfied you did not delay telling me Rigmor’s location. I would be lost in that world of backstabbers and court intrigue. I assume you have excellent skills suitable for that environment, so I will not speak against you.”

“Thank you.”

“I hope you appreciate the trust I am showing in you!”

Malesam was silent once more and remained that way for another fifteen minutes.

Finally, Rigmor called out, “Ready, Dragonbum, come and look!”

We made our way once more to the other room.

Malesam and Cerys stared at Rigmor, and I knew what they saw. Rigmor was a heroic warrior of old, as if magically transported from a classic painting. She was regal, commanding and beautiful. With that armour and a sword in her hand, Rigmor could command the world, not just the geriatrics waiting at Yngol’s camp.

I was beginning to suspect that Rigmor’s potential to lead and earn loyalty was what attracted the gods, whether they realised it or not.

• Rigmor: Well, how does it look?
• Malesam: Remarkable! It is a fine example of antique armour forged by the famous Khajiiti armourer, ZZ’Jay.
• Wulf: Rigmor, you look magnificent!
• Rigmor: Did Morgan wear it in battle?
• Malesam: Yes, when she accompanied Emperor Titus Mede I on a campaign.
• Rigmor: I guess I could get used to it. I love it.
• Cerys: It didn’t take much adjusting to make it fit perfectly.
• Rigmor: Poor Cerys was shocked at my scars. I thought she would have been told about them.
• Wulf: They knew very little about you, Rigmor. After all, The College lost track of those it was sworn to protect.
• Rigmor: Perhaps they mistakenly thought Lady Azura had it under control? We know how well she has looked after me.
• Wulf: Deciding which has done a shittier job would be impossible.
• Rigmor: Cerys, would you please help me get out of this armour? I can’t see where most of the buckles are.
• Cerys: Yes, of course.

Malesam and I returned to the other room.

He asked, “Do others know you and Rigmor are in love?”

“Many mortals and gods, including Lady Boethia, know. Your mistress tried to torment me about my love for Rigmor, but even she knows it is strong. Lady Mara says our souls are entwined, and one will seek the other in every kalpa.”

“What problems are left over from the concoction?”

“It was trauma and fear combined with the concoction that caused issues. Rigmor lost all her memories but has regained most of them. She will not carry a weapon, but that is likely a choice unrelated to her memory loss. Don’t expect Rigmor to fight against The New Order on the battlefield. She doesn’t want to and shouldn’t have to. Do you understand what they planned to do with Rigmor?”

“They were to sacrifice Rigmor so that Trinimac could enter Mundus through an Oblivion Gate.”

“You are not a mage, so your understanding of souls is likely limited. Cerys can help if you want clarification on what I tell you. They did not plan a simple sacrifice. Malacath needed a soul and a body to transform into Trinimac. He was not going to step through the Oblivion Gate, but displace Rigmor’s Consciousness. If not destroyed, her Consciousness would be trapped in The Ash Pit. It is not a nice place. Trinimac would then take over Rigmor’s body. Until he could gather enough Creatia, not a rapid process in Mundus, the god-king would live within the petite body of a teenage Nord woman.”

“That is terrifying!”

“I haven’t told the worst of it. For the transfer of the soul to work, a simple sacrifice was insufficient. They would have to wake Rigmor and then torture her for an extended period. This process would prepare her soul for the transfer. She would have suffered the most horrendous pain and terror.”

“I am so, so sorry.”

“Boethia would have known of the process required. She did not tell you, for even the most devout might balk at allowing such a thing to happen.”

“Will Rigmor accept Mede’s offer?”

“I don’t know. We spoke to Jarl Elisif, and Rigmor will speak with Emissary Baa’Ren-Dar and her mother before deciding. She might even wait to see how our fight against The New Order progresses before announcing her decision.”

“What was Malacath like?”

“Delusional, probably insane. I felt sorry for Malacath, but he has no rights to Mundus. As Trinimac, he was a champion of Auri-El and deserved better. Lady Boethia is not kind to those she opposes. The New Order lied to him and fed his need for revenge. They had no intention of becoming devout followers of Trinimac.”

“They wanted to use him to weaken The Nine.”

“So, you do listen to Cerys. There is hope for you yet.”

Malesam went quiet and closed his eyes. I got the impression he’d done a lot of soul-searching in the last hour.

It took less time to get the armour off than to don it. Rigmor soon said, “I am ready to go, Dragonbum!”

Malesam opened his eyes, and I remarked, “Cerys will have many difficult questions. Rigmor was only fourteen when they tried to destroy her spirit and failed! It is terrible to realise there are people capable of such cruelty.”

As we approached the room, Rigmor and Cerys were chatting like old friends. They turned to us when we entered.

• Wulf: Thank you for assisting Rigmor, Master Mage Cerys
• Cerys: Continue to protect her, Magister Welkynd!
• Rigmor: Don’t worry, Cerys, he always does.
• Wulf: Except when I get shot in the throat by a poisoned crossbow bolt and stabbed through the armpits.
• Rigmor: You came back from The Void, visited Oblivion twice and killed many to rescue me.
• Wulf: I will place the armour and sword in Cethnelor, Rigmor.
• Rigmor: Watch this, Cerys. It is so cool!

Cerys and Malesam watched in bewilderment as I touched each item, and they vanished without me saying a word.

• Rigmor: Wulf has a four-dimensional chest in his palace. That means it is bigger on the inside than the outside.
• Wulf: It was a gift from the Psijic Order.
• Cerys: You have a palace?
• Wulf: I own many properties. Aetheron is one of them.
• Rigmor: It is an Ayleid palace and town. I don’t know where it is, and teleportation is the only way to reach it. It is pretty, peaceful, and full of laughter.
• Cerys: Is it a reclaimed ruin?
• Wulf: No. Until I moved there six months ago, it had never been lived in, and it was built millennia ago. I have given Celestine an Ayleid house in the town where she lives with her partner, Vayu.
• Cerys: Celestine is lovely.
• Wulf: She is one of my closest friends and the best Restoration Mage I have met. Vayu is a Dragonguard shaman.
• Rigmor: Okay, Dragonbum, I am starving, so let’s get going.
• Wulf: We shall report to the Arch-Mage before heading home.

Rigmor hugged Cerys. I don’t think Rigmor had many young women around her while she lived with Baa’Ren. Their bond could be strong.

We made our way to the Arch-Mage.

• Wulf: I am satisfied that Jonte and Cerys will be of benefit to Rigmor if she accepts the offer from Mede.
• Savos: What if Rigmor refuses the offer?
• Rigmor: Dragonguard would protect me.
• Wulf: There are things I wouldn’t be comfortable sharing with Jonte unless necessary. Things that require an oath to learn. If Rigmor is the Countess of Bruma, he may be allowed to know some things, but not all.
• Savos: You and Celestine would protect Rigmor if she isn’t countess.
• Wulf: Yes, so the Royal Decree would be met. If Rigmor is countess, it would not be prudent to replace Bruma guards with Dragonguard. We would have to study the situation to see where discreet elements of The College and Dragonguard might be inserted.
• Savos: Do you need aid against The New Order?
• Wulf: We shall need more mages, but I will use Imperial Battlemages. If things go wrong and The College is involved, the victors will target it.
• Savos: I understand.
• Wulf: I must inform you of the death of Magister Septimus Signus.
• Savos: I had hoped he would return, as his knowledge was deep and his eccentric ways intrigued apprentices.
• Wulf: I will write a detailed report for your archives, but in summary, he became a devotee of Lord Mora.
• Savos: That is a fate we warn apprentices about. Seekers of knowledge do many unwise things. Summoning entities for which they have too little control. Trying spells beyond their current capability and experimenting with necromantic power without sufficient knowledge. The list is long, but even the wisest amongst us can make fatal errors.
• Wulf: Lord Mora killed Magister Signus after his usefulness in Mundus was over.
• Rigmor: The Tentacled Turd turned Septimus into a pile of ashes!
• Savos: He likely transformed Signus into a Seeker. We do not know what memories of their mortality those Daedric minions retain.
• Wulf: Logic suggests their mortal desire for knowledge would be useful to the librarians of Apocrypha.
• Savos: I shall record his death and inform his colleagues.
• Wulf: It has been a pleasure meeting you, Arch-Mage.

I teleported us to the Safehouse.

“It has been an eventful day, Rigmor.”

“What are you planning for tomorrow?”

“I think you should spend some time at the farm, discussing things with Sigunn and maybe Baa’Ren if he is there.”

“Yeah, Mum will be relieved to see how much healthier I am. Angi might also want to discuss her worries.”

“Please, do not tell Angi we have discussed her rape.”

“Duh! It might be logical that no shame should be attached to it, but that is not how Angi feels.”

“I will visit Wolf Cave with a squad. Hopefully it is just another coven of necromancers whose fate depends on their response to our visit.”

“You can tell me about Potema over a hot meal.”

“That is unexpected. I thought you would be molesting me the moment we were alone.”

“What kind of pizza would be best for stamina?”

“Ahh, I understand.”

After a good meal and a talk about the day’s events, we retired to bed. But little sleep was had.