Hello everyone, and welcome to one of my only NON-Naruto stories. To anyone new coming in as only Elder Scrolls fans, ignore that comment as you probably don't like that show, but regardless I hope all my long-time fans, or new readers, enjoy this idea made papyrus. Hopefully this isn't as buggy as Bethesda's attempt at such a system…. Anyway!

This story came to me as a sort of idea. As I started uncovering much of the Lore of the Elder Scrolls, Skyrim in particular, I had this idea that… what if an Altmer was a Dragonborn? And what if they did not support the Thalmor? What kind of story would they create? What kind of grief would they encounter? So I thought to make it happen. A story where our hero, an Altmer Dragonborn, would try and bring peace to a land of bloodshed, even if a good number of the population hated her for being a High Elf. Someone who is fearless, an Altmer with the skills of a true Warrior, and the talents to become one of the greatest Mage's in the land. This is the beginning of the story, and I will say that, for now, it will sort of follow the game's story. So I hope you all give it a try before judging it too harshly. Enjoy!

XxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxX;

"We are almost there, I hope you know what you are doing..."

"This is where I am to be lead. If this path is dangerous or peaceful so be it, but I must walk where she guides me."

"SPIES! TAKE THEM DOWN!"

"Everyone for themselves!"

"Wait, I'm not-!" THUD

XxX Morning, Skyrim, Imperial Highway XxX

"Damn it... Damn it, This went so wrong..." A gruff voice, irritated, almost angry sounded.

"Shut up! We're almost there, we'll have you some water by the time you get off the carts." Another, equally irritated, voice from the other side.

Shakes were felt, the wooden seat beneath rattled from the road, stones it sounded like from the thumping. This was not right, why were they in a carriage on a stone road, who was talking, and why were they angry? 'My head, it's foggy. What happened to me...'

Eyes opening, the blurry vision gives way to figures unknown. Two in the front, one on each side, four in total. Slowly blinking the dust off the lashes, bringing arms up to brush it away only to find them bound. 'I'm.. prisoner? This doesn't make sense, what happened? Who attacked me?'

The movement granted a clear vision, almost clean of all blur when another man's voice, gruff and sincere called. "Hey, you. Finally awake? You were trying to cross the border, right? Walked right into that Imperial Ambush, same as us, and the horse thief over there."

Before an answer could be brought up, the first man's voice almost snarled. "Damn you Stormcloaks, before you came along the Imperials were nice and lazy. If they weren't looking for you, I'd have stolen that horse and been half way to Hammerfell!"

Hammerfell? Redguard? What were Redguard doing in Skyrim during their conflict? Clearing the eyes of all obstruction, all that was seen were three Nords, and an Imperial soldier driving. 'Why am I in the same cart as a thief and some Nords? And who are these Stormcloaks?'

Questions swirled in the mind, unknowable. Ears perked as the thief spoke. "You there, you and me, we shouldn't be here. It's these damn Stormcloaks the Empire wants."

The gruff man spoke up against that. "We're all brothers and sisters in binds now, Thief. You, me, this woman, and the rest of us."

Looking up, the woman glared at the man in front of her, his blonde hair and gruff beard sure signs of his Nord heritage, strong jaw and back. The other man in front of her was thinner, one that took more towards sneaking around instead of fighting, clearly defined by his posture. But what surprised her was the man beside her, with a cover over his mouth was another Nord. Skyrim was the land they hailed from, but something was clearly going on. She remembered very little after that Khajiit took off.

The Thief looked to the man as well, and questioned why he wore a rag. "What's wrong with him?"

Apparently insulted, the blonde Nord snapped from somber to defensive in a hurry. "Watch your tongue! This here is Ulfric Stormcloak! The True High King!"

Taking the woman by surprise was the name. The last time she checked, the High King of Skyrim wasn't Stormcloak, nor was he someone to be put on trial. However, she was starting to remember warnings of recent developments in Skyrim upon her interests to cross the border. There was a rebellion against Imperial control... Maybe this was them.

Shocked, the thief was scared from the name. She had missed a part of the conversation. Though the blonde Nord was answering regardless. "I don't know where we're going. But Sovngarde awaits."

That explained much. A rebellion Leader, captured by the Imperials they fight. Chances were either death or imprisonment till death. Those did not bode well in either fashion. The fog of morning soon rolled away to the sun's rays of light peaking over the mountain's edge, showing the walls of a small town. As the woman looked upon it, she hoped her life did not end here. She still had a journey to complete in the name of her family.

The blonde man who had been speaking looked at the walls as well, but soon questioned the thief again, as well as the woman. "Where are you two from?"

With a scoff and snarl, the thief was agitated. "Why do you care?"

Not appropriate for her, but a simple answer was given from the blonde. The rebel spoke softly, almost wistfully. "A Nord's last thoughts, should be of home."

The thief seemed to accept that. "Rorikstead. I'm from Rorikstead."

Seeing the man turn to her, the woman turned her gaze away. "I'm not a Nord. It doesn't matter. Stendarr guide me so my life won't end here."

Though she only gave the Nord something to ask. "That's interesting. You have dark hair to your shoulders, and a pair of eyes that are not normally seen in the world. They sort of glow a deep ethereal blue. Though a High Elf, you clearly hold Nordic influence. You're not thin and frail looking."

Looking at the rebel, her eyes glared. "My race does not matter. All that matters is I am in a cart, my valuables taken from me, and I am to be imprisoned or put to death."

The gates of the town opened to them, and soon they went inside. The Nordic blonde looked around. "This is Helgen. I used to be sweet on a girl from here... I wonder if Vilod is still making that mead with juniper berries mixed in..."

Though soon they turned and the Nord seen pointed ears looking upon them. "There's the Thalmor, talking with General Tullius, the military governor. Damn Elves..."

Blue eyes looked at the Nord again upon his exclamation. "You do not have any care for Elves?"

Turning to the woman, the rebel took a deep breath. "It's not all Elves. The Thalmor have turned a Treaty into a slavery agreement, the Empire bending over for their rule, and banning the worship of our gods, specifically Talos, whom all of Skyrim adores. Tradition's, history, being taken away and banished, all because the Thalmor are 'allies'."

Though she herself could not disagree with him, she felt his hatred of elves was misguided. Just as the Nords were divided, so too were other races. But that would have to come later. People watched from their homes as the prisoners came in carts, and stopped.

As the Breton questioned their sudden stop, the woman could only gaze ahead, and see a headsmen, with his block of stone, ready for the sentencing. 'I am to be put to death? This was not the path given to me, Azura I don't understand why you led me here for this purpose.'

A female officer yelled for them. "Get these prisoners out of the carts! Move it!" Seeing the other cart start to file out, the woman could only feel regret for not being able to make her mother proud.

Standing up, the somber blonde Nord sighed. "Let's go. Shouldn't keep the gods waiting for us." Moving behind the thief and Ulfric, the three filed out in front of her. She stood and followed.

Panicked, the thieving Nord was pleading for his life "You've got to tell them, we weren't with you, we're not rebels!"

As with any Nord warrior true to his mettle, the gruff one who could talk wasn't into pleading as jumped in behind him. "Face your death with some courage, thief."

Jumping behind them, the woman could only hear the thief praying in whispers. Her own thoughts were a distraction from that. 'Ulfric, the Nord that has been depicted in Cyrodill as a hater of Mer and Beast alike, whom defies the very land he was sworn to protect. All I heard were whispers, but fire originates the smoke others see from the horizon. I am to be put to death as his spy? This is a mistake, but one I cannot go against, it would seem.'

The names were to be called and the ones with that name go to the block, and first was obvious. "Ulfric Stormcloak, Jarl of Windhelm." A Jarl? This made whatever he was criminal of even worse. He stepped forward, and another name was called. The line beside them was slowly dwindling as they began before them.

The next name was the Nord who talked kindly to them this trip. "Ralof of Riverwood." Ralof. He seemed not as headstrong as Ulfric was. But she still did not trust a Stormcloak.

Not wanting to be confused, the panicked thief came up fast. "No, you can't do this! I'm not a rebel!"

Though he was on the list, it seemed. "Lokir of Rorikstead." But before they could react, the prisoner ran for it, running as fast as he could. By order of the woman beside the man with the list, the archers shot Lokir down. She didn't much care for thieves, but even he didn't deserve to be shot down like an animal.

The Imperial woman turned to everyone. "Anyone else feel like running?" No answer. Everyone else seemed ready to face their deaths.

The man with the list looked to her. "Wait... You there, step forward." Walking slowly to the man, the woman only stared with a hardened gaze, proudly walking. She would not let them have their satisfaction. Stopping in front of him, he asked her a simple question. "Who are you? What is your name?"

The woman took a deep breath and spoke clearly. "Taalnir NightGuard. I come from Cyrodill, a small town along the lake bordering the Imperial City."

The man wrote it down, and Taalnir stayed silent. Though he was a bit surprised by her appearance, looking up at the taller woman. "High Elf? You're not with the Thalmor Embassy are you? That can't be right..."

Taalnir almost snarled. "I may be an Altmer, but I have my pride, and refuse to be a part of their image. But that hardly makes me a criminal."

Seeing as she was not a part of the Thalmor embassy, and the Thalmor hadn't come to claim her, he had little choice. The man looked to the woman beside him. "Captain, what do we do? She's not on the list."

Crossing her arms, the captain huffed, snarling. "Forget the list. She goes to the block like the rest."

Oh how Taalnir didn't like this woman. The Empire proudly laid their sights on order and peace. Whilst conquerors, Tiber Septim himself started the Empire to become a nation of free races. To put them all to death, the Thief and herself, over a misunderstanding, was against the Imperial rule.

Though not all Imperials were bad here, it would seem. The man looked to her with sincere apology. "I'm sorry, we'll make sure you're ashes are brought home."

Getting pulled by the captain, the Altmer woman kept her stride from breaking and walked beside the rest. A man with white hair and golden armor started talking to the Jarl. "Ulfric Stormcloak. Some here in Helgen call you a Hero, but a Hero doesn't use a power like the Voice to murder his King and usurp the throne."

The Voice? Taalnir knew of the Nords gift from Kyne herself, but it was said many could barely wield it. To actually use it was a feat only few achieved, and they were said to never interfere with the ways of political strife. Her father called them the Greybeards, and spoke only of their teachings of those blessed by Akatosh. Was Ulfric one such?

The apparent General growled back at Ulfric, who has growled through the rag around his mouth. "You started this war! Plunged Skyrim into chaos! Now the Empire is going to put you down, and restore the peace!" As they were meant to, but Taalnir felt this unfair to everyone in company. She was only trying to cross the border, not start a conflict.

Before any more speculation could be given, a ringing sound came through the sky, cutting through like a razor. It chilled Taalnir's blood. She could not understand why, but it felt like a great power was behind it.

The Imperial list-man looked to the mountains. "What was that?"

Tullius himself wouldn't have any distractions delay them. "It's nothing, carry on."

The Captain stepped forward. "Yes, General Tullius!" Turning to the priestess, she gave the order. "Give them their last rites."

Stepping forward herself, the priestess rose her hands and started to pray for them. "As we commend your souls to Aetherius, blessings of the Eight Divines be upon you-"

"For the love of Talos shut up! Let's just get this over with!" One of the Stormcloaks rudely interrupted the prayer, for which Taalnir was irritated for. She was in prayer herself, hoping her prayers would be heard carried by the priestess.

Stepping to the block, the Priestess just huffed in irritation herself. The Captain came behind the prisoner and sat him on his knees, and pinned him so his chest lay on the headsman stone, the headsman himself rose his axe. Before his head came off, the Stormcloak spoke his last words. "My ancestors are smiling down on me, Imperials. Can you say the same?"

And his head came off. As the captain moved his body out of the way, a Stormcloak tried to rush in, only having to be held back by more Imperials. "You Imperial bastards!"

Though not everyone attending this death sentence were against. Two others cried for Justice, and the death of the Stormcloaks. It did not matter. The Captain pointed to her. "Next, the High Elf!" Though just as she said that, the same roaring cry cut through the air, once more chilling Taalnir to the bone.

She looked around, noticing a few of those around were also feeling the pressure of this roar. Ulfric had piercing eyes on the sky, and the listing man had a hand on his sword. "There it is again... Did you hear that?"

The captain was having none of it. "I said, next prisoner!" Taalnir was frozen stiff, but she knew she had to move forward. She felt it in her blood, something bad was about to happen. Slowly walking forward, she turned to the stone, looking at it.

Being forced to her knees and pinned to the block, she looked up to the headsman. Just then, the roaring was louder, and her eyes widened. 'That can't be..'

A large black creature rose from behind the mountain, and she was not the only one to see it. "What in Oblivion is that!?" Seems the Imperials were also confused. Though the Headsman was raising his axe still for her. Was she to die to the blade, or to the beast? Was her fate to end here?

The archers, commanded to answer the captain, could only yell as it landed upon them on the tower right beside her. Thankfully, the force of the landing shook the ground, knocking the headsman off balance and he falls to the ground. With nothing holding her down, Taalnir sat up on her knees a bit to get a better look as the black creature stared at her. The Stormcloaks apparently knew what this being was, as did she from the legends, but the Stormcloaks were the ones with voice at this time. "DRAGON!"

The Dragon screamed out in a deafening roar. The shouting shook the ground, making whatever the dragon said next unknown, and the skies burned into dark clouds, sitting their light away from this place.

As Taalnir backed away from the Dragon as best she could, she heard scrambling of the Imperials and Stormcloaks, the citizens being hauled of to safety as she sat there, bound, unable to get away. The Dragon shouted once more with power at everyone in the courtyard. "Fus Ro Da!" A heavy force slammed into her and knocked her against the building behind her, almost knocking her out.

Her dizzy disorientation was short lived however, as she was grabbed and pulled along. "Come on, we have to get out of here!" It sounded like Ralof, from the Stormcloaks, but she could only see chain-mail armor and feel a strong hand grabbing her arm.

Being pulled into a tower, Taalnir knelt down, catching her breath and regaining her senses. As she started to look around, she found herself to be, indeed, with the Stormcloaks. Some wounded, in a tower. Ralof did rescue her. He spoke to Ulfric. "Ulfric, what was that thing? Could the legends be true?"

Ulfric apparently managed to get his mouth free. "Legends don't burn down villages. Though I don't like the fact you brought her with us."

Turning to look at Ulfric, Taalnir could see the resentment and the hatred radiating off him towards her. Standing up, she turned to him as Ralof spoke up. "She may be an Elf, but she's not with the Thalmor. We're fighting for freedom after all. But what do we do?"

Though she was confused why Ralof was choosing to help her, she appreciated that sentiment. Indeed, freedom was a concept to fight for. His leader, however, did not share it. "I don't care. As soon as this is all over I don't want to see her with us." Just then, the roaring came again, this time it sounded close. Ulfric had the right idea though. "We need to move, NOW!" Looking to Taalnir, he glared. "You, follow Ralof and get going!"

Ralof started to the stairs and yelled for her to follow. Running to him she climbed the stairs up to the second floor. However, before either could move further up the wall broke apart, introducing the black dragon with piercing red eyes. "Yol Toor Shul!"

The fire came in troves through the upper floor, thankfully not hitting them any more than the heat of the flame and no damage. The Dragon swept away after that, leaving a burning tower. Upon the fact this was where they needed to go, Taalnir put her hands up and ice formed, frost spewing from her hands and putting the fires out.

Ralof was impressed. "You're a mage? You could have escaped before now."

Taalnir frowned a bit. "I only know simple magic. It wouldn't have helped me escape, but it may help us get away from the dragon."

Seeing the stairs broken, Ralof huffed, but saw the hole in the wall, the building next door had an opening. "The building on the other side, you can jump to it and try and escape that way. Ulfric may not like other races, but I know you aren't with the Thalmor. Good luck, now Hurry!"

Stepping up to the hole, Taalnir looked to Ralof. "Kynareth guide you, Ralof." With that, she ran and jumped for the other building, grabbing with her bound hands on the roofing, swinging her legs forward and landing gracefully on the floor. Though it creaked and bent at her weight.

Running forward, Taalnir sprinted to the hole on the far side, as the roof started to collapse from her pull. She jumped through the hole and landed on the ground floor, jumping out the door just in time as the building fully collapsed behind her.

She would have preferred to stay inside, it would seem, when the Dragon came flying above her and turned around on her, as well as the Imperial list-man with a boy and a comrade running through. The Dragon landed right there behind them as they ran.

Jumping behind the next building, as did the other three near her ducking behind, the Dragon shot hot fire at them again, shouting his power at them fiercely. As the shouting stopped, the Dragon flew off.

Standing up, Taalnir looked to the three with her. The list-man looked to her. "Still alive, prisoner? Stick with me if you want to keep it that way."

Backing up a step, she glared. "The Imperial's here were willing to kill me for a crime I did not commit, you expect me to believe you?"

The man huffed, but his look softened a bit. "General Tullius wanted to end the rebellions in a single move, whilst I did not agree to this course of action, I cannot go against the order of my superiors. But I assure you, if you stay with me, I'll do everything in my power to keep you off the chopping block. Besides, if you hadn't noticed, we have bigger problems."

Seeing as the Dragon swooped on the tower she had just left, and crushed it, she knew he was right. Nodding, Taalnir accepted. "Let's go!"

Turning to the old man and the child, he asked the man to get the child to safety. "Protect the boy, Gungnir."

The old man agreed. "I will. Gods guide you Hadvar."

Running off, Hadvar and Taalnir started through the broken town. "Stay close to the walls!" Jumping between a broken tower and a separating wall, the Dragon roared as it landed above them on the wall. Though as they hit the wall, the wing and talon came down and scrapped against Taalnir's side, cutting her, however it was only a shallow cut, blood drawn or no.

Forgoing the pain, Taalnir followed Hadvar once the Dragon flew off again. Running through a burning building and into the open, they came upon a defense. General Tullius guiding them as the Imperials fought off this dragon as best they could during the chaos of the Stormcloaks escaping. "Get into the Keep Hadvar! We're getting out of here!"

Grabbing Taalnir, Hadvar pulled her along. "This way! We're getting out of here!" They ran for it as the Dragon swooped down on the defense, but left when spells from the Imperial Mages hit him. Coming up to the Keep, Hadvar and Taalnir saw Ralof coming from the wall's wreckage, him and two other Stormcloaks. Hadvar apparently had words to say. "Ralof, you damn traitor, move out of the way!"

Ralof glared back at Hadvar. "We're leaving Hadvar, and there's nothing you can do to stop us!"

The Dragon, however, cut this argument short as it roared and grabbed an archer from the nearby wall, throwing him into the air and a powerful shock-wave from his voice shook the ground. Hadvar roared out. "Fine, I hope the dragon takes you all to Sovngarde!"

Ralof and the other Stormcloaks ran for the Keep, as did Hadvar who went further in to get to the Keep. Ralof screamed for Taalnir to follow. "Come on, this way Elf!"

Though Taalnir knew all too well what would happen if she followed Ralof. He was to never be seen with her again. Ulfric would kill her. He even knew it. As the two stared down, Taalnir bowed her head before running to Hadvar, who shouted her name, the only time she heard someone say it during this entire ordeal. "Taalnir, come on, we have to go!"

Rushing in, the two managed to safely shut the door before a roar of fire claimed the path. The Keep shook still with the battle outside, sounds of battle could still be heard. Though for now, they could catch their breath. Hadvar huffed and looked to the Altmer. "We'll be ok for now, but we have to keep moving. No idea how long until that Dragon burns this keep to the ground. We'll need to move through the mountain."

Though now looking at the woman, he noticed her bleeding from a cut. "You're wounded, we need to find some poultices."

Looking and feeling the cut, Taalnir hissed at the touch before suddenly pouring magic into her hands and a brilliant light shown, a spell of healing soon started it's work. "I'll be fine. It's only a small cut."

Hadvar looked to her, although not surprised he was impressed. "You wield magic, but how strong is it?"

Halfway done with healing, the Altmer kept focus on the wound. "I have only the basics given by my mother. She taught me the elements well, though I never listened when I told her I would rather follow my fathers example. She accepted my choice, but told me to at least keep the basics to build on if I so wished." Once the wound was healed, she sighed. "Though I won't be able to do much tied up."

Nodding, Hadvar grabbed a dagger. This caused Taalnir to back up a step, but he was calm and still. "I'll cut the bonds, if you'll trust me."

A few seconds went by with nothing, but Taalnir stepped forward, only enough to put her arms up for him, enough distance to get back and retaliate if he was lying. He kept his word, however, and cut her free easily. "There. Better?"

Rubbing her wrists, Taalnir nodded. "Thank you." She noticed Hadvar put the knife away and start walking around. She noticed she was in a sleeping quarters, chests at the foot of beds, and weapon racks with only a few weapons.

Checking a chest, the Imperial soldier sighed. "I've got to look for the key's, the doors were locked in case of the Stormcloaks filing out through any of the Keeps. There should be arms and armor still, take what you need and let's get going."

The Keep shook after that, but it was only a small bit. Roars heard outside, the Dragon was still fighting. Looking around, Taalnir found the weapons rack and found only one rack with normal sized blades. It would have to suffice. Grabbing it, she inspected the workmanship. It was a standard Steel Legion blade, however it was higher grade than the type of steel used back in Cyrodiil. "Skyrim Craftsmanship, a marvel in and of itself. It is rather impressive, more so than Elven Silver."

Seeing her grab the sword, Hadvar smiled before he checked another nearby chest for the keys. "You are not as higher class as the Thalmor present themselves to be, in the name of the Altmer traditions and the like. Though I wouldn't cut down Elven works, Nordic Smiths give the greatest quality steel in Tamriel. Think you will be ok wielding such? It's not beautiful, but it gets the job done.

Not exactly disappointed by the choice, or lack thereof it would seem, she swung it a few times to get a feel for the weight. "It'll do. Though I wish I had a shield."

Finding the keys, Hadvar went to the door, pulling the chain on the wall to activate the lift. "I'm actually surprised you want more weight. Altmer are well known for their Battlemages. Though I know of Altmer Warriors, none would be willing to hold up heavy shields of iron. Not the snobbish type of attitude I usually expect to see."

Having no sheath or belt to put the blade, Taalnir aimed the blade down, holding it beside her as if it was sheathed. "My father, he was a warrior. I learned from him a few things. Seeing as I'm only thirty, I still have a long way before I'm proficient with magic." With a small smirk, she shrugged at the comment about snobbish Altmer. "Besides, my father wasn't an Altmer, and I took after him, even if I was born an Elf."

Though their talk was interrupted by the shaking of the Keep. They had stayed their welcome in this room. Running through the door they came up to another locked door, but on the other side was heavy breathing. Newly arrived survivors. They sounded like Nords. "Let me just catch my breathe."

Hadvar whispered to her. "Stormcloaks... Maybe we can reason with them, get out of here all alive."

That gave Taalnir a little to think about. Hadvar was with the Imperials, and called Stormcloaks traitors, but was willing to work with them instead of kill them if he could. Nodding, she watched him pull the lever again and come out to the Stormcloaks. She heard them grab their weapons as Hadvar tried to reason. "Now hold on, we don't have to fight right now. We should focus on getting to safety first."

Though the response was a very loud and angry "DIE IMPERIAL SCUM!" By the Stormcloak who wanted a breather no less.

Coming from the door, she saw Hadvar grab his shield and block the heavy war-hammer of one Stormcloak. "So much for talking!" Grabbing his sword, he jammed the end against the Stormcloaks stomach.

Taalnir wasn't going to stand by though, and that thought also occurred to the other Stormcloak, who noticed her and attacked on instinct. "Die Thalmor spy!"

The Altmer woman activated a spell that made her skin harden under the blow of the war axe, only cutting into her briefly. Grabbing the Stormcloaks arm, cutting her own further, Taalnir jammed the end of the sword into the Stormcloaks stomach and lifted her over her head, flipping her on her back behind her roughly before kicking her head, knocking her out.

Turning to her companion, she witnessed Hadvar cut the head of the Stormcloak clean off. Hadvar huffed and looked at the one Taalnir took down. "She's not dead?"

Taalnir walked to Hadvar, walking past him as she answered. "If she's lucky she can survive the attack. But I'm not willing to kill anyone until I understand why the Nords are fighting the Imperials this way."

Noticing the magical aura around her, Hadvar walked up to her and the locked door. Figuring it's best to move on, he unlocked the door as he asked his question. "For someone with only basic spells, you aren't without resources. Alteration, Restoration, Destruction, you've got skills in magic that all Altmer have. Why would you not practice these skills?"

Walking through the door, and following the Nord Imperial, Taalnir just let a small smile grace her lips. "Maybe because I like the challenge of a real fight. It's in my blood I suppose."

As they got to the bottom of the stairs through the door they turned into a narrow passage, where more Stormcloaks were gathered. However, as soon as they noticed, the Keep rocked in violent shakes that sent the middle of the corridor into collapse, rubble cutting them off from the Stormcloaks.

Having narrowly escaped such a crushing fate, the two looked to each other. Taalnir had a question as her Alteration magic faded. "I need armor, but we don't have time..." Then she remembered something. "Where is my gear? My clothing and items were taken, but where?"

Hadvar looked confused before answering as best he could. "We had taken most of the items from you and everyone, but seeing as most of our forces thought the trap would be a bloodbath we only brought a couple prisoner rags. You were never supposed to be sentenced to death here in Helgen, I thought we would have went back to Cyrodiil, so we used the rags for you and the thief. Your gear would be in a storage room. One of which is right here, the other is blocked off now."

Taalnir looked at the door Hadvar pointed to for the Storage room. Seeing as it was the only way, she went and opened the door. Slowly filing in with Hadvar, the two soon heard murmurings. "We only need a few potions, don't get greedy. We have to get out of here, who knows what will collapse next!"

Gesturing Hadvar to stay hidden, Taalnir stepped forward to the Stormcloaks. "Stormcloaks, I suggest leaving. The Dragon collapsed the corridor just outside-" Though as soon as she started talking, the Stormcloaks looked to her, and after a moment to judge her appearance, they immediately thought her a Thalmor.

"Thalmor Spy! Die with the rest of your dirty elven brethren you Milk drinker!" And with that they charged with swords and hammer. Taalnir scoffed and pulled her sword to the ready. Thankfully Hadvar wasn't one to wait there anymore and rushed in to meet them.

Blocking the hammer with her sword, Taalnir forced the blow to the side before slamming the end of the sword into the Nord's chin, sending him to his knees and bent backwards. As he tried to regain himself by bending forward, she rose a knee and clocked him hard enough to send him back and on his back, his legs flying out from under him from the pressure of the bending knees.

Hadvar blocked the incoming sword with his shield, saving Taalnir so she could knock the hammer wielding Stormcloak out, only to fail in his attempt to parry the next sword, the blade cutting into the weak spot of his side. With an open wound, Hadvar backed off and slapped his hand to his side. "Taalnir! Watch out!"

Seeing Hadvar take the blow for her, she grabbed the attackers arm and pulled him to her, only to slam her arm into his neck and flipping him upside down, slamming onto his chest. As he slowly started to get up, Taalnir stomped on his back, then again, and once more before switching legs and kicking him in the head. The force of her kick rolled him once over, and she heard the crack. She had just killed the Stormcloak.

Huffing, she hurried to Hadvar and started using a healing spell in both hands to seal his wound. The Imperial soldier grunted but kept his poise. "Thanks. I suppose me being an Imperial and you being an Altmer makes for ineffective diplomacy."

Being an understatement, Taalnir couldn't agree more with the point of the matter. The Stormcloaks believed her to be a Thalmor spy, when she herself despised them. 'I was about to have my head chopped off, and they believe I am a spy? Ulfric must have told them something, I knew it was best to stick with Hadvar. Ralof may be a good man, but I still do not know for sure. Who knows if it wasn't him who told them to kill me.'

Finishing the healing, as the Keep shook, she looked to Hadvar. "Where would my items be held?"

Hadvar sheathed his weapon for now, and looked ahead. "They would be in a sack we had sent from the nearest Imperial fort to here. They were to always be one step ahead of the travel. If we hadn't sent them off yet, they would be here. I'll help look, so we can hurry."

Following the man to the storage area, they only noticed five bags. It would be simple to find, if it was there. The first two they checked were Stormcloak property, as it would seem, and the third was a smaller sack with the items from Lokir. Taalnir found her stuff in a similar sized bag and dumped the contents quickly. "I found it!"

Quickly shifting through the items, she managed to quickly find the items she was looking for. Pulling a golden necklace from the pile, she turned it in her hands. On the blank side, it had her mother's name, Ithlin, etched into it. It glowed faintly, as a Symbol of Mara. Hadvar looked at it. "Family heirlooms?"

Cutting her thoughts short, she quickly put it around her neck and grabbed the next set. "Yes, items from my parents whom wanted me to travel safely on my adventure." She pulled two gauntlets made of Nordic Steel, and glowing with a faint aura as well, and pulled them on quickly. Looking at the tops of the fore-arm plates, she smiled seeing the emblem of her father, the shield with a waning moon inside.

Standing up, she grabbed the iron dagger from the pile and the sword she had been using during this escape. "Let's go, we don't have time for me to get everything, but I have all that matters."

Inclined to agree, the Imperial Legionary lead the Altmer woman through the doors and through the corridor to the next set of stairs. The brown haired Imperial knew this room. "The prisoner cages, I wonder if more Stormcloaks came through. I don't think all of them could get through the mage here."

Turns out, they did. As they came across a bloody scene of battle. Two Imperial's on the floor dead, and two Stormcloaks. Hadvar went and checked on the Imperial soldiers, but Taalnir looked over the Stormcloaks. One had a Legionnaire's blade, even if another had managed to get their weapons from storage though. They had resorted to using any and all weapons they could grab, it would seem.

Seeing no benefit to carry much more than she already had, she left the other items on the floor. She would have to barter for a decent blade without a brand on it later, however, as she did not want to be mistaken by the blade she wields. Spotting a table with a book, knife, and knapsack, the golden skinned Mer grabbed the sack and slug it over her shoulders.

Standing back up, Hadvar looked at her and pointed to the caged off area. "You said you wanted a Shield yes? I think that you can use that one in there."

Turning to see it, Taalnir did find one, though it looked like a heavy one, large with iron around and on it. Going to grab it, she lifted it off the shelf and slipped it on her arm. Lifting it a few times, she sighed. "It will have to do. It's a little too heavy for my tastes, but better than nothing."

Seeing no more reason to stay, the Duo quickly filled through the prisoner cells area and through a hole in the wall leading further into the mountain. They were about to go into the next area, until they heard talking. More Stormcloaks. "Ralof must be mad, thinking he can go through the mountain! What if it's on the other side by now? It's already destroyed the bridge!"

"Quit whining, we said we'd stay until Ulfric came through and we're going to do just that. Besides, if the Dragon did finally leave, then it's safer here than trying to leave with it." The Rebel had a point. Still, they were not going to just stay in a burning town.

Turning to each other, the Legion soldier sighed. "We'll have to fight them off. You're not willing to kill them, but I doubt I can take them without lethal force."

Taalnir nodded. "I understand. I'm willing to fight with you to get out. I accidentally killed the Stormcloak back in the storage room, but I'd rather not kill unless it's necessary."

Reaching that understanding, they came out and rushed for the nearest rebels. Jumping down into the courtyard of the underground room, Taalnir activated her Alteration spell, her skin becoming as strong as an oak tree as her shield rammed into one of the two Stormcloaks in front of her, ramming him into the wall.

Turning around to the incoming attack from his friend, she swung her shield around and clocked the Rebel right in the face, tossing him to the side and slamming into the stairs, knocking him clean out. Seeing the man she tackled getting up and grabbing his sword, Taalnir stabbed her sword into his shoulder, pinning him there before slamming her foot into his head, knocking him against the wall. Seeing as that didn't knock him out the first time she did it twice until he finally drifted to darkness.

Her partner, Hadvar, was just slaying the hammer wielding Rebel up the stairs by cutting his arm clean off and then stabbing into his chest. Though the chainmail prevented a full penetration, it was clearly enough to kill.

Their victory was short lived, as one arrow stuck into Taalnir's leg, even with her spell active, and forcing her to take a knee. Another arrow almost hit Hadvar, however he was aware enough to hear the bow shoot off and raise his Shield to protect himself. Racing for the archers at what was expected to be the exit, he rammed into one and cut his leg, making the Stormcloak trip and fall. The other Stormcloak grabbed a dagger and tried to stab the Imperial, only to have Hadvar stop him and attempt to wrestle the knife away.

The Altmer took the arrow out of her leg and quickly healed most of the open wound, though seeing the archers still fighting Hadvar, she quickly climbed the stairs and came up. With little hesitation, she activated a basic lightning spell, and fired the bolts into the Stormcloak, shocking him and making him spasm in pain as his body was being burnt, especially with his heated chainmail from the spell's power.

Ending the spell, Taalnir let Hadvar finish the archer as she tossed a freezing cold ice spell directly at the archer attempting to get up and fight Hadvar, who was using the dagger that was used against him as a way to cut the Stormcloaks throat. The other archer soon slowly shook and tried to get away, but the cold kept his legs pinned. Hadvar used this opportunity to kick him in the head with full force, knocking him out against the wall,

Finally without enemies to face, the Duo took a moment to catch their breath. Looking to Taalnir, the Imperial soldier nodded her way. "Thanks for the rescue. I appreciate the help there. You ok?"

Seeing her leg, the Altmer warrior just stepped on her foot. "It'll be fine, we should still make it out of here. There won't be much left behind us."

Deciding to head forward, they saw the bridge collapsed and broken. Taalnir knew she could jump it, given the Alteration spell's help. Though it had faded. The Legionnaire however might not. He did have an idea though. "The water system." He pointed to a hole in the wall in the wreckage. "It leads to a small underground river, it's how we get our water in and out. We can use it to follow through the mountain. It might get us where the bridge would have."

It was worth a shot. Activating her Oakflesh spell once more, the duo jumped down and went through the wreck and the tunnel, finding skeletons and dead fish. Walking through to the open area on the other side of the broken bridge, they followed the river to a dead end, but there was a path to the side. Seeing as it was the only way, they went down it. What they found were dead Spiders, and a single Stormcloak that fell to one.

The battle was fought well, apparently Ralof was still alive, as he was not the one who was dead. Hadvar sighed and walked past the Spiders. "What's next, giant snakes?"

Glaring at the man, Taalnir stood from the dead body and frowned. "Don't give the spirits any ideas, who knows what we'll find down here. We should be nearing an exit, though."

Looking around for a moment, Hadvar saw an open path. Going to it, he couldn't see too far. "This seems to be a way out. Only way I can see, but it's too dark to go without any light."

Being at least proficient in magic, the Altmer spawned a light within her palm. Conjuring a source, she summoned a floating ball of light, and held it up by her. "This will have to do." Walking ahead of the Imperial, she lead the way in. Seeing the river again, they followed the path down. But further in was a small spotlight on a bear, sleeping.

Deciding to stop and crouch, the two held back, Taalnir vanquishing her spell to darken their area so the Bear could not see them.

Hadvar took a deep breath before seeing, in shadowed vision, a path over the river to another walkway. "I don't think we want to wake the mother bear. Let's try and slip past quietly, I think there's a way around here."

As the High Elf followed the man, they slowly crept around the bear, using the bridge and the pathway to their advantage. As soon as they were out of sight, a rock between them and the bear, that was when Hadvar made the mistake of not looking at the ground, and kicked a bone. This caused the Bear to awaken.

As it stood up, growling, Hadvar reached for his sword, but Taalnir stopped him. Looking to her, she put a finger to her lips, requesting his silence as they stay completely still. It took a moment, but the Bear soon curled up, forgoing any chase or tracking.

Seeing their chance, they crept forward once more, but their furry neighbor was not asleep. It was still awake and looking, even if it was laying down. As soon as it laid eyes on them, it rose up and roared. That caused Hadvar to grab his sword and back up. "Guess there's no other choice!"

The bear charged for them, the Altmer forging her skin with Oakflesh and getting ready. As the bear jumped, Hadvar and Taalnir leapt separate ways. The bear turned to Taalnir and swung for her, causing her to raise her shield and be slammed back by the force.

Seeing his chance, the Imperial soldier ran up and stabbed forth with a thrust of his blade, managing to stick into the bears side. This was foolhardy however, as the Bear turned and smacked him down, the sword still inside the bear but out of Hadvar's grip.

Getting up from her fall, Taalnir rose to see the bear tackle Hadvar and slam down on him. Getting up, Taalnir ran forward quickly, jumping up and stabbing down into the bears back, the force cutting into the flesh of the animal and causing it to buck and turn, roaring in pain.

Hadvar could only groan in pain and look as Taalnir swung on the creatures back. As it stood up, Taalnir used her height as an Altmer to her advantage and pulled hard down with her sword, cutting the bears back open and pulling the bears back enough to lose balance and tumble. Taalnir pulled her sword and quickly backed away as the Bear bled out, in pain. The bear settled, but was huffing and growling in pain.

Seeing this, Taalnir came up, putting a hand on the bear and whispering close. "I am sorry. We only wished to pass... May Mara accept you into her arms, and Arkay give you a life beyond death that brings you peace." And with that, she rose her blade once more, and stabbed the bear through the head, ending the poor creatures life.

Finishing the job, the High Elf turned and came to her companion. "You going to be ok? It didn't cut you did it?"

Hadvar grunted and sat up, holding his chest. "It knocked the wind out of me, but I'll be fine. Thanks... We should get moving though. I have a feeling the Dragon hasn't moved on."

Helping the man up, the Altmer proved she wasn't a frail High-Born as most Nords would think, and helped carry him to the exit. Though he was capable of walking, he was still badly hurt, the Bear obviously broke some bones.

Getting through the narrow exit, they found themselves looking out to the bright outside. Hadvar couldn't have been happier. "I thought we were going to be stuck down here till sundown. Glad to know we're getting out now."

Upon exiting, their eyes had to adjust to the lowering sun and the brisk outside air. Dropping her sword and sheathing her dagger in her gauntlet for now, Taalnir got a better grip on the Legionary's arm, and started walking him down the steps. Though a roar overhead caused them both to duck down.

Above was the black dragon that set Helgen ablaze, and he was flying off to the mountain. As it vanished into the clouds and beyond the mountain, they stood back up and started down once more. Hadvar kept his composure, but tried to relax a bit more. "I appreciate the help. I know it hasn't been a very good day for you, and it can't be easy to help an Imperial after what almost happened."

The High Elf smiled a bit though. "I wouldn't say that. I am in Skyrim, the land of my father, and there's nothing but the scenery before me. Not a bad view..."

Though she obviously wasn't kidding, she was holding back the trust of the Imperials question. Hadvar didn't want to press, but he had to at least get this off his chest. "Remember what I said, how it was a mistake for you to be put on that block? It's true. When we found you and the Thief, we had suspected you both to be Stormcloaks, but the Thief pleaded he wasn't. Seeing as you were not in Stormcloak colors, and an Altmer at that, we pegged you for someone in the wrong place at the wrong time. The Bloodbath never happened, and we had a large number of prisoners. We were supposed to go to Helgen to put the low ranking soldiers in cells, and try to get information about their plans, whilst you, the Thief, Ulfric and his top lieutenants were going to be sent to Cyrodill to be put to trial."

They were finally on a trail that spanned between Helgen and whatever other villages or farms were nearby. Taalnir looked to the man she was helping. "But instead, we were all to be put to death, then and there. Why?"

Groaning, Hadvar just frowned at the sudden change in plans. "General Tullius said that the Stormcloaks had to die, after their crimes, we couldn't just give them a trial and let their leader be alive to be freed. We're trying to avoid as much bloodshed from this civil war they started, and the General thought killing the head of their rebellion might make enough example to force them to turn away from the fight. Again, you and the Thief were never meant for the chopping block, but the order was for all prisoners, it would seem."

It made some sense, but the Altmer knew better than that. Nords were fighters by heart, they never backed away from a fight, nor a challenge. This would only instigate more fighting. "I won't forgive the Imperial legion, not after the mistakes it has made. The Treaty they let pass with the Aldmeri Dominion was nothing short of an embarrassment, and now this."

Hadvar looked to the Altmer. "You oppose the Dominion, even though you're a High Elf. That's a rare case."

Coming upon three stones on a flat stand, the Altmer woman sighed. "I do not understand why they exist. We've shown great advancement in culture, in building an Empire, in magic and planning. But we lose to the likes of Man. If Man were so inferior, why are we so divided, and so weakened by their rule?"

They were closing in on a town as she spoke, and Hadvar could only look in awe as Taalnir spoke. She spoke with wisdom beyond her years, she looked no more than twenty. With a final point, Taalnir made sure he understood where she stood on the matter. "We are all created by the same Aedra whom we worship, whom wanted us to be equal. The Thalmor wish nothing but domination. I only wish the Empire could see their folly and break off someday."

Entering the town, Hadvar stopped them. Pulling himself off Taalnir, he smiled, but held his chest still. "You know, you should join the Legion one day. We could use someone like you. Someone who truly sees Tamriel like you do. I know today wasn't a good introduction, but the Empire needs that guiding hand."

The Altmer frowned, however. She wasn't sure that was a good idea. "The Imperials still follow the Thalmor, and I doubt I am in much of a position to join those who want me dead."

Seeing her point, Hadvar continued. "The way I see it, you've already earned your pardon. And when I reach Solitude, you can count on me to make it official with General Tullius."

Seeing as Ulfric wouldn't want her near him at all, and Hadvar was giving her an offer, she didn't see much choice. But she didn't want to take sides, especially if the side offering was still connected to the Dominion. She would need more thought. "I'll keep the offer in mind. But I would like to think about the implications. It's too soon after the attack to jump on board with those who would chop my head for no reason but being at the border at the wrong time."

With a soft smile, Hadvar could tell she was considering it. She may not like the idea, especially with what she said about the Thalmor and Imperial Legion working together, but he knew in his heart she could help finally push them back. Somehow rally the Empire to seek help with Skyrim to push them out, instead of fighting Skyrim with the Thalmor. "I understand. When I reach Solitude, I'll get your pardon, and make them understand you have skills in combat. You've proven yourself to me, and I still have pull enough to make others understand you're worthy of it."

As they got under the bridge, the makeshift entrance to the town, Hadvar grunted and stopped them, pulling himself up on his own. "I can walk, least till we get inside my uncle's home." Walking forward, he lead Taalnir to the smith's. Stepping up to the man who was sharpening a steel knife, he smiled and called out. "Uncle Alvor, hey, It's me!"

Hearing the ruckus, Alvor let his knife off the spinning wheel and looked to the noise. "I'll be- Hadvar!" Not expecting to see his nephew, especially wounded, he jumped from his seat, setting the knife on the table and grabbing hold of him gently, trying to see how bad his injuries were. "Shor's bones, what happened? Is everything alright my boy?"

Hadvar nodded and pushed his uncle's arms off him. "I'm fine. We should get inside, I'll tell you all about it but I would like to sit down and catch my breath."

Understanding clearly that his nephew wanted this to be kept quiet, he nodded, but he could see the woman behind him was waiting as well. "Alright, but who is this?"

Looking behind him, the Legionnaire smiled as his friend was holding the shield up beside her on the ground. "A friend, saved my life in fact. Her name is Taalnir. If it's ok, I would think she can stay the night here." Turning back to his uncle Alvor, he didn't back down. "Let's get inside, we'll explain everything."

Seeing as his nephew wasn't giving him much choice, he nodded, starting to walk to the door to the house. "Come on then, I think we still have some leftovers from lunch, if not then Sigrid will get you something to settle that belly."

Filing into the door, Taalnir setting the shield by it, and the backpack she grabbed before entering, Alvor called out to his wife. "Sigrid! We have guests! Hadvar and a friend of his came for a visit!" The inside was not very big, at least not from wall to wall, as there was a fireplace next to the table, and two beds with nothing else.

However, the far wall had stairs going down to a basement, and that is where Sigrid was. "Oh? I'll be right up! I think there's still some cheese up there, do you need some Mead?"

Looking her way, Alvor was a little suspicious of the Altmer. "And maybe some Milk!"

Taalnir smiled, but sat down at the table with Hadvar before answering. "Mead will be fine, thank you."

Sitting down, the three of them waited as Sigrid came up. "Hadvar, we were so worried, are you alright? And who is this?"

Taalnir bowed to her hosts. "Taalnir, and I thank you for your hospitality."

Hadvar smiled as he took some Mead, giving a bottle to her. As he did, Alvor spoke up. "So, What brings you back so soon, and looking like you lost an argument to a cave bear?"

Sighing, the Legion soldier took a swig of his Mead before starting. "Well, that was what happened to me by the end of it, Taalnir saved me from that very same bear before we got out of the mountain. But before that, it was a massacre up in Helgen… We were stopped there, all of us in General Tullius' group, but out of nowhere a Dragon attacked us."

That took Sigrid and Alvor by surprise, though Alvor didn't want to believe it. "Are you sure? A Dragon? A real life Dragon? You aren't drunk, are you?"

Taalnir spoke up. "We were too close to it several times trying to get away. As black as night, with piercing red eyes, it was real."

Nodding his confirmation, Hadvar continued. "It's true. We managed to get into the Keep, and find our way out through the mountain river-way."

Reeling, the blacksmith sat back in his chair. "I can't believe it…" Feeling his wife's hand on his shoulder, he could see her worried look. Sitting up against the table, he had to know. "Did anyone else make it out?"

Looking to each other, Taalnir and Hadvar shared a look before the Imperial soldier spoke up again. "We're unsure how many would have survived. The dragon came and wrecked the whole place, half the town was on fire by the time we got into the keep. Even I probably would have been a casualty if it weren't for Taalnir."

Though he himself was not a big fan of the Thalmor, Alvor was thankful to this Altmer. "Thank you, Taalnir, for protecting my nephew."

Smiling, the Altmer bowed her head again. "I believe it is even. He had saved me from the dragon before I saved him from the bear."

Seeing her swig more Mead and take it like a champ, Alvor was surprised by this Altmer, but pleasantly. Looking to his nephew he smiled. "You both are welcome here for the night. And Taalnir, any friend of Hadvar's is a friend of mine. Anything you need, we'll provide. Within reason of course."

Hadvar had a couple ideas. "She could use some clothes, and maybe a lighter shield."

Alvor did notice the heavy iron shield she had led up to the house. "I suspect she'd have a hard time lifting such a heavy shield… I suppose I could make a buckler."

Putting a hand up, the Altmer shook her head. "If it's possible, a full sized shield. This iron shield may have been heavy but If I had to choose between a buckler and the heavy shield, I'd wield the heavy one."

Smiling, the smith nodded. He was liking this woman's attitude, Altmer or no. "Spoken like a true warrior. Not a rare case for Altmer to be warriors, but none with such Mettle. Sure you can handle it?"

Scoffing as he took a drink of his Mead, Hadvar smiled. "You'd be surprised. She fought like a true warrior in the Keep, not only lifting the thing, but using it to her advantage." Finishing his drink, the Soldier sighed. "She's not your typical Altmer, and she's not with the Thalmor. Taalnir is quite the warrior."

Looking to the woman, Alvor hummed. Smiling, he put a hand out to her. "A shield it is. Anything else?"

Shaking the mans hand, and presenting her own grip, Taalnir smiled. "That will do. I still have my dagger, I can always find another sword later."

The smith couldn't help but notice two things. One, the woman's grip was quit firm which was a surprise, most Nords wouldn't grip like this elf did, but after what he was told he was happy to see such, and the second being the Gauntlets she wore. "Ah, Nordic Steel? These look amazingly built… Wait.." He look a closer look. "It's Skyforged steel… Are you from Whiterun?"

Looking at her Steel gauntlets, Taalnir shook her head. "My family is in Cyrodiil. Though my Father was born and raised in Skyrim, these were his. He said they were the best crafted gauntlets in Tamriel, and that I should be safe on my journey coming here."

Humming, the smith was smiling as he was in thought. How she said it, he was actually understanding now why she was so much like a Nord. "Well, I am sure they will. Sigrid, can you find her some clothes? Us men will only be a minute."

Smiling, the Nordic woman gestured for the elven warrior to follow her downstairs. As they both got downstairs, Sigrid found some boots and trousers, smiling as she gave them to the Altmer. "These should fit, the boots are Alvor's spares that are a size too small, and the trousers were once mine. I suspect you'd rather have freedom of movement if you are a warrior as Hadvar suggests, but do tell me if you prefer a tunic."

Sliding on the trousers first, after taking off her ragged foot wraps, Taalnir found them to be just a tad tight, but comfortable enough for the time being. As an Altmer she was taller than the Nordic woman before her, and with slight bulk to her body she wasn't skinny by any means, but it was ok. Sliding on the boots, she found them to be just a tad loose, however the toes were fatter than her own, even if the ankles fit just right. "Thank you. And yes, you're right, I would like something that isn't constrictive, if there is just a tunic to cover the chest?"

With a soft smile, Sigrid grabbed an old robe. Coming up to the elven woman, whom had taken her prisoner rags off, Sigrid could only stare for a moment before handing the robe to the woman. "This should do. It's not a mage robe, but it will do I think." Seeing Taalnir slide it on, she smiled. "You're pretty, you know. Though don't get any ideas about my husband, alright?"

Taalnir balked at that. Shaking her head, she sighed. "I'm not interested in finding a lover, so you have nothing to worry about. Besides, you've more beauty than I do."

Seeing the elf put her amulet inside the robes, the blacksmith's wife had to ask. "Well, thank you. But I wonder what man would take your heart, to give you that amulet."

Knowing the amulet was a sign of marriage sometimes, Taalnir smiled, but shook her head. "No one. This amulet was given to me by my mother, she said it would protect me just as much as my gauntlets would. My parents wanted me to know that I had their blessing, and even through dangerous times they would watch over me."

Finishing her dressing, Taalnir bowed to the Nordic woman. "Thank you for your own gifts as well. I will be sure to pay you back someday."

Sigrid put a hand on the elf's shoulder. "You kept Hadvar safe, that's more than enough. Prisoner or no, you're a friend."

That took the Altmer by surprise, but considering her state of dress, it was probably obvious. "Thank you." With that, they let it be. As the women came up, Alvor was starting to cook something in the fireplace. "What's that smell?"

Hadvar stood up and faced the woman. "He's starting some beef stew. I will be staying till the morning, then I need to reach Solitude." Producing a bag of gold, he gave it to Taalnir. "This is what I had on me from our last stop before Helgen, needing to fix a wheel on the forward wagon. It should get you some supplies from the trader across from the house."

Holding the bag of Septims, roughly counting from weight alone to be fifty, Taalnir looked to the soldier. "This is too kind of you… I can't take this, you've already done so much."

Smiling, Hadvar refused to take the money back. "I've only done what I thought was right. As did you. Take it, I insist."

Seeing as she couldn't refuse, the elven woman smiled and shook the soldier's hand. Sitting back down, Taalnir could see Hadvar was still in pain from his wounds. "Take off your armor. You're still wounded, I could only provide small support till we got to safety but since we are safe I'll fix you up."

Pulling a chair by him, Hadvar looked at her. "I'll be alright, just a night's rest. After that I'll be heading to Solitude."

Glaring a bit at the soldier, Taalnir pressed into his still tender wound on his side near his hip, making him hiss in pain. "If you're sure? I can heal you. I still have enough Magicka to do so."

Alvor let his wife take to the stew as he stood up. "Hadvar, let her help. The sooner you are healed, the sooner you can get back to General Tullius. Though I still feel you should warn Whiterun about this, and send help to smaller towns, like ours."

Sighing in defeat, Hadvar started taking his armor off. "I need to go back and make sure that the General is alright, if he made it out." After shedding the rest of his chest plate and harness, Taalnir started healing him. Enduring the light stings, he kept himself composed.

Not really knowing where anything in Skyrim was, just some simple geographical places such as The Throat of The World, a few holds such as Whiterun, The Rift, and Winterhold, she was unsure where anything in Skyrim really was. Seeing a way to help pay back the generous hospitality, Taalnir looked to Alvor. "I'll head to Whiterun, tell them about the attack."

Looking to the elven woman, the smith hummed, crossing his arms. "Are you sure? Whiterun is on the way to Solitude, down the main road that cuts through the majority of Skyrim."

Finishing the side wound fully, Taalnir nodded. "It's the least I can do. Hadvar is right, he needs to go and make sure that Helgen wasn't a total lose. Besides, I was going to Whiterun anyway when I first came to Skyrim."

Smiling, the smith nodded her way. "Well, we sure appreciate it. In the morning, you'll both leave bright and early I assume. Taalnir, was it? Can you do us a favor when you warn the Jarl of the Dragon?"

Helping Hadvar put his armor back on, the elven woman nodded in agreement. "If it helps, I'll do my best."

Taking a deep breath, Alvor asked his favor. "Can you ask the Jarl, for our sake, to send troops and guards to Riverwood? We've no protection from a Dragon, only a single warrior. If you can, speak on our behalf for reinforcements."

Hadvar, however, didn't think that a good idea. "The Dragon was heading north, they will need all the guards they can spare."

Though Taalnir agreed with Alvor. "If they can spare even a couple, it's better than nothing. I'll request on your behalf, Alvor."

"Well, thank you. I appreciate your help." Smiling, the smith thought he would do something for the Altmer to help her along her way. "I should get back to work. Besides a couple orders, I should get you your shield done before midnight." With that, he left to do his work.

Standing up, Hadvar thanked Taalnir. "I'm sure Riverwood will be fine, if the Dragon left it will be heading north. But I thank you for your concern. I'm heading downstairs, set up a few makeshift beds for us."

With that, he walked down. As Taalnir sat there, she started to feel like she should remember something about what her mother had said. As she was growing up, her mother was always in the great library of Cyrodiil, always bringing home work, constantly writing down notes. It was as if her mother had been scared pale by something one day, and threw herself into it.

Though she never spoke much about why, or what it was all about, her mother had always told her to be strong, no matter what. Her father helped her get stronger, practicing with the blade, trying to improve as a warrior, as her Father always told stories that riveted her about his own warrior heritage. Her mother never truly gave her training in magic, the basics and nothing else, and told her that Magic would only take her so far, she needed to be strong, be able to never give up. That was after her mother told her she needed to develop her magical prowess as an Altmer, and before she threw herself into her work.

What was this work, Taalnir could never find out. But there was one word she finally remembered… prophecy, a prophecy she would be alive to witness… it all started to come back, what her mother warned her about when she left. 'Beware of Dragons… Dragons will herald the end of the world. Is this what my mother was working on? Finding out about the end of the world? She wanted me to be stronger, physically, she was scared… scared for my safety. But why? What prophecy?'

She would find out soon, she would ask the biggest library in Skyrim if she had to. Taalnir knew her path, the path she was following after Azura entered her dreams. The path lead to Skyrim, and the Dragons have returned soon upon her arrival. She did not know what was before her, but she knew this prophecy had something to do with it. And she would find out exactly what it was as soon as she could.

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And there it is! Chapter 1. Just to let you all know, my friends and co-authors Arch-Daishou and Etheral-23 helped me immensely on this. And I cannot thank them enough. Next chapter there will not be any Author Notes, but there will be for Chapter 3 again. Reason for this is two fold; one being I did all 3 chapter in bulk before posting this chapter, and second being I am too lazy to just talk and blather the same bullshit. More story, less of me talking. Thank you all, and have a wonderful day!