Trouble on the doorstep

We've been riding for hours and hours and I lost count and my bum was sore from all the sitting and hard saddle. I glanced every now and then to make sure my reluctant friend? Companion? Or maybe something more... followed after me. I did say we were going to Windhelm, but after that we didn't share any words. I commented on the weather and scenery, but Ondolemar wasn't listening. He had a distant look in his eyes and his scowl washed away, replaced by sour face. It ruined his face. The scowl was at least sexy. "I know I said at Labyrinthian that I was sorry, but I repeat it. I am sorry."

He looked up at me as if he saw me for the first time, his lips forming in that lovely scowling I loved. "What's done is done. Apologizing over the same crap won't solve my circumstance... nor yours. Anyway, I didn't ask then, but why are we going to Windhelm?"

"My family has a business branch there. We get authentication from my brother - in - law and we are free to cross the border."

"Cross the bor... wait. We're going to Morrowind?" He sounded bewildered. I nodded, grinning. "Why yes. I don't fancy going to High Rock or Hammerfell. Cyrodiil is out of question for various reasons, one being that I... run into some problems there with law and I had to escape... I returned home, but I heard they put a wanted poster for me in Cyrodiil, so no thank you. Then, I was to start family trading business and... you know the rest."

"So that's what happened. You had a criminal past, I see."

I still do. I'll have to name Bryn the guild master, if he likes it or not. I can't stay in Skyrim, I have to let go. Sadly... "Well, we're meeting with my bro in law inside Candlehearth Hall. He got us the item we need for passage."

"When did you write to him?"

"It was right before I left for Labyrinthian... that accursed place. I never want to hear of it. Ever. I wanted to leave for my homeland sooner, but I had to help the Arch Mage one last time. It doesn't matter longer. Enough about that... do you know who is Elenwen't boss?"

He cracked a cort smile. "So now that I am traitor, I can tell you everything, betray them even more?"

That man is infuriating. "No! I didn't mean that! By Azura if you weren't..." the man I fell in love with it, things wouldn't be so complicated between us.

His horse overtook Arvak, the Altmer's brow narrowed. "If I weren't? You didn't finish."

He must know... or he's playing mind games with me. Even a blind goat would see that I am sending love hearts sprouting when I see him. "N- Nevermind. I can see Ulfric's city... Windhelm."

"That Nord is so sure he's in right and he treats other races as beneath him, in particular your people, the Dunmer and Argonians. Are you fine with that?"

"No, I am not fine. I hate his guts. During a peace conference, I was on the side of Legion and were it not for Legate Rikke, I would have tested my Voice on him. He was rude, calling me names and making fun of me. In spite of his arrogance, I hope someone chokes him to death, preferably General Tulius."

"You do know that they are under Thalmor's jurisdiction, do you?"

"Of course I know, but I know one other thing, the Empire didn't surrender after signing that Concordat thingy. I am not positive, but they they're probably doing what we are about to."

"Oh? And that is?"

"Gather intel, their forces and then march on Dominion's doorstep, not bothering to knock."

"I didn't know we had such high aspirations. So now we're eradicating the whole third Aldmeri Dominion... are you out of your mind?"

"I should have picked my words. We eliminate Elenwen's superiors. That should get us out of trouble, permanently. I think..."

"You think." He was shaking and stopped his horse and I halted Arvak as well, tempted to ask what was wrong. I didn't expect him to erupt into laughter. Very loud laughter. "What's so funny? Also, lower your voice, please. We're not safe until we reach that stupid rendezvous point at inn."

His laugh subsided and he walked his horse to Arvak and I whelped when he grabbed onto the front of coat and yanked me closer, his eyes dangerously glinting. "I must have lost my mind when I agreed to go with you. Your "plan" has so many holes I could fit a troll's feet through them. Nevertheless, we both have common enemies now and I am a Thalmor Justiciar no longer. As thus, once we're safe I will tell you everything I know, but I won't be much help on this matter." I blinked, in slight mix of embarrassment of being so close suddenly and his words. "What? Aren't all Thalmor pals or something? Don't tell me there is infighting, too!"

Ondolemar sighed, let go of my coat and retreated. "It's like any big family, scraping for the best bits and attention. Yes, I was high with Thalmor, but there are even some who are even higher, many divisions. I was with the Law Enforcers."

Law Enforcers, huh? Sounds so...knightly. "So you were the knights of Thalmor?"

"Knights? No, we're... they are the vigilant, who uphold the laws set by Aldmeri Dominion. Ten years ago, I got promoted to commander and sent to Markarth in favor of seeing that the jarl never forgets about the ban of Talos worship, also I had the authority to punish the breaking of terms of the White Gold Concordat any way I deemed sensible."

Ah, so that's how he got there. The man shrouded in mystery was unraveling before me, opening and warming up to me. "I see... I don't want to pry, but can you tell me something about your family?"

He blinked. "Why does this interest you?"

I shrugged. "Figuring that you'll meet my family soon, I'd ought to know something about yours and their positions in Thalmor. I presume they are in?"

"They were in. Once."

"Were? What happened?"

Ondolemar glanced at me with his amber gaze, gleam of remorse reflecting in them. "Parents died in a skirmish in Valenwood nearly thirty years ago. My sister died twelve years ago, she also felt sympathetic towards one target and earned the hanged man's noose for treason. No doubt that awaits me lest they capture me."

Oh, I am such an idiot, asking about his family. How was I to know they died so tragically? Now I feel like I stuck the wrong accord and the conversation was left floating. This elf was in dire need of a hug, whether he wants it or not. Arvak galloped closer and I embraced the man. "This must be so hard on you, Ondolemar, telling me about your family. For what it's worth, I offer my sincere condolences for your loss."

He was unresponsive and the hug wasn't reciprocated, but to hell with it. He doesn't have to put a strong facade for me. "You're a brave man. Not many can abandon tradition and walk their own path."

The Altmer in my arms groaned and tossed me from his proximity. "You have no idea what you're speaking off. I am going in my sister's footsteps on this. She too..."

He ceased and desisted speaking, figuratively biting into his tongue and with disdain and disgust he turned to the road, moving ahead of me.

However, I noted the disgust wasn't directed at me. He's disgusted with himself? What was he about to say? She too... what? Ondolemar said something about feeling sympathy for a target... so I was to be his target and he changed his mind, speaking up for me at Elenwen's... and that's how this situation came to be. But what happened to his sister that was so disgracing she was hanged for treason? She helped the target escape? Aided him somehow? That's one of the probabilities...

"I was under the impression we had somewhere to be." Ondolemar's voice from several feet ahead came to be, carried by the wind. He's right. I'll have time to ponder about it later.

I wonder how Viran is doing. And of course, my sis Cirendel or Cir. I hear she's at home, awaiting our return. I hope Viran won't make a fuss when he sees my traveling friend. I may have mentioned that Thalmor are after me in the last letter I sent to him.

Moments later we were greeted by Stormcloaks by the gate, with not so friendly attitude. "Bah, more elves! What do you want?!"

"We're travelers, weary from the long road. We seek only temporary shelter and rest from road at local tavern. And maybe some ale."

The larger guard scoffed. "Fine. Can's have someone complaining about us not letting in greyskins. I'll open the gate." He did as he told us and I swallowed down the insult he threw at me shamelessly. Can't forget this is Ulfric's city. In the Thalmor Dossier was written he was an "asset" whether willing or not, he could easily expose us to them. After the peace conference, I was sure he had no love for me.

Once I got off, Arvak vanished and the guards gave me a suspicious look. "Um, don't mind it. He's gone to sleep off the miles." They shrugged and one uttered. "Conjurers. Go cast your fancy magic somewhere else, elf."

I ignored it. I don't want trouble in this city. Ondolemar also dismounted his living and much weary horse, gave me the bridle and walked over to the larger guard guy. They were on the same height level. "I am sorry... but I must have heard wrong. What did you say?"

The guard wasn't intimidated. But he should. I know what Ondolemar is capable of. He's one powerful mage. Like I said, we should lay low in goddamn Ulfric's city. I walked to them and got hold of Ondolemar's hand, firmly dragging him away. "Ehehe... my friend here is too tired. We'll go. Now." The last word was said with urgency and maybe that's what made him move, but the scowl was all that was needed.

The other guard barred our passage. "Hold it. I don't like that one's mug."

I groaned. Damned guards, let us be! "Please overlook it. As I said, it's nothing personal. He's got that scowl plastered almost always."

Ondolemar snorted. "No. I can't stand men like these two."

Seriously, picking a fight here? Do I have to spell it out that we're still in Skyrim? "Please excuse us. We're sorry. Right?" I gave him the shut up look and he complied, finally. "It's as my traveling partner here says. We are so terribly sorry if we offended you gentlemen in some way. Please allow us to pass." he said in his haughty voice.

More provocation. Oh, for Auriel's sake!

"I don't like your tone, Altmer, but I'll let you pass. Off with you." They cleared out our way and I was tired from Ondolemar's behavior. I'll tell him in the tavern/inn something about keeping a low profile. The guards went for the stables with the horse and we, meaning I hurried before they changed their minds, dragging my fight – picking companion after me. Uf, he's so heavy. Once out of their reach, I sighed in sheer relief and scolded him. "Are you crazy? We're in the most racist city in Skyrim where elves, and especially my people are scorned and looked down upon. This is not the place to go picking fights. Don't forget why we're here."

He wasn't fond of cities in Skyrim by the looks of it. He drew in the surroundings and turned his gaze towards me. "So where is that inn? I am not familiar with this dump."

"Follow me. It's not far."

We walked to Candlehearth Hall and it we could hear a lot of noise from inside. I leaned my ear closer to the wooden door and heard breaking, swearing.

"Sounds like a fight. Is this where your brother - in - law is? Maybe he's in trouble."

It's possible. The Nords in this city had no love for us, Dunmer. I hope Viran is okay... I entered and immediately froze. The whole place was littered with bodies, moaning men, elves and argonians and broken chairs and tables. Tavern brawl. How lovely.

Ondolemar stood beside me, sceptically looking at the carnage. "I think trouble found us. We'd best steer clear of drunkards."

"Yes. Also, I am worried for Viran. He should be upstairs. Let's hope the party ended and he wasn't involved."

The bartender wasn't in a good mood, so we simply went for the stairs when... a huge Nord fell down and we barely evaded. He landed hard and didn't get up afterwards. "The party is ongoing?" Ondolemar prodded.

"Hey, you idiots! Leave me be! I am simply waiting for someone. I don't want any trouble."

That voice! That was Viran!

"It's Viran! We have to help him!"

I ran upstairs and the sight before me was disgusting. Five huge, bulky Nords were ganging up on Viran who wasn't even equipped with a weapon. I frantically looked around for something that would give him the edge and rejoin me.

"You greyskins think you're so clever. Waiting for someone, were you? Don't mock us, little elf. We know you're spying on us, on our every move!"

Viran's fuse blew up and he snapped at them. "Why won't you morons leave me! I really am waiting for someone!"

Running and kicking a chair in Viran's direction, grabbing hold of my weapon, all of it happened in a split second. The bewildered look on Viran's face was soon replaced by determination as he grabbed the chair and smashed it on one of Nord's faces. He fell, groaning and holding his head, now bloody. Viran used the opportunity and ran to me. "You're finally here! These blockheads picked the fight, not me. Some of patrons joined my side and they're laying downstairs. I hope you're tougher then them?"

I handed him a nice long, ebony sword. "And I hope you remember how to swing a sword." Viran smirked, twirling it. "It's been ages since we fought side by side."

The Nords approached and we dodged their attacks and dispatched them from the living world, sinking our blades into their bodies without hesitation. They were going to kill us, so no mercy for Ulfric's fanatics. Only three remained. One of them with a maul was dashing towards us at high speed. I eyed a bottle of wine and threw it at his face, blinding him and Viran swiftly and precisely chopped off his head.

We heard something from downstairs and my thumped with unorthodox fear. There is one there, he's with Ondolemar! But I can't leave Viran alone. No, I should trust in Ondolemar. He's strong and resourceful. A loud thud and zap of thunder and I knew he won his fight.

It was two on two now and neither Nord moved an inch, becoming reluctant after seeing their comrades die before our blades. "Not so brave now, are you, when the fight has turned tide. What's the matter? Are you scared of two little elves?" I mocked them, my Mace was imbued with fresh blood of their fallen kin. "So what opted you to attack an unarmed man, minding his own business?" I wanted answers, getting a bit paranoid. We're still in Skyrim. Maybe they were hired as assassins and found out about Viran's connection to me. Maybe they were planning to abduct him as hostage. Good riddance. I couldn't handle more kidnappings just for knowing me. Either way, they're dead.

"We don't answer to fucking greys!"

"You chose death, I see. We shan't show mercy." Viran said menacingly. Nord with a greataxe charged at us and we parried the blow. I gritted teeth. From the corner of eye, I saw Ondolemar, slung along the wall, laid back and only watching. "Ugh, how about lending a hand?"

He snorted. "Now you contradict yourself. You told me to not pick fights."

The Nord was overpowering us and Viran was cursing. "N'chow!"

"Help us! This is one tough motherfucker!"

Ondolemar's eyes sparkled as his palms each burned and let out a freezing chill. He froze the incoming Nord that was about to bash his skull. He was enveloped in solid ice, disabled from the fight. Ondolemar sent a thunderbolt at the Nord that battling with me and Viran and the magic send him flying, where he hit the wall and groaned, letting go of his weapon. The Nord sprawled on the floor glared at Ondolemar. "Filthy mage! Not fair!"

The Altmer grinned. "You should know that elven supremacy is the only way. Your ideals will shatter, Nord."

Viran approached the disabled Nord in still in ice. "If you value the life of yourself and your friend over there, tell us what you were doing here. And why you attacked us."

"If I say what I know, will you let us go?"

Ondolemar caught my gaze. We can't let them leave. We have to appease them here. "Sure. But you won't bother any Dunmer ever again."

"Deal! So we got hired to spend the nights at this inn and watch for new faces. And if we see someone suspicious or someone who doesn't live in Grey Quarter, we were to kill them. "

"Who gave that order!" I asked, enraged by this. I knew whose idea it was.

"It was boss, Ulfric! We were to wait for a Dunmer male and kill him and his companions, if he comes with any. That's our order."

I was having another headache. That bastard Ulfric still holds a vendetta against me for the peace conference, that must be it. "So, you must be Stormcloaks then. Strange, you don't have those fucking uniforms on. Easier to blend in without them, huh? Well, too bad for you."

My Mace hungered for his soul as I was about to strike him. His featured were ridden with fear. "You promised you'd let us go!"

"I changed my mind, dog. You shan't go back to your master and report." I struck his neck and chopped it off, the ice shattered. I turned my gaze to the only Nord on the floor, literally pissing himself. "Please, spare me!"

Viran stepped in, ending the life of the last of them.

Someone ran up and we immediately turned there with weapons and magic ready. It was only the bartender, horrified at the sight. "Crazy people, I warned them not to agitate my patrons. Stormcloaks never listen... I'll send someone to clean up this mess later. Now, I must ask you to leave before the guards come. I won't mention anything, Viran, but you owe me."

Viran smiled. "Thank you. You saw they attacked me first. Fortunately, my brother - in - law came to the rescue."

The bartender looked around the place. "He sure did. Now, leave. You can use the back door. I suggest avoiding Windhelm for a period of time before things settle down here."

"Agreed! Come, let's go." Viran said, leading the way. Ondolemar wasn't impressed with how it ended. Neither was I, but this only added to my headaches to worry about. Not only Thalmor, plus frickin' Ulfric Stormcloak.

At least he won't have means to follow me to Morrowind. I'd like to see him try. No one gets in without authentication. Which by the way... We made it out on the cold evening air and people were going to their homes, unaware of the massacre at inn. Without delay, we went for the stables, where probably also Viran's horse was. As for me, I summoned Arvak and the guards gave me that strange look, but I disregarded them and we hurried to the border, the horses were panting from the fast pace Viran set. "Hey, do you have it with you?"

"Yes, I have. I'll give it to you once we're there."

The Altmer was quiet, glancing back if we weren't followed.

We saw the the checkpoint and crossing border and we dismounted our horses. Viran searched in his pockets and gave me the family signet ring. I put it on and it shone. Ondolemar eyed it. "It reacts to you?"

"More like to the blood in my veins. It's a family ring handed down in our family for generations. No one knows why it glows only on our finger. When someone else tries it on, it doesn't glow. Strange, right?"

"Sounds like powerful magic, but I digress. You think it will suffice and what about me? I am clearly no Dunmer."

Viran halted. "Oh, I forgot to ask, but the danger has vaned and... you're Fin's lover?"

Ondolemar's scowl deepened and glared at me, his gaze was scathing me to Oblivion. My face turned fifty shades at least and stopped by bright red and I hid my face. Viran...

Viran still didn't get an answer and he shrugged it off. "Well, I see this is complicated. If you're not lovers, then I apologize for assuming too much. It's not my place. But, Fin..."

"Oh, shush, Viran. I'll say he's my new trade partner. That'll do, won't it?"

My brother - in - law sighed. "Hopefully it will. If not, bribery will surely do the trick."

We approached the border and two Dunmer dressed in clad Chitin armor stood before us. "Halt. Who are you and what's the purpose of your visit?"

Viran stepped forward. "Good day, lady and gent. We're going home to Blacklight. We're with the Merchant's Guild. My name is Viran Tharys. This is... "

The guard saw the shining ring. "No need, we know. The Girethi family is famous throughout Morrowind. But this... companion. We don't see many outlan... I mean Altmers in our lands. What's the purpose of your visit, sir?"

"We plan to expand our branches and he's our newest trade partner. Don't worry, he's not like the ones of the funny sort."

Ondolemar scoffed and I stepped on his foot, smiling politely at the guards who argued between themselves and after Viran's ranting and the clink of coins, they let us through.

The great gate closed and we were on the other side and I was breathing in the air of my homeland, not the air of Skyrim. At last. It's good to be back home. "Come on. Everyone is waiting." The two get up on their mounts and I for the third time in one day conjured my trusty Arvak and he let me get on. We slowly galloped up the marshy road and Ondolemar took in the different scenery.

Viran led the way and I formed the tow with my ex – Thalmor... friend who refused to look at me. "Um... did I do something?"

Ondolemar gazed at Viran's back and I realized what's bugging him. The talk about us being together. I for one was embarrassed at Viran's remark because I sincerely hoped that one day we could become lovers, but it seemed like my pipe dream and my love will probably remain unrequited. I should be thankful he's with me and didn't kill me yet. These Altmers are quite fervent.

"I hope you both have comfortable shoes on, we had three straight days or rain and the roads are slippery."

"Wonderful." Ondolemar said sarcastically and I giggled. We traveled to the northeast and stayed on swampy roads. The ordeals before us were only starting. What has fate in store for me and my ex – Thalmor commander? Only time will tell.