AN: Hi folks, Winter here. Just a heads up, this story has been re-released due to a huge chapter extension and a few extra revisions. I'd like to add that this story, along with many others to come, are part of a series, Fate Deals Series, co-authored by my good friend SophH. We follow a AU timeline of Skyrim, starting some years before and ending a good decade or so after the canon timeline. We felt a bit more realism was needed. If you have any questions, please feel free to PM myself or Soph - we have an appendices in the works, as well as a tumblr account with extended information regarding our series.
This story follows the extended Companions timeline, with quite a few additions, so please bare with. R&R, I'd love to hear from you!
SophH's Fate Deals Series: The Betraying Hand - Vol.1 - s/10008203/1/Fate-Deals-Series-The-betraying-hand-Vol-1 - please go and read her Dragonborn fic, another story from the Series which follows our canon Dragonborn & her lovely vampire follower Serana.
- WBR
Fate Deals Series
The Honest Hand - Vol. 1
Chapter 1:
4E 192
The creak of the caravan cart broke the early afternoon silence, bar the odd bird call and flutter of wings. Through the broken cloud, the sun shone brightly across the plains surrounding Whiterun. This entire land was so foreign. She was used to ashen dust of Solstheim. To be free of her mask, able to breathe freely without fear of choking was amazing.
The Khajiit caravan had been on route from Windhelm to Whiterun for two weeks, their progress slow but methodical. The merchants' cargo was hefty this trip, and the elf wasn't entirely uncomfortable with where it had come from. But she'd learned not to question. She'd struck a deal with Ahkari, and the Dunmer swore to uphold her end of the bargain. After all, freedom from Fervyn's forge made it worth it.
"Exciting, isn't it?" Kharjo's voice startled the Dunmer from her musings, her gloved hands gripping the reins upon reflex. Tasolf reacted with an irritated toss of his head, mane whipping this way and that. She glanced about to find the black and white cat walking at her side. He watched her with a faint smile beneath his whiskers, blue eyes shining with amusement.
She flicked her eyes back to the approaching city, and couldn't hide the bubble of anticipation that grew within her belly, "It is. I've never been this far west before"
The patchwork Khajiit nodded, following her gaze to Whiterun, "This area of Skyrim is one of my favourites, the land is softer, the wind warmer. Not as warm as home of course, but we must take small comfort were we can, no?"
The elf hummed her agreement, mind drifting away into memory. She had been away from Raven Rock for five years now, she wondered if it had changed much in her absence. Probably not.
"Your eyes speak of faraway places, my friend. Home, perhaps? " he was a curious one, seeming to know whatever was on her mind. The Dunmer shot him a sideways glance, causing the cat to grin. Those teeth were ominously sharp, "There are no secrets within our company, grey one. You know this"
"Unfortunately" she smiled a bit before it quickly fell away. Kharjo had to hold back the sigh as it did so; the elf was a grim creature. But then again, all those he'd met of Dunmeri blood seemed to be morose; it must be an inherent trait.
She relented, tearing herself away from their surroundings, "As incredible as this place is, I can't help but remember home. It's hard not to"
The pair settled into companionable chatter of the comparisons and differences between their homelands. Kharjo was so easy to converse with, that when she caught herself rattling on she promptly shut up. Her ears burned from embarrassment. The Khajiit didn't take long to react, ears twitching as he intercede and took over the tale telling.
Another few hours found them outside Whiterun's stables. The city was even bigger than she'd imagined, although not as large as Windhelm. Ahkari called a halt to the procession, spilling off to one side and bunkering down by the wall. The female Khajiit looked relieved but exhausted, smiling back to her guards, "We've arrived"
They went about setting up camp, under the attentive eyes of the guards. A few tents were erected about a central campfire, though the elf kept her bedroll by her pack. She preferred sleeping out in the elements, making it easier to reach your weapon. She helped Kharjo tend to the mounts whilst Ahkari and Zaynabi went through their stock. They'd be here for about month, until Ma'dran came to take up their current spot. The Dunmer would then be freed from her duties with Dro'marash's return.
The day was waning by the time they'd finished. Zaynabi busied herself with the cooking pot, whilst her mother scratched away at a piece of parchment. The guards sat further back, Kharjo sharpening his blade with a whetstone, the sound soothing in the Dunmer's ears. She had a book resting within her lap. The Reclamations was a fascinating read, though quite controversial back home.
Unfamiliar voices caught the Dunmer's attention as she glanced up from her reading. A pair of guards had appeared at the edge of their camp, and where conversing with Ahkari. Both caravan guards grew tense, ready to act should the need arise. The female Khajiit laughed in her best diplomatic manner. She glanced over to her guards and surprised both by beckoning the elf over. The Dunmer scrambled to her feet, book dropping onto her pack as she grabbed her war hammer.
The Nords stiffened at her approach, eying her alien armour and bulky weapon with mild alarm. She gave them no quarter, and met their stares with a hard, unwavering one. Chitin armour was an oddity here, meaning such glances were to be expected. It didn't stop the shiver of unease run down her spine
"Be at ease, men of Balgruuf. This is my friend, Talisyn. She is a woman after your own heart, the noble sort" the elf had to refrain from glowering at the Khajiit too. Ahkari grinned at her, "My dear, I have some…paperwork that needs taken to the Jarl's court. Sadly, we are not welcome within the city's walls"
"I will take it" the elf replied instantly, though she eyed the guards with suspicion, "But what makes you think they won't arrest me the moment I'm past through the gates?"
The Khajiit pulled out a small sack of coin and handed it to the awaiting guard, "This will serve you well, no?"
The men gave the caravan a final glance before turning away, leaving a foul taste in Talisyn's mouth as they did. Ahkari's displeasure was apparent too, "Disgusting manlings, but business is business"
"So that's why they leave you be" under the elf's shrewd gaze the elder cat smiling wearily.
"Yes, but it's necessary. As are those papers. You are an elf, and therefore tolerated within the city's walls" the cat's words made Talisyn uneasy about handling the parchment, "You wondered why we brought you along?"
"I had hoped it was my charming company and strong swing" another chuckle of laughter, this time joined by Zaynabi. The elf sighed, "I'm useful, I get it, but I don't like being taken advantage of, Ahkari"
"I am sorry, Talisyn, but I am doing what I must" the Dunmer sighed, tucking the letter away as the Khajiit continued, "I would ask you one more favour this night, if I may?"
Talisyn shrugged, her armour creaking and clinking together with the movement, "There are many travellers within the city, find them within the inns. I would ask that you mingle and enthuse upon our wares whilst we remain here"
There went her brow, arching upward until the elf's blood red markings shone in the firelight, "You want me to advertise for you? You're kidding right?"
Zaynabi joined her mother, shaking her head, "You may not have many words, my friend, but you are a kindred spirit. Nords revel in their stories of battle, drink deep in their cups and entertain those who prove their worth"
"You calling me a drunk?" Ahkari laughed away the hostility in Talisyn's voice, pushing her towards the city
Standing before the archway, the warrior swallowed hard. She was on her own, for possibly the first time. Even in Windhelm she'd been in the company of her kin. But she'd be without backup, not even Kharjo to call for aid. Dread pooled in her gut as she forced herself forward, started up the stone steps to Whiterun.
Just as she expected, the elf barely got up the flight of worn stairs before she was stopped at the gate.
"What business does an elf have in the city?" the guard's voice was accusatory. Talisyn had to force herself to relax, her gut squirming with nerves. Just as she opened her mouth to reply, a shout came from above.
"She's with the caravan, let her pass!" the elf let out a breath she'd been holding, relief flooding her as the gate lurched open. The Dunmer flashed the questioning guard a brief glare, before she slipped inside.
A waft of cool, smoky air greeted her as she stepped out, cloak pulled up tight about her chin. Red eyes took in the area about her, appraising the wooden chalets and paved streets. The afternoon sun was quickly fading, which was going to make finding things more difficult. Clenching her jaw, the elf eyed the two streets before her thoughtfully.
Minutes pass as the Dunmer mulled over her options. But her indecision was driving the stationed guard mad. He sighed before clearing his throat. Talisan jumped, glaring at him for startling her. Despite his frustration, the guard couldn't help but feel a pity for the stranger. She was obviously out of her depth.
"You heading up to Dragonsreach?" Talisyn nodded stiffly, "Then best to take the main path round by the Bannered Mare. Once you reach the marketplace, head up the steps to your left until you see the Gildergreen. It's a big tree, can't miss it. From there it's straight forward"
The guard wasted no time in returning to his post, leaning against a stone column. She glanced back, hesitating a second, before voicing her thanks. He inclined his head, "Can't have a strange elf getting lost amongst the noble houses, might cause a scene"
She couldn't tell if he was being sarcastic or jesting, so the elf decided to let it slid. He was, after all, a guard and a helpful one at that. She took his advice and cautiously headed off down the paved street. Laughter and rather questionable singing sounded from the taverns she passed, Talisyn making sure she knew where to come later. She was grateful for the relatively empty streets. Her nerves were getting the better of her, and she didn't particular wish to meet anyone. The Dunmer took the steps two at a time, upon reaching the top she was greeted with the sight of a withering tree.
"This must be the Gildergreen…" she raised a brow as she passed by beneath its bare branches, "…why keep a dead tree about? Bit depressing really"
Red eyes swivelled from the tree, widening with delight as Dragonsreach loomed ahead. At last! She quickened her pace, mindful of the guards. The elf had to catch her breath before the door. Ahkari had been adamant how important these papers were, meaning she'd have to be on her best behaviour.
"Got to make a good impression" she grumbled internally before pushing the doors open.
The door creaked open far too loudly for Talisyn's liking, spilling what little sunlight was left into the hall. Her fingers seemed reluctant to release the door handle. But she yanked them loose, moving stiffly forward. She winced as the door clattered shut, the sound sealing her fate.
A great fire danced merrily within its hearth, lighting the bustling dinner tables. The Dunmer eyed the bickering children and burly Nord sitting up to their supper. The man seemed to be in a heated conversation with the guard captain.
As the elf passed by their table the argument seemed to falter. Talisyn focused on her task to steel her nerves, spying Balgruuf sitting comfortably upon his throne, idly chatting with a finely dressed Imperial. The hooded elf moved quickly with purpose. She would get this done, then scurry back to the Plain District and hide at the back of the tavern with her sujamma…
Ringing of steel cut through the chatter, and brought the Dunmer to a jolting standstill, seeing as the blade in question was pressed against her chest. Talisyn's heart skipped a beat, her hand instinctively reaching up for her war hammer, only to be stayed by a cold voice, "Unless you wish to lose the hand, I suggest you don't"
Red eyes followed the blade down its length, coming to rest upon a grey hand gripping the hilt. Brows furrowed in confusion, quickly darting up to the wielder's face. Her surprise exploded across her face before she could restrain it, another pair of ruby eyes glowered back at her. A Dunmer female…in a Nordic court…clearly armed…
What in Oblivion was going on?!
"Irileth" the Dunmer twitched at the name, hesitating before turning her head ever so slightly, "What is going on?"
That blade scrapped a little harder against Talisyn's breastplate, causing her initial bewilderment to darken into irritation. The younger elf scowled as she indicated to the blade, "He took the words out of my mouth"
"And I will take your tongue. You speak of Jarl Balgruuf the Greater, so mind your manners, n'wah!" that got a growl from the warrior, Talisyn's jaw clenching as the elder Dunmer finally answered, "An uncouth foreigner, my Jarl. One that doesn't know to properly identify herself before approaching so heavily armed"
The younger elf nearly swallowed her tongue at that, blast it! Her ears burned beneath her hood as she realised her folly, so intent on her task she'd forgotten simple etiquette. Her father would have been ashamed.
"Show your face, traveller" Irileth made to remove Talisyn's hood, when the elf took a step back. She sent the elder Dunmer a withering look.
"I'm more than capable" she tugged down the material, feeling distinctly more vulnerable without it. Red eyes darted back to the Jarl, now appraising her with a raised eyebrow. That look was startlingly familiar, causing the Dunmer to swallow hard. She dug about her brain for her manners, "My apologies, Jarl Balgruuf, I meant no offence. Nor do I harbour any ill will to any in this court"
"Though there are a few I'd like to throttle", she shot a look at Irileth, finding the Dunmer glaring back at her. Did that woman know any other expression?
The blonde haired Nord was quiet for a moment before sitting up in his seat, "You have a name, elf?"
Her posture smartened as her response rolled out in a rehearsed manner, "Talisyn Segroth, of House Redoran"
"You are a long way from home, Talisyn. What brings you to my halls?" his politeness was surprising.
"I'm here…to deliver this" Talisyn moved slowly, watching Irileth diligently as she retrieved the letter from her pouch. Talisyn made to approach, but found that sword impeding her progress once more. Irileth's hand snapped out in front of her vision, indicating impatiently for the document. Grinding her teeth, Talisyn reluctantly handed it over.
"From such a line of warriors, it seems unlikely that you're here just to play delivery girl" a jolt of anger shot through Talisyn's veins, making her fingers jerk involuntarily. This woman was completely intolerable.
"I am working as a caravan guard, the letter is from Ahkari" the Jarl plucked the letter from Irileth's hand, opening and reading its contents. The silence that followed was unbelievably nerve-wracking. She watched anxiously as the Jarl's brow furrowed. He called the Imperial over, and showed him the parchment.
"Ahkari you say? The Khajiit merchant from Riften?" the Dunmer nodded under the Nord's intense gaze, wishing the ground would just hurry up and swallow her whole. Had she done something wrong? Was she going to be arrested?! What if…what if Ahkari had somehow set her up?! The thought sent a wave of icy terror cascading down her limbs…
The Imperial finally spoke, indicating to something at the foot of the letter. The Jarl's eyes tore away, and Talisyn visibly slumped. Azura be praised!
"I see" Balgruuf relented, "It seems Jarl Laila has pardoned the Khajiit of her crimes. I will permit her to sell her wares outside the city walls"
Talisyn frowned, crimes? What in Oblivion was he talking about?
"But I expect her to keep to the laws of this hold, and should I hear of any further misconduct, I won't be as lenient" the Dunmer went ridged as she nodded her head, utterly bewildered by the entire conversation. Talisan cleared her throat when the following silence became too heavy for her.
"I thank you for the audience, Jarl Balgruuf" Talisyn bowed her head. She took a few steps back before replacing her hood, "I'll be sure to pass on the message"
"You'd also do well to heed it. I don't want to hear of any trouble caused by your hand during your stay, Talisyn of House Redoran" red eyes shot back to his, that had been an order.
"Yes, my Lord, of course" with a final nod, the elf turned on her heel and made her escape as dignified as possible.
As the door slammed shut behind her, Talisyn released a shaky breath. For once, she was grateful for the icy chill, cooling her burning brow and cheeks. She unclenched her gloved hands, watching horrified as they shook. She had a queasy unease running through her, making the Dunmer's throat dry and voice hoarse.
"Blast it all, I need a drink!"
She rubbed her brow as she marched down the steps; diligently keeping to one side should any guards pass by. With each step, her vision swam. No, it seemed she wasn't going to make it to the inn quite yet. Stumbling upon the last step, the woman slumped down onto a bench beneath the Gildergreen. Her war hammer rattled indignantly against the wood, but the Dunmer paid it no mind. She clutched her head in her hands, focusing on her breathing as she waited for the sickness to pass.
Time passed, her limbs growing cold. She hadn't paid much attention to the goings on about her, only the thoughts in her head.
Humiliation, it burned ripe and fierce within her gut. It swamped all the fresh memories of meeting the Jarl. Her actions, her words. Foolish, foolish, foolish! She'd spoken out of turn, appeared a threat, and had to practically grovel before the man in charge. All in one sitting!
Doubt, it danced around the edges, causing her to shudder even more. Had she made the right choice coming here? Should she have stayed at Fervyn's side? She was no wordsmith, but one of steel and leather. Such matters made an utter fool of her…
Regret-
Red eyes finally popped open, the elf slowly sitting upright. Her brow was tight and gaze hard. No. She wouldn't allow herself to wallow. She'd come here to explore. And she was doing just that. Yes, times seemed stressful and downright terrifying. But that didn't mean it was always going to be like this. Talisan clenched her jaw, eyes glowering up at Dragonsreach.
She wasn't a child anymore; she had been trained by her father to be a warrior worthy of House Redoran. She had learned from both Fervyn and Glover how to make a forge sing. It was thanks to her and her brother that the ebony mines in Raven Rock had reopened. She was a Segroth, and that meant something, even if it was only to her.
The elf slowly resurfaced from her thoughts, feeling a lot better. Talisyn took a deep breath and exhaled with a faint smile, her eyes surveying around. They came to rest on a very odd building. It seemed to resemble…an upturned boat? Dark brows furrowed as she squinted, what was it used for? The Khajiits had made no mention of it. Humming, the elf heaved herself to her feet.
"I think it's time for that drink"
R&R please!