The Dragonborn, the savior of the world three times, the Harbinger of the Companions, and the Arch-Mage of the College of Winterhold, Sarah, stared at the sky next to her follower and fellow companion, Njada Stonearm.

Njada crossed her arms. "It's so boring now that no more dragons, vampires, or dumb old Dragonborns threatening anyone. All that we do now is dealing with wild animals breaking into civilians' homes."

Sarah shrugged. "We're really good at our job."

A devilish grin broke out on Njada's face. "Hey! You mentioned a while back that you had a crush on Hadvar, right?"

"Yes. I do. I wore an Amulet of Mara around him and he hasn't responded. He's not interested."

Njada snorted. "It's so obvious, Sarah. He likes you but is intimidated by your heroism. Think about it. 'I don't think Rikke knows my name. Probably because I'm not the Dragonborn'. 'Dragonborn, huh? Was it your ma or your pa that was the dragon'? He has a crush on you but thinks you're out of his league."

Sarah blushed. "Stop it! He does not! He's just my war friend."

"Who you happen to crush on."

"Who I happen to crush on."

Njada took a swig of mead. "Tell you what-you'll stay here to make sure Melaran adjusts to his new role of court wizard. I'll go to Riverwood and figure out what's on that man's mind. Get his confidence up."

Vittoria Vici strode up to them and squinted. "People are saying that you two killed Sybille Stentor."

Sarah met her gaze. "Yes. I shot her while she was sleeping. She was a threat to national security."

Vittoria gasped. "Whatever do you mean?"

Njada jumped in, "We overheard Sybille use threatening language regarding Jarl Elisif, as well as inside information concluding that she was indeed connected to the Wolf Queen's almost return."

Vittoria paled. "I'm glad that you took care of her, then. I doubt Melaran will be any trouble."

Sarah laughed. "The only trouble will be Erikur's pride that his subordinate managed a spot in the court alongside him! I feel so bad for Gisli. I always try to be extra nice to her."

Vittoria added, "Can you imagine having a brother like that? His behavior at Elenwen's party was disgraceful."

Sarah's eyebrows furrowed. "I don't remember witnessing anything scandalous besides Jarl Idgrod Ravencrone being frightened by Razelan."

Vittoria scrunched up her nose. "Erikur was infatuated with a server named Brelas. He was making all kinds of disgusting comments about her. After she told him that she wouldn't sleep with him, he called her a 'slut' and had her be taken away by the guards. I don't know what happened to her."

Sarah's eyes widened. "I don't recall that. I hope she's okay. Keep this between us, but I hate Erikur. He's such a . . . hmm . . . smarmy wealthy flea."

Njada shook her head. "Everyone hates Erikur. He looks down on everyone, including Jarl Elisif."

Falk Firebeard hastily approached the girls. "Pardon me for interrupting, but Thane Sarah, as you're a Thane of Haafingar, Hjaalmarch, The Reach, Whiterun, and Winterhold, your presence is requested at the upcoming moot. Here is your invitation."