DISCLAIMER: all publicly recognizable characters are owned by their respective authors and I do not take credit for their creation and I make no $$$ off of the story.

All characters recognized from Bethesda's The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, JRR Tolkien's "The Hobbit" and "The Lord of the Rings" books, Peter Jackson's filmography, TURN: Washington's Spies (Akinbode), Guillermo del Toro's The Strain, Once Upon a Time (or anything remotely Disney), Dracula: Untold (Mirena, and certain quotes), The Count of Monte Cristo (Za'Tara name and joke only.) and Dragonheart.

A/N: When I use scene breaks, the occurrences in the scene breaks are all happening at the same time as the others.

A/N: HAPPY Birthday Alli, hope you like your present! 9/15/2016

(17 Years, Duvaineth Green-Fyre)

A/N: Û makes the OO sound.

Part I: The Arrival

A miracle that is all that could describe why this band of friends and considered friends . Xander was merely clinging onto life. Sarthinias and Shaylan couldn't walk, if the Vampires chose to make another appearance, the group would not have a good chance of surviving.

Corsica on the other hand was incredibly distraught, her home was gone. The Beauty of Darkwind Forest had vanished. The Forest was naught but tree stumps and ash. She felt that she had failed her duty to protect the Forest. As she wept she did not take notice of the footsteps approaching her, it was Thraculas.

"Corsica, my lovely friend what troubles you? The forest? The future? Or my part in this disaster?" Thraculas asked in a soft tone.

"What do you think!? I failed! I was supposed to protect this place, and now it's gone! Just gone..." Corsica replied in tears.

Thraculas calmly raised her chin and looked into her eyes, then he said; "Corsica, you cannot blame yourself for this. You did everything you could to prevent this.. this horrible occurrence there is nothing more you could've done here. Nothing more any of us could have done."

"But I..."

"No Corsica, you cannot weep and wonder what might have been if anything had been different, fate has its own reasons," Thraculas said firmly but then his eyes hardened and his voice lowered to a deathly whisper "I know that much at the very least."

"You, you called those two Vampires 'uncle' and that final one.. Father... They were family weren't they?" she asked as she calmed a small degree, but then froze as she realized what Thraculas was trying to tell her.

"Yes, they were, once. Now they are nothing but monsters to be vanquished. Betrayer, that's what they called me when it was they who betrayed me." he said through shaky words.

"I.. I'm sorry Thraculas I just.. I was soo..."

"You were distraught, you need not apologize for anything, not one single thing. I should apologize for this, they destroyed this beautiful and wondrous place, because they sought to entrap me into an eternity of service to a true monster."

"It was that monster that you saved my life from, I could feel its rage it wanted to kill me, it.. it felt as if it needed to..."

"Molag Bal isn't gone, merely pushed back and he will return at some point sooner or later. Regardless he was able to have a very corporeal form in this realm something just doesn't add up... But, it doesn't excuse this tragedy,and yet I feel as if this place will rise to its previous splendor." Thraculas said comfortingly with a smile.

"But, that was Daedra Fire... it permanently destroys anything and everything..." Corsica replied as her face sunk.

"No, not if I have any say in this. The powers of a true Vampire are uncharted..." Thraculas said.

He then stood up and walked to the center of the ruined forest. He lifted his sleeve above his wrist and bit into it and let his blood fall to the ground. The blood then seeped into the dirt and began to glow. The glow encircled the perimeter of the forest and Thraculas began chanting in Ancient Nord. Suddenly, the forest began to reform, plant roots dug into the earth and tree stumps began to regain color, and tree trunks sprung up from the stumps. The Darkwind Forest began to regrow and renew itself. The forest hadn't returned to its previous splendor, yet in the following months or even a year, the forest may grow back to its previous majesty.

Thraculas then fell backward and hastily raised his hood and hid his bare flesh from the sunlight, his hand was touched by the sun and where the sun hit on his hand, was scorched. Thraculas was breathing heavy as he rose to his feet, he then began to walk speedily towards the group, Corsica hot on his heels, with a thousand questions begging to be asked.

As Thraculas and Corsica approached the group, Arkaras and Sarthinias were catching up on what had happened after they had last met. Apparently Arkaras had visited the village after it had burned and he in turn slew the bandit looters that Justiciar Sletholan hired. He also laid Tak-Galborn's body to rest, but his grandfather placed a time freezing charm on the body, it would never decay. Arkaras told Sarthinias of the rebellion against the Imperial Legion that began after Ulfric Stormcloak, the Jarl of Windhelm and Eastmarch Hold challenged and killed Torygg the High King of Skyrim. The rebellion immediately began recruiting enemies and fugitives of the Empire. Naturally, the attack on Northwatch Keep gained the attention of the rebels and they sent three soldiers to recruit Arkaras and Sarthinias' group to join the Stormcloaks. The same three soldiers traveled with Arkaras as he tracked down the group, and later came to their rescue the night prior, during the battle with Molag Bal and the lords of the Blood-Pact Coven. Arkaras then introduced his grandfather, Alain the Sentinel.

Alain was an older man, but by no means of the words frail or elderly. His face was one of a battle-worn warrior. The man radiated authority and wisdom. His eyes also held the twinkle of a mischief maker, the man had a sense of humor, that much was obvious. As it so happened, Alain was once an Imperial Officer, he had served to fight with the Empire against the Aldmeri Dominion. Once, the armistice known as the White-Gold Concordant passed, Alain left the Legion and started a family. Years later when his son married and left to seek his own home, Alain always kept in close contact with him After he stopped receiving word from his son and his daughter-in-law, he went to visit them, only to find their bodies and his grandson missing. There were, however, freshly dug graves, fearing the worst, Alain cast a detection spell on the graves, as it turned out the graves only contained the bodies of Imperial soldiers.

He vowed to watch over and mentor his grandson, after Arkaras came to him deserting from the Thalmor and the Imperials, after realizing that he'd been serving the Thalmor that murdered his parents and threw him into the savagery of war directly after; he'd been under command of Justiciar Aros, brother of Sletholan.

Alain soon roused himself from his memories and began to formulate a plan to get the wounded to Windhelm, without dying.

"Arkaras I recall you telling me that you had suspected that Sarthinias has a standing Companion Bond?" Alain asked.

"Yes, I did. Sarthinias?"

"Hm? Just resting my eyes a moment, I have not slept in two days, forgive me."

"No need for an apology youngster, just answer me this; do you have a Companion Bond with a large animal?"

"Yes, as a matter of fact I do, he is a Snow Bear, named War-Claw."

"A Snow Bear!? Well Arkaras failed to mention that."

Alain shot his grandson a questioning look, but Arkaras just shrugged and responded, "You didn't ask and we were short on time."

"Good points, anyways, Sarthinias if you focus on the bond you share with War-Claw, you can call him to you. I need you to do that for me." Alain requested.

"I can try, but two days past, he was going to move his clan to a new den, near Windhelm."

" Then he may already be on the same trail as you, the Bond has a certain compulsion that makes the animal want to remain close to their Human, thus the same path you took, War-Claw is more likely to follow, especially considering that you were both headed to the same destination."

"Very well, please allow me to focus."

Sarthinias closed his eyes and tried to focus on his connection to War-Claw. He began to look for the link between he and War-Claw in his subconscious. It was actually easier to find than he thought. He focused it and saw the world through War-Claw's eyes, the great Snow Bear could actually see the wreckage of what was once the Darkwind Forest. War-Claw was only about three miles away from Sarthinias, with the entire clan following him. Sarthinias telepathically asked War-Claw if he could come and find him. He got his reply as he heard War-Claw roar loudly in response and begin to charge toward the group.

"Well done Sarthinias, I could hear his roar all the way from where we stand." Alain commended.

Before Sarthinias could respond he collapsed and was unconscious. When Sarthinias awoke, he felt as if he were moving on a bed. As he regained his senses it was clear that he had slept for hours, and the moving bed was in fact the back of his old Comrade; War-Claw. As Sarthinias' eyes wandered they landed upon two forms of his friends upon two the other bears, he guessed it was Shaylan and Xander, he silently thanked Heaven they were alive. Walking alongside the migrating bear clan, were the rest of his family along with his new friends. He laid down his head in relief and returned to his subconscious.

When he awoke again they across from the path that leads to the gate of Windhelm. Feeling only minimal strength Sarthinias, only walked slowly as the bears were out of sight it appeared that Alain was arguing with the Gate Guards.

"What do you mean I can't enter. I am a Nord and Ulfric Stormcloak himself has asked us here!" an angry Alain said.

"That's not my problem, my orders are that no one enters these gates but by personal order of Galmar Stone-Fist or Jarl Ulfric what with all the Elves that arrived here not too long ago." the guard replied irritably.

"Let me through, I have a sanction from the Jarl, he dispatched Lieutenant Star-Gazer and Specialist Blood-Scale with me. Our mission was to find and recruit the ones responsible for taking out a whole brigade of Imperial Legionnaires and some Thalmor to boot. We succeeded." Dracgo then gave the guard a piece of parchment that the guard grudgingly looked over and had the gates open for the group.

"Very well you may enter. But watch your tongue volunteer Stonewall, I don't trust you as far as I could kick you."

"Nor should you." Dracgo answered cryptically.

Sarthinias slowly walked passed the open gates as the guards brought Xander and Shaylan in on cots and took them to the Temple of Talos for healing. The rest of the group went to the Candlehearth Hall, an inn for food, drink, and bedding. It had been quite a few days and nights since they had a proper meal and rest. Alain paid for the rooms and food at the inn. Selenia, Dracgo, and Sanathos left for differing reasons. Dragco left to ensure that Shaylan and Xander were taken care of at the Temple. Selenia went into the market-place for some healing herbs and then into the White Phial, an alchemy shop that sold both potions and ingredients. Sanathos went to see his family and friends in the Argonian Assemblage.

Part II: Keeping with the Times

Dragco slowly opened the door to the Temple and walked inside, being as quiet as he could be. Dracgo then asked the Priestess, Jora Wing-Wish how Shaylan and Xander were fairing.

"Not the best Dracgo, these two have had extensive damage all over. The elf's eye will never be fully healed, his eye will be blinded forever, but it will look as if he was born that way." Jora replied.

"Better an eye than his life, what about the Imperial?"

"That is a good question, he should have died of blood-loss, but his wounds were healed. But almost every bone in his body was broken and his left-side rib-cage will take much more time to mend, but I would very much like to know how these two are alive."

"The elf Shaylan, I have no idea. That elf surely has someone watching over him, it is truly a miracle that he's still alive based on what I have heard. Xander the Imperial was beyond lucky, his lady-friend Arianna is rumored to be an Earth Elementalist, and she came to his aid just before I interrupted their battle with a Vampire Lord."

"A what!? I'm shocked. There hasn't been one of them resurfacing in centuries."

"I know, but this group has crossed these three Ancient Lords twice and decimated an Imperial-Thalmor platoon, it's no wonder Ulfric wants them to join his cause, even despite his aversion to elves."

"True, well let us allow them to get some rest, hmm? They should be able to walk again within a few days, healing magic is not my specialty, but I'll go by the White Phial to see if they have any healing potions in store."

"No need, Selenia has already gone to the marketplace for potions."

"Hmm. Very well." Jora said as she walked out.

As soon as the door was closed the green-haired Nord glared at the two injured men and forcibly resisted himself from reaching for his dagger. He sighed in anger and rushed out of the temple. Little did he know that Shaylan was not asleep and though he had but one good eye; that eye saw every emotion Dracgo had just displayed and he was now wary of the Nord that appeared but a night ago a saviour.

-Scene Break-

As Dracgo entered the temple, Selenia was browsing the marketplace stalls. She had bought a few herbs that she hoped would help the injured recover. Next on her list was the White Phial, her friend Quintus Navale who was now apprenticed under the shop owner and Alchemy Master; Nurelion. She had long aspired to be a master alchemist, but the new war made priorities switch not to mention idiotic life choices. Though she still loved visiting the store and learning how to craft new potions, she knew why she was there, this was an emergency.

"Quintus!? Are you here?" she shouted?

"Yes, please keep your voice low, master Nurelion is sleeping." Quintus replied as he walked down the stairs.

"Sorry… But I need your help."

"What's the problem?"

"I'm in need of healing potions and very potent replenish potions…"

"You know how expensive those are Selenia."

"Yes, but they are needed right away, I've been on a recruiting assignment from Ulfric himself…"

"Sounds important."

"You have no idea."

Quintus sighed "You still owe us for the last batch of potions we made posthaste, how do you expect to pay?"

"I swear, I will! This is of the utmost importance! Based upon what Ulfric has heard and what I have witnessed, these people are going to form another military branch of the Stormcloak army. They have a very unique fighting style and with a few more soldiers, they could be an elite task force."

"Elite force? Very well I will explain to Master Nurelion, but you'd better pay up. The only reason I'm making this exception is because I heard a very disturbing rumor."

"OOOOOOH. You know I love gossip. What is it?" Selenia eagerly asked.

"I wouldn't be so excited if I were you." Quintus responded darkly.

"Spill."

He sighed, "Selenia, rumor has it that the Empire and the Dominion are sharing war funds."

"So?"

"Foolish GIRL!" a old and sickly voice croaked.

"Master, why are you out of bed!?" Quintus hurriedly asked.

Standing at the top of the stairs looking down on the two younger people was none other than Master Alchemist, Nurelion. The old High Elf looked as if he hadn't rested in years, the elderly man looked as if he'd die at any moment. He eyed Quintus, and asked skeptically; "Do you really believe you have the alchemical knowledge or ability to brew such fine-tuned healing draughts? Hmmm!? Didn't think so."

"Sorry Master, but I did not want to wake you." Quintus said while not meeting Nurelion's eyes.

"I know that is not the entire truth, but I'll wait 'till I press you for the whole truth. NOWWWW, Selenia don't be such a girl with your love of gossip, you're a woman now." he said with an imperious glare. "The rumor, which these days are true more often than not, is that with shared war-funds the enemy has purchased various mercenary and bandit groups to fight with them, the most notable being the Skûrls."

"WHAT!?"

"Yes, they are known best for never leaving any survivors, they are true barbarians, composed of Orcish and Nordic brutes, I pray that you never have to cross paths with them."

"I can't believe this, why is Skyrim so important to the Empire that the Dominion has opted to send resources?"

"The recruits you mentioned, they are the ones that sacked Northwatch Keep correct?"

"Yes, but I fail to see why, the Thalmor would have such sway with the Dominion as a whole."

"The Thalmor are more than just the Dominion's religious fanatics, they are composed of well-trained soldiers, learned sorcerers, and cruel torturers. Ever wonder why?"

"Investigating Talos believers of course."

"No, they target those suspected of having ties to Talos belief, yes. But only ones that could force an insurrection or pose a significant threat. What do you know of, the Market?"

"I thought that was an old wives' tale, to warn children to be wary of strangers."

"I wish it were. But I am living proof that it is not." Nurelion lifted his right sleeve to reveal a series of numbers permanently inked into his forearm just before the elbow, it read B-001299. Selenia gasped aloud and put her hands over her mouth as her eyes lit up in fear. Quintus' eyes widened yet he remained silent.

"I had nearly forgotten my true name after living for two decades as Slave B-001299. The Market is not a myth, it is a secret slave trade, all of the people that go missing, people that are seen as useful, young, or weak are captured and sold into slavery."

"Impossible." Selenia said still in denial. "How could something like this go unnoticed for this long!?"

"Money. Gold is worth more than anything in this cursed world. What do you think I was sold for? My price block was 5,000 gold pieces and my term was life of servitude. I poisoned my Master and ran for my life after 12 years of being beaten, whipped; a slave."

"Still, this is unbelievable." Selenia said visibly shaking, it had always been her dream to have and raise a daughter in a country without fear. without war. That dream was damn near shattered at hearing Nurelion speak of a Slave Trade taking place in Tamriel.

"That, is exactly why nothing has been done about the Market, the whispers and accounts of what escaped slaves say is hushed. Many of us are killed shortly after escape. I am one of the lucky ones, the only other I knew to escape was Slave A-230385. He had a thing about silver, never went anywhere without something silver, that was the rumor anyways. He's most likely dead now." "I am done with these depressing tales, but keep a lookout, the slavers have no allegiances, they deal with anybody that has coin or human merchandise. Be wary..."

And that signaled the end of the both enlightening and frightening revelation. Selenia walked out of the White Phial with the potions she had requested, her path was now to the Palace of the Kings where Ulfric was in counsel with his steward Jorlief as well as Arkaras, Sanathos, Alain, and Sarthinias. The men were deep in discussion on the terms by which Sarthinias would join the Stormcloak Rebellion. Thus far neither party had reached agreement.

"I will not grant command of a mercenary force to you Sarthinias. No matter how you say your skills are, or that of your friends." Ulfric stated.

"Firstly, they are my family! Second, the Rangers will not be a mercenary force, they are strictly a guerrilla unit and shield force. Divide and Conquer tactics or rescue, unless you need reinforcements in a large scale battle or siege." Sarthinias replied shortly, this arguing was beginning to raise his ire.

"My Jarl, Sarthinias and his frien... family have endured much in the past week, more than I care to admit." Arkaras said.

"Yes, yes. Precisely why I had wanted to recruit you, him, and his 'family'... Tell me Sarthinias why do you trust these Elves?" Ulfric inquired.

"Because they are my family when my ma and da were slaughtered by Frost Trolls, a group of Wood Elves found me, the leader and his wife took me in and raised me as their own."

"Like an Elf."

"Like a Man!" Sarthinias replies his patience was at an all-time low. "I cannot see why all Nords blame all Elves for their misfortunes, if any one of you Nords would bother getting to truly know any Elf apart from the Thalmor or those tied to the Dominion, you may find yourself very surprised. They are not bowing to the wishes of the Dominion, they are more than willing to stand and fight with you, if you Nords would cease your distrust and belittlement of them! For pity's sake Nords, Argonians and Dark Elves were allied during the Second Era under the Ebonhart Pact! And the Bosmer would have broken alliance with the Dominion, yet are prevented from being rid of it as the heart of the Dominion lies within their home of Valenwood! Why else do you think so many reside in Skyrim!? "

"Hmmm perhaps you truly are of use, Sarthinias."

"Pardon?"

"This was simply a test, believe it or not, I am not as biased against Elven-kind as I know many Nords are. This was a test of blame and restraint. You could have easily walked out of this palace and away from a conversation that was obviously becoming most taxing to you. That alone showed me that you are not a brute, but a principled man. You conceal anger well, which should give you the edge in subterfuge and information seeking, yes, I am very impressed by you." Ulfric complimented.

"And my request to form my own division within your ranks?"

"I shall take it into consideration, I must seek the advice of my closest friend and general, Galmar Stone-Fist. He is currently out with the bulk of the Stormcloak Army, training new blood and getting the army ready for battle."

"Where exactly are they?" Alain asked.

"Hmmmm, I'd say about half a day's march southeast, towards Riften." Ulfric's steward Jorleif answered.

"With all due respect my Jarl, I must return to see my family, Shaylan and Xander were in the worst condition, with Za'Tara and myself not too far behind. I thank you once again for giving me your own personal restoration draught, I feel like I could take on an army."

"Don't jinx yourself, oh and Sarthinias. Do be sure your… comrades' unique diet stays away from the residents of Eastmarch." Ulfric warned.

"You have my word, my Jarl." Sarthinias replied curtly as he walked out the great doors of the Palace of Kings.

As he, left Selenia informed Ulfric of the latest new development.

Part III: Dreams or Visions?

Now it was off to Candlehearth Hall, the inn of Windhelm. Sarthinias had rented a room there and he could use a drink of water, he had vowed never to drink ale or mead because of how addicting they were to the drinker, not to mention it drastically slowed the thought process. Truly in his heart he knew it was because he did not want to hurt Shaylar and Shaylan, the memory of their father quite literally drowning in his drink would still haunt them.

Sarthinias needed to rest. As soon as he walked into the inn he retired to his room and laid down in his bed. The last thought on his mind was how lucky he was that his family was still alive. As he slept, his subconscious took flight.

The first dream Sarthinias had, was of him and his family beginning to build a town, the area seemed southeast in the Skyrim tundra. They were expending a substantial amount of gold in buying supplies and lumber to build. Events flashed forward but the name in Skyrim, the town they had constructed had large walls and a gate. The town itself was virtually flourishing, it was as developed as the times could manage, it had a blacksmith, an Inn, a manor home, a guard house, a tavern, and multiple homes for the residents of the town. Sarthinias felt happy, even if this was a dream, he knew that people were safe here and his family was as well.

In his next dream, he saw himself exactly as he was but with a red warpaint on his face he was surrounded by smiling faces and the sound of clapping. He was in an area he did not recognize, it was nighttime, in the town he'd just dreamt of. He recognized some of the faces that were in attendance, He saw Shaylan with a woman that seemed familiar, but he could not place her name. Shaylar was on the arm of what appeared to be a tall blue-eyed and silver-blonde haired elf in sky-blue elven armor. Talim had her head resting on the shoulder of another tall elf, this one with blue eyes and long light-blonde hair. Ari was smiling and holding Xander's hand, Za'Tara stood alone but was smiling nevertheless, Dracgo and Selenia were absent from the dream, Sarthinias did not know why. Sanathos was holding a wine goblet in his hand and was looking at Sarthinias in a congratulatory manner. Tak-Galborn of all people, stood next to Alain and they were both clapping, Arkaras right beside his grandfather also clapping, and behind him looked like an older version of Arkaras with a small squad of Elite Imperial legionnaires at his side. Thraculas had his arm wrapped around the waist of a light skinned and black-haired beauty, she looked like royalty not nobility like Thraculas, and was like him, a vampire, Sarthinias could tell from her crimson eyes identical to Thraculas. Three more women stood by Thraculas that looked very akin to the woman he had in his arms. Corsica was leaning happily on a mint-green haired Wood-Elf, but the eyes also gave this man away yet his were a striking white, he also had a great many differing warpaint colors on his face. Also present were two very dark-skinned Redguards, one wore naught but slave's rags and footwraps, but he was very brawny and tall, he was the tallest in attendance, with blind eyes and long brown dreadlocks. The other Redguard was tall and thin, but muscular, he had short black hair and wore chainmail with green-cloth over the armor. A Khajiit with purple-pink pigtails was crossing her arms smiling a toothy smile. The final people in attendance were two women and a smaller man yet he had a statuesque composure and still taller than the two women. One with violet hair and feisty green eyes; the other had brown-black hair with lavender eyes and a seemingly ceaseless blush. The man looked as if he was happily insane. With brown hair and large amber eyes with irises that took up most of his eyes. The man's skin wasn't normal either it had a deep bronze tint and his demeanor dripped the word: calculating. Then Sarthinias looked directly across from his dream-self. There stood the most beautiful woman he'd ever seen, she had just a little beyond shoulder length dark brown hair, semi-full pink lips, hazel eyes, with a brilliant smile that could keep him happy in the darkest of times. She was so familiar but he couldn't recall her no matter how hard he tried. She had the exact same warpaint on her face only hers was pink, she had a wedding circlet in her hair as well as a wedding gown, then Sarthinias realized what he was seeing, it was his wedding, that was the cause for all the smiles and clapping.

Suddenly the dream changed and Sarthinias saw himself in the middle of a great battle, the attackers and largest army was obviously composed of Orcs but these were different and looked different from the Orcs he had encountered in Tamriel, come to think of it, the land looked different, Sarthinias saw himself fighting in the middle of the battlefield alongside men that were very short and had longbeards similar to the Dwemer of old, perhaps that is what they were, this land seemed different so perhaps they actually were Dwarves. Also fighting these Orcs were tall Elves in bronze-gold armor, the fluidity of their attacks were obviously something to be reckoned with. Then another army though it looked more like a pocket of resistance against the Orcs, was a human race in the ruins of what looked to have been a once great city fighting and progressively losing ground against the Orcs. Around Sarthinias were the people he had seen in the previous dream, with the addition of War-Claw and excluding the woman he saw with Shaylan. The dream seemed to move rapidly to a hill that the ruins of what appeared to have been a watch tower at some point in time, but served as an order point for the Orcs. The Elf that he'd seen Shaylar with was in a brutal battle against a very large Orc, it wielded a large black-iron mace, it looked as if its armor were imbedded into the Orc's very body, and its left eye was blind.

The dream faded away and began to flip through sequences. He saw a great battle against Windhelm and he was defending it with his family and the guards that remained in Windhelm. Then he heard screaming and saw Selenia being dragged through the snow away from them, and it felt as if that would be their last time seeing her. It changed again to a manor home with an amazing view of a lake, but from the house came a heart-wrenching noise of despair and sorrow, a cry of pain from what Sarthinias knew already to be himself that had cried out. Once again it changed to a battle in the background all Sarthinias could hear was Caligula's cruel laughter as Sarthinias watched Thraculas fight against Nero as the green-haired Wood-Elf Vampire dove off the edge of the platform they had been fighting on, in a frenzy he leapt off shouting "Nooooo!", and transformed into a half-formed bat cloud, reaching for a figure that was falling rapidly and bound in iron chains, Sarthinias feared it to be Corsica as it had the distinct glow of her wings. It changed to a dark and stormy battlefield, but it looked to be the aftermath of a battle. A great many bodies lay on the white snow staining it red, and the dying form of Arkaras, then the body was gone and the silhouette of a golden furred wolf howling was seen. The next dream was of Thraculas his eyes glowing in a fury as he stood atop a hill lightning and snow in a dark clouded sky above. Thraculas stood with a small force against a large force of Redguards loyal to the Aldmeri Dominion, He was channeling Blood-Magic as bats began to circle in the air and fly around him, until there were thousands of them. He roared as he thrust forth his hand, the bats flew forth into the Redguards and pushed them back, the bats followed Thraculas' hand movement. He balled up his hand into a fist and smashed it into the ground roaring monstrously the bats followed suit into the Redguards as the dream faded. The final dream was of a man. Sarthinias did not recognize him. The man had command of the wind and stood in the middle of the deck of a ship. At the helm was a woman Sarthinias recognized, it was the woman he'd seen directly across from him at his wedding, but her eyes, there was no mistaking those eyes were different, the crimson, they were Vampiric. The ship was accompanied by a small amount of other ships, now Sarthinias knew what he was dreaming, it was a battle on the High Seas, but he knew that the opposing ships would be of a greater quantity. The winds that the man on the deck of the ship was manipulating, aided the progression of the ships. Then the man turned, and before he saw the man's face Sarthinias already knew in his heard what he would see, a mirror image of himself, in dark armor, a red tattoo on his cheek, and what he'd feared most, crimson eyes instead of his warm brown…

He awoke with a loud gasp. He was drenched in sweat and his heart was beating incredibly fast. Sarthinias' breathing was labored and his legs were shaking, he ran his hands through his long black hair and stood up pondering, "what the hell kind of dream was that?". He looked into the mirror and saw his face, no tattoo, no fangs, no red eyes, he was still as he was when he slept.

Relieved he began to wonder, why did I see all of that? What must I do? What does fate hold in store for me? But most of all, who was that beautiful woman? He wondered while he walked down the stairs into the tavern area of the Inn, he found the table his family was already at, Selenia and Sanathos were the only ones absent from the table.

"Nice nap brother?" Shaylar asked.

"More or less, sometimes I wish I didn't dream as much as I do.." Sarthinias responded.

"Oh, do tell." she said with a wink.

"I didn't mean like that!" Sarthinias as he stood up scandalized.

"You know she's just playing around, but tell us what was your dreams were about." Talim said.

"In all honesty it felt more like premonitions for example, when did you ever think about marriage Talim?"

Shaylar burst out laughing as she fell backwards on her chair as Talim;s cheeks turned scarlet, Sarthinias realized that he'd spoken his words in a subtle suggestive manner and paled.

"That's not what I… Not that I… I mean… "he took a deep breath and exhaled, "What I mean is. in the dream you were married, to an Elf that I've never seen before, And Shaylar the same can be said for you." as he spoke he narrowed his eyes at her with his last sentence.

This time Shaylar blushed and and kept quiet. She had always felt that she was independent enough that she need not depend on a man in her life, not that she hadn't fancied any men before, she just never made a move.

Aside from Shaylar's romantic life, Sarthinias began his tale of events leaving out anything that could possibly upset any future relationships. He stopped his tale after the beef shank he had ordered from the inn was given to him, no matter how hungry he was, he still had his manners.

Part IV: Of Fools and Warriors

The door of the inn opened and two people stepped in, as Sarthinias looked up he nearly choked on his food, he recognized the man that he had seen Corsica with. Yet, that was not his main concern, no, he also recognized the young woman that had walked in with the man. The woman he'd seen in a wedding gown with him as the groom. Sarthinias apologized and said he needed some air. He wasn't entirely lying. As Sarthinias shut the inn doors he heaved a great sigh. That was beyond strange, the sheer peculiarity of his situation was far beyond measure.

He began to take a small walk around the streets of Windhelm, after circling the block he sat down on the steps near the Main Gate, he looked up to the sky and watched as the snowflakes fell all around the city and on himself. He began to wonder why such small things in life, the most trivial things, gain the attention of any at least at one point in life. Something as small as a snowflake hypnotizes the one watching it fall to join its brethren on the ground. As he watched these snowflakes fall he began to think about how drastically his life had changed.

Aside from the near death, rather inch from death experiences, Yes, he was blessed to have made it this far, and now it seemed that fate still had some good left in store for him. Marriage, love, the most powerful feelings and moments coincide with those two subjects. He could not help but wonder why he'd had such cryptic visions, but he also could not help hoping at the very least, that the good parts came to reality.

Suddenly he heard the inn door close again, he thought little of it, he thought that perhaps it was another patron entering for the bar.

His attention turned toward an argument between what he could see was a Dark Elf and two Nords. He walked slowly towards them only to hear some foul comments from the slightly shorter Nord concerning Elfkind. Sarthinias stifled his disgust with the shorter man and walked towards the arguing trio.

"What problem do you have with this lady; gentlemen?" Sarthinias asked calmly.

"Mind your own business, we're having a conversation with this grey-skinned spy." the shorter man replied.

"I am NO SPY!" exclaimed the Dark Elf. "I am a resident of Windhelm, and it is my home I owe no loyalties outside of my home."

"You're a Dark Elf, you don't belong in Skyrim. So why be here if you're not a spy?" the shorter one said again.

Before she could defend herself, Sarthinias cut in, "So you blame her heritage as grounds for accusing her of spying on the Stormcloak army? Perhaps there is no hope for Skyrim after all."

"What do you know of it? I see no uniform on you, nothing that ties you to us, perhaps you are one of those traitors, that has sold themselves to the Empire!" the taller and bulkier man retorted.

"Do not dare think me a traitor. I have suffered and sacrificed against the Empire more than you know!" Sarthinias yelled.

"You're no warrior."

"Who are you to say what he is? You don't even know him!" the Dark Elf defended. Then the smaller man backhanded her. She fell backwards, toward the snowy floor. Sarthinias moved surprisingly fast as he stopped her descent.

"Who says you get to even speak grey-skin!"

"The same power that gave you the right to breathe snowback." Sarthinias coldly stated as he helped the woman to her feet. "And I do not appreciate the sentiment you have show the Elven races, nor the way you have treated this woman."

"I don't care what you think! And I have had enough of your Elf-love! Besides women come second, men do all the work, men do the fighting, all women need to know is how to plea..."

Sarthinias had enough of this rambler, he moved towards him and elbowed him in the gut.

"It is in your best interest to never finish that sentence; now hold your tongue lest you lose it." Sarthinias promised with zeal.

"Rolff, let's go there's no use fighting here, you'll only make an embarassment of yourself, or worse, me." the taller man suggested.

"Fine! I don't want to dirty my hands with blood from that filthy whelp of a whore, or that sleazy grey-skinned sl…"

Sarthinias grabbed the idiotic Nord and raised him with one arm by the shirt's collar.

"You've used your last warning, Rolff is it? I challenge you to an honor duel, Nord to Nord, Man to Man, Fist to Fist. Back out while you can, damned drunk."

Sarthinias pushed him back, and took three steps away. Rolff turned to his opponent and spat on his boots. He then rose and lunged at Sarthinias who easily side-stepped the attack and swept the legs out from under Rolff. "Stay down."

The fool only growled and threw several punches Sarthinias' way, who calmly dodged and returned with a few well placed jabs to the face causing his nose to bleed. Rolff attempted to kick Sarthinias, but only succeeded in getting his leg caught and within a second his knee was dislocated. The man squealed like a skewered boar.

"Take him and get away from me." Sarthinias ordered.

"Come on, get up Rolff we're leaving." the tall man said.

Rolff only groaned as the tall man hauled him up from the snowy floor.

"Angrenor, what are you doing? You were a soldier, fight him show him... defend my honor, that Elf-Loving… Son of a b…"

"Hasn't your blubbering mouth caused enough trouble for yourself? You're going to the inn and sleeping off your inebriation, before you get yourself killed." the tall man, Angrenor said.

"No,... Gotta...kill him…"

Rolff grabbed Angrenor's dagger raised it above his head and charged at Sarthinias who was speaking to the Dark Elf. Yet, before he could attack Sarthinias; a swift blade disarmed the dagger and a second blade was upon Rolff's neck.

"Try that again and I'll kill you. I'm not as merciful as my brother." Shaylan whispered in Rolff's ear as he tossed him to Angrenor. As he landed he looked around to see two bows raised with arrows pointed at him; Talim and Shayar had fury in their eyes as someone had threatened their brother.

"Rolff, now, we're leaving." Angrenor said as he picked up the stunned man by the back of his collar.

As the two finally left, the group welcomed their brother back. They then went to help the Dark Elf that was Rolff had insulted and struck.

"My name is Suvaris Atheron, I run the Shatter-Shield Office on the Docks. I thank you, if there is anything you should need when it comes to ships, come and see me." the Dark Elf offered

"Perhaps we may call in that favor. We thank you for your kindness and bid you farewell."

Hours had passed since they parted ways. Sarthinias and Shaylan decided to patrol the wall tops of the city, they felt they still needed to earn their keep and what better way than aiding the guards? As they walked along the walls gazing into the snow covered land two more of their party stationed themselves with the gateway guards. Using their Vampiric vision they detected every heartbeat in the forest ahead. Thraculas had chosen tonight to teach Shaylar to hunt and feed on non humanoid blood, and they were marking their animals, out of respect for War-Claw and the Gray-Manes. However, Sabre-Cats were fair game. As they were closing in on a male deer, Thraculas gave the slightest of nods to Shaylar. She then pounced onto the deer and stabbed it in its heart, a painless kill. Thraculas leapt from the trees and gracefully landed whispering a prayer. He conjured several flasks and hide waterskins and gave them to Shaylar. She made the slightest puncture in its neck and filled the flasks with the dripping blood.

"Why do I not simply drain the deer?" She asked.

"Because I am not done teaching you. You need several bottled sources of blood so you don't need to constantly hunt. However physically drinking blood is not the only way siphon it. Remember the red blood magic my mother used against Arianna before you intervened, not only Ancients are capable of using blood spells, I am going to teach you how harness that magic."

Shaylar looked confused as Thraculas ripped off a leg from the deer and ordered Shaylar to stop the bleeding. She tried to use the magic to stop the bleeding, to no avail, only a faint red glow.

"Intent is the key, you're not trying to stop the bleeding you are feeding yourself. Think it then do it." Thraculas said. "Watch and learn. Feel the magic course through your veins. Succeed."

"I'll try t…"

"NO! Do not attempt to make an attempt. Feel yourself succeeding, envision it. Grasp it and channel it and use it! "

She growled and thrust forth her arm. A red sparkling glow emitted from her hand and onto the bleeding wound. The wound dried up and Shaylar felt a sense of quenched thirst. Her eyes glowed red and she saw the world in a whole new light, the darkness of night no longer hindered her senses and in the air she could smell and distinguish each and every scent.

"I… I've never felt like this before it's like seeing the world in a whole new manner." she said in awe,

"Welcome to your new life Shaylar, do not abuse the gift that so many before deem a curse, or a means of evil."

Shaylar deeply inhaled with a smile before awareness reached her mind and Thraculas felt it too. There were three intruders inbound for Windhelm, they smelled not malignant but worried and urgent. The two vampires were about to break off into a sprint when they smelled a large group in pursuit of the three. This group however reeked of menace and malcontent. They covered distance quickly.

"Shaylar use your cloud form to go to the city warn them of the intruders, get your brothers and hurry to the gate. I will meet you once you and they are there. I fear this is but a small sign of what is to come."

Shaylar ran and jumped into the air as she morphed into her bat cloud form racing towards Windhelm. Thraculas broke off into a vampiric sprint towards the larger group hoping to intercept them before the gradually slowing party of three were caught...

Part V: The Slaves, The Kat, and the Savages

A large shout was heard as a tall and brawny dark-skinned man toppled to the floor in a heap. He was grasping his leg as his two friends; another dark-skinned man and a female Khajiit with purple pigtails came running back.

"Get up Samson they're gettin closa!" the other man said.

"I know brotha. Look upon my wounded leg." the taller man replied.

The tall man, Samson's left leg was bloody from the strike of a now broken arrow. The Khajiit ran to his leg and attempted a small healing spell, in her stress and hurry the wound healed but the pain persisted, they had to carry him.

"Ayisha, Akinbode, you must leave me go before they catch up to us, I can slow them down." Samson nobly suggested.

"Samson the only thing that is slowing down is us if you keep talking we're almost there!" Ayisha the Khajiit countered.

"We ain't gon leave ya behind brotha." Akinbode said.

"You should have left him when you had the chance SLAVE!" a cruel voice said.

The three glanced back in horror as the group that had been chasing them had finally managed to catch up with them. The fifteen men and fifteen Orcs dressed in fur pelts wielding Imperial forged weaponry began to assemble and look at them with dreadful excitement and glee.

"Now now. Why did you leave mmmm? The Empire has treated you oh so well, why did you flee with this fleabag?" the man in charge asked.

"I spit on de name of de Empire we don' need no reason to wanna leave slavery. You gon kill us? I ain't dyin without no fight."

The commander let out a mocking laugh at Akinbode. "No weapons except the cat, outnumbered, outflanked, outmaneuvered and out of time ol' boy. Sorry to cut this short but I have a schedule to keep and recovering those orders you stole will be so much easier after these boys here cut you all down. Alight boys make this quick, I've paid your chieftans plenty for this."

The Orcs began moving forward their jagged swords, rusted axes, and wooden clubs with iron spikes making a strike from them a pain not worth living after. The three put their backs together as five Orcs let out a battle cry and rushed towards them. Ayisha drew her silver blades and began parrying the mighty blows. Samson charged right back at them despite his leg, knocking over two in the process, though he was mightier than any single Orc there, they were overwhelming him as he avoided their weapons. Akinbode immediately went for the Orc that had a dagger and a longbow with arrows, snapping its neck and taking its weapons.

"Oh good show! Impressive indeed yet only one Orc is dead and you're still outnumbered."

The Orcs began to regroup and move towards them again. As a rush of eerie wind blew, a shadow was seen and one of the flanking Orcs howled as it disappeared. They began to shrink back in terror at what happened, Akinbode saw the chance and fired an arrow at the men behind the Orcs, it found its mark directly in the man's heart. He toppled to the floor without another sound.

"Run to Windhelm. Go!"

The three did not even think. They helped Samson and immediately began the final half mile to the Gate of Windhelm.

"Get them!" the commander ordered.

The frightened Orcs stifled their fear and began to run again in an effort to catch the three. But a large Greatsword sailed from the sky into the chest closest Orc to the group. They rest froze in fear. A cloud of bats landed in front of the Orc and reformed into a man.

Thraculas gripped the hilt of his sword and wrung it from the Orc, before swiftly decapitating it. That Orc's troubles were over, the rest of these savages troubles, we're just entering their final most horrific nightmare.

"Who are you? And what are you!?"

"Some call me Lord. Family calls me Thraculas. Enemies have labeled me, Son of the Dragon. But you have no need of a name for me. You won't live long enough to use it."

Their blood ran cold.

The snow fell on Thraculas' hair as he stared at the men and Orcs that he faced.

"Your move." he calmly stated.

"Arrows!"

They all reached for their ranged weapons and fired without a moment's notice. Thraculas formed into the bat cloud as the arrows impacted him. His enemies all wore matching smirks, then matching expressions of disbelief.

"Tsk,tsk,tsk. Now, now. Why the long faces gentlemen? Frightened? Believe me… You've seen nothing yet!"

Thraculas then threw the arrows into a Nord as he stood still, already dead. Thraculas moved with amazing speed as the others looked on in terror as the Vampire with his mighty sword charged their ranks.

They drew their melee weapons in a fright as the glowing red eyes of the Vampire approached them. Shrieks and cries of agony were all the sounds they made.

Thraculas rended the flesh of adversary after adversary. He left his sword buried in the gut of a dying Nord and attacked by dodging their strikes and alternating between collapsing their lungs and snapping their necks. Within five minutes every attacker was dead or soon would be, aside from the commanding officer.

"What in Oblivion are YOU!?"

"I already told you… Death."

Thraculas sprinted and impacted the man sending him into a large chunk of stone, the officer was knocked out cold.

Thraculas piled the bodies, cleaned his sword, and grabbed the officer, dragging him to the city.

Meanwhile the three that Thraculas had just saved finally made it to the gates of Windhelm.

"Please let us in we are being pursued by Slave-Hunters!" Ayisha the Khajiit pleaded to the gate guard.

"More people!? There's been too much of a influx in people coming to this city. You are not allowed to enter. Get back all of you." the guard sternly replied.

A blur was all that was seen as Thraculas appeared directly eye-to-eye with the guard. Ayisha could have sworn his eyes glimmered a bright red before he spoke.

"You are to let these people in and do it now." Thraculas ordered.

The guard obeyed without question.

As the gate opened Shaylar came rushing to the gate followed closely by Sarthinias and her twin.

"Sarthinias escort these three to the Palace of the Kings. Shaylan, Shaylar with me, we have work to do."

Thraculas and Shaylan dragged the commander up to the ledge of the wall and made sure it was empty of onlookers. Shaylar looked on in silence, as her brother and her mentor woke the man from his unconsciousness.

"Ughhhhh… What the….. Where…. Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhh! You! Demon! Death!"

"Yes, I know your name for me, and if you don't want me to reduce you to a bloodless mummy, you will answer everything we ask as fully as possible."

The commander gulped but nodded.

"Why were you so adamant and armed about chasing down three people?..."

"Slaves, not people just, ARGHHHHH!"

Shaylan had landed a perfect punch to his right jaw.

"They ARE people, more than you. Filth." Shaylan spat as he cracked his knuckles glaring coldly.

"Now, answer my questions personal bias aside." Thraculas coolly demanded.

"They.. they stole plans from the Empire and its… allies."

"What did they contain?" Shaylar piped in.

With fear in his eyes but also a defiant flame, the commander said "An immediate coordinated attack to put down you rebels!"

The air around Thraculas began to swirl violently and he produced an aura of deep crimson.

"Where is this attack to take place?" He asked dangerously.

The commander began to laugh hysterically, "HERE! HHAHAHAHAHAHA ! Windhelm! Before to the sun sets on the morrow the first of many attacks will besiege this city! Now,let me go. I've told you everything."

"Very well. Goodbye!" Thraculas spat as he shoved the man off the ramparts.

The commander screamed and grabbed onto Thraculas' wrist. "Y-y-you, you said you wouldn't kill me if I told you everything!"

"No, I said that I wouldn't reduce you to a mummified corpse if you did. I'm merely keeping keeping my word. You already know my name."

"Death," the commander whispered as his eyes widened in terror. "Wait! Wait! There's something more! I swear! If this proves significant enough, I want your word that you won't kill me!"

"If I deem it enough, you have my word that none of us shall harm you. But it better damn well prove to be consequential."

"No more chances." Shaylan said as he aimed his drawn arrow at the commander's eyes.

"We have a spy in your ranks. He masquerades as a volunteer but passes along information through dead drops."

"The name?"

"I don't know." he replied with fear.

"Then your usefulness has run its course."

"NO! No wait! I've seen him once!"

"Describe him."

"He's a tall Nord, short green hair,blue eyes."

"There's a few that could match that description…"

"Wait! He.. He carries something, his weapon it's a large hammer of sorts, it's something of Daedric origin I believe."

"What did you say!?" Shaylan shouted.

"Volendrung. That means that bastard Stonewall is a spy!" Thraculas raged as he hauled the commander up onto the rampart but had him pinned on the ground.

"That can't be. He saved us from Molag Bal." Shaylar reasoned.

"True. But that could have easily been a ruse to garner our trust, dear sister. There is also the matter that, while Xander and I healed in the temple he came for a 'visit' and after the healer left he forcibly restrained himself from attacking one of us with a dagger. I thought my mind was playing tricks on me, it appears my one eye sees clearly."

"Right. Shaylar go warn the guards of what is coming this way, we need as many men and women that are able to stand with us, we also need riders to call for aid." Thraculas ordered.

As she left, Thraculas then turned to Shaylan, "The man who trained you, do you believe he could create a militia out of these citizens within two days?"

"Captain Agarwaenor can do many things but I have no way of discerning whether anyone could make militia of citizens in two days."

"Speak to him then round up as many Bosmer hunters and fighters as possible, we need as many as possible."

"And where are you going?"

"To take this scum before Ulfric, Dracgo will hang or I will put him down myself."

"If he hangs, he'll have to wait. Apparently there will be a thief hanging within the hour."

"Regardless, Stonewall's life is forfeit. We will meet at the Palace of the Kings in two hours or sooner."

"Agreed."

Part VI: Secrets Revealed, Allies to Enemies and Enemies to Allies

Sarthinias and Ulfric had listened to the account of the three runaways and now analyzed the plans for besieging the city. The only trouble was anticipating how much time they had to prepare.

"Ulfric these three only wish to fight for your cause why not let them?"

"The bulk of the army is away and they are not able to join without passing a trial that Galmar sets for them."

"To Oblivion with traditions Jarl, these are warriors, not wet behind the ears glory hounds. If you will not give them commissions into the Stormcloak Army, I will personally induct them into the Rangers."

"You have not yet been given permission for that unit! Do not forget your place, Sarthinias the Impaler!" Ulfric shouted.

"O ho-ho Dearie! I wouldn't be so quick with my tongue! If I were you that is." A voice said.

"Who speaks?" Sarthinias and Ulfric demanded in unison.

As if on cue, a man appeared of of a puff of purple smoke.

"Why milords! I am known by many names but the most common in any realm is; the Dark One!" The man replied with a pompous giggle and a twirl of his hands.

"I have heard of you. What brings you before me?" Ulfirc inquired.

"Well I would say but then that would be telling wouldn't it?" the Dark One responded with a smile. "Rest assured mighty Ulfric, you'll hear what needs hearing. Right… about… Now!"

As if on cue the doors of the Palace burst open and Thraculas came rushing and forcefully slid his prisoner to the floor in front of Ulfric.

"Aaaaand here he is the man, the Vamp, may I introduce Lord Thraculas, Son of the Dragon!" the Dark One announced.

Ulfric and Sarthinias raised their eyebrows in surprise.

"Erratic Imp." Thraculas muttered without looking at him.

"Thraculas who is this?" Sarthinias asked.

"My name is Magnus Tobias Deximus. I'm an Imperial officer and was in command of the barbarians that gave chase to the three people on the right of this Hall."

"He will swear under pain of death that not only is he aware of the time Windhelm will be attacked. We have a rat to catch. Bring in all of the Rangers; Sarthinias. Lord Ulfric all volunteers within the city in the army must be summoned here at once. Trust me."

Magnus told Ulfric what he knew of the attack and within fifteen minutes all of the volunteers garrisoned in Windhelm returned to the Palace under guise of awaiting further orders. The Dark One walked around looking them up and down smiling all the while.

"Which one? Which one? Hmmm hmm hmm." he sang to himself.

"Who is the traitor Thraculas?" Sarthinias whispered.

"Look at the volunteers faces and you'll see." Thraculas replied.

On the other side of the room Ayisha and Akinbode also analyzed the crowd, along with Dracgo there were two more men in the line that had a dragon tattoo on their right cheeks, each a different color.

"Do any of you recognize this man?" Ulfric demanded.

Magnus Tobias stood up and faced the volunteers. Immediately the three tattoo bearers sneered but controlled their faces immediately. However not quick enough for the Vampires and Khajiits not to notice.

"My name is Magnus Tobias Deximus I am an Imperial officer all those loyal to the Empire within this Hall will come forth and face their fate beside me else I will be forced under pain of death to give you up."

"Dracgo run, steal a horse and report to Lords Ubba and Ivar. Gjaltar and I will cover your escape. Now!"

Dracgo ran out the doors as the other two raised their swords and attacked Ulfric. Sarthinias and Shaylan stopped them in their tracks and disposed of the two quickly.

"Ho-ho now its getting interesting dearies! I suggest you not let the big one get away!" the Dark One clapped.

Thraculas glared at him but nodded to Shaylar, they both flew out of the doors in their bat cloud forms. They reformed to their natural state directly in front of him.

"Going somewhere? Traitor!" Thraculas shouted at Dracgo.

"Yes. Away from you!" He shouted and threw silver dust and powdered garlic at the two Vampires. They roared out in pain as their flesh burned. Dracgo stuck a silver knife in Thraculas' torso.

"A parting gift, I bought especially for you, devil."

Thraculas fell to the ground his flesh still burning and his own blood running from his body and creating an ever growing pool, as Shaylar watched helplessly in immeasurable pain herself. She called someone anyone for help. A man with long mint green hair, a face full of warpaint, and piercing white eyes walked towards her before she blacked out.

Dracgo ran past them and out the side gate by the Argonian Assemblage. As he ran across the ice, a man leapt from the city walls and tackled Dracgo.

"Who do you think you are!?"

"Arkaras the Savage! Grandson of Alain the Sentinel! Brother of missing Valilos! Son to a murdered father and mother! Murdered by the likes of you!"

Dracgo merely drew Volendrung and glared coldly at Arkaras.

"That stolen Penitus Oculatus armour of yours is too light to truly protect you from Volendrung. But me?" Dracgo cracked his knuckles "Orcish Skûrl forged armour, heavy but very protective."

"Hmm I don't believe I care, I'm going to kill you anyways."

"Try it boy."

"Gladly!"

Arkaras drew his sword and charged Dracgo, careful to balance himself on the ice. Arkaras was faster but as Dracgo said his armour was far too heavy to deal any real damage to him. Arkaras decided to take time to parry and dodge Dracgo's attacks analyzing weaknesses in the armour waiting for the perfect moment to strike.

"Not bad boy. Are you tiring?"

"I'm just warming up."

Dracgo swung the mighty hammer narrowly missing Arkaras' head. Arkaras seized this moment to strike. Where the underarms and behind the knees on the armour were only chainmail, easy to slice through, and Arkaras did just that. Not enough to sever his limbs but Dracgo was injured, he knew this at the pain on his right arm and his legs. They glared at each other only five feet away, their steady breaths visible from the cold air.

"You are something else. I'll give you that. Why don't you come back to the Legion? You'd be forgiven your treason, if I say you helped me escape."

"No thanks. I don't think I would have earned it."

Dracgo rushed him, Arkaras ducked and cut off four of the fingers Dracgo had on the neck of the hammer. Dracgo cried out in pain as he attempted to wield the hammer as though it were a flail, but he was clumsy. Arkaras' dodging was made easier with the slowing injuries on his opponent. He decided that his best bet was to get Volendrung out of Dracgo's grasp.

Arkaras purposely allowed the hammer to get a little too close for comfort. He used that to drive his sword hilt at Dracgo's wrist effectively making him lose the grip on his battle-hammer, but the recoil did the same to Arkaras and his sword. Before Dracgo could recover his weapon, Arkaras delivered a blow directly to Dracgo's nose, he felt the bones crunch beneath his knuckles. He followed up with an elbow to Dracgo's neck, but Dracgo backed off and kneed Arkaras in the ribs.

The seventeen year old warrior coughed up blood, and his breathing became unsteady. Dracgo grabbed Arkaras' hair and slammed him onto the ice, cracking it. Arkaras barely moved out of the way in time to avoid Dracgo's foot crashing down, cracking more ice. Arkaras rose back to his feet and began to fight Dracgo fist to fist, they exchanged blow for blow both faces severely bloodied.

Dracgo had enough and kicked Arkaras in the knee causing him to lose balance and fall. Dracgo immediately grabbed his neck and cut off Arkaras air. Arkaras' eyes bulged as he was being choked to death, he looked from side to side looking for a block of ice or his sword. Instead, within his reach was Volendrung, it glowed red, as if awaiting to claim a victim's blood.

Arkaras knew he had only seconds before he was greeting death like his parents before him. He reached and grasped the mighty hammer and bashed Dracgo's head, who then lossed his grip on Arkaras' neck.

Arkaras coughed and sputtered as he regained the breath of life and it filled his lungs. His eyes traveled to a Dracgo who was breathing heavily and bleeding from the left side of his temple and his left eye was forced shut from the blow.

"Go on. End it. Be a man." he pleaded with Arkaras.

"Not a man like you." Arkaras spat. "I won't kill an unarmed man."

Arkaras smashed Dracgo's left elbow, the arm with all fingers still attached. Dracgo screamed out in pain. Arkaras placed Volendrung onto that same hand.

"Now. I'll send you to meet the Daedric Lord that gave you that weapon. See you in Hell, Bastard." Arkaras said as he rose his blade and drove it with both hands and all his might into Dracgo's heart. Dracgo's body seized up and he clenched his teeth staring directly at Arkaras, the seventeen year old boy who had killed him, as blood leaked from his mouth in copious amounts.

He spoke his final words; "I….Hate….you!..."

Dracgo's head went limp, and his one open eye no longer held its vibrant blue, now it was just a dull gray, with absolutely no light in it.

Arkaras breathed in heavily as his ribs were cracked.

"Well done my grandson. A clean kill, and a warrior's death that this rat did not deserve." Alain said as he helped Arkaras to the city. Ironically they used Volendrung as a crutch. They slowly but surely made their way back to Ulfric.

"I take it Dracgo looks worse?" Sarthinias teased as he embraced Arkaras with a small smile.

" 'Course he does. Arkaras is my grandson and even at his age a deadly adversary." Alain remarked with pride filling his voice.

"So what now?" Arkaras piped up.

"Now Dearie, you give me that hammer!" The Dark One said.

"And why should we do that? Trickster." A heavily burned but still alive Thraculas demanded.

"Simple, I myself am amazing, but All magic comes with a price! How it is paid is irrelevant. With a powerful magical object I can cross realms and bring to you reinforcements that believe me, you'll desperately need. A powerful object like a Daedric artifact that is, well in trade is not only worth my aid, but my family's as well. We'll fight with you until this war is over."

"Why should we trust you? Your reputation with loopholes in your deals, is alarming at best. Why would you want to help us?" Thraculas asked.

"Not that it's any of your business toasty. But it's Simple, for reasons I will not explain at this moment, I and Skyrim need Ulfric alive, that much is obvious to this rebellion. And you!" he pointed both fingers at Sarthinias. "Let's just say. I'm invested in your future."

"What choice do we have but to trust him?" a dismayed Ulfric asked them. He was distraught over the fact that he had not one but three traitors in his ranks.

Arkaras gave him the Daedric Hammer. The Dark One began chanting a spell as a purple hole formed in the ground.

"None, but don't worry, I'll be back with your reinforcements, however small they may be." He said in a riddle. "My daughters will assist you in my absence."

He disappeared through the hole and the hole did as well.

Just as suddenly as he had disappeared, two young women appeared from purple smoke clouds.

"I'll assume you're his daughters?" Alain asked.

"Yes, I'm Duvaineth Green-Fyre." the woman with feisty green eyes and shoulder length violet hair introduced herself.

"And I'm Meluineth Gleam-Heart." the slightly younger woman with barely shorter brown hair and soft lavender eyes that screamed; sneak.

"I'll spare the rest of the introductions. Knowing who your father is you probably know more of us than we know of each other." Ulfric said, his mood still stony.

"Jarl Ulfric I beseech you, allow Lord Sarthinias to form the Skyborn Rangers. We will need as many citizens in the militia that Captain Agarwaenor will train. The volunteers and the guards won't be enough to hold the walls." Jorlief, Ulfric's advisor and confidant begged.

"Very well, but should they prove ineffective, the Rangers will be disbanded and placed on the front lines with the regular army." Ulfric warned.

"We won't fail. Do not forget to include the Dunmer and Saxhleel that reside in this city Jarl Ulfric, they may not be fond of Nords as Nords aren't fond of them, but they will protect their home." Sarthinias added.

"We Bosmer of the Colony will do our part, we have many trained hunters that are easily shifted to archers, and though many amongst us love peace, their ancestors were warriors, their armor and weapons shall be borne by their descendants." Talim announced resolutely. She would be in command of the wall archers.

"Shaylan, Ayisha, Akinbode, Duvaineth, Meluineth, Za'Tara, and I shall scout ahead and attempt to thin the first army's ranks before they arrive." Sarthinias said as he opened the doors and sprinted out towards the gate, the people he called directly behind him. Seven souls to thin out an army.

"I will help the Wood-Elf captain train the militia, I know the way the Empire fights, my grandson will as well." Alain announced as they too, took their leave.

"Samson, Corsica, and I will lay out defenses in front of the city." Ari declared as they left the Palace.

"Jarl Ulfric, the women and children who can't fight, cannot stay here, they'll need either safe passage out of here or a fall back position as a last resort."

"Hmmm. Bring the captains that have their ships anchored in the harbor. Dawnstar is still friendly with us, I'll pay the captains well to transport all of the defenseless there."

Jorleif nodded and walked out in search of all the ship captains.

"And Jorlief!"

"Yes lord?"

"Send out three of your fastest and trustworthy riders. Galmar must return."

"As you command my Jarl."

Ulfric thought to himself 'We'll need more men, I hope the Dark One can amass a force great enough to help hold the city, at least until Galmar gets here. The ships will be expensive, I'll pull from my own wealth to get my people to safety. Then of course there is supplies that we'll need. Army marches on its stomach. The Khajiit caravan is just outside this city they sell all manner of odds and ends.'

Ulfric was roused from thought as Thraculas, who was still badly wounded, spoke.

"Ulfric, before I brought Deximus here, I slew around thirty men. They all carried weapons that can be used to arm the populace."

"Very well. The volunteers will go out and retrieve the weapons in the meantime you should regain your strength, you're lucky that Elanordir found you and Shaylar when he did. Had she not you and your wife would have died."

"Wife? No, no, no, Ulfric there is nothing romantic between Shaylar and I, we only met a few days ago. No, my wife, well, that was lifetime ago." He said with a faraway look in his eyes.

"Forgive the misconception."

"Not a problem Lord. I shall take my leave."

Just as Thraculas walked back to the temple, Xander walked into the palace, his still healing arm in a sling.

'Of course once the last one is out, another one enters' Ulfric thought with a shake of his head.

"If you're having the Savage and the Sentinel training the populace, you'll stand a better chance. But, these volunteers and guards, they have never faced the brunt of the Empire and Dominion, and there's not a chance in Oblivion that they've met with the brutality of the Skûrls. They'll need you out there to lead them. They need their morale bolstered. Let me give them a few pointers and weaknesses to how the Imperials fight." Xander asked.

"I still don't know what to think of you Xander, you're not from Skyrim, you are an Imperial by birth, and you deserted them. Why?"

"I'm young, but I have fought many battles. Not too long ago, but before tensions between you and the Empire rose, my division and I were traveling in the Reach Hold. Our orders were to put down any Forsworn or Breton not wearing civilian armor. Naturally we found a small camp and we attacked it. The survivors including their Elder and several children were bound, and I expected them to be tried in Markarth as prisoners. We marched them until we met with a High Elf dressed in Justiciar armor, I can't remember the name. There was also an Imperial with him a lieutenant named Bregon, raised by the Thalmor He said he could not risk the chance that they would get a way. I was in command of the Imperials at that time. I begged and pleaded that he would not have us kill the children. With cold eyes he requested that the three children be brought to him so they would not run to their parents arms when they were executed. I agreed."

By this time his emotions caught up with him and mighty Xander fell to his knees.

"I couldn't bring myself to give the order. There was no honor in it. So he had me bound as well, I watched as one by one, my men's swords descended on the heads of the prisoners. Until there were none left, but me. My men couldn't bring themselves to kill their commander. They released me, and for that, they were all killed. That Altmer, he used his sorcery to electrocute and sear my men to death, until there was not one left, but me. I was clubbed until I could no longer hear correctly by lieutenant Bregon. They let me live. As I saw the children being loaded onto a spare horse, I knew in my heart that they would never reach safety. The Reach hold is famous for its cliffs and ravines. Before they rode off the Justiciar said; 'Horses do tend to get skittish and have tendencies to be ignorant. Wouldn't to agree Bregon?' He shocked the horse, in its fright it ran towards the edge of the cliff…"

Xander's breath hitched and became unsteady.

"Their screams weren't what killed me that day. No, it was the silence after the sickening crash that echoed off the cliffs of stone. I hadn't moved fast enough, I tried to move in front of the horse, I couldn't save them… Bregon laughed as he literally stabbed me in the back; 'Eagle-Talons right? Haha, too bad you weren't known as Eagle-Wings.' With that he pushed me off the edge of the cliff, I didn't fight. The only one left was me."

"How did you survive?"

"God or gods, whatever or whoever is watching out for me. I landed in the stream and washed up on the bank. I would've died that day, if it hadn't been for…"

"For who?"

Xander let a brief smile to cross his face.

"My best friend Za'Tara and the most beautiful, rough, and secretly caring person I know, Arianna."

-Scene Break-

As Xander retold of his past, Sarthinias and the others marched into the woods to find any enemy scouting parties. They were shocked to find over a hundred men marching into the woods. They talked of how they could even the odds, the only way they believed was to thin the ranks. Speed and stealth, that was it.

Akinbode and Za'Tara climbed into the tall trees and readied their arrows. Sarthinias, Shaylan, and Ayisha hid right behind the trees blades drawn and Sarthinias placed multiple sharpened long branches behind tree trunks. Duvaineth and Meluineth positioned themselves as ground archers and magic wielders.

The enemy moved in ranks, they were paranoid and they came to realize that they were not alone in the forest. These men were not Imperial Legionnaires, more likely mercenaries for hire or bandits that sold their loyalties, they wore iron, leather, hide and fur armors. As they advanced they felt frightened and drew their weapons. Almost immediately arrows found their marks into different men. The dark of the forest and the snow in the wind made it difficult to see.

The mercenaries trembled as they saw the bodies and heard the gasps and thuds of more of their own falling dead. Suddenly the arrows stopped, but rushing footsteps were heard coming towards them. The sounds of blades slicing and stabbing ran through the wind's howling. The footsteps stopped and the arrows resumed, the mercenaries seemed to have finally gotten their bearings and fired back. Shaylan, Sarthinias, and Ayisha hid behind the trees again as arrows hit the trunks of the tree.

"Who's there!? Show yourselves!" one shouted before he was silenced by an arrow.

Cries of anger rang out as the men charged. Arrows impacted their shields and other arrows hit their necks from above.

"Brother we are going to have to break cover soon, open combat, no choice."

"I'm not leaving you to face another army alone, Sarthinias." Shaylan repeated vehemently.

The mercenaries came closer as the two brothers gripped their blades close. Ayisha gripped both of her swords and counter charged their ranks. Shaylan and Sarthinias were shocked that she had just gone off alone but quickly joined her. She may have been young, but Ayisha was one of the bravest and fiercest fighters that the two brothers had ever seen. She moved like viper and stuck just as deadly as one. Sarthinias with only a newly fashioned pike and his short blade, targeted shield bearing enemies. Shaylan? He may have only just recovered from the encounter with Caligula, but he fought with abandon. He was hardly ever fully on the ground, using the trees as an aerial advantage, and spinning rapidly during his attacks to defend and attack at every angle. Sarthinias and Shaylan noticed that every wound they suffered healed almost immediately, Ayisha was smirking as, she now had focus and adrenaline, channeled into her healing magic.

Out of arrows Za'Tara and Akinbode leapt from the treetops, daggers drawn as they found their first victims. The two went unnoticed as the mercenaries were focused on the trio fighting them head on. They attacked from behind, silently, making every kill clean and quick. They were working their way down the ranks, towards their three companions.

Duvaineth and Meluineth no matter what would never have empty quivers, their magic always kept it full, but the ever restless Duvaineth, decided to make more of a spectacle regarding the fighting. Soon mercenaries found her, but were not expecting an explosion of green fire to hit them. They screamed as their fur armors and hairs burned, the snow did not douse the burns, and that green fire consumed every man it touched. Meluineth was surrounded, her lavender eyes glowed, she smirked at her attackers and disappeared as they were cut down one at a time. They did not notice that her shadow did not disappear with her body, and it was next to every one of their shadows before they died.

Within the next hour the last man was cut down. The Rangers heaved in breaths of the chilling air as they regrouped, piling the bodies of their fallen foes. Duvaineth lit the bodies and the green fire consumed them in a magnificent pyre.

Synchronized footsteps were heard as the seven hid behind the trees in the darkness. A small band of Imperial Legionnaires marched in formation and halted at the pyre. Their leader called for a halt as he inspected the pyre, he found a hand in the flames.

"Circle formation!" their leader shouted.

His troops locked their tower shields together making no angles or sides and their ducked their heads.

"We did not come to fight, we are the Wolverines, tasked with bringing in a traitor known as the Savage!" their leader said.

An arrow flew right into one of the shields.

"That was a warning shot Imperials! Turn back now, we won't give up one of our own. Besides we are all traitors in the Empire's eyes now. And what do you know of the man or his character!?" Sarthinias retorted.

"I know that he attacked and scarred a Thalmor Justiciar, disobeyed his orders, fled his duty, killed Thalmor soldiers, and beheaded the Inquisitor of Northwatch Keep. Now he is apparently aiding Ulfric the Traitorous."

"You know nothing of what that boy has suffered in his short life!"

"Boy?"

"He is seventeen! He once lived happily with his family until his older brother went missing, to this day he still believes he is alive. Years later his home was attacked by Thalmor, his parents murdered before his young eyes. He was taken prisoner, beaten without mercy, his back is covered with marks of the lash, he was trained to kill without conscience, and thrown into the front lines to save the Empire from battles that would have been defeats. Raised as a weapon, the Empire christened him the Savage, I only know because his grandfather confided this in me. Alain the Sentinel, his grandfather, that is who he ran to when he could take no more of the Empire and the Thalmor's brutality."

"What name did you just say?" their leader asked as he stepped outside the shield formation and sheathed his sword.

"Alain the Sentinel, grandfather of Arkaras the Savage, why? Do you mean to find him too?"

"Yes… I have been searching for my grandfather and my baby brother for so many years now." the leader said his voice breaking. "Little Arkaras always so eager to play with swords so long ago, what have they done to him." he whispered to himself and let a tear fall from his eyes.

"Rangers! Lower your arrows!" Sarthinias ordered.

"Wolverines! Drop all weapons! Now!"

They did as their commander ordered. He took off his helmet and looked Sarthinias in the eye, he certainly looked like Arkaras.

"Please take me to my family. Hostage, prisoner, friend, I care not. I must see them."

"Who are you?"

"My name is Valios, I'm Arkaras' elder brother. And I need to reconcile with him."

"I believe you, but just so we are clear, your band and you will be bound and escorted by us to Windhelm. I trust your grandfather will recognize you, after all, family is everything."

"Yes, that it is."

Valios and the Wolverines went willingly as prisoners to Windhelm. Duvaineth charmed the weapons and shields of the fallen to float just behind her, while her sister Meluineth gave Akinbode a large sack full of gold. She had magicked the gold from their pockets, the dead didn't have a use for it anymore.

After another hour passed they were back inside the gates of Windhelm. Sarthinias asked the guards where Arkaras and Alain were. The guard said that they were in the palace courtyard training anyone that was willing to fight.

"Come on! Put your backs into it! Speed! Power! Strike! Speed! Power! Strike! Speed! Power! Strike!" Alain ordered his recruits.

"Alain how fares the training?" Shaylan inquired.

"They are skilled and hearty, what we lack in numbers we make up for in resolve." Alain amplified his voice, "Those who feel that heavier weapons are your strong suit go to Xander with the guards. Dual-wielders will see Luna Moondancer by the docks, potential archers go and report to Talim along the wall. The rest of you stay behind and my grandson will take over."

"Which one grandfather?" Valios shouted.

Alain turned around to see Valios and dropped his staff in shock. There he was and Alain knew it, that was his grandson, that was Arkaras' brother.

"It can't be." he said as he embraced him.

"It's me grandfather, it's Valios."

Sarthinias nodded to the Rangers to release the Wolverines and return their weapons. Alain called to Arkaras, when he saw his brothers face he ran and embraced him as well, before he landed a solid punch to his jaw and demanding where he had been for so many years.

Sarthinias decided to leave them to their family reunion, after all it isn't everyday that the lost ones return. On his way to the wall, Ulfric stopped him and asked if he would assist Ulfric supervise the hanging of the axe thief.

They went to the marketplace and saw a large man of seven and a half feet with the noose around his neck. They listened as the charges were read against him.

"Ulfar Axe-Thief you are charged with stealing needed axes from the guard barracks here in Windhelm, robbery of axes from various blacksmiths throughout the Nine Holds, stealing and breaking the sacred Axe Wuuthrad from the Companions of Whiterun. May the Nine Divines have mercy on your soul. Any last words?"

"You're making a mistake, if you're going to execute me, let the headsman's axe do the job."

"Drop him."

Ulfar smiled as the plank he stood on gave way. The rope tightened and the beam broke. Ulfar landed directly on his feet and immediately made a run for the gate. Sarthinias gave chase, but was met with a lute to the head.

"Thanks Luther, now lets get out of here!" Ulfar shouted.

"I don't know why I'm always saving your neck Ulfar. I could make such a better living as a bard."

"Well let's see your voice sucks, and you're only good at telling stories, not singing."

"You didn't have to be so mean."

"You asked, I answered."

As the two quarrelled and ran Ulfric decided he'd had enough.

"Fus. Ro. Dah!" Ulfric shouted and the two were pushed forward and tumbled to the ground.

When the two awoke, they were in the Windhelm dungeon staring at Ulfric and Sarthinias.

"Ulfar what the hell did we do to get ourselves in this mess?"

"You decided to help me." Ulfar laughed.

"Silence! The both of you!" Ulfric commanded.

'Looks like I'm getting the Headsman's Axe after all.' Ulfar thought.

"You both have a choice, one you die by the Headsman's Axe and your remains buried in unmarked graves. Or, you join my friend Captain Sarthinias' group, the Skyborn Rangers." Ulfric said.

The other three looked dumbfounded at Ulfric. Ulfar and Luther, due to the fact that they had the chance at pardon and living. Sarthinias because unknown to the prisoners, Ulfric had commissioned him a Captain and accepted the Rangers.

"What's in it for us?" Ulfar dumbly asked.

"Aside from full pardon, you will fight under Sarthinias' command, whatever gold you find on your travels and battles is yours to keep as well as axes, was it? As for your friend, he'll have quite the stories to tell of your adventures."

Ulfar smiled as his eyes lit up at the thought of being able to collect as many axes as he could from fallen foes.

"Why are you even offering us this chance?" Luther asked.

"Several reasons, I doubted Sarthinias' methods and resolve, he proved himself and his Rangers today. I've never seen a man escape the hanging by smiling knowing that the rope would break from his sheer size. You men seem full of life and can prove useful to the cause. And with purpose, you men might actually become something of a greatness. Besides I need stories told of our victories and defeats around Skyrim, and I would be a fool not to recruit a man that towers over thousands, that is not a giant of Skyrim."

"Seems like a good enough reason. I give my oath that I will do as you and yours command Jarl Ulfric Stormcloak of Windhelm. My life is as you command." Luther pledged.

Ulfar repeated the same words quickly and with less grace, but full meaning. The two were released and they all left the dungeon.

Ulfar and Luther followed Sarthinias out of the Palace and into the city, he gave them each enough gold to purchase armor and their weapons of choice from the blacksmith.

As Sarthinias left he decided to visit the Grey Quarter of the Dark Elves and then the docks to enlist more militia from the Elves and Argonians. He also pondered how to distinguish the Rangers from the rest of the Stormcloak army.

Part VII: Allies from Another World.

The Dark One had finally arrived at his destination, the East of Middle-Earth, Rhûn. He smiled as he began searching for the man, or rather Dwarf that he had come to meet. After an hour he found a makeshift town of Dwarves that looked more like refugees, but hearty nonetheless. There were no more than two-hundred.

"Hello dearies! I was curious if I could have an audience with your leader, General Ironheart."

"Who's askin'?" A Dwarf with a gruff, but jovial voice asked.

"Just call me the Dark One, and I have come with an offer that you may be interested in."

"Then you can just call me Dilir Ironheart." the same Dwarf said as he put down his flagon and rose. He was short in stature but tall for a Dwarf. He had an elaborately braided and decorated beard and tamed black hair. His skin was a dark tan, he had multiple battle scars, and golden eyes. "What do yeh come offerin' Dark One?"

"A new home, it doesn't take a genius like me to realize that you and yours are not the happiest folk, and you haven't seen too much peace either."

"Aye that's true but why should we trust you? Nobody can just poof something so promisin' outta thin air."

"Well that's true. All magic comes with a price! This home comes at a cost, you'll have to fight for it."

"No surprise there."

"I should think not, but here's the kicker, this home isn't even here in Middle-Earth."

The Dwarves that were listening widened their eyes in shock and began muttering amongst themselves.

"So we have to fight to claim someone else's home? Are you mad!?"

"Only most of the time. Actually though the land belongs to a race of Men called Nords, you won't be fighting them, you'll be fighting alongside them. You see they are in the midst of a Civil War and they need reinforcements. It'll be honorable you see."

"So we are fighting an already losing war just to possibly have a stake of land for us? We've been fighting the Easterlings and Dwarves of Sauron for ages for the same purpose!"

"That's where you're wrong. You see, there was an Ancient civilization called Dwemer in Skyrim they made vast underground cities in the mountains, they mysteriously disappeared without a trace. But their cities remain; help the Nords reclaim their homeland, and they'll have no dispute in you claiming a home from one of these cities or more. Besides many have become home to bandits and less than savory characters, you Dwarves have more respect for antiquity and hospitable neighbors."

Dilir pondered this and asked if he could call for a vote. The Dark One respectfully agreed and said he would return in an hour for their decision.

In that hour the Dark One travelled westward via his teleportation. He came to the region of Eriador and met with two twin brothers, Elladan and Elrohir the sons of Elrond Half-Elven. He convinced them to ride to the aid of the Nords, their hatred of Orcs and Evil spurned their decision. Though he held more darkness than anyone else anywhere, the Dark One wasn't inherently evil. They mounted their horses and rode to call more Noldor Elves to aid Skyrim's plight. In two hours they would meet on the borders of Buckland.

Back to the East, the Dark One returned to the Dwarf camp. Apparently there was a consensus among them. They packed up their camp and readied their weapons, warmachines, and war-goats.

"Alright Dark One, yev got yourself a deal. We're in. we'll fight, and we'll earn the right to live in the mountains like the Western Dwarves."

"I knew you'd listen to reason." the Dark One smirked and opened another portal, this one, to Skyrim, and Windhelm. "Step through Dilir. Ask for Ulfric and Sarthinias when you arrive and tell them I sent you. Oh and uh don't expect a warm welcome right away."

Dilir nodded and stepped through, his people following close behind. As the final Dwarf left, the Dark One closed the portal and teleported back to the West awaiting Elladan, Elrohir and a host of Elves.

On the Borders of Buckland exactly when they said they'd meet the Dark One, Elladan and Elrohir and four hundred Noldor Elves raising the Banner of the Ancient Noldor.

"Not a bad assembly boys. Nope, not bad at all."

"We've held our end of the bargain… Elladan began.

...now uphold yours." Elrohir finished

"Of course dearie! I just hope you and they are prepared."

"Whatever awaits...

...we shall face our fates."

"Remember those words." The Dark One said as he eyed them both. They stood resolute under his gaze. "This goes to all of you, this may be the last time you see Middle-Earth, once you cross, their may be no turning back."

The Elves formed into two lines behind Elladan and Elrohir.

Once more the Dark One chanted and opened the portal to Skyrim. The Twins entered the portal on their brown steeds, the Noldor cavalry close behind, the Nórëtirno archers and swordsmen were the last to enter, every Elf in synch. This time the Dark One entered the portal. 'No matter who they are, they are not prepared for what awaits them.'

Part VIII: "Realize What You Have or You'll See it Disappear"

Outside the city Ari and Corsica finished warding and laying traps for the enemy army. Corsica created a spell array with multiple connected runes that would give quite a nasty surprise when triggered. Ari had created trenches and drop-pits with earthen spikes at the bottom. Samson had been hauling multiple giant bowlers back to Windhelm, Ari had an idea that would prove useful in the event of enemy siege machines.

"And that's the last of them! How are those runes coming along Corsica?"

"Almost ready Ari!" Corsica called down.

She was flying around wrapping up her spell work. She was going to make sure that these people were as safe as she could.

"Once you're done come back down!"

Corsica landed right beside Ari and the two walked back to Windhelm.

"Ari how can you tell where you're going even in the snow?"

"My mother, she cast a spell on my feet so they would never get cold and never lead me astray. As long as I know where I want to go, I'll never be lost."

"Hmm. So what's with you and Xander? I'm empathic you know. When we first met, you were happy to teach Za'Tara a lesson about women, but I sensed jealousy from you towards me when it came to Xander…"

Ari's cheeks colored to the same shade as her red hair.

"Well, um.. He's my friend, I've known him for…"

"For less time than Za'Tara" Corsica cut her off with a grin. "Admit it, you've got it bad."

Ari was at a loss for words. The fairy had thoroughly found her best kept secret. The redhaired elementalist had no snippy comments nor remarks to combat Corsica.

"It doesn't matter. I'm not sure he even thinks of me as more than a good friend."

"Oh I wouldn't be so adamant about that... At least you have someone to think about that way, and hope that he has the same feelings."

"There's no one you have on your mind?"

"Please. I've been the only humanoid in that forest for years. You were the first visitors I've had in centuries."

"Afraid of loving a younger man?"

Corsica chuckled, "No nothing like that. Well, maybe a little."

"What about Thraculas?"

"Believe it or not he's spoken for. I have no idea how long ago or why he hasn't spoken of her."

"That's something I wouldn't have guessed."

"Yep! Oh well maybe love wasn't supposed to be a part of my life. At least now I have all of you with me, people I can call family."

Ari smiled at her as they reached the gate. They were shocked at the amount of boulders Samson had collected for Ari. In fact a great amount of the city had changed. Many of the Bosmer now wore their ancestors' armor and carried their weapons. Talim could be seen shouting orders to all of the archers on the wall ramparts. Alain and Arkaras were seen with a band of Imperials as many of the citizens emerged from their homes with armor and weapons. Every archer ran to receive Talim's orders. The guards were seen gathering towards the East gate where the docks lay.

"Ari there you are! Za'Tara became worried when he returned to the city, but Ari was not."

"Corsica and I are fine Za'Tara. How's Xander?"

"Oh! Heh-Heh. He's fine. Out and about he just finished re-training the guards. Worried much?" he asked with a wink

Corsica did Ari the favor of slapping Za'Tara upside the head. The Khajiit yelped in surprise and hissed at her. Ari merely snapped in his large ears and the two ladies left him.

Za'Tara recovered from his ringing ears and shook his head to get his bearings. He saw Sarthinias walk towards the docks and decided that he could use a bit more rest before the enemy arrived.

Sarthinias went outside the gates and talked to a guard

"Why are there so many people boarding these vessels?"

"Jarl Ulfric's request my Lord. He wants his people safe, he's purchased safe passage with the ship captains for all of those who can't fight and who won't. Rumor is that he paid out of his own fortune."

"Where are they headed?"

"Dawnstar." A feminine voice announced, and it was so familiar. "Where we first met, 'Lord Impaler'."

"God, if I'm stuck with a title why'd it have to be-" Sarthinias froze as he looked over his shoulder.

There she was the woman from his dreams, from the Inn, and apparently from his past.

"Luna? Luna Moondancer is that you?" Sarthinias asked.

"I thought you wouldn't forget your first kiss so easily Sarthinias." She said while sticking her tongue out at him in a playful manner.

And that's when he suddenly remembered, all those suppressed memories. The reason he didn't mind leaving the Colony to go to Dawnstar. He was sixteen and so was she at the time. How could he not remember!? He chastised himself mentally.

He fell in Love with that girl and here she was again a young woman. What happened? Why did she leave? Why could he not remember?

All these memories and thoughts. Her father. She sailed away with her father, and it broke Sarthinias' heart. He removed that pain from his memories, he made himself forget, by whatever magic or sorcery he had unknowingly possessed, but now that barrier was broken. He felt open, defenseless.

"How do you not remember me? Don't you remember the last thing I told you? 'While away I sail, our love will never fail'."

"For we are never apart, as long as I am in your heart." Sarthinias finished. "I remember everything now."

He chuckled mirthlessly. "You taught me how to fish, I taught you how to climb and what berries were safe to eat. God, your father hated the amount of time you spent with me."

"I think I'll take my leave, Lord." The guard said as he was obviously uncomfortable with the conversation and left.

The two wore flushed faces as they realized that their conversation wasn't private.

"Of course. You may take your leave."

"Many thanks, sir."

The guard marched strolled away from them.

"I am sorry for not remembering you Luna. Aside from my family you were my only friend, and you were my confidant."

"As you were mine, and I didn't have a sibling to turn to. I can't blame you for forgetting me, it's been years."

"But I meant to forget you. Some memories are just too painful to remember. It's easier to forget, especially as I never thought I'd see you again."

"I always held out hope of seeing you again. I loved you."

"And I you. We were children."

"That sort of love doesn't just die. I can see that you've changed."

"So have you. And become much more beautiful, I never thought it was possible." Sarthinias chuckled.

She playfully hit his shoulder and leaned in closer to him. She didn't feel him flinch at her touch.

"What's wrong?"

"I'm surprised that you're still so comfortable around me, even after everything."

"I promised myself and you that you were the only person for me? I don't see how that's changed."

Then her face fell and a transparent fear could be seen across her face.

"Unless of course while you forgot me, you found someone else…"

"Of course not. While you were away I felt a void inside of me. One I knew wouldn't be filled by any other. In that knowledge, I dulled the feeling, by willfully forgetting, us. But never sought anyone else whenever a time arose to anything of a romantic nature with anyone else, it felt wrong and I couldn't, don't laugh. I haven't kissed or anything further for that matter, another besides you."

Luna didn't laugh, her heart lit up and she let a small smile cross her face. He still loved her! She just needed him to realize it.

"Luna! Have you finally found a man! Shor's bones it's about time!" another woman's voice called.

"Not like you can say any different Aemilia!" Luna retorted.

"Keep saying that and I'll freeze your tongue!" Aemilia playfully threatened.

She was a Breton woman with warm brown eyes, full lips, long flowing honey-blonde hair, with magenta and baby-blue warpaint on her forehead, cheeks, nose, and eyelids. She wore no armour but normal clothes as if the cold of Skyrim did not bother her. She wore her sword in its scabbard on her back with her bow and arrow quiver, and a platinum necklace resembling a nature amulet.

"Sarthinias this is Aemilia Winter-Blossom my best friend. We met sailing on the Sea of Ghosts after a run in with Imperial privateers." She spat the last word.

"Why do I have the feeling you're earning a living as pirates, Luna?"

"Well obviously that's because we are!" Aemilia shouted at him scandalized.

"Its an honest enough living especially with this war going on, we're now endorsed by Ulfric and his Stormcloak Army." Luna said.

"And who's your Captain?"

Luna smirked. "First mate Winter-Blossom! Is all the cargo secured and ready for departure!?"

"Aye Captain! Just waiting on the refugees to safely transport to Dawnstar."

"Well then, Captain Luna. It seems you're making a safe trip home. I wish you luck and…"

Sarthinias' eyes widened as he saw torchlight in the forest.

"Luna ready your ship and leave. Now!"

"Captain Sarthinias! There's a force of Redguards amassing in the forest! Their numbers are too great and our people are still training."

Sarthinias pondered before he came to a conclusion.

"Evacuate all of the people seeking passage to Dawnstar, those with children first. Inform Jarl Ulfric of this matter. I want ALL guards right here! No enemy is to reach the docks. The Bosmer are to go to the wall at the front gate. The Rangers will meet me by the gate, we'll stall them and give everyone time."

"But sir-"

"Those are my orders! See to it!"

The guard looked at Sarthinias in disbelief and awe before leaving to do as he was told.

Sarthinias ran into the city and into the Candlehearth Hall to his room. He took a deep breath as he sharpened his short blade. He donned the Wild Hunt armour and fastened his bracers as he looked into the mirror. He took a deep breath, sheathed his blade, and checked his quiver making sure it was filled to the brim with arrows. There were no less than a thousand Redguards in that forest, and they were marching on Windhelm, that much was certain. What was uncertain was how many Sarthinias and the Rangers could take with them to the grave.

While Sarthinias was preparing, Thraculas had heard the news. He rose from the cot he'd been resting in and began to walk out the door.

"My lord, you need more time to rest!"

"Elanordir I do not doubt you, but you know that there is only one way for one of us to fully heal and we won't get it from any potions."

The white eyed Vampire stood out of the shadows and looked at Thraculas in the eye.

"I will NOT let you go out and prey on the innocents of Windhelm."

"Nor shall I. There is a rather large force of Redguards marching on the city as we speak. I can't let my friends face them alone, you know this, without someone like us, they'll all die."

"You're still too weak, you can't face them, let me go too!" Shaylar shouted.

"Young Shaylar, always up for a fight. This is something I must do alone. If I die, then let it be so, I have lived far too long already. Seen to much. Sinned and crossed lines that have since been shattered." Thraculas said.

"I've made up my mind I'm going against them, head on and alone." He declared.

"I won't stop you, but Shaylar and I will wait by the gate. Just in case any get past you, we won't let them take the city."

"The sun is setting, now is our time to attack."

Thraculas left and walked calmly to the gate.

Sarthinias was in his armour and readying the Rangers.

"Sarthinias stand down. I'll take care of this."

"You're wounded and there are far too many."

"Trust me. Just hold the wall in case any get past me. Corsica! Ari! Do NOT spring any of the traps! I'll keep them away from the drop pits.

Thraculas ordered the gates to be opened. He turned to one of the gate guards. He unstrapped his greatsword and handed it to the guard.

"Don't lose this."

"Of course not lord."

Thraculas nodded as he calmly walked out of the gateway and it closed behind him. He balled up his fists and his knuckles let out an audible crack. He stared at the army of Redguard Warriors.

Across the field of battle, the Redguards laughed as a lone man walking towards them. Coward they thought.

"Look at him he's leaving them to die." One soldier said.

"Let's show them what will happen to everyone inside!"

Cheers of agreement rang from the Redguards.

"CHARGE!" Their commander shouted.

They let out battle cries and charged towards Thraculas.

He stopped and looked at all of them his vision changed and eyes shined as he could see each and every heartbeat clearly. He cracked his neck and sprinted towards them.

The Redguards were surprised but undeterred and continued to charge him.

Thraculas roared as he rapidly approached them. He met the first few men and a loud crack and screams of pain were heard. Thraculas moved through their army slaying foe after foe. Sending men into the air only to fall upon their fellow's weapons. Thraculas alternated between his bat cloud and his corporeal form. Every blow he dealt with extreme strength and every strike crushed the bones of his adversaries.

He bobbed and weaved and struck his foes without regard. He picked up various weapons from the dead and used them to strike down the Redguards. From swords to their own helmets, anything was used by Thraculas to harm them.

As many began to slip past him towards the gate he morphed into the bats and sent the Redguards flying through the air.

"Look upon me!" Thraculas roared to them. "Have you no idea who I am? I AM YOUR DEATH! Face me cowards!"

Thraculas tore into the Redguards again and again each cry of agony and scream of pain rang out. Until Thraculas came upon the very last one, the commander. A tall man, heavily armored but not at the neck, too bad.

"You know, I've worked up quite the Thirst, good thing you're still around."

The Redguard gripped his sword tight in both hands and charged the Vampire in a desperate attempt to live.

Thraculas snapped the sword in two and raised the Redguard by his collar high in the air until they were face to face.

"Look at your men, if you had just stayed home in peace, they'd all be alive. Be happy, I've decided to spare you my fate…"

Thraculas then bit into his neck and a sickening crunch was heard. The Redguard's face drained immediately and his skin became scraggy.

Thraculas threw down the body and looked up to the sky and roared loudly, inhumanly even. That roar echoed throughout the city of Windhelm and beyond to the ears of the approaching armies. It was a commander of one of those armies who said, "He's here. This will be much more interesting than I thought. Mein Master will be pleased."

The brothers Aros and Sletholan also heard the roar.

"Windhelm, no matter who defends you, you will fall." Aros said to no one.

"Ulfric you Usurper, we are coming for you. We are coming." Sletholan said also to no one.

Neither of the two heard the other, their voices drowned out by the thousands of footsteps marching on the city. It would only be a few more hours, and then, the Stormcloaks and the people of Windhelm, would have the fight of their lives to contend with.

As Thraculas returned drenched in rapidly cooling blood, his burns and wound had fully healed, and his eyes shined brightly.

Everyone he past was murmuring about him. "He's a monster." "I'm glad he's on our side." "Can he be stopped?"

Thraculas heard all of this and continued his walk to the docks with a mask of indifference.

As Thraculas continued his walk. Corsica looked for Sarthinias. As she was searching her eyes met with Elanordir and she felt a connection to the green-hairs Vampire immediately. She had to look away to hide her blush, but ironically enough Sarthinias saw it.

"So Corsica it appears that someone has caught your eye."

"I… I won't deny it."

"Love is a funny thing, and often doesn't happen at first sight. But it can, if you give it the chance."

"It's not that simple."

"Oh but it is. You didn't see his eyes when he saw you. His white eyes briefly shimmered gold, much like yours did when you saw him. That's a bond. See where it takes you."

"Sarthinias, you should take your own advice."

"Meaning?"

Corsica nodded her head behind him with her hands on her hips. There stood Luna, looking at Sarthinias with adoration in her eyes.

"Sarthinias, realize what you have, enjoy and cherish it, otherwise you'll see it gone in an instant."

She then left with Ari, they invited Luna and Aemilia for a bite to eat at the Inn.

Sarthinias stood in the same spot as the snow fell on him. Captain Agarwaenor walked up to him.

"It's almost time Sarthinias. Are you prepared?"

"In our circumstances how could we be prepared?"

"At least you still have your sense of humor. Tak-Galborn always said it was one of your most endearing qualities."

Sarthinias let out a dry laugh. "That he did. I miss him."

"As do I, he was a great man in his own right. But do you know what was greater?"

Sarthinias shook his head.

"His faith in you."

That one statement made Sarthinias clutch the side of the wall to stay upright.

"Tak-Galborn may not have been your father by birth, but he and Annúngileth loved you as their own son."

"Much like how you love Shaylar and Shaylan."

"Yes. Their mother was always a kind woman, I have no idea why she ended up with that rubbish of a man, the only thing he did right was help make those twins!" Agarwaenor said in anger.

"And when he passed, you took them in. When you trained us you were especially hard on Shaylan, I knew it was the bond of a father making his son stronger."

Agarwaenor chuckled and got a far away look in his eyes, it made him seem even older than he was.

"Oh don't get all soft on me old Ironsides, we've got a battle to win."

"Why you little…"

Sarthinias walked away laughing as Agarwaenor tried to swat his head.

Agarwaenor looked down to the snow, "I know you're watching old friend. I hope I've done right by your son, Sarthinias and the Trio have always been natural leaders. We always joked about giving him and Shaylan our titles, now it's more of a reality. I know my time is almost here, whether or not it is this battle, I will see you soon Galborn…"

The Bosmer captain then walked up to the ramparts and sharpened his companion, the legendary Green-Blade, passed down from the Colony's Captains for generations. He looked out onto the snow that would soon be a horror of battle and bloodshed. He filled his quiver with arrows and readied his longbow.

"If I fall in this battle, Lord. Accept my soul, please." He whispered in a prayer like manner.

Part IX: We Are Skyrim!

Elsewhere Sarthinias was gathering volunteers from the guards and militia to be outside the gates and meet the enemy head on, needless to say their numbers were few. Only twenty and the Rangers except for Talim.

He lead them outside the gate. They had all had what was believed to be their final meal compliments of Sarthinias. He felt that, if this was his last day, he need not go to the grave with money.

Archers began filling the walls, Talim and Agarwaenor easily identifiable. Every Bosmer dressed in the armor of their warrior ancestors. There were Argonian and Dark Elven archers on the wall as well.

Sarthinias looked to the docks to see Luna looking back at him, and a sense of longing and regret came upon him. Aemilia pulled her out of her trance-like state. They finished loading supplies onto the ship and began to get the now refugees onboard. And they were many. Luna and Aemilia's ship Freedom's Wings was the last shipper of five due to depart. Sarthinias watched over them and a sad smile adorned his face.

He then looked to his volunteers, all but shaking in their armor.

"Stand at attention!" Sarthinias ordered.

The men obeyed.

"You all have already shown me your character, and great courage just by standing with me here and now. I look upon you all now and I see myself, frightened, but here nonetheless. We could be doomed and yet we stand here as a line in the snow, and they shall not cross it. We are but stones of Freedom attempting to stop a flood of Tyranny and Oppression, and yet still we are here! We are the children of Skyrim! And we will defend her to our last gasp if need be. Out there are thousands who would subjugate and rule over us, I say we stand against them and force them out of our land! We are the Swords of Saviors, Bows of the Bold, Axes of the Audacious, Spears of Spirit, Arrows of the Accurate, Cloaks of Courage! Stormcloaks, Nords, Saxhleel, Breton, Elven, Redguards, and Khajiit, brothers in arms and blood!"

Sarthinias did not notice the spell Duvaineth put on his voice, it made itself heard throughout the entire city, even indoors, as if Sarthinias was addressing all of them.

Several cheers rang out from the men as two purple flashes appeared behind Sarthinias, without his knowledge.

"You followed me of you kneel! Repeat my words. In the Dark we shall linger and hark."

They kneeled and repeated.

"In the Dark we shall Linger and Hark!"

"Yet in the Light we stand and we Fight!"

"Yet in the Light we stand and we Fight!"

"We safeguard the Helpless and the Weak."

"We safeguard the Helpless and the Weak."

"We will root out the Evil and the Wicked!"

"We will root out the Evil and the Wicked!"

"Should we die our memories are not bleak!"

"Should we die our memories are not bleak!"

"All who cross us will feel our Wrath!"

"All who cross us will feel our Wrath!"

"For we are the Rangers of Skyrim!"

"For we are the Rangers of Skyrim!"

"Born of the Snow, the Marsh, the Sand, the Mountains, and the Trees."

"Rise!"

They all stood up looking braver than ever.

"For this! This is the last time you will find us on our knees!"

They all cheered and rose their weapons in a salute.

"Rousing speech lad. I'll drink to that." Dilir said.

"I agree master Dwarf. But there are still many against their few." Elladan said.

"Perhaps you'll allow us to aid in this fight and lend a hand." Elrohir finished.

Sarthinias turned to see two Elves leading a small army and a host of Dwarves led by the one who spoke to him.

"I agree. That was an inspirational speech Dearie! Rise Rangers! Rise!" The Dark One clapped and did a mock salute.

"But you still don't look like anyone special, perhaps this'll help." He laughed and snapped his fingers.

Every Ranger, including Talim on the wall had a puff of purple smoke on their left shoulder. After it dissipated, they all had shoulder capes with their own names and the word Ranger embroidered in Golden letters. Sarthinias had a full cloak and hood and the word Lord before his name on his.

"New garb and a new weapon for Sarthinias." Corsica said.

Sarthinias became confused, before Thraculas called out his name that is.

Sailing through the air towards Sarthinias was a longsword and scabbard.

"Thraculas what is…"

"It's a gift from my House to yours. I've been forging this blade for hours. Now behold Shadow of the Ash."

Sarthinias unsheathed his new sword Shadow of the Ash, and looked upon it. Finely smithed by Thraculas, with Coldsteel in the hilt and silver in the blade, Thraculas' hands were burned from that.

"I don't know how to thank you my friend."

"You accepted and trust me. This is my thank you to you."

Sarthinias attached the scabbard to his belt right away. He looked to see the gate open and the Wolverines walk out with Alain, Arkaras, and Valios.

"You didn't think we'd miss out on all the fun did you Sarthinias?" Arkaras asked with a smile.

"My Wolverines and I are with you." Valios declared.

Without warning Dilir shouted to his men, "Women and Children into the city. Form up lads Shield-Bearers in front! Crossbows to the rear! Boars to the Docks! We'll keep them in reserve as shock cavalry. Siege Wagons, wait on the pathway to the gates. I want those flaming munitions ready to fire!"

"Elladan, Elrohir have anything to say?" The Dark One asked.

"Glorfindel take the horsemen, follow the Dwarves to the Docks, Archers with me, form up behind the Crossbow-Dwarves." Elladan ordered.

"Warriors with me! In line with the Dwarves! The will not break us!" Elrohir finished.

The soldiers followed their commanders' orders respectively. As they formed, they heard the clanking of armor and the drums of war. The Empire had come at last.

Part X: Terms

"Oi! Give me a boar laddie boy. I ain't seeking terms without a mount." Dilir said to a young Dwarf.

As Dilir finished, the enemy signaled a white flag of truce for negotiation.

Ulfric rode out on his brown steed, Agarwaenor and Talim on white horses, and to Sarthinias' discomfort Luna on a grey horse rode out to meet them. Sarthinias immediately saddled a black horse and rode out, the Noldor Elf Twins, and Dilir on his tail. Arkaras and Valios rode two mixed color horses and followed the others. Luther and Ulfar merely ran to join them.

At the center of the inevitable battlefield stood several commanders of the vast Imperial Coalition. The brothers Aros and Sletholan, a man as tall as Ulfar with short blonde hair and a bushy beard, the grip on his battle axe made his appearance even more formidable. Another of slightly shorter height, longer steely grey hair and beard, but haunted grey eyes and a troll skull helmet. The next was a man with long black hair, beginning to grey, he wore dark armor with short sleeves, he had dark grey eyes, his dark brown horse wore a helmet with horns.

A lanky man with a cold presence about him greying blonde hair and cold blue eyes, he bore a smile that just did not feel right. On a pale horse, not white, but pale, a man with dark blue eyes, long matted blonde hair and knot beard, his smile, teeth, and chin were drenched in blood. A tall man with curly brown hair and turquoise green eyes, dressed in a Royal Imperial Officer's Uniform. A man with brown hair and a golden braid, with brown eyes in a similar uniform but a black shoulder cape as well.

There were also several Orcs, obviously Skûrls. Most notable were a moderate sized burnt orange skinned Orc with yellow eyes, in iron armor and a horned helm, he wielded a cruel mace. A taller more brawny green-skinned Orc heavily armored, his helmet covered all but his eyes, making the helmet look akin to a beard. A short green skinned Orc with his grey hair styled in a short ponytail his hair had three scars from the claws of some animal across his face, lightly armored with a bow that had bones integrated into it and obviously poisoned arrows. They each had two fearsome Orc bodyguards with them.

"It seems everyone is here." the Imperial with the golden braid announced.

"Yes, we are all here now deliver us your terms, Imperial." Ulfric calmly demanded.

"I will handle this Colfinnor. The transfer of the defectors Arkaras the Savage and Valios the Valiant into our ranks for due punishment.." Aros began.

"The immediate surrender of all those known as the Stormcloaks, Ulfric will abdicate as Jarl and surrender forever his claim to the throne of Skyrim. He will also leave Skyrim in exile. All the treasures in Windhelm and its spoils will go to this army." Sletholan finish.

"In accordance with these terms the Empire and its allies will withdraw and leave this city. And only most of the Stormcloaks will be executed as traitors." the lanky man said.

"If you do not accept, I am dying to fight." the tall man with blonde hair said.

"I've some terms of me own. All of yeh bastards will turn round 'n leave this city tails between your legs. Or I'll turn this snow red with your blood!" Dilir threatened.

"Easy master Dwarf." Elrohir said.

The lanky man looked intently at Dilir. "And what makes you think we would accept these terms?"

"Forgive me, man of wax. But I was talkin' to the ones here who have authority."

The man growled and lunged at Dilir before Sarthinias put himself in front.

"You would do well not to harm him, Commander." Sarthinias glared at the man.

"Where are my manners? My name is Commander Eichhorst. First in command of the Legion's Stoneheart brigade." the man, Eichhorst said.

"No need for formalities Herr Eichhorst, he's one who will be executed anyways." the man with curly hair said.

"Captain Bregon! Hold your tongue!" Colfinnor the man with the braid ordered.

"Bregon? The child killer." Ulfric stated.

"How would you know about that!?" Sletholan shouted.

"Xander Eagle-Talons lives."

"Well he won't for much longer." Bregon said coolly.

"Accept the terms or die." Eichhorst said blankly.

"Why would we die I wonder?" Talim asked.

"You are outnumbered and forced against the Sea and us. There's no escape." Colfinnor stated.

"All it took was seven for them to take out the mercenaries you dispatched earlier Colfinnor." Valios shouted.

Colfinnor stared flabbergasted at Valios.

"You lie."

"He does not, those barbarians fought us and we killed the lot of them, myself and six others." Sarthinias.

The large man with blond hair punched Sarthinias directly in the face breaking his nose. Sarthinias reeled in pain as the man with grey hair and the man with black hair restrained him.

"Ubba be still you're under truce." The man with black hair said.

"Guthrum that means nothing to our culture! This dog, killed our men. Fight me! Sarthinias Impaler! Fight me!" Ubba said with hate in his eyes.

"First blood or to the death?" Sarthinias retorted.

"Brother enough! If we fight we fight on the field of battle." The grey-haired man shouted.

"Let him be Ivar. I say we attack and raze the city and split the spoils. Half and Half." the Pale Horseman said.

"Skorpa, you do not speak for all of the Skûrls!" Ivar said.

"No, but the Orc leaders Nazdûg, Azgrom, and Ogthrak do." Skorpa said.

"Enough! All of you!" Colfinnor ordered. "Do we have terms?"

"It's this or you start a war." Aros said.

Ulfric took time for decision.

"Jarl Ulfric, either way you take a risk. But if we will be remembered as warriors, not men who attempted to change ways, then back down at the first sign of trouble. Either way we stand with you." Agarwaenor told Ulfric.

Ulfric looked at his adversaries, "Then if it is war you desire, the People of Skyrim will give it to you!"

All but the Skûrls and Eichhorst looked genuinely shocked.

"Then prepare for battle Ulfric, or should I say burial?" Bregon threatened.

"As always diplomacy fails, I look forward to seeing all of your corpses in the aftermath." Skorpa said with his bloody smile.

"You better hope not to cross us Bloodybeard! For I will gladly take my hammer to that smile of yours." Dilir said.

"Perhaps your mother never taught you manners short one, keep you mouth shut when talking to superiors." Skorpa said.

"And you Skorpa of the White Horse! Did you mother tell you that she should've kept her legs closed?" Ulfar taunted.

"I will look to you on the battlefield! And enjoy taking your head Ulfar Axe-Thief! Your arrogance precedes you."

"We'll be there Skorpa! And we will not be hard to find." Sarthinias announced as he mounted his horse, the rest of the Windhelm defenders rode off.

Ubba, Ivar, and Guthrum remained.

"Don't think you have the upper hand in this. We know to kill a snake, cut off its head." Sarthinias said cryptically.

As he rode off he threw a bag back at them. When they opened it all that was heard was Ubba's roar of fury, for within the bag was the head of Dracgo Stonewall.

Sarthinias thought to himself as he rode to Windhelm; Time is up, I have fought a few battles, now I am to fight a war. Destiny it seems there's no escaping. Everyone has a beginning and an end, our Rebellion starts here!

A/N: And there's long awaited chapter 6. Chapter 7 is already in the works. Thanks for reading and being so patient.

Pairings are permanent those that are not will have a poll on my account. Major character deaths will occur. Talim is pronounced (Tah-LEEm).

Cast

SurvivorofLake-Town as Sarthinias a.k.a. The Impaler, Sarthinias Mooncatcher (later Lord Sarthinas Nightmaster)

SurvivorofLake-Town as Thraculas son of the Dragon

Survivor of Lake-Town as Elanordir Star-Child

John Raymond Meza as Arkaras the Savage

JohnRaymondMeza as Dogmir

JohnRaymondMeza as Servus Ignis

staceymarie6483 as Lady Luna Nightmistress/ previously Luna Moondancer

The_Queen_Kastle as Arianna Shade-Seer

The_Queen_Kastle as Ayane Two-Skins

Alexander SantaCruz as Xander Eagle-Talons

Vincent Andrew as Za'Tara Shadow's-Bane

Genevieve Villalobos as Corsica Fair-Dream

Mark Banderas as Sanathos Blood-Scale

Allison Sandoval as Duvaineth Green-Fyre

Megan Lopez as Ayisha Kitani

Maria Mora as Meluineth Gleam-Heart

Pedro Trejo as Ulfar Axe-Thief

Anthony Campoy as Luther Story-Teller

Emily DeSon as Aemilia Winter-Blossom

Ad_Altare_Dei as Dilir Ironheart

Michael Quinones as Thralgor Dread-Hammer

Joshua Quinones as Stoic Dragonborn

Daniel Lugo as Diz-Grarzol Doom-Khajiit

Troian Bellisario as ...(TBA)

Liam Neeson as Tak-Galborn

Peter Lurie as War-Claw (Voice)

Gary Oldman as Alain the Sentinel

Charles Dance as Caligula

Jean-Claude Van Damme as Brutus

Richard Roxburgh as Nero

Helena Bonham Carter as Merienna

Silvia Colloca as Verona

Elena Anaya as Venus

Aldis Hodge as Akinbode

Nonso Anozie as Samson

Robert Carlyle as The Dark One

Thomas Wearn Gabrielsson as Guthrum the Wise

Rune Temte as Ubba the Fierce

David Bradley as Professore Venator Strigoi

Richard Sammel as Commander Eichhorst

Robin Atkin Downes as The Master (voice)

Robert Mailet as The Master (Body)

Kevin Durand as Sergis Duranis Robor

Rupert Penry Jones as Quinlan the Born

Stephen McHattie as Vaun

Alan Rickman as Severus Titus

Jason Issacs as Lucius Balventius

Samuel Roukin as Captain Bregon the Ruthless

Eric Vale as Major Goeolon the Cold (voice)

J. Michael Tatum as Arradon (voice)

J.J. Field as Colfinnor the Cunning

Johnny Depp as Captain Sparrow

Geoffrey Rush as Captain Barbossa

Ian McShane as Captain Blackbeard

Kevin McNally as First Mate Gibbs

Charlie Hunnam as Captain Killsverth

Omar Sy as Captain Adéwalé

Idris Elba as First Mate Moreu

Martin Freeman as Bilbo Baggins

Richard Armitage as Thorin Oakenshield

Ken Stott as Balin

Graham McTavish as Dwalin

Aidan Turner as Kili

Dean O'Gorman as Fili

Mark Hadlow as Dori

Jed Brophy as Nori/ Sharku

Adam Brown as Ori

John Callen as Oin

Peter Hambleton as Gloin

William Kircher as Bifur

James Nesbitt as Bofur

Stephen Hunter as Bombur

Ian McKellen as Gandalf

Christopher Lee as Saruman

John Hurt as Alatar

Richard Harris as Pallando

Sylvester McCoy as Radagast

Hugo Weaving as Elrond

Cate Blanchett as Galadriel

Mikael Persbrandt as Beorn

Orlando Bloom as Legolas Greenleaf

Evangeline Lilly as Tauriel

Lee Pace as Thranduil

Marton Csokas as Celeborn

Craig Parker as Haldir

Luke Evans as Bard the Dragon-Slayer

Sarah Gadon as Mirena

John Bell as Bain

Nick Blake as Percy

Ryan Gage as Alfrid

Manu Bennet as Azog

John Tui as Bolg

Billy Connolly as Dain Ironfoot

Lawrence Makoare as Lurtz/ The Witch-King/ Gothmog

Ian Holm as (Elderly) Bilbo Baggins

Elijah Wood as Frodo Baggins

Viggo Mortensen as Aragorn/Strider

Sean Astin as Samwise Gamgee

Sean Bean as Boromir

David Wenham as Faramir

John Noble as Denethor II

Liv Tyler as Arwen

Andy Serkis as Gollum

Dominic Monaghan as Merry/ Merriadoc Brandybuck

Billy Boyd as Pippin/ Peregrin Took

Karl Urban as Eomer

Miranda Otto as Eowyn

Bernard Hill as Theoden

Brad Dourif as Grima Wormtongue

Bruce Spence as The Mouth of Sauron

Benedict Cumberbatch as Smaug (Voice)/ Necromancer Sauron (Voice)

Sala Baker as Sauron (Voice)

John Rhys-Davies as Gimli/Treebeard (Voice)

Nathaniel Lees as Ugluk

John Leigh as Hama

Bruce Hopkins as Gamling

John Bach as Madril

Pete Postlethwaite as Brother Gilbert

Dennis Quaid as Bowen

Sean Connery as Draco