A/N: I apologize for my absence; I have been busy creating the plot for a new story about The Dark Brotherhood; I have actually already written 10,000 words… Just need a title… I am also working on a portrait of Babette, and I have also started a page filled with drawings inspired by scenes from this story. Oh, and I have also finished my exams! So yeah, I've been busy.

But seriously, don't be afraid to review. I feel your support through favorites, followers and views, but those numbers cannot help me improve. Any advices or wishes, feel free to write. I'll be waiting. With a smile on my face.

So let's not drag it any further. I now present, CHAPTER 7!

Bloodstained Smiles
A Little Bird Tells

"You got to be kidding me!"

"Don't hit the messenger, Vex. I'm just bringing the news."

The pale-haired thief looked far from happy. "Has he gone nuts? She-"

"I know, Vex," Brynjolf sighed, trying to calm her down. "And I don't like it either. However, in her situation, I don't think we have any choices left."

"And what is her situation?" Her brows narrowed. "I don't like being lied to, and trust me, Delvin is going to know just how I feel about-"

"About what, luv?" The bald thief slowly walked towards them, joining them in the dark corner. "Vekel told me 'bout your small fear; glad to tell you I am no father. But it did warm my old heart to see you jealous, luv."

"Keep dreaming. The only thing that could possible scare me is the thought the kid staying here, so please bring me some good news. One day, two days? Or do I have to come up with a job to bring me away from here and towards some common sense? If the girl's not your daughter, then tell me just why she is here?!"

"She's a niece. Without the boring details, her story's a rather sad one, and since I made a promise, I have to make sure she keeps 'er head. So she'll be stayin' 'ere." Catching her glance, he continued, "I ain't askin' you to be friends with 'er. The girl's more than capable of takin' care of herself, she just need somewhere to stay."

"You damn right about that. No way I'll be your babysitter. Well, unless of course, the price is unusually high; and I am talking of at least five petty jobs."

Delvin cringed. "Eh, think I'll just keep an eye on her myself."

"Good. What about you start now?"

They two male thieves followed her glance to see Babette slowly disappear down the narrow hallway that led towards the Cistern. Brynjolf shot Vekel a stern glance as he and Delvin hurried after the girl. The bartender shrugged. "What? You didn't give me any instructions else than keeping her fed."

"I didn't open it!" Babette shrieked as they reached her. "It was open when you send me back. Not my fault you are not good at keeping secrets."

"Well, I did not expect a little girl to be peeping around," Brynjolf defended himself. Noticing the girl's big tired eyes, he continued, "What about you find some place for your niece to sleep?"

"She can have my bed for tonight. Don't need it anyway."

"That's about right," Vex snorted. "When you actually are sleeping, it's on top of the bar with a bottle in your hand."

"Oh, don't tell me you don't enjoy the fun, luv. Just because you fancy the exotic drinks upstairs, doesn't mean ya can't fall over."

Brynjolf watched them with a hand upon Babette's shoulder, sighing quietly. As he looked down at her, he asked, "You sure this is the place you want to stay, little lass?"

The girl did not move her eyes from the discussing thieves, but smiled softly as she nodded.


"Is your name is really Dirge?"

The lookout narrowed his eyes, mentally asking Delvin why it was that he had let the girl stay in the flagon. "Yeah. Got a problem with that?"

"It's a funny name." Two seconds of precious silence but then, "Did your mother call you that?"

"'course not."

"So you got it here," the child concluded. "Why?"

Dirge opened his mouth to explain, but as he looked at the child again, he knew what the outcome would be. Defeated, he muttered too low to be heard.

With a grin, Babette leaned closer. "Sorry, I could not hear you."

"'cause I'm the last thing you hear before they put you in the ground," he growled under his breath. "Look, kid, I got a job to do and you are distracting me-"

"But you are such a fun to talk with!" Babette whined, though not able to hide just the tiniest bit of irony.

"Vekel's all ear to whatever you have to say. The man lives of mead and rumors… Go pester him instead."

The smile grew bigger. "Depends…"

"Fine." As he reached for his pocket, he muttered, "Damned brat. Enough to buy you a crème treat. Last one for today."

Babette lifted her chin in victory. "Oh, you are so kind." Bouncing happily, she made her way towards the bar, finally leaving the lookout to do his job. Vex had been serious; poor Dirge was now standing by the door, leaning against the wall. Not that he expecting anyone to arrive; well, besides members of the Guild. But he had been proven wrong before; especially two days ago when Babette had entered the Flagon.

As she placed herself on the chair and handed Vekel the coins, the bartender exclaimed, "I still have no idea how you do it, kid. If your hold on him is because of some dirt, remember to share it with me."

"One crème treat, thank you," she answered simply, putting up her devilish smile.

After having been given what she wanted, the girl slowly ate her cake. She had still not been allowed inside the Cistern; though she had managed to get a clear view of the entrance to the thieves' nest. But from what she had heard, Dagmar was still away on a journey, and Delvin was doing the best to find some way to sneak out of his promise.

Well, until Dagmar returned, there was a lot to prepare. She would need a blade, and she would not complain if she got her hands on some poisons. So many ways to kill a victim… But she had to be careful with this one.

Suddenly, a new voice cut through the silence. "Vekel!" Babette looked up from her cake to see an Imperial coming through the false wardrobe. It surprised her how bad the thieves were when it came to hiding this secret center of their home; the only reason why she had not entered it yet was because of the many eyes watching her. But perhaps it had just been her long experience that had revealed the hidden doorway for her. She had seen so many ways to hide a room; the wardrobe had been used just too many times.

The stranger was obviously another thief; his armor revealed that much. By the look of it, he was an Imperial. As he placed himself next to him to talk with the bartender, Babette smiled at him. Furrowing her brows, she realized he was avoiding her glance.

"What now, Rune? 'thought Delvin had told you about the temporary circumstances."

"We all know about them." He ran a hand through his brown hair. "But a lot of us are in the need of some coin. We can't just sit around doing nothing all day."

"Delvin's not here," the bartender grumbled. "Out to talk with a certain bird. Don't know when he'll be back. Hopefully soon." Vekel glanced at Babette, still blaming Delvin for having left the child in the Flagon with them while he was out, probably having more fun than what could be enjoyed here. "Vex's out too. Think she needs some time for 'erself… My guess is that she is at the Bee and the Barb. Probably making some new friends… and earning herself some new coins."

"I guess I'll have to wait for a job then," the thief sighed. "Until then, I will have to spend my last coin to buy some Nord mead."

Vekel grinned and accepted the Septims. "Good choice. A dry throat only worsens the mood. But from what I've heard, Vex should have some houses ready for you."

"Sounds good," he said and lifted the bottle. That was when he noticed how intensely the girl was staring at him.

"Hi," the girl said. "You're from the Cistern, aren't you?"

"Look, kid, I don't mean to be rude, but I've been told not to talk with you." His expression turned sober, as if he was asking her to forgive him. "I'm just here to get a job."

"What's your name?"

"I think we've reached your bedtime, kid," Vekel muttered. "Off to bed."

She narrowed her eyes. "How can you tell?" Truth to be told, she had lost her track of time due to the lack of sun. With a sigh, she jumped off her chair to head towards her little corner; her scowl growing bigger with each step.

"She's truly a subject for gossip back in there," Rune muttered. "Heard everything from Delvin's adventure in a brothel to him taking pity on a young beggar-girl. Not that I believe any of it."

"You shouldn't. I may not have been here for the longest time, but I know when Delvin is telling the truth. For the sake of both him and the poor girl, it would only be right if the rumors stopped. Though, I know I am a fool to believe they will." His eyes trailed towards the spot where they had managed to drag in a bed. "She doesn't speak much of her past. Only that she was told to come here. Don't know if Delvin told her to stay quiet. Perhaps it's for the best."

"She's an orphan, right? If you believe Delvin's story."

Vekel nodded and picked up the now empty bottle. "You got something in common there."

"So, she's just staying down here?"

"Delvin's working on something, but so far, all she does is lollygagging. And for some reason I am stuck with keeping an eye on her. Delvin may have put up some rules, but I am tired of having to glance over my shoulder all the time. The girl's more bored than you, and a restless child only means trouble. Do me a favor and keep her entertained."

Rune lifted an eyebrow in interest. "But I thought you had just sent her to bed?"

"You think she is sleeping?" Vekel snorted, nodding towards the bed. "Wouldn't surprise me if she is eavesdropping. You give me some peace and you'll get another bottle for free."

"You do make the best deals, Vekel," Rune grinned, standing up. "I accept. Anything I should be aware of?"

"If I was you, I wouldn't say anything about the Guild. The best thing would be if she did not know too much. Oh, and don't piss her off; she got quite some temper there."

Rune cracked his neck to get comfortable before heading towards the girl's corner. He had once heard Delvin talk about how he wanted to get some merchants to move in here, but no one had taken up the offer, and instead, the small amount space now belonged to the girl.

As he came closer, he came up with the idea to let a blanket hang from the ceiling to work as some sort of wall; no wonder if the girl could not sleep as she was practically just next to a bar. A bar full of thieves, no less.

The moment he stepped into the shadow, the girl sat up, staring at him with big eyes.

"Can I come in?" he asked politely.

"I thought you weren't supposed to be speaking with me."

"Change of rules. I thought you might be bored."

"I am!" she complained loudly. "I just sit around doing nothing all day."

With a grin, he recognized his own words. "As a late answer to your question; my name is Rune."

"Babette. A pleasure to meet you. You live inside the Cistern, right?" The curves of her mouth flew upwards in an excited smile. "I know the way in," she revealed. "But I am not allowed to go there."

"Vekel did say you have some curious eyes; not to mention the ears. I hope you haven't given him too much trouble."

"I heard you. And I am glad you accepted the deal." Crossing her legs, she moved to the left so she could sit down next to her. "One would not think a thief den could be so boring."

Not exactly the words he had expected from a ten-year old. Of course the rumors had spoken of her strange nature; stories of her pasts that had been both fascinating and disturbing; all ending with the presence of the poor child.

"Some things aren't meant for a child to see. Though I hear you have lived your part."

"And from whom did you hear that? My Uncle doesn't want to speak of me – doesn't want me to call him Uncle either. Not that I blame him; I can't remember meeting him before. But he kind of looks like my Ma – so when I came, I could recognize him." Her tone had turned sad, and her glance flickered away. "I have almost forgotten Ma… I didn't want to come here; not really. That was why I stayed away for so long. He said you are an orphan too?"

"A sad tale; at least the beginning of it."

"-That the important, isn't it? That it didn't continue that way, then it doesn't matter. Past is just… something you have to get over with." Her hand reached up to create a braid, only to remember the haircut. "I know that – I was told that."

Rune looked away, taken back by her words. It only grew worse when she looked at him again; never had he seen eyes with such depth before.

"It's no shame not to have any parents. I never even knew mine. The fisherman I call Father told me he found me as a young boy in the wreckage of a ship that sank off of the coast near Solitude. All he found in my pocket was a tiny smooth stone inscribed with some sort of strange runes."

"Rune," she smiled, now understanding his unusual name. "Do you still have the stone? I would very much like to see it!"

"I am sorry, kid, but I got that little thing locked up tight. It's quite precious to me."

"Understandable. Can you read the runes?"

"Unfortunately, no. No one can. I've even taken the damn thing to the College of Winterhold. I must have spent every last coin I've made with the Guild trying to find out what it means. Perhaps. They could be nonsense... inane scribbles done by someone in idle boredom. But if not... if they actually mean something, they might tell me where I'm from... what ship was I on. Everything." Realizing he had just spilled the guts to a ten-year old, he blushed slightly. "But I guess you have enough to deal with already than to hear about my problems. I have driven the others crazy with my constant talk about runes."

"That's alright. I like that you wanted to tell me; no one else seem to trust me enough to do such a thing. They say it is best if they don't talk to me… and the ones I am actually allowed to talk with have already grown tired of listening to me. I can read runes."

Eyes widened by her sudden change of subject, he spoke slowly, "You did seem smart for your age, but I think these ones are just too complicated for any mortal. If even the College gave up, I guess I should too."

Babette frowned, not willing to give up. She had seen many runes through the centuries, and perhaps she could recognize the ones on Rune's stone. "That's alright. I was never that good with such things. But I am an alchemist."

"Really?"

She nodded. "Ma taught me. We had our own lab… I miss it. I really like making potions. Now I can't really do anything." Tilting her head, she blinked. "Perhaps you could try sneaking me inside the Cistern? I only want a small look."

He laughed quietly and ruffled her short hair. Even how weird it was, having a child in the Guild, her presence did not annoy her. "You really are up to no good."

"I just want to get out here for a little while. Here's quite crowded- especially when no one likes having you around." She looked up sadly. "I am that stupid. I know what they say about me. And I am not a bastard! Well, at least not Delvin's."

"Hey, don't mind Vex. She's just not that fond of changes; especially not if they involve children."

"Ghost-face doesn't scare me of. I just- want a small break. Or earn some respect. Something like that."

"'Ghost-face'?" He grinned slightly, finding the kid a great source of amusement.

Babette shrugged, smiling back at him. "Even her hair is pale. I've seen a lot of faces but no one as white as hers. Then there is Redhead… And Dirge is just too good not to be use. Gloomy is usually counting her coins, and I never call the man at the bar by name; I just give him my orders." Her eyes were shining brightly; she had never been the patient one. "I am quite bored, and they never call me by my name." Her expression suddenly turned sour as she glanced at him. "Not even you."

"I guess 'kid' is just the first thing that falls into mind."

Babette sighed; back in the Sanctuary she had at least been allowed to have some dignity. Though Nazir had the habit of calling her 'my girl', they had all been clever enough to avoid calling her 'child' or 'kid'. Of course, in an argument, they had used the nicknames as a cheap way to get her angry enough to lose her focus.

Blinking rapidly, Babette tore herself away from the memories. "Perhaps. Do you think Delvin will be back soon?"

"I sure hope so. I need to have a little talk with him myself. I didn't join the Guild to avoid the big jobs. The more complicated the more fun. However, I doubt I'll ever be good enough to be a Guild Master – not, that I would ever want that position."

"What is a Guild Master? Is that your leader? My Uncle?"

Rune laughed quietly, trying to imagine Delvin leading them. Sure, he was an amazing thief, incredible good at handing out jobs, but he had rejected the offer so many times that it seemed quite hilarious picturing him as the Guild Master. "No, your uncle is an expert, but not the Guild Master."

"Then who is?"

"No one, actually." Rune scratched the back of his neck, suddenly realizing how weird his answer sounded. "We had one, but he recently, well, died."

"That's sad."

"Oh, he deserved it. Betrayed the Guild, no less."

Babette seemed thoughtful for a moment, but then asked quietly, "Was his name Mercer?"

"Yes," he answered immediately, but then frowned. "How did you know that?"

"I just guessed. Your friends talked about him yesterday… I was supposed to be asleep, but then I heard the word 'kid'." She smiled sadly, though she did not feel guilty. "So I listened. They were discussing the chance of whether I was his daughter. Mercer's. Didn't know who he was, so I just stayed quiet."

The Imperial had turned pale, and the girl watched him carefully. "You aren't that, are you?"

"I just told you I didn't know who he was!"

Calming down again, he met her eyes and felt slightly embarrassed. "Sorry, kid. It would just be really bad for you if you were."

"That bad, huh? To change subject; if you don't have this Guild Master, then how is this place still running?"

"Well, Brynjolf – Redhead – is taking care of things until business is going well enough to give Dagmar the title."

Babette perked up her ears. "The Dragonborn?"

"I guess that's one of her titles as well. Never get tired of her stories of how she slays the dragons."

"Oh, I would love to hear such stories! Is she here?! Do you think she wants to tell me about them as well?"

"Easy, kid. I am sure she would love to, but she is not here at the moment."

Babette's eager fell at his words. "When will she come back?"

"I honestly don't know, kid. It's a kind of a habit of hers; come and disappear out of the blue. A busy woman, that she is."

"Do you think I will get to meet her?"

"Why not?"

"Well, the only reason I met you is because he was tired." As she pointed at Vekel, she tilted her head. "Is he sleeping?"

Tilting his head as well, they both glanced at the bartender, whose chin was now touching his chest. "I think so. You actually managed to tire him out."

"It wasn't a tough job," she grinned, but then yawned. "Is it really that late? I can't tell."

"About midnight." Seeing her expression, he chuckled and continued, "You learn to tell after some years down here."

"I guess it really is my bedtime then," she muttered. "Unless you want to play cards with me?"

"Perhaps another time," he rejected the offer gently. "You should get some sleep, or I'll be the one to blame."

"That's alright. Go get your free mead before he completely nods off." As he rose from the bed, she curled herself together, pulling up the covers so they nearly hid her head. "You're coming back, right? You're the only one here who doesn't wrinkle their nose when they see me."

"If Delvin thinks it alright, I guess I'll be having the time. 'night, kid."

As Babette closed her eyes, she could hear his footsteps as he left, and suddenly she was glad that she had made the decision to go here. Now, she at least had some entertainment while waiting for Dagmar. For how could the Dragonborn reject a little girl asking to hear of her adventures?

And Rune seemed to be the only friendly company around here. Perhaps he could even get her into the Cistern? Remembering the glance Vex had sent her before leaving, the girl sighed softly. Yes, she would very much like to get away from the Ragged Flagon, just for a small amount of time.

…but she would miss the sweet rolls.


"Delvin," Karliah greeted softly, waiting outside the hall. As the thief come close, he gave her a short nod. She still looked like herself, though it was nice finally seeing her face clearly. The Dunmer was still wearing the dark Nightingale armor, but had taken off the hood; showing her dark hair and purple eyes.

"Thanks for yer invitation. Wouldn't want the others to hear of this. I think ya would agree that we should keep this between the both of us."

The sun was disappearing in the distance, the air quickly turning cold. The fall was warning them of a tough winter ahead.

"You said this was about Dagmar?" the Dunmer spoke. "And the Dark Brotherhood?"

"I'll try to keep the story short."

"Don't. You can come inside if you want to it."

He shook his head. "Nah, wouldn't want to disturb yer holy ground. I think we'll be just fine 'ere."

"Is she alright? Her absence has only increased my worry. I have not heard a word from her since she returned the Skeleton Key."

"She's just bein' busy. Actually, it's her recent activities that have caused some troubles. I trust you've heard 'bout the Brotherhood."

The Nightingale shook her head. "I hate to disappoint, but I am afraid that news does not often enter the Hall. It could be a sign for me to visit the Guild, but…" She looked down.

"Understandable. Wouldn't be surprised if you hold quite the grudge."

"I don't."

"Well, know that you're welcome the moment ya feel like it."

"You did not come here to invite me back, Delvin. I am eager to help, but only if I know how."

"Then let me bring ya the news. The Dark Brotherhood has been destroyed, by our own Dagmar, no less! If you still remember, perhaps you can recall Astrid?"

Karliah frowned and turned her head to glance at the lake. "I recall. You were smitten by her."

Grinning, he spoke, "To put it lightly."

"And Dagmar killed her?"

"I ain't here for that sort of business. Astrid was indeed a lovely woman, but when it comes to her crimes not even 'er beauty could help her. From what I've heard, Dagmar received quite some coin for her head… Not that I blame her. The girl didn't know, and even if she did, I am not the one to give the Brotherhood its final judgment. The reason I am here, now hold yer breath, is because dear Dagmar did not get the job properly done. Definitely not like her, at least not with the Guild's business."

"Someone survived?" The stern, purple eyes did not allow him to move his glance from her face.

"A little girl. Ten. Quite small, but got energy 'nough to tire out the entire Flagon."

"And the girl's from the Dark Brotherhood? Nocturnal's mercy…"

He nodded, understanding her thoughts. A little girl among a group of murderers? "Thought the same. Though, I got the feeling she's not exactly spittin' out the guts. Got her to reveal that she's been a vampire-"

"I thought there was no cure of Sanguinare Vampiris."

"She could be lyin'. But from what I've heard of rumors, the Penitus Oculatus has been searching for such an un-dead child. Explains why those Vigilants guards every city – you haven't heard of that either? Ya really do need to leave yer little den at some point. Meet me some day in the Flagon; I'll give the drinks."

Her features softened up as she thanked him. "Perhaps. But the girl-"

"I've convinced the Guild to let 'er stay."

The purple eyes widened at his words. "By Nocturnal-"

"The Guild was not happy 'bout it either. Now, unlike them, you know of her past."

"Delvin, why?"

"Don't ya think I was the one to ask her! The kid showed up out of nowhere; begging for me to help. Ain't no parent, but I'm clever enough to know where she will be feelin' like home; the Guild, or in the hands of the Penitus Oculatus. Once ya see her face, you'll know why Dirge couldn't just throw her out. Quite charming – not to mention her fast tongue. Would be a joy to train her, really; the kid has talent, if you look away from her age."

Breathing in through her nose, she steadied herself. "And you do realize what danger you have brought upon Dagmar?"

"'course I do. Wouldn't be here if not. Look, normally I would not fear Dagmar facing a ten-year old, would be a rather amusing scene actually, but one needs to be skilled to join the Brotherhood-"

"Then why take pity on the girl?"

"'cause she's Astrid's. Not by blood, of course. Guess you weren't there when they were married."

Karliah's mouth became slightly opened, and Delvin recognized the look in her eyes. He held up a hand to stop her. "Now, don't ya pity me. Ain't no need for that. The others wouldn't understand, so I told them I was her Uncle… her own idea, actually. Kind of regret it now; for some reason they are having a hard time knowing the difference between 'uncle' and 'father'. Look, perhaps she's a sweet kid; perhaps she's a bloody murderer. We'll find out eventually. But I made some promises back in time, and I can't let her stray around. If she's not underground, it's just a question 'bout time before she gets recognized by those soldiers. Astrid rejected me, Astrid's dead, but I can't let 'er kid be butchered."

The Dunmer lowered her glance. "I understand. I can't say that I agree with your choice, Delvin, but I still find myself keeping old promises to Gallus. Are you sure the girl is hers?"

"The Brotherhood were many things, but Astrid certainly made sure I knew; they were 'er family. Kid's the last one now, and the Guild's the only safe place for 'er."

Closing her eyes, Karliah made her decision. "How can I help?"

"Don't think I ain't caring 'bout little Dagmar; I am takin' in the girl, but of course we got to keep our next Guild Master safe. So I'll be askin' her to stay away from the Guild… and I am hopin' you will want the honor of explaining 'er why. When I have a job for 'er, I'll give you the details; wouldn't want 'er to get rusty. Pretty sure I got some job for ya too, if you're up for it. You're a thief, luv; don't ya forget that."

Karliah wrapped her arms around herself; night had come quickly. "I know. You can meet me here when it's needed; you know where to hide the letters. But Delvin-"

"It's a horrible idea, really. I know. But it's my only option for the moment. Never been the best at sticky situations. If ya want to meet the kid, come back with me."

"I don't know, Delvin-"

"It'll be good for ya. I'll give the mead. And you look too lovely to be hiding out here. What do ya say?"

With a soft smile, she nodded.


A/N: You live, you learn. I have been playing Skyrim for almost a year now, and first now I realized that there actually is a bedroom in the Ragged Flagon… They just don't use it. But I was like :o when I found it! How could I have missed it?!
I know… Boring chapter! I hope to bring in some action soon… but I do not know exactly when. But I can promise that in my new upcoming story there will be a lot of it! I don't know when I will pull myself together and post it, but I will let you know when it has been done.

Thank you so much for your support! Every time I see a mail involving "Bloodstained Smiles", I get so excited! So thank you very very much!