Alright, here it is guys. Happy new year, yall.
Laying down the Foundation
Cidhna Mine
Shulmah sighed, she had been bound and dragged to the Cidhna Mine. She was thrown to the ground, after being stripped of her armor, and left there on the ground. Shulmah was annoyed, she was lying on the ground, bound, gagged and in her birthday suit. Growling, she lifted her face from the ground and looked around. She spotted the other prisoners hanging back, staring at her. She rolled on her back and spun herself around to her feet. Flexing her hands, she managed to reach the ropes binding her. With a few scratches later, the rope was severed. A little struggle later, Shulmah was neatly coiling the rope and had a loop tied with a knot, allowing for the loop to close once the rope was out of slack. Shulmah looked around and found a few sets of clothing. She found a pair of trousers that fit her, sadly, she found nothing fitting her upper body. She jumped up to the gates and banged on the door. After making a ruckus for a few minutes a guard stormed in. Shulmah looked at the woman and pointed at her torso.
"May this one be supplied with something that at least constricts movement of her assets?" she asked.
A few minutes later she was given a rough spun piece of fabric, that she could tie behind her back. She took it and dropped back down to the ground. She tied the fabric over her chest and stretched, using that moment to size up her new roommates. They seemed friendly enough, the Orc standing in front of a door was just half a head shorter than her. She growled, walking deeper into the mine. She grabbed two Pickaxes and started to swing them around her lazily, trying to find a style that fit her current weaponry. It didn't take her long to find one and refamiliarize herself with it. She then pulsed her Chakra, finding she had not been sealed, getting out of the mine would be even easier. She returned to the main area, twirling her two weapons in her hands. As she expected there were no other females around. As she walked along, someone decided to break a bucket full of stones over her head. Growling, she turned around and stared at the offender. She smashed the tips of her two axes in the side of his ribcage and his neck. Using all her might, she spun around and ripped the blades out though the front. Blood spurted from the wounds. Shulmah grabbed the body, and threw it to the gate. She checked her head for blood and was unsurprised to see none. She continued walking to the other side of the mine and started to pick away at the Silver Vein. A few hours later and a few feet into the vein, she stopped for a break. She took a bucket and with the use of Suiton Chakra, filled it with water. She drank eagerly and quickly returned to mining.
It didn't take long for her to be approached by one of the prisoners.
"So, what are you in for?" he asked.
"Business," was her cold reply, as she continued on mining.
"Really, what kind of business?"
"Personal business."
"I see, well I'm here for my fifth time now, I think? First time, tax evasion. The second time, tax evasion. And so on…"
"So you're a horrible thief. Is this one supposed to pity you?"
"No of course not, but some of that water that you can make magically appear would be nice. I'm sure the others would feel the same, after all, food and drink are somewhat of a commodity around here. And if word got out that you were withholding such a valuable thing, they would be very displeased."
Shulmah could hear the disgusting smirk on the fool's face. Did he really think she was scared of a handful of men. She stopped mining and turned to the small Nord. Standing at her full height, the fool trying to be sly had to take a few steps back to look her in the face.
"Are you trying to make this one mad? Do you truly believe that she is scared or intimidated by empty threats? This one made a statement, those who are smart know its meaning, fools like you, see it just as the act and walk into situations that cost you your lives."
With a quick swipe of her claws, the fool's guts spilled out in front of her. The man clutched his now empty gut, fell to his knees and stared up at her.
"This one does not like to be threatened."
She grabbed his head and twisted it sharply to the side, breaking his neck. She sighed and let the body fall to the ground.
"My, two kills on you very first day. Tell me, what are you in for, new blood?"
"Business."
"A violent one, ehh? Might want to keep that quiet. The others might want to see it as a challenge. My advice? Serve your time with the pickaxe, keep quiet and get out. Don't want to end up with a shiv in the back over a battle of Skooma," the grey haired man said.
"This one sent a clear message, if fools wish to ignore it, she has no reason to deny them their deaths. Besides, this one has no taste for Skooma. So, may she know your name?"
"Uraccen, I'm just another Forsworn, sent to rot here in this mine."
"Shulmah, and she came to talk with your king."
The man gasped and stared at her.
"If you're asking that, that means you're the new lifer. Tough luck, those guards sold you to the hot coals. No one gets to talk with Madanach, not without getting past Borkul the Beast. And you don't want to talk to Borkul the Beast."
"The Orc? This one has no need to talk, she can just pass him by, by going through the stone itself. Anything else she needs to know."
"He's Madanach's guard, big, even for an Orc. I heard he ripped a man's arm off and beat him to death with it. He's old fashioned like that."
"Interesting, now then, this one believes she shall talk with the Orc."
Shulmah got up and walked to the Orc.
"Hail, this one is here to talk to Madanach."
"So you're the new meat, so soft and tender. What was it like to kill your first one?"
"One who is guided by emotion when battling, is one who will die quickly. This one's first kill was overpowering, and filled her with ecstasy."
"A true killer, like me. The Gods have put us here to test our souls. But if you want to talk with the King in Rags, you will have to do something for me first," the large Orc said.
"Or this one could simply behead you? What do you need this one to do?"
"Get me a shiv. Not that I need one, but it is useful to have something to shave… Hahaha."
"And where would this one procure such a weapon?"
"That fool Grimvar is known to have spares."
Shulmah sighed and walked away, she asked around for the man named Grisvar. She found him after a few minutes and asked for a shiv.
"Ah, you want protection. I can get you what you need. Maybe you can do something for me in exchange then. Duach has a bottle of Skooma. Finest distilled Moonsugar. I can't stop thinking about it."
"So you wish for this one to procure you a bottle? Fine then, this one will go."
Shulmah was growing impatient. Go here, retrieve this, bring this to there. It was quite annoying, but she wanted to keep her abilities hidden from these fools. She walked up to the man and slammed his head against the rock, she was in no mood to do further errands. She took a bottle of Skooma and walked back. Exchanging it for the shiv, she walked back to the Orc and tossed it to him. Borkul then happily let her through the door. She walked through the tunnel and saw the man she was looking for. He was currently writing something, as she approached he stooped.
"Well, well, look at you. The Nords have turned you into an animal. A wild beast, caged up and left to go mad. So my fellow beast, what do you want? Answers about the Forsworn? Revenge for trying to have you killed?"
"You were trying?" Shulmah asked.
"This one never noticed. As for being caged in. This one can leave this place anytime she chooses. As for what she wants. She wants to propose an alliance, between your people and her people. This one knows you hold no love for the Nord People, neither does she. However, she wishes to propose a solution where both her goals and yours can be achieved. Are you interested in hearing her out, or shall she leave?"
"I am intrigued," the man said.
"What could you possibly offer to do that."
"This one wants to restore the old world order, ruled by Dragons. She knows you want to return to your homeland, live by your own laws. This one wants to restore the Septim Dynasty under the Dragon Age. Would you be willing to join sides, if she guarantees you will be allowed to live your lives as you see fit, as long as you respect the appointed Septim Ruler and the Dragons?"
"You can't be serious, the last Septim died with the Third Era. As for the dragons, those beasts hold no conscience, they are not fit to rule."
"Is that so? Then pray tell why it was the Dragons that lived on the lands first. Why the Dwemer fled underground? Why Tamriel has been invaded more times since they had vanished. The dragons are the true rulers of these lands, and with the Septim this one is charged to protect and teach, they will return the world to its rightful state. You have two choices, stand by this one and flourish, or stand against her and perish."
"Prove to me that you are honest, and I will join you."
"And how is this one to do that?"
"Let's start with you joining me. Talk to a man named Braig. Besides me, he has been here the longest. I want you to see just how deep the injustice runs in this city."
Sighing Shulmah left and talked to the man, after finding him.
"This one was sent by Madanach. She was told to ask for your reason of being imprisoned.!
"My story, huh? Everyone here has a story to tell. Before I tell you mine, tell me yours. When was the first time you felt the bonds of imprisonment?"
"It was a mission in her home country. She had to protect a royal, when they got captured, she was captured as well. Not for long, but she was imprisoned with bonds forbidding her to use her abilities. The first time she was truly imprisoned was when she was captured in a siege, she was tortured and raped. She was eventually freed but the memories haunt her to this day," she said.
While she was not lying, Shulmah knew it was quite an unbelievable story to those not knowing the art of Shinobi Warfare. She sighed, her mate had been captured in that engagement as well. And sadly, she had to kill him when he had been broken and turned. Braig saw the look in her eyes and nodded.
"So you know what it's like to have your life in someone else's hands. Why should they get to decide? Isn't Judgement for the Gods? Do you have any family? Anyone waiting for you on the other side?"
"Yes, this one has many of her people in hiding in the plains. Her two daughters are being taught away from the city."
"I had a daughter once. She'd be twenty three this year. Married to some hot-headed silver worker or maybe on her own. The Nords didn't care who was involved in the Uprising or not. They just put us all in the mines or killed us."
"This one understands, but does one act justify another?"
"I'm not Madanach, the only anger I can justify is my own. There are no innocent onlookers in this struggle, just the guilty and the dead," the man exclaimed.
"While this one agrees with the sentiment, she does not agree with its execution. Killing young ones not having been around during the events are innocent to that regard and hence should not be blindly killed. This one will not fault you for your beliefs, thank you for sharing."
The man grunted in agreement and Shulmah left. She made her way back to Madanach. She walked up to him and confirmed that she had listened to the story of Braig.
"Imagine hearing a story like that again and again. Each time a different person. Each time a different injustice. Your meddling above ground reminded me of how distant I've been towards the struggle. My men and I should be in the hills, fighting."
"So are we in agreement?" Shulmah asked.
"Yes, but before I officially agree, I need a show of loyalty. Grisvar the Unlucky has earnt his name. He is a thief and a snitch and he has outlived his minor usefulness. Take care of him for me and I will agree to your alliance, once we left Cidhna Mine for good."
Shulmah nodded and walked away. She found the man who had given her the shiv and walked up to him. He was mining a vein and had his back turned towards her. She quietly snuck up to him and waited for him to stretch his back. Not long after he stood straight. Shulmah carefully reached her right arm around his neck. With a quick shot to the back of the head with her left hand and a simultaneous pull of her right arm she quickly broke his neck. She slowly lowered the body and covered him with a few rocks. She walked back to see Madanach giving a speech. When he was done talking, they charged out of the main area and down the tunnel. Shulmah followed him through some Dwemer ruins.
After taking care of the Frostbite Spiders and Dwemer machines, Madanach had her walk up to him. He gave her back her armor and a set of Forsworn Armor. After that, he accepted her offer to an alliance and with that the Forsworn ran out of the ruins. They were briefly stopped by Thonar Silver-Blood, but he was quickly cut down. Shulmah used the confusion of the rampaging Forsworn to slip out of the city undetected. She soon reached her camp and was greeted by Hidena, Salma and Eltrys. After having some food, she watched Madanach and his followers run out of the city. Sighing, she sent Eltrys away and had her proteges show her what they learnt.
The next day the three left the reach and headed back for Falkreath. On their way back, they were tracking down a large deer and were ambushed by a group of Forsworn. Shulmah killed the Forsworn and the deer and came upon a tower. Having nothing better to do, they went to explore.
Reachwind Eyrie
The tower itself was empty, Shulmah and her two followers walked to the top and admire the view from the lookout. A few minutes and two picked chests later, they walked back outside. As they exited a man came running towards her. Shulmah tensed and ushered the two back inside. The man stopped a few paces away from her and tried to regain his breath. Shulmah tossed him a bottle of mead and waited. After he emptied it, he tossed it back and walked up to her.
"You are a very difficult person to track down, Miss Vokun-Zuld. I have a letter for you, from the Jarl of Falkreath. Moving up in the world. Well, that's all I have for now. Good day."
Shulmah took the letter and read it.
'Vokun-Zuld
Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Sidgeir, and I have the honor to be the Jarl of the proud and ancient city of Falkreath.
The fame of your exploits across Skyrim has brought you to my attention. If you are interested in becoming a Thane of Falkreath Hold, I invite you to speak to me the next time you are in Falkreath. Aside from the honor that accrues to the title, my thanes are entitled to a personal housecarl, I also can tell you that a choice parcel of land in Falkreath would be available for your purchase should your services prove useful to me.
I look forward to meeting you in person.
I remain,
Jarl Sidgeir of Falkreath'
Shulmah sighed and put the letter away. She got her companions and continued on east. As they made their way eastwards, the continued hunting. Shulmah had started to teach Salma how to hunt without alerting her prey, while she was teaching the twelve year old Hidena how to lead a nation. After a few hours they reached the inn of Old Hroldan. After selling the meat that Salma had gathered. Once they were done, they continued their way. After bypassing Fort Sungard, they soon reached Gjukar's Monument. Moving on they entered the Uzumaki secret village.
As they passed by the gates, both Salma and Hidena were surprised by the number of troops and the amount of infrastructure that was hidden away within the wooden walls. Outside of the walls, away from the road south of the camp lay a vast field of Tundra Cotton. Around the field was another wall. The two saw a Blacksmith, an Alchemy Shop, an Inn, a Trader and numerous other stalls lining the inner wall.
"How did you manage to set this all up without anyone noticing?" Hidena asked baffled.
"By being a good leader," Shulmah replied.
"As a leader, the one thing that you have to do is to care for your people. Remember this lesson a teacher this one had once taught her. The people's strength comes from the leader, the leader's strength is the warrior's strength. Hence the warrior and the leader are only strong when the people are strong. Do you know what this means?"
"No, maybe that we have to have a strong source for our army?"
"No, while a strong populous is vital, it is not what was meant. No, why this one showed you this, is because when you eventually are old enough, and have amassed your own armies, you will need the support of your people. If your people do not stand behind you completely, it will be easy for your enemy to defeat you. Fight the enemy at home, not in the field of battle. If you can break the peoples will, you break the enemy. If the people do not stand in accord to the ruler, the ruler will fight a war at home and at the front. This one's people are self-sufficient. We have supplies that will last a few months. We are also more disciplined, and better equipped. Even if they managed to breach our walls, the true power of this one's people, is to remain unseen."
Shulmah activated her A.C. Seals and deactivated them a few seconds later. Hidena was shocked. She knew the moment the large beast woman met her in that inn on the outskirts of the central providence, away from the spying eyes of the Thalmor. She had been told that she would be taught and protected. She was told that she was descendant of the great Tiber Septim. The beast woman had used some sort of magic and had declared her the heir to the bloodline. After that the woman disappeared in a cloud of smoke and she was being escorted to Solitude and then all over Skyrim.
"So why exactly are you telling me this?"
"Because this one and her people are only here to teach and protect, we will not be participating in the actual wars you will wage. However, as this one's people are mercenaries, and we are being paid, therefore whether we fight, is up to you."
Shulmah grinned and left the camp, Salma and Hidena following. The sun was setting and Shulmah was looking to teach Hidena the importance of accepting all the beings in her kingdom. She was heading to the Sleeping Tree Camp The Giants saw her approaching and greeted her. Both Salma and Hidena were flabbergast.
"This one wishes to teach you the importance of allies," Shulmah said, while communicating with the Giants.
"The Giants are a nomadic people, while they are isolationists, their people are great warriors, holding the strength of many men. This one will teach you how to communicate with them. It will be your task to convince them to join your side. Remember this, a resource not used, is a resource wasted. If you were to bring forth an alliance with the Giants and possibly the Forsworn of the Reach, you would have strong allies to help conquer your rightful empire. In time, this one will reveal the workings of how to forge those alliances, but for now, she will teach you to speak."
And so whilst the night went on, Shulmah and the Giants taught Hidena the basics of how to communicate with the Giant people. Shulmah was impressed at the understanding of nonverbal communication Hidena was displaying. The next time they were in Whiterun, she would have to take her to Miyuki. The two would like each other. And if the two could befriend Mayumi as well, the three would rule the lands for an era or two. When the sun rose, the three moved on, heading south. An hour later they stood before a cave.
Bloated Man's Grotto
The cave was large, and after communing with the Spriggans, the three were allowed to rest and explore. Hidena was imprinted by a dozen wolf cubs. The Spriggan Matron guarding them seemed very pleased. Shulmah was quite amused as well, with such a guard, not many would dare come close to her with ill will against the girl. The pups were strong already, and with the allowance of the matron, she had pumped some Youki into them. Hidena could now communicate with them telepathically. The pups were also now bound to her lifeforce. Shulmah let the two spend the remainder of the time in the cave as they please, while she continued to explore the cave. What she found lying in front of a Talos Shrine was a blade. A katana. She read the note. The blade used to belong to a warrior, a warrior belonging to a group called the Blades. His name was Bolar, and he died in this cave, after escaping a place called Cloud Ruler Temple.. She took the blade and was impressed. The blade was light, strong and well balanced. She sealed the blade away and kept Cloud Ruler Temple in the back of her mind. But for now she'd continue. The Spriggans had told her of a pass through the mountains a little way to the east. After bidding their farewells, the small entourage continued their journey.
North Bristleheim Pass.
Shulmah and her companions made their way through the pass. Shulmah took point while Salma took on rearguard. As she made her way through the pass, making sure that the skeletons and the crazy fool reanimating them. In all seriousness, what was it with Skyrim and its people reanimating bones? She would never understand? As she continued, she soon found herself back outside. Walking downhill, she soon stood on the shores of Lake Ilinalta. Knowing neither the pups, nor the females in her group could not walk on water, so she would have to take the long route around the lake until the found a boat or a place where they could cross. Sighing, she made her way west along the shore.
"At least the pups are enjoying themselves," Shulmah mused.
"Remind me again why we had to take all of these guys with us?" Hidena asked, the pup riding on her head completely betraying her displeased tone.
"Because they imprinted on you. Because now, you have an agreement with the wardens of nature. And of course, once they are fully grown, you can ride them, and they'll protect you, when you are on the throne. Now, let us forge ahead."
They kept at the lake's shore and eventually reached a sunken castle. Luckily no one was around and there was a small boat. The group boarded and Shulmah started to pull the boat, shocking the group once again. A few minutes into the passing, Shulmah spotted another Guardian Stone, the Lady Stone. She walked onto the small island. Sitting down, she brought out her Field Journal and sketched it and the view of the lake. Once she was done she continued on and arrived on to the shore. It was midday when they arrived ashore. They moved on and passed the Falkreath Watchtower, after having killed the Necromancer and the two dead Khajiit. They continued on their way and after another hour they had arrived in Falkreath. On the way they had picked up an injured wolf adolescent. His pack had been killed and he had been injured. Shulmah remembered the promise she made Lod, the Blacksmith. She also remembered the promise she made the dog, Barbas. She entered town, blasting the guard with Killing Intent, as they were reaching for their arms.
"The pups bare no threat towards you. You'd do well not to act hastily."
As she walked along the road she stopped at the blacksmiths house.
"Hail, Blacksmith, this one has returned. Sadly the dog you wished her to find, is more elusive than one would imagine. She however wishes not to disappoint. She found this wolf pup. He's young enough to train still, but old enough to hunt. Once he is healed by your hand, he will trust you and regard you as his alpha. Treat him well, and his loyalty will be until death."
"Thank you lass. I never got your name," Lod replied.
"Vokun-Zuld, this one's friends call her Shulmah. Take care of him. This one has to organize a room and have a talk with the Jarl."
The man nodded. Shulmah walked to the Dead Man's Drink Inn and talked to the inn keeper. The Imperial was an attractive woman. Middle aged and open minded. She was very amused by the energy the twelve wolf pups brought to the tavern. She was more than willing to rent a room. Once she was done settling her entourage in, she made her way into the Jarl's Longhouse.
Sighing, she entered. She knew this was going to be a pain in the backside. She hated dealing with snobbish royals. She entered the Longhouse, sword on her hip, spear and shield in hand. She walked along the firepit and stood a few paces in front of the jarl.
"Hail, this one is Vokun-Zuld. She has received your letter and is eager to know what services are required for the plot of land?" Shulmah said.
"Well, now we'll see if the stories about you are true. There's a group of bandits that I had prior very beneficial dealings with in the past. However, the last few months, the shares have grown sparse. I want you to take care of them. They are hiding in the Bilegulch Mine."
"It will be done."
Shulmah left heading straight to the mine. She had little interest in the reasons, only that with it came a title that held sway among the people and land. The title would benefit her to garner allies to take the lands of Skyrim. The land would give the Uzumaki one more location to hide and strike at enemies, as well as give her a place where she can leave Hidena and Salma to be taught and protected. She raced through the wildlands, her steps thudding on the ground. She had no interest to be discreet. If her enemy came to her, it would be easier to kill them. When she arrived, she was disappointed, only two guards, who immediately charged at her. Two thrusts of her spear and both had their hearts pierced.
Bilegulch Mine
Shulmah moved into the mine, two Bunshin to either side and another row right behind her. They were yelling and shouting, causing the bandits to run at them and die before they even reached the shields. It took two minutes for the bandits to die, another two to make sure they were dead and ten to loot the mine empty. Once everything was sealed, she returned to Falkreath.
She entered the Longhouse and rolled open a scroll. Two hand seals later, fourteen heads were revealed, their expressions of anger, fear, horror and pain, etched onto their faces. The jarl gasped and Shulmah resealed the heads and pocketed it.
"The bandits are dead, now for the reward."
"Teaches them no to pay me. Here is your reward," he said, tossing her a bag of coins.
"You know what, I like you. You're not afraid of getting your hands dirty. I hereby grant you permission to purchase land in Falkreath Hold. Talk to my steward if you're interested."
"And what of the title of Thane that you promised this one in the letter?"
"Of course, it is mainly an honorary title, but there are perks to it that someone like you should like, however, I can only bestow the title to someone who is known in the hold. If you help some of the people in town, I can grant you the title of Thane."
Shulmah nodded and walked away. She walked around the city and eventually found herself on the immense graveyard Falkreath was famous for. She walked among the graves and noticed a fresh one. Sighing, she bowed to it and gave a small chant.
"It's good to know someone still knows how to respect the dead the old ways," came a voice behind her.
Shulmah straightened herself and turned around. Behind her stood an Altmer. He seemed to be shocked by her presence, but she ignored it.
"There is only one way to respect the dead. And that is to guide them on their journey across. Who is buried here?"
"Lavinia Caerellia, Mathies' and Indara's daughter. Poor girl didn't even see her tenth winter."
"What happened to her?"
"A man named Sinding came to our town and asked for work. Then one day, we found him standing in the bloody remains. We buried her the following week, not that there was much left to bury. I hope they kill that monster soon. Prison is too good a place for him."
Shulmah nodded. She unsealed an Apple Pie and left it at the grave.
"This one is in need of some tasks; do you have knowledge of any work she could do?"
"Yes, it seems I lost my journal exploring Halldir's Cairn. I'll pay for its return."
"Of course, this one will go right away."
Shulmah left the elf and made her way out of town along the western road. She moved swiftly, and after an hour of light jogging, reached the cave.
Halldir's Cairn
Shulmah sealed away her Spear and Shield. Taking Ma Shotto from her back, she started to loot the entrance. The mushrooms would be useful for something or other. As she continued she found three dead bandits lying around a cairn. She sighed, the energy it was giving off was saturated with a lifeless void. The fools died by having their lifeforce stolen. She continued on and used the key laying on a pedestal to unlock the door. She read the journal and it confirmed her hypothesis of the bandits' deaths. She pushed on, being cautious of her surroundings. She found engravings of stories, which she quickly sketched. She moved on and soon came across a couple of Spirits. She sighed, most likely fools that had their lifeforce stolen, were haunting the cave. She dispatched them with a single shot and moved on. After killing another few ghosts, she came across Draugr. She put her bow away and killed the patrolling Draugr by breaking their necks. She walked through the next doorway and stayed silent while she moved. She sketched and solved the puzzle and dodged the swings of the Draugr and Spirits. She quickly formed two Rasengan and slammed it into the two Spirits. She rolled back and rammed her Hidden Blades into his chest. Once she looted the area, she moved on. Killing the next Spirits with her Chakra covered Hidden Blades. She moved on and found herself in the main room. She saw a Spirit Draugr. She shot an arrow at his head. The man split into three, all of which were quickly dispatched as well. The Draugr reappeared again and charged. He didn't get far along though, as he received another arrow between the eye. She looted the room and found the Journal, an engraved drum, as well as Halldir's Staff. Once everything was sealed away, she dropped down to the entrance.
Leaving the cave she jogged out back to Falkreath and handed the Altmer his Journal when she found him in the Hall of the Dead. She received her pay and left the Hall of the Dead. Sighing she looked at the sky, seeing the sun sinking beneath the horizon, she walked into the barracks and walked up to the occupied cell. The man walked up to her.
"Looking to stare at the monster?" the man said.
"This one sees no monster, only a shapeshifter. This one has no pity for you. You lost control and killed a child, that is of no one's fault but yours. What drove you to such madness?"
"I was told this ring could allow me to control my transformations. But Hircine cursed it and the changes came to me and I lose control… Like with that girl."
"You are a fool. What did you expect? Stealing from a Daedric Lord. You should have been killed, instead an innocent lost her life. Is there a way to appease Lord Hircine?"
"Yes, a white stag. I've been tracking it to this area."
"This one will try and appease Lord Hircine, give her the ring. Pray that he is merciful."
Shulmah left and activated her A.C. Seals. Her bow in hand she tracked the stag down to a small pond. She let her arrow go and hit the right at the base of the skull. She quickly cleaned the kill and suddenly saw a Spirit Stag. She bowed, feeling the powerful presence radiating off of it.
"Lord Hircine, it is an honor to stand in your presence," Shulmah said respectfully.
"The honor is mine, Nine Tailed Vixen," said the bemused voice.
"I see you carry my ring, yet the rogue shifter still lives. Most curious."
"This one took the ring in order to appease you. The shifter killed an innocent child, she did not want to disgrace herself with an unworthy kill."
"Yes, the death of the child was most unfortunate. Now then, the Blood Moon has been called and the hunters are on his trail. Find this rogue shifter and kill him and present me his skin. You will be rewarded richly for your service. Head to Bloated Man's Grotto and hurry, the competition has already begun"
"Of course."
Shulmah disappeared in a flash of crimson. She reappeared outside of the cave. She entered the cave and walked along the path. She noticed a trail of dead hunters. Following them she saw the werewolf tear into them. He turned and charged at her. A suicide throw launched the man into the rockface. Within instants she was on top of him and pierced his heart with her Hidden Blades. She cleaned the body and saw the Spirit of Sinding walk to her.
"An excellent kill. Take this, mortals call it the Savior's Hide. May it prove useful to you in the hunts to come."
Shulmah took the armor and sealed it. After talking with the Spriggan Matron and looting the corpses, she returned to Falkreath and slept the rest of the night on the inn's roof. The next morning, Shulmah dropped down to the road and started to sell her loot. As she entered the Gray Pines Goods, she was rudely shoulder bumped by a Nord.
"I can't believe they let provincials like you wander around Skyrim!" the Nord said.
"And this one can't believe you're picking a fight you are bound to lose."
She bumped her shoulder into his, sending him to the floor. She walked up to the clerk and laid down her loot. After counting her coins, she walked outside and looked around for something to do. After walking around town for a while, she remembered Barbas. In a flash of crimson she stood in front of the dog.
"Apologies to have kept you waiting, Barbas. Shall we make our way to your master then?" Shulmah greeted the dog.
"Yes, but be warned, the last group of people worshipping him are still there. And they're not exactly what I would call friendly."
"Well if that's the case. Kage Bunshin no Jutsu!"
Out of a cloud of smoke stepped four dozen clones.
"A-HOOO!" came the battle cry.
Haemar's Shame
They entered the cave in a phalanx. They moved slowly and deliberately. The sound of their feet hitting the ground aroused a curious lookout and he soon sounded the alarm. At first came the melee fighters, they bodies were pierced by two spears each. Next came the archers and spellcasters. What surprised Shulmah was that the fools had tried to siphon the lifeforce of her clones. They died very painfully. They lost a few of their number when the bodies reanimated and they were attacked from behind. After that a group of Bunshin was dispatched as a rearguard to kill reanimated bodies. As they pushed into next part of the cave, and cornered the enemy. In a last-ditch effort, they transformed into some ridiculous rip-off of a vampire. Even in that form, they proved little challenge. She dispelled most of her clones and sent the remainder to loot the cave. Looking at the shrine, she stepped up to it.
"Lord Clavicus Vile, this one has come to reunite you with your friend Barbas. She knows you are a bringer of change. She has no interest in any bargains. Tell her what it takes to reunite you two?"
"There is an axe, I want it returned. It's resting in Rimrock Borrow, its name is the Rueful Axe. Bring it to me and I might let Barbas back to my side."
Shulmah nodded. Barbas marked the spot on her map, luckily, it was near a place she had previously marked, Northwatch Keep. She walked outside and disappeared in a flash of crimson. Seconds later in the Northwatch Keep courtyard, two unexplained footprints emerged. Shulmah jumped over the wall and landed on the road. She had activated her A.C. Seals on a whim and it turned out to be a wise decision. The keep had been relieved with fresh troops and even tighter security. She quickly moved north and found the cave.
Rimerock Borrow
She entered it and killed the Flame Atronachs. After that, she saw a mage walking around trying to find her. Sneaking up behind him, she jammed her Hunting Knife into the base of his skull. He dropped dead and Shulmah looted the cave. She again disappeared in a flash of crimson and swiftly stood in front of the shrine.
"Here is the axe. As for our bargain, this one asks you to uphold your end of the bargain."
The shrine sighed.
"Fine… I'll take that fleabag back. And here a little gift, just cause you amuse me."
"This one thanks you, Lord Clavicus Vile."
Shulmah suddenly held a helmet in her hand, the Mask of Clavicus Vile, she knew for some reason. She sealed it away and disappeared in a flash of crimson and quickly stood back in Falkreath. Walking around town, she was stopped by an old man.
"Halt, who are you and what are you doing in Falkreath?" the man said.
"When talking to someone, it usually is common courtesy to introduce oneself. What can this one do for you?"
"I am Dengeir of Stuhn. I used to be the Jarl of this city. But I was pressured to step down when it came out I was supporting the Stormcloaks. There's Imperial spies everywhere."
"This one is also in the Empire's employ, she, however, has no interest in the politics. She has personal issues with them and is working independently. This one wants to return Tamriel how it once was. Is there a way this one can help?" Shulmah asked.
"Yes, last night I saw Lod, the blacksmith, write a letter. Probably sending a report to Solitude and General Tulius. If you mean what you said, get me that letter."
Shulmah nodded and headed for the blacksmith's house. She quickly picked the lock and found the letter on a table. She took it and gave it a quick glance. It was an order for more supplies. Sighing she made her way back to Dengeir.
"The letter is an order," she said.
"The blacksmith Is no spy, he is too loyal to you to betray your trust."
"So it would seem, but it looks like the Empire is forcing him to make more equipment for them. Here take this"
Shulmah quickly took the reward and put the letter back. After that she went to talk with the Jarl. She entered the longhouse and walked to the man.
"This one has helped around in the Hold. If you could bestow her the title of Thane, she would be grateful."
"Yes. By my right as Jarl, I bestow upon you the Title of Thane. Congratulations. I grant you the use of a personal Housecarl and this weapon from my personal armory as your badge of rank. I'll also inform the guards. Wouldn't want them to think you as one of the common rabble would we. Speak to my Steward for the plot of land."
Shulmah turned and walked to the Altmer.
"Hail, this one was informed that you could allow her to purchase land."
"Yes, it's a fine plot of land. And it only cost five thousand Septims."
"This one will take it."
Shulmah handed her a pouch of coins and waited while they were being counted. She received the bill and a book describing common Nordic architectural blueprints. Once she was done with the Altmer, she was approached by Redguard.
"My Thane. I am Rayya, and I am your new Housecarl. It is my duty to serve you."
"Good, this one needs someone to oversee the building of her house. She will get her companions and we shall move. Pack your belongings, we leave as soon as possible."
Shulmah picked up Salma and Hidena, who were still stuffed in the room. The two were relieved to be outside and on their way again. Shulmah explained that there were matters she had to attend to and that she would leave them in the care of some of her people. She walked out of town and soon found her land. She found a workbench present with blueprints and some building materials. Sending a letter through a seal, four Uzumaki appeared a minute later.
"These four will teach and protect the three of you. This one has marked what she wants to be built. She will pop in every now and again, but for now, she will be working on her own."
Shulmah nodded to her kin and walked back to Falkreath. She had an appointment with a group of assassins. She walked to the sanctuary and made her way to Astrid, who was waiting for her in the front room.
"Ah, you're back. So, how went your first real contract. A bit more exciting than what Nazir's been offering, I'd wager… Very well, I'll respect your discretion. Now, I need your assistance with a more… personal nature," Astrid said.
"Has something happened?" Shulmah asked, her interest peaked.
"It's Cicero. Ever since he arrived, his behavior has been… Well, erratic would be an understatement. He's taken to locking himself in the Night Mother's room. Talking to someone. In hushed but frantic tones. Who's he speaking with? What are they planning? I fear treachery… You must understand, Cicero is turning the others against me… Against us… Our family would not survive such division."
"What do you want this one to do?" Shulmah asked, already growing bored.
"Dear Sister, I need you to steal into that room, and listen in on their meeting. It'll be no use clinging to the shadows. They'll see you for sure. No, you need a hiding place. Somewhere they'd never think to look. Like inside the Night Mother's coffin… No objections then? Good. Now go, before they meet. And report back to me with what you learn."
Shulmah scoffed, she had no need to hide in a coffin. She was a Kunoichi, she could stand right in front a target and they'd not know from where she struck even as they were falling to the ground. She quickly made her way to the room. Sending a Bunshin to squeeze into the coffin to act as a decoy, she jumped to the ceiling and laid down on her back, activating her A.C. Seals, using Chakra to stay in place. She waited for a few hours for nightfall. It was essential for a Ninja to be able to wait patiently for extended amounts of time, in order to find the optimal opportunity to strike.
When Cicero came in, she was mildly surprised that only he entered the room. He locked the door and started rambling. She was even less surprised to find the Jester had lost grasp of his mental security. From what she could gather from the research done by her archivists, the Night Mother, was kept in a city called Bravil in the central province of Cyrodiil. The Thalmor had destroyed the sanctuary during the Great War. Cicero was the Keeper of the body and had done his task well, making sure it was undamaged. It would seem he was indeed trying to undermine Astrid. Quite ballsy trying to go against the head of a guild, he did, however, do it smartly, taking away the base. She watched the man open the coffin and freak out, seeing the Bunshin inside. After a few screams, the Bunshin said something of importance to the man, causing him to grow even more erratic. Astrid burst into the room and the situation escalated. Shulmah dropped down onto Cicero, knocking him out. She deactivated her seals and looked at her, dispelling her Bunshin.
"What? The Jester was getting quite irritating," she said, picking him up and using a false memory Genjutsu to make it seem the Jester was dreaming after a few kegs of Mead too many.
"What did you learn, all I heard was him shouting?" Astrid said, irritated.
"Your suspicions are valid, the Jester has been trying to undermine your authority by talking to the others. The old man, Krestus, is nostalgic, but he does not seem the type to betray his own. The Argonian, Veezara, is a Shadow Scale, and respects your position. The Vampire, Babette, is loyal, as is the Redguard, Nazir. The Dunmer, is the same, as long as you live, she will be behind you. As for the Moon Born, you be the judge of him."
Unsealing a bottle of Nord Mead, she took a swig and continued.
"In this one's opinion, she feels that the Jester is mentally unstable. Understandable, given the situation, but she sees him as a liability. He will try something at some point, she advises you to keep him in sight at all times. However, there are other matters that need to be addressed. This one has made sure this will be a drunken dream to him, but there are things you need to be informed of. This one seems to be the Listener. She knows you and this cell have survived by adapting, leaving the original method of operation behind. This one has no interest in leading, despite this title. The Night Mother has also informed her of a contract. A man named Amaund Motierre inside a place by the name of Volunruud. You are the head of the sanctuary, this one will leave it to you."
"I see. What do you intend to do, if Cicero approaches you?"
"This one will play clueless. Lord Sithis communicates through the Night Mother, and the Night Mother only communicates with the Listener. The Jester will remain clueless, maybe even believe it was wishful thinking. This one will see the Redguard for some tasks. Think on what you hlearnedrnt."
Shulmah walked away, looking for the Redguard. She found him in the eating room, reading a report.
"You reek of death, sister. I salute you," he greeted her.
"Hail, this one is looking for work. Are there any open contracts?" she asked.
"Yes, two in fact. The first is quite easy. An Orc bard named Lurbuk, in the Moorside Inn in Morthal. The other is a Vampire named Hern, he owns the Half-Moon Mill."
"Any more information?"
"Like I said, he's a Vampire. Has blended into human society for years. He also has a female companion, Hert, she also is a Vampire. The contract is for the male, though you might have to deal with the female as well. So for Sithis' sake, watch yourself. As for the Orc, he is by all accounts, the Worst bard in all of Skyrim. Apparently, so many people sought his death, Astrid had to hold a lottery to determine the client."
Shulmah nodded and left. She walked outside and took a deep breath. Breathing out slowly she focused and threw a kunai. It stuck in midair, blood slowly trickling to the ground, she heard a thud and soon an outline of a body appeared on the ground. A few seconds later the body appeared. She checked it with a Bunshin, cautious of a possible explosive. When the body didn't explode, she searched it. She found nothing and sighed. Taking out her Hunting Knife she prepared to clean the kill, when the body suddenly burnt to nothingness. She rolled back looking around, spreading her senses. The body had no smell of oil or any kind of fast acting fuel. She cursed, had she been in contact with the body, she might have lost her arm. Painful and energy extensive to heal and regenerate.
She found nothing of significance from searching the body, or what remained, but she had a feeling she'd see more of her new friends along the road. Shulmah walked north towards Lake Ilinalta. As she reached the shore, she saw the mill and headed towards it. When she reached it, she silently crept into the house and sliced his neck. She left the house and headed further north towards Morthal. She followed the road, jogging at a moderate pace, passing by her village and dropping off a few scrolls full of gear and provisions. After that she moved on, she took the Cold Rock Pass, after killing some hostile creatures and soon stood in the marshes.
She walked into town and felt a deep sense of presence. Curious she walked to the source and found that she now stood in a burnt down house. Looking around, she knew, she was being watched, however, for the first time in a long time, she could not pinpoint from where. Sighing, she headed into the inn. She sold much of her Ale and exchanged the rest for the items they had of her usual shopping list. As she was enjoying a bottle of ice cold Mead with Juniper Berries. She was halfway into her fourth bottle when the bard started to sing. By Lord Shinigami, he had barely spoken four lines and she already wanted to launch him into pit filled with highly corrosive acid.
She was thinking about how to eliminate them, when a madman burst into the inn and proceeded to stab the Orc numerous times in the gut. Once it was clear the Orc was dead, the madman threw himself at Shulmah. She sighed and backhanded him with such force that his head was hanging limply to the side as he collapsed. Finishing her bottle, she sealed her bottles away and left the inn. She informed the guard of the events. Once she did that, she headed toward Mount Kilkreath.
She still had Meridia's Beacon to return. She headed north west through the marshes. She past an unnamed dwelling, she looted the chest and continued. After a while she passed a shack. Hoping to sell some of her food. As she entered, she smelled and then saw the body. It was starting to decompose, the cold slowing the process immensely. She looted the shack and then proceeded to cover the walls in Troll Fat and straw. Once she was done, she threw an incendiary bomb and watched the cabin go up in flames. Another while later, she crossed the Karth River and reached the Solitude Saw Mill. From there she walked along the road and soon reached the temple.
"Look at my temple, lying in ruins. So much for the consistency of mortals, their crafts and their hearts. If they love me not, how can my love reach them?" came the powerful voice of Meridia.
Shulmah walked to the statue and set the beacon down on the pedestal.
"Restore to me my beacon, that I might guide you toward your destiny."
The beacon shot u into the sky and she was pulled along with it. She found herself floating high in the sky. She sighed, why did this happen in the sky? Meridia appeared as ball of light.
"It is time for my splendor to return to Skyrim. But the token of my truth lies buried in the ruins of my once great temple, now tainted by a profane darkness skittering within. The Necromancer Malkoran defiles my shrine with vile corruptions, trapping the souls of the fallen from this latest war. Worse still, he uses the powers of my token to fuel his foul deeds. I have brought you here, mortal, to be my champion. You will enter my temple, retrieve my artifact and destroy the defiler."
"It will be done, Lady Meridia. However, please refrain from calling this one a mortal again."
"Of course it will be done. I have commanded it. And I will take your request to consideration. Go now! The artifact must be retrieved and Malkoran must be destroyed. The Defiler has forced the doors shut. But this is my temple, and it responds to my decree. I will send down a ray of light. Guide this light through my temple and its doors will open."
Shulmah was dropped to the ground. The ray of light Meridia had promised was going into the temple. After a brief search, Shulmah found the entrance. She entered the temple and was instantly overwhelmed by a foul presence, pushing down on her being.
Kilkreath Temple
Shulmah stayed low to the ground, an arrow pulled back. She had two Bunshin covering her and looting. The first few minutes were filled with the desecrated corpses of the fallen. She moved through the hallways and soon came across the restless spirits of the dead. She shot an arrow to the heads and they dispersed, leaving a puddle of ectoplasm. She moved on and continued to snipe at the spirits. She saw the light beam being sent into a crystal ball. She tapped it and the beam was redirected. She moved on and continued putting the spirits to rest. She continued to redirect the light beam and continued to lay the spirits to rest. After an hour she stood on a balcony. Continuing on she entered the ruins again. She made her way through the rooms and killed the spirits. She moved through the passages and soon stood in the main hall. She synchronized with her Bunshin and took out all seven threats. Surprisingly, the Necromancer's soul reappeared. Another wave of arrows rectified that inconvenience. Shulmah made more Bunshin and sent them to gather all of the desecrated corpses.
"The Defiler is dead, take Dawnbreaker from its pedestal."
After looting the room, she waited for her Bunshin to bring the corpses. Once the bodies were piled, Shulmah burnt them down with a Katon Jutsu until even the ashes were gone. Once she released her Bunshin, she took Dawnbreaker, Meridia's blade, from its stand.
Suddenly she found herself floating above the ground once again. She took the time to inspect the blade. Dawnbreaker, had an Ebony blade, it was light and strong. She could feel the ethereal power radiating from it.
"A fine blade is it not?" Meridia asked.
"Malkoran is vanquished. Skyrim's dead shall retain their rest. This is as it should be. This is because of you. A new day is dawning. And you shall be its herald. Take the mighty Dawnbreaker. And with it, purge corruption from the darkest corners of the world. Wield it in my name, so that my influence may grow."
"It shall be done, Lady Meridia. However, this one asks permission to give it to one destined for greater paths than herself. This one oversees the last of the Septim, and is the mother to the one you call World Eater. In return, this one will send some of her people to restore and protect your sacred temple."
"Clavicus Vile was speaking truth when he said you were interesting. You may pass it on to the girl, as long as you make sure she does not fall to the greed her power will bring. May the light of certitude guide your efforts."
Shulmah found herself on solid ground and immediately marked the temple. After sealing Dawnbreaker away, she continued on towards the west. A while later, she came across her target, given to her by Legat Rikke.
She approached the fort and sent an arrow into the sky. As it split, the guards in the outer areas of the fort were pierced by dozens of arrows. She dispelled the arrows and took the real one. She looted the area and silently entered Fort Hraagstad Prison.
Fort Hraagstad Prison
Luckily the prison was not very well lit. She snuck behind the first guard and quickly broke his neck. Another guard came and received a Kunai to the neck. Shulmah looted the room and looted the bandits. She tried mimicking a Nord male voice of the second bandit and cried out.
"What in the name of oblivion are you doing?" she yelled.
She heard footsteps run towards her and hid in the shadows. Another bandit burst into the room and saw the naked bandit lying on top of the other, with a knife in his hand still sticking in his neck.
"What by the Nine have you done? Urgh!"
Shulmah broke the last one's neck and looted the rest of the prison and sealed the bodies away. After that she walked back outside and entered the fort itself.
Fort Hraagstad
She killed the guard coming towards her with a Kunai and looted the floor. She moved up the stairs silently and eliminated a bandit coming towards her. Her Kunai sliced through the air and through her Right External and Internal Jugulars. The Bosmer fell to the ground, her blood seeping down the stairs. She drew an arrow back and pinned a Breton to the stone by his neck. Lastly the chief was disposed of with an unhealthy dose of fist to face. After looting everything she walked away and headed back into the mountains.
Shulmah entered Castle Dour and walked to Legat Rikke. She entered the room and stepped up to the table.
"Hail, Fort Hraagstad has been liberated, apologies for taking so long. This one had to see off her people. The bandits are eliminated and you should be able to man it immediately."
"Welcome back, Auxiliary. Glad to see you back in one piece. I'll send a garrison there at once. And with that, I have enough to put into the report. I know our contract states you will not have to speak the oath."
Shulmah nodded. She turned to General Tulius bowed to him.
"This one will serve with loyalty. Her people respect and honor their given word. It has been the way of her kind for over a thousand years. What do you need this one to do next?"
"Ulfric's second in command, has found that he believes to be the resting place of the Jagged Crown," Rikke said.
"The same crown that is mentioned in the ancient texts of this land? If this one's memory serves her correctly, the Jagged Crown is made from the bones and teeth of ancient dragons. A despicable thing, showcasing an utter lack of respect towards the true rulers of Mundus. But that may just be this one's spiritual bias talking... The texts state that the crown was worn by the first true King of Skyrim, a Nord called Harald, said to be a direct descendant of the great warrior Ysgramor. Though the texts do not specify when exactly he was crowned High King, at birth or named so at birth, as his reign began only in 1E143. It is possible that in those unaccounted thirty years, wars were waged to conquer the regions to what is now modern Skyrim. And going by the texts, the crown was passed on from king to king ever since. But it was lost in 1E369 by King Boras, last of the Ysgramor Dynasty... History remembers him as the man who outlawed the ancient ways and a vital supporter of Marukh, the Monkey Prophet, founder of the Alessian Order. Who is also credited for being a cornerstone to the legal system of today, 'All are guilty until they prove themselves innocent.' King Borgas died during what is now known as the Wild Hunt, a ritualistic killing of all threats to the Bosmer territories of Valenwood. It is known Borgas was travelling to Cyrodiil, in order to create a war against the Bosmer people. A well-deserved death in this one's eyes. After being killed, some ancient texts, written by those who survived the hunt, secretly brought their king back to his homeland and laid him to rest in a secret location. And with no rightful heir, the crown stayed with its blood… In any case, the Jagged Crown is said to possess a bit of the powers of the kings who once wore it. The ancients also show it as a part of a prophecy. 'Maw unleashing razor snow, of dragons from the blue brought down, Births the walking winter's woe, The High King in his Jagged Crown.' If the enemy truly has found the resting place of this artifact, then gaining it would mean a huge boost to their moral. This one sees why it is important."
Shulmah took a deep breath and looked around. What she saw was both Legat Rikke, General Tulius, as well as all of the guards standing still, staring at her.
"Did this one say something wrong?" she asked confused.
"No, not at all," Rikke said, recovering first.
"It is just no one was prepared to be presented with such detailed and in depth knowledge of an ancient Nordic artifact. Plus you went off on a bit of a tangent there.."
Shulmah looked around, seeing the other occupants nod, she shrugged her shoulders.
"This ones people are scholars and archivists. We spend just as much of our time researching as we are practicing battle. So is this one correct in assuming we are to try and retrieve the crown?"
"Yes, with the crown, not only would the general populous of Skyrim lose faith in Ulfric, but it would also give Jarl Elisif a stronger position at the moot, when it comes to appointing the new High King. We need to make hast however, my spies report a large gathering of forces just outside of Windhelm."
Shulmah sighed. While they were correct in their actions, they were not using the opportunity to their full advantage.
"If this one may speak freely?" she asked politely.
"She agrees with you that we must make haste, however this one has some of her people inside of the enemy ranks. She knows they will not move out until the Dragonborn is there. And this one knows that they have not yet left the sanctuary of High Hrothgar. She believes it to be most beneficial to set up an ambush. If their forces can be crippled, as well as some of their higher ups be captured, on top of the Jagged Crown being retrieved, it would be a tremendous victory, hitting hard at multiple areas of the enemies spirit."
"I have to agree with her sir. The possibility of dealing a crippling blow to their forces, along with capturing some of their commanders, maybe even the Dragonborn and Galmar Stone-Fist, on top of getting the Jagged Crown, would hit our enemy harder than any skirmish we had in the past."
"Alright. I'll leave the logistics up to you. Just bring me that crown," Tullius said.
"Thank you. Now then Auxillary Vokun-Zuld, I want you to organize the ambush."
"Apologies, but no. This one will aid in the ambush, but she will not sit around in the snow for a few weeks. She has other matters to see to. You know the usual means of how to summon her, and she will be there within the hour. She will gladly take on the main force of the enemy in return, but she will not be sitting around waiting."
"Fine then. Just make sure to bring a few dozen troops of your own."
"Of course. This one will not surrender a single step."
Shulmah bowed and left the castle. Things were going along smoothly. She left Solitude and continued back west. If the information was correct, the Forgemaster's Fingers, a pair of gauntlets she was to retrieve to offer as a tribute, were clear, were near Fort Hraagstad. She quickly made her way there. She saw the troops setting up fortifications and left them with enough Ale and Wine to last a few weeks. She continued and soon reached a cave. Going by memories of the bandits, this was Pinemoon Cave.
Pinemoon Cave
She entered the cave and walked right into a wolf den. She unsealed the meat of the enemies she killed she filled a large bowl with it. The wolves came to investigate, seeing the intruder, they started to growl. Shulmah raised her K.I. and the wolves started to show signs of submission. She walked deeper into the cave and discovered a group of elves. She smelled blood and saw one of them bite into an upper arm. Shulmah let loose an arrow. The Altmer fell dead to the ground. She checked him, the elongated sharpened canines, as well as the fluorescent eyes were clear indicators of Sanguinare Vampiris. She walked down to the table.
"Greetings," she said, making the vampires surround her.
"This one has come to kill you."
A second later the five remaining Vampires fell to the ground, two stabs in their abdomens. She sighed, even at half her speed, she was too fast for the people of this world. She looted the cave and left.
Heading south west she spotted an old Nordic ruin not far from her original path. She headed towards it and looked around. The large structure was in bad condition. She killed the Draugr coming out of his coffin and took out the bandit group in the upper structure. She found the plaque with the name and started to sketch the complex.
Volskygge
She entered it and carefully opened the door. Moving forward she threw two Kunai at the bandits coming towards her. She looted the room, which seemed to be a gathering room for festivities. She moved on and broke the next bandits neck, after following her down the hall. Shulmah picked the chest and moved on. The next area had two bandits patrolling. Shulmah had long since sealed her cloak away. She jumped to the ceiling and waited for one of the guards to pass under her. When he did, she grabbed him, hoisted him up and sliced his throat. She kept the bleeding to a minimum and dropped the large Orc once his Bosmer companion was underneath. She dropped him and knocked the Bosmer out. Shulmah dropped down and stared at the Bosmer. She was young, younger than most bandits she had encountered. She was badly bruised and she was wearing a collar. This girl was a slave. She was wearing armor, as skimpy as it was, but at least there was some protection. Shulmah made a Bunshin and had it take the girl to the Uzumaki camp. Shulmah moved on. She spotted a lever and used it after picking the door. It revealed a hidden room and looted it. Once she was done, she moved on. She crept up to a large area and what she saw made her blood boil.
In front of her was a large dining hall that had been recently cleared up. There were at the very least twenty five bandits. What stood out though however were the ten or so, barely teen fame slaves. She scowled, she knew slavery was a common thing among bandits and the Dunmer people. Even the Uzumaki held slaves, though those were either condemned criminals or volunteers. These were neither, Shulmah browsed her pouches. She could use Smoke Bombs, or Gas Bombs. Or, she could do what any Kunoichi knew how to do.
A puff of smoke later, a young Khajiit girl, dressed in skimpy armor walked into the room. She walked around the room, waiting to be called. After a while, the bandits were running out of drink. The Khajiit was suddenly grabbed by her tail and yanked backwards to the floor. She looked up and saw an Argonian lay beside her being kicked.
"We've told you beasts a thousand times over, you kiss our feet and thank us for letting you vermin live," the Dunmer woman said.
"Now what do you say, Pond-Scum?"
"Sorry, Mistress, I apologize, Mistress. What can I do for you, Mistress?" the girl was crying.
The Dunmer looked at the Khajiit.
"And you? What do you say, Carpet?"
"Thank you, Mistress. What can this one do for you, Mistress?"
"The table is running out of wine. Go fetch some from the storage area. And you Scale-Face, you have a duty to perform to your queen, do it."
The Argonian crawled to the head of the table. The Khajiit quickly went and gather a large jug of wine. Struggling with its weight, the Khajiit slowly made her way back to the room. She made her way to the table and started to pour wine to all of the bandits. When she came to the head of the table, she saw both the King and Queen groan out in pleasure. As she walked up to them, she saw a fur covered head bobbing up and down between the Nord's legs. Next to him, his Queen was leaning back in her chair. She saw the Argonian holding her tail and moving it. The Khajiit poured the wine and left to get more. She returned and set down the jug. She was pulled by her tail and onto the lap of a Breton. She wrapped her arms around him and gave into his sloppy kiss. She was being groped, but she felt him get weaker. A minute later everyone, but the Dunmer woman was sleeping. The Khajiit got up and walked up to her. The Khajiit got on her knees and kissed her feet. Suddenly, the Khajiit spun around, and swiped her leg into the back of the Dunmer's knees, putting the Dunmer on the floor. The Khajiit pounced onto her chest and jabbed at her throat relentlessly. After a few minutes later, the neck was crushed. The Khajiit sighed and stood up.
A puff of smoke and Shulmah replaced the young Khajiit in all her armored glory. She turned to the slaves. She smiled and unsealed all of the food she had. The slaves jumped at the food, ravenous they were gulping as much down as they could fit into their mouths. Shulmah proceeded to kill all of the bandits by snapping their necks. She looted and sealed everything. She made a few Bunshin and had them escort the terrified girls to her people's camp. Once they left, Shulmah continued.
She walked into a puzzle room with four coffins. She saw book on a pedestal. She skimmed through it and had the answer. Solving the riddle, Shulmah continued. She dropped down to the next level and entered the next part of the ruins.
Volskygge Passages
Shulmah made her way along the passages, looting along her way. She disposed of the Draugr on her way. She looted the chests and the dead Draugr. She followed the path, discovering a hidden room and using the tombs own traps. Walking up a large set of stairs, she eliminated the Draugr and walked right into a Frostbite Spider nest. Cursing her luck, she bathed the area in white hot flames. She moved on and passed over a stream. She eliminated the Draugr patrolling the area and up some stairs. She dashed forwards and decapitated the Draugr in the throne. She looted the area and continued. She walked up some stairs and out of the ruin.
Volskygge Peaks
She walked outside and spotted some stairs. She walked up the flight of stairs and walked passed the coffin. She saw the Word Wall and started to sketch it.
'Bekhild Wahlaan Qethsegol (Bekhild raised (this) stone)
Ahmuli Vahrukt Eyolf Wen ((in her) husband's memory, Eyolf, whose)
Veysun Los Sizaan Ko Vul (ship was lost in (a) dark)
KEST Ko Okaaz Do Luv TEMPEST in (the) Sea of Tears)
The moment she was done, the coffin sprang open. Out of it appeared a Dragon Priest. Channeling Raiton Chakra to her right palm. She waited for her hand to concentrate and started to chirp, reminiscing of the many thousand flocks of birds of her homeland's ally Tori no Kuni. Once it was at full power she decided to indulge in some nostalgia and dashed towards him.
"Raiton: Chidori!" she yelled, plunging her arm into the priests chest.
She pulled out her arm and watched the priest disintegrate to ash, leaving only his armor and mask. She knew the mask was valuable to the religion of old. She took it and sealed it away, that left her with three masks. Which meant she had seven more to go. She moved south, and entered another ruin. She sketched the view of the entrance and soon found she had reached her destination after eliminating the Forsworn guarding the entrance.
Deepwood Redoubt
Shulmah made her way through the ruin, eliminating the Forsworn in her path. She made her way past the sentries and traps. She found a missive showing that these were not allied to Madanach. She continued deeper and killed the two guards on the catwalk. She moved on after looting the dead. She moved on and soon stood in a new part of the Redoubt.
Deepwood Vale
The new part was a large open space. In the back she saw a large ruin. She got to a vantage point and started sniping the Forsworn guards. After ten dead, she moved in to confirm the kills. She moved from body to body, jabbing her knife into the base of the skull to make certain. She continued to loot the entire area and found the target in a chest. She sighed, contemplating on whether or not she should go to the Orcs before or after exploring the ruin. She sketched the ruin and entered it.
Hag's End
Shulmah moved into the first room and let loose a barrage of Kunal. Many hitting the Hagraven, which teleported away. The two other females died do to blood loss, due to her Kunai slicing apart their necks. She spun around and let another Kunai fly. It hit another female in the throat. She looted the area and sealed away the bodies. SH moved on and opened the next dor. A handful of Shuriken later the Hagraven disappeared again and the two females guarding her were dead. She looted the area She killed the Frostbite spider in the room next to the main one and crossed the bridge and up the next area, avoiding the traps. She moved into the next room and found a Word Wall. She sat down and sketched it.
'Vegunthar Wahlaan Qethsegol (Vegunthar raised (this) stone)
Bormahll Vagrukt Hungunthar ((in his) father's memory, Hungunthar)
Tiid Naak Kriaan Se (TIME- Eater, slayer of)
Junnesejer Kroniid Se Dunkreath ((the) Kings of the East, Conqueror of Dunkreath)'
Once she was done, she exited the ruin.
She stood high above the valley. She spotted the Hagraven and saw her summon two Icewraiths. Sighing she channeled Katon Chakra into two Kunai and destroyed the wraiths. Shulmah launched her spear and sent the Hagraven flying to the valley below. Shulmah looted the chest and jumped after the creature. She looted the body and continued out into the wildlands. She headed south, the priest of Boethiah was supposed to be held captive in those hills. After weaving through the rocky mountain face, she eventually came across another Forsworn camp. She walked into the camp and soon was greeted by the business end of a dozen arrows.
Shulmah lifted her arms and put her hands behind her head. She dropped to her knees and waited. A second later, all bows had their strings cut and the Forsworn had a Kunai held to their throat. Just then another Forsworn appeared. This one had an exposed heart, though it wasn't human. He waved his people away, Shulmah's Bunshin dispelled.
"It would seem Madanach was telling the truth. You truly are a fearsome warrior. What can the Forsworn of Bruca's Leap Redoubt do for you, Vokun-Zuld?"
"This one was hoping to trade some of her loot, for gold and gems."
"Of course, please enjoy some Venison, while we gather what we have."
Shulmah sat down on a log and watched the fire slowly roast the meat. After a few minutes later the man came back with a large bag full of coins and another full of gems. Shulmah traded all her Forsworn weapons and armor, along with all the drinks she did not particularly like. Shulmah left the Forsworn and continued on south.
She crossed the river and slid down the other side of the mountain to a cabin called Cliffside Retreat. She moved along the mountain face and found a door in the rockface. She saw a plaque and entered the door.
Liar's Retreat
What she saw was a horde of Falmer. Shulmah rushed into the room and started to massacre the creatures. She dismembered and decapitated them, making sure she eliminated them before they could sound for reinforcements. She made doubly sure they were dead, by stabbing their hearts. She moved deeper into the dwelling and discovered a bandit, who in blind fear charged at her with his battle axe. She eliminated the poor Orc with a quick snap of his neck. She followed the tunnel the Falmer had dug and soon found a holding pen with dead bandits. She continued on taking out every Falmer she came across. What she found fascinating was that the Falmer always housed in parts of Dwemer ruins.
From what she could gather, during the end of the First Era, when the Nord-Falmer war was going on, the Falmer turned to the Dwemer for support. Events after that have yet to be archived by her people, but from what she read they were turned into a slave people within a few generations. And with the disappearance of the Dwemer, well, there were prime living spaces. The only thing that saddened her was that she could not talk with them about their culture, their customs, their history. She sighed, and continued making her way through the dwelling. Once she had cleared the Chauri pen, she turned back, and found her way blocked by a wave of bandits. She was quite surprised to see Fjola leading the charge.
"Well color me impressed. I just got the message two days ago. And you already cleared the Falmer out. What by the Nine are you doing here, Shulmah?" the Nord asked.
"This one was just passing through. Would you like to explain the situation please," Shulmah said calmly?
"Of course. Ever since you offered me that deal, I have been steadily expanding my group and making allies. The group here were good people, if a little stubborn."
"This one sees you took her advice to heart. This one shall send you a list of orders in the coming weeks. And from now on, this one is to be called Vokun-Zuld, when on official business."
"Of course. I'll send a messenger to your village when I'm done here."
Shulmah nodded and left. She kept heading south and quite literally jumped into a Stormcloak Field Camp. She marked its location in the Reach. She moved along the rocks she came across the Karthwasten Mine. She had heard rumours about its richness in ore and that the Silver-Bloods did not own it. She walked up to the house.
"Greetings, this one is called Vokun-Zuld, she has heard you may require assistance."
"Yeah, the Silver-Bloods have hired mercenaries to keep me and my workers from the mine. We are not equipped nor experienced enough to have a confrontation. But we can pay."
"Agreed, as for payment, when this one calls for it, you support her. And open a supply line with the Broken Fang Cave camp, this one guarantees rich business."
Shulmah took out her sword and entered the mine.
Sauranach Mine
Shulmah raced through the mine, slicing through the mercenaries'' throats with her sword. By the time the leader noticed he was alone, Shulmah had already decapitated hi. She sealed away the bodies and walked back to the owner. She showed him proof of kill and reminded him of their agreement. After resealing everything, she left.
She jumped down the mountain side and landed on the road. She was growing annoyed, but if this got her the favour of Molag Bal, she would do it, as much as it displeased her. A few minutes upstream she came across a cave. After a short deliberation she entered it.
Blind Cliff Cave
She entered the cave and was greeted by a bubbly Forsworn teen. The girl showed her around and introduced her to everyone. After being showed to the second part of the cave, Shulmah traded food, pelts and drink, for gold and gems.
Blind Cliff Bastion
Shulmah had been led to a large hall, where a couple of dozen Forsworn were sitting.
"As you can see, Miss Vokun-Zuld. We are well prepared to wage campaigns against the invaders. Madanach has informed the tribes of your agreement. We will keep appearing, to remind them that we are still here. We are looking forward to the day you start the campaign. And we expect the return of the Old Ways," the chieftain said.
"Of course, you need not worry. This one has all intention of returning your customs, as long as you uphold your end of the bargain. This one hopes to see you also to seek coexistence."
Shulmah tensed when she saw a Hagraven approach.
"So, you are the pretty morsel, the Chieftains are talking about. What are you doing in my tower?" the Hagraven asked.
"This one has been passing through, she is on her way to a camp where a priest of Boethiah is being held."
Shulmah bowed and returned to the road. She walked along the road up river, until she found a good spot to cross. Crossing the river was easy, a simple jump and she was on the far shore. A few hours later she entered a cave. She read about the cave, in the texts of the ancients. A king of the Forsworn people, he was called the Red Eagle, named so because in battle he was covered by the blood of his enemies.
Red Eagle Redoubt
She was surprised to be greeted by the chieftain himself. He led her all the way through the caves and up to the ruins. She found the priest bound in a tent. She talked more of the one the legends called the Red Eagle. The chieftain allowed the release of the priest, but to hold the blade of the legendary king, Shulmah accepted the challenge and a few minutes later Shulmah and the Chieftain were circling each other. This was to be a friendly bout, no armor, no weapons.
Shulmah was standing in a loin cloth and a cloth covering her chest. The chieftain too only clad in the cloth. She waited for the chieftain to move. He moved in with a wide swing. Shulmah ducked under it and jabbed at his kidneys. The chieftain stumbled and spun around, barely dodging the roundhouse kick aimed for his neck. He charged again, his punch being blocked and his arm grabbed. Shulmah threw him over her shoulder and onto the ground. He tried to get back onto his feet, but collapsed. Shulmah tossed him a potion and donned on her armor again.
The Chieftain groaned and had his people fetch the sword. Shulmah traded furs, food and drink, for gold and gems. After gathering her belongings and sealing them away she walked down the path a bit towards the priest.
"Hail priest, this one has come to set you free," she said, taking out her Hunting Knife.
"Free me? No one knew where I was, when they took me. Who sent you?"
"Lady Boethiah."
"The Dark Mistress herself. She sent you? Wait! Molag Bal. Of course. I have to get to Markarth. Cut me loose!"
"If this one may, Lady Boethiah has told her to be present with the ritual. Would you be able to wait for her? She is on her way to Markarth as well, but she has matters elsewhere to attend beforehand."
"Of course. I doubt the Mistress will mind if I wait for a few days."
"This one thanks you."
Shulmah watched the man rush off while she entered the Red Eagle Tower. Once she exited it after being guided through it. She headed a little ways east and came by a cave, which she entered to complete her maps.
Rebel's Cairn.
She found a pedestal and remembered the stories. Rebel's Cairn was the final resting place for the legendary king, the Red Eagle. She put his sword, Red Eagle's Fury, into the pedestal. On the far side, a hidden passage opened. As she followed the path, she entered the resting hall of the Red Eagle. As she stepped up to the coffin, the lid blew up. With a roar of power, the Red Eagle rose from his rest. Shulmah unsealed her shield and spear and waited for the king to gain his bearings. In the meanwhile, Skeletons rushed her, though they were quickly dispatched. When the final Skeleton fell, Shulmah rammed the butt of her spear into the ground. The Red Eagle had watched her. Slowly he walked up to her. He lifted his shield and tapped his against her. He then took a few steps back and readied himself. Shulmah readied herself as well. Being the intruder, she had the reactionary move. Her opponent charged. Shulmah lifted her shield and stepped forward. She bashed her opponent's chest, forcing him back. Swiping at his feet with his spear, she kept him unbalanced. She thrust her spear at his head, only for it to be blocked. Lifting her shield, she blocked a sword strike and used her size to withstand the kick. It unbalanced her opponent and she pushed forward, forcing him onto the ground. She brought her spear down and pierced his heart.
"You have fought well, king of old. This one is honored to have fought you."
She sealed her spear and shield and carried the dead body back to his tomb. She claimed his sword as prize and replaced it with an Ancient Nordic Sword. After that, she looted the room and left.
Back outside, she headed back west. She passed the Four Skull Lookout dwelling and cleared it. She found a pedestal and made a note to look into the dwelling when she had the time. She moved west further towards Markarth. A few hours she was standing at the gates of Markarth, with an armed escort of guards. Groaning inwardly, she resisted the urge to kill them.
"Miss Vokun-Zuld. We are asked to escort you to Understone Keep. The Jarl wants a word for you," one of them said.
"And what does the Jarl want to say? Or does he simply wish to put this one back into Cidhna Mine for no reason," she mocked them.
"We do not know, we're simply following orders."
Shulmah sighed and signaled them to lead the way. A few minutes later, they entered Understone Keep. As she walked towards the Jarl she heard some guards mutter about the Hall of the Dead being closed. She saw Thongvor Silver-Blood leaning against the wall.
"You there, Convict. What are you doing here again?" he spat.
"You'd do well to show more respect to your betters, Nord," Shulmah said with a proud, yet irritated tone.
"This one is in a foul mood, and she will not be insulted by people who only use scapegoats to push their narrative. This one has done no wrong and if she had wished it, she could have walked right back out of Cidhna's main entrance."
"Hmpf, filthy beast," he muttered.
Shulmah's arm shot out for an instant, a fist sized hole appearing next to the Nord's head.
"This one repeats, mind how you address your betters. She is not above lethal retaliation."
"Are you threatening me, rug?"
"No, this one is warning you, worm. If you provoke this one, she will retaliate."
Shulmah continued to the throne, thankful that the guards had just ignored the confrontation. She stood in front of the throne, annoyed that she was being made to wait. A few minutes later, the Jarl, his steward, his guard and two of the city guards were in the small nook of the throne room. Shulmah was not impressed, it was a very poor attempt at intimidation.
"Thank you for waiting, Miss Vokun-Zuld. I have asked you here to offer my official apologies for having you arrested, even though you were innocent. And as a gesture of this, I would like to offer you a home in the city and title within the hold, provided you prove to be of use for the hold."
"And what would this one be doing to prove herself?" Shulmah asked, growing more annoyed by the second.
"Clear the Dragon Bridge Overlook of the Forsworn."
Sighing Shulmah bowed and left. She walked outside and disappeared in a flash of crimson. She appeared at the Cliffside Retreat and headed north. A few minutes later, she reached the camp.
Dragon Bridge Overlook
What she saw was them burning a large wood made figurine of Madanach. They were turning against their king and so were exempt from her agreement with the man. She shot an arrow into the sky and watched the shower of metal, cover the entire area. She dispelled the arrows and retrieved the original. She walked to the edge of the cliff and sketched the town of Dragon Bridge, as well as the bridge that gave the town its name. After that, she looted the area and returned with a flash of crimson.
She startled the guards at the door and entered the Keep. She marched up to the throne and unsealed the five heads and tossed them at the Jarl's feet.
"There you have the five heads of those in the camp. Has this one proven herself now?"
"Yes, but I have one more request. My father died trying to negotiate with the Forsworn, back when that was still possible. His shield is with those Hagravens that seem to be allied with those savages. It would be wonderful if I could have it back."
"Where is the shield?" Shulmah asked, somehow keeping her annoyance out of her voice.
"An old Nordic Tower called Bleakwind Bluff."
"This one will return momentarily."
She marched back outside and teleported herself to the tower.
Bleakwind Bluff
The Forsworn of the tower were allies and that was proven as she ascended the steps. Draska, the Hagraven saw her and greeted her. She was not well versed in the language of the higher races, but she was good at signing what she said. Shulmah signed as well, a sign of respect.
"The fool of Markarth wants his father's shield. I can trade a dozen bodies for it," she signed
"Of course."
Draska left and returned, tossing her the shield.
"Have you been degraded to an errand girl now?"
"All is done to achieve the main goal. As degrading as it is, with the title I will receive, I will be able to sway the populous when the time comes. But I truly wish to see a Jarl fight his own battles for once, this one is on the front lines more than she is at home. And her people are faring fine, thank you, here are the bodies."
She unsealed the dozen bodies and bowed. Grabbing the shield, she disappeared in a flash of crimson and stood back in front of Understone Keep.
She entered the Keep and marched to the Jarl. She handed him the shield and crossed her arms in front of her chest.
"There is the shield. Now for the reward," she said, having no more interest to show false politeness.
"Yes, I grant you permission to buy property in Markarth. My uncle will handle the details."
Shulmah handed the man a large pouch with gold and common gems.
"That covers it all. Now, what about the title of Thane? That was the title you were talking about, correct?"
"Yes. You now have land and with your exploits in the mine, you are known to my people. I hereby grant you the title of Thane of the Reach. I'll grant you this blade from my armory as a sign of station. I'll also inform the guards, wouldn't want them to think you part of the common rabble. Your housecarl will look over your home, while you are away."
Shulmah bowed and headed to the Silver-Blood in. Sitting down at the fire, she leaned back in her chair and dozed off. She woke up a few hours later the next morning. She stretched and left the inn, ignoring the displeased looks the staff was sending her way. She walked to the abandoned house and woke the priest sleeping in the bed. He led her down to the shrine and was captured.
"Molag Bal, I have won this bout before?!" the man said.
"Yes… But now I have my own champion."
The man looked back and gasped.
"You!?"
"One should never trust any information without researching it thoroughly."
"You, Lilmothiit, take the mace from its stand. Now punish him."
Shulmah sighed, taking a few swings, she slammed the mace into the priests foot, breaking it. He remained silent. Shulmah systematically started breaking each joint, with each the pain increased. She slammed it into his neck breaking the neck, but keeping him alive. Shulmah had to hand it to the priest, he had not yet broken. The man was on the ground, in pain. Shulmah sighed and channeled Raiton Chakra into her hand. She tapped the man, making him seize with the electricity of her Chakra. A few minutes later the man submitted and she was told to kill him. She slit his throat and was rewarded with the Mace of Molag Bal. She marked the house and was going to have a couple of warriors stand guard and live in it.
Shulmah left the house and made her way south towards the Orc Stronghold of Dushnik Yal. The trip was uneventful. She walked up to the gates and was greeted by the Orc female that had sent her on this errand.
"You have returned with the gauntlets. Enter! Speak to our Chief right away."
Shulmah did that and walked up to the chief. He was sitting in a chair in front of the longhouse. She unsealed the gauntlets and put them on the table next to him.
"Here are the Forgemaster's Fingers. Is this one now a Blood-Kin?" she asked.
"Yes, you have proven yourself and I grant you permission to be Blood-Kin to the Orsimer. The stronghold is now your family. Feel free to trade with our smith, train with our warriors."
"This one is honored. If you wish to open a beneficial trade route, send an emissary to the Broken Fang Cave, you will not be disappointed."
"I will think on it, Blood-Kin."
Shulmah nodded and left the stronghold. She passed Cradle Rack Tower and killed the attacking Hagraven. The loot was not really worth the time, but it made her life easier, as she did not have to dodge spells. Shulmah soon reached the hideout of the Dark Brotherhood. She entered it and walked into the entry room. She was immediately stopped by Astrid.
"We need to talk," she said.
"Something's been going on and it's been causing me to think on recent events. We both can agree, that Cicero's been causing enough trouble. I came to a decision. If the Night Mother did truly speak with you, then we would be mad to ignore it. So go to Volunruud, speak with this Amaund Motierre and see what he wants. I trust Cicero remains unaware."
"We shall see. This one has bounties to collect from Nazir. She will see if the Jester reacts," Shulmah replied.
She walked into the eating room where the Redguard was eating some Venison Chops. She unsealed a bottle of ice cold Mead and tossed it to the man, who was amazed by the temperature of the alcoholic beverage.
"The Cursed Blood Hern is dead. It was not as challenging as you made it out to be. As for the bard, someone else took him out of all our misery."
"No sarcasm this time. You faced a Vampire and lived to tell the tale. Well done. And if you contracted Sanguinare Vampiris, get that taken care of, else you turn out like our dear Babette. Unless of course, that has been your plan all along. Here's your reward."
Shulmah snorted, as if she needed to curse her blood to be immortal, she was a Biju, blessed by the divine trifecta of her home. There was no force on Mundus that could truly destroy her. Hurt? Most definitely. Kill? Possible, but chances of being wed to Dibella is more likely. But destroy? Impossible, she would reform within a few days to weeks. Not that she would give anyone the chance to harm her to such a degree.
"As for the bard, like I always say. The only good bard, is a dead bard. All that singing and… Mirth. Your payment, as usual."
Shulmah took the coin and left. She raced through the wildlands towards the north. She came across a few bandits after passing a few ruins. An hour of running saw her vault over a Mammoth, startling it and its shepherds. She skidded to a halt as the Giants raced towards her. She greeted the two and offered a few deer in apologies. She traded a few more scrolls worth of furs and meat, in exchange for gems and gold. After a brief conversation, she walked on and came across a bandit camp.
Halted Stream Camp
The camp was surrounded by a wooden wall. She circled around the left, up a small cliffside, allowing her to see into the camp. Four arrows later, she dropped into the camp and looted the outer area. The two chests hidden under the wooden ramparts. She saw the dead Mammoth and walked into the mine.
She quickly fired an arrow at the bandit mining for ore. She moved into the mine, putting her bow away she snuck around, killing with her knife and Kunai. She looted the four bandits and started to seal everything not nailed to the ground and had a group of Bunshin to mine the veins of ore. After an hour, she moved on.
Shulmah sighed and left, continuing up north. A few more miles up the hill and soon reached the crypt.
Volunruud
The crypt was still as desolated and looted as she had left it. She took a deep breath and soon found a fresh scent. Following it she entered the back room, away from the main path. She walked into the room and saw a man behind the door. She entered the room. She saw two men in the room. One in Light Legion Armor. The other was wearing some expensive looking robes. She looked at them and sized them up. The soldier seemed able enough, and the noble seemed weak. Sighing she spoke up.
"The Dark Brotherhood answers your summons," she said.
"By the almighty divines. You've come. You've actually come. That dreadful Black Sacrament thing… It worked," the noble exclaimed, walking up to her.
Shulmah eyed him and he froze. She remained silent, waiting for him to continue.
"Right then. You prefer to listen, is that it? Well, you must represent the Dark Brotherhood. Well, I won't waste your time. I would like to arrange a contract, several actually. I daresay, the work I'm offering has more significance than anything your organization has experienced in, well, centuries."
The man was starting to grind on her nerves. Couldn't he just cut to the chase. Suppressing a sigh, she motioned for him to continue.
"As I said, I want you to kill several people. You'll find the targets, as well as their manners of elimination, quite varied. I'm sure someone of your disposition will probably even find it enjoyable. But you should know that these killings are but a means to an end. For they pave the way to the most important target. The real reason I'm speaking with a cutthroat in the bowels of this detestable crypt, for I seek the assassination of the Emperor."
Shulmah's eyebrows shot up. She started to see his path of thinking. Due to her connections within the Legion, she knew the Emperor was destined to arrive for a wedding. If she were planning this, she would target key figures within the inner and outer circles to weaken the base and environment before going in for the kill.
"It's a shocking request, I know. But isn't that what your organization does? You must understand. So much has led to this day, so much planning and maneuvering. Now, it's as if the very stars have finally aligned. But I digress. Here, take these. They need to be delivered to your superior. Rexus. The items."
The soldier walked up to her and handed her a sealed letter.
"The sealed letter will explain everything that needs to be done. The amulet is quite valuable, you can use it to pay for any and all expenses."
Shulmah nodded and took the letter. Leaving the tomb, she disappeared in a flash of crimson. She appeared in front of the sanctuary a few seconds later. Sighing she entered and walked straight up to Astrid. She was leaning in the door way.
"Good, you're back. All right, so? Did you meet this Motierre? What did he want?"
Shulmah handed her the sealed letter.
"Multiple targets, all leading to the most important one. Emperor Titus Mede II himself," she said calmly.
"You're joking. What's this? By Sithis, you're not joking. To kill the Emperor of Tamriel, the Dark Brotherhood hasn't done such a thing since the assassination of Pelagius. As a matter of fact, no one has dared assassinate an Emperor of Tamriel since the murder of Uriel Septim, and that was 200 years ago," the Nord woman said shocked.
"Surely the Night Mother would not misdirect us…" Shulmah said.
"No, she certainly wouldn't. And, for whatever reason, she chose to relay Motierre's information to you. I don't know exactly what's going on here. If you're the Listener or this is some fluke, or what. But what we now have before us. You're damn right we'll accept it. If we pull this off, the Dark Brotherhood will know a fear and respect we haven't seen in centuries."
"So this one assumes, we will accept the kills?"
"You think I'd abandon an opportunity to lead my family to glory? But this is all so much to take in. I need time to read the letter and figure out where we go from here. And this amulet."
"What are you thinking?"
"I'm thinking we need that amulet appraised. I want to know where it came from, how much its worth, and if we can actually get away with selling it. And there's only one man who can give us what we need, Delvin Mallory. He's a fence, a private operator. Works out of the Ratway, in Riften. Give me the letter. Bring Mallory the amulet. Find out everything you can, and sell it if he's willing. He'll offer a letter of credit, that's fine. Delvin Mallory and the Dark Brotherhood have history. He can be trusted."
"This one will go at once."
Shulmah left. She walked back outside and walked into Falkreath. She headed to the blacksmith. Lod was sharpening a sword, with the wolf watching adamantly.
"Hail, how are things progressing with the current demand? Has the pup proven himself the companion you had hoped yourself to be."
"Yes, Iron has proven himself well. Pup is loyal, just as you said he'd be. Even had his first thief, but right through that Breton fool's throat. "
"That is good, be sure to be strict. Dominance is enforced by will, and upheld by rules."
Shulmah waved and left. Moving east towards Riften. She dropped by Pinewatch, leaving a set of orders for Rigel. After letting her clan member relay them, she continued. After a while she passed Helgen. She cleared out the bandits and looted the town. As much as she wanted to take it over, it would be too high of an impact for the political climate right now and may result in a ceasefire to take out a greater enemy. Granted with the support of her people and Alduin and his, there was none that could oppose, but that was not her path, it was Hidena's. Once she was certain she had looted the area clean, she moved on. She cleaned out Fort Neugrad's outer area and continued east. She sighed as she passed by a large battlefield close to the Alchemist's Shack. The skirmish had ended a few days prior, with what appeared to be a Stormcloak rout. Either that, or the platoon of Legionnaires was wiped out. She counted two dozen Imperial dead, and even more pools of blood not saturated with carcass. So there had been at least the same amount of Stormcloaks. She searched the area and soon found a handful of blood rails. She followed them up hill through some rocks. She was impressed to see them move so far, especially with the amount of blood loss. It was clear they were heading back to the field camp, but couldn't make it. They had veered off to the north west and were hiding in a cave. The dead bear with half a dozen arrows and two swords sticking in its flesh were a good sign. From what she saw, they should still be alive, albeit they have not yet been eaten.
Honeystrand Cave
As she entered, she saw a bear slowly bleeding out a few feet away from the entrance. She made her way towards it and thrust her Hunting Knife into the back of its neck. The bear gave one last grunt and exhaled one last time. She sighed, looking around she finally saw the five injured soldiers. They had a small fire going and the meager medical supplies they had were used as good as they were trained to. She sighed and walked over to them. The bandages were bled through, the other wounds were showing signs of infection. She walked over to the fire and sat down. She unsealed her Medical and Survival Scrolls. Out of the Survival Scroll she got a large amount of firewood, a large kettle, several smaller pots and numerous food supplies. Setting up a large campfire, she set up the kettle and lit the fire. Filling the kettle with water, she adder herbs and powders to it. In the others, she started to prepare food. She made a Bunshin to handle the meal, while she went to the soldiers.
"It would seem you have run out of supplies Praefect. May this one assist?" she asked the wounded Imperial.
The woman had her arm in a sling and was bleeding through a number of other wounds from all over her torso. Many of the other soldiers were in an even worse she. Sighing she walked over to them.
"And who are you, Khajiit?" the Praefect asked.
"This one is Vokun-Zuld and she is an Auxillary," Shulmah replied.
"Oh, so you're the independent. I heard a few stories, so, you have any medical supplies?"
"Yes, and the training and experience to use them. This one will heal you and help you return to the field camp. Now, please, lay down on the matt and remove your clothing, armor and bandages."
Shulmah unsealed an open sleeping bag. She unsealed all of her medical supplies and motioned to the bag. She took a large bottle of distilled alcohol and looked over the injuries. The Praefect had seven major injuries. A deep cut in the left biceps, two pierce wounds in the chest, her right knee was dislocated, a fractured right femur, a deep cut in the left quads and an arrow still pierced in the muscles as well. Someone had been smart enough to not pull it out.
Shulmah unsealed a scalpel and cut the skin away from the arrow, pulled the skin away from the shaft and then pulled the arrow out. She poured some of the alcohol on the now empty wound. She flipped the skin back over, and used two silver stamps and secured the skin. Dipping a bandage into the large kettle and then tied it around the leg. The two cuts were cleaned by a soaked bandage going into the wounds. Then it was sealed with a cream of medical herbs. Once that was done, the wound was bandaged and Shulmah healed it with her Shosen Jutsu. The green glow healing the cuts, accelerated by the herbs and the body's natural healing. The pierce wounds were healed the same way, as was the cut on her right arm. Next Shulmah focused on the broken Femur. She sighed, got a bottle of berry juice, an empty wine bottle and poured half of the berry juice into the empty bottle. The rest was filled with the alcohol and mixed. Once that was done, she grabbed the Nords jaws and forced the drink down her throat. Ten seconds later the Nord was coughing and extremely inebriated. She pulled the leg back, aligned the bone and swiftly made a splint from cloth a pair of short metal rods and wood. Once that was taken care of, she secured it with more cloth and string. The knee was easiest. Straighten the leg and carefully let the Patella slip back into place. She wrapped a bandage around it and made sure it supported the knee. Once that was done, she unsealed the next sleeping bag.
The next soldier was an Orsimer, he was big and well-muscled. He showed very clear signs of having fallen into a berserker rage, his grey green skin was marred with scars and wounds. The biggest problem was the bone deep gash on the back along his shoulders. He was sat on the bearskins showing the wound. Shulmah cleaned the wound with a bandage, filled it with the healing paste and then bandaged it with a plaster bandage she had created with some natural glue. She quickly cleaned the wounds and bandaged them. She then used her Shosen Jutsu and healed the front of the torso and then had the orc lay down on his stomach. She slowly healed the cut on his back and allowed the body to heal the remainder of the wound by itself. After handing him some herbs to dull the phantom pain and the pain of scar tissue forming. Then she unsealed another sleeping bag.
The next soldier was a Redguard, his dark brown skin was covered in burns. Shulmah covered the burns with a healing paste and then covered the injury with bandages. She then numbed the burns with a minor anesthetic made from Lavender. Once the Lavender had taken effect she slowly lowered him onto the bear pelts and made certain that he stayed on his side. She unsealed another sleeping bag.
The next was a Breton, poor fool had received a half dozen arrows to his legs and right arm. She followed the same procedure as with the Praefect and made sure to check that the arrowheads had not shattered or had been poisoned. Once that was certain, she dressed the wounds and put him to the ground. After that she unsealed a fifth sleeping bag.
The final survivor was covered with cuts and bruises. Shulmah sat the Imperial down and cleaned the wounds. This time, she did not dress them, but instead healed them instead with her green glowing hands. Once the wounds were healed, she lay him down.
After she had finished, she sealed away her medical supplies. Minutes later the meal was ready and the six enjoyed the steaks and ribs. After half an hour, the soldiers were done with their meals, Shulmah cleaned and sealed everything away. After another hour, she looked at the soldiers.
"Are you fit to move?" Shulmah asked the Praefect.
"The Breton and Redguard should be fine, the Orsimer will feel discomfort for until a good night's sleep. The Imperial is in fighting condition, you however, even with the healing magic this one possesses, you are not in any condition to be moved. This one will build a stretcher, have your men ready in ten minutes."
Shulmah unsealed two wooden staffs and secured a few sheets of leather between them with strong string. Testing it with a couple of clones, she made sure to have it strong enough to carry her weight. When everyone was ready and everything was packed away, she lifted the Praefect onto the stretcher. Once that was done, the others limped after her. The Breton and Redguard were carrying the stretcher. The Imperial and Orc were flanking the stretcher. It took them about ten minutes to reach the field camp. Once they were in the camp, Shulmah dismissed them and sold the loot she didn't need. After a few minutes, she moved on. She climbed up a mountainside and found a shack. She walked up to it and found a name on the door, Froki's.
Froki's Shack
Shulmah entered the shack and stared at the business end of a drawn arrow. Shulmah sighed flicked a Kunai and cut the string of the bow. The old man stared at her in shock and forced himself to relax. Shulmah pulled the Chakra String and the Kunai came back to her.
"Peace. This one does not seek battle."
"Well, well. What does a city rat want outside those walls? Or have you come to speak about your divines?" the old man mocked.
"This one is not interested in mockery, she has come for stories of old."
"Well at least someone respects the old ways. Foreigners more often than not don't even respect their own gods, let alone those of others. Now what can I do for you? I can tell you about the old ways, or I could send you on the path of the Sacred Trials."
"Sacred Trials? This one is intrigued."
"It's an old Nord tradition, to test yourself in the eyes of Kyne. Show that you're a hunter and not a simple butcher. Kyne teaches us to respect the beasts, and blesses the hunter who faces their champions. True Nord hunters are those who survive the trials. Do you think you're strong enough for Kyne's blessing. I would be glad to point you along the path."
"This one thank you for the offer. She accepts, it will be a great source for her research into the old ways. What is this one to do?"
"You must hunt beasts blessed by Kyne. I'll anoint you with the symbol of the Wolf, the Crab and the Skeever. This will compel the guardian to appear when you reach his lair. Here's where you need to go. Return when you are successful."
She was handed three totems, which she attached to her armor with some string. She left the shack and moved on through the mountainside. After a while she slid down a slope and ended up in front of a cave. She looked around and found a table with a journal on it. Skimming through it, she soon found out where she was. She sealed everything away and entered the cave.
Angarvunde
She walked down the tunnel, ignoring the mutterings of a female further down the line. A minute later she reached the Dunmer and was stopped by the foolish woman.
"What do you think you're doing, beast?" she sneered.
"This one is exploring," Shulmah replied with a neutral tone.
"Really, how about we work together. I'm on the verge of incredible wealth, and my workforce ran out on me."
"Is there a reason for that?" Shulmah asked.
"Yes, we were excavating this old tomb when we broke open this old chamber full of old corpses."
"Have they never seen dead bodies before?" Shulmah asked, hiding her amusement.
"Well, not like these. These are still walking around. In any case, if I can't get past these creature, I can't get into the treasure room of this tomb."
"Draugr, the souls of the old warriors. They guard the resting place of powerful and important leaders. This one would be happy to assist you by doing battle with them, for a share of the treasure."
"That doesn't sound like a bad idea. If you can get me to the treasure room, we'll split it fifty-fifty."
"Agreed, as long as you listen to this one and advance when she has cleared the way?"
"Yeah, yeah."
Shulmah moved into the chamber and moved with the shadows and silently taking out the Draugr by braking their necks. Once that was done she looted the bodies and waited for the Dunmer once she arrived, she walked to an iron gate. Sighing, Shulmah explained that most tombs had similar security measures to ensure the safety of those who lay within. She was given a key and sent on her way. She sighed and walked to the northwest.
Angarvunde Ruins
Shulmah walked along the halls and carefully disarmed the pressure plates. She walked into a room and ducked backwards under a horizontal axe swing. Completing the walkover, she blocked the return follow up. She grabbed the hilt, twist it loose of the Draugr's grip and slit his throat. Looting the body, she cleaned out the room and continued. The next Draugr was eliminated with a precise shot with her bow. The arrow cleanly pierced the helmeted skull, leaving the Draugr to crumble to the ground. For the one patrolling the lower floor, she dropped down on him, crushing him beneath her with her weight and momentum. She cleaned out the chamber and looted the bodies. Then she walked up the stairs and dodged an Ice Spike launched at her head. Another came flying, but was swiftly dispatched with a minor Katon Jutsu. She acted quickly and followed it up with another. The flaming orb connected and engulfed the warrior and a few seconds later rendered him dead and crispy. Sighing she looted the dead and moved on. Hitting the switch she crossed the first room and deeper into the ruins. She entered a ruin and dashed forwards and killed the two awakening Draugr stepping out of their coffins. Her two Hidden Blades and her acrobatic abilities giving her a sizable edge against her enemy. She continued on and after breaking the neck of another Draugr. She moved on and ended up in the main chamber. She pulled the lever and saw one of the iron gates slide up. She walked back to the Dunmer and headed to the southeast into the other part of the tomb.
Angarvunde Catacombs
Shulmah made her way along the passage and dropped down into another passage. After slitting the throat of a Draugr and continued deeper into the catacombs. She moved along, sending a dozen Bunshin and looted the bodies as they fell. She moved through the catacombs and after a while reached the Iron Door leading back into the main chamber.
She dodged the two Draugr swinging swords at her head, she pierced their hearts with her Hidden Blades and walked into the main chamber. The Dunmer rushed into the chamber and stopped for a moment. Then she was squashed as the platform shot up and revealed a hidden passage. Shulmah sighed and walked down into the treasure room. She entered the room and spotted the word wall. She sat down and sketched it.
'Het Dir Bruniik Rek-Grohiik (Here died (the) savage She-Wolf)
Ulfeidr Kriid Muz Sunavaar (Ulfeidr slayer (of) men and beast)
Bruniik Kinbok Sahqon TAH (Savage leader (of the) Crimson PACK)'
The Crimson Pack. That was a name she had not heard of yet. Noting it for future investigation, she got up and left the tomb. She continued east and ignored the Dwemer Ruin. She was in a hurry to get to Riften and would return when she had less to worry about. She moved on and stumbled into a fight between an Orc Stronghold and a few Giants. Sadly, the Giants were killed and Shulmah was inadvertently pulled into tribal punishment by the Daedric Prince, Malacath. Not wanting to insult the entity, she stuck around for the ritual. As she walked into the Stronghold.
"Welcome to Lagashbur, outsider. I hope you will be able to help us. Do you have Troll Fat and a Daedra Heart on you by any chance?" the old female asked.
"Yes, this one does have those items. However, she was announced Bloodkin to the Orsimer, by Chief Burguk of Dushnik Yal."
"Excellent. Thank you, Bloodkin. Now, come with me. You are now part of this, and you must be present at the ritual. Go to the shrine, I'll get our Chief, Yamarz."
Shulmah nodded and walked to the designated area and waited. A few minutes later she returned with who Shulmah presumed was Yamarz, the Chief.
"You bring an outsider here, and now insist I call on Malacath for help, when he has clearly forsaken me? You try my patience, Atub," the male said, glaring at the Wise Woman and at her.
"Doing nothing will not grant our tribe relief from this curse. We must try," Atub replied, clearly annoyed.
"Fine, let's get this over with," the Chief growled.
"Now, we begin the ritual..." the Wise Woman said.
"Great Malacath, we beseech you, aid us in our time of need..." 7
"Why are we bothering with this?" Yamarz muttered.
A few seconds later a powerful voice rang out from the shadows of the stronghold.
"You pathetic weakling!"
"What's that?" Yamarz asked.
"Malacath has heard my pleas! He speaks to us!" Atub explained.
"You dare summon me, Yamarz?" Malacath exclaimed, his voice ringing from every shadow.
"What? What is this?" Yamarz said, starting to grow anxious.
"You don't deserve to call yourself an Orc! You're weak, you're small, and you're an embarrassment. You let Giants... Giants! Overrun my shrine! Bring me their leader's club, as an offering and I might release you from this curse!" Malacath growled.
"So it will be. Malacath has spoken, Yamarz. Your path is clear," Atub said.
"Very well. You, outsider, come here! I want a word," the Orc growled, pushing a finger into her chest.
"This is all your fault, you know. I'm stuck fighting a giant, thanks to you. So, you're going to help me. You're going with me, and you're going to make sure I don't have any trouble reaching that giant. Don't worry, I'll make it worth your while."
Shulmah grabbed the offending digit and in a single motion bent it to the right abruptly, breaking it. She followed up by stepping up to the Orc, sending him off balance. This caused him to take a step back to regain his balance, leaving him unstable and open to a quick finish. Shulmah used the opening and swiped away the remaining leg, sending him to the ground. She finished it by putting her foot on the ground, right next to his face.
"The fault is yours for abandoning your ways. This one has no interest in your personal grudge against the Giant people. She and her people are allied to them and this one will not betray such a contract of trust. She will escort you to your battle, but she will not fight it for you."
Shulmah then turned to the shrine.
"And Lord Malacath, this one knows that you feel insulted by the actions of her allies, and she understands it well. However, this one will seek a diplomatic solution to this situation. Blood has already been shed on both sides, therefore the blood price has been paid. This one suggests you try and reign in your pride, else you want your people to become extinct in these lands."
"For a mere Bloodkin you are quite foolish, challenging me in the way that you have. But then again, you are no normal mortal are you, Shulmah of the Whirlpool People. Yes, I know all about you. Your dealings with Meridia in her temple. Your dealings with Molag Bal and Boethia's priest. She is quite pleased about how you misled him and hopes to meet you face to face soon. Not to forget your actions against Hircine's little traitor. Vaermina is also quite fond of you after taking her artifact, something about all the new inspiration she gained from centuries of war and torture. The, of course, there is Sithis who sees you as a grandchild for being able to hear his wife's words. And of course Nocturnal is watching you and your actions regarding her guild. And finally, how you settled that little dispute between Barbas and his master, Clavicus Vile. Yes, I will not call for vengeance, if I get that club. If you can achieve that through talking, do as you please, but first Yamarz must avenge his pitiful existence, whether he perishes or not, is of no concern to me. Just make sure he does actually fight and die like an Orc should," the Daedric Prince said.
"Of course," Shulmah replied, only then noticing the entire Stronghold staring at her, mouths agape.
"What, this one bores easily and does not enjoy doing nothing. So she travels and tries to experience as much as she can. Now then, go to the cave and then throw this knife to the ground. She will be there as soon as she is able. And she suggests you wait though however, that finger is broken cleanly and will take a few days to start mending enough for potions and magic to heal it completely. If you are smart, you will wait."
Shulmah bowed to the Shrine and left, tossing one of her tri-prong Kunai into the dirt as she passed through the gate. She walked along the stony cliffside and after an hour hiking she noticed the weather turning bad. She looked around and spotted a fort, as bad in a condition as it was, it would get her out of the snowstorm that was beginning to rage.
Darklight Tower
The fort's interior was in slightly better state. As she walked up to the door, she heard sounds of battle. Opening the door, she watched as a mage, a girl barely out of her teens, impale another mage with two Ice Spikes.
"By the Gods! I know this looks bad! Let me explain…" the girl exclaimed.
"A clean kill, one spike through the neck and another through the chest. This one couldn't have done it better herself. Well done," Shulmah said, eying the kill.
"I… You… What?" the girl asked shocked.
"What is this place?" Shulmah asked, ignoring the girl's sputtering.
"I used to call it home," the girl said, after having calmed down.
"I know that this was a mistake. I am, or rather was part of the coven that serves the Hagraven that live here. So was she."
"So you killed that female?" Shulmah asked amused.
"I didn't want to, but she attacked me, trying to stop me from leaving. I can't be a part of this place anymore. The things we do here, evil, evil things. No more!"
"So why did she need to die, surely if your wish was to escape, Paralysis would be easier to utilize?"
"We were sent out to find a sacrifice. A Human sacrifice. I told her I couldn't do it and she attacked. I've done horrible thing living here, but never taken an innocent life. I couldn't just find some person for them to kill."
"Why did you need a sacrifice anyway?"
"The Initiation. My Mother is going to become one of those things. I couldn't be part of that. Gods, I can't run away from this. I have to stop her. I'm going up there to stop them. This cycle must end. I don't know what brought you here, but I sure could use your help."
"Of course," Shulmah said.
"As long as you listen to this one. You need a sacrifice, you have one. You want to end this coven, take the sacrifice to the altar, and this one will handle the killing."
"And how are you going to do that?"
Shulmah grinned and a second later twenty Bunshin stepped out of a cloud of smoke. The girl stared in shock and a few seconds later the Bunshin vanished in thin air.
"This one will be your sacrifice. She assumes she'll have to be unarmed."
Shulmah sealed away her gear and put on the clothes she was given in Cidhna Mine.
"By the way, this one is called Shulmah, who will she be assisting?"
"My name is Illia. I hope you know what you're doing."
Shulmah nodded and had one of the Bunshin bind her arms behind her back and push a gag into her mouth. Illia put her hand on Shulmah's back and gave her a light push. Shulmah walked up the stairs and passed a Troll and Frostbite Spider. As the continued, the Bunshin eliminated the threats. They passed an alchemist who saw Illia and nodded appreciatingly. The moved on passed more Mages and another Troll. A few seconds later the threats fell to the ground, dead. As they continued, the Bunshin looted and killed silently and indiscriminately. A few minutes later they entered a new part of the fort.
Darklight Chambers
As the two continued, they passed more and more humans. The higher they got in the tower, the more they encountered. A short while later they stood in front of a locked door. Illia cursed, but was quickly rewarded by the sight of the key appearing in the lock. After a few seconds of gaping at the key, Illia continued. After moving up the tower Illia stopped.
"This is it. Mother is just outside the door. Is the plan still the same?" she asked nervously.
"Yes, you present this one as the sacrifice and this one will kill her."
"Kill her?" the girl asked.
"Yes, if she is willing to kill an innocent, she has no right to live anymore."
"Alright, let's go," the girl sighed.
Outside, Illia's mother was talking with her daughter. After a few minutes, Shulmah was beckoned to sit on a chair. When she sat down, the older woman collapsed under an invisible weight, blood starting to seep from a wound in her neck. Sighing Shulmah got up and consoled the poor girl. Sighing she offered to take the girl along. Her Bunshin came and handed her scrolls with the loot. Shulmah took it and started to walk with Illia following.
"Aren't you going to free yourself?" the girl asked baffled.
"No, this one is in no danger and her appearing to be weak, will draw out bandits, allowing this one to observe how you handle yourself."
"Why would you want to see that?"
"If you are travelling with this one, this one is responsible for you. Which means she will make sure you can hold your own in battle."
"And how are you going to hold your own?"
"Easy, attack and she will show you."
Illia struck out with her fist and was dodged with ease. Again and again, she desperately tried to land a hit one the large beast woman. After a few minutes the poor girl was panting only the floor.
"You have sloppy technique. You are too direct, you project your movements. You also only stuck with your fists. Why not use that dagger in your robes. Or the magic you most definitely know?"
"You never said I could use them?"
"This one also did not say you couldn't use them."
"But you're unarmed," she cried.
"So are half of the travelers being killed by bandits each day. Do you think they care? No, they don't. Do not hold yourself to some delusion of honor and fairness. If you battle, fight to win. Use poison, fire, anything to get an edge."
Shulmah started to explain the basis of Taijutsu as they made their way south. A few minutes later they walked into the remains of a Dwemer Ruin. The plaque in the central courtyard named it Rkund. The ruins were destroyed and inaccessible. Shulmah took a deep breath and turned towards a Whispmother sending spells towards her.
"YOL! TOOR! SHUL!"
A stream of fire erupted from her mouth bathing everything in its path with white hot flames. A few seconds later a few explosions were heard and the flames gradually died down. Shulmah turned to the shocked Illia, her mouth agape and her eyes wide in terror and away.
"As you can see, this one is far from helpless. Search the area, see if the Dwemer left a clue as to what this place was."
After a few minutes of searching both came up emptyhanded, much to Shulmah's irritation. They continued and after a few more minutes of hiking, dropped down to road level. They spotted a Frostbite Spider face off against a wolf and win. Shulmah killed it with a stomp, using one of the mandibles to cut the ropes binding her. She unsealed her gear and stretched a few seconds to loosen her arms again.
Crystaldrift Cave
The cave was filled with animals. A few bears and a Frostbite Spider after killing them with a few well-placed arrows, the two looked around. Shulmah found an old man lying on a stone altar. He was dead, had been for quite a while. His body was starting to decompose. She sighed and looted the corpse. The Bosmer had a staff next to him, Gadnor was inscribed on it. She looked at the body again and showed clear signs of an hyperallergic reaction. His neck was swollen shut and his eyes were still red and swollen. Sighing, Shulmah sealed his belongings and cleaned out the cave.
Exiting the cave, greeted the two females with a cold breeze. Shulmah followed its direction and spotted a ruin in the distance atop of a mountain. Looking forward to some more exploration, Shulmah ignored her impulse to run to Riften and made her way up the mountainside. Walking up to the ruins, she spotted a dragon, lazing about on the stone. Shulmah directed an immense wave of Killing Intent its way and made sure it got the message that she was not worth the effort. As she moved up the stairs, the dragon watched them, but did not move. Shulmah walked up to the ruin and found a plaque.
Lost Tongue Overlook
The plateau overlooked a wide view of the Rift. In the north she saw another Nordic Tomb. She walked around the plateau, and finally sat down in front of the word wall. She took out her field journal and began to sketch the wall, the dragon separately, then both together.
'Het Nok Kopraan Do Sonaan (Here lies (the) body of Bard)
Romerius Wo Unt RU Nol Osos (Romerius who tried (to) RUN from some)
Gogil Nuz Motmah (Goblins but slipped)'
Shulmah laughed. Looking up to the sky along the ridge, she whistled. That was a steep drop. When she was done sketching, she unsealed a rope and two harnesses. She handed one of them to Illia and put on the other. A few minutes later, Shulmah was following the girl down the mountain. While she was rappelling down, she tossed a few Kunai at some mages, killing them. Shulmah sealed the gear away and looked around. Moving east, and up the mountain, they soon reached the crypt on top. Walking into the courtyard the two saw an Imperial Officer. The man walked up to them and stopped.
"Halt! If you are a true friend of the Empire, you will help me with my mission?"
"And what mission would that be, Captain…"
"Captain Valmir, Fourth Legion. The General sent me here to secure a powerful weapon for the war effort. This was the last great bastion of the Dragon Cult, their leader's mask was reported to be quite powerful," the man said.
"Any more information on this place?" Shulmah asked.
"This is Forelhost. The last stand of the Dragon Cult. It seems after their strength has been broken after the Dragon War, the last contingent came here to create a stronghold and regroup. King Harrald's forces crushed stragglers here during the First Era and it has been haunted ever since, but the specifics of the siege are unclear."
"What of the Dragon Cult? Any information on their numbers, strengths?"
"They were among the first men to arrive from Atmora and worshipped certain animals as avatars of the Gods, dragons being foremost. And for their bloody sacrifices, the dragons gifted their priests with terrible powers. Their cruelty was too great for men to bear, and they rose up in what would be known as the Dragon Wars. And the Cult was swept from the land."
"Of course we will help. The Legions deserve all the help citizens can give."
"Very good. The research I've done, leads me to believe that part of Skorm Snow-Strider journal is somewhere inside. Your objective is that journal and the mask of the cult's leader."
"Are you going to be joining us, Captain Valmir of the Fourth Legion?"
"No, I'm too important for the war effort to risk life and limb in there… Besides, that's why I hired you. Report back to me when you have succeeded."
Shulmah nodded and entered the crypt.
Forelhost
As soon as the doors shut, Shulmah punched the wall, leaving a fist sized hole in the stone. She continued down the hall cursing enough to make sailors stop in awe. She only stopped after she was attacked by a spectral Dragon Cultist. Sighing, she sat down at the fire and started to cook some food. Illia joined her and looked up to her expectantly.
"So why are you so irritated?" the girl asked curiously.
"That man is no Legionnaire. The fourth Legion is stationed in Gideon, a large city in Black Marsh. Skyrim is home to half of the Shadow Legion, the Fifth through Tenth Legions, as well as the Imperial Guard."
"So why did you agree to help?"
"Because, the masks of the Dragon Priests are powerful, blessed by the Dov, everything else has human bias all over it."
"How come?"
"Well, this might take a while… Where to begin? You know how the world was created correct? When Akatosh started the wheels of time for this plain of existence, he birthed the first Dov. You know him as Alduin, the World-Eater. And from him, all other dragons were born. When the people of Atmora came to the shores of Skyrim, they saw the Dov and fell to their knees in awe and reverence. And thus, the Dragon Cult began to establish itself in Skyrim. At first the Dov reigned supreme and undisputed, but over time, as generations came and went, the priests were corrupted more and more, until only one remained. Kohnarik, the Warlord. He remained loyal to Alduin and was banished from the plain. And with him gone, the remaining eight abused the power gifted to them and when the Dov learnt of this abuse, the priests sent word to the peasants, who attacked. In return the Dov retaliated. Over time Kynareth, and a traitor among the Dov, Paarthurnax. He and Kynareth taught the humans how to speak. And with this betrayal, the Dragon War truly commenced. Dov Fighting Dov. Man fighting Man. In the end, they forced Alduin into a time wound and the Dragon Cult was wiped out. We are currently in the Jerall Mountains, and if memory serves correctly, the priest we'll be facing is Rahgot. He was one of the last that turned, and only turned when his love died. He was very powerful, and a ruthless tactician. He would not have allowed his followers to be captured, no, this one is certain that he ordered the killings of his own, before their capture. Any questions?"
The girl shook her head, shocked. Shulmah sighed and packed up. Moving deeper into the crypt Shulmah dispatched the specters with her sword and shield. As they went on, they found more bodies. Shulmah made sure to disarm the pressure plates and made sure she was looting every crevice and nook for any and all valuables. A few minutes and a few more rekilled Cultists, Shulmah found the Journal. After skimming through it, she knew she had had Rahgot pegged correctly. He had poisoned the water supply, and the cult was wiped out by mere coincidence. Fate had her strange ways to punish sinners. Shulmah sighed and sealed away the journal. She pushed on, making sure to give Illia as much background information on the Dragon War and the Dragon Cult. After a while they entered another part of the Crypt.
Forelhost Crypt
As she moved on though the crypt, she took the chance to instruct Illia on the art of battle. She made sure to show her techniques regarding scouting, silent movement and self-concealment. After a few hours of one on one ambushes, the two warriors found themselves in front of an Iron Door. They entered the room and were surprised to see nothing hostile. A few seconds later however, a few coffin lids fell open and out stepped their Draugr inhabitants. Shulmah braced her shield and waited for the first strike. As soon as it came, the offending arm was cut off, followed by the head. She dashed to the second Draugr and neutralized him with a strike through the heart. Illia had penetrated her Draugr with dozens of Ice Spikes. Shulmah was impressed, three targets, six lethal shots, neck and chest. They looted the room and continued. Shulmah hid a key in her bracer.
They now stood in front of the locked well. It was a very difficult lock, but it would be a good to learn how to get passed a lock. She started explaining how to pick locks. After half an hour, Illia had finally picked the lock.
"Well done," Shulmah said.
"Though next time, break the lock, if you realize it will take too long."
Shulmah cupped her hand and took a sip from the well. She turned her head and spat out the water.
"Poisoned, this one hopes you can swim."
Shulmah unsealed a half dozen large bottles of antidote into the water, this crypt was deserted, laid off and abandoned. No one would notice if the Uzumaki took it over and use it as a power point for an invasion. Going by the last report she received, the ranks were swelling with not only the victims of the war, but also pariahs of society. Not only from within Skyrim, but all of Tamriel. She looked at Illia and saw her eye the water nervously. Sighing she turned to her and looked her in the eyes.
"You can't swim? That is a problem we will address later. Grab onto the shoulder latches of the armor, this one will pull you along. Take a deep breath when she says and close your eyes. Do not let go, no matter what."
She walked into the water until she was in it up to her neck. Illia latched onto the armor and took a deep breath. Shulmah dove, pushing off from the stairs, she propelled herself forwards and a short while later breached the water on the other side of the tunnel. Seconds later, the stood in front of a pool of oil. Illia overlooked it and was yanked back by the collar of her armor. Shulmah made a single one-handed hand seal and a small fire stream shot to the oil pool. The oil burnt and was gone a few seconds later. Once the girl had calmed down enough, they continued.
Walking down the hallway, Shulmah gave a sharp whistle, waking three Draugr and making them walk towards them. Seconds later a pillar shot up and rammed the three into the spiked ceiling.
"Important skill you need to learn. Assess your surroundings in an instant and utilize them for your advantage," Shulmah said calmly.
The continued on and after looting the bodies, entered the next part of the crypt.
Forelhost Refectory
They continued, Shulmah taking point, weakening the awakened Draugr by dismembering them, giving Illia the opportunity to practice killing blows and making her more comfortable with taking lives. As they moved on, Shulmah felt the deep pulsating presence of power. Rahgot was near, the presence his power radiated was overwhelming. Shulmah grinned, she could feel the deep anger in his presence, understandable, considering the love of his life died by the hands of those who served the to be High King of Skyrim. Hence all who supported that idea and their descendants deserved death. The sin of the parent is passed onto the child. She was not looking forward to facing him. But she was a Kunoichi, and as such, she would defeat him with superior firepower.
A short while later they stood in the alchemy lab of the monastery. In the garden, children were half buried. Sighing, Shulmah pulled them out of the hastily dug graves and piled them up and burnt them to ash. She told Illia to scavenge the area while she made sure the Draugr were dead. A while later she examined the body of a female. Judging by the letter next to her, this was Froda, and she had displeased the priest and was killed as a result. A short chant later, she too was burnt to ash.
They continued and after killing a few more Draugr, they stood in front of a dragon claw door. Shulmah watched in amusement as Illia tried and tried again to open the door. Shulmah had pocketed the foot ornament during her first strike. Its talons were made of glass, or maybe Refined Malachite. After waiting for a few more minutes, Shulmah showed her companion the ornament. After opening the door, Shulmah unsealed a handful of red pulsing balls. She walked up the stairs and jumped to the ceiling the instant the coffins opened. Illia stayed behind and watched as Shulmah threw the five balls at the five opponents. The four Draugr died instantly, their bodies reduced to ash. Rahgot was smoking, but still alive. Shulmah dropped down and crushed the undead priest into the floor.
They looted the remains and the room and after a few minutes they stepped through the door outside onto the Forelhost Battlements. Shulmah saw Captain Valmir now in Stormcloak attire, talking with a Stormcloak soldier. Sighing she notched two arrows and shot them. She walked the battlements and found a Word Wall. Sitting down she sketched it.
'Het Mah Hrothmar, BAH Grohiik (Here fell Hrothmar, WRATH Wolf,)
Do Bruniik Pindaar Aal Ok Sil (from (the) savage plains, may his soul)
Rovaan Sovengarde Mahfaeraak (wander Sovengarde forever)'
Hrothmar, the Wrath Wolf, from the ancient texts her people managed to restore, was Rahgot. He was a moon born before his death. From what could be salvaged, she learnt he was a good leader and even after his betrayal, followed the old ways of the Dragon Cult, putting them higher than the gods. Sighing, she got up and dropped back to the ground, letting Illia find her own way. Walking up to Valmir's corpse, she found a note with orders, mentioning the mask, and a place called Labyrinthion. She had a new target for the future, but for now she would continue her current endeavours.
When Illia linked up with her, the two rappelled down the mountain. Shulmah crushed two bandits beneath her and was surprised to find herself standing in front of a door. Shrugging, she knocked it off its hinges and entered.
Broken Helm Hollow
She entered and soon was met by a large female Orsimer. She looked at the two dead guards outside and then at Shulmah, snorting, she nodded and gestured her to follow. Shulmah did and a few minutes later they three of them were drinking mead around the fire.
"So, you're the one, Fjola talked about. I see her word were no exaggeration. What can I do for you, Vokun-Zuld?" the Orc asked, throwing her head back, emptying her bottle.
"This one apologizes for killing your sentries."
"Don't worry about them, they are spies for the main bandit group in the area. They are the only reason we are not wearing your emblem."
"Then this one will deal with them as soon as she is done in Riften."
"They're in a place called Redwater Den. Never been there myself, but from the stories I hear, that is a good thing."
"This one will take care of it. Be safe and send a messenger to Mara's Eye Pond, with all the flawless gems and rare treasures you have accommodated. And by the gods, start wearing the colours of her people."
"Will do, also, we killed a man called Leifnarr. The fool tried to steal from us. His last words were to his wife at a place called Heartwood Mill."
"This one will bring message of his demise."
Shulmah emptied her bottle and left, Illia following her.
After a long-winded walk, they reached Riften. Shulmah walked into the Bee and Barb and ordered a room. Ilia took the chance to sleep, while Shulmah met with the guild. Once she was in the cistern, she immediately made her way to Mercer. She did not like the man, but he paid good enough to keep her interested and amiable. He stood at his desk, glaring at his papers. He looked up at her and gave her the same glare. Unaffected, Shulmah waited for him to address her.
"Did Gulum-Ei give up any information on our buyer?" he asked after minutes of glaring.
"He has. The buyer has been identified as a Dunmer female by the name of Karliah."
Mercer's eyes widened and Shulmah felt a hint of Killing Intent.
"No, it… It can't be. I haven't heard that name in a long while. This is grave news. She's someone I hoped to never cross paths with again."
"Sounds like you have a history," Shulmah said calmly.
"Karliah destroyed everything this guild stood for. She murdered my predecessor in cold blood and betrayed the Guild. After we discovered what she'd done, we spent months to track her down, but she just vanished."
"It would seem she is set to finish the job," Shulmah commented, already growing bored. She disliked unneeded talk.
"Karliah and I were like partners. I went with her on every heist. We had each other's backs. I know her techniques. If she kills me, there'll be no one left to stop her. If only I knew where she was."
Shulmah scoffed. He was laying it on a bit thick. She was a Kunoichi on par with the greats of old from her home world. She had fought in four wars, led countless of covert missions behind enemy lines. To even insinuate that a mere thief could possibly harm her, was just plain insulting.
"Going by the Argonian, she is at the place where it all began. This one believes you know where this is."
"There's only one place that could be. The place where she murdered Gallus… A ruin called Snow Veil Sanctum. We have to go out there before she disappears again."
Shulmah suppressed a sigh, the location was a too obvious clue, a clear piece of bait. And Mercer Frey was falling for it hook, line and sinker.
"We?" she asked.
"Yes, I'm going with you. Together we are going to kill her. Here's your pay for Solitude. Pack your things, I'll meet you outside of the ruins, be ready."
Shulmah nodded and walked off. Something was off and she did not like it. Sighing, she decided to utilize the central platform of the cistern and went through her kata. After an hour, she stopped and walked to the Ragged Flagon. She still had a few items to sell to Delvin Mallory.
"Hail, this one has need of you," Shulmah said, sitting down and handing him a bottle of Ale.
"It has to do with the Dark Brotherhood. Recently we gained a contract with a man, who offered us this pendant. We need to know if it has the value promised to us."
She unsealed the pendant given to her by Amaund Motierre and handed it to him. Delvin took it and eyed the metal in great detail.
"Where, oh where did you find this? Don't answer, I don't want to know," the man said.
"This is an amulet of the Emperor's Elder Council. Specifically crafted for each member. Worth a small fortune. Ain't something you'd give up lightly. Look, it ain't my business telling the Dark Brotherhood its business, but if you killed a member of the Elder Council, you'd better believe…"
"So, you will buy it?" Shulmah interjected.
"Will I buy it? This? An Elder Council Amulet? Oh, yes. Oh, yes, indeed. Wait, just one moment…"
He quickly started scribbling on a piece of paper. A few seconds later, it was handed to her. Here, it's a letter of credit, usable by Astrid only, for any service or item I can provide. As per our standard agreement. You bring that to your lovely mistress. With my regards."
"This one also has come across something she thinks you might be interested in."
Shulmah unsealed the East Empire Trading Company map. She had copied it already and had sent it to her people. Handing him the map, she watched his eyes widen.
"Well, well… I was looking for this beauty. If you happen across any other unusual items like this, bring them to me. I'll make it worth the effort. This should compensate you for your find."
He tossed her a bag of coins and Shulmah left the table. She returned to the city and entered the market. She walked through the market and smiled, seeing Brand-Shei at his stall, she walked up to him and greeted the Dunmer.
"Hail, friend. This one was successful. She found this in the wreckage of the Pride of Tel Vos. Here is what she recovered."
She handed him the journal, smiling at the tears of joy he shed.
"Thank you, stranger," he said, suppressing a sob.
"I cannot thank you enough. You have succeeded where I have failed."
"This one needs not to be thanked. She however offers you a place in a new home. If you are interested, head west to a hunter's camp called Broken Fang Cave. You will be welcomed there, just show this sigil at the gates, everything will be explained there."
"Thank you, I will leave by the end of the week, the agreement I signed runs out by then."
Shulmah nodded and patted the mer on his shoulder. She walked away to the gates, when she was stopped by a guard. He handed her a slip of paper and left. Opening it, she saw her mother's writing. She quickly broke the code in her head and read the note. She burnt it in her palm and left. She headed to Fallowstone Cave. Once she arrived, Yamarz, rushed into the cave.
Fallowstone Cave
Shulmah rushed after the orc and saw him wreak havoc among the Giants. Using a long-lasting paralysis poison, she knocked them out before he could kill them. She left a Bunshin to heal and explain the situation. She continued and kept the Giants from being killed by the foolish Orsimer. After an hour of walking through the cave system, they entered an enclosed valley.
The Giant's Grove
The valley or grove was large, and there were a few Giants milling around, Yamarz walked up to her and stopped her from walking onwards.
"Listen, you seem like you're an intelligent woman," he started.
"What would you say, if I offered you some extra Septims for a little job? You kill those Giants and get that hammer and get rich. I get to go back to my tribe and we'll never cross paths again. Sound fair?"
Shulmah shrugged, shook his hand and left, supressing the grin that was trying to form on her face. She walked down to the shrine and greeted the Giants at the fire.
"Greetings," she signed.
"Greetings, Fox Folk. What brings you here?" the decorated Giant signed.
"You have some more of your barrels of brew on you by chance?"
"Yes, I do."
She unsealed a Tun Barrel and a couple of large Sake Cups. She filled them and drank her own in one sip. The Giant took his time.
"Mind if we keep this?"
"Go ahead, I can always make more. I need your hammer. Lord Malacath requests it, giving it will result in peace with Orsimer and Lord Malacath. Peace goes long ways, even when it is not your war."
"I understand. Take it, and tell Malacath, Giant Folk will keep shrine safe, if Malacath keep his Green Folk away. Giant Folk will allow groups of four Green Folk as pilgrims. No tribute needed."
"Thank you. I will relay the message. She needs you to lie down and pretend to be dead."
Shulmah took the hammer, bowed and left. She watched the Giants lie down and walked back up the hillside to Yamarz. Out of some impulse, he decided to attack her from above. Shulmah shunshined away and formed a onehanded seal. The explosion tore the orc in two, leaving the miserable wretch, moments to contemplate the stupidity of his actions. After looting him, she left, not even bothering to clean up after him.
Translations:
Miscellaneous:
Suiton = Water Release
Kaon = Fire Release
Jutsu:
Rasengan = Spiraling Sphere
Kage Bunshin no Jutsu = Shadow Clone Technique
Raiton: Chidori = Lightning Release: One Thousand Birds
Shosen Jutsu = Mystical Palms Technique
Shouts:
Kest = Tempest (Whirlwind Sprint)
Tiid = Time (Slow Time)
Tah = Pack (Animal Allegiance)
Yol = Fire (Fire Breath)
Toor = Inferno (Fire Breath)
Shul =Sun (Fire Breath)
Nu = Run (Dismay)
Bah = Wrath (Storm Call)
Hope you enjoyed it. I'll be putting this story on the backburner for a while, so I can focus on my other stories. Once again, Happy New Year.
