Fareeha awakes in the early hours of the morning, when the sun is just beginning to breach the indigo streaked dawn. Her eyes blink sleepily, still heavy with the grogginess of a deep rest. The air is warm and the fur blankets weigh comfortably over her body. And then she turns her head and her heart catches in her throat.

Angela lies peacefully beside her, her hair spread out around the pillow like a golden halo. Her chest rises and falls steadily and soft breaths pass through her parted lips. Her long eyelashes cast faint shadows underneath her eyes, fluttering as she dreams. Fareeha can't help but smile. She had come to care about Angela, much more than she had ever anticipated, and now lying beside her, Fareeha feels whole. Like something missing from her life has been filled in. She lets out a quiet happy sigh and turns her head to look out the window. The last remnants of the night are retreating, the early sunlight glow pushing away the shadows.

The moment is perfect in every single way.

Fareeha shifts lightly and turns her body back towards Angela, her gaze resting on her sleeping face. Though Angela still looks tired, the dark tint around her eyes confirming it, she somehow manages to look peaceful even when sleeping. The smallest of smiles resting on her lips.

Fareeha allows Angela to sleep again, knowing that she must be exhausted. She just lays under the blankets, snuggling into the much appreciated heat and listens to the silence. The quiet whisper of Angela's breathing is the only sound to brush the air.

Fareeha isn't sure how long she lays there, but it gives her plenty of time to think about something a little more distressing. Like Angela's condition.

Worry gnaws on her mind as she tries to fully comprehend everything that Angela told her. The fact alone that she had brought someone back to life was astonishing, as it was previously assumed impossible. But what worries Fareeha the most is her arm. If what Angela has told her is true, then it's going to consume her, possibly even turning her into something like Reaper. Or kill her. Fareeha squeezes her eyes shut and tries to push away the negative thoughts. She will do whatever it takes to help Angela, no matter the cost. She will not allow her to succumb to this affliction, not while she still breathes. Besides, Angela has now taken a new precedence in her life, she cares too much for anything to happen.

Angela stirs beside her, a soft moan escaping her lips as she turns over on her side, shifting closer to Fareeha until her head rests on her shoulder. All her worries seem to melt away with the morning sun as she feels Angela's soft hair tickle her cheek. Warm light streams in through the window, illuminating the room in a powdered gold. Specks of dust shine in the light as they lazily float in the air.

"Well good morning." Angela's murmur pulls Fareeha's attention back to the woman beside her.

Fareeha smiles, "It is a good morning."

Angela smiles back and her face twists into a yawn as she props herself up in the bed, the covers trailing with her and exposing Fareeha to the cool air. Angela's hair is a poky mess, sprouting out from all directions and hanging in her face. "So I suppose we head back to Riverwood today?"

Fareeha nods and musters the courage to slide out of the warm bed, "To meet with Delphine. I sure hope she has a decent plan of getting into the embassy."

"I'm sure she will. We may not like her but you have to give it to her for being well prepared, if a bit paranoid."

Fareeha nods again as she pulls on an extra pair of wool socks before slipping her feet into her fur lined boots. She goes about putting on the rest of her layers and strapping on her steel plate. Angela does the same, her embroidered tunic catching in the light. The two clean up, washing their faces from a basin of chilly water and tidying their hair. They gather the rest of their packs and slip out into the main room in the Inn.

Morning chatter fills the mess hall accompanied by utensils clinking against plates. A warm aroma of bread and pastry hangs in the air, making Fareeha's stomach rumble and her mouth water. They sit down at a table and are served a heaping plate of fresh sweet bread and assorted cheeses with a mug of mead on the side. Fareeha digs in and watches with amusement as Angela wolfs down her food in no time. They pay and exit the Inn, walking out into the busy city of Windhelm. It's lig snowing but the sun shines in the sky, causing the icy ground to glimmer and sparkle.

"I'm assuming you'd rather take a carriage to Whiterun and then walk to Riverwood instead of walking all day straight there?" Fareeha says, already knowing the answer.

"Of course, that way we can make it there before dark." Angela replies, already heading towards the tall gates of the city. Fareeha smiles and hurries after her. They leave the city behind and approach the carriage. A man with a massive beard sits atop, his eyes twinkling.

"Hail friends, where are you headed today?" The driver asks, his voice heavily intonated by his Nordic accent.

"To Whiterun." Fareeha replies, "How much?"

The driver smiles, "Forty septims for the two of you."

Fareeha peers into her coin pouch and lets out a small sigh but accepts. She hands him the septims and climbs into the back. Angela sits beside her.

"Money is going to become a problem I think," Fareeha says as she tucks away her meager coin pouch, "I haven't got much left."

Angela lets out a little laugh and places her hand on Fareeha's arm, "No need to worry about that. I've got plenty."

"Well then why didn't you mention it before!?" Fareeha asks exasperated.

Angela laughs again, "There was never a need before. Being 'Mercy' after all has its perks."

The day passes by easily and quietly, as the steady rocking of the carriage rolls over the rocky road. For the most part Angela just leans her head against Fareeha's shoulder as they watch the thick forests roll by. As they travel lower into the mainland the snow melts off the ground, exposing the underbrush beneath. Fareeha inhales deeply, enjoying the crisp sweet air that fills her lungs. She is beginning to enjoy her time in Skyrim. Sure she misses her warm homeland, but the grand mountains that pierce the horizon and the beautiful forests that stretch as far as the eye can see just seem to speak to her. Her father was a Nord after all.

By late afternoon the carriage pulls into the stables outside of Whiterun, where they get off and thank the driver. Within an hour of walking they stroll into Riverwood, just as the sky begins to glow orange and pink with the oncoming sunset. They enter the Inn to see Delphine chatting with Orgnar, the man behind the bar. Delphine notices them and gives them a nod of acknowledgement before finishing up with Orgnar. She waves to them and walks into the room with the hidden entrance to the basement, clearly wanting them to meet her down there. The pair follow Delphine down into the basement where she awaits them with an eager look on her face.

"Hello Delphine, it's good to see you again." Angela says, though Fareeha can tell she is lying due to her false smile and flat look in her eyes.

"I think I figured out a way to get you into the embassy." Delphine says with a smirk, ignoring Angela and looking at Fareeha.

"Well hello to you too." Angela grumbles under her breath, annoyed by the lack of greeting on Dephine's part.

"You did?" Fareeha says, waiting to hear what sort of plan Delphine has cooked up.

"The Thalmor Ambassador, Elenwen, and her second in command, Amelie, regularly throw parties where the rich and connected cozy up to the Thalmor. I can get you into one of those parties. Once you're inside the Embassy, you can sneak away and find Elenwen's secret files." Delphine explains, a proud gleam in her eye, "I have a contact in the Embassy who can help you. His name is Malborn, a Wood elf, plenty of reason to trust him. I've already sent word for you to meet him in the Winking Skeever Inn in Solitude. Once you've spoken to him, meet me at the stables just outside Solitude. Any questions?"

Fareeha ponders over the plan, it is as good as any she assumes. Though it will be risky, it will be worth it if it means uncovering more about the Dragons and their return.

"Why won't you be coming?" Fareeha asks.

"The Thalmor already know who I am. They've been after me so they'd recognize me the moment they saw me. They don't even know about you yet though."

"What about me?" Angela pipes in.

Delphine shoots her an annoyed glare, "You won't be doing anything. I can only get one invitation, you can wait until the infiltration is over."

Angela begins to frown but then her eyes light up and a sly smile spreads across her face, "Who says I need an invitation."

Delphine rolls her eyes, "You're not going to be able to sneak in if that's what you're implying. The Thalmor Embassy is locked up tighter than the Emperor's own bedchamber."

"I don't need to sneak in either. I can use my status to get in."

Delphine crosses her arms and huffs, clearly bored, "Your status?"

"I'm Mercy."

Suddenly Delphine's eyes widen in surprise and her mouth drops. "You're Mercy? Stendarr's chosen?"

Angela smiles and nods her head. Fareeha watches in amusement. Angela is obviously enjoying the power she now holds over Delphine.

"Well I ah, . . . I suppose that you might be able to get in." Delphine stammers, looking a bit flustered. "Given your . . . recognizable stature."

Angela clasps her hands together in victory, "Then it's settled. We will meet you in Solitude."

Delphine just nods, still looking a little stunned.

Fareeha bids Delphine a quick farewell before heading up the stairs and exiting the Inn with Angela.

The sun has now dipped below the horizon, leaving behind the remnants of red and orange in the dusky sky. Stars awake and shine high where the shroud of dark begins to fall. Crickets chirp in the underbrush and the tops of spruce trees sway methodically in the gentle breeze.

Fareeha turns to Angela, "Do you really think this is a good idea? You coming with me?" She asks quietly.

Angela's face furrows in confusion, "Of course it is. I don't want you going in there alone."

"But this could be really dangerous," Fareeha puts her hand on Angela's shoulder, "I don't want you to get hurt."

Angela's face softens and she reaches up and takes Fareeha's hand in her own, "You don't need to worry about me. I can protect myself, I'll be fine. Besides, we can look out for each other."

Fareeha sighs in defeat, she knew she wouldn't be able to sway Angela away. "Well, we should eat and then spend the night here and then travel to Solitude."

Angela nods her head with a small smile, "Do you know where Solitude is?"

"Of course not, I've never even heard of it before. Is it far?"

Angela chuckles, "Well if you want to walk you're looking at, at least five days. If we take a carriage we could be there in three, possibly even two depending on the conditions for traveling."

Fareeha lets out another sigh, so much traveling! She is starting to get sick of walking back and forth between cities. "Then it's settled, we'll stay the night and catch a carriage tomorrow and meet this Malborn when we arrive in Solitude."

Angela agrees and heads back into the Inn, Fareeha following close behind. They sit across from one another and wait for Orgnar to bring them a meal.

The Inn is relatively empty, the only other people besides them are Orgnar and a bard sitting on a stool in the corner while he fiddles with his lute. Fareeha is just glad he isn't singing. The air is warm and firelight dances around the walls from their small sconce prisons.

Orgnar approaches with two plates and a pitcher of water, wearing a friendly smile. "It' on the house, any friend of Delphine's is welcome here."

"Thank you." Fareeha says, feeling a slight appreciation for Delphine.

Orgnar dips his head and trails off leaving the two alone to eat their small but filling meal.

Angela digs right in, her focus situated on the food in front of her and nothing else. Fareeha picks away, feeling content and comfortable in the Inn. The warm and dim atmosphere makes her want to sleep.

Angela reaches across the table and picks up the pitcher of water. Suddenly her face scrunches with discomfort and her hand seizes up, causing the cold water to spill over the table and into Fareeha's unsuspecting lap.

"Angela!" Fareeha jumps up and rushes to her side. "What's wrong?"

Angela is gripping her right arm fiercely and her eyes are squeezed shut, "I'm alright, . . ." She opens her eyes and gives Fareeha a small smile, though it is not reassuring, "It just flared up, it's fine, really."

Fareeha bends down so she is at eye level with Angela, "I thought you said it didn't hurt you."

Fear flickers in Angela's eyes but it is gone within an instant, "It doesn't, or at least it never has before."

Fareeha lets out a small sigh and stands back up, "Are you sure you're alright?"

Angela nods her head and lets go of her arm though Fareeha can see that she is just putting on a tough face, "I'm sorry about spilling water on you."

Fareeha looks down at her apparently soaked trousers and laughs, she hadn't even realized she had icy water on her. "It's fine, no need to worry about it."

She returns to her seat and uses a napkin to wipe up the rest of the water. She glances across the table at Angela, who looks sheepishly down. She is more than likely feeling embarrassed by causing a scene. Fareeha shoots her a warm smile which seems to brighten her up.

After they finish off their meal they rent a room and settle in for the night, falling asleep together the same way they had the previous night.

They arrive in the massive sprawling city of Solitude on the morning of the third day, their lower bodies sore from the constant bumping of the carriage.

Solitude is much different from the other Nordic cities that Fareeha has seen. It's buildings are tall and built upon carved wood and clean stone. Signs hang off of doorways beckoning shoppers to enter, trees and bright bushes line the cobblestone streets and the aroma of freshly baked food mingles with the smoky smell of a blacksmiths forge. The heart of the Imperial army is situated here. Imperial flags flap in the wind high upon buildings and walls and Imperial soldiers stand idly along the streets.

"Come on, the Inn is this way." Angela says before trotting off.

Fareeha catches up to her, "You've been here before?"

Angela shrugs, "Not the Inn itself, but I've been in the city many times before. I know it quite well."

Sure enough Angela leads her to a cozy building nestled between two other shops.

"The winking Skeever, eh? Sort of a weird name for an Inn don't you think?" Fareeha says as she steps inside the warm building.

Angela chuckles, "It is a bit odd, yes." She walks forward and scans the interior before gesturing with her head to the corner of the Inn, "Look over there. A wood Elf."

Fareeha follows Angela's gesture and inspects the man sitting at a table. His warm complexion, pointed ears and angled eyes tell her he is indeed a Wood Elf, and most likely Malborn. She approaches slowly, drawing his attention from the half empty drink he holds in his hands.

"Our mutual friend sent us." Fareeha says, her gaze flickering over his body for any weapons. She sees none.

"You're who she sent?" Malborn looks a little surprised, "Gods I hope she knows what she's doing. Please, sit." He gestures to an empty chair across the table. Fareeha frowns and sits, not liking his lack of faith in her. Angela grabs another chair and scoots in beside her.

"Here's the deal. I can smuggle some equipment into the Embassy for you. Don't plan on taking anything in with you in person, the Thalmor will throw you out in seconds, or worse." Malborn explains in a hushed voice.

"How much can we give you?" Fareeha asks.

"Only what you can't live without, gear and weapons that's about it. I can get it in but the rest is up to you." Malborn hold her gaze, "Are you ready?"

Fareeha looks to Angela, who nods. "I suppose so."

She reluctantly unstraps her weapon from her back and hands it to Malborn, feeling the weight lift from her body. She pulls out a small dagger from her travel pack along with a few healing serums, though with Angela with her she doubts she'll need them. Angela does the same, she even takes off her cloak and hands it to the elf. Fareeha would give Malborn some of her armor but it's probably much too large and loud to be wearing during an infiltration mission.

"What about your staff?" Malborn points to Angela's caduceus staff, "You can't bring that in with you."

Angela's eyes trail over her staff and her face falls slightly. A sigh escapes her lips and she hesitantly hands him her treasured staff. "Just make sure to take good care of it."

Malbron chuckles, "I will. Now go, Delphine is waiting for you in the stables outside the city."

Fareeha dips her head in respect, "Thank you, for helping us."

Malborn smiles slightly, "Don't thank me, these Thalmor need to be brought down. Good luck, may the Divines watch over you, friends."

They exit the Inn and the city and make their way down to the stables where Delphine awaits. She sits on a rock beneath a grain mill, its blades turning lazily through the sky.

"Good you're here, have you given Malborn everything you'll need?" Delphine asks, an excited glint twinkling in her eye.

"Yes, he's all set. And so are we." Fareeha replies.

"Well I've got your invitation. But the only way the guards will actually believe that you're an invited guest is if you look the part." Delphine reaches into a pack slung over her shoulder and pulls out two bundles. "Here, put these on, you can't be going to the party dressed in armor and travel clothes."

She hands one to Fareeha and glances at Angela, "Sorry, just like the invitation, I could only get one set."

Angela shrugs, "That's quite alright, Ive got my own anyways." She strides into the empty grain mill to get changed leaving behind an annoyed Delphine. It would seem that Delphine is trying every possible way to make it so that Angela can't come.

Fareeha opens the bundle to see fine clothes folded neatly together. She strips off her plate, but leaves the dark under armor suit on. She pulls the dress tunic over her head and fastens the belt at her waist. She takes a moment to admire the fine embroidered stitching and designs along the sleeves and the collar before pulling on the soft leather boots to match. It feels odd, to be wearing such rich clothes when she's so used to armor and rough traveling garb. She passes Delphine her armor and the rest of her provisions.

"Your equipment will be here when you get back, I'll keep it safe for you." Delphine says as she accepts Fareeha's heavy plate. Fareeha nods and turns around, the sound of approaching footsteps drawing her attention.

Angela walks out of the mill and instantly, Fareeha feels her heart race and her face blush. She looks beautiful, as always, except she dons a stunning white tunic with intricate stitching in yellow and orange. A fine cloak is thrown over her shoulders, the inside of it a gradient of yellows, oranges and reds. Supple leather boots clad her legs and dark trousers peek out from under her tunic. The wrapping around her arms stays.

"Well you sure look nice, my Lady." Angela laughs and performs an amused mock bow in front of Fareeha, causing her to blush even further.

"You look, amazing." Fareeha stutters, unable to take her eyes off of the woman in front of her.

Angela laughs again and a blush spreads across her face.

"Ahem." Delphine grunts, pulling their focus back to her and the plan. "This should do, you'll pass as real guests, at least until one of you lovers opens your mouth."

Angela opens her mouth to argue but Delphine continues to speak, a smug look on her face. "You can board the carriage now. It'll take you to the Embassy."

Fareeha lightly tugs on Angela's arm and they turn away from Delphine and hop into the waiting carriage.

"Try to stay away from Amelie if you can. You're more than likely going to have to speak with Elenwen but watch out for Amelie," Delphine deliberately looks at Angela, "She's not known for being very merciful."

"You don't need to worry, we'll pull this off." Fareeha says, lending Delphine a small smile.

"Just don't screw this up, and don't get caught, you wouldn't want that," Delphine's face softens and she sighs, "Divines go with you, good luck."

Fareeha nods as the carriage lurches forward. She watches Delphine grow smaller and smaller as they pull away from the stables and turn up a steep road that leads up the mountain. It doesn't take too long to reach the Embassy but when they do, the air is freezing and a blanket of snow shrouds everything in a hazy white, glowing in the dying light of day.

The carriage pulls to a stop and the two hop out, their eyes taking in their surroundings. The Embassy stands firm in front of them, spiked iron gates rising high like a prison. High Elves clad in gleaming elven armor stand guard, their amber eyes inspecting every person who approaches the embassy. Suddenly a knot of worry begins to form in Fareeha's stomach. As if sensing this, Angela takes Fareeha's hand in her own and gives it a quick tight squeeze and a smile of reassurance. Fareeha gathers her nerves and pushes them away as she approaches the entrance to the Embassy.

"May I see your invitations please?" A Thalmor guard steps in front of Fareeha, her voice firm and her eyes scanning the two women before her.

Fareeha reaches into her pocket and pulls out the paper, hoping that it is as legitimate as Delphine had said it is. The guard carefully looks at the invitation and gives Fareeha a shallow smile, "Go right on in."

Fareeha steps past the guard and Angela moves to follow but is cut off from the Thalmor, "Ah-ah, I need to see your invitation as well, ma'am."

Angela stands tall and holds her head high, though she is still shorter than the Altmer, "I am Mercy, the Champion of Stendarr."

The Thalmor narrows her eyes and sneers, "I didn't ask who you are, I asked for an invitation. You aren't getting in without one."

Angela's eyes burn with determination and her mouth opens to speak but another's words slice the frigid air.

"Mercy you say?"

Fareeha's head whips towards the doorway, where a dark elf stands, her purplish skin illuminated by the moonlight. She struts forward, an air of confidence surrounding her.

"So you're the famed Mercy, the Chosen of Stendarr?" The Dunmer smiles pleasantly.

"I am, but my name is Angela, it's a pleasure." Angela replies smoothly.

The woman laughs, her voice like silk through the air, "I am Amelie, and welcome to the Embassy."

Amelie. Elenwen's second in command. Fareeha's stomach tightens as she remember Delphine's warning about her.

"And who is your companion?" Amelie says, her bright eyes landing on Fareeha.

"Fareeha Amari, it's an honor." Fareeha dips into a bow as she introduces herself, hoping that Amelie won't ask too many questions.

"Ahh yes, I remember your name from the guest list." She turns to the guard who had initially stopped them, "I'll take over from here, carry on."

The guard nods and returns to her post. Amelie clasps her hands, "Now, let's get inside, shall we?" She turns on her heel, her long black hair swinging behind her as she opens the door to the Embassy. Angela and Fareeha exchange a nervous glance before they follow Amelie in.

The smell of Nord mead and Alto wine saturates the air and mingles with the scent of fresh food as the door to the outside closes.

Amelie turns back to them with a smile, "I'll go get Elenwen, I'm sure she'd love the opportunity to meet you." She says as she looks at Angela, not even sparring Fareeha a second glance.

Angela nods and Amelie departs in search of Elenwen.

"Okay let's just try to speak to Elenwen as little as possible, then we can sneak away." Fareeha whispers in a hushed voice, her eyes scanning the party room. Tables piled high with food line the walls and guests mingle in the center, their hands idly holding glasses of wine and mead.

Amelie walks into view, a tall High Elf trailing behind her with her head held high.

"May I introduce Elenwen, the high ambassador of the Thalmor." Amelie gestures her arms and Elenwen steps forward, her hard eyes scrutinizing them.

Angela dips her head and Fareeha does the same, "It is an honor to meet you, Elenwen." Angela says.

"And I believe you are a Divine's Chosen, yes? Mercy if I am correct? Though I don't believe I remember seeing you on the guest list." Elenwen says, looking down upon Angela with a gleam in her eye. The way she looks at Angela makes Fareeha's stomach churn.

Angela nods, "I heard about the party you were throwing and wanted to meet you. I apologize if my sudden appearance is unwelcome."

Elenwen smiles, though it is not a smile of friendliness, "Not at all, besides I have much to discuss with someone like you. We could be great allies."

"Perhaps." Angela says shortly, not wanting to speak to Elenwen any longer. For the first time in her arrival Elenwen looks to Fareeha, a small smirk plastered on her cold face. "And you would be . . ?"

A hot knot of worry tugs on Fareeha's throat, something about this woman deeply unsettled her and she does not want to give the Thalmor her name. She opens her mouth to reply with hesitance but a familiar voice cuts her off.

"Madame Ambassador I am so sorry to interrupt you."

Elenwen rolls her eyes and turns behind her to the Wood Elf, "What is it Malborn?"

"It's just that we've run out of the Alto wine. Do I have your permission to uncork the Arenthian Red?" Malborn says, clearly trying to draw Elenwen's attention away from Fareeha.

"Of course," Elenwen barks, "I've told you before not to bother me with such trifles."

"Yes Madame Ambassador." Malborn says as he returns to a bar on the side of the room.

Elenwen turns back to Fareeha, "My apologies, we'll have to get better acquainted later. And please Mercy, I would very much like to speak with you when you get the chance." Elenwens smiles again and it makes Fareeha's blood curdle, "Please, enjoy the party." She turns on her heel and disappears into the crowd.

Fareeha lets out a sigh of relief and looks to Angela, who appears to be bothered.

"Are you alright?" Fareeha asks quietly.

Angela nods, "I'm fine, I just can't stand that woman, or what she stands for."

"What does she want with you?"

Angela sighs and runs her fingers through her bangs, "She probably wants me to join her and the Thalmor. Having a healer like me would be a great benefit for her and her operations. Not that I would ever agree to such a thing."

"Well lets make it so she never gets the chance to speak to you." Fareeha says with reassurance. They step into the main room and look around, as if they are admiring the decorating and not noting where all the exits and guards are.

Music plays faintly in the background and some of the guests dance while others chat. If not for the tight circumstances, Fareeha may have asked Angela for a dance. Fareeha makes eye contact with Malborn who stands behind a bar across the room, giving him the barest of nods. A door rests behind him, most likely they're escape route. A man with a grating voice complains to no one in particular about not getting enough mead. Elenwen talks with some nobles, her face displaying nothing but discontent and boredom. Fareeha scans the room for Amelie, but the mysterious woman is nowhere to be seen.

"We're going to need to cause a distraction, bring the guards attention away." Fareeha suggests.

Angela's brow furrows in thought and after a moment of thinking she smiles and her eyes twinkle. "I've got an idea."

She leaves Fareeha and strides over to the bar and says something to Malborn. Within a moment he hands her a bottle of Alto wine and waves her off. Fareeha shoots her a look of confusion but Angela only raises her eyebrows and smiles again. She approaches the man complaining about his lack of alcohol and waves Fareeha over, who quickly joins her, not really sure how giving a drunk a bottle of wine will help them.

"Here, I heard you wanted a drink." Angela says as she passes the man the wine, "My treat."

The man's face lights up and the most genuine smile Fareeha has ever seen spreads across his glowing face. "Why thank you, my Lady! You seem to be the one generous soul amongst this gathering of pinch-pennies and lick-spittles. Allow me to introduce myself, I am Razelan and if there is anything I can do to repay you for your most kind offering, do not hesitate!" Razelan beams as he uncorks the bottle, his entire face flushed from previous consumption. He is clearly drunk.

"Actually, there is something you could do for me, if you would be so kind." Angela says smoothly, her voice like honey, "Would you be able to cause a distraction? My . . . friend and I would like to slip away," Angela leans in and whispers, her eyebrows lifting, "If you know what I mean."

Fareeha feels her face burn when Razelan looks at her and gives her a knowing smile before turning back to Angela, "Why of course, my friends. You should know, causing a scene is somewhat a bit of a specialty of mine." Razelan puts the bottle down and stands up. "Stand back and behold my handiwork."

Fareeha and Angela slowly back towards Malborn and the door behind the bar as Razelan calls for everyone's attention, his voice raising to be heard over the music. The guards frown and walk away from their posts, moving in closer to Razelan to see what he is up to.

"Now, now! Come on, quickly, before they see us." Malborn urges as he opens the door behind the bar once everyone's attention is on the now screaming Razelan. They rush through and Malborn quietly closes the door behind them.

Fareeha turns to Angela, "That was brilliant! Worked like a charm."

Angela sends her a cheeky smile, "I'll be wanting to collect a kiss afterwards as payment for my geniusness."

"I wouldn't have it any other way." Fareeha replies, temporairly forgetting the situation they are in.

"Enough of that, come on, I've got your gear stashed away just outside the kitchen. Follow me." Malborn says as he takes the lead, drawing them down a corridor and into a quiet kitchen. The sounds of the party dwindle until they are a mere background echo of faint music. A Khajit stands in the back by the fire pit, stirring a pot of delicious smelling stew.

"You know I don't like strangers in my kitchen, Malborn." The Khajit hisses.

"Just some guests feeling ill, leave them be."

"It's against the rules, you know that."

"Rules, is it, Tsavani? I didn't know eating Moon Sugar was permitted." Malborn replies with a smug face.

Tsavani grunts and turns away, clearly beat, "Fine, fine, I saw nothing."

Malborn exits the kitchen and leads them into the larder where a chest sits, snug against the wall. "Your gear is in there. Suit up and I will lock the door behind you. Just don't screw this up and don't get caught. I have to get back to the party now though, so it's going to be up to you."

Fareeha nods and bends down to retrieve her sword and dagger. She strips off the restricting party clothes and straps the sword to her back and her dagger to her boot. She feels vulnerable, just wearing the dark suit she wore underneath the fine garb, but it's better than nothing. And the black would help her stay hidden in the shadows.

Angela does the same, pulling out her staff and cloak, tossing it around her shoulders. Once the chest is empty and their party clothes discarded, Fareeha turns to Malborn. "We're ready."

"You're going to want to make your way to Elenwen's personal study, on the other side of the Embassy." Malborn says, "Good luck, to the both of you." He unlocks a door with a key hidden in his pocket and waits for them to pass through it. He gives them one last nod before closing the door behind them and locking the door.

The sound of voices floats down the hallway that they are in, coming from one of the adjacent rooms. Fareeha creeps forward, very slowly, keeping her footsteps light. She passes the room with the voices and searches the other few rooms to see if there is anyway through. They are all empty save for a bit of furniture and dusty old books.

"We're gonna have to fight through those guards," Fareeha whispers to Angela, nodding her head to the one room she was hoping to avoid. "Just stay behind me."

Angela grips Fareeha's arm, "Be careful."

Fareeha gives a smile and pulls the dagger from her boot. She wants to make it quick and quiet. She approaches the room and peaks in to see two guards standing idly by, laughing about something. They don the golden armor of the Thalmor and hold their heads high.

Inhaling deeply Fareeha dashes into the room and leaps behind one of the guards, pulling her hand over his mouth and cutting his throat with the dagger in one swift motion, barely making a sound. The other guard's mouth drops open and fury burns in his eyes as he pulls his weapon up. His mouth opens to yell for help but he is not fast enough, in seconds, Fareeha's dagger is buried in his neck and his body collapses to the ground. She exhales and wipes the dagger clean before inserting it back into her boot. Angela stands in the doorway, her eyes avoiding the bodies on the ground.

A feeling of shame spreads in Fareeha's chest as she sees Angela, "I'm sorry you had to see that."

Angela pauses for a moment but she looks back at Fareeha, "It had to be done, besides, the Thalmor deserve what they got. They're nothing but murderers who hide behind the Imperial's treaty."

Fareeha nods and pulls the bodies behind a table, attempting to conceal them. It wouldn't really matter though, since blood still stains the ground where they fell. The two make their way quietly through the building, not finding anything except bookshelves and old studies. There aren't even any guards. They come across a door that leads to the outside, the sound of snow and wind whistling. A cold draft seeps through it, chilling Fareeha's skin. She carefully opens the door and steps outside, into the cold air. Snow swirls in the dark grey sky, a heavy shroud of darkness collapsing over the environment. A building illuminated by distant torches stands across a courtyard, where a few Thalmor guards stand. Fareeha draws her sword and charges into the courtyard, making quick work of the unsuspecting guards. She comes out of the fight unscathed and waves Angela over after it is safe. They cross the courtyard and quietly enter the opposite building.

As soon as they enter they come face to face with a surprised guard. He jumps back and calls out and within seconds a few more guards burst through the door and stand in front of them.

"Spies, surrender now and you will be dealt with mercifully." The guard who saw them snarls, his sword held in front of him.

Angela snorts at his term and draws her staff. "I hardly doubt you know the meaning of 'mercy'."

"Very well, then you will die knowing the power of the Thalmor!" The guard lunges forward but Angela dodges away and brings her staff around behind him, knocking out his knees. He hits the ground with a thump and Fareeha draws her sword high above her head before bringing it down, ending his life quickly. The other three guards roar and charge all at once, forcing Fareeha and Angela to separate and dash to the side. Fareeha deflects the oncoming blows from the two Thalmor who pursued her, the sound of steel clashing against her ears. With a mighty thrust she pushes the two back and runs one of them through, pulling her sword out and turning to face the remaining guard. She is about to attack when she hears Angela cry out and her attention is ripped from her enemy. She whips around to see Angela clutching her shoulder, a stream of blood seeping from her fingers. The guard in front of her is smiling as he advances. Her own opponent uses her distraction and slashes at her leg, causing her to drop to a knee and cry out in surprise. The wound isn't deep but it catches her off guard.

"We warned you but you didn't listen, now you will die a heretics death." The guard smiles and his eye glints with malicious intent as he raises his weapon to strike her down.

"I don't think so!" Fareeha spits as she forces her sword upwards from her knees. Her blade passes easily through his armor and pushes right through him, blood spurting out of his mouth as he slumps forward on the blade. Getting to her feet she pushes the dead guard off her blade and turns to Angela, ready to jump in and help. However the guard she was facing now lies face down on the ground, a small pool of blood growing around his head.

Fareeha rushes forward, ignoring the sting in her leg. "Angela! are you all right?"

Angela nods and removes her hand from her shoulder. An angry deep gash cuts into her shoulder, blood staining her beautiful cloak. She closes her eyes and just like when they first met, a soft yellow glow pulses from her hand. She brings it to her shoulder wincing slightly as the magic works its way into her body, knitting her flesh back together. Fareeha watches in awe, still amazed by her power. Angela opens her eyes and smiles, not a single trace of pain remaining on her face.

"I don't suppose you'd do me as well?" Fareeha shrugs sheepishly and gestures to her leg which is beginning to sting even more.

Angela's eyes widen and she places her hands over Fareeha's wound, "I thought I told you to be careful." Angela says in a motherly tone.

Fareeha lets out a sigh of relief as her gash heals. "It's nothing really, you needn't worry so much."

"Well I do, so you should watch yourself, I mean it." Angela says again, "Okay all done." She leans back and Fareeha inspects her leg. The skin underneath her cut suit is unmarked and in perfect health.

"Thanks." Fareeha stands up and sheathes her sword on her back. "We must be close for there to be this many guards guarding it." They spread out and poke their heads into different rooms, searching for anything that would look like Elenwen's study.

"I think I found it!" Angela's voice calls out from an another room. Fareeha hurries to meet up with her, entering a room lined with bookeshelves and chests, a desk piled with inked scrolls sitting in the middle. Angela is holding two notebooks in her hands, her eyes flicking over the words in one of them.

"It's about Delphine, and this one is about Ulfric Stormcloak, though none give any indication of dragons." Angela says as she tucks the notebooks into a pouch in her tunic. "Let's keep looking."

They rifle through the rest of the scrolls piled on Elenwen's desk, finding nothing but Thalmor reports about Imperial and Stormcloak activity.

A glint in the bottom of a drawer catches Fareeha's attention and she reaches in, pulling out a small key. "Well I bet this opens up something important."

Once they are done in her study, finding nothing of use, they exit the room and pass into another room connected to the study. A small set of stairs leads them to a door that Fareeha tries to open, but its stopped by a lock. She pulls out the key she found and inserts it, hearing a satisfying click when she turns it. The door slides open and they step through.

A gasp is ripped from Angela's throat as she sees what lies in the room below. Fareeha's blood boils and her fists clench.

Cells line the walls, an assortment of tools hanging on racks, and dried blood paints the floor. A torture room.

"Those bastards." Fareeha grits her teeth and forces herself to move forward. She descends the steps and approaches a desk in the corner, her eyes avoiding the sickening sight. Angela follows close behind, her face pulled into a frown. She sorts through the scrolls and notebooks until she finds one of interest. She flicks it open and reads quickly, anxious to leave this dreadful place.

"This is the one, this is what we came for." Fareeha exclaims, passing the notebook to Angela. "It's a dossier of a member of the Blades named Esbern, someone they've been looking for. They think he knows something about the dragons, which means they are just as in the dark as we are."

Angela drops the notebook into her pouch and nods, "Time to leave, I can't stand the smell in here, it reeks of death."

Fareeha can't agree more, except a loud bang coming from the door they entered echoes down into the room, followed by an unfortunately familiar voice.

"Listen up spies, I've got your friend and you're surrounded." Amelie steps down the stairs and stands before Fareeha and Angela, her eyes gleaming. Malborn is held between two guards that stand behind her. Four more guards approach as well, making six plus Amelie. "I thought you two looked a little suspicious, especially when you snuck off during that little drunk's scene. No matter, surrender now or you two and the Wood Elf both die."

"Don't do it!" Malborn calls out as he struggles against his captors, "She's lying, she'll kill you anyways. Run!"

Amelie smirks and shrugs, "Well, he's right you know." She nods to the guards and they glunge their swords into Malborn, killing him instantly. Fareeha's jaw drops and a primal rage burns through her body. She reaches for her sword, but Angela places a hand on her arm, stopping her. "Fareeha no, we can't fight them all."

"She's smart, I would advice you to follow her suggestion." Amelie says coldly.

"Who says I have to fight you." Fareeha says. Calling forth her unknown power she unleashes her Thu'um, her shout ripping through her throat and air. The force knocks all the guards back and Amelie crashes against the wall before slumping down, unconscious.

"Now's our chance, come on, let's get out of here!" Angela urges as she tugs on Fareeha's arm. They run away from the scene and scramble for a trap door that lies hidden on the other side of the room. Fareeha tugs it open and drops down, Angela following behind. It is a cave, ice coating the walls. The air is icy and steals Fareeha's breath away but the adrenaline surging through her barely makes her feel it's freezing touch. She takes Angela's hand in her own and they run, desperate to escape. They burst through the entrance of the cave and find themselves panting on a snowy road, the dark sky above them. Fareeha pauses a moment to catch her breath before taking Angela's hand again and running into the trees across the road. They have to get as far away from the Embassy as possible, especially with the information they are carrying.

They run and run through the snow, ignoring their frozen feet. After Fareeha is sure that they had put enough distance between them and the embassy, she comes to a stop and collapses into the soft snow. Angela plops down beside her and presses against her.

"That was horrible." Angela sighs as she looks up past the treetops above them and into the sky.

"Agreed, but we got what we came for."

"But Malborn . . ."

Fareeha closes her eyes and exhales, "There was nothing we could've done. He knew what he was getting himself into, he knew the risks." It really doesn't console Fareeha however, as his loss bites at her. She should have protected him, she should have saved him, but she couldn't. She just hopes she'll be able to protect Angela in the future.

They lie down for a while, pressed against each other in the silence of the forest, resting their tired limbs.

"I don't suppose I could cash that kiss in now, could I?" Angela breaks the silence and turns over to face Fareeha, her face so close to Fareeha's that she can see the snowflakes that cling to her eyelashes.

"I suppose you could." Fareeha says as she leans in. Their lips meet and Fareeha closes her eyes, a feeling of comfort washing over her. She needs this, especially after the loss of Malborn. She brings her hand up to the back of Angela's head and gently cups it as they kiss. Angela lets out a small sigh and smiles through the kiss.

"Thank you."

"For what?" Fareeha asks as she leans back.

"Just for everything."

Fareeha smiles and leans in again, her nose pressing against Angela's cheek as she kisses her again. All the pain she was feeling washes away in the embrace of Angela. After a moment of complete bliss Angela leans back, "We should probably start making our way back to Riverwood. I'm sure Delphine will be ecstatic to see what we found."

Though Fareeha never wants to leave the position she is in, she agrees, "You're right. Besides, the Thalmor might be looking for us by now." She stands up and brushes the snow off her back and legs.

Underneath the nighttime sky, surrounded by private snow topped trees, they make their way back to Riverwood, finding comfort in each other's presence.

A/N: Sorry for the long wait! But regardless I hope you enjoyed. And Happy New Years everybody! I hope everyone had a great holiday! Thanks again for reading and take care!