And so we reached the twelfth chapter. Sorry for being late, my fault.

Lunar Loon - Always and forever.

Xunzar - Really? Huh. I was worried that Azirra, being less crazy of the two and more generic, would be more boring to the readers.

Accursius - Of course the dragons wouldn't tell their names to everyone. Ted however didn't reveal his name because he simply forgot, just like he forgot to ask about hers. Yes, prophecies are often cryptic, our protagonist will definitely use it more than just a few times to bullshit his way out of problems. The problem with Dunmer tombs isn't just the size of the entrance, but also the size of the corridors - the dragon might enter, but it will be far from comfortable and gods have mercy on him if he discovers that the tunnel he's crawling through is a dead end... while the walls are too close to turn around. Can dragon get drunk? I don't know either, but Ted sure is gonna do his best to find out. : )

Mk0008 - I wish I could say it was my joke, but sadly I only shamelessly stole it from Simon the Sorcerer 3D. That game, much like the other titles in the series, had a great humor, but sadly that's the only good thing about this particular one.

MehrunesDragonbro - That wasn't me, that was my inner Sans! xD

Brace yourself people, the train reached Exposition Town and the population is you!


Turns out healing magic and fast working potions aren't the best way to heal a wound. Apparently, a bottle of disgusting, but potent medicine, a blessing from a shrine, and several hours of sleep are a much better option. Azirra was ready to agree with it by the time she left Fort Moonmoth in the morning. The services of the Imperial Cult weren't free, but definitely very cheap - priests took pride in the fact the only money they asked for was the cost of ingredients, not giving them any profit. Or at least that's what Noluntius Cadullus claimed, but the guy seemed honest enough, as often is the case with people whose skin is more wrinkled than a walnut.

Dragon Mountain was surprisingly devoid of any dragons this morning. Yes, that's what she was going to call it from this point onward - much easier to remember than Arkngthand Hill. The lizard was gone, most likely on a flight. Azirra was perfectly fine with it - he seemed to spread madness and confusion every time he appeared. His introduction involved a flying Breton, for Mara's sake. She was here only for the sack of loot, which was fortunately untouched.

On the way to the city, Azirra was pondering about the same subject she did the last evening - the dragon, of course. Just because she would rather avoid it entirely didn't mean she wasn't curious. She even asked that Cadulles about this species since she was pretty sure it had something to do with religion. Her memory was working well - apparently, all dragons, or at least the ones in Tamriel (it wasn't clear how similar they were to those in Akavir), were sons of Akatosh, making them essentially demigods, which is why the ancient Nords were serving them... until the flying lizards ate one cow too many without asking and got all killed off. It's fine to have a natural armor, wings and ability to breath fire, but your race is still going to become an extinct one sooner or later if there are no females, which was the case - for some reason Alduin had only sons. So, the Time God might be sexist. That would certainly explain a lot about both the culture of Empire and her life.

That, however, only made her question from the previous day remained a mystery. By all logic, he should have been found centuries ago. Then again, she knew nothing about his past - he only mentioned his nest was new, so he clearly just moved here. There are still many places that weren't introduced to civilization and up until several years ago almost the entirety of Vvardenfell was like that, since the Temple was very stubborn about not allowing for the growth of the settlements. That increased the chances of him remaining in the shadows for so long.

All of that doesn't change the fact I met him twice, accidently. Or so he claims. This is suspicious. One meeting, sure, that's possible. But two?

That's when a cold, ominous revelation struck her and made the memory of a slightly insane, strange dragon seem much more maleficent and once again made her feel cautious of him. And by cautious, I mean terrified. Her fur bristled.

He must be following me on purpose.


No wonder the Emperor declared all Dwemer ruins a property of the crown. If Azirra wasn't an adventurer and as a result had massive expenses, she would be set for the rest of her life.

No joking. True, she didn't get much money in the ruins, only around fifty septims, but when she dropped the sack of loot in front of Ra'Virr and ten Dwemer mugs fell out of it, the other Khajiit stated he most likely won't be able to afford even half of the content.

Azirra's loot of Dwemer origin was as follows: mentioned ten mugs, four bowls, five small goblets, four big goblets, three tubes, two pitchers, one strange, heavy device of unknown purpose, a little bit of raw Dwemer metal, and fifty coins. Now get this: mugs and small goblets were of the lowest value and yet each of them was worth ten septims. In case you don't know, that would keep Azirra's tummy full for entire day, more if spent wisely. And before you ask, yes, that was a price after taking into account the fact so much Dwemer items would lower their price when sold at once and that risks were high due to the fact trading Dwemer artifacts was technically illegal. Not that Ra'Virr cared - Khajiits have wonderful ability to completely ignore the laws they don't like.

The other objects were of following value in septims: twenty, thirty, forty, forty, no idea (no wonder, that thing would most likely interest only an expert), forty and, wait for it, fifty. Yes, each of the Dwemer coins was worth as much as five bowls or mugs. And she had fifty of them.

I'll spare you math and just inform you that all of this could be sold for three thousand and one hundred septims, with coins responsible for most of the profit.

Wah? That was the only thing she thought when Ra'Virr said the estimated value.

"Of course, this one can't buy this much, it's just too much for Ra'Virr, you understand," added trader. "This one can only pay six hundred for everything except the device and coins."

"...Deal," uttered Azirra semiconsciously, still shocked at the fact she suddenly advanced from 'average adventurer' to 'rich adventurer'. Suddenly a certain memory hit her and she barely hold her laugh. Trash that weighs more than is worth, huh? A shame he's not present. "I have more loot not related to Dwemer, but I assume you already spent what you could?"

"This one indeed doesn't have much gold left. I'm afraid friend Azirra will need to ask other traders, as much as it pains Ra'Virr to say so. Trading with you is a pleasure... as long as no slapping is involved."

Azirra smirked.

"Then I guess I will have to give you a warning every time I'm about to sell you your favourite treat."


It's official, Azirra was filthy rich.

Ra'Virr wasn't the only merchant that found himself without much gold left. Wayn, the smith at the Fighters Guild she met last time, was impressed by how much weapons she gained since then. At his question about the origin of two steel daggers, two iron sabers, dozen throwing stars, one long bow and twelve poisoned arrows she only said that lately she was facing a lot of people that wanted her dead. Surprisingly, that only made him friendlier. She also gained five hundred and fifty septims from selling these items. Furthermore, she was certain it wasn't the end of her profits for this day, since she intended to get rid of her heavy armor and buy something light that doesn't make noise in the worst possible moment.

That would most likely make her budget of over 1600 septims drop back to much less ridiculous level, but she was perfectly fine with this. For now, though, she faced the door to the training room in the basement of the guildhall, ready to either get the information she needed or strangle Antabolis if he tried to somehow weasel his way out of this.

The drill master was this time the only person in the room, standing in the middle and reading something, just like the last time.

"Huh? Oh, it's you." He put his book aside. "I assume you have what I asked for?"

"Yes. If you will tell me it's the wrong cube, know that someone will die in this building today, I had to cut my way through ten smugglers to get it." Azirra handed him the Dwemer puzzle box. The Imperial examined the item.

"Looks like nobody will have to face the gods this day, this is indeed what I needed. Slightly damaged, but that's nothing major." He pressed something on the cube and it emitted a low sound. "Fascinating... The inscriptions suggest the cube is actually a key to some ancient, unique Dwemer door..." He looked up. "Alright then, do you have paper? It will be for the best if you will write everything down; smaller risk of miscommunication."

"Yes, give me a second." Azirra placed her backpack on the ground and took out a bottle of ink, a pen, and a single page. "Ready when you are."

"Alright then. Let's start with the Nerevarine. I'm afraid that with this subject I can't help you much, unlike with the other one. It simply has less to do with solid facts than with unclear prophecies. First you must know who was Nerevar Indoril. Are you familiar with that name?"

Azirra racked her brain for answer.

"It seems familiar... Oh, I know, it was in 'A War of the First Council'. He was a Dunmer general, correct?"

"Hortator, if you want to be specific, that's how Houses call their military leaders. But yes, you are surprisingly well aware of history... Not bad. Caius often says he's fed up with heroes. They arrive to this land to tame it, not knowing their part in the grand scheme of things, not aware how their destiny is created by historical process, at least according to him. Sometimes Caius sends them to me, hoping they will learn... Poor Caius, so many disappointments. It is good to know you are different. If you didn't do so already, read 'On Morrowind, the Imperial Province'. Who hates who, where's trouble brewing... That's where the opportunity lies for an outlander like you."

The Khajiit decided not to tell him that was the only book she read in the last year.

"Anyway, let's come back to the topic at hand. As you already know, Nerevar of House Indoril was the only person in history that ever managed to unite four biggest tribes and four Great Houses of Vvardenfell under a single banner. He did so in order to defeat the Dwemer, who at the time forged an alliance with House Dagoth. Nerevar did the impossible and stopped much more advanced dwarves from expanding beyond the region of Red Mountain. Finally, thanks to the betrayal of Voryn Dagoth, he infiltrated the main stronghold of Dwemer king, defeated him, and left his ally to guard the citadel. When he returned with his three generals, leader of the House Dagoth betrayed him instead and in a battle that ensued Nerevar Indoril received a deadly wound and soon died. The Temple that was created shortly after those incidents named him saint and that's where history ends.

"There's more, though. Ashlanders claim that the three generals, who were no one else but the future gods of Tribunal, actually killed the Nerevar. They believe this hero will be reborn to kill the traitors, unite the Dunmer against outlander invaders, build a great wall, and make Morrowind great again... Or something equally ridiculous. Anyway, both the Temple and the Empire outlawed the cult, hence I don't know much about it. Tell Caius that Sharn gra-Muzgob at the Mages Guild would know more."

"Sharn? The one who keeps telling everyone that she's not a necromancer?"

"The same one. Now, as for the Sixth House cult, it's quite simple, if vague. The infamous Sixth House is simply an extinct House Dagoth. Their clan stead was called Kogoruhn. Due to Voryn Dagoth's betrayal, it was discredited and was completely dissolved after the Battle of Red Mountain, with the survivors joining other houses. According to the Temple, Dagoth Ur, who is supposedly Voryn Dagoth resurrected and twisted by evil magic, and his ash vampires are the last remnants of the House. Back in its days it had a complex, dangerous hierarchy, with killing your superiors by treachery as the traditional way of advancement. Now, the beliefs of cult of this House are obviously not widely known due to its obscure nature, however just from the name alone we can make a good guess that it treats Dagoth Ur as the god and the other leaders of the House as his godlike kin. The cultists are hostile towards the Empire and all outlanders, although they seem less likely to seek conflict with fellow Dunmer that came from outside of the province. It also appears that the presence of Sleepers is caused by the cult or possibly Dagoth Ur himself. I think that pretty much covers the subject."

Azirra nodded, finishing the report. About time, her hand was getting sore.

"So that's all?"

"Yes. If you want to learn more, you will be hard pressed to talk with a member of either cult, since both hate outlanders and stay away from the public. Your best chance would be searching for books on the subject. I know of the following titles: 'Saint Nerevar', 'Nerevar Moon-And-Star' and 'The Real Nerevar'. Also, as I mentioned, you can ask Sharn gra-Muzgob. For some reason, she studied the local superstitions in her free time. Well, to each their own, I suppose."

The Khajiit put her report into her pocket and put on her backpack.

"In that case, I'll go and tell Caius what I've learned. Thanks for the help, Mister Antabolis."

The Imperial waved his hand.

"Hasphat is fine. Make sure to visit again if you wish to ask about something else. Also, I might have something for you if you return, I think this Dwemer puzzle box could be of use to you later once I fully examine it."

Azirra was about to take her leave, but then another thought struck her, and, when she thought about it, Antabolis seemed as the perfect person to ask.

"Actually, I have another question, though it's completely unrelated to previous subjects. I wish to ask what you, as a historian, know about the role of dragons in ancient history."

Drill sergeant raised one brow.

"Dragons? Why would you be interested in them of all things?"

She smiled innocently. Azirra, being of petite build, actually was capable of pulling that off - most of her kind would just look mischievous if they tried.

"No particular reason. I just spoke recently with a priest about Akatosh and dragons came up. I wanted to hear it from a scholar." It is kind of true, except it was Akatosh that came up, not the other way around. It seemed Antabolis bought it.

"Ah, I see. It's not exactly my field of expertise, but in my opinion a historian should always know at least basics about every time period, no matter which one is their favourite. Dragons... Now that is indeed an old subject and as such there aren't many written sources on it. Pretty much the entire knowledge on this species comes from legends, excavations of burial sites, and rare works of Greybeards, an old order of monks who spend their lives in seclusion, studying the language of the dragons."

"Isn't it a little silly, dedicating the life to learn the language which is no longer in use?"

"Perhaps, but that is definitely not the case with this particular one. You see, this... Thu'um, if I pronounce it correctly, is special. Words from that language have power. Dragons were considered the sons of God of Time and, whether it is true or not, they could slightly alter the world just by speaking. The Greybeards believe the correct use of this power leads to enlightenment, since it comes from the Divines."

Wait. The dragon was using some foreign words from time to time. Were those...?

"Anyway, Skyrim under the rule of dragons was a harsh place, much worse than under the Nords. They were proud, strong, and solved most problems by brute force."

How is that different from most Nord males?

"Their culture was simplistic. A first meeting of two dragons usually ended in devastating battle, in the future most of the time the loser was showing respect for the winner. They themselves built nothing, but Nords under their leadership raised many strongholds. Most of them contained a chamber called the Hall of Stories (or legends, I'm not sure) and even more often Word Walls, which were covered with short texts in their language."

"So, their impact wasn't really so big?"

"Of course it was big. Many words from Thu'um are used even today with slight alterations. The most prominent example is word Oblivion - the dragons, who had to battle with daedra in the Merethic Era, had much better understanding on the subject than the first Nords from Atmora. Furthermore, dragons' tyranny in the end allowed them to harness Thu'um for themselves. That played a part even during the War of First Council, when they aided Dwemer with this power. It also was important in the creation of the Empire itself - Tiber Septim before his rise to power was simply learning Thu'um, which later made it much easier for him to conquer Tamriel. If the Greybeards are right, then it might have even been the reason for which he ascended to godhood and if that isn't a world changing event, then I don't know what is. The actions of dragons affect us to this very day."

Antabolis sighed.

"It is quite sad, you know? A great source of knowledge extinguished forever by a bunch of barbarians with axes. Thanks to their special connection to Time itself, they were looking at the history from a unique perspective. Not like humans, who see it as a linear path, or like gods, for whom there's no past and future, only an infinite present, their viewpoint was something in between. We will never learn the secrets of the dragons, because they are gone forever. Rediscovering the inventions of the Dwemer is actually easier than those of dragons - believe it or not, but there's still one last dwarf left in the world, suffering from a terrible disease in the depths of Tel Fyr and half mad from the pain, but when he is lucid, he's more than willing to share his knowledge. I spoke to him once... What a terrible fate. Still, he's alive and that's much better than what happened to the dragons."

Azirra blinked, which, as she noticed, was starting to become a trend since she arrived to Morrowind. The Dwemers aren't actually completely gone? Huh. You learn something new every day. She decided it was about time she finished her first mission, even if Antabolis did the impossible and gave an interesting history lesson.

"Thank you for sharing this with me, Hasphat. I believe I should go, I was keeping Cosades waiting long enough as it is."

"I wish you good luck in your future endeavours, my friend. Farewell."


"So this is what you have learned from Antabolis?" asked Caius Cosades looking over her report. "I trust he didn't work you too hard for it."

"No worry. I only had to risk my life and sanity several times and kill a bunch of armed smugglers in their lair."

"I see. So the mission was average."

Wow, he's good with sarcasm. Either that, or soon I'm going to die in this line of job. In the meantime, Caius put the report aside.

"I've glanced over the notes. Hasphat gave us enough intel about the history behind both cults, but sadly he hardly said anything new about the Nerevarine cult. We will follow his suggestions. Hop over to the Mages Guild and question Sharn gra-Muzgob. My fellow Blades mentioned you joined this Guild, so your arrival won't seem strange to anyone. Again, if she needs a favour, do it. Simple enough."

She smiled grimly. Another mission of low importance? Not that she really minded, those usually are easier.

"As you wish, Spymaster. I'll return when I get what we need."


Nine-Toes was having a bad day. And I do not mean 'nothing seems to go right' kind of bad, it was more like 'I might get arrested and sent to prison for several years'. All because he was in the rich part of the city this morning.

He needed some backup, there was no way for him to get out of this without help. Fortunately, a perfect candidate was just walking next to his house when he was about to enter.

"Oi, friend!" he called. The Khajiit's ears moved and she looked at him. "Yes, you. There's something we need to talk about."

It didn't felt entirely right to ask a fellow Blade for help, a new recruit at that, but he was kind of out of options. The Argonian opened the door and invited her inside. She raised a brow, but entered.

"Hello, err..."

"Azirra."

"Right. I hate to do so, but I must ask you for help. The ground is kind of burning under my feet, if I can say so."

The Khajiit frowned.

"What kind of help? If you mean fighting..."

"It's not that. Listen, I need someone to clear my name. Today I was snooping in the Rich Town and I got mixed up in this mess with the Hlaalo manor."

She looked confused.

"What mess?"

It was his turn to feel surprised.

"You don't know? I thought the entire city knew at this point. A noble of House Hlaalu, Ralen Hlaalo, was found in his home lying in the pool of blood. And guess who just happened to be nearby, doing some work for Caius?"

Azirra groaned.

"Are you serious, Nine-Toes?"

"I wish I wasn't. The House is already investigating the situation, they sent some new Redguard member to search for murderer. She already talked with me and it doesn't look good. I obviously couldn't tell her why I was there and people saw me."

"So now she sees you as the main suspect. Great."

He smiled weakly.

"Not quite. There were two more people, but unlike me they weren't recognized. The first one, a Dunmer, left the manor completely calm, so other people haven't even noticed him. The other... That guy caused a lot of ruckus. No surprise, that's normal when a Khajiit jumps from a balcony and runs as if he was chased by the Mehrunes Dagon himself."

"A Khajiit and a Dunmer..." She stopped for a moment. "If I'll try to take a closer look, won't that make me a suspect too due to my race?"

"Don't worry about that. It was a male Khajiit and Sudione, the investigator, knows that much," he assured her.

"Then I guess I'll help you; Caius would probably expect it from me. Any ideas where should I look?"

"None, sadly. I was kinda hoping you would know where to look. I heard Khajiits are close to each other in this city."

"Yes, but..." A spark of inspiration appeared in her eyes. Nine-Toes smiled, her kind was always so easy to read. "No, wait, I think I know who to ask. Just one more thing, what Dunmer should I look for?"

"He was a bit young. Red hair. He was wearing bonemold armor and had an axe on his back."

Azirra smiled and patted his arm.

"Don't worry, Nine-Toes. I'll find the true murderer and clear your name. But promise me this..." She became very serious. "Don't try to give me more moon sugar as a reward when it's all over."

"That I can promise. I think I can came up with something better given enough time."


Azirra knew only three other Khajiits in Balmora. Ra'Virr the trader, Ajira the mage, and Habasi the thief. She was already aware that the latter two knew each other and that there were some sorts of meetings of those of her kind. In other words, Habasi more likely than not knew the suspect. She was already approaching the Southern Wall Cornerclub.

She actually felt quite confident about the task. Paradoxically, the traumatic events in Arkngthand helped her to get more confidence. Now she knew she could handle her own problems when things went pear-shaped. Besides, it wasn't her first investigation. She only hoped this time no one will die as well.

After entering the building and walking down the stairs to the main room, Azirra decided her sixth sense was getting better - there were two Khajiits sitting by the bar. One was Habasi. The other, covered in the same kind of armor as his superior, had his face planted on the counter and was groaning weakly. Next to him was sitting a disgruntled Bosmer.

"Stupid! Why did you run?!" He berated his companion. "Now everyone thinks we did it!"

"Shut up, Arathor!" growled Habasi and then looked at Azirra. "I'm sorry, friend, but whatever it is that you want to speak of must wait, we have a small crisis on our hands right now."

"Actually, I believe it's that crisis that I want to talk about. He's the one people saw running away from Hlaalo manor, right?"

A burly, bald Imperial, who up until now was standing silently near the opposite wall, glared at her with suspicion.

"You are asking some highly undesirable questions right now, outsider."

Habasi shook her head.

"Don't worry, Tappius. Habasi knows important people around here and she doubts Azirra here has any intention of making situation worse."

The young mage blinked a few times. Again. Time to start a counter for this.

"Since when am I one of the 'important people'?"

The thief leader smirked.

"This one doesn't know about you, but when one takes down a smuggling den all by themselves, Habasi believes they certainly are important."

Azirra's jaw dropped. She knows?

"Oh, don't look at Habasi like that. We are the thieves. When a closest group of wanna be criminals ends up eating the dirt, we know it." She took a bottle from the counter and gulped down what was left in it. "Mostly because Dar'shanji over here had to visit the ruins to get some Dwemer device. A certain renrij from Hla Oad joined Camonna and we lost a shipment. Our Wet Ear said you really made a mess. Congratulations, although in our line of business it's not exactly something to be proud of. Thieves Guild is known for getting the goods without even alerting the target, not to mention killing."

The Bosmer smacked his fist on the counter.

"Not anymore, Habasi. The guards already know the brandy we stole is gone from the manor and that Khajiit thieves are always our Guild members if they don't work alone. It's only a matter of time before someone tracks Dar'shanji and..."

"Can you both PLEASE stop talking about me as if I wasn't here?" muttered the depressed Khajiit and looked at Azirra. He had green eyes and almost black fur with dark grey stripes. His left ear was pretty much completely gone. "Yes, I'm the one who was at the manor. I was tasked with obtaining an incredibly rare and valuable Vintage Brandy, the kind of alcohol that is reserved only for the richest nobles and kings. Our customer said Ralen Hlaalo had one bottle. The problem is, when I finally got inside, I found the owner's body in the living room. So, I grabbed the Vintage and escaped as fast as I could."

"I see... That means it's the Dunmer that was responsible."

The confused thieves looked at Azirra and she elaborated.

"Nine-Toes, the other suspect that asked me for help, mentioned that a Dunmer left the manor just before you made a scene." The Blade sent them a knowing look. "Someone kills a noble shortly before a thief enters the manor to steal a bottle of a very rare kind of brandy. Now, why does it sound suspicious to me?"

Habasi, unsurprisingly, was the first one to catch on. She growled.

"Damn it! We've been set up!"

Dar'shanji frowned.

"Camonna Tong... They requested the Vintage and then killed the noble so that I would become the first suspect. Now all those people who say that we are the lesser of the two evils will have to shut their mouth." His look of determination disappeared. "But how are we going to deal with it? We have no proof."

"We have a chance," stated Habasi. "We must find the real murderer and prove his connections to Camonna Tong. This way it will backfire on them and their reputation will be slandered even more." She faced the adventurer. "Is your friend willing to help, Azirra?"

"Certainly. He himself is in danger if the case won't be solved."

"Very well. Find him and together pay a visit to the investigator, she's probably in the Council Manor. Explain a situation to her. I heard that Sudione is understanding, though she's not the sharpest tool in the shed. Do we know who we are looking for, friend?"

"The Dunmer has red hair. He had bone mold armor and an axe when he was leaving the manor."

Habasi grinned.

"Good news, this one knows of him. Thanelen Velas, he's officially a smith. Bad news, you will most likely have to enter the Council Club itself, the main headquarters of Camonna Tong, to find him. Tappius, you will accompany them. You are the only one here with serious fighting skills and your group needs to look tough if we want to force Camonna to submit."

The Imperial only nodded. The Bosmer only got more suspicious.

"Just what is your angle? No one would help our Guild out of the goodness of their heart."

The mage snorted.

"I certainly wouldn't help without some payment if it weren't for a fact that I must point out the scapegoat anyway. Otherwise my friend Nine-Toes might end up in prison."

To be honest, Azirra herself wasn't sure why she accepted the fellow Blade's request. Sure, he was an ally, but not exactly a friend. Out of everyone she met so far in Morrowind, only Ajira could be called that (maybe Caius too, if she wasn't so dependent on him). Then again, if she did that for him, he sure would consider her a friend and only gods know how many friends she needed right now just to survive another month.

"It's not going to be enough, you know," said Azirra to Habasi. "Bringing some muscle will only make them more stubborn. They won't yield on their own territory."

"That's why we need to convince the investigator. If she will believe Velas is responsible, she will accompany you to the Council Club with some guards just in case he resists - and Camonna won't risk agitating the Hlaalu, they pretty much own Camonna. Make no mistake, Sudione isn't important enough to order everyone around, but since she was picked to solve the case, the guards will obey her when it comes to this. We simply do not have enough influence on our own."

Azirra nodded.

"I guess I'll get going. Wish me luck."


When Caius Cosades first explained her the local government and the Houses, Azirra created in her head pictures of a member of each of them. Redoran nobles would be massive and strong, with some scars. Telvanni were your typical mages, but, you know, weirder. Necromancy, long beards, living in massive towers, maybe an occasional skull instead of a hat. As for Hlaalu... Filthy rich, fat, sly and prideful bureaucrats. Turns out she was wrong at least when it comes to them - Redguard Sudione certainly wasn't prideful or rich, if one were to judge just by the way she spoke or her clothes. She wasn't fat, in fact she would be quite the hooker, excuse my Cyrodillic, if it weren't for her pug-like face. As for the 'sly' part...

Yes, she definitely wasn't the sharpest tool in the shed.

"I'm sorry, but I really don't see any connection."

Azirra took a small break to calm herself down. The woman knew as much about the politics and the workings of the underworld as average cow. It was strange someone like her managed to advance twice amongst Hlaalu just in one month of her career.

"Miss Sudione, it is an open secret that the Council Club is the headquarters of Camonna Tong."

"I heard of them. What of it?"

"A noble is killed, Nine-Toes saw their member near the crime scene..." The Argonian waved his hand while standing to her left."...followed by a Khajiit thief, no doubt someone from the Thieves Guild. Camonna thugs are known for their brutality, while Thieves Guild is more tame. The conclusion should be obvious."

"I still don't understand what are you implying."

For gods' sake!

"Camonna Tong is clearly responsible for Ralen Hlaalo's death. It's just too strange that the members of two enemy factions would pick the same day to pay him a visit. Thanelen Velas obviously tricked the guild into sending one of their thieves and murdered the noble just before he could arrive. This way the guild's slightly better reputation would crumble, allowing the Camonna Tong to get more support."

A look of understanding appeared on the Redguard's face. She was painfully easy to read.

"I see! It does make sense, definitely more than your Argonian friend breaking into the manor and getting caught by the victim. It also fits to what I've been told about that syndicate." Suddenly she frowned. "But what about the proof? Just because its logical it doesn't mean it's explained without any doubt."

"I was getting to that. We have a description of the Dunmer from Nine-Toes..."

"And from the servant, too. I questioned her myself."

Oh, yes. Get this: the servant of Ralen Hlaalo, Uryne Nirith, also saw a glimpse of the murderer, and yet Sudione hadn't even bothered to search for him, claiming there were probably many Dunmers in the city that fit the description.

"Yes. It fits Thanelen Velas perfectly, he didn't even disguise. As a result, we only need to walk up to him and say that the two gentlemen at my sides..." she pointed at the Imperial and Argonian. "...both saw him leaving the manor just a short time before servant's shouts alerted the people outside."

"...But it's only half true and a word of one person, a suspect at that, isn't enough."

"True, but he won't have a reason to believe we are bluffing if we will approach him in a confident manner and outright tell him to not try to escape since 'we know everything'. The people like him gloat when it's clear it's over for them, just to show what they think is their superiority. Once he admits he is responsible, you will be able to arrest him and close the case."

Azirra didn't have to think very long and hard to come up with this plan. It was sadly the only possible way to obtain the proof - she couldn't snoop around the manor for material evidence.

"Are you sure?"

"Absolutely. He will be surprised we... you figured it out. A Dunmer won't easily notice another Dunmer doing something illegal in the crowd, but Argonians and Khajiits are remembered. Most locals wouldn't even hesitate to blame either when an opportunity shows itself. Sadly, for him, he didn't foresee you, a very competent investigator that isn't biased and wouldn't give up on getting to the bottom of this case."

Bleh, the underside of a boot tastes terribly. But now she has no choice but to comply, if only to stroke her ego.

Azirra's prediction turned out right. Sudione nodded and with a stupid smile stood up from behind her desk.

"An excellent suggestion, citizen. I will..."

A door to the small office they were standing in opened suddenly. A petite Argonian woman, dressed in not too expensive, but very nice dress, walked up to the desk in hurry.

"Sudione, I did what you asked for. You were right, it was all staged. I visited all my contacts and we found him, the bastard is at the Council... Club..." At this point Argonian halted, alarmed by the frozen face of the Redguard and stupefied glances of the other three people in the room. "I'm sorry, did I interrupted something important?"

In the meantime, Azirra had problems with figuring out what was going on. What? The Redguard was actually searching for the Dunmer, even though she said she didn't? Hold on a minute, 'it was all staged'? The pug already figured that out even before we entered? Was she just feigning ignorance? The Khajiit narrowed her eyes while looking at the investigator, who was just getting over being caught with her hand in a cookie jar. I should be more careful around her. That woman is much smarter than she looks.

"N-no, Gih-Deesei, dear. Everything is alright," she assured the Argonian. "Gih-Deesei, meet miss Azirra and her two friends, who happened to be vital witnesses in our investigation. Miss Azirra, this is Gih-Deesei Kaydesh, my good friend from Vivec."

"A pleasure."

"Likewise," answered Azirra.

"Now, as I was saying, since I have everything I need to close the case, I'll go to the Council Club with a few guards and arrest the criminal. Gih-Deesei, would you like to accompany me?"

"No, thank you Sudione. The murderers, crimes, violence... I just can't stand it, my friend. Makes me feel nauseous just thinking about it. But I wish you luck."

"As you wish. Miss Azirra, Mister Nine-Toes, Mister Esdrecus, I assume the three of you want to see it to the very end?"

Azirra hesitated. If she were to accompany Sudione, there was a big danger of being targeted by the syndicate for messing up their scheme. Then again, there was the possibility they either wouldn't bother or outright failed to find her later - just like she had sometimes problems telling apart one Argonian from another, Dunmers generally couldn't pick up on more subtle differences between Khajiits. The armor she was wearing (which she put on back in the Guild) would cover most of her face and make her look bigger than she actually was. Since she planned to exchange it for another, there was not even a danger of being recognized by it later on. Not to mention she wanted to know just how effective her plan was. If it failed, she needed to know as soon as possible to come up with something else.

"Sure."

"If I may," started Nine-Toes. "Can I request that our names won't be said while at the Council Club? I don't want to have a group of angry thugs knowing my name."

Woah, good thinking, Nine-Toes. I almost stepped on a lot of dung.

"But of course. Guards!"


Inventing a new shout was a pain in the ass, even if you had a name like Word Forging Guide.

In fact, it was a lot like coming up with said name, except Ted also had to make sure the three words could be shouted; hence they should have a simple meaning. Well, a simple to him. Other dragons most likely would be completely unable to understand the full concept of just one word that he was certain should end up in this shout.

Once it was noon, Ted got bored of searching for the right words (which, thankfully, was becoming easier with each day - his new draconic nature and probably also his name were making it easier for him) and decided to empower his Unrelenting Force by meditating on the meaning of balance and adding Ro to the shout. And boy, was he bothered by the results.

He just couldn't do it. It wasn't very easy to figure out Fus, but it wasn't so hard either. It was as if something was forcefully (gods, another pun) keeping him from learning.

"I really hope it's normal and other dragons simply had a more time to master Thu'um," muttered Ted. "That, or it's because of that maddening desire to scratch myself on the back that I can't get rid of."

Really, that was so far the worst part about being a dragon, right after living in solitude and boredom. Something's messing with your sense of touch and you want to scratch yourself? DEEEEENIIIIIEEEEED.

Well, at least he figured out his agenda for tomorrow and the next few days. Since the Nerevarine remained at Fort Moonmoth to rest, then today she would report to Cosades. That meant she's going to explore a tomb tomorrow - after that there are no quests I could directly help her with until she meets Sul-Matuul. That gives me some time to prepare.

Sadly, the day was far from over and he was already bored.

How is Paarthurnax doing this? The silence is driving me crazy.

"Vile creature! Show yourself, so that I can smite you!"

Ted blinked and lifted his head. In front of the ruins stood a Dunmer with a bow in his hand, a quiver on his shoulder, a malachite (or glass, if you want to be stupid) sword on his hip, and pants as his only protection from indecency and everything the Morrowind was going to throw at him. It was clear this violent land was indeed throwing a lot of things his way, he had many scars on his body, though the face remained untouched save for one long gash.

"Came out, monster! I have promised to destroy all of your kin, and, I swear by Vivec, I'm going to succeed! Face me!"

Ted frowned. A Blade? No, it can't be. There was no Dunmer Blade guy in Morrowind... I think. Then again, this is the real Tamriel. But what kind of Blade would swear on Tribunal gods instead of Divines? Hold on... could it be?

"Go on! Attack this tasty, lone traveler, like many others! Just look at this massive back and firm buttocks, there's a lot of meat on me!"

I honestly don't know whether should I feel giddy at who am I meeting or awkward because of the way it happens. Ted approached the edge of his nest-tower-thingy just as the Dunmer happened to look in his direction. The challenger slowly lowered his bow with a really stupid look on his face.

"You aren't a cliff racer."

Really? That's the first thing that comes to your mind? Ted smirked. He didn't know why, but for some reason that made the mer nervous. The Khajiit, too, in fact. Were they truly so unused to smiles in the land of Dunmers? At least those words removed all doubts when it came to his identity.

"Saint Jiub, I presume."

The Dunmer seemed baffled.

"Yes, I am Jiub... but why do you call me a saint?"

Crap. He isn't a saint yet. It was stupid of me, the dude arrived to Morrowind the same day the Nerevarine did. He had killed only a bunch of cliff racers so far at best.

"You came here to kill some cliff racers, correct? Well, anyone who does that only to destroy those pests is a saint in my eyes," lied Rotheimaak smoothly. Not that he had to strain himself to came up with this - making Jiub a saint for exterminating the worst enemy of all travelers was in his opinion one of Vivec's best decisions. "Or is it still a matter of time? Sometimes I can't tell apart what has already happened and what has yet to happen. A downside of my race."

"Are you a dragon?"

"I guess it's obvious. Your dedication to destroying those roadblocks pleases me, so I will honor you with an introduction, something I don't do for most mortals. I am Rotheimaak, the dragon of Red Mountain. A sage and seer."

The Dunmer slowly put the bow on his arm.

"I see... I must say, I sure am glad those rumors of Cliff King were wrong."

People saw me? Dammit. Also, why Cliff King of all possible names?

"So, it appears I wasn't as stealthy on my flights as I hoped."

"The legionaries at the Fort took you for a massive cliff racer, so it's not that bad," comforted him the Dunmer. What a strange man, to comfort a dragon. "Where did you came from? I thought your species was extinct."

"Not completely, there are still a few Dovahhe left, though none of them in areas that are easy to access." Fortunately, in his preparations for meeting the Nerevarine, he already came up with nice backstory for himself - he couldn't admit he was technically only few days old, what kind of advisor is that? "I was sleeping for centuries at the Red Mountain until my neighbor Dagoth started making ruckus. I kept telling him to turn the volume down on his radio, but the prick only made it louder. Gods these days."

I love it so much when they look at me like that, thought Ted as Jiub made an expression worthy of a meme.

"I think I need to go. I have many places to be at."

"Certainly. Farewell, cliff racer hunter, kill as many as you can. I have crash-landed because of them too many times."

Because even one crash-landing is too many, thought the dragon as the hero descended down the mountain.


A/N:

renrij - in Ta'agra, the language of Khajiits (yes, this language is very much canon) it means, depending on circumstances, 'mercenary', 'landless' or, like in this case, 'scum'.

In this chapter I dumped a lot of info on you, especially if you haven't played the Morrowind. I also introduced a great deal of side protagonists (let's call them that from now). Azirra continues her hunt for information and get's involved into another investigation. In the original game this quest was more simplistic - no one even explained why people thought Nine-Toes was the murderer, they just did. He also wasn't the one giving you the quest - you could do that either by doing the tasks appointed by the first Hlaalu quest giver until this one came up or simply enter the manor to discover the body and get the entry in a journal.

So... Ted met Jiub. Just like that. I certainly had no plans to include him anytime soon and yet here he is. He should be known to most of you - for Morrowind players he was the very first character we saw and for Skyrim players he could be encountered in the Soul Cairn (who wants to bet we will see him again in the future games?). The world of Elder Scrolls is very small - two heroes arrived to Vvardenfell on the same ship. As you see, in this story he is strangely fine with meeting a legendary being. In my headcanon Jiub is slightly insane. I mean, come on, what kind of person would pick the extermination of cliff racers as their life goal?

I guess that's all for now. I'm afraid there might be some complications with updating shedule - sorry, but I struggle to find free time lately. Also, if you want Azirra/Ted to meet a specific character or visit some location, say so and maybe it will happen. See ya.