Chapter 13

Italica, Gardens of the Palace

The Palace of Italica was actually separated from the rest of the city by a wall circling it. The space between was occupied by the Palace's gardens, a place of relaxation for the building's occupants. It was there the Princess had led Cyrus, wanting to enjoy the sunny day.

They were mostly alone as Piña had sent back her escort, with the exception of the rabbit-woman of the previous day, Delilah, Cyrus remembered. She presented him a tray with glasses of water.

"Please, be my guest," the Princess said as she took one herself. "I would have offered wine but I doubt you would have accepted."

"Correct, never while on duty," he nodded while grabbing the other glass, thanking the servant girl.

"Walk with me," Piña indicated to him as she engaged herself on a small paved path which ran alongside the gardens.

"I do admit I am quite impressed by your effectiveness and speed. We barely met two days ago, you informed me of the truth only yesterday and yet an emissary is set to arrive today. You work fast. I know magic speeds up things but still..."

"It's the Legion's creed to work like a well oiled-engine," the Cyrod stated.

She took a sip from her glass, enjoying its refreshing sensation. "A commendable attitude. Sadly, I'm afraid I must admit being at a disadvantage and unprepared. As I said earlier I know nothing about the ambassador or your diplomatic customs. If you could enlighten me."

Cyrus briefly examined her. She is young, he realized, around the same age we had during our last year at the Arcane University. That's a lot resting on her shoulders. Then again he was barely two years older when he went to war with the Dominion, everything was relative. "You're in luck, your Highness. I happen to know the ambassador on a personal basis."

Piña turned around, beaming at him. "Really now?"

He nodded. They are a few things I can tell her. "She's both a high ranked Battlemage officer and a representative of our corps to the Elder Council. It is in her standing as Councilor she'll come."

The Princess was surprised. Another woman? She hadn't expected that. But something else caught her attention. "The Elder Council you said? What is it? I doubt it literally means its name," she joked.

"Maybe once, but no, you're right. It is a legislative assembly of representatives from all Imperial Provinces that meet in the Capital at the side of the Emperor and his Ministers."

"So the equivalent of our Senate, I see," the Red-head deduced. Yes, the similarities were definitely there, up to the Senate once having been an actual "Council of Elders" if she was remembering her history lessons right.

"Another thing you may want to know, Councilor Mei is part of House Tharn. Aside from the Patriarch of the House also being the current Imperial Battlemage and High Chancellor, the Tharn are the most prestigious family in the Nibenay, if not all of Cyrodiil. Their History dates back to at least one millennium, if not four."

Piña abruptly stopped, her eyes widening. "F-four… millennia!"

"Those are not fully proved but we know they were already old over a millennium ago. Besides we are talking about a family of mages," Cyrus tried to reassure her.

"... That does make sense, I guess?" she deadpanned before taking another sip from her glass. He didn't seem dishonest and honestly at this point she was inclined to believe him.

He drank from his glass before replying to her. "She's not the kind of person that attaches much importance to it. I wouldn't worry about it."

"Right, so she's fairly important." Assuming their society is comparable to us, those Tharn must hold a lot of influence. That and the fact she's a woman could be useful to legitimize myself as the Imperial Heir both in their eyes and the Senate.

As they continued walking, they came across Countess Myui and her Head house-maid sitting at a table. The older woman was apparently trying to teach the young girl her lessons. It surprised Cyrus that it wasn't done by a private tutor as it would be usually the case. Then again, maybe the woman was more important than he had initially thought. The other rabbit woman maid, Mamina, was watching them near.

They interrupted what they were doing upon noticing the pair. "Sir Cyrus, Princess Piña! A pleasure to see you!"

"The pleasure is shared, Ms Kaine and Ms Mamina, Countess Myui," the Battlemage acknowledged back with a small bow.

"Please do not bother yourself for us, we are only passing," the Princess added.

She noticed her companion had acknowledged the bunny warrior by name. It was another thing that struck her, the politeness shown by the Nirnians, not just towards the nobility but also to the servants and common people. Cyrus and his comrades (including that Lizard Demihuman!) were technically nobles but that didn't stop with them, it was also displayed by the common soldiers on the city streets. This contrasted with their Saderan counterparts whose reputation was anything but pleasant. The Redhead wondered if this had to do with the Nirnian training or their society. Nonetheless, the consequences were there, the Italicans were more inclined to trust the Nirnians than they would the Empire's own soldiers.

She shook her head from these thoughts. "Tell me, Cyrus, there was another thing I wanted to ask you. You've never mentioned the fate that befell our army sent through the Gate nor their camp followers. Would it be possible to know what happened to them? Were there any survivors?"

She held breath as the Battlemage stopped, staring at her with his familiar ever neutral gaze, never betraying any emotions. It was intimidating and yet added to his mysteriousness. The Princess wondered what was truly going in his mind. Centurion Marius was an open book in comparison.

"I'm afraid the full information is classified, your Highness. All I can tell you is that we took a lot of prisoners and they are alive and well treated. The rest will be for Councilor Mei to tell."

She lowered her head, defeated. "I should have guessed that." If he couldn't tell her about that then asking about any possible demands for peace that could come up would likely end up fruitless.

"I may have myself a few questions to ask you, your Highness, if you would."

Piña raised her head in curiosity. "Oh? I would like to hear them."

To her amazement, he summoned a levitating notebook and pen which started writing on their own.

"It's about your nobility and the role of Knights inside your society in fact."

"About our… huh? I don't understand."

"Yes. You remember yesterday when I explained how Cyrodiil's aristocracy worked?" As she nodded he continued. "You see the aristocracy of Cyrodiil isn't actually a closed social class like it would be in other Provinces."

Where is he going with this? "What do you mean?"

"Anyone who becomes, say, a landowner can become a Lord or a Lady. It's the same for the other social classes, you don't have to be of a special bloodline. What we do have, however, is old families, like the Tharn. They carry a lot of influence, especially over the Nibenese society," the Cyrod explained.

Interesting. "I see. It is indeed different within the Empire and nobility is inborn. There exists a way to elevate someone to noble status but it's only possible through the Senate or the Emperor. I don't need to say it rarely happens. Still, do these families arrange marriages between themselves for political reasons?"

He nodded. "They do, like everywhere else. The children born from those unions carry primarily the names of the House considered the most powerful."

The Princess' eyes glinted. Cyrus' explanation had just inspired her with a possible means to secure both peace and her power. Arranged marriages with lesser nobles from Nirn to some of my willing Knights, that could be a solution. A shame Marius is lowborn now that Bozes has taken a liking to him. Though if Cyrus is right, it can be arranged easily… She had thought about taking a Nirnian spouse herself but that could jeopardize her position in Falmart. She was still a woman and didn't have the privilege of her father allowing him to enjoy several concubines while his first wife was pregnant. Still, the possibility was not to be discarded easily.

"So what did you mean to say by 'What is the role of Knights in our society?' "

"Their cultural significance," the Necromancer clarified. "What does it mean to be a Knight for you?"

Piña bit her lower lip. What did it mean for her? A lot. Being a Knight had been her dream as a little girl, being able to carry arms against the foes of the Empire. She had grown up since but she would renounce for nothing her Order. However she doubted Cyrus had meant her personally rather than the Saderan society. "Knights are mounted warriors in Falmart from noble extraction. As such we are expected to be both capable fighters and having an aristocratic education."

Cyrus nodded at her explanation, thinking. Yes, that is in line with Breton knighthood. Combined with a High Rock style nobility… the Saderan culture looked much more now like some sort of Cyro-Bretic blend than they had initially thought.

"And what about you, Cyrus? Do Cyrodiil have Knights?" the Princess questioned.

He paused before replying. "Knights are seen as elite warriors first, warriors with a cause. Whether it is a personal Crusade or a quest to please the Gods, we do not emphasize their origin as much as their acts and the ideal they defend. As such most Cyrodilic knightly Orders are Holy Orders in service of the Gods." In a way Cyrodilic Knights were more in line with Crusaders which wasn't surprising given Pelinal Whitestrake's cultural influence on Cyrodiil.

It sounded pleasantly romantic to Piña's ears. It matched her conception of what she thought Knights were as a child, warriors of legend. Back then she had even idealized Zorzal for being one of them. Then I saw him for what he really was. Maybe that was one of the many reasons she wanted to form her own knightly Order, to spite him, to show him Knights could be something else. Yet aside Norma, most men joining the Order choose to leave for his army at some point, she thought bitterly.

"You know… when Norma announced your arrival, we assumed you were Knights. Now that I know its significance for your people, I guess you are Knights indeed," she looked at his black armor, "albeit not white Knights," she added in a joking tone.

"I suppose it's one way to see us, your Highness."

As she no longer had questions to ask him (or that he could answer at least), and neither did he , they returned to the Palace entrance.

"Thank you once again for your assistance, Cyrus," the Princess said, a smile on her face.

"Just doing my duty, your Highness. Nothing less." He saluted her before exiting the Palace.

As Piña returned to her apartments, the sound of a familiar voice greeted her.

"So, how did your date go?"

The Redhead glared at the sight of Bozes leaning against a wall, smirking.

"Really? Are you really the one saying that now? Considering what you did earlier?"

Bozes straightened herself, making her way to her friend. "What? I didn't do anything wrong."

"You went behind my back to their Centurion to do Hardy knows what while I'm trying to establish cordial relationship with them! You owe me an explanation!"

The Blonde winced, her friend was visibly angered. "Okay, fine, I'm going to tell you."

Piña crossed her arms. "I'm listening."

Bozes sighed. "Your plan, Piña, I wish it would come true but it might not. My father will probably marry me like my sister to the heir of some powerful family, I don't know when but I'm sure he is already making plans. I am on borrowed time and with my luck, my future husband won't be a pleasant fellow, so I've decided to enjoy the instant present. Marius may be a lowborn, true, so who cares? He's handsome, nice, pleasant to be around and he saved my life."

The Princess ran her hand through her hair. "I see. But what if you were to become pregnant? There is a reason relationships between men and women were banned within the Order."

Bozes shrugged. "It's not like there aren't ways to avoid that happening. Besides, I'm fairly sure their female soldiers have some 'magical' solution."

"And what makes you think that?"

"Did you just see what their human male soldiers look like? I wouldn't be surprised if there are unofficial relationships going on." The Blonde's elbow punched her friend in the arm playfully. "Maybe you should have asked him about it as a way of cultural exchange."

The Princess merely rolled her eyes in exasperation.

Field Hospital of Italica, same moment

Black-Scales and Caranya had just finished inspecting the Century's potion stock and ingredients, the latter having a few of daedric origin added . They calculated they had enough for a few weeks should they have dire need of using them. They then met with Cato and his apprentice Lelei to discuss the local plants should they need to know their properties. Tuka had decided to come along, having nowhere else to go and wanting to be useful. Currently, Caranya was discussing with the Saderan mages the difference between their magic.

"Magic here follows what we call the "Legal Principle". It consists by applying a "False Principle", a spell, over a "True Principle". For example, to levitate a rock, I must apply that False Principle against the rock's True Principle of being still, if you know what I mean," the old sage explained before demonstrating his skill.

Caranya nodded in understanding. "Yes, that is indeed similar to one of the basics of our magic, especially the School of Alteration which is literally about changing the reality around us by rewriting it."

"But your magic seems incredibly potent," Lelei pointed out. "I have never heard of Sages manipulating the natural laws with such mastery. Nor have I ever heard of them summoning those creatures, 'Daedra' as you call them. The storm the night of the attack, that was you, right?"

The Altmer reluctantly nodded, there was no point hiding it anymore.

Cato's gaze widened. "Incredible! That was an impressive sight, truly. You and your men should come to the Lindon Magic Academy at the city of Rondel! You'll be awarded the rank of Expert if not Arch-Mage!"

Caranya was a bit embarrassed by the old man's praises. She however recorded mentally the name of the city where the Academy was. "Maybe another time when we are not at war. Still, could you point out the city's location?"

"Of course! It's situated North of Italica but you have to cross the Romaria Mountains first."

Got it, I'll relay the information later.

She suddenly frowned as she remembered something. She turned towards the other Elf in the room. "Tuka! Black-Scales told me you could use magic, right? Didn't you also say you could enchant arrows?"

As the room's attention concentrated on her, the young girl started to blush and stutter. "Y-yes, Lady Caranya… m-my people use s-spirit magic."

"Don't you 'lady' me, girl, just call me Captain. So what is this 'spirit magic' you speak of?"

"It's something different from our form of magic, much more powerful," Lelei explained. "The Elves and the Sirens are the only ones that know how to use it."

The Elf girl nodded in confirmation. "My people, the High Elves, and our cousins, the Dark Elves, are naturally more intrinsically connected to nature than the other short-lived races. Through this bond we can call upon the forces of nature. I do not know much about Sirens however."

Caranya ticked at the mention of both High Elves and Dark Elves. So Tuka is a… High Elf? And there are Dark Elves too out there? Obviously the girl's people had little to no connection to her own race and the same was probably true for those Dark Elves and the Dunmer. Back in Tamriel those names weren't even used by the people they actually referred to. Still, it was strange the same names would be used here. Or it could be the spell's closest translation?

Black-Scales, who had remained quiet until then, listening to the conversation, detected his superior's confusion. He chose to jump into the discussion. "Can you explain more about how it works?"

Tuka's earlier lack of confidence seemed to have completely vanished by now and she looked happier, as if she liked talking about her people. "Of course! The natural elements are actually governed by nature spirits but most people don't know about them. It is upon them we call to channel magic when we enchant our arrows with wind or cast lightning spells. I'm afraid I don't know more."

The Battlemage Captain put her hand under chin, reflecting on this. 'Nature spirits' governing over the elements… is she talking about some sort of mini-Ehlnofey they can tap into?

"Lad… erm, Captain Caranya, you're an Elf, right?" Tuka asked shyly. "I've never seen or heard about one like you before. Is this where your enormous magical power comes from?"

The girl felt a bit intimidated when the older woman's golden eyes gazed at her.

"I am indeed an Elf, from a race called Altmer but we do not practice this "spirit magic" like your people. Like the other people from Nirn, we channel the magic directly from our own bodies."

Lelei's eyes widened. "You channel magic from your own bodies? How do you know? Do you mean there's some invisible magical energy inside our bodies as well?"

Caranya and Black-Scales shared a glance. Apparently the Falmartians didn't know about magicka either, which would also explain their general lack of magical knowledge.

"Yes, the energy you use to cast spells. You mean you've never felt it?"

"We know it exists. Studies upon it were realized by our founders, the twin Apostles La and Elange before they ascended to godhood, but they weren't able to fully grasp it," Cato replied. "The Academy was never able to prove it either in the following centuries so we turned ourselves to other fields of study."

Cyrus said the Gods here are willingly withholding knowledge. Do they have a hand in it? Or maybe the local magic is more limited than ours, the Altmer woman theorized.

"Captain?" Tuka called her hesitantly, "I have a few questions about your people. Are they all golden-skinned like you? Do they have their own villages?"

The innocent question made Caranya smile. Do Altmer have their own rural communities like her people? How many stuck-ups back in Summerset would react with disgust at being compared to them?

"Altmer's skin is naturally various shades of gold like mine. Our eyes don't have a white sclera as you can see and are always colored. And we do not have villages, we have our own realm called the Summerset Isles, separate from the Empire of Tamriel."

She saw stars shining in the girl's eyes.

"What does it look like? Is it beautiful? How are the people?"

Caranya briefly closed her eyes. She could see the glass spires of Alinor, the cherry blossom trees and more. It was beautiful… and yet. "I… I'm afraid I do not come from there. I have lived in Cyrodiil almost all my life, among its people, my people." She snorted. "I am not a proper Altmeri woman, my blood may be elven but my heart is too Nibenese."

Tuka looked disappointed. It seemed she had been engrossed into wanting to know more about her newfound "cousins".

Caranya shook her head. "Trust me, not all is pretty there."

Tuka raised a brow at the comment. "You said you lived all your life among humans. Isn't it harder than among your… I mean the Altmer?"

The Captain frowned. "What do you mean?"

"Well… how old are you?"

Black-Scales' eyes widened at her question. "Tuka… that's not the kind of question you ask a woman."

His superior waved out his concerns. "Now, it's okay, I'm not that stuck-up about my age." She turned back to the teenage blonde elf. "I'm around 24, why does it matter?"

Tuka shook her head. "No, I didn't mean your age in human years but your real age, in real years."

"I don't understand. That's my real age. What do you mean by 'in real years'?"

"Well… for example my real age is 165 winters but in terms of human development I'm between…", she looked at Lelei for help.

"Sixteen or seventeen years old," the blue-haired mage confirmed.

Caranya and Black-Scales shared a look.

"Okay now… I see what you mean," the Battlemage officer finally said. "So the Elves here mature slower than back home. Well you see it's different on Nirn, we age at the same rate as non-elven people until we reach our peak, then we age more slowly to the point dozens of years doesn't change us much."

"Wouldn't that still be hard for you to fit with non-elven people?"

The Altmer's heart shot with a sharp pang. She knew what the girl's question truly meant. Isn't it hard to grow up with people that you know will inevitably die of old age before you do?

Black-Scales went to her rescue. "That's enough for now, I think. We still have work to do, isn't that right?"

His Captain nodded at him. "Right, I may have to check on the Knights sent on patrol among other things."

"Very well, Lelei and I also have other tasks to attend to," Cato informed them as he and his apprentice made their way towards the exit. "By your leave, Captain Caranya, Battlemage Black-Scales."

"I will find Rory or someone I know from Coda's village," Tuka added as she followed them.

Once they were left alone, the Argonian spoke. "Permission to speak freely Ma'am?"

"Granted soldier."

"Are you okay?"

She knew right away what he meant. "Yes, I don't let it bother me. I know she meant no harm so let's speak of something else." Her tone was final.

"Right," then suddenly changing the subject, "that may not be my concern but I can't help to think you were a bit biased against Summerset," he said neutrally as possible.

"What of it? Would it have been better to tell her it was as beautiful as the vanity of its inhabitants? Of how little they would think of her?" She asked him dryly.

"Look… I get it, it's not pretty. But as a member of the diaspora whose family haven't had contact with Black Marsh for centuries, and who have problems with its current leadership, even I don't share your views."

"... That may be so," she finally acknowledged, "Divines know Cyrus has called me out on this several times but…" she looked away for a bit, "there were toxic aspects of 'our' society even before the Thalmor showed up." She finally looked back at him. "They didn't show up out of nowhere and seize power in a bloody coup. We welcomed them in spite of what they were because we knew who they were."

"Everyone makes mistakes and the Oblivion Crisis was traumatic for everyone. Supporting extremists who appeal to the popular masses isn't exclusive to the Altmer, heck that's what happened in Black Marsh. At least the current people in charge back in the Isles are trying to change things."

"Were it so easy..." she almost whispered.

"So…" Black-Scales began awkwardly, wanting to shift the subject once more, "you think Cyrus and Jing should be done by now?"

"Probably? I don't know. Maybe we should contact them."

"How are they doing?" he asked.

She marked briefly a pause. "... Good, I think."

"You… think?" the Argonian deadpanned.

"They're doing ok so far and their performance is good, that's all we need to know."

Black-Scales frowned. "I'm worried about them," he told her. "Yesterday there was that thing with Jing when Cyrus did his… stuff. Then this morning he told me he dreamt and I quote of 'a Khajiit monk kicking his ass all night'. I'm not sure if we can say 'they're doing okay'."

The Altmer raised a brow in wonder. A Khajiit monk? Could it be…

"Divines, what really happened back in Valenwood?" he finally asked.

Caranya shook her head sadly. "It's not my place to tell you." Nor did she know everything about it.

He grunted. "Right, we better get back to work."

"Mmm… you have the knack to switch the conversation's theme really quickly today."

He didn't have the time to answer as someone entered the tent. To their surprise, it was Cyrus.

"Battlemage Cyrus of Argos reporting for duty, Ma'am!" he saluted as usual.

"Cyrus? What are you doing here? I didn't call you."

He broke his salute. "The Princess had need of assistance in preparing the diplomatic meeting. She asked for one of us and between Jing and I, I was the most logical choice. I only disclosed non-classified information while I was able to ask a few questions myself."

"Excellent initiative soldier! It will further build trust. What were you able to learn?"

"It was mostly about their society but the information might be useful to help Councilor Mei when she gets here," he replied.

"Anything else?"

He paused a bit. "Actually there is. But it's rather long winded."

"I see." She turned towards Black-Scales. "Go back to the Barracks with the potions we need, we'll catch up."

"Right, Captain! It will be done immediately," the Argonian affirmed as he carried an enchanted backsack full of potions.

As Black-Scales left them alone, she spoke again. "So what is it then?"

"I wanted to report it earlier but it was too important for anyone else to know. You may want to sit down."

"Okay..?" she replied rather unsure. She sat on a nearby unused cot. "You're worrying me."

And so he told her, his dreams, his encounter with the Dark Warrior, everything from last night. To her credits, Caranya didn't betray any emotion as she kept listening. As he finished his story, she got up.

"A Daedric Prince…" She started to shake a little before wandering aimlessly in the tent. "Divines… please help us."

"I believe Boethiah's information is both trustworthy and crucial enough to transmit immediately. The Prince was unfortunately unwilling to reveal the culprit who opened the Rift in Tamriel," Cyrus stated calmly, as if oblivious to his superior's current state.

The Altmer stopped suddenly before turning back and walking straight towards him. She was absolutely livid. "A Daedric Prince is reaching to you in your dreams and your first reaction is worrying about the intel they can provide us? Are you out of your mind Cyrus?!"

He didn't react at her outburst, remaining perfectly calm. "I have nothing to hide, Ma'am, I believe we can use this for the Empire."

Caranya finally snapped, unnerved by his attitude. Her eyes glowed green as she began to speak in the unknown tongue. "Don't you 'Ma'am' me! Not now!"

Ah. There it is, Cyrus thought. He grabbed his superior by the shoulders to try to calm her. His eyes took on the same color as hers as he replied in the same dialect. "Cara… now isn't the time to lose our self-control."

"Do you even realize the situation you are in? This isn't about playing with the souls of the dead! We are talking about a God here! And you speak of 'self-control'?"

"I know," he replied. "But what other choice do we have? We have to play the cards we are must tell our superiors."

She didn't answer him, looking away.

"I was put under your command by direct order of the Imperial Battlemage, who asked you to report on Jing and me. You know your duty as Magus-Captain. Whatever feelings you hold do not matter."

A mix of anger, sadness and fear overwhelmed the Captain. She clenched her teeth. How could he even lecture her about that? She knew her duties well enough! Yet she knew deep down he had seen right, she could not ignore how she felt about the whole ordeal. "Cyr… I almost lost you once, I do not want it to happen again."

He took her hands into his, locking eyes with the Altmer. "It won't. Not this time, I learnt my lesson."

She winced at the last part. "I'm afraid for you. If Boethiah chose you it's because the Prince saw something to be used."

"I know. But it's too late to go back on it. I'll just ask you this, do you trust me?"

She answered without hesitation. "I do."

He nodded at her before letting go of her, his eyes returning to their normal brown color. "Thank you."

As he walked towards the exit of the tent, he stopped before turning back. "Cara… I know I have been distant lately, cold even, towards everyone. And I'm sorry. I know part of it isn't my fault but I have done nothing to help. I've been playing the lone wolf far too long, but I genuinely want to mend the bridges." He then resumed his walk.

"Wait!"

As Cyrus turned around, he was surprised when Caranya engulfed him in a tight hug. "I don't think we should…"

"If there was one situation where we totally should it's right now. Now shut up and hug me back, soldier!"

He eventually wrapped his arms around her. They stayed like that in a complete silence a few minutes, before separating themselves.

Something rang. Caranya looked up and took some kind of small glowing stone from her armor's pockets. "It's the communication stones we gave to the two patrols when they left. One of them must have found something."

She activated the enchanted item. "This is Captain Caranya listening. Who is on the other side?"

A voice marked by a strong southern Daggerfallian accent answered her. "Adishatz*, Madam, Sénher* Ramon at your service. I contacted you because we found what might have been a Castel*… sorry, a Castle belonging to one of the two families who warred over Italica."

Interesting. "Where are you exactly? Can you tell me more?"

"Certainly, Madam. We followed the eastern road without stopping at a quick pace since leaving early this morning. The keep is guarding the access to the only passage through a chain of mountains."

The Battlemage officer unfolded Falmart's map before looking at it. She located the mountain range the patrol was close from, it was actually the only direct way to Sadera. We need that fortress secured. "Is the stronghold empty?"

"Negative, and its occupants proved to be quite unpleasant. They demanded a tax if we wished to cross with explicit mention of all kinds of threats if we didn't comply."

"Under what authority did they demand payment?"

"None but themselves. They are clearly outlaws."

"Very well, I…" Caranya was cut by the sudden telepathic connection she felt. "Stay on stand-by, Sir, one of my superiors is trying to contact me."

"Commander Sejanus to Captain Caranya, I have a top priority message for you coming from Nirn. Are you listening?"

"Sir! Yes, Sir!"

"Very well. You are to prepare the arrival of Councilor Mei Tharn, she will be departing soon. You'll need to clear a Landing Zone before establishing the extra-planar connection."

Her golden eyes' widened in surprise. "A Landing Zone, Sir?"

"You heard me right. You should warn the city's inhabitants. Something tells me it will be a quite unusual sight for them."

"Of course. There was however something I wished to tell before we cut the connection, Sir. A Knight patrol revealed the existence of a fortress guarding the only direct access to the enemy capital. It passes through a mountain chain. Currently, it is occupied by bandits but if we could clear it…"

"We could gain a precious chokepoint against any enemy offensive," Sejanus finished. "Excellent thinking, captain. With that said however, you'll need to have the Councilor greenlight you the idea. While I will stay your commanding officer for this operation, you'll need to keep her informed about your moves. In this particular case, it might compromise our chance of peace if we act too soon, understood?"

"Crystal, Sir."

"Very well, Divines and Magnus watch over you."

"Before you go, Sir…" she briefly locked eyes with Cyrus. Recognizing the silent question she asked, he gave her a small nod.

"There's something I need to report."

Once Marius and the rest of the Battlemages had been made aware of the Councilor's imminent arrival, Legionnaires had been tasked to warn Italica's residents and reassure them. The full details hadn't been given aside "magical ritual to summon a diplomat". They had surprisingly taken it better than expected.

The news had reached the Princess and the Countess first. Since it was made obvious there wasn't enough space near the barracks to dock the airship, Caranya had asked if the Circus could be used instead. Seeing as no chariot race would happen in the near future, young Myui had no problem accepting the suggestion. When Piña had asked why, the Altmer had merely answered the delegation was to arrive in a flying machine at which point the Princess relented.

At this point they could tell me they walked on the moon and I could believe them

The racetrack was soon prepared for the landing. Aside from the four Battlemages, Centurion Marius was there with a few Legionnaires, having left Aviera in charge of the rest of the Century. Piña was there with her mentor as well some of her Knights, Bozes and Hamilton being the most recognizable. Not far from the Saderan representatives, the young Countess Formal and Ms Kaine had come too, accompanied by Delilah, Mamina and a third unknown rabbit woman who was much more bunny-looking than her colleagues. The three women were surrounding the aristocrat girl and their superior, looking more like bodyguards than maids, Caranya noted. Rory had come too, of course, she wouldn't have taken no for an answer.

Jing was already channeling a rift to send the extra-planar signal of their location. She signaled her superior when she finally got an answer.

"Be ready," Caranya warned the crowd, "the portal's opening may seem frightening."

A brief flash of light, similar to a storm, exploded, surprising the non-Nirnian gathering with some even covering in fear. When it was gone, a large portal had formed in the sky. The Falmartians were all in awe.

Their magic let them open controlled gates wherever they seem to wish… I don't think even the twin gods could do that, Rory mused as she looked on.

Her thoughts were cut short when the strangest contraption she had ever seen in her near millenium old life came through the portal. It looked like some sort of ship whose sails had been replaced by… something she could hardly name and seemed to allow the machine to fly. The Apostle knew immediately she wanted to go on board.

Caranya conjured red floating balls of light to indicate the ship where to land. It did so in an orderly manner, dropping from altitude at a calm pace. The Falmartians (save for the demi-goddess) retreated from a few steps.

Piña was torn between being in awe and afraid. Knowing these people could do the impossible was one thing, witnessing the deed was in another. She had found Cyrus' "tricks" impressive one day ago, but now? That was something else. There must have been some kind of magic to allow the… machine to fly. She didn't see any other explanation. People were now descending from it. The crew, I guess. I suppose it does need people to pilot like a ship. Her attention was suddenly drawn to one person, a woman.

Unlike the others, she wasn't wearing what could be considered military clothing. Yet her outfit was one of the strangest the Princess had ever seen. It looked luxurious and quite exotic and consisted of a garish long robe decorated with various motives. That woman was no doubt a noble lady and thus the envoy. Her conclusion was confirmed when she saw the Nirnians kneeling before the lady like they did before her.

"Rise", the woman commanded in a calm tone, a military tone noted the Princess.

As their eyes locked, Caranya wondered, how long had it been since she had last seen Lady Mei? Something like a year? Perhaps more. Yet she hadn't changed a bit.

"Captain Caranya, Battlemages…" she said with a smile while reviewing them, "it has been quite a while."

"A pleasure to work under you, Ma'am," the Altmer answered.

They have grown, she thought as she shifted her glance from one to another, focusing last on Jing. Mother and daughter briefly acknowledged each other. Mei then turned to the Centurion.

"Centurion Marius Aurelius, at your service Ma'am!"

"Pleased to meet you, Centurion. I have heard a lot of praises about your work."

"You are too kind."

As the Falmart delegation approached, she went to greet them.

Seeing her up close now and in spite of the make up she was wearing, Piña was struck by the similarity between the envoy and Battlemage Jing. She looked like she was an older sister. A relative, maybe? But Cyrus hadn't mentioned it. Her posture, her movements, everything looked controlled. That was enough to tell the Princess she was a master in politics.

Mei bowed before her. "Princess Piña Co Lada, I presume? I am Councilor Mei of House Tharn, official representative of the Tamrielic Empire."

"Pleased to make your acquaintance, my Lady. I hope in the following days we find common ground about the… disagreeable situation at hand."

"I believe we will, your Highness."

Piña then gestured to Myui. "Lady Tharn, may I introduce to you our host and current head of the Formal clan, Countess Myui Formal."

"Pleased to meet you, Lady Tharn", the young girl said with a small curtsy.

Mei answered her in kind. "Likewise, Countess. I hope the presence of our soldiers in your city wasn't too unpleasant?"

Myui shook her head. "Oh no, not at all. If it wasn't for them, I wouldn't be a Countess anymore. They were quite helpful and me and my subjects are grateful to them."

As she nodded her head in acknowledgement, Caranya moved to whisper something in her ear in Aldmeri. Her face crisped before turning towards the Princess.

"It seems we will have to go straight to the point faster than I would have wished." She gestured to her soldiers. "The Captain just informed me one of our patrols discovered a fortress guarding a mountain occupied by outlaws, east of Italica."

"That's the fortress of Clan Missna, my sister Loui's husband's clan!" Myui exclaimed in shock.

Piña bit her lip. "I had them locked up after they warred over Italica with the Clan Roen but I didn't have the time to secure their territories. That fortress overlooks the main access merchants take to the Imperial Heartlands and Sadera."

"We need to retake it, Princess! Send me with a full troop!" one of the Knight-women asked.

But the red-head shook her head. "No, Beefeater, I know that fortress, it would take far more the entire order to lay siege to it. We would need siege engines… that we don't have. Sending you there would be suicide." Yet we need to retake it or we'll be cut off. The situation is already as bad as it is.

Mei cleared her throat, catching her attention. "If I may, your Highness, I have a proposal though it might appear… presumptuous, given I've been here for only a few minutes."

Piña stared at her. If the older woman had any hidden intentions, she wasn't betraying it. I bet they were already planning this "proposal" before her arrival. That was a thing that kept bothering her, she had no leverage on the Nirnians so far and was too reliant on them. But ultimately, she knew when she was backed against a corner.

She turned back to her fellow Falmartians. The Italicans seemed in support which was no surprise. Among her own people… Grey seemed to indicate her to do what she thought was best, Bozes and Hamilton would follow her no matter what she chose and the other Knights were undecided. Only Beefeater was strongly opposed to it and she couldn't blame her. But she needed that fortress in hands she could trust.

"Very well, I accept." I'll deal with the fallout later

"Thank you for your trust, your Highness. In return, I will disclose to you later a list of important prisoners we managed to identify. Which reminds me," she then turned towards Myui. "Before I forget, Countess, I have something for you. I kept it on myself since it was strictly for your hands, only."

She snapped her fingers, which, to the Falmartians' awe, opened one of the airship's discharged luggages. A letter levitated from it before floating towards Mei's hand. She then handed it to Myui.

Ms Kaine's eyes widened when she gazed briefly at the first lines. "It's Count Formal's handwriting!"

Myui was overjoyed. "Father is alive, then?"

"Alive and well treated, I can assure you."

So Count Formal survived? What did it mean for her future plans, Piña couldn't tell as of now but she felt the information wouldn't have been disclosed if the Nirnians didn't have something to gain from it. Or they are just that noble, who knows?

That list on the other hand… it was something that could definitely be of use to her.

War tent of the Nirnians, Italica, a few minutes later

The Battlemages, Marius and now Mei were gathered around a table with Falmart's displayed on it.

"I'll get straight to the point, we don't have the manpower to hold the fortress," the Centurion informed them. "We're already struggling with the city as it is, even after yesterday's crackdown on criminal elements and the population's support."

"We don't need manpower," Cyrus retorted.

Marius was confused for a moment before making a grim realization about the sentence's meaning.

"He is correct," Caranya added, "but we need the fortress intact. Alongside Cyrus, I propose to deploy Black-Scales, he'll infiltrate the stronghold and take it from within."

The Argonian nodded in appreciation. "Very well, Captain. It should be easy enough."

"Seems like you have the situation under control, I will let you handle it, I need to prepare my diplomatic interview. As Sejanus told you, I am not here in my capacity of Magus-Commander and thus won't replace him as your commanding officer."

As the rest of his fellow soldiers departed (with Jing leaving rather abruptly), Cyrus stayed behind. "Ma'am, the Princess and I already held an exchange at length before and I learned a few things you might want to know."

She raised a brow. "Oh? And why is that?"

"I was the one who saved her life during the battle. It probably helped ease our relations."

"Truly? I wasn't aware. Very well, what did you learn?"

He summoned a notebook that he handed her over. "Here's a copy of my notes with everything detailed in it. To summarize it, their civilization seems to be a blend of Cyrodilic and Bretonic cultural traits, completely male-dominated and, if we can call them that, mannish dominated."

She looked over the content briefly before smiling. "Excellent work. We already knew some of it but your notes should be of great help."

He saluted her. "I only did my duty, Ma'am."

Mei suddenly walked the distance separating them, her hand grasping his left cheek in a motherly manner. "I am not your military superior here, Cyrus. You can call me by my name." She touched his beard. "That's new. Yet it suits you, you've grown."

"If you would excuse me, I have a mission to complete," he told her as he directed himself towards the tent's exit.

Mei's smiling face hardened before shaking with a sad air. "Cyrus!"

He stopped in his tracks.

"Thank you… for my daughter."

He turned back to face her. "I did what I had to do. For her."

"I know. As I said once, our house will always be open to you and Caranya."

They silently exchanged looks before the young man turned around. "I don't want any favourable treatment but… thank you for the offer."

As he left the tent, a surprise awaited him outside.

"Heyah! How is it going Cyrus?"

"Rory," the Necromancer simply acknowledged the Apostles waving at him.

She pouted cutely. "How rude! You could at least pretend to be happy to see me."

"I am."

"... the pretending part or the… nevermind that." she shook her head, "maybe you could replace me as Emroy's new Apostle when I ascend, you really fit 'the messenger of Death' part," she whispered in a mischievous and almost inaudible tone.

He crossed his arms, watching her antics. "You wanted something." It was an affirmation, not a question. "And I know what it is."

She smirked. "Oh, really now?"

"You want to take a tour on the airship."

"How did you guess?"

"I'm getting to know you," he replied as he started to walk. He gestured for her to follow. "Come, we'll be taking it for the current mission. Due to your status, you'll be allowed on it, as long as you behave of course."

"As long as I behave? Don't you start treating me like a child, too!" She said in an annoyed tone.

The airship flew above the West Weald, towards the south, at a speed unrivaled by even the fastest sea-ship on a gusty day. While its crew was busy manning it, making sure they were following the right course, the passengers had gathered on the deck in an orderly manner. They were all outfited in Imperial Legion armor. Their Centurion, a male orc that looked to be in his late forties, was delivering his 'pep' talk.

"Now, listen here, especially you, the greenhorns, this is going to be one of the most important tasks of your lives! I will repeat it for those who didn't understand the first time! In a few moments we'll be flying above Valenwood! When we do, we'll only have a few minutes to drop in the Jungle below, before the Dominion locate this airship and figure out what we're up to, and from there link up with the anti-Dominion Bosmeri Resistance! Until then, I want everyone to be ready! Got it, Legionnaires!"

"Sir! Yes, Sir!"

One of the nearby Battlemages was trying to control his breath. His comrade touched his shoulder to gain his attention.

"Cyrus, are you okay?" Jing asked him in a worried tone.

"Yeah," he smiled, "just trying to focus. What about you?"

She returned his smile. "I'll be lying if I wasn't nervous. No, Divines, I'm actually scared."

"Me too," He pointed to some of the other soldiers, "but it seems we aren't the only ones."

She nodded before straightening her position. Some Legionnaires were praying, others were reciting their oath.

The sight of a lone Suthay-Raht not dressed in Imperial armor caught Cyrus' sight, probably an irregular unit. He was apparently meditating on the floor. He seemed absolutely calm, which impressed the young man. His weapon appeared to be some kind of bladed staff but different from the one Battlemages were carrying.

"Jing," she turned her head when he called out to her, "I wanted to say thank you for coming with me."

"I couldn't let you be a hothead and go on your own with a clear conscience. Someone had to watch your back. Especially after… the battle."

He nodded sadly before taking a deep breath. "Yeah… I'd rather forget about that, but we can't. No matter, we need to press on if we are to win this war. We ain't kids anymore." He raised his hand. "Let's not make their sacrifice useless. We're gonna win!"

She grabbed it firmly. "You're right, we will!"

They put their hands on their chest and recited the Shadow Legion's oath.

"Battlemages," the Centurion suddenly said. "We are near the border! Cast the slowfall spells, now!"

Obeying, they channeled their magicka before applying in sync over the Century.

"Good, now we'll be jumping one after the other. I'll be last, follow the Optio! Go!"

The Legionnaires did as they were commanded and jumped from the ship, one by one. When it was finally Cyrus's turn, he kissed the amulet of Akatosh around his neck for luck before taking a deep breath and jumped.

He had already done that in training but the sensations here were something else. His heart kept pumping adrenaline. He briefly turned his head to see Jing behind him. He then looked below.

A trail of legionnaires following each other could be seen as well a green mass, that could only be the jungle, which approached at a fast pace. The slowfall spell allowed him to control his fall to follow his comrades.

Then he felt something else. Almost like a song that grew heavier the more the jungle appeared closer, as if Valenwood was calling out to them. He closed his eyes as he reached the top of the trees.

Open your eyes

Red eyes were staring into his own. They belonged to Rory who was staring at him with a puzzled expression.

"What in the Underworld were you doing since we left Italica?"

He got up from his meditation pose. "Meditating. It helps clear the mind, you should try it."

"You know, if I wasn't already starting to figure you out, I would think you were being sarcastic."

He didn't answer, instead addressing the closest crewman he could find, a Dunmer. "Where are we, soldier?"

"Sir!" the Mer saluted him. "We have just located the patrol. The fortress should soon appear in sight."

"Thank you," he turned to the Apostle, gesturing for her to follow him.

They made their way to the deck where Rory decided to admire the view. "Whooah," she said with a childlike amazement, "I've flyed on a wyvern before but it doesn't compare to this. I can see Italica from there!"

"Be careful to not fall."

"Don't worry, I'm sure I can survive it."

Black-Scales was on there too, gazing at them. Cyrus joined him.

"Why did you humor her?" the Argonian asked.

"Forget for a moment that she looks like a pre-teen. She's an asset for us and it's better to have her on our side. Especially when we are out in the open."

"Mmmh… can't say I disagree."

"Sir!" a crewman called out, "we have located the fortress! It's just below us."

"Well, wish me luck."

"I would," the Necromancer replied, "but I know you won't need it. Your skills are more than enough."

His scaly friend smiled while acknowledging the remark with a nod. "Damn right! I'll send the signal once I'm done."

He then walked towards the edge of the ship, took a deep breath before casting a slowfall spell and jumped.

Rory's eyes widened. "Did he just jump? At that altitude?"

"He'll be fine."

As the ground became closer and closer, the landscape below became clearer. The fortress wasn't that special, honestly, similar to the old forts of his native High Rock. Though being in a mountainous region, a conventional siege would have been a pain in the ass. Casting a detect life spell, Black-Scales could see it was patrolled. Fortunately no one would think to look up to the sky and even if they did, he could become invisible.

He directed himself to his chosen landing spot, the roof of the fortress' highest tower. He cast a quick silence spell just before his feet touched it. From there, he was able to see everything going on. The majority of the bandits were concentrated in the court below, discussing between themselves or just practicing. A few auras were showing people inside the buildings, the rest were walking on the walk-path on the defensive wall.

To work then

There was a window just below him. He climbed on the wall before entering the tower by it which led him to a big bedchamber rather richly decorated. Probably the one belonging to the Castle's previous owner.

Judging by the state of the bed's sheets, it was still in use by someone, a nearby red aura indicating they weren't far. He followed it, leaving the chambers for a corridor after cloaking himself, stopping before a door. The person he had tracked was just behind, busy with some unknown task. The Argonian looked through the keyhole. A mannish male sat at a desk, scribbling something, his back facing the door. Black-Scales entered the room, slowly opening the door without a noise.

The man was talking to himself, gloating. "Good, good. With the gold we managed to make since we've taken this place, we will soon have enough to legitimize our ownership. Just a few bribes here and here, and I'm sure I'll be recognized as the new Lord of this place!"

The Argonian walked behind him, still cloaked and under the silence spell's effect. He quickly covered the man's mouth with his left hand while his right brandished his dagger, slitting the bandit leader's throat without a sound. The man fell dead in an instant. Black-Scales dragged his body over to a nearby locker before hiding it inside. He then gazed at what his victim was writing earlier. He couldn't read it, of course, but there was someone who could for him.

Maybe keeping Rory around wasn't such a bad idea indeed, he mused as he took the notebook with him. He then left the room before exiting the tower, finding himself on the walk-path, not far from stairs that led to the central courtyard. As he searched around, something roared, surprising him.

A gigantic beast looking similar to an Ogre, like the ones used by the Saderans at the Gate, was chained against the wall. It tried to break out, extending its hands towards him.

Shit, it must have picked my smell.

Rummaging through his armor's pockets, the Argonian grabbed a small flask and threw it at the creature. The beast became even madder, his sense of smell now blinded.

"What's going on, there?"

The Argonian quickly scaled the defensive wall so the newcomer wouldn't suddenly run into an invisible obstacle.

Two men arrived as the Ogre-lookalike desperately tried to escape its chains.

"What's the matter with him?

"I don't know. It's like he detected someone but there's nothing here aside from us."

"You should back up, he seems to have gone mad. We'll have to tell the chief later."

"Right"

As they returned to their post, Black-Scales decided to follow them.

"By the way, Sicarius…" one of them started.

"Mmmh?"

"There's something weird I couldn't help but think about."

"Sure, I'm listening."

"Remember the people who passed here today?"

"Which ones? The knights or the peasants?"

"The peasants. Didn't you find it strange that a family of peasants had enough gold to pay the tax? Even some of the merchants we rob didn't have that much."

"That's it, Lucius? Merchants are greedy fucks, that's why a good show of force is enough for peasants to pay."

"And you don't find it strange that only three peasants would travel through the mountain pass leading to the Empire's heart to come here? I was a peasant, I know them. It doesn't make sense."

Interesting, I will report it, the Argonian thought from the shadows.

His comrade sniffed. "Well maybe they were rich and stupidly lucky peasants."

"You're hopeless."

"Yeah, yeah, well I'll let you ponder on that while I go take a piss."

As they separated themselves, Black-Scales followed the one named Sicarius. Once he found a spot lonely enough, he started to take off his pants before whistling.

The Nightblade made a disgusted face. Gross

He approached Sicarius from behind before pushing him over the wall, directly down the precipice below. I heard the landscape was to die for

"Aaaaaaahhhhhh!" the man yelled before falling to his death.

Lucius came running. "Sicarius! What happened?" He looked over the wall. "Dammit! He probably lost his footing while peeing. Must have been the wind."

He suddenly felt a violent push from behind. "Eh, what the… aaaaaahhhhh!"

Nothing personal, buddy

The Argonian went back to the creature which was still thrashing against its chains. He looked at the stairs before him which led to the court. He grinned as an idea appeared in his mind. He used his short sword to cut the beast loose before throwing a stone near the stairs to lead it with the sound. It charged immediately there and towards the bandits in the court.

Rory was grumbling out of boredom. After Black-Scales had jumped off, they had stayed in stationary flight and were now waiting for the Argonian to confirm the fortress was theirs.

Cyrus sat not far in his meditation pose, eyes closed. She had tried to poke him for fun but had quickly given up when it had elicited no reaction from him.

And here I thought this was going to be fun. Well the ride was fun

Her companion suddenly opened his eyes. "It's done."

She frowned. "What? He did it? How do you know?"

"He sent me the signal."

The demi-goddess looked around her frantically, searching for anything that could be counted as a signal. "Where? I don't see anything."

Cyrus calmly tapped his finger against his temple. "Here"

The airship landed near the fortress. Black-Scales was outside its gate waving at them. As Cyrus and Rory approached him, he made a mock curtsy.

"Lady, gentleman, the Castle is ours."

"Well done," the Heartlander praised him. "How are the bodies?"

"The… bodies?" Rory questioned, not understanding why he cared.

"More or less intact. A few broken bones here and here, you know what it is, tragic fall and all of that."

The Necromancer didn't reply before entering the fortress. As Rory was about to follow him, the Argonian blocked her.

"Sorry missy, he needs concentration to do that."

She glared at him. "Do what?"

"Well, raise all of them, of course."

She raised a brow before smirking. "Really now?"

Run, they had to run. The beast was not far beyond them, they could hear its roar as they fled deeper in the forests.

"Faster!" the apparent leader, a female brown skinned elf who was holding in her arms a child of the same race, ordered.

They were no less than a dozen and only two adults, both female, running from the Flame Dragon.

"Yao!" the other female called as she took out her bow. "It's almost on us! I will distract it while you and the children escape."

She braced herself as the Dragon descended from the skies.

"Nayu, no!"

She ignored her, notching an arrow that she enchanted with wind magic before muttering a quick prayer to Hardy. She aimed her bow at the beast's eyes before letting the arrow loose. It flew at supernatural speed towards its target, alas, the Dragon instinctively closed his eyes and the arrow bounced harmlessly.

"NAYU!" Yao screamed with horror as the Dragon prepared to incinerate her with its breath. She couldn't bear to watch it. "Run!" she said to the children even though she knew there was now little chance of escaping the beast.

It roared suddenly in anger, probably angered by the last defiant act of Nayu. A large fireball flew past her, exploding on the trees in front of her. The force of the explosion knocked the group down. The last thing Yao heard as she drifted out of consciousness was the Dragon's vicious roar.

The feeling of being carried awoke her. She looked around still groggy, wondering if she had died and was in the Underworld, preparing to meet her Goddess. Surprisingly it didn't look like anywhere underground, but as she gazed at the animal she was on, she was surprised to discover a horse skeleton, confirming her earlier suspicions. She also saw the children and even Nayu safe on other mounts, unconscious.

She then saw a horseman approaching her. Much like his mount and to her schock, he wasn't alive but reduced to a humanoid skeleton, his pale blue glowing eyes being the only hint of his undead state. His sight had her losing consciousness once again.

On a nearby hill, an armored figure with purple cloak was watching the scene before turning his gaze towards the rampaging Dragon.

"We're gonna need to remedy that, eventually."

* Southern Daggerfallian dialect (taken from Occitan-gascon, a native dialect from southern France since Bretons are partially based on the High Medieval chivalric French culture itself inspired from Arthurian legend), Adishatz : formal Greetings or Goodbye, Sénher : Sir, Castel : Castle (obviously)

link for my deviantart gallery : "w"w"w" . deviantart . "c"o"m" / zackh32 / gallery (remove spaces and ")