When I was in Morrowind training under my uncle's influence, he told me something when I was learning how to fight with my non-dominant hand. At the time I had been afraid, of many things, but mostly of the pain my opponent could inflict on me due to my inability to defend myself. He told me; 'Fear is a kind of madness, but one that is useful if you know how it works. Fear will take you by the hand to the things you keep and guard as precious. Always face fear with courage, understand it, and then let it go. Let these fears wake you up, let them show you the way to your true self, to the brave soul whose love shines like a star. For without fear, love is brighter, stronger, deeper. And it is with love, that you will win in any battle you find yourself fearful of.' Then he knocked my ass to the ground and made me stand up again and do it all over again.
The dragon soared overhead, arrows whizzing around my ears, voices yelling all about. Irileth was calling out orders to the guards, "Here he comes! Find cover and make every arrow count!"
"Talos save us! It's a dragon!" The guards voice rang out, the scent of fear rolling of him in vicious waves. I breathed. Let my own fear fill me, and slowly, let it go with my exhale.
"You are brave. Bahlaan hokoron. Your defeat brings me honor." My mind skidded to a halt when I noticed something. This dragon could speak our tongue. Just like- I blinked several times while numerous thoughts rang out in my mind. Could they all understand us? Could they- a blast of fire blew around me and I shook the questions from my mind. Forget it! Focus! The dragon swooped down, blowing fire over several men. Some were able to put out the flames, while other succumbed to the heat and fell to the singed earth. I acknowledged the fear. Let in rush through me and then, let out a calming breath. I felt centered, even when it flew up and around again. Hiding among the debris, I peek my head up and see the dragons flapping about, holding steady in one spot in the air. I notch an arrow and draw it, standing in one fluid motion. I aim at its neck and nearly loose the arrow when I see most of the arrows are bouncing off the dragons' body, except the few that found their mark. Lowering the bow, I observed more closely, I recognized the arrows that sunk deep in the scales... Glancing back, I see Bishop aiming and firing. If the man was afraid, he hid it well. Bastard. I watched as he drew another arrow and aimed, stepping sideways to avoid fire and other arrows that were flying by. We all were moving around, myself included when I found myself under the cover of fallen stone with Bishop, both of us breathing heavy.
"Damn lizard just won't give up!" I heard him over the dragon's roars. I shook my head as I glanced back at it as it soared over head.
"It has the higher ground, and despite its size, it moves to far and to fast for me to even get a shot in. Even at the top of the tower, my arrows can't get through." I sounded frustrated. I only had about 9 arrows left.
"Your aiming at the wrong spots." He stated and I coughed when I caught a whiff of smoke.
"If we could just keep it on the ground, this wouldn't be a problem." I huffed.
"There are always chinks in any armour." Bishop looked at me and with a smirk, he shrugged. "Just got to look closer for em." And with that, he was off again into the fray.
"Krif krin!"The voice was loud and called out to the guards. Like the first dragon, it spoke in a language that couldn't be understood.
Whiterun Guards ran around, firing arrows calling out things like 'Slay it! Slay the dragon!', 'I can't get a bead on him!'
"Come down here and fight, you coward!" Irileth yelled at the beast who roared and flapped away, soaring around, breathing deep and blowing out fire. The second it hovered in the air, I made my way closer, aiming the arrow, not for its chest, but its wings. The bow string whined in strain, but I needed the force. I hold my breath and relax my arm. Time felt like it slowed, just as it had when Bishop had helped me. My sight sharpened and I aimed for the thinnest section of its wing. Letting the arrow fly, I hear it whistle through the air and roar rang out around us. I hit it, and even better, the wing was pierced, and when the wing flapped down, the slice ripped open, ruining its left wing. It flapped around for a time before it crashed to the ground. I drew my swords, one in each hand and raced forward, only to miss a poorly shot arrow that looked to be aimed at my shoulder. Looking at where it came from, I narrow my eyes at the asshole who had spit on my Altmer blood, though I never broke stride, but I knew he and I made eye contact. Rounding the dragon's tail, I caught a glimpse at Bishop, eyes now on the guard and, while a battle raged all around us, he stormed to the guard and all but hauling the man to the tips of its toes, his hand fisted in the front of his uniform.
"Hurt her, and I'll kill you!" Bishop. His voice sounded enraged; barley held in check making the guard stammer when Bishop threw him to the ground and notch another arrow. Something in my stomach fluttered.
'Still doubt your feelings?' The Voice whispered. I huff as I almost roll my eyes and swung my swords at the dragon, my blades slicing through its scales, and then moving when it spun around.
'I'm not talking about this now. Not that there is anything to discuss.' I mentally push it away. I circled and sliced at the other wing, blood splattered on my sword and gear.
'Don't be ashamed.' I slice again and again trying to ignore the hushed voice, who, if I didn't know any better, sounded amused. 'It's normal.'
'Yeah. About as normal as it is to hear a voice no one else can? Be quiet. I'm trying to focus."
'Now now. It is not uncommon to hear voices. And you are becoming mighty touchy. Talking about him seems to get you all worked up.' The voice teased and I bit back a scowl.
'No, it's not, I'm not, and it doesn't." I mentally snarl back in recession. 'You're wrong. I don't have…affections for him'. My mind flashed to when I had finished speaking to Irileth for a moment, asking her about Bandits that had been in the area, or for word of them. She had finished telling me that when we returned to Whiterun she would ask amongst her soldiers about it and pass along the information. Irritated or not, I was keeping my promise. I had still been angry at Bishop about what he had said and was slowly working my way down from the level of anger when my mind had wandered to the way he had looked at me after I had playfully howled. My breath still caught. It was with such an intensity that my breath caught in my lungs and my palms sweat. My skin tingled where he touched me and my heart beat erratically in my chest so hard that I thought it might fly out. There were butterflies - no, sabre cats - in my chest, but it felt… good. After, while walking through the disarray of the watchtower I felt his eyes on me. In fact, I felt drawn to him like no other, before. I had looked up and there he was, standing on the top of the tower, eyes on me. Even from the distance I could feel the tension between us crackle. I silently inhaled and exhaled, hoping that his thoughts about me were good, when the voice had perked up.
'You like him.' It hadn't even been a question. Almost an amused statement rather.
'Pft. He irritates me. He's selfish, rude and-'
'Handsome'. Voice finished.
'Looks can make up for little if he's an ass.'
'Not once did you deny any of what I said.'
'Yes, I did.'
'Avoidance is not a denial.'
'It's a form of it.'
'Not really. Merely delaying the …inevitable.'
'Inevitable?! What do you mean- No, you know what? Never mind- I don't care. Wait- why do you even care?!' My question had gone unanswered and finally, I was given an answer that staggered me still.
'Because your starting too.' It was stated so plainly that I dropped the charm I hadn't even noticed I was fiddling, with a jolt.
'I promised to help him out. That is all. I don't feel anything for him!'
'Prove it.'
And I had attempted too. During the archery lesson. I didn't have to fake my lack of skill with a bow, I was almost laughable at it. I needed to do something with my hands, other than wring the guard's neck. When Bishop had offered, I figured he would simply point things out, maybe yell at me to focus like my previous instruction had. But no. He had stepped over, breathed in my ear and physically showed me how to aim. I made a mental promise that I wouldn't feel affected as the Voice would say I would. That I wouldn't feel a thing. But I got nothing but silence as he surrounded me. I didn't need the voice in my head to tell me that I was starting to lie to myself. Instead, my body was the traitor.
The way his hands felt when he positioned my body; it was like he awakened nerves in my skin I didn't even know I had. Making my mind still and my sight had sharpened as I felt the world fall away, leaving just the two of them. My breathing had slowed and when the arrow had flown and sank dead center, I had felt the excitement. Felt pure joy. Then she had turned to look at him and in a whole new way, the world fell away. They stared at each other, quietly. He towered over her, as intense and savage as a man could be, and she felt small in comparison... Surrounded by his utter maleness. Trapped. But what a beautiful cage. Her limbs began to tremble. Her breathing quickened, and she noticed he smelled of the forest, leather and smoke. She had wanted to run her fingers through his hair, pull him down to her so she could-
'Told you.' The voice broke her out of that train of thought.
'Gods you suck'. A gentle chuckle had filled her mind.
She had offhandedly spoke to Bishop about something and decided to thank him. Nothing to big, but she could prove the point she was trying to make.
'Suppose a simple kiss on the cheek will do it for you?' I could have sworn I had heard a snicker.
'Go ahead. You'll sure show me'. It hadn't. The day-old stubble was rough against my lips and almost made me shiver, though I was able to keep my hands at my sides. But just before my lips touched his skin, he had tensed. Gone ridged. It was a little alarming. But the look he had given me made my stomach plummet when I had pulled away, like he was holding himself together, almost. Angry? Alright. So, I can be attracted to someone who isn't attracted to myself. Nothing new. I had managed to shrug it off when I felt a sharp zing across my neck. The sensation wasn't new, but I was more and more frequently getting used to it. Finding an opening while the dragon was breathing fire at Irileth and her men, I hacked and sliced at the other wing, splitting the wing, and vaguely I hear Bishop laughing. The Dragon was downed. It couldn't fly. As I ducked under the dragon's tail, felt a slight sting of fire on my leg. Me and burns man. We just can't get enough of each other. Patting it out, I look back to see where Bishop was. He wasn't far. His face was a mask of defiance and surety. His eyes as steady as if he were just watching the weather change. Bastard.
While the beast is on the ground steam rose in short puffs, miniature clouds disappearing into the air around it. The beast reminded me of a cat than a dragon. Instead of killing fast it preferred to toy with its food. The "meal" would be allowed the chance to run, to feel the pounding of their own heart just a few more times and then the monster sank his teeth into their neck - just deep enough to let them bleed out slow.
"I had forgotten what fine sport you mortals can provide!"
Several more men ran out of reach, chasing it to swing around. It was frustrated that its food was backing away slowly and thrashed its tail in fury. With each slow movement that belied the speed it was capable of, it snapped its jaws, tearing through armor like paper. I heard the beast take a deep breath and then a wave of heat blew past the stone, and the sound of a man screaming filled the battlefield. I rushed to the man, help putting out the fire that clung to his garb. He lay on the ground after all fire was gone, gasping a little. I stood and offered a had to him, helping him up. He took it and on shaky legs, I moved him to a section of rubble, where he could cover long range with his bow. Any closer and in his condition, he would do nothing but become food for the beast. After setting him down, I step back and he gives me a quick look of relief and thanks.
"Appreciate the hand.. Elf". It wasn't bitter. I smile at the small victory only to get the wind knocked out of me when the dragons tail caught me under the arms, causing me drop my swords, as I held onto the large tail. I felt the air rush out of me and while I was being swung around, I took in tiny gasps, only to get them pushed out of me again when the dragon spun again. I clung. My lack of breath made me angry. I forced air into my lungs and the sting of pain was worth it as my vision cleared from the lack of oxygen haze. I found myself positioned near its hind legs, and I cursed the fact that I had lost my main weapons. That left me with- I was thrown again, this time upwards and with a small amount of luck or sheer fate, I found myself atop its neck. Again, I clung. Blinking I found myself looking into one of its large teal eyes. For an instant, I could have sworn that when it focused on me, there was a slight tingle of recognition in my bones. A connection. Its pupil dilated in shock, or so it would have seemed to me.
"Dovahkiin?" I think that it spoke it directly to me. I frowned. What? Then its lethal stare felt painful and piercing. A final glance at his furious eyes confirmed my possible outcome. He was going to kill me. And now the real ride began. Frantic, it shook, snapped it teeth, and howled fire everywhere. I could hear Irileth calling out to her guards many commands so as to not harm me. Gritting my teeth as I tried to keep my balance, with one hand, I drew my greatsword, the long blade, shining in the setting sunlight. Hearing the sound of my weapon being drawn, it threw its head back, making me unsteady, and for a second, I was suspended in the air, above its head.
Time slowed. I gripped the handle, pointed the large blade down and as I fell, the blade did too.
"No!"
My blade met its scaly flesh, and made a satisfying squish and crunch as the tip of the blade sank deep enough to make the dragon scream. I twisted the blade in my hands, all the while sinking it deeper and deeper. The skin was tearing to shreds as my blade rotated, the sound of its muscles, nerves and bones being gouged growing louder. Then, without warning, I jerked it all the way into its skull, until the shiny metal had disappeared inside its head and the handle of my blade was pushing against its broken skin. Its roar was a brilliant sound, guttural chokes mixed with an agonized roar. Its upraised head slowly fell to the ground, me hanging on via my blade for the fall.
Irileth was calling out to her men as she moved in. "Let's make sure that overgrown lizard is really dead. Damned good shooting, boys!" I see Bishop run over, a proud and somewhat relieved expression gracing his face,
"Damn good shooting indeed" I say, slightly out of breath not looking away from Bishop. "Not bad ranger. Not bad at all." He scoffed and stowed his arrow away.
"Pft. You're not too bad. For a wench." He raised a hand in a gesture to help me down. I smirked, and pulled the blade out of the dragons' skull. Taking his hand, with slightly unsteady legs, I hop down.
"Wench? Oh please. You only wish I was a wench so you can maybe have a chance of getting your hands on all this". I mockingly teased, waving a hand up and down my sides. I was covered in mud, blood, dust and Gods only knows what else. Just thinking about what my hair looked like made me want to shudder.
"Dream on sweetheart." He rolled his eyes skyward, and then landed on mine as a smirk pulled at the corners of his mouth. "Though I must say, I'm beginning to like the enthusiasm. By the way, I think you dropped these." I watch as he pulls my large swords out from his quiver and hands them to me. Letting out a sigh of relief, I took them back and placed them in their sheathes while he went to the large corpse and pulled his arrows out and placed them back in his quiver. Looking back at Bishop when he returned to my side, I gave him a friendly pat on his shoulder.
"Thank you, Bishop." I sounded tired, but thankful nonetheless. He looked back at me and I watched as he slowly raised his hand and move a strand of hair out of my face and tuck it aside. I felt something in me shift. His eyes had a warm faraway look as he looked down at me. I returned his stare with a shy smile that had the corners of his own mouth rising in a small smirk. And for a moment, there was calm.
"What's happening?!" A Whiterun Guard's voice rang out, panicked and afraid. I reached for my sword while Bishop notched an arrow with such speed that surprised me.
"Everybody get back!" Irileth was moving away from the dragon's corpse, which now, before my very eyes, was starting to catch fire. Its skin began to burn and flake away off its bones like paper that had caught fire, the embers rising in the air like feathers caught in the wind. I found myself in awe for a moment, until I heard what sounded like a faint single echoing beat of a tribal drum and the sound of strong wind filled my ears, though the air around us was still. Almost non-existent. I watched what looked like tendrils of clear visible energy, rise away from it. It was beautiful, vibrant and- heading towards me!?
I didn't even have time to brace myself as it slammed into me. A wave of pain suddenly tore in me. It was like.. The reverse of getting the wind knocked out of you. Like I was taking in a deep breath, and keep inhaling, even though you and your body are screaming at you to stop, that you are well past your limit of intake, but I kept going, taking more and more in.. But I felt my body expanding, my lungs filling with something more than just air. It was the worst burning sensation I had ever felt, even worse than actually being burned.
I've often prized myself in ignoring pain and just rocking on regardless, but that just isn't possible right now. It owned me, dominated every thought, constricted my chest and throat until I saw the world around me fade in and out a bit. My vision blurred and my legs shook. I couldn't hear anything except the sound of rushing wind and the sound of a distant voice calling out. I wanted to scream but I couldn't force anything out, even if I tried. I was too busy taking in… Something. And it hurt like hell. The pain isn't sharp like a needle point or a knife, it burned around my innards better than boiling water. Everything feels scolded and, whether I moved or not, I'm in more pain than I could have ever imagined was possible. All I could do was endure and hang on tight. And just as quick as it came in, it was done. I nearly collapsed, even staggered a bit when the feeling faded into a part of me I didn't know was there.. Weird thing? I didn't need to let out a single breath, even after I felt like I had inhaled hot air for several minutes straight.
The pain was simply... gone, like it never happened. My chest didn't feel like it was going to pop. But I could feel a different kind of humming throughout my body. Like I was fully… Awake? I looked at my hands, saw that they were white from clenching and I released them. My hands trembled with such ferocity that I couldn't control, my breathing was uneven and I did my best to get it under control. WHAT. THE. ACTUAL. FU-
"LADYSHIP!" I was startled by Bishop's voice, his brows furrowed, eyes wary as they stayed on me.. "Are you alright?" He asked. I looked at him and for the first time, I didn't have a solid answer.
"I.. I don't know." I finally answered him, my voice sounded rough, like I just swallowed sand and broken glass and rinsed it down with salt water. I sounded atrocious, even to my own ears, I think I even winced. Absently I rubbed my throat. "I was in pain, then, I felt.." I didn't even know how to describe it without sounding like I belonged in a jail cell for talking obscenities. So, I simply settled on: "Steady." Thinking on it, I even felt.. Powerful. Looking down at my hands, I clenched them again. A small wave of energy flowed through me and I felt another wave of unsteadiness come over me. I felt Bishops hand grab hold of my shoulder, helping keep me upright, until a guard wandered over to us.
"I can't believe it! You're...Dragonborn…" He sounded shocked, awed. Several guards were looking at us, most likely more me than anything, with the same kind of expression.
"What? Dragonborn? What do you mean?" I was beyond confused. And uneasy with what he had said.
"In the very oldest tales, back from when there were still dragons in Skyrim, the Dragonborn would slay dragons and steal their power. That's what you did, isn't it? Absorbed that dragon's power?" He asked, becoming more and more enthralled at the idea. I on the other hand just wanted to walk away, to leave the site and fall into a sleep. My body was aching, my mind was a mess and I probably looked like a Hagraven. On a good day. The focus on me was to.. Pressuring. I found myself wanting to taking an unconscious step back, away from them and their prying eyes, until I swallowed and straightened. I shrugged while admitting;
"I don't know what happened to me." And I didn't.
"There's only one way to find out. Try to Shout...that would prove it." More guards around us started to speak up.
"Dragonborn? What are you talking about?"
"That's right! My grandfather used to tell stories about the Dragonborn. Those born with the Dragon Blood in 'em. Like old Tiber Septim himself." My mind stilled. Blood. It always came down to it. My blood seemed to be almost always at the root of my problems. And I was almost sick of it.
"I've never heard of Tiber Septim killing any dragons."
"There weren't any dragons then, idiot. They're just coming back now for the first-time in...forever."
"But the old tales tell of the Dragonborn who could kill dragons and steal their power. You must be one!"
"I'm feeling a little attacked here." I say under my breath, and could have sworn I saw Bishop tense up as he looked at me. I sent him a sideways glance and crossed my arms. "No. Seriously. Anyone up for a heavy-handed feeling of 'this is all your fault?' No?" I answered for him when Bishop said nothing and I shook my head angrily. More at myself than anything. "Well that's fine. I'll take it all for myself, thank you.' I tried to keep my face passive. I muttered to mostly myself.
One of the guards looked to Irileth and spoke to her. "What do you say, Irileth? You've being awfully quiet."
"Come on, Irileth, tell us, do you believe in this Dragonborn business?"
Irileth looked at me and I gave her a small unsure shake of my head and a low shrug. I think she got the hint, and looked at her men, like she was bored and sighed.
"Hmph. Some of you would be better off keeping quiet than flapping your gums on matters you don't know anything about. Here's a dead dragon, and that's something I definitely understand. Now we know we can kill them. But I don't need some mythical Dragonborn." She glanced back at me and gave a solid nod. "Someone who can put down a dragon is more than enough for me." I wanted to hug her. Nearly did. But I liked the warmth I was feeling from Bishop. Even wanted to lean into him. I found comfort in having him near.
"You wouldn't understand, Housecarl. You ain't a Nord." I frowned and debated on speaking up saying that neither was I for that matter, but Irileth held her own.
"I've been all across Tamriel. I've seen plenty of things just as outlandish as this. I'd advise you all to trust in the strength of your sword over tales and legends." I heard Bishop grunt in agreement. He would. I however, found myself on the fence about what she had said. Yes, I trusted my own will and body, but there was also a little more to our lives then our strength. Wasn't there? I was lost in that thought for a minute until Irileth stood in front of me. "That was the hairiest fight I've ever been in, and I've been in more than a few." She looked around us at the damage of the battle. It wasn't until then that I saw the dragon was simply a pile of bones now. There was a small pressure in my chest but it was pushed aside when Irileth places a firm hand on my shoulder drawing my attention back to her. "I don't know about this Dragonborn business, but I'm sure glad you're with us. You better get back to Whiterun right away. Jarl Balgruuf will want to know what happened here."
I nodded and bowed my head as she turned back and spoke directions to her men. Turning back, with Whiterun in view, silhouette against an evening sky, we headed back. My feet almost dragging in the dirt, I let out a sigh. Most of our short walk back was in silence, that is, until the most, sound shattering strange Shout-like rumble is heard from the largest mountain. The crack was so loud, it made both Bishop and I stagger a little. I felt a pang in my chest again. Calling me to the mountain. And the rest of me wanted to glare at it.
"What in the name of-" He must have seen my glaring at the mountain, and he said no more. We walked into Whiterun and where the streets had been filled with commotion of people, it was now almost barren. Almost. Just past the doors was a pair of strangely dressed men were talking with a woman.. Though, as we got closer, I realized that that wasn't the case.
"Listen, wench, we're on to you. We know who you are, so you'd better come with us right now!"
"I don't know who you think I am, and I don't care. Leave me alone!" she was in an angry panicked struggle, and it made me reach for my blade and increase my step.
"I don't have time for this foolishness. Now come along quietly and we won't have to get rough." This also caught the attention of a guard on patrol.
"Brother, I think she's telling the truth..." The other man, younger and quieter spoke up but seemed to go unheard as the other didn't release his grip on her.
"I'm not going anywhere. Now back off before I do something drastic." I pushed the hilt of the blade with my thumb, causing the blade to become slightly unsheathed.
"Is there a problem here?" I call out and receive a look of gratitude from the woman. The men look my way and for a moment they look as if they are ready to fight.
"This doesn't concern you wench. Leave!" The older one barked at me and I feel the heat rise in my chest, like before.
"From what I hear this woman wants nothing to do with you." I state and the younger one looks at the woman intensely before he grabs his partners arm.
"She doesn't have the scar." He states, drawing his attention from me to the woman again.
"What?" He pulls her slightly closer and with a glare, he grumbles. "Oh... you're right. We've made a mistake." If that was an apology, or even an attempt at one, I would have cut off his hand for his lack of effort. The thought was tempting. "Now move along before that mouth of yours gets you into trouble." He shoved her back, away from him.
The woman was looking like she was ready to slap the man. Instead, she spoke slowly, and clearly. "Next time you're looking to pester someone, make sure it's the right person!" With that, she stomped off to safety while a guard walked over with a scowl on his face.
"Look, you've already been told you're not allowed here. Turn around and go back the way you came." The guard stood braced, a torch in hand, illuminating the darkening streets. One of the darker skinned men glared, but kept his voice level.
"We're causing no trouble. All we ask is to look for her."
The guard simply shrugged. "I don't care what you're doing, after what happened you're lucky I don't toss you in jail. Now get lost." Now the darker skinned man sneered.
"We will be back. This is not over". He turned to walk out and caught sight of us again, like he forgot we were there, looking on. I must have had a cautious/curious look on my face, because he decides to fill me in on his quest.
"We're looking for information about a woman - a foreigner in these lands. She's a Redguard, like us." That explained the skin. I had only seen a few in my travels. "We believe she may be hiding in Whiterun, but we're checking everywhere to be sure."
"Whoever sent you must have been either desperate or stupid of you don't even know who you're looking for at first glance." Bishop stated while he crossed his arms over his chest. I almost laughed though I managed to cover it with a cough.
"Why exactly are you looking for this woman? What crimes has she committed?" I asked, my curiosity getting the better of me. The Alik'r almost snarled at me.
"It's none of your concern. All you need to know is that we're paying for information. If that doesn't interest you, feel free to walk away." I raised my brows at him, and with a scoff, I walked on. Dragonsreach was quiet, blissfully so. Opening the large doors, I breathed a little bit easier. The fire in the center was still burning, low and comforting. As I walked to the throne Bishop sat in one of the chairs. The taller man, Proventus took a step towards me, next to another large man. Good grief. Were all Nords large in size?
"Good. You're finally here. The Jarl's been waiting for you." Proventus said rather blandly as we neared the end of the fire-pit.
"You heard the summons. What else could it mean? The Greybeards…" Balgruuf was talking to another large, very large man, who in question turned to face me as he stood off to my right.
"We were just talking about you. My brother needs a word with you." Balgruuf had a brother? Huh…. Looking between the two of them, I could see it. Same sharp eyes. Same face that looked focused or deep in thought. Both battle worn.
Balgruuf sat up in his chair as I walked up the steps and did a courtesy bow, then straightened. "So, what happened at the watchtower? Was the dragon there?" I nodded.
"The watchtower was destroyed, but we killed the dragon." I stated. As if just by saying it, I was reminded of how exhausted I felt all anew. Balgruuf let out a relieved sigh and looked at his brother..
"I knew I could count on Irileth." His gaze looked back to me. "But there must be more to it than that." I felt my face show my uncertainty as I looked down slightly. Dammit all to Oblivion. I hated this feeling. Looking back up at the Jarl I met his gaze.
"When the dragon died, I absorbed some kind of… power from it." I recalled what the men at the tower had said. I still felt.. Off. Balgruff seemed to take this in and gave a nod in understanding.
"So, it's true. The Greybeards really were summoning you." He said and my confusion added another notch to its post.
"The Greybeards?" I echoed.
"Masters of the Way of the Voice. They live in seclusion, high on the slopes of the Throat of the World."
"What do these… Greybeards want with me?" I ask, and I wasn't ashamed of the edge in my voice.
"The Dragonborn is said to be uniquely gifted in the Voice - the ability to focus your vital essence into a Thu'um, or Shout. If you really are Dragonborn, they can teach you how to use your gift." My attention was drawn to the large Nord standing beside Balgruff.
"Didn't you hear the thundering sound as you returned to Whiterun?" I nodded in acknowledgment. "That was the voice of the Greybeards, summoning you to High Hrothgar! This hasn't happened in... centuries, at least. Not since Tiber Septim himself was summoned when he was still Talos of Atmora!" There was that name again. I made a mental reminder to research him.
Proventus scoffed. "Hrongar, calm yourself. What does any of this Nord nonsense have to do with our friend here? Capable as she may be, I don't see any signs of her being this, what, 'Dragonborn'."
Hrongar looked insulted to the point his face reddened. "Nord nonsense? Why you puffed-up ignorant...these are our sacred traditions that go back to the founding of the First Empire." Nord traditions. Not mine. Not Altmer. I knew those and disliked them. Not Kothringi either…
Balgruuf raised a hand to calm the large man. "Hrongar. Don't be so hard on Avenicci."
Proventus offered his hands, palms up in a sign of peace. "I meant no disrespect, of course. It's just that...what do these Greybeards want with her?" I caught his gaze and nod in agreement. There was the question that had been in my mind that last few minutes.
Balgruuf leveled the man with a cooling glance. "That's the Greybeards' business, not ours." He turned his gaze to me. "Whatever happened when you killed that dragon, it revealed something in you, and the Greybeards heard it. If they think you're Dragonborn, who are we to argue? You'd better get up to High Hrothgar immediately. There's no refusing the summons of the Greybeards. It's a tremendous honor. I envy you; you know. To climb the 7,000 Steps again...I made the pilgrimage once, did you know that?" I shook my head no. "High Hrothgar is a very peaceful place. Very…disconnected from the troubles of this world."
"I'm liking it already." I didn't realize I had said it out loud until I heard a small laugh from Bishop. I offer a look of apology to Balgruff who also has a look of amusement. He continued.
"I wonder if the Greybeards even notice what's going on down here. They haven't seemed to care before. No matter. Go to High Hrothgar. Learn what the Greybeards can teach you." I say nothing, though I do keep the idea in mind. Maybe they can lessen the pressure in my chest. Just a touch. "You've done a great service to me and my city, Dragonborn. By my right as Jarl, I name you Thane of Whiterun. It's the greatest honor that's within my power to grant. I assign you Lydia as a personal housecarl, and this weapon from my armory to serve as your badge of office. I'll also notify my guards of your new title. Wouldn't want them to think your part of the common rabble, now would we?"
What was so wrong with just being…common? If anything, it sounded quite nice. Compared to all this I mean.
"We are honored to have you as Thane of our city, Dragonborn." I shouldn't feel upset that I wasn't being called by my name. Hell, they didn't even ask for it. I pushed the thought aside.
"What's does it mean to be Dragonborn?" I ask. I might as well gather as much information about this as I could. If what they were saying is true, then I should get to know this… new part of my life. New part of me.
"Well, in the old tales, the Dragonborn heroes would use the power of their Voice to defeat the enemies of Skyrim. Wulfharth was Dragonborn. Talos, too - the founder of the Empire, back in the good old days. In the very oldest tales, back from when there were still dragons in Skyrim, the Dragonborn would slay dragons and steal their power."
'Even if they didn't want to?' I asked myself. 'Even if I don't want to?'
"Who exactly are the Greybeards?"
"They're the Masters of the Way of the Voice - of Shouting. They live up on top of the Throat of the World. If you're really Dragonborn, they'll want to talk to you. In the old stories, they always summon the Dragonborn for training."
"How can you protect Whiterun from the dragons?" I ask looking around his keep.
"With good planning and constant vigilance. Even now, my court wizard, Farengar, continues his research into ways we might drive back these terrors. We must also have ample reserves of water to combat the fires that will surely spread after an attack. But our greatest weapon? Courage. For if we cannot kill the beast, we must at least have the tenacity to drive it back. Until brave heroes step forward to destroy these monsters, that is the best we can do." His words reminded me of my father. I smile. 'To have courage. And the strength to drive a malevolent force to its knee's or just to make it flee in pain or fear.'
"You should bring some of the dragon bones back for Farengar to run tests on." I offer and he nods. Looking back at Proventus Balgruff addresses him.
"Back to business, Proventus. We still have a city to defend."
"Yes, my lord."
And with that, I take my leave. Turning around, Bishop stands and joins me as we walk down the stairs only to be greeted by a dark-haired woman.
"The Jarl has appointed me to be your housecarl. It's an honor to serve you." She bowed!
"Uh. Hi?" I heard Bishop snicker at my unease. Clearing my throat, I asked "What does a housecarl do?"
"As my Thane, I'm sworn to your service. I'll guard you, and all you own, with my life." A personal human shield. Joy. My father freed slaves and I technically get given one. What would he would say at a time like this?
"I'm a Thane? What does that even mean?" I ask.
"The Jarl has recognized you as a person of great importance in the hold. A hero. The title of Thane is an honor, a gift for your service. Guards will know to look the other way, if you let them know who you are." Well now, that's.. Handy?
"Power. Station. It doesn't really make a difference to me. Now, I don't have much, but for now, until things get cleared up, please remain here. Or.. However you want." I run a hand down my face and sigh. "Forgive me. I am tired and need to rest." Then I look back to Bishop who raises a brow at me. "I also owe this good man a drink. Ill speak to you at a later time. Its late." I spoke and watched her bow. It made me… Uncomfortable.
"Good day." Lydia spoke as Bishop and I departed. Running a hand down my face again, we head down the large staircase. At the base I let out a deep breath and looked up and the dark sky. "Gods Almighty. I was just asked to do a simple favor, pass along a few words of caution and now.. Now I am a Dragonborn, or whatever and a Thane, and I have a housecliff."
"Housecarl.. Ladyship" Bishop corrects me and without having to even look at him, I could tell he was slightly amused.
"Nuance." I waved it away. "I never asked for it. For any of it. I can already feel the gears of bureaucracy trying to grind me up again already…"
"What's wrong Ladyship? I thought everyone wanted to be like nobles." I stiffened at his words.
"I hardly think I'm even qualified to be seen or come across, as someone who would be.." I thought for a moment. "Sanctified." Looking at him, I let out a tired sigh. "Let's just find an inn. I do owe you a drink, don't I?"
"Indeed, you do." We pass the large tree and head down and see a large sign reading 'The Bannard Mare' and decide that is where we would spend the night. It was quite spacious when we walked in. Its wooden structure was nice and welcoming. A man was near the door when we walked in who addressed us as we entered.
"How can I help you?" He asked and I was about to answer when a woman stepped from around the pillar and glanced between the two of us, her grey eyes lingering over Bishop and slowly, her mouth curved into a seductive smile. She walked over, swaying her hips a little more than I myself would have deemed necessary, in an outfit that was cut high and low in places that made me want to drape a towel over her.
"Hey there handsome. My name is Neeshka. Do you think I'm pretty?" Her voice was low and smooth, and it made my stomach sick.
'No.' I mentally answered her question as she slithered her way to Bishop who only spared her a glance.
"I think you're a pest." He looked back at the man who spoke to us when we walked in. "We need two rooms, bartender."
"I only have one available." The innkeeper explained and my chest tightened at the thought of being in the same room with Bishop. Sleeping in the same bed… My hands clenched at the thought. In any case, us being in the same room would result in lack of sleep, one way or another.
"I think I can help you, big man." Neeshka drawled making me roll my eyes when she waved her fingers in a 'come hither' gesture.
Bishop sent her a glare and pointed somewhere in the direction of away from him. "Go away, flea." He looked back at the owner. "Bartender, are you sure there's nothing else?" Seemed Bishop and I were on the same page about sleeping in the same room together.
"Well, let me see. Hmm. I do have a small bed in our storage room, but it might be uncomfortable with all the produce back there." He explained delicately. Bishop pondered on that for a moment and then crossed his arms over his chest.
"I'll take it, with a reduced price for the inconvenience and the single room, both for one night. Can the single room be well secured?" I sent him a confused glance? Well secured? For who?
The innkeeper's eyes grew slightly wide at the tone Bishop had used.
"Yes! We had a problem a few months back, so I put some heavy-duty locks on that door."
"That's fine." Bishop took a few steps, only to get blocked by Neeshka.
"You don't need to sleep in the storage room." She trailed a finger down the buckles on his black leather armor and I suppressed the urge to snap at her. It took quite a feat. But what helped stop that thought was Bishop's next question.
"Do you have a bath?" I looked at the barkeep and nearly prayed.
"We sure do. Water's still warm, too. Only been used twice." I moaned in relief. The thought of soaking my body in warm water.. Oooh.. Joy. I looked at Bishop and found that his gaze was on me. I sent him a relieved smile that softened his dark amber eyes. For a moment, there was just a connection. Soft and yielding. We both looked a little roughed up, more so me no doubt, but I was grateful for him being there. I liked the way he commandeered the rooms for us. Until Neeshka stood in his line of sight blocking him from me, and I from him.
"You don't need her, big man. I can wash your back for you."
"I already told you to get lost, flea. Maybe I should put you over my knee for being such a pest." He spoke vehemently. I shouldn't feel glad that he was a bit more bothered by her presence than I was.
"Would you? I like it rough." Her voice had lowered, trying for a softer submissive tone. This woman. I grit my teeth and walked to the bar, seeing a gentle looking woman behind the counter. As I walked away, I could hear Bishop's voice.
"You're testing my patience, flea." I snort. Mine too.
"Good evening. How may I help you?" She asked with a welcoming smile that made me smile in return.
"Me and my companion are resting the night, but we'd like to settle in before we have refreshments. Is okay if I pay for it and you bring it to us in a little while?" I inquire and she smiles.
"Of course. What would you like?" I looked over everything the inn offered.
"Something hot to eat. Anything really. Ill take two bowls of the stew" Looking at Bishop, I consider the amount. "And could you make it two double servings. I can only guess how much the man eats, but I for one, am starved." She giggled as I looked over what they were selling and my eyes lingered over a bottle of Argonian ale. "I'll take one of those," I said pointing to the bottle of Argonian wine, "As well as a bottle of your spiced wine. Now, I don't know my companions tastes exactly, but I figure him for a mead kinda man." I look at her a little shyly. "What would you recommend?" She thought for a moment before she answered.
"Well, our Nord mead is a classic, but we did just get a shipment of Honningbrew mead, it's very nice." She pulled a bottle out from under the counter to show me.
"Sounds good. Ill take 3 of em and that will be all for us." She nodded and set our order of drinks aside after a paid for our things. "And can you have someone other than uh, Neeshka, I think was her name, bring it over? She was bothering my companion a little and I wouldn't want things to get… out of hand. We've had a trying day." I explain and the woman rolled her eyes and gave me a knowing smile.
"Absolutely. I'll bring it over myself." She gave me an apologetic smile.
"Thank you." I pat my hand on the bar and step away.
"Enjoy your stay." She called gently after me as I walked over catching the tail end of what the innkeeper was saying.
"Ok then… Let me show you to the baths." And he led the way, Bishop closely behind and I followed. I stopped in my tracks when Neeshka began to follow after the men.
"That will be all for tonight. We can see to ourselves just fine." I sent her a leveled look that had her advance pausing. She was beautiful, I had to give her that. Her figure was slender, with gentle curves, hair a strawberry shine cut in a neat bob around her chin, her bust was showcased in a barmaid's gown that had been cut low. And her skirt had been altered to show plenty of her leg and thigh. Her skin was like cream. Delicate looking. But her eyes were too sharp. Her hands moved with a skilled grace that I myself could recognize. I had seen when she had stepped close to Bishop as if to touch him. She wasn't just trying to touch him; she had been searching for valuables. I kept my face passive as she glared at me. Bitch was a thief, and by the sharp dagger that she sported on her hip, one that wasn't afraid of taking things by a little force... She returned my observative stare and returned it with a cool glare. "Thank you." I spoke with a dismissive tone. She took it, with a single glance to the large room behind me and walked off back to the bar. Turning back around, I followed to where the men had disappeared to and found the innkeeper talking to Bishop.
"And here we are! Enjoy your bath and the single bed is in the bathing room to your right. Enjoy!" The innkeeper bowed his head and sailed out of the room as I walked in. It was quite spacious; candles were lit in different places setting the room in warmth.
"No one's getting in here, not without making a lot of racket and waking everyone up." I was about to ask how he knew that, when I stepped on a floorboard that creaked a bit under my boots.
OK. Now I know what he meant. I looked at him and he was walking and checking behind the room dividing screens.
"I'd say it's safe enough. Grab your things. Let's get to that bath before the water gets cold."
"I will not argue there." The words were out of my mouth before I thought about it. I had walked deep enough into the room to see the stone bath, steam rising from the clear water.
"You can go first. I'll wait outside the door." He turned around on his heel and I couldn't help but watch him as he walked to the door in a state of genuine surprise. For all the sharp comments and cold exterior, I found that underneath all of that, Bishop was still a… gentleman.
"Huh." I was toeing off my boots just as he was leaning against the door frame, his gaze on the room just beyond. Pulling the room partition over, I undressed. My belts were hung over the top of the partition, my weapons set aside and my armor slid from my body, my muscles twinging in denial as they moved. Setting them aside, I pull out my hair tie and carefully let the braids out letting the brown hair fall around me. Reaching into my bag, I pull another set of my travel clothes, and a small vial of cleansing liquid for my hair and set it next to the small bowl of soaps.
Slowly, I dip my foot into the water and let a sigh pass through my lips as I slide down into the water. Taking a bar of soap, I wet it and lather it along my arms, hands and shoulders, taking careful notice not to press too hard on the bruises that scattered my body. I see the dirt fall away and see the water becomes just a little murkier than before. I lower my body and water surrounds my head, filling my ears letting it block out the sounds around me as the edge of the water stops at my temples. The sensation calms me; it takes my mind off things. All the things I honestly don't care about. About my newly appointed position in this small city, about being a 'dragonborn', or about dragons, about how I can't understand the way I feel around Bishop, or what the Greybeards want atop the Throat of the World. I simply breath in and relax. Though I know the peace won't last.
I hold my breath and lower my face until it is under the water. I stayed there for a short while and enjoy the feel of the heat from the water penetrate my skin and turn my aching body into a heap of compliance. Lifting up out of the water, I keep my eyes closed as I let the water run down my face as I gently let out the breath I had been holding. I feel around the tub until I land on the bar of soap where I had left it. Lathering it again, I rub all across my face, feeling the dirt break apart and set the bar aside. Taking a gentle breath, I cup some water and rinse the soap off. Opening my eyes, I run a hand down my face, pushing water out of the way. Looking to the bowl I reach and grab my vial of hair treatment. Taking out the cork I can't help but bring the bottle to my nose and inhale. The scent of mountain flowers and jazbay grapes greats my nose. Its scent was gentle and not overly sweet. The scent of it pulled you in, making you come back for another draw because its scent was so elusive, hard to pinpoint. I suppose that's why I liked it so much. That, and the memory that went with it.
I had been traveling under the authority of the Council in Chorrol. I had cut a deal with the client and had walked away with some time to spare and I found myself wandering in the colovian highlands which, reminded me of Black Marsh. Along my aimless wanderings I found a wandering caravan trader, an older woman who specialized in alchemy. She had twisted her ankle on some rocks and was afraid she wouldn't get back to the town before nightfall. I helped her with her things, spoke of our travels as we walked. We had grown fond of one another as we made our way back to Chorrol together. The following morning, in the cities shopping district, she had been able to hail me down before we made the trip back to Morrowind. She had shown me her wares, bottles of all kinds of potions shined so brightly in all shapes and sizes, their colour dazzling me.. But the hair serum was the only thing I had kept in my hand as I had browsed. The first thing I had ever bought for myself just because I could.. It wasn't overly expensive; despite the bit of wealth I had accumulated over the years. I gave her the gold and in return for my kind gesture she taught me how to make it. It still brought me joy when I made a fresh vial.
I am brought out of the quiet moment when I heard Bishops voice ring clear starling me.
"Get out, flea." For a moment I am appalled by his lack of patience, and thought he was speaking to me from behind me. I sit up in the tub, bringing my knees to my chest to shield the front of my body for a little bit of modesty and as I turn my head to talk over my shoulder, my eyes glance here and there, but I don't see him. I frowned. He must still be by the door. I pour the mixture into my hair and work it in and just as I open my mouth to tell him that I was almost done, I hear another voice.
"Will you stop calling me that? I'm a thief, not a flea." My hands stilled as the familiar voice rang in. Neeshka was back. Persistent woman. Pouring more serum into my hair I feel a slight twinge of satisfaction at the thief part. Called it, I thought to myself as I pulled a large comb from my bag and worked in through my hair, wincing at the knots as they slowly loosened and untangled.
"Because you're a parasite. Attaching yourself to a body to make use of it for food, protection or whatever. Until you move on to another body. Or are caught and pinched to death." Bishop's voice sounded extremely bothered as I rinsed the comb in the water and set it aside.
"Okay, I get it. But you are what I desire in a man and I would be a fool if I didn't give it every effort." Good lord. I rolled my eyes as I corked the bottle again and set it aside.
"Consider it given. Now, get lost." He snapped, dismissing her. I shifted and lowered my head until it was under the water again, surrounding me in silence as I washed the last of the serum out. Pulling my head back up, I run my hands over my face, pushing the water out of my eyes.
"Not interested." Was the first thing I heard when I was no longer water-logged. By the Gods, was she still trying to get to him?! Rising out of the tub, I pull a drying cloth from nearby and set to work. "Get out of here now, or die, your choice." Bishop threatened and I dried myself as fast as I could. I did not want murder to be added onto this night. Enough blood had been shed.
"I just want to be with you." She sounded breathless, making my jaw clench. I grabbed my second set of armor and started pulling on my pants.
"That's impossible. Now get out." Was she just unable to pick up on hints, even blunt and direct ones such as his? After buckling my thick belt, I pulled my shirt from its perch.
"What makes her so special?!" Neeshka demanded making me I stop, mid tying of my shirt's laces. I waited... I waited for either the newest fact of me being the 'dragonborn' or that I wasn't special in the way she was asking, that I was just someone who was helping him out with a favor to be announced.
"She just is." Came his response. Well... I suppose that was that. I finish tying the strings with a slight tremble to my fingers than before. I 'just was'. News to me. I wonder if he would be so bold as to tell me these things while I was near him. I sigh and leave my feat bare, putting my extra clothes in my satchel and grabbed my weapons from where I had laid them when I stripped down and fastened them to my body. "Now get lost." Bishop snarled and I walked out from behind the partition. Bishop's hands were clenched in anger, a finger pointed in her face. "If you come back into this room again, I will slit your throat!" And that was the last warning. I took a quiet step towards them and she glanced my way making me tilt my head in question and raise a brow, almost challenging her to try something. Her gaze went back to him and she huffed out an angry breath.
"Fine. Ill just go then!" With a sharp turn, she walked away. Hm. Well, she sure showed him. Stepping beside Bishop, I look sideways at him. His head turns to me and he takes a moment to look me up and down. I inwardly smile a little when his eyes linger on a few places just a little longer than he should.
"That tavern girl seemed quite… taken with you". I tease making him groan in irritation for a moment before his expression turned to one of smugness.
"Must be my animal magnetism." He returned and I huff out a laugh.
"I've noticed." I say absentmindedly. He leaned against the door frame, his body fully facing me, arms crossed over his chest.
"Is that right?" His eyes sharpened, his tone lightening just a little. I rolled my eyes and make my way to one of the empty tables. He follows and sits in a seat across from mine.
"Not that I wanna act on it or anything. But yes, I have noticed." I looked around and admired the inn. A blond-haired man with a lute was playing softly, creating a gentle atmosphere as several patrons laughed, talked and drank together. I smiled at the sight. "Nice tavern." I said aloud and run a hand through my hair, pushing the strands out of my face.
"Your first time, huh?" Bishop asked setting his bow down near his feet. I nodded. "What was it you said earlier?" He asked, making me frown at him. "You said you would buy me a drink." Slowly I smile. Just behind him I could see the barkeep coming over with food while the woman I spoke too from behind the bar followed behind with our drinks.
"I love people with good timing." I state, and Bishop looks at me confused, like it had nothing to do with what he said a second ago and I can't help but enjoy the look on Bishops' face as we are served. Two large bowls of venison stew are placed on the table along grilled leeks and carrots, a few loaves of bread and two sweet rolls with several drinks. Looking up I give them a smile filled with gratitude.
"Thank you… I'm sorry, I didn't catch your names." The woman for a second, had a look of bafflement. Do people not ask for names anymore?
"Hulda. And that man in the cook's clothes, his name is Daniel." She spoke softly as she pointed to the man in white. Looking back at Hulda, I saw the dark circles under her eyes. Reaching into my pocket, I count out a handful of gold and hand it to her. She took it with a confused look.
"Is there anything I missed ma'am?" She asked, referencing the coins I had given her and I shook my head.
"No. That is for you and your workers. To be split up fairly." Her eyes widened a little and soon, a smile bloomed, and with a bow of her head, she went back to the bar. Turning back to Bishop I am almost shocked to see his food was almost done and him sitting back, ale in hand, though it wasn't uncorked.
"Your good on your word ladyship. I have to say, I'm impressed." He lifts the bottle and uncorks it.
"I was taught to keep my word and promises. You can rest assured on that." I smile as I look at the table and I notice a familiar bottle and pick it up and pull the stopper out. I lift it towards him and he leans forward and our glasses touch and took a long drink. When my lips left the bottle, I looked down at it with a bittersweet smile. Glancing at Bishop he looked at me curiously. I held the bottle up with a smile.
"Argonian Ale." I set it down and picked up a loaf of bread, splitting it in half then tearing out a large chunk of the center, avoiding the crust. "I am not really an ale drinker. But that," I point with my spoon. "that reminds me of… Home." I say softly as I dunk the fluffy bread in the broth and take a bite. The flavors burst in my mouth, and I sigh happily as I chew. I look and see Bishop take another sip of his drink; his eyes dark with something I can't tell.
"So, what would be your drink of choice?" He asks, observing me as I ate. I look up at one of the wooden beams and think as I chew.
"Hmm.. Well, I wasn't able to drink much when I was in Morrowind." I say matter-of-fact. Bishop gaped at me, making he chuckle.
"And why not?" He asked taking another swig.
"I was being taught many things and my teachers said I didn't do well to work after I had been drinking. Plus, the drinking could alter the effects of poisons they used on me." The look of anger and shock I saw from Bishop made me laugh. "But when I did," I continued "I found myself leaning more towards the spiced wine. Firebrand Wine, though expensive, always was nice to have, even if it was just a sip on very rare occasions." I explained, even held up the bottle of wine in question.
"They poisoned you?!" His empty bottle slammed onto the table, making several other patrons glance our way. Glancing around I shifted in my seat a little and continued.
"Not my family, no. They wanted to see if I had good or bad chances of surviving under harsh conditions." I stated. "They didn't know anything about me and my… nature." I took a drink of the Argonian ale, and could still faintly taste the land I had been born in.
"How old were you?" He asked. I took a large bite and took more of the fluffier section of the bread.
"Hmm.. I had turned 18 not long before." I finished my bowl and set in on the vegetables, eating them in a few bites. "Turns out, I had a talent for building up a fast immunity against most poisons. And a few more things that I won't bore you with." I had slightly boasted as Bishop opens another ale.
"Do you always eat like that?" He asks as I set the plate aside.
"Like what?" I echo, raising my brow.
"You just gutted that bread and left the crusts' shell." He pointed out smirking at me and I smile.
"I like the center best." I defended. "I'll still eat everything."
"I'm surprised you ate as much as you did." He spoke gently, eyeing me up and down.
"What can I say, I was hungry." I sip the ale and glance around again. I caught sight of Neeshka, tending to other patrons. She seemed to be keeping her distance, which for both parties, was a good idea. He looked to where my eyes had wandered and then went back to his drink.
"She came to you when I was in the bathhouse?" I meant it more to be a statement, but it came out as a question.
"Yes." The answer was clipped.
"So, are you going to tell me what happened?" I asked looking back at him after our plates were removed from the table and he leaned back in his seat, in a sexy slouch.
"No."
"Tell me." I pressed causing him to let out a sigh.
"Being nosy isn't very lady-like." He almost sounded like he was scolding me.
"I never said I was a lady." I ate another spoonful of stew and chewed.
"Well, you certainly sit like one." He teased making me glare at him.
"Bishop!" I pressed again and slowly his brows raised as if amused.
"Wow, if I didn't know any better, from all your pestering I'd say you were the jealous one." He had teased me, but the jest made my blood cold. I was not jealous. Curious perhaps. But certainly not jealous.
"You're not going to tell me about what happened, are you?" I asked becoming bothered by this back and forth between us.
"No." He sounded bored, like the entire situation didn't matter. I suppose to him it didn't. He probably had women throwing themselves at him and his 'animal magnetism' all the time. He was.. decent looking enough. And the smugness that passed over his face made me irritated to no end. I sat back in my eat and glared at him.
"Well, if you won't give me an explanation, you are more than welcome to leave." I pointed to the bathhouse with my hand. "You look like you need a bath as well." His face tightened with a scowl. "So, get lost!"
"Thank you for your permission." He stood, making the chair he was in scrape along the wooden floor, bent to pick up his bow and quiver then stride to the bathing room. I took a deep breath when he got out of sight and ripped off another section from the loaf. The center was all but gone, leaving the flaky crust left. I frowned. I shouldn't have snapped at him, but I did. Why, I didn't truly know. Moving on. Breaking off pieces, I snacked on them while I sipped my wine. Another barmaid came out from the cooking quarters catching my eye. Her barmaid clothes were simple and slightly stained, but the colours did well to make her dark skin contrast nicely. She looked like… the Alik'r from several hours ago. And when she smiled at one of the patrons, I caught the glimpse of a long scar down her cheek. The crust in my hand was crushed as the words of the men echoed in my head.
"Well I'll be damned." I muttered to myself. My curiosity got the better of me and I stood, walking over to her.
"Excuse me." I spoke as I drew near. Up close, I saw the jagged scar on her face. Like she had been beaten and it had not been treated or healed properly.
"Yes, can I get you anything?" She answered.
"Did you know that some Alik'r warriors are looking for a Redguard woman?" I ask and her face noticeably pales.
"Are you sure?" She asks and her eyes turn frantic. "Oh no! They've found me!"
"Well, I did have my own doubts, but it seems that your very forthright in the fact." I murmur as she spirals.
"I need your help!" She looks at me with pleading eyes and I feel bad for putting her in this state, until something dark flickers across her face. "Please, come with me. I need to speak to you privately."
"Alright." I murmur and watched as she looked around the bar.
"Quickly, come with me." I followed behind her, keeping a cautious distance. She was frightened. On edge. We walked through the kitchen and I nodded to Daniel as he stirred a large pot. Heading up the stairs, she leads us to a small room. Nothing grand, but I can tell by the few things that were around the room, she had little. My eyes were drawn back to her as the sound of a dagger being unsheathed caught my ear. My left hand went to my swords handle, but at the sight of her, I didn't draw it. The hand that held the drawn dagger trembled slightly. Her stance was not that of a woman who knew how to fight.
"So, the Alik'r know where I am? What did they offer you? Gold? How many more are coming?" The rapid fire of questions assaulted my mind. Gods only knows what her mind was like at this moment. No doubt filled with more questions. "Are you working with them? You think you can take me? You so much as touch me, and you're going to lose fingers." I like her. I almost smiled at her threat as well as more questions bounced out of her mouth. The fear was there, but her courage was… commendable. I tilted my head to the side, weighing the situation. This woman, though terrified, was willing to fight, maybe even die for a crime. If she was without guilt, she wouldn't have trembled. If she did not fear the men, she wouldn't have left her homeland for something trivial.
"Hmm." I hummed as she stood a few feet from me. She gripped the dagger more tightly and pointed the blade at me, like one would do with a sword. She looked a little foolish.
"I mean it! I'll… I'll cut you in half!" Yup. Scared… Just what had she done?
"Relax. I'm not here to harm you." I look at the dagger and couldn't resist raising a brow at it, then turned my gaze to her.. "Put that down before you hurt yourself." Slowly, she lowered the weapon, but didn't sheath it.
"I'm sorry, just… Just don't hurt me." She looked me up and down for a moment. "I know you're not one of them, but you just can't help them. You can't let them know I'm here." Her hushed voice began to rise again, in panic. Looking at me, with fear in her eyes, she swallowed so hard I could hear it from where I stood. "Please, will you help me? There's no one here I can trust." Her eyes casted downward, a slight glimmer of anger was held there. Or maybe frustration. Hmm.
"Maybe." I said after a minute. "What do you want?" She took a breath and let it out slowly. Her eyes looked back up with a calm clarity that almost impressed me.
"I am not the person that the people in Whiterun think I am. My real name is Iman. I am a noble of House Suda in Hammerfell." A noble? My brows rise to my hairline. Running a hand through my hair, brushing the strands out of my face I look at her more closely. She stood a little straighter… Even the way she spoke, she sounded like she was sneering a bit. Bar clothes or not, I could almost see the prim and proper air about her. Hm. Mental assessment aside, I went back to paying attention to what she was saying, "The men who are looking for me, the Alik'r, they're assassins in the employ of the Aldmeri Dominion. They wish to exchange my blood for gold."
My back stiffened as my mind was a blur in memories of knowledge and recognition. The Third Aldmeri Dominion. More commonly known as the Aldmeri Dominion, a powerful group created years ago by the Thalmor in the Summerset Isles for the supremacy of the races of Mer over Men. The likes of them and myself had never gotten along, due to the fact that any opposition to Thalmor rule is harshly punished. And with the blood that flowed through my veins.. My entire existence had been a point of shame and mockery. They prided themselves on 'making a concerted effort to maintain their genetic lineage.' I had scoffed at the time and spoke against them. I had received many a wounds from them.. And they still hurt, even years later.
"I need you to root them out and drive them away before they find me and drag me back to Hammerfell for an execution." She looked at me with a slight twinge of concern when I didn't gasp or immediately say yes. Everything she was saying sounded like something the Thalmor would do. They wouldn't waste their time or dirty their hands with this, as they would say, 'mundane task'. I didn't even realize that my jaw had been clenched this whole time. Slowly I released the pressure.
"Why are the Alik'r after you?" I ask as I sit on the edge of her bed. She shifts on her feet as she looks at me. Her expression was one of confusion.
"I don't know for sure. I spoke out against the Aldmeri Dominion publicly; I suspect that's why these men were hired to hunt me down."
I felt a twinge of mixed emotions. I knew what she spoke of. To be hunted down. To be forced to leave your home.. The fear, the anger, the pain. The feeling of slowly loosing yourself. To live a lie in a new place, while always looking over your shoulder to the one you left behind. The anxiety alone could kill you.
"How would I be supposed to get rid of them?" I ask slowly.
"They're mercenaries, only in it for the money. They're led by a man named Kematu. Get rid of him, and the rest will scatter." She explained. "I don't dare show my face, lest they recognize me, so you'll have to find out where they are." I stood and crossed my arms.
"I'll do some digging to find out where I can find him." I spoke as I paced a few steps in thought.
"I heard one of them was just arrested trying to sneak into the city." She added. I stopped mid step and pondered it.
"Hmm.. If he's locked up in the jail, perhaps I can get it out of him." I would have to flex my new 'Thane' muscles, so to speak. It would be a nice first, walking into a jail to speak to someone rather than speaking to get OUT of one. I smile to myself.
"So… You'll help me?" She sounded shocked and I simply returned a single shoulder shrug. "I know I'm asking you to do something difficult, maybe even dangerous. I just don't know who else I can trust."
"I'll see what I can do." I stated as I turned to leave.
"Find me when the Alik'r are taken care of." She said as I left the small simple room and headed back into the tavern below. The bard was singing, a few people were laughing silently, their faces red, the tavern employees walked around, smiles in places, a little slower due to them no doubt being tired. I knew the feeling. Tomorrow was going to be a long day. Looking over my shoulder I see Saadia stirring the pot over the flames of the kitchen, speaking with Daniel who looked at her with such a warm affection it made me smile and look back into the tavern. People should not live in fear like she is. She shouldn't have to change her name and leave everything behind because of narrow-minded people.. Thinking a minute, I made a decision. I was going to find this.. Kematu. And put an end to this woman's fear.
Looking around the room, I frown. Where was Bishop? He couldn't still be in the bath? My gaze sharpened as a thought emerged from my mind. Could Neeshka have been able to wiggle her thieving ass into his room? I tsk and turned to the bathing area and let out a sigh of relief when I saw her talking to Hulda. Her gaze slid from her to me and she sneered. Hulda had her hands on her hips, her face stern as she spoke, but kept her voice low enough so the other patrons didn't become alarmed. I smirked a little and continued to check on Bishop. The bath was empty, but I saw several wet footprints leading to the storage room to my right. Seems he was washed and out of the bathing tub. I should tell him about tomorrow. Maybe he could wait for me in Whiterun and I could set off on a quick trip to find the Alik'r. Walking to the door, I raise a hand and knock gently. I hear something bang around inside and I almost jump at the sound. The door swung open and I was greeted by Bishop, his face was contorted in such unchecked aggravation that I backed a step away.
"Dammit flea, I said- Oh. Ladyship. I thought you were-." He cleared his throat as he continued to speak, his face that held such fury, slowly dissolved into a blank expression. I didn't bother asking him if she came to him again. He wouldn't tell me before, so I wouldn't bother now. In fact, why I originally came to speak to him melted away as I fully took in the sight before me. His shirt was open, exposing the heavy muscles of his chest. His stomach was ripped with muscle, his skin bronze and beautiful. Several droplets of water that had yet to dry clung to the light dusting of dark hair that crossed his chest and down a faint trail leading down to his pants. The strings were lightly tied, not fully fastened, like it was done in haste. My mouth went dry and I unconsciously licked my lips.
He gave me a feeling I've never felt before. Something I've only heard in hushed scandalous whispers.
Lust.
It rushed through my body like nothing I'd ever felt before. I could barely speak with all of the heat boiling up inside me. The faint smell of leather, scent of the woods and something else caught my nose. Vegetables? My mind cleared as I recalled our place. The storage room. His room, to be precise.
His midnight brows winged in amusement. "Do I pass inspection?" He teased; eyes sharp on me.
That hard knot of embarrassment fell from my throat and into my stomach, obliterating all hint of tingling warmth. "I wasn't staring at you," I said, scouring my mind for a plausible explanation. "I was lost in thought about something completely unrelated to you." I cleared my mind of any thoughts I was about to have and lifted my eyes to a place where his revealed chest was not in line of sight.
He stepped forward and leaned an arm against the frame, tilting his body towards me, drawing my eyes to his. Sharp and bright in the flickering lights in the room. "You have a smart mouth, don't you?" He glared slightly, but his mouth curved a little in humor.
"And a mind to match it" I snapped back. He lifted from the door and my gaze slipped lower again. Damn. I closed my eyes and shook my head gently. "I.. ah, apologize for intruding on your evening I just wanted to say.. um." My eyes drifted down and caught on his hand by his side. A ring, silver with a shape of a wolf's face on it, glinted on one of his fingers. What the hell was I going to say? My hands itched to touch.
"Is something wrong?" He quietly demanded. YES. I wanted to grab him and lose myself for a while in his touch... The thought angered and slightly frightened me.
"No, I am fine. I just have something to do tomorrow, a few people I need to speak too, little matters, nothing too serious. I so I think it would be best if we split up until I am done and we can continue our journey." He looks at me, an air of curiosity about him. "I will be gone for a few hours, not more, or less." I watch as he mulls this over and nods.
"That's fine. I can pick up a few things while we're here from the market. "He looks at me with an amused smirk. "Don't keep me waiting to long."
I tilt my head I forward in an agreeing motion.
"By your word, and my will." I say offhandedly and step back. "Goodnight Bishop." Turning away, I head to my own room.
My lungs felt like they would burst, my throat was so dry from my heavy breathing, sweat beaded on my forehead. My hands clenched in the sheets around me. My heart is hammering inside my chest like it belongs to a rabbit running for its skin as the room spins and I lay on my back, trying to make everything slow to something my brain and body can cope with. In seconds from waking from a nightmare, I was curled tight in my bed, my only movement was the trembling of limbs and salty tears darkening my sheets. I feel so sick. There I stayed, unaware of how long I slept. Until I found the feelings had passed, I looked out the small window of my room, the sky was still dark, but the inn below was silent.
Sitting up, I stand and head for the wash bowl, pouring water and running a damp cloth over my body. I still felt exhausted. Strapping my gear on from where I placed it earlier that night, morning? What time did I even fall asleep? I stayed up to write a few correspondences. Not long after, I had locked my door and stripped down to a thin shirt and my pants to sleep. Stretching my arms over my head. I am happy that at least my muscles have relaxed a fair amount. Might as well get a very early start. Pulling my armor on and my arm sleeves, I tried to recall the nightmare that had woken me. I was strapping on my swords when a few glimpses of it flew into my mind. Smoke, fire, blood and a tormented scream.. I had seen my father, sick and dying again, coughing and asking me about my brother.
'Why isn't he here? Where is he? Is he well?' All the while, I had only one answer to his questions; 'I don't know.'
The nightmare transitioned to my father fighting off all kinds of undead, a dragon soaring overhead, breathing fire to women and children as they ran for their lives, screaming in pain as I stood by and did nothing to help them. I turned away and faced a familiar set of amber eyes that were so cold I nearly wept. Bishop's skin was nearly ashen, his face pure hatred.
'The Thalmor were right about you.' He sneered. 'You are a waste. Now die.' I had felt a blade enter my ribs and with a pained scream I had woken up. Even now, my hands trembled as I tied my hair. Picking up several letters from the desk, I head down and make my way out of the inn into the early morning. By the lack of light and the feeling of my body, I must have slept only a few hours. At best. Damn. Heading to the jail, I made a mental note to find a courier. I had a few letters to send first.
A/N
Hey Everyone!
Another long chapter to make up for the little delay. Thanks for sticking with me so far. Its gonna get a little more intense later on, so I'll be sure to let you guys know. Be sure to follow and let me know what you guys think!
Some translations from earlier;
"Thuri du hin sil ko Sovngarde!"(My overlord will devour your souls in Sovngarde!)
"Krif krin. Pruzah!" (Fight Courageously. Good!)
"Brit grah." (Beautiful battle).
"I had forgotten what fine sport you mortals can provide!"
"You are brave. Bahlaan hokoron.(worthy enemies) Your defeat brings me honor."
"Dovahkiin? (Dragonborn) No!"