Chapter 21: Warlords


Ruigus awoke and had walked through the house to sit down at the wooden table he and his mother had use for many years as he stared out the wooden window.

It had a perfect view of a tree that had colorful birds he had not known much of. He figured it might make a good home for some.

He pondered over what he would do now, all that was rather left for him to do that could be considered as pressing was the Warlord. His time with mother be damned by him he supposed.

But at least Alduin could talk to her. That was something he had been looking forward to, he hoped that there was something she could learn from her. "A wild thought" As he believed.

Though, he noticed she had acted somewhat flustered the entire time with her, perhaps she was taking this all the more seriously than she should. It made him happy, what bliss it was here already.

However, he had obligations. The Warlord, for whatever the reason he truly wanted would be met quickly. He felt a strange apprehension, of the sort that made him reminiscent again of that time in Markarth.

He froze for a moment, frowned terribly, and sighed lightly as his hands rubbed his temples.

However, he very much doubted the Warlord would be involved in some terrorist scheme to topple a region of the Empire in a mad, blood filled display that had it's roots run quite deep within a powerful family or two.

He wasn't sure what to still think of a family much like the Silver-Bloods.

He supposed however that had nothing to do with how things were now, it was merely irrelevant. But he'd do his best to keep that in mind.
Not everyone had the best interests of their people and Empire in mind and will, that much had become quite obvious.

He put the abstract thought to rest.

Neither Alduin nor his mother were awake it seemed, he was surprised on both of their ends.

Both usually liked to awake earlier than he however for once it had been different, Ruigus chuckled within a sigh.

At the very least, he'd stay around to tell whoever woke up first.

"Ah, you are up. Sieg." His mother greeted as she joined him.

"Mom, I have to get going soon." He stated simply.

His mother looked downcast.

"I know, I just have to be off to see the Warlord, I don't know what will happen here with you if I do not." He stated.

"Sieghard please…."
"There has been moments in Skyrim where it has proven to me that people are willing to kill others over the smallest slights against them. I'll see whats to be done here." He stated as he straightened himself out.

"I too am one that may be among them as well. In truth, I think a man like Kober lives because he too sees and understands the current state of the land, yet..." Pondered Ruigus.

"I'll go, I do not want to, but I must. Please talk to Alavia while I'm gone." He said as he got up.

"I would never not want to, Sieg." She replied, sadness in her voice as Ruigus gritted his teeth lightly in pain.

A feeling told him there was only so long he could stay with mom considering the all too limited days there were, he had to make it count, yet even then.

He had to go.

"I love you. I shall be back as soon as I can." He stated his goodbye, and went to go outside.

"I know."

Stepping out into the garden he sighed lightly, and walked by his lonesome down the street.

He took it to himself to march his way to the Warlord's Kvatchian Manor, merely thankful it was no longer raining.

Alduin had awoken not long after his departure. She had been having quite a dream through the night.

She got up, and stared at where Ruigus had slept with her eyes widened. Then came with inaudible "Ah." as she realized that he had merely left.

She pouted for a moment, then walked out in search of his mother.
Whom she found sitting at a table.

"Good morning to you Ms. Kessel." She bowed.

Ruigus's mother managed a smile.

"Please my daughter, call me as you should." She replied.

"S-Sure."

Alduin took it to sit down next to her.

"He's left already." Noted Alduin.

His mother's lips curled upwards ever so slightly.

"That he can do quite best."

"I have noticed that myself." Alduin said with a light giggle.

"He gets that from his father and that of the uncle he could never meet, Mars." Stated Hildeguard.

"Ah he was just telling me an old story from Tulli- er I mean Reinhard last night about the two."

Hildeguard giggled.

I know that night well. Ruigus's father had been so worried when he wanted to help family." She said with a forlorn look in her eyes as she spoke in a light tone.

"It was….so happy back then."

Alduin too shared the sentiment, yet she slowly was beginning to love the more for more than just her second chance.

She was unaware if Hildeguard was stuck in the past much like some of what her own self was.

The mother of her mate seemed to carry some weight on her shoulders.

"Yet, I smile for my son as he grows. Forgive me, I don't usually drag on with that sadness." She stated, holding a light smile.

"No no you're not!" Said Alduin as she shook her head.

"I just…..too had times like how I was saying with my family the yesterday that I hold some sadness with, it was when I was…...A child to say the least."

"You're young Alavia. You mustn't worry much, mine own comes from time." Replied Hildeguard.

Alduin stared blankly for a moment before Hildeguard decided to speak up once more.

"I hope it is of no trouble to you, but you say you were separated from your family in some way. Were they…..Killed?" Hildeguard asked gently.

Alduin went downcast some before she returned gaze with the woman who sat across from her.

"I left them and they left me at the same time. They are still alive yet…..I am unsure if I ever wish to see them again on good terms. I do not think they are good people, I must say I think of you as a good mother." Said Alduin as she bowed her head.

Hildeguard giggled, and held a look of understanding.

"I hope that I am, you're a good woman Alavia." Replied Hildeguard.

Alduin blushed.

"I uh…..thank you." She choked.

"I'm sad to hear of your own, but I understand. One day Sieghard will have to part from me too, and you as well." Stated Hildeguard.

"Though I want to enjoy the years before that happens. Now dear, please tell me of the journey you two had together." The Dragonborn's mother then asked.

"You still want me to leave out the….Warfare?" Alduin asked.

"It does not have to be avoided. Please, tell it your fullest." Replied Hildeguard, offering a small, sad smile.

A sense of pity, and kindness panged in Alduin ever strangely as she smiled back and began.


As Ruigus walked on, there was something he pondered.

The words of his mother, from the day before.

"Your hair is black, your beautiful are eyes are much lighter and fiercer. My Sieghard….I am proud of you."

Had he changed so?
He was heavily tempted to find some sort of reflection to look at his own self now, he did not have the patience to check his own hair if he let it grow.

He'd ask Alduin later about his eyes, they had been a light brown before, hadn't they?

He passed by some old streets he used to wander around ever so often around the outer residences.

He was not far away from the Warlord's manor, a building which if he remembered was built over the ruins of the city's old arena, as destroyed by Mehrunes Dagon's hordes in the Oblivion Crisis as well as most of the city, yet, many landmarks still stood. There was that of Antus Pinder, another hero much like that of Rislav and the Wolf of Colovia that had gone against the impossible.

It seemed, a common theme.

He then thought of why he was changing, was it merely Alduin herself or was it his own soul in some strange, unknown manner?

He supposed it was not much to worry of, seeing as he had not grown a third eye or anything dramatic but it was something he had not noticed himself, nor had anyone really said anything.

He then wondered if he had gone insane, even if for just a moment.

He grinned nervously at the thought and shrugged the ridiculous thought off.

His thoughts turned to the very streets he walked, they were relatively quiet once more.

It was as he remembered. Yet, he couldn't help but think the recent events may be keeping everyone inside. A crisis like this often called for one to fortify their own home, as Tullius once taught him.

Some children were laughing and running past him as they presumably chased each other.

Good old memories of youth.

Those, he could not stay forever inside.

Eventually, he came to the front of the Warlord's manor, it was gated, with no less than ten Colovian soldiers standing about like mere statues.

"Halt!" Approached one.

As though the Dragonborn could have merely walked through the closed gate in front of him.

"State your business." The guard asked with a neutral tone as a forcibly suspicious looks was in the guard's eyes.

"I'm Sieghard von Kessel, on the Warlord's summons, I'll show you the letter if need be." He communicated.

"Alright, show me it." The guard requested, to which Ruigus thrusted.
He had been doing that often lately, something he chuckled on inwardly.

The guard looked over the seal and then gave a slight nod, then handed it back.

"We'll open it up. You'll find the Warlord is available, wait a bit and we'll get it open and have someone to escort you Sir Kessel." He stated.
Ruigus nodded his head.

"Thanks."
The guard gave a polite smile and walked on to speak with someone.

After minutes of waiting with the rest of the guard eyeing him at the corner of their eyes as they faced forwards.

He remained calm and relaxed himself somewhat.

He just focused on not acting like a fool.

Eventually one emerged and walked towards him.

"Come with me." The guard ordered.

Ruigus obliged, walking through the open gates as more guards and officials were about.
The guards now wore upon them the Colovian war masks, separate from their helmet and all in the visage of some face or bestial creature whilst their eyes, mouth, and nose were visible.

They were more terrifying than that of the Thalmor troops, more imposing than that of the Skyrim's and the Imperial Legion's warriors quite ironically.

They looked like metal statues, all standing close to pillars and doors.

Two saluted as the woman who was leading him through opened a door for the both of them.

"Right this way." The woman said as she held it open, Ruigus walked on inside.

It was a medium sized, empty hall.

He was led up some stairs just adjacent of them, and was led down a hallway, there were four well dressed men standing at a door.

"The dragonborn?" One asked with a raised eyebrow as he eyeballed Ruigus.

"Yes lord." Replied the guard.

"We'll take him on in." The man from before stated as he eyed Ruigus.

Ruigus retained a collected compsure as the man seemed to test him as he looked him over, his expression bordered on mockery.

"So you're the Kessel boy huh?" He questioned.

"I am." Replied Ruigus as he shrugged off the hard stare.

"Huh." He replied as he glanced over in a most intimidating fashion.

Ruigus for his part, did not waver.

The man then smirked.

"Well, what are you waiting for? Warlord is right inside." He stated as he pulled the handle of the door.

"Thank you." Said Ruigus as he walked in.

In a room much like that of what was inside the White-Gold Tower sat Warlord Detlev von Sondheim.

"Ah, Ruigus, sit down." He stated rather casually, whilst wearing respectively casual clothing.

Colovians were like Nords in the regard that they hardly dressed fancily, but even then.

Detlev had made himself seem as comforting as possible, he suspected. But he took no ill will of it.

"I take it I've been interrupting important matters." He said.

"Not at all. Just visiting family before I am to head back." Replied Ruigus as he examined Detlev.

He was in his 50's, and retained a rather youthful, if not burdened countenance and frame. He was an old warrior, who had years retired since, but had not dropped the demeanor.

Detlev was a tough figure for sure, as could be told by the way he carried himself.

"I won't make this too long, nor I am going to bullshit about." Detlev stated rather bluntly as he opened a small box.

He pulled a smoking pipe.

"Have ya had one of these yet?" He asked.

"...Never have." Replied Ruigus who eyed it curiously.

The Warlord chuckled.

"Here you go." Voiced Sondheim as he handed it over to him, and struck a match on the tobacco.

Ruigus took it up to his lips. It wasn't that bad of an aroma.

"Now, like I said. I won't bullshit you. Don't wanna waste both of our time." He said rather calmly as he sat in a most relaxed position.

"Grew up here didn't you? In that house with that mother of yours."
Ruigus regarded him neutrally, and nodded.

"There's no shame in being the lone man of your family. That was rare up until the war ended, now there's plenty leftover." He stated.

"Heh, that Reinhard is a real cruel son of a bitch isn't he? Mede too even."

"Wh-What do you mean by that?" Asked Ruigus, heavily taken aback.

"They got you doing slave work out in that backwater Kingdom. You're completely dedicated around these oaths of yours to them that you would give your life to Tullius at least. Some real brainwashing crap that even the damn Thalmor admire." Smirked Detlev whilst he held a pitying look in his eyes.

"The point here, lord? I don't see where you're going with this." Asked Ruigus as he held back emotion.

Detlev stared into Ruigus's eyes, dark brown met light brown.

"Sieghard….Would you be willing to keep an eye on old Reinhard for me, and that brat of Mede?"
"Spy on Uncle!?" Ruigus thought with clenched teeth.

"What?" Asked Ruigus as a fierce look took his eyes, he placed his pipe down on the table between them.

Detlev appeared most calm.

"Sieghard, you have your troubles inside the Imperial court with those councilors with their heads still stuck in their asses. You and I are smart men. You'll have a loyal man in me and you won't have to worry about anything those worthless dogs have to moan about as you climb upwards. We'll be helping each other here. Just keep tabs on those two, and you'll get the spot you deserve soon enough, it's quite simple."

"What do you have against Tullius?" Questioned Ruigus with narrowed eyes.

"He's stuck in the past. A stubborn man who only knows war. You're not gonna have a future with someone as slow as him. And I wouldn't expect the Emperor's favor to stick around for long, even with you aiding that brat of his." He replied, not entirely answering Ruigus's question.

"I don't want to continue through with any of this." Said Ruigus as he stood up and turned around, however that man from before blocked his path with a disapproving look.

Detlev motioned his man to go away, Ruigus suppressed a sigh and sat down once again.

"You think I'm mad in this." Stated Detlev.

"I do, I've been with Reinhard my entire life and you are asking me to spy on him! I ought to tell him of your intentions for whatever true reason it may be." The Dragonborn nearly spat.

Detlev leaned forward.

"I'm offering a chance for the both of us to rise up. You're a Dragonborn, aren't you? Don't you have any real desire to be somethin' higher than a mere General when there's much more to grab for?" He questioned with an edge to his voice.

"None that I would betray Reinhard for at any time, I don't know too much of Mede and that Lucis but an oath is an oath! I'm no manipulable moron Lord Sondheim." He retorted.

"I said you were a smart man, but don't be a dumbass. Your oath doesn't mean anything nowdays, hasn't for years. Reinhard knows that well." Stated Detlev.

"You may be surprised to see how little he cares. The Empire doesn't mean all that much in the end to him." He added.

Ruigus eyed him suspiciously.
He could see what he was saying, somewhat.

"And what of Lucis?"

"A little shit obsessed with vengeance. He could never lead any nation, the Empire would die the day he took reign of it." Stated the Warlord with every bit of assurance.

"So you think that we can, is that what you are saying?" Asked Ruigus.

"Yes." Replied Detlev.

"Your choice if you want to sink down with their ship, the water is already pouring in." He stated once more.

"Join, or sink with them." He declared calmly.

"You're crazy." Is what Ruigus wanted to say, instead he mouthed something else.

"I will decline your offer….Sir." Stated Ruigus as he once again rose out of his seat.

"You do not know a thing about me, and sure as Oblivion not Reinhard!" He barked as he turned to go to the door once again.

"You prideful pup! My offer shall stand but now you've made an enemy of me understand that? Do you think you're ready for what that entails Sieghard?" Retorted the Warlord.

Detlev von Sondheim controlled his anger as the man walked away from him.

"I'm ready, if I wasn't I wouldn't have been made Dragonborn." Stated the young colovian.

Detlev motioned for his man to move out of the way.

"Hope you're thinking your way out of the city, kid." He said as he walked past.

It was a warning. Ruigus sensed that the Warlord fully intended some sort of vengeance after this.

Ruigus regarded the man with a glare, then proceeded through the door.
The man sighed softly.

"I wonder if that kid's ego as Dragonborn has consumed him, not a chance that one of our own would be so dumb as to deny us like that." He stated.

Detlev's eyes remained on the door for a moment before he faced his retainer.

"He's just Reinhard's pup, nothing more. But he may wise up soon. Don't matter too much at the moment although, it's a damn shame."

"Hm, he might not have too much of a hard time with the boys then."
"You sent some men out?" Asked Detlev with a tone of amusment.

"Might be enough to scare him even if they get their asses kicked. He may end up with the message anyways." The retainer replied.

"Good. Don't want the kid's blood on my hands, not yet at the very worse while we still got a chance to convince away from those traditionalists."

"Now with that out of the way make sure that Estate official gets to me soon. Our trade deal should work out nicely so long as Falkreath doesn't cry too much for aid." Mused the Warlord.

"In any case we're done here Nico." The Warlord then reached for his own pipe as the retainer known as 'Nico' bowed, and walked out of the room.

He stared at the one Ruigus himself had placed down.

There was the faintest smoke coming from the still burning tobacco.

He had bided his time for over twenty-five years, multiple times he had been set back, but there were times he rose up. He supposed he owed that to the warmonger, Warlord Berlin. What happened with Tullius had only kept him down for a while, and it was after the war ended he became Warlord himself. Now however, was a great time to finally make a move.

He had to hand it to himself, that overtly ambitious Ulfric had made his own at a perfect time.

He would have to wait just a bit longer.


Several minutes later

Ruigus was walking through a street as he made his return, he had walked out without a single problem.

He feared there would be trouble on the way home.

All that was immediate was that he could no longer stay in Kvatch for the time being.

He'd have to leave, yet again.

He pondered over his own thoughts of the Warlord.

In the end, it did not seem as though he would be a friend in the slightest no matter how well he presented himself. His offer would have been tempting, if not for the complete love and respect he had for his dear Uncle.
It was something he could never accept. Still, the Warlord was his Warlord no matter who he was.

He had apprehension, his leader before the Emperor was plotting something most against Tullius, and that Lucis. Tullius had once very little in terms of favor to ever say about him, that he continued Siegward's civil development and aided greatly in reconstruction but left it at that and seemed to care very little about him.

He'd no idea of what animosity must have existed or been carried by Detlev against the Emperor's pupil, what was there to have caused it?
Of whom confused him, and would seem to prove a most interesting person to Ruigus as he supposed with all that considered.

In the end he figured he would have to do some searching of his own. Yet not under someone with seemingly malicious intent.
For now he just had to think of what he would do about mother. He very much doubted that the Warlord would go after her as it wasn't something Colovians typically did when trying to get the edge over the other but at the same time it was not out of the question.

"Damnit." He whispered to himself.

He figured he could just ask Alduin to stay with her as he would go to visit Lady Drach, he figured he could make it today if he hurried.

But did he have to leave his mother again so soon?
A foreboding feeling washed over him as he saw some very well dressed men and women approach him directly.

A couple cracked their knuckles. He stood in place as one approached, he eyed the man with steeled eyes.

"The Warlord sends his regards, you coward!"

The man spat at him and threw a punch to his face.

Ruigus fell back to a knee, and panted and growled in pain.

"Don't stand up after insulting the Warlord if you know what's good for you, you dog!" Growled the man as his four fellow bruisers fanned out.

Ruigus got back up and the man cursed.

"Why are you standing idiot? Do you even understand the position you're in, imbecile!?"

Ruigus remained calm, and studied the man in front.

"You've misunderstood."
"I have no intention of apologizing, and no intent or reason to let you people slap me around either." Ruigus replied as he held a threatening look in his expression.

The man laughed.

"Heh! You wanna fight us? No doubt? You're a damn laugh a minute, kid!" The man laughed, and then leaned forward and turned himself slightly to the right.

"Go ahead, take a swing." He presented.

Ruigus kept his hands at his sides as stared the man down.

Who then turned to look at him, annoyed.

"Well, don't keep me waiting….This is your last line in the sand kid."
"The Warlord came to the city for ya, if you're ready to this when he's around, well…...I'd say you have balls, but don't posses a brain." He insulted.

"I came here to visit family before I head back to Skyrim." Replied Ruigus.

"Right, you're planning on visiting and ratting on us to that Drach aren't you? If only the old warlord was alive to see how much of a joke the Drachs and yours have become."
The man laughed as though it were a great inside joke.

His cackling ended when a fist collided with his face and he was sent to the stone floor.

"Nghfff! Son of a bitch!" Moaned the Colovian in pain.

"Never cared for your line, you already crossed it the moment you tried stabbing us in the back." The young Dragonborn said, he brought himself into a fighting stance.

He had fought with fists as a kid, but now….

"Pummel the shit out of that little shit!" Yelled the boss of the Colovian bruisers, Ruigus promptly kicked him in the head, he fell unconscious.

It seemed, a crowd was gathering around all of them.

One of the bruisers ran at him and threw a most sloppy strike to which he quickly blocked and countered with a strike to the joint of his arm.

The man fell to the ground in pain. Ruigus stomped on him to ensure he didn't try to get up again.

The other three were more reserved and seemed more experienced than the kid who rushed up.

In a mere second two of them sprinted at Ruigus, one frontally and the other went to around the side, Ruigus went to go after the one to his front but she went into a charge meant to tackle him.
The tackler grabbed him whilst he tried his best to knock her off as he was involuntarily being moved back and pushed down onto the hard stone ground.

She made the mistake of letting go and going in for the beating the moment she pushed him to the ground, he anticipated a kick and was about to take it when he felt his arms being grabbed by the flanker.

He sent a flurry of kicks at the one woman whilst he banged his head on the chest of the other trying to get her off, going so far as to bite lightly on her hands which instinctively let her go.

The observers saw a man fighting like an animal.

Ruigus quickly threw himself into the woman in front of him while the other one momentarily backed off.

He quickly overpowered her and took the chance to throw as many punches as he could.

He gave up after around ten, he could tell that she no longer wanted to fight by the way she had her hands raised up at her sides.

Quickly standing up once more Ruigus had kick land on his cheek, he staggered but recovered only to get another kick from the bruiser.

He got as much space as he could as the woman continued to close in. Seemingly unable to change up to anything but kick after kick Ruigus defended for an opportune moment when she finally tripped up.

Grabbing her leg, he quickly smashed into it with his hand and pulled on it forward, forcing her to fall down as he followed up with a kick of his own to her face.

She fell back, and was moaning in pain.

Ruigus panted as sweat and a small line of blood trickled his face.

The last one clapped slowly at him, she held her spot and had a single hand on her sword handle. This one seemed somewhat impressed.

He could easily Shout her if she really wanted to go through with the sword.

Suddenly Ruigus heard a voice to his left.

"Hey! Come with me!" A man stood from a tiny alley, suited in old looking armor. The man in question looked no more than in his mid 30's.

Ruigus faced the woman once more, trying to keep appearances and then quickly ran after after the man.

The Warlord's retainer, Nico watched them run as he observed the work Ruigus had done to his bruisers.

"Heh, kid's a real beast."

Unsure if they were being followed the pair sprinted down a couple streets until they came to a stop in a more commercial area.

The two took a breather.

"Well, I suppose my timing is as great as ever." The man chuckled.

"Who-Who are you?" Asked Ruigus in between breaths.

"Hugo Koegel, pleasure to meet you Sieghard!" He stated.

Hugo Koegel was a famous name, he should have been in his early 40's by now.

"Wait, you were Reinhard's strategist during the war? The man who drew up the defense plan man-wall?" He asked incredulously. But he very much believed the man's claim.

"The one and only. Good to see Reinhard's been keepin' his head down. At least, was anyways." He mused.

"Er, you alright?" He asked as he looked over Ruigus.

"I'm fine, they hit me pretty hard though but I ain't gonna cry my life out from a bunch of punches now."
"Although, before I went to Skyrim I think I would have." Ruigus stated with a light-hearted grin.

"Hm, how's it been going in Skyrim for you? With the Dragons, Rebels, and Undead?" Asked Hugo, sporting a grin of his own as his hand played with some of the hair on his chin.

"Terrible, though there's been some good as well." Came the reply.

Hugo nodded and looked around.

"Best we start walking, are you heading home?" He asked.

"Yeah, please walk with me." Came Ruigus.

"Heh, was plannin' on it." He replied as Ruigus led the way.

"So, why'd you come and help?" Questioned the Dragonborn.

Hugo shrugged.

"Don't like the Warlord, figured I could help you out too." He stated.

"How did you know who I am?"
"The guards were quite excited, I just happened to be in the area as they spread word around. Heard a commotion not long after." He stated.

"Besides, I know you from Reinhard, or Tullius as he calls himself nowadays." Said Hugo.

"Oh, right." Said Ruigus. He had a feeling he may have actually had met him when he was but a child.

"I'm curious as to how you pissed the Warlord off." Voiced Hugo.

"He wanted me to spy on Reinhard and Lucis Caesar as a matter of fact." The younger colovian informed the old strategist.

"Truly huh? Didn't think Reinhard would have something he wanted unless, he was in the way of something. Can't imagine anything about that Lucis either, it's not a name most people will know, or care for." He stated, most intrigued at the situation.

"Who is Lucis Caesar?" Asked Ruigus.

"Why, just the Emperor's Pupil." He cackled.

"Heh, nah far as I am aware he's known for angering a lot of people. Doesn't hold back in an argument, quite a fierce talker too if I say so myself. He's picked up a lot from Mede though, what there is to learn anyways, can't say much of how good he actually is but when I saw him he had a unique look in his eyes as he talked to the people….Couldn't forget that."
"Anyways Sieghard, I have no idea what the Warlord would want in him, other than being dead perhaps. Chances are he went and angered him profusely one way or the other. That would have been nice to have seen." He stated.

"Thank you, he seems a very intense man. I think….The weight of the Empire extends to him as well." Said Ruigus as he thought of it some, he then faced Hugo once more.

"What about you Hugo? What have you been up to?"

"Oh me? I'm…..A traveling strategist now!" He declared as he stretched his arms out.

"…..You're a mercenary?"

"No no no, I'm just wandering from small skirmish to skirmish trying to observe how fighting goes nowadays, been something I've been doing since I was young. You don't know how out of our plane it was when Reinhard hired me on. Been going around since, was meaning to join up on the Civil war in Skyrim but I hear we ain't too keen on lone civilians moving about the whole provinces aimlessly. Spies are an issue so I've been told. I'm fortunate that they may actually need me now with these undead everywhere." Explained Hugo as Ruigus listened intently.

"I see, would you want to join us? I'm to go with Lucis to that Dawnguard Order as an assisting force." Ruigus asked.

"Hmm, I'd be tempted to but no for now. Don't fret though, I'll be popping up around to give my most uncalled for services that's for sure." Stated Hugo with a most confident smile.

Ruigus laughed to that.

"Fair enough! We're getting close to home now, er, do you want to stay in for some time?"

Hugo gave a kind look.

"I'll decline, I just wanted to talk to you but thank you. I'll be parting now actually seeing as you're no longer troubled by Deltev's thugs, wouldn't worry too much to be honest with ya as long as he operates like that." The man said.

"Funny, he's sending people out to intimidate others like Nibenean nobles, damn gangsters." He stated suddenly.

Ruigus remained silent for a moment as the man turned himself.

"Hey, I got a question for you, I'm not sure if you'll know the answer to it."
"Shout away."

"Is Alexander still the Champion for Kvatch?" Asked Ruigus.

"Hmm….Alexander...Alexander…..Ah, I recall now. He went and got hired by the Oculatus last I heard." Said the older Colovian.

"I see." Said Ruigus.

"Thank you, Lord Koegel." Said Ruigus as he bowed slightly.

"I'm not a lord." He replied.

"I know but thank you, you helped save us all." Said Ruigus.

Hugo smiled.

"Your job now ya hear? I'll still be around though. And one word of advice to you Sieghard, be wary of Vampire women, they're cute but they'll rip you to shreds. Mark my words." He finished with a cackling laugh.

"You too Hugo. I'll keep that in mind." Was the reply as Ruigus's own lips gave way into a most embarrassed and amused grin.

If anything, there was another woman to be far more wary of doing the same, but he trusted her deeply now.

He was somewhat worried how he was going to just walk in considering the way he looked, he wasn't hurt too badly it was just that it was noticeable, and the last thing he wanted was for his own mother to worry.

..

….

…...

He wondered if Alduin could teach him basic spells, some illusion to hide it would help.

Nevertheless, he had to tell the two of them now.

He knocked on the door to his house and waited for a minute as he quickly patted down his hair.

The door opened.

"Sieg!" His mother exclaimed with wide eyes.

"Hey mom." Ruigus replied, attempting to be as casual as he could in this situation.

"What happened?" She asked he walked on inside. Alduin was standing right next to her as well with her mouth slightly agape, a most concerned expression she carried.

"Just some thugs who had power get to their heads. Kvatch has changed a little I guess." He said with a light sigh.

"Things went okay with the Warlord, we just disagreed is all."

A mother's intuition and Alduin's own experience with Ruigus saw through the lie easily.

"Er Mom, Alavia, I have to go." He said.

"I don't think I can stay in here for another day-

"Sieg." Emitted his mother.

"Ye-Yeah?"
"Are you going to visit someone?" She asked.

"Yeah, Lady Drach." He stated.

"I understand." She replied with a weak smile.

"I love you mom, you too Alavia except…..er...you know." He said awkwardly.

Alduin smiled.

"The same goes back to you, Ruigus." She said.

"I know." He smiled.

"Er, I best get speeding off now. I'll be back. Alavia, please stay with mom until I get back...Just to make sure everything is fine until I'm back by tomorrow." Said Ruigus.

Alduin nodded in understanding.
"I shall." She stated.

"Thank you." He said.

He quickly kissed Alduin on the lips, and his mother on the cheek. And walked outside in a storm.

"Are you okay, Hilde?" Asked Alduin.

Hildeguard had a bright smile.

"I am, I'm happy for him." Alduin didn't entirely understand what she meant by that.

To her it had seemed that Ruigus had…

Oh, he had must have fought off people from the warlord, his leader before the Emperor. Much like in her times a Dragon Priest before her or her kin.

It made sense, in her mind that Ruigus had stood up to her in an albeit limited form, but had fought tooth and nail to many enemies in Skyrim but had not once truly made one as far as she was aware; at home.

In a somewhat twisted sense, there was pride to be had in that. Or maybe she was overthinking it and his mother was telling him that after all he did in Skyrim or both, but she was a genuine woman, that had passed down to her son.

She would be sure to tell him of that later.

She had to think of what had gone down to cause a divide like that, normally it would have been nigh inconsequential but she had no idea of the scope of things here.

She supposed that she'd go over it with Ruigus later.

Now, she'd have another conversation with Hildeguard, over some more of that nice tea she makes.
This time she'd try to speak in Colovian, it was a bit rougher to speak it more so than Tamrielic but it was a wonderful thing to have learned nonetheless, many years ago she had found that she had actually enjoyed learning the mortal language of the Nords when she first arrived.

Now, they'd talk over his childhood.


Two and a half hours later, outskirts of Kvatch northern kvatch province

Ruigus had stopped at an old inn not too far away from the Highlands, He'd stopped here a few times with Helmut of all people when he would bring him up to go visit Tullius and his wife.

The owner and workers of this place changed often times but it always kept the same name.

After hitching dear Trun, he walked on in.
He hadn't come here to sleep for the day, he could use just a light drink.

Admittedly it was a bit out of the way, he always had preferred more quiet places. This one was perfect for him.

Walking on in he was welcomed in by a man who led him to the bar, the tables were relatively occupied but there was only one single man sitting at it.

Ruigus figured he might as well take a seat next to him. He doubted he'd regret a good conversation.

"Oh, a man doesn't take a seat next to me unless he wants a challenge. If you do, you've come to the right place, friend." He greeted in Colovian, he was a Breton man who hid his face some with a hood.

"What you mean a drinking contest?" Asked Ruigus as his lips curved upwards some.

"Of course! What else could there to be had at such an establishment?" He asked humorously.

"Hmm, fist fights." Said Ruigus, glad he no longer looked a bit banged up.

"Oh come now good man, that comes after the drinking." He smiled.

"I'm not so sure about that anymore, what's your name if you don't mind?" Asked Ruigus as he faced him fully.

"Sam Guevenne! As you can tell, I am not from these parts. But I am very familiar here. Got a few friends and enemies around here myself." He said.

"Sieghard Kessel but just call me Ruigus, I take it they're drinking buddies?"
"They're far more serious than that, save for one but just between you and me he's a bit out of his own head, you'd notice him the moment you saw him. He's got quite the personality I say. Anyways, what brings you here. Dragonborn right?" Asked the rather especially vocal breton.

"Just visiting some people before I'm to go back to Skyrim and do the best I can over there, now, I'm just here for a drink before I head out to be honest." Said Ruigus.

The Barkeep seemed preoccupied however.

"I take it you're not interested in the contest then?" Asked Sam, Ruigus shook his head.

"Understandable in your case. Say, do you think you'd be up for the challenge sometime?" He asked.

"Haha no I don't think so. Last time I had something like a heavy Nord drink I outright passed out. I think I'll just stick the old wine and West Empire beer. Never had the latter though, I think it'd be nice to try out." Said Ruigus.

Sam nodded with approval.

"Not bad taste, bit of a shame you can't enjoy the Estate Vodka as it's called now, new drink but about as strong as that of the Nord's, it's shaping up to be my all time favorite. Anyways I've about wanted one myself."
He then looked at the barkeep with irritation.

And he slapped his hands together loudly.

"Hey, Barkeep!"

The man noticed, ended his conversation and walked on over.

"Yeah?"
"Hey we'll be taking a Vodka for me and a…...What did you want, Ruigus?" He turned to ask.

"I'll just take Skingradian mead." Said Ruigus as he suppressed a silly grin, enjoying his companion's charisma.

"And that! Thank you!" Said Sam as the Barkeep acknowledged it and got one of his workers and whispered it to them.

"So, how's life been in Skyrim?" Asked Sam, with raised eyebrows in a most sly manner.

"Been bloody really. I wouldn't be going around there if I were you. It's too unstable as it is." Said Ruigus.

"Indeed! It's most interesting watching over it, a shame the rest of the world doesn't have anything as wild yet. Without the blood, of course!" He finished with a sigh.

"Although, it may soon." He added.

"Can't say I'd hope for anymore but.…I suppose I have no choice."

"You think you don't?" Asked Sam.

"I guess. I mean to say that, with my existence and all of that things are bound to go wrong before they become right but I wonder if that is always the case. Anyways, I think I've come to learn that one way or another. It's always been a part of history as far as I am aware."

"You mean to say that the Dragonborn has, and always has, existed for a single purpose?" Sam asked, intrigued.

"Stretching it a bit I'd agree. There's always been a prophecy or something they've been meant to follow, but…..I've started thinking the other night that what if they don't have a choice?"
"Well, you've made some significant choices, haven't you? I'm not big on prophecies myself here but I think the...tides of fate as you can call it can be changed."
"I suppose they already have." Shrugged Ruigus.

Their drinks arrived, and Sam offered a clang of cups.

Ruigus giggled and did so.

The drink wasn't that bad.

After a rather solemn drink in silence.

Ruigus had finished his drink far more quickly than Sam Guevenne, who seemed to savor each drink from it.

The Dragonborn found Sam a most peculiar man.

"Well, I better get going Sam, I'll cover the price." He said.

"Hey hey hey! I'll be the one staying here enjoying my drink and more to come, besides….It's my favorite past time!" He said with a wink.

"….You're certain?" Asked Ruigus.

"Very much so! You worry too much, friend." He stated.

"Heh, alright Sam. Take care you hear?" Said Ruigus as he began to walk out.

"I certainly will." He said, holding a smirk as he turned back to the table.

"I should apologize to you Ruigus, I shall be one to take advantage of you and that annoying, bratty dragon." He whispered to nobody in particular.

"But, I won't be exactly doing that now can I? Will say however, it was nice in it's own right to see you both. You've both become very interesting." He said as he shook his mug about.

He saw the depravity of a certain realm.

"It was most stimulating talking with you for once, Dragonborn. I hope you'd be fine for another….But chances are you'd try to slay me by then. Even if I offered you anything that she could not."
"For now, I suppose I shall wait, and enjoy myself some more." He said as he saw multitudes within his own drink.

Multitudes which made up his being in all their obscenity and extravagance.

He sensed a horse speeding off to the north.

Before he indulged in something else, he would go for one more round of this drink.


As he rode on as hastily as he could. Ruigus found himself face first into a large train of warriors on horses, all trotting along the road.

He quickly halted himself as the lead man laughed at him.

"Well someone's going faster than they could handle." He laughed.

There seemed to be a few hundred of them.

"Sorry just trying to get to an Estate, what's with all of you if you don't mind me asking." Ruigus asked with wide eyes as he turned to pace with the man.

He noted how well armored they all seemed.

"Why, we're the men of the great King of the Estates. You don't mean to say you cannot recognize it anymore?" The man asked incredulously.

"I...I guess I have!" Exclaimed Ruigus as he examined the column.

A horseman rode up, a rather stern looking figure of a man was on it.

A scarred person who eyed Ruigus with suspicion.

"Who is this?" He asked the man at the forefront.

"I dunno, he's friendly enough though." The soldier stated.

The intimidating man looked at Ruigus.

"Well, explain yourself."
"I'm Sieghard Kessel." He voiced.

The man raised an eyebrow.

"The Dragonborn, the grandson of Alwin huh?" He looked over the Kessel with even more suspicion.
"Yes sir." Replied Ruigus.

"Come with me, just give me your sword." He stated.

"I can Shout you know." Ruigus nearly wanted to say, but kept it to himself.

He followed along as the warriors stared at him curiously as he led him about.

They came up to some men on horses holding Colovian banners with a few fancily armored fellows, the most prominent, a man with the face and shape of a dragon face and it's body on the top of a helm as a rather young face looked at him.

He had heard of this man, a near childishly young and foolish as he was insulted by, but a strong leader nonetheless.

The Estate King, or President as he was known, looked at him.

"Why Jochen who's this?" He asked curiously as he looked over the casually dressed Ruigus.

"Sieghard von Kessel as he claims." Stated the scarred man.

The young lord's eyes widened.

"You're the Dragonborn!?" He exclaimed.

"Yes my lord, I am." Replied Ruigus as he bowed his head.

"Why, by Stuhn and Akatosh what good timing you have!" He stated as he rode over to offer him a handshake.

Ruigus accepted the gloved and armored hand, and shook it.

"Greatest of pleasures to meet you, er do you care to demonstrate a Shout for me?" He requested.

"Uh, sure! Which one do you think would be best?"
The President thought some.

"Do you have something that can dismount old Jochen here?" He asked.

"I do indeed." Nodded Ruigus, he had a couple harmless options.

"My lord Christof-" A retainer tried to chide.

"The Dragonborn is here and I shall cherish this moment!" He shot back.

He then faced Ruigus once more upon hearing no response.

"Please go ahead, Jochen! Prepare yourself!" He told his retainer who grumbled silently.

"Er, be careful sir." Warned Ruigus. The man nodded.

"Raan Mir Tah!" Shouted Ruigus as Jochen's horse stood strangely at attention.

Then in a moment, the horse neighed and sent Jochen flying into the ground in front of the horse.

There was amazement all around as Ruigus drew all astonished attention.

"By Kyne!" Cheered one amongs other voices.

Jochen stood up and dusted himself off miserably, before the horse went up and kicked him with his hind legs.

Raucous laughter took place as Jochen fell harmlessly into the dirt.

Ruigus went to the front of the horse on his own to shield the man.

"Hey! That's enough." Ruigus chided the horse, who stood still for a few more moments before it shook itself, returning to normal.

The warriors of Colovia along with the King himself were having a most great laugh for a good minute.

Eventually Jochen returned to mount his horse and Christof approached Ruigus.

"I am most thankful to you Sieghard! Was thinking of trying to send someone to find you myself! I hope life goes well." He congratulated.

"Good my lord, today was good. Just got into a fight with the Warlord was all." The name caused King Christof to snort in annoyance.

"That man! What's he been sniveling up to this time? I swear if he-"
"Lord I ask that you watch what you say, Deltev will not stand to be insulted." Stated a retainer.

"Ach, fine! In any case, I can only imagine it has something to do with that creeping feud of has he has with Reinhard. Be careful in that Sieghard." He said with a kinder tone.
"I shall." Bowed Ruigus.

"So you're to head out on a campaign on Skyrim with Lucis is that right?" The President was informed accordingly, it seemed.

"Yeah, he's….something."
Christof laughed.

"So I've heard! Can't say I've seen him myself aside from some written letters over matters of tribute. I've sent a man of mine to go join your civil army, does the name Gunter Sturnhell sound familiar to you?" He asked.

"Gunter Sturnhell…..As in the first man to storm the Imperial City in it's recapture?" Breathed Ruigus.

"The very same! I've no doubt he'll prove himself a great asset. He's a good trainer and a warrior, I ask that you work with him, Sieghard." He requested.

"I think I shall anyways, I think that with all of the recruits the Dawnguard is supposed to be getting he'll be useful there."
"Indeed! I do fear for his life though." He stated as he stared forwards, the sky had darkened over the minutes.

"Well Sieghard, I shan't keep you waiting. I shall have a letter sent to you by the time your march begins." He finished with his own bow.

"Prepare to move!" He ordered his formation.

Jochen came over to hand Ruigus his sword. He held a neutral expression and remained silent.

"May you bring glory our nation, Lord Sieghard!" He dismissed with a smile.

"Until the next time we meet Great Lord Balabanov." Saluted Ruigus, placing his hand by his head.

With that over with, Ruigus passed the rest of the warriors, who largely saluted him.

He returned it to them as he went by.

Eventually, he drove clear of them.

It was great to be home, even if he couldn't stay long for multiple reasons.


Ruigus rode for another hour, the sky had turned to sunset as he followed a path he knew almost better than those at home.

He actually felt his heart thump nervously as he drew closer, exactly unsure as to why his own body did so.

He wondered if he had now feared what Lady Drach would now say to him, following in the footsteps of her husband, something she always seemed to not like.

By Stendarr, he feared it more than his own mother, who always loved him.
So had she as well, yet…..

He approached the gate, there was a man in front.

No older than his late forties he seemed, an open faced helm and a good suit of aged armor, there stood a particular individual.

He ran at Ruigus, who dismounted.

"Helmut!" Exclaimed the Dragonborn.

"Sieghard, by Stendarr! I failed you!" He said as he fell to his knees.

"Wait, oh god!" Thought Ruigus as he pulled a blade.

He placed it against his throat.
"I failed to ensure you made it across the border. I failed Lady Drach and your father. I'm sorry Sieghard." He said as he closed his eyes.

"Alessia, Carolus and heaven! I didn't realize you'd try this!" Ruigus had to act quickly.

"Wait! Wait! Wait!" He yelled as he nearly threw himself into him, holding his sword arm away from him as he tried to halt the old retainer from an act of shame.

"It wasn't your fault Helmut, I swear!" He declared.

"You were taken away by the Legion, I should have fought through until I died." He stated.

"You would have died too Helmut, I'm alive! I didn't want to come back to see you dead." He said as he turned his grip into a hug as he wrapped his arms around the old man.

"Just please don't do it, by Julianos I wanted to see you as quickly as I could." Voiced the Dragonborn as he remained worried.

The old retainer dropped the sword.

"I'm sorry Sieghard, I made a promise and I couldn't keep it. I'll stop it." He apologized.

"Helmut, come on. I wanted to see you and Elisabeth." Sniffled Ruigus.

Helmut's face had life come back into it as he attempted to stand up.

"I know." He said.

"Nobody could replace all that you can do, you know that?" Assured Ruigus as he parted.

"I grow old. One day you will need more younger, lively people in place of me." He stated.

"I've met quite many young people, and none can be as energetic and inspiring as you, dear guard." Stated Ruigus.

Helmut remained silent, and his expression turned into a smile.

"You've had great fights, I wish I was there to see them." Beamed the old Retainer.

Ruigus smiled brightly.

"I did indeed, and you would have liked them Helmut. Come let us go I'll tell you about it as we head on inside." Trilled Ruigus.

The old Retainer of the Kessel family listened intently as the two went through the gates, the world seemingly vanished for the man as Ruigus described a part where he had blown up a wall, and had torn off a zombie's head.

Helmut had enjoyed the glory of the past, when it had ended all he could do was wait for the bright spark that was the son of his lord. The battles of those who he had served had been his lifeblood.

Ruigus had become a breath of fresh life for the old man as he now walked alongside him.

The mansion of the Drach family stood before the pair, the family fields had been emptied for the day.

Inside, was the daughter of Colovia's greatest glory. Forever forlorn since her greatest lost.


End of chapter 21

First thing, I wanted to apologize for finishing this as of 7/31/2020 when I had meant for it to be half a week sooner. It may be the first of August now for many of you.

Can't quite get into it as I don't know the full story myself but one of my close friends (I honestly have messed up in that I had not seen him for three weeks) disappeared a week ago, the circumstances are strange and all I know is that he was going through some very bad times but I never thought he was in bad shape.
I pray to god he actually went just went dark for a couple weeks again, he's done that in the past for a couple weeks but I don't know.

It's nothing for any of you to worry about though, just something that's gotten to me a bit to say the least.

For the story the next will be the last chapter inside Cyrodil. Same goes for the intial chapters of the Great War as well.

I'm sorry again. But I'll try my best for the next ones.

Take care of yourselves until the next.

Oh and Intermission will be after the next main story chapter and will most likely come out alongside it. It will have a character list and some conceptual notes.