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Dragonborn and Vanadis – Chapter 9
The Leitmeritz force ended up clashing with the Olmutz sentries in Tarta Fortress on a bridge above a moat after moving through the opening that Ellen with Fenris's help made.
While the Leitmeritz soldiers was outnumbered by the Olmutz garrison, the former was highly motivated since Ellen and Fenris were taking the lead. Fenris in particular unleashed Fireballs to disrupt the enemy's line and get them to retreat, yet they stubbornly held the line despite their morale dropping slowly as they being pushed back inch by inch.
"Eleonora!"
It was when Ludmila entered the fight and thrust Lavias at Ellen, who blocked it with Arifar. Seeing that their Vanadises are fighting each other, both sides formed a circle as they left the bridge and didn't interfere in the fight.
Fenris didn't interfere as well, but he leaves the bridge like the rest of the soldiers. He kept a close eye on Ellen and will enter the fray in case she ended up losing against Ludmila.
'Ellen didn't ask me to use Elemental Fury on Arifar, so she must have wanted to use her own strength in this fight…'
While Fenris doesn't mind provide his strength to help Ellen, he knew better than to help her in every situation.
"I've brought a present for you. Gracefully accept your defeat."
"I refuse. You're going back to Leitmeritz encased in ice."
After Ellen and Ludmila have a small exchange with each other, they clashed with their Dragon Tools in their hands. They swing their weapons with incredible speed and each time their weapons struck each other, it created deafening sounds.
Fenris watched in awe that the sight of the two Vanadises fighting each other. An ordinary soldier wouldn't be able to win, let alone survive in a duel against either of them. He could the fires of rivalry in their eyes as they seek to surpass each other.
When Ellen and Ludmila jumped back, it was when the battle intensified.
"Cleave the Air (Ley Adimos)!"
Ellen struck first with her Dragon Art, but it didn't hit Ludmila and instead decimated the bridge at the center when the condensed wind was unleashed
"Freeze the Sky (Shero Zam Kafa)!"
Ludmila wasn't fazed by the attack and charged forward, using her own Dragon Art in the process. The air froze before her feet and it created a floor of ice, which reconnect the two halves of the bridge.
Ellen then charged as well and jumped when ice spears erupted from below to strike at her. Ludmila jumped as well and made a thrust, but Ellen dodged it and grabbed her by the sleeve.
She then flings Ludmila towards the moat below, but the latter wasn't fazed as she gazes at the water.
"Silent World (Aizbilk)."
Fenris's eyes widen when the shaft of Lavias extended and the tip touched the water, immediately freezing the water and created a surface for Ludmila when she landed on her feet.
'Lavias could extend the shaft… Never seen a weapon do that before.'
Fenris watch as the two Vanadises bicker once more before Ludmila rose up from the moat by extending Lavias's shaft and was above Ellen. Lavias returned back to it usual length as Ludmila decended upon her opponent and formed a large blade of wind on the spear's tip.
Ellen in response went to take the attack head-on and has Arifar formed a blade of wind equivalent to Ludmila's blade.
"Pierce her! Lavias!"
"Cleave her! Arifar!"
With a loud cry, the Vanadises' Dragon Tools clashed with each other and created a shockwave of wind and ice. Fenris never seen enchanted weapons containing that much power in his life...
Fenris watches as Ellen was pushed back and went down on her knee due to her injuries and exhaustion. Ludmila was in a similar state as well. They both struggled to stand back up after their attack. He called to Ellen as he was about to move and treat her wounds, was stopped by her.
"Ellen!"
"Stay back Fenris!"
Despite having concerns for her health, he obeyed and watched Ludmila used Lavias to support her and told her troops to stay back when they wanted to assist her. Fenris kept a close eye on the situation in front of him.
'Wait… Something isn't right…'
But he felt killing intent from behind him; among the Leitmeritz soldiers. Fenris soon recognized the feeling as he gripped one of his katanas and gritted his teeth.
It was the killing intent of an assassin…
At that moment, someone among the soldiers from behind ran passed him with a dagger in his hand. Despite the man's speed, Fenris quickly noticed that despite having the garment of a Leitmeritz soldier, but right sleeve was ripped which revealed a recognizable tattoo.
'The last of the Seven Chains!'
The assassin was charging at Ellen, but Ludmila noticed him earlier and used what remain of her strength to get behind Ellen. However, the assassin didn't hesitate and prepared to stab her to reach his target.
Both the soldiers of Leitmeritz and Olmutz cried in horror as the assassin was going kill both their respective Vanadises.
Little did the assassin know that Fenris was on to him when he went passed himand it was the last mistake he will ever make. Just as he passed him to reach Ellen, Fenris already made his move and sprinted towards him and drew his katana.
Just as the dagger was about to strike Ludmila, Fenris slashed the assassin's back and the wound was deep enough to reach his spine, killing him in an instant.
His body fell on the bridge before it slipped off and dropped into the frozen moat below. Ludmila quickly turned her gaze to the one who killed the assassin and saw it was Fenris, who had a darkened expression as he looked down the bridge.
He swings his weapon the to get the blood off before sheathing it as he muttered.
"Cursed assassin… Join your comrades in the depths of Oblivion…'
"That was close, Fenris."
Fenris heard Ellen's joyous words for his assistance as he looked at Ludmila's surprised expression; his expression softened after dealing with the assassin that attempted to take her life.
"That is the second time you saved my life…"
"Remember what I said to you before Ludmila… By the way, I enjoyed your tea and wouldn't mind having it again. Consider it one of the many reasons why I intervened."
Fenris spoke the last statement with a grateful tone and smile, which many would see as an awkward way of easing the tension of an attempted assassination.
"To speak something like that…" Ludmila responded with sigh, but felt her chest warm up a little bit when she looked at his face.
Fenris made a smile as he turned his gaze to Ellen before turning back to Ludmila. "Thank you for protecting Ellen. I really appreciate that."
Ludmila blushed at his words when she realized her actions. Ellen had an awkward expression on her face, seeing moments before that she watched her rival protect her.
Fenris made quiet laugh after seeing their expressions before his own expression became one of anticipation.
"So did you give my request some thought?"
"Request?" Ellen now had a confused look on her face after hearing what he said. Fenris did say he talked with Ludmila during his mission, but she didn't bother ask for details.
"Yes, but I want you to answer a question before I decided."
Ludmila quickly regained her composure and spoke with a polite if cautious tone to Fenris as he nodded in agreement.
"What do you want to ask?"
"What are Tigre's intentions?"
Fenris could only rub his chin as he thought about the question. He watched Tigre and studied his personality when he first met him. He could tell that Tigre cares deeply of Alsace and didn't care much for personal gain.
Even if Tigre wasn't here during the siege, Fenris knew that Tigre would no doubt support him in ending the conflict peacefully.
"From what I know about him, Tigre wants to protect Alsace. As long Alsace is in peace, he will be satisfied. That all that matters to him; not gold, not power, not glory… I know you could tell how sincere he was with his words before."
Ludmila was skeptical on his words, but seeing that Fenris was being honest with his words. She thought of what she knows about Tigre and saw that it was the most likely response if she asked the same question to him.
"Sincerity may be important, but it can't solve every situation."
"I am aware of that, but if sincerity isn't enough this day, remember that I saved you two times. Accept my request and I will call it even between us."
Ludmila had a thoughtful expression before she looked back at Fenris with a musing smile.
"However, sincerity will be enough for today. I will honor your request. For this moment on, I'll declare my neutrality regarding the civil war in Brune!"
Fenirs made a smile as he heard her words. As of now, the war between Leitmeritz and Olmutz was over.
A day after that siege, Ludmila followed a number of terms; one being her promise to remain neutral, but to bare the damages that was done during the fighting. Tigre and Lim were surprise of the outcome, but the former was pleased with it as it prevented further bloodshed.
At the border between Leitmeritz and Olmutz, the two sides went their separate ways. Fenris could only shake his head when Ellen and Ludmila got into a fight again when Ludmila said to him that he was always welcomed in her territory and should look her up if he leaves Ellen's service. Ellen didn't like that remark one bit, but he was able to ease the situation.
They after all had more important matters to attend to...
Over a month has passed since the conflict between Ellen and Ludmila has ended and winter came forth. Fenris was currently in a camp at the western part of Territoire, a region in Brune along with Tigre, Ellen and Lim. They were making their way to Nemetacum, Duke Thenardier's territory and are supported by a 6,000 men army; 5,000 from Leitmeritz and 1,000 from Tigre's supporters in Brune.
He was currently sleeping in his tent as the sun started to dawn above the camp. Since the entire army has yet to be in battle since they entered Brune, Fenris for now provided drills to the troops, help deal with disputes between the troops and in his free time, research the scrolls that he had with him prior to the incident that brought him to this world.
Fenris been up later than usually last night after he analysis the scroll which he nicknamed the Morrowind Scroll, which he currently uncovered a pair of spells which need each other to work.
He has yet grasp these spells, but Fenris believed he could properly use it in a month. That is If he wasn't scheduled to provide full-time training or commence scouting missions as they made the army moved ever forward.
Lim then entered his tent to see if he was awake since she knew that he was the type to get up early, so it was unusual to see him sleeping in. She was about tell him to get up when she was startled when Fenris rose his upper body from his bedroll with serious eyes and raised his right hand, like he was about to cast a spell.
"Alright Assa… Lim! I am so sorry! I never meant to do that!"
After see it was Lim, he quickly got up and quickly apologized for his action. While Lim was shocked of what he was about to do, she calmed down after she saw Fenris realizing his mistake.
"Its alright… I am not harmed… Just startled…"
"That is a relief... I don't know what to say to Ellen if I harmed you unintentionally."
Soon the two regained their composure after the incident and potential disaster.
"Fenris, do you mind to tell me why you did that?"
"My deepest apologizes Lim. Whenever someone walk up to me without warning when I am asleep, I ended up thinking it was an assassin. I developed that reflex after attempts on my life were made."
Lim's eyes widen as she processed his words. "You were marked for assassination? But you were a hero to your people."
"That was the point. My actions interfered with many criminal organizations and I was soon marked for death. When I travel from city to city, I occasionally get ambushed by an assassin even in the most remote of regions. When assassins began to attack me in my sleep, that was when I had enough. I managed to find the hideout where the assassins came from and wiped them out. Despite that, I can't shake the feeling that someone may try to slit my throat when I sleep."
Lim recalled the assassin back at the training grounds months ago and the Seven Chains, which she saw Fenris's eyes at those time radiate with killing intent.
"I see know that you have a deep hatred for assassins Fenris."
Fenris made a sigh as he replied back, "Yes Lim, but this isn't the best time to discuss such matters. Please tell Ellen about my reflex when you get the chance. I don't want to risk causing an incident by accident."
"Don't worry Fenris. I will."
After suiting up into his armor, Fenris accompanied Lim to the main tent, which had breakfast with Ellen, Tigre and Titta. Fenris hardly saw the maid during his duties; he always saw her by Tigre's side most of the time.
Soon, everyone but Titta engaged in a meeting; subjects include the situation with Thenardier and the naming of joint army of Zhcted and Brune. With Tigre's and Ellen's thoughts, the army was called the Silver Meteor Army, which Fenris felt it was a suitable name. He watched on as Tigre was called out by Rurick and the girls chatted about Tigre.
'Ellen must have a lot a faith letting Tigre be a general. He may have potential, but he has a long way to be a successful commander.'
Fenris then spend the morning checking on the troops and at one point, saw Tigre resolve a dispute between the soldiers of Zhcted and Brune. He never thought at an argument would arise from looking at a cloud.
"He has a a lot of potential, but he still lack the proper experience to be leader..." He inwardly thought as he carried out his morning duties.
As it seems that everything is peaceful across the camp, but it soon changed when an message for Tigre came, who said to came under the name of Marquis Greast.
"So this is the Marquis…"
Fenris was outside the camp with Ellen, Tigre and Viscount Augre. Augre was one of Tigre supporters and offered the 1,000 men that joined up with Ellen's army. He was cautious around him due to his reputation, but soon trusted him.
In front of them was young man with long hair, a childish face and unpleasant eyes. He wore ornate silk clothing and behind was the horse he rode and a table with a set of chairs.
Tigre greeted the man and he greeted back in return; providing his full name, Charon Anquetil Greast.
Despite his friendly gesture, Fenris didn't like the feeling he was giving out. He could feel that there was something dark about him and was concerned of his true intentions.
From he learned from Augre, Greast was Ganelon's right-hand man, who was Duke Thenardier's biggest rival. Fenris watched as he greeted Augre with sarcasm before he turned to Ellen, which she introduced herself politely with a bow.
"Eleanora Viltaria. A Vanadis of Zhcted."
It was then Greast spoke in admiration upon seeing who she was. "The Vanadis who made our troops flee from Dinant. To think such a heroine would be such a lovely woman…"
Fenris glared at Greast as he watches him shake hands with Ellen in a disturbing way, which escalated when he was rubbed her fingers with both hands. He then gives compliments that Ellen found unpleasant, especially when he spoke about her beauty.
'This guy…' Fenris felt his anger build up as he watches the scene before him while hold the urge of delivering swift punch to the head. Ellen felt the same way, but held back the temptation of crushing Greast's hand.
It was then that Fenris had enough and walked up to the two after hearing Greast asking questions about her involve with Tigre and how she should with him instead.
"I would appreciate it that you stop bothering her, Marquis Greast."
Fenris spoke in a polite if forced tone to Greast as he then turned to him. Greast then gazes carefully at his dragonscale armor and soon realize who he was.
"Armor made of dragon scales… I thought it was an elaborate rumor, but I never imagine I would see the "Demon of Dinant" up close. I heard a month ago that you decimated hundreds of Lord Zion's soldier's single-handedly. The stories about you using sorcery intrigues me and wonder if that is true."
"I am pleased that you are not afraid of me. My name is Fenris and I am not a demon regardless of rumors. "Dragonborn is a more suitable title." While Fenris didn't like to be known by his title, it was more preferable than being called a demon.
Taking advantage of the opening that Fenris provided her, Ellen pulled her hand away from Greast.
'I didn't like the feeling from that guy's eyes. Thankfully Fenris was there for me.' Ellen thought as Greast was annoyed of the act.
After that, everyone took a seat at the table with Fenris standing behind Ellen. It was then Greast ask Tigre an offer which caused Fenris to display a scowl on his face. He asked Tigre to be part of an alliance under Ganelon, seeing that the two share the same enemy that is Duke Thenardier.
Fenris soon was fighting the growing urge of cutting down the Marquis where he was, for Greast spoke that the reward was the plundering of Brune Capital, Rance.
'That filthy… Saying that atrocities are a natural part of war…' Fenris painfully thought as he recalled the horrors of the civil war back in Skyrim, where both sides were willing to any method to gain an edge over the other.
Luckily, despite saying that Tigre has to give an answer immediately and there are consequences of rejecting the alliance, he nevertheless refused.
As they watch Greast leave for the distance ahead, Fenris showed a displeased look on his face.
"You shouldn't let him leave like that. Its people like him that causes misery to others and need to be put down."
"Are you saying we should kill him?"
"I share the same sentiment with Fenris. I would take his head and crush his troops."
Ellen shares Fenris frustration of letting Greast leave, but Tigre spoke that Greast wasn't the type to go unprepared.
It was proven true when they returned back the camp and was given reports that a scout detected an army under Ganelon's banner to the north. It numbered about 6,000 men and was about a day away from their position.
As the leaders prepare an emergency meeting, Fenris recalled about the meeting with Greast.
'Greast, you are cunning than I thought… Your duke must be serious of not taking no for an answer.'
He wished that he killed him back then, but it would no doubt cause Ganelon's army to retaliate. With the fact that Tigre refused to ally with Ganelon means a conflict with the two armies is inevitable.
'No matter. The moment I lay my eyes on him, his last thoughts will be my blade across his neck.'
At the main tent, the battle plans were laid out and soon the whole Silver Meteor Army was organizing themselves for the battle ahead.
With that, the battle in region known as Orange Range was about to commence.
'Seems the enemy is taking the bait.'
Fenris thought in haste as he rode with Lim and her unit as they retreated from Greast's forces while maintain a close distance, making them think they are closing in. The battle plan was that the river in the region would be blocked and provide a passage for the enemy to the other side, which they fell for. With that Lim's unit would fall back and bait the enemy to a withered forest.
As for Fenris, he was at the back of the unit and was wearing a long cloak to hide himself; strung up so that it hides most of his figure even if moving quickly on horseback. Part of the plan was that after the enemy is ambushed, he would reveal himself and lead the counter-attack. With his fearsome reputation, he would cause the enemy to panic and become disorganized, making them easy prey. The plan was to inflict maximum losses to the enemy and minimizing their own.
Turning his ears to the back, he could hear the rambling of the Ganelon general, who was becoming frustrated of the fact that Lim's unit was keeping a close gap between them. It was hard to hear due to the general's words was being obstructed by the gallop of hundred's horses. Lim's unit soon slowed down after passing the ambush point.
The Ganelon general believed that they were caught up and order his men to charge. Before he could give the order, a shower of arrows came from the right of the forest and struck the infantry.
In the right side of the forest was Tigre and his unit, who wore camouflage to blend in to the terrain. Despite being small in number, they were completely unknown to the Ganelon's army and the sudden shower of arrows caused them to panic.
Since their shields were on the left arms, they could block the arrows and many died as they were struck in vital spots. The Ganelon general was about to order some of the men to charge into the forest, but quickly decided to ordered a retreat after Tigre fired a shot which hit him in the head, but failed to penetrate.
"Fenris, now!"
"Right! Commence the counter-attack!"
Seeing that they enemy now making a full retreat, Lim give the word to Fenris and with that, he removed his cloak and dropped it to the ground before giving the order to charge at the enemy's rear.
When the Ganelon general locked back with what remains of his army, he was horrified of Fenris leading the counter-attacks, clearly recognizing his armor and unleashing Lightning Bolts at them.
'Impossible! I thought his Excellency was making a fool of himself of believing the "Demon of Dinant" actually exist! But he actually exists after all! Why did have to turn out like this!?'
His men had the same thought and quickly run as fast they could to get away from Fenris. They heard the rumors and upon seeing his appearance along with his spell, they suffered a sharp drop in morale and would rather flee for the lives than face certain death against him in battle. Some even prayed that they would survive the wrath of the "demon" himself as he cut through many soldiers with ease.
Soon, the remains of the Ganelon army quickly broke down and made a full rout as the counter attack took many of the soldier's lives. As for the soldiers sent to stop Tigre's unit, they suffered significant losses due to traps employed by Tigre and Rune Magic casted by Fenris before they dammed the river.
Tigre's unit watched in awe as the Frost Runes were activated and decimated much of the enemy while causing panic. Fenris's mastery with the spell allowed the runes to be only be activated by the enemy's presence and could have a maximum of 20 runes at the same time. But those were enough to decimate hundreds of troops if placed correctly at the right moment.
Fenris would have used Fire and Shock Runes as well, but he was worried they would set the forest on fire if they were activated, risking Tigre's unit the process.
Regardless, the survivors of the unit sent against Tigre quickly fled for their lives and with the main Ganelon army in full retreat and their morale broken, victory belongs to the Silver Meteor Army.
"This would affect no doubt affect Duke Ganelon's image."
Greast was sitting in his carriage contemplating about the recent events. He had received the report from the general of the army that have returned from their bout with the Silver Meteor Army. About nearly 30% of the army were lost in the ambush and many were hesitant of making a retaliatory attack due to Fenris fighting alongside with the Silver Meteor Army.
He recalls the night he spoke with Ganelon and his plan of getting rid of Tigre, regardless if he agrees to follow him or not. He also spoke of anything about the rumors about the "Demon of Dinant" are to be relayed to him immediately, saying he has a champion that will deal with him personally.
"His expression and the way he spoke… He is not a man that I wish to make an enemy of. And this champion of his, I wonder what kind of man is this Etis is?"
Soon he made a dark smile as his thoughts turned to Ellen and the things he could do to her when she is in his grasp. It was going to be a plot like no other…
As for the Silver Meteor Army, everyone was celebrating over their victory against the opposing army. It helped boost the morale of the whole army and help connect the soldiers of Zhcted and Brune.
Tigre however wasn't in much of a mood for celebrating, for he has two of Brune's most powerful nobles after his life. Fenris however was able to comfort him somewhat by talking about the trials he had to face and in those he couldn't tackle alone, he had friends to back him up. He spoke to Tigre that as long he never loses his convictions and learn from his experiences, he will always be on the right path and Ellen along with himself will support him as best they could.
Fenirs was currently a distance away from the camp after talking with Tigre. He took off his armor and put in a bag, which he brought with him as he left the camp. Looking at the night sky as he laid on the grass, recalling his time in Skyrim. While magic and unique creatures didn't exist in this world, it nevertheless has the same troubles that plagued his homeland.
"This civil war in Brune… I hope it isn't as damaging as it was back in Skyrim."
"Pondering in your thoughts Fenris?"
He turned his head and saw it was Ellen in her usual outfit with Arifar in her right hand, sitting beside him. Fenris noticed that her face was blushed, so she must be a bit tipsy from the alcohol. While he had a good share of drinks, he has build-up quite a resistance and doesn't get drunk easily.
"Yes, I was thinking what happened over these months, including our battle." He sat up as he looked at Ellen, who made a smile.
"I heard from Tigre what you spoke to him about. I am glad he help motivate him and ease his tensions."
"Not a problem Ellen. He has a potential and I hope he will use it in the right direction."
It was then Fenris felt Ellen's hand on his head; rubbing and stroking his brown hair. He doesn't admit it, but it was a pleasant feeling.
"Should we head back? Everyone would be wondering where you are?"
Ellen's face seems to inflate as she made an annoyed expression. "Lets stay a little longer. Lim will make a fuss if we head back now."
"Obviously because you are the commander and have to act as one, especially if in front of your own troops in the heat of battle. Regardless, Lim will be annoyed if she notices you are not in the camp, especially since it is the middle of the night.
It was then Ellen's fingers stop moving on his head and Fenris noticed that she seems to amused by his words.
"…You should know where you stand."
Fenris could easily evade her movement, but decided to let her do what she wish as a personal sign of goodwill. He started to think it wasn't a good idea for Ellen wrapped her arms around his neck and his face felt her bountiful chest. The feeling of her chest, her scent and body heat has cause his face to turn red.
Despite meeting many women in Skyrim, he never been in such a situation like this before.
'Focus Fenris… Think of something else… Don't of something that you will regret…'
As Fenris was trying to keep his mind focus and not wander into inappropriate matters, Ellen spoke a with a grateful tone.
"I want to thank you for dealing with Greast back then. I saw how unpleasant your face was when he was feeling my hand. It was like you are jealous."
"I was just concern about your well-being. I didn't like the feeling he was emitting and I will not lie that I wanted to cut him down where he stands. Even if you are a beauty, no one has the right to treat you as an object."
She was silent as first at his response, but Ellen made a slight laughter as she continues to wrap her arms around Fenris neck, "You are cute… Do you mind if I stay like this for a while?"
It was a few moments that Ellen started to fall asleep and her mind flashes back to the meeting with Greast and the way Fenris intervened to stop him. She felt her heart beat faster and couldn't help but blushed, despite the blush being hidden by the redness on her face due to the alcohol.
'Having moments like this with Fenris… I like it…'
Those were Ellen's last thoughts before she fell asleep, which Fenris then noticed her sleeping face. He felt lucky that she was asleep so she wouldn't notice his blush. Of all the women he met in Skyrim, he never met one like Ellen; her sleeping face increasing her charm. Fenris made a smile as he looked at her as he got as Ellen's arm remain lock around his neck.
'Sleep dreams Ellen.'
Fenris then made his way back to camp at a slow pace with Ellen on his back and his bag in his hands, time-to-time looking at the stars in the night sky. Peaceful as it is, he knows that this war they entered is far from over.
"Thinking of something Tigre?"
"Yes. Thinking about the chat with Rurick and the soldiers."
Fenris and Tigre were on horseback after leaving Saunier, which was the center of the villages north of the Orange Plains. They with an entourage to Viscount Augre to provide relief to the people there. After that's done, the two rode until they were near a river behind bushes. They were cautions since the it was getting dark and anything could happen to them.
It was then they heard the sound of water splashing and something flying. Tigre were about to grab his bow as Fenris got off his horse and gripped on the hilt of one of his katanas when a small dragon appeared in their view in a panicked state.
"Lunie?" He quickly recognizes the dragon and quickly grabbed it into his arms. It felt relieved that it was within his arms as it calmed down.
"That's Ellen's pet dragon. What is it doing here?" Tigre asked in surprise since he never expected the baby dragon to be in the middle of the wilderness.
"I have no idea…" Fenris response as he looked at Lunie, which was pleased to be close to him. At first, Lunie was afraid of him possibly due to his status as Dragonborn; giving out an aura of a dragon slayer or an alpha dragon.
It was after Fenris hanged out with it since their first meeting that the baby dragon began to trust him and not be afraid of his presence. Ellen once remarked that the bond between them was like siblings.
"Lunie-chan?"
'Wait… That voice…?'
Both men heard a woman's voice nearby, which Fenris could easily recognize. Lunie however climbed onto his back and gripped onto his shoulders, like it wanted him to protect what's coming. A shadow appeared in the bushes and came out was a beautiful blond-haired woman without a inch of clothing; her figure is one that many would desire and envy.
Both Fenris and Tigre blushed of what they saw, the former was stunned of exposed woman and latter quickly closed his eyes.
"Luni… Fenris?" She looked at the dragonscale armor that he was wearing and quickly recognize who it was.
"Sofya… Clothes…" Fenris spoke as he realized who was in front of him. Sofya Obertas, the Vanadis that he first laid on back at Silesia.
Lunie began to shake as Sofya made her appearance and tightened it grip on Fenris, which Sofya quickly noticed. But surprisingly, she was more focused on Fenris than on the baby dragon.
"Sofy? It's dark, so it would be hard to find Lunie…"
'You can't be serious…'
"Oh…?"
The sound of Ellen's displeasure soon came to his ears as she appeared from the bushes, also as exposed as Sofya if not for the towel wrapped across her body.
"Pleased to meet you, Lord Tigrevurmud. I am one of the Vanadis, Sofya Obertas. You may call me Sofy."
In the command tent, Ellen, Lim, Fenris, Tigre, Titta and Sofy were sitting around a round table, which the former introduced herself to Tigre. Lunie was in Sofy's arms, but wasn't comfortable in the least.
Fenris as he expected watched as Zaht, her Dragon Tool, greeted him with a gentle flash of light. Everyone noticed as well, especially Sofy, which always been on her mind since first meeting Fenris and what possible links he has with it.
As for the previous encounter moments ago, Fenris was able to ease Ellen and Lim of what happened and said that nothing inappropriate happened. He even countered Ellen's remark that he could easily handle himself if a beautiful assassin came for his life and attempted to charm him into lowering his guard.
After Tigre introduced himself, Sofya's attention came to Fenris. "I am pleased I get to talk to you after our first encounter. Why didn't you stay back at the capital with Ellen before? I would love to know more about your origins."
"Sorry Sofy, but I already have a lot of eyes on me when I came into the throne room with my armor on. I want to avoid get any more unwanted attention and troubling Ellen in the process."
"Understandable Fenris."
Throughout the conversion, Sofy explained that she was sent as a messenger to meet with the king of Brune, but wasn't given an audience due to the king being sick. Fenris clenched his fist when Sofy told Tigre what she was told by the Prime Minister.
'Tigre risked everything to protect his home, but was declared a traitor… I bet those bickering nobles have a hand at this.'
Soon the conversion ended and the day carried on as usual, but Tigre nevertheless was in disbelief that he was seen as a traitor for his actions. Luckily when night came, Sofy came to ease his thoughts and help him regain his spirit. However, they were being overheard by Fenris as he was meditating in a tent.
He broke from his mediation as he heard Sofy explain about some details about Vanadises of Zhcted; details that was new to him.
'So… Vanadises are to keep their emotions in check, especially it comes to love…'
Fenris knew that emotions could easily bring a warrior either victory or defeat and love has the greatest impact. While love could motivate a warrior to commit feats that are beyond their reach, but love could also be used to manipulate one to commit wrongs. That is way some in Skyrim call the emotion of love a double-edge sword.
The Vanadises, being military leaders and governors of their territories, could easily bring ruin if their emotions go rampant and make costly decisions. He couldn't imagine what would happen if two Vanadises fell in love with the same man.
While he and Ellen share a good bond with each other, Fenris always make sure that Ellen doesn't make reckless moves and help to keep herself in check. After hearing that the conversation is over, he re-entered his meditative state.
After a few minutes though, his mediation was interrupted again. Fenris opened his eyes and saw it was Sofy with a indifferent face.
"Oh Sofy. Is there anything you need?"
"Sorry to interrupt Fenris, but did you hear anything?"
Seeing her Dragon Tool shine, Fenris realized that Vaht must have detected him and from her expression, Sofy wanted the truth if he eavesdropped in her conversion with Tigre.
He sighed as he knew what she was going to say and spoke.
"Yes Sofy, I have heard everything and I know what you're going to ask, so will it was answer them now. Despite my relationship with Ellen, it was nevertheless created by a contract which I could break if I wanted to. Despite that, I will fight to protect her from any threat and even from herself if I must. However, if our bond does go beyond your expectations, then I will be waiting for the first blow from your hand when you come for me. You will find me an opponent worthy of a Vanadis."
Sofy had a surprised look on her face as he basically answered her questions before she could say them out. She could tell that Fenris was being honest with his words about Ellen and how he was not afraid to getting on her bad side. Despite being a Vanadis, she had a cold feeling that she has little chance against him if he was an enemy.
Whenever she looks at Fenris, she could tell there was something unique with him despite him already explain who he was…
"I have to say you exceeded my expectation Fenris. I can see know why Ellen has a lot of faith with you." She spoke as she made a genuine smile. Despite not knowing his full history, she could see that Fenris have no ill intentions.
"Thank you. Do you mind if you leave me to my mediations Sofy?"
"Wait Fenris. Do you mind if you hear my request?"
He raised an eyebrow as he looked at Sofy. "What is it?"
When all the soldiers went to sleep, Sofy and Ellen left their tent and walked a considerate distance away from prying ears.
It would only the two of them if Fenris wasn't accompany them. Apparently, Sofy's request was for him to join her and Ellen late at night. Ellen told her previously that she wanted Fenris's input on what they have to discuss and spoke that he could easily keep secrets. After her previous talk with Fenris, Sofy know that he will keep his mouth closed about the meeting.
"Never expected to meet in such a place."
"Me neither. I can understand why you trust Fenris greatly."
They were outside the camp and behind was Fenris, who was wonder what they are going to discuss.
"Fenris has never let me down. He will never turn his back on me." It was then Ellen turned to him.
"You will not reveal anything what we have discussed here to the others. You hear me?"
Fenris gave a nod as he replied. "I will not speak about this meeting. I give you my word."
"If Ellen trust you to this extent, then I will do the same.
"I appreciate your faith in me, Sofy."
After the initial talk, Fenris soon learned what Ellen and Sofy were about to discuss and why the precaution of leaving the camp.
Back at Silesia moments after the meeting with King Victor, Ellen asked a request to Sofy into looking into nobles with connections with Thenardier and Ganelon; specifically, the Vanadises. She also asks for any detail about the dragons that Thenardier used and along with that, anything details about their thoughts about Fenris, who no doubt made himself known to the kingdom that day.
Fenris kept quiet as Sofy was about to talk, interested in knowing about the rest of the Vanadises and their thoughts about him along with the fact he currently serves Ellen.
"Elizavetta seems to have strong connections with both Dukes Thenardier and Ganelon. As for her thoughts about Fenris, I heard she developed a strong interest after hearing her officials and wishes to meet him in person."
Sofy then turned to Fenris and gazes at his mismatched eyes. "I think she wishes to see your eyes."
"My eyes?" He was confused at first since there was nothing special with them, but decided to keep it in mind later.
Ellen's expression became one of anger after hearing Sofy's report, which Fenris noticed and realized that she has a strong dislike for that particular Vanadis. Sofy then began to speak about another Vanadis.
"About Valentina, I can't tell you much details about her or what she thinks about Fenris. But her territory is far from Brune, so she wouldn't have a connection with either Duke.
Fenris and Ellen nodded as Sofy continued on with her report.
"Olga is missing however."
"Missing?"
"She left a letter behind, saying that she left on a journey with her Dragon Tool."
Fenris saw Ellen's shocked expression about the matter. He was shocked as well that a Vanadis willing left her territory just to go on a journey. Despite that, Sofy went on to talk about the last Vanadis.
"Then there is the issue about Sasha."
"Sasha…"
Ellen made a sad expression as she thought about the Vanadis who was also her best friend. Fenris noticed it and asked Sofy about it.
"What happened to Sasha?" Fenris spoke to Sofy as she made a bitter smile.
"She has an illness that even the best physicians in Zhcted couldn't cure. She is currently bedridden and will not be able to participate in Brune." She replied in a sad tone.
Fenris eyes widen at what he heard and realized why Ellen showed a strong interest in his Restoration spells whenever he used it. He quickly turned to Ellen with that realization in mind.
"So that is why you're so interested in my Restoration spells…"
"Yes. I thought you may have the power to cure Sasha of her illness. She is my best friend and its pains me to see her bedridden in such a state..."
Fenris then turned back to Sofy. "What was her thoughts about me?"
Sofy made a small smile as she replied. "From what I heard, she was rather joyous of hearing about you and your healing abilities. I also heard that her officials were trying to assemble a large sum of coins to buy your service as a healer, but she put a stop to that. She said that you will eventually come to her and free her from her family's curse."
Fenris was deep in thought of hearing about Sasha and her illness; finding from Sofy's last statement that the illness being Sasha's family curse means that it was likely a disease that is inherited from one generation to the next.
'A bloodline disease… This is worse than I thought…'
Such a disease was usually seen as a death sentence in Skyrim; they were very difficult if not impossible to cure even by the best of healers. Yet, he wasn't a ordinary healer…
The two Vanadises noticed his expression, which Ellen spoke up which interrupted him.
"Fenris. Can you treat her illness?" Fenris listened to her speak in a hopeful tone.
He took a deep breath as he made his reply, "I dealt with many diseases in my life, but dealing with incurable diseases is much different. Even with my magic, I can't just make such diseases vanish in an instant. Also while I know about diseases passed through the blood from previous generations, I've never had an opportunity to treat such diseases before. With those factors all in one disease…"
Ellen and Sofy expressions became on of shock and sadness, fearing the worst that Fenris couldn't help Sasha and she was doomed to succumb to her illness in a matter of time. But Fenris then broke the tension with a hopeful smile.
"However, I went beyond what the finest healer could do and developed a method to treat incurable diseases and I have them with me. I am sure that the same practice will apply to bloodline diseases. It will take time based on the extent and what details I could learn about Sasha's illness, but I promise you that I do everything in my power to help her."
He saw the two Vanadises' expressions turn into one of joy and relief as he finished.
"That is a relief…" Ellen spoke with joy in voice, knowing at least that her friend has a chance of being cured.
"Indeed…" Sofy felt the same way as her fellow Vanadis.
Fenris smiled as he saw their expressions and looked at Ellen. "Give the order Ellen and I will make all due haste to Sasha. Just tell where she is…"
He was then interrupted by Sofy, "Not to worry. When I left Zhcted, I heard that while Sasha's condition didn't improve, it hasn't worsened."
"True. When we put an end to the conflict in Brune Fenris, I'll let you have all the time necessary to treat Sasha."
Fenris made a gentle sigh in turn, "Very well, but tell me immediately if her illness took a turn for the worse. Permission to return back to camp Ellen? I think I am done here for the night."
She nodded her head. "Very well. Remember, don't tell anyone what you heard this night."
He bowed in response and made his way back to the camp, leaving Ellen and Sofy behind to continue their meeting, which ended after the latter spoke that she has no information about Thenardier's dragons.
They however continue to talk to one another, particularly about Tigre and Fenris.
"So what do you think of Tigre Sofy?"
"He is a lovely child… Being honest yet straightforward and has a strong heart… I am a bit curious on why you aided him."
"Ah… What about Fenris?"
"I have to say he is mystery… While I would be skeptical of him being from another world, his use of magic says otherwise. Although he shares similar qualities to Tigre, I could see Fenris has much more courage and resolve than him. I admit that I am more interested in knowing Fenris than Tigre."
Despite hearing Sofy's interest in the two, Ellen remained composed and retain her smile.
"I will tell you now, they are both mine."
"You must really love to those two then."
"They both have a contract with me."
"If it is simply a contract, the you wouldn't mind if I borrow Fenris. I would love to learn more about himself and the world he came from. Don't worry, I will return him you; but he gets dirty, I will make sure he is properly washed."
"I would rather you keep your distance from Fenris while you are here." Ellen spoke her words in a joking manner, but had a hint of seriousness in them.
While the night peaceful for the Silver Meteor Army, the battle within Brune is far from over for a force to be reckoned with is about them soon…
Author's Note:
Well here is another update to "Dragonborn to Vanadis", which is now currently in the Brune Civil War arc. Its a shame to the Vanadis anime didn't include anything about Greast, so I had to rely on the light novel and manga to see how the scene plays out.
It is about get interesting and intense in the next chapter, which a certain knight would be a good match when pitted against Fenris. Be patient until I have it uploaded and reviews would be appreciated so I know that story line makes sense and the length is reasonable for each chapter.
Harem: Ellen, Lim, Mila, Sofy, Liza, Valentina, Olga, Sasha, Fine(?)
(?) Based on her personality and her involvement in the light novel, she may or may not be included in Fenris's harem.