"And there is where we part, Alessia." Kaidan gestured to a town up ahead. It didn't look like much, but that was most Skyrim villages. None of them were as ostentatious as just about any Cyrodilian town. If there was one thing Cyrodil liked, it was making its cities bright, colorful, and loud. "That's Helgen." I inspected the stone walls. It was nice enough anyway.
The rest of the trek through the mountains and to Helgen had been entirely uneventful, something I wasn't sure whether or not I was grateful for. I longed for excitement after being cooped up for so long, but...
I took a few steps along the dusty dirt road, watching the animals and children run around. I hadn't been in northern Tamriel for over five years. So far it wasn't enjoyable, what with the frost troll and phantom Blades, not to mention the rough trek through the Jeralls. It may have been tedious but still had taken a toll on my legs.
Helgen looked peaceful, if not a tad dull. I cracked my neck. I'd been sitting quietly for years now, the last thing I wanted was to sit and laze around. Besides, I had some unfinished business. "You're lucky down here. There's less snow this southern part of Skyrim," Kaidan said companionably, striding through the village. The lack of snow was something I'd taken note of and been more than grateful for.
"Anywhere to rest? Just for a while?" I queried. "If there's one thing I need, it's a real drink." Kaidan nodded and pointed ahead, then let out a low laugh.
"I'm almost surprised you're not a Nord."
I pursed my lips, wondering what he meant. "And why is that?"
"Nords love their mead like a babe loves his mother's milk. They'll take more mead and wine in their lives than water."
"I'm not that bad," I said lowly, rolling my eyes. "I was imprisoned for years; I just want a drink or two."
"Fair enough." My eyes fixed on the inn. "In any case, that's called the Helgen Homestead. The owner puts juniper berries in his mead. Not bad, as long as you like your mead sweet. Wouldn't surprise me, Imperial."
"I do have a weakness for sweets. Don't get me started." We shared a small chuckle.
"Well, it was nice traveling with you, Alessia. And thanks for rescuing me. I'd still be tied up by those damn Elves if you hadn't been there."
"Of course. I hope our paths cross again." We shook hands and parted, Kaidan disappearing down a different street. I, on the other hand, had work to do.