Chapter #8: A New Friend and the Village of Riverwood
After the detour of the shrine, my pace was hastened. I could still see the mutilated corpses in my mind's eye. The experience had left me disheartened, but my spirit was not yet broken. I would reach Riverwood within the hour and, though I found the woods peaceful, it would be a welcome reprieve to return to some form of civilization.
I walked along the stone path which rested on small cliffs on the side of a running river which swept north-eastward from Lake Ilinalta. As waters fell from drop offs and the rapids rushed, I could see the figures of jumping fish breaking through the surface. There were Salmon and Cyrodilic Spadetails, along with Abecean Longfins. I could understand why the hunter chose this area to poach and also why he would say: "It's not like my poaching is hurting anyone."
The road winded around a bend and soon I could see the silhouette of village. There was a wooden wall and makeshift palisades. I could see smoke rising from chimneys and could hear the distant clang of hammer on iron. It brought a smile to my face and I was distracted by the peacefulness of my destination. I should have kept a keener mind, for wolves prowled those paths.
The sound of a wolf howl brought me out of the trance far too late. I turned my head to see three grey wolves charging at me with wild eyes. Adrenaline rushed through my veins and swiftly I brought my hand to draw my sword, but I was too late. The force of the wolf's attack brought my crashing to the ground with the beast atop me, snarling and biting at me. I did not have time to think, I merely pushed and punched with all my might until the wolf was sent back. I stood as quickly as I could and drew my blade. I opened my free palm and golden magicka flared in my hand to heal the wounds inflicted by the wolf.
The fight was three-to-one until an iron arrow struck the neck of one of the wolves, burying deep and killing the animal in an instant. The momentary ruckus gave me the opportunity to drive my sword into a wolf's chest. It squealed like a whooped pup as it died. Soon, the final beast sought revenge for his fallen comrades. He lunged at me with savage ferocity, but an arrow in his back halted his strike. It was not enough to kill him, but my downwards slash with my blade did the trick. I stood, catching my breath and seemingly alone on the path.
"Greetings, brother Elf," said a kind voice said from the treenline. The voice belonged to a Bosmer who stepped out into the sunlight with a smile on his face and a hunter's bow in his hand. "Good to see a familiar face so far from home."
"I'm grateful for your assistance, friend," I said promptly with a nod. "And the feeling is mutual," I added.
He walked over to me and I looked down at him. He had silver hair, though he was not old, and stood no taller than any other Wood Elf. It was truly good to meet another Elf in these foreign lands. It brought a sense of familiarity to unclear times. The Bosmer extended a hand. "I'm Faendal. What's your name, brother?"
"I'm Sol," I replied, taking his hand and shaking it firmly. There was no pretense behind the Elf's kindness, it was refreshing after a life lived among the politics of the Thalmor.
"You're new to these lands, aren't you?" Faendal said with a chuckle.
"Is it that obvious?" I responded, my brows quirking and a smirk forming on my mouth.
"Something like that, brother," He nodded his head. "You're headed towards Riverwood. Not many strangers come this way. In fact, it's been a few years since I've seen a fellow Elf. It's nice to meet you, Sol."
"It is good to meet you also, Faendal. And yes, I am bound towards Riverwood. I'm new to these lands and a friend of mine told me I could seek shelter there," I said. "He might have already passed through. His name is Ralof. Do you know him?"
"I do," Faendal replied kindly as his gaze shifted back towards the village. "He's the honorable sort. Brash, whatnot. Warrior and hopeful hero. Typical Nord," he chuckled. "You'll get used to the Nord culture quickly. It's very… Snow, honor, stubbornness, and then more snow."
Faendal's words made me laughs softly and I nodded my head. They were true words, but I found there something to be admired about the bold and honest way of life. It would have yet to be seen, for I had not yet lived among the northern people.
"He left yesterday morn," Faendal mentioned. "Headed towards Windhelm."
We walked towards the village together, arriving in the town fairly quickly. The sight of me caused intrigue to the village members. There was an old woman who argued with her fair haired son and a kindly blacksmith who worked his forge with his daughter and his wife by his side. They all dropped their trades for a brief moment to study the newcomer. I came to the swift conclusion that they did not have visitors often.
My new friend and I parted ways, but not before he pointed me in the direction of the mill. I still held out hope for Ralof's promise of aid from his sister. There was a wooden bridge which lead to a small patch of land where the mill and waterwheel resided. It was there that I saw three figures, well, perhaps four, if you count a young boy's mut. There was a fierce looking blonde woman - whom I assumed was Gerdur - a tall and brawny mustached man, and a child with a dog. As I approached them, their eyes veered towards me with clear cautious curiosity.
"Hello," I said meekly, "My name is Sol. I know Ralof."
I then proceeded to share the entire story. Detail after detailed poured from my lips. I did not know how freeing it would be to share the truth, and nor did I realise how heavy the burden I carried was until it was lifted. The folk were kind enough and I deduced them to be trustworthy. They had no love for the Empire, and therefore, no love for the Thalmor.
The husband's name was Hod and the son's name was Frodnar. I already knew Gerdur's name. They allowed me to dwell with them for the night, and stay there until I could find more proper lodging. Riverwood would be my home for a time and I was alright with that fact. It was a small town, secluded from the troubles of the world. Or, so it seemed, of course. My place in the town was finally cemented when Hod said: "You looking for work? Get an axe and bring me all the wood you can chop."
Dear Reader,
It has definitely been quite a while. Oh, the life of a college student. I hope you enjoy this one. It has been a while since I have written this story, so I hope you can forgive me as I get back into the groove. As usual, if you like it, please like her up and maybe write a review! If you have any constructive criticism or just want to ask me questions? Please feel free to PM me. I will try to get back to you ASAP. I'm still trying to keep this story "possible" within the Skyrim engine, but I will definitely be taking a bit more liberties within the coming chapters. Ex. I'm not having the "go to Whiterun" part until later since the main story will be on the back burner. This is all about the adventures on the roads! Thanks again for reading.
~Kovecs