Chapter 11 Dragon Rising

— A Dragon's Game —

Relationship with Jarl Balgruuf increased to 30.

Affection with Irileth increased to 25.

The following morning, I eat breakfast along with the Jarl's household, if on the other table. And while I eat my fill, it doesn't exactly end as calm as it began.

A guard runs into the hall, towards the Jarl's table. "My lord!" He takes a moment to straighten his spine, and probably breathe. Running up that many stairs can't be easy. "Halfway the night, the Western watchtower was attacked. By a dragon."

That sends the entire hall in chaos. Not for long, as it seems the Jarl's patience is saved up only for when he needs it.

"SILENCE!" He bellows. "Hrongar, Farengar, Irileth, with me. Everyone else, stay calm." He steps away from the table, gesturing for the guard to also follow him, but then spots me. "J'samma, could you come with?"

I nod. "Of course."

I follow the others up the stairs on the right of the throne, while Farengar hurries off to collect his dragon identification papers, after a short command from the Jarl, who hands out a few more orders.

When we arrive, there's a table with a large, detailed map of Skyrim. There're black pebbles marking the same locations I'd seen on the Dragonstone before, along with other markers I believe might indicate troops participating in the civil war. There's also a few indicating bandit lairs, like the one half a day north from Whiterun.

The Jarl places another black pebble west and slightly to the south of the city, right next to a yellow stone probably representing the Whiterun guard.

Half a minute later, Farengar rushes in, and spreads out his papers. Three minutes after, we learn of the name of the dragon.

Mirmulnir.

Unlike Alduin, he's not a world-ending disaster.

There's no record of Mirmulnir's defeat, but then again, he wasn't one of the important ones, and the lesser dragons weren't well-recorded back then.

"We'll be taking the fight to this dragon." Balgruuf decides. "The men are standing ready." He looks up. "Irileth, you're in command. Hrongar and Farengar will stay here with me. Don't die."

She nods. "As you command."

"I'll help." I offer. "I'm a mage of some capability. Mostly destruction school."

"Thank you." Balgruuf says. "Irileth will hear you opinion, but I would ask you to listen to her in battle. She's been a soldier since before either of us was born."

I turn to the dunmer. "I don't know my way around a battlefield, so I'll rely on your instructions." No matter the fact that it rankles me. The Jarl seems to avoid attempting to command me, but well… this is explicit, and for some reason that bothers me.

"Thank you. But it's time to go. We'll collect more guardsman by the barracks near the front gate, but there may also be some of the companions joining us."

I nod my head, and follow her outside. We're joined by two guards from the barracks, and Irileth verifies that there're no other guards coming from Dragonsreach itself.

Around five minutes and far too many stairs later, we encounter the companions, who were waiting for us near the Gildergreen.

"We met your runner." One of the men says. He seems to be blind in one eye, and nearly bald. He nods to me. "I'm Skjor. These are Aela, Farkas, Arthis, and Ria."

"J'samma." I respond. "I'm a mage who also happens to carry a warhammer."

Aela is a tall Nord, with far more revealing clothes than I'd expected, showing skin on her arms, shins, and the outsides of her thighs. Still, I spot no scars, so I guess she's good enough to not need armor? Her brown hair is tied in a low ponytail, while she has some lines of green war paint on her face.

Like all others of the group, she carries half an armory on her person without appearing encumbered at all.

Farkas is a bulky Nord, with dark hair and a huge greatsword. Like Skjor, he wears armor that looks to be some kind of steel, painted with wolf symbols.

Arthis is a dark elf, carrying a sword and shield along with a bow.

Ria is the last one, also with her hair tied behind her head, but has a greatsword along with her bow.

They join us towards the gate, led by Irileth, in a trot. I find it easy to keep up.

This will be my first battle with a dragon. I can't help but feel excited about that. The opportunity to measure myself against this opponent and prove myself the stronger one.

I'm smart. Sometimes too smart for my own good, but I know I shouldn't feel this happy about it. I haven't felt like this against bandits I fought. But while my brain knows that, my soul and blood long for glorious battle.

We reach the gate, and I don't even feel tired. Some fifteen guards join us, Lydia among them.

She moves from her place in the formation to next to me.

"So, a dragon. I hadn't taken you for a warrior that you join us."

"I'm a mage." I hesitate. "But I admit some of this is just… curiosity. Is it weird that I want to know how it feels to slay a dragon?"

"Hah!" She grins. "At worst, it might mean you've become a Nord in spirit, even if you're still a cat." Her grin fades. "Which is the most important part to be a Nord. Because this is Skyrim, our homeland, and it's our duty to defend it."

I can't help but emphasize. "So that makes me and the two dunmer here honorary Nords?"

"Irileth's a housecarl." Lydia shrugs. "Can't get more Nordic than that, anyway. And Arthis is a companion, following in the tradition of the Five-hundred Companions of Ysgramor, who as good as founded Skyrim."

"You have to tell me about that someday. Even if I was born in Skyrim, growing up in a Khajiiti caravan doesn't exactly immerse you in Nordic culture."

"Then let's kill a dragon, and afterwards I'll tell you the tales over a jug of mead."

I grin. "The true Nord way."

"Hey, you fight a dragon with us, you get to drink mead with us. It's only fair." She grins at me. Then she looks forwards nervously.

"Scared?" I ask.

"A bit. These things are huge. One of them wiped out Helgen, well, I don't have to explain that to you, of course."

"No, but it's a different dragon. Weaker. I just hope it's weak enough. And there're no civilians to evacuate or protect."

"True. How about you? You scared?"

That's… a hard question. Am I actually scared? "I don't know. Is that weird?"

"No. Well, yes. Maybe? I'd say you don't know what to be scared of, but well…" she trailed off.

"Shut up back there!" Irileth calls from ahead. "Save your breath for the dragon!"

A companionable silence falls as we continue our way to the Watchtower. While some guards start flagging after an hour or so, the companions all seem perfectly fine. Even the ones in heavy armor.

I hope really hard that they live up to the reputation of being the finest warriors in Skyrim. I can use all the help I can get.

Affection with Lydia increased to 20.

As we arrive at the tower, there's no dragon in sight at all. Irileth slows us down at a slight distance, and we move into a small copse of trees. Irileth doesn't want to rush into a fight where she doesn't know what's going on, and I can't help but approve even if it rankles a bit to be ordered around.

Aela of the companions joins her to the treeline, where they look out towards the tower. I jump on a rock to have a better view, while still between the trees, myself.

While it's called the Western Watchtower, it's actually a small fort. I've seen it before from a distance while traveling between Whiterun and Secunda's Kiss.

It's a basically circular wall, with a single taller tower standing about thirty meters above the tundra. There's supposed to be a few structures inside, but if there are, they're on fire now. Despite the sun above, the blaze is so bright the walls cast shadows.

At least, those that haven't collapsed yet. Surprisingly, the tower itself still stands.

"No sign of a dragon, though it sure looks like he's been here." Irileth remarks. She turns around. "Everyone, follow to the tower. Keep your distance from each other. If the dragon finds us first, I don't want to present that big a target."

The group exits the copse, and we spread out. Irileth heads straight for the tower, everyone following at a distance while watching every direction. Those with bows have them out, and I ready my magic.

Fire might not do that much against a dragon, so I'll be sticking to lightning for now. It'll also be easier to hit a fast-flying target with lightning, since it hits instantaneously.

When we close, we find a guard sheltering behind a collapsed wall, with the other side of the stone appearing as if it has been molten and then solidified.

When he sees us, he waves. "Get back!" He shouts. "Hroki and Tor just got grabbed when they tried to make a run for it!"

A roar sounds over the area, and it fills me with excitement.

"Kynareth save us." The guards' voice falters. "Here he comes again…"

From behind the tower, a brown-green dragon flies into view.

— A Dragon's Game —

While it's definitely smaller than Alduin, it's still huge. We feel the wind from his wings, throwing arrows off course. My Lightning Bolt hits, but doesn't seem to truly affect it. But it turns towards our direction. I hear it speak on the wind. And now knowing I hear the language of the dragons themselves…

"Fire Ĩ̸͚̪n̵͎͋f̵̫̬̉e̴͉̙̎̕r̶͍͔͑͝ṋ̸͚̽̀o̴͖̍͠ ̸͎̚Ş̴̡̚ṵ̴̒̓ṋ̸̱̑!" Yol Toor Shul

A stream of fire comes from "ts mouth. Luckily, it doesn't seem to have aimed at me. I can hear the meaning behind its words, even if nowhere near comprehend it all. Just… fire. The concept of burning. Change under heat. Heat itself. All these, more and less. Pure meaning.

I shake my head. Focus on the here and now, contemplate life later. I cast two lightning bolts at the dragon, striking a wing joint, and I hear a roar of pain.

So it works. It can feel pain. Just keep hitting it, and it'll die eventually.

It banks to turn, positioning to come around for a second strafing run. I aim for its head, and let lightning leap from my fingers again.

It tries to roast me, but I can jump out of the way.

A scream behind me tells me that someone else wasn't as lucky. It lasts only a second, and it goes silent. I have a quick look, but whoever it was has been reduced to nothing more than a pile of ash on the ground.

We need to bring the dragon down, force it to the ground. Even if I'm hurting it, it's nowhere near fast enough. We'll all die before we'd seriously hurt it.

It banks again, and now that I see most others, I can see people finding cover. Irileth throws some Ice Spikes, and Aela readies an arrow.

While Aela proves to be an amazing archer and makes the shot, Irileth doesn't land anything.

I strike at it with some more lightning, but I fear it might not be able to force it to the ground. With all the weapons we have, I have a lot more faith in a fight on the ground.

Even aiming for the wing doesn't seem to do much.

"J'samma!"

I look back, and see Irileth gesture me over. I risk a quick glance at the dragon who's turning around for another attack, but there's time. I rush over to Irileth as swiftly as I can.

"Good. If we have a specific target on the dragon, do you think you can reliably hit it?" Irileth asks as we both dive behind a rock to shelter against the flames raining down from the sky. The heat is overwhelming, but we both carry through without serious burns because of the rock being half-molten for our protection.

"I think so, but I doubt I'm getting through it's skin."

"Good. I think I can make do with that. Aela!" She shouts the companion's name, and the woman hurries over.

"Got a plan?"

"Give me an arrow." Irileth takes the arrow and concentrates on it. Over several seconds, I see it turn to copper.

I really, really want that spell. But now's not the time.

"Here." She hands the arrow back to Aela. "Can you put that in a wing joint?"

"That sounds like a good idea." I murmur. "To get my lightning past the skin and ground it?"

"We'll be much more effective on the ground. Go do it." She replies.

I nod, and Aela puts the arrow on her bow. The dragon comes in for it's next strafing run, but Aela puts the arrow into the right shoulder joint, where both the foreleg and the wing sprout from.

I immediately cast two lightning bolts at it, and our efforts are rewarded with a roar of pain, interrupting its fire breath by redirecting it into the sky. A second dual-cast makes the wing spasm, and the dragon lands awkwardly, but still gets on all four it's legs. Then I hear it's deep voice.

"Smart mortals. I am Loyal Strong Hunter, and your death." Onik joore. Zu'u Mirmulnir, hin dinok.

Knowing that I actually hear the dragon language, I now hear both the meaning and the words.

With a cry, I jump out of cover, casting a lightning bolt with one hand, but launching a ball lightning with the other. With as big as the dragon is, I hope It'll be able to injure it multiple times.

Right away, I dive aside as I hear it conjure a ray of flames again.

But the others have caught up, and are now surrounding the grounded dragon.

The fight is far from over, though. It guards its flank with its wings while turning much faster than any being that size has a right to be. Athis and Ria attacked it from behind, but Athis' shield is the only reason that Ria isn't bitten in two.

I think its wounded foreleg is the only reason it's not able to outrun us all.

I find Lydia to my left, and we close, dodging the tail. I take out Aegisbane, though I launch an Ice Storm through the dragon before we reach it. More damage is better.

While Lydia's sword doesn't seem to pierce the scales, my hammer definitely hurts it. The hind leg is moved, and the tail comes hard and fast from the left. Lydia has her shield up in time, but can't withstand the blow. The force behind it is so strong that both of us are thrown into the air. I land on my feet, but Lydia is less catlike and lands on her head, with her left arm bent in ways it definitely shouldn't be.

I grab it above the break and pour as much Healing into her as I can. After two casts and six seconds, the bone snaps back to where it belongs.

Good. If I'd had to set that manually, then she'd probably have been crippled for life. She also seems aware again.

"Don't catch a hit like that again." I deadpan. "You're not build for it."

She grimaces. "I'll deflect it upwards?"

I just look at her.

"No really, it should help."

I sigh. "Just be careful. And lets go kill us a dragon."

We run back towards the dragon, right when it speaks again.

"Beautiful battle." Mirmulnir muses arrogantly. "I'd forgotten how you mortals struggle!" Brit Grah zu'u vomorah kriftaas joore!.

It turns around to us right as we reach it, and I catch its head on a swing with Aegisbane. It lets out another roar of pain.

However, I'm blindsided by a wing pushing me backwards.

The slack is picked up by Skjor and Farkas reaching Mirmulnir's head. Between the former's warhammer and the latter's greatsword, it doesn't get a moment of rest.

I hear it attempt to breathe fire again, but the Skjor's hammer strikes it on the top of its snout, shutting the dragon's maw.

Its tail swings around, and buys it just enough time to bite Athis in half around the belly. I see the legs flying off, and he's obviously still trying to stab it in the eye with his sword, but it's nowhere near close enough.

In seconds, his arms still.

It's just killing us one by one.

Which means I need to kill it faster. I charge up two Ball Lightning, and have them stop on top of the dragon. When it turns around, I hit it again with Aegisbane. Its tail swings around, but I parry it. I sidestep a foreleg with claws longer than most daggers, but the bite after that closes on my forearm. It lifts me up and shakes me around.

I feel my blood flash cold when I feel my elbow snap, and a moment later I'm falling through the air. I look, but my left arm is a ruin stopping around the elbow.

I get my feet under myself, but still need to roll to bleed off my momentum from getting thrown off. I reach out and cast a few more Lightning Bolts, and it turns to me.

"Your arrogance rivals that of the Tongues!" Pahlokiil ronit vun!

That moment of inattention costs it. Lydia lunges and stabs her sword through an eye. The dragon howls in pain, and Lydia jumps back to avoid retaliation. It tries to turn around to look at her, but Skjor draws its attention as he breaks a foreleg with his warhammer.

As the dragon's head swings back, Farkas joins in. The dragon attempts to start a shout, but the companion thrusts his sword into its mouth.

It roars in pain, and I feel something snap into alignment. I see the dragons' remaining eye suddenly focus on me.

"Dragonborn? No!" Dovahkiin? Niid!

A fire seems to be inside the dragon, and several parts light up. Everyone takes a few steps back, on their guard against any tricks.

Then the first glowing scale streaks towards me, leaving a trail through the air. The trail pulls more towards it. Another starts. And another.

As it connects to me, I gasp. I can feel the warmth, the rightness flow through me. I can't help but pull, and the glowing streams intensify, and I feel my mind open to more knowledge. Knowledge about everything. About dragons. And specifically about Loyal Strong Hunter, or Mirmulnir, as his soul is subjugated to and absorbed by my own.

The feeling of glory is beyond any description. I can feel my power grow.

Dovahkiin. Born a dragon. A born hunter of dragons.

You have absorbed a dragon soul!

You have learned a new shout: Unrelenting Force.

You have learned a new shout: Fire Breath.


J'samma the Dragonborn

Level: 49

Dragon Souls: 1

Divinity: 1

Classes:
- Apprentice: 18
- Survivor: 12
- Thief: 11
- Craftsman: 4
- Warrior: 3
- Merchant: 1

Skills (partial):
- (Apprentice) Fire Magic: 47
- (Thief) Sneak: 46
- (Apprentice) Frost Magic: 39
- (Apprentice) Lightning Magic: 34
- (Thief) Pickpocketing: 33
- (Craftsman) Mining: 31
- (Thief) Lockpicking: 30
- (Apprentice) Illusion magic: 22
- (Survivor) Gathering: 19

Perks:
- Race: Khajiit
- Muiri's Ring
- Shield of Dibella
- Climax Lock
- Agent of Dibella

Attributes (partial):
- Mana: 1060
- Stamina: 871
- Health: 798
- Healing Resistance: 218
- Fire Damage: 114
- Charisma: 106
- Intelligence: 106
- Wisdom: 106
- Mana Regeneration: 106

Abilities (partial):
- Firebolt: Shoots a small bolt of fire dealing 88 damage.
- Fireball: Launches a ball of Fire, dealing 175 damage to all targets in a 7.35 m radius where it hits.

Shouts:
- Fire Breath Yol: Breathe wide jet of for 321 damage to everyone within 2.21 m of the center of the jet.
- Unrelenting Force Fus: The force of your voice pushes everyone off balance, dealing 110 damage and throwing them 1.00 meters.

Weapons:

Aegisbane (Equipped):
Once the sigil of house Shatter-Shield, this powerful warhammer deals frost damage to all struck.

Smash (from: Aegisbane):
Smashes your enemy for 114 Blunt damage.
- Deals 91 frost damage and slow the opponent for 6 seconds.

Titles:
Apprentice, Thief, Warrior, Survivor, Merchant, Craftsman, Dragonborn


Unrelenting Force
The force of your voice pushes everyone off balance, dealing [100/200/300] + ([10/20/30] * [Number of Dragon Souls]) damage and throwing them [1.0/5.0/20.0] meters.

Words of Power
- Fus - Force
- Ro - Balance
- Dah - Push

Cost:
- Mana: 50
- Stamina: 50

This shout requires 2 Dragon Souls for each word.


Fire Breath
Breathe a wide jet of flame for [100/200/300] + ([25/50/75] * [Number of Dragon Souls]) damage to everyone within [1.5/2.0/2.5] m of the center of the jet.

Words of Power
- Yol - Fire
- Toor - Inferno
- Shul - Sun

Attributes on final word:
- Shul - Fire Penetration: 60

This shout requires 5 Dragon Souls for each word.


Fire Penetration
When dealing Fire damage, the target's resistance is considered to be this much lower. If this reduces the target's resistance below 0, you will deal bonus damage.


I can feel the concepts of the shouts I know now. The knowledge and power taken straight from Mirmulnir's soul. I even know all three words, but I only comprehend the first. Sure, I could translate them, but I cannot feel their conceptual weight, and therefore I cannot tell the physical world to take a hike and manifest it.

I will, though. I have no idea which bits of this are about being a Dragonborn and what is about… whatever it is that allows me to learn everything stupidly fast.

— A Dragon's Game —

Reputation with the Whiterun Guard (including Lydia, but not Irileth) increased by 25 for being the Dragonborn (25).

Affection from Irileth improved by 15 for… whatever that was (40).

Affection from Lydia improved by 15 for saving her life (60).

Reputation with the Companions increased by 15 for being the Dragonborn (15).

When the influx of knowledge suddenly stops, I'm left panting.

"Wow… you are Dragonborn."

I tear my eyes from the huge dragon skeleton in front of me, and find one of the Whiterun guards. "Yes. Yes, I am." I pause a moment, then hold up my hand to stop him from talking. "And before you ask, it is as new to me as it is to you."

"Dragonborn, what's that?" Irileth asks.

"You wouldn't know, housecarl. You didn't grow up with the legends." The guard says. "But they're the greatest heroes and dragon slayers. Talos himself was one."

I look around. I want her to acknowledge me, but perhaps it's easier to explain if…

Ah, there. I pick up a branch, about twice the size of a normal club.

"Housecarl, allow me to show you." I hold the branch up, then hold it in front of me. "Yol"

Fire bursts from my mouth, consuming half of the branch, and shooting up in the air past it. Wow, that is a LOT stronger than I thought it would be. I gotta be careful with this.

The half of the branch that I'm still holding is burning, but going out because it's too wet to burn easily normally.

"I don't know much details, but I took Mirmulnir's soul on his death, and inherited part of his power. It's… a lot to process, but I now know how to breathe fire, among other things."

"I don't know too much about the ancient legends." Irileth calmly admits. "But I DO know that we just took down a dragon, and how vital you were for that." She looks around. "Don't get me wrong, I want to celebrate our victory. But for now, let us collect our dead, and return home to bring the Jarl the good news."

"Sounds good to us." Skjor says. "And you're all invited to Jorrvaskr afterwards. Because we've slain a dragon, and that earned us a feast." He looks behind him to the other three surviving companions. "We will mourn the dead tomorrow. Tonight, we will honor their sacrifice, and celebrate their bravery!"

A few of the Whiterun guards cheer, but it seems most are too weary.

Irileth tasks them to collect the remains of the two dead guards, and then comes to me.

"I want to report to the Jarl as soon as possible, and if possible, I would have you with me when I talk to him." She glances at the gathered nords collecting their fallen comrades. "I don't know what this dragonborn business is, but it sounds important. I want the Jarl to know what you can tell him."

I nod. "I'll come with."

"Good. You need the Nord legends for that?"

I shake my head. "I got what I need. Dragonborn absorb the knowledge of dragons they kill, and Mirmulnir here knew enough about it."

"Thank you. And…" she hesitates. "Well fought. I don't think our arrows could have brought it down. Don't tell anybody I said this, but I think we don't have enough mages like you to bring these beasts down to the ground where we can fight them."

I shake my head. "They're not beasts. Mirmulnir was as smart as you or I, and was centuries old to hone his cunning." I look her in the eye. "The only reason we won with this few losses was because we surprised it. Mistake them for beasts, and you will underestimate your enemy."

"Understood. Now, let's get back."

"We'll join you." A female voice says.

I look behind me, and notice Aela and Farkas, the former of which had spoken.

"Skjor and Ria will bring Athis home." She continues.

Irileth nods, and we start off back to Whiterun.

Some ten minutes in, Aela speaks again. "Are you aware of what a Dragonborn is, J'samma?"

"From the dragon's own memories, but yeah. Mostly." I answer. "Dragons are the children of Akatosh. Our souls are… part of him. Dragons cannot be truly slain by mortals, but only each other."

She nods. "It's stated a bit more flowery in the legends, but that sounds close enough to what we know. But, well." She breathes in. "Skjor, Farkas and I thought about it, and we'd like to take you to the Harbinger, Kodlak, when possible. We would very much like to have you in the companions."

That's… surprising. I take a few moments to compose myself. "That's unexpected. I though you were a group of warriors?"

"We are." She simply answers. "But because everyone thinks that, nobody else joins up. But Farkas read a lot more of our history than I did, and said we used to have mages in the companions as well, centuries ago. So that's no reason not to. I want to invite you because you are the dragonborn."

Aela is… direct.

She continues. "The five-hundred companions of Ysgramor took vengeance for the massacres that the snow elves committed against the Nords, and ever since, the companions have done their best to protect the people of Skyrim. The three of us believe that you can help us with that, and that we can help you fight the dragons. We'd normally run this by Kodlak first not to get your hopes up, but we're pretty confident he'll feel the same."

"The impression I got about the companions was that it was mostly about fighting and drinking, and for a fee you fought local problems like bandits or something else the guards wouldn't fight for any reason."

Aela shrugged. "You're not wrong. So what'd you say?"

I consider it for a moment. Judging by how the companions were happy to go toe to toe with a dragon the way I saw them do it, I'd really like their assistance more often.

"I'm sorry, but I don't think it'll be a good idea. I'd happily fight by your side if another dragon shows up, but I don't want to be tied down by all sorts of duties."

"You wouldn't. The companions are light on the rule front. As long as you tell someone in advance so we don't worry, you can go anywhere for however long you like."

That is a lot better than what I dared hope. But….

"And if you ever regret joining, you can walk away, no strings attached. Unless it's in the middle of a fight, or a job you already took pay for."

"Okay, but I also want you guys to teach me a little about fighting with weapons."

"Deal. Just find any of us three at the party, and we'll take you to the old man. Five minutes tops, and you can return to your mead."

"Never even had mead. Didn't like the taste."

She looks at me strangely. "Don't like mead? But… what do you drink to celebrate, then?"

I shrug. "Never before had the time for it. Been adventuring for a few months, but they've been rather hectic. But I think I like wine."

"Eh, we should have some. And it's all about celebrating with your friends and shield-siblings. There anybody you'd like to invite?"

That's awkward. Perhaps Muiri, Sapphire, or a member of the Dark Brotherhood, but… I actually don't have any friends closer than that.

I shake my head. "Nobody who lives close enough. Just this afternoon I've spent more time with you than anyone who's still in Whiterun. The only people who know my face would be the Khajiit caravan I spotted yesterday when I arrived, but I don't know them that well either."

"That's fine." She answers. "After all, the best way to make new friends is to fight together and have each other's back. And that means you've made a lot of new friends today."

That's… actually very nice. "Thank you. And I look forward to getting to know my new friends better tonight."

— A Dragon's Game —

An easy silence falls, until some time later, a loud noise suddenly echoes over the plains.

"DRAGONBORN!" Dovahkiin

Someone is calling me. Someone wants my attention.

But… those were multiple Voices. Why would dragons work together just to call me?

"Heh, news travels fast." Aela snickers. "Have you heard of the Greybeards, J'samma?"

"No, I haven't."

"The Greybeards are an order of monks living on the Throat of the World, in High Hrothgar. They study the art of the Voice, how to speak the language of the dragons. Apparently, you've been invited." She glances at me. "You're in good company. The previous dragonborn they taught was Tiber Septim, who would end up founding the empire, and ascended to become Talos, the divine."

I give her a wry grin. "No pressure." That explains the cooperation. They weren't dragons calling for me, just Nords.

She gives a hearty, full laugh, and shakes her long, red hair back. "You're young. None of us will complain if you need a year or ten to become Emperor." Her smirk fades. "Jokes aside, you should consider it. But take your time. And no brooding tonight. Tonight, we feast and tell tall tales. By the end of the evening, the dragon will have grown to twice its size, and by next week a bard in Falkreath will sing of our victory over ten of them."

I can't help but smile at that.

— A Dragon's Game —

Right before we enter Whiterun, Ri'saad greets us.

"What news about the dragon?"

Irileth shakes her head. "Figures everyone already knows. I'd hoped that just for once, the guards wouldn't gossip like washerwomen. Anyway, the dragon is dead. Whiterun is safe."

"I thank you." He turns to me. "And how d'you do?"

Before I can even answer, Aela does. "He did amazing. His lightning helped force it to the ground, and the only reason it's truly dead is that J'samma here is the Dragonborn."

I see his ears twitch as he focuses on me. "J'samma still? I would think this a reason…"

I return a wry grin. "And what would it be? Sa'samma? That's not…"

"Oh, no." Ri'saad smirks. "I was thinking, Do'samma."

My eyes pop. "I wouldn't dare…"

But the man's infuriating grin remains while I try to comprehend the implications and apply them to myself. I'm not very successful.

"I'm confused." Farkas speaks up. "Is this something about Khajiit culture?"

"I'll assume you're not to familiar with it, Companion. But to signify our position in society, many Khajiit, though especially the more traditionally minded, will prefix their names. It makes it a lot easier to introduce, no?"

"I can follow you so far. And you… assign him a new one?"

"How a prefix changes isn't always the same. Sometimes Khajiit change their names, and people get used to it overtime. But after this, I feel I had to encourage Do'samma here."

"And what's that one mean?"

"The Ja or J prefix signifies a teen or young adult — someone learning or apprenticing, but with nothing to his name. If he is the Nordic Dragonborn, then this is clearly no longer accurate. Therefore, I thought Do — which signifies great warrior."

Farkas looks at me. "Yeah, I agree. He's got a good head on his shoulders, knows what he should do, and the guts to do it."

I feel like I should protest this sudden elevation, but… didn't I just deserve it. I take another moment to collect myself, and address Ri'saad. "Thank you, Ri'saad. For your trust and faith in me."

"I am certain you will live up to my trust, Do'samma." He says calmly. "Anything else you would like to share?"

I think for a moment, but I don't have any pressing issues, so I shake my head. "No. And we really should see about informing the Jarl. I'll see if I can come by tomorrow, to catch up?"

"Sadly, we leave tomorrow morning, now that the road is safe again. May your roads lead you to warm sands."

"And yours."

— A Dragon's Game —

When we pass Jorrvaskr, Aela and Farkas peel off to inform the Harbinger, Kodlak, and get the feast started.

Irileth and I walk up the last few sets of stairs towards Dragonsreach.

On top of the stairs, Farengar is eagerly waiting for us.

"You've done it? Is the dragon dead? Why did the Greybeards call for a Dragonborn? What—"

"Farengar!" Irileth barks. "You'll hear when we report to Balgruuf."

I've never seen a grown man pout like that before, but he shuts up and joins us on our way in.

We head inside and Irileth leads me straight to the room we were in this very morning, where Balgruuf is waiting for us.

"Irileth, report."

Her report comes down to "dragon dead, lost three guards and one companion", and then she gestures to me.

"It turns out that J'samma here might be Dragonborn, whatever that is?"

"Do'samma, and I am." I correct her. "After we defeated it, I ate Mirmulnir's soul. In its last moments, it realized what I was, but it was too late by then."

Balgruuf visibly relaxes. "So Alduin is back, but there is a Dragonborn. That's good."

"If I may ask, why is that important?"

"Ah, I forget you're not familiar with the legends. There's supposed to be a prophecy. I don't know the exact wording, but it comes down to Alduin attempting to destroy the world, and a Dragonborn stopping him."

"I'm… nowhere near strong enough to scratch him."

"Wouldn't expect you too, right now. But that is probably why the Greybeards called you. They know the Voice, and how the Shouts work. If anyone can teach you how to hone your gifts, it is them."

That is alluring. Shouts are… powerful. If I can learn better how to use them, perhaps obtain a Shouting Skill or something, then it would be incredible. "I may go there, but right now I first want some rest to consider it all. It's a lot to take in." And I'm also definitely not looking forward to fighting Alduin, training or not. Destroyer-Devourer-Master… even his name is all kinds of nope.

"That's understandable." Balgruuf responds. "Whiterun owes you a debt, Dragonborn. You're welcome here in Dragonsreach whenever."

"Thank you, Jarl."

Reputation with Jarl Balgruuf increased by 20 for being the Dragonborn and protecting his people (50).

— A Dragon's Game —

After I refresh myself, I head over to Jorrvaskr. There probably won't be a problem if I were a bit early — the companions don't seem sticklers for that kind of thing.

And indeed, they're not. Farkas hails me when I enter, and insists on introducing me to his brother, Vilkas. Vilkas gives off the same solid, dependable vibe that Farkas does, if somewhat more contemplative.

It doesn't take long for Aela to show up again, with an older man in tow. Despite his age and gray hair and beard, he still looks strong, with broad shoulders. The pair of them come over to me.

"Do'samma!" Aela calls to me. "Let me introduce you. This is Kodlak, Harbinger of the Companions. He's the closest thing to a leader we have."

"Nice to meet you, Kodlak." I politely greet him.

"Nice to meet you too, Do'samma. I hear great things about you from Aela, and she does not praise easily."

"We fought together. And without her, Farkas and Skjor, I would likely also have perished."

"I doubt that, from what I hear, but I am glad I will not have to find out. Be welcome. This feast is in your honor as much as the others. Enjoy yourself."

"I will, and thank you."

He gives me a pat on the back, and makes to leave before Aela intervenes.

"There's also the membership offer to discuss. Perhaps now would be a good moment, before we're all drunk?"

Kodlak chuckles. "A first time for everything. Normally you don't have issues making drunk decisions."

Aela visibly ignores that. "Anyway, I wanted Do'samma to have a place with us at the companions. I think it'd be good for him as it'd make it easier to learn about the history of Skyrim as a whole if he wants to, we can teach him how to fight with weapons instead of only magic, and being a Companion might open some doors in Skyrim. As for the Companions, we'd benefit from being associated with the Dragonborn in the future. I have no doubts that Do'samma will be well known before long. When the Dragonborn saves people from the dragons, they'll know he's a Companion."

"Well reasoned, Aela. Now lad, what do you think about it?"

I take some time to collect my thoughts. "I'd like to join. As I discussed before with Aela, I would very much appreciate the opportunity to learn more about normal fighting. While just hitting them with a big hammer seems to work against most bandits, I don't know how long my luck would hold. However, I can't be tied down with duties too much, I'm sure you understand."

"Aye, I do. However, the Companions haven't ever been keen on strict hierarchies. We believe true warriors need a measure of freedom to be the best they can be. However, the fewer jobs and obligations you take, the less money you'll get. There's no base income or anything you get just for being a member."

"That's perfectly fine. I'm not in need of gold, anyway."

"Great, you're in. If you're curious about the history of Skyrim or the Companions like Aela mentioned, find Vilkas." And with that, Kodlak takes off to someone gesturing for his attention, Aela staying behind.

"The old man likes to pontificate, but he's a great warrior and an inspiring Harbinger." She states. "The Jarl's aware of your new status as a nordic legend?"

"Yeah. He advised me to seek out the Greybeards, but I want to think it over."

"I'll be honest, I'm not much of a thinker." She sits down at the table, and gestures to the seat next to her. "But I'd probably go and see what they got to say."

I sit down as well. "That's a concern for tomorrow."

"Hah, good." She casts a glance at the doors. "You seen Skjor and Ria come in yet?"

"No, but I didn't pay attention either."

"Eh, they'll show up. Here." She hands me a drinking horn full of wine, and I take a sip.

Wait.

I accepted it with my left hand, and I distinctly remember…

Yup. From two points of view, even. Mirmulnir bit it off. It must have grown back when I ate his soul.

Gotta keep that in mind. Eating a dragon's soul regrows lost body parts. I hope it won't be too important…

— A Dragon's Game —

I notice I feel a lot more comfortable at the party than I would have a while ago. I used to be a bit of a loner when the caravan would reach a city. Even when offered, I wouldn't enter the city. And while my excuses might have had to do with it feeling cramped and missing the open space, the real reason was that I just didn't like how busy it was inside.

But no longer. Perhaps it's my increased Charisma or something. But I find it easy to exchange a few sentences with a total stranger, humbly brag about killing a dragon, and wave them off again.

It doesn't hurt either that the party sort of spilled into the streets. I'm currently setting on a bench under the red-golden leaves of the Gildergreen, right in front of the Temple of Kynareth. Just looking at the partygoers.

Another woman approaches. Her clothes are nothing special or expensive, but she put a lot of effort into her red hair, wearing it up. And she looks attractive with it, just a few strands at the back hanging down to tickle her slim neck.

She looks at me oddly. "So, the man of the hour."

"Do'samma, at your service." And damn, it feels good to say that. "And what can the man of the hour do for the pretty woman?"

A smile curls her lips for a moment. "So, even more charming than last time we met."

Wait, last time? I don't remember meeting her… "Then I'm afraid I must apologize."

She raises one perfect eyebrow. "Oh? And for what might that be?"

"The unforgivable sin of forgetting a woman like you, of course."

She scoffs, but the smile doesn't leave her face. "Flattery will get you everywhere, but first there is a bit of unfinished business we have to talk about. I'll say that you looked pretty out of it, though. Lot more drunk than you're now."

Me? Drunk? I've basically never… oh shit. That night with Sam and Muiri… I close my eyes. "Was there a man named Sam with me?"

"A man, and a young woman. None of you ever introduced yourselves. But you still owe me that ring you needed for something in Witchmist Grove. And something about a party."

"A party? Hm… Would you mind telling me where that party was?" It might help me understand who this Sam guy was, and more of what happened. This is my first clue I've gotten to that.

"I would, if you didn't owe me anything. But you still owe me that ring."

"Hm, a compromise. I pay you the collateral for the ring in gold, you tell me, and later when I return the ring I get my gold back."

"That's acceptable. Two thousand gold please."

My eyes widen so far I pull a muscle. "Two thousand? For a ring? You could buy a horse for that! Two!"

"I'm aware. But you did demand my best ring. I'm still not sure how you convinced me to give it to you on credit, anyway."

I study her face, but I can't detect any deception. "Deal." I reach behind my back, and pull out a bag with two thousand coins from my inventory.

She blinks twice when she sees it. "Oh, yeah. Okay. Thanks."

"And where was that party?"

"Eh, Morvunskar. I don't know where that is, though."

"I'll figure it out."

"Great. I'll just… get this inside my house so I can't lose it. Talk to you later." She smiles, and walks away, with a definite sway in her hips.

The evening is still young, but if I run into her again, I'm definitely considering that option. Flirting is fun… but if there's an opportunity for more, I'm going for it.

— A Dragon's Game —

The sun has gone down completely; the party having gone on for hours and not yet showing any signs of slowing down.

With how well these nords can party, it's a miracle Sanguine isn't more popular around here.

I take a quick walk out the back of Jorrvaskr, breathing some cold air instead of the warm, reused air inside. Well, mostly as an excuse to get away from some flirting woman I didn't appreciate, but hey. Reasons. Like her being married and thrice my age. And stuff.

I'm drunk, aren't I?

I lean with my back against the city wall. Even here it's twice my height, and I know it'll be much taller from the other side, as it's build right on top of a cliff edge. I just let the sounds of the party roll over me and close my eyes for a few moments.

Sadly, I don't have long before I get interrupted.

"So you're that Dragonborn everyone's talking about." A female voice announces, then pauses dramatically. "We need to talk."

I open one eye. She wears simple, unremarkable leather armor, and a hood hiding her face.

"We do? And who might you be?"

"I'm part of a group that's been looking for you… well, someone like you, for a long time. If you're really Dragonborn, that is."

"Why were you looking for a Dragonborn, then?"

"We remember what most people don't. That a dragonborn is the ultimate dragon slayer, and they can keep it dead permanently by absorbing its soul. Can you do it?"

"Yes, I absorbed Mirmulnir's soul. Only from its knowledge did I learn what I was. Why?"

"Before I tell you any more, I need to know that I can trust you."

"Oh? And how do I know I can trust you?"

"I'm not your enemy. I'm actually trying to help you. I just need you to hear me out."

"Well, go ahead, then."

"First the matter of trust…"

"Let me stop you right there." I cut her off. She's getting on my nerves. "You're the one hiding your face, and yet I apparently have to trust you at your word, while I need to do whatever to 'earn' your trust. Not going to happen. I don't need you, you need me."

"Listen, this is important…"

"Then explain."

"First I need proof you're really Dragonborn."

I raise an eyebrow. Hm… According to Mirmulnir's memories, I should be able to weaken the strength of my voice. I concentrate on the edge of the woman's leather hood, and I Speak. "Force." Fus.

At the speed of sound, my Voice crosses the distance, and throws her leather hood back. The woman's long, blonde hair is in a tight ponytail. She has a hard face, with a few minor scars highlighting her delicate breton features. Her blue eyes are widened in shock at being revealed.

Before she can recover from her surprise, I ask her, "Nope, still don't know you. So what's your name?"

She shakes her head, and makes to pull her hood up again, but visibly forces her hands down again. "Doesn't matter. I'd be dead if I trusted easily, so you're still going to need to prove yourself. That was a trick any mage could do. I want to see you absorb a dragon's soul."

"I don't need to prove anything to you."

"But this is important!"

"If it's truly that important, then you can just tell me, no need for me to jump through hoops. If you ask around here, you can get the word of some of the best among the companions, and the Jarl's own housecarl."

"Dragons aren't just returning, they're returning to life. I've found empty burial mounds, and I think I have a hunch where the next one will revive. Just… come with me and kill it, then I'll know you're dragonborn and that I can trust you."

"I don't know you well enough to trust your hunches. If you plan on fighting a dragon with just the two of us, you're suicidal. The answer is no." Seriously, a dragon with the two of us? I might have absorbed one soul and it's knowledge, but that doesn't mean I can fight a dragon with massive physical advantages, flight, and millennia of experience, and I don't believe for a second this woman can help me. Is she trying to lure me into a trap or something?

"Fine, if you won't listen to me, nothing I can do about it. But mark my words, these dragons will only get worse. Come find me when you return to your senses." And with that, she stalks off, pulling her hood up after she turns around.

So I've taken leave of my senses? Bitch. Whatever, she's gone. No need to ruin my evening thinking about self-important bretons. I head inside, rejoining the party. Ah, nice open seat there, next to Lydia.

Affection from Delphine reduced by 10 for not listening to her (-10).

Ah, so that was her name. Sounds familiar, but I can't quite put my finger on it.

— A Dragon's Game —

"Hello." I sit down next to Lydia, who startles at my greeting.

"J'samma!" She throws an arm around my shoulder.

I smile at her exuberance, and feel my ears twitch. "Do'samma now." I rub against her arm with the back of my head to take the sting out of my words.

"Changed your name? How's that work?" She hands me a horn of wine, having learned like anyone else what I prefer to drink.

"To make communication easier, Khajiit prefix their names with their status. I just went from 'has something to prove' to 'badass warrior'."

"Well, I approve of that change, then. Badass warrior, saving lives while you're at it."

"I don't think I could have taken Mirmulnir alone. Everyone who went saved lives."

Lydia leans closer and whispers. "But you saved mine. When we got knocked backwards and you healed me, I had a rib through my lungs. I'd have died in minutes if it weren't for your healing." She gives a kiss on my cheek. "So even if we're all heroes, you're my hero."

Oh. I hadn't… realized that. I knew I did something because the reason for her affection increase, but not what it was specifically. "Well, Whiterun would be a poorer place if it had to miss such a ferocious, beautiful warrior like you."

She laughs and burrows closer in my side.

Ah, it's good to party with friends. I put an arm around Lydia's shoulders as well.

She doesn't let go even when my attention is grabbed by Irileth approaching me on the other side, and I turn away from Lydia to respond.

— A Dragon's Game —

As the party is winding down a few hours later, Lydia captures my attention again.

"Do'samma?" she whispers, leaning in again.

"Hm?"

"You know…" She turns red, but despite her pale skin it's hardly visible next to the effects of mead. "I asked Aela if there're any beds in private around here, and she pointed me to one in a room that could be considered yours for tonight…" She drops her arm from my shoulder to my waist, and gently pushes her breasts against me. "Would you like to go check it out together?"

I loosely embrace her in return. "Well, if you ask like that… then who am I to refuse?"

She smiles broadly, and stands up, leaving my embrace, but grabbing my hand. I follow her lead, and she leads us down to the basement under Jorrvaskr, two levels down. She opens a wooden door, pulls me in, and closes it behind us, then popping the latch closed.

I take her other hand in mine as well and hug her against the door. I rub my cheek on hers and gently kiss her neck.

A lot less gently, she turns and kisses me on the lips instead, while her arms go searching for the straps holding my clothes on.

"Careful with my tongue, or I might have to heal you halfway our activities."

She looks confused, but slips her tongue in my mouth, gently touching mine. Then she pulls back slightly. "Yeah, it's a bit rough." Then she smiles impishly. "Good thing that that's not what holds my interest for tonight." One hand strokes down over my belly, until she has in on my crotch. Meanwhile, the other undoes my shirt enough that a single pull leaves my torso bare.

"So eager." I whisper, as I kiss her jaw and neck. My hands undoing her clothes as she did mine.

She starts pushing me towards the bed. "You have no idea. I've been waiting half the evening for this." She pauses. "I even feared you wouldn't want to."

I break our pace and give her a tight hug. "We fought together, bled together… and I liked you even before that. I might not know you as well as I would like to, but I care for you."

Her body relaxes against mine, and when she pulls back just enough to look me in the eye, I see a relieved smile on her face. "Good, because I wouldn't do this for someone I didn't care for either, even if they were dragonborn and just saved my life." She finishes undoing my pants and gives me one last push.

The edge of the bed stops my lower legs, forcing me to sit.

She looks down with a smile and kneels in front of me. Then she grabs the hem of her own shirt and pulls it over her head. She wears some linen wrapped tightly around her chest, but undoes it, revealing a rather nice pair of breasts. Definitely bigger than Senna's, back in the Temple of Dibella. She smirks as she sees what caught my eye.

"Finally, something they're good for. It's uncomfortable for the first ten minutes after putting armor on, how tight I have to bind them." She gives an exaggerated shrug, letting her breasts bounce a bit. "But seeing that smile on your face, it's worth it."

I look up to her face, just in time to see an amused and slightly smug smirk on her face as she leans forwards. I spread my knees farther apart to give her room, and she leans in, grabbing me by the shaft.

She gently kisses the tip of my cock and then starts with a slow licking.

I moan softly, and decide to repay her for her smugness. I cast Enhance Pleasure, and almost immediately see her eyes widen. "I think I might not have mentioned it before, but aside from being Dragonborn, I'm also an Agent of Dibella. And no matter how new I am to this… that has benefits for you."

Enhance Pleasure
For 15 seconds, any skin that touches yours feels pleasure 50 + [Charisma * 1.0] (157) % stronger, and no longer feels minor discomfort.

She lets my cock leave her mouth. "Even more nice surprises. First a dragonborn who saves us all from a dragon, and now a literal agent of Dibella." She takes me in her mouth again, and I can feel her moan around me. She doesn't let it come anywhere near the back of her mouth, though. I guess a woman needs experience for that.

Well, I'll just have to teach her that, then… another time. I reach forwards, and start gently caressing her head, threading through her hair. I give a gentle push towards me, and she happily leans into my hand while continuously sucking me off.

I actually haven't had sex with a woman since Muiri, and that feels like a lifetime ago. And I won't last long like this.

"Almost, Lydia. Almost…"

She nods, but stubbornly keeps me inside her mouth. Her tongue continuously giving featherlight touches over my time while her hand starts pumping my shaft, and within seconds, I pump her mouth full.

I feel a little bit of her teeth while she swallows, but it's nothing compared to the wave of pleasure I feel.

She pulls off and swallows again. "That was a bit more than I thought."

I can't help but grin. "It's been a while, and with a woman as sexy as you…"

She comes closer, and puts a hand on my shoulder, but before she can speak, I interrupt her by picking her up, my hands under her thighs. She squeals, and hugs me in a reflex not to fall, inadvertently pulling my head into her breasts.

I stand up, and turn us around, and then I gently lower her on the bed. I'm actually kind of surprised I'm strong enough for this.

When I look up at her, she tries and fails to scowl. "Well, if you really want to be on top…"

I grin again, but instead of crawling up to line up with her, I crawl down, pulling her pants down as I go. Right before I reach her pussy, I bend down and lick down from her navel with the underside of my tongue.

She grabs me by the head, and tenses a bit, though I know it's more from pleasure than anything else. She relaxes as soon as I reach my goal, and push my tongue inside of her swiftly, bend into a tube so she only feels the outside. I keep Enhance Pleasure on, and she moans when she feels me invade her.

I pull back, and start swiftly and lightly licking her clit, while putting a finger inside, carefully to not let the claw get out.

Less than a minute later, well before I could intensify her treatment, she moans and shudders, her pussy clamping down on my finger as she climaxes.

"That's…. unfair, you're an agent of Dibella."

I lift an eyebrow. "Oh? You're complaining?"

"Fuck no." She bends forwards, grabs me under the arms, and lies backwards, pulling me on top of her. She pulls me tight to her as she aggressively kisses me.

I line up to enter her, but she puts her hand over her pussy.

"Wait… I might be fertile now."

"No worries. As an Agent of Dibella, I'm not unless I specifically choose to be. And right now I'm choosing no."

I see relief and sudden lust in her eyes. She answers, "then fuck me stupid." Both her arms rise up to embrace me, and I thrust deep into her pussy. Her arms immediately tighten around me, pulling my body tight against hers.

I push one arm under her to hug her back and keep my balance, the other threads through her lush black hair. I start thrusting as I look into her eyes, the Enhance Pleasure working overtime judging by her very soft moans. One of her hands goes behind my head, and she pulls it beside her own in an even tighter hug. I nuzzle into her neck, lightly kissing in time with my thrusts.

She bucks her hips back into me. I feel her tight pussy moving around my cock.

I groan as I speed up inside her. Even after the blowjob, I'm still on a short fuse. And Lydia is just so… soft. Her arms relax a bit, shifting to caressing instead of a tight embrace. She strokes my sides… and tries scratching behind my ears.

She laughs lightly as she hears me purr at that, but I don't care. I speed up some more, and her laugh devolves into uncoordinated moans. Moments later, she climaxes again, legs locking behind my hips to keep me deep inside. I hold still, letting her ride it out.

Then I start up again, and she whispers to me.

"That's it. I want you inside me. Give me your seed right there in my pussy."

It's definitely working, and I speed up some more.

"Yeaaaah, like that. Come inside me. Fill me. I want to see it drip out when I finally bother to get up."

I bottom out inside her, and make her wish come through by cumming there.

She moans gently at that. "By Dibella, that feels good."

I pull out, and she pushes me onto my back, before then cuddling into my side. I put my arms around her, basking in the afterglow.

"That was amazing." She whispers softly. One arm sneaks up, and starts gently crawling behind my ears again. I let the purr rumble.

"Yeah, it was." I briefly tighten the hug. "You planning on falling asleep there? Because I know I will…"

She grins as she speaks. "Yup. You get to fuck me right in the cunt, and I get to sleep with you as pillow. That's how the world works."

"You know, I can live with that. Good night." I kiss the top of her head.

"Good night." She kisses my chest. "Now shush. I'm going to sleep."

Eromancy skill increased by 8 (22).

New perk gained: What do women want?
You have a sixth sense that tells you what nearby females really want, and lets you anticipate how they react on certain actions you take. This will never inform you of anything that you would use to negatively affect her.

— A Dragon's Game —

It's not that often that I wake up with a naked, adorable girl sleeping on top of me.

But it's definitely something I'd like to get used to.

Affection from Lydia increased by 20 (80).

And there she goes and wakes up. That's fine, though. First she stiffens for half a second taking in the situation, but then she relaxes just as much as she was relaxed while asleep.

"Morning, Lydia."

She looks up. "Morning, Do'samma. You slept as well as I did?" Right as she finishes talking, half her hair falls in front of her face, and she pulls it behind an hear with a huff.

"Definitely. Best night of sleep in well over a week, maybe more. Add the previous evening, and it's my best night ever."

"Well," she winces slightly, "I'm not up for a repeat. I'm a bit sore. Good sore, though. "

When I prepare myself to heal the soreness, my new perk informs me that she'd rather keep it, because it will remind her of the great time we had tonight. This perk… is going to be very useful. Noticing that she still hasn't gotten up yet, I ask. "You're not getting up, though?"

"Don't wanna. You're comfy. And soft. And warm."

"Needs must, and all that."

She scowls, but gets up. "Yeah, I guess so. Oh, and I forgot to mention it, but the Jarl asked if you could come to Dragonsreach, preferably lunch or sometime after."

"That'll work."

"Great. See you there."

"You on duty there today?"

"Ehm… sort of? You'll see, though." She tries to smile confidently, but it looks a bit vulnerable. "It's a surprise, though. I'm not supposed to tell." And neither does my new sixth sense.

I shrug. "That's okay. See you there, then."

— A Dragon's Game —

When it's about lunchtime, I walk up the stairs to Dragonsreach. I wonder what this is about — I've said everything there is to say about the battle yesterday.

When I enter, I'm invited to join the meal, and I take a seat next to Irileth, since Lydia doesn't have free seats next to her. She's nervous but hides it well, and it has nothing to do with last evening. I decide to put it out of my head, and eat.

After everything is finished, Irileth asks me to follow her to the Jarl's throne. There's a few more people here than I'd have expected. Lydia is to the side. Jarl Balgruuf himself, of course, with his children in good clothes, though slightly bored expressions on their faces. Thane Hrongar, the Jarl's brother. Farengar, the court wizard. Avenicci, of course, the steward.

"Do'samma." The Jarl opens the conversation. "You have done my hold a great service, first warning us of the dragons, finding vital information, and then going far beyond any expectations to fight the dragon that threatened my people." He pauses. "If you would accept it, it would be my honor to have you serve as Thane of Whiterun."

Thane… what did that mean, again? "I am honored, Jarl. But I don't know what duties that would imply, so my acceptance would depend on that."

"Very little actually." I think he's smiling under his beard. "It's more a recognition for what you're already done. But if I have it my way, I'd love to have you around when we encounter more dragons."

"I will attempt to be around for that, anyway. But I accept."

"Then by my right as Jarl, I name you Thane of Whiterun. I offer my niece, Lydia, as your housecarl."

Lydia steps forwards, eyes down a bit. I hadn't even known she was his family… don't look like it, either. Though I can see some common facial structure with Hrongar, who is probably her father in that case.

She looks up at me with a gentle, but nervous, smile. "If you'll have me."

I look her in the eye.

She's hopeful. Slightly nervous that I might turn her down, as she really wants this. That alone would already make me agree, but she's also adventurous, but never really had a chance to leave home for it.

"We've already fought side by side, Lydia. I am honored that you offered to be my housecarl, and I can't think of anyone I'd rather have."

She looks down to hide a tear of happiness, takes a moment, and then makes her oath. "I swear to serve my Thane, Do'samma, faithfully and loyally, to protect him and his with my life, and to have his back whenever he needs me to."

Before anyone else can speak, I respond. "I accept your oath, Lydia." I hold out my hand, and she lets me pull her up.

"Very good." Balgruuf responds as Lydia steps to my right, and half a step behind me.

Exactly mirroring Irileth's position with Balgruuf.

"There is one more matter I want to discuss with you." The jarl continues. "Thanes are supposed to have a house in their holds, but I assume you don't have one?"

"No, my Jarl."

"Then I give you Breezehome. Proventus, register Do'samma as owner. It's a bit on the small side, but it's the biggest currently empty."

Wow, I'm getting an entire house. I'd never have expected that. "It is still very generous."

"And you're still always welcome here at Dragonsreach. I understand you're an adventurer, but Thanes are often considered advisors. If there is ever anything you think I should know, even in the middle of the night, seek me out. And if you're around, I may request your advice, but it will be just that, a request."

"Not one I will refuse without very good reason, Jarl."

"Thank you. Then there is the last matter at hand, your badge of office. I present to you this sword, made by Eorlund Grey-Mane, and enchanted by Farengar Secret-Fire. May it serve you well."


Sword of Whiterun
Your badge of office as Thane of Whiterun

Slash
- Deals 35 slashing damage.
- Strikes your enemy for 235 lightning damage.

Stab
- Deals 52 piercing damage.
- Strikes your enemy for 235 lightning damage.


Lydia the Housecarl

Level: 25

Classes:
- Warrior: 18
- Survivor: 4
- Thief: 3

Skills:
- (Warrior) Shield Proficiency: 60
- (Warrior) Blade Proficiency: 60
- (Warrior) Piercing Proficiency: 60
- (Thief) Archery: 30
- (Survivor) Tracking: 20

Perks:
-
Race: Nord

Attributes (partial):
- Health: 800
- Stamina: 800
- Blade Damage: 120
- Piercing Damage: 120
- Strength: 106
- Health Regeneration: 106
- Bow Range: 90
- Endurance: 80
- Mana: 80

Abilities:
- Punch: Punch someone for 31 damage.
- Slash (from: Steel Sword): Deals 90 slashing damage.
- Stab (from: Steel Sword): Deals 93 piercing damage.
- Bash (from: Whiterun Guard Shield): Bashes your enemy for 41 blunt damage.

Titles
Thief, Warrior, Survivor, Housecarl


A/N: So... it's been a while, and now a lot at once. I've now updated this to where I am on Spacebattles and Questionable Questing. I generally post in smaller updates there, so even in the future, FFnet will have to wait for the full chapters before I update.

If you want to talk, then Questionable Question currently has the most discussion, but it requires an account to access the NSFW section where I have this fic. If you don't want to go there, the Discord is also available, since this fic has a dedicated channel on Shiro's Gamer Omniverse: (slash) CWPSc2G9Wj