AWAKENING

It is said that some of the darkest evil lives in plain sight.

That in every village and city there is a dark presence lurking in the shadows, or right in plain view of innocent people waiting for the opportunity to pounce on any unsuspecting victim passing by.

Fortunately there are those who are willing to take on the responsibility of protecting those who are unable to protect themselves...so long as people are willing to cooperate.


ON SACRED GROUND

In the northeast region of Skyrim, just beneath the shrine of Mehrunes Dagon-daedric prince of destruction, change, revolution and ambition-lies a hidden cave known as Dimhollow Crypt.

Standing outside are four men armed and prepared to charge inside, fueled with the devoted desire to eradicate an unknown evil that dwells within the cave.

All of them go inside, swords in their hands and their lord Stendarr guiding them to glory, whether it be in victory or their own demise, convinced there was something dark hidden within the inner dwellings of the cave.

While they fight the good fight at Dimhollow, their comrades back at the hall of the vigilant unknowingly were surrounded by the vampire scourge who had tracked their hidden fortress just outside of the pale.

Carcette-one of the keepers of the hall-sat with her comrades as they enjoyed a meal, talking amongst themselves over the events of the day.

"You should have seen him, damned blood sucker ran with his tail between his legs!"

"That's nothing! I found a falmer lurking in the woods outside of Morthal just a week ago. The bastard had been feeding on innocent passersby dragging their remains in a ditch near the road."

"A falmer? I highly doubt that Rami. You drink too much!"

"You calling me a liar?"

"Yeah, I am! Falmer don't travel alone! They live deep within the Dwemer ruins in the mountains. Why would a falmer be by itself in Morthal, in the woods no less?" Chastized Rami's comrade.

"Watch it orc!" Rami warned.

"Or else what, human! You'd be dead before you lift a finger!"

"That's enough Gorbash!" Yelled Carcette.

"Both of you, shut up and sit down to eat!"

"Wait...Do you smell that?" Rami asked.

"I don't smell anything." Carcette replied.

"Must be drinking again." Gorbash said making fun of Rami.

"Shut up! I do smell something!"

"Wait, I smell it too!" Carcette replied.

Everyone fell silent, her nose raised to the ceiling as she began to identify the smell.

"Is that smoke?" Rami said.

The next thing they knew, a rock was thrown through the window, and bottles that we set ablaze were thrown behind the rocks setting the hall on fire!

In seconds the whole place was covered in flames causing everyone to flee for their safety. Little did they realize they were running right into a trap as they were met outside by a large group of vampires who were waiting for them.

Carcette froze in front of one of them who suddenly appeared before her seemingly out of thin air.

He was tall, bearing a menacing grin on his face as he got closer to her, staring into her eyes.

She looked around and saw all of her friends held captive by the other vampires standing around. Not even Gorbash was strong enough to break free from their grasp!

He started working himself up to summon his beserker rage but stopped when Carcette asked him to. She knew there was no way out if they fought them. They were horribly outnumbered.

"What's your price vampire? Name it and you can walk free." She said.

"You mortals never cease to amaze me! Always bargaining with your lives as if they are meaningful."

"Everyone has a price. Surely even you have one!"

"That's just the thing lass...You're it!"

His comrades laughed at her expense, but Carcette remained calm.

"Your business is with me? I don't think so!" She said.

"Our business, is with all of you! It seems that a few of your little minions don't know how to mind their business. Sticking their nose where it does not belong. No matter. Before nightfall we shall deal with them, same as we are about to deal with you."

"Your best bet is to leave here while you still can! I don't care much for your kind being here, I would rather spare the lives of my people and prevent any bloodshed."

"Heh, you still think you have a choice? Perhaps I have not made myself clear."

Without any warning he grabbed her by the throat, squeezing it tightly to stop her from breathing. She struggled while in his grasp, scratching and grabbing at his hand trying to pry his hands from her throat but to no avail.

Her eyes starting to protrude out of her skull, face turning blue from lack of oxygen. She gasped violently trying to breathe all the while the vampire looked up at her with a great smile upon his face!

Gorbash, Rami, and the others shouted out to her, demanding the vampire release her but he ignored their cries.

All the while the hall continued to burn behind them, the flames getting greater and greater burning brighter.

He continued smiling at her, reveling in her inevitable demise.

"Look!...bear witness to all that is before you. All that once stood now burns to the ground and every one of you will die. You, and all your friends will burn along with your hall, until you are no more than mere ashes!"

"Let...me...go!"

"Heh-heh, heh! Kill them!"

All of them, one after the other took each mortal within their hand and plunged their fangs deep within the necks of each member of the vigil, drinking them until their bodies were completely drained of their blood.

The sounds of their screams and struggles increased as each man and woman were mercilessly killed by every vampire there! Carcette was helpless as she watched her friends die in front of her. She, would be the last to die as the vampire holding her would snap her neck in half with one hand, and with the other, ripping her head from her shoulders, and throwing her body across the ground like trash.

Further reveling in the victory of the vigil's defeat, he licked Carcette's blood from his fingers, exhaling sharply with content at the essence of her blood on his tongue. His partner came up behind him to embrace him, sticking her tongue in his mouth to share Carcette's blood between them. Both of them moaned with pleasure as they shared a blood kiss, dancing on the bodies of their victims as the flames destroyed the hall that once stood proud as a symbol to Stendarr's glory. Now, was nothing more than a pile of ashes.


It was several hours later by the time anyone would appear anywhere near the hall again. One man came up on horseback, and as he arrived he saw the carnage of dead men and women laid out on the cold ground. Their bodies covered in ash and snow. Their blood splattered everywhere, it was a massacre!

He looked on seeing what was left of the hall. All but sticks and burned rocks were left. Everywhere he looked there was nothing but death surrounding this place. He dismounted his horse and fell to his knees crying out to the heavens for the God's mercy.

Tears poured from his eyes, completely remorseful and ashamed for having not been there to fight. He blamed himself for not being there when his friends needed him most.

Then he noticed laid in front of him was Carcette's head. Her eyes had rolled inside of her skull, her mouth agape. He cried louder holding what was left of her in his hands. And at the very moment he vowed to Stendarr that he would not rest, nor enter paradise until his disciples were avenged.

He spent the next several hours burying his friends in a shallow grave on the grounds near the hall. He stood over the mass grave and prayed an incantation spell over them to protect them from anyone who might disturb their final resting place, making these grounds hallowed.

"No evil shall walk these grounds. Should they try, may your holy light burn them and send their wretched souls to oblivion from whence they came!"

There could be no time to grieve. No time to cry. He left the past behind him and rode forth to avenge his brothers and sisters.


It was not for long before word spread of the massacre of the great hall of the vigil of Stendarr.

People from all over, even the undead knew of the horrors of that place.

As the months went on, more and more vampires were seen attacking people with no respect for any authority or autonomy.

Traditionally vampires kept to themselves, hunting in secret yet hiding in plain sight.

Now that the hall of the vigil was destroyed as were Stendarr's people, it seemed there was no one to protect the innocent people of Skyrim...or so they thought.

Though the vigil was no more, it seemed there were still some who answered the call of the people.

The fight began in the small village of Ivarstead. Six vampires showed up out of nowhere and started attacking the villagers.

Already they killed five, and were torturing the others. The guards could not handle them, as they were slaughtered like sheep.

The sounds of their cries and screams carried in the air as the vampires mercilessly fed on their victims.

In the middle of the carnage, an unknown hero arrived. And he alone attacked the vampires head on beating them one by one until each and every one of them were gone!

When it was over, all that was left were the ashy remains of the vampires that once harrassed the village.

Though there were some casualties, there were still some who had lived.

Klimmek was one of the survivors. He was badly injured having been thrown across the field into the old nordic tomb in the center of the village.

He staggered to his feet as the unknown warrior helped him up. He was surprised to see that it was an orc of all things.

"You alright?" The orc asked.

"You showed up in the nick of time! Those vampires came out of nowhere and attacked my people. Jorthor and Barknar tried to help the guards fend them off but...as you can see-"

"It's no surprise they were killed. The vampires that attacked your people are not normal vampires." The orc explained.

"You mean there are more of them out there? By Ysmir's beard!"

"Here, take this." He said.

He handed Klimmek an enchanted dagger that glowed red as he held it in his hands.

"This dagger is blessed with fire. Keep it with you if you value your life."

"who are you?" Klimmek asked him.

The orc turned to him, smiled and said "If you wanna know more about who we are you should join us at Dayspring Canyon."

"Wait! I know that place. I've heard of you! You're with the Dawnguard!" He exclaimed.

He started walking away heading up the road towards Windhelm. Klimmek stood silent still trying to grasp what had just happened, thankful the God's were merciful enough to send them help in their time of need.


Word had spread in little to no time of what happened to Stendarr's temple and his disciples.

Ever since, vampires had been running wild across Skyrim. Making it even more difficult for people like the Dawngaurd to keep up with the carnage that was spreading like wildfire in places as common as Ivarstead.

"What is it you want orc? I'm a busy man."

Durak-an orc who was with the Dawngaurd-came to the city of the kings to warn Jarl Ulfric of a possible intruder in his city.

He was certain a vampire was hiding as a visitor and needed permission to do an investigation to deal with the vampire peacefully, and without there being any disturbance from his people.

"I'm sure you have heard of us." Durak said.

"Sure, the crazed vampire hunters in Riften. Ha, ha, ha, ha!"

Galmar found it hilarious that an orc of all people would fight along side nords, and to kill vampires no less.

"Now Galmar, surely this...orc has a valid reason to suspect that such a thing would be in Windhelm. I mean, it's not as if we don't have trained warriors right here in the heart of Eastmarch that can handle an enemy."

"I'm going to ignore the remarks and get right to the point of why I'm here. The man you invited here, a Vigori Lomus..."

"What about him?" Asked Ulfric.

"He's not the man you think he is. In fact he's not a man at all!"

Durak pulled out a sketching he had in his back pocket and handed it to Ulfric for him to examine it.

The sketching depicted a dark elf with long hair and distinct features around his eyes and jawline.

Ulfric thought it was a fake at first until he saw the date at the bottom of the drawing. He was in disbelief when he noticed it!

"Galmar, take a look at this." He said passing the paper to him.

"By Talos...this drawing was done in 300 2E?"

"It can't be!" Ulfric protested.

"It's true." Durak Confirmed. "Vigori has been on our radar for quite some time. He owns land in Morthal and has a trading business with the East Empire trading Company. His ships travel back and forth between here and Cyrodil but we believe he is planning to permanently remain here in Skyrim. My sources tracked him here. No surprise he's come here to meet with you. If you don't mind me asking, what does he want from you?"

"I'm sure it's to secure his residence here in Skyrim." Ulfric said.

"Since the civil war ended, Ulfric has been in a position to take the ruby throne as high king. The moot have been petitioned to travel here within the next few months and name the new high king. I am certain this Vigori is trying to get in good with us to maintain his business here."

"You say his name as if you did not know it. Was he going by another name perhaps?" Asked Durak.

"Aye! He calls himself Härjaren." Said Galmar.

"Where is he?" Durak asked.

"We had a meeting earlier this afternoon." Said Ulfric. "Came here with a companion of his, some elven woman. They left soon after, having taken my offer to walk the grounds."

"With your permission I need to find them." Urged Durak.

"Very well. But do it peacefully. I don't want my people to know they were here." Instructed Ulfric.

"You have my word." Durak replied.

He left soon after and began his search in the grey quarter of the city. Dark elves were known to inhabit that part of the city, living separately from the nords whom they often collided with.

However the issue with Durak's investigation was that it was in the middle of the night. With it being completely dark outside Durak was out of his element. He would have to tread lightly, relying on the senses he has if he were to find Vigori and his companion.

Fortunately, orcs have a keen sense of smell, and incredible hearing. As he reached the center of the quarter he noticed the dead silence. He stood still closing in on his surroundings.

He could feel the cold air resting on the surface of his skin, the snowflakes falling down the from the sky melting as they hit the ground. He slowed his breathing down to calm his heart beat as it was beating fast from the anticipation of the hunt.

Lurking in the shadows was Vigori's companion who had been watching Durak the whole time he was standing there.

She came out from behind him standing several feet away from him as she began chastising the orc for following her.

"How nice is it that the jarl of Windhelm would be so gracious as to send a welcoming party to us! Your blood will be most delicious once I drain it from your pitiful corpse!"

"Kitala, I should stake you where you stand!"

As she stood before him, her mouth opened wide hissing and bearing her fangs a the orc. Meanwhile he did not hesitate to brandish his weapon, a crossbow armed with silver tipped bolts blessed with the power of the sun.

"And just what do you think you are going to do with that little thing!"

"Stand still long enough and you'll find out." Durak replied.

"I grow tired of you already! Time to die!"

She cloaked herself with an invisibility spell disappearing before him. Durak was on high alert but if he was not careful she could attack him from behind and kill him in seconds!

So far he could not see or hear her. Vampires are very light on their feet, so they are even harder to detect.

"Mmm...I can hear your heart beating orc. So, sweet!"

"Be a whole lot sweeter once you show your face!"

Because of where they were, her voice reverberated, bouncing off the walls of the quarter which made it difficult for Durak to track where she was.

While he was busy looking in one direction Kitala stood atop the roof of one of houses taking her chance at attacking Durak while he was distracted.

As she got into position, jumping from the roof, she was just seconds from getting him when something grabbed her in mid air and tackled her to the ground!

Of course she was taken by surprise, and now her position was exposed by Durak. This only pissed her off even more, but not as much as when she saw who was responsible for interfering in her kill.

Of all the enemies she could have faced, this would be her biggest!

Standing before her at nearly eight feet tall, massive fangs and claws, was none other than a werewolf!

Vampires and werewolves were sworn enemies, and for her to find out one was there, she was not happy!

"I'm gonna skin you alive and wear your fur like a coat when I get through with you dog!"

No matter her threats the werewolf came after her sprinting towards her and before she had a chance to react he jumped on top of her clawing and biting at her, tearing at her flesh!

Kitala tried to fight it off but they were matched in strength. He had somehow over powered her forcing her onto her back and when she tried to bite him moving in the wrong direction which left herself wide open, the werewolf had a shot at tearing at her throat to which he wasted no time!

She screamed out loud calling for Vigori's help but he did not answer her.

Durak readied his crossbow and aimed it at Kitala's head. Soon as he had the opportunity he took the shot and impaled her with a steel bolt killing her instantly!

When the fight was over her body dissolved into a pile of ashes. Now he had the dog to deal with but where he messed up was allowing himself to get distracted. He forgot to reload his weapon, and now the attention was on him as the werewolf started walking towards him growling at him as he got closer.

Durak was unfocused, struggling to load his weapon, dropping a few of them on the ground. When he went to bend down and pick them up he didn't realize that the werewolf was already in front of him startling him as it grabbed his forearm.

Durak didn't know what to expect, but he was certain his life was forfeit.

To his surprise, what once stood as a massive dog, quickly transformed into a man that now stood naked in front of him.

"Relax orc. I mean you no harm." He said.

"What in the name of Ysgramor are you?!" Durak exclaimed.

"It's complicated. Perhaps we should not be standing out here. My home is on the other end of the quarter. We can speak there."

"Can't. Looking for someone." He said.

"I can assure you whoever you're looking for is dead."

"I doubt it. You only killed one of them. There's another one still here."

"I am aware there were two vampires here. I already killed the male. The female got away from me after feeding on one of the Argonians out on the docks. It's why I came over here."

"Explains alot!" He said.

"Name's Mikel Bjorn. Come, we can speak at my home and get ourselves a drink."

"Heh, yeah, and maybe get some clothes on too eh?"


"I am surprised to find the dragonborn residing in the city of the kings. Rumor has it you left Skyrim and went on to Solstheim."

"I did. Stayed there for over a year." He said.

"Why come back then if it was going good for you?"

"Let's just say it was...complicated."

"Hmph, you use that word quite a bit." Durak commented.

Mikel then explained he returned to Skyrim a month ago and that when he arrived he had noticed a change within Windhelm. Ulfric had been aware of there being a situation the whole time and had asked Mikel to look into it.

"Apparently people started coming up missing again, and because of it people were getting scared. The guards were getting restless. Next thing I know your friend shows up a few days before you got here. Could smell him a mile away."

"If you were here, why would he have me go after them?"

"Hard to say why Ulfric does what he does."

"Maybe the moot has something to do with it. He mentioned they were coming."

"Either way, the issue is resolved."

"Not quite." Durak said.

"What do you mean?"

Durak then pointed out the vampiric armor Mikel had sitting on the table across the room. On it there was a gold pendant on it resembling an ancient symbol. At first glance Mikel did not recognize it until Durak explained what it meant.

"Vigori is an old vampire. His reign dates back to the second era at the height of Cyrodilic rule."

"What's this symbol mean? Can't be connected to a common vampire." Mikel said.

"You're right, it's not. It belongs to an ancient order of vampires that are even older than Vigori himself. This pendant he got, it means he's a high level vampire, but it also means he answers to someone even higher than him. Trouble is, we could never figure out who he belongs to. Every time we got somewhere, something always was one step ahead of us. Then a week ago the hall of the vigil got attacked. Vampires surrounded the place and set it on fire. Killed everyone inside."

"Seems like the vampires are getting to be a bit too much for the Dawnguard." Mikel said.

"Perhaps. We try to recruit people as much as we can, but some people don't want to take us seriously. When you tell people about vampires, they act as if it's not possible. Even Ulfric didn't believe me at first until I showed him proof."

"Then perhaps I can be of some assistance to your organization. If you'll have me that is."

"Of course! The more help the better."

He then reached into his pocket and handed Mikel a map showing the Dawnguard's location.

"If you're serious about joining us you can find us west of Riften at Dayspring Canyon. Speak to Isran when you get there. He's the leader of our order."

"Very well. I shall leave in the morning. In the meantime you are welcome to stay the night and get some rest."

"Thanks for the offer, but I am afraid I have to get going."

"Heh, yeah. I understand. Be safe out there." He said shaking his hand.

"You too...Dovahkiin."

Dovahkiin...it had been quite some time since Mikel had heard someone call him that. Hearing Durak say that to him reminded him of a time he thought he had long put behind him.


The next morning as Mikel emerged from his home he was met outside by Ulfric and his guards.

"Jarl Ulfric!" He exclaimed sarcastically. "What a surprise your being here. So nice you could make time in your busy schedule for us lesser beings."

"Come now Bjorn, you know things have changed since the war." Ulfric explained.

"Ah yes, you're in the running to become the new high king after all. Wouldn't want anything getting in the way of that now would we?"

"I should stake your tongue right where you stand dragonborn!" Shouted Galmar.

"Stand down Galmar. He meant no harm I'm sure." Said Ulfric.

He looked to him waiting for Mikel to agree. To his own dismay Mikel remained silent.

"What do you want Ulfric. I have somewhere to be." He said to the jarl.

"I know you're leaving for Fort Dawnguard. I just wanted to offer my advice before you left."

"Save it." He replied walking away from him.

Ulfric followed behind in an attempt to try and finish what he wanted to say despite Mikel's protest.

It was obvious there was tension between them though Ulfric was unaware of what he could have possibly done.

"I have heard a great deal about these folks. They're supposedly lead by a fanatic named Isran. I am told he is quite unstable. So much so that it lead to his expulsion from the hall of the vigil many years ago."

"Sounds like we'll get along just fine then seeing as how we have something in common."

"Just what might that be?" Ulfric asked.

"We both are misunderstood by a prick in a position of power."

"Damn it Mikel, that's enough!" Ulfric shouted in frustration.

His voice carried through the corridors of the alley ways drawing attention by people passing by, which made him quickly calm down enough to address Mikel without causing anymore of a scene.

"What is the matter with you? What have I done that vexes you so?" He asked Mikel.

"Tell me something Ulfric, at what cost are you willing to lose everything in order to obtain the throne in Solitude? Have you forgotten us already?"

"Forgotten who?!"

"The men who gave their lives in order to protect yours! Sudjin, Kelheim, Bolvin...Ralof! We were your friends, we supported you as well as the cause. Were it not for what we did you would not be alive to have a chance at the ruby throne, and yet you stand here and act as if you haven't a clue of what you've done!"

"I see what this is about. This is about me not coming to their funeral."

"Damn right it is, where were you?"

"You don't get it, I had no choice!"

"Oh bullshit!" Mikel argued.

"Fuck you!" Ulfric shouted in kind back to the dragonborn. "Do you think this war would not come with a cost? Many of those men who died knew the price of their lives in order to uphold the cause. Men like Bolvin and Sudjin, even Ralof! You were not there to clean up the province when everything ended. I had to be the one to answer for that! Don't you think I would have been there if I could?"

A compelling argument to justify his absence...except for one thing which Ulfric did not anticipate Mikel knowing.

Unbeknownst to the jarl, Mikel had learned that a month after the war ended Ulfric had begun his conquest in Solitude having secretly married Elisif, as well as consummating the marriage giving her a child. Even as they stood in Windhelm talking, Elisif still carried his child-the potential heir to the seat of power!

"Did you think I would not know?" He said to Ulfric.

"How did you know that?" He asked.

"I saw Elisif a few weeks ago before coming here. I could hear the baby growing inside of her even as she spoke to me. She tried to hide it from everyone else but I knew. Congratulations Ulfric, it's a boy!" He said.

At that point there was nothing left to be said, and Mikel headed towards the front gate. Ulfric was understandably shocked upon hearing the news that he was indeed having a son. Yet he still was compelled to ask Mikel more about his reasons for returning to Windhelm if not to help him with the vampire crisis.

"I only had Durak handle the issue thinking it would help you. I didn't want you hurt."

"Let's get one thing clear Ulfric. I came back out of respect for the people I vowed to protect, and to pay my respects to my brothers and their families. Nothing more!"

"Fine then! Leave, and do not come back here! As far as I am concerned, our business is through."

"Good!" Mikel replied.

Mikel left shortly after the exchange of words. Ulfric stood there, still watching as his long time friend left his sight never to return again.

Galmar joined Ulfric, reveling in the fact that the dragonborn was gone, expressing how toxic his presence was. Galmar didn't necessarily like Mikel anyway, always expressing his reservations for the dragonborn as him being a means to an end for the cause.

Ulfric never shared the same feelings as Galmar, but with the outcome of the war this now changed their relationship forever. He would have no choice but to accept it and move forward, and in secret pray to the God's that they keep him safe always.


Eventually Mikel joined Durak at the stables to journey forth for Riften.

It would take them a total of two days to get there, provided the weather be fair.

Skyrim is known for having unpredictable weather especially in Eastmarch where it was the coldest.

"Surprised you're still here!" Mikel said, remembering Durak was supposed to have left in the night.

"Thought I'd stay the night. Met a pretty elven girl with the body of Dibella!"

"ah yes, dark elves have an insatiable appetite! Glad you had a good time then." Mikel said.

"Shall we get going?" Asked Durak.

"We should take the pathway through the mountains. I know a short cut that will grant us safe passage." Mikel advised.

"I know where I am going. I don't need your help getting back home." Durak replied rudely.

"Suit yourself. I guess I shall meet you there." Mikel said riding past him.

Just that quick Durak changed his mind having decided it was best they not travel alone.

"Scared of the dark orismer?" Mikel teased.

"Why do you call me that? I told you my name."

"Out of respect." Mikel said.

"I am more than my heritage. Long before I joined up with the Dawnguard, I was cheifden to my people! I had five wives and many children!" Durak boasted.

"And where are they now, cheifden?"

"...Dead." He replied plainly, riding past Mikel in silence.

"Damn it Mikel, when will you learn to keep your big mouth shut!" He said to himself.

"My apologies Durak. I meant no harm."

"None taken. How could you know my past without me telling you?"

"Fair enough. So tell me more about this Isran. What is he like?"

"Isran is not someone to easily describe. He's a hard man to deal with, but he shares the same passion for killing vampires as we do. If you're anything like him, you'll get along famously. My only advice when you meet him, try not to say anything to piss him off. He has sort of a...temper!"

"How bad are we talkin'?" Mikel asked.

"I'll put it to you this way. We had a new recruit come in thinking he was hot shit and got smart with the old man. That kid got beat so bad that his face looked like the bottom of a trolls foot. Hardly had anything to bury when it was over!"

"So your boss is a psychopath. How wonderful!" He exclaimed sarcastically.

"I'm serious. Isran is a good man, but he has a bit of a dark side. So if you're smart you'd do well not to anger him."

"I'm not afraid of any man. I've fought all manner of evil and lived. Isran is no different. But I shall heed your warning...for now."

"Good! Hope you make it!" Durak replied playfully.

From that moment on, and to the days that would follow, Mikel and Durak managed to get along well and reached their destination safely.

Upon arrival Mikel was lead through a hidden entrance along side the mountains just west of the rift to a place called Dayspring Canyon. There, above a great hill stood a massive fortress known as Fort Dawngaurd.

At first glance the building was an incredible site. But as Mikel looked around he could see many flaws, starting with the security of the place as he noticed there was no one there to keep watch.

"Where is everyone?" He asked Durak.

"It's not alot of us I am afraid. Not many people are willing to join our cause. Not many people see the truth outside these walls."

"If there were walls anyway." Mikel commented to himself.

He followed behind Durak along a pathway taking them to the front of the building. So far the place was teaming with deer, and there was no gates to secure the entrance nor watchers to ensure no enemies could get inside. When he walked into the fortress the entry way-including everywhere else-was covered with thick layers of dust and cob webs. Trash and broken glass, scattered about the floors. No sign of life seen anywhere! Mikel began to have doubts about coming.

Durak brought Mikel to the foyer and had him stand and wait for Isran to come down to get a look at him.

He had no idea what to expect, but was on alert none the less in case things got shady.

"So...you're the newbie eh?" A voice spoke in the distance.

Mikel looked around trying to penpoint the location of his converser, but with the high walls and ceilings the voice reverberated everywhere.

"Isran I assume?" He said.

"Aye!...and who might you be?"

"Depends. I don't talk to shadows."

"From where I'm standing, you're not in any position to make demands...dragonborn."

"So you know my reputation then?"

"Aye.."

"Then show yourself, and perhaps we can talk man to man."

"Not until I know you're not a threat to my men."

"Fair enough. What do you want of me?" He asked.

"An answer to just one question."

"Go ahead then." He replied.

"How long has it been since you fed?" Isran asked.

"Excuse me?"

"I know what you are. Aside from being dragonborn, you harbor an even darker secret. The curse of Hircine thrives within you. Yes...I know it well. My ears go beyond the grounds of Riften. Many claim you are not a mere man! And I know what the curse can do to those who wield it. The first taste of human flesh, it can drive a man to insanity!"

"Insanity being the operative word given the man talking to me from behind a wall."

"Answer the question, or I will shoot you where you stand!" Isran demanded.

This must be that unpredictable temper Durak warned me about he thought to himself.

"I am Mikel Bjorn of Kynesgrove. My father is Ivan Bjorn, and my mother-Gida Bjorn of Ivarstead. I am kin to Ysgramor himself and am dragonborn. My ties to Hircine are not aligned with those who fell prey to the thirst."

"So you can control your powers then?" Isran asked.

"Aye. Your comrade can attest to that." He replied.

"And which one might that be?"

"The one you call Durak. The orc!" Mikel replied. "He has seen my true form unharmed. I saved him from the vampire that attacked us in Windhelm. Is that good enough for you?"

Isran did not answer Mikel right away. His silence was noticeable leaving Mikel in a state of question as he awaited what was to come next.

Eventually Isran appeared before him, and as he stood several feet away from Mikel there was beam of light surrounding him. Almost as if he was the sun itself.

"Gotta admit, I was expecting you to be much bigger than you are." Isran said.

"Likewise. You're quite small to have such a big voice commanding that much attention to yourself." Mikel asked.

"Hmph! I have something I want you to help us with. If your reputation is what I know it to be, you might be able to help resolve an issue we are running into."

"And just what might that be?" Mikel asked.

Isran then had Mikel follow him to his private quarters. There sat Tolan from the hall of the vigil. He had arrived just a few days before Mikel and Durak came, and presented some troubling news about the vampire crisis.

"Mikel Bjorn, meet Tolan." Introduced Isran.

"Nice to meet you." Mikel replied extending his hand to Tolan. But of course Tolan did not acknowledge his greeting.

"Tolan is one of the founding members of Stendarr's order. We have...a history so to speak." Explained Isran.

"So Isran thinks you're the man to help me with our little problem eh?"

"Depends on what you would define as little." Replied Mikel.

"My colleagues and I ran into an issue with the vampires. We were investigating some of the activity coming from Dimhollow Crypt when a large group of them attacked the hall while some of us were away. Killed everyone there and burned the hall the ground."

"Sorry for your loss. Did you at least find anything at Dimhollow?" Mikel asked.

"No. We couldn't even get near the entrance without being spotted. There were four of us who went. I was the only one to get out alive. Was even worse when I came back home and saw...you know."

Tolan explained everything about the research he and the other vigils were working on. Apparently the activity outside of Morthal had increased within the last year as more people were coming up missing. It started with a fire in the village. A little girl and her mother had burned to death and the father was suspected of being responsible as a few days after his family's passing he had already found comfort in a new relationship with a woman named Alva.

"I went to Morthal at the call of one of the nobles who lived within the village, who was desperate to put to rest the tension between Hroggar and the others. It seemed that though he was tried by the jarl and found innocent, it didn't sit well with the others. Eventually it came out that Alva was a vampire, and so was his wife."

"And just how did you find that out?" Mikel asked.

"Well, finding a dead woman emerge from beneath the ground is a clear sign she's not exactly dead don't you think?"

"Fair enough."

It became mildly evident to Isran that Mikel had very little experience with vampires. As they both continued listening to Tolan's story of how he uncovered the root to Morthal's issues, he eventually revealed another truth that also lead him and his men to believe that there was something bigger happening. That the vampires might be trying to get to something. But what could it be was the question at hand.

"We tracked Alva down to a cave just a few miles outside of the village. The master vampire she served and who also sired her was none other than Movarth himself."

"By Ysmir, he's still alive?" Questioned Isran.

"Aye, or at least he was before we dealt with him. Cleared out the cave, burned the bodies, and we thought that was the end of it. Didn't realize that all we had done was uncover something the vampires didn't want us finding."

"So are you going to tell us what it is, or just keep us in suspense?" Asked Mikel.

"Hey, be respectful!" Commanded Isran.

"It's alright Isran. I know the lad means well." Tolan replied.

He then explained that while in Movarth's lair one of his men found a letter in a hidden chest. It was instructions sent to Movarth to rally his men and anyone he could find, and send them to Dimhollow but did not specify exactly why. The letter was very vague and at the bottom it was initialed 'H' to conceal the identity of the sender.

"My guess, Movarth knew more than the letter described. It's possible whoever this 'H' was, might have had other dealings with Movarth than we know. Fortunately Morthal is safe from his men. But I fear that once word spreads of his demise, that other master vampires might come looking putting Morthal in even greater danger."

"So I assume you want me to go to Dimhollow then. I'm on it!"

"Good! You can take Durak with you." Isran said.

"I'm afraid that is out of the question Isran." Added Tolan. "I came to you to tell you what happened so you would be prepared. Not for you to get involved!"

"It's out of your hands old man. Now stand aside and let us do what we do best."

"You think you're the authority in this? Or rather you would rather revel in the fact that our demise only proved you right all along when you left all those years ago!"

Mikel saw the tension between the two of them and decided to take his leave heading downstairs. Meanwhile Isran and Tolan continued their discussion in private, arguing over the next steps in the investigation. Tolan clearly was not winning in this argument.

"Let's make one thing clear, I did tell you this would happen! You all thought me to be crazy. That I was too extreme and harsh. But I knew more than all you and warned you years ago that your naievity would get the better of you! And now look where we are. Everyone is dead!"

"So you blame me is that it? Here, I'll say it for you. It's my fault! Is that better? Does that lift the weighted pain that bares on your chest night after night? That fuels this arrogant attitude of self righteousnous you exude to everyone around you? At what cost will it take before you finally get some sense about yourself and stop pushing people away Isran? Galmar, Sorine...Carcette."

"I get it!...I get it Tolan. You needn't say more, I...apologize, ya know."

"Isran, you are a good man, but you are not the only one who carry's the burden of the world on your shoulders! All of us came together to fight for our people, and though we knew the cost we accepted it willingly because we knew the good it could do."

"Yeah. Well then, are you still going back to Dimhollow?"

"I have to." Tolan replied, reminding Isran of the vow he made to Stendarr the day he buried their friends.

"Very well. Stendarr be with you." He said placing a gentle hand on his friend's shoulder.

"And with you brother." Tolan replied in kind.

Whether he knew it or not, Isran would lay eyes on his friend for the last time. The image of Tolan walking out the door remained in his mind as his worry that he would perish at the hands of the vampires weighed on his spirit. He prayed to the God's for mercy for his friend, though he secretly feared they would not give it to him.


Downstairs, Mikel seemed to be making friends. Durak introduced him to some of the other members who were sitting in the dining hall.

Celan was the first to greet Mikel, seemingly impressed by the dragonborn's appearance having met him for the first time, and knowing his reputation of the so called hero of Skyrim.

"I have followed your work. I must say it's quite extensive!" Commented Celan.

"Thanks!...I guess." Mikel replied.

"Let me show you around." He said. "Of course you've met Durak, the old brute, heh! Over here is Ingjard. To the left is Mogrul-another pain in the ass like Durak."

"Watch it human!" Warned Durak.

"Over there sitting in the corner is Ollrod, Tilde, and Vori, and this lad here is a newbie like you!"

The young boy stood up upon meeting the dragonborn. Mikel was not surprised to know the young man was familiar with who he was as many nords knew of him.

He smiled so hard Mikel thought the boy's face would fall off! Damn near falling out of his chair as he got up to shake his hand.

"What's your name kid?" Mikel asked.

"Agmaer, sir." He replied.

"Nice to meet you kid."

"So you're joining us too?" He asked.

"Aye." Mikel replied.

"Awesome! I-I mean, welcome aboard, s-sir."

"Heh relax kid I'm no one to take seriously. As far as I am concerned we are all one in the same."

"Wow...so humble! I'm honored to have known you sir!"

"Call me Mikel." He said extending a hand to him.

"Alright then...Mikel!" He replied chuckling excitedly.

"Well then, now that we have gotten that out of the way, let me show you where you'll be sleeping." Said Celan.


"We took the place back after the necromancers got ahold of the place. Sick bastards were performing rituals left and right and left behind a powerful stench within the place." Explained Celan.

"I noticed it was a little worse for ware. How long have you all been here?" Mikel asked.

"Not long. We came in a few months ago, haven't really had much help in volunteers. So far the people you see are all we've got. But now that you're here, pretty sure more people will start to take us seriously."

"I don't think I understand what you mean." Mikel said.

"Well...you know...you're the dragonborn! Heh, you saw how the kid reacted to you. If people knew you were here they'd join us! By ourselves...Mhmn-mhnm."

"I see.."

"Come, let me show you the sleeping quarters. It's just around the bend here." Celan said.

The sleeping quarters consisted of an open space with sleeping cots and dividers placed about the room.

The room itself was not very big, just big enough for the amount of people that were there.

In the center was a large fireplace to keep everyone warm.

"When you get tired, just pick a cot and get some sleep." Celan said.

"Heh, reminds me of my time with the Companions." Mikel said.

"You worked with the Companions? As in Whiterun?"

"I was a Companion. Harbinger to be exact." He replied.

"Wow! What an honor that must have been. Why'd you leave?"

"...It's, complicated." Mikel reluctantly replied.

"Ah, well then, better get going. Come I'll hand you your gear."

"That won't be necessary. I have my own armor and weapons. Crafted them myself." Mikel said.

"Ha, ha, ha! You're joking right?"

Mikel replied in silence not even flinching to let Celan know just how serious he was.

"Liaten, I get it. You're used to doing things a certain way. But here you're going to have to follow the way we do things."

"And I suppose that means wearing dark heavy armor that only weighs you down in a fight against the undead?"

"Exactly!" Celan exclaimed. "Here. put it on, keep it on unless you're bathing, and try to get along with the rest of the guys will ya."

None of this made any sense to Mikel. In fact he thought it to be a waste of time even entertaining any of this!

Isran was one thing, but to have to abide by these silly restrictions was becoming a bit much for him.

Still, if he was to be of any assistance to the people he served, he would have to swallow his pride, and take it all in.

"You're next assignment is Dimhollow. Isran left strict instructions for you to investigate the ruins only no fighting! Just go there, get the intel you need, and come back safe. Agmaer will go with you. Boy needs something to do."

"I'd rather go by myself. The boy is new, plus I work better alone." Mikel said.

"Suit yourself. Just do us all a favor, try not to get killed or infected by those things eh?"

"Yeah. Sure thing!" Mikel replied.

As he suited up for the journey ahead he began to mentally prepare himself for what was to come.

Mikel had no idea what he might see in those ruins, but if it was anything like what he had encountered from the falmer, or any beast for that matter, he would need to make sure to stayed alert.

Within an hour he was ready and rejoined Isran, this time outside at the front.

"So where's your friend Tolan?" Mikel asked.

"He's gone. Went ahead of you. You should get going, hopefully you can catch him."

"Just tell me one thing Isran, what exactly is there about this place that is so important that your friend is all up in arms. Is there something I need to know?"

"What you know, is only what I allow you to know. Just get in there and give me the information I need. When you get back we'll discuss next steps."

"Hmph! Yeah, okay then." Mikel replied.

He rode off alone leaving Isran and the others behind. Durak stood with Isran as well and was asked what he thought about Mikel.

"I think he might be the best thing for us." Durak said.

"I agree." Celan concurred.

"I'd give it a week." Isran waged.


TO BE CONTINUED...