BLOODLINE

As Mikel rode forth for Dimhollow, Morthal continued to battle with their own demons as a new uprising emerged within the village.

A newcomer arrived as the morning began. A wizard by the name of Falion, master of necromancy and dark arts.

His presence in Hjaalmarch was unknown, but to those who already knew of his reputation they were most unsettled by his arrival. One of which being the steward-Aslfur-who met Falion outside the jarl's residence.

Beside him stood a few guards commissioned to his aid for protection and prepared to eject Falion at Aslfur's command.

"State your presence here wizard." Aslfur commanded.

"My business is with your jarl, not you steward." Falion replied.

"That is where you are wrong necromancer! You are here without invitation to Morthal. No one sees the jarl unless invited or without going through me."

"Is that so?" Falion replied.

"It is!" Aslfur said.

"Well then it seems you are ill informed, seeing as how I do have an invitation to see the jarl!"

He reached into his pocket and retrieved the invitation, handing it to Aslfur for him to examine.

He read the letter only to still deny Falion access, seeing him to be a potential threat to the jarl.

"In case you have not realized, your people are not safe. I am aware of vampires who have been spotted here and have been invited by your jarl to assist in handling it."

"Then perhaps it is a mistake. We have no such issue here any longer. So you can go back to whatever hole in the wall you climbed out of!"

"Aslfur!" Idgrod shouted as she emerged from her house.

"Lady Idgrod!" Aslfur replied with surprise.

"Do my ears deceive me? Is this how we treat our guests?"

"No my lady, I was just saying-"

"Pardon me Falion for my stewards rash behavior. Please, do come inside. I must speak with you at once."

"As you wish my lady. Mighty kind of you to invite me in."

Aslfur of course was angered by Falion's presence, and expressed even more disdain by Idgrod letting him in. But what more could he do? He would have no choice but to stand aside. However, he wanted to be careful and make sure the jarl was safe. So he asked one of his men to keep a close eye on the wizard, and to act swiftly should he do anything untoward with Idgrod.


As the night set in so did the dragonborn. Deciding to camp for the night in the forest-a place he felt most safe.

So far he was alone, and it gave him a moment to be at peace with his thoughts.

As he lay on his bed roll staring up at the night sky, he began reflecting on the past. His past.

He remembered the day his life completely changed. The day he lost his brothers both blood and in battle.

He could still hear their voices. Still see their faces, seeing the light dim in their eyes as they passed on.

Feeling their warm blood dry on his skin from holding them in his arms to comfort them as they transitioned to Valhalla.

His heart still mourned for them even to the day he came to say his final good bye at their funeral.

Apart of him wishes the god's had changed fate for once, and perhaps had given them more time in this world. But he knew that there were no such things as mistakes. That their death-though painful-was meant to happen.

As for the days ahead he was unsure. But apart of him caught a sense there was something big about to happen in Skyrim. Something far greater than he would ever imagine.

Eventually he drifted off to sleep and let his dreams carry him away.

Hours later he awoke to the morning air blanketed on his skin. The sounds of birds chipping in the trees and a slight chill in the air.

He sat up to gather himself only to find he was not alone, catching the scent of an unwelcome visitor hiding in the distance.

High senses heightened to an intruder, Mikel leapt from the ground and cloaked himself in an invisibility spell, darting into the bushes as three men emerged unto his camp sight bearing swords.

"Where the hell is he?!" One of them shouted.

"He said he would be here. We have to find him!" Another added.

All three of them spread out searching for Mikel all while the dragonborn watched from the distance.

"Visitors..."He thought to himself. Excited at the anticipation of the hunt.

None of them were aware they were being watched, nor were they aware of just what they were about to face.

In mere moments Mikel had transformed to his beastial form of the wolf and as he showed himself to his enemies he showed no mercy tearing each of them apart limb from limb!

They tried to make a run for it but quickly learned they were unmatched as one of them sounded the call for back up.

More men came running, and Mikel faced them head on tearing into their flesh like tissue paper!

Their screams carried throughout the valley, and when it was all over all but one man stood alone.

He stood before the former harbinger trembling with fear as he held onto his sword for dear life warning the dragonborn not to come any closer.

Slowly he reverted back to his original form revealing to his enemy the man behind the curse.

"By the god's!...what are you?!"

Mikel had grabbed the man by his throat holding him up into the air frightening the man even more! So much so that he began to urinate down his leg.

"So then, you want to tell me who you and your friends are, and what you want with me or should I just kill you now, get it over with?"

"P-please, I don't know anything!"

"Wrong answer!" Mikel said.

He growled and bared his fangs at the man, preparing to eat him when he begged Mikel to stop finally submitting to his demands. Just the thought of his death was frightening enough.

"We were sent by lord Vigori. He has a bounty on your head."

"Not possible! Vigori is dead!"

"It's true! Here, in my pocket is the bounty. Look for yourself!"

Sure enough when he retrieved the letter from the man's pocket and read it, it had Mikel's name listed as the target to kill.

Apparently the wrong vampire was killed in Windhelm. This just complicated things now that vampires were following Mikel.

He would need to make an impression that would send a message to Vigori and anyone else looking to stop Mikel, that he was not one to be messed with. And so he did, leaving his mark on his unknown assailant so gruesome and painful, his screams carried throughout the valley disturbing the animals nearby.

When it was over he dressed and left, continuing his journey to Dimhollow leaving the man behind dangling from a tree. He skinned him alive leaving the man hardly recognizable. Serving as a warning to the rest of Vigori's men who he was certain would be coming to reclaim their man.


"So tell me Falion, are the rumors told about you true? That you practiced necromancy?" Asked Idgrod.

"It is your grace, and I am not ashamed to admit it. The lessons I learned at the college were helpful, but limited in practicality." He explained.

"How so?"

"Well, for one...most of the lessons they teach limit even the most masterful student. Serving as a way to keep wizards in line so to speak."

"I see..."

"Forgive me jarl, but I am still confused as to why you have summoned me here. It is my understanding that several members of the vigil of Stendarrr had exterminated the vampire menace harassing your people."

"That's right." She replied.

"Then perhaps I am missing an important piece to this puzzle." He said.

"It seems the God's have seen fit to bestow upon me a vision. The evil that long plagued my people-while eradicated-appears to have been nothing more than a mere illusion to a far darker evil. One that is meant to wash over all of Tamriel and erase all of humanity as we know it."

Falion stood silent, listening to the jarl explain more of her vision to him. She foretold an image of a man of great power who had been alive for such a long time that his humanity no longer existed. The most vile of all creatures so she called him.

It was of no surprise to Falion, nor any other nord of the visions Idgrod claimed to have. Some men believed she was a witch. Others believed she was blessed by the God's themselves. So far in all of her years Idgrod's visions had never been wrong.

She had seen the truth when Hroggar stood before her, knowing he had nothing to do with the fire that took the life of his wife and child, and could see the truth even now of the fate of her people as well as the people of Skyrim.

Falion had vast knowledge of the undead. More knowledge than the vigil and the Dawnguard combined.

If she had any chance at protecting anyone, she would have to trust him.

"You are aware that necromancy is outlawed in Tamriel. To practice it will means death by execution."

"Not unless you are granted permission by a jarl. Fortunately you are here. I hereby give you full access to anything you need so long as it is in servitude of the people of Morthal. To our cause." She said.

"As you wish your grace."

"Furthermore, I also give you residence here in Morthal. You shall follow Aslfur. He shall take you to your new home."

"You are most gracious dear jarl. Surely this does not come without a price."

"You are very wise Falion. But do not mistake my hospitality for weakness. People here do not trust you, and as such you will have to remain discrete while here. Should my people discover what you are doing they may become restless which would also put my position in jeopardy."

"You have my word dear lady, I shall respect you and your people for as long as I remain here."

"Good! Welcome to Morthal!" She exclaimed.

Despite his reservations Aslfur complied with his jarl's request and took Falion to the edge of the village near the docks and handed him the key to his new home.

It was rather small but suitable for a man of Falion's size. With him was a child who he called Agni. Aslfur was surprised to see him traveling with a child, and even more curious as she did not look like him.

"What is a redguard doing with a nord child?" Asked Aslfur.

"The child is with me. And therefore she is none of your concern steward. Be gone with you!" Warned Falion.

The door closed in his face, Aslfur's anger grew.

He beseeched his wife and jarl with concern, warning her that perhaps it was a poor decision for her to have invited the wizard to stay in the village.

"That man cannot be trusted!" He argued.

She was silent at first having been surprised by her husband's behavior. Aslfur had never spoken to her like that before.

She commanded her men and the members of her court to leave the room giving her privacy with her husband.

"You seem to have forgotten yourself dear husband." She began saying.

"With all due respect, while I am your husband I am also your steward! Does my council mean nothing to you?"

"Oh it does, should I have need for it. In that, I am certain I did not ask nor desire your council. I am the leader of this village and know what is best for my people."

"I assume your decision is based on your visions?"

"You do not believe this to be true?" She asked.

"I do not doubt your sight my love. Only the actions that follow it. If the vampires are coming in full force, we have the men ready to stand and fight, we can handle them this time!"

"Can you? Need I remind you of the debacle that ensued before? How many men were killed under your command thanks to your arrogance? Was it you who had to bear witness to the deaths of fathers and son's who's lives you risked, all so you could prove you are strong? No...that was me! While you wallow in your own self loathing, I had to stand and look into the eyes of the heart broken mothers, children, and wives who's relatives were stolen from them! You do not hear the painful thoughts they dare not speak aloud to me! That is a burden I share alone, and one I have harbored my entire life since I was a girl. I will not allow more sorrow into this village, and I will do what I must if it means sacrificing my life in exchange for saving theirs!"

Aslfur sympathized with his wife. He knew how hard it was to bare such a gift. Also battling his own misgivings he accepted the word of his jarl even though he did not agree.

"Idgrod...you know I would do anything for you. It's not just about me." He said.

"I know. And I know you mean well. You always have. Despite our difference in age, you are wise! But my love, I have lived far more years than you and with it have learned some things as well! You must trust me, please!"

"I will my love. You have my word." He replied.

She took his hands into hers looking into his eyes with longing.

Aslfur pulled Idgrod closer to him, embracing her in his arms as he claimed her lips in a passionate kiss.

"I love you..." Aslfur whispered to his wife, and she replied all the same.

He picked her up and carried her over to the long table tot he side of the throne room, pushing the dishes and contents off of the table as he lay his wife on top of the table. Raising her dress above her waist, she grabbed his belt buckle to unfasten it, helping him pull his trousers down below his buttocks as his manhood sprung free.

He pulled her lower half closer to him, positioning himself with her warmth as he inserted his cock deep within her womanhood. She gasped as he entered her, exciting her dear husband as he began to thrust his hips forward and back catching a rhythm that was in tandem with her own movements.

She grunted in ecstasy as did he, grabbing hold of his shoulders pulling him in deeper, urging him to keep going. Aslfur became excited by his wife's touch. She smell of her breath, the taste of her essence on his tongue as they shared another passionate kiss-her velvet tongue swirling around in his mouth wrestling for dominance with his.

The table rocked back and forth along with their movement, creaking as his movements began to hasten.

He grunted even louder, Idgrod moaning and gasping at his movements, wrapping her legs around his waist and digging her nails into his shoulders.

"I...love you!..." He said grunted as the two of them would eventually reach the peak of satisfaction together repeatedly until they were spent.


Several hours since the attempt on his life and Mikel finally managed to reach the base of the mountain following the path upward towards Dimhollow.

Though tired and eager to be done with his mission, he pressed forth braving the violent winds and snowfall that had become progressively difficult the higher he climbed.

Unbeknownst to him, following behind were more of Vigori's men.

No doubt they found their man hanging from the tree at his campsite, and were bent on revenge.

As he continued up the side of the mountain, he could smell the stench of rotted flesh filling the air. He knew he was getting closer. He then was stopped when he caught the scent of the men behind him and was immediately angered at their presence.

'Ugh...I don't have time for this!" He grunted in aggravation.

One of them shot an arrow and missed his head by mere inches.

When he turned around and saw them, they all came running at once to attack.

He acted quickly, jumping towards them attacking them with nothing but his bare hands.

Each blow landed knocked them out one by one, but there were many of them. Too many for one man to handle.

Their leader-a nord wearing heavy armor and a horned helmet made of iron-stood at the back of the group shouting orders at his men.

Mikel kept his sight on him, knowing he would need to take him out so that the other men would retreat.

The trouble began when one of them sucker punched him across the jaw knocking him off the edge of the mountain, causing him to hang from the ledge by his fingers.

Most of the men stood over him looking down menacingly, laughing at him thinking that they had him. Mikel struggled to hang on, his thoughts racing trying to figure out a way out of this mess when one of them stamped on his fingers.

One hand dropped off, now he was hanging on with the other. He tried grabbing the ledge with his free hand and slipped.

The men stood laughing, toying with him as they anticipated his demise.

The leader came to the front of the group and as he looked over the dragonborn he guffawed at the mere thought of his death.

"How sweet is fate eh? Your death will bring joy to my master."

Mikel watched helplessly as the stranger unsheathed his sword from his back and held it above his head, preparing to decapitate the dragonborn as pay back for what he did to his men.

Any last words?" He asked the dragonborn.

"Yes. Three in fact." Mikel replied smiling.

None of them knew what he meant and laughed hysterically thinking he was a fool. But they all quickly regretted their actions the second Mikel shouted three words of power that set them all ablaze!

YOL...TOOR, SHOR!

Using the power of the thu'um, Mikel engulfed his enemies in an immense flame, burning their bodies to a crisp!

Their iron armor melted onto their flesh torturing them as each one perished. What lasted mere seconds, felt like a moment in eternity. When the battle was over Mikel found the strength to pull himself up from the ledge, and finished his ascent unto Dimhollow. There he had reached the entrance and entered it cautiously, meeting his enemies head on.


When he came inside he assumed Tolan was not too far ahead of him. He followed his scent trailed through the tunnel of the cave's entrance.

As he moved through the caverns, he could hear talking in the distance and stopped, hiding behind the rocks nearby so he would not be seen.

Their voices carried like an echo, he could tell there were two of them-vampires, a male and a female.

He listened closely to their conversation to see if they would mention what was inside the crypt. What he eventually heard was very disturbing.

"I grow tired of waiting like some lowly guard. When are we going to have some fun, hmm?"

"Patience my love. We will have our fun in due time."

Mikel watched in disgust as the two vampires talked about the desires for more blood. Hunting was more of an art form than a way of life for creatures like these.

The likes of which Mikel could not resonate with, aside from the desire for human flesh that even a child of Hircine battles with from time to time.

"Look at the bight side my pet, the dark lord sent us a toy to enjoy before the real fun begins!"

"Mmm, yes! The last member of the Vigil, how splendid he was!"

"Tolan!..." Mikel exclaimed quietly to himself.

"He sure fought well. Nothing like those nosey bastards who came here before."

"Damned vigilant's...You would think they learned when we burned down their hall!"

"You know mortals pet. Always determined, even when there is no use."

"No matter. Once the dark lord gets his hands on the prophecy, there shall be no stopping us! It's high time that we take back the land and show these mortals who the dominant species truly is!"

"He sure fought well. I'll give him that."

"Mm, yes indeed! Blood's certainly sweeter when the adrenaline kicks in, heheheh!"

It disgusted Mikel to hear them speak about Tolan in that way. Him not really knowing the man did not matter to him for he knew he was still a man of honor. A man who was determined to keep his promise to his fellow comrades. Unfortunately for him, Isran warned him against going, and now Mikel felt the obligated burden of finishing what Tolan and the vigilants started.

Seeing an opening, he quilled a daedric arrow blessed with iron and fire enchantments, and impaled one of the vampires between the eyes. It drew the attention of the female, who when she saw who was responsible for killing her mate immediately went to action, sprinting towards Mikel.

His only mistake was not knowing that she was also accompanied by a death hound. An undead dog with blood red eyes, and a bite that is colder than death itself!

In the distance the fight could be heard echoing through the crypts halls. To anyone approaching it would seem as though the battle was epic, making Mikel the loser. But in mere minutes when it was over Mikel managed to push through victorious, covered in the blood of his enemies like a badge of honor. As for his enemies, their bodies lay in a pile of ashes scattered about the caverns.

He came to retrieve Tolan's body thinking it was only fitting to at least bury the man with some dignity, when he noticed something hanging out of Tolan's pocket. A small silver trinket with strange marking along the grain.

The amulet of Stendarrr...

A sacred tome meant to ward off evil. If used correctly, it emits a powerful flame scorching hotter than the sun itself! Mikel began to wonder why Tolan did not use it on the vampires who killed him. Perhaps...It did not work.

He took the amulet and put in his pocket to take back to Isran. Pressing on through the crypt, he needed to get down to the bottom of this so called prophecy the vampires were talking about. Obviously it was very important to them.

Behind every corner was an enemy of some kind. Whether they were an reanimated corpse brought back from the dead, or enthralled mortals who were no longer in control of their souls or bodies, all of them came for Mikel in an attempt to take his life and failed taking theirs instead.

By the time he reached the catacombs, he came across one final piece to the puzzle. Below him stood several vampires, one of them a master vampire.

At his side stood three others-two vampire fledglings and a thrall. Thralls were the worst kind!

Humans who were unfortunate enough to get mixed up with vampires, allowing them to bite them, using them as a food source in exchange for their undying obedience with the hopes that they too would become like the undead.

But as Mikel stood watching, he noticed a fifth person standing in front of the master vampire. A nord wearing nothing but rags. They had stripped the poor man down to nothing. Had taken his robes and belongings and burned them. All but one item-a journal which the man had been keeping. The vampire began reading it's contents, and was disturbed to learn that the old man not only was well aware of what lies within Dimhollow, but had brought about the attention of the Dawnguard, and even sent word to a great order of scholars in Cyrodil!

"You disappoint me Adavald. Here I was lead to believe you were a smart man!"

"Your time has come vampire! Soon the world will learn of your lord's plans and will put an end to him and all of your kind!" Threatened the nord.

"Is that so?" The vampire asked.

As Mikel looked closely, he noticed something familiar on the lapel of the master vampire's armor. It was a pendant similar to the one left on Vigori's armor back in Windhelm! He knew then there was connection between them.

"Your kind are like roaches! Vermin who need to be exterminated! All of Tamriel is teaming with your filth, your stench of well being! Lowly dogs crawling at the ground. You should be thankful to be standing in the presence of such a species!"

"Is that what you tell yourself Lokil? You forget where you were nearly a hundred years ago. For it is not ancient blood running through your veins. No...only your master is a true born vampire. A direct descendent of Molag-Bal himself! You, are nothing more than an imitation. A replicated creation of his power. If I am nothing more than vermin, you and all created alike! Even lower than the very maggots that feast upon my ilk's flesh!"

Adavald's insult angered one of the other vampires, spiking a reaction out of one of them. Lokil stopped her from harming him for there was something important he needed from the old man.

"No matter what you do to me Lokil, I shall never break my oath to Stendarr! My oath to him is far stronger than any suffering you can inflict upon me!"

"Very well, I shall send you to meet your God!" Lokil replied.

He grabbed the old man by the throat, opened his mouth wide, and bit into the nape of his neck draining the blood from his body until he was bone dry! The color in his skin had quickly turned pale as the vampire drained his life force, and he left this earth screaming in agony, calling Stendarr's name.

In seconds it was over, and when Lokil had his fill he tossed the old man's body over the edge of the bridge into the ravine.

His comrades laughed with delight at the horrid acts of their master, bidding good riddance of the last of the vigilants of Stendarr.

One of them questioned her masters actions, believing there might have been more information the old man knew.

"He knew nothing, and he served his purpose leading us to this place. Now it is up to us to bring Lord Harkon his prize, and we will not return without it! Vingalmo, Orthjolf and the others will see this, and make way for me!"

"Make way for both of us you mean?" She said. "Do not forget who it was who brought you this information of the Vigilant's discovery." She said reminding him.

"Of course my dear! Your contribution to the cause will be repaid ten fold once we return to Castle Volkihar! I will make sure of it."

"Too bad neither of you will be alive to make it back there!" Interrupted Mikel.

All of them turned their attention to the nord standing above them, and acted quickly to attack him.

"Kill him!" Shouted Lokil.

As one charged him head him, Mikel deflected the attack, kicking the thrall in the chest knocking him onto the ground allowing for an opening to the first vampire who came flying towards him with his arms spread wide trying to grab the dragonborn.

Unafraid, he unsheathed his sword and cut the vampire across the face making way for his other enemies who were not far behind.

"I will have great fun drinking your blood human!" the female said hissing at him.

"Me first!" Mikel replied in kind, striking back at the vampire with full force in hand to hand combat.

Lokil stood in back watching the fight, waiting for the right moment to launch his own attack.

Mikel continued fighting the others, already having killed the thrall cutting off his head and further angering the female.

"You'll pay for that!" She growled.

Mikel smiled at her and continued with the battle. The other vampire who's face was cut at the beginning of the fight quickly healed and resumed coming after Mikel.

He grabbed Mikel by the neck in a headlock overpowering the nord warrior so his counterpart could end him.

She stood in front of him, mouth watering with anticipation to consume his blood. The moment getting closer for her to avenge her beloved thrall. But she would quickly learn that her vengeance could not be taken as Lokil would once again intervene.

"ENOUGH!...That is good enough you two." He said.

"But...I had him! He's mine!" She protested.

"I said, that...is enough!" Lokil repeated.

With one look she backed down, and made way for her master to take what was meant to be hers.

"Well, well, well. If it isn't yet another vampire hunter. Or should I say the vampire hunter. Mikel Bjorn was it?"

"So you know me. Good to know my reputation has reached Oblivion." Mikel replied.

"I would say we've already met, but perhaps you need a reintroduction."

"Spit it out vampire. I haven't got all day."

"Indeed!" Lokil replied.

He then grabbed the edge of his jawline, tugging and pulling at his face until he revealed his true face as none other than Vigori!

When Mikel saw this, he was surprised to learn that the vampire he thought was killed in Windhelm was alive and well.

"But how?" Mikel asked. "I saw your head sitting on my table!"

"You saw what you thought was my head. It was a mere illusion. Pretty impressive no?"

"I don't understand."

"My previous master-Vigori-was foolish and prideful. Too stuck in his ways about the changes of this world. But now he is no more for I have killed him and taken his shape for my own. A power I have mastered many times in my life time. Pretty impressive eh?"

"I'm sure you think so." Mikel replied.

"When I learned the Dawnguard had been formed, I needed to slow them down. Too many of them were aware of our presence here in Morthal, getting in the way of my true lord's work."

"Lord Harkon I presume?"

"You've learned quickly mortal. No matter. By the time I am done with you I shall take back the knowledge learned here to my lord and he will lay siege to all of your kind. No more shall we hide in the shadows covering our faces for fear of being noticed and hunted. No more, will we wait underground while we hear the sounds of your filthy hearts beating above us! No...I shall take great pride in killing you, you...the so called savior of Skyrim."

"Wait a minute, you mean he's the dragonborn?" Asked the vampire holding Mikel still.

"Impossible!" protested the female.

"Oh, it's possible love." Lokil replied smiling confidently.

It seemed as though Mikel had reached his end, caught in the clutches of his enemies who were eager to end his life bestowing the same fate upon him as the men who fought before him.

"Say your piece mortal. I am nothing if not a fair man."

Mikel smiled knowing what he would do next. Lokil stood enraged when he realized what he had done, and tried to stop Mikel before he could speak another word but it was too late!

Same as the mercenaries who tried to kill Mikel on the mountain, Lokil met the same fiery fate as he burned before him.

Mikel now had the advantage of finishing his fight with the other two vampires stabbing the one behind him in the heart with a wooden stake he kept in his pocket, and then thrusting the same blade through the chin of the female. He plunged it deep from under her chin, through her skull until it cracked and split in half. As her body fell, she turned to ash. Mikel exhaled a sharp breath of relief knowing the battle was over.

Now he needed to know what lied beyond the bridge over the ravine as he could see a large structure centered in the catacombs.

He walked down to it, and saw several braziers surrounding the structure with a dim blue flame lit in the center of each of them.

The setup looked like an altar of some kind, which made Mikel initially reluctant to go near it, yet there was something pulling him closer to it's center.

He reached out his hand over the basin sitting in the center never touching it when a large metal spike impaled his hand causing him to bleed over it.

As it happened, the ground began to quake beneath his feet, the walls shaking around him. He started losing his balance and thought something was coming, something big!

He grabbed his sword and held it tight to prepare for what was coming when suddenly the ground began to crack along the center, and an opening formed widening the floor.

Light emerged from the ground nearly blinding him. He was certain whatever was beneath the ground was not good!

Finally a sarcophagus appeared from below the ground standing erect before the dragonborn, opening without any interference from Mikel at all.

Inside was a strange mysterious woman in dark armor holding a scroll in her hand.

Her hair was raven colored, and her skin paler than the moon. Mikel found himself captivated by her, unable to look away as she struck him as the most beautiful woman he had ever seen.

Sadly she was not alive. He could smell death on her.

Carefully he reached for the scroll she was holding when her eyes popped open and locked with his.

"Just what do you think you're doing?" She said to him.

Mikel jerked his hand back with surprise to find she was alive, stuttering on his words as he tried to think of an excuse for why he was there.

"You're..."

"Alive? Yeah, I am. How long was I out?" She asked.

But Mikel could not answer.

She climbed out of her tomb tucking the scroll behind her looking around to try and figure out where she was.

Nothing looked familiar to her at first, especially not the man standing in front of her.

As she got closer to him, she sniffed around him, intrigued by his smell.

"You're not human!" She said.

"What gave it away?" He replied.

"You smell like a dog. And the iris' in your eyes are silver and hollow like an animal. And...you've got fur...In your ears?"

"Quite the observation lass. I should say the same about you seeing as you aren't quite human either."

"Was it the fangs or the eyes that gave me away?" the teased.

"Something like that." He said smiling back at her.

"Well then, you mind telling me who you are and why you're here?" She asked.

Immediately he was reluctant to tell her who he was out of fear it would compromise the mission. More importantly, the fact that she was holding a scroll interested Mikel even more as he assumed it might have something to do with why the other vampires were there.

He needed to act quickly, think of something to say that would not scare her off of put him in any danger. So he did what many men have done for centuries. Lie!

"Name's Kjun." He said. "And you are?"

"Serana." She replied.

"It's nice to meet you."

"You're awful friendly for a werewolf."

"Who said that I was a-"

"Vampire remember. I can smell it on you. Hircine's powers flow through your veins like poison."

"Huh...Impressive!"

"Not really, just instinct." She said. "What are you doing in here? It's no place for mortals."

"Stumbled across it while hiking up the mountain. I was on my way to Merune Dagon's temple when the storm set in. Thought I'd hunker down here until it was over."

"Interesting." She replied.

She started to walk past him looking for an exit when Mikel followed behind her, asking her more questions about who she was and why she was there.

"I've told you about me, what about you?" He said.

"In case you have not noticed, I'm a vampire. I don't have time to waste talking to lost dogs."

"Ouch! Not a fan of werewolves are ya lass?"

"I don't mind them, I just have bigger things to worry about." she explained.

"And what might that be if you don't mind me asking." He said. "Could it have something to do with that scroll you were holding?"

"I do mind actually. And the scroll belongs to me, making it my business!" She replied sharply.

"I meant no disrespect, just trying to make conversation. Never met someone like you before, you seem so..so-"

"Different? Well I'm not." She said.

"Then why are you carrying a scroll on your back? Must be important for you to be buried with it." he said.

She then turned around quickly and grabbed Mikel by the throat holding him up into the air as she felt threatened.

Mikel was struggling to breathe grabbing at her hand to try to pull her off of him, but he found it nearly impossible to do as she was incredibly strong, even for a female vampire!

"GET...OFF OF ME!" He said choking.

"Why are you following me? Who sent you?!" She shouted at him.

"Can't breathe...please, I'm not trying, to harm you! Let me explain..."

She started to squeeze tighter around his neck, thinking he was hiding something. His eyes started bulging out of his head and his face turning blue as the oxygen was leaving him.

Serana was faced with the choice to either let this strange man live, or kill him and be done with it. Luckily for Mikel she did not desire to kill him, and so she let him go, dropping him onto the ground.

Mikel lay out on the ground, his chest heaving as he tried to gather himself to breathe again.

She stood over him looking over him as if he were an ant she could squish. Taking pity over this mere mortal who was plagued with the curse of lycanthropy. Yet she was almost proud of herself for having spared his life.

"Damned woman!..." He said breathlessly.

"Hmm. Not the first time I've heard that." She said chuckling.

"How are you so strong? I should have been able to overpower you!"

"I'm not like most vampires." She said.

"That remains to be seen." Mikel replied.

She helped him up to his feet and continued on her way. Mikel followed behind her warning she was going in the wrong direction but she would not listen. She insisted she knew the place better than he did!

"I have been here many times in my lifetime, long before you were probably born! If I am not mistaken the exit should be right about...Here!" She exclaimed.

She stopped in front of a set of stairs at the other end of the bridge, going alongside it running her hands at the edge trying to activate some kind of button of mechanism that would open up to her.

She tried and tried over and over, and was getting obviously frustrated when it did not appear.

"Something wrong lass? Are you lost?"

"More like mildly annoyed." She said quietly to herself.

"I heard that!" Mikel replied playfully.

"Just...go away. I can find my way from here."

"I think you are lost and just don't want to admit it. Perhaps I can be of some help."

"I don't need your help, I am fine!" She insisted.

Without word or warning Mikel walked over to the other side of the stairs behind the landing completely out of sight of Serana, when she heard a noise signaling he had pressed something!

Above them a door opened up revealing a hidden pathway through a cave. Serana stood in shock and mild embarrassment that a mere human showed her up!

Mikel returned to her with a wide smile on his face as if to say I told you so which annoyed Serana even more.

"Show off!" She said in a huff walking away from the dragonborn.

"You're welcome!" He exclaimed proudly.


"So tell me lass, what's a pretty vampire like you doing in a place like this?" He asked.

"I'd rather not say."

"Rather not say, or don't remember?"

"More like, it's none of your business."

"I don't mean to pry, just making conversation is all. Never gotten close enough to a vampire who didn't want to rip my head off."

"Getting dangerously close to changing my mind." She whispered to herself.

"You talk to yourself a lot I noticed. Is that a vampire thing or-"

"Listen, for the remainder of the time we are here can we not talk to each other?"

"Sure...I just thought maybe we could get to know each other."

"I don't care to know you. As soon as I get out of here I plan to go about my way. You should do the same."

"Very well. I won't say anything further." He said.

"Thank you!" She replied with relief.

They kept walking for what seem to be hours, silence between them continued yet it did not seem as if they were getting any closer to reaching the end of the tunnel when Mikel picked up on something alarming causing him to step ahead of Serana.

She was upset at first that he pushed her out of the way, not realizing there was something there when Mikel insisted she stay quiet so he could focus.

"Just what do you think you're doing?" She complained.

"Shh! Quiet. Do you hear that?" He said.

Serana listened closer, trying to focus but didn't hear anything.

"Something is digging through the walls." He said.

"That's ridiculous. What could possible be digging through the walls?" She said thinking he was crazy.

Shortly after, a hand popped out of the wall in front of them startling Serana.

Then another hand burst through, and then more coming from the other side, and several more until they all burst through the wall revealing themselves.

"SKELETONS!" Mikel shouted.

He quickly sprinted to action attacking the skeletons as they charged for them all at once.

Serena backed away, seemingly afraid of them for some reason, leaving Mikel to fend them off alone.

They piled on top of him at once, overpowering him. So many had come through, all of them set their attention on him alone as they jumped on top of him, biting and clawing at him.

He grunted in agony and frustrated, getting angrier and angrier the more that came.

By himself he seemingly was unable to defeat them, and Serana stood frozen in fear of what she was witnessing, unable to help.

None of them seemed to even notice she was there!

Her mind racing with so many questions. What to do, where to run...

It seemed as though Mikel had reached an end and was defeated, when suddenly the fight had taken an unexpected turn when Mikel had spoken three words that would completely change the outcome of what would have been his demise!

With these words Mikel overpowered his enemies, forcing them off of him.

As they were pushed away simply with the sound of his voice, their bodies being knocked about the cave walls crushing them to pieces, it seemed that the fight had turned in his favor.

The majority of the skeletons were pushed away, leaving behind a scattered few still determined to attack the dragonborn.

He defended himself with such ferocity, hitting them one by one with his bare hands!

Serana could not believe what she was seeing, thinking it impossible for a mere mortal to do what Mikel was doing!

Finally when the fight was over, Mikel stood victorious over the pile of bones of his enemies, left with only a few bruises and scratches fortunately.

He turned around to check on Serana and was met with a dagger at his throat which she held against him.

"Easy there lass! Don't do anything you'll regret later." He said warning her.

"Who are you? And don't lie!" She demanded.

"I told you, I'm a traveler."

"You're lying! You're something else, now start talking!" She insisted, pushing the blade against his skin even harder.

Mikel knew he was caught, and so he had no choice but to fess up.

"Very well. My name is Mikel Bjorn. I am a vampire hunter with the Dawnguard." he said.

"Hmph...of course. Now it makes sense! So you came here to kill me is that it?"

"I was sent here to investigate the vampire activity in Morthal, to understand what your people were up to. Innocent lives were taken in an attempt to build a rebellion-an army of the undead. One of your kind spoke of a prophecy they wished to uncover which lead me here. I had no knowledge you were here. I assumed there was something else."

"Give me one good reason why I shouldn't spill your blood all over this place!"

"I have none to give, all but my word that I mean you no harm. Please, perhaps we can come to an understanding and help each other."

"There is nothing I want from you, nor anything you can offer me that would save your life!" She said intently.

"Perhaps a way out of here? I know you're lost, we've been walking in circles for hours! And I know that the only reason those things came after us was because of you. No doubt there will be more of them if we do not get out of here soon."

"You're lying again!" She said.

"I assure you I am not. Please, let me help you out of here. I can take you back home, and we can be done with this. I won't have to see you, and you won't have to see me. Deal?"

Serana did not think she had any real reason to believe anything Mikel had to say.

The fact that he already lied about who he was, and now to find out that of all things she was stuck in the company of a vampire hunter made things even worse!

Unfortunately she also knew she was at his mercy. Whether she cared to admit it or not, she was lost. She could sense within herself that things had changed.

Nothing about Dimhollow was familiar to her anymore, and she was certain that if she did ever make it out of there, that the world outside would be just as unfamiliar.

If she were to make it back home safely, she would have no choice but to accept his offer to help her, and pray to the ancestors that he was a true man of his word.

However, she would need for him to do something to prove his loyalty to her that he would not go back on his word.

"I have but one condition if I'm to travel with you." She said.

"Name it!" He replied.

She then raised her right sleeve above her wrist and bit into her forearm causing her to bleed out.

Mikel was uncertain why she was doing this, but sensed he would not like what was to come after.

She then grabbed his wrist which he started pulling away from her, reluctant to trust her, but with a firm gaze from her he let her have her way with him.

She bit into his wrist hard and then placed her wrist over his.

"What is the meaning of this?" He asked her.

"It's a blood oath. Now my blood will flow through your veins and yours with mine. If you lie to me ever again, I will know it!"

"Will this turn me into a vampire? Enthrall me maybe? You vampires are nothing if not full of tricks." he said.

"No, it will not. But it will allow me to know what you are thinking or feeling. So don't go getting any ideas!"

"I suppose I don't have a choice then." He replied.

She then left go of him and when Mikel looked down at his arm he noticed that the bite mark she made on his wrist suddenly disappeared!

"What magic is this?" He asked her.

"it's not magic. It's my blood." She replied.

"I don't understand."

"Vampire blood is powerful. Within it's DNA holds incredible healing agents. It's how we can regenerate after being injured. Something Werewolves don't have."

"Good to know." He replied.

"Now then, how the fuck do we get out of here?"


It was not long before Mikel and Serana found their way out of Dimhollow.

Following behind the dragonborn, they made it outside safely without any disturbance from the enemies that still dwell within the cave.

Now standing outside, it was nightfall.

The snow had begun to fall, and the winds had picked up. Mikel raised his nose to the sky and warned Serana that they needed to get to shelter fast or risk getting caught in a snow storm, but when he looked over he noticed she was ignoring him.

She stood a few feet away from him, her eyes closed as she stood still and silent taking in the air, the wind, the sounds of the world around her.

As she inhaled deeply, she exhaled a long sharp breath of sheer satisfaction, taking in the moment as she embraced her new found freedom from years of isolation.

"It's been so long since I have felt this." She said to herself.

"We need to move." Mikel warned, snapping Serana out of her moment.

He then lead her to the village of Morthal seeking shelter at the inn centered within the village.

Serana's identity went unnoticed as she covered her face with her cloak, looking down at the ground as she walked behind the dragonborn.

"No matter what, do not say anything to anyone. Just let me do the talking." He said.

"Fine. Let's just get this over with."

When they arrived to Morthal it seemed like a ghost town.

No one was outside except for the guards who were standing at the front entrance, who let Mikel enter recognizing who he was.

"Hail Dovahkiin!" One of them said as he walked through.

Serana was confused as to why they said this to Mikel, not understanding what they were saying, but noticed that obviously he was someone of great reverence for them to not even bother to stop him.

She dare not ask him anything, deciding it was not of any importance so long as it did not give her any reason to have to defend herself.

Eventually they made it to the inn, and when inside they drew the attention of the patrons who were there sitting all around.

Some of them acknowledged the dragonborn pleasantly, greeting him with open arms. Others ignoring him or giving him dirty looks as he walked past.

Serana kept her distance sticking close to him, never making eye contact with any of them.

"These people make me nervous." She said to him quietly.

"Just keep calm. Let me speak with the innkeeper." he said.

Mikel stopped and looked around the room for Jonna-the lady of the inn. So far he had not seen her, and with every second that passed, Serana was becoming restless.

"Mikel please, let's get out of here! I don't feel safe here." She said.

He kept scanning his eyes over the room until finally he saw Jonna. He grabbed Serana by the hand so she would follow him when he was stopped by Idgrod The Younger.

"Mikel Bjorn, is that you?" She said.

"Idgrod, what a pleasant surprise!" He exclaimed.

"A pleasant one indeed! What brings you back after all of this time?"

"I'm just passing through." he replied. "Needed to get away from the storm coming in."

"Yes it's been brewing for some time now. Mother predicted the God's the weather would turn on us for some time now."

"So she still has the sight I see."

"Always! I fear I shall never be like her, and perhaps I am all the more blessed because of it."

Idgrod's mother, who was the jarl of Morthal, was said to be cursed with the ability of foresight.

Her visions are what gave her the power over Morthal as ruler, seeing the impending attack of the village many years ago when she herself served as steward to her predecessor whom she warned that his enemies would destroy the village if he continued to do nothing.

She detailed the gruesomeness that would ensue if he did not act accordingly. And of course she knew he would ignore her warning thinking her to be insane, and in anticipation of his ignorance she warned her people and protected them. And when the time came, the people of Morthal turned their backs on their jarl, proclaiming her to be Morthal's true protector.

Idgrod herself was named after her mother, and though she did not have the same curse as her mother, she has continued to be a valuable ally to her to people in the hopes that one day she too can assume the role of ruler of Morthal.

"You've certainly come such a long way. It's so good to see you!" She said pleasantly.

"The pleasure is all mine." Mikel replied in kind.

Serana quietly watched the exchange between them, and yanked at Mikel's hand to let him know she was ready to go.

"Uh, ah, so then I think I better get going. I see Jonna over there, hopefully I can get a room tonight."

"Yeah, sure. Nice seeing you again Mikel!"

"Take care Idgrod." He replied walking past her.

Idgrod allowed him to pass, and she watched as Serana passed by her as well noticing the strange look on her face.

She could not place who she was, but assumed there was a good reason she was with Mikel.

Making their way across the room, Mikel finally reached Jonna, who also met Mikel was such pleasantness as she embraced him in her arms.

"So good to see you alive!" She exclaimed.

"By the blood of my ancestors, can we please hurry this up?" Serana complained quietly in ear shot of Mikel.

"Uh, Jonna, you have any rooms available?" He asked.

"Yeah, sure! Got one left in the loft upstairs. Perfect for you and your friend here." She said cutting her eyes over at Serana.

"Heh, thanks!" he replied handing her some gold.

"Keep it." She said. "Consider it a favor."

"Jonna..."

"You've been good to me Mikel. It's the least I can do." She explained.

"I thank you." he said hugging her.

"Pleasure is all mine. Let me know if you get hungry. I'll send someone up if need be."

"Thanks!" he replied.


Now they were finally alone in the room.

As soon as they were inside Mikel quickly locked the door behind them so no one would intrude.

"Okay then, sweet solitude!" Mikel said.

"About time! I didn't think we were ever gonna get out of there! How many people do you know down there?"

"A lot. I've been here many times. Jonna and Idgrod are good people." He said.

"Mm, especially Idgrod?"

"What do you mean by that?"

"I saw the way she looked at you. Like you were some sort of hero to her or something."

"I highly doubt that." Mikel replied walking past Serana to put away his things.

"You want to fuck her." She said bluntly. Mikel was completely caught off guard by her words and stopped dead in his tracks!

"Excuse me?"

"Blood bond remember? I can feel what you feel."

"For your information Idgrod is a good friend of mine. Our relationship is platonic. Nothing more!"

"Say what you want, but you forget I can read your mind now. You've wanted her for some time now, I've seen it. Can't say I blame you. She's quite beautiful!"

"If you're so taken with her, be my guest!" Mikel said.

"I'm sure you'd like that wouldn't you, a little girl on girl romp?" She said teasing him.

"Enough." He said in a miffed tone.

Changing the topic, Serana noticed there was but one bed in the room and asked where Mikel intended to sleep.

"The bed is big enough for the both of us to share." he said.

"And so is the floor fit for a man."

"You can't be serious." He said in disbelief.

"Do I look like I'm joking?" She replied.

The stern look on her face let Mikel know she was not joking with him.

"I hardly see how this is fair." he said.

"I could care less what you think. As far as I am concerned we only need to deal with each other for one night. I do not intend to sleep next to a hormonal werewolf!"

"No!" Mikel argued.

"Yes!" Serana argued back.


Meanwhile as Mikel lay on the floor, still wide awake, Serana lay comfortably on the bed above him resting peacefully.

Angry and frustrated with the sleeping arrangements he complained quietly to himself, grunting and fussing in silence.

Serana woke up upon hearing him complain, and threw a pillow at him for him to shut up.

"Keep it down! I'm trying to get some beauty rest." She said.

"You'd think after being buried underground and asleep for as long as you have, you'd have all the beauty rest you need!"

Then Serana thought about it and realized something interesting Mikel had just said.

"Exactly how long have I been down there?" She asked him.

"You don't know? I thought vampires knew everything."

"Time is of no importance to vampires. That's why we can remain hidden for so long."

"What do you remember last? before you went under I mean."

She thought a moment, trying to place herself back to the last fond memory she had. Back when things made sense to her the most.

She could see herself back home, with her family and friends. Their voices echoing in her head.

"If I think about it I can see myself back home with my family. We were happier back then, back when we were still together. I still remember my mother. Her scent at least. She smelled like flowers! I can even see my father. How he would always protect us. He was the strong one, always making sure we wanted for nothing."

"What of your home? You never said where we were going?" Mikel asked.

"Castle Volkihar. It's just off the coast of Solitude." She said.

Mikel immediately remembered that name Volkihar. He remembered hearing Lokil speaking about going there to his master.

Serana continued talking about her home describing it as a great fortress her father built for her and her mother some time ago.

She said that her father was once a man of great power. A merchant who rose to prominence and nobility in trade.

"Sounds like you were very wealthy." Mikel said.

"He was. My father made it very clear that everything he did for us, was through him. I was given an opportunity that not many young girls in my time were given. I had the best education, live a good life, wore beautiful gowns and went to all kinds of social gatherings. My father had dreams that one day our family would become more powerful than the high King himself. Even wanted me to marry a prince in the hopes that one day I would be crowned queen when the time came."

"And let me guess, you chose to live a different life in rebellion of your father's wishes and ended up an undead child of the night."

"Something like that." She replied softly.

"Well then princess, we should get some rest then. We have a long day ahead of us tomorrow."

"Yeah...I suppose we do." She replied.

"Good night princess."

"Good night." She replied.

Mikel drifted off to sleep while Serana lay there wide awake. Her mind still thinking of her family and the life she once had.

Still she wondered just how much time had passed, and if the people she once knew had long perished.

Saddened at the idea that they were long gone, a single tear rolled down the side of her face as she stared at the ceiling crying softly.

Eventually she would become tired of crying, and drifted off to sleep until it was time for them to get moving once again.