Part I
He wondered if his mother ever truly heard herself when she speaks. Going on about riches and spoils. Of a bigger, better, grander life.
But it never comes.
She does gain quite a bit through her secret contracts. By not affiliating with the thieves guild or the Dark Brotherhood, she attracts clients who don't want to go through those factions.
His mother could see no wrong in her actions. Gold was the bottom line.
So much so that she didn't bother to give him a proper name. She didn't care for family. Only keeps her son around to ensure, she has someone to keep the operation going.
She trains him, mercilessly. One so he can protect himself when they're being hunted because she managed to piss off the wrong contract, and two because she claims he will carry on a legacy that will ring across Skyrim.
She was right, ironically, but not in the way either of them thought was possible.
She wanted him to complete his first contract. Says he should be excited for his first kill. Sends him off with the location, promises dread if he fails.
So, he leaves on his own, only 14 years of age. In the boundless and cold of Skyrim. The contract is in Windhelm. He doesn't go to Windhelm.
He goes to Winterhold.
He gets word that one of his mother's contracts betrayed her. Had he gone on that contract, it very well could have been a trap. She was gone. Her trail of thievery and murder had caught up to her.
He on the other hand was free. Free to go where he wanted.
He made the decision to go to Winterhold before he knew of his mother's death. He could not take it anymore. Did she really think he would remain loyal? Did she not see, how intelligent her son had grown?
So, blinded by greed.
He chooses Winterhold because his mother never taught him magic. But he was so fascinated by it. He began to teach himself when he could get away with it. Flames and Frost were simple enough.
But he hungered for stronger magic.
Winterhold was an interesting little town. A shell of what it used to be and colder than what he was used to.
He doesn't dawdle in the town for long, goes straight for the college entrance after a night at the inn.
Getting admitted to the college was easier than he expected.
Everyone was nice enough. His studies went so well in fact that his teachers were soon calling him a prodigy. He excelled in Destruction, Illusion, and Alteration magic. But was well versed in the others. Combined with the skills his mother taught him, he quickly became a fierce battle mage.
However, his skills did nothing to gain his favor with other students.
They were jealous, or intimidated. The feeling of home he had begun to associate with the college was gone.
He felt isolated once again.
His mental health began to take a dive.
If the magic he had now required and the freedom he had from his mother could not give him a home, what could?
Was he to damaged? He didn't even have a proper name. Nothing he tried to call himself felt right. His mother had referred to him as lad or boy most of the time.
He told the members of the college that lad was fine.
But was it really?
Nothing was fine.
And… things got worse. As tensions began to grow between him and the other students, he often found himself restless. Always with this desire to be away from the jealous energy.
So, one day he was wondering the campus at night and found a hatch in the floor. He figures it just led to a basement and that it wouldn't hurt to explore underneath the college.
He wanted a distraction.
He got more than he bargained for.
The midden was a dank, dreary place. Evidence of horrible rituals and curious objects littered the space.
He was beside himself. How could the college let this happen? Pointless suffering at the hands of the college's own mages?
He spoke up, accused his teachers of hiding things.
That they didn't even have the decency to clear the remains in the midden.
He wasn't supported in the slightest.
The students turned on him, made it seem like he was only garnering for attention. That his claims had no proof.
He was spouting nonsense.
The arch-mage seemed to agree. Said that he shouldn't have been snooping around.
Ancano the smug basted. Insisted that he should be punished.
He was outraged.
For once in his life, he tried to do the right thing. And this is how it was received.
He left. Didn't look back. He was still a young adult Breton; he has time to figure things out.
So, he wandered, and instead of really finding himself. He was slowly losing himself. To the harshness of Skyrim.
He was only a shell, a shell with no name.
In his aimless wondering He caught word of a skooma den close to Riften.
He wasn't sure of he was going to put a stop to it or going to try the stuff for himself.
The place was shady at best. Anything of use he has learned over the years is practically screaming at him to just walk away.
He doesn't. Pays what they ask and takes a sip.
As soon as the drops touch his tongue, he knew he was in trouble.
How could he be so stupid, to let his guard down in this way.
Was loneliness driving him mad? Darkness consumes him, giving him no answer.
When he wakes up a splitting headache makes him wince, slowly he opens his eyes.
"Finally, you're awake, maybe you can help us get out of this blasted place. I should have known there was something off. The guards I had with me were killed and the shackles they used cancel our magicka."
"Do you have any ideas? Should I even be asking, you look like a beggar."
His irritation grows and he locks eyes with his cell mate. Vision finally clearing.
"If you'd shut up a minute maybe I could think."
The person trapped with him is a male Altmer. He blinks, that stuff must have been strong.
"How'd did you get roped into a skooma den?" He asks.
The Altmer looks a little affronted at first then speaks again.
"There was rumor of Talos worship here. I was sent to investigate at once. Others who had been sent never returned."
He takes in their surroundings. Seems they've been left in a rusty cage inside a cave. There's equipment around, torture equipment.
Ah. Vampires.
They use the skooma to trap victims, so they have a steady supply of food, and torture victims it seems.
He looks toward the Altmer again.
"So, you came running at the chance to kill some innocent Talos worshiper and landed yourself in a vampire den."
The Altmer's face twists.
"I'll have you know that I am Ondolemar! A high-ranking member of the dominion. Talos worship is outlawed in Skyrim for good reason. There's nothing innocent about not adhering to the law."
He snorts. "There's nothing innocent about you either. Justifying genocide on some I'll advised notion that your race is any better than the rest of us."
Ondolemar sneers. "Mer exceed men in every way. One must learn to accept the terms of existence. To deny fact is to delude yourself."
He stares at him. Is he serious?
"It's funny you mention that, because if anyone is having trouble with accepting reality it's you Thalmor.
Ondolemar snickers. "As someone as lowly as yourself, you can never hope to understand the..."
He gets angry, very quickly. It's been a while since he's felt this need, to speak up for himself.
"Yes, because I could never understand the intricacies of Thalmor politics. I could never understand the real reason why you treat men lower than dogs or why you're obsessed with your own shallow goals. I can never understand your blind need to follow orders. Or the need to disguise your evil in this false grandeur that you are any better than the rest of us." He practically hisses out the last words. Beyond done with this entire situation.
It shuts up the Altmer though and he can't deny. The stunned silence is amazing.
Ondolemar looks at him then, really looks at him. It's quite tense between them then he raises an eyebrow. Ondolemar has a look in his eyes now that's puzzling. No one has ever looked at him this way before.
Right as he's about to question the Altmer, Ondolemar speaks.
"Look, you're right I don't know you. Or what race you are. Let's just find a way out of here. These vampires don't care who we are, and I'd rather not give them the satisfaction of a good meal."
He sighs. He's right time to stop sitting here. Arguing isn't going to save their skins.
He looks at his magicka binding shackles. They're old, while Ondolemar's appear to be brand new.
They must have assumed he wasn't very skilled with magic. Of course, they'd be wrong.
He may have been wondering Skyrim, half losing his mind. But his connection to magic has never wavered.
He breathes deep, focusing. Magicka shackles cut of one's flow to their magicka nearly completely. The better the shackles, the more magicka they cut off.
Being trained by his mother, did prepare him for a situation like this. And learning magic has helped him to perfect this technique.
He feels a small zip and focuses on his wrists. Thick black runes appear on both, and suddenly the shackles rust away and he's free.
Ondolemar looks mesmerized.
"How did you... I've never seen a spell..."
He looks at him, he has half a mind to leave him here, but then he'd be no better than the Thalmor or the damn vampires.
He touches his shackles, and they fall apart.
"Let's get out of here."
He had never fought vampires before, but with the two of them as skilled as they are, they survive.
Now outside of the shed, a little worse for wear. He makes to leave but Ondolemar stops him.
"I don't know your story, or how you ended up in this place. But that spell you used... I'm a powerful mage and have had access to an array of spells. I've never seen anything like what you did. Didn't know it was possible to break magicka cuffs with your magicka cut off."
He raises an eyebrow.
"Look what I'm trying to say is that there's more to life... then ending up in a place like that."
He's not sure what to make of the words of encouragement. Hasn't heard any since he was at the college.
And coming from a Altmer, that he was ready to punch mere moments ago...
Ondolemar is also giving him that look again.
He smirks.
"Maybe you're right, but the Dwemer may sooner rise in this era before I take the words of a Thalmor agent as something genuine."
Part II
After the Redwater Den incident Lad found himself in Riften. The city was close by.
He wanted to spend some time and really think about his life.
So, he did.
For a few months he did odd jobs around Riften.
He looked better. Was doing better. But of course, he's still in Riften.
A man who is quite shady in his opinion, Brynjolf, wanted to do some scam with him. Said that he probably hadn't seen a lot of coin in his life.
Offended, Lad promptly told him he could shove his own coin up his offices and to leave him the oblivion alone.
Lad isn't stupid. Knows that Riften has a problem with corruption and the thieves guild.
Would put good gold on a bet that Brynjolf is some kind of recruiter.
The guild could probably use someone with his skills, and he'd probably get a lot of coin, but he'd be damned to use his powers to steal.
He wants to be nothing like his mother.
Another day, that starts completely normal, doesn't end that way.
His sitting alone at the bee and barb inn. Eating breakfast and keeping to himself as usual when she walks in.
A few days prior he had heard that the dragonborn was in Riften. He paid it no mind though. Seems as if they were true.
She's stunning. Long dark hair, slightly tan skin, and a radiating presence of power and magic.
She talks to the inn keep for some time and then turns and scans the inn, and their eyes meet.
He looks down quickly.
"Hello, have you been in Riften long?"
He looks up and she's close, he's hard pressed not to ask every question he can think of and answers hers instead.
"Only for a couple of months", he says softly.
She hums, "may I sit with you?"
He's surprised, no one ever wants to sit with him. Lots of people think he's weird. Or mysterious.
"I don't mind."
She smiles softly and sits across from him.
"My name is Azariah, I'm..."
"The dragonborn," he interrupts. Can't help himself.
She laughs softly, "I was going to say I'm an adventurer. It's taking some getting used to, that so many know of me."
"Well, you saved us all from a world eater. You earned the fame."
She hums again. "Thank you. What's your name?"
His stomach twists in knots at the question.
Usually, he just doesn't answer or tells people to call him lad.
He wants her to remember him. Feels real shame for the first time because he doesn't have a name.
It makes him tell the truth.
He looks down, voice wavering.
"My father left when I was young, and my mother never gave me a proper name."
She lightly touches his hand. Looks at him. Not with pity but understanding.
"What have you always wanted your name to be?"
He reels, tears threating to fall from his eyes. "I... well. Something pretty."
He blushes at his honesty. Surely, she'll laugh at him. Will ask, how can a man want a pretty name.
But she doesn't. Just hums again.
"Well, I've got a name in mind that you might like, want to hear it?"
He nods. Wonders why she's wasting her time with him.
"How about Mikaela?"
He's nodding, crying silently now.
"It's beautiful."
She smiles and it's breathtaking.
"Then it's yours."
His name is Mikaela.
He realizes now that he never really had an identity before.
He never chose a name for himself because he wanted someone to care enough to give him one.
But he never felt comfortable enough to share that he was never really given a name.
He'll admit that a great portion of him telling Azariah the truth was because she's the freaking dragonborn.
But the rest was because she was kind to him, patient and open.
With her friendship he blossomed. Grew comfortable within his own skin.
Mika fells like he can breathe.
Sometimes he finds himself remembering that Altmer. Wonders why he was trying to be so encouraging after Mika had insulted him with so much venom.
Since he's had no real run ins with the Thalmor. So, he leaves these thoughts alone. Focusing on himself and resolves to create better memories.
Azariah was in Riften because she wanted to take down Maven Black-Briar.
He warned her that such a feat wouldn't be easy. And she responded that when she sets out to stop powerful people, it's never easy.
He aids her.
It takes time. They must gather intel, fight off goons.
It helps that they're both powerful.
It also helps that they get more help.
Mjoll the Lioness is the first to offer her hand to aid them. She's a kind and strong woman. Mika immediately liked her out of most of the people he met in Riften. Aerin is never far behind her but he's pleasant enough company.
There next comrade comes as a surprise.
Marcurio is a mage for hire, Mika typically saw him often in the bee and barb before he met Azariah.
When they were leaving the inn one day, he said that he could help for a price.
Mika was surprised when Azariah agreed.
Marcurio isn't a bad guy and is good company.
It also doesn't take a genius to realize that he and Riah are falling for each other.
It's quite sweet. He had to assure Marcurio that he and Riah have nothing romantic going on.
They have a strong brother sister bond now.
Marcurio apologizes for acting jealous. Mika assures him that its fine.
Once they expose the Black Briar family for their crimes, Riften goes through a lot of change.
Exposing the family took a lot of work. And they found themselves in dangerous situations more than once.
The experience changed his life.
The three of them stand outside Riften's main gate.
For months he has been with them, and they were the happiest months of his life.
He went from a wondering mage, with no name. To a beautiful powerful battle mage.
His hair, now long past his shoulders, a deep purple that compliments his purple eyes.
Light armor that shows his figure to his liking.
Azariah helped him to grow confident enough to dress how he wants to dress. That he doesn't have to feed into toxic masculinity.
That it's okay for anyone to look and feel beautiful. That you don't have to be a woman to coincidently show skin.
He just can't describe how happy he is.
She looks at him with pride.
"I'm so proud of you, my dear brother Mika."
And Mika cries, he's way to emotional now.
They hug and Marcurio joins.
He's going to miss then so much.
But its time.
With Riften taken care of, Azariah needs to travel to Solstheim. Raven Rock needs the dragonborn and of course Marcurio will follow her anywhere.
Mika however wants to branch off on his own. Wants to do for another city what they did for Riften.
Azariah suggests Markarth. Says the city is rampant with forsworn attacks and corrupt city officials.
Mika nods determined. That's where he'll go.
They depart, with promises to see each other again.
Ondolemar has started to wonder if he's losing his mind.
The Thalmor presence in Skyrim is strong and he's proud of the lengths they've been making for the cause. But then things take a turn. Elenwen seems to have lost her head because the dragonborn this and the dragonborn that.
This person, whoever they are, are slowly but surely destroying all their plans. The agents that are sent after her don't return. Plans stop being effective, and their once strong presence is diminishing.
He used to have this unwavering will. Despite how bad things may get him and his fellow agents always pulled through.
That isn't so now. Elenwen has too much pride to call upon resources from the other branches. She was ever so proud when she reported that they now have Skyrim in the palm of her hand.
Since their resources have begun to dwindle, Elenwen is growing desperate.
Their dungeons are now always full of prisoners. Anyone who shows even a hint of Talos worship is beaten and killed.
Elenwen gives him the order to take a position in Markarth. He's never been more relieved to leave the embassy.
It's a slow process, but seeds of doubt have begun to grow.
Ondolemar isn't so sure they he should be taking pride in being a Thalmor any longer.
Mika arrives at Markarth. He takes a couple of days to acquaint himself, then gets to work. The inn keep mentions that the hall of the dead is closed.
This peaks Mikaela's interest. Sounds like a good place to start.
He makes his way to under stone keep, once there he begins to have a talk with Verulus, Markarth's priest of Arkay. He's reluctant to give him the full situation, but Mika manages to convince him.
"Just be careful, here's the key. Once you've solved the problem just report back to me."
Mika nods, "I'll look into it."
He doesn't notice the Altmer watching him, until said Altmer gets his attention.
"We've met before."
Mika looks up into familiar amber eyes.
"Yes, we have. It's been a long time Ondolemar."
"You remember me."
Mika hums, crossing his arms.
"It's hard to forget feeling so insulted. Not to mention escaping a vampire den right after."
If Mika's not mistaken, he'd say Ondolemar looks almost sheepish.
"I'll admit I wasn't fair to you that day, it was inappropriate given our situation."
"Water under the bridge."
Ondolemar nods, "I never did learn your name."
Mika gives a small smile. Proud to share his name now. "My name is Mikaela."
Ondolemar takes in the information.
"Ah, Mikaela you look", he coughs a little, "good."
Mika laughs, "yes I am doing much better since the last time you saw me. Turns out you were right. There is much more to life."
The Altmer smiles a little. "I'm glad, I couldn't help overhear your conversation with the priest. I was stationed here not long ago. I'm the head of the Thalmor here, and leader of the Justiciars."
Mika frowns a little, this Altmer is very high up the Thalmor food chain.
"Would you like some help?"
Mika tilts his head a little. It wouldn't hurt to have an ally. While he's quite confident in his skills, there's no telling what's going on in the hall of the dead.
"Alright sure you can help." Mika fills him in and warns him.
"I'm pretty sure we have cannibals on our hands here. If they want us to join them, we should play along. That way we can get a real location."
Ondolamer nods. "Whenever you're ready."
Part III
Turns out Mika was right. Markarth has one too many cannibals living, well used to be living, in its walls.
They managed to convince Eola, the leader, to give the location of where the others would be. They told her they'd lure the priest of Arkay there.
Of course, they took out all the cannibals instead. Needless to say, Markarth's vending scene got a rude awaking, as many vendors were indeed cannibals.
Mika is glad to be done with the whole affair.
He continues to aid Markarth until he eventually becomes Thane. He's proud of the title and purchases his first real home.
On another note, Ondolemar was a big help that day. His destruction magic is sharp, and they worked well together.
Mika is still weary because he's still a Thalmor agent.
He could have an agenda. Maybe he knows about his connection to Azariah and wants to use him somehow.
He planned to steer clear of the Altmer, until the Jarl wanted them to work together again.
So, he finds himself talking with the Jarl and Ondolemar.
"You two worked splendidly, solving our Hall of the Dead problem. I'm afraid there may be another daedric situation in city. Could the two of you investigate? Markarth would be in your debt. And Mika you're the talk of the town lately."
"Word is getting around that you're close to the dragonborn."
Ondolemar looks a little shocked at this. So, he didn't know. Mika still needs to keep his guard up, especially since it seems they'll be working together longer.
"We'll look into it, if that's alright with you Mika."
Mika looks at him. Is puzzled by what he sees in the Altmer eyes. Almost like hope.
"Yes, its fine, we'll get to the bottom of it."
"Excellent please report back to me your findings."
The two meet with the vigilante of stendarr posted outside a random house. He's adamant that its haunted. That he could use their help.
Mika and Ondolamer share a glace. What are they getting into?
Mika personally hates evil daedric princes with a burning passion. His mother worshiped the lot of them.
Repulsing.
The house seems normal at first. Looks as if it hasn't been used in a while. Then things take a turn.
The chaos happens so quick, one minute they're about to go deeper into the house. The next, things are flying around, and a dark voice is speaking to them.
Says only one can survive. That they must kill each other. Mika doesn't panic but the vigilant clearly does. Starts to attack. Mika preforms a high-level calm spell. Putting him into a daze.
"Mika", shouts Ondolemar, "I can't get the door open."
"He must be sealing it somehow. We need to block his presence."
"How on Nirn do you expect us to do that?"
Mika knows this is dangerous, preforming an underdeveloped spell. But he has little option now.
Azariah encouraged him to really test and try new things with his magic. Said he was a genius when it came to tweaking existing magic for new purposes.
She was just as enthralled with his rune magic as Ondolemar was the first time he'd seen it.
Considering his hate for daedra he's done a lot of research with banish daedra spells.
This may or may not work, but he'll try. He calms himself, gathers all he can and begins to chant.
He pushes, with all his might. Molag Bal is a daedric prince to be reckoned with. He can feel his magic draining, starts to use his own health for magic with the equilibrium spell.
Everything is a blur after that. He can hear Molag Bals voice, booming and angry.
Things blur. When he comes to, he realizes that Ondolemar his holding him close, bridal style.
"Mika, Mika can you hear me?"
"Yes." he replies softly. "Did it work?"
"Whatever you did, I was able to pry the door open and get us out of there."
"The vigilant went to inform the Jarl. Are you alright?"
"Yes, I just need to rest. Can you take me to the temple? The healers will have to watch over me.
He nods. "Of course."
Ondolemar gently sets Mika down in his bed.
"Once I rest, I'll be fine. The spell I used required all the magicka I had, towards the end I had to start converting my health for magic."
"What spell was that?"
"Essentially it was a banish daedra spell that I amplified. I knew it probably wouldn't work on the physical form of a daedric prince, but it was enough to subdue his presence."
Ondolemar is taken aback.
Mika gets sleepier by the second.
The Altmer places a cool towel on Mika's head.
"You're a brilliant mage Mika."
Mika misses the warmth in his tone. He also missed the tenderness with which Ondolemar carried him. The worry in his brow for him.
In all his life Ondolamer hasn't been in a situation like this before.
It seems whenever he's around this Mika… New things happen. Typically, other people steer clear of him, given he's a Thalmor. He expected this a long time ago.
Elenwen assured that other races just couldn't comprehend, the goals of the dominion.
That it was better to just ignore them and focus on the future they were fighting for.
He believes in their goals, wouldn't have fought so hard for his position if he didn't.
But when Mika spoke back against him, in that dreadful cage. It's like something changed.
He never cared much for other races. Never second guessed himself.
But Mikaela's words that day struck something within him.
For the first time he doubted himself.
After Mika and he departed, he thought he'd never run into him again. Then he heard word of a powerful mage, that had teamed up with the dragonborn, and he wondered if it was him.
He regretted never asking for Mika's name back then.
Now, working together with him it's as if he's breathing new air.
Being so high up in the dominion can be just as suffocating as it is rewarding.
As of late with all the dragonborn interference this fact is truer.
Mika didn't waiver at his status. Just worked with him to get the job done.
He was thorough and compassionate. Such a contrast to himself. Mika has a connection to magic that Ondolemar has never seen before.
And of course, what half keeps him up at night, is that Mikaela is beautiful.
His dark purple hair and eyes, his lithe frame. Ondolemar has never been so attracted to someone before.
He knows he shouldn't. Knows Mika was distancing himself after the hall of the dead incident. Knows they wouldn't have worked together again if the Jarl hadn't asked.
He wonders about himself. If Mika can't except that he's a part of the dominion, then he should be distancing himself as well.
But hasn't he given his life to the Thalmor for their goals. Not once has he ever done something selfish.
He wants to get to know Mika. Learn some of his magic techniques, learn his goals and ambitions.
Ondolemar knows he would be taking a risk. Elenwen would have his head if she knew.
But looking at Mika's face, serene with sleep, he smiles a little.
This risk he's willing to take.
Part IV
Mika again finds himself in the Understone keep talking to the Jarl of Markarth once more with Ondolemar at his side.
He has mixed feelings about the Altmer now. While he is still very much a Thalmor agent he was also very kind to help Mika recover from his Magicka and Health depletion.
He was surprisingly good company. Asked Mika thought provoking questions about magic, and history.
In the beginning of his recovery, Mika was very guarded not giving the Altmer much information. He was still convinced he had some ulterior motive.
But as time went by, he softened up a bit. Doesn't help that Ondolemar happens to be very attractive.
Now, the Jarl once again needs their help. And it's a lot, but isn't this why Mika came here in the first place?
He has seen firsthand the deep roots of corruption, and what it could do in a city. Azariah, Marcurio, Mjoll and himself worked hard to help Riften. He'd promised her that he could handle anything Markarth threw at him. And he would.
"I know it's a lot to ask, but the forsworn are a big problem, if they regain control of the reach..."
The Jark trails off.
"They won't", says Mika. He then looks at Ondolemar.
"What do you say to working together again?"
Ondolamer gives him that look again. The look Mika couldn't place all that time ago. He knows what that look means now.
Had it directed at him by men, women and mer alike in Riften.
It's a look of attraction. What makes Ondolemar's different however, is that's its mixed with apprehension, and a little excitement.
"Thank you both for your help, the forsworn are dangerous but with your combined prowess we can hope to drive down their forces."
Mika nods, determined. He wasn't a fan of the forsworn in anyway. It's time they're delt with.
And he knows exactly where to start.
It takes weeks to gather intel, sort through corruption and run ins with the smaller forsworn forces before they're ready to make a big move.
Weeks of working closely with Ondolemar. Getting to know him more and more.
They fight well together, strategize well. Its alarming to Mika, how different he looks at the Altmer now.
He thought he could remain distant and professional, but Ondo's inquisitive nature, patience and sense of humor have slowly won him over.
They have engaging conversations, and tangible chemistry. Its driving him mad. He knows he shouldn't fall. Feels guilty for having feelings for a Thalmor. Wonders about what Azariah would think of him.
He never wants to disappoint his sister.
He puts these thoughts aside for now.
Back to the plan.
The forsworn leader Madanach is being held up in Signa mine. Ondo and himself plan to enter as prisoners and take him out.
They meet, determined and ready.
The mine, Mika notices, is just as horrible as people describe. He'll have to have a talk with the Jarl about this.
Everything's goes a plan, they secretly take out Madanach, and continue to escape the mine.
The noble that meets them is less than pleasant. Mika knows it will take even more time to weed out the corruption in the city. Riften took months, Markarth would most likely be the same.
They thought they at least solved the forsworn problem. Disbanded them.
They were wrong.
A few nights after their quest through the mine, they were doing a quick patrol at night. Ondolemar and himself would occasionally help out the guard so it was nothing new.
They took them by surprised. They were outnumbered and the forsworn seemed to have a good strategy in mind.
It was chaos. The toughest battle he had ever fought, Ondolemar, himself and the guards put up an oblivion of a fight. Others who could fight also assisted.
They subdued them. But they all suffered. Ondolemar was in a tight spot, Mika tried to help but it was too late. The forsworn sword cut a deep gash into his side.
The fighting is done, but Mika needs Ondo to fight a little longer.
"My healing spells aren't working", Mika cries growing frustrated."
"Mika", Ondo says softly. "The blade has weird markings on it. It could keep magicka from being effective on the wound.
He curses. Gets some guards attention. "Take him to my house please."
Mika realizes he's never been so afraid. Never has someone so close to him been so close to death.
It's frustrating that he's grown into a very powerful mage but can't do anything to Ondo's wound with magicka.
It takes time to stop the bleeding, but he does.
Ondo has been fading in and out of consciousness.
He's awake now, breathing softly, looking at Mika with gentle eyes.
Mika stitched his wound. He has some research to do to get to the bottom of what blade the forsworn had used. He's afraid the wound wont heal until he does.
He checks Ondo's stitches once more before bringing the blanket up to cover him he notices Ondo is awake.
He smiles at him warily. Lightly brushes hair from his amber eyes.
"I know you're not feeling your best, but is the pain better?"
Ondo hums, "it's better, we underestimated them. They must have another leader. They wanted to take us out."
"We'll figure it out."
"I like that."
"Like what?"
"How you said we. I'm glad to work with you Mika."
Mika is overwhelmed with the honesty in his eyes.
He knows it then. Knows how he feels, a part of him panics. A part of him is at peace.
"Me too Ondo, you should get some sleep."
Mika makes to head to his guest room, but Ondo stops him. "Stay with me please."
He sounds so vulnerable and Mika's heart aches.
He nods, exhaustion catching up with him. He lays close to Ondo, puts one hand lightly on his chest.
"Whatever they did to you, I promise I won't stop until I find a cure." Mika whispers.
Ondo turns, mindful of his wound and kisses Mika gently on his forehead.
Mika trembles.
"I know you won't baby."
Mika must wait for his heart to stop racing before he falls into a deep slumber.
Part V
He loves his sister so much.
Mika was true to his word, focused on nothing but Ondo's wound for days.
His prediction proved right. He may have stopped the bleeding, but the wound wasn't healing.
He reached out to Azariah; he didn't know what else to do. He needed her help.
Mika contacts her using an enchanted necklace. It was something the two of them created to be able to contact each other through a magicka link, when they were far apart.
It takes a lot of focus to work, so they only use it in emergencies.
"Okay Mika are you ready?"
He focuses on his sister's strong voice and gathers up his magicka.
"I'm ready"
"Alright, I'm sorry Ondolemar, this is going to hurt a lot."
Ondolemar nods, "I expected as such, Mika will take care of me."
Mika blushes softly. He hadn't told Azariah of his growing feelings for the Altmer yet, and he knows she'll pick up on something with that statement.
She hums, "He will, let's get started."
She walks him through it. Once the spell is ready. Mika presses his palm into Ondo's wound.
He winces at Ondo's cry of pain but finish the spell. Once he pulls his hand away, the wound is completely healed. Only a scar remains.
Mika cries out and wraps his arms around Ondo's neck.
"Thank you Riah."
Mika can here the smile in her voice.
"I'm glad I could help Mika. You take care of my little brother well Ondolemar."
"Of course." They hug each other tighter. Mika feels so at ease with Ondo's arms around his waist.
The true Forsworn base of operations was at Hags End.
This leader, the matriarch was the one pulling the real strings.
They strategized, then banded a group together.
And took the ruins.
It was a long and grueling fight. The ruin was massive and a whole community of forsworn had taken residence there.
They press forward, Mika driven to finish things with the forsworn once and for all.
He was done.
Done with the kidnapping, daedric worship and senseless violence.
Done.
They are victorious.
Mika can't remember being so content.
The inn in Markarth, is awash with energy.
Drinking, celebrating and music. Rarely did Mika get to relax and have fun.
But thoughts that he had been suppressing are starting to resurface.
He won't deny how he feels about Ondo anymore. But could they ever be together?
It's late now, both head to Mika's home. Neither had drunk much, just enjoyed the music and atmosphere.
Ondolemar looks rather handsome tonight, for once not wearing his Thalmor robes.
Mika leans his back on his door and looks up into amber eyes that have grown so familiar.
With the forsworn threat over, he finally lowers his guard enough to feel.
Skyrim can be such an unforgiving place. When love is found, it's held onto.
He's so conflicted he doesn't know what to do.
As if Ondo senses his thoughts, knows Mika is about to pull away. To say goodnight, to push away the romantic tension that's building between them, he steps forward.
Places one hand securely on Mika's waist and the other gently on his cheek.
"Mikaela."
Something in Mika snaps at the way Ondo says his name. So gently, with so much longing.
They kiss. Gently at first, then with so much passion Mika feels that he may melt.
Ondo pins him gently to the door. His strong body on his feels so warm and grounding.
Ondo tongue softly brushes his lips, Mika invites him in, and their tongues brush deepening the Kiss.
Mika's tummy seems to be full of butterflies. He wants this. Wants him so much.
To give himself, to trust him.
But he can't.
He can't.
He starts to pull away and the two breathe heavily, lips still light brushing.
This feeling crushes him.
"Ondo, we can't." His voice sounds broken.
Ondolamer tenses.
"No, don't do this Mika, we can. We can do this. We can be together."
Mika shakes his head.
"We haven't talked about it…"
"I know you haven't been reporting to Elenwen."
"I know you've distanced yourself some. But you're still very much a Thalmor agent."
"I just... I can't..."
Ondolamer steps back. His face set and serious.
"You want me to leave the dominion."
Mika is torn.
"It's all I know Mika."
Mika frowns.
"What you do to people, innocent people, what you want to do to the world. Azariah told me what she experienced when she infiltrated the embassy."
"You interrogate Nords, play the war on both sides. Ondo, I want nothing to do with that. I want to help Azariah stop it. Stop all of you."
Ondo steps even further away. "So, you let me hope, let me think there was even a chance Mika?"
"Don't put this all on me. We both knew this would happen. We both let it happen. Were too caught up in Markarth to face it."
Ondo huffs tense. He knows Mika is right. They should have talked about this. He'd hoped like a fool that Mika would look the other way. Did he know his Mika at all?
Or did he just not want to accept it.
"So, is this it? These feelings mean nothing."
Ondolemar looks somber and upset. Mika wants to scream.
" Ondo, I want this. I want you so much. When you were hurt, I wanted to burn all the forsworn to oblivion for what they did to you."
"I can't force anything. I can't change who you are. Even if your mind may be changing and may not completely line up with the Thalmor anymore, you said it yourself. It's all you know."
"I can't change that. My feelings can't change that. Only you can. I'm not going to demand anything of you. I just want you to understand."
Mika touches Ondo's face gently. Whips a few of his tears.
Ondo pulls him close and buries his face in Mika's hair.
"Is this goodbye Mikaela?"
Mika lets out a sob, hiding his face in Ondo's chest.
"I don't know, I don't want it to be. But for now, it has to be."
Ondolamer pulls away slightly. Looks deep into Mika's eyes.
"I will miss you more than anything."
Their foreheads touch, and tears fall. They kiss once more, softly. Then Mika pulls away slipping from Ondo's arms and into his house. He doesn't look back. Knows it will destroy him if he does.
True heartache is something Mika has never felt before. He's felt sad, lonely, and isolated. Knows those feelings to well. But this aching sensation that seems to take over every time he thinks about him. It's new.
Leaving Markarth was the best idea. He wouldn't have been able to move on with the memories constantly in his face.
The jarl was persistent that he stay, but Mika made it clear. He would be back. Just not anytime soon. He misses his house. Loved the Dwemer architecture he had grown accustomed to, but his new home is his favorite.
When he told his sister what happened, she wept with him. Asked if he wanted to start over somewhere new.
He agreed, and she led him to Myrwatch. It's a unique home his sister managed to find long ago. Build for a battle mage. She never could stay long enough to keep it well, so she offered it to Mika. He was eternally grateful.
It gave him a much-needed distraction. Because despite everything, Mika still misses him. Misses him very much.
Wonders if this ache he feels, will ever go away.
Wonders if he's a terrible person, for falling in love with someone who's an active and proud member of the Altmer dominion.
Ondolamer isn't quite sure what to do with himself. He stayed in Markarth for a little while but knew he couldn't put it off any longer.
He must return to the embassy. Elenwen promptly chews him out. That despite everything going on he should have been actively reporting back. That there's more important matters to attend to.
He struggles to re immerse himself into the cause.
Because he can't forget about Mika.
At night before bed, he replays their memories together. Up until their kiss. Up until he left.
He has never fallen in love before. Never gave any thought to marriage or children. He was always too busy. Becoming stronger and following orders.
He begins to wonder if he even fills an ounce of fulfillment by being a part of the dominion anymore.
That what they're doing...
He shaken from his thoughts by Elenwen's voice. She's sending off some agent's, 3 of them.
It peeks his interest. Since he's returned Elenwen hasn't been giving many missions at all. He was beginning to wonder what she could be planning.
Knows he's lost her trust. In the past if she was planning anything big, he would be one of the first to know.
"Hello Elenwen, you assigned another mission?"
"Ah, Ondolemar. Indeed, I did. No need to concern yourself. Just continue at your station."
"Of course, Elenwen."
She nods and leaves the embassy.
This feeling is new. He never doubts his cause. Never doubts Elenwen.
But his feet take him to her study anyways.
He sneaks in and finds what he's looking for.
They were ordered to find and detain a boy of 12 years old. Said boy is rumored to have foresight and can be valuable to detaining information about the dragonborn and the outcome of the war.
They are not to harm him, but to ensure discretion and that he does not escape.
Then there's a description.
Ondolemar's blood runs cold.
He and Mika only talked about it once. But he did mention he has a niece and a nephew.
Elenwen is going to kidnap Azariah's child.
The very person who aided Mika in saving his life.
The fear that strikes him in that moment is paralyzing.
If he does this, he may never be able to be a part of the dominion again. Elenwen will make sure of it.
But if he doesn't… If he lets them do whatever they will to Mika's nephew. Then isn't he as barbaric as the races he claims he's above?
He knows what he needs to do.
Part VI
The boy is strong, well versed in magic for his age.
He acts quickly. Both agents are surprised. and it gives him the edge for a while.
But not for long, all dominion agents are trained well, and well versed in magic and weaponry.
He manages to protect the child.
But in the battle, he kills one agent and wounds the other.
Before the surviving agent retreats, he manages to wound Ondolamer as well.
Mark my words you traitor! The entire dominion will know of this!
Ondolamer falls, magicka depleted.
"I don't know who you are but thank you sir."
"Those men waited until I was alone. My sister had already gone home."
"I was so frightened and they...
Ondo interrupts him. Listen... "I know it's a story, but I'm fading fast, I don't have much magicka left, do you know how to contact your uncle?
The child looks surprised.
Uncle Mika? His face lights up. Yes, yes, I can my mom taught me.
Ondo sighs, that's great. He knows he could simply take the child home, but he fears he won't be able to protect him on the journey.
He tries to stay awake and manages for a while.
As he begins to fade, he hears Mika's voice. Fretting over the child. And then feels gentle hands on his face.
"I've got you."
And he allows himself to fade at last.
He awakens again in a warm bed. He's a little sore but rested. Physically he'll be fine. Mentally he tries not to replay how he murdered one of his own kind.
That he won't be able to return home. That he's a traitor.
It hurts, he just doesn't know what to do anymore. He rises, throat dry and in need of food.
The house he's in is quite interesting, seems to have a circular architecture. Before he rounds the corner, he freezes.
Hears Mika's voice for the first time in months.
He peaks slightly around the corner. Sees him talking to the boy.
"It was so scary uncle Mika; they didn't treat me badly but said they'd hurt my sister and Lydia if I didn't go with them. I wanted to be brave like mom, but I was so scared and then he came, and I thought he try to hurt me to, but he helped! They were shouting mean things to him and..."
Mika hugs him, gently then.
"You were brave Alesan, I know your mom is so worried about you, she's on her way."
Alesan cries then slightly, Mika cries to.
He doesn't want to disturb them.
"Are you tired? Your mom should be here in the morning."
Alesan nods. "Can I sleep in your bed Uncle Mika?"
Mika smiles softly. "Of course, you can."
Ondo steps out then, doesn't want to be caught in his eavesdropping.
The boy looks up at him as he passes.
"Thank you again mister."
"You're welcome."
He took the life of a fellow comrade.
He also kept them from interrogating a child.
He looks up, and his heart seems to play catch up.
He's with the love of his life once again. Not in the best of circumstances but, he doesn't hesitate anymore.
And Mika meets him in the middle.
He wraps his arms around his waist and buries his face in his hair.
Enjoys his warmth, before he tells him everything.
Once he's finished. He waits for the judging words. Wants to kiss him again. Never wants to leave.
Mika's purple eyes are brimming with emotion.
"Thank you for saving him."
The sentence is simple. But the words weigh heavily for them both.
They both know what his decision to save Alesan means.
Mika hugs him tight again. And Ondo knows it then. Knows he still must face Elenwen, but also knows it will be easier now.
Wonders if he would have made the same decision if he hadn't met Mika. Decides it doesn't matter now.
What's done is done.
"You could have chosen differently, but you choose to save my son, for that I am very grateful. Should you need anything, consider the dragonborn your ally."
Azariah radiates every bit of power, Mika said she did. She's beautiful quite frankly, clearly a skilled mage and warrior.
Not someone to be made an enemy of lightly.
Her reunion with her son makes Ondo miss his mother.
Will she even see him as her son anymore?
Parts of Ondo are in disarray. He's never been in such a state.
Mika sees Azariah out, they whisper quietly about something before they leave and the two are alone.
Mika takes a deep breath. The events that transpired completely blindsided 's him. The battle mage is beyond happy that Alesan is safe and back with Riah. Now he must face the Altmer he has come to love, and the decision he made.
He sits across from Ondo, the warm fire he started the only sound in his home.
They stare at each other for a little while. Then Ondo speaks.
"I can't go back now. Sneaking into Elenwen study, sabotaging a mission, and killing one of my own will not be forgiven."
Mika nods and swallows. "You can stay here for as long as you need."
Ondo hums and leans forward taking Mika's hands.
"I won't go back. I don't want to go back. I just want to be with you Mika. I've done some deplorable acts in the name of my mission. Blindly followed orders, thinking that this was the best way to serve my people. I'm not a mer to be praised or proud of, despite my accomplishments or my abilities."
"I'm stripped bare now, with nothing but my wits. I know nothing of the future, or if I'll ever be able to atone for the things I've done. But I do know that I love you Mika, more than anything else. And I know I want to try."
"Working with you brought forth some of happiest moments in my life. You treated me as a partner, not a solider. Not someone to be ordered around, but as an asset."
"The day we parted; I didn't want to face a reality where I lost you Mikaela.
"Please just... say we have a chance... say..."
Mika practically flies out of his seat and into Ondo lap, arms not hesitating to wrap around his neck. There are tears flowing freely from his eyes, and an eruption of warmth in his heart. He pulls away, takes Ondo's face in his hands. Closes his eyes at the feel of Ondo's warm hands on his hips, then opens them.
Those bright amber eyes are burning, and he wants to sink into them.
"I love you so much. I want you to stay, with me. To fight with me, to help me help Azariah and Skyrim. Be with me through everything. Never leave me Ondolemar."
"Mika," he whispers.
Their lips meet gently at first, like the first time. Then they kiss and touch like they haven't done so in ages.
There's a burning warmth in Mika's core. One that burns hotter with every touch of lips. With the dance of their tongues. With Ondo's hands on his skin.
They grind together, Mika breaks the Kiss to moan and Ondo trails hot kisses on his neck.
"Ondo, take me."
Ondo rises breathless. And does just that.
Mika rarely got time to explore himself seeking pleasure. While he was in Azariah's company he finally felt confident enough to do such a thing. Even then, they were often busy so the nights he did make time for such activities were few and far between.
He never took a lover. Wasn't interested enough in anyone in Riften to do so. Then Ondolemar changed everything.
With his laughter and inquisitive nature. With his presence and strength. The deeper he fell in love, the more remorse he felt.
Now though after being separated and united, he felt so many things.
Ondo's touches were making his skin sing. Everything felt so intense, he can't help but arch into Ondo's lip as they trail down his chest stopping to lick and bite each of his nipples on the way down.
He's hard and aching to be touched. When Ondo finally does, he lets out a stream of moans. Through lidded eyes he pulls out a vile of oil. Shyly hands it to Ondo. His amber eyes gleam, and he kisses him gently.
"Are you sure?"
"Yes, please. I've wanted this for so long. Wanted you."
Ondo is gentle. Prepares him attentively until Mika is aching for it.
"I'm ready love."
The fullness is indescribable. He feels Ondo in a way he never thought he would. It takes a few minutes to adjust to the feeling but once he does Ondo makes him feel stars.
His thrusts are slow a first, before they move faster to bring them both to climax.
Mika is pretty sure he isn't speaking words at this point. His climax takes him in a wave that makes him arch his back, one hand clutched at the bedding below him, the other buried in Ondo's hair.
He feels a warmth fill him as Ondo joins him as well. They're warm and sated, bathed in the afterglow.
Mika wakes up warm and more then content.
He settles back into Ondo's arms. After being apart from him so long, last night almost felt like a dream. He knows that they still have much to discuss. Mika understands Ondo must be feeling an array of emotions after everything that happened.
Mika will be there for him the best way he can.
To think the Altmer sacrificed everything he knows...
Seeing him bare his soul, confess his love. Mika couldn't stay still. He was overwhelmed with his love for Ondolemar, and sadness for what he had lost.
But a part of him will be happy, with a grim satisfaction that Ondo is his now. The Thalmor is no place for him, and Mika will not stop until he proves that fact. Let Elenwen try to stand against him. He'll show her no mercy.
He feels movement behind him and smiles. Clears his thoughts as he turns around to meet open amber eyes.
Mika smiles, "good morning my love"
Ondo's arms wrap tighter on his waist.
"Good morning baby."
Mika groans in happiness.
"How I've missed you."
They both bask in each other's warmth and the quietness of the morning.
They talk for a while and make love again softer this time.
Plan for a future they know will be challenging but they're more than ready to face together.