Chapter 3: The Ticket and the Spy

Unknown Dwemer Ruin, Province of Skyrim, Tamriel

14th Peacekeeper Company, 3rd Platoon

[ERROR] 0800 Hours

It had been two days since their visit to the city of Solitude, by the first day all the injured had been healed and cleared for duty along with finally having been able to get a rough estimate of time by using noon as their marker and allowing them to adjust their watches.

The other units have been assigned to a plethora of activities which depended on the day it was on. Ranging from hunting, to patrolling the outside and inside of the ruins. However with an unanimous vote, it was decided that Globe 2, Lieutenant Clarke's own squad would continue exploring since they have had the most contact with the people of Skyrim.

After having finished breakfast which came in the form of a vegetable soup with a few chunks of venison, Globe 2 yet again prepared to move out to go to the city of Markarth to sell their remaining Dwarven items along with getting more information of where they are.

"Ready to see the outside world, guys?" Private Yeo-Jin says as she helps Private van der Wel up onto the truck.

"Depends, what did I miss?" Private van der Wel says as she sits down.

"Not much, a firefight with some seperatist movement called the Stormcloaks." Private Yeo-Jin says as she puts her Daewoo Precision Industries K2 assault rifle in between her legs for support.

"Any noteworthy for a medic to know?" Corporal Bæk says as he clambers onto the truck.

"Well they use swords and arrows, medieval stuff so I hope you know how to patch those up. Oh! They have healing magic too!" Private Yeo-Jin says the last part excitedly.

"Right, sure, I'll believe it when I see it." Corporal Bæk says as he finally sits down.

The rest of the members fill in the two as the truck lurches forwards and begins the group's journey to the city of Markarth.

As usual the scene had consisted of swamplands which turned into a river and mountainous areas, emphasizing the coldness of the weather. After a good portion of an hour passes by and the roads start twisting and turning again, all of a sudden a man in what seems to be hide based armor holding a war axe, notioning them to stop, albeit with some fear.

"They look and sound like bandits, do not stop Grey." Lieutenant Clarke says.

"Oyy! You! Stop in whu'ever thing y'er in and give us all y'er gold and jewels before we slit your throats!" yelled the bandit, however seeing that the thing only made more noise and began to go faster, using the better part of his brain he jumps out of the way just in time.

As they were about to clear the poorly placed trap, boulders are deployed right in front of them, just with enough time to stop. However the sudden stop caused everyone to be pushed further inside the truck.

"Bollocks! Road's fucking blocked!" Private Grey says as he scans around for another way out.

"Crazy gits! Get 'im!" a bandit yells as more pop out from the surrounding areas.

Private Magnusson moves to the back of the truck and goes into a crouched position and moves the flaps out of the way, adjusting the Ksp 90 he proceeds to unleash hell on the attackers.

Still charging with misplaced valor, the bandits still standing up in the open get cut down by the fire rate of the light machine gun. Some archers attempt to fire but are met with no visible results. However the arrows that go through the tarp forces some of the peacekeepers to exit the vehicle.

"Left side! Left side!" Lieutenant Clarke yells as he shoots from his seat through the now opened window of Private Grey, who is now picking off the archers with his scoped L1A1 Self-Loading Rifle.

"Run! Unless you want Mehrunes Dagon to torture y'er souls!" a bandit says as he turns around and runs.

More and more bandits turn tail and run, oddly enough ending the confrontation all together.

"That was rather quick." Corporal Bæk says as he puts down his rifle.

"We have to clear the road, friends. Let us get to it." Lieutenant Clarke says, rallying the rest to move the boulders.

While the rest move the rocks out of the way, Private Grey and Private Madsen to be on the lookout in the event of the bandits deciding to come back. There were a few instances where Private Grey had to fire off a few rounds when one of the bandits decided to run back to them, however it was mostly quiet.

Having cleared the roadblock after one and a half hours they all piled in and went on the rest of their journey.

"That took too long." Lieutenant Clarke says in complaint.

"Yeah, it's already 1015 hours already, creative buggers ain't they?" Private Grey says while focusing on the brick road.

Eventually they run into a fork on the road, stopping, Lieutenant Clarke pulls out his map which had been drawn on with gridlines for better identification in the event anyone needs rescue.

"We're on the right track, take the left, friend." Lieutenant Clarke says as Private Grey turns the wheel to the left.

"Madsen, friend. Relay back to base, we are on C4 heading towards the midpoint of A4 and A5." Lieutenant Clarke says.

Madsen picks up the transceiver and tells base, which is met with an affirmative.

At some point the view changes to a fort, it looks old and definitely has seen better days, however it was definitely being used. Lieutenant Clarke brings out the map once again and draws the small image of a castle on the grid square.

"Look at that, you think it's run by the Imperials?" Private Grey asks.

"We're about to find out." Lieutenant Clarke says.

On the road, three people, a mix of men and women are dressed in a tribal manner. Lieutenant Clarke was about to tell Private Grey to stop, however arrows began to fly, and as one bounced right off of the windshield, along with the group's shock of more arrows flying through the tarpaulin cover, it was evident these people were hostile.

"Grey! Get us out of here!" Lieutenant Clarke yells.

Private Grey shifts into a higher gear and slams the pedal into the ground, seeing how one of them refused to move, Private Grey tried to move him out of the way by blasting the horn at him. However with how tight the road is and that he refused to move, there was only one thing Private Grey could do.

The body of the man disappeared as soon as the truck hit the man, however he soon found out where he went when everyone felt the two left rear wheels go over something. Arrows still attempted to reach them, however they began to lose accuracy and eventually letting them go, seeing as they cannot chase them on foot.

"Fuck! Fuck! Fuck! What the hell did I do!?" Private Grey says as he pulls over to the side and begins to show signs of hyperventilation.

"Grey, calm down, friend. The road was too thin and he was in the way, there is nothing else you could have done." Lieutenant Grey says as he tries to calm down his subordinate.

Corporal Hoon pops his head into the cab and attempts to call him down. "Calm down, kid, it's alright. Come around back and take a break alright? Someone else will take over."

Private Grey hops out with Private Holland ready to help him to the back if ever. Moments later after a short debate Private Yeo-Jin steps in and takes over in driving. Finally on their way after the short fiasco.

After half an hour of driving they eventually come up to a road which borders near a cliff and another mountainside, making Private Yeo-Jin a bit nervous as she drives along the road.

"Scared of the cliff, friend?" Lieutenant Clarke asks looking at the cliff.

"Not really the cliff, I've driven near some back home, it's just that the steering on this thing is really hard." Private Yeo-Jin notes as she seems to use almost all her wrist strength to turn the wheel.

"You can grow accustomed to it, friend." Lieutenant Clarke says as he notices one of the tribal warriors from a while ago on the road fighting something.

Thinking that they have been followed, Lieutenant Clarke silently goes for his M4. However what shocks him more is the appearance of giant spiders. Wincing internally Lieutenant Clarke is disturbed because it is a giant spider, but fine with it because it was big enough to shoot.

"Oh those must be the Frostbite Spiders that those two people in the palace were talking about." Private Yeo-Jin says as she puts the vehicle in neutral.

"What's the hold-" Private Magnusson says as he immediately sees the Frostbite Spiders in action.

Reeling back from the window, Private Magnusson begins to repeatedly punch the wooden floor and swear in Swedish repeatedly. It was fine at first until it began to last for too many seconds, causing Sergeant Shiekh to do something.

"Magnusson! Get your shit together. The more sound you make might draw those spiders here instead." Sergeant Sheikh tells him.

Almost immediately, Private Magnusson stops his fit and calms down, at least they knew he was still able to understand things properly. The group had decided instead to wait it out and see who wins between the two. After a few minutes the tribal people have finally slain the large spiders, however soon their attention is brought to them and thus they begin charging.

Now wanting to waste time, Lieutenant Clarke whips out his M4 and sticks himself outside the right window. Not firing at first to see what would happen, however instead of running away an icicle was launched at him, almost hitting his shoulder. Deciding that they would not turn around, Lieutenant Clarke pulls the trigger of his carbine, killing them in short bursts.

"Avoid the spiders, friend, let us go." Lieutenant Clarke says as he rolls up the window.

Without a word Private Yeo-Jin continues the last leg of the trip. They had mostly gathered that the city of Markarth had run mostly off of the mining industry without having poisoned the nearby water sources as a result of mercury disposal.

Turning the truck around and putting it into reverse, Private Yeo-Jin parks the large vehicle with relative ease. Allowing everyone to disembark and grab the Dwarven gear for trade.

"Watts, Axelsson, stay with, Madsen, the rest of us will be going in. Leave your rifles here, friends." Lieutenant Clarke says as he slips his Glock 17 into his holster.

"Remind me why I can't go?" Private Madsen says as he gets more comfortable in the back by slouching a bit more than usual.

"You are the radio operator, if you would like you could train someone else so you can take turns." Lieutenant Clarke suggests.

"Alright, Yeo-Jin, I'll be training you to use the long range when we get back." Private Madsen says.

Giving a thumbs up, Private Yeo-Jin moves with the rest of the group to enter the city of guards open the doors for them as they usually do with visitors, and close it immediately.

"A-are those the weird uniformed men you overheard them Imperial Soldiers were talking about in the tavern?" one of the guards says to their compatriots.

"Yeah! It has to be them, I mean, look at them! No one wears those tunics around here." the other one says.

"By the Eight… I wonder what they're here for…" another one says.

As they walk into the city they are greeted with the sight of well preserved masonry and has a layout and look similar to one movie back on Earth. It had an imposing yet beautiful demeanor, reminiscent to having brought out magnificent cave formations from underground.

"Woah, this place looks like Minas Tirith from the Lord of the Rings." Corporal Hoon says as he looks around with some awe in his stance.

In the corner of Corporal Bæk's eye he sees a man crouching down, dagger in hand, moving towards a woman who seems to be haggling for a price of sorts. Seeing that he probably had intentions to harm her, Corporal Bæk rushes through the crowd and pushes the lady out of the way and wrestles the man to the ground.

With Corporal Bæk on top of the assailant the struggling does not stop and only escalates as he tries to stab him in the neck, however this was countered by Corporal Bæk who pushes the hand away and lands a mean hook on his face.

However before the man could work up a strike once again, Private Yeo-Jin steps on the attacker's hand, accompanied by a sickening crack. Screaming in agony the man lets go of the dagger, allowing Corporal Bæk to restrain the man.

"Don't move!" Corporal Bæk says as he already has his SIG Sauer P320 in his right hand, aimed directly at the man's temple.

Stopping the struggle he breathed a sigh of defeat, however he continued his struggle again, causing Corporal Bæk had to hit the man with the pistol, this time disorienting the man for a longer period of time, enough time for the guards to intervene.

"How dare you stop me, you outsider! Markarth belongs to the Forsworn! These people have no right living in these lands." his words were slightly slurred but had the conviction that only a radical believer could have.

"Shut your trap, Forsworn scum." one of the guards says as he and some of his cohorts appear.

"I have no idea who you are but thank you. We could've lost a life today if it weren't for your intervention."says the lead guard as the others lift the man up.

"Not a problem, friend. Do you let anyone just carry concealed weapons in cities?" Lieutenant Clarke asks.

"Well we don't have laws against it, so it's completely fine." says the lead guard.

"Again, thank you for your service. I do, however, recommend that you no longer look into this, we the guards of Markarth can handle this." he says with a hovering dark tone.

"Would you at least indulge us on where to find, Court Wizard Calcelmo, friend?" Lieutenant Clarke asks.

"Calcelmo? You mean that High Elf wizard obsessed with the Dwemer? You'll find him in Understone Keep. Just follow the streams up and you'll get there." the guard points at the general direction.

Thanking him, Lieutenant Clarke leads the way through, cutting and weaving through the path and the people who occasionally look at them, which they have grown accustomed to in their time helping around in the Cox Bazar refugee camps.

"Excuse me, but do you know anything about this house? Seen anyone enter or leave?" says a man in bright grey robes.

Stopping, Lieutenant Clarke faces to address him. "No, friend, I'm sorry. We have just arrived here."

"Damn it. It's like everyone in this damn city has amnesia. I'm with the Vigil of Stendarr. We believe this house might've been used for Daedra worship. Evil rites and so forth." he says with an eased manner.

"What does this Vigil do? And what is Deadra?" asks Lieutenant Clarke.

"We Vigilants serve Stendarr, God of Righteous Might and Merciful Forbearance. We serve him by hunting down Daedra worshippers and any undead that plague the land." says the Vigilant.

"Ah, an inquisition group? Hopefully there are no wrongful accusations that have been carried out then." Private van der Wel notes.

"There are no wrongful accusations when we find shrines to the Daedric lords, or obvious undead. Vampires and the like have very telling features." the Vigilant notes.

"Vampires exist? Sparkly, burn in the sun, love triangle kind?" Private Magnusson says, joking at the last part.

"Sparkly if they don't feed for a few days, weaker in the sun but don't burn, eyes that glow brightly orange or yellow, and some life draining spells, and summoning spells." the Vigilant adds, missing the joke completely.

"Oh? Then where are they?" Private Magnusson asks.

"Everywhere and anywhere. You never know which city, town, ruin, or cave they hide in. For all we know there may be multiple ones here in Markarth. But that is not my mission." says the Vigilant.

"Well thank you for your time, friend. Best of luck on your mission." Lieutenant Clarke says as he leaves.

"Thank you for your time, and be vigilant." the Vigilant says as he continues to ask other people about the house.

"Didn't the Court Wizard Stentor have glowing eyes?" Private Yeo-Jin says in a hushed tone beside Lieutenant Clarke.

"Perhaps it was the after effect of some alchemic ingredients, friend." Lieutenant Clarke says as he puts the fear away of his subordinate. If indeed she is a vampire, then they need to find out whether or not she is friendly or foe. Regardless it would be a shame to have to drag her out into the sun.

Finally they climbed the last steps, reaching the Understone Keep. It was a short but tiring trip. However it was stunning in its own right with the use of water and straight cut stones to bring out the emphasis of the importance of the building.

"Blasted Dwarves. Can't they just bloody build things on flat fucking ground?" Private Grey says as he heaves per breath, attempting to catch their breath, much like the others who are carrying the rest of the Dwarven relics.

"Halt, what business do you have in Understone Keep?" says a guard, raising his hand to stop the group.

"We're here to meet with the Court Wizard, friend. We bring Dwemer artifacts for him as well in hopes of learning more." Lieutenant Clarke says to the guard.

"Very well, but no sudden movements, and treat the Jarl, his aide, and the Thalmor with respect." says the guards as he opens the door for them.

Inside the keep it was dark and cold, with a weird feeling. However it was a good thing they would not stay here for too long. Eventually they near an intersection where there are guards debating with yet another robed man about why they cannot be allowed to visit the dead.

Hailing for the nearest guard, Lieutenant Clarke asks. "Friend! Where is Court Wizard Calcemo?"

"Turn here. You'll come into an opening where you'll find the Court Wizard and his nephew." the guard points to a direction.

Thanking her the group makes their way to the Court Wizard. Upon reaching the area they are greeted with a stone walkway with a hastily set up laboratory and one rather moody Court Wizard.

"Uncle Calcelmo…" the person they presume to be the nephew says.

"What is it, nephew? Can't you see I'm trying to work here?" says Calcemo, his eyes never leaving his work

""I just wanted to know if you needed anything." the nephew says.

"Um, no. Nothing. Nothing at all." Calcemo replies, still glued to his work.

"Are you sure?" his nephew asks again.

"Stop bothering me, Aicantar!" yells Calcelmo.

"Excuse us, friends. Steward Firebeard says you can help us with something." Lieutenant Clarke says as he and the group walks closer to the wizard.

"What are you doing here? The excavation site is closed. I don't need any more workers or guards." says the wizard.

"Perhaps we can trade for your time, friend?" Lieutenant Clarke says as he pulls out a Dwarven Helmet from one of the bags.

"You… where did you get this?" Calcemo says as he turns around and takes the helmet excitedly.

"We have more, we happen to be living in one, and we were hoping you could help us know more about that place." Lieutenant Clarke says.

"Oh this is absolutely brilliant! You said you were living in one?! Where? How big are the ruins? Is it more of a ruin or is it mostly intact?" Calcemo says in a rushed manner.

"It is more of an underground city, with a very big access ramp to the surface. It had blue like lights everywhere." Lieutenant Clarke says as he tries to recall, allowing any of his subordinates to add in more details.

"Precisely that! Most if not all Dwemer cities are underground. A ramp leading to the surface? Why, I've never come across one. Dwemer ruins only really have a lift or some entrance buried in a cave. And blue lights? Must be some very large glowshrooms…" Tell me, where did you surface from this ramp?" Calcemo says as he pulls out maps and charts from his table.

Pulling out his own map, Lieutenant Clarke points at the symbol of a small house. "Right about here, friend the length of its descent puts the base at about here and the general location here."

"What… what are these lines you have on the map? Bah, anyway. Around here?"

"Yes, around here, friend." Lieutenant Clarke says as he points at the map.

"So, what lifts are around the area? Alftand. Raldbthar. And Mzinchaleft. No… it can't be. Blackreach?!" Calcemo says as he drops the piece of charcoal he was using as a writing tool.

"Blackreach?" Sergeant Sheikh asks.

"Yes, Blackreach. I don't know much about it but I do know it lies deep underneath four very important Dwemer cities: Arkngthamz, Mzulft, Raldbthar, and Bthar-zel, and that these four cities were focusing on a massive project." Calcemo says with interest.

"Perhaps Blackreach contains a Dwemer artifact so important, it could launch my research forward…" Calcemo says as he walks to a nearby box to look for something.

Writing down on the map the name of the city they were in, Lieutenant Clarke also notes that there may be something of importance to merit the attention of the brave adventurers or worse. In the event they can get more men and those experts in archaeology perhaps they can find it. If they ever get the chance to go home.

"One more thing to note, friend. There was a strange device down there, and what seemed to be an artificial sun." Lieutenant Clarke says as the others unload the Dwarven goods on a table nearby.

"An artificial sun?! That must be related to the Aether the Dwemer were studying! I must go, I must!" Calcemo says with excitement.

"Bahh but I am confined here by Jarl Igmund. Such a bland and boring person. It is a shame I cannot leave. But… I can send my nephew with you, if you'd allow him?" Calcelmo says his thoughts candidly.

"May I ask my other sergeants first, friend?" Lieutenant Clarke asks.

"I understand, but I do hope your… sarjents agree. This could be a breakthrough in Dwemer research!" Calcemo says.

"Globe 2-7, this is Globe Lead. You there?" Lieutenant Clarke unmounts the radio from his plate carrier.

"Still alive, sir."

"I need you to transmit back to base, a vote on if we should let an expert on Dwemer ruins go to our place. It's a possible way to get home.

"... Yes, Yes! I'll send it right away."

"Very good, fill me in when you're done, Globe Lead, out." Lieutenant Clarke says as he mounts his radio back.

"By Mara, what is that thing? Some sort of Dwemer artifact you managed to restore? No… no, this isn't made by Dwemer metal." Calcemo says as he attempts to grab it, however thwarted by Lieutenant Clarke when he pushes him away in a friendly manner.

"It is a radio friend, a human invention. It uses radio waves to transmit sound, helps us communicate over long distances." Lieutenant Clarke explains.

"A raydyo? Hmmm I've never seen it before. But it must be a fantastic device. Also… I will buy those Dwarven stuff… if you sell them to me." Calcemo says, eyeing the Dwarven Sword with deep interest.

"Not to be too brash, but all of it?" Corporal Bæk says as he puts another slab of Solid Dwemer Metal on a table.

"Of course all of it! I'm sure Jarl Igmund wouldn't mind me spending more gold on Dwemer artifacts and materials."

"Aicantar! Could you go over to Jarl Igmund and ask for… one thousand gold pieces? Tell him some good folks brought over a cart load of Dwemer antiquities!" Calcemo instructs.

"Of course, Uncle." Aicantar obliges.

After a few moments some talking is heard, however with the size of the Keep it was hard to distinguish whether the echoes amplified voices or if it was yelling coming from wherever the Jarl is situated. However soon footsteps are heard and it didn't sound like one person, in fact it sounded akin to a group of four or five people walking towards the makeshift laboratory.

"Calcelmo! What is the meaning of this?! One thousand gold pieces? Are you mad?" Jarl Igmund says storming into the chamber.

"Jarl Igmund, perfect! Yes, yes one thousand gold pieces should suffice. Look! Even your guards and mercenaries couldn't bring in a haul like this!" Calcelmo says pointing to the table of Dwemer relics.

"I… fine! But this will be the last time for the month! I can't keep funding your fruitless endeavor!" Jarl Igmund says as he leaves.

"Ah these must be the fantastic people I've heard about. It is a pleasure to meet you. I am Justiciar Ondolemar." the Justiciar says.

The elf in front of him seemed familiar, much like the one that died attempting to escape the dragon that came out. Snapping out of it Lieutenant Clarke extends his hand to shake. "Lieutenant Travon Clarke. 14th Peacekeeper Company, 3rd Platoon, United Nations Department of Peace Operations."

"Ah yes, the very foreign people coming from a very… peculiar background. Your reputation precedes you. Well then, seeing as you might be busy, I must bid you farewell." Justiciar Ondolemar says as he shakes Lieutenant Clarke's hand with evident disgust and then leaves.

Wiping his hand on the floor, Lieutenant Clark turns to Sergeant Sheikh who puts the gold in a now empty backpack. Lieutenant Clarke had sat down on a nearby stone when the radio came to life.

"Globe Lead, this is Globe 2-7. Votes are in. All of them voted yes, it's up to you now, sir. Globe 2-7, out."

Looking to Sergeant Sheikh he notions for him to come closer for his vote, however he already throws him a thumbs up. With all four sergeants decided on letting him come, the decision was clear.

"Calcelmo, friend! Your nephew will come with us." Lieutenant Clarke says with enthusiasm.

"Absolutely brilliant! Aicantar! You have a new assignment. You are to accompany these lovely men to Blackreach, map, study, and investigate the area, and send me the occasional report. It is a shame I can't come, so I entrust to you, nephew." Calcemo says as he hands him a bag with probably research supplies.

"Please extend our thanks to the Jarl, we will take our leave now, friend." Lieutenant Clarke says as he leaves for the city bounds.

"Aicantar! Hurry up!" Calcelmo yells.

"Yes, Uncle!"

As the group leaves for the entrance, Justiciar Ondolemar looks at the group from afar, and then looks to his subordinates and calls for two of them who eagerly rise from their chairs and leave their card game and fellow compatriots.

"You two, I need you to do something, and time is of the essence." Justiciar Ondolemar orders.

"Yes, Justiciar."

"You. I need you to deliver a message to Ambassador Elenwen. Tell her that mysterious people have arrived in Skyrim, and can be potential threats to our plan." Justiciar Ondolemar notes.

"And you, I need you to tail them. Follow them to wherever it is they go, and report their activities to me, to which I will send them to Ambassador Elenwen. Make sure to remain in the shadows." Justiciar Ondolemar says as he sees that the last of the group of strangers has left.

Soon after those he ordered leave as well, one leaves in an orderly fashion and the other leaves in a quiet manner.

After some time they finally reach the truck and the rest of the squad. They welcome him with enthusiasm since he and his uncle may be their ticket home. They help him onto the back of the truck as the rest of them pile in.

"This… what is this thing? It's not something I've seen here in Skyrim or back in the Summerset Isle." Aicantar says as he shifts nervously around the back.

"Ah hello to all of you. I hope to get along and not be a burden." Aicantar says seeing the eyes of the rest of the group gravitate towards him.

"You see that, Watts, that is how you make friends." Private Madsen jokes.

Laughter rings about from the group for a while as the truck begins to move along the road. At some point in time Private van der Wel opens up a box and pulls out one helmet and plate carrier colored in UN blue and hands it over to Aicantar.

"Wear that, it keeps you from dying. This is called a truck, it works by using an oil based liquid to fuel an engine." Private van der Wel explains.

"Ah, yes, thank you. Some sort of armor?" Aicantar says as he thumbles around with it.

"Um, could you please help me with this?" Aicantar says as he twists and turns it.

"Here, I'll help." Private van der Wel says as she moves closer to assist.

She undoes the velcro straps on the sides and puts it over his head, then closing them tightly. Grabbing the helmet she simply puts it on his head, surely he would know what to do with the straps. However deciding against it she does the straps of the helmet for him as well before sitting back down.

"Thank you, madame. You are most kind indeed." Aicantar says to her.

"Oh there's a human underneath that? So you like the dangerous ones huh, boy?." Corporal Hoon says in a joking manner.

"Or maybe she was being kind to get a little… something." Private Magnusson's laughter is short-lived when a loaded magazine hits him square in the face to see that she was fuming.

"Psst, Watts, Fucking van der Wel was blushing." Private Grey says hushed as he adjusts the scope on his rifle.

"Bullshit, you're just seeing things." Private Watts says hushed as well.

Before Private Grey could get another sentence out, he could feel a few pairs of eyes looking in his direction, one of them presumably from the close quarters expert.

"I'll tell you back at base." Private Grey says as he leans back, playing it cool.

After a few hours, passing through the same road, they eventually get to their base, or better known as Blackreach. Before they entered the swamps they saw two other peacekeepers by the road where they normally turn from the swamp.

After a few minutes of driving through the swamp they eventually come across Sergeants Drakenberg and Şÿrÿfaddinsoy outside the entrance. Stopping the truck, Private Yeo-Jin rolls down her window and is asked by another peacekeeper why she is driving now and she proceeds to explain what happened along the way to clarify and log that in.

"So where's our ticket back?" Sergeant Şÿrÿfaddinsoy says as he walks towards the passenger's side.

"In the back, friend, kitted up in the VIP specials." Lieutenant Clarke says as he jabs his thumb back.

After hearing that Sergeant Şÿrÿfaddinsoy walks to the back to see the elf in UN blue. Holding back some laughter he eventually greets the elf in the usual friendly way of a soldier. "That does not seem to fit you properly, Ticket."

"Ticket? What is a ticket?" Aicantar asks.

"It is like a paper for confirmation of something, like a seat on a boat or bus that goes home." Sergeant Şÿrÿfaddinsoy explains.

"I see… well I don't quite understand, but if it's any closer to being a solution, my uncle and I can do our best to help." Aicantar says as he affirms them.

"I like this guy already. LT you're good to go." Sergeant Şÿrÿfaddinsoy yells from the back as he slaps the side of the truck in confirmation.

"I see you got the optics working again, friend." Lieutenant Clarke says as he turns to Sergeant Drakenberg atop his Strf 9040A.

"Yeah but just the optics in general, no night vision or FLIR for the gunner. Commander's optics still has that so we're not too blind." Sergeant Drakenberg says as he pops back down into the IFV.

As the truck goes down Sergeant Drakenberg looks at the screens of his optics and cycles through to FLIR mode since it was too bright for night vision. However he notices an odd humanoid shape hiding in the bushes. It was an immediate concern which caused him to flag over Sergeant Şÿrÿfaddinsoy.

"Hey, Şÿrÿfaddinsoy, how many of your boys are out hunting?" Sergeant Drakenberg asks.

"None, we're on patrol. Why?" Sergeant Şÿrÿfaddinsoy says.

"Is one of them taking a shit? Because there is someone squatting in the fucking bushes." Sergeant Drakenberg asks.

"Let me check. This is Globe 3-1, who the fuck is taking a shit in the swamps?" Sergeant Şÿrÿfaddinsoy says into his radio.

After all callsigns said that they did not, it was apparent someone was followed. Sergeant Drakenberg points in the direction of the humanoid figure as Sergeant Şÿrÿfaddinsoy puts down the yellow combat goggles perched on his helmet and radios to the rest of the Platoon about the intrusion.

Sergeant Şÿrÿfaddinsoy specifically stated to play cool as if nothing happened but circle the figure. After ten minutes of acting by walking rather close to the bush, he turns around and silently walks behind the figure. The humanoid in question was wearing an ornate set of gold or maybe brass armor, he seemed to be incredibly engrossed at the entrance.

However Sergeant Şÿrÿfaddinsoy steps on a branch making a sound, the humanoid turns around and Sergeant Şÿrÿfaddinsoy goes for the tackle. Being pushed outside the bush and rolling around in the mud. At one point the humanoid had gotten the upper hand however Sergeant Şÿrÿfaddinsoy had surprised him by ramming his head into his, causing the intruder to stagger back.

Having gained some distance Sergeant Şÿrÿfaddinsoy raises his AKM at the intruder. "Get on the ground!"

"Try and get me." the humanoid charges at the Sergeant once more who then suddenly conjures a sword. He hears yelling then a loud sound followed by finding himself on the ground.

"Weapon!" Sergeant Şÿrÿfaddinsoy says as he puts a round into the leg of the humanoid, causing it to fall over and the purple, ghostly sword disappears into thin air.

"Bastard! What did you do to my leg?" the humanoid says as he attempts to stand up.

"Down on the ground! I will not ask again!" Sergeant Şÿrÿfaddinsoy says as he closes the distance.

"You… I'll make sure you don't get to see tomorrow's sunrise." he says as he conjures yet another sword and swipes at him, only to gouge the plate carrier. Thinking he has won he stops swinging, however Sergeant Şÿrÿfaddinsoy rams the rear end of his AKM into the face of the humanoid.

In a slur of words he is pushed down to the ground and binded with some zip ties. Sergeant Şÿrÿfaddinsoy removes any dangerous items and then removes his helmet. He sees that this humanoid is rather elf like, much like the one Globe 2 had brought in.

"This is Globe 3-1, situation handled, in need of medical assistance, round impacted in the thigh, severing muscles presumably." Sergeant Şÿrÿfaddinsoy says into his radio.

In minutes the MAN SV came up the ramp in a fast manner. Coming to a stop near Sergeant Şÿrÿfaddinsoy. There, two peacekeepers and one of the medics get out the back with a stretcher. Quickly the medic tends to the wound of the elf.

"What happened?" asks the medic.

"He kept going, so I had to shoot him." Sergeant Şÿrÿfaddinsoy says as he stands up.

Helping get the body on the stretcher, Sergeant Şÿrÿfaddinsoy ties down the elf in case he attacks again. Getting into the back as well, he tells the rest of the surface units to keep a tighter patrol in order to avoid such mishaps.

On the way down the elf wakes up, finding himself bound to a stretcher and inside a truck had freaked him out a bit. However he was smart enough to know that making any sudden movements may result in him worsening his current conditions.

Finally getting off the ramp, the driver pulls up beside the Ural 4320 and parks it. He complains about how the radiator nearly gave in and the engine almost overheated. As soon as they stop, the medic and the two other peacekeepers get out and begin to rush him to one of the Dwemer buildings. Rushing inside the makeshift medical center it was desolate in exception of one other medic and their volunteer assistants.

"Bring him to the back! Tatsukichi, gather up things we can use to remove a bullet, morphine, and some water." the medic says.

Soon enough Lieutenant Clarke comes in to see what had happened. "Sergeant, report."

"Some elf came to spy on us. I do not want to point fingers but you may want to ask the other elf a few questions, he could be linked to him." Sergeant Şÿrÿfaddinsoy says as he places the yellow combat goggles back on top of his helmet.

"Corporal Hoon, kindly call over Aicantar. Tell him I need to speak to him in the mess hall." Lieutenant Clarke says as he leaves the medical center.

Walking closer to the weird Dwemer device responsible for bringing them here, Corporal Hoon asks Corporal Bæk who is still unloading his things into his living space in one of the Dwemer buildings, albeit in a quick manner.

"Bæk, aren't you supposed to be attending to the elf someone shot?" Corporal Hoon asks.

"That is why I'm getting my medical bag, I'm going there now." Corporal Bæk says as he continues fixing his bag.

"Right, have you seen the scholar?" Corporal Hoon asks another question.

"Yeah, he should be behind the construct thing." Corporal Bæk says as he lifts the pack and begins running to the medical center.

Going over there he notices Aicantar prodding and writing things down from the construct. Getting the attention of both Aicantar and his escort. "Private van der Wel, the Lieutenant needs to borrow your boyfriend for a few questions."

"Piss off, sir. Well you heard him, best not keep the Lieutenant waiting." Private van der Wel says as she continues making her rounds on the construct.

"Aicantar, c'mon, let's go." Corporal Hoon says as he gestures him to start moving.

"Ah, is someone looking for me? Very well, just let me pat off the dust from my clothes." Aicantar says as he begins dusting himself.

"So, found out how to get the damn thing working yet?" Corporal Hoon asks as they walk through their relocated camp.

"I apologise. I can't quite make heads or tails of this platform yet, since I do not have my Uncle's notes. However, I'm sure that once Uncle Calcelmo receives the schematics he'd go night and day studying it." Aicantar says as he adjusts the helmet on his head once more.

"If you'd allow me, I would like to search a wider area from this platform. Perhaps one of the structures here has schematics or an instruction manual." Corporal Hoon allows Aicantar to continue.

"That is a good point, bring it up with the Lieutenant when we get there, we're trying to minimize injuries see." Corporal Hoon says as they take a turn.

Eventually they reach the building where the sergeants and the lieutenant use as quarters. Entering the building they immediately see Lieutenant Clarke sitting on the table. "Aicantar, take a seat, friend. I just need to ask a few questions."

"Thank you, kind sir. Please, ask your questions." Aicantar says as he sits down.

"Are you aware of what happened a while ago, friend?" Lieutenant Clarke says as he passes a glass of water across the table.

"No… what's wrong?" Aicantar answers, taking the glass.

"Someone was shot for trespassing and refusing to follow orders, he was wearing this." Lieutenant Clarke gets the helmet of the elf brought over by Sergeant Şÿrÿfaddinsoy from the back. "Do you know who this belongs to?"

"An Elven Helmet? The only Elves I've seen wear these are the Thalmor." Aicantar says as he examines the helmet.

"Are you connected to them?" Lieutenant Clarke's attitude changes as he places the Glock 17 on the table, pointed at Aicantar.

"No, I swear! My Uncle and I keep our studies on the Dwemer very close to our chests! The only person I can think of who would do this is Ondolemar." Aicantar says in a shaky voice.

A moment of silence goes on for far too long as Lieutenant Clarke stares at Aicantar, judging whether he is right or not. However a decision was made after Lieutenant Clarke puts the Glock 17 back in his holster. "Very well, friend. I am sorry to have scared you, please understand that I am just doing this for the safety of everyone."

"I… I understand. I can't apologise for the entirety of the High Elves behalf, but I do apologise for causing an inconvenience." Aicantar says more calmed this time.

"No inconvenience has been caused by you, no need for the apologies, friend. Please return to your duties." Lieutenant Clarke says as he opens the door for him.

"Thank you again for the hospitality. I will ensure that I will research what I can, send them to my Uncle, and help you in whatever way possible." Aicantar says as he goes through the door.

Giving a nod, Lieutenant Clarke closes the door and looks to Sergeant Şÿrÿfaddinsoy. "How long until the… Thalmor member is done being operated on?"

"Medics say maybe after dinner, if he survives." Sergeant Şÿrÿfaddinsoy says.

"Was he losing a lot of blood?" Lieutenant Clarke asks as he examines the light source closer again, wondering how it is still working.

"Not really, but we never know." Sergeant Şÿrÿfaddinsoy says.

After some time dinner was announced and everyone except the security detail for that time had gathered into the mess hall, however some people preferred to eat outside the cramped building. This time dinner consisted of roasted beef, chopped cabbages, and bread.

After a few hours of cleaning up, Corporal Bæk approaches Lieutenant Clarke. "The elf has woken up, you can ask him questions now."

"Very well, friend, thank you." Lieutenant Clarke says as he closes the book he was reading.

"Magnusson! Şÿrÿfaddinsoy! Come with me." Lieutenant Clarke goes off with them in tow.

Entering the medical center they see the Thalmor member sitting up in a corner, his food still untouched. Lieutenant Clarke grabs a hard case and sits on it. Sergeant Şÿrÿfaddinsoy stays behind his CO while Private Magnusson stands close to the Thalmor member.

"You should eat, blood loss is a serious problem, friend." Lieutenant Clarke says.

"I didn't think my human captors would be so gracious. However, I don't feel like touching food prepared by your kind." the Thalmor member says.

"Very well. Who wants the bread?" Lieutenant Clarke asks as Private Magnusson takes the bread and some of the beef. While Lieutenant Clarke eats the rest.

"What is your name, friend?" Lieutenant Clarke asks.

"I do not feel like telling you anything." the Thalmor member refuses.

"No one will be coming to rescue you. And seeing your hostile intentions we will be shooting anyone wearing your colors. Do you want more of your comrades to die?" Lieutenant Clarke says as a matter of fact.

"I'd like to see you start a war with the Aldmeri Dominion, human." the Thalmor member says in pride.

"Swords and bows versus guns and tanks? I would like to see that, it would be entertaining." Private Magnusson says as he strokes his chin in thought.

"Ha, you're a fool to think we'd only use swords, and bows." the agent says.

"But you would be a bigger fool to not cooperate with us, mind you we are underground." Sergeant Şÿrÿfaddinsoy says from behind Lieutenant Clarke.

"And the Aldmeri Dominion owns everything under the sky, they will find, and they will kill you." the agent says in defiance.

"A mustached tyrant said that once too, four great nations smashed it aside in five years. Now think about it when 197 nations do that to yours. Help us avoid a war, friend." Lieutenant Clarke says.

"Hmph, assuming those 197 nations do exist. As far as I can tell you're the only ones of your kind here." the agent reminds them.

"But if you fight us, and we get back home, all of Earth shall cry for vengeance." Private Magnusson says, albeit not with such a strong conviction.

"Hmph." the agent says as he turns away from them.

Seeing that they would not have any progress, they decided to call it a night and try again in a few days. During that time however they had attempted to devise a plan on how to get information out of the Thalmor agent, they had to do it within the confines of the Geneva Convention not because they wanted to be humanitarian, but because it could bite them back in the future.

After a few days it was time for them to restock on supplies. Sergeant Linehan mounts up on the Ural 4320 with his squad and some of the money. Before Sergeant Linehan got in he yelled to the others. "Does anyone have any special requests whatsoever?"

"Oh, could I trouble you to send a letter to Markarth to my Uncle Calcelmo?" Aicantar asks among the other requests being vocalized.

"Sure, there should be a messenger in Solitude." Sergeant Linehan says as he grabs the letter and gets in.

Lieutenant Clarke was about to question the Thalmor agent again when Sergeant Sheikh runs up to him. "Sir, I have an idea to get him to talk?"

"Tell me, friend." Lieutenant Clarke says as he stops.

"We could trick him into giving us the information." Sergeant Sheikh says.

"How so?" Lieutenant Clarke asks.

"We have the robes of that mage from the first day, it was similar to the ones that Ondeler… person Justiciar was wearing in Markarth. We also take his armor, and have Aicantar wear it." Sergeant Sheikh says.

"And?" Lieutenant Clarke notes.

"We have Aicantar wear these at different times, in different kinds of faked injuries and damage, take him outback, and shoot him." Sergeant Sheikh reveals.

"So you want to use psychological trickery instead?" Lieutenant Clarke unveils through the coated words.

"We could just shoot him." Sergeant Sheikh says as he pulls out his Glock 17.

"Fine, we'll do the psychological one then." Lieutenant Clarke says as he walks in.

Pulling the same hardcase like before and sitting down on it, he asks the Thalmor agent again. "So are we ready to talk this time, friend?"

"Hmph." was the response.

"Right, we will be taking your armor and weapons. Maybe that will get you to talk." Lieutenant Clarke lies.

"Don't touch me with your filthy hands, human." the elf says as the Sergeant takes the arms and armor. The Thalmor agent attempts to fight, however having refused both food and water lead to the deterioration of his strength, allowing Sergeant Sheikh to take the armor almost unhindered, slapping and arm away every once in a while.

"Mangy cur." the Thalmor agent replies as Sergeant Sheikh leaves.

"Will you talk now?" Lieutenant Clarke asks.

"Never." and with that reply Lieutenant Clarke leaves as well.

Walking back down with Sergeant Sheikh who now has the Thalmor armor and robes heading towards Aicantar's general location. Eventually they round the place to get to the construct and see Aicantar studying it as usual with Private Holland watching over him.

"Aicantar, friend, a moment of your time." Lieutenant Clarke calls for his attention.

"Yes? What can I help you with?" Aicantar says as he turns to Lieutenant Clarke.

"Can we ask for a favor, friend?" Lieutenant Clarke says.

"Sure, you've helped me a lot so far." Aicantar says as he puts down his notes.

"We need you to wear one of these, friend." Lieutenant Clark says as he lifts the armor and mage like robes.

"And then we are going to drag you in front of our guest and then shoot you." Sergeant Sheikh says.

"Shoot me…?" Aicantar questions.

"We will pretend to shoot you, then make you look like you were shot, we will not actually shoot you, friend." Lieutenant Clarke reassures.

"I… sure. I trust what you are doing. But why do you need my help, if you don't mind me asking?" Aicantar asks.

"Our other Elven friend refuses to cooperate, we do not want to use brute force but we would rather use psychological force." Sergeant Sheikh says.

"I see, a brilliant idea. I hope I can fulfill my end of the bargain." Aicantar agrees.

"We'll start tomorrow, thank you for helping us, friend." Lieutenant Clarke says as he leaves Aicantar to his work.

Ruin of Blackreach, Province of Skyrim, Tamriel

14th Peacekeeper Company, 3rd Platoon

[ERROR] 0800 Hours

Sergeant Şÿrÿfaddinsoy along with two other peacekeepers were marching towards the holding area of their other less cooperative Elven friend. Lieutenant Clarke had ordered that he be moved to another location for the plan, so he can see what would happen. The orders came down right after breakfast to get it on with.

"Get up, elf. Time to move." Sergeant Şÿrÿfaddinsoy says as he brandishes his combat knife to cut the ziptie of his feet.

"What now, human? Don't tell me you're going to touch me with your filthy hands." the Thalmor agent says.

"Tough shit. Unless you can walk." Sergeant Şÿrÿfaddinsoy says as he cuts the zip tie from his feet.

"I can do that by myself, thank you very much." he says as he stands up.

"Good, now walk." Sergeant Şÿrÿfaddinsoy says as he pokes the business end of his AKM at the back of the agent, roughly.

The Thalmor agent was transferred to the back of a building, however he was just left outside with a blanket, and a bedroll made of hay. Tying his feet and hands this time he is left to his own devices for now.

"I didn't expect anything less from human hospitality." the agent says sarcastically.

"Glad you can enjoy it. Breakfast is served as well." Sergeant Şÿrÿfaddinsoy says as he leaves an enamel mess kit full of soup and a cup of water.

Grunting, he turns around to aver them. A few moments after leaving the peacekeepers hear the sounds of him consuming the food given to him. It was a sign that at this point he may cooperate. However they had other plans to do that faster.

After an hour Aicantar is called to the entrance of the camp, far away from the gazing eyes of their other Elven guest. Everyone was informed of what was about to happen so they each played their part when it came down to the execution of the act.

"Alright, buddy. Take a pic." Corporal Bæk says to Aicantar, gesturing at the armor and the robes.

"Alright, could you please hand me the Justiciar robes please." Aicantar says as he points at the robes.

"Alright, here. Some other guys will come to apply special effects to make it look like we beat you and you being injured. I'll be here to supervise how it looks." Corporal Bæk says as he hands Aicantar the robes.

Aicantar nods as he sheds some of his clothes and dons the Justiciar robes. Soon enough Corporal Hoon, and Privates van der Wel and Holland come along to apply the special effects. It had mostly consisted of mud and red berry juice made to look like blood.

"Hey, van der Wel. Is this not what girlfriends do to boyfriends, put make-up on them and whatnot?" Corporal Hoon says as he laughs along with Private Holland, and Corporal Bæk, which results in mud being thrown in his direction and a curse in Korean.

"What are boyfriends and girlfriends?"Aicantar asks.

"Well it is the two of you, given enough time." Corporal Hoon says as he is this time kicked lightly in the shin.

"The two of us? I don't quite understand." Aicantar says.

"You'll get it eventually, don't worry." Private Holland says as she receives what looks to be a look of betrayal from Private van der Wel.

After a few minutes they are done with their art work and ready to proceed. One of the trucks comes down from the ramp and stops in front of the camp. Aicantar is let inside the truck along with Lieutenant Clarke, Sergeant Sheikh, Private Magnusson, and Private Madsen.

"Are you ready, friend?" Lieutenant Clarke asks.

"I suppose." Aicantar says.

"Now remember to keep the hood down as far as possible, scream like you are pleading for your life and try to escape, alright, friend?" Lieutenant Clarke says.

"All curses, and insults are not intended, don't worry." Private Magnusson assures.

"Alright, shall I start now?" Aicantar asks.

"In awhile." Lieutenant Clarke says.

"We found another one! Take him with the other one!" Lieutenant Clarke yells out of the blue.

In moments, Privates Magnusson and Madsen haul Aicantar out of the back, with him kicking and screaming. Walking through the camp they eventually get to the Thalmor agent and drop Aicantar right beside the other Elf.

"Justiciar?" the Thalmor agent says.

Thinking of an immediate way to derail the conversation, Aicantar begins to pretend to hyperventilate in pain. Taking deep labored breaths every time.

"Sergeant Sheikh, what did you find out?" Lieutenant Clarke asks in fake anger.

"We know where they are holed up, some embassy in the mountains, we're going to attack them now." Sergeant Sheikh says as he thinks of the information on the spot.

"Good. Leave no survivors." Lieutenant Clarke says.

"Good luck trying to kill every Thalmor agent in the embassy. You'd never make it in there." the agent says.

"I'll prove it to you. Get him up!" Lieutenant Clarke says.

Privates Magnusson and Madsen hoist him up roughly and leave him in the open. Aicantar stands there defiantly as he was about to say something as he was left there while the Privates loaded their weapons.

"Pesky humans and their innovations. I doubt that could even kill a mouse." Aicantar says in fake defiance.

"Waste him!" Lieutenant Clarke orders.

After the sound of the bolts being racked the two Privates shoulder the weapons and fire around Aicantar, however to the view of the Thalmor agent, Aicantar the Justiciar is killed right then and there.

Having been informed by Corporal Bæk about what happens upon being shot, Aicantar flinches for a while before falling to the ground. Private Magnusson then pushes Aicantar down a slope where Corporal Bæk applies red liquids onto the robes where bullet holes most likely have been.

Private Magnusson curses in Swedish and proceeds to empty the rest of the belt of his Ksp 90 into the ground. The end result was dirt full of holes, and chipped stone. However for the Thalmor agent, he had just witnessed the power one peacekeeper can do.

"Take that filth away from here." Lieutenant Clarke orders.

Both Privates hoist Aicantar who pretends to be dead, covered in his own 'blood', pretending to be lifeless. He is dragged along to the other side, where he is thrown into a shallow ditch, here he is left for now.

"Get him up!" Lieutenant Clarke says as he points at the Thalmor agent.

"Stop! Hey! Don't touch me! I'll give you answers!" the Thalmor agent says as Private Magnusson single handedly lifts him. He tries to struggle away from the grip of the large Swede, however it is futile.

"Stay still and don't move!" Private Magnusson says as he feeds a fresh belt of ammunition into his Ksp 90, while Private Madsen puts another clip into his Gevær M/95.

"No, please! I don't want to die!" he says as he desperately crawls away.

"Stand up and look at your killers with pride!" Lieutenant Clarke says as he lifts the Elf up.

"I'll answer, I swear! Ambassador Elenwen be damned." the Thalmor agent pleads.

"We can get more information when we slaughter the embassy, we do not need him!" Sergeant Sheikh says as he watches, arms crossed over his chest.

"Kill him when you are done." Lieutenant Clarke says as the agent continues to bawl out in his own language and in English.

Finally after Private Magnusson finishes reloading he aims down at the agent's direction, and pulls the trigger… firing into the ground around the agent. The Thalmor agent stops and sees that he is not hit in the slightest, no injury inflicted asides from himself.

Lieutenant Clarke walks over to the Thalmor agent and lifts him up and dusts him. "Are you ready to talk now, friend?"

"Yes, yes. I'll talk." the Thalmor agent says, stammering a bit.

"I see we just had to mellow you out, friend. Would you like a drink and some food to calm you down?" Lieutenant Clarke asks.

"Just a drink please, if you would." the agent says.

"Sheikh, get our friend some water, meet us in the officer's quarters. Privates Magnusson and Madsen you may return to your duties." Lieutenant Clarke says as he leads the Thalmor agent to the officer's quarters.

Once inside he sits the agent down and soon after sits down himself. Soon enough Sergeant Sheikh returns with a canteen full of water which he gives to the Elf, already uncapped. He takes a drink and puts it down.

"Now, let's start with a simple question. What is your name, friend?" Lieutenant Clarke asks.

"Kalarurgderion Jaerfhaer." the agent says.

"Anything shorter, friend?" Lieutenant Clarke asks as he writes it down on a notepad, most likely misspelling the name.

"Derion… should suffice." the agent says.

"Now, why were you following us a few days ago?" Lieutenant Clarke asks, the atmosphere suddenly changing.

"Justiciar Ondolemar tasked me with tailing you." Derion says.

"Why?" Lieutenant Clarke pries deeper into it.

"I don't know. All he wanted was information on who you were, and where you were staying. He felt like you were a threat." Derion says.

Deeming it true, Lieutenant Clarke moves on. "What is the name of your organization?"

"We are simply called the Thalmor, although we are High Elves. The Thalmor currently sit as the governing council of the Third Aldmeri Dominion.' says Derion, explaining.

"So is this Thalmor the leading political party?" asks Lieutenant Clarke.

"Political party? I don't understand, but yes the Thalmor are leading the entirety of the Aldmeri Dominion, like an emperor would." Derion explains.

"How many of you are in Skyrim?" Lieutenant Clarke asks.

"Around one thousand two hundred if I'm remembering correctly." Derion tries to remember.

"And you are here to hunt these Talos worshipers, correct?" Lieutenant Clarke asks.

"Yes, and ensure that the Imperial presence here follows the White Gold Concordat." Derion says, confidence slightly flaring.

"Moving on, can you name us some of the more important members of your organization who are in Skyrim, and where they are now?" Lieutenant Clarke asks.

"Ancano in Winterhold, Rulindil, Lorcalin, and Madame Elenwen in the embassy." Darion notes.

"I need ranks, positions, and what they do." Lieutenant Clarke says.

"Ancano is meant to supervise the College of Winterhold and their magic. Rulindil is the torturer. Lorcalin is tasked to hunt down worshippers. And Madame Elenwen is the head of all Thalmor in Skyrim." Darion notes down.

Writing down into his notepad, Lieutenant Clarke asks again. "Who should we be worried about?"

"Ancano if you're in Winterhold, Rulindil if you get caught, Lorcalin if you go around openly worshipping Talos, and Madame Elenwen in general." Darion says.

"Most of us only either worship God or Allah here, so do not worry." Lieutenant Clarke says as he adds more notes to the names said.

"I do not recognize Allah, so you should be safe… for now." Darion says.

"I do not like that tone, but this is the last question, where is your embassy?" Lieutenant Clarke asks as he pulls out a map.

"Well you already know of it, don't you? The mountains near Solitude. Darion says.

"It was a hoax to get you to talk. No hitting, no torture, just smoke and mirrors, friend." Lieutenant Clarke says as he draws a small symbol on the map and puts it back.

"I… I see." Darion says in relief.

"We never had any intentions to kill you, however I do not speak for others, you have caused us to expend quite a lot of resources. We will return you to Justiciar Ondolemar by tomorrow morning. Sergeant Sheikh please return him to the medical center." Lieutenant Clarke says as he gets up his seat.

"Let's go, I will get you a spare sleeping bag to use." Sergeant Sheikh says as he gestures Darion to go first.

"If possible, I would wish not to return to Justiciar Ondolemar." Darion says.

"I cannot fulfil that wish, friend. It is standard protocol to return prisoners. I am sorry." Lieutenant Clarke says as he puts the notepad in his bag.

"I understand, then it means my life has come to its end." Darion says, sitting back down.

"Why, what do you mean, friend?" Lieutenant Clarke says as he sits back down as well.

"I have just given you information on the Thalmor, and I expect to be tortured and killed on other information about your group. As of now, they do not know if I am alive or dead." Darion says as a matter of fact.

Contemplating, Lieutenant Clarke thinks. It seems that to return him would mean his death, releasing him now would mean he could live longer, however without a guarantee of survival. He would be willing to let him stay, however most of the 3rd Platoon do not exactly have a positive opinion on him.

"Sergeant Sheikh, get this man a sack, fill it with food and a smaller water skin, give him back his sword as well. Ask Aicantar as well if he has some spare clothes." Lieutenant Clarke says, Sergeant Sheikh leaves soon after.

"What for?" Darion asks.

"I trust you won't kill us, but I am letting you go, friend." Lieutenant Clarke says as he cuts the zip tie off of Darion's feet.

"Of course! I am indebted to you. I plan on ditching this armor for common clothing." Darion says in enthusiasm.

"Hopefully you keep to that word, friend." Lieutenant Clarke says as he repeatedly hits the Elven helmet repeatedly with the stock of his M4. "Proof that you have been killed by a beast of sorts."

"I will keep my word. That will help a lot." Darion says as Sergeant Sheikh returns with the requested items.

"You may stay the night, however you will be leaving with us by tomorrow, am I clear?" Lieutenant Clarke as he begins pounding on the Elven chest piece with a rock.

"Yes, and thank you." Darion says as he takes his leave.

Lieutenant Clarke would have rather he brought him back to his superior, however he knew that this Elf was young and could still be taught to avert from such a close minded lifestyle, akin to that of a member of a supremacist cabal. And Darion's death or torture would not do that. He was sure that by letting him escape, Darion could better himself, however he could not return home, for now at least.