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"Dragon shouts"

"Normal speech"

"Thoughts/whispers/written speech/ pretty much anything that isn't the above"

••••••••••

Babette looked down at me from where she sat beside me on my bed.

"I think it's about time we talked." She said softly. "Don't you?"

I took a deep breath and nodded. I needed to apologize to her and set things right. I had put this off far too long. I sat up and looked her in the eyes.

"Your right. I've been avoiding this long enough. To be honest I'm just worried that I ruined one of the closest friendships I've ever had."

Babette nodded in understanding. "I can sympathize with that. You mean a great deal to me as well Morthos." My breath caught at hearing her address me by my name and not my title. "I haven't been fair to you. I know that you only want me to be safe. I shouldn't get angry at you when your only trying to look out for my well being."

I took her hand in mine. "Babette stop. You have every right to be upset with me. You may be my subordinate but you are also my sister. You and Nazir have been some of the only consistent things in my life since I arrived here in Skyrim. I've come to depend on you both. Listener or not, I had no right to treat you the way I did or dismiss your council."

"That means a lot to me. I've been angry long enough and I forgive you. I'm sorry it took so long." Babette said as she pulled my hand up and held it against her cold cheek. She sighed at the contact. "I missed this. You and Nazir are all I have of the old family. Cicero doesn't really count."

We both chuckled. I remember Nazir once saying that Cicero was like that goofy cousin no one wanted to admit they were related to.

"It's fine Babette. It is my fault though. I just… on top of everything already going on, thinking of you possibly being killed is more than I was ready to cope with. It would destroy me to lose another family member."

Babette's eyes moistened with barely restrained tears. "Morthos how do you think we would feel if you were hurt or if you died? What would we do? You ARE the Dark Brotherhood Morthos and it's our responsibility to keep you safe. I know that you don't like the idea of being taken off the front lines but your far more important than the rest of us, even me."

Her words reminded me just who I was. I am the Listener. A blood soaked bringer of despair. The cold hands of death itself. I was critical to the continued function of the family. It seems as though I had forgotten that fact in the past few months. Being the primary field agent for the family had caused my mindset to fall back into what it was back when I first joined the family.

The realization was bittersweet. I could no longer look at my family as beloved friends to be coddled. They were assassin's to be sent out.

"Your right. I can't continue to allow my personal feelings to cloud my judgement." I chuckled. "When did I become such a mother hen?"

We spent the next hour just talking. I finally fulfilled my promise to her and told her about my past, my near hundred years spent as a vampire, how I cured myself of vampirism using the purge blood salts and the whispers that finally drove me to Skyrim. She was very surprised to hear that I was actually older than her by three years and about my true initial meeting with Cicero at the crypt of the Nightmother in Bravil. Suddenly everything about me, including why I spared the mad jester's life so long ago, made sense to her.

I admit that it felt nice to have someone know about my past. It wasn't a secret, not really, but it still sometimes felt like I was hiding it by never talking about it.

Babette thanked me for being honest with her and staying true to my promise. She proceeded to tell me about the multiple failed attempts at recreating my hand-made poison. I teased her by saying she would never figure it out. She seemed to take it as a challenge and she vowed to figure out how to make it or concoct her own brew that was even more potent than mine.

When the conversation came back around to me I told her about my time in Whiterun, the night I couldn't remember and my brawl with Aleatra inside the prison.

Babette chuckled upon hearing how I had almost been beaten by some random woman that I had been drinking with the night prior. She even teased me by saying Aleatra must have been angry at me for leaving her unsatisfied in bed. That was a much more vulgar joke than I expected from Babette but I took it in stride and with good humor. I decided to poke fun at her in the same fashion.

"I am so sorry that my 'performance' in the bed room isn't up to standard. Maybe you can show me a few of your tricks- oh wait, your ten and have none." I said.

She giggled. "I was a few weeks from eleven when I was turned thank you. And your so presumptuous dear Listener. Are you really so sure I have NO tricks to show you?" She whispered as she pushed me onto my back and straddled me. I stuttered and mumbled as I pathetically attempted to speak. Her words received no physical reaction but the implications left my mind racing and at a loss on how to respond. Babette surprised me further by leaning down, her hair serving as a curtain so her face was the only thing visible to me. I couldn't believe it: Babette, of all people, actually had me acting like a pubescent child. She lowered her face towards mine, her eyes fluttering, as though to kiss me. Falling into the moment I allowed my eyes to close as well as I waited for the feeling of her lips on mine.

I cringed as I felt her teeth pinch the skin on my neck. The light rush of pain brought me out of my Haze.

"And that, dear Morthos, is how I killed many a pervert." She chided me as she sat up.

I couldn't believe it.

Babette had just successfully seduced me, turned my joke back on me, and simulated assassinating me. My cheeks burned in shame and embarrassment.

Babette seemed to notice and patted my cheek softly.

"Don't be so upset." She said softly. "I got you but I won't say anything if you don't. Besides, I cheated a little."

She winked at me and I felt the release of her hypnotic suggestion. The little minx had hypnotized me, most likely when she had leaned over me.

"I admit my vampire hypnosis is strong but I didn't think you would fall prey to it. Especially considering you used to be a vampire yourself."

I chuckled and made note not to underestimate her again. Babette wouldn't share the details of this with anyone and neither would I. Besides, this was a game and I just so happened to lose this time around. Next time I tried teasing the small vampire sitting on me, I'd just have to really put some thought into how I went about it and not allow myself to fall so easily for her tricks. After all, I don't play to get even. I play to win.

My eyes lit up as a thought occurred to me. Babette's simulated seduction and assassination bringing Aleatra to mind.

"Hey Babette?" I asked slowly.

"Yes? What is it? Do you want to try again? Careful that smart mouth of yours doesn't get you in trouble." she teased from her perch on my stomach.

"How long was I asleep?" I asked.

"Only a few hours. Why do you ask?"

I sighed in relief. A few hours meant Aleatra would probably still be unconscious or barely waking up. "Would you help me escort our guest to mother?"

She grinned at me.

•••••

Babette quickly left to get dressed in her black hand robes. I donned my Crimson Scar armor and slipped my robes over it. It took me far longer than normal thanks to the blasted rain storm I had traveled in yesterday. Some of the leather pieces in my armor were still wet and soggy while other pieces had dried out and refused to move like normal. As though that wasn't enough some of the buckles had begun to rust making the simple job of getting my armor on that much more difficult.

I groaned at myself. I should have taken the time to properly put away my gear not just leave it in a pile. If I had put them up then I wouldn't be struggling now.

After more than a few attempts and far too many curse words, I managed to get everything in place. Babette entered the room adjusting her sash as I started sliding my weapons into their respective sheaths.

"Your still not done?" she teased. "Strange I always thought boys get dressed faster than us girls."

"It's karma for me neglecting my gear. I don't plan on allowing this to become a habit." I replied, a smile on my face. It felt nice to have Babette's company again.

Babette fake gasped. "For shame Morthos! You should know better young man. I can't believe you right now."

I snorted. "Young? Oh please. You should watch what you say little girl. Any more sass and I might have to ground you and take away your dolls for a week."

"Dolls? You can have them, I prefer my mortar and pestle. Is that really the best you have? Your comebacks are losing their bite. And I dare you to call me little girl again." She said, emphasizing the word bite by flashing her fangs.

I laughed her words off. "Ready?"

She smiled and gestured at the door. "After you Listener."

•••••

We both walked into the dungeon to find Aleatra shivering and hugging herself, obviously trying to stay warm. Babette frowned.

"You didn't leave her blanket?"

Aleatra jumped at the new voice. Seems she hadn't noticed us enter. Babette smacked my arm. "You just left her without a blanket? The Nightmother would have your head if she died from hypothermia."

I rubbed my arm and gave Aleatra and apologetic glace. "Sorry sorry. I was very tired when we got in. It slipped my mind how cold it can get down here."

Babette sighed then she turned to the still shivering Nord. "Sorry about him, he can be a little slow. I'm going to go get you a blanket and some warm tea." She said softly.

"Get those chains off then bring her into the dining hall. We can take her to Mother afterwards." Babette said as she passed me. I nodded and stepped forward to release the sanctuary's most recent guest.

"I really am sorry about that. Dragging you around really took a lot out me and by the time we got here I was one more gang of bandits from slitting your throat and leaving your corpse in the rain. It's not like me to forget something like this." I said as the chain holding her arm fell away. I stood and offered her my hand. "Come on. Let's get you warmed up."

She hesitantly took my hand and I pulled her to her feet. She stumbled a few steps as she followed me out the door.

"Your hospitality leaves a lot to be desired you know. I thought we were friends after all the fun we had." She said through chattering teeth as she followed. I glanced over my shoulder at her.

"What fun do you mean? I wasn't joking when I said I don't remember anything about it."

"Hold it!" Babette called from the next room. "I wanna hear all about the Listener's misadventures so get in here and then you can tell both of us."

I rolled my eyes as we walked in. Babette was pouring some tea into a few small cups.

"Please have a seat."

We both sat down. Aleatra looked around curiously. Babette set a steaming cup in front of her then draped a thick wool blanket over her shoulders. Aleatra muttered a quiet thank you then took a cautious sip and sighed happily as the warm drink entered her system. It was then that the twins entered. Both paused when they noticed our guest.

"Hello Gileanna. Ardoneth. How are we today?" I asked politely.

Gileanna smiled. "We are well Listener. We have lessons with Keeper Cicero after lunch. I see our guest is awake now." She said as she approached the table, her hand fingering the dagger at her side.

"Yes. She will speak with our Mother today." I said. Aleatra looked at me in confusion, but I didn't elaborate.

Gileanna tilted her head in confusion. "I thought you were the only one who could hear the Nightmother."

I nodded. "That's correct. She will most likely speak through me or give us a sign of some sort."

Ardoneth groaned. "As Interesting as that will surely be, you wouldn't happen to have a contract for us, would you listener? I would give nearly anything to not have to attend another lesson with the Keeper. All his talk of tradition gets old after the first time." She complained.

I chuckled at them. It was nice to be home again. "Tradition is important Ardoneth. It's what kept the Brotherhood alive for so long. Ask me again about work after I've spoken to Mother."

The twins nodded.

"Well then we should leave you all to it. Come sister, we need to sharpen the spare daggers. Speaker Nazir won't be happy if we forget again. Good bye guest." She waved happily at Aleatra. Ardoneth followed her happy sister muttering about how Nazir wouldn't be happy anyway.

Aleatra took another sip of her tea then looked at me. "They seemed… nice. Who's this Mother you guys keep talking about? What does she want with me?"

"You haven't guessed who we are? I thought by now it was obvious. We speak of the Nightmother. The unholy matron and true leader of the Dark Brotherhood." I answered.

I resisted the temptation to laugh when I saw Aleatra tense up at the mention of the Dark Brotherhood. I wasn't the only one to notice Aleatra's unease.

"Relax. If Mother wanted you dead she would have had us kill you, not drag you here. Mother doesn't waste effort on ceremony when there is no need. We're not the Mage's guild." Babette explained nonchalantly, as though it was the most common knowledge in the world.

I couldn't help the chuckle that bubbled up and escaped my lips. Babette smiled at me. She was probably just glad her humor hadn't gone unappreciated.

Aleatra remained tense. Seems Babette's little attempt at comfort hadn't been very effective.

I shrugged and decided to leave well enough alone. If the girl was scared or nervous, and she did have a very valid reason to be so, then I doubt there's anything I could say that would make her feel better. More likely, I would only make things worse.

We waited until Aleatra finished drinking her tea and for the color to return to her cheeks before speaking again.

"Before we go see Mother, there are a few things you need to know. Firstly is when we are before Mother, Babette and I will kneel. You will step forth and present Mother with an offering then kneel as well. You'll know it's safe to stand again when you hear me stand back up." I explained. Normally I ignore the formalities simply because Mother didn't actually care for it when it came to me. The other members of the Black Hand could get away with it too but I doubt Cicero would suffer an outsider to stand before the Nightmother without showing her the respect she is due.

"Don't expect to hear anything. That's the second thing." Babette said. "The Nightmother only speaks to the Listener, so anything she has to say to you will be said through him. The last thing is whatever you do, do not insult the Nightmother. You'll be killed if you do and nothing will stop it. Anything else to add Listener, dear?"

I shook my head. Present the offering, show Mother her due respect, don't insult her, and don't expect to hear her actually speak. That seemed like everything.

Aleatra nodded but was now once again looking at us as though we were completely insane. Babette also saw this and giggled.

I stood up and brushed at my robes. "If we've nothing else to discuss let's go see our dear Mother."

Babette and Aleatra followed me up the stone steps towards the Nightmother's small corner of the Sanctuary. We first stopped at Babette's alchemy garden. I quickly arranged a bouquet of Nightshade and Deathbell and placed it into Aleatra's hands.

"This is the offering I mentioned. Just place them at the foot of the coffin, take a step back and then kneel." I told her. She nodded without a word. I walked past her towards the Nightmother's corner.

Cicero had added small improvements over the years. The very first thing he did was take the time to personally remove the bars that allowed a view into the area below and replaced it with stone matching the adjacent walls. After that he added a pair of large wooden doors to seal off Mother's corner. They were stained black with a glass mural of Mother and the first Black Hand set into one and a stain glass visage of Sithis set into the other. When I first asked about the doors he claimed that it was only proper. Much later during a fit or rage I found out that the doors were also charmed to be fire resistant.

"Mother is a lady and a lady needs her privacy. It wouldn't do for anyone to just walk in on our loving Mother." He had said before walking away cackling.

A few other small improvements Cicero had added were relatively simple like the small alter before Mother's coffin for offerings of flowers or human hearts, the black candles that burned an ethereal blood red, or the small seat beside Mother's coffin where he spent much of his time.

I pushed the doors open and we were immediately assaulted by the concentrated unholy presence of the Nightmother. Aleatra seemed to stumble and her breathing became labored as we walked up the three steps closer to the Nightmother's coffin where Cicero stood praying. He looked to us and smiled when he spotted the offering in Aleatra's hands. He nodded and hummed in approval. I returned the gesture to him and he stood without a word and left the room.

After Cicero was gone Babette and I stepped aside and kneeled. I watched our guest from the corner of my eye. She was shaking and nearly gasping as she approached the massive iron coffin that sheltered the Nightmother's ancient corpse. Aleatra gently placed the bouquet in the small opening of the shrine then harshly dropped to her knees and touched her forehead to the stone floor. Babette and I stood back up and shared a worried look. Perhaps I had underestimated how powerful an effect being around mother had. That or I was simply very used to it.

Almost immediately I felt the Nightmother enter my mind like a creeping mist. I shuddered at the strange cold feeling that surged through me.

"Excellent work my child. You have brought the girl as I asked." She rasped.

"I live to please." I thought in response.

Mother hissed out a laugh. "Yes Yes my child. I know how devoted you are. You have a natural talent of achieving whatever is needed of you. Not unlike how one of my other favorite sons used to be, Lucien Lachance. I notice that though you were gifted the power to call him forth, you have never done so. Might I ask why?"

I shrugged. "I meant no offense Mother. I have simply never had need to pull one of your most devoted from his rightful place in the void."

In my mind, It felt as though Mother was shaking her head at me.

"I appreciate your thoughtfulness but it is unnecessary. If I truly wished for Lucian to remain in the void then I would not have created the power to return him from death. He has been growing restless. He longs to spill blood in service to the Brotherhood once more. You should indulge him."

I nodded. "As you wish Mother. I shall be more liberal in summoning Brother Lachance. Now, if it pleases you, might we move on to why you had me bring this outsider to you?"

Her hiss-like laughter filled my head. "Simple my child. The girl is the Dragonborn you have heard about from our heathen thief friend. Ra'faer I believe he is called."

My eyes went wide. So that crazy cat's report had been solid then. That meant that Helgen really must be ashes as well. The old legends of dragons and end times I had heard from Karita quickly drifted through my mind.

Before I could think on the legends further, the Nightmother's presence filled me entirely and she took control of my body from me. The feeling was just as unpleasant as the last time when she had spoken to the twins through me.

Mother walked me forward until I stood in front of her coffin. She turned me to face Aleatra who was still nearly prostrated by the Alter.

"Rise child. Your time here in my family's home is nearly finished." Mother said through me, my voice twin toned, a mixture of my usual voice and the Nightmother's ethereal rasp.

Aleatra slowly looked up. I was actually caught off guard; her eyes were white. Mother must have been showing her a vision of some sort. That was the only thing I could think of that would cause what I was seeing.

Aleatra was nearly convulsing and became pale as bone. The veins in her face were easily visible, goosebumps covered what skin wasn't covered by her armor and tears ran down her cheeks dripping to the floor.

Babette watched, full of worry but she didn't dare step forward. She could get away with much but she had no illusions that the Nightmother would use me to kill her if she did something she wasn't supposed to, even if she didn't know she wasn't supposed to do it. Aleatra seized then gasped. Her eyes returned to their usual sky blue.

"W-w-w-what was t-t-that?" Aleatra managed to mutter through her chattering teeth and labored breathing. Her eyes returned to normal.

"My Speaker has already told you who I am child. Now be silent and listen to Mother. My Listener has brought you here to our home because of the vision I just showed you. I saw those things when my Morthos met you. Just as I have shown you, I bore witness to your abduction and torture at the hand of Alduin, the World-Eater, first born of Akatosh. Your will, while impressive, will not hold against his power. He will rape your very being and take you as his slave. You will raze the world to ashes in his name, spreading death like a plague across all of Nirn."

Now I understood exactly why Aleatra was in such a poor state. Mother had indeed shared a vision with the girl when she had placed the flowers in the alter. That must be why she had dropped.

I wanted to signal Babette to run and get her another blanket to try and sooth the poor girl but Mother had control of me and her control was absolute.

"Know this child: what I have shown you has been prevented by you being brought here. Had you remained in your little city, your fate would have been sealed." The Nightmother said gently, though in our meshed tones voice it sounded almost like a threat.

Aleatra looked as though she had been drowning and someone had pulled her from the water. Her sobs turned into hysterics, her face twisted in an ugly cross between elation and despair.

Mother turned my eyes to Babette. "Babette my daughter, be a good girl and ready our guest some more tea to settle her nerves."

Babette gasped and immediately bowed. "Yes Mother! Right away!" She said happily before running off. Moments later her voice rang through the sanctuary. "Mother spoke to me!"

Seconds after Cicero's voice screeched out, "WHAT WHAT WHAT!? LIES!"

I felt Mother's amusement and then I felt control of my body return to me and the Nightmother leave my body though not my mind.

I couldn't help but shudder. Being possessed was something I doubt I'd ever get used to.

"Help the poor girl Morthos. Leave her in Babette's care then return to me. You and I have more to discuss." The Nightmother's voice hissed in my head before she left me completely.

"Yes Mother. I'll be right back." I said before stepping forward and casting a calm spell on Aleatra. It didn't do much but it did allow me to gently lift the hysterical Aleatra into my arms.

I couldn't help but notice how heavy she was as I carried her down to the dining room table. Most likely all muscle weight. Definitely a Nord through and through.

Babette was waiting with a steaming cup of tea and the blanket, worry once again her most prominent emotion. Cicero was sitting at the table seething and glaring at the vampire Speaker, mumbling about her blasphemous lies. He stopped mumbling when he took notice of me and Aleatra. I set Aleatra down in a chair beside Cicero. Babette once again draped the blanket over her shoulders and leaned her against him. Cicero looked mortified that an outsider was touching him but one ice cold look from me silenced any complaints he was about to make. His shoulders slumped as though to say "Yes Listener."

"What happened Morthos? I know the Nightmother's presence is unpleasant to outsiders but she shouldn't have had this strong a reaction to it." Babette said as she draped the blanket over Aleatra's shoulders.

"I'll explain later. Right now you need to help her. Get her warm and try to calm her down. Cicero, you make sure she stays upright and assist Speaker Babette with anything she asks. Mother still needs to speak with me." I said before walking back up to the Nightmother. I shut the doors behind me. I could feel that whatever was to be said was for me and only me.

Her voice filled the room.

"My child you have done well. Our very way of life might have been extinguished had you failed to bring the girl here. That spoiled lizard spawn of Akatosh is an irritation. Now listen and listen well:

The fate of the world now lies in the hands of that girl. She is the chosen one, the Dragonborn, birthed of dragon's blood to defeat The World-Eater and usher in a new era.

Sithis requires us to have a hand in this destiny. Sithis, your Dread Father has spoken. YOU will be an instrument in the fall of the dragon prince. You will assist the girl in fulfilling her destiny: defeating Alduin. By doing so you will secure the Dark Brotherhood a future where we may once again spill oceans of blood."

I nodded. "As you and the Dread Father command, so shall it be."

I felt as though Mother was satisfied with my answer. "Your paths will cross one another again and there will be many a time to come that she may not yet have the spine to do what must be done. At these crossroads a choice must always be made my child, even if it's the wrong one. Your role is to be MY guiding hand and offer her advise and IF she should be unable to do what must be done, you will act. Failure to do so will lead to the future I have foretold."

I couldn't help my irritation at hearing this. If Aleatra was too chicken shit to do what she needed to then I would have to suck it up and do it for her. I don't like having to clean up after others under normal circumstances. Doubly so for those not in the family.

"I see your displeased." The Nightmother rasped. "I admit that I share your feelings. Know this though my child, this MUST be if we are to live on. To that end I must send you to the place of your birth. You must retrieve your inheritance. It will give you strength and help guide you when I cannot."

My eyes went wide. I had already forgotten about the letter my mother sent me. More than that, I hadn't ever imagined a time when the Nightmother would be unable to reach me. "I understand Mother. It will be done." I said as I began mentally planning the logistics such a journey would require.

"Good. When we are done speaking the dragonborn may be allowed to leave. My vision has been sufficiently stalled for now. Ensure that she does not know where our sanctuary lays hidden. Before you go, more souls have prayed to their mother."

•••••

"I can't believe you right now." I said as entered the barracks room. I looked down at Babette sitting beside a sleeping Aleatra who was wrapped In multiple blankets with a large feather pillow underneath her head. An empty potion bottle sat on the ground and Aleatra's armor lay in a heap beside the bed. Cicero was no where in sight. Babette probably let him run off after the sleep drought had taken hold of Aleatra and they slipped her out of her armor and into the bed.

Babette looked up at me while smoothing Aleatra's hair.

"I said calm her down not drug her." I scolded.

Babette rolled her eyes and stuck her tongue out at me. "You didn't say I couldn't. She was beside herself, what did you want me to do? Hit her over the head with a brick? Whatever the Nightmother showed her must have really taken a toll on her mind. She just barely stopped shaking a few minutes ago so keep it down."

I sighed but didn't comment further. At least I wouldn't have to deal with any more tears. At least for now anyway. I sighed and quietly sat down in front of Babette.

I didn't wait for Babette to ask. I recounted the entire second half of the meeting with the Nightmother. To her credit, Babette didn't interrupt even once.

"So she's the one Ra'faer had told us about in that message he left with Karita. What does this mean for the family, Morthos? I mean there is no way the Nightmother would just draft us into some random war with a dragon, is there?" She whispered.

I shrugged. I didn't really know and the Nightmother hadn't said anything that would allow me to come to a solid conclusion. So far all I knew for certain is I would meet with Aleatra again some time in the future and that I had to go to Cyrodiil.

Her eyes narrowed at me. "There's more isn't there?" She whispered. "Something you haven't told me yet."

I nodded. The war with Alduin, while a major event, was second to my personal list of worries. The trip to Cyrodiil being now a certainty was number one and I already knew Babette would be going with me. Just because we had made up didn't change that.

"Yes. The Nightmother said I have to go and retrieve my inheritance in Cyrodiil. She didn't say when, but judging from how important everything else we talked about was, I think it's safe to assume that I have to go immediately."

Babette looked me in the eye and I could see the question in hers.

Would I allow her to go with me?

I hesitated for a second before nodding. "You should pack for a two month long journey. That should last us until we stop to resupply in Bruma before heading to the imperial city then down towards Bravil to Deepscorn Hollow. We will rest there before making our way to my mother's sanctuary."

Babette looked relived. I guessed that she thought I might still be adamant on not letting her leave the sanctuary.

"Is there anything I should bring in particular?" She asked quietly.

I shrugged my shoulders. "Treat this like a contract. Take anything you feel you might need to ensure your survival. Your robes should keep you warm so you won't need any extra warming layers but I'd still pack a few in case we need to blend in. If we're lucky, you won't need to use a weapon but it is always wise to carry one. I already have enough rations in Shadowmere's saddle to last me the trip and if you get hungry on the way you can feed from me."

"So you two are planning on going off on some vacation and leaving me all the work hmm?"

Babette and I both cringed then looked to the door way that led to the training area. Nazir stood in the doorway looking displeased.

"It isn't a vacation Nazir, it's a task given by the Nightmother." Babette said in an attempt to placate the Redguard.

"Do you two have an idea of how long you'll be gone?" He asked.

I shook my head. "Unfortunately no. The trip to Cyrodiil itself will be nearly two months long assuming all goes well. The trip back will be just as long."

Nazir nodded and ran his fingers through his beard. "So assuming you get everything you need as fast as possible with no other stops on the way, you'll be gone nearly four to five months for sure. Since I know you two are bound to get into some convoluted situation while your there I'll just assume you'll be gone for six months at the latest. Any more than that and I'll send someone to track you down."

Babette and I both nodded.

"Very well." I said. "While we are gone your in charge. Keep your ears open and-"

A loud bang rang through the sanctuary. I jumped to my feet and Nazir drew his ever present scimitar. We stood waiting and listening until another loud bang sounded.

"The Black door!" Babette hissed.

"Stay with the girl. Seal yourselves in the barracks room." I called over my shoulder as Nazir and I bolted up the stairs towards the door. We were joined by Cicero as we passed the Nightmother's chamber.

"What desecration is this!? Who dares try invade our sanctuary? How did they find us!?" Cicero asked angrily.

"Doesn't matter. No matter what we defend our home." Nazir answered. I nodded my agreement as we arrived to the door. Another loud bang reverberated through the sanctuary. The door didn't appear to be damaged from our side. That was promising.

"Fool, open the door then retreat to my side. You and I will face down this invader. Listener, stay behind us. Your destruction magic will help keep any extra invaders at bay while we kill the first." Nazir commanded.

"Wait." I said.

I channeled the unholy magic and felt the tether latched to my soul from the void. My magic surged as I concentrated and a ball of black swirling energy appeared in my hand. I slammed it to the floor once I felt the tether tug at me. Immediately a portal ripped open. I could see nothing but pure black darkness until a form stepped through, sealing the portal behind him.

Even as a ghost, Lucian Lachance held an air of authority. He still wore the bloody robes he had been buried in after his death and held his personal Cyrodiil style ebony dagger in hand. He looked from me to Nazir then Cicero, his eye brow raised in what I thought to be curiosity.

Another bang sounded on the Black door before he spoke.

"It's nice to be back." He said, his deep voice smooth and charismatic. Even the slight double tone that all ghosts had his deep voice was calm and collected.

He was confident.

Absolutely certain of victory.

"Welcome back Brother Lachance. Would you offer us an extra blade in dealing with our uninvited guest?" I asked calmly while gesturing at the black door as whoever was on the other side struck it again.

His chuckle sent chills up my spin. "But of course. It has been far too long since I last spilt blood."

I quickly turned to my living brothers. "Cicero, open the door. I will allow one man to enter and hold off any others while you three kill them one at a time. Do it."

Lucien turned to the door but remained in front of me. He would serve as center "man" and keep me protected. Nazir took position to the right of the door. Cicero whispered the passphrase to the door and jumped back to the right side as the door slowly opened.

We tensed to attack as one humanoid form walked in from the blowing snow carrying an oversized green shield and mace. Who ever it was, they were as tall as Nazir, though significantly thinner, covered in furs and wore a large helmet made of bone that covered their face.

Cicero was the first to attack. He leaped forward cackling like a mad man with his dagger raised to strike and an insane glint in his eyes. The intruder quickly turned on him and raised their shield to block his approach. Cicero was not to be deterred as he feinted a step to the left before darting to the right and slashing at the intruders feet. The intruder expertly back stepped to avoid the bite of the Keeper's blade then bashed him in the face with their shield.

Lucien rushed forward as Cicero hit the ground hard. Cicero rolled right back into his feet as Lucien met the intruder with a flurry of savage attacks with his dagger. His style of fighting was similar to my own. More of what one would expect of someone using a short sword. His form was like water as he danced from the intruders left then right, each time landing a shallow stab or a superficial cut.

I channeled my magic and conjured a rune of frost beneath the intruder. They noticed it and immediately threw themselves, shield first, into Lucien, knocking him to the floor. I growled and conjured another defensive rune to block the door just as another figure ran in from outside. The rune exploded and sent the second invader flying back out into the snow. No others tried to enter.

Nazir took Lucien's place facing the intruder. Cicero and Lucien circled them as they exchanged blows. Nazir was far stronger but only had his scimitar. The intruder, while seemingly physically weaker than The Redguard Speaker, was armed with a large shield and they were very skilled in using it in tandem with their mace. It made landing a strike on their person very difficult, even with Cicero and Lucien darting in and harassing them.

"Move!" I yelled as Nazir slammed his blade into he intruders shield. His blow had forced them to a knee and I wasted no time in taking advantage. I used my strongest telekinesis spell to press down on the shield, effectively pinning the intruder.

"Now Lucien! Cicero!" Nazir called. Both the ethereal Speaker and the mad Keeper dashed forward and placed their blades to the intruders neck and heart respectively, both ready to kill. Nazir stood and ripped the shield from the intruders grip. Before pointing his own blade at them.

"Drop your weapon." He growled. To our collective surprise the intruder obeyed. Their mace hit the stone floor with a clang.

"Restrain this one and take them to the dungeon. I'll go get the other one." I said as I passed.

I found the other invader unconscious a few yards away from the door and half buried in snow. As I threw them over my shoulder I heard Nazir shout from within the sanctuary.

"Oh by Sithis not you again!"

•••••

I stood staring at Nazir. He was arguing back and forth with the now revealed female orc intruder. I placed the unconscious form of the smaller second intruder down and looked to Lucien. He looked extremely amused. When he noticed me waved me closer.

"It's like the start of a bad joke. It seems our intruder was looking for Speaker Nazir. From what I gather from her ranting, she is apparently his wife by conquest and that one there," he pointed at the person I had brought in from outside. "Is her child." He explained. My jaw dropped at hearing wife and child.

The memory of Nazir telling me about his Orc chief contract and how grumpy he had been rushed to the fore of my thoughts and suddenly this entire situation made much more sense. It seems he had inherited more than just a village of orcs.

•••••

I sat inside the dungeon with the other two members of the Black Hand and Keeper Cicero beside me. Former Speaker Lachance stood guarding the entrance to the chamber, his ever present amused smile on his lips

Before us, the two Orc intruders lay bound in ropes and gagged. The elder female still claimed to be Nazir's bride by conquest and the younger was said to be the female's only son. We had spent the past hour debating on what to do with them.

Both Nazir and Cicero wished to kill them. Cicero's reason being just because. Nazir only wanted them out of his hair and killing them would be the easiest way to accomplish that. Babette had yet to say anything, she seemed very deep in thought. My biggest issue with them was the fact that they managed to find the sanctuary. That was a much bigger issue than what they were here for.

"Alright." I said to everyone. "Since we can't come to a decision on what to do with them, I propose we at least find out how they came to find our safe haven. The answer of what to do with them might be more clear once we know. It's very disturbing to me that these two managed to find us."

Babette finally spoke. "I agree."

"No! No! No!" Cicero cried. "We must kill them, silence them! They know of our home, of Mother's home. They cannot be allowed to leave here." He said, his madness clear in his voice.

"Be calm Brother." I said. "No one said anything about letting them go."

"Perhaps it's not my place anymore," Lucien said from his place at the door. "But I feel perhaps you might be over reacting. Delving too deep if you will. Back in my time we had a count who found out the secret location to my sanctuary. He was kept quiet by threats and bribes. Just like you do now, we also wondered how he found out about us. All we did was ask and he sang like a song bird. It led to the capture and execution of a traitor. Simple solutions to seemingly complex problems. Perhaps to find answers, just as back then, our… visitors need only be asked."

We all looked at one another before I gestured at Nazir, it was allegedly his woman before us, after all. He grunted then addressed them.

"Alright woman. Tell me exactly how you found us here." He demanded the. Repeated himself in Orcish as he removed her gag. The orc woman flashed a toothy grin, her lower fangs poking into her upper lip. She spoke quickly, her voice was higher in pitch than many of the Orc woman I had met over the years. Orcish wasn't a language I spoke but I knew Nazir was much more learned than I was in the many tongues of this world.

"What is she saying Nazir?" Babette asked quietly. Nazir listened as the Orc woman continued to speak, his face becoming more and more irritated. Finally the woman went quiet and we all waited for Nazir to translate.

He sighed and pinched the bridge of his nose. "It seems I've made a mess of things. She said that after I killed that chieftain, she became my bride by conquest, but we already knew that. What we didn't know is that when I left, she felt that it was her duty and right to follow me so she could, as she puts it "shoulder the responsibilities of my mate and chieftain." Nazir explained.

"She and her son tracked me back to Whiterun but lost my trail there. They waited near the city until a few days ago when they spotted me as I was returning from my most recent contract and followed me here. The banging on the Black door was her way of getting my attention."

I groaned, Babette sighed, Cicero said nothing and Lucian chuckled darkly. So this wasn't intruders or another incursion. This was simply a failure on Nazir's part to properly cover his tracks.

I felt a headache coming on which didn't help my already bubbling temper. "Nazir damn you, how could you allow yourself to be tracked?!" I hissed. "I know elves don't age like you humans but I doubt your going senile just yet. What do you have to say for yourself?"

Nazir edged away from me before clearing his throat. "I apologize Listener. It goes without saying that this was not intentional. I didn't think any of those Orcs would actually follow me. I accept and acknowledge that I made a mistake. I will also accept any punishment you deem fit. But first, what should be done next?"

His words were mostly ceremony for the two before us but I picked out the small bits that he actually meant.

"I apologize. I made a mistake. What should be done next?"

I growled as my head began to throb. I needed a cold drink.

Lucien spoke. "Listener, might I once again offer you council?"

I looked to him and nodded. "Your council is always welcome dear brother. What have you to say?"

He stepped forward and gestured to the two Orcs. "Perhaps we are still looking at this wrong. It is clear that these two have come searching for our Redguard Speaker. That doesn't necessarily mean that they are a threat to our family. Perhaps you would be willing to offer them a place here with us? We do need to increase our numbers after all."

Interesting.

Perhaps this was something similar to the twins. They had come to me in some what similar circumstance. Perhaps Lucian was right. Maybe I should give these two a chance just as I gave the twins one. Of course there was a difference. The twins had sought me out under the guidance of Sithis because they belonged with the family. It was their destiny, just as it was mine to be here.

These two Orcs only found us because they felt they belonged with Nazir. They would have to prove they would be faithful to the family before I entertained they idea of letting them live.

"Morthos."

I turned to Babette. She looked tired and very irritated. "Enough ceremony." She growled. "I'm officially out of patience for it. This is Nazir's mistake and he should be the one to fix it. As Lucien said, simple solutions. Either Nazir kills them now or they are his responsibility. Either way I don't care."

Cicero spoke up.

"No no no. We should kill them for invading our home. Cut them. Stab them. Rip their spines out!" He whined. His insanity was beginning to show again.

I held up my hand and channeled a lightning spell into my palm. The dancing electricity grabbed everyone's attention.

"Enough. I am also tired. I feel that this is the main issue that arises from having a ruling council, we debate and argue over things that must be done rather than just go and do them." I faced Nazir and gestured to our captives. "The choice is made. They are here because of your negligence, therefor you will be the one to keep them in line. Should they betray the family, you will die along with them." My voice left no room for debate.

Nazir sighed. He crossed one arm across his chest and pulled at his beard with his free hand. "I guess we can't just kill them anyway. Malakath would do everything he could to get revenge if we killed any of his favored children."

I hated the political nonsense of dealing with Deadric princes. Usually my allegiance to Sithis and the Nightmother allowed me free reign to do as I needed, and I occasionally offered a small tribute to Malag Bal, patron of vampires. Unfortunately, the Nightmother wouldn't help Nazir in this situation. Nazir looked back to me.

"This debacle is over. Nazir, they are to be trained and immersed in our history and traditions. They are not to leave the sanctuary without your supervision and you are not to let them out of your sight for even a second if you do decide to leave. I will not allow for our safety to be put at risk. Not again. Do you understand?"

Nazir nodded.

"Good. Then do as you will with your new charges. The entire Black Hand will meet in my room in five minutes. I have news to share and orders to pass."

Everyone nodded and Babette quickly stood and stretched. "I will go check on Aleatra. I left her in the barracks after you dragged those two in." She pointed at the two Orcs before leaving the room.

I stood and walked to my room without another word. My head throbbed. First The twins, then Ra'faer and his meddling, then Aleatra the dragonborn, then the Nightmother's vision, and now two fucking ORCS! This was a very eventful year and I didn't like it one bit. I missed the simplicity of when I first joined the Brotherhood under Astrid. She had betrayed us but she had a talent for keeping things simple.

I might have been keeping us afloat but I was no where near as good at it as Astrid was. Maybe it was because she made herself the undisputed head of the family where as I had more ruling class members than subordinates. Perhaps that was the problem. Nazir, Babette, Cicero and I did bicker amongst ourselves more than anyone would say is normal since they took up their elevated positions. Maybe things would mellow out once we gained enough members for us to truly sit apart from another rather than dabble in each other's business.

After a few more minutes of waiting, everyone entered my room and joined me at my small table, the spectral Lucien opted to lean against the wall beside the table.

"Brothers, sister, we have much to do. The Nightmother has spoken once more. We have a small handful of contracts to be done and I have been tasked to go to Cyrodiil. We also have to escort Aleatra back to Whiterun."

"Cyrodiil is a long trip. A very very long trip. This must be some job for the Nightmother to send you that far away. Why do we have to worry about the girl though?" Nazir asked.

"Because the Nightmother has made it abundantly clear that she is important. More than that, we don't need to know, nor should it matter." I replied. Nazir shrugged and seemed to accept my answer.

"Now down to the nit and grit. The contracts. Nazir they will be yours to deal with. There are seventeen in total. Assign the twins to them, ask for Cicero's assistance if you must or do them on your own. Whatever you need to do to get it done works for me. There is no deadline to meet with these, but make sure they last until I return from Cyrodiil. If you go personally, then either lock up your new charges or take them with you. Whatever you decide to do make sure you take all possible precautions. Should things go south, I WILL kill you Nazir. The information on the contacts are here. Meet with them and they will give you the particulars for each contract." I said before handing him a few roles of parchment containing the locations and names that the Nightmother supplied. Nazir gulped loudly to my threat but accepted the pages without a word.

I continued. "Next, Aleatra. Babette and I will be the ones to escort her down to Whiterun. From there, Babette and I will begin the journey to Cyrodiil. Any questions?"

Cicero raised his hand. "Dear Cicero has one. Do you have an idea of how long the Listener will be gone?"

I shook my head. "No. By my estimations, the very soonest we might be back to Skyrim would be in six months or so."

Cicero nodded. "I see. How will we hear sweet Mother's words without the Listener if he is gone for so long."

I shrugged. "It will have to wait. There are enough contracts to last till I return. If you finish them all then I suggest you train yourselves, train the twins, and keep your ears and eyes open. As our furry thief…friend said in his message, there are things a foot here in Skyrim. Information will be critical in the coming days I think." I spat out the word "friend" like a sour grape. Ra'faer was no friend to me, though he was a useful asset and welcome distraction for a time.

Cicero nodded once more then sat silent. Nazir spoke up.

"Would it be a good idea for me to send the thieves guild a message?"

My eyes narrowed a bit. "What kind of message?" I asked.

Nazir shrugged. "Nothing to be worried about. You said to keep our eyes and ears open for information. The thieves are the largest hub of information trafficking. It only makes sense to go to them. Delvin Mallory has already proven himself trust worthy and his female counterpart might be willing to share as well. Vex I think her name was. I'm fairly sure that they would be willing to share some information in exchange for coin."

I nodded. "I see what you mean. Yes, I think that would be a good idea."

Nazir grunted and returned his attention to the contract contact information in his hands.

"If nothing else needs to be said then I need to rest. It's been a long day and I still haven't fully recovered from bringing Aleatra here." I said. I looked at Babette. "Take care of her. Make sure she's comfortable."

Babette nodded and left the room followed by the Nazir and Cicero. That left just me and Lucien.

"Will I be joining you and our young draculina once you are in Cyrodiil?" He asked.

I began removing my robes to hang up as I answered. "It's up to you. If you wish to remain and travel with us or for me to just summon you again once we are there. I have no issue with it either way."

He rubbed his chin and shrugged. "It's been a long time since I've seen my dear home. As a matter of fact, yes please do summon me when you get there. I have a few places I'd like to visit that might prove useful to the family."

I nodded. "As you say. You may return to the void whenever you wish. I will call for you when Babette and I have safely made it to Cyrodiil."

Without another word, Lucien faded back into the void.

I finished removing my robes and hanging them when Babette quietly reentered. She took a seat at my table as I began unstrapping my armor.

"So it's been settled then. We leave tomorrow." Babette said.

I nodded. "Yes. Are you prepared?"

"All the important things yes, but I'm still packing a few other ins and outs that I might want to take. I'll be done and have everything in Shadowmere's saddle by morning. I hope she doesn't mind the added weight." Babette said.

I chuckled as I turned from my hung up armor. "I'm sure she will be okay with it. Sometimes I think she likes you more than she likes me. It has to be something to do with both of you being monsters of the night." I said playfully.

Babette giggled. "I'm sure that's what it is. I'm off to get some sleep then. It wouldn't do for me to be tired when we begin our trip. Goodnight Morthos."

"Goodnight Babette. Sleep well."

•••••

The night was filled with trouble.

First, I was woken up by Nazir shouting. His shouts were muffled by the thick walls of my personal room but they were still loud enough that they woke me.

I was half out of bed, Crimson Eviserator in hand, when I heard him yell out "Damn you get the hell out of my bed!" Followed immediately by Babette's high pitch screeching "Nazir, you thrice-blasted bastard son of a harlot, I don't care if she's trying to sleep with you! Be quiet, I'm trying to sleep. Oh great look what you've done, you woke up Aleatra! We have a long journey to start tomorrow you brute, how about you show a little decency!"

I groaned when they continued shouting back and forth. I rolled out of bed and pulled on some night shoes and walked out into the hallway to the common room. I found Aleatra standing in the hall looking back into the barracks room at Babette and Nazir. I poked Aleatra and gestured towards the common room. She blushed when she saw my relatively unclothed state but followed after me.

"Take a seat. Those two will be at it for a few more minutes. If they aren't then I'll go and put my boot upside their heads." I said quietly.

She looked at me funny. "Would you really raise a hand to your friends?"

I shrugged as I poured some milk into two tankards from a spelled pitcher that kept the milk cool and stopped it from spoiling. I channeled my magic and heated both tankards with a low level fire spell. I opened a small cabinet and plucked out a jar filled with golden honey. I dropped a small amount into each tankard and mixed them with a spoon. I lifted both tankards into my hands and walked back to the table. I set one steaming tankard in front of Aleatra. I shrugged then blew on mine.

"It wouldn't be the first time or the worst thing I've ever done to my family."

Her eyes went wide at my words. She looked at me as though she was looking at a puzzle she just couldn't figure out. I took a seat in front of her and sipped at my warm milk. We sat in silence and listened to Babette and Nazir argue in the next room.

"I have to say," she said quietly. "I never imagined that I would be having a civil talk with a member of the Dark Brotherhood let alone their leader."

I shrugged again. "Our actions are the result of common people. There is a demand for death and we supply. If it wasn't us it would be someone else, The Morag Tong for example. If there is any truth to this world it is that as long as there are people alive, someone will want someone else dead."

Aleatra nodded. "I know. It still doesn't make the fact any easier to swallow."

I snorted. "There's a joke there you know. But I'll let it slide just this once." I said playfully.

Her lips curled up at the edges. "Oh? You don't hesitate to yell at the other members of your little cult. Why do I get off without a good tongue lashing?"

I shook my head and chuckled. She setting me up for jokes on purpose. "That's two. Your setting me up on purpose. Careful what you start, you might bite off more than you can chew. As for my "little cult" as you put it, they are my subordinates. It's part of my job to yell at them."

Aleatra took another sip of her honeyed milk and nodded. "I know how that goes. I'm a thane of Whiterun so I am often called to settle disputes between the civilians and the guard. I admit I don't like the responsibility but wouldn't leave it to anyone else. Would you be willing to tell me more about your job? Are you allowed?"

"I see that you truly do know how I feel then. The answer to your question though, is no. One of the five tenants is "Never betray the Dark Brotherhood or it's secrets. To do so is to invoke the wrath of Sithis." I'm afraid you already know far more than anyone would be allowed to." I replied.

She pouted. "What about things I don't know that are mostly common knowledge? Would you be able to answer then?" She asked.

I shrugged. "I suppose it depends on the question. Ask and if I can I will answer."

She nodded and took another sip of her drink.

"How do you stomach this? I can't imagine that committing… murder is what you wanted to do growing up." She hesitated to say murder. I couldn't help but wonder why. That is what I did. I killed for money. Murder in the bluntest of terms the way I saw it.

I rubbed my chin thoughtfully. "A good question that. I've never actually thought about it. I suppose I am able to do the things I do with a clear conscience because I grew up knowing that this was my destiny."

Aleatra tilted her head. "Destiny? What do you mean? You can't expect me to believe that you grew up thinking that your future was set in stone."

"Believe what you will." I replied calmly. "Understand that my answer is tempered. There are certain parts to the story that I can't tell you because they are Brotherhood secrets and other parts that I won't tell you because they are deeply personal."

I looked her in the eye and sighed at the confusion and building frustration I saw.

"I warned you that I'd answer what I could." I teased.

She sighed. "Fine then. I understand. I suppose it was silly of me to expect an assassin to be honest with me."

I didn't take the bait. "Yes that was silly of you."

She chuckled. "You really put the "ass" in assassin you know."

I noticed the shouting had died down as Aleatra spoke. I stood and bowed then turned to drop my empty tankard in the washing basin. "I live to please."

Aleatra stood and dropped her empty tankard in the basin as well.

"Come along. To bed with the both of us. I'll make sure everyone stays quiet."

Aleatra yawned and nodded. She returned to her temporary bed in the barracks and was fast asleep. I quietly scolded Nazir for being loud and asked that if he needed to boot his woman out of bed he should do it quietly. Nazir blushed at the implication and insisted that he hated the irritating Orc female. I chuckled at his misfortune as well as the sight of her sleeping in his personal bed and him having to sleep in another just to avoid her. The Orc boy was sleeping across the room from them, still within sight.

I returned to my room to find Babette fast asleep in my bed and groaned. Karma for making fun of Nazir losing his bed it seems. I ran my hands through my hair and sighed. I blew out the two candles burning and giving light into the room before slipping into bed on the side opposite Babette. After a moment I yawned as I felt the honey and warm milk take effect. I fell asleep moments after.

•••••

The next morning passed in a hurry. Babette and I both woke up just as the sun began peaking over the mountains. I dressed myself as usual, Black Hand robes over my crimson Scar armor. Babette wore a simple child's dress under her robes. I made a note to myself to try and find a smith willing to make armor her size. Perhaps I could find someone in Cyrodiil.

Aleatra was woken up shortly after Babette and I finished dressing ourselves. She quickly dressed herself and met us In the common room where I had been passing final orders to Nazir and Cicero.

"So this is goodbye for now then is it?" Cicero asked, his usually crazed but happy demeanor now almost morose.

I nodded. "It's only for a few months. Besides, you have enough work to last you until our return. Take good care of mother."

Cicero laughed. "But of course! Dear Cicero lives to serve our dark lady."

It was then that Nazir entered looking twice as grumpy as he usually did. The likely cause of Nazir's bad mood, the orc woman and her child, followed behind him. Cicero addressed him as he dropped into the closest seat he could followed by the two orcs in his charge.

"Good morning Speaker. Perhaps today would be a good day to begin training your two orcs, hmmm?" he asked pleasantly. It seemed to me that Cicero had made peace with my choice to give the two orcs a chance to join the family. I was glad I wouldn't have to put my boot upside his head to get my point across.

Nazir groaned and shook his head. "No, you blasted fool. Before anything else, I need to teach them basic. When they can speak and understand all of us, then I'll allow them to start training with others. For now I'll be the only one dealing with them since I'm the only one who can speak Orisimer."

I spoke up. "They can't speak basic? I thought they just preferred Orisimer."

"Unfortunately no that isn't the case. The tribe, well, my tribe I suppose, is very set on the old ways. They worship Malacath. That's going to be a big confict of interest. I'll see what I can do to get rid of the tribe but I think I'm stuck with these two." He grumbled.

I tilted my head to the side. "Speaking of which. What are their names. Do you know?" I asked.

He nodded. "Yes, the female goes by Glasha Gro'Sharog. The boy of her's is called Xagug."

I nodded. "Interesting names. Make sure they behave themselves."

Nazir grunted. "It will be done Listener."

We walked outside side by side. Babette was waiting just outside the Black door with Aleatra on an all brown stallion, Cicero and the twins. We all exchanged goodbyes and wishes of luck before I pulled myself up into Shadowmere's saddle.

"Are we all set and ready to go?" Babette asked.

I nodded. "Yes we are. Shall we?"

Babette giggled. "Lets."

••••••••••••••••

Holy cow it's finally done!

Ladies and gentlemen this past month has been just one big pain in the rear. The end of the year holidays really are the bane of a guys free time to write.

On the bright side, this chapter is the longest chapter I've ever written. Nearly two times longer than any before it so I am very proud of myself and hope that the extra long chapter is enough to earn a little forgiveness for the long wait.

My usual shout out to "TheBoredBoot" without whom this would not be possible.

*Let me be clear: the above mention of "rape" is not to be taken as "unlawful sexual intercourse or any other sexual penetration of the vagina, anus, or mouth of another person, with or without force, by a sex organ, other body part, or foreign object, without the consent of the victim."

It is to be taken as "an act of plunder, violent seizure, or abuse; despoliation; violation: the rape of the countryside."

So when the Nightmother mentioned Aleatra's soul being raped, he isn't literally sticking his dragon penis in her. He is forcibly seizing her soul and twisting it to his own design.

(Definitions can be found at the URL below.)

browse/rape

Just wanted to be clear before I start getting hate mail.

My usual end notes:

Please don't hesitate to review. I love feedback. It helps a lot.

If you have ANY questions about the story or lore or anything at all, don't hesitate to message me. I will be more than happy to explain/clarify.

Thank you all to everyone for their support and as always,

Walk always dear family.

TheForlornSage.