Skyrim: Legend of the Dovahkiin
Acceptance 6
Dragonreach's court was ablaze with the sounds of bickering nobles and Thanes arguing amongst one another. Jarl Balgruuf, his wife and oldest daughter sat side by side on their oaken thrones. Aeta on his right and Lisaa on his left. The Harbinger stood silent as he stared at the thrones confused, wondering where the women's had even come from.
"Something wrong, Harbinger?" Aela inquired with a raised eyebrow.
The young Nord was snapped out of his gaze. "No, nothing important."
"If you say so. Now, any idea why the Jarl specifically summoned you to Dragonsreach?"
"To speak of Whiterun's Jackal problem no doubt, but I don't know why he summoned me of all people."
The Huntress shrugged. "You are well known throughout Whiterun as well as the other holds of Skyrim. If the stories of your valor in battle has reached his ear, then it is only natural that he seek your aid."
The Harbinger remained silent, his eyes fixed on the unfolding madness of the court, his arms crossed over his chest. Aela let a tiny smile form on her lips. She knew the young Harbinger cared nothing for the stories of his accomplishments or skill in battle, a trait she admired greatly. Maybe that was why she and the other Companions were so drawn to him, his humble nature. She had on many occasions pondered Kodlaks reason for choosing the Nord as his successor, especially one as young as he was. But the more she watched him, the more deeds he accomplished, the more time she pent with him, she began to see what Kodlak saw: An honorable warrior with a brave and noble spirit. But more than that, it was his keen mind and experience that made him such an effective leader.
The Huntress turned her gaze back to the ongoing arguments between the nobles. One side was demanding that the Jarl ask for Imperial assistance against the seemingly unstoppable Jackal, while the other side suggested help from mercenaries. Balgruuf pinched the bridge of his nose, these nobles had no shame at all.
"I have said this countless times before…" Balgruuf said in a low, threatening tone. "I will not call for the aid of Tullius and his damned Legionnaires! And I will not waste coin on a worthless lot of honor-less mercenaries!"
"And see the people of this city killed off like animals?" one of the nobles shouted. Lady Aeta shot the aristocrat an icy glare.
"Watch your tongue, my husband would die before he allowed anyone in this city to be slaughtered!"
Balgruuf placed and gentle hand on his wife's lap, calming her before turning his attention to the nobles.
"The people of this city are my primary concern," Balgruuf said with deep sincerity. "And I would do anything in my power to see them safe from harm. That is why I have called upon an individual who can help."
A collection of grouped voices resounded throughout Dragonsreach's walls as the nobles began to talk amongst themselves. Irileth inwardly rolled her eyes. With all the years and wisdom Balgruuf had under his belt, she could not see why he placed so much responsibility on the shoulders of a single warrior.
"I believe he means me." Aela teased. The Harbinger smirked and gave her a rare look of amusement.
"Yes, I'm sure."
"Harbinger, step forward." Balgruuf ordered.
The young Nord took a deep breath, then proceeded forward. His ears were quickly filled with the sounds of outrage as the nobles finally saw the storied Harbinger of the Companions. It was clear from the various looks of disapproval that the nobles did not think very highly of him. Just as well, the Harbinger held no concern for what they thought, he wasn't there for them. The young Nord stood before the Jarl in his family, arms at his side, fists slightly clenched, eyes and brow furrowed in a slight scowl.
He tried his best to maintain the image of a deadly warrior, but being dressed only in leather boots, a sleeveless white shirt and leather trousers was making the attempt extremely difficult. The only image he was giving away was that of a farmer. He inwardly swore at Irileth for forcing him to head to Dragonsreach looking as he did.
The Jarl shifted in his chair to a more attentive position. "So, we meet again young Harbinger," he said. "The last time I summoned you to my court was to clear Halted Stream Camp of the bandits that resided within, you did the city a great service. But, it would seem that I require your services yet again."
"You have but to ask, Jarl."
"As you know by now, the city has been frequently attacked by a creature we have identified as The Jackal. The guards, Pericles' mercenary band and even Your fellow Companions have so far been unsuccessful in slaying the creature."
Balgruuf paused and examined the boy for a moment. He stood unmoving, hands at his side slightly clenched, his deep blue eyes locked with his brown ones. Balgruuf could tell from the fierce scowl that was upon the boy's visage that his full attention was focused upon himself. The Jarl continued.
"That being said, the Companions are the only ones who have been able to drive the foul creature out of the city. Impressive as that may be, I cannot rest knowing that thing still draws breath from this world, which is why I called upon you."
"I'm honored, Jarl." the Harbinger said.
"Forgive me for speaking out of turn my Jarl," the Imperial noble Vinnus said as he stepped forward. "But this is no time to joke. This… boy cant possibly be the leader of the Companions!"
Balgruuf glared at the skinny Imperial with burning fury. "I make no jest, Vinnus! The person that stands before you is none other than the Harbinger of the Companions, and you will show him proper respect. All of you!"
The Jarl let his gaze wash over the large crowd of aristocrats, silencing them for good.
"It's okay, Jarl," the Harbinger assured Balgruuf. "I can understand why he would doubt who I am. After all, it's not everyday a someone my age becomes the leader of Ysgramor's Companions."
Vinnus eyed the Nord. "I still find it hard to believe that a child is the leader of Skyrim's most famous fighting force."
"Believe what you want, I have no concern over the matter, and I assure you, I am no child." the Harbinger's tone was calm yet assertive. Something that came as a surprise to the Imperial.
"He speaks the truth, Vinnus," Balgruuf chimed in. "This 'child' single-handedly ended the lives of the witches of Glenmoril Coven."
The nobles exchanged shocked and semi-impressed looks with one another, unsure of whether or not the words of the Jarl were true. They glanced at the young Nord, eyes full of doubt. It had to be some kind of mistake. There was no way someone as young as the boy before them could have put an end to the Glenmoril Witches.
"Now, to business," the Jarl began. "Harbinger, I have heard the stories of your skills in battle, and am quite impressed, not an easy feat I might add. But I cannot sleep soundly know that the demon still walks among us. So, I ask this favor of you: Will you take up your blade and strike down the beast that terrorizes the city?"
The Harbinger looked the Jarl square in the eye and with a even tone answered. "Of course, my Jarl. But the Jackal, from what I have heard, does not fight with weapons or armor. So I will do the same. I will face the beast on equal terms, and defeat him on equal ground."
Dragonsreach was set ablaze with the uproar of the nobles. The Jarl, his wife and their daughter sat in their thrones stunned. Irileth found herself shocked for the first time in years, who did this boy think he was? Even if he was as skilled as the people said he was, he could never hope to best the Jackal in a test of brute strength. Irileth recalled what the guards who had managed to survive the demon's onslaught had told her. If what they said was true, then the Jackal would easily rip the foolish boy apart. As she watched the young Harbinger and the red haired female depart, Irileth found herself feeling a bit sorry for the Companions. They were about to lose yet another leader.
-Underforge-
The members of The Circle stood silent in the Underforge beneath the Skyforge, their attention focused on the one who called the meeting.
"What were you thinking?" Vilkas demanded, burying his forehead in his palm. "Making such a boast, have you lost mind?"
The Harbinger stood leaned against the stone wall, eyes closed, arms crossed over his chest and clad in his newly repaired steel armor. His face was set in the usual scowl that was present whenever he was deep in thought or taken with pressing matters. Opening his eyes, the Harbinger slowly turned his gaze toward the elder twin.
"My mind has never been more clear, Vilkas," the young Nord assured his Shield-Brother. "This is no boast, but a promise. I will kill the Jackal, with my own hands."
"Listen to him," Skjor chimed in. "Prattling on like some cliché hero in a child's story book. This is reality, not some fairy tale, boy."
The Harbinger glared at the old war veteran. "You would know about fairy tales, wouldn't you Skjor."
The two Nords stared at one another for a moment, one sizing up the other. Their staring contest was cut short by Vilkas who stepped forward.
"Now is not the time to argue amongst ourselves," he said sternly. "We've got a serious problem on our hands if you don't remember."
The Harbinger's eyes flashed with anger. "Problem?"
"I mean no disrespect, Harbinger," Vilkas assured the young Nord. "I just think that you should consider the circumstances. All of the Companions combined were not enough to stop the creature, even when we had the help of Pericles and his comrades. Even Skjor couldn't take him down even while transformed. The idea of you fighting against this creature in nothing more than your subligaria and using only your fists is a daft."
"Well, I've heard protests from Skjor and Vilkas, the latter coming as a surprise," the Harbinger said as he propped himself from the wall. "Does anyone else have anything to say?" His gaze fell upon Farkas and Aela.
They hadn't uttered a single word since the meeting had begun and the Harbinger was eager to hear what they thought on the matter. Aela stood leaned against the stone walls of the Underforge, head low and eyes closed in deep thought. The burly warrior Farkas stood with his arms crossed over his strong chest, eyes darting from one person to the other. He would likely voice his thoughts after the Huntress.
Opening her eyes, Aela's green orbs locked with the young leader's blue. "As always, I stand with you on your decision," she told him. The Harbinger gave her a knowing look, which she returned. "But I also share in the concerns of Vilkas. Facing the Jackal alone with no weapons or armor is, as Vilkas said, daft."
The Harbinger turned to Farkas. "What do you think ice brain?"
Farkas grinned. "I stand beside you, as always."
"Harbinger, please just listen for a moment," Vilkas pleaded. "Standing against the Jackal on your own will only result in your death. Let us help you by joining with you to slay the foul creature, no one will think any less of you."
"The decisions been made." the Harbinger deadpanned.
Vilkas ran a weary hand down in face, he knew the Harbinger would never go back on a decision once his mind was set to the task, but he was being just plain stubborn now. A trait most Nords shared.
"Just let the boy get himself killed," Skjor spat. The other circle members threw him fierce glares. "He seems to have his mind set on doing so, seeing as how he plans to face the beast with nothing more than his own hands."
"My mind is set on victory." the Harbinger said coolly.
"If your goal is to rush into the arms of death, then you indeed march towards certain victory."
"Skjor, enough!" Aela barked.
"Humph, whatever. Win or lose, I don't care what happens to the boy," Skjor huffed. "That being said, I don't think he'll survive."
With his words of comfort given, Skjor promptly left the Underforge.
"Good to know he places so much faith in you." Farkas said dryly
"As he always does." the Harbinger chuckled
Vilkas turned and shot the two Nords a steely glare. "Now is not the time to be joking around you two." he bit. Vilkas's tone was one of seriousness, a clear indication of his growing concern over the Harbinger. "If you're serious about facing the Jackal, then you need to use the time you have to at least try and prepare for the battle. Talos knows that's all you can do now."
"Don't worry, Vilkas," the Harbinger said as he headed out of the Underforge. "The beast could appear at this very moment and the outcome would be no different. Rest assured, the Jackal will fall this night, and Jorrvaskr as well as the city will be able to feel safe again."
Promptly, the young leader left the privacy of the Underforge and headed for Jorrvaskr. Vilkas, Farkas and Aela remained, each exchanging looks of worry at one another. None of them spoke straight way, instead keeping their thoughts to themselves for the time being.
"I wont lie, I'm a little worried." Farkas said, surprising both the Huntress and his brother.
"As am I, brother," Vilkas admitted solemnly. "But you know the Harbinger. Once his mind is set on something, there's no talking him down." he let out an exhausted sigh. "Sometimes, I really hate the stubbornness of us Nords.
"It can be a rather unpleasant trait in certain situations." Aela chuckled. "But that aside, the Harbinger has made his decision, and it's our duty to stand beside him."
"I know, sister," Vilkas closed his eyes. "I only hope that this decision doesn't lead to his death."
-Dragonsreach-
Balgruuf's brow furrowed as he sat silent in the dim light of his candle sifting through documents at his desk. The job of a Jarl was indeed not one to be taken lightly, something he had been constantly reminded of in the past months. As if the war, the Jackal and the constant harassment from the nobles wasn't bad enough, the gods decided to add to the growing problems of Whiterun.
Balgruuf pinched the bridge of his nose, the job of a Jarl was truly taxing. With a heavy sigh, Balgruuf continued the medial task of signing papers and putting approval seals upon the many ledgers that lay scattered across his cluttered workstation.
"Slow day?"
the voice was almost inaudible, barely above a whisper. Balgruuf looked up from his work and was rewarded with the pleasing image of his lovely wife Aeta.
Balgruuf smiled. "I long to have this day over and done with, but…"
"The Jackal, yes, I'm well aware of the threat." Aeta said as she strode over beside her husband. She placed her gentle hand on her husbands shoulders, which he warmly embraced.
"Then you're aware why I've been stressed to no end lately."
Aeta smiled and kissed her husbands forehead. "What with the Jackal attacking the city, the war and the nobles looking to you for help for every little thing, I'm not entirely surprised. But… I have one question to ask of you dear."
Balgruuf gave a light nod.
"That young man, the Companions Harbinger, do you really think he'll be the one to stop the Jackal?"
Balgruuf shut his eyes for a moment, silently asking himself the same question. After a few moments he had his answer, and opened his eyes.
"Kodlak…" he began in a soft tone. "Placed more faith in that boy than any other new blood that has ever come before him. He saw something in the boy, something that I myself have seen within him. The fire that burns within the boy's heart is brighter than any I've ever seen before. I truly believe that boy will do great and wonderful things in this world."
Aeta smiled as she wrapped her arms around her husband. To gain the complete trust and faith of Jarl Balgruuf was a task that very few accomplished. The fact that the young Harbinger had done so was, in Aeta's eyes, a testament of the fire that raged within the boy.
"He must be quite the warrior, for you to give him such praise." Aeta noted.
Balgruuf gave his wife a warm smile. "I have not seen him in battle myself, but a few of the guards and some Khajiit merchants have witnessed him in combat. If what they say is true, then the boy is not one to be trifled with."
"You know, I heard tales about the Harbinger of the Companions while I was in Solitude with Lisaa," his wife revealed. "From what I hear, he is a warrior of amazing skill."
Balgruuf let an uncharacteristic grin form upon his lips. Aeta frowned in response.
"I don't like it when you grin like that, darling," she informed her husband who's grin became even more prominent. "Something terrible always happens when you do."
"If the death of the Jackal is a terrible thing, then may the gods grant him victory in the battle tonight."
Aeta's frowned deepened, she hoped that the gods had not taken her husband's jest of a statement to heart.
-Jorrvaskr-
It was as if a curse had been cast over the hall of Jorrvaskr. The normally loud and rowdy members of the Companions sat in complete silence, none whispering a single word. Each of them sat scattered throughout the hall, occasionally sending one another concerned glances. The Harbinger sat in the middle seat of the dinning table as he always did, his attention focused on the many job letters scattered around him.
"We've got serious work to do after this is over." he announced as he went over the contracts.
Not hearing any reply, the Harbinger looked up from the papers and let his gaze fall over the hall. Each Companions was staring directly at him, their eyes glued to his blue ones. He pinched the bridge of his nose and sighed.
"Okay, I'll bite. Why is everyone staring at me like that?"
"I'll tell you why!" Njada started with a shout. "You went and made a completely idiotic boast that you cant back up! I know what kind of strength that… thing possesses, and there is no way you can hope to defeat it unarmed."
"I'm with Njada, Harbinger," Ria spoke up. The Harbinger raised a questioning eyebrow. "The Jackal is not a creature to be taken lightly. If you face it with no weapons or armor, I fear you you wont live to see another day."
Anger surged through the Harbinger's body, and he shot the Imperial an icy glare. "It lifts heart to see that you have such faith in me, Ria." he said through his anger. Ria shrank back in her seat.
"She's just worried about you, Harbinger," Vilkas tried to explain. "We all are."
With a annoyed sigh, the Harbinger turned to face the twin. "I appreciate your concern, but it isn't needed. I'm a warrior, not a child that needs to be constantly looked after and tended to, I can take care of myself!"
Aela brow rose in surprise. That was the first time she had ever seen the young Nord yell at someone, especially a fellow Companion. The Harbinger never let his emotions get the best him, especially his anger. After he'd returned from slaying the witches of the Glenmoril Coven and learned of the Sliver Hand and their involvement with Kodlak's death, he'd lost all control.
Aela remembered what Vilkas had told her about their assault on their stronghold, how they charged in and systematically killed every Silver Hand they came across, not sparing even the ones who dropped to their knees and begged for mercy. After the deed had been finished, Vilkas showed remorse for the part he played in the massacre. Though he did not regret what he did, he didn't wish a fate such as the one the Silver Hand members fell to upon any living being.
"No one is saying you cant," Vilkas retorted, a small hint in frustration in his tone. "But going against an enemy such as the Jackal without protection is suicide!"
The Harbinger shut his eyes and clenched his fists until his knuckles turned white. Had he been the same man he was so long ago, he and Vilkas would have been in a fistfight. Fortunately for the both of them, that man had died years ago, and existed only in memory. Rising from his seat, the Harbinger made his way to the training area of Jorrvaskr.
He placed his hand upon the door and paused. "I'm going outside to meditate for awhile," he said darkly. He then turned a steely glare to the other Companions. "I am not to be disturbed by anyone, that includes the Jarl. Am I understood?"
The young Nord never bothered to wait for a reply and simply walked out. The other Companions exchanged nervous glances, save for the members of the Circle, who all held even looks.
-Temple of Kynareth-
Pericles swore under his breath as he sat on the temples marble bench. Looking over his shoulder he saw Acolyte Jenssen and Danica Pure-Spring in the midst of healing his Redguard friend Avik. The Nord sighed, he and his comrades had been in the temple since their battle with the Jackal the previous night. Livia had been given a clean bill of health and was released earlier in the morning, he swore again, some people had all the luck.
It was frustrating, there was nothing that Pericles hated more than to be constantly looked after like an old geezer, unless the one caring for him was a gorgeous woman who liked to do her job in the nude. If only. As nice as a naked woman sounded, Pericles had more important things on his mind, the main thought being that of payback against the Jackal for humiliating him.
The beast had not only easily defeated him in front of his friends, but the Companions as well. He let out a heavy sigh as he buried his face in his hands, they would never take him or his comrades seriously after that. Not only that, but the Jarl and his inner circle would more than likely dismiss them after their failed attempt to slay the beast. Pericles groaned, he and his friends were in a serious rut now. The Nord's thoughts were interrupted when a very pleased looking Livia came bursting through the temple doors.
"Livia, you seem happy considering the mess we're in." Pericles spewed. The Imperial simply smiled.
"What mess? If you're referring about our battle with the Jackal then you can relax. The Jarl isn't really concerned about our defeat, but rather our lives. He was glad that none of us had died and even commended us for showing valor in battle."
Pericles was dumfounded, he was sure that the Jarl would chastise him about his loss after he told him he was sure to win. He turned to Livia.
"That's rather unexpected, but I'm not complaining. How did you come across this information?"
"The Jarl granted me an audience, and told me everything." Livia explained. "Including about a boast made by a certain Companion."
If Pericles hadn't been interested before, he was now.
"Okay, you've got my attention Livia."
The Imperial smirked and took a seat on the bench. "It seems the Companions Harbinger told the Jarl that he will defeat the Jackal with, get this, his bare fucking hands."
Pericles furrowed his brow. "He intends to face the Jackal absent weapons?"
"And armor." Livia added.
"The man is either incredibly brave…or monumentally foolish," Pericles said as he gathered his belongings. "Come on, we're leaving."
Livia raised in eyebrow. "Aren't you still injured? Are you sure you want to leave before Danica gives you the go ahead?
The Nord shook his head. "I've been cooped up in this place for to long, I need to stretch my legs." he turned over to the bench that his Redguard friend was laying. "Avik, we're leaving!"
The ebony clad warrior shot up. "Finally."
The Redguard lifted his giant battle axe in the air and snapped it onto the straps on his back and proceeded to walk towards the temple doors. They were abruptly stopped when Danica Pure-Spring stepped in front of the three warriors.
"Where do you think you're going?" the priestess inquired, arms crossed over her chest. "You two aren't in any condition to fight and I'm not finished healing the rest of your injuries."
"Sorry Danica, but duty calls," Pericles said with a smile. The three warriors brushed past the woman and walked out the door.
Danica sighed, warriors were always so difficult to deal with, especially the Nord ones. With a sigh, Danica turned on her heels and went back to her duties. After all, there was no sense in worrying about those three since she would have even more of them coming through her doors soon enough.
-Jorrvaskr-
"My Lady, I really don't think this is a good idea."
Lisaa shook her head. "No, I have to see him. I cannot let him go through with this foolish plan."
At the request of Lady Lisaa, four of Whiterun's elite guard accompanied her to Jorrvaskr to speak with the Harbinger of the Companions, despite their initial protests. The captain of the elite guard, a large blonde haired Nord by the name of Roggvar, pleaded with the young daughter of Balgruuf to reconsider her actions. Unlike most of the Whiterun populace, Roggvar had nothing but disdain for the Companions, often stating that they were no better than the common sell sword found all across Skyrim.
"My Lady, a young woman of your station should not mingle with the likes of the Companions," Roggvar said, never bothering to hide the venom in his voice at the mention of the Companions. "They are a rambunctious bunch of louts and drunks, not the warriors the people make them out to be. You should not concern yourself with their lot."
Lisaa sighed and looked the man in the eye. "Those 'drunken louts' are the only ones who have been able to drive the Jackal out of the city," she contended. "They are fierce warriors who deserve the utmost respect for their bravery and continued assistance against the threat the monster poses."
"My lady, I merely-"
Lisaa raised her hand, cutting off whatever words the Nord was about to say. "I am not concerned with what you think about the Companions, Roggvar," she informed the man. "But I will not allow you to openly insult the people who are doing everything they can to protect this city and its people. When we meet with their Harbinger, I expect you to behave like the captain of the Whiterun Elite guard, do I make myself clear?"
Roggvar slowly nodded his head. "Yes, my Lady."
"Thank you, Roggvar, and I apologize for my harsh words."
Lisaa and her escorts made their way through the Wind District and headed up the flight of stairs to the doors of Jorrvaskr, and entered. Roggvar was rather surprised when he walked into the mead hall, he had expected the band of glorified mercenaries to be drinking and shouting expletives to the heavens and each other. Instead, he found all of them going over battle plans and strategies.
Lisaa and her escorts stood in silence, taking a moment to admire the great mead hall. Noticing the armed guards and young noble, Farkas approached.
"Can I help you with something?"
Roggvar stepped forward, almost threateningly. "Lady Lisaa, daughter of Jarl Balgruuf The-Greater, wishes to speak with your Harbinger."
"Well then you came all this way for nothing," Farkas told the other Nord. "The Harbinger's out in the training yard meditating, says not to let anyone bother him, you guys included."
Roggvar narrowed his eyes at the steel clad Nord and stepped even closer to the man. Farkas merely crossed his arms over his chest and stared the man squarely in the eye.
"Listen you, I don't know how you people operate in here, but this is the daughter of the Jarl. To deny her an audience is most unwise, even for a Companion."
"Well you're wrong about that," Farkas said coolly. "Any outsider that walks through our doors must abide by our rules, the Jarl included. Just as we must abide by Balgruuf's when we're in Dragonsreach."
Roggvar clenched his gloved fist. "I don't know who you think you are but-"
"Enough, Roggvar!" Lisaa shouted, earning her a confused look from the Nord. "I thought I specifically told you to behave in a professional manner, not act like a brutish thug."
Roggvar stepped backwards until he was standing side by side with the young noble. "Apologies, My Lady. I did not mean to overstep."
Lisaa turned her attention to Farkas, who was looking on as if he was bored of the unfolding scene.
"Apologies, I didn't mean for my bodyguard to act so inappropriately."
Farkas merely shrugged. "Don't need to apologize for someone else's mistakes, it aint right."
"Thank you, but I apologize none the less. Now if I may, I'd like an audience with your Harbinger."
Farkas inwardly sighed to himself, didn't she hear what he had told her bodyguard? "Like I told your friend beside you, he's out in the training yard meditating, and he's not to be disturbed by anyone."
"Please, you must let me speak to him. it's a matter of the utmost importance."
"It could be, but the Harbinger's word is final, nobody sees him."
Lissa clasped her hands together and looked into Farkas's eyes, a deep longing swelling within her blue orbs. "I know I am asking much, what with his upcoming battle against the Jackal, but I absolutely must see the Harbinger. Please, let me speak to him, if only for a moment, let me exchange words with the man."
Farkas scratched the back of his head and let out a heavy sigh, very few people could sway him into going against the words of the Harbinger, in fact the only ones who had been able to do so were Aela and his own brother. Luckily for them, the Harbinger never punished or reprimanded them when he eventually found out about their ulterior motives.
Finally relenting to the young woman's request, Farkas gestured toward the doors leading to the training yard. "Come on, follow me."
He led the young Lady and her escorts through Jorrvaskr to the doors of the training yard, earning him the confused glances of the other Companions. Farkas was just about to open the doors to the training yard when his brother's call caught his attention.
"Farkas, what do you think you're doing?"
Farkas glanced over to his brother and gestured to Lissa. "Jarl's daughter wants to see the Harbinger, says its important."
"You know he doesn't want to be-"
"Disturbed, I know. I'll take responsibility for whatever happens."
Opening the Door, Farkas led the group through the yard and over to the shaded area where the Harbinger sat in meditation. Roggvar's mouth gaped in utter shock as he looked upon the Companions leader, this boy before him couldn't be the Harbinger he'd heard spoken of by so many, could it?"
"Um, Harbinger," Farkas began. "You got visitors."
The Harbinger sat cross-legged, hands on his knees, eyes shut tight. Silent as a grave and as still as a gargoyle, one could easily mistake him as such had his bare chest not been in a rhythmic movement.
Normally, interrupting the Harbinger's meditation would not worry Farkas so much, after all, he had done so many times before. But after the obvious signs of anger the man displayed earlier, Farkas wondered if this interruption would be costly. He really didn't feel like having extra training hours dropped in his lap.
After a moment of awkward silence, the Harbinger finally spoke.
"Is there something you want, Farkas?" he inquired, never bothering to open his eyes.
"Like I said, you got visitors. Jarl's daughter and her bodyguards, says they got something important to talk about."
The Harbinger remained in his meditation for a few seconds longer before snapping his eyes open and finally rising to his feet. He took a quick glance at Lisaa and her protectors. There were four of them, three men and one woman, all clad in the same steel armor and carrying the same steel weapons and shields.
The first guard, Roggvar, was a large Nord with long blonde hair, a nicely trimmed beard and mustache, blue eyes and muscles on top of his muscles. He was a rather handsome looking man, with barley any visible scars upon his features. Strange, considering his line of work. The next man, Ranmir, had short raven black hair, an extremely bushy looking beard, emerald green eyes, and a large scar that started from the top of his left eye and traveled all the way down to the bottom of his jaw.
The last man, Balfring, was somewhat similar to the Harbinger himself. He had long wavy brown hair that reached down to his shoulders, rough facial hair and a pair of blue eyes. But the similarities ended there. The Harbinger turned his attention to the single woman of the so called 'elite' group. She was good looking for a guard, beautiful even. Her hair was as black as a midnight sky and sported a single braid on the left side of her hair, her skin was a highly attractive shade of paleness and appeared flawless, like it had never been marred in combat.
Lisaa stepped forward. "Harbinger, I thank you for giving me the chance to speak with you."
The Harbinger gabbed his cuirass and strapped it on. "Lets just get this over with," he retorted coldly. "I have more pressing matters to attend to."
"R-right," Lisaa turned to Roggvar. "I wish to speak with this man in private, so I want you and your men to stay in the training yard until we have finished breaking words."
Roggvar gave a curt bow. "Yes, Milady"
Lisaa turned back to the Harbinger and gave a warm smile. "Shall we?"
The pair then made their way toward the Wind District to discuss whatever it was Lisaa found so important. Farkas sighed and turned to head back into Jorrvaskr, but stopped just as he reached the door. "You can take a seat over here at the dining area," he said gesturing to the various benches. "Help yourselves to whatever food and drink you see, but stay outside. The Companions are busy, and we don't need any more distractions."
Farkas made his way into the mead hall, leaving Roggvar and his company behind. The Nord and his comrades made their way to the shaded dining area. There was a calm silence between the group, each of them glancing nervously at the other.
"So, any idea as to why we bothered coming here?" Roggvar asked his comrades.
"Lady Lisaa said something about talking the Companions Harbinger out of a promise he made to her father," Ranmir explained. "Gods only knows why she even bothered. From what I hear, the kids dead set on seeing whatever it is he promised through."
"Wait, you mean you guys don't know?" Balfring asked. The other guards threw him curious glances.
"Know?" Roggvar started, "Know what?"
Balfring smiled from ear to ear. "Irileth really didn't tell you guys? The kid boasted that he'd kill that Jackal monster with his bare hands. Can you believe that? He says he's not gonna use weapons, armor, or even aggressive magic. Just his strength and his wits."
"His wits have left if he thinks he can actually win!" the dark haired guardsman scoffed. "That monster will tear him apart!"
Roggvar shifted his gaze toward their single female member. "You've been silent ever since we left Dragonsreach," he started. "What do you think will happen, Lydia?"
The woman turned her bored gaze to her leader. "I think you all gossip too much."
-Wind District-
The Harbinger stared intently at the newly bloomed Gildergreen in the Wind District's central plaza. That, among other things, was a task he considered to be one of the more honorable. Normally, he would not find himself thinking of old victories and past triumphs, but the situation he found himself was far from normal.
Lisaa, or Lady Lisaa as she was known as throughout the city, was currently trying her hand at persuading the young warrior to cease his fight with the Jackal.
"Please, you must listen to reason!" she pleaded, her eyes suggesting she was on the verge of tears. "I've heard the guards' stories of the strength the demon possesses, you cannot possibly hope to best it in terms of brute force."
"I've already told you, my mind is made up." the Harbinger almost shouted. "Instead of fearing for my safety, you should be worrying about your own and that of your family."
Lisaa let out a frustrated sigh, never in her life had she met a more stubborn Nord than the one standing before her, couldn't he see that his very life was in danger? Rising from the plaza bench, Lisaa walked over to the young warrior and stood at his side.
Had the threat of the Jackal not been looming over the city of Whiterun, had his very life and quite possibly the lives of every person in the city been at stake… the Harbinger would've guessed that Balgruuf's daughter held some form of affection for him. He banished the thought, telling himself that he was merely over thinking the situation.
What the princess did next however would make him reconsider his assumption. "Is there nothing I can say that will change your mind?"
She took his hands into hers and looked into the young warrior's eyes. It was not the kind of look friends gave each other, nor was it a look of fear that was only recently upon her visage. Hers was a look of worry, the look that a woman gave a lover before they went off to war. The Harbinger was dumbfounded, he hadn't even known of the woman's existence until earlier that day, yet the way she was staring at him now would suggest otherwise.
"No, nothing." the Harbinger finally said, pulling his gloved hands away from hers.
"Then may the gods bless you with victory."
The Harbinger shook his head. "The gods will have no part in this battle, if they even exist that is."
Lisaa let out a surprised gasp and placed her hands over her mouth. "Y-you cant be serious! Surely you do not doubt the existence of the gods."
"I doubt anything I cannot see with my own eyes," the young warrior revealed. "Now if you'll excuse me, I've got training to do and your bodyguards are waiting for you to return."
Lisaa opened her mouth to speak but couldn't find the words to match what she was thinking. Besides that, she knew that no matter how hard she tried, she would not be able to move the Harbinger from his decision.
They made their way back to Jorrvaskr in silence, neither having anything to say to the other. As the began their ascent up the stairs leading to Jorrvaskr, Roggvar and the rest of his troop made their way towards them. The Harbinger brushed passed the steel clad group, never uttering a single word as he entered the mead hall.
Roggvar turned to the princess. "Is everything alright, my Lady? You look even more worried than you did before you came here."
Lisaa stared at Jorrvaskr for a moment longer before turning back towards the plaza. "Come, Roggvar. I would return to Dragonsreach. There is nothing more I can do here."
The captain nodded. "Yes, my Lady."
As they departed, Lydia turned her head to take one final look at the ancient mead hall. She had only just seen the Harbinger for the first time since she had heard the stories about him. But deep inside her she knew that somehow, her life would be forever entwined with his.
And so, the rest of the day went on like usual. Despite the ever present threat of the Jackal, the people went about their daily lives as if the danger were non existent. Even with their seemingly oblivious demeanor, the people of Whiterun were all to aware of the demon that was lurking in the foulest recesses of Skyrim, and the threat it presented.
So, day soon turned to night. The merchants and shopkeepers hurriedly packed up their goods for the next day, citizens disappeared into their homes and the city guards armed themselves to the teeth. Taking their assigned positions, the guardsmen all saluted to one another. This night was sure to bring blood and death.
-Jorrvaskr-
The tension inside Jorrvaskr was thick enough to cut with a dagger. The Companions all stood in various spots throughout the mead hall, occupied with menial tasks. Some sharpened their weapons, making sure they were in peak battle condition. Others inspected their armor, taking their time to make sure it wouldn't fall apart around their bodies.
Vilkas, Aela and Farkas all stood by their Harbinger, who sat at the center table near the entrance. Skjor was seated farther down from the four, mentioning something about not wanting to be seen with a walking dead man.
Minutes felt like hours as the band of warriors stood around waiting for any sign of the Jackal's approach.
"Strange, this is usually around the time the beast attacks." Aela commented, her brow furrowed in slight confusion.
"You're right," Vilkas agreed. "By now the bastard would've burst through the doors and attacked everyone in sight. Why does it delay its assault?"
"Because its biding its time." the Harbinger answered suddenly, earning himself surprised stares from the other Circle members.
"Why would it do that?" Farkas inquired. "Its not like this night is different from any other," he quickly remembered how the Harbinger planned to face the beast and corrected himself. "For the beast, at least."
The Harbinger shook his head. "Its not that. The Jackal has no idea about my being here, or my existence for that matter. I'm willing to bet that it knows the Companions are the only ones capable of driving it back, that we're the superior fighters of the city."
Aela shrugged her shoulders. "But I don't see how that's relevant to what Vilkas said."
"Think about it. The Jackal has attacked Jorrvaskr on regular basis, never once has he killed any of you, even though he was more than capable of doing so. The Jackal knew it could kill any of you at any given moment, yet it simply injured a good majority of you."
Aela's brow rose ever so slightly as the meaning behind the Harbinger's words finally began to sink in. "So, you're saying that its-"
"Its asserting dominance over us," the Harbinger finished. "It feels that we're no longer a threat, that it doesn't have to worry about being killed. The beast no longer sees any of you as a threat. Mind you, this is only a theory. But it's the most logical answer I can come up with."
Silence washed over the Circle members as they pondered their Harbinger's theory. Aela was impressed, for the Harbinger to come up with a theory after only hearing about the demon was… amazing.
Then, her ears were treated to the rather unpleasant but familiar sound of a persons arms being torn from their sockets, followed by a powerful roar. Adrenaline surged through her body, her senses heightened and her muscles began to tighten. The other Companions instinctively went for their weapons, their gazes fixed upon Jorrvaskr's doors.
"The beast approaches," Vilkas announced. "Everyone get ready, remember the plan, and may the gods watch over your asses."
The normally rowdy mead hall made it difficult to hear most sounds from the outside world, but that had changed. Now the hall was so quiet that one could hear a pin drop. The Companions could hear the sounds of battle coming from the outside. Athis suppressed a shudder as yet another terrifying roar ripped trough the air. The gruesome sounds of men's bodies being ripped open torn apart followed by the nightmarish screams of agony from the victims soon filled their ears. The Companions exchanged worried glances.
Farkas shook his head sadly. "Poor bastards."
"Their bravery is noted by the gods. They go to Sovngarde, brother." Vilkas commented.
As the unfolding horror outside Jorrvaskr continued, the Harbinger prepared himself for his greatest challenge yet. Standing up, the young warrior began loosening the straps on his armor and removing the heavy plates until he was in nothing but his loincloth. He grabbed a roll of linen wrap, wrapped both his hands and sat back down. Unlike most of his kinsmen, the Harbinger's physique was not that of a hulking beast. He was lean and trim, yet well muscled and toned. Every line, curve and detail of his body could easily be seen. It was also a patchwork of scars from battle fought long ago on some distant field. Some had healed well and were hardly noticeable, while others stood out all too well.
Ria blushed at the sight, she had never seen their leader without any clothes or armor. Her thoughts quickly shifted when another roar filled her ears, nearly causing her heart to burst through her chest. There was an eerie silence that washed over the mead hall. The sounds outside had all but ceased, and the feral sounds of the Jackal were nonexistent.
Njada raised her eyebrow. "I don't like the sound of that."
"What are you talking about?" Athis questioned. "I don't hear anything."
"Exactly my point."
Suddenly, the mangled, bloody body of a Whiterun guard bust through the doors and landed right at the feet of the Harbinger. Aela and the other Companions slightly flinched at the sight, but the Harbinger didn't so much as blink. A smirk crossed his lips as he stared out the now shattered doors.
Humph, classic intimidation tactic. Used to demoralize the enemy before battle. Looks like this things not completely animal like. I have to be extra careful. If this thing can think like a person and fight like an animal, that'll make its movement that much harder to read.
After two full minutes of silence, it came. The Jackal came bursting through what remained of Jorrvaskr's doors. With a snarl, it tossed the still helmeted head of one of the guardsmen across the room and roared triumphantly. Aela notched an arrow and took aim at the creature's eye while Vilkas and his brother readied their weapons.
"Put away your weapons." the Harbinger ordered.
Vilkas shot the young leader a concerned glare. "Harbinger, I don't think-"
"Vilkas, now is not the time to argue! Put your weapons away, all of you!"
Slowly, begrudgingly, the Companions sheathed their weapons. At this, the Jackal tilted its head, confused as to why its enemies would put their weapons away in the face of an enemy such as himself. The Harbinger rose to his feet, fists clenched, staring the demon in the eyes.
The Jackal was even more fearsome looking than any story he had heard. The monster was about twice the size of an average werewolf, easily standing head and shoulders above the Harbinger. It had long, razor-like claws on its hands and sported large muscles that would put even the biggest of Nords to shame. Its face had a more skeletal look to it. Its skin clung tightly to its skull and its eyes and cheeks appeared sunken.
The last thing the Harbinger took note of was the row of perfectly lined, razor sharp teeth upon its lipless maw. The Jackal broke from its statue like stillness and began to move ever so slightly. The Harbinger stood his ground, never bothering to lift even a finger. The demon took note of this and let a low growl escape its throat. The Harbinger clenched his fists and crouched into a battle stance, earning himself an even more audible growl from the beast.
The two adversaries glared at each other, one watching the other for any sudden movement. The other Companions looked on with wrapped attention and concerned faces, each of them worried for the safety of their leader. Then, with a violent roar, the demon attacked. It charged forward with massive strides, saliva dripping from its maw as it went. The Jackal attacked with a forward slash of its clawed hand. The young warrior smirked. Sidestepping the blow, the Harbinger put the creature's arm in a death grip, took hold of its pinky and index fingers and pulled back until he felt and heard them snap. The Jackal let out a howl of pain and fell to its knees, unable to react. The Harbinger then took the beast's arm and brought a powerful elbow down between the joint of its own elbow, nearly snapping it in two.
Again the demon howled in pain, but began to wildly trash around in a desperate attempt to free itself from the Nord's grasp, but the Harbinger was far from finished. Sliding underneath the creature, the young warrior used the momentum of the slid to plant his heels on the thing's belly and fling him over the dining table. The Jackal slammed onto the ground, the audible sound of the air leaving its body soon following.
Acting fast, the young Nord leaped over to where the creature lay and began raining down blow after blow on the demon's face. Angered, the Jackal lashed out with a powerful strike with its still functioning left arm. The attack impacted the Nord's jaw, staggering him. Taking advantage of the human's distraction, the Jackal tackled the man to the floor and bit deep into his shoulder, causing the Nord to shout out in pain.
Vilkas drew his weapon and started forward when he felt a slender, yet strong hand grab his shoulder. He turned and found himself staring into Aela's emerald eyes.
"No, brother. You cant," she told him. "This is the Harbinger's fight, one that he must do alone!"
"We cant just stand here and do nothing while that monster kills him! We have to help him, we-"
"We must put our faith in the Harbinger and believe he can defeat this enemy!" Aela interjected. "Vilkas, if you rush in to help him, you will shame the Harbinger and all that he has done."
Vilkas looked on as his Harbinger and the Jackal wrestled with one another on the stone floor. It was painful, to see their Harbinger in a fight for his life against a creature that all of them combined could not defeat. But Vilkas knew Aela was right, he had to believe that the Harbinger would emerge the victor in this battle. So, with a heavy heart and trembling hands, Vilkas sheathed his weapons and continued to look on. Placing all his faith in his leader.
Somewhere between Vilkas and Aela's argument, the Harbinger and the Jackal had managed to rise to their feet. They circled each other. Slowly, carefully, each if them studying the others condition. Two of the Jackal's fingers had been broken and its arm had been dealt a serious injury. As such, the monster's fighting ability had been drastically cut down.
The Harbinger had a deep bite wound on his left shoulder and lacerations of varying degrees drawn across his body. His wounds weren't serious enough to kill him outright, but the constant bleeding on top of the nonstop fighting would slowly weaken him until all his strength left him. He needed to end the fight and end It now.
Roaring, the Jackal lumbered toward the young Nord. The Harbinger charged at the beast, trying to gain as much momentum as he could for the move he was preparing. Lunging forward, the Jackal attempted to slash the young warrior. With reflexes honed from years of training, the Harbinger sidestepped the blow, leaped forward and delivered a brutal flying knee to the demons head.
The monster staggered backwards, clutching its head and releasing dazed growls. The Harbinger saw his chance to attack and took it. Pulling his arm back as far as he could, the young Nord drove his elbow into the monster's solar plexus. The Jackal doubled over in pain, blood spewing from its mouth as it fell. The Harbinger launched himself at the demon and continued his assault. He punched, kicked and kneed the creature with as much power as his body could muster, desperately trying to finish the demon off before his strength started to wane.
The Harbinger delivered a final uppercut to the creatures jaw, the force of the blow so powerful it lifted the monster off its feet. The Jackal hit the floor with a loud thud and ceased to move, much to the Harbinger's delight. A chorus of cheers erupted from the Companions as they moved In to congratulate their leader on a battle well fought. Then, from his peripheral, the Harbinger saw the monster stir.
"Stay back!" he warned.
The Jackal suddenly sprang to his feet and grabbed the Harbinger by the throat. With unheard of strength, the Jackal hurled the young Nord out of Jorrvaskr. The Harbinger rag dolled over the steps leading to the mead hall, slamming into the wooden post that towered the steps and finally the Gildergreen. Pain unlike anything he had ever felt shot through his body. Had it not been for the enhanced durability his beast blood granted him, he would have undoubtedly been killed.
But even his enhanced abilities had their limits. The Companions rushed outside, but did not intervene. Even as the Jackal loomed over and began to mercilessly beat the man, even as his cries of pain filled the city of Whiterun, they stood their ground. Ria looked on, hands over her mouth, eyes filled with tears. Njada, Athis and Torvar exchanged nervous glances. While they had faith in their Harbinger, they couldn't help but wonder if they were about to witness the death of the young leader.
The Harbinger was a wreck. His body was riddled with numerous bruises and lacerations, blood flowing freely from the wounds. His left eye was blackened and shut tight, his right was still open but was reddened from a broken blood vessel. His hair was moist from a mixture of blood and sweat, courtesy of the large gash on the top of his head. His ribs were badly broken and mangled, making breathing without going into a choughing fit nearly impossible. The Harbinger spat a large wad of blood on the floor and glared at the demon. It 'smiled' as its serpent like eyes locked with his blue ones. The Harbinger had had enough.
The Jackal leapt backwards a few feet, wanting to put some distance between it and the human, who was clearly on his last leg. Staggering to his feet, the Harbinger wiped the blood from his mouth and took a battle stance. The Jackal narrowed its eyes, growling as it did so. There was something about the human that gave the Jackal cold chills. It couldn't understand, why did this lowly human refuse to give up? Then, it realized what it was that made this human different from the others. Something that none of its other enemies had: A strong will.
The Harbinger suddenly surged forward faster than the monster could react to, the condition of his body betraying the power that he still possessed. It lashed out at the young warrior, but it was already to late. The Harbinger dogged the blow with a quick spin that positioned him right behind the creature, jumped on its back and placed it in a choke hold. The Jackal attempted the tear the human off its back but found that it could not reach him.
In a panic, the Jackal began wildly flail about the Wind District plaza, destroying the benches and wooden fixture that surrounded the sacred tree. The noise caught the attention of the remaining Whiterun guards who came rushing towards the strange sounds and were greeted with the sight of the Jackal with it's head in a vice grip.
"By the nine!" one of them shouted. "Look at the state of this place!"
"Forget about that, look!" another guard gestured to the ongoing battle between the Jackal and the young Companion leader. "By Talos, he's doing it! He's actually doing it!"
The guards and the other Companions raised their weapon high in the air, cheering the young leader on.
This was absurd, unprecedented. How could a human teetering on the edge of life and death still posses this much strength? The Jackal was slowly beginning to lose its own strength as it was slowly choked to death. It desperately tried to free itself from the human's grasp, slamming him into trees, walls, even the steps. But the human would not let go. In fact, it felt like his grip was getting tighter!
Slowly, very slowly the Jackals movements became less and less as it slumped to the ground. Its serpent like eyes bulged and turned a crimson shade. Bloody saliva began to flow from its toothy maw, chocked gasps escaping from time to time. Then, with a final squeeze, the Harbinger snapped the demon's neck, ending it's wretched existence.
He rolled off its back onto the cold stone floor and flew into a coughing fit, blood spewing from his mouth as he did. The Companions and guardsmen erupted in loud cheers as they moved in to assist the injured Nord. The Harbinger could barley register what was going on around him. Had he done it? Had he actually beaten the Jackal? Was Whiterun's nightmare finally over? Looking over to his left, the Nord's questions were confirmed as the lifeless body of the demon lay next to him with its eyes rolled to the back of its head.
He smiled. He had done it. He had made the impossible possible. He had single handedly, without the use of weapons, armor, or the support of any of his allies defeated a creature many thought invincible. He would enjoy the honor and glory that his victory no doubt brought him later, he was far to tired to do so now. So, with a final grin, he let himself fall into the comforting darkness.
"Harbinger? Harbinger!?" Vilkas placed his fingers on the young leaders neck and let out a relieved sigh.
"What's wrong, Vilkas? Is he okay?" Njada inquired.
The Nord nodded happily. "He's lost conciousness, but he'll live."
Ria sighed, relieved their leader was still alive. "Thank the divines, I was so worried."
Aela placed a hand on her shoulder. "We all were Ria, but we placed our faith in him. And as a result, our Harbinger lives."
"I don't mean to ruin the mood, but while he is alive, that wont be the case of we don't get him to a healer soon." Athis stated.
"We would be honored to help carry him to the Temple." one of the guards said.
"Very well," Vilkas said. "Come, lets get him patched up."
Slowly, carefully, the Companions and a few guards lifted the young Nord and carried him off to the healer.
Looking down at the youthful but battered face of her leader, Aela cracked a rare smile.
You really are one of a kind, Harbinger.
-The Bannered Mare-
Avik burst through the Bannered Mare doors and quickly made his way up the steps, ignoring the questions that were being asked of him by some of the patrons as he went by. He entered the room where he, Livia and Pericles had been staying and faced the aforementioned leader, a grim look plastered to his visage
"You're not gonna believe this…"
Right after the Redguard had spoken the words, a chorus of celebratory cheers ripped through the inn.
A smirk crossed Pericles' lips. "Oh, I think I might."
-Dragonsreach-
Jarl Balgruuf sat in his office going over the last documents of the night with his wife. His daughter, Lisaa, nervously paced the room with her hands over her heart. It had been well over an hour since the beast had attacked and there was still no word on the fate of the Companions Harbinger.
"Lisaa, you're going to worry yourself to death dear," Aeta told her distraught daughter. "Please, get some rest."
Lisaa shook her head. "How can I? knowing that the Harbinger is out fighting that… thing. Or worse…"
"I'm sure the boy is fine," Blagruuf assured her. "He's a highly skilled warrior, I don't think something like the Jackal can-"
Suddenly, the office doors burst opened, and in walked a very surprised looking Irileth. "Apologies, my Jarl. But I have news that cannot wait."
Balfruuf stood up, his eyes slightly widened. "Well? What is it?"
"It's the Jackal, its been defeated. The Harbinger has slain the demon."
Relief washed over Balgruuf. He put his hands on his desk and released a long, tired sigh. "Thank Talos, it's finally over," he looked over at his daughter who was now on the verge of tears. "See, what did I tell you? Nothing to worry about."
Lisaa broke down, placing her hand over her mouth as she wept tears of joy. Happy that the young Companion leader still lived. Aeta moved in and placed her slender arms around her daughter, comforting the young woman. Balgruuf gave and extremely rare smile. The faith he had placed in the young Nord had been rewarded. Whiterun's curse had finally been lifted, and for the first time in a long time, Balgruuf would be able to sleep soundly again.
A/N: Holy shit this took FOREVER. I sincerely apologize for the utter lateness of this Chapter. What with all the crap goin on at my house and the sheer length of the chapter and writers block on top of that, it took forever to get things in order. Now, the fight between the Harbinger and the Jackal was kinds hit n miss in my opinion, but I think you guys will enjoy it. As you can see, I introduced Lydia in this chapter, she was supposed to appear in the last chapter but I decided to wait till the next. Now, as you may have seen, I've expanded upon the city a great deal. The districts are a lot bigger than their in game counterparts, the reason being because I plan on doing a lot with the story such as adding new characters n what not, so just keep that in mind.
The last think I want to tell everyone pertains to the Harbinger's name. if you think you've correctly guessed his name, please send me a PM about it instead of leaving names in the review page. I'd like to take this time to thank the user Thi5 Guy for doing so and giving me his continued support. Well that's all for now, but stay tuned! The next chapter is one you've all been waiting for, Bleak Falls Barrow!
See you soon!
Zero out