4E 201
25th of Sun's Dusk

The morning was a muggy one, as the rains hadn't let up at all the previous day. The stone paved streets of Whiterun were still wet, even as the sun beamed brightly as it climbed above the mountains. The pleasant air was one thing that Lydia could be grateful for as her boots splashed through the puddles, since her mood had been quite dark as of late.

The previous afternoon, she had been approached by the Jarl's Housecarl, the Dunmer woman telling her that she had been chosen to be Housecarl to Whiterun's new Thane. That bit of news had surprised her, but still she felt honoured that she had been chosen. As she was taken to be fitted with her new steel armour, she asked Irileth who the Thane was. The answer she received both shocked and angered her.

At first it seemed promising, as Irileth told her that the Thane was the newly revealed Dragonborn. For that one split second, she felt a huge surge of honour that she was chosen to guard the fabled Nordic hero of legend. However, that feeling was soon dashed as Irileth informed her that it was also the Khajiit she had brought to the palace days ago.

It was that knowledge that infuriated her. She just couldn't believe that dirty little thief had not only been pardoned, but also given the title of Thane. Never mind that a Khajiit was the Dragonborn, that was one thing that she couldn't believe most of all. The Jarl must have taken leave of his senses bestowing that title on her, as there was no doubt in Lydia's mind that the thief would abuse the title to suit her own means.

Unfortunately though, no matter her thoughts, she could not allow her feelings to stand in the way of her duty. Yes, she did not want to be stuck with that thief until her death, but for the sake of her honour she had to see it through.

Standing before the doors to the Bannered Mare, as she was told that was where the new Thane is currently residing, Lydia inhaled a deep breath in preparation. She steeled her resolve, mentally reminding herself to be polite to the Khajiit, as the last thing she wanted was to insult the Thane and have it be heard by the Jarl. Letting out the air in her lungs through her mouth, she pushed open the door and stepped inside.

The break room was quiet, as it usually was after a night of drunken debauchery, only a few souls sitting at the tables either nursing a hangover or eating breakfast. Scanning the room, it didn't take Lydia long to find who she was looking for, since the white fur made her stand out like a sore thumb. The thief was sat at the furthest table, hunched over a bowl of stew looking very much dead to the world. She had a tired look about her, as though the weight of the world was crushing down on her shoulders as she took absent sips of her meal.

That aside, the Khajiit was exactly as Lydia remembered her. White fur, black patches, black hair, blue eyes and scars across her nose. Her unique armour was absent though, having currently been replaced with a plain brown bodice with a white long sleeved shirt, black linen breeches and black boots.

Taking another breath, Lydia rested her hand against the pommel of her sword and marched over to the small Khajiit. Once within hearing range, the brunette Nord cleared her throat to gain the girl's attention. One pointed ear twitched toward her before the Khajiit's head snapped up, sapphire eyes catching her green ones in an instant.

Squaring her shoulders, Lydia bowed her head. "My Thane, I am Lydia." she began, being careful to keep the disdain out of her tone. "The Jarl has appointed me to be your Housecarl, it's an honour to serve you." She fell silent after that, allowing the thief to study her.

From what she could see, as she wasn't looking directly at the girl, Lydia noticed that the Khajiit had a look of scrutiny, as if she was sizing her up. She could plainly see the cogs turning in her head as she attempted to work out who she was. Lydia knew that her name would sound familiar to the Khajiit, but she couldn't help but feel a sense of annoyance at the apparent ignorance, until she remembered that the day she apprehended her, she was wearing her closed guard helm. It was no wonder that the thief didn't recognize her straight away.

Still, once she saw that the thief finally realized who she was, she couldn't help but feel smug at that expression.

Ty'ani on the other hand felt her insides go cold. Of course, she swiftly figured out who this woman was, as there weren't very many women in the guard and the Jarl had told her that a guard lieutenant would be her Housecarl. So once she put two and two together, she couldn't help but feel suspicion. Therefore, without thought, Ty'ani said. "So, is the Jarl wanting to keep an eye on me?"

Once the words were out of her mouth, only then did she realise what she said. Ty'ani cursed herself, wishing she could take them back when the brunette Nord gave her a withering look.

Lydia, in response, frowned before replying. "No. Should he?"

Letting out a groan, Ty'ani slumped forward, rubbing her forehead. "I'm sorry." she apologised. "Look, could we start again?" for a second, Lydia gave her a look of suspicion but nodded none the less. Ty'ani continued, reassured. "All right. I'm Ty'ani. Sorry to say, but I don't particularly know what a Housecarl does, they don't have them in Cyrodiil."

As if by instinct, Lydia responded. "A Housecarl is, by all rights, a bodyguard. As my Thane, I am sworn to your service. I'll guard you, and all you own, with my life." once that was out of the way, Lydia dropped her professional personage. Just as she was about to comment even further, that was when a familiar voice spoke.

"Ah, Lydia, it is good to see you again. I'd heard you were promoted to Housecarl."

Both the Nord and Khajiit looked round, seeing Haema standing a few feet away from the table. She was dressed in her simple shirt and breeches, which was why neither one of them heard her approach. Once at the table, she helped herself to a seat as Lydia snapped to attention.

"Harbinger." she greeted formally. Haema merely shook her head in amusement.

"Lydia please, there's no need to be so formal with me." the warrior then looked over to Ty'ani, flashing her a friendly smile. "A good morning to you, Ty'ani."

"Morning." the Khajiit replied tiredly.

Haema frowned in concern at the downtrodden tone. "Something vexing you?"

"No, it's not that." the girl reassured. "I just didn't sleep well last night, had a lot on my mind."

"Oh, I see." Haema replied with a nod of her head, swiping her blonde hair behind her ears. "Are you fit to travel?"

Ty'ani smiled. "Thank you for your concern, but I'll be fine."

"Very well." Haema dismissed before leaning forward, resting her arms on the table. "Well, I am going to assume that you are going to make your way to High Hrothgar as soon as possible. I must warn you that the roads are dangerous at this time, as there are no doubt that more bandits will crop up with the dragons returning." she explained, leaning back and crossing her arms as she paused. It didn't take long for her to continue though. "As such, I insist on travelling with you."

The Khajiit girl couldn't help but sigh at that. "You don't have to. I know you have obligations here Haema."

"That is true." the Nord agreed. "But, me and my own are needed whenever there is a threat to Skyrim's people and as of right now, the largest threat is the dragons. As Dragonborn, you will be at the heart of that mess and you'll need all the help you can get to see it through."

"But what about your organisation?" Ty'ani continued to ask. "You're their leader. They'll need you, won't they?"

Haema just smile. "I may be Harbinger Ty'ani, but that doesn't make me a leader. They do not need me to hold their hands, they can fend for themselves while I am gone." Ty'ani opened her mouth to protest more, but Haema held up her hand to stop her, already knowing what she was going to say. "As for my family, they are in good hands. My son is old enough to look after himself and his sisters, so they will be fine."

At that, Ty'ani sighed as she finally relented. There was no way she was going to talk Haema out of this, so she may as well accept the fact that she was coming along. "Okay, I admit it: I do need help. To be honest, I don't really know what I'm doing, aside from seeing the Greybeards and killing dragons."

"You will figure it out." Haema reassured. "This is the least I can do for you, Ty'ani. Besides, aside from the bandits, there is an increase of trolls on the mountains this time of year. I wouldn't want you to face those creatures yourself."

At the mention of trolls, Ty'ani's eyes bugged out. In the past, she had run into her fair share of trolls, both in Cyrodiil and Skyrim. The ones in the Imperial province were the size of your average man and tended to keep to the caves and abandoned mines. They were of course a force to be reckoned with, but the ones here in Skyrim were much worse. Larger than a man in both height and width, with a strength that rivalled even the giants, it was suffice to say that Ty'ani wasn't looking forward to facing another any time soon.

With that in mind, the Khajiit glanced at Haema with a worried look. "Well," she began slowly. "When you put it like that, I definitely won't say no to having you at my side."

The blonde Nord smiled at that.

After a lengthy pause, Ty'ani cleared her throat and sat up straight. "So, this High Hrothgar is up on the Throat of the World, right?"

"That it is, my Thane." Lydia answered.

Ty'ani blinked, slightly bewildered that the woman had spoken to her when it was clear what her feelings were. Either way, the Khajiit continued. "Well, is there a way to get there? I don't know about you, but I'm not entirely eager to scale that mountain."

"There's a pathway leading to the summit, the seven-thousand steps." Haema answered without hesitation. "The trail starts in Ivarstead."

Ty'ani frowned. "Where's that? I've never been to Ivarstead before."

"It's in the northern parts of the Rift. Literally on the other side of the mountain."

Nodding, Ty'ani finished the last of her stew before rising from her seat. "In that case then, we'd best go to the General Store and gather what equipment we can."

Haema stood from her chair also. "I'll go ahead and grab what I can. I'll meet you both at the front gate." at Ty'ani's acknowledgement, the Nord warrior pivoted on the ball of her foot and walked out of the Inn. Lydia glanced toward Ty'ani, folding her hands behind her back.

"I will wait here for you, my Thane."

"Thank you." Ty'ani muttered, her ears flattening slightly as she turned away. "But don't call me that, okay. Just call me Ty'ani." with that, the Khajiit disappeared up the stairs to gather her equipment and don her armour.

oOoOoOoOoOoOoO

It didn't take the three of them long to gather everything they needed for the journey ahead. As Ivarstead was approximately a six day journey via Eastmarch, they had to ensure that they had enough rations to last between them all. Therefore, with extra packs filled with all they would need, the women met back up at the gate.

It surprised them though when they ran across a familiar face at the stables, the blue robes quickly surmised who it was in an instant.

"Alasse?" Ty'ani asked, truly shocked to see the Altmer still in Whiterun. "What are you doing here? I thought you were going back to Winterhold."

The high-elf paced away from the horses stalls, hooking a thumb in her satchel as she gave the three a calculating look. "Indeed I was." she replied. "Until the return of the Dragonborn beckoned my attention." she brought her acid eyes to Ty'ani when she said that, the gaze saying more then her words ever would. Ty'ani sighed at that.

"You heard about that?" she muttered.

Alasse cocked a brow. "All within Whiterun has heard. News such as that tends to spread around fairly fast, as well as the knowledge of your recent status."

"Right." Ty'ani merely stated, scraping her metal-tipped toe against the cobblestone.

"But I digress." Alasse dismissed, metaphorically waving the previous conversation away. "I have been waiting for you for a reason, as I wish to ask if you would allow me to join you once again."

Ty'ani blinked, but she smiled none the less. "I'd be happy to have you along again. But, why exactly?"

Alasse crossed her arms then, leaning her weight on one leg. "I not only wish to provide my skill set to your cause, but I know for a fact that you will no doubt be within close proximity of the dragons, and I wish to document all I can on the matter."

Haema had to smile at that as she spoke up next. "A scholar till the end I see."

"But of course." Alasse replied, bringing her eyes to the Nord. "What better way to prepare the future generations then to arm them with the knowledge of one who experienced the dragons first hand?"

Haema laughed then. "A fair point. Welcome back, Alasse."

"Aw, it's a regular family reunion. How adorable!"

The women jumped in surprise at the sudden voice, whipping their gazes around as they tried to locate the source.

"Up here!" the voice sang out, causing four sets of eyes to look up to the overhang above them. Sitting directly over their heads, with her body hunched over and her chin in her palm, was Altwen. She smirked when their gazes landed upon her, raising her other hand in greeting. "Hey there!"

The woman looked different since the last time they saw her. Instead of her elaborate bodice, her body was clad in a dark chain-mail doublet, with a dark red neck cover and a high collar framing her dark hood. She had leather leggings with a blue sash around her waist held in place by a belt. On the belt was a coin-purse, a large leather water-skin and a huge makeshift belt pouch. Also there was a leather bandoleer running over her chest with multiple pouches. She had fur lined leather gauntlets with gloves and sturdy leather boots that reached her thighs.

Also attached to her belt were two beautiful short swords and a dagger, all of the same craft with each baring golden filigree upon the hilt. Over her shoulder, resting over a brown fur backpack, was a long bow. It was quite thin and tall with reinforce limbs, a wrapped grip and an extra quiver attached to it with three unique arrows. The main quiver was attached to her belt, set at an angle so the arrows won't fall out, but also within easy reach.

"What are you doing here?" Haema demanded, frowning at the woman.

"Sightseein'." Altwen replied without hesitation, turning her forest gaze to the horizon as if the emphasise the point. She then looked back to them. "In all honesty though, I'm actually stalkin' you."

"Why?" Ty'ani asked suspiciously.

"Because you, sweetheart," the woman pointed a finger at the Khajiit. "Are a very interestin' girl. First a Dragonstone and now a Dragonborn. What is it with you and ancient legends, hmm? Oh, and takin' on an actual real life dragon? Brilliant stuff."

"You saw that?" Ty'ani yelled, a feeling of annoyance spreading through her. "Why didn't you help?"

"Er, because I'm not crazy enough to take on a dragon toe to toe."Altwen pointed out. "Unlike some people. Honestly, you were literally right in front of it's nose. That takes balls." at that point, Altwen pushed herself off the roof, landing in a crouch beside the party and rising in one fluid motion.

Haema scowled at the woman, taking a single step forward as the floodgates of anger opened. "You still could have brought your bow to the cause. What would you have done if the dragon had triumphed?"

"Nothing, cus the dragon's dead. Thanks to our... illustrious Dragonborn here." she purred, staring seductively at Ty'ani whom squirmed uncomfortably.

"That is not the point." Hamea bit back through gritted teeth.

Altwen rolled her eyes. "Look, the truth is, by the time I readied my bow, the beast was already dead. What did you want me to do, yell curses at the bones?"

At that point, Ty'ani stepped between the two women. "Enough." she said calmly. "At this point, this conversation benefits no one. She's here now, and we could always use an extra bow at our side."

Alasse sighed then. "Oh yes, that sharpened tongue of hers will fell any beast we come across for certain."

"Oh, you do say the sweetest things Ice Queen." Altwen retaliated.

Ty'ani rubbed her forehead in irritation, feeling a headache forming in the depths of her brain. Looking at the women before her, she mentally sighed. 'By Nocturnal's grace, what have I gotten myself into.'

oOoOoOoOoOoOoO

The entourage of women met little resistance as they made their way eastwards. After a quiet day of travelling, they stopped at Valtheim Towers for the evening, a previously occupied bandit hideout that had been recently cleared by mercenaries looking for an easy reward. It was quite convenient for the group as they tied their horses nearby and made themselves at home in the first tower.

At the very top of the tower, Ty'ani stood close to the edge, just simply looking toward the horizon. Over the past three months she had been here in Skyrim, she'd been down this road more than enough times but she had never really had the opportunity to just look out over the landscape. From up here, it was a grand view. The rolling hills and pristine plains stretched for miles, completely untouched by man apart from the occasional fort here and there. Thick evergreen trees laden with snow dotted the land in small groups, reaching high to the heavens with the golden light of the sinking sun shining down.

Ty'ani smiled at this. Even though her life had been turned upside down and inside out these past few months, she could feel reassured in the knowledge that Skyrim will remain a truly breathtaking land, no matter the circumstances. Though she shivered as the heat of the sun began to disperse, giving way to the wintry winds, swiftly covering herself with her cloak as she continued to admire the view.

It didn't take long though for the silence to be broken. "Beautiful, ain't it?"

The Khajiit jumped slightly, turning toward the disturbance to see Altwen stepping toward her. She was also staring out to the horizon with a small smile on her face. "Someone should draw a picture." she continued. "I swear, I could look over this land a thousand times and never tire of its beauty."

In response, Ty'ani returned her gaze to the view and smiled. "Can't argue with that." she replied, shivering some more as the wind picked up. "Though I could do without this cold."

The huntress just laughed, sidling up to the girl's side. "So, any reason your up here on your lonesome, or you just enjoyin' the view?"

Ty'ani gave the woman a look, though she relented none the less. "Sometimes, one needs to find solitude." she said off handedly.

In response, Altwen nodded without a word.

As the sun finally fell behind the mountains, giving way to the twin moons, Ty'ani mused out loud. "You said three-hundred years. Surely you jest." As the red head turned her gaze to the Khajiit, the girl cursed herself. As she had spent so long travelling on her own, she had grown into the habit of speaking her thoughts out loud. She mentally kicked herself, wishing she could take back what she said.

Cocking a brow, Altwen allowed a smile to stretch across her face. "Oh, didn't I tell you? I'm not a Nord. Ya see, I only ever tell my victims this: I'm actually a monster of Oblivion." she watched as Ty'ani's expression twisted into one of horror, which caused Altwen to burst out with laughter. Spluttering between giggles, she somehow managed to speak. "By Gods Kitten, you should have seen your face. No I'm just messin' with ya. My father was a Nord, yes, but my mother... well, she was a Bosmer. Best of both worlds, ya see."

Ty'ani blinked in surprise, openly gaping at the woman. Sensing the questions that would come forth, Altwen answered before the Khajiit had the chance to speak. "Yes, yes, I'm a half-elf. Not a half-breed. Calling me as such is bad for your health, trust me on that one." Hooking her fingers into edge of the hood, she removed it, allowing the material to pool over the collar of her armour. What was revealed was bright red hair that was pulled back in a low ponytail with one side of her bangs wrapped in fine silk. Ty'ani could also clearly see a set of scars running down her left cheek, though that wasn't what caught the Khajiit's attention, as she saw a pair of obviously elfish ears. It was quite an odd sight, seeing a Nordic face with elven ears.

"These things," Altwen began again, wiggling the ears. "Have brought me nothin' but grief when I'm in a city, hence the hood. I prefer the company of the wilds or the Khajiit caravans rather than Nords."

The last statement was what caught Ty'ani completely off guard. "You've travelled with the Khajiit caravans?" she asked.

Altwen smiled, placing a hand on a shapely hip. "Way before you were born Kitten..." she explained and then, much to Ty'ani's surprise, changed to the Khajiiti language. "I spent a lifetime with one male, the happiest I've ever been, until he died. His memory travels with me always. After all, soft delicate fur against my skin, it has such an exquisite feel to it."

In her dreamy state, Altwen began to unconsciously stroke Ty'ani's arm, where her white fur was exposed. After a moment though, both women froze when they realized what the half-elf was doing. Clearing her throat, Altwen withdrew her hand, taking a single step back. "Sorry." she muttered. "Let's just say, I've been... intimate with Khajiit and prefer their company over Nords. Even my-"

It was at that point that Ty'ani saw the woman's eyes widen slightly, as a slither of horror emerged for a second. The Khajiit frowned in confusion as Altwen cleared her throat once again. The half-elf glanced over at the girl again, the moment of weakness disappearing as if it never existed, a smirk on her face "Hey, I ever mention you look a lot like my mate's sister? She had a bit of an interspecies fetish as well. Apparently, I'm a bad influence, after she ended up seein' someone outside her species." she paused for a moment, her grin widening. "You might be related to her and if so, we are gonna have so much fun." at that, and without allowing the Khajiit to reply, the huntress turned back to head down the stairs while folding her hood back over her head. Pausing half way down, she turned back. "Oh, you ever played hide the sausage? Anyway, some venison downstairs if ya want some." without another word, she disappeared.

Bemused, Ty'ani stared at the spot where the half-elf was, her mind going blank at the sudden question. "Hide the sausage? What?" she muttered to herself.

Meanwhile, a stew bubbled away as Altwen returned to tending to it. After one stir, the half-elf reached for her pack, pulling out a small pouch. Opening it, she took out a pinch of crushed golden plant material and sprinkled it into the cooking meal. As the herbs were stirred into the broth, the smell of the food seemed to have intensified as the aroma reached the noses of those within.

Lowering her journal, Alasse cocked a brow as she took in the exotic scent. "You cooked that?" she questioned in an unbelieving manner.

The huntress shrugged. "What can I say, I've just got that magic touch." she empathised that statement by wiggling her fingers in an over the top fashion, as though she was casting a spell.

Haema pivoted in her seat, eyeing the half-elf with surprise. "Well, if it tastes as good as it smells, we're in for a meal and a half."

As Altwen grabbed a bowl from the neat stack beside her, Ty'ani descended from the tower top. Altwen scooped out a full ladle of the stew and poured it into the bowl, immediately offering it to the Khajiit as she passed by. "Here, eat this." she warmly said as Ty'ani took the offering.

Alasse's eyebrow raised, noting the change in the woman as she addressed Ty'ani. As the Khajiit made her way to the table, stew in hand, Lydia rounded the stairs having returned from tending the horses. She too was offered a bowl, though not as warmly Alasse noticed. She hummed suspiciously but made no comment.

As the meals were passed around, the women got themselves settled. Despite the fact that they had no encounters on the road, the journey was still a tiring one as being sat astride a horse can be quite bothersome over time. They tucked in to the food in silence, but it didn't stay that way for long.

Altwen sighed. "I hate awkward silence." she muttered, turning to her first 'victim'. "Hey Muscles, why don't you tell us your story?"

"My story?" Haema asked before sucking in a breath. "There is not a lot to my story."

"Oh, that's a lie and you know it." the half-elf prompted. "You are a part of a warrior's guild- the leader of it, in fact. There has to be a good story behind that."

Haema pursed her lips before taking another mouthful of the stew. Swallowing it, she leant back in thought. "There really is not much to tell." she began. "I have been a part of the Companions since I was but a small lass. Over time, I fought my way to the top, becoming a member of the Circle and inheriting the role of Harbinger after the previous one was..." it was here she paused, turning her gaze to the table top.

"Ah, I see." Altwen nodded. Though it didn't take long for her to continue. "Okay, outside that then. You have anythin' interestin' to tell us at all? Clearin' out bandits? Huntin' vampires? Killin' feral beast?"

Leaning back, Haema turned her eyes to the ceiling in thought. "Well, there was this one time. We were contracted to fight our way through a den infested with Falmer, as they had attacked a merchant caravan and kidnapped the merchants."

"Oh, do tell."

Sighing, the Nord continued. "This was years back, mind you. Far before I made it to the Circle. As such, I wasn't as experienced fighting them then than I am now. On the way through, I got bit by one of those insects- the Chaurus." It was then that Haema began to remove her right gauntlet. Once it was off, she folded up her sleeve and turned her arm to show the underside. Originating from there was a set of scars that were clearly teeth marks, running down either side of her arm before disappearing entirely. "I underestimated the strength of those things at the time, and it bit straight through my armour. Would have taken my arm off completely had it not been for Farkas."

"Who's Farkas?" Ty'ani inquired.

"Farkas is my husband. I met him when I first joined the Companions, been smitten with him since and married him long before I became Harbinger." as she spoke, she covered her arm with her sleeve but left her gauntlet on the table. "Anyway, to make a long story short; by the time we found the merchants, it was already too late. They had already been killed by the Falmer."

"Detestable creatures." Alasse commented. "It is hard to believe that they were once the prideful snow elf race."

"What's a snow elf?" Ty'ani asked suddenly.

"You mean you don't know?" Lydia questioned.

Ty'ani looked at the woman and shook her head. "Well, I've heard people mention the name and such, but I don't really know who they are."

"Well, simply put," Alasse began. "The snow elves were once a race of mer that inhabited Skyrim some time in the Merethic Era. When the Nords drove them away, they fled to seek shelter with the Dwemer. However, it is believed that the Dwemer instead reduced the snow elves to slaves and blinded their race, turning them into the Falmer as we know them today."

"Gods." Ty'ani breathed out in shock. "Those poor people."

"History is long and bloodied, Ty'ani." Alasse simply replied, saying nothing more on the matter.

As the evening waned on, and the meal in the cooking pot gradually reduced, the small group of adventurers continued to chatter away. Slowly but surely, they begun to lower their guard, smiling and laughing at nothing for what felt like the first time in ages. Altwen smiled at this. 'Amazin' what a little intoxicatin' herbs can do to relax a party.' she almost laughed out loud as she imagined the scolding she'd receive from Alasse if she knew.

oOoOoOoOoOoOoO

The next morning, the group woke feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. They swiftly gathered and packed their equipment, loaded the horses and set off. For a while, the road ran parallel to the river but it didn't take long before they lost sight of it, the tree line beginning to thicken as well.

As the day wore on, the adventurers soon came across a fork in the road. It was here they stopped, deciding it best to have a small break. Haema slid out of the saddle, turning to assist Ty'ani down while the others followed suit. As they guided their horses to the trees to tie the reigns to them, Ty'ani glanced at the sign post that stood in the bend. She frowned, squinting at the illegible scrawls on the pointers, having absolutely no clue what they said at all.

Huffing through her nose, Ty'ani turned away. "I don't even know why I try." she muttered in irritation.

"Try what?" came the voice of Lydia as she stepped up behind her. The Khajiit groaned.

"Just... no forget it, it doesn't matter." she dismissed quickly. She could see that the Housecarl was about to inquire further, but the last thing Ty'ani wanted was to give out unneeded information. To her, her inability to read wasn't really something to be concerned about, so she quickly changed the subject. "So, you were a guard Lydia." she stated. Not as a question, but as a fact.

Lydia frowned at the very obvious change in the conversation, the two of them rejoining their company as she arched a brow. Though before long, she too huffed. "Your observation of the obvious is quite astounding." she deadpanned.

Ty'ani sighed. "Look, I know that we've had our differences in the past, but that's in the past. You're my Housecarl now and I just want to get to know you a little better. Is that so wrong?"

"Why the sudden interest in my history?" the brunette Nord asked guardedly.

Turning to the woman to make eye contact with her, Ty'ani shrugged. "We're going to be here for a little while, I just thought it'll be a nice way to kill time."

Lydia crossed her arms, sighing as Ty'ani leant against a nearby tree, the two of them watching Haema build a fire. Just in time too, as the winds were beginning to pick up. Before long, Lydia finally answered. "I have been in the guard for many years. My father thought it best to teach me the way of the sword, rather than staying at home learning how to sew and housekeep." she lowered her gaze then, pursing her lips unconsciously. "He had wanted a son after all, but ended up with me instead. Thought it better if his only daughter was capable of looking after herself a guess."

Ty'ani was silent for a while, nibbling on her bottom lip as she contemplated the woman's words. "Is your father...?" she asked after a moment, trailing off uncertainly.

"He is dead." Lydia confirmed. In the corner of her eye, she noticed Ty'ani had a sympathetic look on her face. Before the girl could say anything, the Nord held up a hand to stop her. "It was a long time ago, I've had my time to mourn him."

Ty'ani's mouth snapped shut at that, nodding. Clearing her throat, she pushed off the tree and made her way over to Haema, seeing that she had finally got the fire going. It was only a small one, but it was enough for her to warm her hands. Lydia on the other hand stayed where she was, keeping a vigilant eye out for trouble.

Kneeling beside the fire, Ty'ani watched as the group began to pull out water-skins and rations, taking advantage of the time they had to have a small meal. From across her, Altwen smiled. "So, you and Sunshine have a nice conversation?"

Frowning, Ty'ani answered. "You could say that." she paused as she too pulled out some rations, but then looked directly at Altwen. "What's with you and the nicknames, by the way?"

Grinning, Altwen settled back on her behind and crossed her legs Indian style. "Eh, what can I say; some people just don't match their names, so I give 'em a new one." she explained off-handedly.

The Khajiit girl cocked a brow at that. "So why 'Kitten' for me? That's a little offensive, don't you think?"

"Not really." the huntress dismissed. "I called my mate's sister Kitten and you remind me so much of her. Plus, it's a compliment. Your still young and beautiful, just like a little kitten."

Despite the kind words, Ty'ani still couldn't help but bristle. "I'm not a cub." she snapped in annoyance. "I happen to be eighteen years old and very much an adult, thank you very much."

Altwen's smirk only persisted. "Eighteen huh? Well, that's good to know, thanks!" she exclaimed cheerfully.

Ty'ani's ears flattened against her head, realising too late that she had just delivered to the half-elf information that will be used against her to make her uncomfortable. Groaning, she turned away from the still grinning half-elf and turned instead to Haema, clearing her suddenly dry throat.

"Haema, is there anything else you can tell me about High Hrothgar."

Ignoring the sniggers of the woman seated with them, Haema glance to the young Khajiit, pursing her lips. "Well, there's not much I know. It's been there for centuries, that is for certain. As for the Greybeards themselves, I've never seen them in person but as they are masters of the Voice, they could easily kill a man just by uttering a single word. Not that they would of course, they are very peaceful."

In spite of Haema's reassurance, Ty'ani couldn't help but feel a little uneasy. Is the Thu'um really that powerful? This power that she has could, in fact, kill a person just by speaking? All of a sudden, the rumours of Ulfric Stormcloak shouting High King Torygg to pieces began to make sense to her. By Gods, why must she have a power like that? That is simply terrifying.

Shaking off her uneasiness, Ty'ani resumed. "Well, does the path really have seven thousand steps?"

"M'aiq once walked to High Hrothgar. So many steps, he lost count."

All those nearby paused in befuddlement, turning toward the owner of the sudden voice. What met their sights was a Khajiit man in tan robes with an average sized backpack, standing not too far away and studying each of them.

"...I'm sorry?" Ty'ani asked.

"M'aiq does not understand what is so impressive about shouting." he continued as if Ty'ani had never spoken. "M'aiq can shout whenever he wants."

Confused, Ty'ani only gave him a blank stare. "Erm..." she merely said.

"Hold a moment." Altwen remarked, climbing to her feet to study M'aiq in more detail. "I know you, don't I? Or.. no, was that your father?"

M'aiq only smiled at the woman. "M'aiq's father was also called M'iaq. As was M'aiq's father's father. At least, that is what his father said. But then again, you can never trust a liar." the Khajiit man then continued to study them all, not at all fazed by the fact his words were confusing them more. "You all travel together? Some like taking friends on adventures. M'aiq thinks being alone is better. Less arguing about splitting treasure."

"Oh, no arguin' here. Trust me on that one." Altwen said for the whole group.

Seemingly ignoring the woman's words, he simply turned and began to walk away. "M'aiq is tired now. Go bother somebody else." and without another word, M'aiq strode down the rode toward Windhelm, seeming to have already forgotten about their conversation.

As they watched him go, Haema, Alasse, Ty'ani and Lydia gave his back a confused look each. Before long though, they returned their attention back to what they were doing before.

"What a strange man." Haema commented.

"Most likely a skooma addict." Alasse remarked as she too knelt by the fire from the horses. "I would pay him no mind."

After that, the women quickly finished their lunch, tended to the horses and packed up to begin the journey again. Mounting up, it didn't take long for them to break through the tree line, revealing the cliffs that lead to the Rift. Though, when they passed by the nearby fort- which Haema told them was named Fort Amol- that was when they ran into trouble.

As they rode down the road, a small group of four people appeared from near the fort and stood in their path. They were all clad in matching robes, quickly telling the company that they had run into mages. As she was heading the group, Haema sighed in irritation. So much for passing without a fight.

"Hold it there!" the lead mage yelled. "This here is our territory! You best move on before things get ugly!"

"We intend to." Haema yelled back, though she tensed in preparation. "As long as you step aside."

"I don't think so." he snarled. "I think we'll escort you ourselves, make sure you go nowhere near our fort."

"Ha!" laughed Altwen from behind them, leaning her arm on her leg as she slumped slightly in the saddle. "His fort, he says. That's rich."

"I beg your pardon?" he hissed at the huntress.

From beside her, Alasse glared at Altwen. "What are you doing? You will get us all killed."

Pointedly ignoring her, Altwen watched with amusement as the mage stomped toward her, a withering glare on his face. "Care to repeat what you said there?"

"Oh, I'm sorry, was I mumblin'?" she asked mockingly. "Or are you just too thick skulled for my words to penetrate?"

"Altwen!" Ty'ani warned, beginning to feel a slither of dread as the woman continued to provoke the mages.

"No surprise there, I suppose." Altwen continued, completely ignoring the glares of her companions. "Probably too dumb to realise that this fort is rotting at the core anyway, as your heads are shoved too far in your undead thralls backsides to see anythin' else really."

The company winced as one, seeing the immediate effect of Altwen's words as the mages scowled at her. Raising his hands, they became surrounded with icy auras as the lead mage snarled at the half-elf. "That does it, your-"

He never got the chance to finish his sentence however, as a dagger suddenly appeared in his throat. Whatever words he was trying to speak came out as gargles, as blood poured from the puncture. Unprepared, the other mages froze in shock as their leader crumpled to the floor. Altwen took advantage of that moment, unsheathing her short swords in a fluid motion as she bounded off her horse, causing the animal to whinny.

What happened next was too fast for the party to comprehend, as Altwen pounced upon one of the mages, slashing her throat. Following through with the motion in a forward roll, she stabbed another in the chest as she rose- directly in the heart- and the other she cut down by slashing at his leg. Pulling out the sword from the now dead mage, she allowed him to fall as she pivoted around on her knee, stabbing both swords in the last mage's chest as he fell, timing it impossibly as he fell to his knees so her swords struck true.

The sentries on the fort wall, having seen this happen, immediately reacted. They rose their hands, firing their respective magics at the adventurers.

As fire and ice rained down on them, the party scrambled into motion. Valiant bucked up, whinnying in distress as Haema fought to keep him calm. Ty'ani let out a cry as she allowed herself to fall from the saddle, rolling upon the ground and away from the bucking animal, pulling off her bow and an arrow as she rose.

Leaving their horses behind once they were free from the saddles, the company drew their weapons and readied themselves as they charged toward the open gates.

Altwen sheathed her short swords, retrieving her dagger before taking her own bow in hand. She, Ty'ani and Alasse provided cover for Haema and Lydia, forcing the mages upon the walls into cover. The half-elf huntress scored a perfect shot against one mage, her arrow penetrating directly through the man's throat. Ty'ani hit another in the shoulder, causing him to stumble, but he was still standing. Alasse's fire spells exploded upon the wall edges, forcing the unprotected mages to flee to cover.

Haema and Lydia meanwhile made it inside the fort walls, seeing three mages before them on the grounds. They were immediately beset upon by their spells. They dodged whatever they could, but ice still shattered upon their armour and fire exploded around them, scalding them. Lydia rose her shield to block the majority of the attacks, using that to her advantage as she approached.

Once close enough, she charged forward and ran her sword through one of the fire mages. He was dead in an instant, though the other two turned their attention to her. A thing that Haema took full advantage of, as she charged forward and barrelled into the left most one. Unprepared for the heavy bull of a woman, the mage was effortlessly tackled and she tumbled to the ground. Immediately, Haema brought down her axe on the mage, killing her instantly.

The last one attempted to flee, quickly realising that he had no chance toe-to-toe against these two warriors. However, he barely made it to the stairs leading to the upper floor before an arrow found its way into his spine. He collapsed instantly.

The half-elf, Khajiit and high-elf rushed inside after that, following the two Nords to the upper levels to take care of the rest of the mages.

It turned out that there was only four more on the top level, though they were dispatched quickly through the combined efforts of the archers. The magic wards the mages had did nothing against the physical projectiles, the arrows passing through and hitting the owners fatally.

With them taken care of, Haema immediately rounded on Altwen, scowling at her. "Gods damn it woman, what on Nirn were you thinking?! You could have gotten us all killed!"

"What?" Altwen shrugged, not at all affected by the Nord warrior's ire. "I was bored."

"Bored? Bored!" Alasse snarled, just as angry as Haema. "We could have passed by peacefully if you had not compromised us."

Altwen rolled her eyes as she placed her hands on her hips. "Uh huh, right. Like they were ever goin' ta let us past peacefully. These guys are necromancers, in no way were they gonna to let us go."

Sighing, Ty'ani shared a look with her Housecarl, seeing her irritation of this situation as well. Turning to the rest, she spoke out. "Hey, can we talk about this when we're some place else? I'd rather not be set upon by more mages if it's all the same to you."

Briefly looking at the Khajiit, Altwen smiled, nodding her head. "Yeah, I'm in agreement with Kitten. How's about we settle this some other time, yeah?"

Growling, Hamea sighed before relenting. "Fine, but this is not over." At that, the group retreated from the fort and returned to their horses. Mounting up, they immediately left the fort behind. Altwen though couldn't help but huff in amusement. Oh, she was going to have the scolding her life, she could just see it.

As they left the fort in their wake, crossing over the bridge and making it to the bottom of the cliff path, that was precisely what happened. The moment it was deemed safe, Haema pulled on her horses reigns, prompting the rest to stop as well, and rounded on Altwen. Scowling at the woman, she began in a harsh tone. "What on Nirn were you thinking? You should consider yourself fortunate that none of us had been harmed with that stunt you pulled."

Altwen however merely rolled her eyes. "Oh come off it," she dismissed, clearly unaffected by the reprimand. "It's not like we couldn't of handled them, I just stopped them from takin' us by surprise. They woulda tried to kill us before we even got to the bridge."

"That is besides the point." Lydia added. "Such a reckless move could have easily result in someone becoming hurt, or worse. If that had happened-"

"But it didn't." the huntress interrupted, spreading her arms in a show of making the point of showing the group that they were all well. "Look, none of us are hurt, so it don't really matter now does it?"

Haema sighed at this, massaging her forehead in irritation. It was quickly revealed to the woman that arguing with Altwen was like trying to get a spoiled child to see that the world doesn't revolve around them, it was just getting her nowhere. Lowering her hand down, she glared as she spoke again. "We may not have been hurt this time, but if you do that again and one of us becomes injured, it will be your own doing."

"Yeah yeah." Altwen dismissed, waving her hand like she didn't give a care in the world, which she didn't. "If you're quite finished, shall we get goin' now? I'd prefer to get to Ivarstead in this lifetime if it's all the same to you lot."

No one replied back to her, but the group began to head off again anyway, each deathly silent which made Ty'ani uneasy. She felt awkward as a response, as she didn't like people arguing over her head at the best of times, even if it wasn't aimed at her. Therefore, she merely kept herself as small as possible as they began the daunting climb up the cliff, not wanting to have the anger aimed at her.

oOoOoOoOoOoOoO

The days passed quickly after that, thanks to both the swiftness of their mounts and the surprising lack of highwaymen on the road. They arrived at Ivarstead ahead of schedule, as the welcoming lights of the Inn beckoned them forward as the evening began to darken. Once inside the Vilemyr Inn, a sense of tension hung the air as the patrons within all seemed to glance at them as one. The looks were brief thankfully, as the people turned back to their conversations with one another.

Biting her lip nervously, Ty'ani strode ahead of the group toward the bar where the landlord resided. The heavyset Nord seemed surprised to see the new set of visitors in his tavern, his mood visibly changing. From behind her, Ty'ani clearly heard Altwen mutter to herself. "Not very high on visitors, are they?"

The landlord greeted them with an obviously rehearsed line, in a less than genuine tone. "Welcome to the Vilemyr Inn. We have a special offer on rooms, five septims per person."

Ty'ani's ears twitched in curiosity. "Five? Why so cheep?"

"Well..." the inn-keeper began. "I really shouldn't say. But since the barrow over yonder seems to have become active with ghosts and the like, its become a drain on travellers. They reckon this whole area could be cursed and honestly, I'm beginning to believe that. It's only the occasional pilgrim that passes through nowadays."

Haema stepped forward then. "Has anyone ever investigated the barrow?"

"A few months back, this dark-elf seemed interested in the barrow. I warned him away just as I'm warning you now. A few nights later, we heard screams coming from the barrow and that was that. We never saw him again. Also, just the other day, this lizard came through. I warned him away too but he seem rather adamant, offered to investigate. Haven't heard from him either. Could be dead for all I know."

Ty'ani smiled at the man. "Well, I would offer to go in as well but I seem to have one too many duties right now. Maybe after I come down from the mountain?"

The landlord nodded, flattening his hands on the bar's surface. "Right, so rooms. Dormitory or single?"

Ty'ani looked back at the group, knowing for a fact that Haema and Lydia would fall asleep anywhere due their training, just the same as she would. Looking at Altwen however, the huntress let slip a smile. "Single room please. A girl needs her modesty."

"You? Modest?" Alasse sneered.

"Well if you wanna join me, your more than welcome." Altwen purred suggestively. Alasse just rolled her eyes, looking to the inn-keeper.

"A single room as well please." she informed him.

Rolling her own eyes, Ty'ani returned her attention back to the landlord. "A dormitory for the rest of us."

After the coin was exchanged and the locations of the rooms discussed, the group sat down for an evening meal. It was a standard fair but filling and warm, the norm for these out-of-the-way Inns. To be frank, standard was what the Khajiit preferred, finding that the higher end foods were far too rich for her liking.

About an hour later, the women retreated to their respective rooms. Sitting upon her straw filled bed, Ty'ani watched her friend and bodyguard get comfortable and slowly drift to sleep. She wanted to join them but she found that she was unable to. Quite ironic really, as just this morning she was fighting to keep her eyes open. But still, knowing that she won't drift to sleep anytime soon, Ty'ani decided that a quick stroll might do the trick. Pulling off her nightshirt and putting on her standard clothes and her cloak, she ventured out of the dorm.

Walking through the door, the sounds of the tavern immediately hit her ears, the cacophony of noise greeting her as she wondered further into the break room. The bard's music was in full swing and people who only an hour ago were withdrawn and gloomy, were now singing and celebrating.

Quite befuddled, Ty'ani eased her way through the crowd and slipped out the exit.

The cold of the night air assaulted her, causing her to shiver and wrap her fur cloak around herself. As she stepped off the porch, she turned her eyes to the sky, seeing the twin moons beaming down in full clarity, not a cloud in sight. She huffed as she studied the orange aurora, knowing that this night wasn't ideal for mischief of any kind, it was far too bright.

With that in mind, she instead walked toward the bridge that lead out of the hamlet. Stopping in the centre of the stone bridge, she leant against the wall, allowing the breeze to brush through her loosened locks. She sighed as she watched the stream below her rush by, allowing herself to relax.

Her ears twitched as she caught the distant noise of howling. Wolves were very common place in this part of Skyrim, so it came as no surprise that they were wondering these plains. Either way, the noise was quite soothing, so Ty'ani closed her eyes and let the sounds of nature brush her ears with their song.

"Septim for your thoughts."

Startled, Ty'ani jerked to the side, as a voice that didn't belong to any of her companions spoke directly into her ear. Fur standing on end, she drew the dagger she had concealed, pointing it in the direction of the voice. She blinked in surprise though, as there was no one there. "What in the Gods name?" she murmured to herself, utterly befuddled. She lowered her weapon, wondering if her mind was playing tricks on her. She must be more exhausted then she thought.

With a frown, she hid her dagger and turned back towards the village with the intent of returning to the Inn. As she turned, her sight was filled, not with the buildings of the hamlet, but a figure standing with his arms crossed before her.

"Boo." he whispered calmly as Ty'ani's heart missed a beat.

Jumping back in surprise with a yell, the Khajiit girl took a moment to steady herself as her mind slowly processed who was in front of her. The black and red scales, the golden eye, the smirking face. Not to mention the Dark Brotherhood armour. She knew this man, or rather Argonian.

"Well, is this not a happy coincidence." he said slowly, quite obviously amused by her fright.

Ty'ani blinked, looking him up and down, mouth agape. Pointing a finger at him, she finally managed to speak. "You!"

The Argonian uncrossed his arms and spread them out, the smirk still persisting. "Me!" he exclaimed in a mocking tone.

"What are you doing here?" Ty'ani demanded.

"Why, enjoying the celebration of course." he answered. "I did just solve the ghost mystery after all."

That was a little surprising. Ty'ani never would have guessed that he would do such a thing, due to his profession. Not that assassins weren't formidable warriors, but she thought that he wouldn't be all that interested in assisting a village, unless it benefited him. That's what she thought of assassins after all.

Shaking those thoughts away, Ty'ani began again. "Well, what are you doing out here then? Shouldn't you be enjoying the celebration in there?" she pointed toward the Inn, where the faded noise of cheering could still be heard even from here.

The Argonian placed his fists on his hips, looking away from her as the side of his scaly lips twitched. "Well you see, party's are nice but they are not for me. Too many people." he looked back to the Khajiit. "Besides, you are one to talk. Why are you not in there taking advantage of those poor drunken fools, hmm?"

Ty'ani frowned, crossing her arms defensively. "That is none of your business."

The assassin raised his hands up in surrender at her tone. "All right. I merely assumed that was the reason you were here. What other reason could you possibly have to come to this arse-end of the Rift?"

"None of your business." Ty'ani hissed again. "You are incredibly nosy."

He smirked, moving to the stone wall of the bridge. "What can I say, it is part of my charm." he leaned his hip against it, his tail flicking slightly as he bore his golden eye into her. "I never had the chance to introduce myself before, did I? The name is Okan-Ru, in case you were wondering. And I already know your name... Ty'ani."

Needless to say, Ty'ani was a little put out that he knew her name so readily. Her ears flattened slightly as her tail twitched to showcase her unease, spying his eyes zoom in on the movement. Shivering from his scrutiny and from the chill of the night air, Ty'ani wrapped her cloak around herself as she too moved to the wall, lightly perching upon it. Clearing her throat once situated, she spoke again. "Well, Okan-Ru, care to explain why you were stalking me?"

To his credit, the Argonian assassin did put on a convincing show of looking offended at her question. "Stalking you? Oh, perish the thought my dear lady. I merely saw you standing there, silhouetted against the light of the moons, as lonely as a butterfly on a spring evening." he said in a rich romantic tone. "I thought to myself, that one as lovely you should never be alone on such a dark night."

At his words, Ty'ani only gave him a look of disbelief. "Such flowery words for a killer. Was that rehearsed, or did you come up with that on the spot?"

Surprisingly, Okan-Ru laughed at her bluntness. "I am jesting with you. Though it makes for a pleasant image, no?"

Rolling her eyes before returning them to the river, Ty'ani continued her line of questioning. "So, what's the real reason your here in the 'arse-end of the Rift', as you so bluntly put it?"

Smirking, Okan-Ru slowly replied. "Between you and me: Dark Brotherhood business. That is as much as you will get out of me."

"Oh, I see how it is." she grumbled. "Your business too high class for me to understand, is that it?"

"Not at all, I simply thought that you would not wish to know that a killer is readying himself for a murder tonight."

That made Ty'ani feel uneasy all over again. She slowly looked over to him, her anxiety evident in her eyes. "Your not going to..." she trailed off.

Okan-Ru stared into her eyes, raising a brow adored with small horns. "What? Kill you? Do not be ridiculous, of course not. Why ever would I do such a thing?"

Ty'ani frowned. "Well forgive me for not understanding your very vague answers. You don't exactly make yourself easy to read."

He smirked at her flustered comment. "Is that not the point of an assassin? To hide in plain sight and kill without drawing attention to himself?"

Ty'ani rolled her eyes. "Well your doing a poor job of that then, aren't you? Why are you here wasting time talking to me when you have a job to do?"

"Because, my dear," he purred. "I cannot make a kill when my target has not even arrived yet, can I?"

The Khajiit sighed at that, pushing off the wall and landed lightly on her feet. Turning her sapphire eyes to him, she gave him a look that clearly showed her irritation. "Right, so stop wasting time talking to me then and leave me alone."

Leaving that as the final word, Ty'ani sidled past the Argonian, making her way back to the Inn. Surprisingly, he never called after her like she expected. As she reached the entrance of the Inn, she turned her gaze back to the bridge, finding that he had completely disappeared. Slightly put out but not entirely surprised, the Khajiit girl shook her head and just slipped through the door. There was a bed in there calling her name, and she believed that it was high time she fell in it.

OooOoOoOoOoOoO

Yay, filler chapter. I'll get you guys some more action in the next chapter, I swear.

Oh, by the way, just to let you guys know that Altwen's armour, clothes and weapons are all mods from the Nexus. Her clothes are actually armour called Unclaimed Delivery by SkyrimForDaWin and the swords are from the same mod, her armour is the Nordic Hunter light armour by frankdema and her bow is The Huntsman by InsanitySorrow, just without the sights and stabiliser as in my opinion, bows didn't really have such things back in medieval times.