Chapter 3: The Imperial Ambush
Zhavanji heard some footsteps in the distance. They were not accompanied by the clanking of armor, and the voices were low and loud. Instinctively, she hid in the undergrowth.
"-Yes, Ralof, I'm positive that this will work. You're a good man, and a capable fighter; I'm glad to have you by my side," said the lower, more regal voice.
"Thank you, Jarl Ulfric. But with all due respect, isn't this course of action a bit too…rash? We should probably take them by surprise when they least expect it," said a humbler voice.
Nords, she thought, when a thin, black-haired Nord rode past the others on a horse, looking nervous. Suddenly, the clearing exploded with blood and battle cries. Rows upon rows of Imperial soldiers streamed into the clearing, swords held high over their heads. The Nords-of which Zhavanji could see that there were at least six-pulled out heavy battle axes and bows, charging at the Imperials.
Her heart went out to the Nords; they were ready to fight for their lives, even though the odds were overwhelmingly stacked against them. Still, they didn't stand a chance. The Imperials swarmed them like hornets, cutting them down with their swords and arrows. Ulfric, the Nord with the low voice, fell to the ground, at the feet of a female Legionnaire. She smiled, and bound his hands together.
Why is he smiling? thought Zhavanji, when she saw Ulfric utter something in an unknown language.
"FUS, RO DAH!" the Nord shouted, and the soldier was blown off her feet.
"Gag him! Gag him!" she yelled, and two soldiers fitted a piece of fabric in between his teeth. He and Ralof were then tossed into a dogcart, along with the nervous-looking Nord that was riding the horse earlier. Horrified, Zhavanji was about to flee when she looked up into the face of an angry Imperial. The huge warhammer rammed into her head at full force, and she fell to the ground, unconscious.