"It is time, Breton."

Kedi opened her eyes to find herself staring into bottomless depths. Nock blinked and moved away, freeing Kedi from her frightening gaze. The elf had strapped her unusual bow and arrows to her back, and retied the leather thong that held back her white hair.

The sun barely peeked over the mountains in the distance, and everything was basked in a dark orange glow. There were few clouds in the sky, so Kedi tightened her blindfold in preparation for the bright day ahead. Then she fastened her satchel and her cloak, after donning her armour.

"How far do we have to travel?" She looked around and took in their surroundings in the new light. "Where are we?"

"Closer than you think." The elf replied, without looking back. She raised a hand to her lips and produced a quiet whistle sound that seemed to echo and travel through the trees. Within moments, the sound of hooves on dirt reached Kedi's ears, and soon enough, Shadowmere and a chestnut-coloured wild horse emerged into the small clearing.

Kedi smiled and rubbed Shadowmere's nose in greeting. "I hope you didn't think I had forgotten about you, boy."

The huge steed neighed, and as Nock walked past to mount the wild horse, she said, "He did not."

Kedi quickly leapt into the saddle. "You can speak to horses?"

"All things whisper, Breton, but you lost the ears to listen with different blood and ages gone by. Come, you must go home."

Amazingly, the duo reached the Sanctuary before noon. Any animals that they crossed in the forest largely left them alone, thanks to Nock's presence, although a small pack of wolves did decide to run with them for a short time. Kedi enjoyed the experience, and took the time to watch the wild and beautiful animals.

When they reached the door hidden beneath a small cliff, Kedi dismounted and released Shadowmere. He wouldn't venture far, and always came running when called. Nock eyed the large black door with cautious eyes, fixating on the skull that stared back.

"Are you certain you want to continue following me?" Kedi asked.

The Bosmer elf nodded curtly. "I must."

Kedi gave a small smile and turned to the door as an ethereal voice demanded to know what the music of life was. Kedi whispered the answer and after a short moment, the skull's eyes began to glow red and a harsh groan emanated from the door as it slid open to reveal a dimly lit staircase. Beckoning the elf with a smile, Kedi descended into the Sanctuary.