Long time no update, I know! I have not forgotten this story, in fact I think about it all the time. Like, I have a lot of material planned out for this, it's just the writing part that is hard. So, hopefully this one is enjoyable for yall to read because I rewrote it over and over until I was finally okay with it. Thanks to anyone who was interested in this fic after the first chapter. Speaking of, I also made a few changes to the first chapter, though it won't require you to reread it (I suggest you do though because I'm sure it's been a long time since you last read this!) really jacks up the formatting on these so sorry about that. This website doesn't let you put links in your own profile for some stupid reason so I can't show you my characters but oh well.
My eyes snapped open wide as I doubled over, feeling as if something had just forced it's way inside my chest, a heaving gasp escaping my throat. My neck burned as if it had just been cut and my hand flew up to wrap itself around the irritated flesh. I'm... alive? When Ralof patted me on the back in an attempt to comfort me, it spooked me more than anything. He quickly removed his hand at my startled gasp.
Agh, fuck.. what the hell just happened? I weakly straightened myself out and took in my surroundings. We're still lined up for the chopping block but the priestess is only just starting her verses. It's as if I... reloaded. Like when you mess up and reload your save. Or when you.. die.
I hastily glanced to the right side of the line, and there he was in all his glory - the red-haired Nord, still alive and kicking. At least for the time being. He looked about ready to stomp up there and get himself killed in the name of Ulfric Stormcloak again. But this is all so strange.. I still don't even know what's just happened. If I do nothing, will I die again?
And then, to my horror, he waltzed right up there once again.
"For the love of Talos, shut up and let's get this over with!" he hissed as he made his way to the block.
All over again, I had to hear as he was beheaded, forcing my eyes to the ground as his severed head fell into its basket. Where my head would go if I didn't think fast. The Captain carelessly nudged his corpse aside with her foot, earning several cries of outrage from the prisoners, before setting her gaze on me - as if I'm the only one she has to choose from. Really, bitch?
"Next, the Nord in the rags!"
Should I just make a run for it? I glanced around, noting the sheer amount of Imperial soldiers and wondered just how many bows were trained on us in case we attempted escape. No, no.. I need something else. What else can I do to stall? Alduin called in the distance, a quiet message telling me he's almost here. I guess I have no choice.
"He may not have wanted to hear his last rites, but I do, Captain. Don't deny a dead womans wishes." I called with clear desperation in my voice, much to the Captain's displeasure.
She snorted. "Prisoners don't get to make demands. To the block!"
I clenched my fists, my body as tense as a coiled spring. This bitch is evil to the fucking core. Several more cries of outrages came pouring out of the other prisoners at her words, calling her various names even my mother would cringe at. And my mother is a colorful woman. Suddenly, the priestess quickly steps forward, looking severely disturbed by the Stormcloak's obscenities.
"Now, now, Captain, surely that isn't necessary! All people, no matter whom, should be allowed their last rites!" she cried, sounding exceedingly preachy. I could barely keep the relief off of my face as the Captain scoffed.
"Ugh! Fine. Just quit your prattling and get it over with already." she grumbled.
My body was shaking with the sheer amount of adrenaline coursing through my veins. God knows how long this speech is, but hopefully I just bought Alduin enough time to get here and save my ass. The priestess began shouting to the heavens about our souls and blessing us, yada, yada, when I heard it. It was loud and clear this time - a deafening, ear-shattering roar pierced the skies and all of us were looking around now.
About time, you over-exaggerated lizard. His shadow loomed on the horizon, approaching us frighteningly fast - screams filled the air as he finally descended upon the tower. Yes, yes! Wait. No... no! A fucking real dragon is in front of me right now. God I must be delusional. He was enormous, impossibly so; his shadow overtook us all. He raised his maw to the sky and Shouted, and soon enough meteors came showering down.
The Imperials were so focused on the dragon that the prisoners made a break for it, including me. At least, I was going to, until a massive rock came barreling down from the sky and slammed into my shoulder. The impact was so strong I'm surprised I didn't die immediately and it sent me flying to the ground with a scream, wrenching my hands apart and tearing my bindings off. But not before giving me a seriously wicked burn on my wrists as the ropes snapped. My left shoulder was crushed beneath it and I could feel surges of intense pain shooting down my arm in quick bursts.
Mentally, I was gone, my mind clouded by pure agony as I groaned incoherently to myself. Well, this is it then. If I die, is it permanent this time? I weakly attempted to push off the boulder with my free hand, deluded and on the verge of passing out. Figures I would escape one death only to fall right into another.
The Orc, who I hadn't realized was standing by the door to the nearby tower, dashed over to me after noticing my predicament. I only vaguely registered his presence as his shadow blocked out the maelstrom in the sky. I watched with hazy, blurred vision while he did his best with bound hands to lift the rock off of my arm. I felt the pressure fade as he barked something sharply that I couldn't really understand - my arm hurt too much to lift. A frustrated grunt and ten seconds later, the rock was off of me and I was content to just lay there and accept my fate. The Orc was not.
Tears leaked from the corners of my eyes as he said things lost to the wind, helping me to stand and slinging my good arm over his shoulder. By the look in his eyes as he surveyed the damage, I knew it wasn't too bad. From what it felt like, my arm was fine, but my shoulder was definitely dislocated. Before I knew it, we had joined the other Stormcloaks in the tower.
Ralof shut the door hastily as we crossed the threshold, letting out a shaky sigh before turning to his general and speaking frantically. I can barely pay attention, my eyes lingering on the two bleeding Stormcloaks at our feet. They shiver and spit blood and I feel a tingle of delirium swirling in my mind. Am I going to end up like them?
The Orc sets me down briefly to demand that Ralof cut off his bindings, noticing the man had already broken free and had an axe in hand. This earned a dark look from Ulfric, but Ralof quickly obliged. He doesn't offer a thanks before he slings me back over his shoulder.
The Orc makes an exasperated sound as he looks up the many, many steps he's going to have to carry me up. The pain is becoming more apparent with each passing second, my heart only fueling it with each beat as I let a distressed whimper escape me. The Orc ignores me and begins to drag me up the stairs, not waiting for the Stormcloaks to finish their little chat, my feet painfully banging against each one as we ascend. A muffled roar comes from outside and the tower shakes around us, but the Orc never stops. We finally get to what I think is the top level, but it appears its been the victim of a collapse - a single Stormcloak soldier crouched before us is desperately trying to dig out the rocks with his bare hands.
Evidently he heard us approach because he doesn't look back at us when he cries, "Don't just stand there! Help me!"
This seems to stress out my new companion, looking from me to the soldier, so he hurriedly goes to set me against the wall to help. The memory comes to me through my haze. Alduin will burst through the wall he's going to set me on. My tired eyes snap open as I shout, "Wait!"
The Orc looks at me in confusion, but I don't stop.
"Don't help! Just wait." I hiss weakly, ignoring the increasingly more hostile look he gives me.
He seems like he's going to retort with something particularly offensive when it happens. As if on cue, the right side wall busts open and we're sprayed with rubble and debris, Alduin's massive jaws appearing in the hole he left. I met his beady, red eyes in fear as they seemed to peer through my very being - the Orc didn't appear shaken in the slightest, doing his best to drag my dead weight away from the creature of legend. Alduin tilted his head, almost like a curious dog and then I could see the embers forming in his throat. A fiery gout of flame was unleashed upon the Stormcloak, who shrieked as his flesh melted from his bones in a matter of seconds, being the only unlucky bastard in range.
The smell that filled my nostrils was utterly putrid, but I had no hands available to cover my nose. Rest in peace. The Orc was staring at me, almost suspiciously, eyeing my neck for a split second before his attention was drawn elsewhere. If I hadn't been so tired, I might've made a snarky comment but I just sagged against him, even as he pulled me forward to peer out of the hole. Uh oh.
The floor was burning hot against the tops of my toes as he scanned the area beneath us.
"There!" he shouted suddenly, nodding toward the half-destroyed inn below us. "We must jump!"
"Are you crazy?" I cried weakly, noticing that the height difference was nearly twice as much than in the game. "I literally can't! You know that!"
"What choice do we have?" he barked back. "Would you prefer the dragon's belly instead? We must jump!" then the Orc sighed and muttered something under his breath before he said, "You'll forgive me for this. Bend your legs and land on the meat!"
"What? Don't you dare!" I shrieked in horror, but it was too late.
Then he quite literally tossed me over the ledge and I went spiraling towards the flaming inn beneath me, a terrified scream ripping from my throat as the ground came to meet me. I landed harshly against the wooden floor, sharp bursts of pain blooming in my shoulder, back, and ass as I rolled to a stop a few feet away in a crumpled heap of limbs. Oh my god.. I'm dying. This has to be what this feeling is. Death is approaching. I howled out several profanities before gritting my teeth against the pain, barely able to move at all. I would definitely be bruised later...if there was a later.
The wood was hot beneath my hands as I attempted to push myself up with my good elbow, just in time to see the Orc come crashing down and land wth a surprisingly nimble roll for his size. He grunted, stood up to his full height, gave me a once over and rolled his eyes seeing me lying pathetically on the floor.
"Get up!" he snarled as he rushed towards my limp body and practically yanked me up by my good arm, causing me to bellow in pain as he jostled my shoulder. Tears once again were leaking down my cheeks.
"Please, stop.." I cried. "It hurts, damn it. You're killing me, here!"
A flicker of sympathy flitted over his features, but was quickly replaced with hardened determination. "It will hurt more when the dragon roasts us for dinner! Now, let's go." he shot back.
I hated to agree with the guy clearly trying to end my miserable existence, but he was right. Having my flesh burnt off by a giant fire-breathing lizard wasn't on the top of my priority list. He scooped me off the floor with surprising gentleness, though my shoulder was agitated by the slightest movement and I still groaned. We moved over to the hole in the floor not too far away and he set me back down on my ass so he could jump down to the lower level. A little part of me was scared he would abandon me up here to burn into ashes, but there's no way he would go through this much trouble just to ditch me here.
And thankfully, after he jumped down what was a surprisingly high fall, he turned around and held his arms up to catch me. With a bit of hesitance and a squeal, I slid off of the edge into his waiting arms, to which he caught me with ease, the momentum forcing him to spin me a bit - almost like a princess. The movement did end up irritating my shoulder, as did everything apparently, but I held in the grunt that wanted to come out so badly. He seemed to contemplate putting me down, but just ended up sprinting out the rest of the way with me in his arms. I guess he didn't want to risk being stuck in a flaming building because I'm too slow.
If we weren't in a life or death and he didn't scare the living shit out of me, I'd probably be flattered by this whole situation. Maybe even a little red-cheeked. Actually, my cheeks were red, but not for that reason - I was burning up. I went from freezing to melting in the span of two minutes. A girl can't catch a break in the game world apparently.
We made our way outside of the sweltering inn at a fast pace now that I wasn't slowing us down, just as a bit of flaming rubble came crashing down to block the doorway. The Orc scoffed, likely thinking about how we'd come close to being trapped in there because of me.
"Why are you helping me anyway?" I asked hesitantly as we stepped into the ash-filled air, staring up at his ash-covered face. "I thought you hated me."
He met my eyes and I couldn't help but wince at the sheer intensity of his gaze. "I got you into this, so I will get you out." he tore his eyes away from me. "Consider this a debt repaid."
Yeah, you really did. Whatever, as long as I make it through this I don't even care. I mean, I had to get arrested somehow, right? Though this does raise the question of what was in that sack he'd had. Stolen goods? Now, I always play a thief in Skyrim but it's different when it's real life - you can't trust a thief. But hey, if he wants to help me out because of his weird guilt thing, that's fine by me.
Plus, he's kinda hot in a strange, beastly way.
The air was no longer chilly, but humid as the Orc finally set me down, much to my displeasure. Sure, it wasn't practical for him to carry me everywhere - but I was damn tired and I hadn't even done anything. And it seemed Alduin had changed the very temperature of the area with his shout - I was practically panting from the heat.
Not far from the inn was Hadvar and three others - the little boy, his father, and some guy I don't recall. I knew how this ended. We could only watch as the already dying man was reduced to ashes in front of his son, who began screaming and screaming. I winced, feeling not only terrible, but disgusted, staring at the pile of human-scented ashes left behind. Or chicken scented.
Hadvar, finally noticing our presence, glanced back over his shoulder with a grimace engraved into his face. It morphed into a faint scowl as his eyes raked over what had to be a strange duo.
"You two?" he said to himself in disbelief. "You're still alive?"
The Orc chuckled low in his throat. The sound was vaguely dark and sent a pang of something through my gut. "Barely. No thanks to you, Imperial." he retorted with a bit of petulance and Hadvar took this time to look me up and down uncertainly.
He was looking at me like a liability. I could see it in the grave line his lips thinned into. Yeah, well I wouldn't be in your way right now if you had just let me go when it turned out I wasn't on the stupid list, eh, Hadvar? I gave him a knowing look and he rolled his shoulders uncomfortably.
"Well, perhaps now is the time to make up for it." he said loudly over the crackle of flames and wailing of the child, glancing at the man being hugged by said child. "Gunnar, take care of the boy. I have to find General Tullius and join their defense!"
With that he spared us one last glance, shouting, "Follow me if you want to stay alive!" and taking off running towards the flaming, half-destroyed huts ahead of us.
The Orc grumbled and shuffled along with me at his side, probably frustrated by my snail pace at this point. I decided to push myself despite the pulsing pain on various parts of my body, finally gaining some speed. We caught up with Hadvar and were about to cut through the remains of the collapsed house, when Alduin made another appearance, just like in the game - he crashed down on top of the wall above us, shaking the very ground beneath us. The tip of his wing was so close, it nearly brushed against me and I had to hold in a shriek. The Orc practically slammed us against the wall, crushing me in closer with his thick, muscled arm. I was finding it difficult to breathe with all the ash and smoke. We flattened ourselves against the heated stone as Alduin blew fire at some unspecified targets and took to the skies once again.
We all unanimously released the breaths we were holding. Hadvar proceeded forward through the remains of the ruined building and we followed as closely as my speed would allow, passing through the courtyard where Imperials were flinging fireballs into the sky like nobodies business. I wanted to watch them, as amazed as I was, but we had to keep moving. Tullius called out to Hadvar but I couldn't quite catch what he said, let alone care.
Ralof revealed himself once again, appearing from basically a dead end, which I always thought was strange - but whatever. They began saying their douchey lines and had their weird standoff before they went into their seperate entrances. The Orc and I shared a look - it was clear we were one in this decision. Whatever his reasons, the Orc appeared to favor Ralof - I merely wanted to have the chance to kill that damn Captain bitch. Not that I would be doing any killing. Together, we followed after our Stormcloak companion.
Upon entering, Ralof was examining the corpse of one of his fallen brothers somewhat mournfully before sparing us a glance. He seemed pleased that we'd joined him instead of Hadvar. He probably already noticed my wincing and gritted teeth and by the look on his face, he seemed grateful to have another sword arm along - the Orc. God knows I'd be useless in a fight, even if my arm wasn't broken. I watched the Orc's internal struggle play out on his face; take Ralof's deceased comrades shit or leave it?
Hm. Surprisingly honorable for a thief.
The unsaid question is answered when Ralof gestures to the axe, mentioning he won't be needing it anymore. That's all the Orc needs to hear apparently because he snatches it up faster than you can say "bazinga". He tests out the weight with a few practice swings while I rest on the floor, and suddenly I can't help but wonder what he usually fights with, watching the muscles of his biceps flex with each move. Looking at the sheer mass of his arms, I think he'd be a two-handed kinda guy for sure - maybe a warhammer. Something for bludgeoning. I'm sure Orcs like that kinda thing.
Ralof's voice shook me out of my intense investigation. "You don't look too good, lass." he commented with a frown. "What happened to you?"
"Well.." I began, but the Orc quickly hissed at us.
"Imperials! Hide!" he practically growled, his eyes focused on me in particular as he dived to crouch on the other side of the gate.
I weakly shuffled into the shadow, pressing myself into the corner and feeling more panicked by the second as the gate began drawing up behind me, the rapid onset of footsteps approaching. It's kinda like when you are walking down the dark hallway to your bedroom and then just sprint because obviously there's a demon behind you and your bed is the safe zone - except real, with real people, and real swords. The Orc and Ralof took up positions on either side of the gate, weapons at the ready as a pack of four imperials came rushing down the narrow hallway. I was very nervous because I was quite literally in direct view of them and weaponless.
Please kill them quickly. I can't believe I'm thinking that.
My friends nodded to each other in a silent agreement and I watched in a mix of horror and awe as they took the first soldiers by surprise, moving in perfect sync and slamming their axes into their unsuspecting throats. I choked on my spit, but quickly covered my mouth to silence myself. Oh, fuck! Blood sprayed from the wounds as they choked, gurgled and fell forward, their armor scraping noisily against the stone floor.
The Captain simultaneously gasped in surprise, but quickly unsheathed the sword on her hip, as does Hadvar behind her. I can only watch as they come out swinging and the four of them engage in a heated battle - the Orc vs. the Captain and Hadvar vs. Ralof. My eyes were drawn to the Orc, his fighting style surprisingly beautiful.. in a barbaric sort of way. I'm just glad he's on my side.
The clang of metal on metal filled my ears and the tang of sweat and blood stung my nostrils. I vaguely felt like I was watching a cutscene or something - a very detailed, realistic ass cutscene. It was a good thirty seconds of parrying on both sides before the Orc full on headbutted the Captain with a ferocious roar, helmet and all, taking her completely by surprise. In the split second where she stumbled back, he slammed his war axe into the junction between her neck and shoulder, earning a deeply pained cry. By the looks of it, that shit sank in deep.
He tore it right back out and slammed it again and again into her exposed neck, and by now I couldn't watch anymore. The sounds were disgusting enough that I felt the bile rising in my throat, but nothing came - my stomach was empty. When it was silent save for the panting of the Orc, I spared a glance - and was horrified by what I saw. The Captain's body spasmed and spurted blood from where her head had been decapitated at the throat, the Orc standing aggressively over her corpse covered in her blood.
"Good fucking God!" I cursed in horror, using my good hand to push myself to my feet. "That's just sick!"
The Orc merely grunted and rolled his shoulders, wiping the blood on his axe onto his ragged tunic and sheathing it on his hip. Ralof had bested Hadvar on the sidelines, already moving to loot the Captain with a quick search. He pulled a keyring off of her hip that jingled with the movement and Ralof released a pleased sigh.
"Keys, likely to the entire keep. May come in handy." he said to no one in particular, already advancing toward the door opposite of the gate the Imperials had entered through. "This must lead further down."
"Hey, hurry up and put this on!" the Orc barked at me from where he stood and I grimaced as I stared at the bloodied corpse. "You're gonna need it." he added under his breath.
I scowled but hobbled over anyway, looking down in disgust as her blood soaked into the stone below. I gave him a look.
"Can you.. get rid of that?" I nearly choked on vomit as I gestured to her severed head just laying on the floor staring up at me with it's hollow eyes, covering my nose and mouth with a hand.
The Orc groaned in frustration before literally kicking it and sending it flying in the opposite direction. My jaw dropped as I watched it slap against the wall and bounce onto the floor.
"There's something wrong with you..." I muttered as I knelt down to start removing the armor. I don't even know how to remove armor in the first place, god damn it..
"And you're a pain in my ass. Move," he grunted, slapping away my unskilled hands and quickly unbuckling her various belts and straps with deft hands.
I would be impressed if I wasn't so appalled by his .. wellhis existence. When he was done, he looked up at me from his kneeling position with a exasperated expression.
"Tell me you at least know how to put on armor yourself." his tone was practically begging. I almost wanted to laugh, but I shook my head instead. The Orc rolled his eyes and I felt a wave of embarrassment. Why do I have to feel embarrassed because of this actual killer?
And then the Orc began putting the dead Captain's armor over the rags I currently adorned rather hurriedly, the looming presence of the dragon in the back of our minds. While he did so, Ralof was testing all of the various keys on the door, grunting in frustration after what must've been his 14th failed key. I whined about my shoulder, begging him to be careful to which he just grunted, simultaneously avoiding looking at his face. He began strapping up my chest armor and I ended up looking uncomfortably towards Ralof's back. This was a little too intimate for my tastes. I did my best to ignore what felt like something damp just under my armpit, clamping my eyes shut. Please don't be dead person blood. Please don't be dead person blood.
When he finally finished my armor, clunking down her heavy ass helmet onto my head with a bit too much force, he went about putting on his own armor, nabbing it from the biggest of the Imperial's they killed. Even then, it barely fit on his muscley body, looking two sizes too small for him. He accomplished this quite quickly to my surprise and when he was done, he shoved a sword into my good hand. I squeaked, nearly dropping the damn thing. It was heavy, nearly pulling my arm to the floor with it's weight.
"Be ready to use this, little girl." he sneered, getting a bit too close to my face before pushing past me to meet up with Ralof, who had just unlocked the gate.
"Don't call me that. My name is Sara." I said indignantly as I followed after him, clutching my newfound weapon with an untrained hand.
"You two done? I'm ready to get out of here." Ralof said, looking between the two of us with hard eyes.
We finally made our way down and through the keep while I simply tried to stay back and away from any future battles. Even with a weapon, I wouldn't be much good with it, so I just sheathed it on one of the holsters that came with the armor.
There was another skirmish downstairs like in the game just after part of the keep collapses. I just remained hidden as they duked it out - I knew I was being absolutely useless, but with my dislocated shoulder and inexperience, they were better off without me throwing myself in harms way. I expertly searched the area and looted all the valuables in the room, knowing it by heart after 20 playthroughs - though I was definitely more excited to see what these potions could do. My companions were looking at me strangely as I seemed to beeline towards certain points in the room, never coming out empty handed. I obtained about 10 gold and three potions, one of each variety.
After all my years of gaming, I actually get to down a healing potion... Excitement coursed through me as I brought the red vial up to my lips and uncorked it while we headed down another set of stairs. The scent that wafted into my nostrils was absolutely revolting. I damn near gagged at the metallic, almost bloody smell. Well, this isn't how I imagined it to smell but..
The Orc gave me a funny look from my side.
"What, never used a potion before?"
I shot him a glare. He was still covered in blood and smelled heavily of sweat and ash, and from this proximity I was getting a good long wiff.
"For your information, no. A lot of this is... new to me, I guess." I sighed as I stared down at the red bottle. "Bottoms up."
And then I downed the entire thing. The taste was metallic and not at all pleasant, but I managed to get through it without spewing it all back up. I was disappointed. I didn't feel anything. My shoulder was swollen and still pulsed with pain with each second, probably already bruising a nasty purple color. I was about to demand to know why it wasn't working when I felt it.
A heavenly sensation rolled throughout my body, starting in my abdomen and spreading outwards until it reached my shoulder. I audibly moaned. I stiffened, trying my best to keep walking even as what could have possibly been the best feeling in my entire life assaulted my body. Oh, fuck... The Orc awkwardly cleared his throat, bringing a fist to his mouth while he did and immediately averting his gaze.
I watched with hazy eyes as most of the bruises on my arm disappeared or faded into a sickly yellowish color in their place. The pain in my shoulder faded into a dull throb, but I could tell it was still dislocated.
"You will never get used to that." the Orc admitted to my left and if I knew him better, I might've thought he was embarrassed.
I gave my shoulder a hesitant roll, and grimaced. Yep, still dislocated. But it felt much better than before and my mind was no longer clouded by pain. I could actually think clearly and there was a pep in my step.
"I'll treat that shoulder if we make it outta here. Potions are like bottled magic, but even they have their limits." The Orc told me, watching me from the side as we descended further into the keep, approaching the cave-like portion at a rapid pace.
"Huh. I thought they'd be way more cool.." I mumbled absently, still a bit dazed from the experience. The Orc raised an eyebrow at that, but said nothing.
We eventually got past the big chamber full of baddies and ended up following the river down to where I knew would freak me out the most. The spider cave. We approached and the Orc noticed me lagging behind, my face clearly hesitant. He gave me an annoyed look, clearly tired of my cowering. I thought he was going to say something but he just kept moving forward. Good. Go kill those oversized bugs for me.
I heard chittering ahead and some grunts, my curiosity coming to its peak as I peered around the wall. I watched as Ralof and the Orc began hacking wildly into the only spider left, the largest of the bunch, grunting and panting while driving their axes into its husk over and over. I nearly threw up from the sight of it alone, seeing all of its beady eyes and giant hairy legs but this was the icing on the cake. I covered my mouth and approached only after they gave me the all clear.
The rest of our escape passed in a blur until we were all crouched behind the rock just outside the cave, watching Alduin's terrifying form fly through the skies and over Bleak Falls Barrow, which looked eons away from us. It was at this time that the overwhelming scent of ash and sweat filled my nostrils, and it wasn't just me that noticed it. The three of us shared an equally disgusted look with one another.
"Well, we should get going. My sister in Riverwood needs to know about this right away." Ralof said as he stood up from one knee, brushing off his armor. "That is, if you want to join me."
I was on my feet nodding before the words even left my mouth. "Yes!" I shouted a bit too eagerly and I quickly cleared my throat as they gave me a weird look. "Yes.. that would be nice. I'm.. uh.. not one of the locals and I probably couldn't find the way on my own."
This was a lie, of course. I knew the path to Riverwood and many other such places in Skyrim like the back of my hand. I also knew that if this realm was true to the game, we'd come across a pack of wolves on the way. And there's no way in hell I'll be able to defend myself against them. Ralof gave me a reassuring smile and placed a large mitt on my good shoulder, and the strength of his grip actually surprised me.
"You're welcome to travel with me, Kinswoman. And you as well, friend." the blonde said, looking to the Orc beside me, a little less enthusiastically.
The Orc simply grumbled a bit half-heartedly, looking like he wanted to go anywhere else, but he still gave a weak nod in response anyway. Not a very talkative fellow, is he? I should give him more credit, though. He really did save my ass back there — I definitely would have died without him dragging me all over Helgen the way he did. I'll have to be sure to tell him that at some point.
Ralof pulled away and motioned for me to follow as he began the trek down the hill and I quickly did just that. A glance behind me revealed the Orc was indeed following along about five feet back, grumpily but following nonetheless. And that was good enough for me.
What was a 2-3 minute walk in game turned out to be a three hour one in real time, and I realized that this world was much, much bigger than I anticipated. This changed things, massively. By the time the three of us saw the gates of Riverwood in the distance, we were all exhausted, grumpy and starving. We never did come across any wolves like I thought. Just a long, winding path that never seemed to end. My feet ached, my body was sore and burned in several places and the armor was weighing down on me exponentially. I was probably the grumpiest of all, if the sour expression on my face was any indication.
I nearly jumped for joy when I saw the plumes of smoke in the distance and heard the familiar chopping of wood echoing through the trees. Ralof took off into a sprint as soon as we crossed the threshold of the village and I groaned. I need you, don't just run away! I shot a look to the Orc, who just shrugged and began heading towards the inn straight ahead.
I blinked and stuttered, "W..Wait! Where are you going?"
"I need a drink." was all he said, not even sparing me a glance.
I quickly caught up to him despite his bounding strides, clutching my useless arm beside me to stop it from moving too much.
"Both of you are ditching me?" I cried in disbelief. "After all that? And I still don't even know your name!"
"If I tell you, will you bugger off?" he shot me an irritated look, his tusks making his sneer that much more menacing.
I felt a pang of anger rush through me at his tone and puffed up my chest, unable to hide the dejected look on my face.
"Maybe."
"Malukh. Now leave me in peace, little girl." he began climbing the steps to the Sleeping Giant Inn and I hastily followed.
It was probably not the smartest move to harass an Orc twice my size in a medieval setting, but a petulant side of me really wanted to rile him up. I know I'm being a bit clingy but.. this isn't my world! If he knew the real story he wouldn't be such a jerk about it.
"This is a public establishment, Malukh." I snarked, probably failing on the pronunciation a little bit. "I can come if I want."
"Useless and a liar? Great." he opened the door and a delightful lute came pouring out, a melody I recognized filling my ears. Age of Aggression. Oh, I'm feeling aggressive right now, and it's all because of this shithead right here.
"I may be useless but at least I'm not an asshole like you. I haven't even done anything to you."
"You've done more than enough for me to want you out of my damn face." Malukh rumbled in irritation as all eyes were now drawn to us. We were probably an odd duo in this part of Skyrim.
I didn't really hear his comment as I smiled sheepishly at all the eyes pointed my way, now losing a bit of confidence. Damn, this place looks different. It looks like there's a whole other wing to the side of the building and its much bigger. It's also much more crowded for a small village such as this one. I began to lag behind in my hesitance, watching Malukh sit himself down at the bar — there was another stool, but it was already occupied by another patron, leaving me standing there awkwardly with no place to harass my new friend from.
I ended up shuffling over to a table and praying nobody came over to me. There were several crazy lookin' characters in here, that's for sure. And it just occurred to me that I have roughly 25 gold to my name. That's barely enough for two nights at the inn, and I still need to pay for food. How am I going to survive on my own with no money, no friends, and no skills? I legit couldn't fight a skeever to save my life!
I spent the next hour huddling in my corner, having a mental breakdown and damn near bursting into tears in this crowded ass inn, going pleasantly uninterrupted.. until. I hear a loud clank as someone plops down on the right side of the bench next to me, pulling me from my depressing thoughts. God, what now?
I peer up from behind my reddish-brown locks, meeting the face of an armored-up older man with short scraggly black hair and piercing blue eyes. A scar runs down the entire length of the left side of his face and the eye on that side is cloudy —I figure that he's blind in that one. He's not ugly.. per say, but not someone I myself would ever approach. He leans his elbows on the table and meets my stare, a sly grin sliding across his mouth, revealing a row of off-white, jacked-up teeth. His nose seems to wrinkle when he likely catches a wiff of Helgen on my clothes and armor.
"Now, what's a pretty thing like you doing all by her lonesome? Want some company?" his voice is scratchy and sends chills down my neck. Immediately, the stench of alcohol hits my nose when he speaks.
I recoil slightly but try to remain pleasant, leaning away from the source of that foul smell. I give him a weak smile.
"Just stopping for the night before I head on to Whiterun. A woman needs her beauty sleep and all." I laugh nervously, as he moves in closer.
"A traveler, are you? Ah.. but a Lady by herself on the roads isn't something I should allow. I am also bound for Whiterun and well.. I wouldn't mind the company." he gives me another of his grins and I know I need to get out of this situation and fast.
"Uh.. I think I'll be fine. Really. I appreciate the offer, but I should get going." I fake a smile and move to get up but his clammy hand grabs mine and keeps me from moving any further.
His expression has darkened considerably and his eyes are narrowed as he stares at me. I can't keep the up the ruse anymore, I'm clearly scared now. Fuck this fucker.
"Didn't you just say you were staying for the night? I can buy us both a room and—" he began but I hastily interjected, feeling more than fucking done with this day.
"No! I already told you I don't need your help, now let go!" I growled, trying to yank away my wrist. The man held firm to my infinite chagrin.
A big meaty, olive green hand plops down on his shoulder suddenly and our eyes are drawn up to find Malukh staring down at us, looking more than a bit pissed off. I don't know why I'm so happy to see him but I am. The man looks at the hand and back up again.
"Who in Talos are you?" the man asked, suddenly uncertain.
"Her bodyguard. It's been a long day, so if you don't let her go in the next three seconds, I'm gonna make sure that hand of yours never works properly again. Three… two…" he trailed off, the deep baritone of his voice a little slurred.
The man's eyes widened as he tried to protest, "Hey, now, there's no need to-"
"One."
Instantly, the hand Malukh had on his shoulder flew down to where the man had me in a vice grip and tore his hand away from mine, causing me to recoil in surprise. The man exclaimed as his arm was bent backwards and a quick pop was heard, forcing out a loud yell from his throat. Malukh didn't stop there though. He proceeded to yank him back by his broken arm, pulling him off of our shared bench with a thud as he collided with the floor. The other patrons were shouting and the music stopped, but people seemed more excited than anything.
My heart was racing in my chest as I watched him absolutely embarrass this man in front of the whole inn — for me. The Orc was just bullying me an hour ago so I couldn't help but wonder why the change of heart. And just like he said, he crushed the hand that had been grabbing mine only seconds before underneath his boot, twisting and turning it as the man bellowed in pain.
"Apologize." Malukh barked, and a shiver rolled through my gut. I couldn't tell if it was fear or… something else.
The man just bit down on his lip, struggling against the Orc's foot holding him down. Malukh stomped down, looking like he just wanted to get this over with.
"Apologize!"
"I'm sorry! I really am! Please, make him stop!" he finally cried from the floor, earning a couple boos from the onlookers. Coward! Snowback! What a milk drinker.
I didn't have to say a word because Malukh just lifted his foot up, revealing the mess of broken fingers the man now had. He spat down on the man with a sneer, nodding his head towards the door.
"Now, get lost. I don't want to see that ugly mug of yours any longer." Malukh grunted as he simply stepped over his body to get to me.
I blinked as he grabbed me by the arm and practically pulled me off of the bench. His grip was surprisingly gentle compared to what I just saw him do, so I couldn't help but feel a little.. well, flustered. Damn, now I owe him again. The man shot us one last glare as he scrambled up onto his feet and out the door with a slam and the other patrons began to settle down as well.
"You really are a damsel in distress, you know that?" he sighed.
All I could do was stare up at him, unsure of what to say. Thank you? But my pride was nagging at me, telling me to say the opposite. Now that we were so close, I could see the glazed look in his eyes — he was definitely a bit tipsy. Maybe that makes him more talkative?
"How did you know he was.." I began, but Malukh interjected.
"It was obvious what he was trying to do."
"Well.. why help me?" I scowled slightly. "I thought I was a useless liar."
"You are." he said and for a second, it sounded like he was actually teasing me. "I still wouldn't turn a blind eye to that kind of behavior towards someone— even you. We did just escape a dragon together after all." he tried to give me a smile, though it looked more like a grimace due to his tusks.
Despite his jesting, I was very surprised to hear any of that come out of his mouth. I didn't end up thanking him, just stared at the floor in embarrassed shame until he finally dragged me to the barkeep. Malukh fished around in his pocket, pulled out a bag and just plopped it in front of the man — Orgnar, I believe his name was. I remember him because he sent mercenaries after me in one playthrough. He stopped cleaning the glass he was holding and gave us a questioning look.
"Two rooms for 2 days and to pay for any damage."
"Alright. You're lucky I don't just kick you out for the commotion you caused. We're trying to run a business here," Orgnar sighed. "It's the room to my right here. Don't have any double beds, I'm afraid and the other rooms are all full up, so you'll have to share. And might I suggest you two—" he gave us a mildly disgusted look. "Go use the baths? They're just down the hall."
My face lit up at the mention of a bath. The inns have baths now? Thank god. And I guess that takes care of my money problem for the time being. Malukh nodded and quickly pulled me to our room a few feet away, finding that the door was already opened. My face fell once I saw it.
There was a small window at the top of the wall opposite of us, a single bed, a nightstand and a drawer to the right inside. There was barely enough room for one person in that bed.. and we have to share? My face crumpled at the thought. I barely know this guy, even if he just saved me twice in one day and he's been mostly unpleasant for the entirety of it. I took a peek at his face to see his reaction, only to find him already looking at me, his eyes knowing.
"You can have the bed." he said. "I'll take the floor."
"What?" I said incredulously, eyebrows shooting up. "No. You paid for the room, you get the bed. I'm just happy to have somewhere to stay.."
His eyes narrowed now as he stared down at me . "Are you always this difficult?"
"I'm not being difficult! I'm just trying to help out.. I don't want to be 'useless'." I explained frustratedly, throwing my hands up to emphasize my point. "I already owe you, so please. It's not a big deal."
Malukh just grumbled and rubbed his temples. "Close the door." he said suddenly.
"What?"
"We're gonna fix that shoulder." he crossed his arms. "Go on."
Oh, shit. I almost forgot about that. I gulped, feeling a wave of nerves rush over me.
"Right now?" I asked incredulously.
"It should've been treated hours ago. Now shut the door." he ordered gruffly.
I wasn't too pleased about being alone in a room with an Orc, but begrudgingly did as he said. When I did as I was told, I gave him a slightly annoyed and expectant look that just said What now? He simply gestured to the bed with one hand. I hesitantly walked past him to situate myself on the bed, bracing myself for what was to come. I've never had a dislocated shoulder before, so I wasn't sure what to expect. I knew that it was going to hurt, and it was going to hurt real bad. Malukh briefly walked to the dresser and rummaged through it, only stopping when he found what he was looking for.
I stared up nervously at the Orc as he moved to hover over me and held up a raggedy cloth.
"I don't think I have to tell you this won't feel good." he rumbled from above. "You'll need this."
I could only manage a whimper as I took and shoved what had to be a dirty rag into my mouth, clamping down on it with my teeth.
"Brace yourself. I'm not an expert, but I'll do my best."
Well, that's not very comforting.
He was quick in his motion, and as he reset my shoulder I felt a pop as the bone slid roughly back into it's socket. I howled into the cloth, my hands tightly gripping the sheets until my knuckles turned white. Fuuuuuuuuuuuuucking hell. 'Hurt' was an understatement. That was probably the worst thing I've felt in my entire life and I'm not even exaggerating. I panted as the Orc stepped back, his face stern.
"Avoid laying on that side tonight, until I can make you a splint. I'll make sure you have one before we split ways." he told me while I tiredly removed the now damp cloth from my mouth. "I'm gonna go take a bath. You might want to think about taking one as well."
I gave him a sour look and he gave me the closest thing to a smirk before he turned on his heel and left me alone in the room, shutting the door behind him. Damn him for being so helpful. I literally can't hate him. It should be easy - technically, he's a damn killer! But all he's done so far is help me. Granted, he got me into that situation in the first place, but at least he's trying to make up for it, right?
I sat there for a long while, simply contemplating my life right now. 'Before we split ways'... damn. I mean he does have his own life. It's not like he was going to stay with me forever .. so why am I so disappointed? And I'm literally in a different world. Sure, I have extensive knowledge of the place.. but no experience to back it up. I'm no damn survivalist. So what am I going to do?
Eventually I found the energy to stand and trudge on over to where I believed the baths were located - that new wing I mentioned before. There was a purple curtain separating me from the other side, so I lifted it up with my good arm and ducked under, revealing a lengthy hallway with two doors at the end of it. They were each marked with strange symbols that I didn't recognize and I stood there for a second just trying to remember if I'd ever seen them in the game before. After an awkward minute just standing there staring, I opened the left door and peeked inside.
I quickly shut that one after seeing a familiar green back. Alright, that's definitely the mens side then. After trying the other door, I was met with a big room lined up with empty wooden tubs, with a large dresser to the left side. A pretty young woman sitting off to my right reading a book glanced up after hearing me shut the door. I gave her a sheepish smile as she stood up, setting her book onto the table beside her chair and dusting off her green dress.
"Give me one moment and I'll prepare your bath." the blonde said kindly, bowing before me for a second before scurrying over to one of the tubs.
"S-sure.." I murmered awkwardly.
The whole process was very spirited-away reminscent. She pulled a lever that released a wooden panel from the wall, and after a brief delay, steaming hot water came pouring down until the tub was entirely filled. Then she pulled the lever again and it stopped. I watched as she fit the wooden panel back into its slot in the wall before walking back over to me.
"Is there anything else I can do for you?" she asked, folding her hands.
My mind flitted to the armor currently weighing me down. "Well, I was wondering if I could get a change of clothes? I don't have anything else and I'd really rather not sleep in armor.." I trailed off.
She blinked. "Oh, of course. Do you prefer dresses or a tunic and trousers?"
"Tunic and trousers, please." The thought of wearing a dress while traversing Skyrim was not a pleasant one.
The woman walked over to the drawer and pulled out a nice beige, long-sleeve shirt and brown pants before setting them in my arms with a smile. I thanked her and she returned to her seat, setting the book back into her lap.
I had never been so excited for a bath in my life.
I walked over to my tub and set down the clothes off to the side before nervously glancing back at the woman, who was thankfully intently reading her book. I then began the process of trying to remove this pesky armor, and it took me a shameful amount of time to get every piece off, leaving me in my stinky prisoner rags. I took those off too, happy to be free of the scratchy uncomfortable material. And like I guessed, no bra. Now my nipples were all chafed - thanks a lot, assholes. I did still have underwear on, though, thank god.
When I was finally in the nude, I gazed down at the heaven that awaited me. The water smelled floral and soothing, pretty purple petals floating in the water. Damn, this sure was nice for a small inn. Evidently the denizens of Skyrim do, in fact, need to bathe. I put one foot in and then the other with a soft hiss as the water encapsulated me. Soon enough, I dunked the rest of my body, feeling spurts of uncomfort in several places. The burns were not too bad from earlier thanks to that potion but they still weren't fond of the heat.
Regardless, it was an entirely soothing experience after an awful day. I did my damnedest to scrub off all the dirt and soot still caked onto my skin with my good arm and wash out my greasy hair to the best of my ability. Hopefully Malukh did as good of a job as I did, if we were to share a room. The rest of my bath was spent soaking, thinking about my next plan of action until the water became chilly. Eventually, another patron came in, a woman in full armor, followed by the same lady who filled my tub. The same routine ensued and her bath was filled, before she began undressing.
I was a bit dizzy as I quickly climbed out while her back was turned to me and very glad the bath attendant had left me a towel of some sort, hastily wiping myself down. I wasn't embarrassed to be in the nude per say, but I definitely didn't enjoy it. I was very happy to put on regular clothes instead of armor, feeling the soft cloth cling to my wet skin. Unfortunately, my nipples were clear as day through this fabric without a bra but I tried not to let it bother me. Once fully clothed, I retrieved my gear and returned to our room for the night, my head still spinning as I opened the door.
It was still light out from what I could see out the small window, but Malukh was already inside. I had to do a double take when I saw him — he looked so young! His face was ridden of it's thick black warpaint, revealing smooth green skin underneath, and a surprisingly handsome face. He was already fast asleep on the floor, to my chagrin, using his arms as a pillow while he breathed in and out peacefully.
He was like a whole new person.
I quietly shut the door behind me before I approached him to observe. With that paint on, he looked at least thirty, but without it.. he really couldn't be much older than myself. His face literally almost looked like it shouldn't belong to such a big, beefy body. He was also wearing regular clothes that really suited that muscular body of his. His tunic clung tightly to his massive biceps and pecs. The pants were a bit more loose on him, but still looked nice. He had already set his armor on the dresser and I quickly did the same.
Exhaustion was pulling at my conscious and I realized just how tired I really was. I could've passed right out in that bath if I didn't have to get out eventually. I drug myself over to the bed he'd so kindly lent to me, gingerly climbing onto the mattress and avoiding my bad shoulder as per his instructions. I was out like a light, my last thoughts being about a rude yet kind Orc named Malukh.