Thanks for the reviews & the PMs everyone. I'm interested in your thoughts on the story development. Enjoy Chapter 7.
The thunderous storm outside their small cave continued to rage through the early morning hours. Her thoughts had moved on from the things she had observed since her awakening to the young woman in front of her. She had been watching Azriel for hours while she slept, but she hadn't really seen her. So many things had changed and she hadn't had a real chance to think about things. The storm outside once again captured her attention as lighting struck a tree. The weather reflects my feelings well.
Serana turned back to watch Azriel. She wondered for a moment where her dreams had taken her.
Serana took notice of Azriel as her thoughts drifted, meticulously observing her in her sleep. She had felt intrusive watching her while she was awake, the girl was too perceptive. This way is easier.
The girl muttered softly and stretched out in her sleep. She resumed her thoughts again after realizing Azriel had merely adjusted.
Her thoughts drifted to the first hours of their meeting. The way the girl looked and spoke was so very different than what she was used to. She was bold and independent, obviously. But, the potency in her eyes and her continued silence had added mystery to her. Azriel had stood quiet and looked into her own eyes without fear when she had opened her prison. Her calm heartbeat had stunned and fascinated Serana.
Serana's attention was caught by Azriel's slight finger movements on her left hand. She noticed a long scar wrapped around Azriel's hand as though something tried to tear her fingers off. Azriel's tunic lacked sleeves, making it easy to see her multiple scars. The girl was obviously a warrior, but some of her scars were simply unusual. Both wrists held old scars around them. Serana looked at the girl's feet and noticed similar scars around her ankles.
The girl's scars seemed to be everywhere as she traced her way back up her arms. Her right arm looked as though something large had bitten it, leaving a long jagged scar across the length of it.
Azriel's shirt had moved in her sleep, revealing a glimpse at her stomach. Her low waist breaches exposed the girl's hips and Serana smirked as she continued her appraisal. There were scars on her stomach as well, but it was her toned muscles that captured Serana. They were etched deeply into her tall brown frame. The reaction was involuntary as Serana licked her lips. She found herself forcing away the thoughts of tracing her muscles with her fingers.
Following Azriel's torso to her partially exposed throat, Serana shivered. She felt the burn of her thirst and fought past the desire to harm the werewolf. Instead, she watched the way the firelight caught in her hair draped around her neck. The colors were rich golds and reds, that shimmered as the light flickered across it. The light made it dance like the flames themselves. The lines of her face were soft and beautiful. She considered the smoothness of her skin on her exposed right cheek. Her desire to reach out and feel the warm of her skin was now overpowering.
In her sleep, Azriel looked young and vulnerable. It was absolutely alluring. Her thirst made her groan, as did the desire to feel the Azriel's warm skin. When was the last time I have been close to a mortal? Last time I killed one this young? Serana's desires were rising, but she forced them back down. The girl was simply too breathtaking to kill. It made Serana ache.
She changed her thoughts, forcing herself to ignore her nature in order to not drive herself mad. Instead, she thought about the Dragon Priest wraith and the way Azriel had used her magic. The way Azriel had manipulated the blaze was awe inspiring. Serana remembered the way she commanded the Dremora and a smile spread across her face. Azriel was an accomplished mage, that much was for sure. And she uses her voice like the Nords do.
The girl was powerful in her own right. Azriel had confidence that didn't cross over to arrogance. Her personality and sense of humor was refreshing. Serana chuckled softly. She's winning me over without even trying.
Serana was torn between letting her rest, and what she really wanted, conversation. She had been locked away longer than she cared to think about. She wanted something else from Azriel, but she wouldn't harm the girl. Azriel was fascinating and she wanted to talk with her. She wanted to know her.
Serana looked at her simple worn clothes and back to the fire. Azriel had shown Serana kindness in giving them to her. It was new for her.
Her sarcasm, her kindness, and everything about her rolled around in Serana's mind. Azriel was a contradiction to everything Serana had ever known. The girl struck her. Serana's smile grew. Azriel perplexed her and soon they would need to part ways. It was disappointing, but necessary.
Serana could smell that her leather armor was dry. It interrupted her thoughts. Tearing her eyes away from the sleeping young woman, she changed. Being out of her armor had made her feel odd, and it was comforting to put back on. When she had finished changing, she inspected Azriel's armor carefully. The short cuirass had no sleeves, which Serana thought was strange, but not as peculiar as the armor itself.
The black scales were almost iridescent. She moved the cuirass around, looking at it more closely. She realized it had very powerful enchantments on it. Sneaky devil.
Azriel wasn't just good with a forge, she was an excellent enchanter as well.
Stealing another look at Azriel, she looked at the rest of her armor. All of it had powerful enchantments and each piece was very well made. The girl is truly gifted.
Serana sat down, this time closer to Azriel. She could smell the fire in the girl's blood, but she also smelled the wolf. Something in the way the girl smelled before had caught her attention. She couldn't figure out what it was. Perhaps, she is simply a fire mage and the faint sulfurous smell is just from that.
Her thoughts roamed again. She warmed herself by the fire, as she continued to watch her sleep. Azriel was moving around more, but she was still in a deep slumber.
Serana's thoughts drifted to home while watching Azriel sleep. It's too dangerous to bring her there. If it is Father, he'll kill her because she is a werewolf or out of spite. I won't do that to her.
Serana was lost in her thoughts when Azriel's pain filled moan grabbed Serana's attention. Azriel's body trembled slightly as Serana watched with curiosity. Azriel growled a low, inhuman growl and clenched her fists. She mumbled something, but Serana could only make out a single word. 'Dovah.'
Azriel's body began to shake as though she were fighting an invisible foe. Worried, Serana reached out and touched Azriel on the arm trying to wake her.
Azriel eyes snapped open and she moved like the wind. With her teeth and claws extended she slammed Serana to the cave floor, pinning her there and growling. Serana bucked her off, throwing her through the fire and into the cave wall. Azriel slammed in to it with a crunch that knocked the wind from her lungs. Azriel picked herself up and she snarled furiously at Serana. Serana readied herself for the attack.
Azriel had stopped herself mid lunge when she realized it was Serana. Serana could see the struggle in her eyes and backed away from her. The layers of gold in Azriel's eyes were full of confusion as she stood sweating and shaking. Azriel back against the rock wall and closed her eyes. Her hands were gripping the stone so tensely, they were turning white. Her chest heaved as sweat trickled down her brow.
"Forgive me." Azriel whispered.
Serana relaxed at the sound of the coherency in her voice. "Why did you attack me?"
"I didn't realize it was you. I felt only coldness... in my nightmare."
"I tried to wake you." Serana said softly.
Azriel slowly opened her eyes, her body was less tense. She slid down the cave wall and seated herself at the base. "I know. I am truly sorry, Serana. I didn't know it was you." Azriel kept her eyes low as Serana approached and knelt.
Serana tentatively reached out running her finger down the Azriel's cheek. Azriel's body shuttered in response to Serana's electric touch. Serana cupped her chin when her fingers reached Azriel's jaw and moved her face towards hers. "It's alright. I didn't mean to surprise you. I didn't think you'd react like that."
Azriel remained silent and nodded. Serana realized her thumb was gently stroking the girl's cheek and she let go of her. Serana stood and looked back out into the rescinding storm. "As much as I hate to say it, we should get going."
Azriel remained silent as she changed and repacked her things.
They had walked the morning in relative silence, making their way almost to the marsh. The rain had let up about an hour before, when Serana had tried to have a conversation with Azriel. It really hadn't worked out since Azriel still looked embarrassed.
Serana finally stopped to remove a rock that had gotten lodged in the bottom of her boot and pulled her dagger to pry it loose.
"Your dagger looks dull." Azriel finally spoke.
Serana looked at the edge of the blade. Even her own blade had failed her. She sighed and mumbled, "You spend centuries trapped inside a rock and everything you know changes."
Azriel was silent for a moment before she spoke. "If you're partial to daggers, I have one I can give you. It's better than that Elven blade."
"That's very sweet of you. But, it's alright, I'll just sharpen this one."
"With what? You don't have anything on you. And before you ask, neither do I."
Azriel dug into her ruck sack and pulled the dagger out. Serana let out a low whistle as Azriel handed it to her. Serana spun the white blade in her hand, looking at it. It was heavier than the Elven blade and was similar in appearance to Azriel's sword and bow. Intricately carved into the blade was the image of a dragon. It was inlaid with silver. The single sided sharpened blade met the ebony tang and handle flawlessly. The handle was tightly wrapped in black leather and comfortable in her hand. The whole blade was well balanced as she took a couple of swipes with it. The craftsmanship was superb. It was as if, it was made for her. "What is it made out of?"
"Ebony and dragon bone. I enchanted it when I finished making it. It will absorb health of your opponent and burn the shit out of them too."
Serana laughed at her choice of words. "Just in case stabbing them wasn't enough?"
"It tends to ruin their whole day." Azriel said with a large smile.
"Where did you get the dragon bone?"
"Off a dead dragon, where else do you get them from?" Azriel added playfully, "Is that supposed to be a trick question?" She was definitely in a better mood.
Serana looked at her incredulously. "Smartass." For some reason, it seemed to make Azriel happy. Serana slid the dragonbone dagger into her sheath and tossed the Elven blade away in the grass.
"Thank you, it's a generous gift."
Azriel brightened more. "I'm glad you like it."
With her silence broken, Azriel was a bit more talkative as they continued. She pointed out things as they went and Serana asked questions about current on-goings in Skyrim. Their conversation was casual as they walked into the marshland.
Azriel sniffed the air and scowled. "Stormcloaks. Their stench is everywhere. We must be near a camp."
Serana hadn't missed the odor either. The smell of sweat, old mead, and marsh mingled into one disgusting smell.
They crept forward, Azriel in the lead. When she stopped, Serana looked around her to the two drunken men sitting in the boggy creek. Looking at Serana, Azriel smiled a devilish grin. She pulled her hood over her head and motioned for Serana to follow her. She stood and walked up to the men. One was reclining with his eyes barely open and the other was endlessly chattering away about nothing.
"You look like a couple of pigs wallowing in the mud. And you smell like it too." Azriel said waving her hand under her nose for dramatic effect.
"Who the fuck are you callin' a pig, Bitch?" One of the drunken men stood and leaned on his war hammer as a crutch. He took a couple of teetering steps forward, dragging the hammer next to him.
"I am calling you, a pig. But, I really shouldn't insult pigs. Now Skeevers, those I don't mind insulting. And you definitely have the breath of a skeever." She pulled back her hood and the man fell over backwards.
"You! It's you!" He yelled. He tried lifting his hammer, nearly fell over instead.
Azriel flashed Serana an evil grin, "Thirsty?"
"Always." Serana said as she appeared behind the man, knocking his hammer out of his hand. She moved so fast Azriel almost didn't see her.
Azriel looked down at the other drunk. He had passed out. She wasn't sure if he'd even been awake.
Azriel looked around at the marsh as Serana drank. The only trail around went up to a ridge. From the scent, the men had followed that trail. The camp is definitely not close. The camp wasn't along their route, so she thought it would be safe for them for a few minutes while Serana fed.
Her morbid curiosity had gotten the better of her with the sucking noises. She looked back at Serana. She was looking directly at her with a gleam in her eye. Azriel blushed and turned back away quickly.
With her mouth barley off the man's neck, Serana called to Azriel softly. "I don't mind if you watch."
Azriel's blush deepened. "I'm not that kind of girl, Serana." She responded sarcastically trying to cover her embarrassment.
"You could have fooled me." Serana answered brazenly when she finished her kill.
Azriel was sure she was as red as a tomato.
"What do we do with the assed out one?" Azriel asked quickly trying to change the subject.
Serana smirked, "Do you have any spare potion bottles?"
"Yeah, I think I do." Azriel opened her bag and pulled six of them out. "What are you going to do with them?"
"Watch and learn, young one." Serana took the bottles and pulled her new dagger. She leaned over the passed out man and pulled the blade across his throat. She drained his blood into the bottles and drank the remainder. Serana bit her wrist and put a few drops of blood into each vile. She sealed the bottles and tucked them into the pouch on her hip.
"What in Oblivion did you just make?"
"Bottled blood. It will keep the blood fresh for a while."
Azriel pulled out her map, tracing her finger along their route. "We're almost to Solitude. Let's take these two with us and dump them somewhere else."
Serana bent, picking up the man with the slit throat and Azriel picked up the other one.
"Gods, how did you drink from this smelly fuck?"
Serana chuckled. "Don't all Nords smell like shit anyways?"
"They're usually not as bad as this one. How did I get stuck with the smelly bastard anyways?"
"You picked him up?" Serana added cheerfully.
They walked for a short ways before coming to an old Nordic ruin. They dropped the two bodies into the deep pit, and continued through the marsh. The haze was clearing in the distance, which made Azriel smile. "Solitude. You're almost home." Serana smiled at Azriel, but there was something hidden beneath her gaze. "Serana, is something wrong?"
"Azriel, when we get to Solitude I want to continue home on my own. I think… I should be able to find it alright by myself." Her eyes reflected the unhappiness of her tone.
"You don't trust the mighty vampire slayer?" Azriel asked trying to make Serana feel better.
"Look, I'll be honest. I want to trust you, Azriel. But, right now there are a lot of things I need to figure out. I don't know anything about my home anymore. I don't even know if I can trust whoever may be there. Let alone drag you there with me. It could mean getting you killed. And I don't want to live with that kind of guilt after the things you've done for me." Serana looked flustered.
"Serana, it's alright. Don't get upset, I understand." Azriel smiled. The look on Serana's face was hard to read, Azriel assumed it was anger. They stood in silence for a minute before Serana averted her eyes and started walking towards Solitude.
Together they walked in silence for another hour before they were through the marsh. The march gave to brackish water as they started up the road towards Solitude. They hiked the path leading to the bridge which overlooked the port.
"I'd read stories about the Solitude windmill, but I didn't expect it to be that big!"
Azriel looked at her and smiled. "It is pretty big. It's too bad they don't use it anymore."
They crossed the bridge over the river and walked towards the city's side entrance. Serana stopped walking and looked back at Azriel. Her eye's searched Azriel's for a moment before she spoke. "Thank you for everything you've done for me, Azriel."
Azriel smiled at her. "Be careful Serana. I hope your kin are happy for your return."
Serana smiled sadly and was gone. Azriel barely saw her go, she had moved so quickly.
Azriel stood there for a few minutes then turned to the doorway, walking up the stairs into the city. She was heading for her home, Proudspire Manor, when she heard someone walk up behind her. She turned around to face her pursuer. "Thane Azriel, welcome back to Solitude. The Jarl has issued orders that we are to inform you to go to the Blue Palace."
Azriel yawned and nodded. "Fine, I'll head up there in a little while. Thank you, Guard."
"You're very welcome, Dragonborn."
She walked to her home and could hear two people arguing as she approached. What the fuck is it now? From the sounds of things, one was a very exasperated Jordis.
"And I told you, she not here!" Jordis was definitely irritated.
"You're her Housecarl. Surely you know where she is!" The young man asked in an equally irritated manner.
"I don't… " Jordis' eyes sprang wide in surprise, "…behind you."
"You don't behind me? That doesn't make any sense!" The young man was incensed. Azriel couldn't help but laugh. Her rumbling laughter made the man jump.
"My Thane! …er… I mean … Azriel! I'm so happy to see you again!" Jordis shoved the man out of her way and trapped Azriel in a bear hug, making her laugh harder.
"Gods Jordis, what's Calder feeding you? Ouch, let go!" Azriel tease her. When Jordis let go she returned the hug. She picked up Jordis and spun her around setting her lightly back down again.
"Dragonborn, I have a letter for you. The woman said it was urgent." The young man said rapidly practically throwing the letter at her and making for the stairs.
Azriel grabbed him by the scruff of the neck and pulled him back. "Not so fast." She looked at the seal on the letter. It was crossed swords with a crown over laying a starburst. Azriel growled at the man as she tore open the letter.
Azriel –
We need to talk! I know what you're doing and it needs to end. I expect you here as soon as possible.
~D
Azriel grabbed the man and shoved him hard against the house, pinning him there. "Tell me, how long have you been with them?" Her growl deepened.
"Not very long, Dragonborn! This is my first mission." Azriel could smell his fear.
"You go back to that bitch and you tell her I said, 'If you want to talk, you come find me yourself.' Do you fucking understand?"
"Yes, Dragonborn!"
Her throaty growl was barely understandable as she dropped him. "Don't stop running little boy," as the man sprinted away.
Azriel turned back to Jordis who was watching the man run. Jordis took her hand and lead her inside closing the door behind them. "Azriel, can I get you anything?"
Azriel slumped into a chair next to the table. "Cold ale, a quill, and some paper. Thanks, Jordis."
"No problem!" Jordis left for a few minutes and returned with the items for her. Azriel was rubbing her temples staring into the fire. "My Thh… Azriel, are you alright?"
"Yeah, I'm just a bit worn out." Thinking for a moment, Azriel added, "Where's Calder?"
"He's at the market picking up a few things. He should be back soon."
"Are you two getting along alright?"
"Well, he's very… quiet. I guess. I almost don't even know he's here most of the time."
She took a drink of the ale and walked over to the wash basin. Azriel was relieved that they at least got along. Once she was clean she left for the Palace.
Azriel walked up the steps leading the Throne room of the Blue Palace. There was music playing and people were clapping. As Azriel came to the top she could see why. The Bards were putting on an evening show for the court.
Azriel remained quite as they played, noting Jarl Elisif's full attention was on them. Azriel watched the show with the rest of the court, only turning when feeling a light touch on her arm.
The court mage, Sybille, was standing next to her. In the briefest of smiles she could see the vampire's fangs sparkle in the light under her hood. Azriel returned the smile and Sybille leaned close to her ear. "It's good that you have come. You're in a lot of danger, young one." Azriel couldn't help but smile again. She wanted to laugh, but didn't want irk the woman. When am I not?
"Why's that, young one?" Azriel mocked. She knew Sybille was a vampire, but she only looked eighteen.
Sybille tossed a fake haughty look at Azriel. The woman had a sense of dignity, like other vampires, and she was just as impatient. But, in her case, she acted tersely. She'd been the Jarl's court mage for a number of years and for a few Jarls. No one ever question why she looked so young and teasing her was just too much fun for Azriel.
"I'm not as young as you think." She retorted with a faintly superior tone. Azriel lean over and growled in her ear, "Oh, I know. Just makes me wonder what else you're experienced in."
The vampire blushed hard and Azriel laughed. She received a quick smack on the arm from the mage. "You're a beast!" Sybille whispered ferociously.
"Don't you know it."
When Azriel had stopped laughing, Sybille spoke again. "Aren't you interested in why the Jarl wants to see you?"
"Let me guess… something to do with the royal ass, Ulfric?"
Sybille shot Azriel a serious look. "You know? How?"
Azriel held up her hands and waved them frantically, "I'm the Almighty Dragonborn. Remember?"
"Be serious, this is important."
Azriel sighed, "Gods, Sybille. Lighten up! Yes I know. Jarl Idgrod Ravencrone told me."
Sybille seemed satisfied with her answer. She motioned for Azriel to follow her, leading her over towards the Jarl.
Jarl Elisif looked up and smiled at Azriel. She motioned for her to wait and Azriel nodded silently in acknowledgment. The music played for a several minutes longer. When the Bards had finished, the court room cheered and the Jarl thanked them. Once the Bards had left, she asked the other Thanes to excuse themselves and for Falk to ensure everyone had left.
"Thank you for coming, Dragonborn." The Jarl was polite, but Azriel could tell she was concerned.
"A guard stopped me and said you wanted to see me the minute I stepped into the city. I figured I would come immediately, my Jarl."
"I'm glad you did. It's important that we speak." The Jarl paused as the sound of footsteps resonated though the entrance hall. "Ariel, you are in danger. Ulfric has sent proclamations to all the Holds and…" Elisif stopped short and the footsteps neared the top of the stairs.
The Thalmor Ambassador, Elenwen, crested the stairs first, followed by the Imperial General Tullius. Two Thalmor guards followed them as well as a Nord Laget that had been in Helgen.
"Jarl Elisif, I thought I was clear when I said I wished to be informed of this woman's movements." Elenwen said forcefully.
Azriel looked from the Thalmor to the Jarl and rolled her eyes. She caught Elisif's minor head shake and took it as a sign 'to be good.'
"Forgive me, Ambassador, but she has only just arrived. I was going to speak with her first and send you a messenger." Elisif reply was once again polite, but Azriel had watched her fear in her eyes. She looked at the Thalmor woman again and crossed her arms.
"Well, no matter. I am here now." Elenwen was wearing a false smile when she spoke. "You, what do they call you again?" She was making a good show of trying to remember, "Ah yes, Dragonborn." Before she could continue, Azriel couldn't resist a barb.
"We've met before, Ambassador. Fabulous party, by the way. And my name is Azriel."
Elenwen sneered at her tone. "You'll do good to watch your tongue, girl."
"I don't have a problem with my tongue, but may you have a problem with your ears. My name is Azriel, not girl."
"How dare you! I am the First Emissary and Ambassador for Aldmeri Dominion! I will be spoken to with respect." Elenwen yelled. Azriel saw Elisif's hand find her face.
I'll have to apologize later. "Then with all due respect, your Firstness. Go fuck yourself." She knew what would come next, but she hated the Thalmor more than anything else on Nirn.
"General Tullius, I demand this girl be arrested." Elenwen was furious and Azriel was having a hard time keeping a straight face. Pissing this bitch off is worth the gold.
"And her crime, Ambassador?" Came his bored reply.
"For insulting me, of course. You, yourself, have just witnessed it." Her yelling continued. "I demand she be placed in chains."
"Ambassador, it would be unwise at this moment in time to place the Dragonborn in chains. Ulfric Stormcloak would see it as a victory and concession. Now is the time to ensure we limit his victories in this uprising." Elisif's words hit their mark.
Elenwen backed off for a moment. Motioning her guards to follow her, she stopped short of the staircase. Turning back, she looked at Azriel in malice. "Lucky for you I won't hand that filthy Nord another victory today. But I warn you. Watch your step, little girl."
"Or what. You'll yell some more?" Azriel scoffed.
"The Thalmor have a means of ensuring you fall in place. Maybe a few lashes with a fire whip will help instill a sense of respect."
The temperature in the throne room dropped rapidly as Azriel's temper flared. She felt the Jarl's hand tug at the back of her cuirass, but continued. "You think that your threat frightens me?" An icy wind blew through the room. It grew colder, to the point where everyone's breath could be seen. Azriel uncrossed her arms and kept going. "You so much as attempt to make good on that and I will assure you one thing. When I finish with you, you will not have time to regret leaving Summerset Isle."
"You will regret your insults, Dragonborn." Elenwen finished in a lofty tone. Azriel made to move, but Elisif's tight hold on the back of her cuirass prevented her from moving.
Elenwen and her guards stormed off and the temperature returned to normal. General Tullius exhaled. "Nicely done, Dragonborn. You just pissed of the entire Thalmor detachment in Skyrim. Are you trying to get yourself killed?"
"General, please. We must make her aware of the gravity of the situation with the Stormcloaks." Elisif quickly interjected.
"Legate Rikke, please show our loud mouthed friend here the map." Tullius ordered.
Azriel walked over to the table that the Legate was unrolling the map. "The Stormcloaks have favor in several Holds…"
The Legate began, but Azriel interrupted. "Look, no offence, Jarl Elisif. But, this war is not my problem. I won't have anything to do with either side."
"Azriel, it isn't that simple anymore. Whatever you did, Ulfric Stormcloak wants you dead. You don't have a choice anymore." Elisif's concern was evident.
"You made a fierce enemy and we can protect you. But in turn, you need to help us by serving the Empire." Tullius elaborated.
Azriel's temper got the best of her. "The fuck I do! I have no interest in this war. I will not take sides!" Her Thu'um caused the Palace to shake.
"Azriel please, just read this." The Jarl pulled a letter out of the embroidered satchel she carried. "I want you to know, I support you and Haafingar stands behind you." Elisif handed Azriel the letter.
Jarl Elisif of Haafingar,
The People of Skyrim demand the right to openly worship Talos! Remove the Imperial Legion and Thalmor from your city. Stand behind the People, or stand in front of their blades.
I know that the Imperial Azriel is Thane in your Hold. Deliver her to Windhelm! Open your gates and port to the Stormcloak Army and Navy.
Do so, and I will see this as a pledge of allegiance to our cause and I will allow you to remain Jarl of Haafingar.
If you do not, you will meet the same fate as your traitorous husband, Torygg. I spared you once. It will not happen a second time.
~Jarl Ulfric Stormcloak, Jarl of Eastmarch
"Now do you see why you, as a loyal citizen of the Empire, must fight with us? He wants you dead." Tullius said as the letter went up in flames.
Azriel turned and looked him in the eyes coldly. "Just because I'm from Cyrodiil, doesn't mean I give a damn about your Empire. Your Empire wanted my head in a basket at Helgen."
General Tullius' fist crashed into the table. "You do realize that all the Holds sympathetic to the Stormcloak cause will hunt you? Help us end this war and restore order!"
"They deserve the right to worship who they want. Maybe if your Emperor understood that, there wouldn't be a rebellion." Azriel fired back.
They both stood toe to toe fuming.
"General Tullius, please. Allow me to speak with the Dragonborn … alone." The Jarl's voice was gentle but commanding. Azriel was impressed. It wasn't often that the Jarl was anything but girlish.
"Fine, but I'm half tempted to throw her in chains myself." He said storming off, the Legionnaires running after him.
Won't be the first time. Azriel thought.
Elisif waited until the Legionaries had left before she started. "Azriel, please. You have got to stop and think about this."
"Jarl Elisif, I didn't fight Alduin for these ungrateful assholes to continue their petty squabbles! I have no desire to fight for an Empire I don't trust. I also have no desire to fight for a racist bastard. I want nothing to do with this war, and I will not be forced into taking a side by anyone."
"You may not trust in the Empire, but Skyrim must be made whole again. Azriel, Ulfric has removed your choice. Tullius is right, the other Jarls sympathetic to him will hunt you." Elisif was passionate about her cause, and Azriel was fed up.
"My Jarl, you are a kind and fair woman. One day, you will make great High Queen because of it. But, you need to see the Empire for what it is. They would throw Skyrim to the Thalmor, like they did Hammerfell. Give Skyrim a ruler that makes it whole again. Help Skyrim heal by throwing these Thalmor bastards out of your Hold. Give the People an option besides Ulfric Stormcloak. Give Skyrim a ruler that is just to all the people, not just Nords. Then, I will fight … for you."
"Azriel, the Empire is important to all of us. I won't pretend to understand why you hate the Empire as much as you do. But, with your help, we could end this. The People want their Hero, they want you. They would rise against Ulfric Stormcloak in an instant. You could turn the tide of this war."
"I'm sorry, I can't. I will not fight for the Empire." Azriel said gently.
Elisif sighed and took Azriel's hand. "I received a letter from Whiterun this morning. I haven't shared it with General Tullius."
Elisif, my dear friend,
I have received notice of Ulfric's desire to have the Dragonborn in chains. As is tradition, he has sent his Axe with his request.
I have returned it. I will not send the Dragonborn to an early grave. I have sent an invitation to General Tullius to house a support garrison in Whiterun. It is a matter of time before Ulfric moves his army to attack.
If you speak with the Dragonborn, tell her to come to Whiterun. It is important that we speak.
~Balgruuf
Azriel handed the letter back to Elisif with a sigh. "Looks like I need to go to Whiterun."
"Azriel, promise me you at least think about it." Concern was etched into Elisif's face.
Azriel nodded. She was tired and irritable as she made her way out of the Palace.
Azriel sat down in her chair. She had successfully managed to piss of the Stormcloaks, Thalmor, and the Empire with just her mouth. This calls for celebration!
"Jordis, do we have any of that fancy wine left?" She called out as she hastily scrawled out a letter. I am not walking all the way the fuck back to the fort.
Jordis walked in carrying the wine with Calder in tow. "My Thane! It's good to see you!" The red haired Nord walked over and clasped her on the shoulder.
"Please don't call me Thane. It's such a ridiculous idea that you wouldn't just call me Azriel."
"Yes, Thane Azriel. As you wish."
Azriel reread her note and folded it up. She looked at Calder and made up her mind. "Calder, do you feel like getting out of Solitude for a while?"
His reply was immediate, "What do you need?"
A little too quick of an answer… "Do you still have that silver sword I gave you?" Azriel want to make sure he was well prepared for what was coming next.
"Yes. It's in my room."
"Get it and pack. Take this letter to Fort Dawnguard. Its East of Riften. Give the letter only to a man named Isran. If he is dead, do not give the letter to anyone else. Buy a horse and don't stop for anyone or anything. Make your way back from the fort and wait for me in Whiterun at my home." She pulled hefty coin purse from her ruck sack and a few emeralds. "Take this. It should inspire them to sell you a good horse. Make sure you don't mention my name to anyone."
"I will see you in Whiterun, Thane Azriel."
Baby steps... "Leave as soon as you are packed, Calder." The man nodded and disappeared up the stairs.
"You look tense, Azriel." Jordis said caringly.
"I'm getting drug into this stupid war whether I want to be or not."
Jordis looked at her with concern. "You've been gone from Solitude for a while. Rumor has it you disappeared. No one has seen or heard from you in months."
"I've been staying away for a reason, Jordis." Azriel rubbed her temples in thought. "I need a bath. I need to think for a while." Azriel stood and picked up the wine. She walked into the bathing chamber and ran the hot water into the tub. Jordis walked in carrying a towel and sat down on the edge of the tub. As it was filling, Azriel walked close to the fire place and looked at it. The burned wood inside held a smoky scent, making her smile. She looked down at the wood as it ignited on its own.
"It never ceases to amaze me that you can do that." Jordis said smiling slightly.
"Fire is simple to understand." Azriel held out her hand and the fire leapt into it. "People are difficult. They're also petty and foolish." Azriel sighed as the fire jumped from her hand back into the hearth.
"It's still pretty amazing." Jordis was awestruck. She had seen Azriel play with fire before, but it was astonishing to watch every time she did so. "I take it that the Jarl tried to convince you to join the Legion?"
"She did. It also seems Ulfric Stormcloak is very serious about killing me."
Jordis looked both angry and frightened at the same time. "What are you going to do?"
Azriel smirked. "I'm going to take a nice long bath."
Gods, this marsh stinks. After two days in Solitude, she had emptied most the objects from her bag and restocked for her trip. Solitude's bustle was constant and the city's streets were never quiet. There really wasn't anywhere discreet she couldn't go besides her home.
Jordis was her constant companion during her stay. The company had been a pleasant change from the endless running around and loneliness of the last three months. She stopped and looked at her map again. Even in the darkness, it was easy for her to read.
It has to be around here somewhere.
She looked around the landscape to a point in the distance. She counted the small islands and looked down at the map.
Four, then the point. That must be it.
She walked until she reached the point and found a small wooden sign pounded into the rocky turf. It was the symbol of Hjaalmarch. Azriel smiled wolfishly and turned around surveying the area. Near the rocky outcrop she noticed a small wooden bench neatly hidden in the grass.
She walked over to it and put down her map. Home away from fuckwits. That'll be a nice change.
The night was clear and she continued to inspect the property which overlooked Solitude across the marsh. She looked over toward ancient ruins in the valley. Azriel walked out to the old stone pillars and saw there was a small camp not too far away. Curious, she made her way over to the lone person sitting in front of a fire.
She made no move to conceal herself. Instead, she crunched loudly toward them. From where she was she could see a dark haired woman dressed too well for being camped in the woods. For a moment her heart jumped the sight of the woman. But, she quickly realized it wasn't who she had been wondering about for the last two days.
The woman looked up at her with dark red eyes and smiled. "Hello, Dragonborn. I was hoping you would travel through here soon." The vampire stood but made no aggressive moves toward her. On the contrary, she was rather flirtatious.
Azriel closed the gap between them before speaking. "May I ask why you would be waiting for me?"
The vampire smiled. "Movarth would like me to give you a message."
"How did you know I'd be here?"
The vampire stepped closer to Azriel. Her smile spread across her face as she reached out and gently stroked Azriel's neck. "Movarth had his suspicions you'd return here soon." She brushed Azriel's cheek with her fingers before continuing. "He would like for you to know that both of your requests have been fulfilled. The Jarl has been reassured and the Thieves Guild has new business partners."
Azriel's voice was no more than a whisper as she spoke. "Please let Movarth know I have gone to the Dawnguard. They know nothing about your clan. I made sure to give them some false information and made sure they will stay away from the marsh."
"That's good indeed, Dragonborn. It seems we've both upheld our bargains." The vampire purred.
"Azriel. Call me, Azriel." Azriel was losing her concentration at the way the vampire ran her cool fingers over her neck and collarbone. She closed her eyes with a sigh.
"I'm Alva. It's a pleasure to meet you." She murmured.
Azriel opened her eyes and took the woman's hand, pulling it way from her neck. The vampires touch was missing… something. Azriel politely kissed her fingers and Alva smiled seductively. Her smile quickly faded as Azriel stepped away from her, letting go of her hand and distancing herself from the vampire.
"Why step away, Azriel? We could … get to know one another."
Azriel laughed softly but kept her distance. She looked at the attractive vampire, realizing she had no interest in the offer. "Hmmm. Tempting, but I've got a lot on my mind. Besides, you have a message to deliver."
Alva pouted slightly. "That's too bad. I was… curious… about you."
Azriel couldn't help wonder why this vampire was practically throwing herself at her. "Why's that?"
"Movarth knew that the Jarl had given you this land and the waters surrounding it. I offered to come here the last several nights to watch for you. I wanted to meet you myself. Besides, who wouldn't want to get to know the dashing and reckless Dragonborn?" Alva smiled again.
Amused, Azriel thought about what Alva had just called her. "Since damn near everyone would like my head as a trophy. Most of Skyrim?"
Alva laughed. "Fair enough. In the least, you could allow me to walk with you through the marsh."
"You are persistent. But, I have no intentions of walking."
Alva looked at her curiously. "Unless you can fly… how do you plan to get through?"
Azriel smiled wolfishly. "Secret. And thank you for bringing me Movarth's message, Alva." Azriel kept her response curt, but polite.
"Very well. Perhaps another time then." Alva's answer was equally polite, but full of disappointment. As she left, Azriel couldn't help but wonder the true reason the woman had sought her out. Azriel waited until she could no longer hear the vampire and walked back to the point. This place was beautiful as she looked into the sky.
True to his word, the dragon had remained close and listened when Azriel called him. She had felt him over the last couple of days, and knew he would answer quickly. Odahviing dropped from the sky and neatly perched himself on the rock a few seconds later.
"I have been watching and waiting for your call, Ahziial." Odahviing lowered his head down and she stroked his chin tenderly.
"I'm glad you stayed close, Zeymah. Feel like doing some hunting on the plains?"
Azriel's question brightened the look in Odahviing's eyes. "Geh!"