4E 204 year… 3st of Evening Star… 0834…
She was anxious and her insides were fluttering around uncertainly. She had been on edge since the Soul Cairn and there was plenty of reason for it. The onslaught of things they needed to take care of was increasing, with the amount of time available decreasing. It was making her mental.
The bitter smells from the cave wafted out of the entrance. They mingled with the marshy odors around them, creating something repulsive. The mixed scents made the hair on her arms stand straight up. It didn't help her edginess in the least bit, either.
In all honesty, Azriel thought she'd soon be mad. Her insides were becoming hollower every passing day. Ever since leaving Tullius, she felt rushed. Everything had to happen 'now'. Nothing could wait. Valerica was pressing them to travel faster and not linger.
Within her own self, the struggle that had been ongoing since her fight Sovngarde, she knew she had lost. After everything with both Aela and Serana, she was taxed. Every day had become more of chore. Within her lurked the most suffocating feeling and the pieces of her that had been crumbling no longer existed.
Instead, the dragon had replaced them. The premonition was coupled with mourning and she knew she was losing the parts of herself that mattered to her. She struggled to laugh anymore, when she did, it was false. The anger within herself was constant, but the chaos of it was gone. It had been ushered away by blackened wings and everything was about her was becoming as black as the dragon under her skin. Even the name Azriel felt bitter in her own mouth. Listening to either Aela or Serana say it now made her wince.
She peered into the cave and the desire to fight welled inside of her. It threatened to choke her knowing inside the cave lived an Alpha wolf. His recent marking of the turf around the cave entrance made her tense physically. She needed relief from her feelings and quietly longed for a good fight. She hoped it'd take the edge off.
"Azriel?" His questioning tone was unsure, seeing it was the second time he had called her name.
Azriel continued to ignore him, still lost in her own thoughts. She stared off into the distance as Aela and Serana were talking. She had already answered him, but had been vague. She knew he wanted reasons, granted it sounded farfetched even to her, but she was at the point where she needed every bit of help she could find and it no longer mattered where it came from. Thinking about all the possibilities and their outcomes, it was mind boggling. She knew they needed to succeed, but would she lead them to victory or would they continue alone at some point? She wasn't sure anymore. There were too many outcomes and too many things occurring around her and they all pointed in the direction that Harkon would be her last task. That, at least, she would finish. Her dreams had taken her too many places and so did the dragon that had filled every shadow of her mind.
She looked back at the paths around the cave. Tracks around the entrance of the cave had been wiped away. Mortals, wolves, and vampires had been everywhere in the area and their scents were overpowering. As if anyone with a nose would miss the stench of this place…
"Dragonborn, please. I must know your reasons." Folian shifted uncomfortably in the cold fog.
She glanced at him, but didn't answer. She had to give him credit, he was trying. Looking back out into the marshland, the water moved as if something alive was under it. She watched the mysterious creature move away from them. Definitely larger than a fish… Azriel took a deep breath, feeling even her bones ache. I just don't want to deal with any of this anymore.
Folian removed his helmet and tucked it under his arm. "Azriel?"
She cringed, wanting to shout at him to stop speaking. She was aware that Aela and Serana were now watching her, as were the dragons and Valerica. She still didn't answer.
So much has changed in the last couple of months. Everything about her former self seemed foreign to her. It haunted her every thought and still she couldn't be the person she was, that much was for certain. That person no longer existed. The dragon within her had been slowly consuming her, pulling the wolf into it. Now she felt as though they both waited on the fringe. For what, she had no idea.
Valerica cleared her throat impatiently and tapped her fingers on her upper arms.
Fuck you, Valerica. She closed her eyes and exhaled slowly trying to fight for a shred of control. She drew in a breath and focused on the black dragon. Its silent vigil held as she inhaled the next breath.
I won't submit... She focused her thoughts only to herself.
'We are already one. The weakness is corroding, we will be whole.' It answered her.
She shivered as she let her eyes open, wishing she could be anyplace but the marsh. Yet, here she was, standing in the swampland watching the wildlife, disenchanted. She closed her eyes again, this time tilting her head back. Running her fingers through her hair, she pushed her hair from her face. The cold morning breeze felt out of place with the warmth of the filtered sun on her skin. Karliah… I wish I could say everything I wanted to. I'd never wish this on anyone and I'm sorry that in gaining a sister, it will change your life to this…
"Azriel?" Serana whispered.
Not yet, one more second won't kill anyone. She wanted to feel the dull light on her skin a little longer. For the last couple of days, she had felt an unbearable cold within herself. Since leaving the Soul Cairn, she had withheld her feelings from Aela and Serana as much as she could. She knew they were beginning to notice it.
"Azriel?" Serana whispered again, this time a little louder.
Azriel opened her eyes and looked at the man. "Folian, I need you to do it. I know it's a risk, but you have got to try. For now, Karliah will remain hidden, Nahfahlaar will see to that." She hoped so anyways. Sharing her memories with Nahfahlaar had proven useful. At least he knew where Nightingale Hall was in the Rift. She would have shared more, but time was of the essence.
She was also worried that with the Stormcloaks he'd be in danger. I sincerely hope the Stormcloaks don't mistake him for Odahviing. The things she had learned in the last day had struck her in a peculiar way. Between Ulfric's edicts and Delphine's proclamations of her not being Dragonborn, she had to wonder. She hadn't put anything past Delphine to share information with Ulfric in hopes of claiming her head. The entire thing reeked of collaboration between the two. They had fought together at one point and both had been captured by the Thalmor. Why wouldn't they try to oust her from Skyrim any way they could? She had made enemies of them both.
He exhaled while he thought out loud. "Very well. But, the Alik'r…? I just don't understand the move of involving Hammerfell. They are outsiders, I just don't see the advantage for them."
Azriel ran her finger over the red sash, stopping at the knot on the side. Did I do the right thing sending only Nahfahlaar off to guard her? She sighed to herself. I can't sit here second guessing myself. Azriel removed her dagger and dropped it into her bag. I can only do this to get Karliah the help she'll need… The help I won't be able to provide. She untied the sash and unwound it. In the sunlight the red thread embroidery became apparent. Karliah, I'm sorry. The four people in her company showed an interest in the fact she was studying the sash quietly. She didn't care, they could watch all they wanted. She wanted Time, but it was no longer on her side.
"We are losing time stalling. With every passing moment Harkon draws closer to complete the Prophecy!"
Valerica discomfort in the open was grating on every last nerve Azriel had left. She fought the urge to choke the vampire, instead she drew satisfaction from ignoring Valerica and watching her pace. "Take this and find the King. Give it only to him and tell him the Dragonborn will come after the defeat of Ulfric Stormcloak." She put the sash in his hand. "Tell him the 'The Storm is raging in Skyrim and it is spreading. Tamriel will know the glory of battle or it will suffer in flames.' He will understand."
"Flames? I don't understand…" Folian looked at the sash, "What is the significance of this?"
For a split second, her hand fled to the amulet of Akatosh that was no longer around her neck. She let her fingers trace the scar there, but found nothing comforting about it. She wished she had never given the amulet to Tullius for the Reachmen. But, they too had needed reassurance. Giving them a token from the rightful heir of the throne would carry meaning and would buy her another ally. …Karliah another ally. She scolded herself.
It didn't change the fact that she wanted the amulet and hated being without it. Her fingers tapped nervously on her armor before she let her hand drop as she watched the material shimmer in the light and gave a sad smile.
"It is an Alik'r holy warrior's sash. It was a gift from the crowned Prince and it details historical exploits. I completed a favor for him and he gave that to me. He told me I'd understand the meaning of it one day and to return it to him when I did. The crowned Prince is now the King and I finally understand what he wanted." But, he'll never get what he wants…
"And the meaning of it? What did he want?" It was obvious Folian was interested.
"It means to him and all Redguards that I have a station in the royal line of Hammerfell as a holy warrior. By returning it, it is my way of telling him I am coming." She glanced at the cave entrance, hearing noises within. "Folian, I am running out of time." She wanted to add her other thoughts, I am Dragonborn, but not the only one. Karliah needs to know that she is also inline to rule, but Nahfahlaar will deal with that. Instead she decided to answer only his question.
"I am securing our station in Hammerfell. Telling the King that we will fight side by side against the Thalmor is imperative and I am trusting this message to you. Titus Mede betrayed Hammerfell after the Great War and I need to mend their faith in the Empire somehow. We'll need the Redguard on our side to fight the Thalmor and break their hold on the Empire. But, before that, we... I… need to gain their trust. King Jahangir will see it as my acceptance of my fate and my acceptance of him as King. It is my way of saying the Empire will fight with him in battle when I am Empress. Hammerfell must return to the Empire if we are to defeat the Thalmor."
Azriel nodded to Saaraadgraat, "Take him to the King in Sentinel."
"Folian, ask for the location of the Wind Scour Temple. Tell King Jahangir we will reopen it together. When you have finished, return to High Hrothgar and speak with Arngeir. Make sure you tell him why I have sent you." Azriel reached into her ruck sack and pulled out a scroll. "Give him this and tell him to translate it."
Folian opened the scroll and looked up at her t a loss. "What does it say?"
Azriel smirked back at him. "He'll tell you. You need to go, we're out of time." Azriel back to the dragon, "Stop for no one. He must make it to Jahangir and Arngeir."
Folian wasted no time mounting Saaraadgraat, "What happens if I fail?"
Saaraadgraat stretched and the air around them swirled with sand and leaves to the beat of his wings.
Azriel's smirk faded. "The Empire will fall and the race of men die under the Dominion sword." She watched the man's face fall under the weight of her words.
"You think he got the point?" Aela asked quietly beside her as the golden dragon ascended.
"I hope so." Azriel looked at the cave entrance again. "Come on, we're got another catastrophe to stop." She studied the cave, something about the smell was making the hair stand up on her arms. It was reptilian and foreign, lurking under layers of other smells. She couldn't place it. The Alpha and the vampires had tried to cover it up!
"Odahviing, stay here. I have a feeling this won't take long. We'll need your strength and speed to help us. Guard the entrance for now." She looked at Valerica and smiled coldly. She pointed at her cloak pin, "Eat anyone who wears the insignia of the Volkihars' or smells like them."
Odahviing chuckled. "As you command, my Thur."
Azriel led the other three women into the mouth of the cavern.
Going inside the cave did nothing for the smell. All four of them were gaging. "Charming place. Do you frequent it often, Dragonborn?" Valerica ridiculed after a fit of coughing.
"Mother, don't be a bitch." Serana sneered at her after a couple of good coughs of her own.
They made their way into the small chamber, inside sat an Orc vampire dozing in a chair. Beads of sweat rolled down Azriel's forehead, the smell of the Alpha was incredibly powerful and her wolf was howling for a fight. The dragon roared, driving blood to her ears and making them pound.
Aela placed her hand on Azriel's shoulder and mouthed the words 'Control, Sister' to her. Azriel shook her head, her wolf had changed over the last few weeks. Control was something Azriel had little of anymore. Her hands burst into flames and the vampire's eyes shot open. "Korgak, announce us. Now."
The Orc tumbled out of the chair, not bothering to look at anyone else in the group and ran through the tunnel adjoining the caverns. Behind them, Valerica sniffed disapprovingly.
Aela's grip tightened. "You must control yourself here."
Azriel shook her head, "Aela you don't you smell that…" Azriel bristled and turned toward the tunnel Korgak had just disappeared into.
"You." The deep growl rumbled around them. "This is all your fault. I am losing everything! My friends, my family… How you dare to come into my home?!" Amber eyes appeared through the darkness. "We're being chased off because of you!"
Azriel growled low in warning as the Alpha approached. Her eyes grew darker as her canines and claws extended. "Get out of my way, Dagnar. I will see Movarth."
Aela's eyes shifted from silver to amber as she snarled in warning. Serana took a step forward, but Valerica caught her by the hand. Serana flashed her a look, but Valerica answered with a single shake of her head. "Do not interfere."
Dagnar ignored the vampires. "Movarth? Oh no, reptile, you are not welcome here. Not welcomed at all."
Azriel's snarling grew unmistakable threatening. "Move!"
Dagnar smiled, exposing his elongated canines. "Get out, Dragonborn. And take the vermin with you."
Azriel smashed into him fully transformed. The two Alpha wolves tumbled out of sight through the tunnel and Aela chased after them.
Valerica held on to Serana and spun her around. "Don't!"
"Why not?" Serana snapped back at her.
"Can you not see they are animals? Their fight is primal! You will be injured."
From the other cavern, the sounds of the fight intensified. People were shouting as the clash resounded throughout the cave.
"Stop being over protective!" Serana pushed Valerica away, "And we are nothing more than monsters ourselves, Mother!"
Valerica sighed disgustedly. "I raised you better than…"
"You imprisoned me for eternity." Serana snapped back, "You and father both! Now I have to deal with father. Mark my words, Mother. Don't cross me."
Howling welled upwards from the depths. Serana pulled hard away from her mother and Valerica let go, giving her a poisonous look. "They will turn on you, even if involuntarily. The young one already believes her time on Nirn is limited."
"I won't let anything happen to her." Serana spat back.
"Do you honestly believe you can save your doom-driven champion?" Valerica snarled at her. "I've tried to warn you!"
Crashing and breaking noises radiated out of the depths, sounding like echoing thunder claps. Yelping and wails filled the voids between the shouting.
"Don't you dare imply I can't protect her!" Serana shouted back. "Don't you dare imply I am the one dragging her to her demise!"
Valerica laughed in her face. "Are you so blinded by emotion that you cannot see what she is?"
Serana hissed in anger. "I've had it, Mother. She needs me…"
"No, you need her. You have attached your happiness to a Dragonborn and her companion. You need her to want you! You want them both to want you. You want to believe that they and they alone will fill your emptiness! I did not raise a daughter to be a fool!"
Serana bared her fangs as another cry rang out. She bolted, disappearing down into the tunnel after them. Seething with anger, she ran the short distance to the overhang. The crowd of people below her had formed a circle around the two wolves. The reddish brown wolf's teeth were at the black wolf's throat. Surrounding them were the spirit wolves of Hircine. Serana leapt down from the overhang, walking purposefully to the center of the circle. Mortals and vampires alike cleared the way for her. Her eyes never left Azriel's form towering over the other wolf.
"Enough Azriel, I beg of you!" Movarth shouted from the other side of the cavern. "Dagnar, submit!"
The wolf on the ground was still baring his teeth even while Azriel's threatening growls still filled the cavern. Serana caught a movement as a woman shoved her way through the crowd opposite of her. She pushed past Aela and threw herself between Azriel and the other werewolf.
"Please, no!" She cried out. Her voice was full of fear and distress, so much so Serana stopped at the edge of the circle to watch. The woman's long brown hair dangled in her face precariously close to Azriel's formidable teeth.
"Please, spare him!" Tears ran down the woman's face and Serana realized she was a vampire.
"I beg you, spare him." The vampire pressed herself over the other werewolf, pushing him further into the ground.
Drool and blood from Azriel's maw dripped onto her face, but the woman continued to beg. "Please, Dragonborn! Please!"
The wolf under her tried to push the vampire away and Azriel lunged. She clamped down on his offending arm, shaking it hard. The vampire cried out, throwing herself fully over the badly injured wolf, protecting him. Aela rushed out and tried to intervene, but Azriel kicked her aside. The injured black werewolf howled as Azriel tore fur and flesh from his arm.
Serana leapt the length of the circle, grabbing Aela and dragging her away.
"What are you doing?" Aela barked at her.
Serana stared at her in disbelief. "Saving your flea bitten hide!"
Azriel roared next to them and the vampire held the other wolf down as he transformed back.
"From what? Azriel? I interfered, it was deserved." Aela stood brushing herself off, watching the werewolf transform into her lover.
Serana looked around at nearly all the people that were now on the ground, bowing. She looked up and saw Valerica stony-faced as she walked down the rock incline. Besides the four of them, two mortals remained standing.
"Can you please tell them to stand up?" Azriel growled at Valerica.
Valerica stopped, surveying the vampires and mortals that were cowering on their knees. "Why? Will that improve their manners? If not, I'd suggest they remain where they are."
Serana clenched her fists. "Get up. All of you." The air in the cave vibrated and Azriel rubbed her chest.
Yet, none moved as Movarth remained still. "My Lady, we do not wish to offend either of you."
Infuriated, Serana flashed Valerica a wicked look. "Don't just leave them on the ground."
Valerica smirked, "My dear daughter, if they wish to stand, they may do so. When they learn manners, that is. They need to know their place in the order and remember it."
Movarth shifted and Serana rounded on him. "Stand. Now."
Slowly, the vampire coven leader rose. "My lady, your timing…" He glanced at the werewolf that moaned on the ground. "Dragonborn, please. Allow him to be…"
Azriel's hands erupted in golden light, around the other werewolf. The tears in his flesh began to rapidly stitch themselves together.
"…tended to." Movarth finished thoughtfully. Movarth let his eyes land on Serana, then Valerica. "I can only hope you will forgive my family for being, so… belligerent. I'm afraid we are in a predicament." He snapped his fingers and a young vampire moved through the crowd. "We have been awaiting your arrival, but…" he sighed and paused as the vampire produced a letter. "It seems Lord Harkon's actions have not gone unnoticed by other clans."
Valerica snatched the letter from his hand and opened it.
M.P.
They are coming. Run!
J.H.
Serana pried the letter from her mother's hand. "Who are 'they'?"
Aela and Azriel looked at the letter she clung onto.
"The Order." Valerica answered in an emotionless tone. "It was only a matter of time."
Movarth nodded and motioned to the well-dressed vampire next to him. "Anton has only just arrived a few days ago. We have had very little time to prepare and you should know we are leaving Skyrim. The Order has most likely sent out a death squad to destroy any vampire in Skyrim they find. It is the only reason Janus would have said to run."
"That's where we come in." A man's voice rang out from the back of the group.
"Raylen?" Azriel's anger faded with the golden light from her hands. She looked down at the werewolf with his vampire wife at his side. "I am the only Alpha you will know. Now get out of my sight." She barked at the werewolf and his wife.
"Did you miss me?" The Nord smiled at her, pulling back his hood.
Azriel gave him a half-hearted smirk. "Nope."
Serana rubbed her temples. "You're telling me an ancient order of vampires put a hit out on every vampire in Skyrim?"
"That's exactly what he is telling you." From the shadows a hooded woman answered. Behind her was another werewolf. Serana let out a small hiss when she saw the wolf's face. "Is it any wonder with all the rambunctiousness going on? Everyone from Morrowind to the Summerset Isle's has heard of the vampire attacks in Skyrim."
Azriel growled loudly at the sight of the Redguard werewolf. "Why did'ya bring him for?"
The other wolf bared his teeth at her, until Azriel took a step toward him.
The woman chuckled removing the hood of her black cloak. "To show Wayne that not all vampires are blood sucking fiends. Babette was a poor example for him, but we both know that." Her chuckle became a light laugh. "I thought Bryn passed on my message…? Perhaps you were detained." Astrid looked directly at Serana and smiled.
What resided in blond Nordic woman's blue eyes struck Serana as being as cold as the Sea of Ghosts. There was no doubt in Serana's mind the woman was an assassin.
Next to her, Aela drew her dagger. "Not another step."
The blond Nord gave a chilling smile to Aela. "Azriel, please. Control your companion, lest you want her to see me… unhappy."
Aela growled, but Azriel pushed her hand aside. "Aela, put it away. Astrid isn't your enemy."
"Not yet anyway." Astrid answered, offering Aela another cold smile. Her smile brightened considerably when she looked back at Azriel. "You were supposed to come home, dear one."
"Been busy." Azriel jerked her thumb in Serana's direction. "Besides you're here now." Azriel smiled fully at her. "We can catch up if you'd like."
Aela rolled her eyes at Serana and Serana hadn't missed the flirtation in Azriel's words.
Astrid was directly in front of Azriel and ran her finger down her check, while giving Aela a vicious smile. "Business first, pleasure later."
Azriel blushed while her gut turned into a knot from the anger of the two women on either side of her. "Fine… uh… talk later."
"Astrid, you dog." Raylen snickered noticing the look on Aela and Serana's faces.
Movarth cleared his throat, but it did nothing to clear the tension in the room. "The Thieves Guild and the Dark Brotherhood will be escorting most of us to High Rock. A few will remain behind…"
"You're going to run away?" Azriel asked incredulously. "We have the other scroll!"
For a moment Movarth quietly scrutinized her. "I don't think you understand the gravity of our situation. Whether or not you have found yet another Elder Scroll isn't the question for us. It is a matter of preservation. We are leaving, Azriel. That matter is not up for discussion. If we are found… I shudder to think what they will do."
Azriel crossed her arms defiantly. "You chicken livered ice-brain, why would they destroy you? You aren't even part of the Volkihar Clan."
"You understand nothing! To the Order, it will not matter! We are guilty by simply being in Skyrim. I must see my family protected at all costs. I would hope that you could understand the meaning of family, Dragonborn."
"Where is Dexion?" Aela interrupted their argument.
Movarth gave Azriel one last glare before motioning to a boy in the dispersing crowd. "Bring the Priest." He turned back to the women, "The Elder Scroll changes nothing, Azriel. We are leaving. I cannot allow the death of my clan because of the Volkihars' greed. They are targeting knowledgeable people, Azriel. Scholars, priests, Lord Harkon is kidnapping anyone with any kind of understanding in ancient writings or the Elder Scrolls. It's happening all over the Province and into Morrowind and High Rock. No one is safe. Lord Harkon has brought our kind into the light and the Order will destroy us."
"So Harkon has moved on from petty raids." Valerica scoffed.
"Fight back." Azriel said quietly.
Movarth turned on his heel. "Fight back? Do you know who they will send?"
"There's a very large red dragon outside your front door. You have two pure-blooded vampires standing next to you. We possess three Elder Scrolls. You have countless people and vampires sitting in a cave packing up and it hasn't dawned on you might have a fighting chance?"
He stared at Azriel in disbelief. "You are young and seemingly invincible. You cannot know or understand what they will send."
Aela put her hand on the distressed vampire's shoulder. "So tell us."
Movarth wiped his face with his hand. "They will send Scions to fight Harkon. They will slip past mortals like the night breeze or they will leave nothing living in their wake. I have seen their destruction once before and it was terrifying."
Aela looked at Serana in confusion. "What in the name of Hircine is a Scion?"
"A Scion is a pure-blooded vampire of a different origin." Valerica piped up. "It is one created from the blood of another pure-blooded vampire."
"How is that different from a half-blooded vampire?" There was no mixing Aela's words. She wanted a solution just as much as Azriel did.
Valerica laugh softly at the comparison. "A vampire is created from a disease spread through blood tainting from the original font. A half-blood maintains their connection to the mortal realm and it is from them, the disease is spread. A blood-Scion is an abomination created by a blood transfusion of its diseased blood and a pure-blood's. Essentially, they must die twice, the second time their blood is replaced entirely with the pure-blood's. The ritual is complex and very difficult. Very few survive a pure-blood's blood ritual and they are twice cursed. A Scion is tied directly to its maker and is just as powerful. For that reason, very few pure-bloods create a Scion."
Azriel contemplated the explanation carefully. "Neither of you have made a Scion, have you?"
Valerica gave a slow shake of her head. "To do so would incur the wrath of Molag Bal himself. It is a blasphemy. Any pure-blood to create a Scion is twice damned."
"Great." Azriel rubbed the back of her head. "When are you leaving Movarth?"
"On the morrow's eve. Not all the vampires in my company can stand the sunlight." Movarth softened his tone.
Raylen pulled Azriel to the table with maps laid out. "Azriel, we've planned their route for them. We'll get them out of Skyrim through Evermor. There are plenty of caves that rout and few quick passes the Legion doesn't use. Astrid has the route planned with escape routes and houses through to Wayrest."
Azriel rubbed the back of her head. "Who's staying?"
Movarth cleared his throat. "Very few. Those that wish to remain are leaving with Astrid. Only one is staying otherwise. But, she cannot remain here. Tomorrow evening we will flood the cave system. We are not returning."
"Lydia." Aela said more to herself then to anyone else.
"Where she?" Azriel asked eagerly.
"She has been tending to Dexion." Movarth answered quietly.
Movarth was acting a little too peculiarly for Azriel's liking. "There's something you aren't telling us."
"This way, I've got you." Lydia's voice reached the main hall.
"Thank you, my dear."
Azriel and Aela caught each other as they watched Lydia lead the blindfolded Priest into the main Cavern.
"Well, that explains why you aren't too concerned we have three Elder Scrolls." Azriel gave Movarth a filthy look. She hurdled the table, with Aela following her.
They crossed the cavern and skid to a halt in front of the pair.
Azriel didn't waste any time hugging Lydia. "I missed you!" Azriel beamed to her.
Dexion waited patiently as the friends greeted each other. Lydia gave her a sad smile and Aela clapped her shoulder.
"As did I, sister!" Aela added.
Azriel leaned close and looked at her eyes. "I like the red." She poked her finger into Lydia's mouth and lifted her lip, "Nice fangs."
Lydia jerked away with a small laugh, "I see you've not learned any manners. I missed you both as well. Dexion has been nice enough to explain what's been happening. I can't believe you found two more Elder Scrolls!"
"Found is kind of an operative word. I found two people that had them." Azriel turned her attention on Dexion. "What's with the bandage, Dexion?"
"Ah, yes. It seems in my haste to read the Scroll, I failed to prepare myself properly." Dexion fumbled with it and tried to turn towards Azriel. Both Aela and Lydia helped him.
"You're blind?" Aela tried being sensitive with the question, but realized it was more of an obvious one.
"Very." Dexion answered without hesitation. "I hoped the effect would fade, but alas it has not." Azriel pulled as seat close to him and Aela guided him into it. "Have you found the other Scroll?"
"We have, but it doesn't do us any good if you can't read it." Azriel shook her head.
"Azriel, the Order is coming. They will deal with Lord Harkon…" Movarth started, but Valerica quickly interrupted him.
She paced as she talked. "I would not place faith in another clan's ability to halt Harkon or his plans. I can only imagine that Harkon already has resources in place to deal with interlopers." She stopped pacing and turned slowly. "I will see this to conclusion, by any means necessary. But, we must be able to extract the information from all three Scrolls."
"Mother, how are we supposed to read the Scrolls? Only Dexion could read them." Serana cast a glance at Azriel.
"Actually, another way does exist." Dexion butted in.
"And what way is that?" Aela asked.
"The Nibenean Dragonborn in your company." He smiled at the obvious answer.
Azriel waved the blind priest off. "Oh no, the last time I read an Elder Scroll was enough. I don't want to make it a habit."
Dexion chuckled at her candid remark. "You are culturally and physically attuned to the Scrolls. You wouldn't have found them if they didn't want to be found, young one. You are the only option."
Azriel groaned.
"Explain your reasons, old man." Aela watched Azriel closely.
"She has successfully read one of the Scrolls already. The Elder Scrolls themselves have a life force and their own magic. At the Imperial Library, it was impossible to account for the Scrolls. They moved of their own accord."
"That doesn't answer my question." Aela responded irritably.
The old priest smiled. "She must attune herself and she will be able to read them!"
Azriel groaned a second time. "How?" She asked flatly.
"The answer lay in a sacred rite of your people. It will allow you to attune to ancient magics and read the scrolls."
The fact that he was still smiling pissed Azriel off.
Aela glanced at her angry face, "What rite?"
"The ritual of the Ancestor Moth. Azriel must commune with these creatures." He reach out for Aela's hand and continued. "The Nibenese have for centuries regarded the Ancestor Moths as sacred. The belief was that the moths were ancient ancestors' spirits that manifested their forms as moths. These moths sing of future events and the songs unfolded them into the present. Our young friend is both Dragonborn and Nibenese. She too possesses this magic, the magic of her people. She can go through the ritual and attune herself to her ancestors." The old priest waved his arm excitedly, "Don't you see?"
Azriel rubbed her face with both hands.
"By undertaking the Ritual of the Ancestor Moth, she can read all three Scrolls!" He collapsed back into his chair as if the explanation required all of his energy. "Hopefully, she won't go blind or mad in the process."
"How?" Azriel groaned.
Dexion sat forward. "How what?"
"How do I undertake this damn ritual?" She asked exasperated.
Dexion laughed loudly like the question held the obvious answer. "By finding a glade with their favorite trees, of course."
Azriel started to change from brown to red. "Where the fuck do I find the moth's favorite tree?" She growled at him.
Serana put her hand on Azriel's arm to calm her. Lydia stifled a giggle.
"You must seek out their ancient glade…"
"WHERE?!" Azriel's Thu'um shook the cavern. Rock and dust rained down on them.
Dexion recoiled into the chair. "I don't know where in Skyrim."
Azriel threw up her hands in frustration. "How are we supposed to find the glade then?"
"Let's just think about this…" Aela tried to defuse the situation, but to no avail.
"Think about what, Aela? Are we supposed to check every damn tree in Skyrim for moths?" Azriel shouted at her.
Aela shook her head. "No, but we have two of the oldest residence standing next to us. Do either of you know where these moths exist?"
Valerica crossed her arms, "I've never heard of such a place."
"Neither have I." Serana answered.
Aela picked at the war paint on her chin. "Movarth?"
"I'm sorry, the answer is no. I will go now to see if anyone has knowledge of this glen." He gave a nervous bow to Valerica and Serana, then disappeared into the far tunnel.
Astrid chuckled and threw an amused look at Valerica. "It seems he finds you intimidating."
Valerica scowled back at her. "He should."
Aela looked at the thief and the assassin, both simply shook their heads no.
"Azriel?" Lydia looked thoughtfully at Azriel's bag. "What about your map? It can find anyplace."
"It can find anyplace ever touched by a Daedra…" Azriel rummaged around in her bag. She pulled the map out and unfolded it.
"Daedra?! By the Gods, damn the possibilities of their taint on such a holy place." Dexion exclaimed.
Azriel glared at the blind man for his outburst.
"Cyrodiil?" Aela looked at her oddly.
"I was looking for something." Azriel held the map in her hands as they caught fire. "Show me Skyrim." The ink shifted as the blaze flared out over the map. "Where is the Ancestor Moth Glen?" The flames died and Azriel growled in frustration. The glade didn't appear on her map and she rammed the map back into her bag. "I told you so." She added with a snarl.
The vampires around them continued to move carts and pack up items quickly, oblivious to Azriel's rather cranky mood. Azriel ran her hand through her hair as Astrid and Raylen talked to each other, they had returned to their planning map. She bit her tongue as a few people walked by, nervously chatting and throwing her the occasional glance. She didn't care anymore, and growled as they walked by.
"What about Odahviing?"
Azriel snapped at Lydia. "What about him?"
Lydia gaped at her for a moment. "What's with the attitude? I'm trying to help you."
Azriel glared back at her. "I'll ask him. I need some air anyways." She didn't bother to wait for anyone to answer as she stormed off. She knocked two vampires out of her way as she walked up the incline to the overhanging rock.
A few minutes later she was standing next to the sleeping red dragon.
Humans and werewolves moved the carts from the entrance to the old dirt road that lead North from the caverns. She sat next to him, settling in next to Odahviing. Watching the people move quickly to hitch their horses to the carts calmed her a little. She drew her knees up to her chin and wrapped her arms around her legs.
"You are angry." The dragon rumbled at her in his ancient language.
She sighed and nodded.
"You tarry too long amongst the mortals. It does nothing for your soul." He didn't move as she leaned into him. "It is never good, sister. Your soul lusts for power and truth. It is difficult to find balance without solitude."
"More difficult when I have to deal with people and their constant needs." She answered in the dragon's tongue. "I thought that finding the scroll would give us a chance to end things with Serana's father. But…" She buried her face in her arms trying to clear her anger.
"The puzzle still alludes you?" His horn poked into her back as he moved to adjust.
"There's some gods damned glade that we need to find. There's a moth there that sings some kind of song."
"I have heard of the creatures that sing the future into the present. I have never seen one though. It once was forbidden for us to seek them out. Only one tried and he was punished for his desire."
Azriel wasn't sure which question to ask first. "Who and how was he punished?"
"Alduin banished him from our company, though it mattered not. He was a collector of magical objects and he desired power by understanding their workings. He chose the race of men over dragons. Alduin sent many to chase him and to destroy his treasure trove. None have found it, nor does he answer anyone who have called him for a challenge. He was known as a coward amongst the Dragons."
Azriel turned, "Coward? Because his pride didn't demand he answer the challengers?"
Odahviing chuckled at her and nudged her with his nose. "You still have much to learn… it was his lack of honor. The pull to answer is not just based on pride…"
Azriel playfully swatted him on the nose. "Was in your case."
"For you, yes. You are different from the other Dragonborns and the other Dragons. I sensed the challenge would be great. It is why we must fight when it is you. But, Gaafahviing made his pacts with mortals. In return for the objects he craved, the mortals he would teach ancient magics to."
Azriel jumped to her feet. "Gaafahviing?"
"Yes…" Odahviing gave her an unusual look, "You have knowledge of him?"
"GAAF AH VIING!" Azriel's Thu'um rolled across the marsh echoing off the trees and water. "Yes, I met him in a cave. He had been trapped by vampires. He might know what I'm looking for?"
"It is certain he will know. It is not for certain that he will answer you."
A full minute passed, but instead of a dragon, Serana emerged from the cave. Drawing her hood over her head, she walked into the dull morning light. "Are you alright?" She brushed Azriel's hair from her face.
Azriel pushed her hand away. "This whole thing… it's just dragging on. There's nothing simple about this!"
Serana caught her hand, the ever present electrical feeling about her warm hand made her want to pull her close. "I know and I also know none of this would be possible without you. I truly believe what Dexion says. You exist, the requirement of the Dragon Scroll, the fact that you found me, all of it. You are the reason that we are making any progress at all."
"Great." Azriel tried to pull away, but caved when Serana finally pulled her close. "Have you ever thought that all this is my fault?"
Serana threaded her fingers through Azriel's hair. "Never. My father brought this about, not you."
Azriel rested her head against her shoulder. "I can't help but wonder. It all seems more than coincidental."
"Briinah…"
Azriel looked up just as Odahviing spoke. She felt the other dragon's approach, though she couldn't see him through the trees. Footsteps echoed and squeaking announced another cart exiting the cave. Following the entourage was Aela.
"No one in Movarth's company knows of the location of this damned glade." She turned looking at the sky.
The humans were oblivious as they pushed the cart to the path leading North, where the other carts had been taken.
The beat of the dragon's wings was still too distant, but Azriel remained watchful. "It doesn't matter, I think I know someone who will know."
Aela glanced over her shoulder at Azriel, "Who?"
"I called Gaafahviing. Odahviing reminded me he was a collector of magical items." Azriel looked to where the humans were hitching up the cart. "Hey, there's a dragon coming!"
The humans looked back, wide-eyed.
"Chill, its fine. I just thought I'd tell you."
Aela shook her head with a laugh. "Not exactly suave, ice-brain."
Serana giggled as Azriel pulled away from her. "Look, I didn't want them having…" Serana and Aela laughed harder. "…oh shut up." She laughed at her own self. For a second, she almost felt good doing so.
The roar reverberated over the swamp from the unseen dragon.
"You want us to warn anyone else that a dragon is coming?" Aela's laughter was infectious, making Serana laugh harder. Even Odahviing laughed.
"Fuck all three of you." Azriel giggled, in spite of her desire to regain composure.
"You're the snowberry that wanted to warn the swamp that a dragon was coming. Never mind the one that sitting right next to you, or the other two that were here a few minutes ago."
"Forgive my obviousness." Azriel said, bowing dramatically.
"Keep it up, someone will mistake you for being a bard." Aela wiped the tears from her eyes.
"Or a jester…" Serana leaned on Aela, laughing harder.
"Or a fool." Valerica snapped from the cave entrance.
The three women turned to the mouth of the cave.
"What would possess you to call further attention to this cave?" Valerica crossed her arms, her eyebrow raised in question.
Azriel's sense of humor was lost. "Do you want to find these stupid moths or not?"
Valerica let her arms drop and pulled her cloak hood over her head. She stepped into the light. "I'm not sure if you've noticed, but the continuous flood of dragons in this location would tell me to look here if I was one of Harkon's simpletons."
Another roar boomed over the swamp.
Azriel took a deep breath before continuing. "I called him because he might be able to help us."
"Might?" Valerica came to a stop directly in front of her. "You do realize that Harkon is searching for the same thing we are?"
"Then why don't we stop this ridiculous search and just focus on kicking Harkon's ass?" Azriel stood toe to toe with her. "We're chasing tall tales anyways. Why not just go after the real problem?"
"Don't underestimate Harkon…"
Azriel leaned forward, "Don't underestimate me." Her voice was deadly.
Serana gently pushed the two apart. "Mother, we need the location of the glade. It makes sense to follow Azriel's intuition…"
Valerica silenced Serana with a murderous look. "This fool will get us all killed before we can even set foot in any glade."
"There's nothing keeping you here." Azriel pointed into the swamp. "Why not just run and hide again?"
Valerica snatched Azriel from the ground by her armor. Just as quick, Azriel shouted at her, "FUS!" The single word knock Valerica backward as Odahviing snarled behind Azriel in warning.
Valerica tumbled backwards, splashing in the water and landing on her feet. Odahviing trudged forward, but Azriel caught him by his horn, halting him.
"Stop this, both of you!" Serana shouted, just as the dark gray dragon dropped from the cloudy sky.
The water behind Valerica rippled, bubbling in rows. The spray jumped from the surface, undulating in rows. She spun, just as an enormous crocodile rose to the surface, swimming towards her. Another rose to the surface, following them were others, all making a line straight for Valerica.
"Mother!" Serana launched a volley of icy shards at the crocodiles, but twin daggers collide with them. Serana looked to the origin of the thrown knives, to find the assassin smiling at her.
"Neracles! Binx! All of you, back off!" Astrid called casually, "That vampire is with us." She looked at Azriel for confirmation.
Azriel threw her hands up angrily and watched Gaafahviing circle low and just overhead. She walked opposite of Valerica, never taking her eyes off the infuriated vampire. "The next time you try anything that stupid, I'll turn you into an icicle."
"She is with us." Serana answered for her when Azriel failed to.
"Oh good, for a moment it looked like she was trying to kill my sister," Astrid purred silkily. "That would be an unfortunate choice on her part." Her smile never faltered, even as Valerica stared daggers at Azriel. "Werecrocodiles can be rather unrefined in their primal forms. It would be… impossible… to stop them once they attacked."
Aela watched the werecrocodiles suspiciously as the assassin walked to Azriel, "What would possess to ever bring those vermin here?"
Astrid gave the most minor gaff. "Rich words coming from a Companion. Especially seeing that all of you are now werewolves." The surprised look on Aela's face prodded Astrid on, "Ah the days when it was just limited to that elite Circle of yours… you're not as special as you think, are you friend?"
The werecrocodiles sank from sight, the only telling tale that they ever emerged were the last ripples in the water.
Aela growled, but this time it was directed at Azriel. "What is she talking about?"
Azriel looked at the ground and rolled her shoulders. "They needed a chance, Aela. We voted on it and you weren't there to choose."
"I can't believe you! The Circle were the only members that had the right to bear the wolf!" Aela shouted at her.
The gray dragon landed and for a moment Azriel ignored him. "Do you understand that Ulfric will stop at nothing to tear down those walls?! Thousands will march against Whiterun! We gave them a chance in that fight, this isn't about Terrfyg's pact or Kodlak's desires anymore. It's about survival and standing a fucking chance! I gave the Circle a vote, you were at High Hrothgar. Which do you chose? Send them to Sovngarde or give them their right to choose which? I wanted our shield-siblings to have a choice and they made it. That's not for you to decide, it's their decision. We can figure it out later if any of us make it through this fucking war." Satisfied with Aela's stunned silence, she turned to the dragon and bowed.
"Drem Yol Lok, Dovahkiin." The dragon bowed its head to her.
"Drem Yol Lok, Gaafahviing. Nox hi fah hin fahraal wah dii faan." Azriel tried to keep her voice even and not show her anger.
"Zu'u lost ferviit fah nuft." The dragon leveled its golden gaze on her.
"Zu'u praag wah siiv staad sizaan wah muz, aalkos hi vis hiif zey?" She didn't waste any time being direct.
"What is this place you seek?" Gaafahviing shifted his gaze to the silent red dragon behind her. "This place must be truly lost if the likes of Odahviing cannot find it."
Odahviing growled menacingly at him, but Azriel raise her hand for his silence. "Perhaps lost is the wrong way to put it. Odahviing is indeed knowledgeable and my brother. His disrespect only tarnishes your favor in my eyes."
Gaafahviing owed as low as his head would go to the ground. "Forgive me, I meant no disrespect to you."
"I do not forgive insults, Gaafahviing. Tell me where I can find a glade with the Ancestor Moths. If you do not know, then you will find another way to pay for your disrespectful nature."
The dragon took a step back. "I know of this place. Long ago I sought to hear their song myself. I was foiled at every attempt, the glade was protected."
"Protected how?" Azriel was near the end of her patience.
"The Earth Mothers enclosed the glen with roots and rock. Their desire to protect the glade from me triggered an avalanche, leave but the smallest crevice for light to permeate the glen. It has grown with time, but it is not a safe passage for one such as myself."
"So we can't get in?" There was no hiding her frustration.
"I cannot enter, but you are small. There is a cavern that leads to the glade. I will take you if you desire it."
"Serana, get the Scrolls!" Azriel turned just as she said it.
"Hold your dragon, Azriel." Astrid was right behind her. "We need to have a little talk before you leave."
She studied Astrid for a second, "Serana, go on. Aela, tell Movarth we're leaving shortly." She looked back at Odahviing. "Can you stay for a bit longer?"
"Geh." He replied.
"I'll be right back." She contemplated the two dragons for a split second. "Play nice and no fighting."
Astrid smirked and waved at Aela and Serana. "Get comfortable, this will take a little while. I promise not to… tie her up… for too long."
Azriel felt their anger inside of herself as Astrid's lurid remark. She shook her head to herself and exhaled. She was too angry to argue with their jealousy, it would just get ugly.
Azriel followed Astrid down the winding path to the North. They passed the carts hitched to the horses, being sent across the brackish waters to the West. The path they followed turned from North to Northwest. They crossed a narrow rocky isthmus, catching the pat on the other side.
"Astrid, where are we going?" Azriel was irritated enough with everything else, she didn't need Astrid being cryptic to boot.
"Isn't it obvious? We're going someplace far more private." She smiled at Azriel, making her blush. "Just to catch up." She chuckled. "Alone."
After a half an hour of fast trekking through the swamp, Astrid unlocked the door to her longhouse. Pushing open the door, she let Azriel in first. The old place looked like an abandoned fisherman's longhouse from the outside, but was far more sinister inside. The small deltaic islands around it were grave sites for the Dark Brotherhood. The house itself was an out-of-the-way torcher chamber.
"Do you mind?" Astrid pointed at the large fire place.
The last time Azriel had been here she had been filling a kill for Astrid. The fireplace sprang to life with a thought. The cheerful flames rose on the logs, dancing over them. The candle sconces on the walls lit with an equally gay glow.
"Ah, home away from home." Astrid retrieve a wine bottle from the shelf with two goblets. She kicked off her boots and sat on the bed. Pouring the wine she smiled at Azriel, "Care to join me?"
Azriel chuckled, "On the bed, or in it?"
Astrid contemplated her. "Tired of your possessive lovers already?"
"No. I just want to know what I'm getting myself into." The mischievous smile played on Azriel's lips. "Besides, we both know you didn't bring me here for a quick romp."
"I would have pinned you to the bed already if I had." Astrid matched her level of mischief. "Unfortunately, I have other reasons for bringing you back to this shack."
Azriel sat next to her taking a goblet from her. "Well, do I get a clue?"
"The Stormcloaks have replaced the Legion near Falkreath. Their patrols have crippled us from returning to the Sanctuary. For now, we've relocated to an ancient Nordic ruin called Bleak Falls Barrow. We've managed to relieve that greedy shop keeper Lucan Valerius of the golden claw to gain access to the deepest reaches of the Barrow. In exchange, Delvin has managed to buy him off and convince him that it's a Thieves Guild asset. Delvin keeps the gold flowing and Lucan doesn't ask any questions."
"I've been there, the Dragonstone was within. Plenty of escape routes and traps for anyone to blunder into." Azriel took a drink of her wine.
"Good, then I don't have to explain any of them to you. Lucan has a way of keeping silent with the gold passing through his establishment. Delvin sent Vex and since their first meeting, he's been very cooperative." Astrid laughed. "Let's just say, he's acting as the perfect filter for merchandise."
Azriel smiled. "I don't doubt it."
"With the necessary change in location and the war, business is booming. Word on the street is the Brotherhood is spreading and it's true. This deal with Movarth is promising for us. His best vampires have decided to leave with me and Raylen tomorrow. They'll be taking over key positions in our mutual organizations." She poured more wine into their goblets. "Which brings me to you…"
Azriel paused as she poured. "What about me?"
"That priest you killed." Astrid stared straight into her eyes. "I am the Speaker, I give the go ahead on contracts, no one else. Don't do it again, do you understand?"
The dragon within Azriel roared at the indignantly and Azriel set her goblet on the nightstand. "Or?"
Astrid took a long drink and set her goblet next to it. "Or… I'll punish you for disobeying me."
Azriel laugh, but quickly realized she was serious. "Oh, please."
"I'm deadly serious, Dragonborn or not. I lead the Black Hand, is that clear?"
"Fine." Azriel reached for her goblet. "I'm not sure what you're worried about, I'm handling business. I've got no intention of taking over. I don't need something else I'm supposed to be responsible for and I like being under you." Azriel smirked.
"Then we understand one another." Astrid refilled their goblets again, her annoyance alleviated. "I also have a job for you, it's rather important."
Azriel took a deep breath and a deeper drink. "What is it?"
"You've probably heard, the Emperor is coming to Skyrim for his cousin's wedding."
"I have."
"You are going to kill his cousin on her wedding day. You get a bonus for the husband-to-be as well." Astrid smiled a wicked grin, "You have to kill her on her wedding day, in front of her company. The husband, you can kill however you see fit, but only after you kill Vittoria Vici."
"You're not asking a lot…" Azriel took another long drink, draining the goblet. "What if I kill them both at the same time?"
Astrid chuckled, "Overachieving again, eh? That's fine, but she must die first."
Azriel set the goblet on the nightstand and stood up. "They are both walking dead."
Astrid caught her hand, "Wait, there's something else."
Azriel sat back down, "More than a job?"
"I received word a few weeks ago, that another detachment of the Pentus Oculatus set sail for Skyrim."
Azriel nodded in agreement. "They arrived yesterday to prepare for the Emperor's arrival. Some Commander Maro leads them."
Astrid stood up and walked to the fireplace. "Zee, does it strike you as odd that after the Great War the Thalmor disbanded the Blades?"
Azriel cleared her throat in thought. "Not really, the Blades had spies everywhere. They tried to warn the Empire that the Thalmor were the next great enemy after the Oblivion Crisis."
Astrid watched the fire for a few minutes. "True, yet…" She turned slowly, "…then the Pentus Oculatus was formed under Thalmor agreement."
Azriel shrugged. "What's your point? They guard the Emperor."
A small smile crept onto Astrid's lips. "From what? The Legion could have done that, but the Thalmor specifically helped design the Pentus Oculatus…"
The wheels of Azriel's mind clicked through the possibilities. "They put their own spies in place and the Emperor is being kept in check."
The smile broadened triumphantly on Astrid's face. "Exactly. They didn't just root out the Blades, but also the Brotherhood. The Thalmor are systematically shutting down any organization that could potentially stand up to them."
"Being here under the guise of protecting the Emperor is only part of the reason they would come. Skyrim's war is of interest to the Thalmor because of the Nordic strength." Azriel finished Astrid's train of thought. "You want to send a clear message to more than the Empire, don't you?"
"Absolutely. We kill the Emperor's cousin under his nose. No one will dispute our strength, not the Empire nor the Thalmor." Astrid purred.
Azriel smiled at her. "I'm going to enjoy their deaths even more."
4E 204 year… 3st of Evening Star… 1215…
Aela tapped the arrow on her boot as Serana paced next to the water. "Your pacing is getting on my nerves, Serana."
"They've been gone for a long time and I'm worried. Every time she leaves she manages to get herself into trouble." Serana tapped her upper arms with her fingers.
Aela was sympathetic, though the vampire's pacing was still irritating. "Neither of us have felt anything indicating she's managed to get herself mangled." She watched Serana stop and stare out into the marshland.
"It's rather clever to use werecrocodiles here." She sniffed the air, "Their scent is covered by the marsh and becomes part of it. I overheard Raylen talking about their escort on the other side of the Wrothgarian Mountains, they're werevultures."
Aela rubbed her face, feeling the war paint flake under her hand. "You seem very interested in a bunch of dishonorable thieves' business."
Serana looked over her shoulder at her. "It's Azriel's business and I'm going to hazard a guess that you are just as interested."
"Not at all. In fact, I'm rather disappointed she's still involved with them." Aela tapped the arrow harder into her boot.
Serana walked to her. "We talked about this. You can't be angry at her for trying to survive any more than I can. Besides, there's nothing we can do to change it."
Aela slipped the arrow back in its quiver. "I know you saw that note the Legate had. It was Azriel's handwriting, she stole that crown."
Serana looked away, "I saw and we both know that. But, if that crown went to Ulfric Stormcloak, only Nords would live in Skyrim. The rest would be slaves or worse. It's time you realize that she does do things for a reason and you have to trust her."
Aela hopped off the rock she was sat on and stretched. She looked over at the people readying the next cart for the barge across the deeper sections of the swamp. "I do trust her, I just don't like the way she does things." Aela walked to Odahviing and sat down, preparing to meditate.
Serana groaned irritably and walked up the North path Azriel had disappeared down hours ago. She left Aela behind. The fog had thickened in the lower parts of the swamp and she walked through it, enjoying the way it swirled around her legs. Spotting a patch of Deathbells, she made her way over then bent down to look at them.
"Find something you like?" Azriel whispered in Serana's ear making her jump.
"How the fuck do you do that?" Serana growled at her.
Azriel giggled gleefully. "Just because you aren't stealthy, don't hold it against me. Besides, there are so many noises out here, I'd actually be surprised if you could hear my heartbeat." She smiled at Serana, "We need to get going."
Serana took her in, for a fleeting second she thought about why Azriel had disappeared. You have to trust her too… "Let's get Aela and mother…"
Azriel rolled her eyes. "If we must. Does your mother need to come with us?"
"Well she isn't going to stay here." Serana pulled her back towards the cave.
"What if we feed her to those crocodile guys?"
Serana gave her an exasperated look.