Chapter 6: Rumor Has It
"Tell Me I'm a Bad Man, Kick Me Like a Stray"
House of Wolves, My Chemical Romance
…
The city of Whiterun began repairs. The city was still standing and began to look decent again. Everyone's lives were beginning to slowly go back to normal. The shops and markets stalls were opened again.
Falx and Zion were standing outside of the Bannered Mare, watching over the Market District.
"Rexus must've had the time of his life last night." Falx joked. Zion laughed.
Rexus had gotten so drunk that he ended up leaving with one of the women at the Inn.
"I suppose so. I just hope he knows where he is when he wakes up."
Falx laughed.
Proventus, the Jarl's steward approached the two.
"Good morning!" He took out a letter from his satchel and handed it to Zion, "This is for you."
"What is it?" Zion asked. Proventus smiled.
"The Jarl has asked me to deliver these invitations personally to all the soldiers. We plan to honor all of you at Dragonsreach."
"You're kidding." Falx said.
"I assure you, this is certainly no joke. You've all been an obvious big help and your deed could not go unnoticed. Jarl Balgruuf would like to personally thank all of you."
"Well, we'll definitely be there. Free booze, right?" Falx responded.
"Of course! All the booze you can drink, all the food you can eat. I'll let the Jarl know! We look forward to seeing you there." Proventus turned around and headed back.
Zion playfully smacked Falx upside the head.
"Free booze? Idiot."
"What?"
Zion shook his head with a laugh.
"Regardless. We haven't had a feast in so long." Falx said. Zion laughed.
"You stuffed your face last night."
"Yes, but I love food! Especially if it's free!"
The two proceeded to watch over the square.
"Well look who it is!" Zion said as Rexus was heading their way.
Falx turned towards him.
"What?" Rexus asked.
"Have a good time last night?"
"Well, yeah."
Falx pouted.
"How come everyone is getting lucky and the only woman I talk to us the one serving me drinks?"
"Maybe that's the problem…"
"No fair."
Rexus looked around.
"Where are Asbjorn and Hjar?"
"Hjar went to check on Siddan. Asbjorn disappeared somewhere."
"Do you think he ran off?"
"Nah," they spotted him up ahead coming from the forge. "Probably got his blade fixed."
"Hey guys, what's up?" Asbjorn asked.
"Where have you been?"
"My blade was damaged, so Adrianne at the forge helped me out." He sheathed his sword and looked at the group. "What?" They were staring at him.
"You were kinda distant before and now you seem…different. You seem like you are finally adjusting."
He shrugged.
"Just needed some time, I guess."
Hjar started running towards the group.
"Hey, how's Siddan doing?"
"He's recovering well. He'll be able to walk on his own again soon. Just needs a few more days of rest."
"Aw man, he's gonna miss the feast tonight." Falx said.
"Feast?"
"Yeah, we were invited by the Jarl to Dragonsreach for a celebration!"
"That's awesome!" Hjar exclaimed. Asbjorn looked down.
"Yeah, that's…great."
Falk stretched his arms out.
"Well I cannot wait!"
Later that night, everyone arrived at Dragonsreach. It looked a little different than their first visit. There were more tables and more space for dancing and moving around.
The main hall was filled with nearly everyone from the Hold and the city. Some noticeable families were there, like both the Battle-Borns and Gray-Manes, despite their hatred of the Empire were there.
"This is a party I could get used to!" Falx said looking around.
"Usually for rich people." Rexus said.
"Yeah, they get kinda boring though…" Zion said.
Falx and Rexus turned to him.
"Oh yeah, you're kinda rich, right? Have you been to parties like these?"
"When I was a kid, I've been to a lot of the Black-Briar's get-togethers in Riften, but that's about it."
"Damn, your family knows the Black-Briar's."
"Yeah, my mom is really good friends with Maven."
"Your life growing up must've been fun."
"Not really, for a kid these parties suck."
"Is that a real Dragon's skull above the throne?"
"It is!"
"Yeah, King Olaf One-Eyed had slain it."
"Really?"
"So, it's true." They all looked up at him to see Balgruuf approach their table. He was mainly interested in seeing Asbjorn. "You are here with the Legion."
Asbjorn looked and sighed. He leaned back in his chair.
"I am."
"You've grown since the last time I've seen you."
"Yeah, it's been a long time."
The rest of the group just stared at the sight.
"How is your mother?"
Asbjorn froze. Why was this happening right now?
"She's…she's fine."
"I see. Does your…father know you are here?"
A cold chill went up Asbjorn's spine.
"I apologize to make statements, but uh, I think you're mistaken, Jarl. Asbjorn doesn't have a father."
Balgruuf and Asbjorn exchanged looks.
"Right, I apologize. I must be thinking of someone else."
Asbjorn mouthed a 'thank you.'
"So, uh, Dragonsreach is pretty cool." Falx said looking around.
"Yes, well, I hope you all enjoy your feast. You have earned it." He walked away gesturing Asbjorn to follow.
"Look at Asbjorn going to high places," Falx said as they watched the two head upstairs.
Hjar leaned into whisper at the group.
"That is two Jarls who seem to know Asbjorn. This is not a coincidence."
"Shut up." Falx said.
"What? You do not think it's strange?"
"Maybe his mother had some relation with the Jarls. It's not entirely impossible." Rexus suggested.
"Yeah, but didn't he leave when he was super young? How would anyone recognize him?"
"I don't know, Hjar. How about giving that mouth a break."
Hjar leaned back, offended. He continued to drink his mead, muttering to himself.
Meanwhile, upstairs, Asbjorn and Balgruuf were talking.
"Rumors had spread, saying that you had died in a terrible accident."
"Not sure who started that one…" Asbjorn said with a groan.
"Does no one know who you are?"
"Sir, I plan to keep it that way for as long as I can. There is already a soldier who believes I'm a spy. I think he overheard me talking with Lady Elisif. They spoke about it some, and I think he was eavesdropping."
"I see. And you don't want the others to know because they'll consider you a sympathizer?"
Asbjorn nodded slowly. He looked down and sighed.
"I'm sure you heard about Helgen?"
"I heard it was destroyed…by a dragon nonetheless. What about it?"
Asbjorn looked back up.
"I was there. It was a mess and a long story. I was traveling through the Rift on my way to Eastmarch. I was caught in an ambush by the Legion and Stormcloaks. I was knocked out and woke up on my way to Helgen in a carriage. They had thought I was one of them."
Asbjorn sighed.
"Among them, was my father. Certain events had happened and now, here we are."
"That's wild." Balgruuf offered him some mead but he refused.
"Suit yourself," he drank a bit and then looked at Asbjorn. "So, are you going to march on Windhelm with the Legion?"
"If and when the time comes, yes. I'm hoping I can change his mind before it's too late. I have already confronted him in Windhelm after the incident in Helgen. Things were…heated."
"This must be hard for you, boy."
Asbjorn looked down, "Harder than I even thought it would be. He may have different views and opinions. I don't understand it myself. I will not hesitate to kill him if I must, but my mother taught me that murder is not the answer."
"My boy," Asbjorn looked back up, "You have courage and wisdom. You're mother has taught you well. Ulfric really has never been a friend. But he is your father." Asbjorn turned away.
"Was. He has not been one to me for a long time. I wear the name still, as a reminder. If things don't end well, I will be the next of kin."
"Are you-?"
"If it is allowed, I will challenge him to step down and off the throne."
"You're smart, you'll figure it out. But this really isn't time to experiment."
He put his hand on his shoulders.
"I'll pray for you. Tonight, all you need to worry about is having a good time. The war is not yet over. I hope the outcome is what you hope it to be."
"Thanks sir." Asbjorn turned around and headed downstairs.
"Hey, what did the Jarl want?" Falx asked. Asbjorn turned to him.
"He just wanted to talk, that's all." He sat down.
"Damn kid, any other things we should know about you?" Rexus asked as a joke.
Asbjorn sighed, "I'll tell you all about it, just not right now."
"Oh, so there's more?" Falx asked. Asbjorn shook his head and started to eat some food.
"So, anyway…I wonder what our next mission will be." Zion said.
"Who knows," Falx said. He looked up at the group, "We'll probably help take another hold."
"Damn look at her over there." Falx said, pointing at a young woman.
"No, you don't wanna, she's a Gray-Mane."
"So?" Falx said as he stood up.
"The Gray-Manes fully support Ulfric."
"Oh," Falx sat back down. "But she's so attractive."
"Damnit Falx. Think with your brain!"
"I do, but sometimes something else just wants to think for me, you know?"
"Just shut up and eat." They laughed.
Everyone had a good a time. Before they knew it was pushing into the twilight hours of the night and into the morning.
The group headed towards the Bannered Mare.
"Damn, I love the soldier life!" Falx exclaimed as Zion and Rexus were trying to hold him up.
"Yeah, the free mead is great and all but damn you are heavy!"
"Funny, I feel light."
They laughed as they staggered up the stairs.
"Woo! Let's party some more!" Falx shouted.
"Ok, calm down. The city is sleeping and you're being loud."
"Then why are you talking?"
"Just be quiet."
A few days later, all the soldiers were sitting waiting for their next set of orders.
Falx groaned.
"I'm itching for something new. The wait is killing me."
"We'll get new orders soon." Rexus reassured him.
They were sitting around in the Bannered Mare, their temporary home.
Hjar and Siddan were patrolling the city, so Asbjorn was relieved that he had a moment of peace.
The courier had entered for his daily run.
"I have a letter for you." He approached Asbjorn at his table. He took out the letter from his satchel and handed it over.
"Thank you, sir." Asbjorn said as he took it from his hands.
"You're welcome! Have a good day." The courier continued making his deliveries.
Asbjorn's face lit up as he read the letter.
'My dear Asbjorn,
A dragon! By the nine, I'm so happy to hear that you're alive. News travels fast and I heard that the Legion had caught Ulfric. Lucky bastard got away, I heard. Nonetheless, I'm glad you're ok.
And I'm glad you went to see Elisif, but was it safe for you to confront her? Just promise me you'll be cautious. Speaking of which, I shall respond to her letter when I'm done with yours.
I miss you so much, Asbjorn. Every day since you left, it doesn't get easier. But as long as your letters continue, I'll know you're safe.
And make sure to drink plenty of water if you are drinking mead! And eat regularly.
Also, I am sending you some gold, in case you need it. Please don't spend it all on mead. And keep your eyes out. The Thalmor are still dangerous for you! Please, PLEASE, stay clear of them.
I'll be praying for you and the other soldiers. You make me so proud every day!
I look forward to more letters. For now, it's good bye until you write me again.
Stay safe,
Love your mother'
He smiled. He had to make a mental note to write back the next chance he got.
"There's a friendly face." He looked up to familiar voice.
"What brings you here?" He asked the Dunmer.
Annallee smiled.
"I'm delivering some produce."
"From Rorikstead?"
She laughed.
"You see, our land is very fertile. Our crops thrive, and are the best in Skyrim. Most markets in Whiterun are asking for our produce."
"Oh."
"I was hoping to catch up with you again. I have something for you." She took out a cloth that was used to wrap something. She revealed a tart. "I made this for you."
He blushed.
"For me?"
She nodded and smiled.
"This is the best way that I could thank you for everything."
"You didn't have to…"
She nodded.
"I know but, I wanted to."
He smiled back and took it from her.
"Thanks."
The two stood in awkward silence.
Zion then entered the tavern. He approached Asbjorn slowly.
"Sorry to interrupt but Legate Cipius has new orders for us. It's urgent."
Asbjorn nodded and turned back to Annallee.
"I have to go but, I look forward to seeing you again sometime."
She nodded.
"See you around, Asbjorn." She started to walk away but stopped. She turned back around and kissed him on the cheek. "Good luck." She turned around and left.
Asbjorn stood there in shock. He shook his head and grabbed his gear. He didn't have time for these distractions. He followed the other soldiers out.
"Who was that?" Falx asked.
"She's a farmer from Rorikstead. I uh…I met her while we were there. She's here delivering produce."
"I saw that look," Rexus grinned. Asbjorn turned away with his cheeks turning pink. "I knew it! You like her."
"Come on, let's just go." He said walking ahead of everyone else.
They entered Dragonsreach and followed the stairs to meet with Cipius. They all formed in line formation, watching Cipius pace back and forth.
"First, I wanna say welcome back, Siddan."
Siddan nodded in response, ready to receive his order.
Cipius cleared his throat and opened the map on the table so everyone could see.
"You're heading to the Rift."
"The Rift sir?"
"Yes, the Rift. We're taking it." He looked up at the soldiers, "Head to our camp near Ivarstead. Rikke will meet you there and give more detailed orders."
"Yes, sir!"
"Good, now get on it! She expects to see you within a days time!"
They all nodded and headed out.
Once again, Hjar stayed behind. He approached Cipius.
"Sir, about Asbjorn…"
"Keep an eye on him. The Rift is Stormcloak territory. There will be plenty of opportunity for him to slip away and be in contact. I've sent word to Legate Rikke. If he is a spy, he'll be taken down."
Hjar nodded.
"Yes, sir!"
He turned to exit the palace.
All the soldiers were already approaching the stables. Hjar ran to catch up with them. He noticed Asbjorn was ahead of everyone else.
"Guys, hold up!" He called to them.
Zion rolled his eyes, having a gut feeling something about Asbjorn was coming up.
"What is it now?" He asked.
"While we are in the Rift, we have to keep an eye on Asbjorn to make sure he doesn't slip away. There's a lot of opportunity to have contact with Stormcloaks."
"Will you let it go?" Zion asked. Hjar stepped back.
"Just wait and see."
Hjar brushed by him and headed towards the horses.
Zion sighed and trekked onward with the others.
"What if, Hjar is right?" Falx asked.
Zion turned around.
"What if he's not?"
Falx looked down and then over Zion's shoulder.
"Think about it, he has been acting strange. He's been avoiding conversation about his past."
"So? It's taking him awhile to open up. Perhaps he's been through something traumatic…that can really screw up a person."
"And besides, why'd he help defend Whiterun? He could have easily fought alongside the Stormcloaks." Rexus jumped in. Zion nodded.
"Although…"
"What?"
"He did allow a few soldiers to get away…one of them I think was the one who confronted him in Eastmarch."
"Are you sure he let them go or was he in a complex scenario?"
Zion shook his head.
"You're right. He's not a spy."
"You guys coming?" Asbjorn asked calling back to them.
"Yeah." Zion answered as he mounted his horse. He looked back at Falx. "He's not a spy."
The group was silent as they road from Whiterun to Ivarstead.
"How about a song?" Rexus asked breaking the silence.
Zion glared at him.
"If you even think about singing Ragnar the Red, I'll knock you off your horse."
"Fine…"
The air grew cold as they approached the passage leading through the mountains. Then it started snowing.
"Should have worn some fur." Falx said shivering.
Asbjorn turned to him.
"Do we need to stop and set a fire for you to regain your heat?" He joked.
"Very funny."
"Well, I don't know why you choose not to prepare for the weather. We're in Skyrim." Rexus said.
"Here," Asbjorn stopped and turned to reach into his bag. He pulled out his spare fur cloak, "You can have this." He tossed it at Falx.
"Thanks." Falx said as he caught it.
"No problem, now let's keep going."
The snow came down harder and got harder to see.
"Damn it. Should we continue? Or should we wait until it clears up?"
"I say we wait," Rexus said. He turned to the others. "We don't know what we could be heading into."
"True, there could be bandits in the fog or something else."
"We should continue."
"That's also a good point. We're to meet Legate Rikke quickly." Siddan said.
Asbjorn nodded and turned to the rest of the group.
"If you want to wait it out, go right ahead, but it's not going to help." He turned and started heading towards the fog.
"Keep your wits about you." Zion said.
"This would be a perfect spot for an ambush."
"In the fog? How could anyone else see us in the fog?"
"What if they have a clear shot of us?"
"We're fine." Asbjorn said as he continued ahead of the group.
Hjar ran up ahead and blocked the others from moving forward.
Zion rolled his eyes.
"Don't. If you're going to say it one more time, I will knock you off."
"Just hear me out. Even he turns out not to be spy, he definitely knows people on the other side, especially someone important in this whole thing. He knows the man himself."
"Zion, what if he's not lying?" Falx asked. Zion turned to him.
"We all may know someone on the opposing side. It wouldn't matter who the person is. Be it a soldier, a captain," he turned to Hjar, "Or Ulfric himself."
"Don't you see anything wrong with that?"
"We're making the exception for Asbjorn, but not for everyone else? I know a lot of people, family even on the other side. Don't you think it's hard for me?" He looked back at the rest of them, "It's hard on all of us. Don't pretend it's not."
Rexus came forward, "Zion's right, give the kid a break. We're not entirely sure of what's going on with him, but I can be damn sure he's fighting on our side."
Rexus and Zion moved around Hjar and charged ahead.
Hjar turned to Falx and Siddan.
"They're fools." He then turned to catch up.
Asbjorn was waiting at the end of the passage.
"Why were you stalled?"
"It just Hjar with his damn idiocy again." Zion said.
Asbjorn looked down and then he looked back up.
"You don't, believe him. Do you?"
Rexus shook his head.
"No way. We know you're not a spy. We've got your back!"
Asbjorn nodded.
"Come on, let's get going. The others are dragging behind. We'll have to meet them there." Zion said as they trekked on.
They approached the Imperial camp, being greeted by other soldiers.
The captain in charged of the camp stepped forward.
"I'm Captain Avenas. I'm in charge of the Camp while Legate Rikke is away. Please state your names…"
"I'm Zion."
"Ah, yes. I've heard that you'd be leading this group. Good to know a good soldier is taking the lead. Next?"
"Asbjorn."
"Rexus."
Avenas looked around.
"There should be three more, where are they?"
Zion sighed and was about to speak up until they came trotting through on their horses.
"We're here!" Hjar yelled as they approached.
"Names."
"Hjar."
"Siddan."
"Falx."
They all dismounted their horses.
"I've heard about your heroics in Whiterun. You did well. I think you are just what we need for this mission. Now," he turned around and sighed.
"You'll be undercover." He stopped and turned his gaze back, "There's a rumor that the Jarl's steward is doing shady business with the Thieves Guild. See if you can get her to cooperate."
They nodded.
"Yes, sir."
"Now, get moving. Report anything you see or hear to Rikke when she returns."
They nodded and disbanded for Riften.
…
End of Chapter