-And I'm back with the next 'part' of Whiterun preparing for invasion; this is all going exciting for me too, so hope you enjoy! -
An hour or so later Dragonsreach was filled with more people than before. Proventus had successfully summoned the more significant figures of Whiterun, and all of them were now in attendance here in the main hall. The tables on both sides of the central fire were more than large enough to accommodate their numbers; no extra chairs were even needed from other rooms.
There were very few times that the greater council of Whiterun was ever assembled here in Dragonsreach. Most occasions only ever extended to trivial monetary issues of late, while including the more dire situations relating to calamities. Whatever the reasoning, if it was deemed of the highest importance, these figures would be the first to hear of it from Jarl Balgruuf personally all at once.
The man himself sat on his throne, with Proventus standing on his right side and Irileth and Hrongar on his left; the latter two electing to not bother sitting down. Looking downwards towards the great hall, the two large tables held someone sitting in all ten chairs around them.
On the table to his right, stretching all the way towards the end furthest from him, he could see the Gray-Mane patriarch Vignar, the Companions' Harbinger Kodlak White-Mane, and the priestess Danica Pure-Spring. The fourth chair down was still empty, his court wizard having yet arrived, but the last one was occupied by that newcomer mage to his city; Illia, if he remembered correctly.
On the table to his left, the man sitting closest to his position was the Battle-Born patriarch Olfrid. Balgruuf was painfully aware of the borderline hostilities between the families of two of the oldest clans in Whiterun, to the point where even the two patriarchs in the same room together was risky enough. It was thus practically a requirement that he have the two on opposite tables, farthest away from each other. There was also the owner of Chillfurrow Farm Nazeem, the commander of the guard Caius, then Lydia, and finally the Dragonborn, sitting at the head at the far end.
"Are we quite ready to begin, Jarl Balgruuf?" Praefect Turelus beside him asked. A glance to his side showed him that the Imperial had also pulled forth one of the large maps of the province of Skyrim, placed on a vertical stand. Various points on the map were marked and indicated by markers of red and blue.
"I would prefer it if everyone were in attendance first," Balgruuf spoke, a mild amount of frustration lacing his voice. A glance on the right side table showed that one of the chairs was still vacant. Where was Farengar?
"Apologies, Jarl Balgruuf!" the voice of the mage in question called out. He could be seen emerging from his study area on the left side and calmly making his way towards the tables, "I'd only just finished my work."
"Very well, take a seat then," the Jarl commanded.
Farengar Secret-Fire made his way around the ends of the two tables. He rounded the head of the right side table and seated himself on the open chair, next to Illia. The Imperial herself eyed him rather curiously, noting the robes the man wore to be quite peculiar.
"You... are you a mage here?" she found herself asking as he took his seat. Her question caused the man to glance in her direction.
"Hm? What's this, a fellow student of the craft?" he said, "I've not seen you before; been to Whiterun?"
"Um, no, I'd been travelling with Lydia and Siffre over there," she gave a quick point towards the two warriors on the opposite end table.
"I am in fact Whiterun's court wizard, yes; Farengar Secret-Fire," the man said. Upon hearing this Illia's eyes nearly widened and she nearly broke out in a huge grin. For the first time in a long time she was in the presence of a fellow mage; of course, in a much different sense than during her time with her witch-sisters and Sylvia. This also felt different from when she met Dravynea as well; that Dunmer was more of a kindly local mage that she'd met out in the wilderness. This time however, she was now before an actual mage that was recognized by a high authority figure like the Jarl of this land!
"I-I um... I'm honored!" she managed to speak while stammering, "I haven't really met that many other mages before! Or, none like you, I guess."
"Is that so?" Farengar said, "Hm, I had you figured for a mage as well, judging from your robes. You've by chance come from the College?"
"The... College?" Illia asked.
"Of course, the College of Winterhold?" the court wizard said, "The most efficient place for a mage to hone their craft and their skill of the mind."
"Um, no, I never have. I don't think I'd ever even heard of such a place," Illia said. Thinking back, not even anything Sylvia had ever mentioned referenced anything of this sort. There was an actual place for mages like her to study magic and Sylvia never even knew about it? Or, had she known and simply not bothered to tell her...?
"They'd accept most mages, provided they had the determination and aptitude," the Nord continued. By now Illia found herself completely enamored by why she was hearing. She just had to learn more about this place!
Over at the opposing table Lydia sat at her end, patiently waiting for the meeting to begin in full. The major figures that comprised of Whiterun's council had already assembled, and now was time to finally get this underway. As she waited however, she couldn't help but notice from across on the other side, Illia apparently was striking up a conversation with Farengar Secret-Fire, the latter who had just taken his own seat. She couldn't hear exactly what was being said, but Lydia couldn't recall before seeing such a grin on the Imperial's face before in the time that she'd known her.
"Hey, Lydia," Siffre suddenly spoke up next to her, "Do you see Illia over there talking to Farengar?"
"I do actually, I just noticed that," she replied.
"Wonder what they're talking about...?" the Dragonborn asked, a mirror to her own thoughts.
"Right then, now that everyone is in attendance, we can finally begin!" the voice of Jarl Balgruuf suddenly announced. All heads turned to focus attentively upon the Jarl, as well as the Imperial soldier standing next to him.
"An Imperial soldier? Here, in Whiterun?" the Gray-Mane patriarch said, his voice laced with skepticism and even disappointment, "What exactly is going on here, Balgruuf?"
"Vignar Gray-Mane, citizens of Whiterun's council," Balgruuf addressed all at once, "You have all been summoned here under the direst of circumstances. Within recent days, we have received information that would suggest attack on our very city."
"What do you mean? One of those dragons I'd heard about?" Nazeem spoke up.
"No, not from dragons; from Jarl Ulfric's Stormcloak army," Balgruuf replied. His response was met with sounds of worry and concern from the assembled citizens.
"Silence, everyone! Let the Jarl speak!" Irileth announced, effectively silencing the chatter.
"We have two forms of evidence to confirm this," Balgruuf continued, "The first being the esteemed guest here, Praefect Turelus from Solitude." The Jarl turned to the Imperial to regard him, wordlessly allowing him to proceed.
"Thank you, Jarl Balgruuf," the man said, "Our own scouts have it on good authority to suggest heavy troop mobilization within the eastern-most Holds of Skyrim, specifically the Rift, Winterhold, as well as Eastmarch itself." He raised his hand to indicate to each one of the Holds on the map beside him, "The Stormcloaks have not been moving far out of these respective Holds, but the heavy amassing of troops themselves suggest they might be gearing up to do just that." Once more a round of murmurs could be heard through the gathered people assembled.
"The Sons and Daughters of Skyrim..." Vignar Gray-Man muttered under his breath, just out of earshot of everyone else.
"If you look closely at these locations..." Turelus continued. Using a single finger he pointed to three locations within the aforementioned Holds, "Throughout the province of Skyrim are a number of old forts dotting the land. They're old and rundown, yet are still sturdy, strong, and even defensible positions. It would seem the Stormcloaks themselves have figured this out as well and are in fact using them as bases of operations within their Holds. In fact, just recently..." He pointed his finger to a location within the Rift Hold, "They've captured this one here: Fort Greenwall, located within the Rift. Doing so has granted them greater mobility within this Hold and has secured a stronger foothold in the name of the rebels' cause."
"Why, that's simply preposterous!" Olfrid Battle-Born suddenly called out, "What actual proof is that? How can we be sure that it's an 'invasion' those barbarians are actually-?"
"I would've thought that would be plenty evidence, Olfrid," Balgruuf said, "However, there is the other form of evidence provided here. That being our very own Thane of Whiterun: the Dragonborn Siffre."
All at once, everyone's focus and attention was shifted directly to the Nord in question. Siffre immediately felt all eyes upon her, and at the same time grew steadily more self-conscious at the sudden focus change. Slowly and steadily, she raised herself out of her chair to stand up.
"I, well, I um..." she started. It was only after she muttered her words that she was aware that she was speaking softly; a far cry from her previous method of speaking to avoid the strength of her Voice suddenly presenting itself. Whether it was on purpose or not that she spoke this way, she did not know. To be honest, being the center of attention was at times still a completely new feeling for her, especially with the gazes of so many unfamiliar people regarding her.
As well as Lydia.
Siffre noticed that Lydia was staring at her as well. A quick glance to the side and at the table across showed her that Illia was doing the same. This was different somehow; two people who she had come to recognized as her own friends were staring at her as well. This feeling didn't fill her with as much anxiety as before; in fact, it was almost a reassuring feeling. They were here now, just as they had been in the past. Them being here now was plenty support that she'd need.
Siffre took a quick breath to compose herself, then slowly stood up from her chair.
"Everyone..." she spoke, deliberately controlling the strength and volume of her voice, "Myself and Lydia... as well as Illia there," she gave a quick point of her finger towards the Imperial in question, "We had in fact been in Windhelm just yesterday. It was there that we actually did speak with Jarl Ulfric Stormcloak." The crowd of seated people broke out into heavy murmurs again.
"You... you actually spoke to that blood-thirsty brute?" Olfrid Battle-Born said.
"I did. Or actually, 'we' did," Siffre gave a quick glance towards both Lydia and Illia to indicate her point, "He was... well, he felt very passionate about what he believed in... In fact, there were even times were I... I 'almost' sympathized with him, and what he thought..." To her side, Lydia watched her Thane recount her experience with a focused look. While she was completely privy to everything she had been saying, this almost felt like the first time it was being discussed in this way.
"He had even... he'd even offered me, to fight for him, as one of his Stormcloaks," Siffre added. This remark sent waves of comments through the gathered people once more.
"And what did you, the Dragonborn, say to such an offer made by that traitor?" Hrongar spoke up. His stance was leaning in ever so slightly, almost expecting to hear a certain response.
"Well... I refused then," Siffre replied, "It just didn't feel right, involving myself in something political like that."
"Hear hear!" Olfrid suddenly exclaimed. This earned him a number of looks from his peers around him, yet his demeanor didn't seemed intimidated in the slightest. He maintained that grin of victory and satisfaction on his face.
"So, having denied Ulfric's offer like that, he so easily allowed you to simply walk away from him?" Vignar Gray-Man spoke up. His arms were crossed over his chest and the look on his face was stern, almost disappointed; a sharp contrast to the Battle-Born patriarch.
"He did," Siffre nodded, "Of course, soon after was when he'd said that... thing, to Lydia. What was it again...?" The Dragonborn glanced over to Lydia. The focus of attention was effectively shifted with that simple question, and all eyes were drawn to her this time.
Seeing fit to follow her Thane's example, Lydia too slowly stood up from her chair to stand up.
"Whiterun council... what he'd said to me was first asking Jarl Balgruuf's stance on the war, if he had one," Lydia began, "And when I told him, at least what I'd thought it to be from what I knew, Jarl Ulfric told me how 'indecisions tend to be more costly than losses'." As opposed to before, a wave of almost unanimous silence fell over the gathered people. From each one of the faces that she could see, almost every one of them held a varying look of surprise upon their face, especially the Nords of the group.
"So... he actually is serious, is he?" Olfrid said, the tone he spoke with mirroring the seriousness of how Balgruuf himself had spoken earlier, "I see... then, this changes everything!"
"I'm sorry, but what exactly is so 'revealing' about this?" Nazeem said, "Simply that Jarl Ulfric said a few words-?"
"Fool! Ulfric spoke similar words at several points during the Great War!" Olfrid exclaimed, "But the stranger thing is that every time he did, calamities always seemed to follow..." The Battle-Born patriarch patted his hands down once on the table before looking back over towards the Jarl, "My Jarl, I was skeptical of your claims at first, but now, consider my position changed."
"It gladdens me to hear that, Olfrid," Jarl Balgruuf said before turning to address the rest of the attendees, "In fact, this very well extends to each and every one of you. The time has come for your loyalties to Whiterun be made clear and known here and now. The Stormcloaks plan to attack and even take this city by force. But make no mistake, they will fail."
There were no rounds of chatter following his declaration this time. Rather, each person was at one with their own sense of awareness to the situation. All eyes were on the Jarl, listening intently to the words he spoke.
"In light of this, I want two major things to take priority," he said, "Firstly is to have every able bodied man and woman who can fight to defend this city stand and do so, and secondly to have the civilians kept in safety and out of harm's way."
"My Jarl, I would be more than willing to organize the city's guard on that first count," Irileth spoke up, "Myself and Commander Caius would lead those coordination efforts of rallying the defenders as well as getting the townspeople to safety. Perhaps... they could take shelter in the temple?" Her question at the end coupled with her turning her attention to the present priestess, Danica Pure-Spring.
"To be sure, my lord, and housecarl, the Temple to Kynareth was not built to house many people, much less an entire city's worth of unarmed civilians," Danica said, "Nevertheless, we would do what we can with what we have."
"Very good, Irleth; I'll count on the both of you all for that," Balgruuf said with a nod, "And you have my gratitude, Danica, for your help on that count as well. Are there any objections to my ruling?"
"Lord Balgruuf, if I may," an unfamiliar voice spoke up. Kodlak White-Mane's voice could be heard for the first time since the meeting had even started, which nearly caught most of the attendants off-guard, "As I am sure you are well aware, the Companions are never one to be involved in politics or political maneuvers. Regardless of the severity of this invasion you're describing, it still remains just that: a political power struggle."
"Your ideologies are not lost on me, Kodlak White-Mane," Balgruuf said, "But need I remind you that the Stormcloaks mean to attack Whiterun, and presumably everyone within, indiscriminately. If your Companions are able to make stands and swing blades, their arms must be counted towards defending this city."
The two men locked eyes with each other, focused stare meeting focused stare. It was as if one side were just daring the other to give way to the other's viewpoint. From the point of view of many others however, it was as if a wolf and a bear were in deadlock with each other. Both of these Nords commanded great deals of respect in various circles and even to some extent respected each other. There was a moment however of a feeling these two might end up coming to blows verbally.
After a handful of seconds, Kodlak spoke again.
"Then... might I suggest a compromise?" he said, "Simply allow the Companions to defend the whole of Jorrvaskr exclusively? For as you know, it is still as much a part of Whiterun as the city itself." His request was met with a stern look from Balgruuf. The Jarl however did not immediately retort with any sort of protest; instead opting to take a quick breath of air.
"Hmph, very well, White-Mane, you have my approval on that course of action," he said, "I still expect you and your Companions to do your duty to the fullest." Kodlak White-Mane gave a simple nod in affirmation.
"And finally, one of the remaining issues to be addressed are the Imperial soldiers that General Tullius has graciously dispatched to aid this city's defense," he glanced back to the Praefect beside him, "Though I am still hesitant to allow them free reign in my city's walls."
"It's perfectly understandable, Jarl Balgruuf. As a matter of fact, the soldiers might not even need to be stationed within your walls." He turned away and back towards the large Skyrim map while pointing a finger at a single location, "As was mentioned before with Holds having a noteworthy fort, we happen to notice this fort within the Hold of Whiterun, simply called 'Fort Greymoor'. It is located a couple of miles northwest of the city."
"Yes, that old, dilapidated fort has gone unexplored and uninhabited for nearly thirty winters," Balgruuf said, "What exactly are you suggesting?"
"Dilapidated, yes, but as with other such forts in Skyrim, it possesses strong, sturdy walls; this makes it an excellent staging area for troops," Turelus explained, "With your permission of course, the Legion could garrison the troops that General Tullius extended to you exclusively within this fort. Doing so would not only grant range to allow defense of Whiterun city, but it would also afford us to defend the neighboring town of Rorikstead to the west and Riverwood to the south."
"Hm, the defense of my city is paramount, but I do appreciate your concern for the lesser cities of my Hold as well," Balgruuf said, "Alright, permission for that is also granted."
"Thank you, Jarl Balgruuf," Turelus said, "You also need not worry about fees and expenses for securing and maintaining the fort; the Legion will be fully prepared cover the costs for you."
"You Imperials are damn efficient, I'll give you that..." Balgruuf said with a single nod. He turned his head back out towards the general direction of the gathered attendees once more, "Now then, if there are no more questions, comments, or concerns?"
"My Lord, just to clarify here," Olfrid Battle-Born spoke up, "With the actions you are taking, we are to assume you have confirmed your allegiance to the Empire completely?" Jarl Balgruuf paused in hesitation for a moment, putting his hand to his chin in thought. After a few seconds, he spoke again.
"I admit, it is a surreal time for such a decision to have to be made," he said, "However, we must remember that it was Ulfric who has forced this upon us. He means to attack and pillage my city, but he will not succeed. I suppose you could say his very actions have reminded me of my- no, any true Nord's true allegiance: with the Empire. We need the Empire just as much as it needs us."
"Hmph, a weak and crumbling Empire, more like," Vignar spoke. His voice could be easily heard by everyone around, as if he were not even bothering to keep his voice lowered, "This is really the course of action you're choosing, Balgruuf? Siding with the same Empire that had forsaken mighty Talos?"
"Jarl's court or not, I would kindly ask you to show respect when speaking of the Empire in the presence of an Imperial soldier," Praefect Turelus took a single step forward, his eyes leveled at the elder Nord.
"Really, Vignar, you're not even being subtle about it, are you?" Olfrid spoke up, his chastising tone carrying over from across the room from the table on his end, "Your sympathies for the Stormcloaks have always clouded your judgement of what's right, haven't they?"
"Better to be loyal to the rightful rulers of Skyrim than mere Imperial bootlickers," Vignar shot back with a sneer.
"Enough! All of you!" Jarl Balgruuf exclaimed with hands outstretched. The bickering was effectively silenced, and all eyes were turned back unto him. He took a quick breath before continuing, "I'll not say it again, Vignar: Talos worship is forbidden. It is the Empire's law, and we are still a part of the Empire."
"A law made at the tip of an Aldmeri sword, aye," Vignar countered, "A sword stained red with Nord blood. Is this what our people fought and died for? To forsake our most beloved ancestor and divine?"
"Neither I nor anyone else is happier about this than you are," Balgruuf said, "But I have no desire to see the Thalmor dragging people from their homes, never to be seen again."
"So, your loyalties lie with the Thalmor, then?"
A cold, chilling silence fell upon the group, punctuated with a couple of light gasps. Eyes were drawn the Gray-Mane patriarch in disbelief. Everyone knew that he had frankly been outspoken and critical about the Empire in recent years, and even butted heads with people like Olfrid, but never had it been taken to such an extreme as this before.
Lydia too stared at the older man, nearly shocked at what she was hearing. What was this man implying, really? The words he was saying, and the way they were leveled at Jarl Balgruuf in this manner, they were borderline treasonous! It made her feel... a deep feeling of something boiling within her very being.
Before she could even think to say a single word however, the voice of Irileth spoke first,
"You tread on dangerous ground, Gray-Mane; you WILL respect your Jarl in his court, and before me." Just like the Imperial she took a single step in the direction of the where the elder Nord sat. Her hand was planted squarely on the hilt of her sword to accent how serious she was, as if the stern look on her face wasn't enough.
Vignar Gray-Mane however did not seem the least bit fazed by Irileth's pose. In fact, from what Lydia could see with the distance she was from him, he actually seemed to scoff at the notion! His arms were crossed squarely across his chest.
"Your 'threats' mean nothing to me, Dunmer, not with all that I endured from your kind during the Great War, so you may stow 'em," he said, "As for you, Balgruuf, you are either a Nord who respects the traditions of our homeland, or you are not." At this point he rose out of his chair and pointed a finger in his direction, "If not, know that it isn't me that you or all others like you would answer to, but to the real sons and daughters of Skyrim."
Lydia burst up from her chair, hands planted squarely upon the tabletop. Her eyes remained leveled at the man, the anger from before continuing to boil further and further. This wasn't right; no one, absolutely NO ONE, would talk to her Jarl that way!
Her sudden action drew the attention of a couple of the attendees in surprise. In fact, even Vignar himself glanced in her direction as well. Their eyes locked for a moment. Even from this distance across the room it felt as if the two were even closer in proximity to each other. Lydia could feel herself giving him her harshest, angriest stare she possibly could muster. What she herself could see was Vignar returning her look that appeared somewhat softened compared to when he looked at the Jarl. In fact, it almost as if he was looking at her with... admiration? Just what was he thinking?
"I would give you this reminder one last time, Vignar Gray-Mane: do your duty to your city."
Lydia's gaze broke from Vignar and brought it back up to Jarl Balgruuf. She could see the look on his face. She frowned as she studied it from a distance; he didn't appear to be as angry as she was from his words. In fact, he appeared to look much more somber. As if he were apologetic about something, in contrast to the words he had just said. His arms were even relaxed at his side, hardly in any aggressive stance that Vignar, or even she herself had been posed in. Unbelievable, how had he managed to take that verbal lashing just now and remain so calm?
"Vignar..." Kodlak's voice could be heard spoken softly. The man next to him had placed a single hand on the side of Vignar's arm, ushering him to sit back down. Albeit reluctantly, the Gray-Mane patriarch took his seat again. Lydia even found herself following that example and taking her seat again as well.
"Lydia..." Siffre's voice whispered next to her. She turned to see her thane looking at her with concern, "You alright?"
"Um... I think so... yeah," Lydia said silently with a sigh. The heated anger she was feeling earlier was present but was beginning to simmer down slightly.
"As a matter of fact, that applies to all present in this room," Balgruuf continued to announce to the attendees, "Each and every one of you has a duty to perform. That duty will be upheld to the best of your ability, lest lives be lost unnecessarily. With that, go forth, and prepare for battle! This meeting is adjourned."
The sound of chairs scraping the floor filled the air as the entire mass stood up this time. Most of the attendees then proceeded to exit Dragonsreach, including Vignar Gray-Mane. A few others remained within to consult with Jarl Balgruuf and his immediate advisors. There was no denying for anyone the thick and heavy tension that had been present in this room was lifting ever so slightly as more people departed the building.
Illia caught sight of both Vignar and Kodlak walking around and past her as they left. She couldn't hear what they were saying, if anything at all, but from what she'd seen just now she likely didn't want to know. It was probably best if she avoid him, given how much he seemed to 'sympathize' with those Stormcloaks.
"Are meetings in this city and this place usually... well, like this?" she found herself asking aloud. She glanced to her side to see that Farengar Secret-Fire was still present.
"If you ask me, it seems this damnable conflict has misguided everyone's passions as of late," he said, "Me? I'd more so prefer my books, and my spells."
"Even with everything that's going on? Or with what all is going to happen soon?" Illia tilted her head and asked.
"As long as I am left to pursue and continue my work and research, it matters not to me who gives the orders," Farengar said with a shrug, "Politics are too good for mages like us anyway, especially compared to the grander things of this world..."
'Grander things of this world?' Illia thought to herself. For some odd reason, at the mention of that comment in particular, Illia found herself thinking back to specifically the dragon; or rather the 'dragons'. Never in her life had she ever seen a dragon before, never in her life had she seen 'two' dragons before, and never in her life had she ever both fought and was wounded by a dragon in battle before! She had experienced that giant beast up close and personal! Honestly, next to something like that, how could something as ordinary as Stormcloaks compare, especially when it came to occurrences of a fantastical nature?
She looked back at the Nord mage again, studying him. She was reminded once more that she was not only in the presence of a fellow mage, but apparently as did come with the role of a 'court wizard', this man had some degree of spells and incantations befitting a close advisor of a Jarl! Perhaps... perhaps she could learn something from the likes of him.
"You know, I've seen some of the 'grander things' of this world firsthand," she spoke up, "But to be honest, it feels like I could've done much better in light of facing them. I guess what I'm trying to say here is... do you think you could help me? From one mage to another?"
"Hm? Mage to mage?" Farengar said, to which Illia nodded, "You're requesting further mastery of the arcane arts?"
"I am! I'm skilled with ice spells like basic Frostbite, producing Ice Spikes, and even summoning Frost Atronachs. Though those do tend to appear a little on the smaller side." The words practically spilled forth from Illia's mouth as she shared what she knew. Truthfully, it filled her with the slightest bit of excitement to do so before a fellow spellcaster. For the first time, or at least since she had met Dravynea yesterday, she felt like she was in the presence of someone who was actually similar to her.
"Ice mage, eh?" Farengar said, "Suppose I've always been partial to fire spells myself. In fact, why don't you come along with me? I might have something for you after all..." He motioned with his hand for her to follow as he proceeded to walk around the table head and towards the room on the opposing side.
"Huh? W-wait!" Illia hastily jogged to keep up with him. The two made their way across the room and past the court's attendees that were still present.
"Jarl Balgruuf? Myself and Irileth will begin prepping the town's soldiers to prepare for battle and defense of the city. Were there any other specific instructions for us?" Commander Caius said.
"Nothing else, just make sure they're good and ready. The very fate of this city lies in all your hands," Balgruuf said, "And the civilians, Irileth; make sure non-combatants and anyone who can't swing a blade is kept safe."
"It will be done, my lord," Irileth crossed a fist over her chest. With that the two proceeded to turn around and make their way to the exit.
"And once all that is done, I want the both of you out there, aiding the guardsmen in their defense as well!" Irileth could be heard making a sound in reply, whatever it was, as a confirmation. The two then made their way outside, leaving the rest of the attendees within.
"Brother, you wouldn't intend to keep me cooped up here behind walls while the fight takes place out there, do you?" Hrongar spoke up. His comment earned him a quick look from Balgruuf, followed by a sharp sigh.
"Hrongar," he said, placing hand on the Nord's shoulder, "The Great War was once already, I need not risk losing you a second time..."
"Balgruuf, you know that I'm no mere man; I'm a weapon, wielded by your hands, directed at your enemy," Hrongar simply replied, "Besides, it's you who is more important here. You must live to serve your city, your Hold... and also, your children..." Balgruuf's lips pursed visibly in response, specifically to that last addition. With one more firm pat on his brother's shoulder, he withdrew his hand and stepped away.
"Make sure you survive this as well; just as I'll need my brother, my children will need their uncle too..." Hrongar placed a fist over his chest with Balgruuf doing the same, and the former proceeded towards the main door as well.
"Now then, Praefect Turelus; there was the matter of the topic to discuss with you before you departed as well," Balgruuf turned to the Imperial soldier.
"What is it, my Jarl?" the man asked.
"In light of the 'selfless' service you and your legion are performing in securing an old fort in my Hold, I think it only fitting that I send one of my own along with you. Someone of Whiterun to represent my authority," Balgruuf then glanced in Lydia's direction, "And seeing how Irileth's efforts are assigned to the welfare of my people in the city, I can in fact count on my other faithful housecarl to fulfill that role?"
The question was off-handedly aimed in Lydia's direction, yet it might as well have been directed to her completely. The female Nord perked up initially from being recognized, then realized what exactly was being asked of her. She would be serving and protecting her Jarl, yet outside the walls of Whiterun itself? In some old, rundown fort miles from here? While also in the presence of official Imperial soldiers rather than Whiterun guardsmen?
Before she could think to open her mouth to question, she glanced to her own side to see Siffre looking back at her as well. She was reminded of a point her thane had mentioned earlier upon arriving back in Whiterun again: her unease at being in the presence of Imperial soldiers. If that were the case and if Siffre herself were sent to the fort instead... Her unease melted away into sympathy and understanding for her thane's small plight. It wasn't ideal, but perhaps for this instance, she could make do to obey this command.
"It... it will be done, my Jarl," Lydia pressed a fist over her chest as well. Jarl Balgruuf nodded once at this action.
"Very good, then you'll be accompanying the Praefect here to Fort Greymoor and acting my will amongst the Imperials there," he said, "You'll be speaking with my authority when you get there; my words are your words, understand?"
"Perfectly."
"Good. Don't fail me." he said before turning to the Dragonborn, "As for you, Dragonborn, you'd better get down to the front gates and join up with the defense. And take that Imperial mage friend of yours with you, if you so choose."
"I will, Jarl Balgruuf," Siffre said with a nod of her own. At the indirect mention of Illia, she glanced out of the corner of her eye to see the Imperial mage emerging from the side room and approach them. She stepped away from the group, motioned for Illia to follow her, and the two made their way as well towards Dragonsreach's doors.
The main hall grew considerably quieter with more and more people departing. By now there only a few people remaining, the sound of the crackling fireplace behind them providing the most ambient noise for the room.
"Now, Praefect Turelus?" Jarl Balgruuf said, his tone noticeably softer this time as he spoke, "I'll send you and Lydia on your way soon, but first... I'd like to have a quick word with her, in private."
"Very well, my Jarl, I'll just wait over by the large doors myself..." the Imperial said before making his way towards the exit doors himself. After what felt like hours, the only occupants present in the grand hall of Dragonsreach were Balgruuf and Lydia. Jarl and Housecarl stood before each other, studying each other almost intently.
"Jarl Balgruuf? What was it you wanted to speak with me about?" Lydia spoke up. In spite of herself and the realization she had not seen her Jarl in so long she attempted to maintain her sense of professionalism.
"Lydia..." the Jarl spoke with a rather soft tone. His facial expressions even seemed to soften the more he looked at her. He advanced closer to her and placed a gentle hand upon the woman's shoulder, "Lydia, I suppose I never had a chance to ask you... How had you fared?"
"Huh? What do you mean?"
"You'd been gone this whole time," the man clarified, "Noble housecarl and guardian to the Dragonborn! Surely you'd experienced quite the adventure during that time; have you... have you been safe, and well?"
"Oh, well..." The placement of the question was almost completely out of nowhere for Lydia. In light of this massive development that she had only just learned mere hours ago upon returning to her home city, she had nearly forgotten the extent of why she had left in the first place. A brief moment to collect her thoughts, she spoke again, "I've performed my duties of housecarl to Thane Siffre to the best of my abilities. We travelled to Ivarstead, afterwards journeying out to various Holds such as the Rift and Eastmarch. It's been... it's been quite the test of my combat; both of ours, really."
"And, how has your sword been treating you?" Balgruuf pointed to the hilt of the weapon Lydia held at her waist. The woman glanced down at her side. She felt the need to mention to him how it was 'his' blade given to her, but she held her tongue. They had both had this discussion before days ago: this blade belonged to her, regardless of what reservations might suggest.
She reached down, took hold of the hilt and drew it forth from the sheath. She held the sword parallel to the ground before them so they both could gaze upon it.
"I've been handling it extremely well in fights so far," she said, "I've been taking care of it too; it was recently given a polish shine at a blacksmith's in Windhelm."
"Hm, I thought this blade held a little more shine since last I saw it," Balgruuf said with a nod. The woman then returned the blade back into its sheath. Looking back at her his face returned to its rather forlorn expression she had seen earlier, "Lydia... I had hoped that your return home would be a more peaceful reunion. No one could have anticipated everything that had happened, or what will happen..."
"My Jarl... Jarl Balgruuf," Lydia said, "No apologies are necessary, especially for you. This is all really happening, and I've been slowly coming to grips with that fact. Regardless, you can count on me completely to defend my city! I'll do whatever it takes!"
The older man kept his gaze on her for a handful of seconds after her declaration. Face to face with him again, Lydia could see his eyes up close. They still held that unyielding strength that she had come to recognize, but there was something else. Unless she was mistaken, it almost appeared there was a sort of vulnerability behind them as well. She had known him to always be a stern, firm, yet fair ruler, not one to let certain emotions control him, much less even be made known. Perhaps it wouldn't be the best look for a ruler of a city to break down and cry after all.
Just then, Balgruuf reached his hand up and gently placed it on her shoulder. This was quickly followed up with him pulling Lydia closer into an embrace. The quick action nearly caught the woman off-guard, and she was still caught off-guard as she realized her Jarl was hugging her! He rarely did this; in fact, he barely does this with his own children far as she knew! Lydia slowly raised her open hand
"Promise me, Lydia... Promise me that that you will survive," he soft-spoken voice heard directly next to her ear, "I have few precious people in my life these days... I don't want you to be among those lost."
"I promise..." Lydia spoke just as softly. Her tone carried just as much sincerity behind it as ever before.
Finally, after a few more seconds, the two broke apart the embrace.
"Then, you best be on your way then; don't want to keep the Praefect there waiting much longer," he said, slightly gesturing towards the Imperial at the door. Lydia spared a single glance towards the door, having been reminded of that fact as if it had been lost on her previously. With a nod and a salute of her fist over her chest, she stepped away and made her way to Dragonsreach's doors. As she moved she could hear the sound of the Jarl saying something behind her,
"Guards! With me! We must see to my children..."
Lydia cleared the steps and back onto the lower ground of the entry floor. Praefect Turelus could be seen standing patiently and attentively, waiting for her to arrive.
"Ready to go, housecarl? Then let's go."
The two stepped through Dragonsreach's doors, closing them behind them and stepping forth to the city.
Siffre once again made her way down the steps of Dragonsreach, Illia by her side. Her gaze was kept upon each step directly down and before her, and in the process she was allowed a clear view of the town below. She could see the distant shuffling of people, both civilians and guards alike. The yellow-garbed guardsmen directed most of the civilians towards a large temple off to the right side; that temple to Kynareth if Siffre had to guess.
Even with there being a sun rising in the sky, this entire setting was as stark a contrast from the last time she had walked down these steps in this manner. Previously when she had come down this way the sun was setting, the city appeared to be relatively calmer, and of course, she was still quiet and unspeaking...
How times had changed.
Things were different now, she had to admit. While they seemed to make a little more sense back then, but that didn't mean things don't make sense now. She was only now and at this time getting used to speaking on a regular basis. In addition she felt an extra weight of responsibility that came from her being Dragonborn. Could her past 'bandit self' have even comprehended what she was now if the two were to ever meet? Probably not.
She and Illia approached the lower section of the Wind District's ground level, where the sounds and commotion of the people could be heard with greater intensity. There was denying the urgency, the panic, the almost chaos that could be heard and seen from them. By contrast on the opposing side the two caught sight of the two men Vignar and Kodlak White-mane ascending up towards the Jorrvaskr building on the left side. Siffre and Illia stepped to the side around the Gildergreen's massive bark to allow the 'flow' of people to move smoother and not be caught up in them.
"No shoving! Single file, that's it!" one of the guardsmen could be heard directing the people to move as best he could. The sounds from the various people ranged from confusion to panic. The priestess Danica Pure-Spring could be seen at the temple's door, frantically ushering the civilians inside.
"So many people," Illia noted as she looked on, "Do you think an 'Arcadia' is among them?"
"Hm? Arcadia?" Siffre asked, "Who's that?"
"Um, she's an alchemist in this city, at least, what I was told," Illia replied. She then held out her hands to reveal what she had been holding onto and close to her this whole time, "Back at that place, Dragonsreach, the court wizard Farengar asked me to pass these Frost Salts onto the city's alchemist. Arcadia, he said her name was."
"Arcadia...?" Siffre said. She turned her head away and glanced towards the ever-flowing crowd of people. Not that it would do much good though; she herself wasn't too familiar with the people of this city and their names.
"If she's an alchemist... maybe she has a shop? She might still be there, unless she was among these people."
She motioned for Illia to follow her. The rushing of the crowd of people beside them wordlessly reminded them to put a spring in their own steps as well. Their sounds grew ever more faint as the two made their way down the next set of steps, beneath the stone and brick archway that served as a sort of partition.
Setting foot back down on solid ground again, the two women found themselves in the marketplace. The number of people were more sparce in comparison. A few people could be seen exiting from the nearby Bannered Mare Inn and rushing towards the steps they had come from.
"Out of my way! Move!" one of the civilians called out. A Breton with bushy sideburns emerged from one of the shops and rushed past them as well. His hasty movement served to draw Siffre's attention to the shop directly next to it.
"Illia, there," she pointed out, "'Arcadia's Cauldron'; that has to be it."
"Well, I guess I can hope she's still in there..." Illia said. She led the way as the two approached the door and made their way inside.
"GAH-! Who's there?!" a voice suddenly called out. Siffre and Illia nearly jumped in place at the sound. They turned their heads towards the source: a counter top inside of a small room, with various alchemical ingredients lining the top, and a woman's head seen just barely poking out from behind.
"Um, hello?" Illia said.
"Oh, sorry, you just surprised me..." the woman's voice said. She slowly stood up from behind the counter, her face fixed with nervousness and anxiety, "I honestly wasn't expecting anyone to come in here, and definitely not to shop either."
"Um, you must be Arcadia?" Illia asked.
"Yeah, that's me."
"Oh, well, the court wizard Farengar asked me to give these to you." The Imperial stepped forward and presented the Frost Salts to the woman. Arcadia reached over the countertop and took the salts in her hand, careful not to let the small stone container spill them over.
"Oh! I had nearly forgotten I'd asked for these! Thank you!" the merchant said with a smile. She turned around with the Frost Salts in hand and moved to place them on of the shelves behind her, moving rather hastily as well.
"Shouldn't you be... with everyone else? Taking shelter, in the temple?" Siffre asked, "Don't you know about the Stormcloaks coming...?"
"Those Stormcloaks can rot in Oblivion for all I care," Arcadia commented in between her movements, "I've lived in this city for twenty years! Twenty! No muscle-bound, foul-smelling Nord is about to force me out of my own shop, or even my own city!" In the midst of her movements she turned around to turn her attention to the alchemical ingredients on the countertop before her. She hastily grabbed item after item, shoving them down beneath the bottom shelves before her. She could also be heard mumbling under her breath, "Honestly, a proud citizen of the Empire too!
"Wait, you're an Imperial too, aren't you?" Illia suddenly said. Her comment caused Arcadia to briefly break her work flow and look back up at the mage.
"Yeah I am- oh wait, as are you," she commented before resuming her actions, "Well, nice to meet a fellow Imperial."
"Then... You really need to leave here," Illia spoke, a strange urgency in her tone being heard for the first time today, "Evacuate; go to the the temple with the others, where it's safe!"
"I already said I'm not going to be bullied by those brutes!" Arcadia argued, "I'll... fight them off, if I have to! I got a broom in the corner; I won't let them drive me out and take my own store away from me-!"
Whatever the Imperial merchant planned to say further was immediately cut off by a loud thudding sound. Hers and Siffre's eyes shot to Illia as the latter suddenly slammed her palms on the wooden countertop. The thud caused a number of the ingredients still sitting atop it to rattle ever so slightly, some of the larger mushrooms even rolling about in place.
"Listen to me!" she exclaimed, her eyes widened, "You can't just 'fight them off'! You're an alchemical merchant, and they're likely to have larger weapons like swords and hammers! What do you really think a broom is going to do against that?"
"I- you..." Arcadia stammered. Illia's sudden outburst and pounding on the countertop effectively broke her from her movements and was giving her full, undivided attention. She returned Illia's wide-eyed look with a look of shock of her own, "Who do you think you are? Telling me what to do regarding my own store? What would you even know of the Stormcloaks?"
"I know... I know plenty," Illia replied, her voice softer and calmer than before. She slowly pulled her hands off the counter and back down at her sides, "I was there, in the Hold of Eastmarch, and even in Windhelm. I've met them, face to face. Believe me, they barely seem to tolerate people like us..."
"You... met Stormcloaks?" A single, wordless nod was all Illia gave in response. She then shook her head and looked back at Arcadia.
"It's why you wouldn't be safe 'here', in a shop of all places if they were to come. They really don't appreciate anyone who isn't Nord..." A moment of silence fell between the three women. Arcadia opened her lips to say something, but immediately pursed them again. She then glanced over to Siffre, her eyes narrowing as she looked at something.
"And... you say they're armed with weapons? Like, yours...?" she directed her question towards the Dragonborn this time. Siffre instinctively glanced once towards the hilt of her great-sword from over her shoulder before looking back and nodding.
"Swords, axes, hammers... they had them," she replied. Arcadia's eyes lingered on the sword itself for a moment, and a sudden twitch could be seen with her hand. She slowly drew in a deep sigh before letting it out slowly.
"Alright... alright, I see your point. Both of you," she finally conceeded, "I'll... go to the temple, if you think it'll be safe."
"Good, good... thank you," Illia said, taking a breath to compose herself, "I-I'm sorry I got like that. You know, shouted at you."
"No-no it's alright, I guess I was just being so stubborn," Arcadia dismissed with a wave of her hand. With that she made her way around towards the countertop's exit and stepped out. She made her way towards the door leading outside when she suddenly stopped. Siffre and Illia watched her momentary hesitation as she then turned back towards them, "You know what? I-I think I should give you two something, for all this."
"What?" Siffre said, "You don't really need to..."
"Oh no, I insist," Arcadia said as she walked back towards her countertop of items, "You did help me see reason. Plus, I think getting me those Frost Salts also earns you a reward, doesn't it?" The Nord glanced to her side at Illia, where the two exchanged shrugs. They watched as Arcadia ducked in towards the entrance of the countertop without actually going inside completely. After a few seconds of further shuffling around within, she emerged again with two large potions in her hands.
"Here we are! A potion of health for you..." she handed the large pink flash to Siffre before turning to Illia, "And I'm guessing you're a mage so here's a potion of magicka for you."
"Potion of magicka?!" Illia breathed with eyes widened. She gazed upon the large flask in the Imperial's hand, almost afraid to take it herself, "You... I can really have it?"
"Of course! Please, take it," Arcadia urged. Illia finally took the flask in her hand. She could feel the jostling of fluids within, the sheer volume of what she felt positively astounding her. As she reached down to try and place the flask in her side pouch, she found that with the contents already within it would barely be able to fit within. The very top of the flash poked out of the flap of the bag.
"Thank you; I'll make good use of this," Siffre said, lowering her own flask to her side.
"Alright then you two, follow me out so I can at least lock the door behind me."
Siffre and Illia followed Arcadia as she led the way through and out the store's door. Once outside they stepped to the side to allow Arcadia to lock the door with a key she held on her person. Once the door was locked, she spun around in place.
"There, that should at least keep those Stormcloaks from messing up my shop 'too' badly..." she said as she pocketed her key, "I'll head off to the temple now; thanks again!"
Siffre and Illia gave polite nods to the Imperial as she walked away. The Imperial made her way up the ascending steps and to the Cloud District, leaving the two women alone once more. Looking around, aside from the faint sounds of guardsmen calling out, no one else could be seen in the general vicinity.
"Hey, Siffre?" Illia suddenly spoke up.
"Yes?" the Nord replied.
"I... well, I've been thinking. You remember how... How I didn't know if I wanted to stay and help, or leave?" Illia said, "I think... I think I know what I want to do."
"Hm? What is it?" Siffre tilted her head.
"I'm... I'm going to stay... and help." Illia's response came firmly and resolutely, yet her gaze remained upon the upper archway where Arcadia had retreated up towards.
"You are?" the Nord woman asked, "That's... that's great! I'm glad to hear that! I'm sure Lydia would be too!"
"To be honest, I'm not entirely sure why I was feeling so... indecisive before..." she gave a quick point up towards the stairs before glancing back to Siffre, "Maybe it took meeting some of the people here, like Arcadia, Farengar, even that Carlotta woman from earlier... I don't know, am I making sense?"
"I really don't think you need to explain; I already understand," Siffre said. She proceeded to gently place a hand on Illia's shoulder. The Imperial's face suddenly twisted in pain, and it was only then that the Nord realized she'd touched the wrong shoulder; Illia's burnt and bandage-wrapped shoulder and arm.
"Ooh-ouch!" Illia winced. Siffre quickly snapped her hand back and away.
"Sorry-sorry!" she hastily said. Small vibrations were felt through the air from the unchecked volume and intensity of Siffre's speech.
"It's fine, I'm fine..." Illia said in dismissal. Using her other arm, she gently rubbed the outer edges of her left arm.
"But wait- do you really think you can help, with that injury?" Siffre pointed out.
"Well, I'm certainly not looking forward to 'fighting' any Stormcloaks, but I'm fairly confident I can still cast my spells, even with this arm," Illia replied, "That reminds me though- I actually learned a new spell from Farengar earlier! I learned to cast balls of fire now!"
"Fireballs?" Siffre said, "That sounds handy."
"Indeed! I may be used to ice spells primarily, but I'm really eager to try this...!" Illia said, her lips stretching into a smile on her face.
It was then that a new sound drew the attention of the two. Looking back up at the archway they saw a new crowd of people begin to descend down the stone stairs. From the looks of it the majority of them were either yellow-garbed guardsmen or men and women with various arms. They reached the lower ground of the town square and proceeded to make their way towards the city's main gates. Many of them regarded the two with looks and nods, though mostly directed towards Siffre in particular.
"Here comes Lydia too," the Imperial pointed out. Sure enough, Lydia could be seen bringing up the rear of the group. She was accompanied by the Imperial soldier Praefect Turelus. As she drew closer to the two of them, they could see that her shield looked quite different from what they had seen before.
"My Thane. Illia," she said, slowing to a halt before them.
"Lydia... what's that shield...?" Siffre pointed out. The three women looked down at the shield held in the Nord's left hand as she held it up closer before them. No longer did she hold a regular steel shield like they'd seen, but rather this one was painted yellow with the symbol of Whiterun's horse on the face.
"Oh this; well, as I'm operating on behalf of the Jarl himself at that fort, this shield represents his authority through me," she explained, "I picked one up on the way down here."
"Hey Lydia, I've decided that I'm going to stay. Stay and help you and this city," Illia told the housecarl. The latter's eyes widened briefly, then quickly sported a grin of approval.
"Really? That's good to hear!" Lydia said, "I'm glad you could see reason."
"Thanks, I'll do whatever I can to help..."
"Then let's all get going then, huh?" Siffre directed their attention back down towards the main gate, where the armed crowd was still moving towards. With that the three proceeded to walk down there themselves.
The crowd of armed defenders soon came to a pause directly outside of the main gates. The group of the mix of yellow-garbed guardsmen and various armed men and women stood anxiously as if waiting for something. The chatter heard from most of them was a clear indicator of their unrest; all of them knew what was going on and what was yet to occur. Standing directly in front of the assembled group the trio of Irileth, Hrongar, and Commander Caius could be seen conversing amongst themselves.
"Well, I guess this is where I part ways with you," Lydia spoke up to the two of them. Siffre looked her housecarl in the eyes; for a moment it almost seemed surreal. She had gone nearly three days straight with Lydia accompanying her, but now she was about to be on her own. Granted Illia was still with her as to avoid her being 'completely' alone, but the point still stood. In a way it somehow didn't feel quite right splitting...
"You're... you'll be alright? You know, out there?" Siffre asked.
"It is true, I would prefer to be fighting for my city 'within' my city's walls, but..." Lydia turned to cast a quick glance in the Dunmer housecarl's direction, "I trust Irileth completely. I know she'll fight just as hard for her city... And I'm sure you'll do the same."
"Of course, Lydia; you can count on me." Siffre extended a hand to her housecarl. Lydia quickly took hold of her thane's hand in her own and gripped it in a tight handshake. The two held their grip for a moment even as they looked back up at each other's faces. A strange silence fell between them, coupled with exchanged facial expressions made.
It was then that Lydia quickly pulled Siffre's hand, and her body as well, and embraced her.
The action was sudden and nearly caught Siffre off guard. She eased up as she realized what had happened. Her housecarl was hugging her... This was, well, it was a strange feeling; not entirely unpleasant. When was the last time she'd received a hug? Much less given one herself. Certainly from no one in her gang in Bruma's outskirts.
And Lydia was so much different from 'them' too. Lydia was kind, considerate, brave, sometimes no-nonsense, and she was always putting a sense of duty first and foremost. She could very well say she'd enjoyed the very brief time she'd spent travelling with her than any single moment her life spent running with the previous gang. Lydia was... she was... a friend. A very good friend to her. Maybe more than she deserved, but still grateful she was here at all.
Siffre gently raised her arm up and returned her embrace. Her hand held against the other woman's back, holding her closer as if to leave a permanent imprint of the other woman against her.
Eventually the two separated. The two stepped away from each other, allowing them to look upon the still smiling face of the other woman.
Lydia then glanced to Illia, her smile remaining.
"Thank you again, Illia, for agreeing to stay and help," she said.
"Oh, sure. No problem," Illia said. With that, Lydia broke away and proceeded to make her way past the gathered crowed and towards the main gates.
Siffre and Illia continued to keep sight of her as she briefly stopped before Irileth. Just as before she extended a handshake to the Dunmer housecarl, though strangely there was no quick embrace between them as there was between her and Siffre. After a moment she turned and made her way towards and through the opened gates with the Imperial Praefect Turelus following directly after her.
"Alright everyone, listen up!" the voice of Commander Caius suddenly called out. The loud conversations among the crowd weakened ever so slightly as their attention was now being drawn to him, "You all know why you're here and what's at stake. We anticipate those Stormcloaks may arrive any time now, but the more time in between now and then, the better. We must take this time to set up our defenses; I want guardsmen setting up shifts in between patrolling the walls and assisting all others in constructing wooden barricades!"
"You heard your commander!" Irileth spoke out, "Let's all get to work! We have a city to keep!"
-As a sidenote did you know there was actual dialogue that was made between Balgruuf and Vignar Gray-mane that gave further insight into their opinions relating to the Empire and the Thalmor? Dialogue that was unfortunately cut from the final product of the game, but its transcript can actually be found on the wiki pages for both Balgruuf and Vignar in the conversations sections for both. I just found that interesting because there's clearly opinions raised between the two if the Dragonborn helps the Stormcloaks take Whiterun and oust Balgruuf where the two have 'choice words' for each other.
Updates are slow I know, but I'm trying to make them consistent as best I can. I still have a 'roadmap' of what's to happen and when so don't worry about that. Favorite, review, all that good stuff, and keep on reading! -
