Kuroinu Dawnbreaker - A light shining in darkness

by Jawisian

A week after Eostia's surrender to their Black Dog overlords, the Dragonborn from Tamriel receives a vision from the Divines—a desperate plea from its fallen High Queen, Celestine. While looking for her, Thorson will be forced to confront his troubled past and his own Dragonborn nature while trying to liberate and heal a corrupted kingdom that suffered from past Daedric influences.

10. A Dov's show of force (Part 1)

Kuroinu Dawnbreaker - A light shining in darkness: chapter 10 - A Dov's show of force (Part 1)

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Many centuries ago, during a time when the lands now known as Eostia consisted of seven individual countries, before the formal creation of the 'Shield Alliance', and when Celestine Lucross, the newly recorded 'Third Avatar of Laurentia' was just a mere figurehead of the 'Church', a religious organization within the 'Holy city of Ken'; a brutal conflict broke out around the human-led region that would plunge it into a seemingly endless war.

A 'Great War' where legions of demonic creatures, led by a powerful Dark Elf sorceress named Olga Discordia, would rapidly pillage many defenseless human communities within the southern regions of Serenus.

The self-crowed 'Black Queen' would publicly justify this war as her effort to safeguard her fellow Dark Elves against the expansionist human kingdoms who relentlessly harassed and displaced many elven communities in their quest for more land and resources.

As this conflict further escalated, the day came when a large human army under the banner of the seven kingdoms would meet Olga's legions in the north. An event that would be known as the 'Battle of the Seven Blades', one where both Celestine and Olga would, in a sense face each other on the battlefield.

A battle where the 'Reborn Goddess' would further earn the respect and devotion of many humans as Celestine used her unique ability of prescience and exceptional magical powers to protect large portions of the human soldiers present from the Dark Elf queen's Legion of monsters and her signature and potent 'Destruction' magic.

Many among the Serenian soldiers present would witness in awe as the Ancient High Elf's golden colored magic shielded them from the opposing projectiles, magic, and other large thrown objects while they advanced on Olga's forces.

Sensing a potential defeat in front of her, the 'Black Queen' and her forces were then forced to retreat towards the north where the Dark Elf's magic corrupted the lands near her dark stronghold, shielding her and her forces from potential invaders.

After successfully aiding the humans in that battle, the exceptional High Elf would have earned the admiration of hundreds of thousands of soldiers from all seven nations who witnessed Celestine's deeds on that battlefield that led them to victory.

Deeds that would ultimately spark a minor uprising within the seven nations whose inhabitants demanded their rulers to accept Celestine, the 'Third reincarnation of Laurentia' as their High-Queen, and to have her lead and guide all seven countries against Olga and her Legion.

However, many among the ruling class at the time feared for their position of power their families and dynasties held for centuries as many citizens within their realms began showing more favor for the newly recognized 'Avatar of Laurentia'.

With talk about Celestine's recent deeds further spreading across the seven lands, she would continue amassing an exceptional number of followers who longed for her to lead and defend them against the 'Black Queen' and her horde.

Realizing their current situation, It did not take long before the rulers of these seven nations, either out of respect or out of fear, would reluctantly become vassals under the 'Reborn Goddess' rule and judgement.

With this last obstacle out of the way, the High Elf would then formally form the nation of Eostia and the 'Shield Alliance', swearing upon its people that she would protect them against the demonic hordes.

Shortly after establishing her new nation, the first order from the newly crowned Celestine, or the 'White Queen' as some named the Ancient High Elf, was to construct additional defensive fortifications across the northern borders, and to further fortify the former capital cities against future attacks.

And while they had an already large army after the creation of the nation, Celestine and her court would also began recruiting more citizens as they expected Olga to return with an even larger force of demons in future battles.

But as the war continued, the 'Black Queen' would instead resort to smaller unit tactics to further spread chaos and destruction around the human nation, forcing Celestine to split her newly merged army to cover all fronts.

A physiological war would then also be waged by the Dark Elf queen as she ordered her demonic legions to kidnap and ravage countless innocent and defenseless young Eostian women who were in their path. All to further demoralize and humiliate their human adversaries and to tip the scales into their favor.

Upon hearing this grave development, Celestine immediately ordered the construction of large, expansive shelters within the fortress cities.

These shelters were designed to accommodate several villages' worth of people, in case Olga's demonic horde posed a threat to the nearby lands. And at the same time, Celestine and her court began the implementation of changes in their military doctrine to counter Olga's new tactics.

Thus, after many years of near constant battles, and with the help of Celestine's foresight, the newly formed nation of Eostia would somewhat manage to stabilize their current borders and halt Olga's further advance into the southern parts of Eostia.

But even with Celestine's ability to pick up future events, Olga and her forces would frequently launch direct surprise attacks on several fortress cities in the fast west, leaving behind a path of destruction. But each time, the 'Dark Queen' would be forced to retreat after taking too many losses or before the human reinforcements could surround the Dark Elf and her army.

And as the 'Great War' continued for many years until its sudden end today; Celestine's armies, while aided by an experienced mercenary company, managed to further reclaim lost territories in the north. This seemed to have marked a potential end to many centuries of war as Olga's forces were surely and slowly pushed further back north.

However, within her 'Black Citadel' within the 'Desolate Wastelands', the Dark Elven sorceress would not relent as she would then resort to using her vast magical knowledge to look for an alternate solution to reverse this development.

But since Olga couldn't get the needed support and resources from her demonic armies and several Dark Elven communities who supported her, the 'Black Queen' would then be forced to delve further into ancient knowledge to get the needed aid from outside this realm.

Similar to what her ancestors had done a few millennia ago before the fall of the mythical elven city of 'Myth-Etada'.

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On Eostia, shortly after the Dragonborn left the city to gather the much-needed supplies for the destitute elven refugees, small groups of Ken's civilian population of all ages entered the main square. Many of these citizens were still unsure about their current situation after all what happened today to their city.

The first among them who arrived at the scene first couldn't find the person responsible who freed their city from Vult's clutches, but they found three noticeable individuals in the middle of the city's main square. One of them, their fallen queen—seemed to discuss something with Alicia, Aurelian, and a couple of knights still loyal to her.

Unbeknownst to Celestine, she would have to face her past sooner than she liked, as the disgraced queen would be confronted by her subjects about her past actions.

Without the Dragonborn to defend her innocence from the storm of accusations, she would receive.

---

"That's good." Celestine said after hearing Aurelian's report about the fallen priest's capture. "Keep Freoud imprisoned until you can interrogate him. He may further provide us with information about Vult and those collaborating with him."

"Yes, your Highness. I will tell my men to keep him 'comfortable' until we can interrogate him." Aurelian saluted. "We will also question the populace; they may point us to any other collaborators within the city.".

Celestine looked at the Knight Sergeant. "That also sounds good. But first, focus on helping Ken's inhabitants. Their well-being is more important at this moment." She instructed, "For now, detain anyone whom you suspect of collaborating with Vult for future questioning."

Aurelian gave his queen another salute before he shifted his sights toward the large group of elves on the other side of Ken's main plaza.

"What about them, my Grace?" the knight asked Celestine, gesturing towards the High and Dark Elves who huddled around one of Thorson's mysterious fire elementals. "And where is Sir Thorson? I heard him shouting just a moment ago."

A blonde woman carrying a golden scabbard in her hands stepped next to Aurelian. "Yes, where did he go, Lady Celestine?" Alicia asked as she looked around for any trace of the Tamerelian.

"Has Her Grace returned to us?" Celestine then heard some of her people murmuring all around her as a large group of Ken's population gathered around her.

Some among them looked quite nervous. "What happens now?" An elderly woman asked aloud. "What will we do?"

Looking for answers, many of Ken's inhabitants looked towards the Ancient High Elf who looked quite different from what she used to be.

Gone was the once graceful queen, and its place they now saw an ordinary-looking High Elf who wore no jewelry of any kind. She also lacked her signature laurel crown above her long unkempt blonde hair, and instead of dressing up in her usual scantly, translucent, white dress, Celestine now wore simple robes like a commoner.

Others also noticed the same for the Arcturus heir who wore the same style of robes like Celestine instead of her usual knight wear while she held a gold-colored scabbard in her hands with a glowing sword within.

"Can we still trust her after everything that happened?" Celestine then heard from her left side, followed by similar questions that made the fallen queen realize her subjects still had their doubts about her.

Celestine, feeling the restlessness amongst her people, briefly touched Stendarr's shimmering amulet around her neck. For those present, It looked like she was praying before she straighten herself and looked at them.

"My dear children," Celestine began, addressing her subjects in a motherly manner, the same way she had always done in the past when she reassured her subjects during their 'Great War'. "For too long, I've suffered much during my captivity, both in spirit and body."

"Yea, right! We all saw what our so called 'Goddess' had done!" A few voices exclaimed before being silenced by those who still had some measure of fate in their goddess.

"Be quiet. Let her speak first." An elderly man shouted in response, silencing the hecklers.

Celestine took a breath before continuing. "I understand that some of you think I was responsible for what happened weeks ago, for surrendering to Vult. But I want to say that it wasn't my doing!"

"She's mad!" A few voices cried out while others looked towards the High Elf in a questioning manner, demanding her to explain further.

As Celestine heard many murmurs within the gathered crowd, the fallen queen again glanced at the shimmering amulet around her neck before turning towards her subjects.

"Now comes the hard part. I can only hope they can believe me."

"What happened several weeks ago, when Vult laid siege on this city…" Celestine paused for a moment, thinking the right words to describe the Daedric prince who brought her and the city much grief. "…a 'dark spirit' wearing man's clothing tricked and drugged me, causing me to lose control over my body and mind."

This news surprised many within the crowd. "What is this madness? What is she talking about?"

"A dark spirit tricked and drugged Her Majesty?" A few people in the crowd voiced their thoughts. "Who could do such a thing?"

"Lies, it must be! She's just telling nonsense to fool us!" Others responded more violently, not believing a word their disgraced queen had just said.

"Could this mysterious 'dark spirit' that Celestine spoke behind all of this?" A few of Celestine's more devoid worshippers spoke out. "Could Vult and his allies be in league with an evil god?"

Some could see this scenario happening. "Maybe that could explain his alliance with those demons."

Before continuing, tears began flowing from Celestine's eyes. "But the worst thing after all of that…" She continued, silencing the restless crowd. "…was seeing Vult forces destroying the society we had all built together; one that many have sacrificed for centuries, fighting for peace and for our future."

Sniffing slightly, Celestine placed her right hand on her heart, close to the glowing amulet hanging around her neck, "My heart bled for the young, innocent maidens who were kidnapped from their homes, pleading for mercy as they then suffered enslavement, abuse, and sexual torment."

Celestine paused her emotional plea for a minute to reflect, allowing herself to recover. "I can't stop now. I need to be brave, to see this through, for all their sake!"

"I also know that many among you are tired of fighting ever since our war against Olga. But I ask… No, I beg you all. Celestine pleaded to her people, "Let us all work together once more to ensure a future for our children and our loved ones, and to make sure that those past sacrifices meant something!"

Celestine then turned around, addressing the questioning looks the crowd gave her. "We all have to take arms again to free the rest of our nation, to free our friends and loved ones from the shackles of servitude that Vult and his horde have put on them.

"To ensure that our children won't grow up in this living nightmare." The fallen queen continued, ensuring to speak to everyone around her. "We are now their only hope."

Her heartfelt words seemed to have touched the souls of a good part of the Ken's people. Many of them also had lost family members during the war, giving their lives for the nation and for their future.

Another part of the population also witnessed from up close all the traumatic events that transpired within their household after Vult's takeover. All the threatening, extortions, depravity and kidnapping at the hands his mercenaries and their allies.

But even after all of this, there were still those among the public who scoffed at the fallen queen's words.

"And why should we believe that sob story from that whore?" A tanned-skinned man in front asked those around him. "You all think this so-called 'Dark Spirit' drugged her? Don't make me laugh!"

Other like-minded men soon joined the discussion. "Sounds like a convenient story to shift the blame away from her!"

"How can you be so sure?" Other more open-minded citizens questioned them. "And what should we do? Who can we trust, then?"

They wouldn't get their answer as the tan-colored man just crossed his arms with a smug smile. "I say, we appeal to Vult and offer him these cowards as a gift to earn his trust back. A bunch of traitors and a false god who led us for centuries."

"Are you mad?!" Several families rebuked in an instant. They were certainly not eager to have their loved one's experience the same horrors from these past weeks now that they were recently liberated. "Do you even know the suffering that brute and his men inflicted on our family?!"

The tanned man showed no sign of being fazed. "But one of 'us' will lead the nation. A human. A powerful man. Not a lowly elf with some magical abilities that pretends to be some god. One who fooled us all these centuries by dragging on the war! All to ensure she remained in power!"

Eostia's fallen High Queen couldn't believe the words she just heard. "Dragging on the war?! What?!" Celestine thoughts screamed after hearing such accusations from her own subjects. "I did all I could to protect Eostia and its people! To defeat Olga and her Legion as soon as possible to achieve peace!"

"Balsamy! Traitor!" More of Ken's people joined to protest, clearly not liking the young man's suggestion. "I always knew you hated women and were always critical of Celestine's rule! But what you suggest now is madness!"

"She's not worth our worship! Freoud and Vult were right about her after all!" Another young man within the crowd shouted, attempting to call out more like-minded support from the populace. "She and her whole 'Church' are all frauds!"

One man near the duo then pointed an accusing finger towards the blonde knight near Celestine. "And that Arcturus bitch betrayed her kingdom!" He shouted for everyone to hear. "I always knew Celestine and her so-called 'Shield Princess' cabal were all the same! Traitors to the people they are supposed to defend!"

Alicia fumed, her hand gripping Dawnbreaker's scabbard after hearing those last accusations thrown at her. "Lies! That's not true! I was tricked too by those animals! I just wanted to save…!" The young 'Shield Princess' cried out in defense, but her cries could not match the amount and volume of protests being hurled at her.

"We have all heard of your deeds! You betrayed your own people and the city you swore to protect!"

Aurelian had heard enough as he walked in front of Celestine and Alicia. "How dare you all disrespect your High Queen and her court after all they have done these years!" The loyal knight shouted at the restless crowd. "Freoud and those conspiring with Vult told you all lies these past days! Don't believe them!"

"Forget him and his so called 'Holy Knights' who follow those whores!" The tanned man at the front of the crowd shouted as he tried to garner more support from those around him. "We don't need the leadership of those weak women! We need a powerful leader like Vult to lead us to greatness! For a nation where women serve us men, not the other way around!"

His last words provoked a volatile reaction from the city's inhabitants. "Like hell we will! He's allied with those monsters!" Many within the crowd called out. "I won't let him and his thugs get their hands on my dearest children!"

"How could they?!" Celestine fumed after hearing such words from these young men who supported Vult. "After everything, the suffering, they still want to defend his barbaric actions?!"

"I can't believe that I hear this from your mouth Gel!" An older voice within the restless crowd shouted, one coming from an individual who seemed to have some influence within Ken's community.

"Your late mother would have been ashamed of what you just said. After she sacrificed herself to protect the nation." The newcomer continued before pausing. "And her family…"

The restless crowd ceased their protests and looked towards the source of voice, standing in front of the gathered crowd. It was Nostos, the city's blacksmith.

"Don't you dare mention her!" The young man named Gel rebuked in anger, "Father said that slut didn't die in the war but ran off with someone else!"

"And you believe your drunk father?" The smit shook his head as he walked towards the Black Dog sympathizer, "Of course you do. You always looked towards your father ever since you were just a boy."

Gel looked like he wanted to charge at the blacksmith after hearing those last words. But after recollecting himself, Gel suddenly switched the topic, one that seemed much closer to home for Nostos.

"Why defend that whore of a queen, old man? Arno and many innocent young men like him died today because of her." The young Black Dog supporter asked the blacksmith with a smirk.

The Gel's last statement seemed to have enraged several parents within the gathered crowd.

"How is this Celestine's fault?!"

"Innocent?! They were nothing but monsters who hurt our dear children!"

"Those brutes all deserve to die!"

"Monsters?! My boy was not a monster!" Several others cried out, trying to defend their lost one's honor.

They soon got their answer in the form of questions heading their way. "Then why did they join those thugs? How could you let this happen?!"

"Screw those weaklings!" Another young man shouted out loud, voicing his support for Gel. "He's right! Everything that happened is that false god's fault! We have been living a lie for centuries!"

Shortly thereafter, a growing number of young men with similar thoughts started openly expressing their dissatisfaction with Celestine and her court, while also solidifying their support for Vult and his future plans for the nation.

"How could they…" A saddened Celestine thought as she saw how a part of the city began shouting her, Alicia, and her knights down.

Gel crossed his arms smugly after hearing the support he received from all around him. "I knew Arno, old man. He always dreamed of joining Vult's organization for the good of us all."

"Stop talking about my son…" Nostos's low voice warned the young Eostian man. "You've never known him."

Gel kept smirking. "Oh, I have talked with him when we were drinking together." The young Black Dog sympathizer kept going. "He seemed quite dissatisfied with his parents, especially his mother, who didn't listen and kept complaining…"

The arrogant man's sentence was cut short when Nostos, furious, delivered a powerful haymaker that sent him sprawling onto his back.

This unexpected action rendered the crowd speechless, drawing their complete attention to the ongoing confrontation between both men.

"You degenerate prick!" Nostos yelled before grabbing Gel by the shoulder while his other hand clenched into a fist, threating to hit the man again. "Don't even dare to speak about my son and wife! You've never known the 'real' him!"

Celestine, shocked by what was happening in front of her, was about to intervene before she saw several armed young men emerging from the crowd.

"Leave Gel alone, old man!" Nostos heard a someone calling out from behind him, accompanied by several gasps from the crowd.

Nostos turned around and saw several young men approaching him, a few of them armed with long shivs, ready to strike him down.

"Vult is the only man we need. He would give us a future we all want!" One of his assailants exclaimed, quickly followed by his colleague. "Yea! We don't need the opinion of old farts like you!"

"No stop! No more violence!" Celestine cried out in desperation after seeing this latest development.

Alicia, meanwhile, fully focused and armed with Dawnbreaker, took a defensive position near the High Elf as she expected a fight to break out.

Simultaneously, Aurelian immediately began calling out to his men. "They are armed! Men, apprehend them!" The Eostian knight commanded the few knights present. "Quickly!"

This didn't seem to deter the young Black Dog sympathizers. "Everyone, this is our chance to rid ourselves of Celestine's tyranny and lies!" One of the armed men shouted.

"Tyranny?! 'Better' future?!" Celestine's mind cried out after hearing these men glorifying Vult and his recent 'accomplishments'.

"We won't be led by a weak and defenseless false god! We have grown weak under her so called 'care'!"

"After everything I've done for them; after everything I've done to safeguard the nation for centuries?!"

"Let's just kill that old fool and the rest who support that weak elf!" the Nostos' would-be assailant shouted. "It's time to embrace the future Vult promised us all!"

A now-riled up Celestine then saw the looks of despair several of her more devoid followers gave her, as if they were begging her to intervene; to do something.

"Someone stop this madness!" A few of her people cried out, fearing for an uprising within the city's walls.

"They are all counting on me, to guide them, to free their loved ones, to stop the suffering…"

The amulet Celestine wore then began to shine more brightly, as if the Divine of 'Compassion and Righteous Rule' heard her thoughts.

"No more!" Celestine clenched her fists. "No more innocent lives will get hurt by Vult's actions and those who support him! I have to stop them now!"

Meanwhile, the armed Black Dog supporters were now in striking range of the stunned blacksmith. "Join us men and let's take back control over our lives!" One of them shouted before his body suddenly hit the ground with a heavy thud before his limbs were bound in golden magic.

"Aie! What is this?!" A few of the attackers shouted in pain.

"Enough! You will not hurt him!" A female, authoritative voice answered them, stunning the crowd once again.

One by one, the rebelling men's bodies hit the ground by some an unknown force. "W-What is going on?!" One of the last assailants still standing exclaimed before being slammed hard towards the hard pavement below.

"I will not let this go unpunished!" Ken's citizens then heard Celestine's commanding voice, followed by a slight gust that blew around the large square. "You will not hurt this city and its inhabitants again!"

Everyone, including the smith, then turned towards their High Queen who held both her arms out, her body glowing a golden color while her long blonde hair flowed freely in the wind.

"Your poisoning of my people's minds with your lies stops now!" Celestine's loud voice boomed over the crowd who were in awe at the sight of their queen's golden magic. "And I won't be lenient nor merciful anymore!"

Ken's population looked towards their fallen queen with a mixture of awe, reverence, and a measure of fear as her loud voice reached their ears.

Alicia also seemed stunned by the elf's display of power. "Lady Celestine…" She whispered in awe as she saw how a now-assertive Celestine used her magical abilities in such a way.

"I won't abandon my people now that they are suffering!" The glowing elf continued her declaration. "I'll fight together with the 'Son of Auriel' to free Eostia from Vult's influence!"

"Son of Auriel?" Some among the astounded crowded asked themselves, wondering what their queen meant by that.

---

On the other side of the square, Inigo, the Serenian elves and Durnehviir watched on as they saw the glowing form of Eostia's fallen queen using her magics to restrain several humans.

Inigo whistled at the sight. "I can feel my whiskers twitching from all over here. She sure looks quite powerful."

Near the Khajiit, some among the High Elves seemed to look towards Celestine in awe while most of the Dark Elves looked indifferent; until they heard a conversation between two High Elves.

"Did I hear her say, 'Son of Auriel' ?" One of the High elven women asked out loud, recognizing the name from earlier conversation they had with the Dragonborn who saved them.

"Didn't Sire Thorson mention that Auriel is some kind deity of time, and that some of his homeland even viewed him as his 'son'?"

"I think so. By why did Celestine say that?" One replied while staring at the glowing form of Celestine. "What does she really know?"

Inigo also overheard their conversation and just smiled whilst shaking his head. "I know my friend has a lot of titles, but I've never heard some refer him as that." He stated for everyone near him to hear.

Durnehviir meanwhile kept looking at Celestine, paying no mind to what those near him discussed, as he had his own thoughts on the matter.

---

Meanwhile, Celestine looked towards her loyal knights. "Knight Aurelian, apprehend and imprison them! We will pass judgement on them at a later date! For now, they won't trouble others again!"

"Yes, Your grace!" Aurelian acknowledged eagerly after what he had just witnessed.

"Men, restrain and disarm those fools!" Celestine's knight sergeant instructed before turning towards a few other of his men. "Call for the others to come here!"

Swiftly, six of Celestine's knights had little trouble disarming and restraining the magically bound men, including a bleeding Gel.

Everyone then heard Celestine letting out a weak groan as she suddenly dispelled her magical hold on the instigators. And Alicia, who was nearby, saw Celestine panting while having some trouble standing on her feet.

"L-Lady Celestine!" The blonde knight exclaimed as she quickly moved to support the High Queen under left shoulder. "Are you alright?"

"Y-Yes, I'm fine…" Celestine said after letting out a deep breath. "I just haven't recovered my full strength…"

A few paces away, Nostos looked towards the now-fatigued elf who had just saved him. Even after everything he and the other citizens of the city had accused her off; even in her weakened state, Celestine still acted in the best interest of her people.

"Don't worry, Your Grace." Aurelian reassured after bounding one of the assailant's, "Me and my men have this under control now."

"Take them away." Alicia repeated Celestine's instructions. "Lock those fools away."

"You heard the lady; drag those idiots to their cell!" Aurelian instructed his men as they escorted the now-bounded Black Dog sympathizers towards the city's dungeons.

"Be sure to throw away the key!" A few citizens then shouted out. "Don't be soft on those traitors!"

"You won't get away with this!" Some of the restrained men shouted while being dragged away. "Vult will return to free us all!"

This only left the restrained Gel whose face was bloodied by the smith's previous punch.

"What about him?" Aurelian asked Celestine, pointing towards a downed, bloodied man next to him. Despite not being a direct threat to the blacksmith, the young man still showed public support for Vult and his endeavors.

"Do your worst! You don't scare me!" Gel shouted in defiance before looking towards the blacksmith. "You disgrace your son's memory and those that were killed today by not joining us! You could have had everything! You could have had a better woman than that sick witch of yours!"

Before Celestine or Aurelian could respond to Gel's last awful and disgraceful words, Nostos shifted his attention to the restrained young man he'd recently downed. He looked like he wanted to punch the young man again, but managed to keep himself restrained.

"You know nothing. Boy." Ken's blacksmith said in Gel's face, emphasizing the word 'boy.' "You've had never known sacrifice, loyalty and compassion. And you haven't known the real man who was my son!"

The Eostian man then took and deep breath before looking back at the surrounding crowd. "Arno, my son, the one I used to know, would have never indulged himself in the suffering of others…" Nostos stated before looking down in shame. "Until 'they' came into our lives a year ago."

Several families who recently lost their son in the Dragonborn's recent attack silently agreed with the smith, as some had personally seen the slow transformation of their own loved ones by Vult's influence.

"I should have intervened sooner when he began idolizing those mercenary low-lives; when they began poisoning his mind with future promises of grandeur and indulgent."

The Eostian smith then raised his head, his eyes now filled with tears. "Then two weeks ago, I lost the son I knew after he hit his bedridden mother in an argument just after he joined Vult's cause."

Ken's blacksmith then turned to his right. "Where he began tormenting and assaulting young innocent women within this city."

Then to his left. "Some who he'd even been childhood friends with."

Some parents, who's son's also recently joined Vult's group, looked down in shame after hearing the blacksmith's words. And seemingly sensing their shame, Nostos looked straight at the affected families within the crowd, "A story many among you also experienced, but are afraid to admit."

After seeing their sorrowful expressions, Nostos in turn let out another heavy breath.

"I know. I did the same thing before my eyes were opened on this day." The smith admitted, referring to the moment Thorson confronted him and several other angry, grieving families a few hours ago.

"But the truth is…" The blacksmith said before closing his eyes and clenching his fists, "…we were fooled from the beginning. It just took some time for me to realize…"

After wiping away his tears, Nostos then looked straight at the crowd again.

"Now I know whom to blame for losing our loved ones." He said before turning towards Alicia and Celestine, who now just managed to stand on her own.

All eyes were now fixated on the blacksmith, as if his opinion mattered to the population. Some expected him to blame Celestine and Alicia for their leadership for hiring Vult and his mercenaries a year ago, but that was not the case.

"And it's not her Highness and the entire Alliance's leadership…" Nostos concluded. "They are not responsible for starting and dragging the 'Great War' out like some claimed."

Nostos then turned around towards the crowd whom he had his full attention. "And they are not responsible for what Vult and his thugs had brought with them, the brainwashing of our sons, the countless violations and enslavement of our people!"

Nostos paused to catch his breath before continuing. "I won't forgive him and his thugs for what they have done! I'll resist and fight to make sure others won't suffer the same fate! To make up for my error's!"

"Wishful thinking…" Gel, who was still restrained, said after spitting out the blood that came from his mouth. "You were so against Celestine's rule and in favor of hiring Vult's mercenaries during the war, and now you chicken out?"

Gel's then felt more pressure on his shoulder-blades as he was forcibly pushed down. "You be quiet, let the adults talk now," One of Aurelian's knights restraining him said in a spiteful tone.

Nostos sighed upon hearing Gel's words. "A mistake many of us now regret… That I regret…" The blacksmith admitted with a heavy heart. "I should have never believed a word coming from that drunk priest…"

But before Nostos could finish his sentence, something unusual happened at Ken's main plaza near the gathered crowd.

"L-Look! What is that glow?!" An anxious-looking man exclaimed, pointing towards an empty spot where the Dragonborn once conjured a portal a while ago.

A visibly relieved Celestine saw this as a sign of the Dragonborn's return to Serenus. "Thank the 'Ancients', he has returned…"

After a new white portal formed, the Eostians saw a couple of now-clothed elves emerging, each carrying several crates with them. And behind the elven group, they then saw a tall, familiar figure emerging from the white portal, carrying a large wooden crate with the help of a strange cat-like humanoid.

"Is that person with Sir Thorson some kind of 'cat-man'?" One of Aurelian's knights near her then asked out loud, a question on most Eostians' minds after seeing the strange dark-furred humanoid helping their liberator.

One individual among the Serenians however showed no surprise when noticing the 'strange cat-man' with Thorson.

"A Khajiit… It has been so long ever since I saw one." Celestine commented out loud, earning her a questioning look from both Aurelian and Alicia near her.

Although many on Serenus knew of the existence of various 'beast races' within the continent, those still primarily looked human, with only several unique features, like animal-like ears or even a tail. But the Khajiit from Tamriel, with its dark blue and purple fur, seemed alien and almost like a feral demon to the people of Serenus.

The gathered Eostians then saw their liberator turning his attention towards them, his expression now one of clear displeasure.

"Is he angry with us? Why?" Some concerned citizens asked out loud while others began feeling intimidated, knowing that their liberator effortlessly killed every one of Vult's men and demons within their city.

Celestine, after hearing her people's concern, began walking towards the tall Nord, knowing all too well what was bothering the Dragonborn. Even now, the Ancient High Elf recognized that she still bore some responsibility for the recent inactivity of her people when it came to the elven refugees.

"Lady Celestine? What are you doing?" Aurelian asked but received no response from the High Elf as she neared the tall Nord.

Ken's population then watched on as Man and Elf stopped and faced each other, seemingly waiting to see who would speak first.

---

Shortly after his arrival in this new land, Inigo helped the elves by distributing the supplies his Dragonborn friend donated. And it looked like these just arrived on time as Thorson's two summoned fire Atronach's disappeared minutes after his arrival. After this, those who were adept with magic would then keep their fellow elves warm with their own fire magics.

At the same time, several of the now-clothed elves began shielding their fellow elves from human onlookers as they dressed up in the clothing they were given.

Others meanwhile familiarized themselves with several foreign weapons and staves their savior offered, wondering of what materials they were made of or what magic fuel's its magical enchantments, while another group helped themselves with the fresh food they were given, some even offering their magic to help cook and prepare their fellow elves' food.

Meanwhile, Thorson's Khajiit companion was busy answering several questions some among the elves had, like his connection to the man who saved them, his 'strange' appearance, and about his race.

"Hehe, better don't get too close to me. Unless you want the fleas I carry." An awkward-looking Inigo laughed as several elves were looking at the Khajiit's dark-furred, scarred face from up close.

Durnehviir who stood guard near the elven group, looked towards the Dovahkiin with interest as he stood in front of Celestine.

Moments ago, the undead dragon would have intervened when he saw the growing unrest amongst the group of humans, but the blonde High Elf had managed to bring some order to her underlings; impressing him somewhat by the magnitude behind her magics.

---

As the Dragonborn stared at Celestine with an expression of clear displeasure, he heard grunts of pain coming from his left where saw the blacksmith he met before, standing next to a restrained man whose face appeared bloodied.

"What happened here?" Thorson asked Nostos, wondering if there was some physical altercation when he was on Tamriel.

"Gel here tried to convince all of us to follow and accept Vult and his new regime," Nostos informed the Nord with a tone that showed his disappointment for the bloodied young man, "and to kill or imprison those who resist."

This surprised Thorson. "You're serious?" He asked, his tone ranging from anger to shock as he glared at the restrained man. "He preferred Vult's rule?"

"Yes, and a few of his buddies then tried to start an uprising," One of Celestine's knight's restraining Gel added before looking towards his goddess, "before Her Grace stopped them."

Thorson briefly looked towards Celestine, just noticing the visible signs of fatigue and wondering what had happened during his brief absence.

The Nord then turned towards the blacksmith. "Even with all the suffering and everything that transpired. It all meant nothing to him and the others?" An astounded Thorson asked Nostos.

"They still believe the lies and promises of…" Nostos tried to answer before being interrupted.

"I'm here you know! Why not ask me, you monster!" Gel interrupted Nostos as he felt ignored.

Gel was then met by Thorson's piercing glare, unnerving the young man who now felt as if he was being watched by a vicious predator.

"Monster?" Thorson asked the young man in a low voice. "That's rich, coming from someone like you who has no compassion nor consideration for others."

Nostos, in the meantime would continue answering Thorson's previous question. "He, like many young men in the city, was tempted by Vult' words and promises when they were still fighting for the Alliance." He said before shaking his head in disappointment.

"So much that they really believed that people like Vult are heroes and that the female population, including Eostia's leadership, are nothing mere objects for servitude."

Meanwhile, a now-furious Gel seemed more focused on the Dragonborn's mere presence instead the smith's words.

"Y-You should have never come here!" Gel shouted towards Thorson. "You are nothing but a bloodthirsty monster! You killed my father, turned him into dust!"

Before Thorson could ask Gel what kind of man his father was, he got his answer anyway from several angry sounding citizens.

"Your bastard of a father deserved that fate after what he did to us!" The Dragonborn heard a female voice, followed by several others agreeing with her. "Good! He was a thug like the rest of them!"

Hearing this, Dragonborn's gray eyes pierced Gel's blue ones.

"And what about the actions of your father and your so-called Black Dog 'friends'?" A now-irked Thorson asked the young Black Dog supporter. "The harm they have done to others? The kidnapping and enslavement of many of the city's inhabitants?"

Gel remained defiant, further aggravating the Nord. "Those women were weak and afraid, only fit for servitude!"

"Is that your justification for everything?!" Thorson shouted out his question in anger before walking towards the restrained Eostian. "Do you have any idea of the pain and suffering they caused?!"

Gel again wouldn't give the Nord a proper answer. "Celestine's rule made us all weak these past centuries! That whore still needed Vult and his mercenaries to end the war!" The Black Dog sympathizer shouted with conviction. "Vult promised us a future where we get what we deserve! A way out of worshipping that 'false god' and being subservient under her all-female court; those who made us men weak and fearful!"

In his anger, Gel then tried to break free before glaring towards Aurelian and the two Eostians restraining him. "Like these fools. You and these cowardly traitors should have followed Vult! He did us men all a service! "

"Bah, you are one to talk." A disappointed Aurelian standing next to him said in return, "You, your older brother and your father always preferred a life of indulgent instead of helping the nation during the war."

"Yes, you and your entire family are the real cowards and traitors." The knight restraining Gal couldn't help but to further rub it in. "All except for your mother, who died bravely for our nation. For us all, and for your sake. But you always seem to forget that fact…"

Both men's rebuttal seemed to have further enraged the Black Dog sympathizer. "You dare?! Just wait until Vult comes back to reclaim what is his from you weaklings! You better be afraid of what is to come!" Gel shouted in return.

"You think you know fear?" Everyone around the Dragonborn heard him ask the now-enraged Gel. "Do you?"

"What are you asking?! I'm not afraid of you and the whores you all protect! You will all tremble before …!" A defiant Gel shouted before his ears registered heard a loud, booming voice, followed by a loud sound of wind.

"FAAS!"

Thorson's unexpected shout engulfed Gel in a red wave of magical energy, shocking many nearby.

It did not take long before everyone present witnessed how the stranger's strange and mystical sounding voice had affected the young Black Dog sympathizer.

"W-What…?" A now uncertain Gel said before he began the shout's effects.

First, Gel's bloodied face began producing more sweat before panting heavily, as if his primal instincts kicked in at the sight of the tall, imposing figure towering over him.

With panic settling in, the tanned, blonde man started screaming. "N-No! Get away from me!" Gel cried out as he tried to escape from his current restraint. "Help me! Someone save me!"

After hearing and seeing Gel's panicked state, Thorson kneeled in front of the Black Dog sympathizer, his face unreadable. Those present were also stunned by what they just witnessed, including Celestine who watched the Thu'um effects with a measurement of wonder.

"You feel that? That is genuine fear." The Nord said before raising his voice. "The same many young Eostian women within these lands experienced daily! When they begged for mercy; unable to escape! Now imagine that every day!"

"No! Stay away from me! Help me!" A panicked Gel kept screaming, struggling to escape from the stranger and those who restrained him as fear fully controlled his mind and body. "Someone kill that monster!"

The Nord man then scoffed as the young Eostian man then began wetting himself in his pants before fainting and losing consciousness on the spot.

"Good riddance." Alicia thought while having a faint grin on her face after seeing the Black Dog sympathizer mind broken before collapsing. "They all deserve the same experience before their deaths!"

Celestine first looked troubled by what she had witnessed; how the Thorson's voice with no effort broke the young man's mind. But after everything she was forced to experience these past weeks, a part of her wouldn't feel any sympathy for Gel and men like him. Not after everything he and those like him said today about her and her court.

"And that wasn't the full extent of that shout's power." A Nord said to himself whilst turning towards the surrounding crowd. "But I think I've made my point, right?"

Sensing some hesitation from the city's inhabitants, the Nord narrowed his eyes before pointing towards an unconscious Gel.

"Unless anyone else has similar opinions like him? If so, feel free to say your piece for us all to hear." The Dragonborn challenged the crowd, trying to coax out more potential dissidents. But he only received silence from the city's inhabitants. No one dared to challenge the Dragonborn's words, either out of agreement, shame, or genuine fear of the stranger's powers.

"Aurelian…?" Thorson then turned towards the stunned knight who witnessed the whole deed.

"Y-Yes, Sir Thorson?" He replied while attempting to compose himself.

The Nord just gave the Eostian a sideways nod, as if asking the knight to handle things from here.

The veteran knight seemed to understand the Nord's body language as he turned towards his superior.

"Your Highness?" Aurelian asked. "Shall I imprison him up with the others?"

Celestine looked at the unconscious form of Gel before she turned her attention towards her knight.

"Do it." She responded with a single nod of her head.

"At once, Lady Celestine." Aurelian said before turning towards two knights who were still holding onto a-now unconscious Gel.

"Alright, lock up that fool with the others! We will deal with him and his buddies later!"

Both knights acknowledged Aurelian's command. "Glady sir. We will take 'good care' of them all." They replied with a smirk before dragging the unconscious man away.

After witnessing Thorson's recent deed, as a measure of peace returned within the large plaza. Many present Eostian then began whispering among themselves, trying to make sense of everything they just seen. During this, Thorson turned towards the blacksmith.

"I thought you would stay with your sick wife?" The Nord asked Nostos.

"Many within the city are unsure what to do now, including me…" The elderly man replied before looking towards the surrounding crowd. "Too many unanswered questions about what just happened today…"

The middle-aged smith then looked straight at the Dragonborn. "And about you." He stated before looking downwards. "What you have done. And…"

Thorson remained silent, patiently waiting for the man to finish.

The blacksmith first sighed before continuing. "…as for my dear wife; my sister and my brother-in-law are keeping her company for now…" Nostos said before his voice quieted down, still loud enough for the Dragonborn to hear.

"Mourning together…"

After hearing the blacksmith's weighted words, the Dragonborn also sighed before closing his eyes, struggling to find the right words for a response. "I see…"

"I did what had to be done." The Nord Dragonborn reminded himself. "I can't stop and get distracted now. For the sake of those who are suffering and who need my help!"

"Speaking of which." Thorson opened his eyes and briefly looked towards the large elven who were now watching him from a distance. At first glance, it seemed most of the Elven refugees were now fully clothed and seemed to take full advantage of the supplies he'd donated to them.

"At least they are clothed and somewhat fed for now." Thorson noticed before turning towards Celestine who just looked at him. "Yet, there is one thing they still require… That is, if the city and its inhabitants allows it…"

"Lady Celestine, I know this had been a long day for you and your people. But there is still something we need to discuss now." The Nord began. "I can't leave these elven refugees in the cold…"

"I know, 'Son of Auriel'…" Eostia's former High Queen cut the Nord off, holding up her right hand in a placating manner. "And I've already had something in mind to help shelter them."

The Nord seemed to have been caught off guard, as if he expected a different outcome. "You have?" A surprised Thorson asked the blonde High Elf.

"Hmmhmm." Celestine hummed before she began informing Thorson about her intentions for the elven refugees. A conversation some of the Eostian's near her could barely overhear.

"You see, in the early years after Olga began waging war on the people of Eostia, many villages outside the city suffered against the countless raids from her Legion. That's why I decided…"

---

Within the fortress city of Ansur, once an industrial center of the 'Shield Alliance' during the 'Great War', things were not going well for its population after Vult's demons conquered the city.

The Halflings, a species of short stature, who made up a good portion part of Ansur's population suffered dearly at the hands of the countless demonic invaders occupying the city as it turned into a den of iniquity and slavery.

Known throughout Serenus as exceptional crafters and warriors, it was also common knowledge that the Halflings also depended on the other races for procreation as they were a female-only species.

One of them, Luu-Luu, a Halfling who was also known as the "Axe of the Alliance" within her realm, once held the reputation of being the strongest member of Celestine's court. But like her fellow 'Shield' sisters, Luu-Luu would eventually fall into the hands of the demonic Legion and their human allies after they successfully laid siege to her fortress city days after Vult's sudden betrayal.

Days of near-constant sexual abuse followed for the once proud and brave Halfling warrior as she became nothing but a mere sex puppet for Vult's men and demon's enjoyment. Luu-Luu would have to endure often painful ordeals as her sadistic captors would often 'test the limits' her Halfling physiology as they brutally raped her child-like body for hours on end.

However, on this very day, it looked like the gods themselves showed a measure of mercy as the fortress city soon came under 'attack' from a seemingly unknown force.

It all started when several Black Dog sentries reported seeing a large red dragon flying high above them; however, their comrades paid no attention to what they said. Many among the occupiers did not believe them or were more annoyed that they interrupted their 'fun time', one of excessive drinking and gleefully tormenting Ansur's female population.

This all changed when powerful and loud shouts from the west collided with the fallen city, shaking its foundations.

This seemingly bad omen caused a general panic amongst its population and its occupiers, who immediately stopped what they were doing to look for the one responsible for this within and outside the city. And as the strange shouts continued hitting the city, many among the occupiers, including Vult's demons, began to feel anxious. This strange, otherworldly voice seemed to had a noticeable effect on their monstrous souls.

As the city further fell into chaos, one of the Legion's victims, the former 'Shield Princess' Luu-Luu, did not feel a thing as her naked body hit the floor. It seemed the demons who restrained her released their hold on her before running outside, leaving the Halfling to her fate on the cold floor within the city's main keep, her petite-body stained with splotches of semen and claw shaped wounds.

However, Luu-Luu couldn't move nor respond to what was happening outside, as if her abused body and her mind could not process what any of her senses could pick up.

Later that evening, an hour after the ominous shouting and trembling ceased, the first thing the fallen Halfling warrior then heard after regaining some semblance of consciousness were the voices of her demonic captors.

And it looked like they returned to resume their 'usual activities'.

"I'm sure our plaything would clear our minds well enough!" A small, red, impish demon in front of an approaching group laughed. "I'm sure she's quite eager to service us again!"

"And there is still room within her for us to fill up!" An impatient, black furred, man-wolf demon stated with a grin as his demonic brethren joined in with the laughter. "Her tiny body is really as flexible as our bredren claimed."

"Indeed, I'm not done dicking this Halfling yet!" A large brown Minotaur-like demon exclaimed while rubbing his hands.

The group then heard a few heavy footsteps behind them just before they were forcibly shoved aside.

"Stand aside! As one of the 'Chosen', I get first dibs!" A blue horned and tattooed ogre announced while he ran through the small group.

"Yea, yea, whatever…" The man-wolf said dismissively just after evading the large demon. "Just make it quick!"

"What's his deal?!" The imp complained after being nearly trampled. "Why does he get the first turn?!"

"Just let him…" The Minotaur demon advised the small group whilst staring at the tattooed ogre. "I don't want to get in trouble with that group he's part off."

The man-wolf demon let out a sigh of disappointment. "I'm not even sure why our war chief let that religious cult within our midst; even forbidding us to interfere with their 'business'."

"Aw, stop crying! You will get your moment!" The tattooed ogre laughed loudly at his fellow demons while he neared his Halfling victim. "Just enjoy the show! I'll take my sweet time defiling her!"

After hearing her tormentor's intentions, Luu-Luu's body tensed. "No, not again!" The bronze-haired Halfling panicked, trying to move her tired body in desperation as she felt the ogre's hand grabbing one of her arms.

"Be quiet! You will enjoy this soon enough!" The large ogre laughed as he dragged Luu-Luu's defenseless body towards him whilst removing his loincloth.

The tormented Luu-Luu closed her eyes while she struggled against her captor's hold, not willing to let these demons ravage her body once again.

However, fate had other intentions for Luu-Luu on this night, as several decapitated heads of her demonic captors fell on the floor, right in front of her. One of them was the head of a wolf-man, quickly followed by a bull's head.

"Eeep!" a now-terrified Luu-Luu shrieked after seeing the decapitated bodies near a horned, tattooed figure.

"It's Olga's 'Black Guard'!" The Halfling cried internally as she recognized the spiked, black-red armor these tall, horned newcomers wore. "A-Are they fighting with each other now?!"

And as the bronze-haired Halfling attempted to crawl away in a panic, she briefly glanced upwards as her 'savior' seemed to pay no mind to her.

"W-what are they?!" Luu-Luu's mind screamed after seeing the armored Dremora armed with a large, runed claymore holding the blue-colored ogre by the throat.

Primal fear within the Halfling emerged while adrenaline began surging through her tired body.

"Run! Find safety! Hide!" Luu-Luu's instincts screamed, providing the scared Halfling with the needed energy and motivation for her to stand up and sprint away from the room.

Unbeknownst to her, the black-armored Dremora heard this and witnessed the fleeing Halfling from the corner of his dark eyes. But the armored Dremora did not seem to care as he refocused his attention back on the struggling ogre he held by the neck.

And as she fled, Luu-Luu could somewhat overhear words of interrogation within the previous room.

"Tell me, 'Chosen', where is that Sigil Stone?!" The tall Dremora's harsh and distorted voice demanded while lifting the demon by the throat with no effort. "I know that Dark Elf sorceress gave you one last order before you turned on her! Tell me what you know, you retched beast!"

"Why are you Dremora here?!" The ogre demanded while struggling. "How did you get into the city?!"

The hulking Dremora's eyes narrowed before giving the ogre a solid headbutt, causing fractures to the demon's skull.

"Answer!" The Dremora repeated his previous demand.

"AAH FUCK! I don't know a damn thing, you Dremora freaks! Olga never felt the need to disclose its location to us 'lowly servants'!" The tattooed ogre exclaimed in pain. "If you want to know, you'd better ask that bitch who summoned you from whatever shithole you came from!"

"Where is she now?! That mortal Vult parades that elf all around this accursed land as his trophy!" the Dremora demanded, tightening his grip on the demon's neck.

The blue ogre then began laughing despite being injured and border lined choked, as if he did not care about his current condition.

"You'll never get near her! Olga and her elf servants are our playthings now! You have lost!" the tattooed demon jeered with a visible smirk on his face.

"She's back at the 'Black Citadel, right?!" The large Dremora questioning the demon demanded.

Meanwhile, Luu-Luu fled towards one of her many storage rooms within her castle, a place that should serve as a hiding spot and sanctuary for her. The frantic Halfling could then overhear her demonic captor's last cries echoing around the halls after the large, armored figure repeated his previous demand.

"Last chance and I'll give you the honors of meeting your master in death!" The hulking Dremora shouted before tightening his grip on the demon's neck. "If not, your soul will serve mine! Tell me what you know; RIGHT NOW!"

The 'Chosen' ogre, now bleeding heavily from his head wound, laughed again after hearing the Dremora's threat.

"It doesn't matter; we have already won!" The ogre demon taunted the large Deadra, "You all should have accepted Vult's offer when you had the chance, or you could have sworn fealty to our lord!"

After hearing the demon's last words, the armored Dremora responded with a low grunt before narrowing his eyes.

"What no response? Oh, to see the 'almighty' Dremora brought so low! To think that Elven bitch considered replacing us with you freaks! It's priceless!" The tattooed ogre continued laughing. "You don't scare me one bit! And once we find that orb, Bal will… AAARGGGHHHH!"

However, the large ogre never got the chance to finish taunting as he screamed in agony.

The Dremora wielded his Daedric claymore without mercy, effortlessly severing the demon from head to toe and drenching the room in its blood, guts, fire, and dying cries. And after the deed was done, a purple wisp emerged from the ogre's charred corpse before seemingly being absorbed by the Dremora's weapon.

"Bah, weak, pathic mongrels, like the master they serve!" The Dremora exclaimed in frustration, retracting his enchanted blade from the mutilated and charred corpse.

"Kynval Kron! Have you found anything else?" The large, black-armored figure yelled towards the nearby stairs.

"Nothing; his brethren also know nothing, Markynaz Oros!" A Dremora wearing black robes informed his superior from the second floor before descending the keep's stairs.

Suddenly, all Dremora inside heard a voice from outside the keep. "Markynaz! More of these Black Dog mortals are nearing us! Our warriors and Daedroth's are engaging them now!"

This was not the news Oros wanted to hear, not after all the planning and fighting he and his fellow Daedra had done until this point.

"My Lord, We've found a few of Vult's cowardly humans who may know something about the Sigil Stone's location!" Oros then heard one of his Dremora shouting from a nearby hallway. "What should we do with them?"

Upon hearing this news, Oros gave the Dremora within the keep their last orders, it seems their surprise raid on the city was worth the effort after all.

"Knock them out and restrain them for later interrogation!" Oros ordered the Dremora warrior before turning towards the rest of his group. "As for the rest of you, time to leave! Kill the rest of these pathetic mortals, paint the rooms red with their blood and regroup outside!"

"What about the so-called Halfling 'Princess'?" The robed Dremora asked his superior. "She may know something?"

The large Dremora called Oros looked in the direction where he last saw the Halfling flee. "She's of no importance and a waste of our time."

Oros then rested his large blade over his shoulders as he walked towards the stairs. "Besides, she and the rest of these weak humans within these accursed lands wouldn't know anything. Now do as I ordered you!"

"Yes, Markynaz!" Several Dremora acknowledged.

And with Oros' last order, countless screams of demons and Black Dog mercenaries began to fill Ansur's keep as they were brutally slaughtered several members of Olga's formerly 'Black Guards'.

While all this was happening, the Halfling, overwhelmed with panic, stumbled upon a storage room located at the opposite end of the keep. It was filled with a variety of metals and essential equipment needed for her craft. After closing the door in a hurry, Luu-Luu was then startled by the sound of numerous bloodcurdling screams resonating throughout the fortress' halls.

As the sounds of slaughter continued in the background, the Halfling discovered an empty crate in the storage room and promptly took cover inside. And as she was about to settle down, Luu-Luu's heart froze as she heard several loud, distorted voices from beyond the door.

"That treacherous mortal and his mage will pay for their trickery, Kynval Kron! And this accursed world together with Bal's weak slaves will tremble before our Lord's wrath once we open the way!"

As the strange voices outside her hiding place faded, Luu-Luu's exhausted body insisted that she sleep after enduring days of non-stop sexual abuse. Thus, with little resistance, Luu-Luu's mind and body gave in and collapsed within the large crate before drifting to sleep: naked, cold, and all alone in the dark.

Outside Ansur's keep, several others of Oros' fellow Dremora soon joined the large Markynaz, including a few hulking Daedroth's, who trampled over dozens of mutilated corpses of both man and demon near the entrance.

"All of you! Follow me; we are leaving this accursed city!" The large armored Dremora ordered his subordinates before running Ansur's northern gatehouse. "Slaughter anyone who gets in our way!"

As the scared civilian population of Ansur hid inside their homes and shelters that night during the Dremora raid, they witnessed the slaughter of many of Vult's men and Legion demons at the hands of these armored, horned figures and their beasts as they fled their city while carrying a couple of captured Black Dog mercenaries on their backs to gods knows somewhere.

---

In Ken, Celestine spent a few moments informing the Dragonborn about what the city could provide for the former enslaved elves. Thorson learned that most of the Eostian fortress cities had large shelters that could house village worth's of people in case nearby lands were threatened during their own 'Great War'.

Celestine's suggestion seemed to have also affected the Dragonborn as he looked more relaxed, as if another weight had been lifted from his already burdened soul.

"That's a good start, and I may be able to continue supplying them with the essentials so not to strain the city's own supply." Thorson added.

Celestine nodded before looking straight at the Nord. "And I want to apologize for my people's behavior, I…"

Thorson this time held up his own hand, interrupting her. "No need, Lady Celestine. I can somewhat understand your people's reluctance, with today's events and what they experienced during such a long war."

Alicia, who overheard both Thorson' and Celestine' conversation looked sideways in response to the Nord's last words.

Celestine meanwhile took a one look at Ken's people before turning back at the Nord. "It won't be easy…" She muttered softly.

The High Elf was then quietly surprised when Thorson gently placed his hand on her bare shoulder.

"I know, but it's for the best. They won't survive alone out there." Thorson said in agreement. "Who knows, this may be the spark for both races to come together towards one common goal. Maybe getting to know each other better, a goal towards a lasting peace."

"Something I've also wished for everyone to experience in the future, 'Son of Auriel'." Celestine mused, realizing she and the Dragonborn shared somewhat similar goals.

Feeling a bit at ease, Celestine then showed the Nord a warm smile. "I agree. It's for the best." She replied. "For the future of everyone."

Thorson smiled back, relieved that they had reached an understanding.

Their conversation, however, was heard by a few of the Eostian's present, and not all of them found the queen's proposal acceptable.

"Like hell we will! We don't want those elven filth within our city!" One voice in the crowd shouted, followed by another displeased citizen. "You expect us to shelter those Dark Elven witches?!"

Hearing this, The High Elf faced those disagreeing with her decision, releasing herself from Thorson's hold on her shoulder.

"It's not us alone who are suffering now. Other races and their families within Eostia also face the same reality." Celestine rebuked in response. "We can't just turn our backs on those who need help! And potential allies in our struggle!"

And as if the Dragonborn's mere presence fueled her drive, a more confident Celestine pointed towards the large group of elves near them. "Look there."

As some of Ken's population diverted their gaze, Celestine continued. "Like them, those elves were also taken away from their homes by Vult and his slaver allies." She stated. "Now they are stuck here. Helpless, hungry and with no safe place to stay and sleep!"

Hearing no immediate response, the High Elf relaxed a bit.

"What I'm about to ask of everyone may be difficult for many." Celestine admitted in a softer tone. "But we can't let the past ruin our future, for the next generation's sake."

Celestine's then turned around to speak to those behind her. "And we will all the help we can muster if want to free ourselves from Vult's grip on our lives. That means cooperating with whom we considered 'enemies' in the past."

Alicia meanwhile looked doubtful. "I can't just forget what those Dark Elves have done to me… my family, my people…"

Celestine continued. "Together, we may stand stronger for what lies ahead!" She cried out, ending her emotional-filled speech. "Because right now, we just can't win our freedom on our own!"

All was quiet, aside from several murmurs from the human crowd. For many among them, reality hit them again. What can they do against such overwhelming numbers of Vult' mercenaries, his allies, and hordes of demons? Who will protect them against such overwhelming odds?

Feeling that she had gotten her point across, Celestine took a deep breath and looked towards one of her 'Holy Knights'.

"Knight Aurelian, am I correct to assume that you have already opened up the city's shelters for some of the injured?"

Aurelian, seemingly in thought after hearing Celestine's plea, quickly responded. "Yes, Your Highness. Those poor souls from outside the city were moved there. A few of my men and some civilian volunteers are currently keeping them company."

After hearing Aurelian's answer, Celestine's attention shifted her attention toward the elven refugees. "Expect them," Celestine stated.

"Do you want to…?" Aurelian tried to ask, already predicting what the elf was going to ask of him.

"Yes," Celestine cut the knight off. "There is still enough space in Ken's shelters. They can stay there until it's safe for them to leave and return to their homes."

Aurelian first looked hesitant, but the knight then gave in to Celestine's command.

"I understand, your Grace; I'll see what I and the rest of the men can do." The knight said before saluting.

When they overheard Aurelian's words, several citizens within the crowd still couldn't let go of their past.

"What?! Are you serious?" Some exclaimed. "You expect us to let them stay here?!"

"You will respect her Highness decision! If she thinks it's the best for us all, then it's so!" Aurelian called out while several of his men tried to placate the crowd. "Her Highness is right, we can't fight Vult alone! And It's just until they can return safely!"

"You have to be joking me! Do you expect us to shelter those elven witches?!" A loud voice protested, soon joined by others. "After everything they have done?!"

Sensing another escalation on the horizon, Thorson silently walked next to the High Elf as he had heard enough.

"Lady Celestine, stand behind me and block your ears." The Nord whispered to the High Elf. "I don't want to hurt them for what I'm about to do…."

Celestine looked at Thorson and nodded; she seemed to know what the man was about to do. She then positioned herself a few steps behind the Dragonborn and signaled Alicia to join her.

Meanwhile, a few of Celestine's more devoid followers and families publicly defended her recent decision. "One of these elves had just saved my daughter's life! We should at least give some of them shelter!"

"And what about the rest of them? Who knows what they may do when we turn our backs on them!"

Suddenly, the arguing population of Ken received another 'wake-up call' from the Dragonborn as his voice thundered through the city's streets once more.

"NAHLOT! DREM! HON ZH'U!"

As Thorson let out his Thu'um, the people in the square quickly covered their ears to shield themselves from the loud shout and thunderous claps of lightning.

With this display, the gray-robbed Dragonborn became the center of attention for everyone present.

"Now that I have everyone's attention, listen closely and carefully!" Thorson stated as he was about reminded Ken's population about their current situation.

"As I said before, now is not the time for such disunity! Many of your own are still recovering from what horror's they experienced and the last thing they need to awaken to a city in war with itself!"

None of the Eostian's around Thorson seemed to offer any resistance to his words, either out of fear or after realizing the truth behind the Dragonborn's words.

Thorson then pointed to his right. "Do I need to remind you all that Vult, and his followers remain at large outside these walls!" He further reminded the crowd of their current situation. "Your paranoia about these elves should be the least of your concerns!"

The blonde Eostian princess behind Thorson visibly winced after hearing his last words. "You shouldn't be so open with them, especially now!"

But, despite Alicia's mental protests, she couldn't find the courage or the words to speak up, as if they were trapped in her throat.

The crowd murmured as reality sank in for some of them. "He's right. Those degenerates are still out there. We need to protect ourselves and our children from them."

"But who will protect us then against those monsters?" Some skeptics expressed their doubts. "We are just not equipped to deal with such a threat."

"Perhaps he will?" Some reacted whilst pointing towards the tall Nord in their midst. "You've seen what he's done here in a short among of time."

"But can we trust him?" Others argued back.

"What choice do we have?"

With Ken's citizens engaged in their own discussions, Thorson shifted his focus to the elven refugees in the distance, who seemed to be fixated on him. There's no doubt that his recent shout also got their attention.

The Dragonborn noticed two particular elves looking towards him that looked familiar; a pair of elven healers who were the first volunteers who aided him in treating the injured women a few hours ago. A tall blue-haired Dark Elf and a young silver-haired High Elf whom were the first he helped to dispel their magic-damping slave-collars.

With a smile, Thorson gestured towards both elven women, signaling them to come to him.

The two elves exchanged a quick glance before returning their attention to their savior, unsure if he was trying to communicate with them. And after Thorson nodded and repeated his gesture, both would slowly walk toward the crowd of humans encircling the Tamerelian, wondering what their savior wants with both of them.

Thorson took a step forward when he saw the two elven women nearing the large human crowd. "Let them both pass." He ordered whilst pointing to the newcomers.

The Eostian crowd showed no resistance and did what the Nord instructed, letting both elves pass through until they stood in front of their savior.

"May I know both your first names?" Thorson asked both elven women. "It's alright, you are safe and nothing bad Is going to happen to you."

The unexpected question from their savior caught both women off guard, causing them to look quite flustered, especially the High Elf, whose face started turning red.

Trusting the Tamerelian, the Dark Elf first answered with a faint smile on her face. "Anane… My name is Anane." She said, ending with a bow towards the Nord who looked puzzled by the unexpected gesture.

The now-blushing silver-haired High Elf took a moment to recollect herself before also giving the Nord a bow of her own. "Ce-Ceeri…" She said nervously.

Ignoring their bowing, Thorson placed himself between the two elves and gently touched their shoulders, surprising them once more. The Dragonborn then began speaking to the human crowd once more.

"Miss Anane and Ceeri, along with other elves, selflessly aided this community by treating your injured without any complaints." Thorson reminded everyone around him with a firm tone, "Some who they have helped may have been one of your friends or even family."

"Is this true?" Some of the cities inhabitants asked those near them. "Did anyone see this happening?"

"He speaks true. I saw several of them tending to our children." One male voice affirmed, quickly followed by another. "Same here. One of those Dark Elves even healed my sister."

"A Dark Elf healed one of us? Why?" A few skeptical voices could be heard. "It must be some trick."

"I don't care. Some of them helped our children, and that's all that matters for me."

While the population of Ken continued their debate, Thorson noticed a change in the way people viewed the elven refuges - the initial hostility and disdain gradually giving way to a mixture of confusion with a measure of gratitude.

But the Dragonborn could still detect a hint of uncertainty within the Ken's community.

"But can we trust them all? Can we feed them all at this time now that we are surrounded by Vult's forces?" A few questioned.

Foreseeing this response, Thorson raised his voice once more. "Leave that all to me!" The Tamerelian informed the crowd and then turned his attention to both elven women near him, who appeared quite surprised.

The two elves then held their breath upon hearing what their savior said next. "I am willing to take complete responsibility for their future actions. In exchange, I ask you all to show tolerance and consideration for their current situation; just until they can go back to their own homes."

Still standing behind him, Celestine couldn't help but to smile at his selflessness after hearing Thorson's declaration while Alicia remained visibly doubtful; the young Eostian knight couldn't just simply forget her past, not after everything that happened to her city and her parents.

The Dragonborn then brought his face closer to both elves, surprising them with the sudden closeness. "Miss Ceeri, Miss Anane, please make sure you relay what I've just said to your fellow elves when you rejoin them." He softly requested. "I don't want any of you to experience more hardships."

"O-Of course." Both now-startled elves responded almost simultaneously, giving the Nord a few nods of their heads. Both elven women then somewhat recognized the magnitude of his words, the additional burden their savior would now further carry on his shoulders for their sake.

Thorson just smiled before turning towards the human crowd again. "And don't worry about them using up your supplies. Since I'll be the one supplying them with the essentials.

Both astonishment elves were taken aback and looked with wide eyes at the Nord holding their shoulders upon hearing those last words.

Some among Ken's population seemed content with the Thorson's suggestion, knowing that he would handle all matters concerning the elven refugees.

"What he suggested seems reasonable for me." A few agreed with Thorson's plan. "I think we can trust him."

Yet, there were a few who continued to harbor doubts about their liberator and his true intentions, particularly among those who had recently suffered the loss of their sons or held a more skeptical view of their current situation.

"Can we?" A few asked before one pointed towards Thorson. "After all the death and everything he's done today, can we truly trust him?"

Many Eostian families quickly came to the defense of their Nord liberator.

"Of course, he's responsible for saving my daughters!" A father and mother exclaimed, garnering similar responses from other families. "You have all seen what he has done for us and the city!"

"But we know so little of him." A few Eostians wondered aloud. "And what does he want in the end?"

Thorson's face displayed a faint smile as he heard their concerns. He then released Anane' and Ceeri' shoulders and took a step forward.

"Then allow me to explain everything!" Thorson announced, instantly silencing the arguing population as he now had their attention again.

"I know my sudden presence has created much confusion among the population, but I assure you! I'm not here out of conquest or to harm the innocent!"

Turning around, the Dragonborn spoke to those behind him, including Celestine and Alicia.

"And I know some even fear me or are angry after all the deaths I caused. But my sole motivation of being here is to end the suffering, help Eostia rid itself of Vult's influence!".

His eyes then briefly met both Celestine's and Alicia's. "And to restore Eostia's rightful leadership."

As Thorson's words resonated within the crowd, many began to relax after hearing his seemingly sincere words.

After hearing no further objections, Thorson continued while walking in a wide circle pattern, making sure everyone would hear his voice.

"I know it has been a long and difficult day for many but allow me to quickly introduce myself and explain how I came to be here." The Nord said. "It may answer some questions that currently linger within your minds."

Before Thorson could begin telling his tale, many Eostians seemed to gather all around the tall, gray-robed man, pushing and shoving each other in order to have a better view or hear him properly whilst keeping a respectable distance.

For some reason, many wanted to hear what their liberator was about to tell them, as if their instincts told them he was worth their ear.

The Eostians would have their worldview completely shattered by what they learn from the Dragonborn in the upcoming moments. They will discover the existence of Tamriel, its diverse races, and the presence of other deities.

Near the Dragonborn, Celestine, Aurelian and the two elven women would also listen with interest to the Tamerelian, especially the Arcturus heiress, as she followed each step and listened to each word Thorson spoke, in particular about himself, his homeland and the gods who brought him here.

"I'm Thorson Brightsong, and I hail from the continent of Tamriel, located roughly northwest of Serenus." The Nord began. "This morning, I received a vision from the gods, The Divines, who allowed me to commune with your High Queen."

---

During this time, each one of the elven refugees was able to dress themselves in the assortment of clothing they had been given, which included an array of Breton-style dresses, robes, tunics, and gowns.

And as the Dragonborn told his story to the human Eostian's, another pair of eyes watched him from a distance whilst displaying a grin on his furred face.

Next to him, a young woman wearing a long, green dress noticed the smile on Thorson's companion. "Why are you smiling?" The blond-haired elf asked the dark blue 'cat-man' from Tamriel.

"Oh, it's nothing." Inigo grinned. "It's just that my friend was never one for such large crowds."

The Khajiit then looked back at the human crowd who seemed interested in his friends every spoken word. "And looks like his recent travels around Tamriel did him some good."

As the elves near the Khajiit wondered what he meant by that, Inigo turned towards the undead dragon, who seemed to be able to hear his friends every word from a distance.

"I'll have a closer look. Will you come?"

"Do as you wish, 'Blue one'," Durnehviir replied with a grunt before continuing to listen to the Dovahkiin's story. The ancient dragon looked quite interested in hearing the events before he was first summoned on this day."I'll stay here with the rest of the Fahliil's until my time on Nirn is up."

"Fahliil's?" A few Dark Elves asked the Khajiit as they did not recognize the word uttered by the massive dragon.

"I think our friendly dragon here means elves in his dragon language." Inigo grinned before scratching his neck. "Or maybe something derogatory about some of you. I'm not sure."

A few among the elves looked at the Khajiit in confusion before he tee-heed and smiled.

"Nono, I'm sure it means 'elves' in their dragon language. I'm sorry, I'm no expert in their language nor a dragon." Inigo corrected himself whilst laughing, earning him a few giggles from a few elves who felt amused at the Khajiit's attempt of humor.

"Now, If you excuse me for a moment, I want to check on my friend." Inigo said before turning towards the large human group surrounding his Dragonborn friend.

"If you need anything, just give me a yell. Or perhaps ask our big scaly friend here." Inigo informed the elven refugees before walking away.

Once the Khajiit departed, many among the elves gazed longingly at the Dragonborn speaking to the large human crowd. They felt indebted to their human savior for going against long-standing racial bias by supplying them with food, clothing, and weapons without any hesitation or doubt.

This recent and seemingly small deed further reinforced Thorson's image within the elven group, further solidifying whatever positive influence the Dragonborn previously had on them.

Amidst a world that was rapidly descending into darkness and displaying a deep hatred towards them, the Dragonborn became as a source of light and hope for the Serenian elves, offering a glimmer of salvation to the Dark Elves who had endured the most suffering among all elven races on the continent.

And despite his earlier denial of being some kind of divine entity, many among the elves present still regarded the Nord man who stood up for them as a god or an immortal spirit manifested in human form.

---

Some distance away from Geofu, at the edge of the Thunder Woods, a small group of humans and elves were discussing what they just heard from one of their scouting parties.

"You saw several dragons assaulting Ken while lightning showered the entire city?" Klaus Levantine, leader of the 'Wolf Pack' resistance organization, asked his scouting party for clarification.

The leader of the scouting party nervously nodded his head. "Yes, sir! And one of those dragons even talked to us when we tried to sneak away."

"Yes! And the beast said that the city of Ken has been cleared of its Black Dogs occupiers!" his companion added before calming down his breathing.

The elven sentries, Klaus and his Dark Elf companion, Leena, briefly looked at one another; not fulling believing what they just heard.

"If this is true, then we need to investigate this." Klaus pondered after hearing this news. "If the 'Holy City' is free of Vult's influence, then 'The Pack' can perhaps find refuge there. Even coordinate our liberation efforts from there…"

"Both humans speak the truth." A young Dark Elf woman, who was also part of the scouting party, reaffirmed both men's stories, interrupting Klaus's thoughts.

"The dragon then threatened us, warning us not to make any hostile moves against the 'White Citadel'." Another member of the party informed Klaus.

"Yes, and the dragon spoke something about a 'Dragonborn's wrath' should we ignore its warnings." The scouting party's leader added, bringing out a noticeable reaction from the resistance leader.

"That doesn't sound good, not good at all…" Klaus's face dropped slightly, fearing for a possible and unwanted organization next to Vult and his Black Dogs. "And this 'Dragonborn' seems to have dragons on its side. I always thought they were just a myth from times long gone…"

"Dragonborn?" Klaus repeated the man's words before looking at his Dark Elf companion for advice. "Leena, have you heard anything about these dragons and this 'Dragonborn' before?"

The Dark Elf gave the scholar a look, noticing Klaus' somewhat downcast expression before shaking her head. "No, I'm afraid not."

Klaus sighed before turning towards the scouting party. "Thank you all for everything. You've all earned your rest. There should still be some warm food left for you back at camp."

"Aye, no kidding. I'm drained…" One scout replied before he and his party walked towards their base further in the forest with their horses in tow. "Can't you believe it? First that monstrous storm and then freaking dragons! I tell you; a god must be behind all of this!"

The chatting group moved deeper into the forest, leaving only Klaus, Leena, and a few elven sentries near the tree line.

After several seconds, the Dark Elf woman shifted her attention to Klaus, who seemed lost in contemplation, clutching the amulet around his neck.

"Is this a sign?" Klaus asked himself before hearing Leena's concerned voice.

"Klaus? Everything alright?"

The man inhaled and exhaled deeply before opening his eyes. "I'm fine…" Klaus uttered before walking into the dark forest alone.

Leena observed the withdrawn look on Klaus's face. "Where are you going?" The Dark Elf warrior asked with a hint of concern in her voice.

"I'll just check on the status of the other sentries before heading back to camp." Klaus replied without looking back.

Leena took a quick look at Klaus, as if she could sense the immense pressure he was under.

And after giving the present Dark Elven sentries a nod, Leena turned toward Klaus.

"I'll accompany you." The Dark Elf woman said before joining the 'Wolf Pack' leader in the dense, dark forest.

---

Back in Ken, Thorson managed to tell the city's inhabitants about his brief mental communication with Celestine, his flight to Serenus and his first encounter with Vult's men at the edge of the 'Black Citadels' wastelands.

Around the middle of his re-telling, the Dragonborn also gave the Eostian's a brief introduction about Tamriel and the 'Divines' after several questioned him in between. But this created more questions for the Eostian's present, questions the Nord insisted would be answered at a later time.

"After interrogating one of Vult's men, I flew straight for Ken on the back of one of my dragon allies…" Thorson continued after just telling the Eostians about his fight against a group of Black Dogs and their demon allies.

"This is too much…" Some of Ken inhabitants muttered to their neighbors. "Another continent with other humans and races. How come we've never heard of them?"

"Yes, and what about these other gods he mentioned; these nine so called 'Divines'? I just can't believe it all…"

"But how do you explain his powers? You think he's blessed by them? Or perhaps he's some avatar like Her Grace?"

"Perhaps, but if their gods heard Celestine's plea, then she's part of the reason the city's free from those heartless thugs and their demons."

A few stared at the Eostian man who seemed excited, not considering who'd lost their lives today.

"And that many of our own died today." Some reminded him, referring to the many death's their liberator caused, especially to those from Ken's own population who recently joined Vult's forces.

"Screw those Black Dogs and those traitors. They all deserved it. Her Highness did us all a favor." He sharply retorted, earning them a few more glares.

"Quiet now, let's keep listening." Some said in a hushed manner before they continuing to listen to their liberator's words as he was about to tell the crowd when he arrived at Ken.

The moment the Dragonborn unleashed his fury on the city's occupiers.

---

I apologize for the delay. The months of August 2023 until now have been busy for me (both private and work).

But, no worries, I'm still motivated to continue writing this story. It's just that my current working schedule leaves me little time for writing (expect during midday breaks and sometimes during the late evenings before heading to bed)

To be honest, this part of the chapter was also quite challenging to write as I rewrote many parts after my initial rough draft. In my head, I envisioned a chapter that seemed to be simple but ended up writing around a +35K word chapter, one that I would need to have split up for readability.

I was certainly not eager to split this chamber into 3 separate parts. I didn't want to add another cliffhanger in the middle of this chapter after not updating the story for a while. (Others have also made a comment that the 'introductory' part of the story has been dragged for too long.).

But I'm afraid a few more chapters will still contain more world building before we get to the 'real action' (a.k.a liberation efforts).

Also, the next chapter is nearly done so I hope I can release it soon. I just have to reread a few times and possibly correct a few things.

In the meantime, I'll be also checking on previous chapters and correct them (readability, rephrasing and such) without impacting the story. Also, in case you want to know when to expect the next chapter, you can always check my profile for chapter updates and progress.

As always, many thanks to those who reviewed/favorited/followed/PM'ed me. If you have any ideas or suggestions for this story, feel free to let me know. I'll also try to PM in response to constructive reviews or story-related questions when I have the time.