Chapter16

Awareness

Elenwen sat in her office at the Thalmor Embassy, as she read over the reports from her spies and patrols, her lips pressed into a thin line. Her gaze hardened as she read further-King Torygg had taken the initiative to speak with Ulfric Stormcloak about an arranged marriage for Aurelia.

Not only was the king's move an unexpected breach of protocol, but it undermined all of the careful manipulation the Thalmor had orchestrated in Skyrim. If Aurelia were to marry Ulfric, it could, to some degree, stabilize the political situation, not to mention the loss of Aurelia as a potential asset.

Elenwen's eyes narrowed as she skimmed the report again. "This will not do," she muttered to herself. Torygg need to be reminded that he could not simply make decisions himself without consulting the higher powers that controlled the fate of Skyrim-and of his daughter.

A marriage between Aurelia and Ondolemar had always been the ideal outcome for her, but until now, she had been waiting for the right moment to make her move. She had already begun planting seeds, making threads that led to the pairing being not only the obvious way of securing Aurelia's chance of survival and stability, but that the union was simply inevitable. Elenwen had dedicated so much time placing subtle, carefully timed whispers and well-placed suggestions to those within her sphere of influence.

Now it was time to address the King. She would ensure he sees reason.

Elenwen approached the throne room with the deliberate, measured steps. Her eyes narrowed like a hawk after its prey.

"Your Majesty," she said, dipping in a graceful bow, the motion was precise but devoid of any warmth. Why should she, a superior mer, bow to a man draped in silk and gold, playing at being of any real importance.

Her voice was smooth as honey, "I've come here to discuss a matter of grave importance-one that not only affects the stability of Skyrim, but the legacy you hope to leave behind."

King Torygg stiffened at the mention of his daughter, his face however, remained unreadable.

"I trust this matter is of sufficient urgency, Ambassador." The king said coolly, though his tone held a hint of unease.

"Urgency, yes Your Majesty," Elenwen allowed a small smile to play on her lips. "A union between Aurelia and Commander Ondolemar would symbolize a lasting partnership between Skyrim and the Aldmeri Dominion. The Emperor himself sees this alliance as a vital step towards ensuring Skyrim's future-one of stability and peace."

King Torygg's shoulders tensed, he had hoped to finalize the arrangements first Aurelia's marriage to Ulfric Stormcloak before the Thalmor could get their cold, calculated hands involved. However it was no surprise they had caught wind of his plans.

"Aurelia's future," he began, "is a matter that I will decide as her father and the High King."

Elenwen's smile didn't falter, though her gaze hardened threateningly. "Of course, Your Majesty," she said smoothly. "And yet, one must consider the broader implications of such decisions. An alliance with the Dominion would grant Skyrim great influence within the Empire. The resources, protection, and goodwill we can offer can ensure your daughter's rein, when the time comes, will be secure from both internal dissent and external threats."

Torygg's jaw tightened, "It is my desire for Aurelia's marriage to be more than just purely political, Ambassador. I must remind you, she is not simply a pawn to be maneuvered."

Elenwen inclined her head, her tone softening enough to feign sincerity. "Your Majesty. I assure you, my intent is only to honor her importance. Commander Ondolemar is a man of exceptional character and intellect, one who would appreciate Aurelia's strengths and guide her to greatness."

Torygg leaned back slightly, his brows furrowed. "I will consider your suggestion ambassador. However, Aurelia's future must align with what is best for Skyrim and I will not be rushed into a decision."

"Of course, Your Majesty." Elenwen's smile remained, but her gaze sharpened as she took a step closer to the throne. "I do hope you understand the… delicate nature of Skyrim's position in the Empire."

"I am aware of the challenges we face, ambassador."

"Good," Elenwen said smoothly. "The Emperor relies on the Dominion to provide stability across the region. It would be regrettable if anyone in Skyrim were to misinterpret his trust in us as weakness. After all, a united front ensures peace for everyone, does it not?"

Toryggs eyes narrowed slightly, "thank you for your input, ambassador. You may go."

With that Elenwen smiled, bowed slightly and turned to leave the throne room. Torygg watched as she left, the weight of her woods settling on him. The king had underestimated just how much control the Thalmor wanted over Skyrim. He had known they would likely influence Aurelia's marriage, but to have chosen a person as her betrothed, a Thalmor Justiciar one of their own of all people…

King Torygg's mind drifted to the moment between Aurelia and Ondolemar he witnessed outside his window. The way she smiled and laughed with him. He knew this would break her heart.

For so long Aurelia has existed in a liminal space-caught between innocence and awareness. She had grown up in a world draped in the silken veils of courtly grandeur, yet shadowed by the quiet ruthlessness of politics. She had learned to smile and curtsy, but the world she lived in was far from reality.

Nothing showed this more than her growing closeness with Ondolemar. The Altmer Justiciar, with his sharp wit and calm demeanor, had become a steady presence in her life. Torygg knew his daughter admired his intelligence, his ability to command a room, and the way he spoke to her. But he knew there were things Aurelia chose not to dwell on-what she had been carefully shielded from-was the reality of Ondolemar's role.

As a Justiciar his loyalty lie with the Thalmor and his job was to enforce their will with cold and unyielding precision. The same man who corrected her Elvish with patience could, in another moment, order the imprisonment or death of anyone deemed dangerous or accused of defying the white-gold concordat.

Torygg's stomach churned as he reflected on his role in Aurelia's life. Has he led her to this? When he thought he had been protecting her, he had unknowingly trapped her in cage he did not know how to free her from.

Ondolemar was busy in his private office writing a new report when he heard the sound of measured, deliberate footsteps followed by a sharp knock at his door.

"Enter," he said, his voice measured and calm.

Elenwen stepped in, she moved with grace, though her eyes were sharp and her smile cruel. "I have new orders for you, Commander Ondolemar."

Ondolemar stiffened slightly at her calculated formality, but maintained his composure. "Of course, First Emissary," he said, setting his quill down with precision. He rose to his full height, and clasped his hand behind his back before asking, "what are my new orders?"

Elenwen's smile widened, she stepped closer. "You are to prepare for a change in your… personal circumstances, Ondolemar."

Ondolemar's eyes narrowed his eyes, "personal circumstances?" He repeated, his voice even as ever.

"Yes," she said, savoring the moment. "The Thalmor, have deemed it necessary to solidify their influence over Skyrim in a… unique way. You are to marry Aurelia, the daughter of High King Torygg."

For the briefest moment, Ondolemar's composure faltered. His jaw tightened and his usually guarded expression showed the faintest flicker of shock. "Marry her?" He repeated, his voice just barely above a whisper.

Elenwen's smile grew colder as she watched Ondolemar's reaction with amusement. "Yes. A union that will serve as a symbol of cooperation and control between the Thalmor and Skyrim's noble lineage."

Ondolemar's composure remained steady, though his mind was racing. His voice regained its steadiness, "I see. And what role do I play in this… symbol, First Emissary?"

"You are to be both the husband and watchful guardian," Elenwen replied. "You will ensure Aurelia remains compliant. As her… handler you will maintain her loyalty and influence her actions to align with the Dominions. Her father will be far more agreeable with his daughter under our watchful eye."

He inclined his head, "I understand. When is this to take place?"

"Preparations are already underway," Elenwen said. "You will inform no one of this until the time is right, especially not Aurelia. I trust you can manage that?"

"Of course, First Emissary." He said, his voice held no emotion.

Elenwen studied him a moment longer, satisfied with what she saw, she turned to leave. Before opening the door she paused and looked over her shoulder. "Do try and look pleased, Commander. This arrangement is an honor that few would be granted."

Once Elenwen left the room, Ondolemar stood for a moment, motionless, his thoughts swirling.

Marry her? This will destroy her innocence. She will hate me for this. But what choice do I have? Refusal would mean exile-or worse. And who would replace me? A thalmor agent less restrained than I. Then what would become of her?

If I must do this, I will ensure she suffers as little as possible, I will give her that.