-Ch. 10-

The sun was just starting to set as Ozgar wandered up to Breezehome. He knew time was of the essence, but he was looking forward to a good night's sleep in his home, instead of an Inn.

"Oh!" He said in surprise, finding Lydia sitting around the fire, along with Adrianne Avenicci and Ulfberth War-Bear. The three were all close, scantily clad, and surrounded by a few bottles of mead.

"Oh!" The three replied, equally startled.

Lydia was the first to her feet. "H…honored to see you my Thane." She addressed Oz, finding it difficult to meet him in the eye.

"Hello Lydia." He said, stifling a chuckle. "Adrianne. Ulfberth."

The two blacksmiths waved back, embarrassed, but less so than Lydia.

"Don't mind me." Oz said, walking passed them towards the stairs. "I just have some mail to attend to. I'll be up here the rest of the night." He said with a wink.

He shut the door to his bedroom as he heard giggling and rustling resume. He took his seat at his writing desk. He first checked the letter box he'd instructed Lydia to leave his correspondence in while he was away.

There was only one letter from his father.

Ozgar's heart sank. He wasn't necessarily expecting to see Muiri here, but he was hoping to at least hear what had come of her, of Markarth.

He first read Mulush's letter:

Son,

I am pleased to hear of all your exploits. Things are tense in the city, but it seems you've had your hands full Eastward as well.

You have made me proud boy - An Orc of the Reach, slaying a dragon, becoming Thane of Whiterun Hold. More glory than cousin Yamarz could lead you to, I am sure.

Stay safe boy, and be wary of these Greybeards. Old Nords who think themselves wise are not always the best advisors. But, it would seem you know better than me.

Mulush Gro-Shugurz

Sealed with Mulush's official wax seal as the Markarth Smelter Overseer. Ozgar's heart swelled. He swallowed, reading his father's words over and over. "You have made me proud."

After relishing in this long sought after feeling, Ozgar then drafted a letter to Idgrod.

Dear Idgrod (the Younger)

I've completed my business in Whiterun hold. It was quite eventful. I first reunited with some old acquaintances, Lucan and Camilla. I had retrieved a family heirloom for them, just before being called by the Greybeards.

I then faced the mysterious author of the note I showed you. It turned out to be the Innkeeper! She explained she is part of some ancient order, devoted to slaying dragons and serving the Dragonborn. I'm to meet her in Kynesgrove. She believes she can predict where the dragons will appear.

I hope things have calmed in Morthal. Once this business with this Delphine woman is dealt with, I'll return to see you.

Ozgar

Thane of Whiterun Hold

Thane of Hjaalmarch Hold

He smiled writing to Idgrod, thinking of her hazel eyes, and the crinkle of her nose when she laughed. He bit his lip thinking of her, suddenly remembering Muiri.

Muiri,

I hope you're alright. My father tells me things in the city are tense. I hope the Jarl is looking out for you and Bothela.

My offer stands, if you'd like to come to Whiterun. Breezehome is open to you, though I have been running about the last few weeks.

I've been training with the Greybeards, wise Nords on top of the Throat of the World. I've learned much about Magic from them. Though, their teaching methods are not as enjoyable as yours.

I hope to hear from you soon, at least to hear that you're safe.

Oz

He sat, rereading the letter over and over. Should he return to Markarth? Mulush got his letter. But then again, he wasn't a Reachman. He swallowed, thinking of sending Lydia out to Markarth to deliver the letters, though the rhythmic thumping he heard when he turned his attention changed his mind.

He'd send the letter out in the morning, and perhaps have Lydia go to Markarth if she was up to it.