Chapter 1: Unbound gone Wrong
Chapter Text
It was said that the fate was a tricky mistress. When one thing would happen, sometimes something else occurred, changing the course of the events.
This was what happened to Nirn at the start of Dragon Crisis, when unexpected happened, and Akatosh had to intervene.
A male Nord was captured by the Imperial Legion on the border, and was on the cart, when he awoke. He saw three fellow Nords.
"Hey, you. You're finally awake. You were trying to cross the border, right? Walked right into that Imperial ambush, same as us, and that thief over there," a Nord with blond hair, wearing Stormcloak officer armor spoke.
"Damn you Stormcloaks. Skyrim was fine until you came along. Empire was nice and lazy. If they hadn't been looking for you, I could've stolen that horse and been half way to Hammerfell," the thief said, as he then turned to the prisoner. "You there. You and me -- we should be here. It's these Stormcloaks the Empire wants."
"Shut up back there!" a soldier commanded.
The thief looked at the prisoner with a covered by scarf mouth. "And what's wrong with him?"
"Watch your tongue! You're speaking to Ulfric Stormcloak, the true High King."
"Ulfric? The Jarl of Windhelm? You’re the leader of the rebellion. But if they captured you… Oh gods, where are they taking us?"
"I don’t know where we’re going, but Sovngarde awaits."
"No, this can’t be happening. This isn’t happening."
"Hey, what village are you from, horse thief?"
"Why do you care?"
"A Nord’s last thoughts should be of home."
They were approaching a village, which was fortified.
"General Tullius, sir! The headsman is waiting!" a soldier called.
"Good. Let’s get this over with."
"Shor, Mara, Dibella, Kynareth, Akatosh. Divines, please help me," the horse thief pleaded.
The carriage entered the city, as the Nord in Stormcloak Officer gear spoke: Look at him, General Tullius the Military Governor. And it looks like the Thalmor are with him. Darn elves. I bet they had something to do with this."
What he didn't know was that General Tullius and the Elf were arguing. The Nord continued:
"This is Helgen. I used to be sweet on a girl from here. Wonder if Vilod is still making that mead with juniper berries mixed in. Funny…when I was a boy, Imperial walls and towers used to make me feel so safe."
A father and a son were watching the carriages.
"Who are they, daddy? Where are they going?" the boy asked.
"You need to go inside, little cub," the father replied.
"Why? I want to watch the soldiers."
"Inside the house. Now."
"Yes, Papa."
The wagons with prisoners began to stop near the wall.
"Why are they stopping?" Lokir asked.
"Why do you think? End of the line."
The wagons stopped near the wall, and the prisoners began to get off.
"Empire loves its damn lists."
"Step up when we call your name. One at the time!" a female voice commander.
"Ulfric of Stormcloak, the Jarl of Windhelm," one man began.
"It was honor, Jarl Ulfric."
"Ralof of Riverwood."
Ralof went next.
Lokir of Rorikstead."
"No, I'm not a rebel! You can't do this!" Lokir exclaimed, as he ran off.
"Halt! Archers!" a woman exclaimed. Lokir was shot as she asked: "Anyone else feel like running?"
"Wait, you there. Step forward. Who are you?"
The Nord mentioned his name.
"You picked a bad time to come home to Skyrim, kinsman," the soldier said.
The captain sentenced a male Nord to execution, despite him being not on the list, and when it was the Nord in the rags' turn, a Dragon suddenly attacked. It knocked away the executor, and the prisoner from the chopping block.
The prisoner kept his journal, and ran to help everyone escape. But, he died, when the Dragon scorched him. The journal survived.
Akatosh, the Dragon God of the Time saw that the Dragonborn had died, and sought elsewhere to find the champion.
He saw that one soul was in pain, as she ended her own life on another world. He decided to add the Dragon power to her, and bring her to the world, where her fate could change. So, he had one of the Daedra Princes save her from a spike, and Akatosh added the Dragon soul to her, mixing with her Banshee spirit.
As for Azeroth, that was the last they would see of Sylvanas Windrunner, the Banshee Queen of the Forsaken.
Chapter 2: A new World
Summary:
Sylvanas awakens in the strange world.
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Sylvanas remembered falling. She jumped off of the Frozen Throne, as her vengeance was somewhat fulfilled. There was a new Lich King. Arthas was at least dead, slain by champions of Alliance, and the Horde.
She led the Forsaken, the Undead, who rebelled against the Scourge, when the Lich King's powers waned. They joined the Horde, and achieved vengeance, once Arthas was slain. There was a setback in a form of Varimathras' betrayal, but that demon was dead now.
With Arthas dead, the Forsaken's vengeance was sated, and so was hers.
Now that the one who turned her into the monster was dead, and the vengeance was sated, there was nothing for her, and she jumped. Before she could be impaled, she felt as something grabbed her and she knew no more.
She felt the wind, and awoke in the small camp, that was near the forest. She was in the camp of some sort, and searched the sack to find some supplies. The land was unfamiliar to her, and she looked around.
Then, she saw something flying above. On closer inspection, it was a Dragon, but it lacked front limbs, so it looked like to be a Proto-Drake of Northrend. It was black as night, similar to Deathwing of Azeroth, and the Dragon had red eyes.
It flew away from the nearby settlement that was destroyed. The smoke was still in the air. But she had to check if she had the means to defend herself.
Sylvanas looked at her attire, and she found that she was wearing fur armor, and her original gear was lost. She was glad to have a bow. She decided to scout the land, and found a lake nearby. There was a road, and she climbed the small hidden path.
A shrine to a human stepping on a Dragon had corpses, and a few skeletons. The skeletons rose up to attack, but Sylvanas wrestled the axe from one of the skeletons and dodged their attacks. Their armor was interesting, and she was able to fit into the set of the golden armor, that had the eagle motif on it. And the helmet fit her, so, she wasn't defenseless. She discarded the fur attire, and the first she held in this world to change to the beautiful one.
She found a dead person lying face down, and she discovered a letter that was with him. It read:
Agent Sanyon,
In response to your report dated 22nd Morning Star 401, your request for an expeditionary force is hereby denied.
Sanyon, this is the seventh report you have filed this month, and not one of your leads - not one! - has turned up so much as a shred of evidence that a Shrine of Talos exists in the Lake Ilinalta region. No prisoners. No documents. Nothing!
Our forces are stretched thin enough as it is, and I have better missions - better agents - to assign them to. If you feel so sure of your informant, investigate this yourself. Come back with proof. Or not at all.
By my hand and seal,
Elenwen
"Shrine means a deity. Were these three going after the human worshipers? There was a fight for certain," she thought, as she took out a diary that she found, and read:
12th of Last Seed, 4E 201
Hard to believe I filled up that whole journal already. I never realized how much of Cyrodiil I hadn't seen yet! So much diversity, yet so much destruction from the Great War. A lot of history has been lost here forever.
The expedition is ending soon and everyone will be returning home. I have one last task to perform before I do the same. I'll send the other journal ahead with my supplies and the artifacts we recovered.
14th of Last Seed, 4E 201
I've received word from my contacts in Skyrim. All seem quiet for now. Probably for the first time since High King Torygg was killed. I should be able to make the crossing quietly enough during the night. So long as there are no Imperial patrols to deal with.
15th of Last Seed, 4E 201
So much for being discreet! I crossed the border near a small village called Helgen and made my way up to Darkwater Crossing. Unfortunately I can't get back to my camp now because the area has filled with Imperial patrols!
It seems they are searching for someone. Someone important. If I'm not mistaken, someone they intend to ambush here. This could be the very thing I am seeking here in Skyrim, but crossing the border in the dead of night without passing through the checkpoints has turned out to be a very bad plan.
16th of Last Seed, 4E 201
I woke early this morning with an Imperial sword pressed to my neck. A patrol found me camped under a rock outcropping on the edge of the volcanic marshes. I guess I wasn't as well hidden as I thought.
I have no idea where they're taking us, but I've been stuffed into the back of a rickety old cart being pulled by an even more rickety looking old nag. At least they let me keep my journal for now.
17th of Last Seed, 4E 201
Shor's bones, if only I had known sooner! The ambush, the captives in the cart with me. Stormcloak rebels! Led by none other than Ulfric Stormcloak himself!
There's no time to explain properly. I scarcely believe it myself. If it hadn't been for the dragon, I'd not even be here to write this down. Yes, a dragon! Big, black, as large as the towers of the keep itself. It swooped in out of nowhere and laid waste to the village and the keep.
General Tullius didn't take my head today, or the heads of several Stormcloak rebels, but that doesn't matter now. Hadvar and Ralof set aside their differences long enough to help me and a few others escape alive. Only the 3 of us made it this far. They've gone back into the keep to help the other survivors while I've been asked to get warning to Riverwood as fast as possible.
I still can't believe it. A dragon. Straight out of the legends! Nobody back home will ever believe me.
Sylvanas dashed back to the city to search the keep to find a few potions, if she was going up against a Dragon. She also had to reclaim her power, as she felt weaker from her near death. The keep had some useful potions, and a few books, that she would read, as she had to know about the history of this world.
There were dead soldiers, all humans, but at the end, there was collapse. Hopefully, the two survived, and she decided to warn the people of Riverwood.
Finding it was easy. She followed the road, and passed three stones, that had inscriptons on them. There was a path, but she would explore whatever was there later. She dashed towards the village to see that it was small. As she looked around, she saw a woman stand up and exclaim:
"A dragon! I saw a dragon!"
A man with blonde hair approached her and asked: "What? What is it now, mother?"
"It was as big as the mountain, and black as night. It flew right over the barrow."
"Dragons, now, is it? Please, mother. If you keep on like this everyone in town will think you're crazy. And I've got better things to do than listen to more of your fantasies," the man scoffed, as he walked away.
"You'll see! It was a dragon! It'll kill us all and then you'll believe me!"
Sylvanas couldn't believe the rudeness, and decided to see if there were Elves in this world. As she walked around, and marveled at the scenery, that somewhat reminded her of Northrend, she bumped into someone. She saw an Elf, but his ears were much short, and he had white hair. He wore green clothing. He carried a bit of firewood, and Sylvanas helped him get it, when it fell onto the ground.
She apologized for knocking into him, which he was okay with.
The Elf introduced himself as Faendal, as he spoke: "Did I see you talking to Sven? Maybe not. Maybe...never mind. But I would stay away from him if I were you."
"No, I witnessed someone being rude to his mother. What's the problem?" Sylvanas inquired.
He's a bard, so he says. Occasionally he finds time to do his job here at the mill. Thinks his ballads and sonnets are going to convince Camilla Valerius to marry him. As if she would say 'yes.' An intelligent, beautiful woman like her wouldn't fall for that nonsense... I hope," Faendal explained.
"You hope? You do not sound to be so sure?"
"I've been thinking... maybe Camilla needs a little help seeing Sven for what he is. Could you... could you give her this letter, and say it's from Sven? I think I've matched that Nord's lack of cleverness perfectly."
"That rude to his mother man? I'll get that letter to Camilla and ensure that the less rude man wins," Sylvanas whispered into Faendal's ear. She then asked about where to find Camilla
Faendal pointed to a nearby store, and Sylvanas thanked him. She went to the store, and saw a man and a woman.
"Well one of us has to do something!" a woman exclaimed.
"We are done talking about this," the man responded.
"Well what are you going to do then, huh? Let's hear it!"
"I said no! No adventures, no theatrics, no thief-chasing! Oh, a customer. Sorry you had to hear that."
"No worries. I've brought a letter from Sven to you," Sylvanas said, as she held the letter in her armored hand.
"Another poem, I'll bet. He does know how to make a girl blush," Camilla said, as she took the letter from Sylvanas' hand and read it. "What's this? If that oaf thinks all I'm going to do is stay in that filthy house of his and clean, I'll.... You can tell Sven that he already has a mother. I'm not speaking to him anymore."
Sylvanas left the shop, and found Faendal.
"She won't see him anymore. She'll have to look elsewhere," she said.
"I appreciate your help. Please, take this. Some gold I've saved up from working at the mill."
She got a bit of coin, as she spoke up:
"Faendal, I am here to warn people of this place about a Dragon that destroyed Helgen. Sven's mother wasn't lying at all."
He was horrified, and it caught the attention of the local blacksmith.
"I would have thought if Sven would be saying that, I would think he was a drunk. But from you two?"
"Sylvanas, Dragons were not seen in many centuries and are bad news. You have to warn Jarl Balgruff about the Dragon. Riverwood is in danger," Faendal was nervous.
"I'll see to both that, and finding out what the thieves stole from the shop," she agreed.
"A golden claw, that's what was stolen."
"A golden claw," Sylvanas muttered. Before she would dash off, she and Faendal chatted about the world that she found herself in, while gathering some wood for her arrows. She learned that there were four human races, four Elven races (Orcs counted as Elves) and two beast folk races. Faendal remarked that she was a Dunmer due to her skin and eye color, but had longer ears.
Of course, Sylvanas knew that she was the Undead High Elf, and heard that there was a High Elf race here in this world, or the Altmer, who had golden skin, and were most magically powerful race on Nirn.
She was in Skyrim, the homeland of the Nords, who were proficient warriors. But, there were other races that resided, who were migrants. Once she was done making Steel Arrows, she ran off to go to Whiterun.
Notes:
I never liked Sven, and a lot of players consider him to be the worst follower in the entire game. Same with me.
Chapter 3: Bleak Falls Barrow
Summary:
Sylvanas goes to search for a Golden Claw, and a Dragonstone.
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
The path to Whiterun was not that eventful, except for a wolf, and sniping a giant from afar. Sylvanas wasted no time, but had to stop at the stables, as she overheard the conversation between two Nords, a female warrior and a male commoner.
"By Ysmir, it's true. A jester - funny suit and all. Just north, by the Loreius Farm. Fool had a coffin in a cart, with a broken wheel. Like to see him laugh his way out of that," the female began.
They proceeded to laugh, as Sylvanas thought: "A coffin in a cart? That jester could be a necromancer in the disguise. I might take a look once I warn the Jarl about the Dragon Attack on Helgen."
"Well, sounds like you've had quite the journey, Uthgerd. But you were gone longer than usual. I got to thinking maybe you weren't coming back..." the male Nord said.
"You sound like my ma. Figured I was lying dead in a field somewhere, is that it?"
"Thought did cross my mind, yeah. War brewing, talk of a riot in Helgen, and now jesters? Skyrim's gone mad, girl. You need to be careful out there."
"Careful, huh? Thanks, Skulvar. I'll remember that. Ha ha ha ha ha ha!"
Sylvanas walked to the gate, as she saw the banners, that had the horse's head on it. This could be Whiterun. A guard approached her.
"Halt! The city's closed with Dragons about. Official business only," he spoke.
"I'm carrying a message from Riverwood to the Jarl, as people are concerned about safety following the Dragon attack," Sylvanas replied.
"Riverwood's in danger too? You'd better go in. You'll find the Jarl in Dragonsreach, at the top of the hill."
Sylvanas nodded, and opened the doors to see a beautiful city. She walked into it, and walked by two people talking, a marketplace, a dead tree alongside another shrine similar to the one that she saw previously, and walked upstairs to the enormous keep. The city was built using wood, but it was build on the stone, as the city was on the hill.
She opened two doors, and entered the Dragonsreach. Inside was warmer, and she saw tables. It could be the Jarl's place. She walked upstairs to the throne hall, and a female Dark Elf with auburn hair walked up to Sylvanas, sword unsheated in her hand. Two men were in the throne part arguing about something.
"What is the meaning of this interruption? Jarl Balgruuf is not receiving visitors," the Dark Elf asked.
"I'm here about the news about a Dragon attack on Helgen."
"You know about the Dragon attack? The Jarl will want to speak with you personally," the Elf said.
Sylvanas approached him, and he asked: "So, you were in Helgen. You saw this Dragon with your own eyes?" he asked.
"I saw him departing, as I was in my camp outside of city. I came to investigate once it left, and saw that Helgen was already destroyed, and there were those who died at the fire of the beast. And as for the Dragon itself, it was seen last heading this way," Sylvanas replied.
"By Ysmir, Irileth was right!" Jarl Balgruff exclaimed, as he then turned to his steward. "What do you say now, Proventus? Do we trust the strength of our walls? Against a Dragon?"
"My Lord, we should send troops to Riverwood at once. It's in the most immediate danger. If that Dragon is lurking in the mountains..." a Dark Elf named Irileth began.
"The Jarl of Falkreath will view this as a provocation. He'll assume we joined the side with Ulfric to attack him. We should not..." Proventus began.
"Enough!" Balgruuf interrupted him. "I will not stand idly by as a Dragon burns my hold and slaughters my people! Irileth, send a detachment to Riverwood at once. Also dispatch a detachment to Rorikstead as well."
"Yes, my Jarl." Irileth then walked away to have some soldiers dispatched to both of those towns. Sylvanas thought that it would be the best to have two settlements protected.
"If you'll excuse me, I'll return to my duties."
"That would be best," the Jarl responded, as he turned to Sylvanas. "Well done. You sought me out, on your own initiative. You've done Whiterun a service, and I won't forget it."
Sylvanas got rewarded with the gear, but she would hold onto it.
"There is another thing you could do for me. Suitable for someone of your particular talents, perhaps. Come, let's go find Farengar, my court wizard. He's been looking into a matter related to these dragons and... rumors of dragons."
She walked with Balgruuf and met up with a wizard standing behind a table. There were interesting tables with equipment on them, and on the right was a map attacked to a stand of sorts. The map was of Skyrim, and Sylvanas saw that Whiterun was in the middle. On the table were few items, and a few curious looking gems.
"Farengar, I think I found someone for your Dragon project. Go ahead and fill him in with all of details," Balgruuf said.
"So the Jarl thinks you can be of use to me? Oh yes, he must be referring to my research into the dragons. Yes, I could use someone to fetch something for me. Well, when I say fetch, I really mean delve into a dangerous ruin in search of an ancient stone tablet that may or may not actually be there," Farengar began.
"What this has to do with Dragons and their return?" Sylvanas asked.
"Ah, no mere brute mercenary, but a thinker - perhaps even a scholar? You see, when the stories of dragons began to circulate, many dismissed them as mere fantasies, rumors. Impossibilities. One sure mark of a fool is to dismiss anything that falls outside his experience as being impossible. But I began to search for information about dragons - where had they gone all those years ago? And where were they coming from?
"I, ah, learned of a certain stone tablet said to be housed in Bleak Falls Barrow - a 'Dragonstone,' said to contain a map of dragon burial sites. Go to Bleak Falls Barrow, find this tablet - no doubt interred in the main chamber - and bring it to me. Simplicity itself," Farengar explained.
Sylvanas got a few spell tomes that had her curious, and she left the Dragonsreach.
She reached the Bleak Falls Barrow, and fought off bandits. Entering the barrow had her see that it was enrmous entry. She saw bodies of rat like creatures and bandits as well.
Sneaking proved to be a good thing, as she stopped to overhear two bandits talking:
"So, we're supposed to just sit here while Arvel runs off with that golden claw?"
"That dark elf wants to go on ahead, let him. Better than us risking our necks."
"What if Arvel doesn't come back? I want my share from that claw!"
"Just shut it and keep an eye out for trouble."
"So, the Claw is here after all. I'll see what this place has. Possibly some relics," Sylvanas thought, as she used a spell to raise one of the dead bandits into the undead. She commanded the puppet to attack two others
She searched the chest, and found an interesting scroll alongside coins. She traversed through the corridor to come to a chamber, where the gate was opened. She crossed it, and found a small room with a chest, that had loot, a book and a small white gem. She picked the items, and went downstairs to hear the battle. She saw more dead rat creatures, and picked up another scroll alongside a vial with a poison in it.
Reaching the chamber that had webs had her see that an enormous spider killed a bandit, while another was trapped in webs. She sniped the spider, and the webbing around the bandit. Once released, he ran off, but Sylvanas proceeded to search, feeling that a trap was ahead. A spider had some venom, and there were eggs on the sacks.
Sylvanas followed the bandit that ran off, and she ran into the chamber, where three strange undead warriors were up and in arms. As for the bandit, he laid dead. Sylvanas sniped the undead with her arrows, and checked the body.
The Golden Claw and a journal were found. She read it:
My fingers are trembling. The Golden Claw is finally in my hands, and with it, the power of the ancient Nordic heroes. That fool Lucan Valerius had no idea that his favorite store decoration was actually the key to Bleak Falls Barrow.
Now I just need to get to the Hall of Stories and unlock the door. The legend says there is a test that the Nords put in place to keep the unworthy away, but that "When you have the golden claw, the solution is in the palm of your hands."
"So, there is a treasure in this place. And so could be the Dragonstone. That Claw will be back in that shop once I get the stone," Sylvanas thought, as she avoided the pressure place that was a trap to a swinging spike door.
Any of the undead creatures that were on her way were defeated by her arrows and she raised some to her short service. She found a couple of locked chests, and unlocked to find some gold and gear.
She reached the hall with strange murals on the walls. She studied them to see a man and a woman in each one. She wondered if these figures were related to some legends. Approaching the door, she saw that the keyhole matched the claw.
She solved the puzzle, and used the Claw to open the door. She walked into the glen like area, and saw something in the distance. She saw a wall with some inscription on it. She did not recogonize the language, but approached it. She heard voices in her mind, as they spoke:
HET NOK FaaL VahLOK
DeiNMaaR DO DOVahGOLZ
ahRK aaN FUS DO UNSLaaD
RahGOL ahRK VULOM
One word was in her mind: "Fus."
She stumbled back, as she learned it. She wondered what did just happen to her, but she had to protect herself from the stronger version of the undead that she battled earlier. She used the scroll, which was a fireball spell. That wasn't bad.
The chest had a few gems, some gold and a curious gold axe. On the corpse of the undead creature was the Dragonstone. She exited the barrow after opening the lever.
She would return the Claw first, and then the Dragonstone.
Notes:
Still baffles me as of how Arvel closed the gate from the other side.
That's Bethesda for you. This fic will address some bad writing that I noticed in Skyrim. And I thought Battle for Azeroth had bad writing.
Chapter Text
Sylvanas made her way back to Riverwood, and she saw Faendal approaching her. She did see some guards, which meant that Balgruuf did sent troops.
"Sylvanas, thank you for getting some soldiers. We'll feel safe. What about the Claw?" he asked.
"That Claw was the key to the door in the Bleak Falls Barrow. The Bandits sought to get some valuable treasure there," she replied.
"So, it was valuable after all. I had no idea. You have to give it back to Lucan," Faendal said, as he walked with Sylvanas to the store.
"Faendal? It's good to see you," Camilla noted.
"I'm not only here to see you, but also to tell how valuable the Claw is, or was, as our friend here found out what it was for," Faendal said, as Sylvanas approached the stand, and placed the Claw.
"So, it was a key to the treasure. It was smaller than I remember. I and my sister won't forget your help. Thank you," Lucan replied.
Sylvanas looked at wares, before leaving to get the stone to its recipient.
She returned to Whiterun's Dragonreach, and placed the Dragonstone. There was a woman next to him. She wore leather armor and she was hooded.
"There was a stone after all in the Barrow, and some interesting treasures," Sylvanas said.
"So your information was correct after all. And we have our friend here to thank for recovering it for us," Farengar said, as the woman looked at Sylvanas.
"You went into Bleak Falls Barrow and got that? Nice work," she remarked, to which Sylvanas nodded in the return.
"I'll be seeing what we have to do next..." she began, only to hear:
"Farengar!"
It was Irileth, and Sylvanas saw that the Dunmer Housecarl and a guard rushing inside.
Farengar, you need to come at once. A dragon's been sighted nearby," she spoke up.
"A dragon! How exciting! Where was it seen? What was it doing?" he asked
"Save your research for later. It's a serious situation, and you act like a childish scholar. That dragon is not to be studied, as it can attack the city," Sylvanas said.
Irileth looked at Sylvanas and remarked; "Couldn't have it said better myself." She lead the Ranger upstairs, where the guard was facing Balgruuf.
"So, Irileth tells me you came from the western watchtower?" he asked.
"Tell him what you told me. About the dragon," Irileth said
"Uh... that's right. We saw it coming from the south. It was fast... faster than anything I've ever seen," the guard began.
"What did it do? Is it attacking the watchtower?"
"No, my lord. It was just circling overhead when I left. I never ran so fast in my life... I thought it would come after me for sure."
"Good work, son. We'll take it from here. Head down to the barracks for some food and rest. You've earned it. Irileth, you'd better gather some guardsmen and get down there."
"I've already ordered my men to muster near the main gate."
"Good. Don't fail me." He then turned to Sylvanas, who was listening. "There's no time to stand on ceremony, my friend. I need your help again. I want you to go with Irileth and help her fight this Dragon. You survived Helgen, so you have more experience with dragons then anyone else here. But I haven't forgotten the service you did for me in retrieving the Dragonstone for Farengar. As a token of my esteem, I have instructed Avenicci that you are now permitted to purchase property in the city. And please accept this gift from my personal armory."
"One last thing, Irileth. This isn't a death or glory mission. I need to know what we're dealing with," he added, as he turned to Irileth.
"Don't worry, my lord. I'm the very soul of caution," she replied, as she turned to Sylvanas. "I'll see you at the watchtower as soon as the rest of the men have gathered."
She nodded, as she left to get ahead of the men.
Sylvanas remembered that she saw a tower in the distance, when she was approaching Whiterun for the first time, so, she dashed ahead, and saw the damage. She was to jump in, but saw that a group of soldiers and Irileth arriving.
The Elf stopped, as she spoke: "No signs of any dragon right now, but it sure looks like he's been here." She then turned to the soldier group. "I know it looks bad, but we've got to figure out what happened. And if that dragon is still skulking around somewhere. Spread out and look for survivors. We need to know what we're dealing with."
Sylvanas ran ahead to the tower, only to hear one man speak:
"No! Get back! It's still here somewhere! Hroki and Tor just got grabbed when they tried to make a run for it!" A roar was heard in the distance, and the guard spoke: "Kynareth save us, here he comes again..."
Sylvanas eyed the figure, and she realized that it was indeed a Dragon. It was a grey one, and it approached fast.
"Everyone, take cover! And do not waste your arrows!" Sylvanas exclaimed, as she found a place to hide from the flame of the beast.
The beast flew around, and Sylvanas used another Fireball scroll, before her and the guards' arrows landed the Dragon. She dashed ahead, and was able to pierce the beast, killing it.
"Dovahkiin? Niid!" an agony was let out by the beast, as it fell onto the ground. Sylvanas studied the beast close. Indeed, the Dragons of Nirn resembled Proto-Dragons of Azeroth. But, she had to stand back, as the Dragon burst into flames, and some sort of light started to transfer from it to Sylvanas. The flesh burned, and she watched it turn to a skeleton.
She also felt some sort of power awakening within her. Once she fully absorbed the power, she felt the word in her unlock. She found herself shouting into the sky: "Fus!"
As she was trying to digest what just happened, one of the guards ran up to her. He was astonished, as he spoke: "I can't believe it! You're... Dragonborn..."
Sylvanas was confused, as she inquired: "Dragonborn? What do you mean?"
"In the very oldest tales, back from when there were Dragons in Skyrim, the Dragonborn would slay the Dragons and steal their power. That's what you did, isn't it? You absorbed the Dragon's power?" the guard elaborated.
"It seems to be the case," Sylvanas replied.
"You can at least Shout now. This means one thing, you're a Dragonborn," the guard said.
Sylvanas decided to make a quick leave, as she was digesting what she had heard. She overheard briefly about a man named Tiber Septim being a Dragonborn, and that the Dragonborn was a story told to the people of this land each generation. It could be a legend of this land.
Once she approached the stables, the land shook, and she held on, as she heard a thundering voices coming from a mountain:
"DOVAHKIIN!"
"Did it come from that mountain? No, I saw a fortress. Maybe people live there," she thought, as she walked back to Dragonsreach. Since it a night time, she was worn out, and looked forward to some rest, despite she was not a living Elf.
She arrived at Dragonsreach, and walked up to the throne.
"Good, you're finally here. The Jarl has been waiting for you," Proventus spoke.
"You heard the summons. What else could it mean? The Greybeards..." Balgruuf said as he turned to Sylvanas.
"We were just talking about you. My brother wants to speak to you," Balguuf's brother added.
"So what happened at the watchtower? Was the dragon there?" Balgruuf asked.
"There was a Dragon indeed, and it fell to my and others' arrows alongside my axe. But, I'm also this 'Dragonborn'. I absorbed its soul, and the men called me a Dragonborn," Sylvanas explained.
"So it's true. The Greybeards really were summoning you," Balgruuf replied.
"Greybeards? Who are they, and what do they want with me?"
"Masters of the Way of the Voice. They live in seclusion high on the slopes of the Throat of the World. The Dragonborn is said to be uniquely gifted in the Voice - the ability to focus your vital essence into a Thu'um, or Shout. If you really are Dragonborn, they can teach you how to use your gift," Balgruuf explained.
His brother spoke up next:
"Didn't you hear the thundering sound as you returned to Whiterun? That was the voice of the Greybeards, summoning you to High Hrothgar! This hasn't happened in ... centuries, at least. Not since Tiber Septim himself was summoned when he was still Talos of Atmora!"
Tiber Septim was mentioned before, so, she was not the first Dragonborn, despite her coming from another world.
"Hrongar, calm yourself. What does any of this Nord nonsense have to do with our friend here? Capable as she may be, I don't see any signs of her being this, what, 'Dragonborn.'" Balgruff's Steward was skeptical. Sylvanas just rolled her eyes, but held herself back from Shouting at the man, as she felt her inner Dragon growling in anger.
"Nord nonsense?! Why you puffed-up ignorant... these are our sacred traditions that go back to the founding of the First Empire!" Hrongar was furious.
"Hrongar. Don't be so hard on Avenicci," Balgruff stepped in.
"I meant no disrespect, of course. It's just that... what do these Greybeards want with her?" Avenicci asked.
"That's the Greybeards' business, not ours," Balgruuf replied, before he turned to face Sylvanas. "Whatever happened when you killed that dragon, it revealed something in you, and the Greybeards heard it. If they think you're Dragonborn, who are we to argue? You'd better get up to High Hrothgar immediately. There's no refusing the summons of the Greybeards. It's a tremendous honor.
"I envy you. I've done a pilgrimage once. High Hrothgar is a peaceful place, isolated from the troubles below. One has to wonder if they noticed what is going on below. No matter, get to High Hrothgar, and learn what the Greybeards have to teach you."
He then finished with: "You've done a great service for me and my city, Dragonborn. By my right as Jarl, I name you Thane of Whiterun. It's the greatest honor that's within my power to grant. I assign you Lydia as a personal Housecarl, and this weapon from my armory to serve as your badge of office. I'll also notify my guards of your new title. Wouldn't want them to think you're part of the common rabble, now would we? We are honored to have you as Thane of our city, Dragonborn."
Sylvanas was overwhelmed, but decided to accept the reward. She took the axe to use it alongside her other to serve the Hold. She went to her chamber to sleep.
Sylvanas rested in her quarters, as she felt somewhat at home. She remembered jumping off, but she ended up in the world, where she awakened to the mysterious power within her. She was a noble in the Hold that she saved, as she was a Thane.
As a former Queen, she recognized the nobility. But, she would travel alone, as she didn't want her new protector witnessing her Necromancy arts. And, Sylvanas was going on a pilgrimage. She wondered, if she could combine her magic that she knew with her newly awakened power.
For now, she would go on a pilgrimage, and learn her new power, before finding out why she got the new power in the first place, and why she was in Nirn.
Notes:
Couldn't help, but write Sylvanas telling Farengar off, as his reaction to the first Dragon attack is not an amusing one.
Chapter 5: A Haunted Barrow and a Lost Sister
Summary:
Sylvanas investigates a barrow in Ivarstead alongside the disappearance of a resident.
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Once Sylvanas rested, she was up on her feet. She checked her supplies, and saw that she had everything for her journey to High Hrothgar. She had potions, and all that she needed.
She had a look at the family of the Jarl. He had three children, Frothar, Dagny and Nelkir. Their mother was nowhere to be found, as she was sadly dead.
Only Frothar was nice to Sylvanas. Before she went, he spared with her using his fists, but ensured that neither were hurt in the process. Dagny was a spoiled brat, and something dark was about Nelkir.
It would be much later, when the answer would surface.
She learned how to enchant, and how to make potions, so, she had some knowledge. She left Dragonsreach and Whiterun, but not before overhearing the guard arguing with two Redguards wearing different clothing and having curved swords.
Investigation into this would be later, once she was done with the pilgrimage.
She traveled on a foot to Ivarstead. She often sniped her arrows at bandits and wildlife that were hostile to her, or any traveler. This had her pick up some pelts, and she would use them later. There was one house that caught her interest, but she would investigate later.
Ivarstead was a small village, that had a lumber mill, a tavern and a home with the farm. There was a destroyed house across the river. In the distance, she saw someone, rushed to cross it, and found a man wearing rags.
He spoke: "I can't see you, Reyda! I can't find you! Why are you hiding? Hiding, hide, hide, hide! Don't make me sad!"
"What's wrong with you?" she asked.
"With father I said goodbye... with mother I said goodbye. Reyda leaves and Narfi can't say goodbye. Makes Narfi very, very sad. Narfi needs Reyda to say goodbye."
"Maybe the local innkeeper knows about this man," Sylvanas thought, as she went to the tavern, and approached the innkeeper.
"If I were you, I'd keep away from the barrow on the east side of town... it's haunted," he warned her.
"What is it about the barrow?" Sylvanas inquired.
"There ain't much more to tell... they're haunted and you should stay away. Look, I've seen one of the spirits with my very own eyes. When it glared at me, I swear it burned right through my soul."
"Have ghosts been in the town?"
"Fortunately, they seem to be sticking to the barrow. I think they're guarding it. Certainly isn't helping my business any; who'd want to rent a room anywhere near a haunted barrow?"
"I'll see what is it in the barrow. And this Narfi fellow, you told him that this Reyda is coming back."
"I just said that to make the poor guy feel better. I'm pretty sure she's dead. Reyda would gather ingredients from the small island in the river east of here. Then one day, she just vanished. I tried to look for her, but she never turned up."
Sylvanas left the inn and walked to the river and studied it.
"Well, it's time to scout the waters. I could get some fish for alchemy," she thought, as she walked into the water, and swam to search for anything. She saw skeletal remains soon enough, and she searched the small satchel. Alongside some components, she found a necklace. "This clearly belongs to her. If this is her body, then her necklace will have to be returned to her brother. And the truth must be told," she thought, as she swam back to the shore near the farm, and emerged from the water. She approached Narfi, and showed the amulet: "I found her amulet, and she is dead."
"Oh no! No, no, no. Narfi never got to say goodbye! Now Narfi's all alone. At least Narfi has Reyda's Necklace... reminds Narfi of his sister. Thank you for giving this to Narfi."
She got a reward of some components, and she went to the barrow. She walked the spiral stairs, and she saw a ghost behind a gate, who spoke, as he walked away:
"Leave this place... Leave this place... Leave... Leave... Leave.."
"So, this is the ghost that haunts the barrow. I'll have to follow him," she thought, as she figured out the lever puzzle. She ensured that all three gates were opened, and she walked to the next gate. She used the lever, and had to wait, as there was a spike trap. "This place could built ages ago, but the defense was still waiting to spring up. But there is more to this barrow than this small section. I wonder what this ghost is doing here. Guarding something?" she thought again, as she walked down steps and further in the small barrow section, located the room with the alchemy table, a bedroll and a ghost sitting in the chair.
She was quiet, as she sniped him with an arrow, and she saw that it was a Dunmer, who must had done something to look undead. A journal laid on the table, and she picked up to read:
4E 200, 18 Morning Star
I've set up camp inside the barrow. This has to be the place. According to all of my research, the burial chamber should be located here. All I need is some time undisturbed to find the claw. It must be hidden here somewhere.
4E 200, 25 Morning Star
Had a close call today with that fool Wilhelm. He came close to entering the barrow, but I was able to scare him off by rattling some pottery shards in a bag. These people are far too superstitious for their own good. Gives me an idea.
4E 200, 28 Morning Star
After a few failures, I've come up with a mixture that should do the trick. The glow is perfect - I should look exactly like one of the supposed spirits the people of Ivarstead believe is haunting this barrow. Going to test it out tomorrow.
4E 200, 29 Morning Star
Success! It worked better than I could have imagined. All I had to do was wander about the entrance to the barrow at night and wave my arms about. I had to stop myself from laughing aloud as they ran away. This should keep them at bay while I continue searching for the claw.
4E 200, 11 Hearthfire
Almost half a year has passed and no sign of the claw or any clues as to its whereabouts. This is becoming maddening. It has to be here! Can't risk hiring any assistance, so I'll have to continue alone.
4E 200, 20 Sun's Dusk
It isn't here. It can't be here. This isn't right. It must be the people of Ivarstead... they must be on to my ruse, and they're toying with me. They want to find the burial chamber on their own and keep the riches for themselves!
4E 200, 18 Evening Star
Why? Why are they tormenting me? Why not just destroy me? I'm... who am I? My head is becoming clouded, I can't remember anything. I have to read my journal to remember my purpose. Am I a part of this tomb? Am I meant to guard it? What's becoming of me?
1E 1050
...They shall not take my treasure. They shall all pay dearly for their crimes. Any who set foot within these walls will taste my wrath, my power. I am the guardian of Shroud Hearth Barrow! All who oppose me will fall...
"So, that's what happened here. He decided to become a ghost and fool people while he looked for that Claw. But, I didn't find the claw either. Maybe the townsfolk know about its whereabouts. Honestly, that's a second Dunmer I see trying to find a treasure using a Claw," Sylvanas thought, as she left the barrow with the journal and a mixture.
She walked back to the inn, and showed the journal to Wilhelm, who was astonished, once he read the journal: "I can't believe this... It was all just a fabrication of this Wyndelius character? I can't believe we were so stupid. Well, least I can do is give you something for taking care of him. If you won't accept it as a payment, consider it a gift."
The reward was the very Claw that Wyndelius sought, what an irony, Sylvanas thought, as she approached a man named Klimmek, whom she overheard earlier talking with a Bosmer named Gwilin. She also got a request from Temba to bring some bear pelts, as bears had been causing her business a lot of trouble.
As for Klimmek, he needed supplies delivered to the Greybeards. The Seven Thousand Steps had some wildlife, so, Sylvanas could find some pelts for armor, or turn them into leather and leather strips.
She crossed the bridge, and walked onto the first of seven thousand steps. There was some wildlife, and a huge snow monster with three eyes attacking her, but using her arrows and spell that she learnt alongside her axe, that creature was slain.
She also read each of the tablets, until she arrived at the monastery. It was High Hrothgar.
Notes:
In game, arrows still are in the spot where Reyda's remains are located. Not here, as they were washed away by the river current.
Also, the loading screen about bears says that they don't attack unless provoked. Any Skyrim player knows that's absolutely not true at all.
Chapter 6: The Way of the Voice and the discovery
Summary:
Sylvanas learns about the Way of the Voice, and discovers someone in the attic of her new base.
Chapter Text
Sylvanas marveled at the monastery, as she walked to the chest to place the bag of supplies in them. The monks needed to eat after all. She walked inside of a monastery to see four robed and hooded men approaching.
"These are the Greybeards then. I must see what I can learn about my new powers," she thought, as one of them approached her.
"So, the Dragonborn appears at the turning of the age," the main one spoke.
"I am here to answer the summons," Sylvanas replied.
"We will see if you truly have the gift. Show us, Dragonborn. Let us taste of your Voice."
Sylvanas did not hesitate and: "Fus!"
This staggered the few men, and she knew that they felt the power. "Dragonborn, it is you. Welcome to the High Hrothgar. I'm Master Arngeir. I speak for the Greybeards. We know you came here on the summons. You have the inborn gift," Arngeir stopped, before he continued:
"Without training, you have already taken the first steps towards projecting your Voice into a Thu'um, a Shout. Now let us see if you are willing and able to learn. When you Shout, you speak in the language of dragons. Thus, your Dragon Blood gives you an inborn ability to learn Words of Power. All Shouts are made up of three Words of Power. As you master each Word, your Shout will become progressively stronger.
"Master Einarth will now teach you "Ro," the second word in Unrelenting Force. Ro means "Balance" in the dragon tongue. Combine it with Fus - "Force" - to focus your Thu'um more sharply."
"Ro," Einarth spoke, as the words appeared on the floor. Sylvanas was near, and she heard the word in her mind.
"You learn a new word like a master... you truly do have the gift. But learning a Word of Power is only the first step... you must unlock its meaning through constant practice in order to use it in a Shout. Well, that is how the rest of us learn Shouts. As Dragonborn, you can absorb a slain dragon's life force and knowledge directly. As part of your initiation, Master Einarth will allow you to tap into his understanding of "Ro.""
Einarth shared his knowledge with Sylvanas, as she felt the knowledge of the word unlocking it for her to use.
"Use your Unrelenting Force shout to strike the targets as they appear," Arngeir said.
First of the three approached and shouted: "Fiik Lo Sah!"
It manifested a phantom, and Sylvanas did not hesitate: "Fus Ro!"
Her shout not only knocked back the phantom, it vanished as well.
"Well done. Again," Arngeir said.
"Fiik Lo Sah!"
"Fus Ro!"
"You learn quickly. Once more."
"Fiik Lo Sah!"
"Fus Ro!"
There were some vases scattered, but Sylvanas put them back in their place as the sign of courtesy.
"Impressive. Your Thu'um is precise. You show great promise, Dragonborn. We will perform your next trial in the courtyard. Follow Master Borri," Arngeir spoke.
Sylvanas followed Borri to the courtyard, and they stopped on the path away from the steps.
"We will now see how you learn a completely new Shout. Master Borri will teach you "Wuld," which means "Whirlwind.""
"Wuld."
The word written in the Dragon Language on the ground, and Sylvanas allowed it to be heard in her mind, before she had learned it. Borri taught her the knowledge of Wuld.
"Now we will see how quickly you can master a new shout," Arngeir said, as they walked to the spot near the gate. Behind it was a pillar, which meant that the area was the practice for the shout.
"Master Wulfgar will demonstrate Whirlwind Sprint. Then it will be your turn," Arngeir said, as he turned to Borri. "Master Borri."
"Bex," Borri said, as the gate opened.
"Wuld Na Kest!" Wulfgar Shouted, as he sprinted to the pillar. The gate closed.
"Now it is your turn. Master Borri will open the gate. Use your Whirlwind Sprint to pass through before it closes."
"Bex." The gate opened.
"Wuld!" The Shout sent Sylvanas to Borri, as she then walked back to Arngeir.
"Your quick mastery of a new Thu'um is... astonishing. I'd heard the stories of the abilities of Dragonborn, but to see it for myself..." he remarked.
"I thank you. What is next?" Sylvanas asked.
"You are now ready for your last trial. Retrieve the Horn of Jurgen Windcaller, our founder, from his tomb in the ancient fane of Ustengrav. Remain true to the Way of the Voice, and you will return," Arngeir replied, as she bowed, and then left High Hrothgar.
At the same time, the woman whom Sylvanas encountered earlier in the Dragonsreach attempted to get to the Horn, as she wanted to lure the Dragonborn out. Unfortunately for her, there was no way to access the Horn, so, she backed out. And there were too many mage enemies.
There had to be a way to attract the Dragonborn's attention. And the hooded woman was sure that the Dragonborn was the Elf, that brought back the Dragonstone.
Sylvanas traveled to the small house that was near a farm. On her way, she told Klimmek that she gave the supplies, and left a coin for Narfi. The house had a forge, a smelter, a tanning rack, workbench and a grinding stone. There were flowers that were good for Alchemy, and a spot to chop wood, so, it was a nice place.
She entered the house. It was small and fitting. It had a double bed, and two children beds. There was a cooking pot at the fireplace, a table, and a cabinet. Pieces of armor laid around. One thing that caught her eye was the door to the attic.
She climbed downstairs to see that it was a small room with the Enchanting and Alchemy tables. Alchemy and Enchanting of Nirn had a different concept than those in Azeroth. She worked on a few potions, as she then listened. She heard something behind one of the walls.
Touching the said wall led to the discovery that it was a door, and in the chamber, she saw a statue of a demon like being with a dog and a cage with the note on the lock. She picked it up to read:
DO NOT FREE HIM!
He may look harmless now, but Lord Clavicus Vile was clear. That Lich must be contained until it break or handed over to the next champion.
"A Lich? But he looks alive," she mused, as she saw that he wasn't a skeleton like being. He was one of the High Elves, or Altmer, but he was a prisoner of a cult to this Clavicus Vile. At the same time, she felt the temptation of expanding her power alongside gaining a companion. So, she found the way to break the lock, and untied him from his shackles.
"I've never seen your people before. Who are you?" the prisoner asked.
"I'm Sylvanas Windrunner, the former Ranger-General of Silvermoon. I was one of the Elves, before being slain by Arthas. And you are?"
"I'm Mannimarco, the former King of Worms. I can tell that you're one of the undead, despite being an Elf," Mannimarco remarked.
As she was silent, he added:
"You were heading somewhere, am I correct? If this is the case, let me join you."
"I hope he isn't like Varimathras," she thought, before she spoke again. "I am going to the tomb of Jurden the Windcaller to retrieve his horn. It's found in the barrow called Ustengrav."
"Ustengrav. If my memory serves right, then it's far north near the city of Solitude. A millennia ago, my arch-enemy traveled through this land. I will tell you the aspects of the history of this realm."
"Then it's settled. I'll make some armor, and we'll begin our journey to the north," Sylvanas agreed. Mannimarco was led out of the attic, and he sat on the double bed and fell asleep to rest.
Sylvanas crafted him some robes, based on the material that she had.
As for Mannimarco, he felt that the energies within the Undead Elf woman that freed him lured him to her. There was a power within her, and her red eyes glowed. The eyes of the Dark Elves or the Dunmer did not.
Soon, she returned and showed him the robes, and he was impressed. She knew a thing about making armor.
She put her Elven helmet on the floor, and fell asleep on the bed.
That night, Mannimarco had a dream of a land being destroyed by the undead, and a woman matching Sylvanas' description, except that she had a different armor, dying in a battle against a knight with a blade, before her spirit being turned to a monster.
He had no idea why, but it was a hint on the past, before she came to Nirn.
Chapter 7: In My Time of Need
Summary:
Sylvanas and Mannimarco investigate the tricky case in Whiterun.
Notes:
Apologies for a long delay, as I had a writer's block on this fic, and others. Got back into the writing, and will see to it that all of my WIPs are updated as much as possible.
And RL was hard on me.
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
In the morning, the two awakened, and left the house. Mannimarco wore the robes that Sylvanas made, and he also wore a hood to hide his identity. Sylvanas put on her Elven helmet, and they walked on the road to Whiterun, as she knew that they would stop there at first.
"Breathing in the fresh air already has me happy after being down there for so long. I thought that I was going to die down there," Mannimarco said, as they walked past a cave entrance. Sylvanas wondered what got Mannimarco in that cage in the first place.
And for how long he was down there in it. The only clue that she had was 'for so long'.
This didn't matter, for now, as she would find out. First stop was Whiterun, before they would get to their main destination, Morthal, which was to the north west of their starting destination for their journey.
The two arrived at the city, and Mannimarco was happy to see a settlement after being in the cage for too long.
"We will stock up on supplies, and then head to Morthal," Sylvanas said.
"Good idea. We won't do tomb scouring while having less potions and supplies. Who knows what we might encounter in the place you're going to?" Mannimarco agreed.
Once they entered the city, they saw two Redguards in the traditional clothing. A female guard was barring them from proceeding.
"Look, you've already been told you're not allowed here. Turn around and go back the way you came," she spoke.
"We're causing no trouble. All we ask is to look for her," the Redguard replied.
"I don't care what you're doing, after what happened, you're lucky I don't toss you in jail. Now get lost."
"We will be back. This is not over."
"I wonder what is going on here," Sylvanas mused, as she and Mannimarco walked away before they could be approached. Sylvanas thought to bring the situation to Balgruff.
In Dragonsreach, she walked up to the throne area, and Balgruuf was glad to see her, while Mannimarco warmed by the fire. Sylvanas guessed that it was ages since he was a part of the civilized society, which had her wondering how long he was in that cage.
"It's about the Redguards at the entrance. They spoke of a woman here in the city, and I want to investigate the matter," Sylvanas said.
"Those two are a part of Alik'r. There are rumors of Redguard women being harassed by Alik'r across Skyrim, as the latter are searching for a specific one," Balgruuf replied.
"Come to think of it, we witnessed two of these warriors harassing a woman, and mentioning a scar. Clearly a clue alongside the location of a woman that they're seeking."
"There are few Redguard women here in Whiterun, Saadia, Ahlam and Saffir. I need you to find out what is going on, and why Alik'r are here."
Sylvanas nodded, and believed that she would take a look. She found Ahlam in Temple of Kynareth. The woman was married to Nazeem, and Ahlam had no scar. Saffir, who was arguing with her husband about his sword, also had no scar. But, once they entered the Bannered Mare and sat down to have a drink, they were approached by a Redguard woman, who had black hair, and scar on her face.
The former Ranger bought a drink, sipped it, and said: "Did you know some Alik'r warriors are looking for a Redguard woman?"
"Are you sure? Oh no! They've found me? I need your help! Please, come with me. I need to speak to you privately."
Sylvanas followed the woman, only for Saadia to take out her dagger.
"What is the meaning of this? What is going on here?" Mannimarco asked.
"Put that dagger away. I do not mean to hurt you, only to find out what is going here," Sylvanas added.
"I am not the person that the people of Whiterun think I am. My name is Iman. I am a noble of House Suda in Hammerfell. The men who are looking for me, the Alik'r, they are assassins in the employ of the Aldmeri Dominion. They wish to exchange my blood for gold. I need you to root them out and drive them away before they find me and drag me back to Hammerfell for an execution," Saadia explained.
While Sylvanas had no idea about the Aldmeri Dominion, Mannimarco looked a bit suspicious about something.
"We will have these Assasins dealt with," Sylvanas agreed, as the two left the Tavern.
"Let's ask the other side in this case, as this could not be a simple task," Mannimarco whispered to her.
"So, do you think that we should search this hold's bandit lairs to find a trail of their leader and ask him about his side of the story. Surely, the assassins would try to poison her by putting a poison into her drink? Something is clearly not right here with her story," Sylvanas whispered back, as she and Mannimarco left Whiterun.
It took them a day or so to search whole hold's bandit lairs to find the trail, but to no avail. So, they came back to ask a prisoner in Whiterun Dungeons, who told them about their leader, Kematu, being in the Swindler's Den close to Rorikstead.
They arrived to the Swindler's Den, where Sylvanas sniped the Bandit at the entrance.
"So, the supposed Assasins are here. Let's see what they have to say, before we make our strike," she said, as they entered the lair.
Bandits were the obstacle to Kematu, but, thanks to Sylvanas's stealth shots, the Bandits were taken aback, and Mannimarco used his magic to defeat the bandits, taking the advantage of their confusion.
They reached the final spot, where they saw three Redguards. Two of them were ready to attack, but, the leader called them off:
"Alik'r, hold! You've proven your strength, warriors. Let's avoid any more bloodshed. I think you and I have some things to talk about."
Sylvanas and Mannimarco took this as a sign that they would indeed discuss something with Kematu, and find out what was going on here.
"We're here about Saadia, and her speaking about Alik'r hunting her here in Skyrim. She said that you're the assassins, who were hired by the Aldmeri Dominion to hunt her after she spoke out against them, and had to flee here, but, I am suspicious of that claim." Sylvanas spoke.
"Assassins, so she says. "Saadia", as you know her, is wanted by the noble houses of Taneth for treason. We were hired to see her returned to Hammerfell for her crimes. She sold the city out to the Aldmeri Dominion. Were it not for her betrayal, Taneth could have held its ground in the war. The other noble houses discovered her betrayal and she fled. They want her brought back alive. The resistance against the Dominion is alive and well in Hammerfell, and they want justice," Kematu explained.
This was a different side to the story, and Sylvanas wondered as why Thalmor wouldn't just go after her themselves or send their own assassins to dispatch her? Now Sylvanas and Mannimarco knew that something was absolutely not right with her story.
And Sylvanas was sure that the assassins were not mercenaries.
"So, she lied about her being a rebel. That will not do. And she pulled a dagger on us, when we tried to inquire, once she led us to the safe spot in the tavern in Whiterun. Hmmm, where shall we meet you about surrendering her?" Sylvanas asked.
"She trusts you, at least to some extent. She sent you after us, and has no reason to think that you'd do anything other than that. Convince her that we'll be coming for her, and she needs to leave. Lead her to the stables outside Whiterun. We'll be waiting to take her into custody. I'll gladly share a portion of the bounty in return for your efforts in seeing proper justice done."
"Understood. I'll meet you behind the stables," Sylvanas agreed as she and Mannimarco departed to Whiterun.
They returned to Whiterun, and told Saadia that the assassins knew where she was, and told her to escape. Sylvanas lost any trust towards Saadia, so, she had no shred of regret of turning her in. Kematu had followed Sylvanas, and waited for the right time to appear.
"We meet at last, my dear lady," he began.
"What is this? What have you done?" Saadia asked, turning to Sylvanas.
"I do not trust liars, and traitors. I had someone, who paid the price for his treachery, with his own life," Sylvanas responded, remembering what Varimathras did during the War against the Lich King, and the whole fiasco on the Wrathgate, and the Undercity.
"Oh, come now. You didn't really expect to manipulate people forever, did you? Your luck had to run out sometime," Kematu said, as he cast a spell, that had Saadia fall onto the ground.
"I hope it did not hurt her," Sylvanas noted.
"It's a Paralyze spell, so, she wasn't," Mannimarco responded.
"Now, we'll take our friend here back to Hammerfell, where she will pay the price for her treason. And she won't be harmed on the way here. Once in Hammerfell, what happens to her won't be up to me. And as for you, I owe you a portion of the reward, don't I? Well, here you go. Spend it wisely, and if I may... Don't allow yourself to be fooled by a pretty face. You're better than that."
"Exactly. She already had me suspicious. I will keep that gold for keepsake. Be careful, especially with the war raging," Sylvanas noted.
"Of course. I'll see to it that you get a letter, once we reach back Hammerfell, and the aftermath," Kematu responded, as he, and his warriors left with Saadia in tow.
"That is over with," Sylvanas noted.
"You have to tell the Jarl about what happened," Mannimarco responded.
"She was what?!" Balgruuf was shocked, once Sylvanas explained the outcome.
"She used the cover story of assassins going after her to drag her back to Hammerfell for the execution. That way, she would fool anyone thinking that she was a victim of something, that clearly would not get her into trouble back in Hammerfell," Sylvanas responded.
"You've done Skyrim and the Empire a great service by finding the Dominion spy. I assure you, if she was actually a noble on the run from the Dominion, they would send their own assassins, not rely on mercenaries. They would gather the intel on her, like they did with the Blades, and hunt her down."
That just showed that Saadia was indeed in the wrong, and Sylvanas was right to investigate this. Only the time would tell, if Sylvanas made a mistake. And it looked like that Hulda in the Bannered Mare needed a replacement, which she would had to find.
Sylvanas and Mannimarco returned to the Swindler's Den, got the treasure that would help Whiterun, and they had a rest in the Dragonsreach, before they would continue their journey,
That night, Mannimarco had a different dream. He was back in the same land, but, he was in the spire, listening to an Elf playing the music. He was the same race as Sylvanas, but he was alive, and not the undead.
And the land was alive, as there was no trace of the undeath affecting it. It was gorgeous as Summerset Isle, even more gorgeous, Mannimarco thought, and he sat down onto the floor to hear the song that the Elf played on his lute.
It was gorgeous, so Mannimarco stayed to listen, before he awakened in the reality the next morning.
Notes:
There is a fanfic that sadly got the storyline of this quest wrong. It's Rise of the Dragon Child. I think the author did not play that quest at all, or interpreted the lore in their own way. Some reviews pointed out that Saadia is the one in the wrong.
I played Skyrim in the past, and always sided with Kematu, once I read the lore, and caught on the inconsistencies. Saadia's story has more holes than a Swiss Cheese, as someone else put it.
You can find Rise of the Dragon Child on Fanfiction.net. And as for videos proving that Saadia is the guilty party, YouTubers such as ESO, Camelworks, Master Neloth, Imperial Knowledge and AshKing (Twice, Russian) made such videos.
WhyYuai on Chapter 1 Mon 28 Nov 2022 09:16PM UTC
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Arcturus_Imperitor on Chapter 7 Wed 03 Jul 2024 02:04PM UTC
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Lady_Moira_Reyes on Chapter 7 Wed 03 Jul 2024 02:57PM UTC
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