Good to see Calder has come around to – as SubRosa says – team Lilsten.

“Stand aside, hireling!”
- - Just these three words tell us so much about Thane Shatter-Shield. None of it good.

Though it has been nearly ten years, I do remember Sofie the flower girl and it was nice to see her again! Thanks to Lili’s generosity, I bet if Sofie knows anything about the whereabouts of Silda, she’ll share it with Lili.

I figure when you’re too small to intimidate or impress with appearance, you learn to develop other ways of getting by. In Lili’s case, she has elevated her speechcraft to an impressive level that shines throughout this episode.

Yes! It is like Dr. Doom calling his henchmen "lackeys" to their face.

“Stand aside, hireling!” Torbjorn laid one hand on Sten’s right shoulder and tried to push him aside.

What a tool. Good luck to Torbjorn trying to shift Stenvar. Nice backup from Calder. Good to see him on the same page as Sten and Lili.

Sofie! She seems clever and resourceful. I bet she knows how to see the Unseen!

If Lili's pouch can hold that much, the first place to check for Silda is in there!

Oh goodness, I would think adventurers sha'n't need to use their noses too much in crypts; that'd be overwhelming. Lili's use of olfactory senses, on the other hand, is helping her hone directly on the scene of the crime.

Question (which I always ask FF writers) how far ahead are you with the story, versus what we're reading now? Acadian & Rosa's tales, they're months ahead of what we actually reading. Sorry if I've asked that before.

"Stand aside, hireling!" - ha ha, love that.

Calder refers to Lili as "the Wood Elf"! No need to point out which Wood Elf, Bosmer are rare in Windhelm.

Calder gives Sten the key, hmm. That's interesting. Can't remember who originally held this key in a previous chapter, and maybe it's nothing, that particular moment. But once again I'm noticing... *Calder*.

Aw, it's Sofie, poor thing. 💐 Seems Lili's also got a Bag of Holding.

Last week I was late; this week I will be early. I have a busy day tomorrow, so thought I'd get this up tonight before I drag myself up to bed. BIL in Colorado is doing better now that he is home on hospice care - he is getting more rest and nutrition, and is surrounded by his loved ones. His spirits are definitely up, so it was the right move at this point. Sister is feeling more upbeat, too, having his family there (his kids are from his previous marriages, they're close to my sister and call her the "evil stepmother" out of fondness and good humor).

@SubRosa: Calder isn't quite on team Lilsten, but he is beginning to respect her after the way she treated him (in comparison to Torbjorn and yes, Nilsine) and the way she is taking these murders so seriously. And yes, I put that phrase in - see the unseen - with memories of Julian musing to herself "let's see what we can see" after her visit to a certain ruined fort below a certain village. I would remind you that Helgird and Lili had determined that Susanna was strangled first, then mutilated/harvested. Likely he only strangled them into unconsciousness and it was the harvesting and resulting blood loss that killed them. *shudders* And yes, that is one of the reasons why Lili took the time to teach Sten about the way different folks call themselves. His innate consideration means the lesson will be well learned, as we shall see.

@Acadian: I agree, that demand of Torbjorn's really shows his true character. We already knew something of his nature after hearing what the Argonians had to say about working for him, but this really puts the bow on top. Sofie is one of my favorites - it takes a lot of guts to approach a foreigner and ask them to buy flowers from you. Of course a soft hearted person like Lili would notice her thin clothes and poor footwear. I always adopt her, even when I swear to myself this play through is not going to have kids . . .

@Grits: Yes, it's good to see Calder back up Sten in front of Torbjorn - that's the beginning of a working relationship there. And yes, Sofie knows how to see the unseen!

@Renee: To answer your question, my writing goes in fits and spurts. When I start a new story, I don't always know if it's going to be worthwhile posting it on Chorrol.com. Generally I get several posts written ahead of time, then start posting. In this case I had 22 posts written before I started posting; I kept writing to stay ahead. Now I'm stuck (yay writer's block), but I still have several posts all ready to go, so hopefully I'll break through and start writing again. Julian's fan fiction Old Habits Die Hard took me over two years to write/post, and there were at least two episodes where I ran out of posts before breaking the block. In the one I had trouble bridging from one chapter to the next, in the second time I had trouble deciding how to write a certain event that was a major plot point.

Okay, that was kind of long winded, and I'm sure everyone is ready to move on to seeing the unseen!

**********************
Fredas 22 Last Seed - A Terrified Witness

A flicker of wariness passed over Sofie’s face at Stenvar’s question. “Silda? Why?” She’s protective of her friend. That’s good for Silda, but it may make it harder for us.

“We want to ask her what happened last night to frighten her so,” Stenvar’s tone remained gentle. “We were told you might know where she is.”

Sofie shook her head. “I can’t tell you —” she glanced around the street. As a city guard walked past, she averted her face from them. “— or they will find me.”

Lili reached forward and touched the basket. “Are you hiding from the guards?” she whispered. Sofie gave the slightest of nods. “Stennvar and I won’t tell them of you,” Lili made a show of checking the street for eavesdroppers. “Would you be able to show us, please?”

“We don’t mean harm to Silda,” Stenvar added, his voice a soft rumble. “We only wish to know what she saw.”

Still Sofie hesitated. Star squeezed forward and leaned into the child. He licked her face and whined softly, then laid a forepaw on her arm beside the basket. She hugged him tightly, her face buried in his neck fur. “I missed you, dog,” she half whispered, half sobbed.

“I’m sorry if I took Star away from you, Sofie,” Lili responded. “I didn’t know he was your dog when I asked him to come with me.”

“He’s not my dog,” Sofie wiped the tears from her cheeks, her voice stronger. “But he was my friend.”

“He still is your friend,” Lili reached to dig her fingers into Star’s ruff. “He came with me because I asked if he wanted to. If I hadn’t, he would have remained on the docks with the Argonians and with you.” She laid her fingers lightly on the girl’s wrist, still around Star’s neck. “But now that I know you and he are friends, I can have him visit you every day while we are in Windhelm.” She paused a moment and watched Sofie’s expression change from grief to doubt. “If you tell me where to meet you, I can bring Star to see you and spend time with you.”

Sofie nodded to herself as if arriving at a decision and stood up to her fullest height, nearly eye level with Lili. “Follow me.” She turned and led them into the warrens of the Gray Quarter. Star danced at the girl’s side, his tail waving gaily over his back in expressions of joy. Lili found herself smiling wistfully at the Husky’s obvious love for the child as she and Stenvar trailed behind. Well, now I’ve made a promise I must keep to this child. How am I going to do that when I’m in Winterhold?

The slick gray ice underfoot brought Lili’s wandering thoughts back to the present as they moved through a maze of alleys, tunnels and back yards. At each turn, Sofie paused to check behind them and ahead. Finally they reached a small corner tucked between a yard and an alley, where old barrels, tipped on their sides and discarded long ago, clustered together to form a rough shelter of sorts. Atop one large barrel rested a tabby cat, its fur the same grey color as the surrounding ice. It turned its vivid green eyes toward Sofie, and the cat rose to all fours and arched its back in a stretch.

“Hello, Icicle,” Sofie addressed the cat with a quick stroke from head to tail. The cat purred briefly, then turned its gaze to Star. As the Husky nosed toward the feline, the purr resumed as the cat playfully tapped Star’s nose. “Play nice,” the girl admonished the two, then knelt before the open end of the barrel. “Are you still there?” Sofie whispered into the darkness. Lili’s sensitive ears heard a furtive shuffle at the far end. “Are you feeling better?” A shaky sob reached her. Sofie sat back on her heels and looked up at Lili and Stenvar. “I’m not sure she’s well enough to talk,” she said sadly.

“Are you two friends, then?” Stenvar seated himself on a nearby barrel, carefully setting his zwei-hander to one side. “For how long?”

“Ever since Da - left,” Sofie’s voice faltered. “Going on five winters now, I think?”

“Where is the rest of your family?” Lili perched cross legged on the smallest barrel. “Are they gone, too?”

“Ma and my brother died in the last famine,” Sofie responded. “Silda helped me hide from the guards.”

“Why are you hiding, Sofie?” Lili frowned. “I didn’t know being an orphan was a crime.”

“The Jarl does not let underage orphans live alone,” Sofie turned her face downward. “The guards know to collect us and send us to the orphanage in Riften.” She peered up at Lili. “I’ve heard it’s a horrible place to live, and Silda won’t let them send me there.”

“So Silda’s been looking after you?” Lili did not try to hide the wonder in her voice. How can a beggar be a better guardian than an orphanage?

“I know she’s not looking that way now,” Sofie lowered her voice. “But most of the time Silda is strong, smart, and she teaches me many things. I’m better at staying alive with little.” She stretched her feet out in front of her, to show off the oversized shoes tied around the ankles with knotted twine. The leather was worn in places, but the soles were well patched, and Lili could see tufts of dirty wool peeking out the edges. “Every spring we go up in the hills south of the city to find the discarded winter wool from the mountain goats. We use them to keep our feet warm.”

“Sounds like Silda is a good friend,” Lili kept her voice soft to match Sofie’s. “But you said most of the time - not all the time?”

“Silda told me, when she was twelve or thirteen summers old, her village was raided, her family killed off, and she was brought to Windhelm as a captive. She managed to escape after several years, but she can’t go back home. There’s no home left.” Sofie turned her gaze toward the barrel where Icicle the cat waited patiently. “There are times, like when a guard catches her off guard and scares her, that those memories come back and won’t let go.”

“And that’s when you are truly her friend,” Lili murmured. “You look after her during those times, no?”

Sofie nodded with a determined set to her small chin. Lili almost smiled at the way the girl tried to be grown up in her affirmation. Then Sofie’s face fell. “Though I’m not sure what to do this time - I’ve never seen Silda this bad.”

“Did she tell you anything about what she saw last night?” Lili reached into her magick pouch at a sudden thought. When Sofie shook her head, Lili rummaged in the tiny purse with her fingers until she found what she sought. “Here, see if you can get her to drink this,” she handed Sofie a tiny blue vial. “I think it will help Silda feel better.”

“I’m not sure I can,” Sofie looked at it dubiously. “I can’t get her to drink or eat anything right now.”

“Tell her a drop or two on the tongue may make the bad things go away,” Lili encouraged her. “I’ve used it a time or two when my own bad memories became too strong to bear.” She ignored Stenvar’s sharp glance at her as Sofie nodded to herself and crept into the barrel.

As they waited, Lili heard murmuring from within the makeshift shelter as Sofie coaxed Silda to take the tincture. After a moment, Sofie called out. “It seems to help a bit. What did you want to know?”

Lili knelt in front of the large barrel. “We are trying to find out what happened with Susanna last night, Silda. We know you were the one to find her. Can you tell us how you came upon her?”

Muffled sobbing indicated the level of Silda’s terror. What did she see? Did she see whoever left Susanna there in the graveyard?

“She’s so terrified,” Sofie’s soft voice reached them, an edge of panic at her apparent inability to comfort her friend.

“Silda, can you tell me if you saw Susanna’s body being left in the graveyard?” Lili matched the softness of Sofie’s tone. “Yes, or no, please.”

“She’s nodding yes,” Sofie answered. “Silda, did you see who left Susanna there?” After a moment of further sobbing, Sofie reappeared at the barrel opening. “She didn’t see who it was, just that it was a man, and not one of the Nords.” She shook her head at Lili’s next question, as yet unspoken. “Not one of the Elves, either, no matter what some folks have been saying.” She moved to hand the vial back to Lili. “Here, thanks for this.”

“Keep it,” Lili folded the girl’s fingers protectively over it. “Have Silda take a couple of drops every three or four bells until it’s gone. It will help to ease her spirit.” She sighed. “She should sleep better tonight. Come find me tomorrow if she is still having trouble with her memories.” Lili rose stiffly to her feet and glanced at Star, who watched the pair within the barrel. “Star, do you want to stay?”

The Husky met her gaze, and waved his tail gently, then sidled closer to the barrel and laid down on his belly. His answer was clear. “Good boy,” Lili approved. “Keep an eye on them, please.”

And Star is the star again. Should this be renamed to "A Husky in Windhelm"?

Star belongs with Lili. And Star belongs with Sofie. Therefore, perhaps Sofie belongs with Lili? But what about Silda. . . gee, this is getting complicated and Winterhold is looking further away. . . .

’Sofie nodded to herself as if arriving at a decision and stood up to her fullest height, nearly eye level with Lili.’
- - A lovely way to remind us of Lili’s own diminutive stature.

I loved how you used Sofie’s footwear to emphasize the necessary and creative things she and Silda have done to survive.

Some investigative help from Silda, but not sure it is enough.

Edit: Got so wrapped up in Lili's story that I overlooked mentioning how glad I am that hospice seems to be easing your BiL's path.

Awww, who's a good boy! I mean, Star really comes through as the deal-breaker here, and gains Sofie's trust for team Lilstenar. One really feels sympathy for Sofie here. She has it uncommonly difficult, and we only now just learned that Lil has inadvertently made it worse by adopting Star away from her. Though as she pointed out, Star is making his own decisions here, like Dogmeat in the Fallout games.

Lil is definitely making her life more complicated as she creates relationships in Windhelm. Star, Sten, and now Sofie now have their lives entangled with her. I wonder how she is going to manage these relationships vs. attaining her other goals, such as going to Winterhold?

Now I see why Sofie is hiding out from the guards. She does not want to be kidnapped and sent to the workhouse - I mean rescued and sent to the orphanage in Riften. That reminds me of Georgia Tann. She invented modern adoption in America by having poor mothers declared legally unfit, forcibly taking their babies, and then selling them to rich people who wanted kids. Her father was a judge, who made it all legal. The wrestler Ric Flair was one of those babies.

But now I also wonder what is wrong with Silda? Is she physically ill? Or is she emotionally scarred from seeing too much of the Butcher's work? Or just overwhelmed by depression? Ah, so it looks like PTSD that was triggered by the Butcher. Again, you paint characters that we can easily empathize with.

Lil's tincture reminds me of several drugs which have been used in recent years to help manage PTSD, such as marijuana, MDMA, and magic mushrooms. One of neighbors (who recently moved to a new place) micro-doses on mushrooms to help manage his chronic depression, and it does seem to work for him.

@ghastley: Heh maybe I should rename this story, yes? However, we will see that a new star will rise, and I don't think we will miss our Star the Skyrim Husky as much as we think we will.

@Acadian: Yes, things are getting complicated for our little Bosmer! Her knack for making friends is starting to get in the way of her goal to reach Windhelm Winterhold! Sofie was fun to write in this episode, and I look forward to introducing more of her personality to our dear readers. Silda's answer provides direction for the subsequent steps in our investigation, as we will see in the near future.

@SubRosa: Aha! Now we know why it has taken so long for Lili to reach Skyrim! Fifty years! This predilection to make friends everywhere she goes has slowed down Lili's travels. We'll learn more about her journey to Skyrim in upcoming posts. And we all know Aventus Aretino's story, why didn't the same happen to Sofie? That was one glaring inconsistency of many that I wanted to address in this tale. Also I've often thought about the beggars' back stories - we know Angrenor's story, but not Silda's. I want to show that life has been hard for her. And yes, Lilisfina's tincture is for those suffering from PTSD.

In our search for Susanna's murderer, we determined how she died, found the scene of the crime, linked it back to three other murders in Windhelm's recent history, and spoke with the sole witness. Now we move forward with our investigation, minus Star, of course.

***********************************
Fredas 22 Last Seed - A New Investigator

We spoke with the woman who found Susanna. She was not able to give us much, except that the man she saw was not a Nord, or an Elf, as some has said. Boss said that helped a lot.

Lilisfina and Sten made their way through the icy maze back to the tall gates that led out to the docks. She paused and glanced back the way they had come. Sten saw the look of surprise in her eyes, and turned in time to see the gray tabby walk up to Lilisfina and weave between her boots. The cat’s purr rose powerfully as Lilisfina knelt down to offer her hand to the feline.

Icicle rubbed one side of her face, then the other, against Lilisfina’s fingers in a ritual of greeting, then stepped daintily over to Sten and seated herself before him with an air of expectancy. Sten chuckled as he bent down and held out a crooked finger to the cat. Again Icicle rubbed her face against his proffered hand in greeting with constant purring.

“I guess we belong to her now,” Lilisfina remarked with a smile.

“Not the other way around?” Sten asked.

“Unlike dogs, cats do not regard us as a source of direction. Rather, we take orders from them. If she has claimed us, we should count ourselves fortunate to be in her favor.” Lilisfina turned to look up at him. “I know you are fond of Star, but what are your feelings about cats?”

“Do you know why I enjoy working with the Khajiit?” Sten responded. “It’s because they’re their own souls. The decisions they make suit them, not others. And yet, they are kind, generous, and gifted in their own way with magick.”

Lilisfina glanced pointedly down at the small tabby now walking between them. “But this one is not a Khajiit,” she clarified.

Sten chuckled. “No, she is not. Yet in many ways they share many qualities. Besides, you can’t have a farm without cats.”

Lilisfina laughed. “That’s true,” she added. “Even I know that much. Vermin control, the most effective kind.”

“Good judges of character, able to boss dogs and other animals bigger than themselves around, and generous with their catches.” Plenty of half-eaten mice and other rodents left lined up outside our kitchen door every morning. Ma never liked it, but she appreciated their work.

“Then we should be flattered that Icicle chose to come with us,” Lilisfina looked down at the tabby. The cat turned her face up to the Wood Elf and chirped a response.

“Look, there’s Corrium up ahead,” Sten caught sight of the slight Imperial ahead of them, just leaving his house. As he spoke, Icicle ran ahead of them and veered to one side, coming to a stop on Thane Free-Winter’s front stoop where she crouched and stared at the oblivious Imperial. “Hmm, that’s a curious reaction,” he mused aloud.

“I don’t think she likes him much,” Lilisfina murmured, then strode forward with purpose. “Hello, Corrium,” she greeted the museum owner. “How does the day greet you?”

Corrium spun around, startled. The amiable mask slid down over his features as he recognized the pair. “Oh, it’s the Wood Elf and the sellsword!” He adjusted his cloak around his neck with an air of subtle unease. “My day is going well. Yours?”

“As well as can be, considering how cold it is!” Lilisfina drew her fur cloak closer around her shoulders for emphasis. “I was wondering if you could be of assistance,” she gestured for Sten to show him the amulet. “We found this and it’s something neither of us have ever seen. Perhaps in your extensive travels?”

“Ah!” Corrium took the amulet from him. Sten thought the geniality in the man’s expression slipped a little as he studied the oddity. “It is a very curious little thing, isn’t it? This is the Wheelstone. It’s a heirloom of Windhelm, a symbol of its power. Traditionally it’s carried by the court mage.” He hefted it thoughtfully. “I would be interested in acquiring it, if you’re willing to part with it.” His eyes settled on Lilisfina’s with a gleam. “For a piece like this, I could pay, say, five hundred drakes?”

“Hmm,” Sten reclaimed the amulet at her nod. Did Corrium seem reluctant to let us have it back? “Shouldn’t the court mage have it?”

“Wuunferth?” Corrium scoffed. “Bah. It’s purely ceremonial, and I’ve never seen him use it. Besides, I wouldn’t want to be the one to give it to him. He gives me the creeps. They say he dabbles in necromancy.”

“I see,” Lilisfina mused as Sten tucked the amulet back into his pouch. Sten noticed how Corrium’s gaze followed his actions. “I’ll think we’ll hold on to it for the time being,” Lilisfina said firmly.

Corrium made a show of shrugging nonchalantly. “Suit yourself. It’s of value only to collectors, though. Good luck finding someone else who will pay so highly!”

“I appreciate your wisdom, though,” Lilisfina inclined her head to him. “Your advice is much appreciated, and we will keep your offer in mind. Have a good day, sir.”

“You as well, ma’am,” Corrium bowed gracefully, then spun on his heel and continued toward the city center. Lilisfina and Sten watched him go. Once he disappeared past Free-Winter’s house, Icicle leaped off the stoop and trotted back to the pair. She sat down in front of Lilisfina and chirped.

Did that cat just ask a question? “What did you think of Corrium, ma’am?”

“Hmm, I thought his manner was a bit - “ Lilisfina tipped her head to one side, her gaze growing thoughtful. “Skittish?”

“When he spoke of Wuunferth, it felt a little like the pot calling the kettle black, right?” Sten mused. “Kind of creepy, himself.”

“Have you ever met Wuunferth, Stennvar?” Lilisfina turned to meet his gaze.

“The court mage?” Sten shook his head. “Never had a reason to.” A sudden thought occurred to him. “Oh, wait,” he stopped Lilisfina from walking off. “Did you notice an odor about Corrium just now?”

Lilisfina grimaced. “Oh yes, I did. And yes, it’s the same.”

“Not from his house?”

“Stronger,” Lilisfina answered grimly. “Almost as strong as standing outside Hjerim.”

“So he’s the killer?” Sten leaned down to her and kept his voice quiet.

“Hmmm, how to prove it?” she countered back. “Might have to find an excuse to visit Wuunferth.” She peered up at the blue sky above them. “Still need to talk to Viola Giordano, see what she knows.” She turned back to Sten. “Where can we find her?”

“This time of day?” Sten chuckled. “Putting up those posters of hers around town, I’m sure. Let’s start in the marketplace.”

“Good idea,” Lilisfina agreed. “And I want to talk to a couple of the merchants there, see if they have any interest in some of our goods from the cave yesterday.”

Was that only yesterday? Seems a lifetime ago. Sten choked back the grief that surged up his throat and followed after Lilisfina. Icicle strutted down the street ahead of them, her tail upright in the air.

Lilisfina and Sten proceeded along the southern city wall, past Candlehearth and the forge, into the market plaza. Citizens milled about with hushed voices, whispering between themselves or with the merchants. Suddenly Icicle dashed off and disappeared between the feet of the market customers. “Where did the cat go?” Sten wondered.

“Look, do you see her by the Nord farmer’s stall?” Lilisfina tugged his sleeve and indicated the general direction with her chin. Sten spotted the grey tabby leap onto crates piled behind Hillevi Cruel-Sea. “What does she sell?”

“Produce, mostly,” Sten replied.

“Let’s start with her first,” Lilisfina made her way to the farm wife’s stall. Hillevi greeted them with a wary eye at Lilisfina. “Welcome,” she said to Sten. “You won’t find better produce in all of Eastmarch!”

“Did you grow all of these yourself?” Lilisfina cast her eye over the root vegetables that covered the counter surface.

“Of course!” Hillevi exclaimed. “You’d be hard pressed to find a better selection and variety elsewhere.”

“True enough,” Lilisfina responded. “Stennvar, do you think Elda would appreciate if we brought some produce for stew tonight?”

Sten shrugged, his gaze on Icicle as the cat groomed herself nonchalantly atop the crates. “Perhaps. She’d like it better if she didn’t have to pay for them.”

“These rutabaga would go well with a bit of dill,” Lilisfina mused thoughtfully as she hefted one of the large vegetables in her hand.

“We also grow herbs for cooking,” Hillevi reached beneath the counter and drew up a bundle of fresh dill.

“Dill! So far north?” Lilisfina exclaimed. “You are a genius, Hillevi!”

“I have a small field to the south of the main steading that is protected from the snows and the wind,” Hillevi remarked proudly. “It lets me grow some of the more tender herbs.” She indicated the bundle of dill. “This would be three drakes for the bunch, and those rutabagas would be a drake each.”

“Three drakes for a bunch of weeds?” Sten blurted, then bit his lip. I don’t do much cooking, what do I know?

“Oh, but dill adds so much flavor to root vegetables,” Lilisfina remarked softly. “Though I agree, it does seem a little pricey.” She turned back to Hillevi. “What about two drakes for the dill, and I’ll take three of the rutabaga for a drake each?”

Hillevi considered Lilisfina thoughtfully. “That would be acceptable,” she said finally, “if you’ll also do a favor for me.”

Lilisfina tipped her head thoughtfully at Hillevi. “What favor would that be?” Sten could hear the wariness in her tone.

Niranye reached beneath her counter and laid a small, cloth wrapped bundle in front of Lilisfina. “This is a special order, and I’ve not had time to deliver it. It’s nightshade, for the court mage.”

Wuunferth? Would that be our way to the mage? Sten turned his face away to hide his expression.

“How difficult is it to see him?” Sten could still hear the wariness in Lilisfina’s voice.

“Not difficult at all,” Hillevi waved her hand breezily. “Just walk in and tell one of the guards you have a delivery for Wuunferth. They’ll take you to him.”

“If it’s that easy, why haven’t you done so yourself?” Lilisfina regarded the wrapped herbs warily.

Hillevi regarded her for several breaths. She finally sighed. “To be honest, he creeps me out. There are rumors that he practices necromancy, and he’s - well, strange.” She pushed the package toward Lilisfina. “Go on, take a look for yourself. Just don’t damage it.” Her arched brows lifted even higher in surprise when Lilisfina picked up the packet and sniffed it.

“That’s high quality nightshade indeed.” The Wood Elf considered the merchant a moment longer. “And Wuunferth will pay you better than Nurelion the apothecary?”

“Nurelion?” Niranye scoffed. “He couldn’t tell the difference between imp stool and imp sh- chips!”

Lilisfina set the packet down on the counter, opened the pack and retrieved the silver pieces. “Five for the lot, and we will deliver this to Wuunferth before the evening meal,” she said.

“Then it’s a deal!” Hillevi drew out her merchant’s box and dropped the drakes in.

Lilisfina tucked the produce into her pack, and handed the mage’s delivery to Sten as they walked away from the stall. Sten leaned down slightly to her. “Think that cat knew we needed to see Wuunferth?”

Oengul called out to them as they passed his forge. “Good to see both of you out and about!”

“Good to be out and about,” Sten called back. Just then Icicle appeared in front of them, her tail up in a sashay that indicated her mood. “Cat looks proud of herself,” Sten muttered to Lilisfina.

She chuckled. “She knows she helped us,” Lilisfina murmured. “And she knows she’s an invaluable addition to our little team.”

Where Obi-Wan preferred to avoid Imperial entanglements, it seems that Lil is constantly getting herself into other entanglements.

I just realized something. You need to create two more characters for Lil to fall in with. Nas and X. Then their group name can be Lil Nas X.

Sten's description of Khajiit pretty much sums up Anarchists.

It looks to me that Icicle is a good judge of character...

I see Lilsten are directing their sights upon Calixto. But how to find if it is really him? Granted, now that they have the 'Wheelstone' that in itself is a good reason to consult the Wuunferth. The court wizard might have some light to shed up on the mysterious amulet.

Well, I guess a nightshade shipment is another way to meet the court mage.

There are those Imp chips again!

Are those imp chips made with real imps?

A gray tabby who quickly proves herself to be a worthy familiar. Different than Star for sure and valuable in a much more subtle way. We know Star well, and it was fun to see you so ably ‘show’ the dog/cat difference with Icicle’s behavior.

Hopefully the court mage will be able to shed some light on the investigation. I’ll be interested to see Icicle’s take on this Wuunferth.

Ha, Lili left a dog but gained a cat. I love how the animals weave themselves into the story.

Corrium seems an odd one, plus he stinks? And the court mage gives him the creeps? Hmm.

“Three drakes for a bunch of weeds?” Sten blurted, then bit his lip.
Sounds like my husband at the farmers market.

Not just any cat, but a quest-finding cat! Icicle has proven her worth already. It seems that a visit to Wuunferth is in order. The Windhelm climate is its own character in this story. I make sure to put on a sweater when I’m reading. At least their next stop (maybe) will be indoors!

Thanks for detailing your approach to writing. Wow, 22 chapters/posts ahead of the story, that's incredible!!

Sofie is convinced to reveal Silda's hiding spot after Star 'convinces' her to do so. Poor thing, that flower child.

Ah, I wonder if... hmm. No that can't happen, since Lili hasn't got a home yet.

Well, now I’ve made a promise I must keep to this child. How am I going to do that when I’m in Winterhold?

Yeah, that's a toughie.



It's at least a start in the right direction. Hmm.... the man Silda saw was "not a Nord, or an elf". What is Calder's race? "Calder is a Nord Warrior from...." DanG!!!

Anyway, what is left? Not beastfolk (that would be too obvious, with the tail and all). So Redguard, Breton, or Imperial. 🔍 Still... doesn't mean Calder's not involved...

Yeah Corrium was skittish perhaps, but only seems interested in the amulet's value...

Nightshade, for the court mage... mm hm.

@SubRosa: Perhaps the next two animals that fall in with our pair can be Nas and X? That made me LOL so much. Especially since that's one rapper I actually like. And Lili just can't help but get involved with the folks she meets along the way. It's a burden . . . I agree that Sten's description of Khajiits are similar to that of Anarchists - he's a bit of one himself. Icicle is another example of what happens when a veterinarian writes fiction and brings in animals - they pretty much take over the keyboard. I'm sure you recall Paint, Blanco and Sai taking the spotlight as well. Having that nightshade shipment does give them an excuse to visit the court mage and discreetly question him about the murders.

@Acadian: I can see it now - a crinkly bag printed with "IMP CHIPS! - made by real Imps! Wonder if the cost is a drake per bag . . . I'm glad you could feel the difference between Star's and Icicle's behavior when confronted by the same issues. You'll see more of this in this installment, I hope you enjoy.

@Grits: Your comment about the husband at the farmer's market made me spit my tea! I had to sit back and laugh for a good minute or so - the image that conjured up was not only funny, but also unexpected. It's great that Sten is real enough to you that you can see men you know in him. While Windhelm is chilly enough for a sweater, wait until we get to Winterhold!

@Renee: Believe me, Lili would love the chance to adopt this child! She's so adorable in game - even when I promise myself "this is a no kid play through" I end up adopting Sofie and of course Lucia in Whiterun. No child should have to beg in the streets. So you suspect Calder of being somehow involved in the murders? That's interesting. Silda's information is actually the first evidence pointing toward suspects, and we'll see this developed further in this post.

And now we move forward with the evidence we've collected so far, and start developing leads to follow. Of course Silverblade needs to be involved again at this stage. And as promised, more Icicle in this post!

*************************************************
Fredas 22 Last Seed - Collecting the Evidence

“Let’s stop at Candlehearth,” Lili said as they drew near the inn. “I’m getting a bit hungry, what about you?”

Stenvar’s breath soughed visibly for a few heartbeats. “Something light, maybe? Definitely some ale to warm my bones.”

“I think we should fill Silverblade in on what we have so far,” Lili remarked as they turned for the steps leading to the upper door. Icicle paused in her strut, considered their change of direction, then leaped for the inn as Stenvar opened the portal. She streaked through first, followed by Lili, while Stenvar brought up the rear, as usual. She’s telling the world coming inside here is her idea, not mine. Typical cat. Wonder if she’s Alfiq? Nah, too small. Memories of the smallest, sassiest Khajiit from her Elsweyr days made Lili smile as her grief temporarily eased.

Icicle led Stenvar to his customary table as Lili watched. As he took his seat, Lili caught his gaze. “I’m going downstairs to drop this off,” she hefted the backpack in her right hand, “and see if Nils needs any help. I’ll get soup for myself, what about you?”

“Soup sounds good, and ale, too, if you can manage it.” Sten held her gaze. “Do you want me to help you?”

“Thanks, but no,” Lili responded. “I can handle it. I’ll return shortly.”

Nils was only all too grateful for Lili’s offer to serve herself and Stenvar. He assembled a tray with a large tureen of fish soup, a pitcher of ale with two mugs, and two stacked bowls. He gave her an odd glance when she refused the bone he offered and requested a small plate instead, but complied without question. Lili helped herself to a couple of spoons and a small fork before heading upstairs, tray balanced on one hand.

Lili found Icicle seated in her usual chair at Stenvar’s table. She stifled a chuckle at the cat’s posture, which resembled a regal queen awaiting her meal, her green gaze on the table surface.

“Hope you don’t mind,” Stenvar waved toward Icicle as Lili set the tray down. “I didn’t have the heart to tell her it wasn’t her chair.”

“It is now,” Lili pulled another chair to Stenvar’s side opposite Icicle. “This one will be mine.” She set the bowls for herself and Stenvar, and laid the small plate beside hers. While Stenvar poured ale for both of them, Lili ladled the steaming fish soup into each bowl. She used the fork to scoop out several chunks of fish and placed them on the plate, then set it in front of Icicle.

Discreetly Icicle set one paw on the table, rose slightly, and picked a piece off the plate. She ate with delicate relish, as Stenvar watched with quiet amusement over his mug of ale. “She’s quieter than Star, that much is true,” he remarked softly.

Lili chucked as she spooned up the savory soup. “This is quite good,” she murmured after the first sip. Stenvar only grunted as he dove into the meal. Before long, man, Mer and cat were finished. Icicle sat back on her seat and began grooming herself while Lili and Stenvar lingered over their mugs of ale.

Silverblade entered much as she had that morning, in a swirl of cold air and blue cloak, and made her way to their table. She faltered momentarily at the sight of Icicle on the chair next to Stenvar, and pulled up another seat to sit opposite him. “I see you have some appetite back,” she remarked by way of preamble.

“We needed something hot after being out in the cold all day!” Lili exclaimed with a shiver for emphasis.

“So I’ve heard,” Silverblade nodded. “When last we spoke, we had just examined Susanna’s body and traced her trail to Hjerim. What have you been able to learn?”

Lili was glad for the light soup in her stomach as she told the night watch leader what they had found at Hjerim, and what they were able to learn from Silda the Unseen.

“A man, not a Nord or Elf?” Silverblade mused softly. “If she’s right, that does narrow down the suspect list.” Her wandering glance settled on Leotelli. “I think we can rule that one out,” she remarked softly. “Not just because he lost his niece, but also because Elda gave me a list of guests in Candlehearth last night, and he was among them.”

“He’s here every day and night,” Stenvar remarked. “Rents a room downstairs.”

“Right,” Lili responded. “Across from me.” She propped her elbow on the table and rested her chin in her upraised palm. “So that rules him out. Who else?”

“While Giordano’s not a Nord, she’s not a man, either,” Silverblade’s voice held a tinge of regretful sarcasm. “And Quintus Navale can be counted out - his employer Nurelion has been ill and tells us Quintus has not left the shop for the past three days and nights.”

“Dalan Merchad is with the North Wind crew,” Stenvar volunteered. “But he’s been here most nights.”

“He’s on Elda’s list, too,” Silverblade added. “And Orthus Endario of the East Empire Company practically lives in his office. The guards on the docks never saw him.” She shook her head resignedly. “Honestly, that doesn’t mean much.”

“And there’s Calixto Corrium,” Stenvar leaned back in his chair, avoiding Lili’s glance. “Women say he’s creepy, but considering the oddities in his museum, it’s not surprising, really.”

Silverblade’s gaze sharpened. “Do you have something on Corrium?” Stenvar slid his gaze over to Lili. The Watch leader regarded the Bosmer silently for a few breaths. “I’m remembering something you said earlier, Lilisfina,” she said finally. “You said it didn’t smell like Dark Elves - I mean Dunmer. Did you mean that literally?”

Lili sighed. “I have a very sensitive nose, as Stennvar will confirm. But it means I pick up on things that are not noticeable to folk like you. Only Khajiit and maybe other Bosmer share that sensitivity. That means I really can’t bring my suspect to you on the basis of something I alone can smell.”

Silverblade regarded her silently for so long that Icicle lifted her head above the table and gave the Nord leader an eloquent glare with an impatient miaow.

“So you smell something on Corrium. What is it?” Silverblade’s tone turned implacable.

“I wasn’t certain at first,” Lili rested both elbows on the table, hands clasped in front of her. “When I first came to Windhelm, Stennvar gave me a tour of the city.” She glanced over at Stenvar. “He showed me the Stone Quarter, and I could smell something emanating from that abandoned house - Hjerim. Necromantic spells and necromantic entities have a certain - odor - that is more than typical rotting flesh. I caught a whiff of it there. Then again in Corrium’s House of Curiosities.”

“The house, or Corrium?” Silverblade leaned forward. Lili noted the stern curiosity in the taller woman’s gaze.

“I couldn’t be sure, at the time I wondered if the house had once been the home of a necromancer and the odor had sunk into the structure.” Lili responded. “But we spoke to Corrium in the street today just before we returned to Candlehearth for the afternoon respite, and I could smell it on him.”

“Hmm, would it be from living in that house, or from Hjerim?” Silverblade tapped her chin in thought.

“This amulet,” Lili waited as Stenvar laid the necklace in front of Silverblade, “we found it in Hjerim, along with these journals,” she placed the books beside it. “Neither Torbjorn nor Nilsine recognize the handwriting. I showed the amulet to Corrium, because Nilsine suggested he might know what it is. He told us it is called the Wheelstone, and is typically carried by the Windhelm Court Mage.”

“Really?” Silverblade’s gaze sharpened on the amulet. “Wuunferth? There’s a rumor he practices necromancy.” She regarded Lili again. “If you were to speak with Wuunferth, would you be able to scent necromantic spells on him?”

“That rumor is just that to me, a rumor,” Lili answered. “But I do want to speak with Wuunferth.” She smiled at Icicle when the cat miaowed again. “We have a delivery from Hillevi in the market for him. I thought I would ask him about this amulet, and maybe these journals.”

“Good,” Silverblade nodded curtly. “Better you than me, I should think so. In the meantime, I will try to get a sample of Corrium’s handwriting to compare to the journals.”

“Do you have someone who is experienced in comparing handwriting samples?” Lili lifted her brows at Silverblade. “It’s not always as easy as it sounds.”

Silverblade chuckled. “Of course we do! Jorleif the Steward is an expert at spotting forged signatures. It’s part of his job.”

“And we still have to speak with Viola Giordano,” Lili added.

“Don’t worry, I’ll handle her,” Silverblade assured them. “She can go berserk if she gets the wrong idea, and it can take two or three guards to physically restrain her.”

“So I’ve noticed,” Lili said dryly. “Do you think it will take us long to get in to see Wuunferth?”

“Not if you have a delivery for him,” Silverblade shook her head. “He’s usually impatient about these things, and no one wants to delay his orders.” She leaned back. “Let me work on Giordano, confirm where Endario spent yesterday evening, and try to get handwriting samples from our two suspects.”

“I’m certain you can do it without letting on they’re suspects in the murder of Susanna,” Lili nodded.

“Of course!” Silverblade nodded emphatically. “I’ll catch up to you when I’m finished.”

Nice meal and break from the cold. No bones under the table for Icicle. She’ll have her fish cut into bites and on a plate if you please.

‘Before long, man, Mer and cat were finished.’
- - And right on cue, Silverblade breezes in to share progress on the investigation and get an update from the man, Mer and cat trio of sleuths.

Silverblade seems quite no-nonsense and efficient. . . perhaps at the price of subtlety. I'm not surprised Lili gently suggested not alerting suspects while garnering handwriting samples if possible.

A productive brainstorming session ensues, and a coordinated plan emerges.

I found a picture of Lil, Sten, and Icicle eating dinner...

So some strategizing, and now a path forward with more interviews. Judicious Jorlief, Worrisome Wuunferth, Vicious Viola, and Creepy Calixto. I like how you are weaving this tapestry through many of the notable people in the city.

I agree, Sofie's a heartbreaker. I can't help but feel *something* (compassion.... worry ... even empathy if I'm with the right character) even with Evil type characters.

So you suspect Calder of being somehow involved in the murders? That's interesting.

He just seems shady. Like he's hiding something. Said awkward things when they were in the home with the crime scene, and so on. Could be nerves, of course, but even so, why would he be nervous?

"Leotelli, we can rule him out..." Okay, here is Adonato Leotelli. Seen the guy often, didn't know his name. Yeah, he doesn't seem so much like a serial killer. Hmm... not that looks have anything much to do with it. But he's always scribbling in his book. Doesn't strike me as the type, but of course, there often isn't a "type".

Phew, quite a few people on this list. Hmm, but Corrium's under the magnifying glass. Indeed, he's got that museum. Somewhat of a public figure I'm assuming. But not everyone's always around to see what he's up to. Also, let's consider that the odor in the museum could be just some innocent curiosity he's acquired recently...

@Acadian: Yes, Silverblade is very efficient - she is not one to waste time when the game's afoot! And yes, Icicle is much daintier when it comes to eating habits. ;P

@SubRosa: I spewed when I clicked on that linky! Also loved the comic book appellations you assigned to our Usual Suspects. I'm glad you liked that I included several lesser known Windhelm residents in this episode. I will admit I spent a fair bit of time on the character pages over at UESP.

@Renee: Your suspicion that Calder is hiding something may be right. Not sure I would call him nervous, so much as angry. I included Leotelli for two reasons: Isabella, the second victim, was connected to him somehow (he mentions. her in conversation) so I made her his niece. Not 'niece', but a bona fide niece who was helping him with his writing. And yes, there could be some innocent curiosity in his house causing the odor - we'll see . . .

And now Icicle escorts Lili and Sten to the Palace to see Wuunferth. He was another character that just leapt off the page for me (like Sofie running away from me in the first draft - I had to catch her by her braids and stop her from taking over the story).

****************************************************
Fredas 22 Last Seed - Wuunferth: Court Mage or Necromancer?

Boss welcomed a new investigator to our team. Star was reassigned to guard duty with our witness, but a local tabby cat volunteered to come with us. She steered us to someone who gave us an excuse to see the court mage. Boss is going to talk to him about evidence we found.

Icicle entered the Jarl’s Hall first, tail weaving arabesques in the air as she strolled regally past the guards at the door. Their gazes missed the small cat and instead settled warily on Sten and Lilisfina. She paused as they shifted slightly and hands dropped to sword hilts.

“We’re here to see Wuunferth,” Sten made his voice a soft rumble. “We have a delivery for him.” He held up the package from Hillevi. Though the guards remained silent, he could see a flicker of unease pass through their gazes. Then one glanced toward Steward Jorleif, in his usual spot near the empty throne.

The lean Nord caught the exchange and made his way past the feast table. Something in his demeanor reassured the guards. “Stairs on the left, turn right at the top, end of the hallway,” one of the guards said. They resumed their posts as Lilisfina followed the cat toward Jorleif. Sten followed close behind, the bundle tucked beneath one elbow.

“Good afternoon, Steward,” Lilisfina paused to greet the Steward. “We have a delivery for Wuunferth.”

Jorleif met Sten’s gaze for a moment, then turned his face to Lilisfina. He bent slightly to keep his voice down. “I see,” he murmured as Sten made a show of waving the package in his direction. “And how goes the investigation? Silverblade mentioned she was to meet with you.”

“Yes, it is proceeding well,” Lilisfina responded. “We’ve spoken with Silverblade, and now we are looking for further evidence, and would like to speak with Wuunferth.”

Jorleif straightened up, his face still impassive. “Good then, please proceed. You do know where to go, yes?” Lilisfina nodded. “Don’t let his demeanor mislead you, ma’am, Stenvar.”

“I won’t,” Lilisfina smiled up at him. “You’ll be updated regarding what evidence we have later today.”

Now a flicker of pleasure moved through Jorleif’s gaze. “That is good news, I look forward to hearing more.” He waved them along and returned to his post near the throne.

As the trio moved toward the indicated staircase, they heard voices coming from a room next to the archway. Sten glanced into the room as they passed to see Jarl Stormcloak and Gjalmar Stone-Fist leaning over a table, heads together as they studied a map. Plotting their next skirmish, I bet. He stopped himself from shaking his head at his thoughts. Icicle streaked up the stone steps to the second floor, Lilisfina following more sedately. As they reached the top of the stairs, another pair of guards regarded them warily.

“Delivery for Wuunferth,” Sten waved the bundle yet again. In response one of the two guards jerked his head down the long hallway which ran to the front of the Palace.

“Room at the end,” he said shortly.

“Thank you,” Lilisfina murmured as she passed between them. Now they seem less hostile toward Boss. Wonder if they know she’s working with Silverblade? They moved past another pair of guards stationed halfway down the passageway, where servants moved in and out of bedrooms on either side. Their eyes followed Lilisfina as she, in turn, followed Icicle to the room at the end of the corridor.

Weak sunlight slipped through tall, narrow windows along the opposite wall of the room, and cast the furnishings into shadow. It took Sten a few breaths before his eyes adapted enough to make out the workbench to one side, cluttered with gems and glowing stones. On the right wall scrolls and books spilled out of cases that rose to the top of the walls and covered the floor, tables and chairs in irregular piles. An alchemy table stood beside the workbench in the left corner. On the left a narrow bed rested against the wall, a table with wine bottles and tipped goblets near one end. Snoring rose from the rumpled blankets and furs.

Icicle leaped onto the bed and perched on the highest point, which turned out to be a shoulder of the man napping there. She purred and pawed at the coverings, her claws catching the material. The snoring turned into grumblings, and a hand appeared from beneath to brush the disturbance away, but stopped when it touched Icicle’s fur. She purred louder, then chirruped as a wizened face, framed above and below by wild gray hair, followed the hand into the land of the waking.

“Well, kitty, I’m awake, I’m awake,” the old man rubbed at his eyes as he sat up, careful to keep Icicle on the bed with him. He stroked her face with a finger, then glanced at the window. “But it’s not supper time yet, kitty,” he frowned. “Why have you woken me so early?”

“Do you know Icicle?” Lilisfina asked as the cat meeped at the old man, then leaped gracefully down to sit beside Lilisfina.

“Icicle?” The court mage peered toward Lilisfina and Sten. “Is that the cat’s name? Huh, I’ve always called her kitty. Seemed happy enough with it.” Now he frowned. “Who are you? And why are you here?”

“We have a delivery of nightshade from Hillevi for you,” Sten stepped into a bar of light from the window so the old man could see him better, and held the package out to him.

“Hillevi?” The wizard struggled out from beneath the pile of coverings and slipped his feet into slippers. He rose and shook out his robes, then ran his hand down his beard. “And she sent a Bosmer and a Nord to do her deliveries? What is Nirn coming to?”

“You are Wuunferth, I take it?” Lilisfina moved to stand in the light beside Sten. “You have heard of the murder of Susanna the Wicked?”

“Yes, and I have heard you stood accused of it, Lilisfina of Valenwood,” Wuunferth plucked the package from Sten’s hand and moved to a table near the workbench. He opened the package and sniffed appreciatively at the plants within. “Hillevi always delivers the quality products,” his tone held satisfaction. He set them down on the table next to a mortar, then turned to face the pair. “But that’s not really why you’re here, is it?”

“No, Mage,” Lilisfina responded. She stepped forward. “We were tasked to find the location of the murder.”

“It wouldn’t be the graveyard, where her body was found,” Wuunferth stroked at his beard again. “Too obvious, one would think.”

“You are correct, Mage,” Lilisfina nodded. “We were able to locate the murder site in an abandoned house in the Stone Quarter. Hjerim, I believe it’s called.”

“Hjerim?” Wuunferth’s gaze grew distant. “That’s Friga Shatter-Shield’s house, isn’t it?”

“Yes, and it is where three other women - Friga, Isabella and Fjotli Cruel-Sea - were also murdered.”

“Really,” Wuunferth’s tone and gaze held no surprise. “I rather expected that. The whole thing reeks of ritualistic murder to me.”

“Perhaps,” Lilisfina agreed. She nodded at Sten, and he held out the amulet they had found in Hjerim. “We found this, and Nilsine Shatter-Shield denies it belongs to either her or her sister. She suggested we show it to Calixto Corrium, who identifies it as the Wheelstone. Something carried by Windhelm’s court mages.”

“Ah,” Wuunferth’s eyes gleamed with sudden understanding. “And so you are here to ask me about this?”

“If Corrium is correct, I would like to know how it got from here,” Lilisfina waved her hand around the disordered room, “to the site of four grisly murders.”

“As would I,” Wuunferth nodded. “But Corrium is not correct. There is no such thing as a Wheelstone, and I’ve never seen anything like it.” He leaned closer to study the amulet in Sten’s hand. “May I?”

Sten glanced at Lilisfina momentarily before he surrendered the necklace into Wuunferth’s fingers. “Do you know what it is, Mage?”

“Hmm, I would need to confirm it,” Wuunferth mused as he turned the object over in his fingers. “Come, there is something we can do to prove it.” He waved Lilisfina and Sten to the workbench cluttered with the glowing crystals. “Do you know what these are?”

Sten recognized them from their foray into the laboratory hidden deep within Forsaken Cave. “Boss, we saw those before, didn’t we?”

“Yes,” Lili responded. “Welkynd stones, yes?”

“Yes!” Wuunferth’s tone held approval. “And you know they have their uses, correct?”

“I know one can restore one’s own depleted Magicka with these, but I’ve never needed to use them.” Lilisfina shrugged. “And I know a few enchanters like to collect them.”

“They do have other uses,” Wuunferth set the amulet down on the table, nestling it within a worn depression in the wood. “With mysterious objects, a Welkynd stone can be used to reveal hidden enchantments.” He picked up a smaller Welkynd stone and held it over the amulet. In the bluish glow from the crystal, a wispy green and purple mist swirled up from the carved skull. “Just as I thought,” Wuunferth mused as he set the crystal back down. “Interesting that this should be found in Hjerim, of all places.”

“Do you know what it is?” Lilisfina asked.

“Of course! It is the Necromancer’s Amulet,” the old wizard regarded the jewelry warily, as if reluctant to pick it up. “It has been lost a long time - centuries, even. I only know of it through my studies,” he waved his hand vaguely in the direction of his disheveled library. “It was last seen about the time of the Oblivion Crisis two hundred years ago.” Again he stroked his beard thoughtfully. “Hmm, wonder how it ended up here?”

“Is someone practicing necromancy with it?” Lilisfina asked. “I’m sure you’ve heard the rumors about yourself —?”

“Nonsense!” Wuunferth drew himself up indignantly. “I have nothing to do with necromancy! You can ask at the College of Winterhold, where I am a member in good standing!”

“Thank you,” Lilisfina held up a placating hand. “I appreciate your confirmation that such rumors are incorrect.”

“It does appear that you are on the right track, however, little Bosmer,” Wuunferth mused. “I too have been following the murders. I’ve investigated the bodies, secretly of course. All four carry the same magical signature, and this does too.”

“Really?” Sten leaned past Lilisfina to peer at the amulet. “Like a smell, perhaps?”

“Smell?” Wuunferth repeated. “Magicka is not smell!”

“Boss here can smell undead,” Sten tipped his head to Lilisfina, who held Wuunferth’s disbelieving gaze steadily. “Says they smell different from regular dead. Zombies, draugr, lich, anything necro -” he glanced at her, momentarily at a loss for the correct word.

“Necromantic,” Lilisfina supplied. “My instincts can detect traces of necromantic ritual, and it does work like a smell for me.”

“Indeed?” Wuunferth’s shaggy brows rose above his faded eyes. “And has this led you to me?”

“No,” Lilisfina shook her head. “Someone else. But I need proof people like Stennvar can see.”

“Hmph,” Wuunferth scoffed. “Bring your suspects before me, and I can test this amulet to see if it links to any of them!” A feral grin appeared within his beard. “And it’s something anyone can see!”

Wuunferth’s quarters sound like a real mage lair. A total mess but he can probably put out his hand and pick up exactly what he wants on the first try.

Hah, Icicle is quite the cat about town! She seems on good terms with Wuunferth, which of course speaks highly of him. I love your take on Windhelm’s Court Mage.

What a great scene, and an excellent plan! Time for a suspect roundup.

It seems Her Royal Highness (Icicle / Miss Kitty) has some history with the court mage. You quite brought Wuunferth and his disheveled lair to life!

I love how you used a welkynd stone to identify the necklace’s enchantment. Identifying that necklace is a good step, but Wuunferth inferring he can link it to its user is a huge break for the case.

I’m guessing Lili and Sten are going to need some help getting suspects in front of Wuunferth. I bet Silverblade can help. And a couple witnesses to observe the proceedings would be helpful too I should think. Oh, a bit of secrecy as well to help keep the perp from bolting.

The palace is certainly well guarded. Then again, that is to be expected during a time of war. I wonder how often Wuunferth receives visitors. From the reaction of the guards, I suspect not very often. Not only do Lilstencicle seem to be persona non grata at the palace, but the court wizard as well. Though I suspect it is more a case of dread when it comes to Wuunferth.

Wuunferth certainly delivers in this episode. He's everything one would expect from a court wizard. Somewhat distant, somewhat grouchy, open-minded, and experienced in the ways of magic. And he knows a Necromancer's Amulet when he sees one.

I liked seeing the differences in how Wuunferth and Lil experience magic put on display here, and how that fact that both are different does not detract from the validity of either. That is always something I have tried to stress in the Stormcrow fic - that magic is personal to its users, so everyone experiences it in their own way.

@Grits: Of course Wuunferth has a method to his chaos! And yes, time indeed for a suspect roundup!

@Acadian: Yes, Miss Kitty does get around town! And using the Welkynd stone to identify the magick encapsulating the amulet was a stroke of momentary genius on my part. Hmmm. The things that pop into one's head at times, yes? And yes it's time to get the usual suspects together for Wuunferth to work his magick on.

@SubRosa: Thank you for your kind words regarding Wuunferth - he was a fun old man to write. I'm also happy you picked up on the different ways they perceive magick - while most folks regard magick detection as being visual (smoke and mirrors, anyone?), I don't see why one can't use the other senses as well - smell in Lili's case, for example, and sound in the case of a bardic mage, say.

After interviewing Wuunferth the court mage and identifying the true nature of the odd amulet, it is time for Lili and Sten to meet up with Silverblade and Jorleif and share findings. What happens next is a little more than Lili anticipated.

Forgive me for the length of this post - I struggled to find a natural break around the 1500 word mark and failed.

********************************
Fredas 22 Last Seed - Closure

Wuunferth decided to walk down with Lili and Stenvar after their conversation. He had tucked the amulet away in a small pouch at his waist. “I see you don’t like to touch it,” he remarked softly as he did so.

“It makes me feel ill,” Lili responded. Stenvar glanced sharply at her. “And my fingers hurt when I touch it. Better you than me, Mage.”

“And the light is nearly gone, so I may as well head down for my supper,” Wuunferth added as he led them down the long corridor to the staircase, Icicle leading him.

“Does Jarl Stormcloak have much need for magick?” Lili asked as they passed the guards midway down the hallway.

Wuunferth snorted. “Not really, but then, I don’t have much need for Ulfric. His father and I had a closer relationship. In any case, we leave each other well enough alone.”

“I see,” Lili murmured. Wuunferth glanced back over his shoulder and scoffed. “I suppose I’d do best to avoid him, as well.”

They entered the Hall to see Silverblade and Steward Jorleif near the head of the long table, table settings pushed to one side as they pored over sheets of paper. Lili recognized the two handwritten journals that she had turned over to the night Watch leader earlier in the day. They’re comparing handwriting samples. Looks like Silverblade’s made progress.

Silverblade looked up as the others approached the table. “Hello,” she greeted them as Icicle leaped up onto the table and sniffed at the papers. The gray tabby laid down on one pile and purred up at Steward Jorleif. He picked her up and set her to one side, not taking his gaze off the journals. She pfft’d at him and turned her back on him, her tail twitching in disgust.

“We’re comparing handwriting examples,” Silverblade remarked to Wuunferth. “I presume the Wood Elf has brought you up to date on our investigation?”

“Ah, so she has,” the court mage nodded. “Now I want my dinner.”

“You may have to postpone that a bit,” Steward Jorleif shook his head. “We are about to call the court.”

“Court?” Lili repeated.

“Yes, the Jarl has been notified, and the thanes will be coming shortly with the victims’ families and certain suspects.” Jorleif glanced up at Lili. “You are ready to conclude your investigation, correct?”

“Just about,” Lili glanced at Stenvar. “I didn’t think this would be so public.”

“It has to be,” Jorleif grunted. “Four murders have been linked, and so many people have been affected. It’s best that this matter is settled in the eyes of all involved.” As he finished speaking the doors to the courtyard opened and several people entered. In their lead strode the two Thanes, Free-Winter and Shatter-Shield.

Behind them Lili could see several Imperial and Breton men, all residents of Windhelm. She recognized Adonato Leotelli and Dalan Merchad from Candlehearth, and frowned at Quintus Navale’s presence. She made her way to him and touched his elbow. “How is Nurelion?”

Navale shook his head. “The recommendations you made have alleviated his symptoms somewhat, but they don’t last long. At least I’ve been able to ease his pain for short whiles.”

“Sometimes that is all one can do, while one waits for the inevitable,” Lili squeezed his elbow comfortingly.

“Do you know what is going on?” Navale indicated the small gathering at the head of the table as the two Thanes moved to join them.

“We’re bringing this murder to a resolution,” Lili responded softly. “And we need to do so in front of many folk,” she tipped her head toward the Hall doors, where already a growing crowd of Windhelm residents gathered. “Don’t worry, you’ll be able to go back to your master shortly.”

“I do hope we can bring this grisly business to an end,” Navale whispered back as he stepped behind the Shatter-Shield family. For the first time Lili spotted Tova, the mother of Friga and Nilsine, as she leaned on Nilsine’s arm for support.

“This is the second time you’ve interrupted my meal,” Jarl Stormcloak groused as he entered the hall and took his seat on the throne. “Steward?”

Jorleif waved to the night watch leader. “Jyta Silverblade has been leading the investigation into the murder, with the assistance of Lilisfina of Valenwood and Stenvar Strongsword.” He stepped back and nodded at the tall Nord woman.

“My Jarl, people of Windhelm, we have made significant progress today.” She turned to include the townsfolk gathered behind her before returning her gaze to the Jarl. “Lilisfina, Stenvar and I investigated the scene where Susanna’s body was dumped, and examined Susanna’s body itself. We were able to determine that one, the crime was not committed in the graveyard, and two, the way Susanna was murdered matches that of three other women - Friga Shatter-Shield, Isabella the niece of Adonato Leotelli, and Fjotli Cruel-Sea.” Murmurs passed around the hall at her words, but a fierce glare from Gjalmar Stone-Fist from his place beside the throne soon quelled the folk.

“Next, the three of us were able to trace a blood trail from the location where Susanna’s body was found to an abandoned house in the Stone Quarter, Hjerim.” Silverblade continued at Jorleif’s nod. “Yes, the same place where Friga Shatter-Shield was found. It was locked, but we could see signs of recent entry.” She turned to Lilisfina. “If you would please continue, Lilisfina.”

Lili took a deep breath and gazed at the faces now staring at her. Stenvar moved to stand behind her, which eased her nerves. “We spoke with Thane Shatter-Shield and his daughter, Nilsine. They confirmed that Nilsine has the only key, and they have not entered the house since it was shut up after Friga’s death. But Nilsine did tell us that Friga’s key to the house was missing and is still missing. They were kind enough to lend us Nilsine’s key and give us permission to enter Hjerim with their carl Calder.” She indicated the younger man next to the Thane. “He will vouch what we found in there.” She took another deep breath. “Within, we found evidence of recent activity as indicated by footprints and blood streaks in the dust on the floor. We could also smell dead flesh. Upon further exploration, we found two journals,” she pointed at the small volumes on the table, “and an amulet with a carved skull. We also found a secret room, which is the location where the crimes occurred. Also,” Lili swallowed against a suddenly dry mouth, aware of the shock her next words would generate, “we found a chest containing body parts from different victims.”

Startled exclamations and cries of grief rang around the hall as people shifted and exchanged glances among themselves. Silverblade held up a hand for silence, but it took several breaths for folk to overcome their collective shock. “Helgird,” the night watch leader called up the priestess. “Please tell the folk what you found in that room.”

The thin woman stepped to the table and breathed deeply. “I examined the contents of the chest Lilisfina refers to. I was able to identify, despite the advanced stage of decomposition of some of the items, all of the missing parts from the four murdered women - Friga Shatter-Shield,” as she named the first victim, Tova cried out and sagged against Nilsine. Torbjorn caught her before she slumped to the floor, and father and daughter eased Tova into a nearby chair. “Isabella, Fjotli Cruel-Sea, and Susanna the Wicked,” Helgird finished, deep sadness in her voice. “I have collected all the parts and will be restoring them to the interred. They will be complete by tomorrow morning.” She bowed in turn to each of the grieving families - the Shatter-Shields, Adonato Leotelli, the Cruel-Seas, and Elda and Nils from Candlehearth. Finally she turned to Silverblade.

“Thank you very much, Helgird,” Silverblade spoke softly. “Your work is much appreciated. You must be anxious to return to your restoration of the dead.” Helgird nodded at the night watch leader and left the hall, avoiding contact with the townsfolk. Silverblade drew their attention back to herself by clearing her throat loudly. “As many of you know, Silda the Unseen was the one who found Susanna’s body. The experience has traumatized her badly, and she is still in hiding. But Lilisfina,” she nodded at the Bosmer, “was able to find her, and speak with her.”

“It was very difficult to speak with Silda,” Lili picked up the narrative, “since she was still terrified. But I was able to determine that she did, indeed, see who left Susanna’s body in the graveyard, and while she was unable to name the culprit, she did say it was a man, not Nord, Elf nor Argonian.”

“And that narrows our suspects to a few Imperials and Bretons,” Silverblade continued. She turned back to Lili. “And you were able to follow one more lead?”

“Yes, the amulet. Neither Thane Shatter-Shield nor Nilsine were able to identify it, and denied it belonged to them. Nilsine suggested we take it to Calixto Corrium, as he was interested in such arcane objects. When we showed him the amulet, he identified it as the Wheelstone, carried by court mages of Windhelm.” As she spoke, Lili noticed a shifting in the shadows behind most of the townsfolk, and recognized Corrium’s slight form as he sidled toward the courtyard doors.

Apparently Silverblade noticed the same covert movement, for she signaled the guards. They closed the tall doors and bolted them, then stood in front of them. Silverblade’s gaze returned to Lili with an indication to continue.

“Of course, we took it to Wuunferth to confirm what Corrium had said. Wuunferth denied that the court mages of Windhelm possessed such an artifact, and instead was able, via magicka, to identify it as a long lost relic of Mannimarco, the Necromancer’s Amulet.”

Viola Giordano leaped forward. “Necromancy! I knew it!” She pointed at Wuunferth. “Everyone knows that man practices necromancy when the rest of us sleep!”

“No, Wuunferth is not the murderer,” Silverblade’s voice brooked no argument from anyone. Her eyes chilled on Giordano. “We will now present the evidence and the suspects, and we will let the evidence show us who the murderer is.”

“Silly woman,” Wuunferth muttered under his breath. “Of course I don’t practice necromancy!”

Thane Free-Winter blocked Giordano’s spluttering with his arm. “Please explain the evidence to us, Silverblade.” So Giordano will shut up for once and for all. His unspoken meaning was clear to several folk present.

“Of course, Thane,” Silverblade inclined slightly toward him in respect. “First, we have Silda’s witness statement that a man - Imperial or Breton - left Susanna’s body in the graveyard. We started with a list of our male Imperials and Bretons, and accounted for their whereabouts the night of the murder.” She held up a sheet of parchment. “Of this list, half of them were at Candlehearth Hall, as verified by both Elda Early-Dawn and Nils. One, Quintus Navale, was with his ill master in The White Phial, and another, Orthus Endario of the East Empire Company, was known to live in his office near the docks. However his location on that night could not be verified, as no one saw him anywhere. And one last one, Calixto Corrium, was unaccounted for as well.” She nodded again at the guards, who brought forward the two named men. Both looked nervous at being the center of attention, but Lili could smell the fear coming off of the museum owner. He knows he’s about to be exposed.

Stenvar moved to stand at Lili’s side, his gaze hard on Corrium, his stance watchful. He knows Corrium might do something. He’s ready. Lili noticed Calder shift position slightly as well, to give himself a clear path to the two suspects. And Calder has noticed Stennvar’s wariness as well. Good man.

“We have the journals,” Silverblade laid the list down and tapped the two volumes. “Both handwritten, both indicating intent to murder the four women with the express purpose of collecting specific body parts. We asked all of our Imperial and Breton men to write statements of their whereabouts last night.” She turned to Jorleif. “Then we asked Steward Jorleif, who is known for his ability to recognize forgeries, to examine the handwriting. We were able to eliminate all but one.”

“The statement that matches the handwriting in the journals belongs to Calixto Corrium,” Jorleif spoke, his gaze hard on the museum owner. “Guards, take hold of this man and do not release him!”

Endario stepped back in stunned relief as two burly men seized Corrium’s arms in mailed grips. Calixto winced and did not struggle. Nor did he protest, but only glared at Lili.

“One more thing,” Wuunferth stepped forward and held up the Necromancer’s Amulet. “I can trace who used this nasty thing for the past several months.” He waved the fingers of his free hand at it, and a faint purple and green glow, similar to the one Lili and Stennvar had noticed before, appeared around the carved skull of the amulet. Another wriggle of his fingers, and the glow trailed to Corrium, where it increased in intensity about the man’s neck. “Ah, so Corrium is the one who wore it and conducted necromantic rituals with it.”

“And there is your murderer, Viola Giordano,” Silverblade addressed the shocked woman. “Guards, search the man!”

A third guard stepped forward and patted Corrium very thoroughly. He paused over a pocket in the man’s vest, and pulled out two keys.

“Let me see that!” Thane Shatter-Shield stepped forward and plucked the objects from the guard’s hand. “This - “ he turned to Nilsine for confirmation.

“It’s Friga’s key to Hjerim!” Nilsine stepped to Corrium and raked her fingernails down the startled Imperial’s face. “You - you Butcher!”

Calder moved then. He pulled Nilsine away from Corrium and drew her back to her sobbing mother. The daughter collapsed beside Tova and shook with weeping rage.

“Well, that’s that,” Jarl Stormcloak’s cool voice slid over the subsequent uproar in the hall. “I declare you, Calixto Corrium, guilty of the following: the murder of Friga Shatter-Shield, the murder of -” he glanced at Jorleif, who murmured something in response, “- Isabella, the niece of Adonato Leotelli, the murder of Fjotli Cruel-Sea, and the murder of Susanna the Wicked. Additionally, you are also charged with practicing necromancy within the walls of Windhelm, and of trespassing on the property of the Shatter-Shields. The sentences for these charges is death, death, death, death, death, and a fine of fifty septims to be paid to the Shatter-Shields. All sentences to be carried out simultaneously and to immediate effect.”

Jorleif stepped forward. “Everyone please withdraw to the courtyard. The sentences will be carried out there.”

Now Corrium began to struggle against the inevitable. As he was dragged outside the Palace, he alternatively protested his innocence, cursed the families of his victims and entreated his dead sister’s soul for forgiveness. His swift execution by Gjalmar’s efficient battle axe was anticlimactic.

Eeep! Lili and I were expecting the quiet sharing of findings with Silverblade to formulate the next step in the investigation and Lili finds herself in the middle of a full open court proceeding as one of the prosecutors!

A fascinating scene as you show the power of numerous people providing mutually supporting and detailed information – and Lili was just one of those people.

Not only was there strong enough evidence to convict but the nail in the coffin was the DNA amulet’s magical evidence provided by Weenferth.

You really gave us a clear picture of what was going on with everyone in the court, from Icicle to those testifying to the victim families.

Ulfric’s judgement was unsurprisingly swift and sure. After all, his dinner had already been interrupted twice!

Time for dinner. Wait, what, they are holding court now? Again? It seems like they are really jumping the gun here. They have not even finished investigating yet.

Well, on the bright side at least if they can expose the Butcher as publicly as possible, then it might alleviate the genocide rhetoric being aimed at the Dunmer population. For now.

I am glad we readers are not the only ones who noted Calixto's cautious sidling toward the exit. It looks like he will not have a way out of this. But a man like him might take one or more innocent victims with him when his time comes. Hopefully Team Lil can avert that. Perhaps Icicle might play a decisive role in tripping the dastardly villain at an opportune moment?

So Calixto is exposed! And Wuunferth has a spell to reveal to whom the Necromancer's Amulet is attuned to. Another nail in Calixto's rather literal-looking coffin.

I loved the little addition of the trespassing charge at the end, and the monetary fine it confers! It is just so deliciously and obviously petty, that Jarl Stormcloak is twisting the knife one last time so Calixto can feel it hurt all the more. Don't interrupt the boss man's dinner, twice!

Well that is quick justice. Not even going to wait to construct a gallows. Not that I am complaining. At least now Calixto won't be escaping from his prison cell. Though given that he was a necromancer, now that he is dead, will he stay that way? Or might he be getting up and walking around to carry out those threats soon? Revenants are a classic after all.

Still, at least Vinegar Joe Gjalmar got to kill someone. I bet that made him happy at least.

Wow, it all came together quickly at the end. What a cascade of evidence! I enjoyed watching the various investigators play their roles in the trial. It was very satisfying that Nilsine’s furious testimony was the final nail in Calixto’s coffin.

I had to snort at the trespassing charge tacked onto the quintuple death sentence. But hey, he did trespass, and 50 Septims is 50 Septims!

Head’s off, now time for dinner. At least for the Jarl’s court. They may not feel like celebrating, but I imagine that Lili and Stenvar will be glad to have this whole business behind them.

"Sofie taking over the story!"

Feast table indeed. That table is huge! TableS, really.

Wuunferth is really tricky to find; those directions the guard gave are necessary. My elf healer wanted to check out Windhelm's Court Wizard, whom we assumed hangs out somewhere in the actual court, only to find him tucked way in that upper room. That comprised at least a couple or three in-game hours of searching. UESP says Windhelm, definitely has a Court Wizard...

Sten & Lili are lucky to have gotten directions! == Anyway, that 'flicker of unease' between the guards is telling. They're like "uh oh..."

Whoa, Necromancer's Amulet.

Yes, I imagine Ulfric's need for a magical court wizard are pretty light. He needs Wuunferth to maybe confirm some magical matters once in a while. He needs a specialist, just 'cause magic is here to stay; he can't not have a dedicated wizard; this is Tamriel after all. But he's not going to rely on the wizard. Maybe this is why Wuunferth is not so easy to locate.

Trial scene is intense. Yeah stop eating and attend to the masses, Ulfric Stormie.

Corrium sidles up... doors get locked, hmmm. I agree that a chapter break at 1500 words wouldn't feel right, btw.

With the wonderful Murder She Wrote / CSI, Windhelm storyline resolved, I can't help but notice the break in your posting here. I hope all is well in Riderland? Surely there's a baby dragon stuck in a tree that needs rescuing by Lili and her sell sword or some other diversion to distract her from Winterhold? More Lili soon?

@Acadian: Both Lili and I felt her words would have more impact with the notoriously Elf-phobic Jarl if her findings were reported by those other than this Bosmer. And everyone in the court had a part to play. Yes, the Jarl was impatient with the proceedings, and confronted with such strong evidence he wanted things over and done with so he could get back to dinner - and drinking.

@SubRosa: Good job describing things from the Jarl's perspective. As I was listing the charges for our dear Calixto, I realized that he had indeed been trespassing in Hjerim, and that Lilsten's investigation had borne that out. Seemed silly to disregard that little detail, right? And if it struck you as humorous, good. Typical Nord outlook, that.

@Grits: I see you did not miss the Jarl's irritation at having his meal interrupted by this ridiculous farce of a serial murder (hey, planning the next attack on the Thalmor and getting in a night's worth of drinking is more important!) either. And yes, that trespassing charge was the Jarl doing "his job" - supposedly Corrium has to pay that fine to the Shatter-Shields, dead or alive.

@Renee: Thanks for your validation to keep the overlong post intact as is. Wuunferth is quite fun to write - I had T. H. White's vision of Merlyn in mind as I wrote Wuunferth, also the Disney version. I wanted something a bit more light hearted than the usual sword and sorcery wizard.

And now that the mystery of the multiple murders have been solved, our company wakes up to a new day and takes stock of things.

************************************
Loredas 23 Last Seed - Aftermath

Ma -

Sorry I never finished my letter last night. What a day! Boss and I, with the help of some good folks, solved Susanna’s murder. The Jarl’s justice was swift and merciful - though I’m sure the families of the victims would have preferred to have meted out their own justice on the evil man.

I don’t know what we will do next, or what will happen. I’ll keep you posted as best as I can. I will send both yesterday’s letter and today’s together.

Sten found Lilisfina and Icicle already seated at the usual table. The Wood Elf waved Sten to sit down and offered him the platter full of eggs and smoked mutton. As Sten took his usual chair, he noticed Icicle already daintily nibbling a small amount of egg on her own plate. “I hope you don’t mind that I got breakfast for us today, Stennvar,” Lilisfina spoke softly as he poured steaming klah into his mug. “It’s hard for Nils and Elda to keep up meal service without Susanna.”

Sten set the mug down at the surge of grief as the memory of the past day washed over him. “I’m sure they’ll find someone to take her role,” he murmured.

“But not her place, not in our hearts,” Lilisfina responded gently. “Will you be all right to stay here without her presence?”

“Where else can I stay?” Sten answered. “This is the only inn in town.”

“That’s true,” Lilisfina nodded to herself. “Then perhaps we should start thinking about moving on to Winterhold. At least we won’t be constantly reminded of our loss here.”

“Don’t worry about me,” Sten said gruffly. “It’s not the first time I’ve lost someone.”

“Nor I,” Lilisfina agreed. She set her fork down and sat back with her klah in her hands. “Part of me does not want to leave Windhelm yet, but another part of me is anxious to move on to Winterhold before it gets too cold to travel.”

“It’s never too cold to travel,” Sten corrected her. “But it does require more preparation.”

Lilisfina lifted her brows at him. “More furs?”

Sten shrugged. “Maybe. There are other ways to stay warm, you know.”

Lilisfina regarded him silently for several breaths. Uh oh. Overstepped again? Then she laughed. “We’ll figure things out as we go along, no doubt,” she sent him a sly wink.

Once again the night watch leader made a cold entrance and strode over to their table. “Hello,” Silverblade greeted them. “I wanted to update you on a few things since we parted ways at the Palace.”

“Oh?” Lilisfina offered her the eggs, but the leader shook her head. “I thought we wrapped things up thoroughly yesterday evening.”

“So we did,” Silverblade nodded decisively. “First, the Jarl sent this for you.” She handed over a small coin purse. "You should find five hundred drakes in there. Fair reward for the work you did, so he says.” Why do I feel like Silverblade doesn’t agree with that assessment? Sten kept his expression neutral. Silverblade took a deep breath before continuing.

“We went to Corrium’s house - the second key we found on him was for the museum. Nothing of value there, so we are not able to collect the fine for trespassing. I’ll have Wuunferth go through his ‘oddities’ to ascertain if any have value to magick users.”

Lilisfina glanced at Sten before shaking her head. “I doubt any of those items are true relics. My feeling is that everything there is a fake.”

“But we did find something more,” Silverblade laid a thin journal, similar to those found the day before, on the table before Lilisfina. “That has the motive for these murders and the necromantic rituals.”

Lilisfina skimmed the pages, and Sten caught her wince. “He was trying to recreate his sister?” She held the journal to Sten, but he shook his head. No need to read that, once she said what it’s about. “That’s both sad and disgusting.”

“Quite so,” Silverblade agreed. “Despite this, he committed evil acts, and was suitably punished for said acts.”

“Oh, of course,” Lilisfina nodded. “The motive is not justification enough for those unspeakable deeds.” She sighed. “It’s funny though. We’ve all lost those close to ourselves, yet Corrium is the one driven to necromancy, while the rest of us find other ways to move on. As we will from these most recent losses.”

“One would hope so,” Silverblade agreed. “Well, I also wanted to say thank you both for the invaluable assistance you provided us yesterday. We would not have been able to get this resolved so quickly. Being able to speak with Silda and find out what she saw was key to identifying the murderer.” Her gaze sharpened on Sten and Lilisfina. “Where is she, by the way?”

“Oh, we promised not to tell anyone,” Lilisfina smiled. “Silda was still terrified yesterday. We should go find her and assure her all is well this morning, and she is in no further danger from what she witnessed night before last.”

“Hopefully she’ll feel brave enough to come out today,” Sten added. And hopefully Star will rejoin us, though it’s clear he loves the girl Sofie too. How will Boss keep her promise to share Star with the girl?

“Well,” Silverblade tapped the table with her palms and rose. “I wanted to fill you both in on those last details. I’m off to my bed for the day.” She stifled a yawn. “Stayed up too many hours yesterday.” She nodded at both of them and left the common room as directly as she had entered.

“She doesn’t waste time, does she?” Lilisfina turned back to Sten. “Are you finished eating?”

He pushed his plate away. “Yes,” he responded with a final gulp from his mug. “What’s the plan for today, boss?”

“Like I told Silverblade, I’d like to find Silda and let her know all is well. But first we need to go see Helgird to make sure we don’t come down with Sanguinare Vampiris.”

“I forgot about that,” Sten hung his head into his palm.

“I almost did!” Lilisfina assured him. “But thinking of Silda, I remembered that we were going to see Helgird when Silda came screaming out of the dark.” She shook her head. “What a horrible end to the day, and what a horrible day that followed.”

Sten took a deep breath and met Lilisfina’s gaze. “But we got through it, and though it’s small comfort right now, we saw justice not just for Susanna, but for three other women and their families as well. So I suppose that’s the one good thing we did yesterday.”

Icicle led them down to the Hall of the Dead, where they found Helgird leading a ritual of restoration for the four victims at each interment. They waited while the priest comforted the grieving families, including Elda and Nils. Once the last of the mourners left, Lilisfina moved from corpse to corpse, laying a sprig of snowberries beside each as she had done for Leifgard and Nils. She left Susanna for last, where Sten and Icicle waited for her. The grey tabby wove between their legs as Lilisfina and Sten stood together beside Susanna, each lost in their own memories of the Candlehearth server.

Finally Lilisfina took a deep breath and turned to Sten. She laid her hand on his arm to keep him in place. “Stay as long as you like,” she murmured. “I’d like to talk to Helgird for a bit.”

Sten shook himself. “Need to move forward,” he gruffed. At his voice Icicle leaped to his broad shoulder and balanced herself as she swiped her face against his beard with a purr. His hand automatically came up to stroke her back and to help her stay in place. She chirped with pleasure as his fingertips dug gently into her thick coat. Sten glanced past the cat at Lilisfina and caught the amused glint in her gaze as she turned away.

Helgird greeted them with a small bow as they approached her. “Thank you both for what you’ve done,” she spoke softly. “When I recovered the body parts from Hjerim, I could feel the house sigh with relief. It’s no longer haunted, though it may take a while to clear the smell out of it.” She nodded toward the interment area. “And with these ladies now at peace, their families will come to their own peace in time.”

“I did notice that Tova still seemed very distraught,” Lilisfina commented as they followed Helgird to the small altar that she maintained in a side alcove. “Has she not sought peace from Arkay?”

“She spends all her time with Jora in the Temple of Talos,” Helgird tipped her head upwards, where the old Temple overlay the Halls of the Dead. “Doubt she’ll find much comfort there, though, as Talos is not known for compassion.”

Sten grunted. Known for war, really. Though the man Talos did bring law to a lawless land. Too bad the Divine isn’t worshiped so much for that as for his battle prowess.

Lilisfina dug into her mage’s pouch and pulled out a small bronze amulet. “We found this with Queen Freydis’s sword,” she held the necklace out to Helgird. “Is it a token of Arkay’s?”

Helgird accepted the amulet and examined it between her fingertips, tipping it toward the cold light above the altar. “It is very old,” she commented. “From Queen Freydis’s time, no question. And yes, this is an older version of Arkay’s sigil.” She manipulated the intertwined rings. “See, the design is High Rock - two rings.” She indicated the large bronze Nordic sigil on top of the altar. “Our Nordic design is two entwined carved squares which form an eight pointed star, with a globe in the middle. The older designs are not so ornate.”

Sten found himself peering at the carved squares. “But this is old Nordic design,” he exclaimed. “How can this be newer than that,” he indicated the delicate amulet, “when the Nordic design dates back to Ysgramor in the First Era?”

“Arkay wasn’t widely accepted in Skyrim until later,” Helgird responded. “Initially the High Rock design was used as Arkay’s token, but with time and acceptance, Nordic artists reinterpreted it with the old Nord elements of angles and carving.” She moved to hand the necklace back to Lilisfina, but the Wood Elf shook her head.

“Does it still hold Arkay’s blessing after all these years in a dusty, abandoned chest?” she asked. Helgird’s gaze grew distant as she considered Lilisfina’s question. She turned back to the altar and held the amulet, cradled in the palm of her hand, in the light which descended to the shrine. She murmured a few words, until the ancient bronze glowed with its own silver-white light.

“It does now,” Helgird said softly as she laid the fine chain in Lilisfina’s hand. “It will bring peace and balance to the wearer, as part of Arkay’s blessing.”

“Thank you,” Lilisfina carefully wrapped the amulet in a scrap of the green silk Sten remembered from their adventure in Forsaken Cave. Was that only three days ago? Feels like a lifetime. As she tucked it into her mage’s pouch, Lilisfina met Helgird’s curious gaze.

“And the both of us fought vampires the other day,” she added. “Would you please ensure we have not contracted Sanguinare Vampiris?”

“Of course,” Helgird held out her hands to Lilisfina first, then Sten. Her eyes moved past them as she searched for someone else. “Did Star come with you?” She asked softly.

“He was in the cave with us, yes,” Sten responded. “Do dogs contract Sanguinare Vampiris as well?”

Helgird shrugged. “There are such things as Death Hounds that accompany vampires sometimes, though it is not known how such creatures are created.” She winked up at Sten. “Better to be certain, no?”

Lil being concerned that it might become too cold to travel, and Sten pointing out that it is never too cold, really underscores the differences between both mer and Nordic outlooks and physiologies. I bet 50% Frost Resistance makes winter treks a lot easier to bear.

I was not expecting a reward from the Jarl at all. Though it sounds like it was a little light compared to usual. Not surprising considering the shape of Lil's ears.

So Calixto was driven to necromancy to reanimate his sister? I did appreciate Lil's observation that this is not a laudable motive, but rather a sign that he simply lacked the courage to mourn the loss as the rest of us do and move on.

I hope Icicle does not stop off in the tomb to have a snack on someone! That just popped into my head due to the Grateful Dead video where the band is all depicted as skeletons, and a dog runs off with the drummer's leg...

Some nice world-building in the form of Arkay's Amulet. Which is now topped off with its magical bonus once more thanks to the priestess. Also, nice to make sure that they are not going to vamp out. Though Sten needs to be around for that.

I also liked the observation on Death Hounds. They never did explain whether they are simply zombies animated by vampires, of actual vampires themselves. The latter is a trope after all.

There are vampire sabre cats and bears in Western Skyrim in ESO, so taking precautions with Star seems sensible. Especially if he is looking after Silda and Sofie.

So Winterhold is next, or will another side-quest intervene? I'm trying to think of one that Icicle coukd help with.

Other ways to stay warm indeed. Like sharing furs. . . . I see the delicate dance of flirtation between Sten and Lili continues.

With his growing collection of feminine body parts, I suspected our perp was trying to revive a lost loved one. Taking loved ones away from others to do so, however, confirms Ulfric’s sentencing was just.

Silverblade is fun, with her no nonsense blunt manner.

Nice to learn a little more about Arkay. I wonder what Lili has planned for that amulet of comfort?

And dogs can become infected with vampirism? I loved Helgirds honest ‘better safe than sorry’ answer. Looks like seeking out Star may be appropriate. I figure they were going to likely do that anyway before perhaps heading for Winterhold.

Nice to hear that Hjerim is no longer haunted. If only someone would go clean that place up.

Yikes, I hadn’t considered that Star might get infected. That’s a good opportunity to see Star and Star’s companions. I look forward to it!

@SubRosa: Of course Nords wouldn't fear the onset of the Northern Winter as much as Southerners would! The reward from the Jarl is another departure from the game canon - I figured they got a reward for finding and killing Black Cleitus in the beginning, why not for identifying and indicting the serial killer targeting female citizens of Windhelm? The lore is not clear on the origin of the Death Hounds, so I thought I'd play on that mystery a bit.

@ghastley: It would be nice for Icicle to get more involved in some of Skyrim's quests, yeah? Depends on how this story goes, whether or not that happens.

@Acadian: Yeah, that comment of Sten's was a bit of a Freudian slip there. And yes, Lili caught it! I quite enjoyed writing Silverblade, funny how that came about from that brief encounter with the only female city guard I've ever met in game. And of course they need to round up Star and visit Helgird one more time before heading out!

@Grits: Yeah, someone will have to clean that sad little house up, and soon! As for seeing Star and his companions, your wish is granted!

Having ensured that they won't become vampires, Lili and Sten head out to find Silda and impart the good news. Accompanied by Icicle, of course.

****************************
Loredas 23 Last Seed - The Unseen is Seen

Slowly Lili and Stenvar made their way through the icy streets toward the Grey Quarter. The grey tabby strolled ahead of them, and this time did not give the shabby stone building that housed Corrium’s museum a wide berth. It’s not so distasteful to her this morning. That’s interesting. Lili wondered what would happen to the house now that it stood ownerless. Lili noticed the two City guards standing watch outside the worn wooden door of the small building.

“What can we do to help Nils and Elda keep the service going?” Stenvar mused softly, almost to himself. Lili glanced at him thoughtfully.

“Do you feel responsible for them?” she wondered. “After all, we are customers, not employees or owners.”

“Let’s just find Silda,” Stenvar gruffed. “She deserves to hear the good news that she won’t be next on the Butcher’s list.”

“Maybe she’s already heard,” Lili remarked hopefully. “Seemed like all of Windhelm was at the Palace last night when Corrium was executed.” First she glanced about them to ensure no guards were in the area, then she led them unerringly through the maze to Silda’s bolt hole. She found Star still where they had left him yesterday. He yipped softly and rose to his feet with a long stretch and a yawn. Lili fought her own yawn, though she did catch Stenvar’s long inhale in the corner of her eye.

“Hullo Star,” she greeted the Skyrim Husky fondly as Icicle leaped to the top of the barrel and mewed loudly. “Icicle was a big help last night,” she continued conversationally. “And Wuunferth helped us confirm that it was indeed an Imperial that killed Susanna. We won’t be seeing Calixto Corrium around anymore, and I feel like Icicle is very happy about that.”

“Calixto?” A voice whispered from within the barrel. That’s not Sofie. “It was that creepy little man?”

“Yes, Silda,” Lili took a guess at the voice’s identity. “And the Jarl passed swift sentence upon him. He was executed last night.”

“See, I told you so!” Sofie’s exclamation preceded her arrival at the bolt hole. “You didn’t believe me, Silda!” She turned to Lili. “She must have thought I was trying to help her feel better.”

“You wouldn’t lie to your dear friend about that, would you, Sofie?” Lili asked the child.

“No!” Sofie shook her head. “Such a lie would cause more harm to Silda than good.” She crouched down beside Star and peered into the barrel. “Silda is feeling better today,” she said over her shoulder. “That potion you provided helped her sleep, and she’s much rested.”

“Are you hungry and thirsty, Silda?” Lili asked.

“And cold!” Sofie averred. “Come out by the brazier, I’ll catch some fish and cook it for us.” She glanced slyly at Lili. “I know the Argonians will be happy to give you some tea to warm your bones while you wait, too.”

“That wouldn’t surprise me,” Lili nodded. “And Stennvar has been trying to think of a way to help the folk at Candlehearth - it’s just Elda and Nils now.”

“Nils is nice,” Silda’s voice drew nearer, and Sofie stepped back to let the beggar woman out of the barrel. She slowly straightened up to her full height, one hand shaded her eyes from the daylight. Lili noted her thinness, the chilblains on her fingers, and the unkempt clothing that provided barely any warmth. “But Elda is a sharp tongued harridan!” Her vivid blue eyes sparked beneath tousled black hair.

“She certainly comes off that way!” Lili chuckled, recalling her first arrival in Candlehearth. “Told me dogs and children weren’t welcome!” She slid a sly glance at Stenvar. “Then I showed her the fish Star and I had caught, and she changed her mind right quick!”

“So let’s fish together,” Stenvar offered. “I can use a little relaxation after the past couple of days.”

“We do need to borrow Star for a bit,” Lili added. “Later today we should take him to see Helgird. He fought vampires with Stennvar, and Helgird wants to make sure he didn’t contract anything bad from them.”

“Vampires!” Sofie hugged Star. “He fought them with Stenvar? Such a brave dog!”

“He is very brave,” Lili agreed with a smile at Stenvar. “But first, let’s go fishing!” She gestured to Silda. “Come and join us!”

Surprise rippled through the Saxhleel at the sudden appearance of the unlikely group on the docks, followed by amusement as they borrowed fishing poles and took up stations at the south end of the wharf. Silda glanced around uneasily as the scaled folk returned to their activities. “They don’t mind us?” she whispered to Sofie.

“Of course not!” Sofie’s confident response brought a smile to Lili’s lips as she cast her line. “They are my friends, just as you are my friend,” Sofie continued firmly. “And just as Lili and Sten are my friends, and the Dark Elves!”

“You do have a lot of friends, Sofie,” Lili murmured as something tugged on Silda’s line. The thin beggar gasped and nearly dropped the line, but Stenvar’s hand kept her grip firm on the pole. Sofie gave soft instructions on holding the catch on the line, and together they landed a flopping green-gold fish.

“Congratulations, Silda,” Stenvar set his pole aside to unhook the glistening perch from Silda’s line. “You have the first catch of all of us!” He held the twitching fish out to Silda. She did not reach for it, but regarded it wide eyed.

“Does it mean anything special?” Silda met Stenvar’s gaze.

“Only that you have beginner’s luck!” Stenvar chuckled heartily and dropped the fish into the collection basket nearby. “And you get to pick how you want it prepared for tonight’s feast!”

“Feast?” Silda repeated. Just then, Sofie yelped as her line tugged beneath the water, and she in turn caught a cod.

“Of course,” Lili answered as they helped the child with the larger fish. “We’ll take these to Candlehearth, and we’ll ask Nils to prepare them as we wish. Then we share the bounty!”

“Is - is that traditional?” Silda asked as she recast her line.

Lili exchanged glances with Stenvar, who shrugged. “We can make it so,” she answered Silda as her own line became live with a tugging fish. “Each of us catch a fish, then we all go and feast on them!” She met Silda’s startled glance. “And whomever catches the first fish gets to pick how they’re prepared. So better start thinking about how you want to have our feast cooked tonight!”

Stenvar began to grumble softly to himself after Lili landed a salmon, then Silda hooked another cod. To test the waters, Lili suggested leaving the docks before Stenvar caught his fish, but Sofie emphatically disagreed. “Everyone catches at least one fish!” she declared. Stenvar slid her a grateful glance. Finally as the sky began to twinkle with stars, and several stomachs began to growl in chorus, he snagged a perch, and dropped it into the full collection basket. “Now we can go feast!” he declared, groaning as he hefted the basket to one shoulder.

Sofie took Silda in one grip and slipped her other fingers into Stenvar’s free hand. Lili hung back and trailed the three of them as they made their way into the city in companionable silence. She paused long enough to replace the borrowed fishing poles and beckon Star and Icicle with a glance. As the Husky fell into step at her left and Icicle followed at her own meandering pace on her right, Lili smiled to herself at the tableau the group made. What a collection of misfits we make.

Even as Lil began speaking to Star and relating the news of Calixto's unmasking and demise, I realized that she was not talking to the dog, but rather to Silda, who was of course living up to her moniker by being unseen.

With that over, and a new job has opened up at Candlehearth, I wonder if Sten might think he can get Silda hired to work there? Though I am not sure if she is emotionally cut out for a 9-5 job.

What a nice little found family that I see forming here in Windhelm, from the misfits indeed.

This episode was just full of goodness!

Stenvar bringing up the challenges Nils and Elda face running the tavern shorthanded seems to be heading full circle. I shouldn’t be surprised if help is coming in the forms of Sofie and Silda.

So far, Star seems free of bloodlust but having Helgird check him out is still wise.

Lili’s speechcraft skills are on full display and she entices Silda out into the sunshine – with some help from Sofie and the news that the Butcher is dead. It seems that Sofie has somewhat solved her orphan challenge by adopting Silda. She is one resourceful and kind-hearted child!

And all accomplished under the watchful supervision of Icicle.

I’m not surprised that Stenvar is thinking about how to improve Nils and Elda’s situation. After all he practically lives there.

The fishing plan came together nicely, and with excellent results! Hopefully the bounty will put Elda in a good mood so that Silda won’t make herself unseen before dinner. Sofie is a delight. This little group is on its way to becoming family!

@SubRosa: It seems Lili can't help but make families wherever she goes. Her inclination to help the unfortunate to stand on their own feet really shines throughout this chapter. I think it also shows how important the idea of family is to her.

@Acadian: While I wouldn't say that Silda has adopted Sofie since she doesn't quite meet the Jarl's requirements, it certainly looks like their relationship has grown into something like family over time. And yes, Sofie is very resourceful and kind-hearted! And not to worry, we have plans for all the fish! Enjoy!

@Grits: I agree, it seems natural that Stenvar would be concerned about the future of Candlehearth Hall without Susanna. She certainly brought life and a positive energy to the place. And yes, good thing the fishing plan. had such excellent results!

The first day after Calixto's execution has become a time of reflection and of new beginnings. Having notified Silda the Unseen of the outcome of yesterday's investigation, it was time to bring her out of her shell and get her back to better spirits.

********************************
Loredas 23 Last Seed - A Fish Feast

I don’t know yet what Boss will do next. Windhelm doesn’t feel the same anymore. I’m sure she will figure something out. Seems she has taken a couple more strays under her wing, and I’m curious to see what will happen with Sofie and Silda.

The heavy fish basket preceded Sten into the lower foyer of Candlehearth. He propped the door open with one foot as Sofie, Star and Icicle slipped in behind him.

At her bar, Elda’s brows lifted at the scene. “Where’s the Wood Elf?” she demanded warily.

“She’ll be here soon,” Sten responded. “I have fish for the evening meal tonight, if it’s not too late. Freshly caught this afternoon!” He smiled down at Sofie at his side. “And we are bringing guests for dinner, so we are more than willing to help Nils with the preparation, right Sofie?”

“Right, sir!” Sofie squared her shoulders and lifted her chin in miniature determination. “If you can use the help, m’am!”

Elda’s gaze shifted from the fish basket to the small child, and her brows dropped in a scowl. “First the dog, then the cat, now that street urchin!” her sharp voice made Star whine and Sofie press closer to Lili’s side. “What will you bring in next, a horker?”

Icicle strolled to sit in front of Elda’s bar and miaowed loudly. She lifted a front paw and flashed her claws in the air between them.

“At least you’re useful around here, cat!” Elda retorted, hands on hips.

“Sofie helped us catch the fish,” Sten watched Elda warily. She seems very hostile to Sofie. Why is that?

“Sofie Larinsdottir!” Nils called out as he came down the hallway from the kitchen. “As I live and breathe! It’s been a while since I saw you last, child!” He stopped in front of the orphan and laid a hand affectionately on the child’s head.

“Boss is getting new clothes for her and Silda,” Sten murmured. “She asks if it’s possible for them to have a hot bath in Boss’s room before they change.”

“Yes, of course!” Nils’s enthusiastic response overrode any protest from Elda. “And what’s this about a fish feast tonight?” He peered into the basket. “Oho!” He sent a sly glance at Elda. “Best to help me gut and scale these beautiful beasties before your bath, Sofie, yes?” The slight Nord winked at Sten and waved the two to follow him. Behind them Sten heard Icicle snarl at Elda, and the innkeeper scoff in reply.

“Put that basket there,” Nils indicated the end of the counter. “The two of you can get started on cutting heads off the fish while I bring the bath to the lady’s room. It will take me just a heartbeat!”

Sten found a stool for Sofie and set it at the counter next to the basket. “Hand me the fish, I’ll cut heads,” he removed the cleaver from its hook above the counter and tested its edge with his thumb. “Let’s see if we can get these all beheaded before he comes back!”

“Can he really get hot water that fast?” Sofie whispered to him as she pulled a perch out and slid it headfirst toward Sten.

“They have a boiler down in the cellar,” Sten responded. “It not only heats the entire inn through pipes beneath the floors, but also provides hot water whenever we need a bath. Usually we have to wait to let it cool down a bit first, though.”

“No wonder Nils says the little bits are just as important as the big bits, too,” Sofie murmured as she slid another perch to Sten.

“Little bits? Big bits?” Sten repeated.

“I help him when he chops wood. He’s always saying ‘Can’t have just the big bits. Got to have the little bits, too.’ He’s nice.” Sofie smiled at the memory as she lifted a large salmon with two hands. “He pays me to pick up the smaller pieces that break off when he chops.”

Sten chuckled at a sudden thought. You can say that about Boss and me. Or Star and Icicle! He became aware of Sofie’s sudden quiet and paused to look at the child. He caught a few tears splashing down on Sophie’s hands. “Sofie?” He made his tone gentle. “Are you all right?”

“I miss Susanna,” Sofie sniffed and slid the cod beneath her hands to Sten. “She bought hot soup to Silda and me when things got cold outside. She even found us blankets that Elda was going to throw out.”

Now it was Sten’s turn to sniffle. “That was typical of Susanna - always looking out for the lost and the lonely. Her heart was bigger than her t - her body.”

“I don’t understand how she could work here, for that lady Elda.” Sofie leaned into Sten’s side. “She’s so mean.”

“She’s not,” Nils spoke as he returned to the kitchen. “Oh my, look at all this fish!” He counted off the headless bodies. “Now let’s get them gutted, cleaned and filleted!” He smiled at Sofie. “How shall we cook them tonight?”

“Silda says the white fish,” Sofie pointed out the perch and cod, “she’d like baked with fresh dill and apple butter, while the salmon she’d like stewed with potatoes, carrots and leeks, and maybe garlic and dill?”

“Oooooh, fancy!” Nils exclaimed as he reached for the chopping board and the bundle of dill hanging nearby. “There’s the garlic, be a good girl and grab a couple of cloves of that, please?”

“Too fancy, Nils?” Sten asked as he began cleaning and filleting the fish.

“Salmon first, so we can get the fish broth started.” Nils corrected him. “Not too much so,” he added. “It’s a different combination. Who came up with that stew idea?” He mused to himself. “And apple butter!”

“It was a collaboration between Boss and Silda,” Sten responded. “Silda always liked your fish stew, and thought the salmon would hold up well to a little extra - seasoning. Boss said down in the southern provinces, lemon was a popular seasoning for fish. Not sure what that is, though.”

“It’s a fruit, a little yellow one with a thick, dimpled skin,” Nils responded, already working his chopper through the dill. “Flesh is sour, but is amazing over fish!” He looked up to see Sofie clean the fish guts off the counter. “Child, go down to the guest room on the right, our Wood Elf friend is already there with Silda. Get your bath, then come back to help peel potatoes!”

Sofie took off, and they heard her greet Lilisfina in the hallway. Sten glanced back in time to see the Wood Elf enter the kitchen and glance around. “Anything I can do to help, Nils?”

“We don’t have lemon,” Nils said over his shoulder. “But those green apples should be somewhat sour. A bit sweeter, maybe.”

“That’s what Silda said, too,” Lilisfina approved. “Do you want me to slice them up?”

Nils reached up and selected another knife and handed it to her. “Use this, and that table there. Should be easier for your height. And peel them first, we’ll use the peels for the butter!”

“Thanks, Nils,” Lilisfina picked out two apples from the barrel and began cutting away.

“Nils, why was Elda so hostile to Sofie?” Sten asked as he cut the salmon fillets into chunks. “When I first came here, she wasn’t like that. In fact, she warned me not to get fresh with Susanna.”

“She felt protective about Susanna, poor auntie,” Nils agreed. “But Sofie brings up bad memories for her. Apparently there’s bad blood between her and Sophie’s father.” Nils sighed. “We really should look after our orphans, between the famines we’ve had in the past and now this bloody war. Instead the Jarl sends them off to that place in Riften.” He scoffed. “Orphanage? A workhouse more like.”

“Did you know Sofie’s family, Nils?” Lilisfina asked from her place at the table.

“Not personally,” Nils shook his head. “I know Larin fought with Jarl Stormcloak against the Thalmor, and was killed in battle. His wife, poor dear, and children died in the plague that blew through Windhelm that winter.”

“Except Sofie?” Sten glanced at Nils.

“Except Sofie, yes,” Nils sighed. “That was what, about five years ago?”

“She was so young?” Sten heard the dismay in Lilisfina’s voice. “And she’s been on the streets all this time? How could she survive the cold?”

“She’s a Nord, like the rest of us,” Sten remarked.

Nils chuckled. “She made friends among the residents of the Gray Quarter. No doubt another reason Elda is so harsh regarding that child.” He stepped back to regard the countertop, now covered with chopped dill, garlic and leek. Lilisfina carried a bowl over and added diced apples to the pile. “We need carrots and potatoes, but let’s get the broth going.” He rubbed his chin thoughtfully. “We could add heavy cream to the salmon dish to make it more like a chowder.”

"Chowder?” Lilisfina repeated. “Never tried that. Should ask Silda first, though.”

“Chowder sounds absolutely delicious,” the Nord beggar’s voice reached them. Sten turned to see an unrecognizable woman standing in the doorway, uncertainty in her stance.

“Silda!” Nils threw up his hands and seized her shoulders. “You cleaned up lovely, look at you!” He laughed as he turned Silda in a twirl. “And your choice of meal preparation for these fish is delightful! I’m certain our guests will be in for a treat!”

“Am I too late to peel potatoes?” Sofie said from behind Silda. Both were dressed in similar outfits of a long sleeved tunic that dropped to mid thigh, baggy trousers with wrapped calves over sturdy leather boots. Silda’s blue outfit brought out the cornflowers in her eyes, while Sofie glowed in a golden tan and dark brown combination.

“Not at all,” Nils pulled up a chair to the table where Lilisfina had chopped apples and set three large potatoes in front of the seated child. He set a peeling knife near her hand and stepped back to regard Silda again. “How are you in the kitchen, Silda?”

“I know my way around,” Silda replied. “I cooked for my family when I was young. But it’s been years, so perhaps if you could refresh my memory?”

“Of course!” Nils drew her to the counter and pulled Sten away. “The big lout still needs to wash up before dinner, so you’ll take his place here!”

I can't wait to see the horker Lil brings in next. Maybe that will be named Nas or X?

Well, Nils remembers Sofie. Granted, it looks like Elda does too. They just have completely different reactions to the child. I wonder if there was some drama concerning one or more of her parents and Elda? A love triangle perhaps?

Her heart was bigger than her t - her body.
Yes it was.

I did like the observation that Sten does not know what a lemon is. It is not like they have those growing in Skyland!

I see I was right about the love triangle. I bet Sofie's Dad kicked Elda out of bed, for Sofie's Mom instead.

Lili and her growing menagerie descend upon Candlehearth, replete with dinner and recipes in mind.

Quite an icy welcome from Elda, but Nils more than makes up for that as baths and sous chef duties are assigned all around. This should be a great meal.

Definitely some history there between Elda and Sofie’s father.

Nice to see that Silda cleans up well and, more importantly, she is engaging pretty freely with others.

Love the idea of Nils’ woodburning boiler beneath the inn serving several purposes.

”Her heart was bigger than her t - her body.”
- - I’m imagining Grits spitting her tea as she reads this very Jerric-like statement.

Her heart was bigger than her t - her body.

Well put, Sten. And it sure was.

I’m afraid I’m not as forgiving of Elda’s treatment of Sofie as Nils. Bad blood with an orphan’s father? Put on your big girl panties and deal with it, Elda. Perhaps we’ll get her side of the story.

Sounds like an excellent fishy feast in the making. Nice to see Sofie and Silda in some new and practical clothing, and especially nice that Silda seems willing to interact with the group. Great to see Nils acting kindly toward the pair.

What a warm and friendly evening in the kitchen. Maybe Lili can scheme a way to keep S & S indoors tonight.

This has been a delightful read to catch up with! The playful banter between Lili and Sten is endearing and the little teases sprinkled throughout are so well done.

I have a multitude of questions regarding her past, but I'm the patient type and look forward to it unfolding naturally with Sten.

It certainly is a strange, but vailiant crew by the time we roll up to feast preparation. Icicle is definitely a welcome addition - there is always room for a cat!

With two empty houses in Windhelm, I can't help but wonder if Lili has something else up her sleeve. I could see her appealing to the Shatter-Shields and leaving it under Silda and Sofie's care.

@SubRosa: You will see in a few more posts that you aren't so far off the mark regarding Elda's attitude toward Sofie. One of the questions I struggled with is why aren't the households of Windhelm adopting these orphans instead of resorting to the Jarl's extreme solution of sending them off to a workhouse in Riften? I've always thought Candlehearth Hall would be a good place to find work, especially after Susanna's death. And while we take lemons for granted with fish dishes (how many of you have received those tiny yellow wedges on the side of your fish/seafood dish to squirt over it?), it occured to me that citrus fruit in Skyrim would be extremely rare and reserved only for those with extensive trading with southern provinces (looking at you, Solitude!).

@Acadian: I wanted to make sure you were fed this time! I hope we have met your expectations with the collaborations between Silda, Nils and Lili. And yes, it's encouraging to see Silda come out of her shell here. It would take a while before she feels safe working upstairs, but Nils is more than ready to cover that after seeing how well Silda did in the kitchen. As for roping everyone into the feast preparation, he knows all too well that many hands make light work. And yes, I was thinking of Grits and her Jerric when I slipped that little line in!

@Grits: I knew you would notice that little Freudian slip of Sten's! I agree, Elda needs to put on her big girl pants - but that's something only she can do. Oh well. I've always seen Nils as a kindly old gent - the sort that makes everyone around him feel safe and welcome, and not in a creepy sort of way. It's amazing how we can build a whole personality and backstory for a particular NPC based on a line or two they say in the game. Will Lili come up with a way to keep S & S indoors tonight? We'll find out!

@Kane: Welcome to Windhelm! I hope you find the company warm and cheerful as we work toward the end of this book. I'm glad you have tons of questions about Lili's past, and I'm happy you are glad to let it unfold naturally the same way Sten is. And yes, cats are tough to write, but it's not the first time I've included a cat as a character in one of my stories. It felt good to flex that again. And yes, you are right that Lili has something up her sleeve regarding Silda and Sofie.

After a successful afternoon of fishing, our gang of six (three Nords, a Bosmer, a dog and a cat) have descended upon the Candlehearth Hall kitchen and helped Nils prepare a feast.

***********************
Loredas 23 Last Seed - New Staff

As Stenvar meekly headed downstairs to his waiting bath, Lili turned to watch Silda at the counter alongside Nils. Her head was tilted down to the shorter man, who cheerfully instructed her to dice sweet red and sour green apples into cubes. As he stirred the fish broth made from the perch and cod heads and bones, Nils asked her if she wanted the fish all for the four fishers or to share with other guests at Candlehearth.

“Share with everyone, of course,” Silda responded. “Even with Stenvar’s appetite I doubt the four of us -”

“Six!” Sofie chimed in from the table where she struggled to cut out the dark eyes from her peeled potatoes. “You’re forgetting Star and Icicle!”

“All right, six,” Silda answered with the easy familiarity of a long friendship. “Six of us can eat all of this fish before it spoils.”

“In my experience they do spoil fast if we don’t do something to preserve them,” Nils agreed. “That’s why I usually serve fish the same day it’s caught. Anything left over gets salted down or put into broth. And we also feed the stray cats with the little bits too.”

“Those bowls on Candlehearth’s stoop, that was you, Nils?” Lili recalled the small bowls, one containing water, one with traces of food, and one with a note asking for coins to pay for the food, that she passed every time she entered and left Candlehearth.

“Yes, there’s Icicle,” Nils pointed at the silver tabby that sat on the bench in the hallway, her gaze watching the activity in the kitchen, “and there’s another one that comes around - Soot, I call him.”

Icicle growled at the sound of the other cat’s name. Lili turned to regard the tabby. “They’re rivals, I take it?”

“Not exactly. Soot is a tom, while Icicle’s a tabby. She doesn’t like him, but he would like to get closer to her.” Nils’s brows waggled suggestively. “Let’s just say Icicle isn’t impressed by him.”

“Icicle certainly gets around town,” Lili remarked. “Not only is she familiar to Sofie and Silda, but also the Argonians on the docks, and even Wuunferth the court mage.”

“And us here in Candlehearth,” Nils nodded with a chuckle. “Elda puts up with her only because she is a very effective hunter of vermin.” He shrugged. “Soot, on the other hand, does not get along with people well -” he held up one hand and showed the fine white scars that criss crossed his knuckles and the back of his hand. “He will scratch you rather than accept food from your fingers.”

Lili straightened up. “Really?” She stepped behind Nils and held her hand out for his. “May I?” Nils let her take his right hand in her fingers as he continued stirring the broth with his left. “You haven’t been infected, that’s good,” she remarked. “These have healed very cleanly.”

“Helgird told me to wash dishes in the hottest water I could stand every day,” Nils responded. “So now every time I get a cut or splinter or cat scratch that’s what I do.”

“So has Soot ever bitten anyone?” Lili asked. Nils cast his gaze upwards in thought.

“Not that I know of, but I think getting scratched by him is enough for anyone.”

“Except another tom cat,” Lili remarked dryly. Her gaze drifted to Silda, who contentedly chopped apples into quarters, cored and peeled them and diced them into small pieces. “You look happy to be working here,” she remarked.

“What?” The knife paused as Silda looked up. “It brings back memories of home, when I was a little girl,” the sadness returned to her eyes. “I miss those days sometimes.”

Lili regarded the tall beggar, then glanced at Nils, who shrugged. “Silda, are you happy being a beggar?” Silda shot her a startled glance. “Some folk like the life,” Lili continued, “but they live south in warmer climes. I find it difficult to like the same lifestyle up here when it’s so cold all year ‘round!”

“Cold?” Both Sophie and Silda echoed Lili. “T’ain’t cold right now!” Sophie averred stoutly.

“Ah, but you liked that hot bath just now, didn’t you?” Lili remarked idly.

“Actually, I don’t care for bein’ a beggar,” Silda murmured softly. “The guards don’t treat you kindly, and if you happen to be outside the city when they close and lock the gates every night, they won’t let you back in until the dawn.” She shuddered.

Sofie leaned against the tall beggar, slipping her hand into Silda’s. “It’s scary out there at night,” she whispered. “Wolves howling, and something else growling. Ghosts and evil spirits flying about.” She set the cubed potatoes on the countertop, adding to the mix of chopped produce ready for the broth. “Once was enough, wasn’t it Silda?”

“So if you had a choice, what would you be doing instead of begging?” Lili picked up her conversation.

At Nils’s instruction, Silda dropped the fruits and vegetables into the boiling broth. Her gaze grew thoughtful. “I wouldn’t mind working here with Nils, but Elda might . . . “ Her voice trailed off.

“I might what?” Elda’s voice reached them from the hallway. They turned to see the innkeeper regarding them with a frown, hands on hips.

“Would you object to having Silda work here with Nils, Elda?” Lili waved her hand toward the black-haired Nord. “Might help ease the burden for the both of you if she joins your staff.”

Elda shook her head. “I’m sorry, I can’t see Silda serving,” she shrugged. “We get rough company here some nights, and that may be too much for her.”

Lili glanced over at Silda to see her downcast expression. Sofie stepped forward to stand between the beggar and the innkeeper, adopting the older woman’s posture of hands on hips. “What if Nils did the serving, and Silda stayed down here and cooked?” Sofie’s tone held a mild challenge. “Or if I helped with the serving! I’m not afraid of that lout Rolff!” She stabbed a stiff finger forward. “I’ll just poke him between the legs if he gets to misbehavin’!”

As coughing and sputtering erupted behind Lili, she spotted Stenvar behind the shocked innkeeper. His face was split by a wide grin, then he cleared his throat. “Got to admit,” he remarked casually as he passed the older woman, “the little tyke’s got the right height for it.” He turned and cocked an eyebrow at Elda. “What do you say, ma’am?”

“I’m not replacing Susanna!” Elda crossed her arms over her ample chest and glared down her nose at Sofie. “And the brat’s too young to be serving upstairs!”

“She’s already making herself useful,” Nils moved to stand behind Sofie, placing his gnarled hands on her shoulders. “She caught fish and brought it to us, she helped prepare them for dinner, and she peeled and cubed potatoes! The lass is a hard worker, as is Silda!” He shook his head. “I can use their help every day, by Talos!” His exclamation was counterpointed by a growl from Icicle, still on her bench in the hallway.

“We can’t ever replace Susanna,” a soft voice threaded through the silence that followed. Silda met Elda’s sharp gaze. “No one can,” with a sigh she looked down at Sofie before her. “She looked after us when things got hard for us,” she continued. “It’s hard running Candlehearth Hall, especially now that it’s just the two of you,” Silda nodded at Nils and Elda. “I would like the chance to honor Susanna’s kindness by working here for you, and helping you keep this place going.”

Lili watched the display of conflicting emotions on Elda’s face as the innkeeper regarded Nils, Silda and Sofie. Finally the woman sighed and threw her hands up in the air in resignation. “All right, Nils, you have your wish. Silda can take Susanna’s bunk downstairs. But the child can’t stay here permanently. She is, after all, an orphan, and you know the Jarl’s policy regarding orphans!”

“In that case, Sofie can stay in my room as guest for now,” Lili responded. “I’ll be happy to pay two more drakes a night for her room and board.”

“Just two drakes a night?” Elda repeated skeptically.

“Now, Elda, the child is working here!” Nils shook his finger at his aunt. “Be happy you’re not paying her too!”

“It’s a temporary solution, Elda,” Lili volunteered. “Just until we figure out a more permanent placement for Sofie. I would prefer to see her stay in Windhelm,” she turned to catch the girl’s gaze, “if that’s what Sofie wants.” The child nodded vigorously, her wide eyes on Elda.

“I know how to clean, Dame Elda, and I can learn to cook, too!”

Elda scoffed and stalked away, shaking her head in despair.

“Well, then, that’s that,” Nils declared. “And it’s time to finish cooking all this fish!”

I had wondered about Elda’s remark in a previous episode that Icicle at least could earn her keep. The answer is provided in this episode as the cat’s varmint hunting skills are extolled. And yes, it does seem Icicle quite gets around Windhelm.

Silda has a job and roof over her head now, and little Sophie’s foot is fully in the door as well! Winning over ‘She-who-needs-to-put-on-her-big-girl-panties’ was a team effort. Lili was perfect as the facilitator in asking the right questions. Nils spoke up bemoaning his need for help. Sophie fearlessly jumped in when Silda faltered. It was Silda herself, however, who really sealed the deal with her comments about not being able to replace Susanna.

I love how protective Sophie consistently is of Silda. That is what prompted my previous semiserious comment that, in truth, Sophie had adopted Silda.

Typical healer, Lili is, as she briefly stops everything to examine Nils’ old cat scratches.

I love that Lili wanted to check Nils’s long-healed cat scars. I can picture any of my favorite healers doing the same.

Silda acknowledging that Susanna can’t be replaced seemed to help Elda make some good decisions. Excellent news that the whole gang will be snug and warm at night, even if the outdoor Nords declare that it’s not cold yet.

Except for Soot! At least there’s a bowl for him outside. It seems unlikely that he will be invited to share a roof with Icicle!

Aw, I adore Lili getting Silda off the streets. She is one of the more kind beggars in the game and deserves it. And Sofie, too, although that's not as permanent yet. I always adopt her with my characters that own a home and employ a housecarl. Lucia, too.

Cold, what cold? It's only winter in Skyrim, that's not cold!

So it looks like everyone teamed up to wrestle Elda into hiring Silda to work at the Candlehearth. She's got some good homies looking out for her.

But clearly the situation with Sofie is way to personal for even a wrestling tag team to work on Elda. Looks like Lil is going to have to keep working on her situation. Perhaps she might have to adopt her herself?

@Acadian: Yes, Icicle does get around! Typical cat. And yes, it was teamwork getting Dame Elda to accept Silda, even on a trial basis, as sous chef/cleaner. I have no doubt that the quality of the meals they prepared in that little kitchen sealed the deal for her. As for Sofie, well, it's - temporary. And in some ways, Lili reminds me of myself - always checking the dogs and kitties I meet to make sure old injuries have healed

@Grits: I'm glad you noticed the discussion about Soot. He'll make himself more visible in upcoming chapters, though he'll never be quite the sweetie Icicle is. That comment of Silda's shows how much Susanna entwined herself into the fabric of the city through her sweet, loving personality. I wouldn't go so far as to call her a prostitute, but she was not stingy with her affections and spread it around in various ways. Her kindness as recalled by both Silda and Sofie is just one example, as are Sten's memories of her.

@Kane: And yes, it made sense to me that Lili would feel responsible for Silda's welfare - starting with that sweet dreams juice she gave the beggar to help with the PTSD nightmares a couple of (in story) days ago. I'm with you, even when I vow I won't adopt any kids on this playthrough, I just can't resist Sofie or Lucia! They, much like the stray dogs and cats and bunnies I come across (thanks to DarkFox's excellent mods) end up coming home with my character. Something about those two just bring out the parenting side of even my most battle hardened warrior.

@SubRosa: Yup, it's not cold at all! Wait until mid-winter! And yes, homies is how I consider this raggedy group. And I agree, there is a deeply held resentment on Dame Elda's part regarding Sofie. We'll find out the next day!

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Loredas 23 Last Seed - Grief Then and Now

I’m not really sure how Boss did it, but Silda has a new job - assistant cook at Candlehearth Hall! Nils will handle the serving, though I’m sure he won’t get as many tips as Susanna did. Still, he has an endearing way about him. And for all that Elda has such bad feelings about the girl’s father, Sofie has a temporary place, too. I’m not sure how, but I have no doubt Boss will figure how to keep the child out of the Riften orphanage.

Give my love to Halla and Old Fang.

“That was the best fish I’ve ever tasted, Nils,” Adonato’s praise could be heard clearly across the common hall. Sten glanced over at the Imperial author, who had set his writing aside for a plate of the baked whitefish. Across their table, he could see the subdued gleam in Silda’s face as she bent over the chowder. At the tall Nord’s side, the small child was not so subdued.

“That was Nils and Silda!” she announced to the other table. “They worked together on this!”

“So we did!” Nils agreed cheerfully as he cleared away the remains of Adonato’s supper. “I’m sure Silda is glad you liked it so much.” As he passed the quartet’s table, he winked at Silda and Sofie. As he headed down the stairs, Silda rose to her feet and began gathering the empty bowls and spoons from their table.

“That was delicious, indeed, Silda,” Lilisfina spoke softly as she slid her own spoon and bowl into the growing stack in the tall Nord’s hands. “I think you’ve earned yourself a place here.”

With a shy smile at the Wood Elf, Silda turned to Sofie. “Why don’t you check the other customers and see if they’ve finished their meals?” The girl leaped to her feet with alacrity and darted off to speak with Lonely-Gale, who set his own plate in Sofie’s waiting hands. As she followed Silda down the back stairs, Sten turned to look at Lilisfina. Icicle sat in her lap, purring beneath the Wood Elf’s gentle caress.

“Well, that’s a stray or two you’ve taken care of,” he remarked softly. “What of these four-legged ones?” He reached down to pat the Skyrim Husky at his side.

“I thought Star has proven himself a part of our little company,” Lilisfina smiled at him. “As for Icicle, was she ever really a stray?”

Sten chuckled behind his mug as he drank down the last of his ale. “I wouldn’t mind fishing every day if they cook it for us!”

“Today turned out nice and peaceful after the last few days, yes?” Lilisfina sipped at her mead. Her gaze grew thoughtful. “I do miss Susanna, especially here. I’ve only been here not even a sevenday, and already I feel as if I have …” She waved her hand vaguely around the common hall. “Not exactly friends, but people here who seem happy to see me.” She shook her head. “Morrowind was not like that.”

“Were they suspicious of you?” Suspicious of what? She may be a Wood Elf - no, Bosmer - but she seems so open and kind and generous. Like Susanna. Sten swallowed the sudden lump in his throat and looked into the empty mug.

“Maybe they were, maybe they weren’t,” Lilisfina paused in consideration. “More like they were closed off, not welcoming of outsiders.” She shook her head. “I certainly didn’t come across that here in the Grey Quarter. Here, they’re suspicious, but given their situation, I can’t really blame them.”

“Sadri seems to think you’re one of his best customers,” Sten murmured, his gaze on Lilisfina. “I thought he seemed happy to see you this afternoon, but not our fish!”

Lilisfina chuckled. “He should be happy to see me, I’ve spent enough coin in his shop since I arrived in Windhelm!” She turned at the heavy footfalls behind her as Thane Shatter-Shield approached their table. He gestured with his ale mug toward one of the empty chairs with a question in his gaze. Lilisfina nodded permission for him to sit.

“I wanted to tell you what a service you’ve done for Windhelm, lass,” Shatter-Shield glanced from her to Sten. “What the Jarl did to thank you was disgraceful.”

“What do you mean, Thane?” Lilisfina tipped her head to one side inquiringly. “He passed swift judgment and sentence upon the murderer, and that is all the thanks I needed.”

Not to mention the packet of drakes he sent us this morning. Pretty generous for him, I think. Sten watched Shatter-Shield as the older man shook his head slowly and leaned his elbows on the table.

“How are you and your family doing, now that Friga’s murderer has been found and brought to justice?” Lili set her mug aside and folded her hands on the table.

“It’s early to tell,” Shatter-Shield murmured, “but for once I feel like going home this evening and spending time with my wife and daughter.” He drained his mug and leaned back, his hands remaining flat on the table. “Like I can face them.”

“You never had anything to be guilty about, Thane,” Lilisfina murmured. She placed her belt purse on the table and reached into it. “Stennvar and I found this with Queen Freydis’s sword, and Helgird thinks it is at least as old,” she took Shatter-Shield’s hand and dropped the antique amulet of Arkay into his palm. “Please give this to your wife Tova. It’s the ancient High Rock sigil of Arkay, and Helgird has renewed its blessing.”

Shatter-Shield inhaled slowly, his eyes suddenly glimmering. “I’ve been looking for an Amulet of Arkay, but this . . .” He fingered the entwined rings, then met Lilisfina’s gaze. “Wouldn’t you want to keep such a unique relic for yourself?”

“Y’ffre is the source of my solace, and my strength,” Lilisfina responded. “I pray that Arkay will provide the same to your Tova, through this.” She closed the older man’s fingers over the amulet.

Shatter-Shield shook his head. “If ever you have need of anything, please let me know,” he said finally. “I and my family owe you a great debt.” He rose and bowed to Lilisfina. “Thank you.”

Sten watched Lilisfina’s gaze linger on the Thane’s departing form. When she turned back to him, he shook his head. “I do not know how you do it, boss,” he said softly. “How do you know what to say to people? No wonder so many seem happy to see you so quickly after meeting you.”

Lilisfina was silent for a few moments. Suddenly she rose to her feet. “I need to get out of here,” Sten heard a slight urgency in her tone. “Come with me, Stennvar? Please?”

“Of course,” Sten noticed Star and Icicle fall into step beside him as he followed Lilisfina downstairs. She paused long enough to pick up the bearskin cloak from her room and headed out the lower entrance.

To his surprise Lilisfina did not stop until they had left the city and crossed the bridge to stand on the far shore of the river. She stopped and turned her face to the night sky above them. Star circled them, his nose to the ground, as Icicle jumped onto the low stone wall that followed the road behind them. Sten watched the black water below them as he waited for Lilisfina to speak again. Broken shards of starlight bounced off the river’s rippling surface while he listened to her breathing become slow again.

“You wanted to know how I always know what to say,” Lilisfina’s voice was softer than the clouds of her breath in the still night. “Grief. I’ve had too much grief in my life.”

Sten turned toward Lilisfina. “You can recognize grief in others,” he made it a statement. “And because you’ve had so much, you know what would help them?”

“Nilsine lost a twin,” Lilisfina did not look at him. “Her parents lost a child. Sofie’s lost parents and siblings, as has Silda.” Her voice broke, and Lilisfina pulled her cloak closer about her. Star stopped his sniffing and came to sit before Lilisfina, his gaze on her face.

“You’ve lost family, too, yes?” Sten sighed. Best to just be quiet, let her be.

“I was one of triplets,” Lilisfina’s words floated into the darkness. “My parents had two sets of twins and three sets of triplets. Not uncommon for Bosmer.”

“That’s a large family,” Sten remarked when Lilisfina fell quiet.

“Hmm,” Lilisfina nodded. “A lot of teasing, a lot of pranks, a lot of love, and a lot of trouble.” She paused. “We were a clan, not a family. Grandparents, aunties, uncles, cousins, as well as siblings, nieces and nephews.” She sniffled and wiped at her cheeks with both hands. “I had a mate, and we had our own little family in the midst of the clan. Triplets first, then twins.”

Sten inhaled slowly at the unexpected confidence. She was married? And had children? Where are they now? Do they even live, still? “No wonder you knew how to approach Sofie,” he said gruffly. Something happened to her family, something terrible to cause her to wander so far away.

“I was away, starting my apprenticeship with a mage across the Strid River,” Lilisfina’s voice grew softer still, prompting Sten to bend down to hear her. “I wrote to them every day, and they wrote me back every day. But when the letters stopped coming . . .” She couldn’t stifle the sob that broke through. “I went back home, only to find our graht-oak burned, the entire clan . . .”

Something prompted Sten to move in front of her and place his hands gently on her shoulders, as if to give her some of his strength. “I’ve watched you reach out to others in their grief. Have you ever let anyone reach out to you in yours?” She lifted her face to him, tears glistening on her face in the starlight. He felt her trembling beneath his fingers, and pulled her close against his chest, wrapping his arms around her in a bear hug.

“The only reason I’m still alive, Stennvar,” she sobbed into his padded tunic, “is because I wasn’t there. If the Thalmor ever find out . . .”

“Shh, shh,” Sten pressed his bearded chin against the top of her head. “The Thalmor won’t find out from me.”

Candlehearth’s multi-hand fish dinner turned out superbly it seems.

The discussion with Thane Shattershield was a very well done transition from a feel good comfort scene celebrating the successful dinner to the Shattershields’ grief hitting very close to home. And when compounded with the grief of others around her just beneath the surface, proved a bit too much for Lili.

More rich glimpses into Lili’s past as she opens up a bit with Sten. How prolific your Bosmer are! My heart quite broke when she revealed her clan’s tree had burned down while she was gone, leaving apparently no survivors. That’s a lot of grief all right.

Interesting mention of the Thalmor. Did they cause the fire? Did they have it in for Lili’s clan – is that why she still feels in danger from them?

When Sten first (and correctly) praised Lili’s speechcraft, I wondered if, like Buffy, it had developed as a way to compensate for her small, unimposing and fragile stature. By the end of this episode, we learn that her word skills are more focused on easing the grief of others and come from experiencing too much grief herself.

I was doing some research in the last few weeks to look for a name that the vampires in the Blood Raven fic would use for life force. I did not want to use Latin terms like Vitae, because that's already been used. So I looked at Greek, and settled on the word Arche or Arkhe, meaning 'First Principle', or 'beginning', or just 'first'.

Then I realized that it was pronounced exactly the same way as Arkay. I wonder if Bethesda's writers knew that, and that is why they chose that name for the god of the dead? After all, they did call choose the name Azura as well (and given the significance of the Asuras in ancient Persian myth I am sure that was no accident).

We have a nice dinner and catch up with the Homies.

Well that turned grim and serious really quick. From the Shatter-Shield and his grief, to Lil's own final admission of her own grief.

So Lil's family were assassinated by the Thalmor. I am guessing they were some sort of dissenters. Or they just had the bad luck to cross the wrong person in the Thalmor. This explains why Lil is so far from home, and has been wandering Tamriel.