AUTHOR'S NOTE: This story takes place just nine days after Uriel Septim's assassination, with a unique twist. I am taking the Main Quest and I am remaking it with my own version. What would have happened if both the main-character and Uriel Septim died in the sewers, along with all of the Blades officers? What would have happened if the Amulet of Kings fell into the hand of an "innocent" but hidden bystander?


The Accounts of Rayden


CHAPTER ONE


I wouldn't even have been able to get into the sewers if it wasn't for that foolish Imperial Guard, who, after a few too many bottles of ale, carelessly dropped his heavy set of iron keys lying so temptingly upon the hard wood floor. I was sitting in the tavern, minding my own business. I had planned on settling in for the night, but when I saw that gleaming shine coming from the keys, I knew my night had only just begun.




My name is Rayden, Bosmer and freelance thief of the Imperial City. I am a mere twenty-seven years of age, yet I am capable of many things even veteran thieves cannot accomplish. What, do you think of me as a boastful young brat? I will not argue with you, I am indeed confident of my abilities, but I guess I'll have to prove that to you. Don't worry, you'll learn soon enough.




When I first saw the keys I assumed someone else would pick them up and hand them back to the officer as a sign of good will, possibly a way to kiss up to the Imperials, just like everyone seemed to be so keen of doing. But alas, my inner prayers were answered and nobody but I witnessed the keys fall to the floor. So I left my seat and walked out the door, slyly scooping down to pick the keys up on my way.

At first I wasn't sure what to do with them. There were so many keys hanging from the iron ring, more than fifteen in fact. There were hundreds of places I thought about going to in order to get my hands on whatever I wanted, but one place stood out more than any other: the sewers under the prison. I had heard many a story about how there was a secret passageway to hidden chambers, were rooms were filled with lost and hidden treasures. From my understanding the sewer was not guarded by one soul, meaning it was probably my safest option, as well as my most prosperous.

I left the tavern and headed straight for the sewers entrance, which was just a bit northeast from the city. There, I fumbled through the keys, and thankfully, just as I had originally hoped, one of them opened the large-barred gate that was standing between me and my soon to be treasures.

I stepped inside the damp sewers and walked around for a few minutes, trying to find my way to the secret chambers. The rats were making things difficult, not to mention the goblins. They were extremely difficult to sneak around. After not finding anything of interest for an hour I was beginning to think that the stories must have been false, but then I faintly heard a metal door opening to the west, and the sound seemed as if it was not too far from where I was standing.

I quietly ran to where I heard the sound, and sure enough a door had been opened, and you won't even begin to believe who I saw. The Emperor himself, Uriel Septim, was being led by a Redguard Blade, and some other person who looked to be an inmate of the prison itself. I made that assumption because he was wearing raggedy clothes, and his wrists had irons on them. But the inmate was too far in the back, making it impossible to see what race he was. Obviously the Emperor was an Imperial, everyone knows that. And the Redguard's race was certainly visible thanks to obvious circumstances. As for the inmate, I never did get a look at his face. What happened next went so fast I'm still a bit dazed...

No more than ten seconds after spotting the three, a rustled noise came from their right side. Suddenly men and women wearing scarlet red robes and hoods appeared almost out of nowhere, and for whatever reason a small battle immediately commenced.

It was all so confusing and wild. I didn't know what to do, so I simple hid around a corner, but carefully peeking my head out so that I could see all the action. The Redguard was taking on two opponents at once, and the inmate had already been slain by one of the red-robed.

Uriel Septim had attempted to run away but one of the robed shot a spell his way, hitting him square in the back. A humongous cloud of magic surfaced through the air, and somehow a necklace flew from the Emperor's body, hitting the wall right next my face. I assumed the necklace was a simple, but expensive, piece of jewelry. But, when I picked the item up, I realized it was none other than the Amulet of Kings, THE Amulet of Kings!

I looked back, expecting to see the robed men running towards me, but instead they were running towards the fallen body of the Emperor. The Redguard had taken down his own opponents, and was then rushing over to the Emperor to protect him from the two remaining opponents.

Without hesitating I picked up the necklace and ran away, but before I did that I took one last glance at the battle. The Redguard was on the ground with an axe sticking from the side of his head, and the Emperor was lying unprotected on the hard stoned floor, with both of his frail hands in the air, shielding himself from the two remaining robed men.

"Tell us where the Amulet is!" Yelled one of the robed men. When the Emperor did not respond to their commands they simply stuck a sword through his chest and into his heart, ending the long lived life of Cyrodiil's leader. I watched in horror as Uriel's hands fell to the ground and slammed against the floor. The robed men began searching the area, and that's when I finally left the place.

Now, nine days later, I stand here in an old worn-out cabin, deep in the woods west of Cheydinhal. I sit here with the Amulet of Kings in hand, and I'm trying to figure out what to do. It only took one day for a total transformation of the Empire to take place. After what took place in the sewers, thousands of red-robed figures showed up in the Imperial City, led by an Altmer who called himself "Mankar Camoran". He claimed to be the leader of the cult he called "The Mythic Dawn".

I was in that same tavern where I found the keys when Mankar and his cultists arrived. The death of the Emperor had not yet been spread, since I was the only witness to the deaths, and I surely was too afraid to tell anyone. I was trying to keep myself out of trouble, but then again that would impossible as long as I had the Amulet of Kings still in my possession.

A fight broke out in the city. The guards and citizens banded together to fight the Mythic Dawn, but it was of no use. Apparently Mankar had several men inside the Imperial City who were working for him. That and the fact that the Imperial Legion was greatly outnumbered benefited to the Mythic Dawn's easy victory. Since then Mankar has taken the throne, and his men are looking for the Amulet, which I of course have in hand.

I had left the city before I was rounded up by Mankar's men, and like I told you before, I am now residing in my hidden cabin. It is not hidden by magical powers, but the trees certainly provide help in hiding from the outside world.

I was looking at the amulet closely, examining every last detail of the famed jewel. It was rather heavy for a piece of jewelry, seemingly a little over 1 pound in weight. The gold chain was supposed to wrap around the wearer's neck, and in the middle of the amulet itself was a gigantic, red, ruby-like gem, which was absolutely stunning. Around that gem were eight smaller jewels, all different colors. The amulet was truly a magnificent item, but unfortunately it had some magical powers conjured in it as well.

I say this because when I tried to put the amulet on my own neck, it simply fell off. It never would stay on and I was getting quite furious about the whole situation. That's when I paid a "visit" to the bookstore in the Imperial City, after-hours if you know what I mean. While there I discovered a book about the Amulet of Kings, and in its contents I learned that only a legitimate heir to the Septim bloodline may wear the amulet.

And now, again I say for the third time, here I am sitting in my cabin trying to figure out what to do with my new found treasure. For a while I had thought about giving the jewel to Mankar, for I had foolishly thought he might have given me a hundred heaps of gold for it. But after thinking a bit more clearly, I came to my senses and realized the elf was way too cunning. He would never have given me anything in return; he would have simply tricked me somehow. I do not know the man personally, but I could just tell what kind of man he was by looking at the way he talked.

Ever since the Mythic Dawn's battle was won in the Imperial City, I've been here in my cabin, for fear of my life. I do not want to give the amulet up anymore, I've made that decision. To be honest with you I don't really care about anyone else, but I do not want to see Cyrodiil run by a bunch of cult members and their fanatic leader. Obviously they want the amulet for something, but I'm just not sure what. Right now I'm trying to think of who might be able to help me. Perhaps there is someone who can help me destroy the gem, or perhaps destroying the item isn't what I should do. Back in the bookstore, I read something about that the Amulet of Kings light the Dragonfires, whatever that meant. I don't know what to make of all this, but surely there is someone in this land that can help me; someone who is wiser that I in that sort of business.

At that moment I remembered hearing about an old Breton who lived in a priory south of Chorrol. I knew not his occupation, but only that he had something to do with the Empire. His identity was supposed to have been kept a secret from all, but thankfully for me I was a nosey little thief. I decided that paying this man a visit would definitely help my cause, but of course I really didn't what my cause was at the moment...

I like the premise. It is also interesting to notice that the Dawn here is a really powerful force that took over Cyrodiil (the city, perhaps also the province.) No sign of Daedra...yet.

I'll be watching this one.

CHAPTER TWO


Before I left I made sure I had all I would need to accompany me on my journey to the West Weald. It wasn’t nothing much, because a good thief never carried more than he had to, because he, or she I suppose, wants to stay silent and move as quick and agile as possible. And the more things a thief carries, the more noise they will make and the more slowly they will move.

The only items I had where ten lock picks, a silver short sword, a silver bow with iron silver arrows, and a small pouch containing maps of every city in Cyrodiil. I used to have a huge map of the regions as well, but I lost it somewhere long ago. And of course I had the amulet, tucked safely away in my left pants pocket.

Now, if I asked you what I was wearing you would probably say a black robe with a black hood to go with it, am I right? Well you would be terribly wrong with that statement. That is completely cliché and I absolutely hate it when I hear people claim that all the best thieves wear black. There is no fact to that opinion, thus meaning “opinion”, one that is full of nothing but horse manure, very smelly horse manure.

In fact, I actually try to blend in with the people around me, because I am a thief that is not afraid to steal in the light of day. I wear whatever suits me at the time, whether it be a simple blue robe, or even an expensive doublet. Staying comfortable is what matters to me, that’s all. Right now I am wearing huntsmans leather pants, along with a dark green shirt. And finally I’m wearing an old pair of brown quilted shoes, so I can sneak around silently, and a dark brown green hood as well.

After double checking to make sure I had everything I would need, I set out to the North West, towards Chorrol. I did not bring any food with me because it would only weigh me down, plus I would have had to bring a sack with me, and I really didn’t want the burden of that. I’d just eat somewhere along the way, at an inn or something.

Just a few minutes after I left the house rain began pouring down from the gray clouded sky. It was already dark, a little after eight o’clock in the evening, and the rain was making it even more difficult to travel. I could barely see in front of me, but I did see about ten torches or so that seemed not too far ahead of me, up on a hill.

I quietly ascended up the slope until I reached the top, where I hid behind a large wet boulder, carefully poking my head out to see who the torches’ owners were. Just as I had feared, it was yet again another Mythic Dawn patrol. Ever since Mankar had taken over he’s had his men spread all across the land, no doubt in search for the amulet.

Now that I think about, I was very surprised the Council had not intervened with what was going on. Perhaps they were talking with Mankar, trying to come to a compromise with the elf, but if he was anything like I thought he was they were wasting their time. He wasn’t going to leave until he got what he wanted, and the scary part is that I don’t know what that is.

It’s not surprising that the other countries haven’t sent aid, for they are likely too afraid to do so, especially if the Mythic Dawn has not yet set foot on their own territory. Plus, the Empire’s reputation isn’t actually positive. We’ve made quiet a few enemies and unfortunately that’s going to hurt us dearly in this time of need. The other cities of Cyrodiil had to have been overrun by the Mythic Dawn. Since the Legion was so soundly defeated in the Imperial City, I would have a hard time believing one of the smaller cities could fend off the cult horde.

And now, back to the Mythic Dawn patrol. They were walking southward, thankfully in the opposite direction of my destination. I was hoping to hear them say something, possibly a clue to why they are taking over, but no, nothing but silence was what I received. So I waited for them to pass, and once they were out of sight I continued on my way.

The rain never did stop that night, and by dawn I was completely drenched from head to toe. The rain had come down so hard, and at an unusual sort of horizontal angle, the water splashed onto my face the entire time. It was a miserable trip indeed, but oh well. Nature is nature, there’s no controlling the weather. Well, actually there is, by using some sort of magical book or something, according to some crazy woman up in Chorrol I heard about. But that’s a whole different story in itself.

At about nine o’clock in the morning, I spotted a small inn. I had been traveling through the forests the entire time, rather than the road where I could easily spotted, and I was very surprised to have seen the inn in the first place. But apparently I must’ve been traveling closer to the road than I had originally thought, because the inn was on the edge of a dirt path.

I walked inside the building and saw four people, two who posed a major threat. There was a Breton inn keeper, who was busy talking to an elderly Imperial man, and then there were two Mythic Dawn members, sitting at a table in the left corner. When I saw them I immediately wanted to turn and leave, but unfortunately they saw me, and I couldn’t take a chance of leaving so soon. It would be too suspicious.

Instead, I walked up to the keeper and asked for a room for the day. I paid the Breton ten gold pieces and took my key. While I turned to walk up the stairs, I noticed the Dawn members were watching me closely, too close for my comfort. So rather than walk up stairs, I changed my mind and sat at a table after ordering a round of ale. I wanted to see if the Dawn did anything while I sat there. I wanted to see if they kept watching me. If I was lucky, they would cease with their stares, but something told me that wasn’t going to happen. I had no doubt in my mind the Dawn were going around questioning everyone in the land. And since they had not yet contacted me, it appeared my turn was soon to come.

For ten minutes I sat and drank, saying a few words every so often to the keeper and his friend. I did not want to look too fishy, so I figured talking a bit would only help. After another five minutes they were still eying me, and now they were starting to whisper. It was time to act.

I got up from my seat and walked up the stairs. Just as I had thought they would, the Dawn members got from their seat as well, and I could sense that they were following me. When I got up the stairs, I hid around the corner, waiting for the two robed men, for I already had a plan.

I quietly unsheathed my short sword and stood waiting. Then, when the first one arrived, I quickly shoved the blade through his stomach and shoved him back into his partner, and they both fell down the stairs. The man that I had stabbed was dead, and he was on top of the other. The remaining robed man was having a difficult time getting up, so I took advantage of the situation. He tried to cast a spell at me but it missed by at least two feet. Swiftly I got out my long bow and flung an arrow that hit the man dead in the forehead.

The keeper and his friend ran from their positions and examined the dead bodies, as if they had belief that they might still be alive. When they checked their pulses and realized they were dead, they looked up at me with a horror struck expression.

“What on earth did you do that for, you dumb fool? Don’t you know who you just killed?” The keeper of the inn was totally horrified by what I had done, but the old man had not a clue of what was going. He didn’t know I was holding the Amulet of Kings in my possession, but I couldn’t blame him.

I said nothing to the two, but walked down the stairs, snatching up by blade from the assassin’s stomach as I went. I was going to leave the place but the keeper grabbed my left shoulder and turned me around, rather violently I might say. The move took my by surprise and with a fast move I brought my blade up to the man’s throat, holding it in place only mere centimeters from his skin.

Again I said nothing, only because I didn’t want to compromise my position. I didn’t want to take chance on saying something I shouldn’t. Letting anyone know of what I was carrying would be suicide. Talos knows they would go to the nearest Dawn member and tell them of my whereabouts. Now that I thought about it, the keeper and his friend just might do that anyway. Great, now I had a decision to make.

Do I kill them and eliminate the chance of being ratted out? Or do I let them go and I hope they aren’t a bunch of old snitches? It wasn’t that I was afraid of killing them, I have no conscience as far as I’m concerned, hence my occupation as a thief, but I didn’t want to spill any blood that wasn’t absolutely necessary. After all, I am no murderer. I steal valuables, not life.

Ultimately I decided to let the men go; I’d just have to hope they’d keep their mouths shut. So I took the blade away from his throat, glared into his eyes for a few seconds, and then left before anything else could happen. I would not be stopping the entire day. Something told me the men wouldn’t stay silent for long, so I had to get to priory before I was caught.

I marched for nearly five more hours, through the thick trees of the forest of course, and along the way I encountered no other patrols, only a few deer and a couple of wolves, whom I was successfully able to sneak around without bringing attention to myself.

Finally I arrived at a place where there were two buildings. One looked to be a house, and the other a chapel. I read a small wooded sign that said: Weynon Priory. I was going to walk up to the building and knock on the door, but there wasn’t one. Instead there was only an open entrance leading inside.

I walked through space and saw that the place was totally trashed. Books, bowls and other items were lying everywhere. Loose leaflets of paper were taking up most of the floor, and I noticed blood stains accompanied them as well. That’s when I spotted body in the upper right corner of the room. It was a Breton man, with an iron arrow sticking out from the right side of his chest. I checked his pulse, and of course he was dead. I don’t even know why I checked. I wanted to think this was the man I was looking for, but from what I had heard, the man I was looking for had gray hair. I don’t know where I heard that from, but somehow I almost knew it.

There was a set of stairs and I walked up the second floor, and took a right. In the next room there were two Mythic Dawn members lying on the floor dead. Then, right beside a desk that was in the room, a body of a gray-haired Breton was lying on his side.

I ran over to the man and he was actually alive! I couldn’t believe it, the man, whom I assumed was the man I was coming for, was actually here right in front of me. He looked at me questionably and fearfully, as if I was the enemy.

“No need to worry, I’m not one of them,” I said, pointing over to the fallen Dawn members.

He almost smiled a bit, and then coughed, spitting up a big clot of blood that splattered against the floor and splashed back up into his face. He was too drained to wipe the sticky liquid from his face, so I did him the honors and used a nearby peace of cloth to wipe it away.

“Thank you Bosmer, but I’m afraid that won’t stop my soon-to-be-death. Who are you anyway?”

I told him my name and what I was holding in my pocket. He was very surprised to see that it had not yet fallen into the wrong hands. He told me that they came to his house yesterday morning, demanding to have the amulet, but of course he did not have it.

“What should I do? Is there anyone out there who can help me?” I asked man, whose named was Jauffre.

“Travel…travel to the city of Kvatch. Find an Imperial by the name of Martin. He will be able to help you. I…I personally sought him out just a day ago. I am the only who knows this, but…he is the last heir to the Septim bloodline. He is the son of Uriel Septim, and it took some time to make him believe me. I told him to stay in hiding for a while, because obviously the Mythic Dawn poses him a major threat. Thank…fully….they don’t yet know of his legitimacy to the throne. He alone can help you. What are your plans exactly?”

“I guess destroy the amulet so that Mankar cannot get his hands on it.” I replied. Apparently that wasn’t the answer Jauffre was looking for.

“NO, no, no! Do NOT destroy the amulet,” he yelled, and then coughed up some blood once more. “You…you must preserve it at all costs. I do not have the answers, but Martin can help you. Again I say…guard that amulet with your life. I do not know you Bosmer, but you and Martin are Cyrodiil’s only hope. Also, I do not know Mankar’s intentions…but obviously he wants that amulet. You cannot let him get his hands on it. Do you understand?”

I nodded to the man, and slowly his eyes closed, for the last time. He was dead, and I was still as confused as I was when I first arrived at the priory. So far I had yet to learn anything, only that I was now on another manhunt, this time for an Imperial named Martin. Hopefully he would be able to shed some light on what was going to happen with Mankar and his cult. Maybe then this Martin and I could come up with a plan to stop him from whatever his plans were. Too bad things never tend to work out that easily.

Fun stuff. This twist of just a random thief getting caught up in the Oblivion Crisis is pretty interesting so far. I look forward to the changes you plan to make to the story.

I like it, I like it a lot.

There is just one thing that surprises me though, Rayden's choice of violence against the two Mythic Dawn. If they were just going to interogate him, he might have been able to talk his way out. Then again, maybe they 'felt' the amulet's magic or something and that's why he was being watched so closely, which makes violence a better solution. Without surprise, I don't think he would've made it. It would also explain the many patrols. While you've made the Dawn seem big, it is still a secret cult, not large enough to fill the whole province with patrols.

Ya, I've gotten that a lot. I just changed it to where they had a lot more men. It makes things easier for me.

CHAPTER THREE


As I walked down the stairs and out the entrance I began to rethink what I was doing. Before, back in my cabin, I had persuaded myself that the Mythic Dawn could be easily outwitted and fooled, but now I know I was terribly wrong.

Embarrassingly I must admit that I had once taken this situation lightly, and I blame my foolish youth and overconfidence for that. Until today I figured I would not run into any problems; that I would be able to fix this catastrophic dilemma unscathed. But after my run-in with the two Dawn members, and of course the grisly scene I had just witnessed, I have now been able to fully grasp what dangerous of a situation I am in.

One small mishap by me could easily lead to an untimely death, and ultimately possibly the destruction of Cyrodiil. I used to not think about that kind of stuff, but now my pride for my country is at its highest level. I have a new found respect for Cyrodiil, and I am not about to let the Dawn take it away from me.

In order to succeed with my plans, I have to be smarter about what I do. The Dawn is truly a major threat and should be taken lightly. And I also know that my victory against those two Dawn members back at inn was luck, and nothing else. The Dawn is certainly more cunning that I had originally thought, and it’s high time I start acting more mature. I can still be confident in my abilities, but not to the extent of believing I can conquer anything.

I’ll also admit that I’m worried about what Jauffre said about this Martin person and me; that the two of us alone were Cyrodiil’s only hope. I would like to think that somebody else would be able to give us aid in our mission, whatever that may be. I’m still not exactly sure what I’m doing, other than NOT destroying the amulet. Jauffre certainly made that clear.




When I left the priory it was early the evening and the sun was starting to fade away for the night. The air was rather brisk for this time of the year and it was chilling me to the bones because I wasn’t wearing a jacket, simply because I didn’t think I’d need one. I thought about going back to grab a robe of one of the fallen, but then again I didn’t want where something with blood splattered all over it. It would be both disgusting and suspicious. Imagine what you would do if you saw someone wearing a robe with blood all over themselves…

So I braved the night, not stopping except to rest my legs once and a while, which wasn’t often because I wanted to get to Kvatch as quick as possible. It’s kind of ironic that I was now traveling to this particular city, because this place marked the beginning of my “career”.

As a young Bosmer growing up in a log cabin just west of Kvatch, my mother and I made many trips back and forth between our home and the city. I really sort of bonded with Kvatch in a way, though I can’t really describe it. I was just an amazing place to live at. The locals were more than friendly; there were plenty of shops and tons of entertainment. Even the Count, Ormellius Goldwine, was an honest man, something I can’t say about too many other counts and Countesses.

But that was nine years ago. Ever since I turned eighteen I’ve been on my own, and I put most of the blame on the shoulders of my vindictive father. When he wasn’t asleep, drunk on the floor, he was either cursing at me or beating me, most of time both. He was definitely a disliked man, both by men and the city of Kvatch. Many times he’d travel there just to get drunk, for he claimed Kvatch had the best ale in the land.

I still can’t figure out what my mother saw in that fool of a man, but it doesn’t matter anymore. He finally got up and left when I was around seventeen years of age. I doubt he’s still alive, but given my current position I guess I can say stranger things have happened.

After my father left my mother’s attitude and demeanor changed for the worst. Even though he was so abusive, my mother absolutely adored my father. For whatever reasons, my mother was always trying to keep him as happy as possible, and for him that simply met give him beer and a place to sleep. That seemed to be the only two things he was interested in. He never worked and money was always scarce around the house. If it wasn’t for my mother’s ability to weave baskets there’s no doubt my mind we would’ve been sleeping in a cave somewhere.

When he left my mother stopped traveling to Kvatch, as if she were embarrassed by my father’s departure. She blamed herself for him leaving, though I have no clue why she would even think that. Her attitude towards me also changed. Though she never hit me physically, she played the psychological game. She’d claim how much of a burden I was to her and how she realized why my father hated me. It hurt me deep, it really did, but thankfully I only had to endure the mental punishment for about a year. Once I turned eighteen I hit the road, never turning back.

I haven’t returned to home since I left. Nine years it’s been since I last spoke with my mother, and as far as I’m concerned it can stay that way for all I care. I don’t want anything to do with her anymore.

When I left home nine years ago I went straight for Kvatch, where I immediately found a job at the local bakery. The owner of the place, whose name I have forgotten over the years, wasn’t particularly friendly, but he did provide me with food and a home. I don’t think he liked elves very much, and for that I blame his Imperial back round. The Imperial’s stubbornness cause them to fear anything that didn’t look or act like them.

After a few months working I was beginning to get tired of everything. I was busting my chops for the baker, and in spite of my hard work ethic, I was barely paid five septims a week. One night I decided enough was enough and I left Kvatch, also for good. I have not been back since I left there as well.

Ever since then I’ve been in that cabin I told you about. When I found it, it was already desolate and I don’t think anyone had been there for years. That’s when my life as a thief started, and I can’t complain. I love what I do, and I don’t really care what anyone thinks. I believe firmly that a thief must have no conscience, just as I’ve told you before. I definitely fall under that heading.









At around six o’clock in the evening, after climbing a large hill, I arrived at the city to see many troops stationed outside. I had expected to see many Dawn members, but the strange part was that they were Imperial Legion soldiers. Perhaps not all was yet lost? Maybe had not been totaled destroyed as of yet?

I started walking towards the group, but then I stopped right in my tracks. Surely if I were to walk through the crowd and into the city the soldiers would first search me. Why would they let a total stranger into the city without questioning him or her beforehand? And if that were to happen, they would obviously find the amulet, and that is something I couldn’t let happen. Even though they were the good guys I didn’t want anyone but Martin to know about it.

Before I entered the city I placed the amulet under behind a large rock, and then I placed dirt over top of it to conceal it from view. I knew this was a risky chance, for anyone could happen to come across this path and step on the amulet, but it was a risk I had to take. I really didn’t see any other way.

When I walked near the troops they shifted their complete attention to me, just as I had assumed they were.

“Halt, Bosmer.”

I stopped just as the officer said, and he motioned for one of his men to search.

“These are some trying times, and I’m sorry but we must search you before you can go inside. Cyrodiil obviously isn’t what it used to be I’ afraid,” the officer said.

“Not a problem, officer, I totally understand. But I must confess, I’m surprised to see the Legion is still intact. In Cheydinhal the place is overrun by the Dawn.” I figured now was a good time to gather some information.

“Yes, the entire south is controlled by the Dawn. Kvatch, Anvil, Skingrad and Bruma are the only cities under Legion control. That is to say for now at least. Who knows what will happen in the coming days,” the officer said depressingly.

“So the Counts and Countess are no longer in charge of their cities? The Legion has taken complete control over the four remaining?”

“No, they still have the same powers as usual, but now our Legion has been divided to the four cities so that the city guard can have some extra help. The majority of our troops are stationed in Anvil and Bruma. I think controlling the only sea-port city, and the city by the Jerall Mountains, is most important strategically. Unfortunately I, Adamus Phillida, am the only remaining Legion officer left after the battle in the Imperial City. I have to admit times are not easy, but we’ll deal with it somehow. We won’t let Mankar and his cultists take our land from us!”

I wanted to believe the old man, but I didn’t agree with him at all. We are greatly outnumbered as it is, and from the looks of it we’ve got a bunch of inexperienced soldiers running the Legion. That doesn’t spell success if you ask me, but only time will tell I guess.

“Of course we will. Have a good evening officer.”

Adamus nodded and I walked through the city gates and into the city. Just as I had imagined, the streets were flocking with people. It was just like I had remembered, in that it was always packed with people, whether they are gossiping near the statue of Antus Pinder, or if they are simply going to and from work. It was absolutely magnificent, and I was now in some sort of trance. It was so strange being back here. I felt so weird, but at the same time it all felt normal.

I stood there in the middle of the street for nearly ten minutes before a nearby Dunmer lady ask me, “Are you okay elf? You look like you’re in a fantasy world or something?”

“Ma’am, if you only knew,” I said laughing.

As I have shown with Adamus and the Dunmer lady, I am a gentleman. Another annoying cliché people seem to have with thieves is that they are rude and unintelligent. That couldn’t even be further from the truth! By being a respectable person, and an intelligent one for that matter, you can create a wrong impression of yourself, leading people to believe that they can trust you. But then again, I guess you could say I’m more than a thief. I don’t know, I can’t really explain it, but I really am a bit different from most thieves. Most like to do their bidding in the darkness of the night. Me, I’ll do it when I want, where I want, how I want.

Also, most thieves are silent with there words, meaning they rarely talk to people, if at all. They prefer to be loners, where with me it doesn’t really matter. Talking, I can take it or leave it, as long as I get the job done. In the end that’s all that matters anyway.
I looked around the area at all the shops, and to my surprise many of them had stayed in business all this time. Although one store that wasn’t present was the bakery, which really surprised me. We had a lot of business when I worked there, I can’t believe it shut down.

Through all of my joy of walking through Kvatch once more, I almost forgot why I was here in the first place. I had to find Martin, though I had no idea who or what he looked like. I knew neither his location nor his occupation. The Dunmer lady was about to leave, but before she could I stopped her just in time.

“Excuse me, ma’am, I hate to keep you, but can you tell where I can find an Imperial named Martin?”

Hey eyes widened with suspicion. “You mean Brother Martin? You can find him in the chapel, praying every evening at eight o’clock, if that’s what you want to call it. What in the world do you want with him? Talos save his soul,” she said as she walked away.

Well that was certainly strange. I wonder why she gave me such a look when I asked about Martin…

I needed not directions to the chapel, for I knew this city like the back of my hand. It was kind of funny actually, because I had not been around this area for nine years, yet I still knew where everything was. The funniest thing though was that I didn’t recognize anyone just yet. Now that I think about I really didn’t meet with many people when I was here in the first place. Whenever I came shopping with my mother I never talked because I was a shy little boy, and when I worked in the bakery I always worked in the back of the shop, away from people.

So off to the Chapel I was which was located almost smack-dab in the middle of the city. When I entered the building, only two people were present. One was an older Imperial lady, who was actually leaving as soon as I was entering. The other was an Imperial man who looked to be in his mid-thirties, give or take a little. He was praying silently on his knees. I didn’t want to be rude, so rather than interrupt him I instead sat on one of the wooden pews. I waited only about five minutes, and then the man was finished. When he saw me he was a bit startled, for who did not know anyone else besides himself was present.

“Oh, sorry Bosmer but you startled me. I thought I was the only one in here.”

He spoke with a sort depressing voice, like it was him against the world or something. It was kind of irritating, but oh well.

“Sorry for scaring you sir, but I think you are the person I’ve been looking for. Are you Martin?”

Obviously the Imperial confused because he didn’t have a clue what I was talking about. “Yes, I am Martin. But I’m afraid I’m confused. What are you talking about”?

“My name Rayden and I come all the way from Cheydinhal. I have something that will be in your interest: the Amulet of Kings.”

“The Amulet of Kings you say? Well where is it, if you even have it, that is,” he said rather rudely. “You do not have it? Well I am not surprised. Please leave me alone.”

His sudden change of mood was quite surprising. Apparently I had poked at a touchy subject. He clearly did not believe me, and that made me mad. I came all this way and all I get is a rude response? I don’t care how bad of a mood he was in, I wasn’t about to just let him walk away.

“Wait, I am not lying to you. The amulet is lying outside the city, behind a large rock. I couldn’t risk bringing the amulet with me, because as you already know the Legion is searching everyone that enters and leaves the city.”

“Well, you are right about that I suppose, but why me? Why come all the way here to bother me.” He sighed and then continued. “I am not even a good priest. Why I am telling you this I have not a clue, but just listen anyway Bosmer. The gods do not favor me; they’ve shown that throughout the years plenty of times. Why in the world would you come to me claiming you have the Amulet of Kings?”

“Because I just recently spoke with Jauffre, at Weynon Priory.”

At these words Martin’s attitude changed for the better. By telling him I had spoken with Jauffre, he seemed to believe me a little bit more than before.

“Jauffre, but how do you know him?”

“Well, I don’t really. Listen, I was at the sewers when your father, Uriel Septim was killed. I was out of view and happened to pick up the amulet by chance. I went to Jauffre because I knew he was involved with the Empire somehow. But he is dead now and…”

Martin interrupted me before I could continue. “What do you mean he’s dead? I just talked to him a mere day ago? What in Talos’ name could have happened to him?”

“The Mythic Dawn attacked Weynon Priory yesterday; I guess when Jauffre went home. They demanded to know where the amulet was, and when he told them he did not know, they killed him along with everyone else that was there. I’m sorry.”

He looked at me for several seconds before continuing. “This is all so strange. He came to me claiming that I was the last heir to the Septim bloodline. I didn’t believe him at first, but I’m starting to have second guesses. If what you and Jauffre say is true, I shall be able to wear the amulet. Take me to the amulet. If it is there than I will surely believe you.”

So I took Martin and led him outside the gate, where we were first searched by the guards, just as I had imagined we’d be. Then we walked over to the large rock, and sure enough the amulet was still underneath the dirt, and actually it was still in view even with being covered up. I was a bit mad at myself for that.

Martin did not wait for me, but instead picked up the amulet and held it to his eyes to examine more closely. “Yes, by Talos this is the Amulet of Kings. I…I can’t believe I’m actually holding it right here in front of my eyes.”

He then put the amulet on, something I could not. Several things then happened. Martin now was sure he could trust me, and he was also sure that he was in fact the son of Uriel Septim.

“You were right, Rayden. I’m sorry for ever doubting you, but surely you can understand the confusion that overtook me. Everything thing has happened so fast the past couple of days.”

“Of course, Martin, but now you see that I am right, what do we do next?” I asked him.

“I’m still confused. Am I supposed to help you defeat Mankar Cameron and the Mythic Dawn?”

“Jauffre told me you were could help me because you are knowledgeable with Daedric artifacts and things of that sort. Obviously the Mythic Dawn wants this amulet for something, though we do not know what just yet. Jauffre said you could help me with that as well.”

“Yes, Jayden, I am a sort of expert of the Daedra, but unfortunately that also brings up a past that I usually do not talk about. I don’t really know what to say…fighting against the Mythic Dawn is something I would never have dreamed of doing. You do realize you are asking a lot of me, don’t you?”

“Yes, but don’t you see? You and I are Cyrodiil’s only hope. Just think of it this way, you won’t have to do much, just decipher anything I might need you to, and I’ll do the rest.”

“Rayden, what exactly do you do for a living?”

I didn’t plan on telling him my “profession”, but the situation called for it, and if I wanted him to be honest with me, I’d have to do the same.

“I am a thief, Martin, I cannot lie to you. But do not judge me just because of that, you can trust me, I swear to Talos you can.”

“Well, I never would have guessed you were a thief. But I know I can trust you. As a thief you have not sold the amulet to anyone, and you want to help save Cyrodiil. That alone symbolizes your honesty, and I commend you for that.”

He sighed a bit and then admitted that we were the only hope for Cyrodiil. I think he realized this all along, but was having trouble coming to terms about it.

“Very well, Rayden, I will help you. But not because I want to be Emperor, because I surely don’t, but that I do not want Cyrodiil to fall into the hands of Mankar and the Mythic Dawn.”

“Excellent, I knew you’d see it that way. About your past though, you can also trust me enough to tell me that. I think its better that you get it off your chest.”

“Yes, you are right, but we must find a safe haven before we do anything. I suggest Weynon Priory. The Mythic Dawn has certainly searched it a hundred times and obviously has found nothing. I think that is our safest bet for now.”

“Sounds good, let’s head out.”

As we started to leave Kvatch I remembered one thing that I had once forgotten: My mother.

“Umm…Martin, can I ask of a favor?”

“What is it?”

I told him basically everything about my childhood, and about me leaving my mother when I turned eighteen. I asked if we could visit the home real quick, before setting off towards Weynon Priory. I know I told you I didn’t care about home, or her anymore, but now that I’m close, I’m getting a strange feeling and I just have to see if the house is still there. Who knows, maybe she left a long time ago.

“Of course, Jayden, lead the way.”

We turned to the left and headed down a dirt path that I knew would lead to the place I once called home. I really wasn’t sure what to expect, but I would soon find out.

Yep you are certainly adding your own little impression to this story, as Kvatch still stands. Nice little back story as well, as it gives reasoning for Rayden to take up the career that he did.

Just one suggestion. This update is in some definite need of editing as there are quite a few awkward sentences where random words appear in the middle of a sentence or some words are missing. Also Martin called Rayden, "Jayden" twice. I would suggest you read your update through at least once before posting it. That way, you'll fix this distracting mistakes.

I do read through it, I just missed a lot this time I guess. Thanks.

This is a very nice story. The changes in the plot help keep me interested. I thought when he reached Kvatch he'd have to fight through the Oblivion Gate. It's nice to think of Kvatch as a real city.

About Kvatch not being taken over, I think it also fits in with the more 'public' Dawn in this story. Seeing as how the Dawn runs around openly in their robes, no Legionnaire will let them get close to their city, let stand allow one to stick around and perform some sort of gate-calling ritual. Kvatch's gate was opened by a Dawn agent, am I correct?


While there are indeed some typos, and the odd switch between present tense and past tense at times, it's still a likeable story I'd say.

I guess this chapter was a failure in terms of grammer mistakes and typos. I'm sorry for that, I'll do better with my editing from now on.

Interesting! I'll keep an eye on this one....knowing me I would probably read on for quite some time before I actually post a comment....but I will most certainly read!

Thanks, I appreciate it!

I really, really messed up. At the end of the last chapter I talked about heading over to Rayden's mother's home. Well, I skipped that by accident and I just now noticed it. Please, just try to ignore that. I am terribly sorry.


CHAPTER FOUR


“Just how old are you, Rayden?”

We were walking down a paved road, just after exiting the city. The weather was absolutely amazing, with a nice cool breeze coming in from the northeast. If the situation wasn’t as bad as it was, things would be perfect right now. But then again if things weren’t as they were I probably wouldn’t even be up here in the first place.

“Twenty-nine, but that doesn’t mean I’m not worthy. Don’t think I can’t do anything just because I’m still young.”

I didn’t mean to, but I got a little defensive. Even though I am not even thirty years of age, I can still do things most veterans cannot.

“Whoa, calm down, Rayden, I didn’t mean to show any disrespect. So should I be paying close attention to the pockets of my robe, ha ha ha!”

I know he is only joking, but on the other hand perhaps he isn’t. I mean, I’m a total strange to him and I just admitted that I am a thief. To be honest I guess I would have to be surprised if he wasn’t afraid. But I really didn’t feel like talking to him about that. I’d just have to earn my trust.

“You don’t have to worry, Martin, you can trust me. I know that doesn’t mean much coming from a thief, but you’ll just have to take my word for,” and I left it at that.

We began walking towards the east when I spied the city stables lying restfully, with its owner nowhere to be seen. I’m sure you can already guess what I’m thinking, and so did Martin, most likely based on the probing look upon my face.

“Rayden, don’t tell me you want to steal two of those horses,” he said seriously.

Without responding to his comment I quietly snuck over to the house and peeked through the stained window. Just as I had hoped, the owner, who was a tall Dunmer, lay sound asleep in his cot. This was the perfect chance to help lesson the difficulty of our travels.

I turned around and started to walk towards the horses when Martin grabbed me by the shoulders. “Rayden, will you listen to me? Don’t even think about it. I’m not about to help you steal those horses.”

“Well, I don’t recall asking for any help, but thanks for the input,” I said sarcastically.

“Don’t you have any conscious whatsoever? We don’t have to do this, we can easily walk. I don’t mind it a bit!”

“But I do. Just pipe down and let me take care of things, Martin. Believe me, I don’t get caught. Now which horse is supposed to be faster, the white or the black? I always forget…”

“The black,” Martin sighed.

While Martin watched from a distance I slowly crept up to the horses, not wanting to panic them. Horses were delicate creatures and it didn’t take much to rile them up. As I inched closer and closer one of the two black horses started to neigh softly and I thought the owner was going to wake up, but as swiftly as possible and softly grasped the horse’s snout and began to rub it gently in an attempt to calm him down. The trick proved to be a success and soon I was working on the other horse. After a few minutes I brought the two horses on my side and they willingly followed me to where Martin was standing, and all the while I was smiling from ear to ear.

“Okay, I’ll admit, you’re good, Rayden. Let’s just leave before any guards show up.”

That reminded me of how lucky we were in the first place. Adamus and his men had apparently settled in for the night, which if you ask me is extremely foolish. I wondered why he didn’t leave any men to stand guard outside the city walls, but then my question was quickly answered.

“Hey, you two! What do you think you’re doing with those horses?”

A lone guard on foot was running towards us from the city gates. I felt very stupid at that moment. How in the world was I not able to see the man when we came out of city? Oh well, it was time to leave.

“Come on, Martin, hop on!”

I pointed to his horse and he immediately obeyed my request. Then the two of us rode out into the night, leaving the screaming guard to his hopeless pleas. Looking back I could see the lights of the owner’s house come on. Somebody was going to be sincerely pissed.




The two of us arrived at Weynon Priory sometime around noon the following day. Martin spoke not a word the entire time and I assumed he was angry at me. It didn’t really matter, he’d get over it soon enough, or at least I hoped he would.

After we saddled our horses in the nearby stable, which thankfully had not been touched by the Mythic Dawn, we started up the dirt path that led to the house. Even before entering we could smell the foul stench coming from the dead corpses. It was truly disgusting and Martin vomited there on the spot, into a small bush. The stench of the vomit greatly overtook the smell of the bodies, and by no means do I mean in a pleasant way.

“We’ll have to remove these bodies before we do anything,” Martin said.

Now, I took the statement to be a rather obvious, and I am not one to let such apparent comments go unnoticed.

“Oh, you think so? I wonder why?” I said, again sarcastically, which apparently proved to be in bad timing. Martin simply grumbled something and continued on into the house.

In an attempt to try and lighten things up a bit I commented, “So you’re talking to me now, heh?”

“You know Rayden, I realize it’s going to take while in getting used to your…umm…”habits”, but I must say I am appalled by your actions last night.”

He talked as if I actually gave a rat’s behind what he thought. The truth was I stopped worrying about what others thought about me long ago, before I left home even. The fact that he was treating me like a child wasn’t boding well with me either. I’d have to put a stop to that.

“No offence to you or anything Martin, but I don’t particularly care what you think of me. And I’m not a child; I’m a full grown man. I’d appreciate it if you treat me like one.”

“Well, the grown men I know don’t carelessly steal things from other people.”

He was making me madder and madder by the second. Unfortunately that anger swayed me to say something I’d soon regret.

“Are those “grown men” the same men you practiced Daedric magic with? I’m assuming that’s what you were talking about back at Kvatch. Huh, am I right, “Brother” Martin?”

He turned around faster than I would ever have given him credit for, and immediately confronted me, nose to nose. I could easily smell the horrible stench coming from his mouth, leftovers from the vomit. But I wasn’t about to crack anymore jokes. I had seriously angered him.

“I’ll have you know that those men were my friends; friends that were killed because of my carelessness and foolish youth. So the next time you want to make a smart comment, keep it to yourself.”

He turned around and walked up the stairs, leaving me alone downstairs. I suddenly felt very small at that moment. For a long time now I haven’t cared about anyone’s feelings or thoughts, but seeing the look in Martin’s eyes, I have to admit I was a bit taken back by what I did. I actually felt sorry for what I had said, which is something that hasn’t happened to me in a long time. Now I’d have to apologize.

I followed Martin up the stairs and into the room where Jauffre lay on the floor motionless. I allowed Martin to have a bit of time to his self for a few minutes while he stood next to a window right behind the desk; not because he was mourning over the loss of Jauffre, but rather he was still angry from what happened downstairs. I could plainly see that the rage was still present and I didn’t really feel like angering him anymore that I already had.

So rather than interrupt the quietness I instead began to clean the room. This daunting task proved more difficult than I had originally imagined, as there were many pieces of junk lying around. Books, scrolls, weapons, clothes, you name it. Not to mention Jauffre and the Mythic Dawn bodies. The room was an absolute mess, and I then realized it was going to take more than a mere day to tidy everything up.

I had been cleaning for nearly an hour and still Martin stood by the window, staring out into who knows what. Obviously I had touched upon something personal, and now I couldn’t help but wonder what it could be. Well, I know what it is in general, but what I do not know is any of the specifics. He said his friends died because of his foolishness. I wonder what that means.

At last the unhappy Imperial turned around to face me. For a moment there I thought he was going to attack me again with harsh words, but to my surprise he did not. Instead he just started talking. At first I didn’t know what he was talking about, but then I soon caught on.

“It all happened twenty years ago, almost to this day. I was young then, way over my head. We all were...”

He paused for a second, looked out the window once more, then looked back and then continued on.

“There were twelve of us in all, apprentices to the Mages Guild in Kvatch. Our instructor marveled at the attendance, a record according to him. He said we would do the guild proud. He couldn’t have been more wrong.

“Just two months into our studies a small group of us were starting to get anxious. Through some of the basic training we were given just a small glimpse of Daedric magic. Our instructor said it was an evil force bred for just that, evil. He told us that we were not to get involved with any of that or else we would be banned, and if the severity of our involvement was high enough, we could also see punishment from the Empire itself. Such warnings meant nothing to me and my group, which happened to be five people. We still wanted to know more; to learn what was forbidden; to seek out what was being held from us. Like I said before, we were young and foolish. We didn’t know what we were getting ourselves into.

“One night my friends and I decided to start exploring the forbidden powers. For a while it was only reading, and to be honest with you, that’s all I wanted anyway. I never really had the desire to seek out the powers; I just wanted to read about it. Granted there were definitely times where I was tempted to practice the use of Daedra magic, but I held my tongue, literally in fact.

“But unfortunately one of my friends, Ishmier, went beyond what we originally set out to do. We had all agreed that none of us would ever practice the use of this sinister magic, and all of us also agreed only to read once a week, at a small uninhabited cabin he found in the forest. Everything was going according to plan, until one day I happened to walk past Ishmier’s house in Kvatch. I could hear strange sounds coming from inside, but when I knocked on the door I received no response. I soon became terrified something dreadful was happening to Ishmier, so I found my friends and brought them to the house, so they too could hear the noises. Soon after that we busted the door open and realized the noises were coming from the basement. We scurried down the stairs and found Ishmier reading aloud from a large book; one that was very old and tattered.

“When he saw us standing there he called for us to join him in what he called “destiny”. He claimed to have found the way to eternal life, and eternal greatness. He then began chanting words and I knew we had lost him.

“One of my friends tried to get Ishmier to stop what he was doing, but Ishmier simply grunted a couple of words and blasted my friend with a fiery ball of flame…killed him right in front of me. The other three tried to stop Ishmier as well but they too fell by the powers of Ishmier. Through all this time I simply stood in my place, painfully mesmerized by everything. I really couldn’t believe what was going on around me. Four of my friends were dead and another had gone insane. I truly thought I was dead where I stood, until from upstairs came the running of feet…many feet.

“My instructor appeared, along with several battlemages. Ishmier was no match for them and was quickly silenced forever. I was banished from the guild, just I knew I would, but for some reason the Empire did not take action on me. They must have had pity for me. I suppose I will never know. But what pained me the most was that I began that horrendous nightmare. If it wasn’t for my constant nagging my friends would never have discovered the evil ways of magic. It was I pressed their interests and it was I who led them to an early death. And for that I will forever be shamed and forever I will walk this land…a murderer. You may not see it that way but that is what I am. I killed my friends...”

It seems a difference in backgrounds is going to provide some interesting exchanges between Martin and Rayden. It's a nice change when compared to the game where Martin and your character appear to work in absolute harmony the entire time.

CHAPTER FIVE


I could have sworn I saw a few tears form in his eyes, but he didn’t give me a lot of time to get a closer look, because as soon as he was done speaking he bent down and started to help me pick things up from the floor. He was silent for the first minute or so, and then I decided to the time was right to make my apology. It was rather hard, that much was for sure, but I did it, and it came from the heart. I couldn’t remember apologizing for anything in my life, but of course if I was to do that I’d be doing it everyday, if you know what I mean.

“Hey, umm…Martin, I…I’m sorry for what happened downstairs. I just let things loose when I shouldn’t have.”

“The past is not the present, Rayden. Any thief should no that,” he said while looking up with a friendly smile on his face. “Sometimes people say things they don’t really mean, even if it’s actually true, like in my case. But I’m willing to let bygones be bygones. That is if you are as well.”

I looked straight into his eyes to get his expression. He was really telling the truth, and that’s when I knew I could trust Martin. It’s not as if had not before, but seeing his face and hearing his words I was now one hundred percent he was one of the “good guys”, so-to-speak.

I shook his hand and we went back to work cleaning up the room, but at the same time we started our discussion about what to do with the amulet.

“I was thinking about the amulet on the way here, and I’ll be honest with you Rayden, I really am not sure what we should do with it. Obviously we cannot destroy, that would be utterly foolish.”

I cut him off to ask him a question before he could continue talking. “Jauffre said the same thing. Why is that such a bad idea? If we destroy it, won’t it make Mankar and his cultists leave?”

“As easy as it sounds, no, it wouldn’t work. I believe Mankar has other things in store for Cyrodiil, though I don’t know what. I also think the original plan was to get the amulet, but that’s only the first step. And who knows, maybe they want it just so they can destroy it. If that’s the case then we are doing the right thing already, but that’s the tricky part of all this, we don’t know any specifics. That’s why I have a plan, and you’re the right person for the job.”

“And just what might that be?” I asked.

“It’s no news to anyone that the Imperial City is the Mythic Dawn’s stronghold. Some citizens got out while fighting was still running rampant through the city, but because of the surprise attack, and the Dawn’s swift victory, many people are still being held there against their will, including any surviving soldiers. Of course they could all be dead by now. Mankar might have questioned them, and when he didn’t learn anything it’s definitely possible that he might have done away with them permanently.”

“What are you getting at, Martin?”

“You have to infiltrate the Imperial City and find out what their plans really are. There has to be some kind of documents, or secret letters, something. I know it sounds dangerous, but if there are still survivors in the city they can aid you I’m sure. What do you think?”

What was I to say? I was just asked to infiltrate a city where there were literally hundreds, maybe even near the thousands, of cultists walking around looking for anything suspicious. Now I’m not questioning my abilities by any means, but I’ve never been in a situation like the one Martin wants to put me in. I wasn’t so sure this was a very safe plan, but then again no plan was likely safe.

“I’m not going to lie to you and say I’m happy about this, because I certainly am not. In fact this is very dangerous and it’s likely that I’ll be caught. But, given our circumstances, this plan will also likely get us where we need to be. I’ll do it.”

“Good, I’m glad to hear it. Now, take these invisibility potions and these chameleon ones as well, and…”

“Umm…Martin…I can’t use those,” I said bluntly.

“Of course you can! Other than any survivors you might happen to run into, these are the only aid you will get during your mission. Why wouldn’t you want to use them?”

“I never said I didn’t want to use them, Martin, it’s just a matter of me not being able to use them. I don’t really have an explanation, but I can’t drink potions. For some reason my body can’t handle whatever is in them. Every time I try and drink one I gag terribly, and one time I almost passed out because I wasn’t able to breath. Plus, even when I could breath the potion still didn’t work.”

Martin gave an extremely puzzled look. “Well, I’ve never heard of that before. How do you go about your “business”?”

“Don’t worry about me, I don’t need any potions. And I don’t say that because I’m cocky, but rather I am confident.”

“You must be pretty talented.”

“I like to think so.”

We spent a little more time cleaning the house until the upstairs was totally spotless, or at least as spotless as we could get it. We placed the bodies in the garden behind the house. If we had any time later on then we’d bury them, but we probably wouldn’t have any free time.

Martin decided that we’d clean the downstairs part of the house later on, and we slept the rest of the evening and on into the night. Sleep was something I hadn’t had for a while, and I also needed to be rested up for my mission.

I woke up the next morning at around noon. Martin had already awoken and had picked some berries from outside. After eating a small portion of the fruit I got dressed and Martin and I set out for the Imperial City. I needed not directions for the place, for I had been their countless times. The city was full of expensive houses with rich owners who never seemed to lock their doors properly.

I could pick the locks they used in my sleep, and I just might be serious about that. They certainly weren’t too concerned about their belongings, and I made sure that they paid for that mistake. But I was smart with my burglaries. I took enough to insure that I was getting profit, but less enough to keep the owners unaware of my actions. They were so wrapped up in their very expensive items that they were to ignorant to notice smaller things. I say smaller things, but yet they still gave me a good amount of money. I couldn’t complain at all.

“Alright, let’s figure out the plans exactly,” said Martin. “Do you know where the Palace is, Rayden?”

“Yes, it’s the big shiny building in the middle of the city,” I said back semi-sarcastically. I didn’t know if Martin minded my sarcasm or not.

“Ha, that’s right! Now, if I was forced to give you an answer as to where any information was being held, I’d bet my life that it’d be in the palace somewhere. Mankar has most likely set up base in there and you need to sneak in somehow and find something useful. Look for notes, documents, and letters, anything that looks interesting. Also, even though it’s very dangerous, it wouldn’t hurt to eavesdrop whenever you can.”

“It’s nothing I haven’t done before. It won’t be a problem.”

“Rayden, these are Mythic Dawn cultists, not snobby ignorant civilians. Make sure you are taking this seriously.”

“I am, don’t worry about that. I know what has to be done.”

“I hope so, because if you are captured…”

“You can stop right there, I’ve NEVER been caught, and I don’t plan on getting caught any time soon.”

We rode the rest of the way and in no time we were just a couple hundred yards west of the Imperial City. I didn’t know of any secret ways inside the city, so I’d somehow have to sneak into the place undetected. When we reached the city gates I realized how difficult of a task it was going to be. A group of three cultists were standing in front of the gates, no doubt guarding the inside from any intruders such as myself.

“I have an idea,” Martin whispered as we both looked at the cultists from a far, behind a bush besides the stables.

All of the horses must have either been killed or taken away, because the place was empty and the windows to the house had been shattered. Most likely they were being used by the cultists themselves.

“And what is it?”

“We need to get one of those guards over here somehow and get them to walk behind this house, where none of the other guards can see him. Then, we he rounds the corner, you can sneak up and kill him. Then take his clothes and put them on as a disguise.”

It sounded like a good plan, but there were definitely some flaws as well. “And what if more than one of them come over here? What if they all come over here?”

“Then we stay in the shadows and think of another plan,” he said simply.

“Don’t you think that’s kind of dangerous?”

“Do you have any other plans in mind? Any way, I thought you told me that you killed two cultists at an inn?”

“I did, but that was probably all luck. I’m sure Mankar wouldn’t let a bunch of imprudent men guard his base.”

“If you ask me I think you need more confident in your abilities other than thieving. Obviously you have skill in combat as well because it was not luck that you were able to kill those two. It was wise and quick thinking. Just believe in yourself, Rayden. These are some scary times, I know, but these things have to be done.”

“I’m not scared!”

“I didn’t say you were. But I would say you’re at least a bit nervous, which is normal.”

I suppose I admit that he was probably right. I was anxious, but like he said, that was normal. But then again, I couldn’t even remember the last time I was anxious about anything, although this definitely was different situation.

“Fine, what now then?”

Martin told me to hide in the shadows under the shielding of a tree on the opposite side of the house. He walked around to where I was, picked up a rock, and threw it at a pale sitting on top a wooden fence inside the stables. The rock hit the metal pale and made a loud noise, alerting the guards. Martin quietly ran to poke his head around the corner, and then came over to tell me that two cultists were coming our way. He ran to where I was, and I readied my bow and arrows.

Soon the red-robed men came around to investigate the noise.

“I don’t see anything, do you?” said one of them to the other.

They continued to walk around and look for anything, but of course they found nothing. Then, as they were walking away with their backs to me, I fired my bow at the one in the back. The arrow hit him square in the back and he fell to the ground. As soon as I had fired the arrow I began running towards the other man. Just as I had imagined, the noise caused by the impact of the arrow made the other man in front turn around. He saw his fallen comrade on the floor, but it was too late to defend him self. I was simply too fast for him and I quickly unsheathed my short blade and lunged at the last robed man. I don’t know how I did this successfully, but I tacked the man to the ground, and as I did I shoved my blade through his stomach. I landed on top of him, and I dug blade deeper into his skin to make sure he was dead. When I realized he was I was totally silent, listening for any running feet. Through all of this I had luckily managed to not alert the other cultist.

Martin gave me the thumbs up and I took off the robe of one of the cultists. And what do you, know it was a Bosmer. This would obviously help a lot. Hopefully the other wouldn’t notice anything strange.

When I was fully dressed I laid gave my bow, arrows, and sword to Martin. I took the small dagger from the dead body and brought it with me as I slowly walked towards the remaining robed cultist.

“Judo, where is Falonius?” A Tall Altmer asked me.

Rather than talk, I instead pointed behind the Altmer. I don’t why I didn’t, because didn’t think he would look, but he did! I couldn’t believe how stupid he was. I was almost so stunned I forgot to take the elf out. When I was done slitting his throat I dragged his body behind a rock. When I got to the gates Martin was waiting for me.

“Be quick, Rayden, you won’t have a lot of time. When they realize what happened they’ll lock the whole place down.”

I nodded and walked to the gates, but before I could enter I heard Martin call my name.

“And be careful….

Things are moving along nicely. Let's hope that Rayden's belief in his skills are true. He's got a difficult task ahead of him.

Oh, an infiltration. I like the sound of that a lot. You also have some nice characterbuilding going on here.

Just some minor nitpicking though. Rayden was going to steal some robes as a disguise. But an arrow through the back or a sword through the stomach tends to rip the fabric itself. In this case, it is horrible if the chosen robe was from the guy with the sword in his guts, but the arrowhole won't be that large and barely noticeable. Of course, if it gets noticed, then there could be trouble.

The Altmer not recognizing Judo. Normally I would complain about guards not knowing their colleagues faces, but here I find it justified. Hood pulled up, and the Altmer can only look down on some red fabric. How is he to know that the face underneath that is not Judo's? Bosmer short+Altmer tall= perfect.

No guards on the walls. Three at a gate are not enough to watch the countryside. I'd put some on top of the walls just to make sure. But we can say that the Dawn doesn't have the manpower available at the IC to cover every part of the wall simultaneously.

Nice, nice, niiiiiiiiiiiiice! As I said this is a good read.....can´t wait for next update!

CHAPTER SIX


I was about open the gates and enter the city, but before I could do so Martin whispered my name loudly, just enough where I alone could here him.

“Wait, Rayden, feel the back of your robe.”

I swung my right arm around and felt the back of my crimson red gown, and my fingers found there way into a hole and a sticky substance: blood.

How could I have been so stupid? I had killed this robe’s owner with my bow, a shot straight into back causing the obvious tear in the robe, plus the blood that had been spilled as well. I didn’t know what I was going to do now. Obviously I couldn’t just walk into the city like this.

“What now, Martin? I can’t go in there like this!”

“I know, I know. I can’t believe I almost let you walk in like that. What about the Altmer, you know the one whose throat you cut open? What about his robe?”

I looked at Martin his sense of both frustration and stupidity.

“Martin…I slit his throat. Do you really think there’s no blood still pouring from his wound?”

“Yes, that wasn’t a very intelligent question. Umm…well, I’m clean out of ideas. I suppose we could wait until someone else comes out. Then perhaps you can strangle them and then take their robe.”

“Enough with all this killing, Martin. While I don’t mind it a bit, sooner or later I’ll go up against someone that I cannot take. I’m just going to enter the city with what I have on.”

Martin didn’t seem to like that decision. “Are you crazy? You wouldn’t last five minutes in there! Surely you’ll be caught!”

“Well, what else am I supposed to do? I can’t just sit here forever and ponder ideas on how to get a stupid robe. Don’t worry about me; I’m a professional at this kind of stuff.”

“I realize that, Rayden, but how in the world do you expect to get in there unnoticed?”

“I’m still working on that at the moment. Wait…..the Waterfront District! I can get in through there! I cannot believe how stupid I am acting today! Why didn’t we think of this before?”

“To be honest with you, I’ve never been to that part of the city. Isn’t that where the beggars live, or used to live I should say.”

“Yes, it’s where the panhandlers seek out there money. They really aren’t as dangerous as some claim. There’s only a handful that can get aggressive. The others are actually good people who got into some trouble.”

“Seems like you’ve made some friends over there,” Martin replied.

“No, definitely not. I don’t get into friendships. It’s bad for business.”

“What about me?”

“Who said I was your friend?” I said playfully.




So we walked around towards the east, along the walls until we reached the waterfront district. We were standing at the top of a small hill, overlooking the entrance into the Temple District. While perched upon the hill, we spotted many Dawn patrols of course. They were walking about in groups no less than three and seemingly no more than about five or six. I looked up at the lighthouse and I could see a glare. It was likely they had some men up there, and the glare was probably coming from a staff or something. Also I could see movement as well.

“Hey, Martin, look up there,” I whispered while pointing towards the building. “They’ve likely got a unit up there as well. Stay out of the light at all costs.”

“What do you mean? There aren’t any lights around us!”

“I know. I’m just talking for future references.”

“You don’t have to worry about that. I don’t plan on moving from this spot. I’ll be waiting for you here.”

I nodded and was about to carefully climb down the hill and finally enter the city, then something amazing, and lucky, happened. A lone cultist had left his group and was walking towards Martin and I, from our left. I had at last found my disguise. I grinned at Martin and then waited for the Dawn member to come past. I was crouched behind a stone, eagerly waiting for my chance to strike. I would let him pass by, and then I clamped by hand on his mouth, silencing him. Then I would strangle him, or maybe her, I’m not sure just yet.

Martin gave me the signal when the figure was closing in, and I quietly stood up, ready to pounce. When the hooded figure walked by I quickly jumped out from my hiding spot and grabbed body. I was able to subdue the cultist in a matter of seconds, and then I looked at their face. It was an Imperial male, and his face was that of a look of complete surprise. Thankfully he was not carrying a source of light, and I was able to do my work in the dark. So I dressed out of my bloody robes in exchange for some cleaner ones. I waved my final goodbye to Martin and at last I was able to enter the city.




When I stepped inside the first thing I spotted were the rather large statues. And in the middle of the Arboretum was the statue of Tiber Septim himself. Truly a master of an artist created these, but I had not the time to gaze, I had a mission to fulfill. I crept along the streets, trying to avoid all the other patrols that were walking around the park. I had feared that I would be stopped by someone, but as of yet I had avoided that. I hoped my success would continue, but it appeared that I had spoken a little bit too soon.

“Hey, you there, where do you think you’re going?”

A rather tall Altmer came walking towards me. I was stunned with fear, not only because I had been spotted, but rather who had spotted me: Mankar Cameron himself.

“Judo…is that you?”

I nodded eagerly, hoping that would be enough.

“Why aren’t you with your unit outside?”

I shrugged my shoulders and grumbled a low “I’m sick. I was told to settle in for the night so that I may be healthy for tomorrow.”

“Well you certainly sound sick. You look rather pale as well and your voice is very croaky. Let me see your face.”

I covered my face with my hood even more than I already was. I was too afraid my true identity might be discovered.

“Please, master, I do not wish for you to catch my sickness. I fear it may be contagious.”

“Yes, Judo, you are probably right. By the fires of Oblivion, I sure don’t want to be sick when tomorrow comes. Get some sleep, tomorrow will be a fun day,” he laughed, and then walked off towards the Waterfront.

Why he was coming from the palace and to the Waterfront I have no idea, but I was about to find out.




I followed him outside and as I did I stayed in the shadows. I didn’t want anyone to see me now that I was following the leader of their cult. Obviously that would be suspicious. We walked all the way to the lighthouse where I had seen the glare from the top before. Mankar entered the structure and closed the door shut. Very carefully and extremely quietly I entered and continued to follow him.





Inside we walked up a flight of stairs, and then Mankar exited through a door at the top. I knew then that he was going to meet with whoever it was outside. Instead of following him I put my right ear up against the keyhole and listened to their conversation:




“Good evening, Mankar.”

“Let’s end with the greetings and get down to business. Are the plans in order?”

“Yes, the table set for your forthcoming, tomorrow night. I assure you all is ready.” The man talking to Mankar sounded as if he were an Imperial, possibly in his mid-forties. “I also want to thank you again for accepting me into your extraordinary group. You made a wise decision in making me your right hand man.”

“You are not my right hand man; you are my puppet and nothing else. You will abide by what I tell you, but I swear, if you double-cross me it’ll be the last thing you ever do,” Mankar said sternly.

“I’m sure you will. I have no intentions of betraying you. What benefits would I receive with such an act? Did I not display my allegiance during the sack of this very city, my liege?”

“Yes, I am thankful for that, you did I splendid job in letting my men in. I have to admit, if it wasn’t for your acts I would have lost hundreds of more men than I did. But let’s not forget what you were before I allowed you to become my…servant.”

A silence fell for about five seconds, and then Mankar spoke again. “Let us leave now and make preparations for tomorrow’s siege. But first I must take care of our visitor.”

All of a sudden I heard a deafening blast outside and suddenly the door busted through, slamming me hard in the face. I rolled down the stairs until I at last laid rest on the cold stone floor. My eyesight was extremely blurry and blood was dripping down my face, but I could just barely make out two figures walking down the stairs. I could tell one of them was Mankar, but I didn’t recognize the other at first, that is until Mankar called him by name.

“What shall we do now, master?” Mankar’s companion asked.

Everything then started getting even more blurry and in a matter of seconds I couldn’t see anything. I think I must have passed out shortly after that, because the last thing I remembered was Mankar saying:

“Throw him in the dungeon, Hieronymus. I’ll talk with him shortly.”

An interesting story so far, with more than a shake of creativity. I"ll try to keep an eye on this one.

It's nice to see you did something with the robes.

And I guess Rayden has met his match here. Mankar sure manages to keep up the 'bad guy' attitude. I like him, a lot.

This was a cool update, but I just have one teeny constructive criticism:

How does Rayden know what Mankar looks like? They haven't crossed path yet, and I'm pretty sure Rayden hasn't seem him before, so the immediate assumption that a robed Altmer is the leader of the Mythic Dawn is a bit far-fetched.

Now, if he was an elaborately dressed Altmer with a sense of power exuding from him, that might suggest that Rayden would think this is a person that is higher up in the cult. It would then make sense to follow him and then find out through the conversation with Lex that he's actually Mankar.

That was the only thing. Other than that, I was happy to see the robe situation solved (though Rayden could've said he'd gotten into a fight to explain the blood) and now he's in trouble. It should prove to be interesting how things unfold from here...

Ya, I suppose the Mankar thing could have been done better, sorry for that.

CHAPTER SEVEN


“Ay, you gotta nasty bruise there, lad.”

Slowly my eyesight came back and I was face to face with an enormous Nord. His wild and untamed beard went from his upper lip all the way down his gigantic chin about two feet. He was kneeling down, apparently examining a cut I had sustained. When he stood straight up his body rose high over mine; he was likely at least seven feet tall. If he was drunk, like Nords tended to be, and fell on top of me I would die instantly. He certainly was a sight to behold.

“Well aren’t you gonna say somethin’”?

What did he expect? I had finally woken from passing out. I didn’t know where I was, or how long I had been out of it. The last thing I wanted to do at that moment was talk, but I suppose I didn’t have much of a choice; he was going to keep at it until I said at least a little something.

“Where am I?” I managed the mumble the words and at the sound of my voice the Nord’s eyes lit up as bright as the midnight stars.

“Why lad, you’re in the Imperial City prisons!”

I looked around and sure enough I was surrounded by hard stone walls, and on one side a set of iron bars. That’s when I remembered Mankar telling someone to throw me in the dungeon. But who was he talking to? Then I also remembered Mankar call his companion Hieronymus. He couldn’t have been talking to the Imperial Legion captain, could he?

“Who brought me in here?” I asked the Nord.

“Hieronymus Lex; that cowardly traitor!”

I still didn’t believe it could have been him. “Are you certain it was him? Why would he be on the Mythic Dawn’s side?”

“Dunno, lad, but I heard somethin’ from another inmate about how he was about to be killed by Mankar himself, and Lex then pledged his worthless life to Mankar’s cause. That’s all I know, nothin’ else.”

Well that was certainly some bad news. Why in the world would Lex stoop to such a low level? How could he betray his friends and fellow countrymen?

“Oh, sorry for not introducin’ m’self. The name’s Alfhedil, but you can call me Alf.”

I wasn’t too sure about this Nord, but he did seem friendly enough. I don’t think he’s insane or anything like that, perhaps a little…different.

“And what’s yer name, wood elf?”

I wasn’t one to give my name out to random people I don’t even know, but this Nord was harmless, I could just tell. To tell you truth I wasn’t too sure he was smart enough to remember my name anyway. Besides, perhaps he knew of a way to get out of this retched cell.

“My name is Rayden. How long have I been here…Alf?”

“The coward threw you in here about an hour or so ago. Yer head hit the floor rather hard and that’s where you got yer cut.”

I felt my forehead and sure enough there was an enormous gash, about six inches long and still a bit bloody, but not too much.

“Don’t worry about the bleedin’, it stopped about fifteen minutes ago. I made sure to hold that there cloth tightly in place,” he said while pointing to a bloody rag to my left.

“Thanks. Umm…were you one of the original citizens here when the Dawn first attacked?”

“Ya, I was arguin’ with some baker over a stolen muffin when the attack came. They were fast as lightenin’ I tell ya. It was over in now time; the Legion didn’t stand a chance,” he said with the usual Nord accent.

“Do you know how many people they have captured?”

“Not many; I’d say no more than twenty or so, mostly soldiers. They killed most of the civilians, except fer the ones who they think can fight. They’re tryin’ to get me and the like to fight fer em’. Aint’ gonna happen though. I aint no coward,” he said proudly with his big arms crossed.

He was certainly loyal to the country, but of course none of that was any use to him now. Surely in time Mankar will have him killed, along with everyone else. But I didn’t plan on being one of those unfortunates.

“There’s got to be a way out of here somewhere,” I thought aloud as I felt my hand along the walls, hoping to find something leading to a trap door.

“Your wastin’ yer time, woody. I look m’self, there’s nothin’ that’ll help ya’.”

Woody? I was starting to get annoyed now. The Nord was probably too stupid to even know what to look for. This was my profession, I’m pretty sure I know a little more than him.

“Ya better stop, woody, I can hear someone comin’ down the stairs.”

I immediately stopped what I was doing and turned around. Sure enough, a figure was descending down the stairs, accompanied by three others. It was Mankar and two Dawn cultists. Then, behind them, was Lex carrying the lone torch. They walked up to the barred door and Mankar then spoke.

“So, you thought you could fool me, Bosmer?”

I said nothing, and instead waited for Mankar to continue.

“I’ll admit to you, when I first saw you I actually thought you were Judo. But then when you spoke you gave it all away I’m afraid. I could easily tell you were faking it, yet I did not stop you, did I? I simply wanted to see if you were foolish enough to follow me, and I guess were,” he laughed. “Now tell me, why have you infiltrated my city, Bosmer?”

‘Your City?’ I thought to myself. This wasn’t his city and it never would be. Anger was definitely bubbling up inside of me, but I couldn’t let that distract my focus. I couldn’t show any anger, which would only be a sign of weakness.

“So you’re not going to speak, heh? That’s perfectly fine with me. I think I’ll let you rot in the dungeon for a couple of days. Maybe then you’ll change your mind.”

The four of them walked away and Alf and I were left alone once more.

“If ya’ ask me, that there was kinda pointless, don’t ya think, Woody?”

“He was trying to get put fear into me, Alf, possible embarrass me. Too bad I’m smarter than that.” In truth, I was lucky Mankar didn’t know the real reason why I was here.

Once Mankar and his cronies were out of sight I continued my search for a trap door. I could hear Alf sigh and sit down on a stool, likely out of frustration. He was so bent on believing there wasn’t anything to find in the walls, but I wasn’t going to give up until I was one hundred percent sure there was nothing to find. I searched on for another five minutes or so, when finally I gave up. Maybe Alf was right.

“I tried tellin’ ya’, Woody,” he announced.

I gave him a grim stare and sat down on the other stool that was in the cell. I started thinking on another way to escape, and that’s when I eyed a knife lying on the table next to me. I picked the blunt blade up and held it close to my face. It wasn’t too sharp, but perhaps just enough for me to unlock the barred doors.

I got up with the knife in hand and walked over to the cage. Alf was now looking at me with great interest. I took the knife and shoved it hard into the key hole. It was kind of hard because of course the lock was located on the outside, and I could not see it with my own eyes. I went on for about ten minutes, poking around with the knife, when finally I heard a faint click, and then the cage creaked open. Alf suddenly stood up and started yelling like an idiot.

“Woody, ya’ actually did it! I…”

I hushed the dumb oaf the raise of my finger to my mouth. I didn’t plan on getting caught just minutes after escaping. I walked out and started up the steps when I heard Alf whisper from behind.

“Pss, Woody, what about me, lad?”

I sighed heavily because I knew I was stuck. He wanted to come with me, but how was he going to do that with his humongous size? There was no way he’d be able to get out unnoticed.

“You can’t come with me. You’re just too big. I have to get of here without being captured again. I can’t explain it to you, but let’s just say I hold the key to Cyrodiil’s fate.”

I was hoping that would shut him up, but of course it didn’t. Like many other Nords, Alf was ignorant.

“Let me pave the way fer ya’,” he said with a huge smile. “I’ll cause a disturbance while you get away. I think I can handle them fer a few minutes while you take yer leave.”

I wanted to argue some more, because at first I didn’t even want to consider the idea. But, when I thought about it, it wasn’t that bad of an idea after all. The big Nord would definitely cause a stir, that much was for sure, and if all went well I would be able to escape freely. If I can remember right, outside there’s a gate, and beyond that is open land. I’d be able to get away in a matter of seconds.

“Are you sure you want to do that? Why would you want to help me? You don’t even know me?”

“I don’t know. I figure one of us should be able to get away. And like you said, I’m too big to get away unnoticed.”

And that was that. I had made a decision.

“Thanks, Alf. I appreciate it.”

“No problem, Woody,” he winked.

I turned around and started quietly up the stairs, with Alf carefully lumbering behind…

An amusing interplay between Rayden and the Nord. There were times when I felt you were trying the convince us the Nord wasn't very smart, but in the end he clearly shows he's capable of using his head. I guess one should never make assumptions, even about 7-ft Nords.

I enjoyed this chapter very much for some reason. Even though not much happened, it still was a nice read!

Thanks you two! I'll be starting on the next chapter sometime tomorrow.

As has been said, enjoyable. I like Alf a lot. It's too bad he's apparently got this heroic sacrifice thing stuck in his blood.

CHAPTER EIGHT


At the top of stairs sat a lone cultist, half asleep at his desk. I could scarcely see a steel mace at his side, and I thought perhaps Alf could use it, even though it would be like a mere dagger for his massive hands.

“Hey, Alf, you see that guard? I’ll take him out so that you can use his mace. Is that alright with you?” I said softly.

“Yes, that’s okay, Woody, but am I gonna get my share of the killin’ soon?” he whispered back.

“Yes, as soon as we get outside you can have all the fun.”

He smiled with great happiness. I turned around, still with the knife in hand. Suddenly I got up and ran as fast as I could towards the cultist, who was an Imperial. His face lit up with surprise but it was too late for him to call for help. I dove and tackled him to the ground, and then shoved the knife through his throat. The blade was very blunt and I had to use a lot of force to dig in deep, but alas in a matter of minutes the man was dead and we were for now safe.

“Wow, woody, I didn’t know ya’ had it in ya’,” Alf said while I pulled the knife from the robed man’s neck.

“Well, Alf, there’s probably a lot of things about me that would surprise you.”

“Alright, then you can tell me about em’ after we escape.”

After he said that I couldn’t look him in the eyes. Instead, I kept my back to him while I thought about what he said. Did he really think there was anyway he’d survive out there? Sure, he’d probably last a couple minutes, maybe, but then the spells would be flying from all directions. I was now feeling kind of bad about myself. Maybe the Nord really did think he stood a chance.

“Alf, you do realize you’re probably not going to last long out there, don’t you?”

I said this to him while looking at his face. He didn’t seem surprised by my question at all.

“What’s wrong, Woody, you take me for a brute or somethin? You think I’m all brawn and no brains?” Well I’ll tell ya’ lad, I’m pretty nifty when it comes to magic. Yer not givin’ me credit and ya’ haven’t even seen me in action yet!” he said with a laugh.

He certainly was confident, but I still wasn’t sure if this was a good idea. All my life I haven’t cared way or another about anyone besides my self. But now, thinking about what will most likely happen to Alf, I’m having second thoughts about if I should be going through with this plan. It’s weird; I sure hope I’m not going soft.

“Are you sure you want to do this, Alf? I don’t want you going out there if you don’t really want to?”

“What’s gotten in to ya’ lad? Are ya’s scared or somethin?”

“No, I’m certainly not scared, but I don’t want to send you to your death. I mean, you don’t even know me but yet you’re willing to put your life on the line just so I can escape.”

“It might sound dumb to ya, lad, but I believe ya’ when ya’ said you were the Empire’s last hope. I know that I don’t know ya’ very well, but I can tell in yer eyes ye aint lyin; and that’s good enough fer me.”

“Very well. I thank you for your surprising allegiance. It’s too bad there aren’t others like you out there. Cowards like Lex could do wonders by imitating you.”

“Well lad, my mum always taught me well as a child.”

After the discussion ended I carefully cracked the door open and peered outside. To my pleasant surprise there really weren’t that many patrols walking around, about eight in all. Perhaps most of them had gone to bed, thinking nothing could happen this late at night. Boy, were they in for a surprise. I then closed the door and turned back to Alf.

“There are only eight of them out there so it shouldn’t be too dangerous. While you attack them I’ll slip through the gates and if I remember correctly there should be a bridge. Hopefully there will be rocks that I can use to descend to the ground.”

“And if there aint any rocks?” Alf asked.

“Then I’ll just cut through the city itself.”

‘That’ll be dangerous, Woody…”

“I know, but I’ll do whatever it takes to get out of here.”

“Alrighty then, Woody, let’s do this!”

I opened the door once more and Alf told me to stand aside. Instead of foolishly arguing with the giant Nord I let him pass. He ran out the door straight towards a group of three cultists. They saw him coming when he was already a few feet away, for they were not far from the door to begin with.

Alf took his mace and swung mightily at a Dunmer. The blunt hit him in the face with so much force that the mace actually stuck as the dark elf flew back a few yards. The other two cultists of the group stood there, frozen in place. The fear had apparently disabled them from moving and Alf, with no weapons in hand, grabbed the two by the head and then crushed their skulls into one another.

Obviously this prompted three other cultists in the area to become aware of the situation, and soon spells were firing in all directions. Three Dawn members were in front of him, and the other two were behind him, coming up from the rear. At that moment I learned that Alf wasn’t kidding about his magical abilities. I stood there at the door entrance, amazed by Alf’s ability to block the oncoming spells and then quickly cast his own. Then, out of the corner of my eye, I spotted the other two cultists creeping up from behind Alf, in an attempt to catch him by surprise. I knew the original plan was for me to escape while Alf kept the others busy, but I just couldn’t leave him. Okay, I’ll admit maybe I am becoming a bit soft, but at the same time Martin and I could definitely use someone as talented as Alf.

I quickly ran out the door and sprinted towards the two behind Alf. It was a good thing I was a fast runner because I got to them before they even had a chance to see me. I got to the first one, a Breton I think, and stuck my knife into his back, while holding a hand to his mouth so that he could not alert his partner. I dug deeper and deeper until the merman was at last dead, and by this time his Imperial buddy knew finally noticed I was there.

The Imperial fired a spell at me and I let the now dead body drop in front of my while I rolled to the right. The spell hit the dead Breton, sending him flying back. While on the ground the Imperial attempted another spell, but with a quick move a rolled this time to my left and avoided the blast. I got up as fast as I could and ran towards the man. I was about ten feet away and he fired once again yet another spell in my direction. At this time I ducked and the spell flew over my back just inches away from my skin. I could actually feel the heat from the fiery blast. Then I tackled the Imperial to the ground and began pounding his face in with my fists. I must’ve hit the man at least twenty times before I was lifted from the ground by my shirt collar. I swung my arms wildly trying to get my attacker off of me, but then I was turned around there was Alf, laughing loudly in my face.

“Ha, ha, ha! What are ye doing, Woody, dancing? Don’t worry bout’ that there Imperial. He’s dead silly!”

I looked at the Imperial and it was very difficult to make out his facial features from all the blood that had splattered all over his face. I guess I was too angry to know that the man was long gone. It was weird, the rage I had felt was nothing like I had ever experienced before. Right then I felt a sharp pain in my right hand. I looked at it, with all of the blood of course, and noticed that my middle finger knuckle looked very deformed.

“Well, well, Woody, will ya’ look at that! You broke your hand!”

“No, it’s only my middle knuckle. I must have cracked a bone or something. Now, umm, could you please put me down?”

The tree of a Nord sat me down on the grass and I attempted to put the knuckle back in place, but with no success. Then Alf tried to get involved.

“Here, lemme try, Woody…”

“NO! Get away! I’m not letting you crush my whole hand!”

“whatever ya’ say, lad. But I’m tellin’ ya’, the longer ye wait the worse it’s gonna get.”

“I know, I know. Don’t worry; we’ll soon meet up with someone who could heal me. Now, let’s get out of here before anyone else shows up.”

“You mean I can come with you?”

“Yes, Alf, I need you actually. Your talents would pay dividends for me Martin, my…umm…partner I guess you could call him.”

Alf then gave me a nasty look. “Woody, don’t tell me yer one of them kind…”

“No, no, no! Not that kind of partner you fool! He’s the one helping me!”

“Oh. Phew…fer a second there ya’ had me scared, Woody!”

“Well, let’s just get out of here so I can tell you all the specifics about what I’m trying to accomplish. I’ll go ahead and tell you know that I failed in coming to this city. I was supposed to find out some information, but I’ll have to tell you later. Let’s go!”

As we were about to exit the prison area, cultists started pouring out from inside the numerous rooms, including the armory. They saw and immediately began casting spells in our direction. Alf and I opened the large gates and made it out, all the while with spells bouncing off the walls, just inches from us. We closed the doors once we were on the other side, and that’s when a decision had to be made. I looked over the side of the bridge we were on, and I noticed a set of rocks were set perfectly for Alf and I to climb down. I couldn’t believe how lucky we were to have found these “step”, but I didn’t the time to stand and gawk.

“Alf, climb over the edge and onto those rocks.”

He did what I told him and then I followed right behind. Just moment after we were both out of sight, the gates to the prison area opened and many cultists made their way onto the bridge, oblivious to the fact that Ald and I were a mere few feet from them.

“Hurry, they must have fallen back to the Temple District,” I heard a Dunmer yell.

Alf and I waited for them to leave, and then we continued down the rocks until were flat on our feet, on the floor below the bridge. After catching a breath for a few minutes we marched around the city walls until we were close to the Waterfront. I took Alf to the shores near the sea, where I instructed him to wait behind a large boulder until I returned. Then, as I was about to leave and find Martin, I heard his voice coming from the left.

“Rayden, where have you been? And what did you do in there? The place is crawling with cultists!”

He looked down at me, and then up at Alf, who was smiling goofily.

“And who in Talos’ name is this?” He said pointing at Alf.

“This is Alf, Martin. If it wasn’t for him I wouldn’t have escaped from prison.”

“Prison? You mean you were caught?”

“Yes, but now is not the time to talk. Let us leave and I shall explain everything on the way to the priory.”

Martin looked agitated, but obviously we needed to leave before we were spotted.

“Fine, let’s just get out of here. And I’ll heal that injury of yours once we get out of sight,” Martin said pointing at my right hand as we made our way west…

Alf turned out to be a lot better than he appeared to be at first, didn't he? Hmm, I wonder if he's a battlemage. Spells and brute strength? Sounds a lot like it.

I've definitely been enjoying Alf's characterization. It's nice to see such a conflicting persona. Hopefully he further proves to be an asset to Rayden and Martin. Keep up the good work.

CHAPTER NINE


The torches could be seen behind us as we kept on towards Weynon Priory. The Imperial City was now on full alert, with everyone scrambling to find the three of us, but of course that wasn’t going to happen. Now that I think about it, Mankar probably knows that I am more than just a petty thief. That has to be the case. Why else would he have the whole city on lockdown? He certainly wouldn’t have done that for low-life peasants.

And then there was Alf. What were we going to do with him? He was obviously large and sort of got in the way in terms of sneaking around, but how could I abandon him when he just saved my neck? That and from what I saw in the prison yards, there was no way I could leave him behind us. His talents were far higher than I ever would have given him credit for. There has to be something he can help us with, I just don’t know what that is yet.

“So let me get this straight,” said Martin with a sigh. “You almost got your killed in there and you didn’t even get the information you were trying to find in the first place? What was the point of that, Rayden? Now we nothing, just like before…”

Martin didn’t understand. All he did was sit outside and wait, like a coward if you ask me. He wasn’t the one who risked his own life; to almost be fried by a spell from one of those cultists. What did he know about bravery?

“How can you talk when all you did was hide behind a rock the entire time? I’m the one who did all doing…”

“Did all the doing? That’s some excellent use of grammar, Rayden, seriously. Let’s stop arguing, it’s not going to do us any good; we still don’t know Mankar’s plans.”

We stopped talking for a few seconds, and that’s when Alf finally chimed in with some heartwarming news.

“Is that what y’all arguin ‘bout? Well, lads, I know what he’s plannin’ fer our dear country. I heard it with me own ears just the other night.”

I looked at Martin and then at Alf with disbelief. Why in the world didn’t he say anything earlier?

“And why are you just now telling me this, Alf?” I asked him.

“Cause I didn’t know that’s what ye wanted, Woody.”

I simply sighed and shook my head. “Will you tell me now please?” I asked impatiently.

“Well it’s quite simple, Woody. He wants that there amulet,” Alf said while pointing at the amulet Martin was holding.

“But what for?” I asked.

“I heard Mankar talkin’ to one of his servants or whatever. He said somethin’ about destroyin’ the dragonfires and becoming the ruler of Cyrodiil. I don’t know…it was all confusin’ to me really.”

I looked at Martin and I could tell he was thinking the same thing. Why would he want the amulet when he knew he couldn’t wear it? He wasn’t part of the Septim bloodline.

“Alf, did he say anything about destroying the amulet?” said Martin.

“Ya, he said somethin’ ‘bout there being one last heir to the throne. Hey, come to think of it, he said his name was Martin. That’s yer name isn’t it?”

Martin put his hands in his face. Alf was already getting on his nerves.

“Yes, I am Martin Septim, son of Uriel Septim. I am the last heir, just as you have already said. It’s all clear now. He wants me dead and the Amulet of Kings destroyed. Then he will have no threats and the country will be his for the taking. As long as I am alive, and the amulet is still intact, he will not be able to take full control of the country. Did he say he knew my location?”

“Ya, he said somethin’ about attacking some city as well. Kvatch I think.”

At that moment Martin and I both looked at each other in disbelief. He was going to attack Kvatch tomorrow evening. Now I know what Mankar was talking about when he told Lex to get ready for a siege.

“We’ve got to get to Kvatch and warn Adamus Phillida and the Count of Mankar’s plans,” Martin yelled.

“But he won’t believe us, Martin. Why would he?” I said.

“It doesn’t matter, we’ll find out when we get there!”

Martin then took off running and Alf and I followed. We steadily jogged for nearly thirty minutes nonstop, which was alright with me, I could probably run for hours if I absolutely had to, but the strange thing was that Martin never broke stride, and perhaps even stranger is that Alf had so far kept up with Martin and I, and obviously the two of us were a bit more agile that the gigantic Nord. But it appeared I had spoken to soon, and Alf began complaining.

“Come on; give an old Nord a break will ya’?” Alf gasped.

Martin then stopped running and stood by a tree with his arms pressed against it while he caught his breath. I was merely a tad winded by the run, and I simply stood there, silently waiting for the other two.

“What are ye, Woody, some kind of freak?” Alf asked in amazement.

“No, just in good shape I guess.”

“Lad, that there’s more than just bein’ in good shape. Somethin’s wrong with ye…”

Another five minutes or so and we continued along, but at a walk rather than a run. We figured we were far enough to walk. After all, it was still late in the night, and surely Mankar and his troops would leave somewhere around ten o’clock in the morning.

“What do you plan on telling Adamus, Martin? I can’t even begin to imagine him taking us seriously. No offence or anything, but you probably aren’t the best of sources, given your past I mean.”

I was afraid Martin would take my words the wrong way, but it was only the truth, no matter how you looked at it. After what Martin said he did, I doubt many trust him now. I remembered how shocked the Dunmer lady in Kvatch was when I asked her of Martin’s location. She treated the subject as if he was some kind of disease or something.

“No, I understand, Rayden. You’re right, Adamus will probably not believe me, but that is a chance we’ll have to take.”

“And if that doesn’t work, I suppose we could just talk to the Count himself,” Alf offered, although Martin didn’t seem to agree with the statement.

“Sorry, Alf, but it won’t be that easy. The people…they don’t trust me, just as Rayden has already mentioned. The Count especially, he doesn’t much care for the mages as it is. After what happened with me and my friends, he pretty much despises anyone from the Mages Guild now.”

That got me thinking. What ever happened to the guilds? The Thieves Guild, the Fighters Guild, the Mages Guild, even that mercenary group called the Blackwood Company. Where were they in Cyrodiil’s time of need? We could certainly use their help now.

“Hey, what over happen to the guilds anyway?” I asked Martin.

“Well, the Mages Guild has pretty much set up base in Bruma. I don’t why, but they feel safest up there. Obviously with Mankar’s magic abilities, and rumored necromancy, the Mages Guild once him dead. But of course they are very undermanned, especially after most of their numbers were eliminated during the battle in the Imperial City. As far as the Fighters Guild goes, their leader died of natural causes and the group basically disbanded, oddly enough. I can’t think of the leaders name right now, sorry. And of course the Thieves Guild is a myth, although I certainly believe in them.”

“What about the Blackwood Company? You know…that group of mercenaries in Leyawiin?”

“Ah yes, I almost forgot about them. If I’m not mistaken they sided with Mankar before he even invaded Leyawiin. Now that I think about I believe it is they who let the Mythic Dawn into the city in the first place. I’m sure the fear led to them to betray the country. The last I heard they were going to serve as a special “hunter” organization for Mankar; hunting down whoever Mankar pleases and such…”

“So the Empire is on it’s own against Mankar?”

“That’s the way it looks I’m afraid. Surely the Council is doing something at the moment, but if you really think about it, there’s not much they can do. If I was to make a guess I’d say they’re most likely attempting to gain the allegiance of other countries, but what do I know…”

The situation wasn’t looking good for Cyrodiil or Martin in fact, but of course I wasn’t going to express my doubts. If what Martin was saying was true, then he was dead where he stood at this very moment. The Blackwood Company is a bunch of professional mercenaries. It was only a matter of time until they would finally catch up with Martin, and unfortunately I’ll probably be there when he’s found by them. And then a fight will ensue, and who knows, maybe I’ll die. Of course with Alf by our side we definitely stand a chance. Everything just looks so bad right now. The Empire is greatly outnumbered, with only four cities in their possession. I just can’t see how the Mythic Dawn won’t win this war, especially if they ally themselves with another group. I wouldn’t think another province would join their cause, but I guess I’ve seen stranger things.




We arrived in Kvatch just before the sun was about to come up, and the Legion soldiers were just now making their morning patrols around the surrounding area, searching for enemies. We walked inside the city, and just as I thought Alf attracted many stares. It was something I thought about while marching from the Imperial City. Maybe if we let the Nord talk to Adamus then he’d believe us, since he’s been a prisoner there. But then again letting Alf speak at all might not be the smartest decision. You never really can tell what’s going to come out of his mouth.

When asked where Adamus was, a lone Kvatch soldier replied, “The last time I saw him he was speaking with the Count,” which was perfect because now we could kill two birds with one stone. The two people we needed to meet with where at the same location, or so we hoped at least. It would certainly make things easer for us.

So we walked through the streets until we came upon the castle, where two Legion soldiers were standing guard, not moving in an inch when we asked to enter the citadel. “Unless you have an appointment you are not allowed to enter the castle. I am sorry but times are too dangerous for the Count to let just anyone inside his home,” replied one of the guards, at least with a tone of some compassion.

Then Alf commented, “Well isn’t this whole area his home?” Alf said, pointing to the entire city behind him. “And if that’s the case, he has already allowed us into his home, don’t ya’ agree? So why don’t ya’ jus let us in this particular home, since we’re already in “this” home,” Alf said, again pointing to the city behind us.

The guard was very confused with Alf’s statement, just as I was. Martin sighed and simply shook his head, and then offered a more intelligent comment. “Please, sir, it is very urgent. We have information on Mankar that the Count must hear at once.”

“Do you know how many times we’ve heard that before? More than enough, that’s how many. I’m sorry, but we just cannot let you enter. Now please, leave now before Commander Phillida comes out. He’s doesn’t take kindly to visitors.”

Rather than stand and argue the three of us walked over and sat on a stone ledge, just under the shade of a tall tree. Martin’s plan was to simply wait for either the Count or the Commander to leave the castle. Sooner or later one of them would show themselves, but unfortunately that time wouldn’t come as quick we had hoped it would.

We waited for nearly three hours under the shade of the tree, and for the most part it was spent in silence. Martin was seemingly doing his best to stay out of everyone’s sight, and Alf was having his self a noisy nap. I say noisy because his snoring was the loudest I have heard in my life, and I’ve crept into many a house in my time as a thief. But finally, just a few minutes before noon, Adamus Phillida appeared from the castle, with three soldiers by his side. I poked Alf as Martin got up to meet with Adamus. When he saw the three of us coming towards him I could tell he recognized me from earlier. And at that exact moment I also remembered the guard yelling at us when Martin and I had stolen those horses a couple days ago. I hope the guard didn’t give Adamus our description that night, it was awfully dark out then.

“Excuse me you three but I can’t talk right now,” Adamus said quickly, apparently already aware that we were about to ask him something.

“But sir, we need to speak with you and the Count immediately,” Martin said, which proved to be a terrible mistake.

“I’ve already heard about you from the Count, “brother” Martin. I don’t speak with the likes of you. Now, if you’ll excuse me,” Adamus said rather rudely. But Alf wasn’t going to let him pass so easily. He stepped in front of the Legion Commander, blocking both his way and the sunlight.

“We’ve marched all the way from the Imperial City and have waited here since eight o’clock. We have done nothing wrong and you will give us a few minutes to explain what we have to say,” he said angrily.

I had expected the Commander to show some shock and perhaps a little fear, given Alf’s enormous size, but alas the Legion officer was unfazed by Alf’s words.

“Do you think you strike fear in me just because you’re two feet taller than I am? Well let me tell you, I’ve fought beasts both taller and more fearsome than you could ever dream of. So the next time you want to act tough, save it for someone else.”

He stepped to the side and walked around Alf, who I thought was going to go after the officer. That is before I grabbed his arm and held him back. Although I don’t at all think it was my strength that held him back, only Alf’s own good judgment.

“What now?” I asked Martin as the three of us watched Adamus go on his daily route.

“How about you just do what you do best, Rayden?”

“Sorry, I’m not following you…”, I said confused as ever.

“Sneak into the castle.”

“And how in the world am I going to do that with those two guards over there?” I whispered, just low enough for only us three to hear.

“Alf and I will distract them. We’ll pretend to get in a tussle, and while the guards come to break us up, you can make your way into the castle. When the guards inside see you walk in they’ll have to just assume you were let in. Find Count Goldwine and inform him of what is happening. If he doesn’t at first believe you then keep on at it. Sooner or later he’ll have to at least think about it.”

“Or throw me in jail…”

“Just do it Rayden. Let’s go, Alf.”

“Wait, Martin. What if you two are thrown in jail? What then?” Of course Martin paid no attention to my questions and suddenly he and Alf were “arguing” with one another, on the other side of the castle. When Alf picked up Martin by the shirt collar the two guards ran over to “cool them down” and I took my chances and bolted for the door. Luckily I think everyone was focusing on the entire ruckus, and I was able to safely make my way into the castle. I closed the door shut and turned around. The count was sitting on his throne, staring me down with his two eyes. I could tell I was sweating, probably shaking. I was actually nervous, something I’m not exactly accustomed to. Before anyone could stop me I started towards the throne to speak with the Count…

So Kvatch is going to happen after all? Unless Rayden get's his tongue twisted into the right forms, that is.
Nice stuff again, including the plan of getting inside.

CHAPTER TEN


Trying not to look suspicious, I quickly walked up the aisle until I was a mere few feet away from the Count, Ormellius Goldwine. I knelt on one knee and looked at the ground, attempting to show my respect for Goldwine. I didn’t want to anger him before even having a chance to speak with him.

“My lord, can you spare a few minutes of your time, please?”

I looked up to meet Goldwine’s eyes, and they were still transfixed upon me, as if he was trying to decide whether to oblige to my offer. I had never met the man himself, despite visiting the city many times as a child. I’ve never even heard stories about the Count, other than Martin’s, about him not liking mages or whatever. Other than that I don’t really know what to expect.

“And why should I speak to the likes of you, Bosmer?”

He said this not with a tone of disrespect, thought it may have sounded like it to anyone else. I could tell he was at least a little curious as to what I had to say.

“I come with news of Mankar Cameron’s plans. I know what he wants with Cyrodiil. He wants to find the Amulet of Kings and eventually take control of the country.”

I had also expected this statement to catch the Count off guard, but instead he just laughed. “Is that all, Bosmer? Well of course he wants to take over the country! Why else would he invade our land? And obviously he wants the amulet destroyed so that the dragonfires will diminish. But what fools me is why he wants that. There are no other Septim heirs, so all we are left to do is ponder why he wants that amulet so much.”

I didn’t want to mention Martin’s name, for the time wasn’t right for that. Instead I went ahead and told the Count of Mankar’s plan for tonight. “Mankar is also going to attack Kvatch, this evening in fact.”

This announcement caused quite a stir within the room, and everyone began talking with one another, rather loudly I might add. They were all pointing at me, asking each other who I was and where I came from. But the Count, however, was only angered by my statement.

“How can you make such a statement? What makes you think you know what Mankar is going to do?”

The Counts attitude had drastically changed for the worst. At that point, I don’t think telling Goldwine that ‘a friend told me’ would do me any good. But I definitely would explain how I infiltrated the city. But why should I not tell him about Alf’s claim? It wouldn’t hurt.

“I just came from the Imperial City. I…infiltrated the city, but was caught by Mankar and thrown into jail. Then, when I escaped with my prison mate, he told me that he heard with his own ears, from Mankar himself, that he was going to attack Kvatch today, sometime in the late evening.”

He still wasn’t going to believe me. “And why should I believe that you, a low-life scum, was able to escape the Mythic Dawn’s headquarters? For all I know you are simply making this up and all of it is a lie. Leave now before I have you thrown into my own dungeon!”

Before I even had a chance to defend myself my arms were grabbed by two guards and they began to drag me from the Counts throne room. “Wait, you have to listen to me, I swear I’m not lying! They’re going to attack this city tonight!” But he wasn’t even looking at me now. “You’ve got to believe me! If you don’t your city will fall!”

The guards took me outside and then threw me to the ground. They walked back inside, slamming the door shut behind them. I laid on my back for a few seconds, spitting out the clods of dirt that had unfortunately made thier way into my mouth. I guess that’s what I get for trying to save a city from it’s soon destruction.

“Hey, I thought I told you stay out of there!” yelled the guard who originally wouldn’t let me inside.

I got up from the ground and walked away. Thankfully the guard didn’t come after me, but he did send me a last second message, “The next time I catch you around here I’m locking you up!”

I didn’t care what he said, if Goldwine wanted his city to burn to the ground, then so be it. Martin, Alf, and I have done all we can do to help the Count see what is really happening out there, but his ignorance has blinded him, disabling him to see the truth. It doesn’t matter anymore, the three us have to get out of here as soon as possible.

“What did he say, Woody?” Alf asked as him and Martin, who were both sitting on the same ledge as the three us had been doing before I entered the castle.

Martin knew what I was about to say, and sighed heavily as I told Alf what happened. “He wouldn’t listen to me. He called me a liar and had his guards throw me out. I tried to tell you, Martin. Now what are we supposed to do?”

“I don’t know. We’ve got to get out of here before the Mythic Dawn show up, I do know that.”

“So what happened with you and Alf? You didn’t get into trouble with the guards?”

“No, that just told us to get lost,” Alf said.

We stood in sat in silence for a few minutes while trying to decide on where to go from here. We couldn’t go back to the Imperial City; it was too dangerous to attempt another infiltration. Count Goldwine was never going to believe me, and neither was Adamus. All we could do was travel to the next city and hope they would listen to our story.
“I guess we should just travel to the next closest city. What about Skingrad? Do you think Count Hassildor would be willing to hear what we have to say?” Martin asked.

“I don’t know, I’ve never met the man before, but I’ve heard he’s one of the more intelligent rulers of Cyrodiil. What do we have to lose?”

Before we left the city we grabbed some bread from the local bakery, which was a different store from the one I worked at as a teenager, as well as a different owner. We sat outside on a bench while we ate the food and washed it down with bottles of water. I hadn’t eaten a bit since I first came into the possession of the amulet. This meal was definitely a refresher.

“So, Alf, you never really told us about yourself. What was life like before all this mess started?” I asked.

“Well,” he said taking a last gulp of his bread,” I was just a gardener fer someone in the Elven Gardens. A nice little Altmer lady, very kind, offered me the job because she was getting to feeble to take care of it herself. Don’t ask me why she wanted me fer the job, but I took it without hesitation. I knew she’d pay me well because of her wealth, and that she did. It’s too bad I spent most of me money at the Arena, where I rarely won any bets. What about you, Woody?” He asked me.

“I’m a freelance thief, if you will. Nothing else really matters I guess; it’s all I’ve ever known since I was a young adult.”

I wasn’t in the mood for going into detail, like my past, unlike when I met Martin. I don’t know…it was kind of embarrassing now that I think about it. Here lately I’ve silently been arguing with myself about what I have become. Never before did I look down upon myself because I was thief. Heck, I suppose I even considered myself somewhat of a “respectable” thief, even though that doesn’t make any sense at all. I’ve persuaded myself over the years that what I do is not wrong, only a necessity. But now…..I just don’t know. I’m starting to have second thoughts about where my life is heading, and I’m not sure whether that’s a bad thing or a good thing.

“What about you, Marty? What’s your story?”

Martin rolled his eyes at the new given nickname and explained his past, but as an extremely trimmed down version.

“I’ve been a priest for a while now. I used to be in the Mages Guild but it didn’t exactly work out for me.”

We spent another ten minutes or so eating the rest of our food and drinking the rest of our water. Then we refilled the bottles to the top, and head out towards Skingrad. Rather than travel through the forest we just used the dirt road. There really wasn’t a threat from anyone, or at least we hoped so.

“You know, Martin, why didn’t we stop at Skingrad first? We passed it up on the way to Kvatch,” I said.

“I don’t know, I guess because Alf told us they were going to attack Kvatch.”

“But wouldn’t they go ahead and attack Skingrad while they passed? Why pass up on an opportunity to strike the city by surprise?”

“I don’t know, Rayden, maybe because Skingrad’s army is a lot stronger than that of Kvatch,” he said sarcastically. “Historically Count Janus Hassildor of Skingrad has been feared by many, and I guess Mankar just thinks Kvatch will be much easier to take over, and if you ask me I think that as well.”

“How so? Kvatch is well protected by their walls.”

“That’s true, Rayden, but Ormellius Goldwine is too preoccupied with making money that he’s forgotten the army. Their numbers are weak and the soldiers aren’t very well trained.”

“But they’ve got the legion with them. Why would Mankar attack a city where the Legion commander is present? It would be much easier to attack Skingrad.”

“Skingrad has Legion presence as well. Mankar probably wants to kill the Adamus Phillida to send a message to the rest of the country: that the Mythic Dawn cannot be stopped.”

“Ay, but we plan to stop that!” Alf yelled.

“It’s not going to be as easy as it sounds, Alf,” Martin explained. The Mythic Dawn cultists are trained professionals in the Dark Arts. I know you two were able to take out several of them at the Imperial City, but it’s not going to be that simple every time. They saw you two us mere prisoners. That had no clue what they were up against. But now that they know the skills you two possess, they’ll be prepared.”

“That all makes sense, but how does Mankar even know what we are up to?” I asked.

“For all we know he doesn’t have a clue, I’m just giving you an example. But sooner or later he will find out what we are doing and he will also realize who I am and what we have in our possession. Then things are going to get a lot more complicated and dangerous…for all of us, not just me.”

Silence fell upon us for several seconds until Alf chimed in again. “I’ll never leave ya’ Marty. I’ll stand by yer side till’ the end, whenever that is.”

Alf was a good person, thought I’m still having trouble understanding why he’s so eager to help us in the first place. He hasn’t even known us that long and already he’s pledging his life to us. But I guess that’s sort of the same way with me. I’m putting my trust in Martin and I barely know the man either.

“Yes, count on me as well, Martin. I mean, what else can I do? Sooner or later there won’t be anyone to steal from if the Mythic Dawn keeps up with their plan,” I said grinning.

We walked not very long, maybe a couple of hours or so, and it was about five o’clock in the evening. We reached the edge of the dirt path surrounded by trees, and it was flat lands the entire way after that. I say this because at the edge of the forest we could see the city of Skingrad in the distance. It wasn’t too far away, maybe another hour at the most. And then, to the west of Skingrad, we could see torches, many of them. We marched towards the lights, while picking up the pace, and as we neared we realized it was the Mythic Dawn. We stood beside a rock from afar while we watched them pass along the dirt road in the middle of everything where they could be easily seen. There were so many of them, easily a thousand if not more.

“Look at them. They’re not even more than two hundred yards from the city, yet Hassildor isn’t sending out his troops to fight,” Martin said.

“Why would he send out his troops if he’s not going to be attacked? I’m sure he’s keeping a close eye on them, but from the looks of it, it seems as if your theory was right, Martin. I guess Mankar does want to send that message.”

“Either that or Hassildor has sided with the scum!” Alf said.

“No, I doubt that. I know Hieronymus Lex betrayed the country, but I just can’t see a Count or Countess doing the same thing. It just wouldn’t make sense,” Martin said.

“It does if they don’t want their entire city destroyed!” Alf shot back.

Martin didn’t argue any further, one because there was simply no reasoning with the stubborn Nord. And two Alf was actually becoming angry, and it probably wasn’t a smart thing to get an Angry Nord even more upset that he already is. Not unless you want your face smashed in that is.

After Mankar and the rest of the Mythic Dawn troops passed by the three of us continued on, this time through the forest, just so we didn’t take a chance being spotted by Mankar or his men.

When we reached the city gates we were met by about ten soldiers dressed in Skingrad uniforms, all with their swords drawn as if we were the enemy.

“Halt! Show your hands!” yelled the one soldier without a helmet. He looked to be a Redguard, but I actually wasn’t so sure. He could have passed as an Imperial, but with an unusually dark skin complexion.

“There’s not need to worry, friend; we’re not here to harm you. We’ve come to speak with Count Janus Hassildor,” Martin said in calm voice.

“And why is that?” said the guard.

“We have news concerning the fate of Cyrodiil and the plans of Mankar Camoran.”

The soldiers whispered amongst one another and the tanned guard silenced them with the raise of his right arm. Then he walked over to Martin, just inches away from his face. Then stared into his eyes for a few seconds and said, “Why should I believe you?”

“You’ll just have to take my word.”

“Words really don’t mean anything nowadays,” the guard replied back.

Martin stared back at the guard this last about ten seconds until I started to grow impatient. “Come on, Martin, just show him the amulet.”

Martin looked at me crazily, as if I had just asked him to take his clothes off or something. Then he realized we weren’t going to get into the city unless he did what I had suggested. So he reluctantly got the amulet from his robe pocket for the guard to see. The guard’s eyes lit up in amazement as the amulet twinkled in the air. Then he looked at Martin with awe, and then at Alf and I.

“Come with me, please,” he mumbled in shock.

CHAPTER ELEVEN


The man led us through the gates, but the soldiers stayed outside, no doubt protecting the city from intruders. Inside the city, soldiers were everywhere, all ready just in case the Mythic Dawn decided to attack, or so I assumed. I didn’t see any citizens mulling about, but that was because they were likely hiding in their homes from the potential invasion.

“My name is Dion; I am the Captain of the City Guard. And what are your names?” The guard captain asked us this question while we made our way through the crowded streets filled with war-ready soldiers.

“My name is Rayden. This here is Martin and Alf,” I replied, motioning towards my two companions.

“Well, I’ll go ahead and apologize for getting in your face out there,” Dion said to Martin. “With Mankar and his men so close I assumed you were on their side.”

“There is no need for apologies, Captain, it’s quite understandable.”

Then Dion went on to explain where he was taking us. “We’re heading for the castle, where you will speak to Count Janus Hassildor immediately and show him that amulet. If you don’t mind me asking, how did you come into the possession of that?” Dion said pointing to Martin’s pocket where the amulet was resting. Martin nodded at me, because it was I who found it in the first place.

“I was walking through the prison sewers when I saw Uriel Septim and several Blades fighting with Mythic Dawn cultists. There was also a prisoner as well but he died, along with the Blades and Emperor Septim,” I said.

“You mean you were actually there when it all happened? You actually saw Uriel Septim die?” Dion asked bewildered.

“Yes, I saw one a cultist run his sword into Uriel’s chest. There were at least three of them. There was nothing I could have done to save him.”

“Don’t blame yourself, I understand the situation. You did a brave and wondrous task but just getting out alive with the amulet in hand.”

We arrived at the Castle doors and we entered inside, where again, many soldiers were lined up, this time around the Count himself. Hassildor was talking with a soldier, seemingly one with importance. The soldier was probably an officer of some kind.

“Excuse me, my lord, but I think these three have something of interest to you,” Dion said to the Count.

The Count stopped talking to the guard and turned his attention Dion and the rest of us. The entire room quieted down considerably, as all present was curious to see who we were and what we were doing in their city.

“Yes, Dion, what is it that you need? Who are these three you have with you?” Count Hassildor asked.

“My Lord, these three have brought us the Amulet of Kings.”

The room erupted into loud whispering and finger pointing. Count Hassildor’s eyebrows raised and the guard next to him scoffed rather loudly, and then whispered something into the Count’s right ear.

“Can I see the amulet,” said the Count.

Martin brought the amulet from his pocket and handed it to me. Apparently I was going to show it to the Count. Then Dion motioned for me to follow him and I did. We walked up to the throne and I handed Count Hassildor the amulet. He took it in his hands and examined it closely for a few seconds, and then said to me, “You and your two friends need to follow me to my chambers, immediately.”

I waved for Alf and Martin to follow me. The guard next to the Count said to Dion, “Return to your post Dion. You are no longer needed here.” The guard, who I noticed was an Imperial, spoke to Dion very rudely, as if Dion was under him somehow.

“Yes, sir,” Dion grumbled, and then returned to the outside.

Martin, Alf, and I followed Hassildor and the Imperial guard as they led us up a flight of stairs and eventually into an expensively decorated room, the Count’s chambers. The guard closed the door and Hassildor took a seat at a desk, where the guard then walked over and stood by his side.

“Where did you find this?” Hassildor asked while holding up the amulet.

I told the Count my story, and at first I thought he was going to claim my statements false, just Ormellius Goldwine had done. But, fortunately, I was wrong about that. The Count did believe me and actually thanked me for coming.

“You three have done a wise thing by bringing this amulet to me, and for this you have my thanks. I would not trust any other Count or Countess myself. Well, perhaps Narina Carvain of Chorrol, but even she can have a conniving mind at times, although for the most part I think she means well. But, now that you are here, what is there to do? Mankar obviously wants this amulet, but he does not know its possessor, does he?”

I shook my head no.

“Good, then we still have time to plan, but unfortunately I am not sure what we are planning for. Mankar wants this amulet destroyed so that he can clear the threat of another heir to the throne, but that puzzles me greatly. There are no other heirs.”

Right then I looked back at Martin, who nodded at me. He knew what had to be done.

“My Lord, my name is Martin Septim, son of Uriel Septim. I am the last heir.”

Hassildor was stunned and at a loss for words, just as the guard was as well. He looked at the guard, then back at us.

“Preposterous…there’s no way,” Hassildor gasped. “Are you serious? Are you really claiming to be of the Septim bloodline?”

Martin walked up to the Count and requested the amulet. When handed to him, Martin wrapped the amulet around neck, and followed next was a bright display of lights that lit up the room. Martin had proven his point most effectively.

“I don’t believe it. You really are the heir to the throne. This is magnificent, stupendous! Don’t you know what this means?” Hassildor had jumped from his seat and was wild with giddy happiness. “You are the future Emperor of Cyrodiil! Once Mankar and his minions are forever defeated you shall take your seat as the rightful leader of the country!”

The Count’s envisions were certainly high for Martin, but unfortunately he didn’t seem to agree with Hassildor. “My Lord, I do not wish to be Emperor. I only want peace for Cyrodiil, nothing more.”

“But you have an opportunity to become what most only dream of! The Septim bloodline has lasted for many years, and now you want to end it yourself? Surely you just haven’t thought about it yet, maybe if…”

“No,” Martin said sternly, “I have thought about it for the past several days. I do not want to be Emperor. That is enough of that, please.”

He seemed agitated, but Hassildor grudgingly dropped the subject. “Very, well, I see you are blinded by what honor should be passed to you. But I see you want no part in that, and so because of this I shall hold my tongue, my now at least. But, what to do with this amulet…”

“We must defeat Mankar and his troops, my lord. I don’t see any other way,” the guard said.

“Yes, Danus, but we need more men. The army of the Mythic Dawn is much larger than ours. They control over half the country for crying out loud!”

“Your honor, Mankar is now heading for Kvatch. My friend here, Alf, heard this with his own ears. And as you saw with the passing of the Mythic Dawn shortly ago, this is true. He is going to attack Kvatch. You should send your army to aid the city. Defeat Mankar and this war will end. But if you do not send your army, another city will be destroyed and we will be that much closer from defeat.”

Hassildor pondered my small speech for a few seconds, and then gave word to his guard, “Danus, assemble the troops. We leave in one hour for Kvatch.”

The guard left the room and it just the four of us left.

“Preparations will be set and the army will be on its way in no time. Of course, out of the thirty-five hundred men at my disposal, I will keep one thousand just in case the city is attacked.

“Yes, sir, I am glad to see you are wiser than that of the Count of Kvatch,” Martin said. “And I suppose we are now under your command, so what shall we do to help?”

“Can the three of you fight?”

Alf and I nodded.

“Very well, it is decided then. You two shall join my troops in battle. As for you Martin, you will stay here with me. I was not going to send you to battle anyhow. Not with your importance.”

“Yes, my lord,” Martin said.

I was a bit surprised that Hassildor would decide so fast on sending his troops to battle, but I guess I shouldn’t complain. The Count then instructed us to meet with Dion, who would lead the back half of the troops on the battlefield. Danus, the guard who was with Hassildor, would lead the front line. When Alf and I arrived outside where the guards were lining up, Dion was instructing them on what to expect once the fighting started. When Alf and I arrived he greeted us warmly.

“Great, I’m glad to have you two fighting with us! We shall stay in the back of the lines, away from the first wave of Mythic Dawn troops. But don’t worry, we’ll get our action!”

Dion was ready for the battle, which was good thing. Confidence was an excellent tool. I asked Dion to speak with Alf and me in private, and so we walked away where only the three of us could hear each other.

“Who is that?” I asked, pointing to Danus, who was talking with his troops.

“That’s Danus Artellian, Captain of the Castle Guard. He totes his rank around arrogantly. I’ve come to despise him, even if he’s a valiant warrior.”

“Skills in battle sometimes lead to a big head,” I said. “It’s unfortunate he has to act that way. I saw how you treated you in the throne room.”

“He treats me so low, just because I’m the City Captain and he’s the Castle Captain. I realize his sole role his mainly protecting the Count and leading the Count’s personal bodyguard unit, which is obviously important, but he shouldn’t act the way does. It doesn’t matter thought, I’ve come to get used to it.”

Dion then walked over to his men and said a few more words before Danus walked over to inform us we would be leaving shortly. Then he walked over to Alf and I.

“I just wanted you know I do not want you with me on this mission. I can lead my men perfectly without the help of a lowly Bosmer and a dumb oaf of a Nord. You’re lucky Count Hassildor wishes for you to come. Otherwise your sorry lives would have stay here in the city,” he turned and walked away.

I was very surprised to see Danus act this way. Here we were, risking our own lives to help him and his men, and he didn’t even appreciate it.

“I don’t appreciate your tone, Captain. We’re only trying to help you and your men. There’s really no reason to cop an attitude with us,” I yelled at him.

He immediately turned back around and walked right up to me. He was of course taller than me since I’m a Bosmer, and he looked down upon me while I looked up. But I showed no fear.

“You pathetic Bosmer, you think I care what you say or do? Well I could care less about you or your dumb friend. Just make sure to stay out of my way on the battlefield,” and said and walked off for the last time.

“What a jerk, isn’t he, Woody?”

“Yes, Alf, he certainly is. We’ll have to keep a watch on him. I wouldn’t be surprised if he’d attack us by “accident”.”

“Aye, lad. That I will do.”

“I’m sorry you two had to witness his wraith as well,” Dion said, smiling just a bit.

“Don’t worry about it. I’ve dealt with others like him before. It’s nothing I can’t handle.”

Some interesting developments going on with the last couple of updates. It's a shame that Goldwine and the troops of Kvatch are too ignorant and naive to believe Rayden and the others. Hopefully that doesn't prove to be their complete downfall now that Skingrad is coming to the rescue.

I'm actually curious if Martin would've shown the Kvatch guards the amulet if they would've believed them then. But I guess the group learned from their mistakes in order to convince the Skingrad people of the crisis at hand.

Thanks, I'm glad to see you like it. As for the next chapter, I don't Ill have it up tomorrow for two reasons. One, I haven't even started yet, and two, I work. But we'll just have to see...

CHAPTER TWELVE


The sun had vanished from the skies a little more than an hour ago, and as its replacement, the moon has been shining brighter than I have ever seen it before. I know not whether this is a sign of things to come, but it’s awfully strange if you ask me; of all the nights to shine so brightly, why this one? Look at me now, worrying about how the moon is glowing. I know I’m starting to sound stupid now. But what if there really was a reason to worry? What if something terrible was about to happen and I was unprepared?

“Woody, yer way too quiet. Is somethin’ the matter?”

Apparently my thoughts could be easily read. I couldn’t help it, something just wasn’t right. I wish I could say I was simply being a worrywart, But I can’t. Something evil is afoot, and I’m not talking about Mankar and his men.

“Nothing really, I just don’t know about this mission we’re off to. Before we left the city, when we were back at the Count’s chambers, it all made sense then. But now, I just can’t help but wonder if we’re walking into a trap. Don’t worry though, I’m ready to fight.”

“I understand, Woody. I’d also understand if ya’ were a bit nervous heading into battle. There’s no shame in it, lad, it’s natural.”

“No, I’m not nervous, Alf. It’s not that at all. I just can’t put my finger on it right now…”

The forest was completely quiet. I couldn’t hear any sounds of animals, which was also strange. I couldn’t remember a time I had passed through a forest at night and hadn’t heard a creature stir. But tonight…total silence. The only sounds were the clanging of armor and the pitter-patter of boots on the paved road. And of course the talking between Alf and I, something I don’t think the soldiers enjoyed. When Alf spoke it was usually louder than necessary. The soldiers likely thought the big Nord would give away our position, but that was highly doubtful. We had been in Skingrad nearly two hours before heading out to Kvatch. There was no way the Mythic Dawn would stop on their way to Kvatch, so it was likely they were way ahead of us anyway.

“Hey, I know you two aren’t trained soldiers, so let me just give you a quick explanation of military warfare,” Dion said when he walked up to us. “Once the battle starts our men shall remain in the back, sort of like reinforcements. Danus will lead the first wave, and if he needs us we’ll be there to back him up. When they passed our city earlier, our scouts counted fifteen hundred of them give or take a little. We definitely hold the advantage in numbers, but those mages are tricky. We can’t let our guard down.”

“Are your men trained in defending themselves from magic attacks?” I asked.

“We tried to hire a mage to teach our men a few counter spells, but the man we hired didn’t really know what he was talking about I’m afraid. Whatever our men know will do them no good against the skill of the Mythic Dawn.”

His tone seemed unsure to if we should be fighting with the Mythic Dawn at all.

“So you don’t think this mission was the wisest decision?” I asked.

He looked to make sure no other officers were in sight, and then whispered to me, “I’m not saying we should hide from them, but we should at least be getting some help from someone who is knowledgeable in magic. I mean, all they have to do is cast spells at us from afar. Our archers can only do so much, and unfortunately for us that isn’t much at all. Marksmanship is our army’s weak point believe it or not.”

Alf could use magic, but he was just one person. Dion was right with what he was saying. Surely we wouldn’t stand a chance against the Mythic Dawn, even if we did have more men. Though I didn’t want him to know I felt that way. I always like to remain calm, no matter the situation.

“So a surprise attack is in order?”

“Precisely, Rayden. That is the only way we can give ourselves a fair chance of winning the battle. Without the element of surprise I am afraid we are running into a mass-suicide mission. Danus doesn’t want to admit it, but I think he feels the same way. Or at least I would he would have enough sense to realize the situation.”

“And does Danus know of your feelings?”

“Of course not. I wouldn’t dare say a thing like that to him. He’d simply call me a coward and tell the Count to dismiss me from the army.”

“You say that as if he has tried that before.”

“He has, several times in fact. The Count believes in my skill I think, and so far I have been able to avoid all of Danus’s claims.”

“Why do you say ‘claims’? Has he lied to the Count or something?”

“Yes, he’s made of a few stories about me, but thankfully the Count has always dismissed the accusations.”

“But why does yer Count put up with Danus’s lies?” Alf asked.

“Danus is his “heir-to-be”. He’s been the Counts “chosen one” since he was twelve years old. Plus Danus kisses a lot of you-know-what. I’ve commented about that before, and he got so angry his cheeks were as red as hog blood!” Dion said giggling a bit.

“I’m very sorry you have to put up with Danus’s antics. It’s a shame some people act in this manner.”

“Don’t sweat it, Rayden. Just as you have said about your self, I’ve dealt with his kind before; all my life I have.”

We marched on throughout the night until at last, sometime after midnight I think, we reached the edge of the forest, and looking down upon a large hill we could see the city of Kvatch, but the strange thing was that no Mythic Dawn cultists were in sight. Torches were lit in the towers, and there were no signs that a struggle had occurred. Alf, Dion and I walked up the lines to meet Danus, who was peering at the city with the same perplexed look as we were.

“I don’t get it. Where are they?” Danus said out loud.

“What would you like us to do sir?” Dion asked.

“How the hell should I know? They aren’t even here!”

“Excuse me, but perhaps they were let in willingly?” I said.

“What are you suggesting wood elf?” Dion said with a rude tone.

“Maybe they were let in by someone from the inside. If that’s the case they likely struck with surprise, and given the low quality of soldiers that Kvatch has, it wouldn’t have taken much overrun the city.”

“So you think they’re in there, right now?” Danus replied.

“That’s exactly what I think. But there’s only one way to find out for sure.”

“And how’s that, genius?”

“Let me infiltrate the city and see what’s going on.”

“Are you serious? What makes you think you can do that without getting caught?”

“You’ll just have to trust me with that. Believe me, I won’t get caught. I’m used to this kind of thing…”

“Wait…you’re a thief aren’t you? No wonder you came into the possession of the amulet! You were snooping around the sewers, like the filthy rat you are! Wait until the Count learns of what we are allying ourselves with!”

I had had enough with his bickering. I wasn’t going to take it anymore. “You know what, Danus; I really don’t care what you think. It doesn’t matter if I’m a thief, or if I’m some kind of prodigy like you think you are apparently. Either way I could run my blade through your throat so fast you wouldn’t even see it coming. Now shut up and stop throwing your rank around. Just because you’re Captain of the Castle Guard doesn’t mean you can act like a spoiled jerk to everyone. Why don’t you show some respect to those under you once in a while? Maybe then you’d be a more popular person. Oh well, it doesn’t matter to me. I’m leaving now to see what’s going on in there. I’ll be back soon…”

I left before he had a chance to reply, and I have to admit I was feeling quite good about myself. I had put Danus in his place in front of his own troops. Surely he was feeling quite foolish, but at the same time I knew he now hated me more than he did before, which is probably a hard task to accomplish. I didn’t really care though; he’d get over it sooner or later.

“Wait, Woody, hold up will ya?”

Alf came running from behind, but I wasn’t so sure if I had heard him right. He wanted to come with me?

“What did you say?” I asked.

“I said hold up, lad. I’m comin’ with ya’.”

“Umm…..no, your not.”

“What do ya’ mean I’m not comin’ with ya?”

“You’re seven feet tall, Alf! How in the world are you going to sneak around in there when you’re at least a foot taller than everyone else?”

“Woody, I aint takin’ no fer an answer. I’m goin’ in with ya’ whether ya’ like it or not. Who’s gonna save ya’ if you get captured again?” He said chuckling.

“No, you’re not coming with me! Will you stop arguing with me, please? Just stay here with Dion and Danus.”

I turned around and walked away; hoping Alf would just listen to me. But of course he didn’t. I looked back and he was following me with a large grin. I wasn’t really that surprised though. Stubborn Nord…

“I told ya’ I wasn’t takin’ no fer an answer!”

I didn’t feel like arguing so I simply continued on my way. Alf and I snuck around the castle, to a hidden entrance I had learned of as a child whenever I snuck around during the night, when my parents were asleep of course. The entrance to the door, which was cleverly carved like a simple stone sketch into the castle wall, led to a dark wet tunnel that stretched for about fifty yards. At the opposite end was another door, this one wooden and locked. On the other side was a garden, just behind the chapel. The only reason I knew what was behind the door was because long ago I had searched for where I thought it would be. I searched and searched for days until I last I had come to another picture, similar to the one outside. When I looked closer I realized it was exactly the same picture as the outside one. This was definitely a clever trick, but perhaps not if a mere child was able to decipher the ploy.

“How did you find this here passageway, Woody?”

“I found it while exploring the outside as a child. I don’t know how I came upon it, but let’s just say I’m very observant,” I said looking back, and as I did I realized Alf was basically crawling through the tight space because of his height.

“Are you okay there?” I said, not being able to stop my self from laughing a bit.

“This is one o’ those times when I wish I wasn’t so tall!”

“Well, don’t worry. There are times when I wish I wasn’t so short.”

“Ah, come off it! Your size is perfect for what you do!”

“True, but it doesn’t give me the respect I sometimes wish I had.”

“Lad, yer a thief! Do ya’ really honestly care what anyone else thinks about ya’?”

“No, not really. Didn’t I display that feeling when I confronted Danus?”

“Ya, that there was hilirious! It’s about time someone told him off. He was really gettin’ on my nerves!”

We walked on through the tunnel, and when we reached the end I got out a lock pick that I always kept in my shoe. It wasn’t the most comfortable of places, but I got used to it. Carefully and quietly I unlocked the door and swung it slowly forward. On the other side was the garden, just as I had thought it would be the garden stood on front of us.

“Good job, Woody. Where to now?” Alf whispered.

I motioned for him to follow me while I stepped into the city. The streets were of course empty; it was nearly one in the morning. But, as I looked in the distance, I saw that many tents had been set up close to the city gates. I pointed at the tents Alf nodded in acknowledgment. We crept over to them, and I was trying to figure out what to do, when Alf, whispered, “Let’s go check the castle, Woody. These here must be the tents of the Mythic Dawn cultists. I bet ya’ Mankar is somewhere inside the castle.”

I agreed with him and we walked to the castle, where there were no guards standing outside the gates, which was considerably weird.

“Why do you think no one is guarding the entrance?” I asked.

“Oh well, let’s get inside,” Alf said quickly as be started towards the entrance. Before I could even reply I had to catch up to him. He was far ahead of me, for he had picked up the pace. He was already about to open the door when I whispered loudly, “Wait, what are you doing barging in there so suddenly? Just hold on a second. Why are you acting so weird all of a sudden?”

He showed his usual grin and stepped aside as I crept up to the door. I tried to listen for any movement from the inside, but I couldn’t pick up anything. Then I looked through the keyhole, which was a rather large because it was the castle door, and all I saw was total darkness…..strange.

“What’s wrong, Woody?”

I can’t explain what happened next, but suddenly I decided that I wasn’t going inside the castle. Something had come over me just then and nothing could get me inside that building.

“No, it’s not safe in there. We’re not going. Besides, its pitch dark in there and I don’t think anyone’s home. Come on, let’s look somewhere else.”

I turned to walk away but Alf didn’t agree with me. “No, Woody, it’s the Count’s castle. I think we should enter.”

“No, Alf let’s go,” I said, tugging at this sleeve.

“Come on, lad, just one little peek.”

“What is with you, Alf? I said no; let’s get out of here, now! Something isn’t right”

I tried to walk away but Alf took me by the arm and swung me around, and then stepped in front of me, and I was then between him and the castle, facing him.

“We’re not going anywhere, Rayden.”

He talked, not with his usual Nordic tone, but one with intelligence, normality. He no longer had the accent. He was now smiling, but not his usual grin. This one was pure evil, and nothing else. Suddenly the door behind me slammed open. I looked inside and all I saw was blackness, nothingness. Then, a blast of red sparks came at my body. The spell hit me in the stomach and I was sent flying backwards. I hit Alf, but his barely even budged. I felt a crack in my lower back as I fell to the ground. I looked up at the castle entrance, and Mankar was walking out, along with Lex and two Mythic Dawn cultists. But these cultists were different. They were wearing red and silver armor that looked ritualistic in way. And they were wearing dark silver ritual masks that covered their entire face. At their sides rested a steel long blade.

Then Mankar walked up to my body, looking down at me, and said, “Well, well, Rayden. You certainly have a knack for getting caught, don’t you? That’s usually not what a thief tends to do, now is it, street rat?”

CHAPTER THIRTEEN


I didn’t answer his question, but I’m not even sure that would be possible if I tried. My back was in excruciating pain from the contact I made with Alf while flying through the air. And now, trickling down from my nose and into my open mouth was blood. I felt my nose with the most delicate touch and immediately I screamed out in pain, for my nose was broken. I had landed on my face hard on the ground and my nose paid the price for it.

Then I felt a huge hand grab me by the collar and raise me from the ground. I was now dangling about three or four feet off the ground, facing Mankar. No doubt the treacherous Nord was holding me with one of his massive hands.

“You just don’t learn, do you Rayden?” Mankar asked. “You would think one would learn from his mistakes, but I guess that only applies for intelligent beings. Your race never was too bright. It’s too bad you and your Dunmer cousins can’t take away from how Altmer act. Our civilized manor is a bit too different from your…ways. I never did figure out why my father would mate with such an ugly race such as the Bosmer. I am, I admit, very shamed that I have to suffer the consequences of bearing the blood of both an Altmer and a wood elf, but alas there is nothing I can do about it.”

He raised a hand and pointing at me while looking at Lex. Then the Imperial traitor walked over and searched my body for any weapons. He found my sword and dagger. Other than that I was empty.

“Good, Lex, now take those to the armory and store them there. I don’t think he’ll be needing those; not for now at least,” Mankar said to Lex while looking at me smiling.

Lex walked away and the two Mythic Dawn bodyguards stepped up beside Mankar, who had now turned his attention back to me.

“So, Rayden, I’m sure you are curious as to why “Alf” would betray you, am I correct? Well, of course I am. Let me tell you who he really is. His real name is Alfhedil…”

Alf then interrupted him, “Yes, master, I told him that,” he said with an evil laugh, “and he was stupid enough to believe me!”

“Yes, Alfhedil, you’ve played your role better than I ever could have imagined. Now, where was I? Oh yes, Alfhedil’s lie. He was no prisoner, Rayden. That was all set up just for you. You see, when Lex was dragging you to the Dungeon I placed Alfhedil in the same cell as you on purpose. I thought to myself, ‘if this Bosmer was able to infiltrate into my city this far, then he must have a specific purpose.’ I knew it wasn’t a simple search and rescue for a lost relative or friend, but rather something more. I do not know why exactly, but I somehow knew you posed a threat to my plans. So in comes Alfhedil, my prize scholar. I found him dumbly wondering the frozen wastelands of Solstheim long ago. I was there studying the ancient ruins, for those were my earlier days of course. I took Alfhedil into my possession and have taught him all I know, or I have at least tried. It’s amazing how his skills have raised since then. Granted they are certainly unpolished, but I am nothing less than pleased with his fast progression,” he paused while admiring Alfhedil’s ability to accomplish whatever sick mission Mankar set for him.

“Alfhedil’s job was only to make friends with you and follow you throughout your little journey. Of course he had to kill a few of my men in the process, but that was something I knew would happen. I didn’t want any of my men to die, but it’s a sacrifice that was beneficial as you can see. Alfhedil has led you here to me, and now your cause is all over Rayden. You have failed and I have won. It’s as simple as that.”

What I still couldn’t figure out was where everyone was. The Count, the soldiers, the civilians….

“Where is everyone? Why is the city so empty?” I barely muttered. I didn’t even want to talk about Alf, or I guess I should say Alfhedil. I was so angry.

“We were willingly let in by Count Ormellius Goldwine himself. Fortunately for me he saw the way, for his mind is more intelligent than the other rulers of Cyrodiil. As you know, all have died except for Count Hassildor of Skingrad and Countess Carvain of Bruma. Countess Umbranox of Anvil is still alive of course, but not for long…”

“What do you mean?”

“Goldwine and his troops are marching to Anvil as I speak. They will overtake the city, leaving only Bruma left. In case you didn’t know, half of my men turned around and went back to Skingrad, where one of my inside informants will let them into the city where everyone will be witness to my fury!”

“What about Adamus Phillida and the Legion troops?”

“The blasted Imperial got away with about ten of his men when one of his soldiers caught wind of what was going on. Apparently a soldier of his caught one of my informers talking with a Kvatch soldier about our plans. My men and I were only a few minutes from the castle when this happened, and he took off faster than ever. A small battle between Kvatch soldiers and Legions took place while Adamus escaped, and all the Legion soldiers were killed.”

“Where did he fell to?”

“To Bruma of course! Where else would the coward run off to? He retreated to the one city I am afraid I cannot take just yet. The fortifications of Bruma have certainly been enhanced since I first attacked the Imperial City, according to one of my scouts. Narina Carvain is a very intelligent woman, despite her ignorant Imperial bloodline. I have not the capability of laying siege on Bruma, but that will all change soon.”



“But why are you doing this? I thought the Mythic Dawn was devoted the god Mehrunes Dagon?”

“That we are, Rayden. But I feel the need to take over the lands of Cyrodiil for my own. I mean, why should I not? I have the skill and intelligence to do so. True, I never have had a plethora of men at my disposal, but the world is full of traitors. That is how I have been so successful. I use fear to persuade others to my side. So far it’s worked tremendously.”

“If all you want is the country, then why are you so eager on obtaining the Amulet of Kings?”

“Because, you foolish wood elf, by destroying the amulet I shall destroy the dragonfires. And obviously by doing that I shall open up a whole other world, the gates of Oblivion!”

“The what? You mean the realm of Mehrunes Dagon?”

“Yes, you fool! My master will be more than exuberant when I am finally able to break down the barrier and let him into Tamriel once more. I figured why not take over the lands so that my lord be able to do his bidding immediately.”

“And you need the amulet destroyed so that the dragonfires may diminish, and in return the barrier between Tamriel and Oblivion will fade away?”

“Precisely, my little wood elf prisoner. Now, Alfhedil, throw our guest to the ground before he suffocates.”

I was let go and I landed hard on the ground, with pain shooting up by back in the process. I rolled onto my back and then Mankar kicked me in the side. Then he lifted me with a spell and held me in place.

“Now Alfhedil will tell me of your plans, Rayden. Alfhedil, what is it that our prisoner desires?”

“Rayden has not been working alone, master. He has allied himself with the last heir to the Septim throne. He is of course an Imperial, and his name is Martin Septim.”

Mankar’s merely blinked. “So, his name is Martin. Hmm, I could have sworn one of my informants told me his name started with a ‘G’. Oh well, continue…”

“Martin has the amulet and is now residing in Skingrad, with Count Hassildor and his remaining troops,” Alfhedil said.

“Very good, so the amulet will fall into our hands tonight? Wonderful; everything is going according to plan. Now, Rayden, what do we do with you now that my plans are set and everything shall fall into place?”

I wasn’t even looking at either them. I was simple looking at the ground, hoping this would all end soon. What I feared would happen was seemingly hours away actually being a reality. Anvil would soon be attacked and Bruma would who be Cyrodiil’s last hope.

Martin was going to die, along with Count Hassildor and everyone else in Skingrad; the soldiers, the citizens, the children, everyone was going to perish. And what was to become of Dion, Danus and the Skingrad soldiers that were waiting just outside the city? For a second I thought perhaps Mankar didn’t know about them, but I had foolishly forgotten about the traitor standing a few feet away from me.

“What shall we do with the Skingrad troops outside, master?” Alfhedil asked of Mankar

“Go out and let them in, Alfhedil. Though I’m not sure if they will believe you or not.”

“What should I say if they refuse to believe me?”

“Tell them that the Mythic Dawn army passed up Kvatch and is heading straight for Anvil. Tell them Count Goldwine told you so. Bring about ten of our men dressed in Kvatch armor. That should help.”

Alfhedil left us as well. Then, after he left, a man appeared. He was a Mythic Dawn cultist, but this one had a black cloth covering his face.

“Master, Janus Hassildor and Martin Septim were not found in Skingrad. We entered the city as soon as their army left. They must have learned of what was happening and fled.”

Mankar’s expression turned into absolute anger.

“What shall we do, master?” asked the man with the covered face.

“Search the area extensively. They couldn’t have gotten too far unless they were on horses. And if that’s the case you will find hoof marks and things of that nature. Hurry, time is being wasted!”

“Right away, sir! And what about the prisoner we’ve come into possession of?”

“…Kill them.”

The man left as quick as he had come, leaving me alone with Mankar and his two guards.



“What are you going to do to them, the Kvatch soldiers outside?” I asked, even though I already knew the answer.

“They will die…just like the rest, Rayden. But enough about them, I think it’s high time we focus on you. What is your role in this pointless struggle against my army?”

“Isn’t it obvious? To stop you from taking over the country…”

“But why risk your life for people you have stolen from for many years?”

“And what makes you think I’m a thief, let alone one for many years?”

“Rayden…look at you. You’re a Bosmer first and foremost. Secondly, there’s simply no doubt that I am correct, especially after seeing what you have been able to accomplish. You infiltrated the Imperial City, you have silently killed several of my guards, you’ve uncovered the secret entrance into this very city, it all adds up.”

“Fine, what if I am a thief? What does it matter?”

“It matters because I’m finding it incredibly hard to understand why you care so much for people who don’t care about you. This Martin Septim, why help him? Is it not the truth that he would not car whether you were dead or alive? Think about it, Rayden, do you honestly think it would matter that much to him, or any of the people you’re helping? No, it would not.”

“What are getting at?”

“You should not be helping these people, it benefits you none whatsoever. Be honest with me, what were you doing when you came into the possession of the amulet?”

“I…I was inside the prison sewers, outside the Imperial City. I saw your men brutally murder the Emperor and his companions. They killed him while he was lying on the floor with his hands up, totally defenseless!” I said in anger.

“So, like I assumed, you were sneaking around trying to find something to steal, correct?”

I said nothing.

“You’re a wood elf, Rayden, a tree climber. And wood elves are typically thieves, it’s the simple truth. Every one knows this. But, the message that I am trying to send to you is that you’re risking your life for the wrong cause.”

The last sentence caught my attention. Risking my life for the wrong cause? What is he trying to say?

“Rayden, I’ll be frank with you. I do not like you, but you ups greatly outweigh your downs. Yes, you’re a wood elf, but so are several of my own associates. I have learned to put up with their ugly bloodline in order to receive their help. And I am willing to do the same with you…”

I couldn’t believe it. Was he really trying to get me on his side?

“Whoa, hold on a second? Are you actually trying to sway me to your cause?”

Mankar smiled and then chuckled a bit. “Come, Rayden, let us walk while we discuss these matters.”

I really didn’t know what else to do, so I followed him along with his two bodyguards.

“For a minute let’s just pretend and say the Imperials do win back their country.” Mankar began as we strolled through the streets. “What would become of you, my little wood elf? Would you be welcomed as a hero, or would be left out in the cold? Think about this one long and hard.”

I had never really thought about it before. What was to become of me after this struggle has totally slipped my mind. I suppose I figured I would be welcomed into the Empire somehow. But is that really what would happen? Now that I thought about a bit more, I wasn’t really too sure. But I wasn’t about to mention my doubts to Mankar.

“No answer? Well, I’ll give it to you. You would be forgotten, Rayden. I’m sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but the Imperials would never let a wood elf, let alone a thief, into their ranks. Now I realize I am not an expert in the way Imperials choose their officers and such, but I do know they are ignorant and conceited. They want the world for themselves and no one else’s. If the Imperials were able to defeat me somehow it would be with the help of Narina Carvain and Janus Hassildor. Both are capable leaders in their own right, and they wouldn’t hesitate to take the glory and leave you behind. And this Martin person, does he not want to be the Emperor?”

I shook my head no.

“Well, then, there’s go your chance of gaining anything from this at all. Martin is your companion, and if he wants no part in the Empire then that leaves you all alone. I highly doubt the Imperial would offer you an award or anything. Perhaps a pat on the back is all you would receive, if even that.”

We entered a tower near the entrance to the main city gates. Next we started up a flight of stairs. The place was totally dark, except for a lone torch that was dimly lit, resting on the wall. So Mankar transmitted some kind of spell that lit up the room brightly.

“Rayden, if you fight me you will die. But, if you decide what is best for you, both beneficially and intelligently, you will become somebody. No longer will you be the unknown thief, who has to fight through life just to get by. Your name will be known throughout Tamriel and you will earn the respect of everyone. I have a feeling my men won’t find Martin or Hassildor. Track them down and bring them to me. They still believe you are one of them.

“No, you’re nothing but a liar! You’ll only kill me once I find Martin and the Count!”

“Are you sure about that, Rayden? Think about it, you are not an Imperial and you really hold no significance anymore. Martin has the amulet, and now that he is with Hassildor they will likely head for Bruma, where their defenses shall shield them from my army, for now. They will not travel to Anvil, for Hassildor is too wise to believe the city cannot be overrun. Face it, Rayden; they do not care for you.”

What if Mankar was right? I know I want to believe that I actually mean something, but perhaps he’s right. I mean, I really don’t even know why I’m helping the Empire. I suppose only because I do not want to be ruled by the Mythic Dawn, but if what Mankar says is true…maybe I would be something more. No…what am I thinking? It’s not true. Mankar is the enemy and he always will be…

“I assume by your silence that you are pondering my offer? I hope that is the case because if not you will be killed, Rayden,” he said while we were now walking through a door and out into a balcony of the building. We must have been in the guard tower.

“Look at it, Rayden,” he said while pointing out into early morning. The sun was now rising and it really was a beautiful sight. We had an excellent view of a wide area of land. Everything seemed so peaceful, even if it really wasn’t.

“This can all be yours along with mine, only if you side with me. So, what shall it be, Rayden? Will you accept my offer…or will you instead accept death?”

I didn’t want to die. And now that I was being threatened of that certain fate, many things were running through my head. Maybe he was right after all. I have to admit I cannot remember Martin ever telling me thanks for anything, not one thing. But on the other hand, how could I betray his trust? I would be no better than Alfhedil. Boy, were things so confusing…

“Think of it this way, Rayden. You can either fight what is ultimately to come, or you can embrace what cannot be stopped. The time for a new age is now, and nothing can stop this forthcoming. Not Martin, not you, not Hassildor, no one.”

I…I didn’t know what to say. I suppose his offer was a little tempting at least. And maybe…wait…no, I can’t think that way. Mankar is nothing but a treacherous snake; one that will wrap around its prey and never let go. He’s a sneaky Altmer, I’ll give him that. I almost actually believed what he was saying, but it’s all lies.

“No, I will not aid you, you filthy animal. You won’t win this war, Mankar. No matter what happens to me, here today, you will lose.”

His reaction was rather normal, nothing exceptional. “Fine, Rayden, do as you wish. It’s too bad you don’t see things my way. You would have made a good mage with some practice I think. Guards…kill him.”

Mankar stood aside while his guards unsheathed their blades and started walking slowly towards me. The room space at the tower was rather cramped. It was circular and about ten yards all the way around. I back up against the wall while they came. I had no weapons available, only my fists, which were nothing against a pair of metal blades.

Closer they came, now within a few yards of me. Then, when I looked over the edge of the wall, I saw a large bale of high at the ground level. You can probably guess what I’m thinking now, I was wondering whether to jump or not. I was up fairly high up, about eight stories since we were in a tower. If I landed wrong I would die, but if I stayed here I would die as well. I just didn’t know if jumping was my final option, but there was only one way to find out.

So I took a leap of faith and jumped from the tower and to the ground. It was the sensational feeling I had ever come to face in my life; flying down towards the hard dirt ground, not knowing if you are going to die or survive. It was absolutely mystifying in a way. Time passed quickly, which was exactly the opposite if what I imagined would happen, and luckily I landed smack dab in the middle of the pile, though not without injury. My back, which was still sore, didn’t feel any better from the impact, even if it was hay.

I quickly, but painfully, got up from the ground and brushed the hay off of me. I looked up and could just barely see Mankar looking at me from above. He screamed something but I couldn’t make out the words. Then a burst of light appeared from the tower, and the next thing I knew two bodies were falling. They were the bodyguards and they hit the ground with a thud, and obviously they were now dead. Before anyone could spot me I was about to run away, but before I did that I grabbed a dagger from one of the guards’ belt. It was sort of bent in a way but it was better than nothing. I looked into the distance and saw that the field was lying with bodies. I scurried over to look for any survivors, and found only one: Dion.

His chest was barely moving. Two arrows were sticking out from his right side and blood was all over his face. If it wasn’t for his dark complexion I probably wouldn’t have recognized him.

“Dion, are you okay?”

I don’t know why I asked him that. Obviously he wasn’t.

“What do you think? I’ve got two arrows sticking from my body and I’ve lost a lot of blood. I’m not going to last long, but tell me, what happened in there?”

“Alf, or Alfhedil I guess, betrayed us. He’s been working with Mankar the entire time. I never would have guessed.”

“Yes, I already know that. He came out here with about ten men dressed in Kvatch armor. We thought they were friendly Kvatch soldiers, but we were wrong.”

“What happened out here, Dion?”

They struck when Danus started asking too many questions. A fight ensued and suddenly hundreds of spells came from within the forest behind us. Apparently they had following us the whole time. We didn’t stand a chance. There were cultists, a few Kvatch soldiers, even a large group of mercenaries from the Blackwood Company. It all ended in a matter of minutes. But, they took Danus into the city for questioning. You better get out of here quick, before they see you.”

I wanted nothing more than to get out of here, but I couldn’t leave Danus here to die, even if he is a rude person. He’s actually a good soldier, according to Dion. I would need his help.

“Come on, I’ll help you up and…”

“No, Rayden, it’s too late for me. Just leave before they come! Wait…where are you going now?”

“I can’t leave Danus in there to die. I’ll need him…”

“But he’s likely dead as we speak!” He yelled, but I did not wait. I had to get inside. I didn’t really believe going back into the city was the smartest of decisions, but it was a necessary one in my mind…

ALF IS A TRAITOR!?
That is so sad... I liked him!

This story is getting really exciting. I have just one question though if anyone could answer, is Chorrol still alive?
I can't remember all the details and I am not sure!
But once again, a great read!

Nope, towards the beginningof the story it was stated that only four cities remain: Anvil, Skingrad, Kvatch, Bruma. Sorry!

But of course that has all changed as of now...

Wow, a lot of twists and turns going on here. It definitely makes for an entertaining read. And yes, it doesn't sound like a good idea to barge back into a city you just escaped from. Hopefully Rayden knows what he's doing.

Alf?! NOOOOOOOO!!!!!!

Ok, if you can get responses like that, you know you're on the right track. Dangit, I'm gonna miss the old gorilla, even if it was all a lie.

lol, a lot fo readers seemed to like him.

CHAPTER FOURTEEN


It was now daylight, but I didn’t even care. I was determined to find and rescue Danus no matter how high the risks may be. It is true that Danus probably does deserve what he gets, but then again I suppose I am being too harsh. Nobody deserves death unless they have caused it themselves. I’ve always though that way; an eye for an eye, no less. Of course I do realize that same rule applies to me as well, and frankly I have broken that tenet several times in my life, not counting the cultists.

The castle walls were for some reason unattended to as I made my way across the fields, running full speed. Mankar was probably informing everyone of what happened in the tower, and I’m sure he’s extremely angry. By killing his own bodyguards he had shown his true side. He was a murderer that didn’t even care about his own men. It was pathetic really, that he thinks himself a leader. He is nothing even close to such a title.

I was going to head over to the secret entrance, but I figured that would be too obvious. Mankar knows that I am aware of the hidden passageway, and there was a good chance he already has his men posted at the garden which the passageway leads to. I didn’t know of any other hidden entrances, so now I was sort of stuck. Then I decided to enter through the main entrance. It was a risky chance, but I believe if I was to perhaps hide behind one of the gates when it opens, I could wait for the cultists to pass and then quietly enter myself. There was also the possibility of the gate squashing me against the stone wall, but I was willing to take that chance. I really didn’t see any other way.

So I quickly ran over to the gate and waited. I stood there for what seemed like five minutes or so, when finally the gate opened. Thankfully they didn’t swing it open violently, resulting in the door opening about three-fourths of the way. I waited silently as a large group of cultists came running out of the city. There were at least twenty of them altogether, and one of them, a tall Breton, yelled, “Head to the forest! He’s likely headed back to Skingrad! Hurry before he gets too far!”

When they were all gone I was about to sneak around the door and enter the city, but then I heard the soft metal-sound of footsteps coming from within. Rather than show myself I remained hidden behind the door. Two bodyguards appeared from inside the city, with the same armor as the other two that Mankar had thrown from the tower, though these two were without masks. They were both Altmers but their skin was a little darker than usual. Apparently there were more than two bodyguards, though these two must have some sort of significance since they were not wearing masks. As they stepped outside and looked around, behind them came Mankar himself. He then spoke to the bodyguards.

“Go to the hidden entrance. He might be there, though I doubt he’s dumb enough to go there twice. Still, there’s always a chance and if he is there he will be stuck between the two of you and ten of my own men who are waiting on the other side, hidden in the bushes.”

“What shall we do if he isn’t present, father?” the female asked.

Father? Could she really be…?

“Then report back to me. If he is at the entrance, or if you find him along the way, kill him without hesitation. We cannot allow him to escape again,” Mankar said sternly.

“Yes, father. We won’t let you down,” said the male.

And could he really be…?

“Raven…Ruma…you two have not failed me as of yet, but do not think I will let you slide if Rayden escapes once again. It matters not if you are my kin, I will make an example out of you two if Rayden slips away.”

The two guards nodded and then turned to their left, where they started walking towards the hidden entrance. Mankar watched his two children walk away, and then he entered the city once more, closing the gate behind him. I couldn’t believe it; I never once thought Mankar had any offspring. This was very interesting indeed.

After Mankar entered the city and closed the door, I thought about following him inside, but then I decided against that and instead followed the son and daughter, though I did not have a plan as of yet. I wanted to kill the two, but not shed too much blood so that I may use their uniform as a disguise. But then again they were not wearing helmets, so wearing their armor probably wouldn’t be the safest decision anyway. Perhaps maybe shedding a little blood wasn’t totally out of the question?

The two led me around the castle walls not talking to one another, which I found to be a bit suspicious. Then, suddenly, the female whose name was presumably Ruma, said, “Shall we take care of him now or later?”

Then the male, Raven, replied,” Now…”

They both turned around and casted a spell in my direction. The spells went off course as I dove to my left. I hit the ground hard, hurting my back even further. But I got up quickly because the two were now running at me with their long blades unsheathed.

Raven swung mightily at my head and Ruma chopped down at my legs. I dove in between the two attacks and at the same time I took out my dagger and swiped through the air, hoping to hit something besides air. I did make contact with something: Raven’s right cheek. A scar had immediately showed and blood was dripping down his face. He merely gritted his teeth and came towards me again.

He swung at my neck this time and I barely moved back in time before the blade could make contact with my skin. Then Raven shot a spell towards my way but I dove again to my left and just barely dodged the attack, and now I was on my back. Raven ran to me and raised his blade into the air, ready to bring it down on my face, but he was then hit from behind by a spell. I thought it was Ruma who had casted the spell, but no…it was Martin! Ruma looked horrified as she witnessed her brother fall to the ground. He hit the dirt with a thud and then lay motionless. He was dead.

“Raven, no!” She screamed, and then turned her attention to Martin. “Imperial scum, you’ll pay for that!”

She threw a fireball at Martin, but he safely dodged the attack. She had fully lost her focus and was not paying any attention to anything behind her. I took advantage of the situation and got up from the ground, picked up Raven’s blade, and sprinted over to Ruma, who had just dodged a spell. I stuck the blade into her back with great force, and she immediately dropped her own sword. She then wrapped her arms around her back and grabbed my blade, but it was too late. I dug the blade deeper and deeper until she fell to the floor, dead just like her brother.

I was now totally out of breath, frantically gasping for air. I had fallen to the ground while I regained my energy, when Martin walked over with a smile.

“What, you thought I was going to leave you here to die?”

I was very surprised to see him and Hassildor, who was standing beside a tree in the distance. I didn’t think they would have taken the chance of getting caught. I guess Mankar was wrong after all, heh. Maybe they do care about me.

“I thought you guys would have already been on your way to Anvil or Bruma by now,” I replied with a sense of thanks and excitement.

“No, I wasn’t about to leave you here to die, Rayden. After what Hassildor and I learned we knew something bad was going to happen up here, hence the reason I am here now. We came to save you Rayden, because I had a feeling you might get caught again,” he said laughing. “Hey, where’s Alf by the way?”

I forgot about Alfhedil, that filthy traitor. “He betrayed us, Martin. It was he who led me to Mankar. Mankar is actually “Alfhedil’s” mentor.”

“Wow…I never would have guessed that in a million years, though I do suppose it was rather odd that he was so skilled in magic.”

“Yes, I should have been more careful. I guess that’s why I don’t generally trust anyone.”

“Well, I know I can’t tell you what do Rayden, but you can definitely trust me. I won’t turn out like Alf, or Alfhedil I should say.”

“Yes, I know that, Martin. You have shown me that my coming to my rescue.”

“So, what happened to everyone?” Martin asked.

I told him the whole thing; about Alfhedil leading me to Mankar; about Mankar’s son and daughter; Alfhedil ambushing the Skingrad soldiers; and of course my narrow escape. Then I told him I was going back into the city to save Danus. I didn’t know where I was going to enter, but apparently that didn’t matter, for Martin wasn’t going to let me go either way.

“Are you crazy or something? You just escaped Mankar for the second time and now you want to take a chance of getting captured for the fourth time? Rayden, you’re crazy, that’s all I can say. How many times do you think you’re going to get lucky?”

“I have to rescue him, Martin. He’s a skillful warrior and could lend us a lot of help. After all, he is Hassildor’s mentor as well.”

“I forgot about that. Well, that changes everything I guess. We should involve Hassildor in this discussion. It’s only fair that he gets his opinion on the matter,” Martin said as he waved for Hassildor to join us.

“It’s good to see that you are safe, Rayden,” Hassildor mentioned after patting my on the shoulder, “But it’s time we leave before Mankar realizes what has happened. Off to Bruma we shall go.”

“Wait, Count Hassildor,” I began, but was interrupted by the Count.

“Please, Rayden, call me Janus. From the looks of things I am no longer a Count of anything,” he said sadly.

“The Skingrad troops were ambushed by Alf.” I started. “It turned out he was a traitor all along. His real name is Alfhedil. He…attacked your troops and killed all of them, except for Danus. I found Dion lying in the battlefield, and he told me Danus was taken inside by the enemy. I’m sorry Janus, but Dion was on the very urge of dying when I left him. All that’s left is Danus, and I want to go in there and save him. I realize that he is your “heir to be” so to speak, but Martin feels that entering the city is a bad decision. We want your take on the situation.”

Hassildor’s face looked so depressing and he looked worn out, mentally and physically. Of course what could I expect? All of his soldiers and people have died, and his commanding officer is going to soon face that same fate if we don’t do something about it.
“No, we have to leave,” he said with a loud sigh. “It is unfortunate that Danus has been captured by the enemy but that does not justify us going in there and saving him. He can’t lose anymore people. It’s only the three of us now.”

“But, Janus, I’ve infiltrated both the Imperial City and Kvatch before, I…”

“And from what I have heard you were captured in both instances. Luckily you were not killed during those scenarios, but how long do you think you can go without getting yourself killed?”

“You sound like Martin. So I guess your siding with him, eh?”

“I’m only siding with what is right, Rayden. I appreciate the thought that you want to save my commander, but it is simply too dangerous of a task, especially for someone who doesn’t have a knack for staying in the shadows, if you know what I mean.”

I started to blush, for I could feel my cheeks turning red. I was a thief, that was my profession, and yet Hassildor and Martin were right. I have been caught the last two times. Maybe I’m not as lucky as I used to be. Either that or my skills are diminishing, but I didn’t even want to think of that.

“Well, I mean, it’s not everyday that I sneak into cities that are guarded by hundreds of angry cultists. You try it once and see what happens.” I was getting a little defensive, and Martin quickly noticed.

“Rayden, we’re not trying to bring you down at all, even though I’ll admit that I’m not too impressed with your “profession.” All we’re asking is why take a chance on getting killed? We need you more than anyone else. You’ve already proven countless times that you’re a force to be reckoned with, and obviously a survivor, if not a tad bit lucky as well I should say,” he said with a grin.

“I guess you’re right. Oh well, let’s get out of here then,” I said, not wanting to talk about it anymore. “You said Bruma, Janus?”

“Yes, Burma’s defenses are top-notch. That, and the fact they are located near the mountains, and from what I hear they have some kind of hidden fortress up there.”

“You mean Cloud Ruler Temple?” Martin asked.

“No, I mean another fort that was just recently built. Cloud Ruler Temple is still housing the remaining Blades agents. Last I heard they were helping protect Bruma from any invaders, but it’s all rumors. We’ll just have to wait and see for ourselves. But enough of this standing around; we can talk on the way there.”

I'm enjoying the flaws in these characters a lot. For Rayden being an "expert" thief, he certainly has been caught a lot of times trying to sneak up on someone or infiltrate a city. It definitely gives more realism to your characters.

Things are still moving nicely. I wish I could keep up with the pace you're going at with my writing. But alas, work and school always seems to drain me by the time I get onto the computer.

it's okay, i understand

Just thought I'd ask this...
Is there any way Alf could turn to the good side and see the error of his ways...?