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, Rayden, 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.
On to the next chapter
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, Rayden, 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.
On to the next chapter