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It has been raining since I have crossed the frontier and I could not be more pissed. This weather really makes me sick. I am now going through the Throat of the World, on my way to Riften, and it's unbearably cold. Could it be that I am not the type of nord that everyone in Skyrim is used to see and to deal with. Considering my acts and my purpose, where I’m heading to and what I’m willing to do is not a “truly nord act”. However, I know where I fit in and where I do not, and Bruma was no place for me. There are no ulterior motives in this decision of abandoning my land. Just because of work, and that is all about. I don't care about this stupid everlasting-war between the Empire and those Stormcloaks people, or what they prefer to be called: “real nords”.As I continue my way, the climate begins to become warmer, and that frigid ambient fades away, along with the dark-silvered clouds that were above my head just few minutes ago. Suddenly, I tilt my head upwards and I am able to admire the most beautiful view before me. My sight is blinded with red and orange-colored leaves, as in the farest plane I can divise a huge and blue lake. I honestly have to admit that I quite enjoy this sight. As I'm following the tiled path, I become aware of how dangerous this mind-blowing forest seems. Around me, I can hear several noises; as bears' roars, deers' bleats, birds' chirps and even bees' buzzes. Some of them could even be relaxing, but I am not truly keen on being near angry bears.Going through the path, suddenly I encounter someone horse riding in the opposite direction I'm heading to. She wears a grey full-leather armor, one which reminds me of the Thieves Guild. However, I can't distinguish her face, as a hood covers her factions. I notice that she is a woman because of her body shape. She is slim, even though she appears to be really strong. I near my horse to hers, with all the intention to ask her if I’m going the right way.- Excuse me, lady. Am I in the right direction to Riften?She seems a bit surprised, yet she stays still onto her horse, and without even directing her head to my side, she responds with a cautious tone:- Yes, you are. However, the South Gate is closed to anyone who wants to enter the city.
You should take this path on the left, cross the bridges and follow the shore of the lake, heading east. You should arrive at the North Gate in less than an hour.I look at her, analyzing her directions, and I realize that she knows quite well how to head to Riften. I wonder if she actually does belong to the Guild, and if I should even ask her about it. Nevertheless, I decide to keep my mouth shut. Maybe they don't want anyone to talk about the Guild outside of it. I direct my sight to the mysterious woman and I thank her.- Not a problem. Be careful with spiders and bears, they are quite common in this area.- She warns me as she pulls her hood over her face, even more if possible. She then starts to ride her horse heading to the direction I came from. - I shall be. Thank you again, and farewell.- Farewell, and good luck with the Guild.I turn my head to ask her what did she mean with that but, like a breeze of air, she has disappeared inside the forest. I arch my eyebrow as I look everywhere. Nothing. Is like she has never been here. Has it been just my imagination, or have I actually been talking to her? Anyway, I have to continue and head to Riften.
Despite not being sure about the true existence of that mysterious woman from before, I decide to trust her indications and follow the path on the left, heading to the other side of the lake. As she has told me, I arrive at the gate in less than an hour. I’m starting to think that she was actually there and that she could may be a kind of sorcerer or witch. I stop at the stables and leave my horse there, under a little wooden roof, to protect him from the cold or possible rain. I notice that the Gate is closed, and there are two guards in front of it. I start to walk towards them with the most serious stance I can have at this moment.
I look at one of the guards, and ask with all the politeness possible.- Excuse me, sir. May I enter the city?The guard looks at me. Even though I cannot see his face, because of his stupid-looking helmet, I can sense a cocky smile appearing on his lips. As if I were stupid or something, he answers me.- Of course you may, my lady. But I have to tell you that you need to pay a fine to enter the city. These are the rules here.I smile at his answer and arch my brow in response. - Oh, really? Well, this obviously seems like a fraud. -I say out loud for everyone near to hear me.
The guard then starts panicking, as he holds his hands right in front of me, as to calm me down. Ironically, I’m perfectly fine.- Alright, alright. Do not say those kind of things out loud. Someone could hear you. Come inside and keep your mouth shut about this if you don’t want to end up in the prison cells.He then opens the gate and I pass beside him, giving him a cocky smile as I jokingly pat his shoulder. When I enter the city, everything seems calmed and silent. The buildings are made of wood, and they are actually pretty tall. Despite the fact that is, in fact, a dark place, I have to admit that the city has its charm.
As I start walking towards the city market, I notice two people having a conversation about the Thieves Guild. The woman is a blonde-haired nord dressed with heavy armor and covered in furs. Not actually the kind of people that I’m fond of. On the other hand, the man who is talking with her, looks like a feeble and ordinary city guy. What an unusual couple.
I continue my walking, when I suddenly hear a deep voice calling me from my left. - Hey you, get over here, I want to talk with you.I look behind me, as if this situation had nothing to do with me. However, this guy was staring at me with a bit of a pissed look. I sigh as I start walking in his direction. I stop a few inches before him, just enough to be able to observe myself in his own dark-brown eyes. - I don’t know you. You in Riften lookin’ for trouble?I stare at him with a funny look in my eyes, yet with the most serious expression ever. He seems the type of guy who isn’t very keen on jokes nor vacillations, so why not to mess up with him a little?- What’s it to you? .- I ask with a harsh yet sarcastic tone.He looks at me, this time frowning and pursing his lips, showing his displeasure.- Don’t say something you’ll regret. Last thing the Black-Briars need is some loudmouth tryin’ to meddle in their affairs.Black-Briars? The name sounds familiar to me, but I can’t place it in my mind. I slightly tilt my head to my right and ask him.- Who are the Black-Briars?He looks at me as if I was stupid, incredulous of my question.- It seems that you’re not very familiar with this city then. The Black-Briars have Riften in their pocket and the Thieves Guild watchin’ their back, so keep your nose out of their business. Me? I’m Maul. I watch the streets for ‘em. If you need dirt on anythin’, I’m your guy… but it’ll cost you.- Dirt, huh? I’m not exactly clean myself…- I respond with ironic tone.He laughs at my answer, and responds:- Then we’re speakin’ the same language. Good.- He seems more sympathetic now. - So what do you want to know?A bell rings in my mind when I recall his words about the Thieves Guild.- You’ve mentioned the Thieves Guild… Can you tell me where can I find them?- You kiddin’? My brother Dirge works in their hideout. I used to run with them myself, but took a job with Maven after they started hittin’ a rough patch. If you want to get in on that action, find Brynjolf in the market place. I’m sure he could use someone like you. In a good way, of course.I smile at him, and thank him for the information. He just tells me not to stick my nose in the Black-Briars affairs and everything will be fine. What a toady.So I go back to the previous plan: going to the market. I walk the streets looking for the market. I end up in a kind of rounded plaza, with a few stands and their corresponding sellers. One of them strikes me. This guy is tall, red haired and lighted skin. He is screaming something about a “falmer elixir”, which apparently gives you extra vigor.
I walk towards the stand and I find myself glancing all over the bottles that contain that strange elixir. I begin to wander off, engrossed in my thoughts, when I hear a friendly yet sarcastic voice:- Never done an honest day’s work in your life for all that coin you’re carrying, eh lass?Surprised by this sincere commentary, I stare at him and finally I shrug.- My wealth is none of your business, “lad”.He looks at me directly in the eye and I can distinguish a bit of a smile surging in his mouth.- Oh, but that’s where you’re wrong, lass. Wealth is my business. Maybe you’d like a taste? - He blinks one eye to me.Anyone who heard our interesting conversation could possible think that he is trying to hook up with me or something like that, but I do know what he is actually implying.- What do I have to do?His smile grows bigger as he hears my question.- Simple, I’m going to cause a distraction and you’re going to steal Madesi’s silver ring from a strongbox under his stand. Once you have it, I want you to place it in Brand-Shei’s pocket without him noticing. I assume you have some lockpicks, do you?- I guess I have a few of them.- This time he arches his brow, but his smile has disappeared.- That doesn’t sound very professional coming from a thief.- I’m not a professional thief.- He gives me with a sympathetic look.- Well, you have the opportunity to change that today. Just, don’t mess it up too much if you fail.- Alright. I’m ready. Let’s get this started. - He shows me a full smile. - Good. Wait until I start the distraction and then show me what you’re made of.I nod at him and I leave the place, slowly, without drawing any attention. Then, who I suppose is Brynjolf, gives me the signal by starting the distraction. He is trying to sell the elixir and he is drawing all the attention of the market. I sneak upon Madesi’s stand and I take out a lockpick, to open the strongbox. When I take the ring, I slowly go behind Brand-Shei and I put it carefully inside his pocket. My heart is racing, but my hands are steady and firm whilst I’m carrying out my task. When I’m done, I stand up a few feet away from the crowd and give Brynjolf another sign, nodding my head firmly. He then drops the act, and he tells everyone to come tomorrow for more. When the crowd has dissipated, I approach to Brynjolf and he smiles at me while he eagerly pats my shoulder.- Looks like I chose the right person for the job. And here you go… your payment., just as I promised.- He hands me a sack of coins, which I guess cointains one hundred gold, more or less- The way things have been going around here, it’s a relief that our plan went off without a hitch.- What’s been going on?- Well. My organization’s been having a run of bad luck, but I suppose that’s just how it goes. But never mind that, you did the job and you did it well. Best of all, there’s more where that came from… if you think you can handle it.- Again with the blinking. Could he stop, for god’s sake?- I can handle it.- I answer with a cocky smile.- All right, then. Let’s put that to the test. The group I represent has its home in the Ratway beneath Riften… a tavern called the Ragged Flagon. When you make up your mind, come find me there and we’ll talk about your future.- Don’t worry. I won’t let you down.- Well, since I’ve met you it has been like that, so I believe those words. See you, lass. As he walks away from me, I start thinking about how easy has it been to find the Thieves Guild. I stop my thoughts on their track as I consider one fact. Was it me who found them, or were they the ones who found me?
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
I wake up, shuddering, sweating and cold. I don’t know what time it is, but it’s dark, at least for what I can see up that big-ass hole up our heads. I’m at the Guild. I’m safe. Mercer is not here anymore - I killed that bastard. I saved the family, as I now refer to them. I had a nightmare with Karliah and Mercer again. Even though I despise that piece of shit, he stills lingers in my mind from time to time. I hope Karliah is doing fine. Maybe I will pay her a visit tomorrow. I stare at the ceiling, wondering, trying to bring some peace to my thoughts. However, I fail to do so and I get up from my wooden bed. Should I go to the tavern? Maybe there is someone there. But I do prefer to stay alone for the moment. I decide to go outside, to get some fresh air. It is a little bit chilly, but it is enough to make me feel more calmed. Minutes pass by when, suddenly, I hear the rumble of the stoned entrance open. Who is it now? Could I have a few moments of peace, just for one day?- What do you want now, Vipir? I’m not precisely in the mood.As I pronounce the words I hear some steps approaching at me. I hear this person laugh right behind me.- Hahaha! Well, I guess your intuition cannot always be trusted.I chuckle as I look over my shoulder, only to find a cocky-smiling Sapphire staring at me.- Sorry Saph, I thought you were sleeping.- Truth is I had a nightmare and I could not get back to sleep. By the way, what are you doing here?I frown as she speaks to me. What a coincidence.- It seems we are on the same boat. I could not get back to sleep either. That fucking Mercer-bastard still haunts me in my fucking dreams. – I tell Saph as I clench my fist in anger.- Well, I’m sorry to hear that, Assa. – she sits by my side and puts her hand on my shoulder– I sometimes remember that piece of scum and I feel like spitting on his grave. Too bad he doesn’t even have one. A soft chuckle leaves my mouth as I hear her words. She always knows how to find the irony in every situation.- You want to talk about yours? You seem quite… affected. - I ask Sapphire. She looks terribly bad. Her eye-bags are way down her face. That’s not very usual in her.She looks down, not saying a thing. It looks like she may cry right in front of me, which has never happened before.- I don’t know. I don’t want to talk about it but yet I feel like I should let it out. - Well… We are friends, aren’t we? You can tell me whatever you want.She finally looks up at me and I can see a tiny smile running under those sad eyes. Oh gods, how I hate to see her like this. I nod my head to encourage her to tell me about whatever is haunting her dreams.- It is about my family. My past. Do you have family, Assa? I mean, besides from the Guild.- Yes, I do. They are at Bruma, in Cyrodiil. I don’t miss them so much. I didn’t feel like home there. They made me think I was a freak, a disgrace to the family. So that’s why I left. I told you before, didn’t I?- Yes, but you never talked about them in detail.- If you want to know about it, I used to live with my mother and my brother. Both were almost the same person. My father died of an illness when I was a child, so I don’t truly remember him, nor his face. We used to run a shelter, and I sometimes worked as the barmaid. I very much hated everything and everyone there, so it was not pleasant at all.Sapphire looks at me with all her attention and nods, gathering the information.- What about you, Saph? You truly never speak about your family nor your past.Suddenly, her eyes become sad again. Shit. Maybe I should not have said that.- Oi, Saph, I’m sorry. If you don’t want to… - I tell her as I rest my hand on her shoulder, trying to comfort her.- No. - Wha-?- I’m not going to run away from it anymore. You want to know my story?- Only if you want to tell me about it.- I don’t want to, but I need to do it.- It’s fine Saph, I’m here with you. We’re alone and you can trust me.- I smile at her as I rub her shoulder.She smiles back at me and starts telling her story.- I only remember, when I was a young girl, barely on my teens. I used to live on a pig farm in the middle of nowhere. We didn’t have a coin to spend between our entire family. We ate the same slop we fed our livestock. I was not entirely happy, as you may say, but I had my family by my side. My mother and my two sisters. My father… well. I know nothing about that man. I think that he is alive though. I look directly at her, my eyes fixed in hers. I frown as I imagine her in that situation. That must have been terrible.- I know what you are thinking, but it gets worse. One day, our farm was attacked by bandits, and they killed my entire family who didn't even brandish a weapon against them.I open my mouth, speechless. Sapphire’s voice starts to break.- Then… then they took me as a prize, and violated me for a fortnight. Tossed me from bandit to bandit like... like...- Saph... you don’t have to continue…She looks at me, tears trying to escape her eyes.- It's fine... I had to tell someone I suppose. Carrying around a weight like that... it hurts after a while. Cuts you inside like a dagger to the heart.- How did you escape?- Over time, I managed to gain their confidence. Then one night I grabbed a knife, waited until they fell asleep and cut their throats. I never returned to that pig farm you know. There's nothing for me there. So that's my sad story. – She concludes and she looks down, sheepishly. I’ve never seen her like this.- I’m glad you told me, Saph. – I cannot resist it and I strongly hug her. -You won’t ever be in that situation anymore. Because you well know that not only you, but also me, we’ll cut their throats down to their stomachs. She chuckles and her laugh makes me smile too. - Can I ask you something? – I ask Saph.- Yes, of course.- It is about your father… You really don’t know anything of him? - No. I’ve never met him. My mother told me he went away and never came back. Years later she also told me that my father was a thief. I have tried to find him, but I haven't had much luck.- Are you alright?- Yes. I will survive. Don’t worry about it. Besides, I think that lettin’ that shit out was the best I could do. - I’m happy to hear that, Saph. – I smile again at her-. Talking about best thing we could do… shall we go to sleep? I’m exhausted.- For the gods, you only exhausted from listening to me? You need to train some more…I hit her arm with my fist as we move forward inside the Guild. I lie down on my bed and I close my eyes as I feel the tiredness taking over my whole body. As I return to the world of dreams, I am left thinking about Sapphire's father. What if I could find him myself? I should ask Brynjolf tomorrow.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
- Get up, marmot! Ya even know what time it is? -someone yells at me while taking my sheets off me.I open my eyes in anger. Whoever has done that is dead. To hell with the code. I look around and I see Vipir’s mischievous grin and him looking at me with funny eyes. That’s it, I’m going to kill that douche. - Vipir, I give you the opportunity to live up to your name and run away before I strangle you with my bare hands.- By the nine, Assa. I didn’t know you were into those sort of things… But I wouldn’t mind you trying it -he goes on with that stupid grin plastered on his face.- Alright. You are dead. -I declare as I jump up from the bed towards him.He runs away laughing and heading to the tavern, trying to hide under Delvin’s wing I suppose. What a coward.Talking about bigwigs – I should go speak with Brynjolf about Sapphire’s matter..
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.I just finish fixing my hair up a little and ready that I am, I head to the tavern to look for Brynjolf. This guy is always wandering around. I guess that, at this time of the day, he should be trying (unsuccessfully) to get the attention of Tonilia.As I step in the Ragged Flagon I peek around for the red-haired man. Delvin greets me, from his usual seat. I wave him back. I spot Brynjolf sitting on the old wooden planks of the pool behind the tavern. What is he doing there?I approach him and I take a seat by his side. He looks absent-minded.- Bryn, is everything alright?He abruptly looks at me, as if he woke up from his daydreaming. He shakes his head and smiles at me.- Hey lass! Sorry, I didn’t see you coming. And… yes. I was just thinking.- Really? You actually thin- Ouch! -Brynjolf pinches my arm while flashing me one of his slight smiles.- Well, would you tell me what do you want from me on this day?- How do you know?He gives me a condescending look. Well, I didn’t know it was so obvious.- Alright. I’ll tell you. I want to talk about Sapphire’s father.Brynjolf nearly chokes on his beer as he hears my words. Me, on my side, I’m staring at him dead-serious.- What's this all about, lass? And why do you think I know about that man?- Because Saph and me… we really intend to find him. And since he was or maybe still is a thief, I thought maybe you could possibly have information about the man.- I’m sorry, lass. I’ve only met him once and I don’t exactly know where you could find him at the moment. I can just say that Delvin will enlighten you better than me.- Delvin? Why him?Bryn stands up from our seat and he walks away from me, patting my shoulder before leaving.- Sorry lass, I’ve got important things to do. We’ll speak another timeSomewhat confused, I watch as Brynjolf leaves and disappears down the hallway. Why Delvin? I hope he can give me some more information, since Bryn hasn't been very specific. Honestly, I don't know anyone who has a network of contacts as wide as Brynjolf, and I'm surprised that Delvin knows more than him in this case.I get up from my seat, and walk back into the bar, looking for Delvin this time. I remember he was sitting at his usual table a while ago, although he's not there anymore. Maybe he's at the Cistern? Although it's not like him to hang around there. Anyway, I need to talk to him urgently and I should look for him anywhere.I cross the hallway leading to the Cistern and suddenly I hear a whistling sound, coming from the room on the left. Isn't that where Vex, Bryn and Delvin sleep? I ignore it and continue on my way, when I hear another whistle and someone calling something similar to… my name? Normally we're safe here in the Cistern and no outsiders usually come in, but something told me to be on guard. After all, the door leading to the Ratways was just a few meters away - any nutcase or beggar could have gotten in.I sneak towards the room, unsheathing my knife a bit, which I always carry with me, just in case. Maybe this time could become a "just in case".I walk into what looks like an empty room, although I'm absolutely sure that sound was coming from here. I unsheathe my knife completely and look around for the source of the whistling sound. Suddenly, the only light that illuminated the room, fades, and everything turns into darkness. Blindly, I turn to the door and try to get out. It's locked. What the hell is going on? Suddenly, something grabs me from behind and covers my mouth, just before I can even utter a single word. I try to break free, but he is much stronger than I am. Fortunately, I manage to find his legs and step on his foot, at the same time I lunge backwards with a headbutt, breaking free from the arms of whoever was holding me. I hear a sort of whimper, and I think I recognize the voice. Still in the dark, though my eyes a little more accustomed to it, I grab a candle from one of the tables in the room and light it with a simple fire spell, which I learned in my little adventure against Mercer.In the gloom, I manage to distinguish a person - a man. He is not very tall, but not short either. Besides, he doesn't have... hair?- Delvin?- Nice shot, young lady. -He manages to say with his hand still pressed to his nose. I think he's bleeding. Idiot.- What the hell are you doing?! You want to get yourself killed?! - I shout at him, still shaken by the surprise.- I'm sorry, Assa. I just wanted to play a joke on you. I didn't think you were going to directly attack. -He says, almost laughing, but I think he is too wounded, both physically and emotionally.Yep. Definitely and idiot. - I thought you were sharper. With the door to the Ratways just a few meters away and the room in darkness what did you think I would do - ask who it is and say hello? - Well, that would have been very polite of you. But we thieves aren't here to be polite, are we? Come, sit with me. I heard around that you wanted to ask me about something.Still a little shocked, I comply and sit down next to him in one of the chairs in the room. I look at his face, searching for injuries. Delvin waves his hand at me, confirming that he is okay. For gods’ sake, this man never learns.- Well, what I wanted to know is....- You want to know where Sapphire's father is, don't you?- How do you know? - The walls have ears, you know?- Yeah, and besides, you're a bit of a gossip yourself.Delvin laughs, although he flinches a little bit, maybe from the pain in his nose. I roll my eyes and let out a sigh.- So, you know his whereabouts? - Yes, but may I ask something?- Sure thing.- Why do you young ladies want to find him?I stop dead in my tracks and think about what Saph told me the night before. I shouldn't talk about private things with someone who I don't know if he knows the history. I look at Delvin and try to be as honest as I can, or rather as honest as I should.- Sapphire doesn’t have any family. He is the only person she has left, apart from us. She has already tried to look for him, but failed. This time, they have to be reunited. Sapphire deserves to know the truth. - I am aware of that, Assa. This time... I will help you. I will tell you where he is, but in return you must be very stealthy and not let anyone else know. Understood?I get up from the chair and with a quick, jerky movement I hug Delvin. I hear him complain a little, as I have brushed his face again. - Thank you so much, Delvin. I promise no one else will know about this.- I'll take your word for it, young lady.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
- Solstheim?- Yes, Solstheim. - Sapphire gives me a confused look.- Where the fuck is that place? - I try not to laugh at her lack of decorum.- Delvin said that it’s an island, not far nor near from Skyrim. Northeast, specifically. We must get there by ship. - So that's where my father is? I'm not even familiar with that name. – Sapphire seems distracted, melancholic even.- Saph, if you are not sure about this, at any time we can quit and go back to our lives as if we knew nothing. I know you want to see your father, but if this is pushing you too hard…- No. – Sapphire says in a very determined tone-. I didn't come as far to quit now. I want to do it, and if you want to come with me, I'll be more than happy.I smile warmly at her as I put my hand on her shoulder. - Saph, of course I'm coming with you. I wouldn't leave you alone in this. Not even for all the money in this fucking region. Her smile is both genuine and funny.- Well, I think I said that too fast...Sapphire punches me in the arm as she laughs, though she still does so a bit wistfully.- I promise we'll find him, Saph.- I believe you, Assa..
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.Saph and I saddle up our horses in the stables before leaving for Windhelm. Delvin told me that there is a ship docked in the harbor that can take us to the island of Solstheim. It is so early in the morning that the sun has not even risen yet. We wanted to take advantage of the still darkness so no one would ask questions about our departure. If anyone asks (and they surely will) we are supposed to be on a mission that Delvin has entrusted to us and it will take several days to get back, as there are a few people and places involved. And there is some truth in those words. This is an important mission. Important for Sapphire; and all of us who want to help her. Whatever it takes, we will find her father.The air is cold and fog covers the landscape. The only thing I can make out is the stone path that leads to Wildhelm, to the north. We passed by Shor's Stone, where everything was still quiet and peaceful, as the few inhabitants of the village were probably sleeping. As we move on, the fog dissipates and the sunlight comes out. The vivid colors of the county are highlighted in the golden and orange leaves as well as the green bushes. I have to admit that it is a very beautiful sight.We have been riding for a couple of hours, and suddenly we hear a strange sound. Something we had never heard before. Saph and I stop dead in our tracks, and turn to look at each other. - What the hell was that? -Sapphire asks me, as incredulous as I am.- No idea, a bear?- Are you kidding? Bears don't sound like that.We scan the area, looking for the source of that foreign sound. It was like a roar... but it sounded far away, as if it was coming from the sky...- I don't see anything around here, do you?- Me neither. Maybe you're right and it was a bear. -Saph looks confused, and I would even dare to say, scared.- I don't know... but I hope I won't hear it again.We follow the road and it leads us to the impressive and dreaded geyser valley between Riften and Windhelm. We decide to continue cautiously, trying not to step where we didn't know if it was safe to do so. When we are halfway through the valley we hear that damn sound again, but this time dangerously closer. We look at each other again, eyes wide as saucers, when suddenly a huge shadow blocks out the sunlight. We look up into the sky and see a huge winged creature. A dragon? Impossible...True, we had heard rumors of dragon sightings, but thought they were the tribulations of drunks and madmen.The dragon began to roar thunderously, and launched a flare of fire straight at us. We were trapped. We couldn't run away. If we tried, the dragon would surely come after us and burn us down anyway. I looked at Sapphire and she nodded slightly in affirmation. We had to act immediately, even if we were alone. Two humans against a dragon, how fucking crazy. We drew our bows and tried to aim at the dragon, without much success in hitting it. We saw that it was heading for some sort of ridge in the middle of the valley, and we followed it. The dragon landed at the top of the cliff and we climbed upwards on foot. You could hear the terrible roar of the animal as if it were less than 30 feet away. - Saph, if we go up there.... I don't know if we'll come out unscathed.- Assa, it's cornered us before. Either we die fighting, or we die running away. And I'd rather die fighting, I don't want to be a coward.- You're a real nord after all, huh? - I tell her in a mocking tone (and with a bit of disdain in my words).- I don't give a shit, I'm going to kill that bastard and be on my way to Solstheim. I don't care if it's a dragon or a bear.I look at Saph with sadness. I instantly unsheathe my sword. She does the same.- This is fucking crazy, you know that?- Yeah, but at least we'll have a damn good story to tell when we get back.I slightly laugh. We look in the direction of the dragon and run to the top, to find it just above. It already looked wounded, as it had blood on its back. It was angry and cornered, so we decided to attack.Sapphire flanks it from the right and I decide to go left. The dragon moved his head to bite her, but I managed to make a cut on its wing and got its attention. Saph went to its side, to try to hurt it even more. The dragon roared in pain as she cut into the thick flesh. It ducked its head in her direction and I took the opportunity to climb onto its back. Saph simply lashed out at its jaws and dodged every time the dragon brought them close to bite. I meanwhile climbed up his neck, which was not as long as it seemed. I managed to steady my body, while the dragon kept moving to bring me down. With one blow, I managed to sink my sword into its head. It kept moving, so I did it again, and again, and again. Under my body I could feel that it was losing its strength each time, until its roars stopped and its body collapsed on the big rock. Still standing on its head, with my sword plunged into its skull, I still can't believe what just happened. A strange sensation runs through my whole body, and I suppose it is the very adrenaline my body has produced. Saph looks at me, proud, but a little incredulous. I completely understand her. I climb off the beast's head as she holds out her arm to help me. My body is shaking, and I imagine hers is too.Suddenly, a series of lights emanate from the dragon's body. They are like a swirl of golden auroras, which are heading towards me. Saph is startled and jumps away, and I mimic her. But, the lights... they follow me. They follow the course of my jump and surround me. They are warm and get lost in my body, as if they enter and never leave. A strange feeling comes over me and I feel somewhat stronger.Sapphire looks at me, incredulous and open-mouthed. I look at her, not knowing what to say or do. The lights disappear and everything returns to normal. Of the beast, only its bones remain. - What the fuck. Just. Happened?I try to pull myself together, but my mind cannot assimilate what we have just witnessed.- I don't know... The lights... they got inside my body. And the dragon... It has no flesh, only the bones are left. - Okay, easy. -Saph walks over to me and looks around to see if there's anything wrong with my body. - I don't see anything strange. Are you all right? -Saph asks, worried.- Yes, I'm fine. I don't understand what just happened, but I'm fine.- I'm glad to hear that. -She seems satisfied with my answer, yet she looks as startled as one minute ago.- I don't know anything about dragons, just the typical stories they tell children. But maybe there's someone who can give us more answers.- I'm sure there is. - Can you walk?- Saph, I'm fine, really. I don't feel any different than I did two hours ago.Saph gives me a condescending look and nods in acceptance. She decides to hold my arm anyway, just in case.We ride down the ridge and find our horses tied up where we left them, safe and sound. We mount them and continue on our way to Windhelm. - Assa, if you need to stop by anytime, just let me know, okay?- Seriously, don't worry. I can go on as before.- Let's stop in Kynesgrove for a drink and a rest. I don't care what you say. -And so she rides ahead with her horse in a northerly direction.- All right, bummer. -I mumble, trying not to let her hear me.- I heard you, weirdo. Did the lights make you dumber? -I hear Saph yell something at me a little farther away than before.I chuckle and gallop towards her..
.
.We arrive at Kynesgrove and tie the horses in some kind of fences outside the inn. There are only a couple of buildings. We enter the inn and sit at one of the tables on the left to warm up a bit. It wasn't terribly cold today, but I believe that due to the adrenaline rush our bodies had frozen to the bone. Saph gets up from the table and puts her hand on my shoulder.- I'm thirsty. Do you want something to drink? I’m going to the bar to see what they have.- Some mead would be nice.- Alright. Don't get up, okay? I'll be right back. -Saph walks away towards the bar of the inn.I get up and run to her side.- Would you stop treating me like I'm sick? I'm fine, I've told you a thousand times.- And I've told you another 999 times that I don't care. We don't know what could happen to you, so we'd better tread carefully. I roll my eyes at her and we finally reach the bar. The innkeeper, with a kind look, asks us if we need anything. We ask for our drinks and she offers them to us. We return to our table and drink there, while looking down at our feet, catching our breath a bit. We ride north again. This time we are very close to our destination. In a few minutes we reach the stables of Windhelm, from where we can see the harbor. We decide to leave the horses at the stables and I give a few gold coins to the altmer who takes care of them. I don't know how many days we will be there, so better not to risk it. Sapphire stares in the direction of the harbor while I finish tying the horses to the splintered wood.- Saph... are you alright? - I ask her as I approach her stance, looking to the frozen shore.- Yes, I think so.I look at her and give her a slight smile. - Do you really want to do this?- Yes. I need to do it. We've come this far. Assa, we’ve even killed a fucking dragon. I'm not going back now.- Good point. Come on, let's get into town. We cannot access the harbor from the outside.We cross the large stone bridge that leads to the city gate, until we stop in front of the guard right next to it. He simply observes us, up and down, and proceeds to open the gate to let us in. (The guard from Riften’s could actually learn from this one). Sapphire and I look at each other, we shrug, and walk into town.I've never been to Windhelm before, only passing nearby when I went to that grave where that Mercer's prick almost killed me. Everything is covered in stone and snow. I've heard that this town is the oldest in Skyrim, and that it was founded by Ysgramor himself. I must say that it has its charm.We advance a few steps when I suddenly hear a small commotion; an argument between three people standing to our right. Two nords and a dunmer woman.- You come here where you’re not wanted, you eat our food, you pollute our city with your stink, and you refuse to help the Stormcloaks. -One of the men says severely, hate spitting from his mouth.- But we haven’t taken a side because it’s not our fight. -The petite woman answers back.- Hey, maybe the reason these gray-skins don’t help in the war is because they’re Imperial spies! - The other man yells.- Imperial spies? You can’t be serious!- Maybe we'll pay you a visit tonight, little spy. We got ways of finding out what you really are. -The man that spoke first threatens.The two men leave and the woman sighs wearily. It seems that in this city, as well as the white frozen snow, racism abounds. Sapphire and I decide to approach her.- Excuse me, are you alright? We happened to overhear that conversation.The woman turns her head to us and smiles kindly.- Yes, thank you. I’m used to dealing with idiots like them.- So, this does happen often.- It surely does. In Windhelm, if you're not nord, you're trash. Luckily, not all the inhabitants are like that, but those who are, well... The Jarl is the first person who doesn't want us here.- Who is the Jarl?- Ulfric Stormcloak. Didn't you know that?I wonder in my thoughts, when it suddenly hits me. I don't really know much about politics, but everyone knows what's going on in Skyrim right now.- You mean the leader of the Stormcloaks? I didn't know he was the Jarl of Windhelm. Honestly, I thought he was dead.- He was arrested, but escaped. They say a dragon just attacked when he was going to be executed, but I guess that's just bullshit to try to seem like a hero. I'm not interested in the politics of your region, but Ulfric is a cowardly, racist jerk.- I am sorry to hear that. I hope the situation will change soon. By the way, your name is...?- My name is Suvaris. You guys are new around here, aren't you?- Yes, of course you can tell. My name is Assa. -I look at Sapphire as I nudge her slightly with my elbow, so she can introduce herself.- I'm Sapphire. It's a pleasure. -She says while making a subtle grimace. I laugh lightly. Saph doesn't like strangers.- Nice to meet you. Where you looking for something in town?- Actually, yes. We're looking for the harbor. Could you tell us where it is?- Of course I could. Actually, that’s where I work and I was just on my way there. I'll come with you.- Thank you very much. -I smile at Suvaris. Sapphire and I proceed to follow her.- Are you taking a boat or are you here to trade?- Yes, we are actually going by boat to Solitude. We have work there. -I turn to look at Saph and wink at her. She feigns annoyance and rolls her eyes.- The area you can see on the left is the "Gray Quarter". This is where most of the dark elves live and coexist. The houses... well, you can see that they are cold and flimsy, although at least dunmers have a roof to sleep under. Argonians are not so lucky. -Suvaris explains to us.We continue down the cold streets until we reach another gate like the one at the entrance to the city. This time there are no guards, so Suvaris opens it and the three of us leave the city.Down the stairs we finally reach the harbor. There were a few argonians working in the area. I wonder if this is also Ulfric's doing. I look at Suvaris and she gives me a condescending look, as if she is reading my mind. - Here we are. I have to go, work awaits me. It was nice meeting you, and if you come back, don't hesitate to go to the Shatter-Shield office.- Thanks for joining us, Suvari. I'll see you around.Suvari says goodbye and enters through a door in the wall. Sapphire and I head towards the ships docked to our left. We don't know which one is taking us to Solstheim, but we decide to ask the first sailor we see passing by. - Excuse me? Hello. I'm looking for a ship traveling to the island of Solstheim, is this one by any chance?- Solstheim? No, we don't go there. It's dangerous. The only one able to risk it is Gjalund. Ask him, it's the ship next to ours.- Okay, thanks.I look at Sapphire and she’s smiling mischievously at me. Here we go, her favorite word: danger. I jokingly roll my eyes at her as we approach the ship next to us. We also ask the first sailor we encounter:- I'm looking for passage to Solstheim. I have been told that this ship is heading there, is that true?- Well, yes, but to get passage you have to talk to the captain. That's him, the one sitting.- Thank you.Saph and I walk over to him.- Excuse me, Captain Gjalund?- That's him. Is there something you need?- Yes, a passage to Solstheim. Could that be?- But of course. In fact, we were to sail in less than an hour.- In that case... you could lower the fare a bit, couldn't you? If you were heading that way anyway, it won't be too much trouble to take two more people...- Sharp girl... Okay. That'll be 350 coins for the two of you. Deal? -Gjalund holds out his hand to seal the deal.- It's a deal. -I say as I give him mine.I take out a bag of coins and give him the corresponding amount. The sailors get to work and it looks like we set sail in a few minutes. Gjalund leaves to help prepare the ship.Sapphire and I head to the bow and there we sit on the edge. I look at her and feel her tense.- Saph, we're going to find him. I'm sure we will. I don't think the island is that big....I earn the slightest of laughs out from her, and I can still tell she is not feeling well.- Everything is going to be fine, I promise. -I tell her as I put my hand on her leg, so she gives me hers. She smiles warmly and puts her hand on mine, squeezing it.- I hope so.