Civil War Aftermath Chapter 2: War of the Sundered Dragon

[The Good Doctor]

Eduard Laenius- Medical Tent, Night
 

Eduard woke up after the nap that was basically ordered by the healer.

"Oh your awake. How are you feeling?"

Eduard was surprised how fast the girl reacted to him being awake.

"Oh uhh.... I'm feeling quite a bit better. I think I could stand up and walk now."

"Not on my watch. I said two days and I meant it. Well, for getting back on the job I mean. You should rest a bit more before you walk though."

"Lyra, you do understand that there is a siege about to take place, don't you? I will be there for that battle as early as possible. It's not like I'm on the front lines or anything. I'll be fine," Eduard reasoned.

He was kind of annoyed with how much care this woman was giving him.

"First off, I'm surprised you remember my name. Secondly, you're right. I guess you won't have to be at 100% to go back and strategize, or whatever you do. But, you could at least rest until the damn siege, okay?"

"Well, trust me when I say I don't forget things. Part of the job for me I guess. Alright, only until the siege though, no longer. I'm tired of being stuck in this tent. You understand right? Not much to do."

Wow, I actually got through to her. I thought she was going to be unreasonable. Maybe she isn't all that bad. She certainly doesn't look too bad.

For the first time, he really looked at her.

She was an Imperial, about 5 ft. 8 inches tall, if he had to guess. She had long brown hair, and gorgeous green eyes.

Yeah, I could definitely get with that, he thought to himself. Hah, Liv would be pretty pissed if she heard my thoughts right now. 'Eduard, women aren't playthings.' Maybe she became more like mom than I realized.

"You mind telling me why you are just staring at me?"

"Oh... sorry. I was just thinking."

"Yeah, well, thinking doesn't require staring you know."

When she delivered that line, she had a slight smile on her face.

Wait a minute... Maybe she... never mind.

He had thought of maybe trying to hook up with the healer, but he pushed that thought away. Besides, they hadn't exactly gotten off on the right foot. If there is a girl turned on by having blood spit in her face, they probably weren't the girl for him.

"You're right. I apologize. Like I said, I was just thinking. Staring was inadvertent."

Sadly, I can't be doing silly, well fun, stuff like that right now. There is a battle coming up. I don't need her getting some odd personal attachment to me. And besides... she kind of reminds me of Liv. She has those same green eyes too. I wonder what she is up to these days.

At this time, an Imperial soldier entered the tent.

"You Eduard?"

"Yes, what do you need?"

"Me? Nothing. But this letter is for you."

Most likely Jon. It's been a while since I heard from him.

"Alright, give it to me."

The soldier handed the note to Eduard, and then exited the tent.

Alright, lets see what he's got to say.
 

Eduard,

How's it going? I have heard through some people that you were injured. Hopefully I'm not sending this to you, and it turns out your dead. You know I hate wasting time.

Now, onto the report. Now, bear with me, this is going to sound bad at first.

The bandits attacked again. This time without their leader. I spread the word that you were around, so I guess he is scared. The attack was quite unorganized, and was put down pretty easily. In fact, we didn't lose a single man. They were sloppy compared to us.

Anyways, I have another thing that you may not be too happy with me about, but it sounds better after I tell the whole story. I have to say, at this point in the letter, I'm glad I'm writing instead of saying this to your face. I don't want to hear about you eating people again.

So, the semi bad thing I was talking about. Your sister found out about the injury. She saw it in my face or something. She's just like you in that regard. I couldn't lie to her. So she wrote in the letter too. (Don't worry, I had her write her part down before I wrote the letter.)

Ed,

I heard you got hurt. If you haven't noticed, I don't like when you're hurt. Not that you do either. But the fact is you need to be more careful, and not because of me. You need to stay safe for yourself. Not that you aren't trying. Just do a better job, alright?

Well, I guess I should move on. I don't want to get myself too worked up do I, Ed?

I guess I should update you on my life. It's going pretty well right now! I've found lots of nice stuff for the house at the market, and I haven't had much trouble. Especially not since Jon took over looking after me.

Well, Jon looks eager to get this letter out to ya, so I guess I'll go. I love you, and hope to see you soon Ed!

~Liv

Well, that also does it for me. Send back any of your thoughts as soon as you can. Stay safe.

-Jon
 

Fuck. Bandits again? I need to get back there soon and put his head on a pike. At least this time it seems Jon has gained the upper hand on them. He hasn't got the same on my sister though, that's for sure. She always had the same ability to read people that I do, and dad had as well. I guess I should write back soon, considering she personally wrote me. I will wait until after the siege, so I can assure of my own status. I wouldn't lie to her.

He decided that he was still quite exhausted, and laid back down.

"Heading back to sleep?"

"Yeah, I'm still a bit tired."

"Alright. After that, you should take a walk around the camp. Get yourself moving. Don't do anything stupid though."

Eduard laughed and then replied,

"You got it. As long as I can get out of this dang tent."

With that, Eduard went back to sleep.

[The Good Doctor]

Princess Dales Moitre, Falkreath, Moring
 

"Milady it's not a big deal"

The four maids where getting a lecture from Princess Dales, "You where sleeping with my teacher" She said sternly.

"So? He's super sexy." She turned around and giggled with the other maids, before saying coyly, "And unlike every other man, he let us do whatever we wanted to him-"

Miku's "tale" was interrupted from Dale's plugging her ears while saying, "I don't want to know the bloody details!!!"

Miku chuckled, along with Quelstor and Kongami, "Don’t you find him sexy?"

Dales turned away, cheeks flashing, before another chuckle erupted from Miku, "OHHHH, I just remember now, you don't like men, you like girls." Dales looked away, embarrassed, before Miku went disturbing close to Dales face, "Or are you mad at your teacher because he didn't share us with you?"

"Of course not-"

Dales was interrupted by Miku going even closer to her face, her hot and moist breath going all over the princess's pale face. Dales heart started to PUMP slower and deeper, Miku leaned in and whispered into Dales ear, while stroking her leg with her arm gently.

"Maybe you where Jealous of your teacher having us.  If you want, we can have an "all-girls night" just for you-"

The maid's seductive statement to Dales was cut off by Witchie's voice.

"Dales, may I speak with you?" she heard her master say from outside the tent.

Dales hurriedly ran out of the tent, eagerly leaving Miku and others back inside her tent, and ran into her master, embracing him.

"Help MASTER HELP!!!"

"What?!"

"I think...I think Miku's trying to seduce me!!!"

"Don't worry, I can take your place in that."

"I'm feeling...really weird. She...started stroking my legs and her breath was all over my face..."

"Anyway, can you let go of me? For someone who claims to only like girls you are hugging me quite a lot."

She instinctively jumped back, "Sorry about that...just a little scarred. I've...never been pressured into...AHEM you know, before. What is it you wanted master?"

"Let's go to my tent first." 

She froze up a little, "Your...not planning...to..."

"I just want to talk."

She breathed in relief, "Okay...good..."

She followed him back to his tent, when they where both in she turned around to him and said,

"What is it master?"

"I've been patient, lenient and tolerant with you. But your behavior today showed that it's time for a change. You know that in my age you would have gotten thirty lashes, ten for speaking down to the king and twenty for trying to give him an order."

She looked confused, "You where sleeping with my maids...whom where suppose to be doing there duties...and I'M royalty as-well..."

"Wont it be...weird if people find out you sleep with numbers of girls at the same time? "What kind of teacher does that?" they'll say... It might raise some suspicions...." 

"I'm quite a special mage in any case. I doubt sleeping with your maids would increase the way I stand out anything significant."

"It's useless arguing with you..." The princess said tiredly.

"Good. And from now on you shall not refer to me in any other way than master, sir or Skjari."

"I already do. I did call you a pig once or twice but meh..."

She began to leave, but turned around one more time.

"OH, forget to tell you, I acquired Legate Graccus's support and Prefect Lorgar's, the Darkened Arche

"He should change it Dark Archer or just Archer, what he call himself right now is quite a mouthful. And how will you feel about going back to Miku? Or do you want me to talk to her first?"

She looked at him, kinda scarred,

"Can you...talk to her first?. She's...very...attractive but I don't want anything to happen...

"Between me and her? To late for that."

She waved her hands, "No I don't want anything between me and her...as I said...I think she was trying to seduce me, and I kinda...liked it."

"So you either want her to stop her advance or you want to join tonight's party?"

She blushed darkly, "I....WAIT, no I don't want to join tonight's party, tell her to stop her advances on me!!!"

"Sure, I'll tell her that. And this time I will try to not hold them from their duties."

She smiled, "Okay thanks that's all I ask. Thank you master."

"Lets go then." he walked past her and out of the tent. 

Dales followed her master to her tent where the maids were waiting. 

"Hello ladies."

Miku turned around and flashed a smile, and said with a seductive voice along with the other three, 

"Hello Milord..."

"There will be time for that later. But now I need to talk about Dales."

"Yes? What about her? She's really sweet, don't you thinK?

"Yes, but she's not enough of a woman to be my type. It's just that she don't want any advances on her. Especially from you Miku."

She looked at him coyly, "I wasn't making any advance on sweet little Dales..."

"Doesn't matter, just don't do it in the future. She wont be joining our nightly parties so don't try to convince her."

She looked almost disappointed, and said in a soft and silky voice,

"But milord,  her skin is so pale and soft, her lustrous gold hair, and sweet red lips. Not to mention how attractive her face is. Wouldn't you want her to join us?"

"Already asked if that's what she wanted, she said no."

"Fine, fine...I knew she was "enjoying" herself when I..."comforted" her before you interrupted. But I wont  try and..."Persuade" her.

"That's all she wants. If she wants to join then let her make that decision herself. Now I think you have your duties to fulfill and I have mine."

"Yes of course, Milord" and with that the maids, disappointingly , went back to there cleaning duties.

"And one more thing before I leave; don't separate your beds."

They all giggled, before Kongami said, "Of course milord..."

[The Good Doctor]

Legate Gracchus Ceno
Fort Pale Pass
Morning

Gracchus woke up, the day after he had ordered his men into preliminary position. He grabbed his armor strapped it on, along with his steel greaved boots.

Today it begins. I will either go down in the annuals of history as a failure, or have bards sing my praises, he thought.

Gracchus grabbed his Imperial short sword, and slid its belted scabbard around his waist. He walked to the stables, his boots sinking into the mud where the trees branches did not cover. Arriving at the stables, he mounted up his already prepped horse, and rode off towards the front lines.

The legionaries had gathered near the edge of the forest, with archers ready to step out and fire, and the onager crews in position to move the large siege machines. The battlemages were also deployed with each cohort, ad were ready to fire ok his command.

The soft pitter patter of the rain as it fell on the tree branches was the only noise. The sun was hidden behind a wall of clouds, not unlike the stone wall that hid the town of Falkreath. Gracchus looked to his, and to his right, surveying his men.

The commanding officer of the Imperial Legion raised the war horn to his lips, and let out two short blasts that signaled the battles beginning.

The archers stepped out, and fired, while the onagers flung huge boulders at the Stormcloak walls. The noticeable sizzle of water hitting fire filled the air as the firebolts from the battlemages evaporated the rain upon impact. One cohort, on either end of the city, assaulted the gates in tortoise formation, shields used to block out the rain of arrows.

And so it begins, he thought.

 

***

 

Baldur woke up early in anticipation of some sort of attack. It was very early, but he was too nervous to stay in bed with Rebec, even though every fiber in his body wanted to. The night they had together was too perfect. He knew that it wouldn't last. Baldur reluctantly put his armor on and reapplied his warpaint, and left a note for his wife saying he left early to see to his men. He walked out of the longhouse to see what the situation looked like. He had as many archers as he could fit on the walls, and some dunmer soldiers re-hashed to dunmer battlemages as per their recommendation. Necro Nords and Draugr Dunmer were patrolling the gate area on high alert as per his orders. Their camp area was relatively close in case an attack was launched on the gate doors, in which their shield walls would be needed in a hurry. It seemed like it was over preparation, as all still seemed to be quiet.

Maybe they tried their luck in another hold for food. If so, maybe I should send teams to attack them from the rear...

"You're up earlier than usual." said Jodun from on the wall.

Baldur looked up and addressed him. "What can I say? Plenty of rest last night. I feel like I had enough rest to last me a lifetime!"

The soldiers from above started to laugh before Jodun scolded them and told them to keep watch.

Almost on cue, Baldur heard the loud war trumpets from over the wall, and an arrow struck a dunmer battlemage in his skull. The man toppled over and fell backwards off the wall next to Baldur.

"Jodun, you command the archers and mages. I've got the shield wall. MEN! ASSEMBLE!"

Baldur blew his battle horn, and in a few minutes the whole area burst with activity. Ladders were brought so soldiers could get on the walls faster to replace dead ones up top, and Grim Ones charged to the gate to hold back the enemy who would try to break in.

"Give me a team of ten Dunmer mages down here! Have a steady flow of frost magic on these gates to prevent breaking and burning! Men, press on that gate. No one gets in!"

***

 

Suri burst in to the bedroom of the jarl's longhouse and found Rebec already up and putting on her warpaint.  "They're here!" the redguard girl announced.

"I can hear that," Rebec replied calmly.  Her heart was racing but she was glad, finally, that it had come.  This day would be an important one in Skyrim history and she hoped that the gods were watching, and had not forsaken them.  She wouldn't even permit herself to think that before the day was out she could be a widow twice over.

"At last!  I've waited for this, a chance to be really tested.  Here are some more vials of poison."  Suri helped her aunt fix the vials in her belt and said, "It's an honor to be your shieldthane, Aunt Rebec.  I know I haven't always shown it, but I am proud."

The admiral gave her a wry look, but smiled.  "And I of you.  Just do what we practiced and we'll both be fine."

Her weapons fixed, Rebec led the way as the two women hurried out of the longhouse.  Outside, Rebec could hear Baldur shouting orders.  She took her place on the wall with members of her crew and the other archers and mages on the wall under Jodun's command, and waited under cover of Suri's shield for targets to appear in her crossbow's medium range.  Preferably soft, fleshy mages.  The longbowmen didn't need to wait and were already firing arrow after arrow into the trees outside the walls.  The wall shuddered as boulders from the imperial catapults struck it, but the archers were hardened fighters by now and didn't let up their fire.
 

***

 

Boldir awoke fairly early that morning. He didn't usually do this, but he got out of his bed in the Longhouse and produced a small wooden totem from a nearby drawer. Its interlacing knots formed the shape of a sword hilt.

Mighty Talos, I pray for these people.
For my comrades, for the civilians, and for my friends.
I pray that you grant them the same strength that you grant me.
Keep us strong, and keep us together.

As he finished, Boldir rose and began putting his armor on. He wasn't sure what had made him want to pray this morning, probably his discussion with Rebec the other night, but it had been a long time, and he was glad that he did. He strapped his shield over his back and sheathed his axes. Just as he began to head out the door to his quarters, he heard the blaring of war horns from outside. He began to run down the stairs. When he was halfway down, the front door bursted open.

"Boldir!" It was Erik, already armored.

"What's going on? Are we under attack?"

Erik nodded. "General Red-Snow and Commander Jodun are ordering the troops along the walls. They're covered for now."

"And the civilians?"

"Most aren't out yet. But those that are will likely be creating a lot of fuss soon enough."

Boldir crossed past Erik and headed out the door.
"Come with me. We need to round up the civilians and get them out of the streets. They won't help and will only get in Baldur's way."

 

***

Lorgar sat down crouched in the bushes of the Forest, surrounded by two dozen imperial archers. They where far enough from the actual walls of Falkreath, that they couldn’t been seen, but close enough that they could fire there arrows at the stormcloaks. Lorgar's enhanced vision could easily allow him to spot suitable targets, but his troopers didn’t have that luxury. He turned to his second in command, Prefect Neil, a Breton.

"Prefect, tell the troops not to fire until I fire the first shot, aim for the officers and the Longbowmen."

Neil nodded his head.

"Roger sir."

Lorgar got into position, drew his bow and an ebony arrow and scanned the wall for targets to snipe.

 

***

Eduard had been awoken by the sounds of what was likely the beginning of the siege.

He decided that since he wasn't at 100%, he would see if he couldn't lend his mind to Gracchus, and help come up with real time strategy adjustments.

So, he got up, exited the tent, and found Legate Gracchus.

"I take it the siege has started?"

Gracchus was atop Lil Ceno, his trusty dapple gray horse, when Eduard came up beside him, asking if the siege had started.

"Yes, I opened with shots from the onagers, battlemages, and archers. We also have a cohort assaulting each of the gates, but it appears they are using ice magic to keep us from breaking in."

Eduard thought for a moment.

"Frost magic? Well then, there is no use pushing towards the gate yet, if you ask me. Maybe we could divert some of the catapults to fire just beyond the gate. Hell, we might just hit a few of those mages."

"Good idea Eduard," Gracchus said with a nod of approval.

"Runner, come here! I want you to pull back the two gate teams, and order two of the smaller catapults to direct their fire just beyond the gates."

The runner ran off, and told a fellow runner the orders who took off towards a gate.

"Well, you seem to know what you are doing Eduard. Thank you for the advice," Gracchus said.

"It's no problem sir. I gotta make myself useful somehow."

"Don't worry about that. If you aren't making yourself useful, I can always send you to get more rocks like some of the other lackeys," Gracchus said with a smile.

"Well then, I'm glad I can make myself useful. In any case, I'd like to see how the Stormcloaks respond to this new strategy."

"Me too. I guess we'll just have to wait and see," Gracchus said.

 

***

 

Baldur was standing back overlooking the Necro Nords when the catapult rocks started whizzing over his head. The boulders went straight into the group of ten battlemages, killing three instantly and knocking out two.

"You five, move up in the Necro Nord ranks by the gate and stay close to it so they can't target you! Stay focused on the center of the gate! Archers, keep firing!"

This really isn't any different from the battle we had last. We have the advantage of the walls, and it will take a while before they can actually break a hole in the wall. They'll need to go and get more rocks before that happens.

Just keep pressing against that gate! Archers don't stop firing!

They may start targeting civilians and houses soon once they see they can't break in. It can't be helped.
 

***

 

Rebec could see that Suri was eager to fight, but the imperials were still at range, trying to soften them up.  "Patience," she said as the redguard kept poking her head up.  "Waiting is the hardest, on land as on sea."  She saw the rock come hurling over the wall, striking some of the Dunmer off it, and cursed quietly.

 

***

 

Valindil and his troops were at the top of the hill when Gracchus decided to begin the siege. After a few minutes of last minute preparations, Gracchus finally gave the order for his men to fire arrows. Hundreds of Imperial arrows were fired, and a few seconds later, hundreds of Elven arrows were fired in response.

From atop his horse, Valindil could see almost perfectly into the city. When the first arrows were fired, tens of Stormcloaks dropped instantly. The battle had begun. In an instant the city was in chaos. Civilians were running this way and that to escape the fighting, while Stormcloaks were racing to their battle positions.

The Thalmor mages were ordered to launch fireballs at the men on the walls, their explosiveness took out multiple men at a time.

 

***

 

Boldir was surprised by how quickly the activity had picked up in the streets. Even though the siege had just begun, soldiers everywhere were flocking to their posts. Boldir knew they would be fine. His worry was the civilians. Many were in the streets shouting and grabbing troops in attempts to get explanations or promises of safety. He was doing his best to keep them under control.

"Everybody calm down! You're only making things more difficult!"
A few of the civilians listened and turned to face him. The majority, however, continued to carry on. "Get indoors! Out out of the streets!

The few that listened hurried home. But it wasn't enough. It was much too chaotic for Boldir to get their attention.
"Erik, find some city guardsmen. Use them to round these people up. We need to have them out of the streets."

Just then, a barrage of big mountain rocks came flying over the wall, raining down on both the troops massed behind it and the stray civilians. This caused even more panic to spread among them.

"Shit! You hear me Erik?"

"Get the town guards. Round up civilians."

"Good." Boldir turned away from his Lieutenant and resumed his attempts to convince people to get out of the streets. "Come on people! Get indoors!"

 

***

 

Baldur turned around when he heard screams from behind. The mortars that missed the walls flew into some houses and into the Stormcloak forces in the back who were making the civilians run in the opposite direction. It was a chaotic scene due to the influx of people in the small town that was normally only supposed to hold under 2500 people. This at least caused them to start listening to the soldiers more and to get the hell out of the streets. The sight made Baldur angry, but he knew in the long run this could only work in his favor.

 

***

 

"Having fun?" 

Gracchus heard a voice from his right and turned his head to see that Synod mage standing besides him with arms crossed and also watching the battlefield. 

"Not so far. The battle seems to be going as planned, which means not much of anything is happening," Gracchus said.

"Isn't much of a plan if nothing is happening. And why send your own men when you can waste the Thalmor's? If they're here to help, might as well put them to good use."

"It's a siege. Nothing happens. Maybe we break in, maybe we starve them out, maybe they surrender. It's how sieges work. And trust me, the Thalmor are not liable to do anything I say. They are under the command of their Colonel, Valindil," Gracchus said with a hint of annoyance.

"But starving them out would mean that there wouldn't be much food left for us."

"As is said, I have no control over them. And starving them out is the third option. I hope our catapults can knock a hole in the walls, or we can open the gates to take the city."

"If you got no influence over them, what will you do when they do things that you don't approve of? Like the assassination attempt on the princess. Which they still haven't answered for."

Gracchus was thoroughly annoyed with this man questioning his methods.

"Why do you care so much? What is a simple Synod mage doing worrying about my intentions, especially my intentions regarding the Thalmor? What are you hiding?"

"I'm watching after my interests. I'm being payed a royal sum for mentoring the princess. If the Thalmor want to see her dead..."

Eduard spoke up. "Can I ask you something? What would you rather have, us use the Thalmors lives properly to advance our own goals, or use them improperly and get everyone killed?"

"Didn't you just say you can't use them, that you have no control over them? If she dies for your inaction towards the Thalmor, heads WILL roll."

"However, most if not all of them are occupied with the siege. Dying for our cause. What if I walk with you to the Princess, and give you an effective defense strategy. There's always room for improvement. I'm sorry, but these elves are necessary for the siege. If it were up to me, we would force them under our command. We don't have that kind of power though, so we work with what we've got."

"I'm not asking you to kill them all." Not yet anyway. "I'm asking you to show them that they can't do whatever they please."

By this point, Eduard had a half smile. He admired the man's drive. "What would you suppose we do to show them?"

"They still haven't answered about the assassination attempt. You could always start there with some interrogation. Find out who ordered it."

"You know what, I'm up for that. With the Legates permission, I'd ask around. It'll have to wait until after the siege though, if that's okay. They will answer for it though," he then leaned towards the Mage, and quietly added "or maybe they'll just all die in the siege."

"Well I'll be off to find the princess. And take my advice; if the Thalmor are here to bleed for you, so let them do it. Don't waste your own blood." the Synod mage walked away into the camp and was soon out of sight among the tents. 

Gracchus had stopped talking, instead choosing to listen to Eduard take up his defense. The mage left, leaving only Eduard and Gracchus. "Thank you for that. He doesn't understand we need them to complete the siege, but afterwards all bets are off."

"I hear you on that. I don't like the Thalmor, but we will have to deal with them. For now."

"Exactly. Now, should we pull back our forces, and send troops to block off the roads out? We can't exactly keep up the stack forever, and it's already afternoon."

Eduard nodded his head. "Yeah, that sounds like a plan to me."

Gracchus raised the war horn to his lips, have a long blow and two short ones, and the troops ceased firing before pulling back to their camp.

"I want three cohorts on each gate, guarding against their escape. Block off the roads, and don't let them run!" Gracchus commanded.

[The Good Doctor]

Legate Gracchus Ceno, Pilus Rato, Lorgar Grim-Maw, Eduard Lanius
Falkreath Camp 
Evening

Gracchus was with Pilus in the command tent with the noise of soldiers bustling in the background preparing for the next attack.

"I thought it went over well," Pilus said.

"Yes, it was as expected. Neither a victory not defeat. A stalemate," Gracchus replied.

Lorgar was currently carrying one of his injured archer's, a Stormcloak Longbowmen got him in the shoulder. Lorgar was drenched in the blood of his own soldiers. He gently dropped him off on a stretcher. The injured solder tiredly asked his NCO,

"Sir will I make it:?"

Lorgar lightly gripped his other shoulder,

"Dont worry soldier, you'll be fine."

The Legionary nodded his head, before he was taking away by a medic. Lorgar made his way to the command tent, and searched for his CO, Legate Graccus, Lorgar was really pissed off.

"Sir, those pointy-eared bastards massacred civilians!!!"

"It's alright Lorgar. Our catapults also hit some civilians I'm sure, as did our arrows," Gracchus said.

Pilus, looking over some maps, said, "Aye, and our battlemages may have too."

"I thought we where trying to be minimal in civilian damage? Though it appears it cannot be helped..."

Lorgar switched back to his regular "dark" voice,

"How many soldiers did we loose-

Just then, a female Breton busted in, it was Princess Dales. She wasn't dressed in her usual fluffy garb, but a maid outfft. She was covered in blood. She spoke in her usual girly voice.

"Ummm excuse me Legate?"

"Yes princess, what is it?" Gracchus asked.

"We need more men at the medical tent, we can barely handle all of the wounded."

"We already have all of the healers there, but I think some of the battlemages could help. You'll find them near the catapults," Gracchus said.

"Thank you Legate" She squealed happily, and politely nodded at Lorgar , before leaving the tent to search for the battle mages.

"Now that that is out of the way....I'm unsure of the casualties, but I know most of them were from arrows, and as such we have more wounded than anything," Gracchus said.

"Well then." He turned away for a second,

"Sir would it be okay to talk to you... Privately?"

"Um yes, if you'll excuse me," Gracchus said to the other Legate's present, and to Pilus.

The men left the tent, and Gracchus asked, "What is it Lorgar?"

"I..." Lorgar paused for a second, "I managed to get into contact with my, contact. He's here and ready to speak with you if you have time."

"Sure...um...where would he, or she, like to meet?" Gracchus asked, somewhat nervous.

"I can bring him here if you don't mind."

"If that suits him, than in fine with it."

Gracchus was somewhat anxious, knowing that this meeting would have huge implications. 

Lorgar nodded, before heading out of the tent. In ten minutes, Lorgar returned with a hooded man, clad in a dark cloak, his face cloaked in shadow. He spoke in a sophisticated and civil voice, it was...fammilar somehow...

"You are Legate Gracchus?"

"General...General Tullius, is that you?" Gracchus asked in quiet exasperation. 

The figure chuckled, before putting down his hood, revealing a man with grey hair and a black eye patch. It was Tullius. 

"Legate Gracchus, its been a long time."

"Yes, yes it has. At least ten years, if I'm correct," Gracchus said.

"So, why are you here Tullius?" Gracchus asked.

"Lorgar tells me here you want to arrange a meeting between you, Princess Dales, and General Red-Snow?"

"That wouldn't happen, even if I wanted it to. Red-Snow could just turn and slaughter my men while we attack the Thalmor," Gracchus said.

"I know General Red-snow" Interrupted Lorgar, "If anything, he's a man of honor and reason, he wouldn't do that unless he had sufficient motivation."

Gracchus looked at Lorgar, and shook his head.

"What more motivation does he need? We are an invading army, and if we attack the Thalmor, the winner will be weak and easily destroyed by his forces."

Tullius merely said.

"You're paranoid."

"It is better to be paranoid than to be wrong. I will not meet him, not with the threat of my army's destruction. If you want to talk about something else, we can, but this particular discussion is over," Gracchus replied forcibly.

Tullius laughed, 

"Marius would be disappointed and disgusted with you. A true general has to take risks, it appears your willingly to take none."

And with that, Tullius pulled up his hood, and walked out of the tent.

Tullius was walking away, but Gracchus yelled at him,

"I will not needlessly risk my men's lives for some fanciful dream of peace and hand holding! WE ARE AT WAR!"

"So you'd rather continue this meaningless conflict, then take the fight to the dominion? Or maybe you like being the whore to the colonel inquisitor, does he ask you for favors Legate?"

"Meaningless? You fought this war just as I did, but I have yet to lose. And I take no orders from Thalmor colonels. I am in command of this legion, and I will do what is best for it, which is to not present the Stormcloaks with an opportunity to rid themselves of both us and the Thalmor. Once this siege is over, then we take on the Thalmor, but not any sooner."

"You are blinded by your fear and pride, you had the chance to make a difference, and you didn't take it, for fear. Your a disgrace to the Legion, and Marius was an idiot to trust you. We're done talking" 

Tullius then left.

"And yet, I continue to fight, because I, unlike you and Marius, have not yet ABANDONED the LEGION!" Gracchus yelled.

"I am no traitor, nor do I fear anyone! I command my men with the courage needed to win this war, while you prance around in the forest, hiding from war."

Gracchus was only talking to himself now, Tullius having left.

******

As the others left, Eduard went inside the tent.

"Sir, I have an idea regarding the siege."

As Tullius, Lorgar, and the other Legates were leaving, Gracchus noticed that Eduard had arrived, with an idea.

"What is it? Your last one worked pretty well," Gracchus told him.

"Well I had an idea that would keep up the pressure on our opponents, with minimal effort from us. With the siege on a pause of sorts, I wish to keep the pressure up. My plan is to fire a catapults into the city. Hopefully, they'll be taken way off guard."

"Into the city, hmmm....that us a good idea. We could have a group of battlemages throw some fireballs over, making them have to put out the fires. What do you think Pilus?" Gracchus asked.

"I think it's as good an idea as any. Me and Eduard can lead it, I didn't get much action in earlier anyway," Pilus responded.

Gracchus waited for Pilus to respond, and then gave the two men his commands.

"Well, it's settled then. Pilus, you and Eduard will take the four four-men catapult crews, and go tonight. Maybe fire the firebolts and arrows from the opposite side of the city as a distraction, and when the guards are preoccupied, we fire the catapults. Sound good?"

"Alright, if we are doing opposite sides, I will head for the catapults. Pilus, you should round up some archers and mages and begin the distraction. I would, but I'm about one good night of rest away from 100%, and I don't want to ruin that when I don't have to. Besides, you wanted some action." Eduard said with a laugh.

"Sounds good to me," Pilus said with a smile as he left.

Within twenty minutes, the sun had gone down, and Pilus had gathered up about ten archers and five battlemage, and had them in position at the western edge of the forest near Peak Shade Tower, so they could look down into the city.

Eduard had made his way to the catapults, and was waiting for the fire to fly. The attack wasn't to last long. They were only going to fire 4 rocks, or from each catapult. The distraction would be helpful still.

Pilus waited silently for five minutes, until he was sure everyone was in position, when he let the first fireball fly. It hit near the feet of a walking guard, whose scream signaled the attack. His archers let arrows fly at the top of the wall as guards came running to see what was happening, and they too met with fire from the other battlemages. After the first volley, his men had provided the distraction, so they turned and headed into the woods, getting as far away from the enemy as possible.

Seeing the fire in the night sky, he let the wave of rocks fly over the city walls. Where they landed, who knows. He could only hope that they hit soldiers, rather than civilians. That was the risk he had to take. He then decided he would probably just stay the night with the catapult crew.

Pilus heard, rather than saw, the rocks fly through the air from the catapults. Thankfully, their crews were in little danger, as the rocks hasn't been the large fifty pound ones, and so they could scoot them back further away from the city. That, coupled with the wooden slates on the front to create a shield, made them very potent indeed.

Pilus finally arrived at the catapults, where he greeted Eduard.

"Well done. It seems to have gone off without a hitch. Any casualties on your side?"

"No, what about your side? You guys were in more danger than us."

Pilus shook his head.

"Nope. We were in and out before they knew what hit them. In all honesty, I think we only hit the one guy I fired the initial fireball at. It was too dark to see anything."

"Like we discussed, it was really just for distraction purposes. I just hope that our attack don't cause too many civilian casualties. I attempted to hit near where I remembered the longhouse being, but it's hard to know for sure where they landed. Anyways, I figure I'm just going to sleep here for the night."

"Hmm, it is nice here. I think I'll join you. Much less hustle and bustle than the camp. Well, know any good stories?" Pilus asked jokingly.

Eduard smiled and said, "I've got a few you might enjoy."

[The Good Doctor]

Baldur

Night, Day 1 of the siege

Falkreath Longhouse

 

Baldur was going over casualty reports while sitting in the Jarl's chair. The Jarl's house was a lot windierwith the front wall ripped off and charred from one of the burning rocks shot over the wall. The rock tore through the front of the building, and bounced and ran smack into one of the small houses to the left of the longhouse. The house was smashed, and burned down. Some other shots were fired as well. Most missed, but the other tore through Grave Concoctions. The Redguard female owner was fine however. She was in the Dead Man's Drink. The battle didn't leave many dead, but it left some injured. They took less casualties than the enemy however, due to the protection of the wall. Baldur was worried however, because the catapults damaged a section of the wall, and left a broken spot that could be exploited in the future by more catapult shots on the left side of the gate. And of course there was the damage to the city staring him in the face. He knew he had to somehow take care of those catapults. Baldur looked over the note that Witchie had sent him attached with a map of the Imperial Camp.

 

I have knowledge of that the princess Dales Motierre hates the Dominion and might be planning high treason.

Burn this after you've read it.

W.

Baldur looked back at the other note that he sent after it via the magic cloth.

"Send some good mead, these milk drinkers don't have any."

Baldur smiled to himself before he threw the notes in the fire set up in the middle of the room.

I don't know what to say about the Princess. If she's here, then she can't do me much good unless the Emperor magically flew here and fell on her sword. Anyway with this map, I could try to send a team to sabotage the catapults. Cut the ropes, hack the parts off. But the security in the camp would be up. I'll have to send one person. But who? 

 

***

 

An hour later, Jodun walked in through the front where the door used to be to give Baldur an overall morale report of the civilians.

"I came back from the tavern. Most of the men in there are angry. Some of them at us, most of them at the Imperials. Some blame you for bringing the Imperials in this direction as they put it, and others are angry for the civilians who were killed or injured and the burned houses. Runil's been busy today. The women are of the same mind mostly. Ones with children are more afraid."

Baldur stroked his modest beard with his index finger and thumb repeatedly before replying.

"That's pretty much what I expected. The conscription shouldn't be too hard to pass then if I need to use it. In a few days time, I'll gather the civilians in the street and call for volunteers for the militia. Then if I need more, I'll conscript the rest. Hate to involve civilians, but my duty is to win first. At the rate that Ulfric's going, he may have to conscript nationally. The fact that we haven't gotten more reinforcements yet means recruitment must be going pretty slow. Probably because of money. Trade with Hammerfell just started up and we haven't fully recovered our lost money yet. A lot of the men and women will still be undergoing training as well. We just need to hold a little longer. Imperials have nowhere to go."

Jodun's face looked grim at Baldur's words.

"How many men and women do you plan to recruit to a militia?"

"I'm not sure. Judging from your report of the Thalmor reinforcements, and how many men they had after our first battle, I'd say they outnumber us two to one. I may need at least 1,800 men and women. 2000 would be preferable."

Jodun's eyes widened.

"2000? That's almost half the people in the town! You sure you can get those numbers?"

Baldur looked down at his feet.

"I don't know. It depends on how angry the masses are in general. These are Nords afterall. Death brings promise of Sovngarde. But they're still people. We'll see. In the mean time, we need to take care of these catapults. Thoughts?"

Jodun put his hands behind his back before he continued on.

"I think that you should send someone in to get rid of them stealthily."

"Do you have someone in mind, Jodun?"

"Me. I am as good at stealth as the men who died before you were captured. I can get in the camp, sabotage the catapults, and then....I don't know. Maybe I can get back. But if not, I'll stay out in the woods and cause more trouble for them. It won't stop them, but it will stop the catapult shots for a while until they repair them."

Baldur stood out of his chair at the mention of him leaving.

"Absolutely not. Are you insane? I need you here. I can't risk you getting captured or killed. Send in another soldier."

Jodun said, "I have no other soldiers good at stealth besides me. You don't need me. Boldir has commanded my men and they know him. I am not a general. I was only put in charge of these men because our last leader was promoted, and our people didn't want to send in too much support before seeing how you handled the legion. Our men are a throwaway unit. Including me. My military record isn't the most impressive. A lot of the men I was put in charge of were killed and captured, including my brother. Our leader was killed in battle and I was the next highest ranking soldier. I didn't do well under pressure. This mission is my way of making up for it."

"It sounds like you're just looking for a way to get yourself killed Jodun." said Baldur.

Jodun took offense and let some of his politeness slip away. "Then you do not understand the situation, General. Those catapults have already damaged the wall. You'll need at least a weeks time to prepare the militia for battle. If those catapults don't get tended to soon, you won't have that time. I'm the only one that can get the job done, and I'm not a high ranking soldier. I'm merely a substitute leader."

Baldur knew his words were true. They had the advantage of food and the walls, but the siege machines would get rid of that advantage soon if he didn't act. His only saving grace was that they did not have a great amount of them, and only one seemed to be a heavy hitter.

"....Fine, you have a go. Here, take this map with you. They're the camp's layout. I already made a copy. I need to speak to the Captain and the High Admiral. Send them my way.

"I'll send them to you immediately."

Baldur called back before Jodun left. "And tell them to bring some Black-Briar mead. The one with juniper berries in it. Special request from a..."friend". And dammit, be careful."

"Sorry, sir. No promises."

[The Good Doctor]

Eduard Laenius, Jodun Hunding
Early Morning, Day 2 of the Siege
Outskirts of Falkreath

Jodun took a few hours of sleep, and a small pack of food in case he couldn't make it back into the fort safely after his job was done. He brought his two ebony scimitars, a woodcutter's axe, and the camp's map for sentry, tent and the catapult's positions. Jodun used a ladder to get himself over the wall when it was dark enough to remain unseen. Currently he was dashing quietly through the woods looking out for scouts or patrols. So far he did not see any nearby. When he finally reached the camp, he could see that there was lots of activity even during this early part of the morning. They were not by the catapults however, but he would have to move quick if he was to get to them in the back, unseen. He heard voices from behind him approaching fast. Jodun used his telekinesis to bend down a branch on the other side of a large tree where the soldiers couldn't see, then he climbed up to stay hidden.

The soldiers were conversing about the war.

"How long do you think this siege will last?"

"Not long if we can finish the dent in that wall and make it a hole. We may need to make another so we don't get choked by another shield wall."

"That means more rocks. Great. I hate going to collect rocks. Hey, wait here. I need to relieve myself."

Jodun waited as the man defecated near the tree. Jodun's face wrinkled in disapproval.

"Alright, lets go eat whatever hogwash we have left over. I'm starved."

"And you still will be after our meal. Hope this siege ends soon."

When the men finally left, Jodun hopped down, taking care not to step near the spot the legionnaire was at. Then he proceeded to move on, sneaking his way around the camp to the back where the catapults were.

Eduard took a look around, glad to finally get some peace and quiet. He was walking around, as the healer had instructed him to.

I feel great, I should be able to return to combat tomorrow, he thought.

He started back towards camp, to go back to bed. He wasn't that tired, but there was no reason for him to be awake.

Jodun was watching a patrol of soldiers walk away nearby, probably to send in their relief to take up the guard. Once the men were far enough away, Jodun ran through the open field in the direction of the catapults according to the map. He stopped and crouched down when he saw that four men were guarding the catapults still, all of them holding torches.

Knew it wouldn't be that easy.

Jodun sneaked forward and hid behind a nearby tent where a male nord and a female imperial soldier were sleeping separately. Jodun took out his blades and jabbed them in the sleeping male and female soldier's necks. Jodun stepped out the back after he did this.

"Hey, do you hear that? from the tents over there."

"Yea, come on. Grogvir? Lilith? You alright in there?"

"Think he's cleaning the pipes?"

"Shuttup and keep watch."

Jodun sneaked around and cleaved the heads off of the two in the back keeping watch.

"Hey, they're dead! Th- what the...get him! G-"

Jodun slashed his left sword across the other soldier's exposed legs away from his body to the left, and then brought his sword back to the right across his man's neck. Then Jodun shot his right sword into the man's chest with his telekinesis spell before he got too close.

Good, now I can take care of those catapults.

Jodun moved quickly to the siege machines, and cut out all the rope used to build tension to fire the projectiles. Then he burned them up in a pile using one of the torches he got from the soldier. After that, he started chopping at the parts of the hastily made catapults that he knew would take time to repair. He started with the bigger one first.

Okay, someone's bound to hear this chopping and check on what I'm doing soon. I need to hurry. On to the fourth one.

As Eduard neared camp, he heard some soldiers yelling. He figured there had to be an attack, as there was talk of casualties.

He picked up speed, and arrived at camp. When he arrived, he surveyed the area. He heard some noises coming from over by the-

"Damn it! The catapults!"

He headed immediately for the catapults, signaling ten soldiers to come with him.

"You three, grab your gear, now! Come with me. One of you should bring an extra sword, I don't have one on me. And you seven, bring some water, I fear the catapults are being sabotaged!"

"Here sir!" one of the soldiers replied, handing him a sword.

He put the sword on his belt, alongside his two daggers. His bow was by his bed, he'd have to go without it.

"Thanks, now get your asses in gear, this is the real deal."

"Yes sir!"

Looks like I'm going to have be combat ready a bit sooner than I had thought. Fine by me.

Eduard and the ten soldiers ran towards the catapults, hoping to catch whoever was causing this mess.

Jodun heard the men shouting and cursing before he saw them. He was halfway through the last catapult's parts before he knew he had to run or he'd be killed. Jodun took his torch and lit the catapults on fire to try and damage them some more before he left.

Doubt this will burn enough to destroy them, but it will slow them down some. Maybe take some of their men off of my pursuit.

After that was done, Jodun hurried and ran in the direction of the woods to try and escape his pursuers.

Eduard and the men ran up to see that his suspicions were correct. A man had sabotaged the catapults, and now was trying to escape.

"He isn't getting away with this! You seven need to stay here and put this damn fire out!"

The soldiers nodded, and got to work.

"You three, come on! We can't let him escape! This is what it's all about, lets move!"

The soldiers gave a look of nervous excitement. They obviously weren't as seasoned as Eduard was.

He began to chase after the saboteur, with the soldiers trailing close behind.

They will have to do I guess. They probably won't survive, but they will give me a good measure of his skill.

As they were running, he made sure to memorize which dagger to throw, and which one to keep.

Jodun ran as fast as he could, which considering he was a Redguard and was blessed with their stamina and swift feet, was pretty fast. However the direction he was going in quite thick with trees, which started slowing him down a bit. He could hear the men hot on his tail and to Jodun's surprise were actually keeping pace with him. He knew eventually more and more men would come into the forest and the Thalmor would likely be with them. And their trackers always found their targets eventually... He figured it best to kill his way through them and go back in the other direction. The area he was in was starting to head towards a steep mountainside anyway. Jodun hid in the shadows and waited for the men to come close.

Eduard was keeping relatively close to the same speed as the man, who by the looks of things, wasn't a Nord. He figured he was probably a Redguard.

The soldiers following Eduard were slightly slower, but they were keeping good enough pace.

He can't possibly think he can get away from us, can he?

As he said this, the man disappeared into the shadows.

Deciding he would let the soldiers test the waters, he slowed up.

Two of the soldiers went ahead, to where they last saw the man.

He told one of the soldiers to hang back with him, in case backup was necessary.

"Keep on your toes guys."

The two soldiers carefully stepped into the area where Eduard figured the Redguard was hiding.

Lets see what you got, saboteur.

Jodun saw the men poking around in the shadows near him. He stayed silent until one of them got too close. He took the man's hand grasping his sword, and thrust it upward through the man's throat, and then went back to deal with the next one, who heard the noise. When he got close to the tree he was hiding behind, he disarmed him, and made his skull collide with the mace he was carrying. Afterwards, he picked up the two weapons and he stepped out of the shadows and shot them at the other goons behind Eduard with his spell again. After the mace collided with the other soldier's jugular and the sword buried itself in the other's neck, Jodun stepped forward to face him.

"Last one eh? Pleasure to meet you. My name is Jodun Hunding."

"Eduard Laenius. It's a pleasure to meet you, Jodun. I was actually hoping you'd leave one of the soldiers alive. I was going to have them get a couple men. I don't want have to be the one to carry your body, you see," he said, with a smirk.

"Well, I guess that's enough pleasantries. Time for us to... get down to business. That's how this works right?"

He then fired a dagger towards Jodun, hoping to either hit him, or distract him from the real attack.

Jodun whipped out his swords and twirled them like propellers to deflect the dagger.

"You'll have to forgive me, but I don't have time to humor you. I'll be making this quick."

With that, Jodun raised his black swords and swiping and swinging around fancifully to try and intimidate his opponent. Afterwards, Jodun dashed forward and swung both blades inwards at Eduard.

Redguards and their fancy swordplay. I should be careful.

"You say you don't have time to humor me, but you must. Because you attempting to survive, is humorous."

He watched as the Redguard attacked, Eduard dodged one blow, and blocked the other with his sword, and sneakily threw his other dagger at Jodun's leg.

Jodun didn't see the dagger thrown at his leg in the dark, and it cut him through his pants over the front of his lower leg before it buried itself into the ground behind him.

"You would have been better off keeping that blade in your hand."

Eduard smiled when he saw his dagger find its mark. Then he rolled to the right, picking up the blade of one of the dead soldiers.

"I like using two swords anyways, my friend."

"What a coincidence."

Jodun dashed towards his opponent once more, surprised at his skill and ability to parry his blows. Jodun started striked faster and harder, but still his opponent evaded his blows.

"Where did you learn to fight? I did not expect to meet one so skilled among the Legion's ranks in swordplay."

Eduard was busy parrying his enemies blows, when he noticed that both his weapons were in less than favorable condition.

Hopefully they will hold up.

"Who taught me to fight? Well, my father I guess. Other than that, it's just been me reading up and training. You're not bad either."

He then swung his sword at Jodun. He didn't intend for the blow to land. He was just hoping to give his swords a break from the Redguards assault.

Not too bad? I'm a master swordsman by Imperial standards. Expert by Hammerfell's. He's obviously lying about his training if he can keep up with me. Perhaps he learned from another Redguard?

As Eduard swung his sword at Jodun, he made sure to parry the blow with the thicker part of his blade, fully aware of the worsening condition of his opponent's blades. He just barely blocked the strike however when it came towards him.

Is he getting faster...or am I getting slower? Am I really this out of shape? I'm already tired. I need to finish this.

Jodun backed up, and did some more dazzling sword twirls, and then he charged once more at Eduard. This time, he jumped in the air and did a front flip while bringing his twin black blades down in Eduard's direction.

Good luck stopping this.

Eduard saw his foes blows coming, and while slower, the incoming blow still had a lot of power behind it.

He had hesitated to long to dodge it, so he held his blades out to block the blow.

Please let these blades hold up.

Checkmate.

Jodun's blow caused the desired effect. His excellently crafted ebony blades broke through Eduard's swords, and his weapon slashed across his old wound. The impact knocked him down, which caused his other sword to miss his shoulder, but it did not matter. The fight was over.

"Stand up. I'm afraid our time here...is finished."

"Then finish me Jodun. I have no regrets. You put up a good fight, as did I."

Jodun forced Eduard to his knees and placed his blades upon his shoulders and prepared to give the final blow.

"Know this. I don't hate you. We should be fighting the Thalmor, not each other. I'll make it quick, I promise."

Jodun heard the sound of soldiers in the distance and he knew he had to hurry. Jodun pulled his arms to deliver death to Eduard.

It's over........
 

Wait, what's....what's going on?

Jodun tried pulling his arms, but his arms wouldn't move. None of his limbs could move. He could not speak either...

That dagger! Shit.

Eduard rose from his knees, and took Jodun's swords, a solemn look on his face.

"And you should know this. I planned this from the beginning. You had me beat in the area of swordplay. Not by much, but I noticed it. As you're probably aware, that dagger was poisoned. That was my equalizer. You were far and away the most respectable opponent I've ever faced, and the most skilled as well. It was a pleasure."

Eduard gently lowered Jodun to the ground.

"Now, since you were going to grant a painless death to me, I shall do the same for you. I hope that one day your dream comes true, and we take the battle to the Thalmor, rather than each other. I am truly am saddened to have to do this, but I'm sure you understand. I'll remember you when I'm gutting a Thalmor, alright?"

Eduard took Jodun's sword, and slit his throat. In about 30 seconds, Jodun would be dead. The poison also slightly slowed blood flow.

Should give him time to reflect.

Jodun wanted to smile, because his death was a good one, but he couldn't. He reflected on his life, and how he failed his men and brother, and wondered if this would make up for it. Hopefully his work would have bought the Stormcloaks enough time.

Baldur, Boldir, Rebec. I wanted to get to know you all better, but this is my fate. I hope Shor lets Redguards in Sovngarde. I'd like to meet you all again. It was an honor to ser-

Eduard watched as the life faded from Jodun.

"I'm sorry."

You were a fun one, Jodun, and I respect you for the fight you gave. However, I can't let this opportunity go to waste.

As he was thinking about what to do next, some soldiers arrived.

"Sir, are you okay? We have a healer with us."

Eduard smiled.

"Just patch this up," he said, pointing to the reopened wound.

The healer closed the wound, and then cleansed it.

"Alright, I'm going to need 2 men to come with me. We are going to place his body in view of Falkreath."

"Why?" one of the soldiers asked.

"Because, we are going to make a statement."

With that, two soldiers picked up Jodun, and quietly followed Eduard.

They stopped behind a few trees just out of view of the city walls.

"I'll take it from here guys."

With that, the soldiers headed back to camp, leaving Jodun behind one of the trees.

Eduard began to write a note.
 

Boldir,

Just wanted to tell you that mercenary work is treating me well.

~Eduard
 

Eduard then placed the note on Jodun and tossed his body into plain view. He then faded into the woods, back towards camp.

I hope you understand Jodun. I must use every advantage I come across.

[The Good Doctor]

Samuel, Honmund
Solstheim, Bloodskaal Burrow
During the siege

 

From one of the many ridges on the Burrow Samuel and Rorek looked down at a group of Reavers who stood in a large circle, with two others in the middle of them. One of them, a Nord, seemed to be having a good time as he beat the other one, a Dunmer judging from the bonemold armor, pretty badly. The others kept chanting "Fight!Fight!Fight!" and taunting the Elf.

"Have the word of the bounty on Marius' life been spread?" Samuel turned to his right hand man.

"Yes, sir. Should be known in most of Skyrim, Hammerfell and Morrowind in a week or two. Every sellsword and assassin-for-hire will be after him. Are you are sure this man is the one we want?" Rorek seemed a little disappointed when he looked down at the people below them. The Nord had just gotten in a heel-kick to the Dunmer's knee, forcing him to the ground. "He seem to be an uncivilized barbarian, not someone fit for what you have in mind."

"I'm sure," Samuel replied as the Nord lifted his victim over his head and threw him back down. "Honmund might be brutal, but he is no fool. He didn't become one of the most successful Reavers in the north-east by simple barbarism."

"I think it might have helped," Rorek shot back. One of the people in the circle handed Honmund an axe that a moment later severed the head from the bonemold body. "If he does that to his his enemies, I'd be careful to not cross him."

"Hoy, Maurice!" Honmund yelled up at them. "Get down here!"

Samuel nodded.

 

**

 

"Maurice! Good to see you, it has been too long," the Nord wore carved armor, except the helmet. He reached out one of his hands for Samuel to take. "I haven't seen you in years, not since I took control over this band. How have you been?"

"I'm good, Honmund, as usual. What was that all about?" he gestured to the body of the guy he had just beaten to a pulp and beheaded.

"What? Oh him. Just some Elf who tried to cut in on my territory. Doesn't seem to have worked out in his favor. You know, because I am alive and he is, well, kinda dead. Most of his guys too."

"Remind me never to get into a fight with you," Samuel joked and gave the Nord a smile.

"I will, but only if you tell me how you have managed to become as pale as a Nord," Honmund laughed a little, but both of them knew that there was something else behind that little joke. "You gleam like snow. Or maybe it is the damn ash that have made most of my boys darker than they used to."

"It's nothing really, I just haven't eaten since yesterday. As a true milk-drinker, I have sadly become dependent on three proper meals a day. Without them, I tend to look a little sick," Samuel laughed back, but a moment later he turned more serious and continued. "But, we are not here to talk about my nordic complexion or how much better than me you are in a fight. I have a proposition for you."

"Of course you do, you never talk to anyone without a reason to. But I can live with that, your fences and informants have made it much easier for me to do what I do. So, what can I do for you?"

"Go to Skyrim, build a small army and establish yourself as a warlord."

"I'm sorry, what?" Honmund looked like he thought Samuel had to be pulling his leg. "You want me to go to Skyrim and become a warlord? Why?"

"Why not? You've been at this Reaver thing for ten years. Time for a change, I'd say, and you are far too talented to waste yourself here. With the war between the Empire and the newly independent Skyrim, they will not have the resources to stop you before it is too late. As long as you are a little careful, of course. Drawing too much attention early on would be foolish."

The Nord raised an eyebrow. "Let's assume I agree to this: What do you get out of this?"

"Five gold out of every one hundred you make."

"And why would I do this for you? Seems to me that if I were to go to Skyrim, I should just cut you out of the loop."

"Because," Samuel smiled. "I am going to give you a 10,000 gold starting bonus. Not an insignificant investment, mind you, but I think you can make it worth my while."

"10,000!?" Honmund seemed more than a little shocked at first, then a grin spread across his face. "Well then, Maurice, you have a deal. I'll leave for Skyrim at the earliest opportunity. With resources like that, I think I should be able to do what you want. And the change of pace wouldn't hurt either."

**

 

"So, Samuel..." Rorek said. The two had left the burrow and was now headed back to Raven Rock. It would take a couple of hours to get there.

"No need, my friends, I am fine. I will not risk it without a proper potion for you to take afterwards. I'll make sure to make you buy a few when we get to town," Samuel interrupted him. "No one should notice, as long as you do most of the talking."

[The Good Doctor]

Dales, Lorgar, and Witchie, Falkreath Camp, Night

 

Lorgar knocked on the flap of Witchie's tent, impatiently,

"Magic-Teacher, are you there?"

"Why can't you just call me Skjari? Most of the others do."

"Would you rather me call you Witchie or Magic-teacher, choose..."

"Or I could cut of your head off and have your own body play ball with it. Is it so hard to go along with the name? Anyway, what is it?" 

"Do you know where Princess Dales is?"

"Have you looked in the medical tent?" 

"AH, yes I forget she likes helping the medics with the wounded soldiers, thanks."

And with that Lorgar began to head to the medical tent.

Hopefully he will go along with the name from now on.

When Lorgar arrived at the medical tent, it was just about how he expected it would look. A few dozen wounded soldiers, covered in white bandages and blood. There where a few soldiers as medics, but also a handful of nurses. He scanned the tent for Dales, until he found her. She was clad in one of her maids outfit,  Her long-golden hair was sprawled out across her shoulders. She was sitting on a table, with another girl, whom was apparently a nurse due to her uniform. Dales...was blushing and looking kinda awkward, Lorgar heard her say,

"Ummmm....you...have very beautiful eyes Trice..."

The nurse, or Trice, looked at the princess strangely,

"Ummm thank you milady?" She glanced up, "Oh, my shift is over, I have to meet my boyfriend, good day milady" and with that, Trice left the table and out of the medical tent.

Dales looked like she was going to cry for a second, Lorgar didn't give her the chance.

"Hello Milady."

She covered her sad face up with a smile,

"OH hello Lorgar, you need something?"

"I was wondering if you wanted to go hunting for some deer with me."

The princess instantly brightened up, and she got out of her seat and out of the tent in what seemed like a single second with,

"Of course I would like to come with you, let me get changed and get my bow."

The princess ran to her tent, while trying to forget what happened back with the nurse she got into her hunting garb, and took out her hunting bow along with two dozen iron arrows. She headed back to the waiting Lorgar, before she heard her Master voice behind her,

"Where are you going?" he asked.

"Oh going hunting with Prefect Grim-Maw."

"Well I should go with you then, never know if those Thalmor may be lurking in the forest." 

She chuckled a little, "Your more then welcomed to join us, Lorgar wont mind, though I doubt that any of them would try to take on The Darkened Archer if they we're sane."

"There's more than the direct approach to kill someone. There can always be hunting 'accidents'."

They walked to the medical tent, until they got there, Lorgar was waiting arms crossed at the doorway, Dales cheerfully asked, "Is it alright if my teacher comes with us Lorgar?"

Lorgar nodded his head to the nord, "It's fine, we're already slightly acquainted." 

"I hope you remember my name this time."

Lorgar chuckled slightly, before heading into the direction of the forest. While walking there, he softly tussled Dales blonde locks. and said in her ear,

"And just for you to know, I think that nurse is missing out." 

"What nurse?" Witchie said. 

Dale's blushed slightly, before saying,

"She's no one..."

"You know I don't like secrets."

"She...I told her she had beautiful eyes, and she looked at my strangely before leaving and saying something about a "boyfriend.... "

Witche just shrugged, "Anyway, did I teach you how to muffle sound?"

"I already knew that spell."

"Good, you'll need it. Now let's get this hunt over with." 

Hunting animals is boring, elves are a more entertaining prey. 

Lorgar waved his hand, signalling the two to stop, he quietly told them, "I smelled a dear, we're in luck, it's very near here. You two watch the glade over there"

And without another word, Lorgar quickly and quietly disappeared from view.

"I'll leave the hunt to you. I'll be watching for danger from the shadows." and Witchie was soon gone as well.

The princess was left standing there, a look of fright over her face, "Don't leave me alone in the dark, come on guys..." 

She went into cover in the bushes, and looked at the glade Lorgar pointed out. It was Illuminated by the moon, and she saw a young dear grazing on some plants.

She then saw a raven fly down and land on the dear that didn't seem to mind. But she also noticed that the raven seemed to stare directly at her

The raven...unsettled her for some odd reason. It's dark eyes, stared down into her soul, it made her shiver. Just as the deer was about to leave, a blur came into the glade, and before the deer could even react, Lorgar, hooded and cloaked, was upon it. He held onto the young bucks, and snapped it's neck with his gloved hands. 

The raven only flew up in the air for a few seconds when Lorgar grabbed the dear but was quick to fly down to start picking it's eye out when the dear fell to the ground.

Lorgar made no move to stop the Ravens pecking, he merely crouched down, and whispered to the raven,

"By Lord Hircine, I request you leave this kill to me, Black one."

The raven had already picked out the eye and was now holding it in the beak, it just flew up and landed on Lorgar's shoulder before swallowing it whole.

 Lorgar, careful not to harm the raven on his shoulder, slung the dead deer across his back, and disappeared from the glade. He reappeared around Princess Dales, who looked frightened, Lorgar warmly said,

"You alright Dales?"

She yelped in suprised, before turning around, 

"Yes...i'm fine Lorgar.

The raven started to croak in a way that could almost be perceived as laughter. 

Dales, looked terrified for a second, "That...raven..."

Lorgar gently reassured her, "He's no threat don't worry"

The raven quieted down and flew over and landed on her shoulder. 

She quickly started to flap around her arms, telling the raven,

"Shoo!!! Go away!!!"

The black bird simply flew back to Lorgar's shoulder and started to "laugh" again.

Princess Dales, quite childishly, stuck her tongue out at the 'rude' Raven.

The laughter became more intense till the raven lost the balance and fell down to the ground, still laughing. 

"That Raven is a bully!!!"

Lorgar chuckled along with the raven, before whispering in its ear,

"You've had enough fun for one night; go back to your master"

The raven stopped laughing, got up, then shook it's head and flew up to his shoulder again.
 

Lorgar, firmly told the raven, "Don't test my patience black one, I know you know what I am."

The raven picked at the side of his head and Lorgar could swear he heard a dark whisper, "Deal... with... it."

Under his hood, Lorgar smirked revealing his fang-like teeth, he poked the raven in its head, before whispering,

"Wolves eat ravens, remember that..."

The raven croaked, bit his nose and then flew off into the woods. 

"Come on Dales, we should get a few more."

Dales, who was now visibly creeped the heck out, nodded her head, and followed Lorgar deeper into the woods.

They found and killed two more dears, the first was simply shot by Lorgar and the Dales only managed to wound the second one before Lorgar quickly put it out of it's misery with a well placed arrow. They were both standing by their last prey when Witchie stepped out of a a shadow besides them.

"You done yet? I want to get back to camp."

"I have business in the forest, can you take Dales back for me?"

Dales, quite adorably and childishly, started pulling on Lorgar's dark cloak, a look of uncertainty on her face,

"Will you be alright?"

Lorgar chuckled, "Yes i'll be fine Dales." 

"And if you see some reanimated Thalmor playing ball, don't mind that." Witchie said. 

Lorgar nodded, before sprinting into the shadows of the tree's, leaving Dales and Witchie behind.

[The Good Doctor]

Boldir and Baldur
Late morning, Day 2 of the siege
Falkreath

"Sir!"

Boldir was stopped by a grunt while on his way to see Baldur in the Longhouse. After the chaos of yesterday and last night, he was in no mood for anything that wasn't important.

"What is it?"

"Sir, there's a body dumped on the road outside the gate. Some of the others think it looks like Commander Jodun."

What?!

"Jodun set out early this morning. If he was found... Let's go soldier. I need to see this myself."

Boldir and the guard headed to the wall. When they climbed the stairs and reached the top, the soldier pointed down towards the trees. Sure enough, just outside them in the street, was a body, clad in leather armor. It certainly looked like Jodun, but at this distance it was hard to tell, and the Imperials had been sighted at times lurking in the trees. Boldir turned and yelled down at three swordsmen walking by on their patrols.

"You three! Yeah, you. Come here."

Boldir made his way back down the stairs as the three men approached. He addressed them as well as the archers above.

"I'm going after that body. You three are coming with me. I'll need extra eyes on the trees when we're moving him. The archers will cover us. We'll do this quickly. I don't want to be out of the gates any longer than necessary. You ready for this?"

"Yes sir!" The three replied with varying degrees of confidence.

"Open the gate." Boldir and the three soldiers sprinted out as soon as the gate opened enough to allow it. They covered the distance to the corpse in just a few seconds. Boldir whispered. "Hurry, grab him."

They grabbed the body and quickly brought him back inside. Closing the gate behind them. If an ambush had been planned, it never occured. When they sat it down just inside the gate, Boldir looked down at the corpse.

Gods...

There was no mistake. It was definitely Jodun. His throat had been slit. His eyes lifelessly stared up at the sky with no expression on his face, almost like usual. Boldir knelt down and closed them. His hands began to tremble, so he balled them into fists. He'd never gotten the chance to tell Jodun, but ever since they blew Pale Pass, he'd had a massive amount of respect for the man. He was a skilled warrior and had the same fearlessness of death that Boldir had come to expect from Nords.

We had a lot in common, you and I. Both soldiers, through and through.

"It was an honor, Jodun." As he said this, Boldir noticed a small piece of parchment stuffed under the Redguard's belt. After a brief hesitation, he pulled it out and read it. His face twisted to one of surprise when he saw the name it was addressed to.
 

Boldir,

Just wanted to tell you that mercenary work is treating me well.

~Eduard
 

"Who in Oblivion is Edua-..." Then it dawned on him. That gods damned... Boldir wadded up the paper and stuffed it into his pouch, then he stood and turned to the Stormcloak behind him. "He'll need a funeral. Go and tell Baldur what has happened."
 

***

Boldir was careful to make sure he closed the door when he got back to his room in the Longhouse, which he'd decided to keep, he sat down at the small desk across from the bed. Two objects were laying before him on the desk. One was a sheathed Nordic carved dagger, the one he'd told Baldur was borrowed. The other, Jodun's flute.

"I never did get a chance to pay him back for that flute. Or even properly thank him. Just figured there'd be a time for that later."

You couldn't have done anything differently. The siege got in the way of things.

"I know. It just feels... I don't know, it feels wrong. And that Eduard, the Legion spy or mercenary, or whatever he really is. I could've stopped him. I could've killed him on the spot the other day. I even suspected the bastard at first! I was too damn trusting."

You can't blame yourself for something like that. There's no way you could've known.

"You're right, Carlotta. It wasn't my fault that he died. But damn if I'm going to let it happen again. Can't trust any damn one who ain't a Stormcloak."

Would we have met if you'd had that mindset before you came to Whiterun?

"Probably not. And it would've saved me a lot of pain." The volume of Boldir's voice began to increase. "You know, I trusted you too, and look where that got me. You hurt me more than any injury I've suffered, and now I'm fucking talking to myself! Don't you lecture me about trust."

You know exactly what happened! I couldn't accept. Not yet. Maybe if you'd stayed, instead of running off. You were happy in Whiterun. You'd found something beyond all the fighting.

Boldir realized how ridiculous this was. "This has always been my life. I can't know what would've happened if I'd stayed. And no voice in my head can either."

Boldir picked up Jodun's flute and looked it over. "This really is a fine instrument." Boldir placed the flute in his satchel and tied the dagger to his chest plate hidden under his sash. He headed for the door.

As Baldur sat in the Jarl's chair contemplating, he already knew what the news was about before the soldier in front of him reported. He knew that the mission he sent him on was a suicide mission, and that only Jodun could pull it off. And he knew that Jodun was right when he said that it had to be done.

I imagine he knew he wouldn't be coming back. Shor, you better grant that man entrance to Sovngarde, damn it. You better.

"Sir?"

Baldur snapped out of his thoughts and looked to the man.

"What? Yes, yes. I heard you. Have the men prepare his body for a funeral. We won't bury him though. He'll be getting shipped to Stros M'kai to his parents."

The soldier nodded and went to carry out his orders. After that, Baldur, who didn't sleep that night went to get some rest, but decided against it. Instead he went to check up on Boldir, who he figured must have taken the death pretty hard. When he went to knock on Boldir's door, he heard Boldir's voice speaking to someone and figured Rebec must be in there as well.

Wonder if she's mad I didn't go to bed last night. Probably not anymore with the news.

As he was about to knock, Boldir opened the door to see him with his hand raised.

"Oh, hey. I just came to talk to you...you two...," said Baldur as he tried looking past Boldir into the room.

"Hey Baldur." Boldir stepped aside so that Baldur could see into the room. "Nobody in here but me. How are you?"

"...oh you thought I meant you two? Now I meant...you too! Because I assumed Rebec came to talk to you earlier. Heh." Baldur tried giving him a reassuring smile.

Ugh, I really am a bad liar.

Boldir faked a nod. He knew exactly what Baldur had meant. "Are you alright?"

Ah, screw it. "Are you, Boldir? I heard...you talking. I didn't hear specifics. Who's Carlotta?"

Boldir had always kept his time with Carlotta a secret from Baldur. Not because he didn't feel Baldur should know, he'd just never known how to tell him without sounding like as big a pansy as he had when telling Rebec. It had nothing to do with the war anyhow.

"Carlotta- she... Remember when I was in Whiterun a while back? ... I wasn't actually staying for a vacation. Or at least, not after a couple weeks. I planned to stay there for good. I wanted to make a life with her."

Baldur stood there with a confused look on his face before speaking. "Well, why didn't you stay with her?"

"Things didn't work out between us..." Boldir sat back at his desk. "Well, that's not really true. We were happy. I loved her, and I'm certain that she loved me as well, but... You see she has a daughter. And she was afraid. She was afraid to introduce someone into the child's life who would be marching off to war soon. I proposed to her, and she turned me down. I left town without a word and that was the end of it."

Baldur let out a sigh, realizing how he must have felt around him and Rebec.

"Boldir...I don't really know what to say. Sorry is so empty. Maybe advice would help. The way I see it, you have three choices. Choice one, get over her if you can. Two try again when we get back, and just go back to your duties and hope you get that chance. Or three continue along this path and go mad. As far as getting her...I don't know. I'm not an expert at love, but if you're on good terms with the child...can't you just be her new father? Surely this Carlotta would appreciate the help."

"That's not the point to her. I'd come to care for Mila. I don't know Baldur...  It doesn't matter now. I'll concern myself about it if I make it through all this and return to Whiterun. Until then, it doesn't matter."

"Does that mean you're going with option two?"

"Maybe. I don't know. I've been trying not to think about the future. Too much can happen between now and then. I guess for now I'm going with option three."

"Three's not an option, brother. I can't have your noggin all scrambled unless it's from head butting. If I have to, I'll go see her myself when this is over."

"You don't have to worry about that. I haven't gone crazy yet." Yes you have. "I'm just waiting. I doubt I'll be forgetting her, but I'm not going to let it get in the way of anything. There are enough important things going on right now to keep us all preoccupied without worrying about my personal life half a year ago. When this is all over, I'll deal with it myself."

Baldur wanted to give him less harsh and more comforting words, but he didn't want to sound soft. Instead he gave the big nord a pat on his shoulder.

Sometimes that says more than words can.

"So...how you feeling about Jodun?"

"Same as you, I'd imagine. He was a good soldier and a good man. I regret not getting to speak with him more. Especially after he have me his flute. But to he honest, I'm not really sad. He's not the first friend I've lost this week. And call me cold, but at this point, the only news that I believe would even phase me would be the loss of either you or Rebec."

Baldur couldn't quite say the same about the man's death, since Baldur was the one that allowed him to leave on such a risky mission, but he planned on not letting his death be a waste. So Baldur decided to start the war preparations immediately and waste no further time.

".....yea. Well, now that Jodun's taken care of the catapults...or at least I think he has, we have some time to move on to the next stage. I don't know how you'll feel about it, but I'll explain. As you know I had Jodun take some men and had them burn down the farms and any food source or home that could help serve the enemy. And as you know I had most of the people out in the hold packed in here for their own safety. Well, that's not entirely true. Back when Ulfric and I were planning, it was rather obvious that we weren't going to have a whole lot of men for reinforcements, and the ones we did get weren't going to come very quickly. So we needed to rely on militia for our campaign if the enemy sent reinforcements. That means I'll have to conscript. That's why I had you blow the pass. To avoid this, but alas, we were unlucky. Anyway, I'll need to speak to the civilians and see what I can stir up. Normally this town only has around 2500 people, but the influx has made that total population 4500. The enemy outnumbers us two to one. So I'll need at least 1800 to 2000 militia...I know, that's a lot. But it's what we need. Hopefully enough of them are angry enough for me not to have to conscript, and they'll just volunteer. You and Rebec will need to organize them and quickly train them for he fighting."

Baldur gave Boldir some time to reflect before going on.

"Last part is the upcoming battle. If they manage to fix any catapults, then here's what we'll do. The town by the gates is greeted by the narrow streets, so after the enemy either blows a hole in the wall or we let them break in through the front gates after a realistic looking attempt to stop them and they pour in, we'll have a shield wall waiting to greet them. While that is going on, we'll have archers on the rooftops and walls firing down on them. Once the enemy pushes itself far enough in, we'll have the militia go through the back gate, circle around, and attack them from behind. Even if the battle doesn't go exactly like that, we will have enough numbers to go toe to toe with them, and effectively end the siege. Their bleeding and hungry army will be forced to retreat and either surrender...or die. They have nowhere to go with the pass still blocked off. Their only hope is to take Falkreath and try holding off the next force Ulfric sends until their people can make their way in here, which by the way Ulfric should by now have sent some reinforcements. If it's a large force, they may take longer to get here. If not, they should be here in the next week or so. Just a guess."

"You know I've been dealing with the civilians a lot lately. I've heard a lot. Most support us of course. They hate the invaders as much as we do, and I don't think we'll even have problems with them once they're conscripted, and many likely will volunteer when the door is opened, some have already come to me about it. But the thing is, there's still a number who hate us. Some hate us for burning their land, and some supported the Imperials from the beginning. I know we need the numbers, but arming too many of these people is just asking for a problem. As for Ulfric's reinforcements, all I can say is that I hope he understands the situation here well enough to send what we need."

Baldur gave a sigh when Boldir replied. He know he was right. The plan was a good one, but it would fail if he had to worry about the civilians turning on them instead.

"Right. We can't risk having any internal problems. Tell you what, you set up a team of men and see if you can find out who exactly doesn't like us. I'm not worried about individuals, or even every person who doesn't. I'm worried about important individuals. Respected members of the community. Anyone who has enough pull to actually cause trouble. Also, I hate to do this...but after the assassination, I'm ordering you to keep an eye out for anyone who doesn't belong especially...if you catch my meaning. Don't overlook nords. Just saying if your gut tells you an imperial or a mer looks suspicious, don't dismiss it. Do what your gut tells you."

Boldir nodded. "I'll head for Dead Man's Drink, start by asking that loudmouth innkeeper a few questions."

Baldur nodded his head. "Good, dismissed."

Baldur walked from the room, in the direction of the main hall. Before disappearing from sight, he turned around and called back.

"And try not to uh, you know. Talk to yourself. Can't have the men seeing that. Don't worry. I'll get you back to Whiterun in no time. Who knows, she may be missing you."

"Right... and Baldur," Boldir got up and went back to the doorway. "Don't tell anyone about what you heard, alright?"

"I wouldn't dream of...wait, not even Rebec?"

Boldir sighed. "I won't blame you if you tell her. But please, understand that even you wouldn't know if I could've helped it. I would appreciate it if this stayed between us."

Baldur looked uneasy. He didn't like keeping secrets, but he understood the reasoning for it.

"Alright. I'll keep it to myself. It never happened. Take it easy, brother."

"Thank you." Boldir made for the door. "I will."

[The Good Doctor]

Velan Quintus- Outskirts of Falkreath, Day 2 of the Siege, Afternoon
 

Velan walked around with a grin on his face. He hadn’t seen this much action in years.

It's been much too long since I've been able to do this much. I wouldn't even mind going to help get rocks for the catapults. Although I heard they were damaged by the Stormcloaks. Maybe I will just see how the men are doing.

Velan went and found a lone soldier, which was odd. He was an Imperial, much smaller than Velan.

"Hey, mind if I take a seat?" Velan asked.

"Uhh… sure. Go ahead," the soldier replied.

Velan took a seat, and looked at the man.

"Something wrong?"

"No, it's nothing," the man said.

Even Velan could tell the man was lying.

"You sure? There is nothing wrong with sharing your thoughts with a fellow soldier. We are all in this together, for better or worse."

The soldier looked at Velan, and nodded.

"You are right. I guess I just don't want to die. I have a family you know? Good wife, a good son. If I die, how will they make it?"

Velan had heard this speech at least a hundred times. He would have to answer carefully.

"Listen, I'm not good at giving good speeches or anything like that, but I'll try my best. I think we all have had those kinds of thoughts run through our head here, especially once we've seen battle. But if we just gave up because we were afraid to die, who would protect our families? That is the reason I fight. I don’t fight just to protect the Emperor. I don’t fight because I’m good at it, although that helps. I fight to protect the civilians, you know? The normal people. Like your family, you see? Maybe you don’t see it like that. But come the next day of fighting, I’m going to be out there, protecting the people. And if I die, at least I died trying. I’d rather have my family know that I died protecting them, instead of them finding out I abandoned a guy like you to save my own ass."

"Damn… you’re a better speaker than you give yourself credit for. Maybe I can do this. Especially with a man like you on our side. What do you say we train together? I haven’t really been keeping up with my combat skills, though.â€

"Now you are speaking my language, friend! Don’t expect me to take it easy on you though. You aren’t going to get better fighting an easy opponent. So get ready!†Velan said, pulling out his sword.

"I just realized what I’ve gotten myself into. No matter, let’s do this!†the soldier replied, pulling out his sword.

The soldier rushed Velan, trying to use his speed to his advantage. But Velan saw that coming, and he sidestepped the soldier, and planted his elbow in the man’s back.

"Son of a bitch!"

"You can't expect to just charge in and win, my friend. Try using some strategy. Take advantage of your speed for real this time!â€

The smaller Imperial charged at Velan again, except this time he was bluffing. As soon as he got close to Velan, he faked left, and then broke to the right, and swung at Velan.

Dang. Quick learner, this one.

Velan was able to parry the blow, but it was still a good move.

"You’re getting better. You need to be more effective with your sword though! You can’t just win by moving around!â€

The soldier responded by throwing three quick sword strikes, all from different angles.

Velan blocked the first two, but he wasn’t going to be able to get his sword up in time for the third one.

It's time for you to learn about the wild card. Every soldier’s got one, and mine is strength.

Velan ducked under the sword, and body slammed the soldier, who lost his sword during the impact.

"Ugh… How the hell am I supposed to defend against that?â€

"That’s up to you. Every soldier has their own unique talents. If you couldn’t tell, mine is power.â€

Looking at Velan’s massive frame, the soldier laughed.

"Oh really? Never would have guessed. You’re built like an ox!â€

"And you’re built like a wolf. Designed for speed and cunning maneuvers. If that makes any sense,†Velan replied, laughing.

"I guess it makes sense. I'll have to work on my skills if I ever want to come close to beating you.â€

"Then make it happen. I'm always up for a challenge. How about after this whole siege is over, we go again?†Velan said with a smile.

"Sounds good to me. If we both make it…â€

"You mean when we both make it my friend. Expecting to lose is a bad idea. You might just get your wish. Think positive!â€

"Will do! Thanks for the training, and cheering me up!†the soldier replied.

"No problem. I’m going to go see if I can’t find something to do. I’ll see you around. What’s your name, by the way?"

"Gergio.â€

"Nice to meet you Gergio. I'm Velan. Like I said, I'll see you around."

"Alright! It was good talking to you."

Velan left to go see if he could make himself useful.

[The Good Doctor]

Legate Gracchus Ceno
Imperial Camp
Day 3 of Siege, Morning

Gracchus was busying himself in the command tent, still trying to push out all of what General Tullius had said.

He was wrong. I can't just risk my men's lives on some forlorn hope of peace. If I was Red-Snow, I'd run and kill us the second we defeated the Thalmor. But Tullius would have my risk all of my men, because he "trusts" a man I am at war against. I just can't do that, Gracchus thought.

No sooner had Gracchus stopped thinking about what Tullius had said when Pilus walked in.

"So, what do you plan to do about the catapults that Redguard destroyed?" Pilus asked.

"Oh um yes...the catapults....well I told Valvius to pull the rope we had left, which was just enough for the larger one and the less damaged one, which is all we need I think. He has already begun scrapping the other two for parts to fix them, so he should have them done in time for the next battle," Gracchus said.

"Something on your mind? You seem a little....you don't seem to be focusing on the war right now, which is definitely odd," Pilus said.

Gracchus looked around nervously, and said, "There is something but...."

"Whatever it is, tell me, so you can quit worrying about it and get back to planning the siege," Pilus relied.

"If I'm going to do this, I want Eduard here as well. I trust his opinion," Gracchus said.

"Okay, I'll go get him then."

Pilus then left, going to find Eduard.

Eduard was approached by Pilus, who told him that Gracchus wished to see him.

"Lets not waste any time then."

Pilus led the way back to the command tent, where Geacchus was waiting.

Clearing his throat, Gracchus cast a muffle spell before processing.

"What I am about to tell you is to be kept a secret, understood? No one outside this tent must know. Do I make myself clear?"

"Yes. Don't tell anyone. Got it," Pilus said.

Eduard nodded.

"Understood. Now, what did you need to tell us?"

After receiving both men's promises of secrecy, Gracchus said, "Yesterday, I was approached by General Tullius. He wanted me to betray the Thalmor, and join sides with the Stormcloaks. I refused, because I was fearful that the Stormcloaks would just turn and kill us once we had killed the Thalmor. It got heated, he called me a disgrace, I said he had abandoned the Legion, and it didnt end well. I want to know what you two think I should have done."

Eduard laughed. Probably an inappropriate time, but oh well.

"The Redguard I killed gave a similar speech. He said we should be fighting the Thalmor, not each other. Now, what do I think? Quite frankly, I agree. Normally, I'm not one for ideals or anything like that, but here I see a logistical problem. We both don't like the Thalmor, yet we kill each other instead. Who the hell does that, and expects to win? Nobody should, if you ask me."

He then became much more serious.

"Also, I see no reason for the Stormcloaks to betray us. If they do, they are horrible strategists. Why waste troops that would fight with you? Besides, the ones I have come across have been nothing but honorable. Even if I lied to the one, and poisoned and killed the other. They were both respectful, and really wanted to just kill Thalmor. If I were you, I'd seriously consider it. Just don't wait too long, there comes a point where the "enemy of my enemy is my friend" no longer works. We can't keep slaughtering each other if we wish to partner up. That answer your question?"

Gracchus nodded.

"Thank you. I think I let the fear of betrayal persuade me. What about you Pilus?"

Pilus was leaning back in a chair, his feet propped up on the table.

"I agree with both of you. We should be fighting the Thalmor, but we need to get assurance that the Stormcloaks would hold onto their end of the bargain. Maybe a meeting, or a truce or something. But the Thalmor are the real enemy, not the Nords."

"You're both right. I just can't bring myself to put my troops in harms way, without some sort of actual alliance between our two sides. I can't just trust them to do the right thing, no matter how hard I try," Gracchus said.

"It's up to you Gracchus, but you know where we stand. I don't want to keep fighting those who should be my friend. I will, but it saddens me. I took the life of an honorable man. A man who sabotaged our equipment, and nearly killed me, but still honorable. I told him I would remember him when I gut a Thalmor. You should understand, I fully intend to keep my word. I will probably even use his swords."

Eduard gave a small smile, glancing at the ebony scimitars that he had obtained.

"Like I said, your choice. But for me, the choice is quite clear. We hold a meeting, without the Thalmors knowledge. We could use Tullius to our advantage on that. He obviously must of had contact with the Stormcloaks to have a change of heart like this. Or maybe he sees what I see. However, it may be to late to reconcile. It's up to you to decide if you want to find out. Like I said, I'm not one for ideals. But Jodun has me questioning that stance right about now."

"Thank you. If this meeting goes down, I want both of you to be there. It appears I may have acted brashly. If I can, I will seek out Tullius and try and reconcile. Thank you, both, again," Gracchus said.

Eduard looked at the ground, in deep thought.

Maybe I'm overreacting. I did just kill a man. Maybe I'm just trying too hard to make it right. Maybe the Thalmor are necessary. But I told him I'd plunge a sword in one of those elves, and I don't want my last words to him to be a lie.

"Do you think a man named Boldir will be there?"

Gracchus was deep in thought, trying to remember where he had heard the name.

"Boldir....hmmm....I believe he is a Captian, and second in command to General Baldur Red-Snow, so I would assume so. Why do you ask?"

"He... is probably going to be pissed at me. But no matter, I would hope he could either restrain himself, or have his superior restrain him. In any case, this is a lot to take in. I'm going to go take a walk. I'll see you later Gracchus."

Pilus left to go oversee the catapults, as he had nothing else to do.

I sure do hope Gracchus makes the right call in this. We can't fight each other forever, not with the real enemy next door, Pilus thought.

"I think I'm going to go visit Lil Ceno. Make sure those stable hands are taking good care of him," Gracchus said.

Gracchus left after Eduard, and walked to the stables where Lil Ceno was laying in the hay.

"How you doin boy?" Gracchus whispered, while holding out a sugar cube in his hand.

The horse neither softly, echoing the whispering of Gracchus. Lil Ceno then opened his mouth and locked the sugar cube off the open palm of his owner, and let out a happier, louder neigh.

You sure are easy to please. If only war was as easy, Gracchus thought, as he stroked the horses mane.

*******

Eduard left the tent.

I need to go for a walk. This has been a bit much. What the hell did I say back there.

Eduard walked into a part of the woods that he had been using when he wanted to be left alone.

What am I doing? I don't care about the Thalmor, or the Stormcloaks? I'm in war for the gold. This pity party I'm having for Jodun has to stop.

He sabotaged our stuff, and killed my friends. His requests mean nothing. I can't let this stuff go to my head.

Even if he was right...

If Gracchus asks me to attend, I will. However, I am not making any more attempts to persuade him one way or another. Unless the Stormcloaks offered me money, I guess.

Eduard glanced at his waist, eyeing the Jodun's scimitars.

Maybe I just need to one thing to remember him, and I'll be able to clear my head of this crap.

He unsheathed both of the blades.

In his mind, the fight played like it was happening right then. Blessing or curse, Eduard never forgot anything he saw. Especially stuff he saw in combat.

In remembrance, I'll attempt to learn some of the techniques he used on me. Not only will it make me feel better, but it will help me survive. But I don't have a Redguard to train me. I'll just have to do my best, using that fight as my training instructor.

He then began twirling the swords as fast as he could, mimicking how Jodun deflected the dagger. However, one of the swords spun out of control and flew out of his hand.

"Damn it. I will learn this."

Eduard picked the sword up and tried 50 more times, each time with better success. Well, if you consider cutting your hands and finally not almost decapitating yourself success.

On about the 55th try, he finally performed it in a way that he thought Jodun would be satisfied with.

Not as good as him, but I'm sure he understands. This isn't going to happen overnight.

With that, Eduard headed back to camp, to get his wound looked at. It seemed it wasn't entirely closed.

Seriously, the healers need to start getting better. Or else all of the wounded will just be casualties.

[The Good Doctor]

Jonus Rato
Falkreath
Day 3 of siege, early morning

Jonus made sure to remain inconspicuous as he walked towards the prison. The last thing he wanted was to have people questioning what he was doing out so early. He made sure to pull his cloak hood back before he entered the guard barracks. There was a bored-looking woman sitting behind a table inside.

"What do you want, Imperial?"

"I'd like to visit a prisoner."

"Prison's off limits to civilians right now."

Jonus had a pleading look in his eyes. "Please ma'am. I just want to share a few words with my cousin. I haven't spoken him in a while and... With those bastards outside the gate... I fear that-"

"Fine, fine. I'll let you in, but make it quick. I can't leave my post and I don't want anyone to know you're down there."

His face lit up. "Thank you! I promise, I'll be quick for you."

He made his way down the stairs and to the prison. Too easy.

Most of the prisoners were rounded up into larger cells throughout he prison, and were sharing cells. The particular man Jonus was looking for was sharing a cell with four other people. Fortunately, this man, who was a much larger than average Imperial, was the only one that was awake. He sat up as Jonus approached the cell.

"By the gods," the man whispered "what took you so long?"

"I'm sorry, Malik. I got here as fast as I was able. There were some arrangements to make first. I'm assuming you know about the siege by now?"

"We aren't told anything down here. But it was pretty obvious what was happening. The sounds of the battle weren't exactly quiet. What was that, two days ago?"

"Almost to the minute. So tell me Malik, what do you think? I know that this is the right course of action, and many of the people will be behind me. But I'm worried about when best to make our move. I fear that the Imperials will press their attack and take the city before we can act, which won't end well. Are you sure we should wait?"

"Yes, be patient friend, and stop worrying. The Imperials won't take the city. Not for a long while anyway. Sieges like this take time. They'll have food and supplies coming in from Pale Pass every day. They'll starve out the Stormcloaks. It's how these things work. Once the citizens start to get hungry, and desperate, that's when you'll have the most support. I can help with that upon my release, which should be in several days."

"You're right, of course. Okay friend, I'll wait, and gather more support as I do. I promise, when all this is over, you and I will be regarded as heroes."

"One thing at a time. For now just focus on gaining that support."

"Will do. Thank you Malik."

Jonus headed back up the stairs and back into the city streets, nodding at the guard behind the table on his way out. He put his hood back up as he walked back into the cold Falkreath streets.

This is actually going to work! The Imperials will be good for us, I think. Can't be worse than living in this damned city under these damned Stormcloaks. Malik may exaggerate about the Legion, but if he's told any kind of truth, they'll welcome these people with open arms.

[The Good Doctor]

Rebec

Jarl's longhouse

Day 3 of the siege, afternoon

 

“So, you’re the one who accused a neighbor of shagging your sheep.”

The farmer’s wife looked horrified.  “Stealing.  They were stealing our sheep.  Just one, actually.”

Rebec riffled through some papers.  She had agreed to see some of the more minor cases of town disputes in order to take the load off Baldur, and was heartily regretting it.  So was everyone else.  “Ah yes, here it is.  Stealing.” She read over the bailiff’s report.  “Says here you hadn’t marked the animal.”

“We didn’t need to mark her!  Everyone knew that Piglet was ours.”

The admiral lifted a brow, but didn’t ask. “Well now there are lots of sheep in one pen and lots of hungry people, so you do need to.  Case dismissed.”  To the crowd behind the woman Rebec said, “The rest of you go home, that’s all for today.”

The farmer’s wife sputtering was drowned out by a chorus of protest.  Rebec waited for it to die down, but it didn’t.  Suddenly an axe sailed over the heads of the complainants and sank itself, shuddering, in a charred beam over what was left of the longhouse entrance.  The crowd hushed at once and filed out, grumbling.

Rebec used her lasso to jimmy up the doorpost to get her axe back, the fire-scarred timbers creaking ominously.  She then poked her head into the command center.  Of course Baldur was hiding from the peasants and wasn’t there.  He had been scarce since their wedding night, but it didn’t bother her.  They both had things to do and it gave her a chance to catch up on her sleep.  The loss of Jodun also got to him, she knew.  He’d come back to her when it suited him.  That had always been her way with Toki, and unconsciously she was adopting it again.

Outside she found another gathering waiting for her, the new fire marshals.  Every house had been ordered to lay in a stock of water barrels, extra blankets for dousing, and a fire hook and long-handled axe to pull down burning roof pieces.  Rebec had tried to order them to remove their thatching, as well, but the townspeople complained of leakage from the rain so she had only made it a recommendation.  Channels were being dug through town to divert some of the river water, and troughs set out at street corners, to make for quick bucket brigades.  The citizens were already practicing.  They were small measures, but her own experience at sea had taught Rebec that keeping a small fire from being a conflagration was all-important.

She had also taken a step that was unusual for her, and called for any in the town who had magical aptitude to study with the Dunmer on casting basic frost spells.  For those who had no such skill but hopefully had brains enough not to kill themselves, she distributed frost scrolls.

Rebec had asked Runil to help with their inscription.  After she was satisfied with what she heard from the fire marshals, she walked down to the House of the Dead to see him.  When Runil admitted her in, Rebec found that a Bosmer woman was already there.

“I was just leaving,” the woman said, giving Rebec a nervous glance on her way out.  The admiral returned it with a wry look, but said nothing.  Bosmer.  They’re so creepy.

Runil insisted on making her tea, as he always did.  The priest cleared away the Bosmer woman’s cup and fetched a fresh setting for Rebec.

“I came about the scrolls,” the admiral said after some small talk.

“Yes, of course.  I have some, but I’ve not been able to make very many.  As important as this is, I had my duties to Arkay to attend to, after the battle.”

“Anything you can do is better than nothing.” Rebec paused, then said something she’d been thinking a long time.  “If it comes down to it, Father Runil- I know this is a difficult thing for you- but if we really needed it, would you be willing to fight for us?  We could really use another battlemage.”

The Altmer looked stricken.  “Don’t ask that of me.  Please.”

“I wouldn’t normally, but you said you serve the people of Falkreath.  If it came down to their lives, wouldn't you serve them better by defending them than burying them?”

“Please.  Death... death just is another part of life.”

The priest didn’t sound convinced by his own sermon.  As much as she wanted to press it, something held Rebec back, however.  Maybe it was the thought that someday she, Baldur, Boldir and the rest could be that haunted.

“You would at least defend yourself?  I know that the redguard revere Arkay.  I want to ask a squad of them to guard you.  If the Thalmor know you’re here, they may try to capture or kill you, even before there’s another attack.  It’s not just pity, so don’t think that.  You’re vital to the town’s morale, and you’ve become vital to us.  That's what I'll tell anyone who asks.  They don't need to know about the other thing, if they don't already."

There was then a war fought in the Altmer’s expression.  He wanted to refuse, Rebec could see, and wave off the importance of his own life.  On the other side, he was terribly afraid.  Finally he nodded once, and Rebec got up to leave before he could change his mind.  “Good.  I’ll take those scrolls now.  Thanks for the tea.”

Outside, the priest’s assistant Kust was waiting for her.  “Can I talk to you about something important, Admiral?”  Drawing Rebec aside, he continued, “That Bosmer woman who was here before.  Her name is Aglaren.  She came to town about eight months ago, but something isn’t right about her...”

[The Good Doctor]

Jonus Rato

Falkreath, Basement hideout

Day 3 of Siege, afternoon

 

"What?! You're kidding me!"

"No Jonus, I'm not. Pale Pass is closed off. Heard it from more than one soldier these past few days."

Then Malik was wrong. We can't just wait and bide our time. The Imperials will probably run out of food before Falkreath does.

Jonus looked up at the man. A large Nord named Jolfnir. He was the owner of the house Jonus had been staying in since his own farm was burned down. It was Jolfnir's basement that this meeting was taking place in. To Jolfnir's left sat his wife, Lucil. To his right sat Kodak, a city guardsman. On the other side of Kodak was Delacourt, the local bard. To Lucil's left was Ulren, a prosperous farmer from the Rift and also a cousin to another of Jonus's supporters. They all sat in a half-circle facing Jonus.

"No doubt, the Stormcloaks caused this. They burned our fields and homes, and now they close the pass. Our oppressors want to force their enemies to act quickly, or else they starve, bringing all of us down with them. This news changes things. We'll have to adopt a new gameplan."

"How?" Asked Jolfnir. Who had a confused look on his face. He was a kindly man. But Jonus could tell from the day they'd met that, while he was not dumb, he was a little slow when it came to planning and the like.

"How?" Jonus looked at everyone in the room as he spoke. "Well the fist thing is that we cannot tell anyone else about Pale Pass closing. It's not the biggest of deals, but if people learn that the Imperials are short on food, they won't want to leave for them. What we need to do is turn the tables a bit. Something only we can do from the inside. There are enough people supporting us to pull this off if we act quickly. We need to burn some, not all, but some of the food that is being stored here. Enough to send a message, or rather, messages. The Imperials will see that they have friends on the inside, and the Stormcloaks will learn the meaning of "eye for an eye. We will no longer be a secret to them, but it won't be traceable back to anybody. Finally, the civilians will begin to lose faith in our "protectors"."

Much to Jonus's dissapointment, everyone in front of him but Lucil nodded. He had hoped that someone in his present company would suggest a better plan instead of agree to his without question. He didn’t like the idea of burning their food in the slightest.

Lucil spoke up. "Won't burning the food lower rations? These people want leaders that will give them what they want. How will that make people support us?"

"Good question Lucil. It almost certainly won't. Which is why we must make sure it does not look like it was our fault. It must appear to be an attack from the Imperials. I've got a man who can procure us several suits of their armor in several days."

"But won't that make them hate the Imperials? The whole plan is to make them look better than the Stormcloaks."

"Yes, that's the plan. But you must remember, they're fighting a war. They've already fired catapults and spells into the city. Burning our food is, if anything, a showing of mercy. It would show that they'd rather Falkreath surrender than be killed. At the same time, it makes the Stormcloaks appear incapable of defending us."

The room seemed satisfied by that. Kodak spoke up this time. "So who is this man that'll get us the disguises?"

"He's a friend. An Imperial like me, named Malik. He is a now a farmer, but he used to serve in the Legion. Unfortunately, he's serving time in jail at the moment, but  is going to be let out in two days. Until then, I need all of you to do your parts. Delacourt, you are very important. Anything useful or important you hear in the tavern must be reported to Jolfnir and Lucil. They'll tell me of your findings. Ulren, I'll need your help with obtainig some basic weapons. And Kodak, I know the city guard doesn't have much pull at the moment, but I want you to keep tabs on anyone that is sent to jail and anyone who leaves. I want to know what they did, and when they're getting out, alright? Anybody got any more questions?"

Nobody answered. After waiting a few seconds, Jonus stood up and looked around at his allies.

"Then that's it for this meeting. We'll meet here again this same time tomorrow."

With that, the group headed upstairs and disbanded, all heading off to do their various jobs. Jonus waited for them to leave before heading upstairs himself. Lucil was in the kitchen.  "You think all this is really going to work?"

Jonus could tell she was nervous. He spoke reassuringly. "Don’t worry, Lucil. I’ll do everything I can to keep more people of Falkreath from dying for Ulfric.”

[The Good Doctor]

Do'jhul 

Remote cave in the Pale

Evening

 

The fire glowed warmly in the depths of the cavern. Moss hung down from the many cracks and crevices in the cave wall. Over the fire was a make shift grill and on that grill was was cooking a slab of seasoned deer venison. Prodding it with his pruning fork, Do'jhul thought back over the past six months.

Ever since that night he escaped from Fort Neugrad, Do'jhul decided to go into hiding. Over that course of time, he traveled the lands of Skyrim. He survived by killing bandits for their armor and weapons and gold, and killing wildlife for food. It wasn't the best existence, but he did what he had to do.

Recently, he decided to contact an old friend from High Rock, a man by the name of Dalk. Dalk is a seasoned Nightblade, and a good friend to Do'jhul.

All of a sudden, one of the stickes made a loud pop in the fire and jolted Do'jhul out of his train of thought. Grabbing his pruning fork, Dojhul flipped the hunk of venison on its other side. As soon as he did that, an emotionless voice said, "Looks tasty. Is this what you have been eating for the past six months? I hope not", almost as if appearing out of thin air, a man in goldish armor and wrapped in a cloak and a hood and cowl covering most of his face, was standing right in front of Do'jhul.

Instantly getting up, Do'jhul rushed up to the man and hugged him. Embracing him, Do'hul exclaimed, "It's been too long my friend. I'm surprised you come so quickly. You must be hungry, here sit down", Do'jhul gestured to a makeshift stool, Dalk sat down and took off most of his equipment and pulled his hood down and lowered his cowl to reveal his face.

Do'jhul cut up two big slabs of venison, one for Dalk and himself. For awhile the entire cavern was silent. Finally Dalk broke the silence. "So what is it you called me for?" 

"Well, I need your help in some plans of mine. I don't have everything sorted out just yet, but I have a vague idea. In the hold of Falkreath, there is man by the name of Baldur Red-Snow. I want you to deliver this note to him", reaching into his traveling bag, Do'jhul pulled out a folded note and handed it to him. "Also in that note is a description of what he looks like." 

Dalk read over the description of Baldur and looked back at Do'jhul with his piercing jet black eyes. "I'll head out tomorrow. Give me a week and I'll have this note delivered to him." 

"Thanks friend I knew I could count on you." 

 

Dalk

Remote cave in the Pale

Morning

 

Getting up before Do'jhul, Dalk geared up and set out to find Baldur Red-Snow..........

[The Good Doctor]

Quaestor Pilus Rato

Imperial Camp

Day 5 of Siege, Mid-day

 

Valvius was in charge of the catapults themselves, but Pilus was sent to overlook and protect the engineers ever since the sabotage incident. He was walking up on them now, where several of the engineers were at work.

"Aye, Valvius, how goes the catapult repairs?" Pilus asked the head engineer.

"Oh...um...actually, uh, sir, they are coming along well. We had to basically scrap two of the smaller ones, but the larger one and the third smaller one we have begun repairs on. We can have them done, albeit somewhat hastily repaired, in a week if my estimate are correct, sir," the engineer said excitedly.

"Well done. Keep up the good work," Pilus told the engineers. 

Pilus then turned to the ten or so battlemages, and told them, "Keep a close eye on the perimeter, I don't want any more saboteurs getting in." 

Finally leaving, Pilus headed to the large pine tree he had been using to keep an eye on Falkreath. It was old, with a trunk that he and another man couldn't wrap their arms around. The lower branches were high, but Pilus had figured out a way scale it's branches. Climbing quickly, Pilus arrived about midway up the tree, just high enough that he could see the town of Falkreath through the treetops. He sat down, one leg dangling over the side of the large, thick branch he sat on. The archers and guards moved on the wall, oblivious that they were being watched.

I wonder if Gracchus has made a decision on the alliance yet. We don't need to keep wasting men on fighting these Nords, but he can't lead us to slaughter either. From what I've heard about this Baldur Red-Snow, I think he would at least listen. Most of those Nords seem honorable, Pilus thought.

Pilus' focus came to rest on the Jarl's Longhouse, which was open to the elements on one side from the surprise catapult attack. Several dozen civilians walked around the town, trying to go about their lives as normal as possible.

At least I'm not the poor soul that has to deal with them. I'm sure they are doing more complaining than I can imagine. 

After another thirty minutes of watching, Pilus climbed back down the tree. As he neared the bottom, he saw a deer, two does and a buck, milling around the bottom. Slowing down, he perched on a branch, careful to not move. First casting a muffle spell, he silently conjured an ice spike. He sat, and waited, until the buck moved into a position he could send the ice spike through its front shoulder. Pilus sent the ice spike through the air, and it impaled itself into the buck. It dropped, and after waiting a few minutes, the twitching stopped.

Pilus jumped down, and pulled out his steel dagger, and proceeded to gut the deer. Once that was done, and Pilus' hands pretty well covered in blood and bits of the deer, he took two branches and made a sled so he could carry the deer out by himself. It still took a little over an hour to get back to the camp, and he dropped off the deer at the mess tent.

Well, I guess today wasn't a total waste. I hope Gracchus made his decision, of at least has out some thought to it. Better go wash up, I smell like the inside of a slaughter house, Pilus thought, and left toward the creek to he could clean himself up.

Pilus found the small creek, and let the cold mountain water wash off the blood and gore. He could hardly feel his hands, as the water was most certainly snow runoff. Drying his hands off, Pilus set off towards the command tent to talk to Gracchus.

Polis walked in, and Gracchus was seated behind his desk, talking to a quartermaster and drinking a cup of tea. 

"We have several battles of potatoes left," the quarter master, a lean Imperial, said.

"How many is several?" Gracchus asked in annoyance.

"Um, well, I'm not sure, but I can find out," the Imperial said in a shakeu voice.

"You do that, and don't come back till you do."

Gracchus dismissed the quartermaster, and turned to Pilus.

"Got any for me?" Pilus asked.

"Unfortunately, this was my last tea bag. The rationing effects us all. Was there something you wanted?" Gracchus asked.

"Yes, actually, I wanted to know if you've made up your mind on the meeting?" Pilus said.

Gracchus took a long sip of his tea, before setting it down and saying, "Well...um...I, um....no. I haven't decided yet. But I think I will tell Lorgar to contact Tullius anyway. Maybe actually being in the meeting will help me decide."

"Whatever you decide, I'm with you. You already know what I think though, and that's what you should do," Pilus said.

"Thank you. It's good to know that I have your support. And I think you're right, and I hope that whatever decision I make will be the right one. Thank you, again, old friend," Gracchus said, his scowl weakening.

Pilus left, glad that he could help out his CO, and his good friend.

I hope he makes the right choice. That's all I can hope for.

[The Good Doctor]

Baldur, Tullius, Rebec, Boldir

Falkreath

Day 6 of Siege very early in the morning

 

The Stormcloak guard was simply put, getting bored. During the last battle, he was stuck guarding the grain supply, and didn't get to kill any milk-drinking imperials. Today, he was wasting away on the battlements of the wall, 

"Good day guardsmen..."

A voice suddenly emerged down from the forest, and two men came out of the shadows, both where clad in dark cloaks, and had hoods covering there face's. The soldier instinctively drew his bow,
“State your business..."

The first hooded man simply said, "I wish to speak with your commanding officer, Baldur Red-snow, tell him one-eye, and the man who helped save his life wishes to talk."

"One-eye" turned to his companion at his right, and said,

"Do you think Baldur will listen to reason?"

The other hooded man nodded his head, "He's a man of reason, if nothing else. He'll at the least hear us out."

 

****

 

Baldur was wide awake next to Rebec. He was having trouble sleeping with the war on his mind. But more than that, the letter that Witchie just sent had him perplexed him more than anything. He laid there playing with her locks as she rested her head on his arms while reading Witchie's letter over and over.

"The princess is about to commit high treason. She will soon want to contact you about help with wiping out the Thalmor.

You know what to do with the letter."

Baldur didn't like it. To him it smelled like a trap. The last thing he was going to do was walk in a trap when he just got out of Thalmor custody.

Baldur heard a knocking on the door, and knew what it was for without the soldier speaking.

"Sir, some cloaked men are here to speak for you. Something about a guy with one eye, and someone who helped save you. We have arrows trained on them. We await your orders."

"I'll be there. Hold on."

Baldur eased Rebec's head down and started putting his armor on. He put his bear helmet on as well in case someone was waiting to snipe him from the battlements. When he was done, he gently shook Rebec on her shoulder to wake her up.

"Rebec, wake up. We have guests."

Rebec had been fast asleep, worn out from endless worry and even more endless tasks.  Just before they were wakened, she fell into a dream.

She stood on her ship as it was moored at a lonely port she didn't recognize.  Looking out towards the water, Rebec breathed in the clean salt air, which in Skyrim always had the danger of frost in it.  A voice said "mama."  Her head snapped around to see a little boy climbing around on the rope and crates stacked on the deck.  He was hers, she realized with a start of surprised joy.  The boy then pointed.  "Papa's coming.  Who's that man?"  Rebec looked up to see Baldur walking towards them on the quay.  As he sidestepped to avoid some barrels, the man her son asked about came into view.  It was Lorgar, his bow drawn on Baldur.  She tried to scream, but no sound came out.

Starting awake with a cry of horror, Rebec saw Baldur putting on his armor and saying something about visitors.  She fell out of bed and started dressing herself, still shaking from her dream.  "Who is it, one of our concerned citizens?"

"I don't know exactly. I think it's Tullius and someone else who claims to have helped me. Here, read this."

Baldur handed her the note Witchie sent him via the magic cloth.

Rebec read the letter and then read it again, trying to make it make sense.  "So this is Witchie's latest project?  I would feel better if we could talk to him ourselves.  Notes through a Thalmor device."  She mumbled some more as she hurriedly drew on her leathers.

"I feel the same way, Reb. I won't be taking any chances. Lets go see who exactly has come."

Rebec splashed water on her face and pulled her hair up into a loose knot on the back of her head.  As she was fixing her axes, she watched Baldur, wishing desperately that they had more time for each other than what they could steal from sleep.  She wondered what he would say about her dream.  Recalling his own dreams in the journal, she decided she wouldn't tell him about the last part.  Or maybe not about any of it.  They hadn't talked about children yet.  They hadn't talked about a lot of things.  Grabbing her crossbow and bolt quiver, she followed him out to greet these mysterious guests.

Baldur and Rebec made their way to the battlements above the gate to see who was trying to gain entrance. Baldur didn't know what to think still, so he had the men keep their arrows drawn on the strangers before he addressed them. As he looked down, he could see the two hooded figures below, one larger than the other waiting patiently for his response.

"Okay, ladies. Quit being so dramatic. I know it's you, Tullius. Who's your friend there, and what do you want?"

Tullius, said in a half-joking tone, "Awww but Baldur, you know how us legionaries love are dramatic entrances..."

Rebec glanced around, watching for signs of ambush now that she and Baldur were both on the wall.  "Getting acquainted with your old legion friends, eh, Tullius," she said, bringing her eyes back to the two men.  "State your business.  I'm grateful for your help, but you can understand we've got little time for chit-chat."

"We have matters to discuss...as I told the guard. Matters that are very...delicate"

"Before we discuss anything, have your hoods removed. Now." said Baldur sternly.

"If you insist..."

'Tullius' was the first to take off his hood, revealing a a man with grey hair, a short stumble around his chin, and a black eye-patch. It was Tullius. The second man, the taller and more heavily built, started to laugh a cold and humorless laugh  that Baldur had heard once before.

"Hello Baldur..." The man's face was revealed, his right face was heavily scarred, and missing an eye, he wore a grey eye patch. His hair was dark brown, and he had a finely trimmed dark brown beard. His face was pale white. They knew who this was.

Rebec tensed at Baldur's side.  Before he could speak, she spat out, "You.  You have the nerve to show up here again, after what you did."  Turning to the other man, she added, "You should choose your friends more carefully, Tullius.  Unless you're here to deliver Lorgar up to us."

Lorgar, who was smiling, revealing his fang like teeth, merely chuckled, "And what did I do, Admiral? Killed a man who committed war crimes and was a paranoid idiot."

Baldur's face began to show his anger at the sight of Lorgar. Not for the assassination, but the arrow he sent to Rebec.

"I heard you shot an arrow at Rebec. Perhaps I should return the favor and then some." 

The archers on the walls pulled their strings back further when they heard this. "Unless you want to become my pincushion, you'll go back to your camp. I will speak with Tullius, and Tullius alone."

Lorgar lost none of his mocking appearance at the threat, "I thought you would be more friendly Baldur. I did after all, assist Tullius in rescuing you from the dominion prison. I helped plan, and provided the maps and information that Tullius needed to extract you. Oh," Lorgar practically grinned when saying, "My congratulations on your wedding, though I danced with Rebec in Falkreath not to long ago..."

"We danced with a few of your men at Rommulas, too," Rebec replied.  "Or should I say, all of them."

"If I recall those soldiers where the ones who stood between you and the torture chambers of the dominion, admiral, Your "beloved" would still be in those chambers as we speak if me and Tullius hadn't intervened. Say all you want about me, but if you ever say anything about my unit like that, ever again, i'll take my knife and carve you into little pieces..."

Baldur grew increasingly angrier at the threat, and lost his senses for a moment. He took the bow and arrow from the soldier next to him and fired a shot next to Lorgar's foot. He then addressed the Grim Archer in a venomous voice he did not know he possessed.

"You watch your tongue, cur. The only one that's gonna be doing any carving here is me. As long as I'm around, you won't be doing anything. We almost killed you back at our last fight. Remember that. Next time there won't be any battle mages to save you. And if you EVER threaten my wife again, I swear I'll lob that ugly head of yours off and put it with the rest of your men's bodies to feed the crows. Look upon me and see that this is no mere threat."

Lorgar didn't even flinch, but before he could say anything, Tullius interrupted, "Everyone calm the fuck down, Lorgar zip it, Baldur zip it, Rebec zip it, we have the chance of making a difference, and possibly ending hostilities between the legion and the Stormcloak army, and focus on the real threat. Dont throw it away because of things in the past." 

"No, you zip it and listen to me. I don't have time to deal with your games. Next you'll be telling me that Elenwen herself helped in my escape. I don't give a damn anymore, no one comes to my town and threatens my people. ESPECIALLY my wife. I wasn't kidding when I said I'd kill him. Lorgar has ten seconds to get his ass out of here or I send him to his Legion. Ten...."

"FUCKINF LISTEN TO ME YOU ARROGANT FUCKING NORD. Are you FUCKING stupid? Stop acting like a fucking child, and listen to reason. You just going act like a spoiled baby "Waghhhhhhhh" I want to get my way and act tough", listen to me you piece of shit, I lost hundreds of soldiers because of this fucking war, I lost my best friend and someone who I treated and thought as my daughter,  and now I have a chance to end it without any further fucking bloodshed, and make there sacrifice meaningful. I'm not going to let you throw it away, because of your fucking ego..."

Baldur smirked and raised his hand in the air so that when he would drop it, his men would fire.

"NINE."

Tullius angrily face-palmed himself, before Lorgar nudged him, "Why don't we give the little baby what he wants?"

Tullius scowled, "It's seems like we have no choice, so much for Baldur being a reasonabe man, if he's going to throw a little tamptrum like a child..."

Rebec merely stood by, watching.  She was shocked at the anger in Baldur's voice and realized with unease that it was probably caused in part by her presence, but she was as stubborn as her husband on the subject of Lorgar.

Baldur started counting faster, getting impatient.

"You must want to die, Lorgar. Fine by me. I've been wanting to prove to you Sovngarde's real. Eight...Seven...Six....Five....Four...Three..."

Lorgar merely chuckled, again with his really creepy laugh, "My like have no place in Sovengard Baldur, i'll be seeing you in the shadows..."

And with that, Lorgar took a step back into the treeline, melting into the darkness.

Baldur looked down to Tullius after he left.

"What is it with you Imperials? You say you wanna make a deal and you bring the one person that we'd hate the most to the negotiating table?"

Baldur was referring to how Tullius brought Elenwen to negotiate a temporary peace so the Dragonborn could defeat Alduin.

"Don't remind me about that, I was forced to by Ulfric's whore of a wife, Jarl elsfief. And I basically told the Bitch to shut the fuck up if you recall. Lorgar on the other hand, has been assisting me since I started my little organization, and has the ear of one of the most important people in the Empire...so yeah he was kinda important...but enough, are you going to invite me in or not..."

Baldur grinned at the mention of the High Queen.

"Yes well, as you can imagine Ulfric left that part out about you telling her to shut it. Anyway, yes. You may enter. Leave your weapons outside. Men, have Marius and Boldir meet us in the Longhouse."

Rebec led the way into the remains of the longhouse, asking the Necro Nords in the command center to clear out and guard the doorway as they had their audience.  She searched around for some relatively clean mugs and filled them from the tapped keg.  Handing one to Tullius, she asked, "You do drink mead, don't you?"  It sounded suspicious, like a test.

"Yes I drink mead...as long as it doesn't have snow berries i'm good..."

Baldur took a seat across from Tullius and took a mug from Rebec and sat it down. He was too interested in what this could all be about to care about drinking at the moment.

"Once Boldir and Marius get here, we can begin."

It wasn’t long before Boldir made his way there. The man who’s fetched him had neglected to mention who they were meeting with. Or that they would be sharing drinks, of all things. "Alright, what's Half-Pint doing here?"

"I don't know, That's what we're here to see. Half-Pint? Speak. Marius should be here soon." said Baldur.

"So...." Tullius grinned a half-smile, "Knowing your nords being a bit on the slow side, and preferring to be blunt and straightforward."

Tullius went on to explain about Dales Moitre, and her plan to taker the imperial throne with the help of the Sons of Whiterun and the Sixth legion on her side. He explained about Lorgar's plan on dealing with the Aldmeri forces here, and a meeting where all of the leaders could gather and discuss things.

Baldur listened to what Tullius said, and couldn't believe what he was hearing. He decided to let the others speak first before making a decision.

Rebec was also incredulous.  "And now you want Skyrim to help you get your empire back.  It's a good thing you lost your war, eh, Tullius?  I'm sorry, but you know how this works.  If you really want us to trust you, we need more than just words.  Get rid of those Thalmor, withdraw the legion back to Pale Pass, and we can meet with this replacement general then in a bit more comfortable circumstances."

"If you don't trust me, then trust the fact I could have stabbed Baldur in the back any time when I was rescuing his sorry ass from Pale pass torture camp..."

"Watch it, Tullius. This sorry ass wasn't captured by the Legion, so don't think so highly of yourselves. I'm the one whose help you need now." said Baldur defensively.

"Yeah that sorry ass was captured because you trusted a shady dealer of information...and yes, I do need your help, mister nord. I also helped you in your time of need, and possible saved hundreds of your soldiers from the admiral and the good captain's insane plan, so I request, that your at least humor me..."

Rebec looked up sharply.  "Excuse me?  You don't know nearly as much as you think you do, Tullius, so mind your manners.  Gratitude is only going to get you so far.  Now quit arguing about how magnificent you are and tell us what you plan to do about the Thalmor.  Even if we did trust you, there's a legion out there that's been killing our men.  What is this siege about if you all just want to go home and clean house?"

"Hold just a damn minute."

Baldur was getting angry at being talked down to.

"You don't know Samuel. I had ten of the best Hammerfell men with me when I was caught. His men were invisible. You'd have fallen for it too. The man isn't what he seems to be. If it wasn't for me not being willing to kill your friend, I'd have never been in that situation. You can thank me later. Now, because I am thankful for your help, and I never had the chance to say it, I will humor you. Now answer Rebec's question."

"Me and Lorgar, as you most likely already know, are masters of stealth. So here's the plan, Dales uses her position to insert Lorgar and another specialist, Eduard, into the dominion camp. Using his skills, he'll abduct the dominion leader, Colonel Vandili If I recall, your most likely acquainted with him already? Anyway's, once we have him in our custody, Gracchus will give the order to butcher the dominion forces stationed in the camp, during the night we'll cut all of there throats..."

"It seems to me that the better idea would be to lead them here thinking that they're going to attack us, then your legion attacks from behind while we attack from the front. Killing their leader won't stop them, and it will be much easier to make sure we get them all this way if we sandwhich them with both our forces. And I want their leader alive." said Baldur.

"Ah but if we do that, both of our forces will take a good deal of casualties, especially considering how dangerous some of the Thalmor's elite battlmages are. By using the stealthy approach, both our forces risk of taking losses is lowered considerable, and without the leadership of Vandili, there army will crumble. Oh and I don't think Dales would want to give Valindil to you, she has her own beef with him"

"I don't care what her problem is with him. She wants my assistance, I get him. If she wants, she can watch as I take care of him. I made him a promise and I intend to keep it. As for the plan to kill them, I really think that the stealth approach isn't the way to go. You can't stealthily kill an entire force, and attacking them from both sides when we'll greatly outnumber them will in fact ensure minimal casualties despite their battle mages. I don't mean to open old wounds but the battle of Camp Rommulus is the perfect example. But if you insist on taking the casualties, by all means. I won't stop you."

"Hmmmm, if you want to take the battle of Camp Rommulas as an example, why don't we combine our two approaches? We have Lorgar ,Edaurd, and the rest of our specialists set fire to a bunch of critical locations and sleeping area's causing mass confusion among the Dominion forces, and then we deploy the legionaries among with your Necro Nords and have a mass-butcher fest? Oh, and if you wouldn't mind, could you be understanding and let Dale's have some fun with you and Vandili?"

"Baldur will make the decision, but I wouldn't give you a single one of our men before we see that you really mean business," Rebec replied.  "I'm sure you'd love to have all our Necro Nords out exposed on pretext of helping you."

He turned, this time with a look of serenity and melancholy, and his usual mocking tone, was replaced by a cool and calm voice.

"Rebec, i've lost more to the Thalmor then you know, please trust that I wouldn't ever betray you to those bastards." 

"Don't take my suggestions as anything but. I'm still not convinced by a long shot that the rest of them aren't just trying to lead me into a trap. How do you know they aren't just playing you? Aren't you wanted in Cyrodiil as well?" asked Baldur.

Tullius simply said, "I trust Lorgar."

"But do they trust him? And I sure as hell don't trust them. Considering he's laying siege on my town. I need assurances. I need proof." said Baldur.

"What proof could I give you Baldur?"

Rebec stands up suddenly, pacing.  "Lorgar, who was just boasting about assassinating our jarl.  He didn't just kill Dengeir, you know.  They killed his steward to get to him, and some man in the crowd no one knows.  We're supposed to believe he's now on our side?  And that legion is still killing our men.  They just killed one of the best, while he was sabotaging those damned catapults.  What do they need catapults for if they don't mean to continue the siege?"

"Sad, but a necessary action, your Jarl was an utter idiot, he wouldn't have agreed to this, would he?  And Eduard hasn't been informed about our little plans yet, so don't fault him..."

Baldur began stroking his beard as he thought about this meeting that was being proposed. He thought the whole thing smelled like horker shit, but this was the whole point of him accepting Marius afterall. He had to at least try.

"I'll agree to the meeting, but only on two conditions. One, I get Velandil. If I'm feeling generous, I may even let this princess get a hand at him. Maybe. Two, I need a high profile hostage. Surely you can't think me so stupid as to walk out of my walled town into enemy hands to "talk". To ensure my safety and the safety of anyone I bring, I'll need the Princess herself in my custody while I am gone."

It was Tullius's turn to stroke his stumble  obviously deep in thought before saying,

"I'll agree to your first term without question, he's your's. Your second...I have three conditions, one, She is not to be harmed in anyway. Two, she is to be well-treated as afforded by someone of her status as imperial royalty, I wont have her sleeping in a cell. And three, old Marius DOESN'T go near her,"

"This is a war camp.  She's not going to be served tea and crumpets every time she crooks her pinky finger.  But she'll be as safe here as we'll be.  Remind this legate of that, if he decides to throw any more fireballs."  Rebec turned to meet Baldur's eyes.  It was the chance they had wanted.  She nodded once, giving her assent to the plan.

Baldur caught Rebec's nod, and returned one of his own.

"You've been rather reasonable Tullius. We'll see if Graccus is the same. As Rebec said, a cell is non-negotiable, but I'll be more willing to let her take a wack at Velandil in that case. And she won't be with us for long, just long enough for this meeting to finish."

"We'll decide then what to do with her, of course," Rebec added quickly, not wanting to overpromise.  Baldur had a trusting streak in him, and someone had to be the heavy.  The admiral then put a hand on Boldir's shoulder.  The captain had been quiet, probably thinking of Jodun, she guessed.

Boldir, who was indeed deep in thought, blinked a few times when he felt Rebec's hand on his shoulder. He cleared his throat and nodded in agreement to his friends. Not much for me to add really.

"As long as she's safe, i suppose i'll agree to this. I dont think Dales will mind, cant say the same thing for our dear wolf, but i'll convince him. I'll escort her to Falkreath myself once all the arrangements are made," 

He offered his hand to Baldur,

"Deal?"

Baldur looked at the hand of his once enemy before shaking it. There was a long pause. He couldn't help but feel that what he was doing was a betrayal. To Ulfric, and to the men that died. And Jodun. But he knew Ulfric would understand the situation. The Thalmor were the real threat, and Tullius too was taking large steps to make this a reality. Even Lorgar came to make this deal, and Baldur butchered his entire force. This was what he was hoping for. This was why he trusted Marius and accepted him into his ranks. This was why he was captured and tortured for, and almost killed. Baldur grabbed grabbed Tullius's hand remembering these things and shook his hand.

"Deal."

Baldur looked to where the door used to be and saw Marius making his way to the group.

"It's about time you got here, Marius. I'll let Tullius fill you in on the details."

Tullius smiled mockingly as he explained everything to Marius, whom had a flash of anger at the mention of Princess Dales plans and her coming to the camp as a hostage,

"You cant be serious sir, trusting that bitch-"

Tullius snapped at him,

"Watch your tongue Marius, your speaking about the imperial Princess..."

"You two take this elsewhere. I have some things to discuss with these two." said Baldur.

Tullius nodded, before grabbing Marius by the ear and dragging him out of the command center,

"Don't be surprised when I arrive, i'll have her here depending on how long it takes to arrange everything."

And with that, Tullius and Marius faded from view.

Boldir stayed back as they exited the building. He motioned to Baldur that he'd like a word. "Right. Rebec, could I have a word with Boldir for a moment? I'll be with you shortly if that is fine."

Rebec nodded once, resigned.  Everyone wanted Baldur's time, even though she had things to discuss with him as well.  The matter Kust had spoken with her about two days before was still on her mind.  There was the question of who should lead the Hammerfell forces.  They were having a hard time deciding amongst themselves.  And now this meeting, which overshadowed all of those concerns.  It didn't help that when she and Baldur were alone all she wanted to do was kiss him.  That problem she had brought on herself.

"I'll be in the jail when you're finished," she said, and left.

 

****

 

Boldir waited for her to leave before continuing.

"I don't like this Baldur. You said yourself that it could be a trap. But they know who you are. We don't even know this princess is real. What if they just send us some dumb nobody in a fancy dress? We can't know."

Baldur took the note Wichie gave him and showed it to Boldir.

"Here, it's a note Witchie sent me magically. He told me before Tullius arrived that the Princess was attempting to do this."

Boldir looked over the note, and sure enough he saw it right there, plain as day. Princess.

"And you are certain this is from him?"

"I'm not. The means by which he sent this is through Thalmor means, so it's very possible that a Thalmor sent it. But I don't see Tullius saving me only to get me captured once more. And I'll do a little test of my own to see if she's the real deal."

Boldir thought over it, and the more he did, the more he didn't like it. Baldur just got back and already he wanted to go in the midst of the enemy to talk about joining forces. Is this the right call?

"It is."

Boldir turned to see where the voice came from, but saw nothing.

Was that...Jodun? Great...Welcome to my noggin, Jodun.

Baldur saw him turn around as if he heard something. He sighed, and looked down after closing his eyes.

"Carlotta again?"

"Uh, yea." Boldir replied.

"Ok, you go get some rest. We have a busy day ahead of us. Today I'll try the conscription."

"I thought we weren't going to fight anymore." replied Boldir.

"We aren't. Yet. Just because I'm going to the meeting doesn't mean I'm taking any chances. I'm going with Rebec and Marius. You will stay here. If anything happens, you kill the Princess, and take my place as General. And you finish the battle without me. You can do it, I know you can."

After that, Baldur walked off to go speak to Rebec in the prison.

"He's right, you know."

You're not real, you know.

"Are you sure?"

Some papers on a table fluttered about like doves suddenly before drifting to the floor. Boldir stood there, confused as all hell, but then snapped out of his paralyzed state.

It was the wind. There's a hole in the wall after all. Time to go back to bed.

[The Good Doctor]

Lorgar Grimaw, and Tullius Gaius, Falkreath Forest

 

“Absolutely not!” said Lorgar, who was currently sitting with Tullius beside a campfire in the darkness of Falkreath forest

“There’s nothing to worry about, Dales will be safe, she’ll be infact safer in the Stormcloak camp then she would be in the Imperial camp, especially considering the insane circumstances.”

“Yeah, safe, as any political hostage”

Tullius put his hands up, “Look this is one of the conditions that Baldur set out, he and the good admiral assured me she wouldn’t be harmed during her very short stay”

“Do you really trust him with Imperial royalty? Especially a young princess? How do you know he wont try and, woo her?

Tullius interrupted, “First of all, he’s married and as far as I can tell faithful to his wife, second of all I don’t think Baldur is that kind of man to rape a young girl.”

Lorgar snorted, “Well maybe not him, but one of his soldiers-

Tullius once again raised his hand, “If your referring to the Siege of Whiterun, all Stormcloak soldiers who where caught sexually assaulting any woman, regardless of race and social standing, was court marshalled and the regulars where dishonorably discharged with 60 lashes, and the ring-leaders got there head chopped off.”

Lorgar once again snorted, “How do you know Old Marius wont try to-“

Tullius, very annoyingly, once again raised his hand, “One of my conditions was Marius isn’t allowed near her, so you don’t have to worry about his idiotic grudge and pride geting in the way of things” Tullius annoying face palmed himself, and said in a very ticked off voiced,

“Trust me Lorgar, I thought of this already, Dales will be perfectly fine as long as we keep to the plan and keep our end of this.”

Lorgar , who was looking really annoyed, raised his voice, “Well you can understand me being a little worried about this, especially since it’s Dales being the one being put in harms way-“

“Dales isn’t in any danger!!!”

The argument lasted even deeper into the night, until Lorgar, finally put his hands up in surrender, “FINE, Fine, okay I’ll agree this.”

Tullius sighed in relief, “Okay good.”

He handed Lorgar a letter, addressed to Legate Gracchus.

“Give this to the legate, it details our plan, and the place of the meeting. I’ll be there to pick up Dales in two days, inform her about this, and tell her to get ready.”

 

In Falkreath Imperial camp

 

"Ohhhhh so i'm going on a visit?"

Lorgar muttered something under his breath, before gently telling her,

"In all honesty milady, your...going to be a political hostage..."

Dales face filled up with uncertainty, before saying slowly,

"Ahhhhhh...is this really mandatory for have the meeting? and will I be safe?"

Lorgar warmly told her, "I'm afraid so milady, and yes, Tullius has assured me time after time you will be perfectly safe..."

She nodded her head, 

"If I have to do this for peace...I will do it without hesitation."

Lorgar tussled her golden hair, "It'll only be for a handful of days, so don't worry..."

She giggled, "I should start packing now, i'll have one of my maids accompany me."

"Wait Tullius wont be here for a few days..."

Too late, as Dales was already out of Lorgar's tent, lightly humming to herself, and heading to pack her stuff for her trip to Falkreath. Lorgar chuckled to himself at the girls young enthusiasm. Lorgar still had a letter to deliver to Gracchus. 

[The Good Doctor]

Legate Gracchus Ceno

Imperial Camp

Day 5 of Siege, Evening

 

Lorgar knocked on Gracchus's tent.

"Sir are you there?" 

A knock came on the central post of the tent, and Lorgar's voice asked if Gracchus was there.

"Yes, come in Lorgar."

Lorgar saluted, before handing him a letter addressed from General Tullius. It explained to him in detail about the planned operation, the meeting being arranged successfully, the location of the meeting, and the Princess's little "duty".

Gracchus read over the letter, making sure to commit every little detail to memory. 

It's happening then. Finally a chance to fix the mistakes I have made. 

"Did she agree to this? The princess that is. And I assume Tullius accepted my apology?"

"Sir with respect to you and him, Tullius kinda acts like a dick towards everyone, don't take it personal. And yes the princess is...very enthusiastic about the matter." 

"Thank you. I had heard about his...temper, but it is definitely different to experience it. And I expect she is. Dales is not one to be scared. That is one of her redeeming qualities it seems."

"With respect sir, she has many redeeming qualities..." 

"Ay, and if she didn't we wouldn't be committing treason for her. So, how did your meeting with General Red-Snow go? Anything I should know?"

"Nothing of importance, sir." 

"That's good. So, can we trust Red-Snow?"

"I personally think we..." He hesitated for a second. "Yes I think we can..." 

Gracchus took note of Lorgar's hesitation.

"Is it your past together that prevents you from trusting him?"

"Somewhat...also this matter with Dales has me a tad bit worried" 

"She will be okay. She is resilient, even more so after the assassination attempt. Speaking of which, what was decided on Colonel Valindil's fate? Our we going to hand him over to the Cloaks?"

"Hand him over to the cloaks, one of Baldur's conditions. Apparently, he might let Dales have some fun with him." 

"I figured as much. Is that all you wanted to talk about?"

"Yes sir..." 

"You are dismissed then. And Lorgar, thank you for setting this up. We may yet be able to end this conflict without any more unnecessary deaths."

"Right sir.." 

And with that Lorgar stepped out of the command tent, put up his hood, and went back to his tent.

I hope we can pull this off. Man need not further weaken ourselves, not when those yellow-skinned heathens are out there, just waiting for a reason to to capture and torture anyone of us. And we can stop them, right here, right now.

[The Good Doctor]

Lorgar Grim-maw, Falkreath camp/Dream, Night

Falkreath Forest six months ago

 

Lorgar slashed at "Baldur" with his two knives, aiming for the head,

"I'll cut you up you fucker!!!!"

The large Nord dodged to the right, avoiding Lorgar's right hand dagger and brought up the handle of his axe to block the left one.

Lorgar's, usually had at least had a sense of discipline when fighting, not now, his mouth was foaming saliva  and he was slashing like a madman at his foe. 

Despite the sporadic way that Lorgar moved, Baldur manager to black and parry his every strike with impressive speed for a man of his size. As Lorgar slashed with the ferocity of a wolf, one of his daggers was caught under the hook of Baldur's axe, which he twisted, causing him to lose his right dagger. As this happened, Baldur took a slice to his arm right above the gauntlet. Lorgar could hear him swear under his helmet as he stepped back and kicked the dagger behind him.

Lorgar was in a unfavorable position, so he decided to fall back, he broke off from the attack and ran towards the wood..

As he made his way deeper into the woods, Lorgar could hear Baldur following at his heel. The man was fast for his size, no doubt. Lorgar let out a howl and broke off onto all fours, leaving the other Nord behind. He flew past the trees at inhuman speed until he was sure he'd gotten far enough to be our of sight. As he slowed, he came across a clearing and waited just outside it. Knowing that this was where Baldur would eventually emerge. Just as planned, the large Nord bounded into the clearing almost a minute later before stopping. He was now carrying his war axe again. His shield was in his other hand. The man briefly looked around and started to back towards the tree line. Lorgar pounced from the woods and tackled the Nord. As he raised his remaining dagger in an attempt to stab the Stormcloak's arm, it was pushed off last second and only grazed his pauldron. The man threw forward his head to butt Lorgar's.

Lorgar meet Baldur's head full on with his own, letting out a wolf-like battle-cry as he did.

"When their heads collided, Lorgar while unable to feel the pain, still recoiled from the impact with the metal helmet. As he did, he felt Baldur kick up and roll free. His gaze followed his opponent, who was now standing adjacent to him, shield lost, but still holding onto his Nordic carved war axe, obviously waiting for Lorgar to make his move.

He screamed with a primordial voice, 

"BALDUR TAKE OFF YOUR HELMET AND FACE ME"

The armored figure cocked his head to the side for a second before nodding and lifting off his helmet.

Lorgar, had a look of genuine surprise  and his voice shifted from his primordial tone to a mix between his primordial tone and his normal voice...

"Bald-....Boldir..."

Indeed, it was Boldir, not Baldur, who stood in front of him. The large man shook his head and moved in on Lorgar. In his shocked state, Lorgar barely managed to deflect a blow from Boldir's axe before being tackled hard to the ground. He blinked in confusion several times before he saw the dark haired Nord's face hovering a foot above his own. He felt the cold metal of an axe against his neck. Boldir shouted at him with angry voice.

"This is what you've become Legate?! ... I'll be doing you a favor."

Lorgar's fury faded from his face, and was replaced by a face of pure melchonacy. Lorgar could have sworn he saw his own face change color in the reflection in Boldir's axe, and became lighter and more wholesome. Something faded from his eyes, and his voice was fully normal, with it filled with dark sadness,

"Then do it Captain, finish me, i'm nothing but a monster...do it..."

Lorgar let down head in resignation, 

Now, as he was raising his axe, Boldir hesitated. Lorgar could not know what was going through his mind at the time, but he thought that he saw a slight sadness appear in the man's eyes. At that moment, a tinge of Lorgar's survivalist instinct came back out. In Boldir's brief moment of hesitation, Lorgar kneed him in the ribs. Of course, the Lieutenant's armor stopped the blow, but the force was enough to drive Boldir back enough that Lorgar could roll out from under him.

Lorgar practically screamed out, this time in a voice devoid of emotion of any kind, fury or sadness, as he stabbed his one remaining dagger into Boldir's left leg,

"No, NO, I have to live for my men, Boldir, I HAVE TO!!!"

He abandoned his dagger in the Stormcloaks leg as he ran away from the clearing,

As he ran, Lorgar looked back to see Boldir crouched down to a knee, pulling the dagger from his leg and throwing it aside. He remained resting on his knee and did not pursue this time. Lorgar looked back away from the man and continued though the woods.

[The Good Doctor]

Rebec and Baldur

Falkreath

Morning-Afternoon Day 5 of Siege

 

After the meeting with Tullius, Rebec had waited at the jail, expecting Baldur to show up.  She hadn't exactly asked him to come, but had said where she was going and just assumed he would.

Minutes became an hour and then two.  The elf she'd put in a cell two days before was irate.  "I haven't done anything!  Even Runil said so!  You can't just imprison innocent people."

"Then why did you try to sneak out the gate at night after you saw Kust talking to me?"

The Bosmer adopted stony silence then, which made Rebec feel justified in her suspicions.  She still needed Baldur to hear the case, though.

Finally Rebec stormed out of the jail.  Apparently she would have to deal with it herself, sooner or later, but she had promised Suri they would train together that afternoon and she certainly wasn't going to beg Baldur to attend on her.  After her training, she ate a meal with her niece.  It was late afternoon by the time she returned to the longhouse.

 

****

 

Baldur was busy listening to townspeople complaining as usual about literally everything. He stood on a wooden platform he had erected in the middle of the street so that he could address crowds of people. Next to him was two Necro Nords standing behind him trying their best to look intimidating in case any of the towns people got any ideas.

"Why do we still have a ration if our food supplies are fine? I have a pregnant wife! She needs more food!"

Baldur replied to the man in a very bored uninterested tone.

"Ugh, you are the third person today alone to give me that. You're not even wearing a ring!"

The man put his head down, and turned to walk back home, clearly embarrassed by how easily the general saw through his lie.

Speaking of which, didn't Rebec say she'd be somewhere? Was I supposed to meet her there? No, she'd have told me if that was the case.

Baldur did his best to attend to the towns people's needs and questions for the better part of the day. He saw now that the job of a Jarl was definitely not an easy one, although being under siege, he was sure it was magnified almost tenfold. Although Tullius had told him they no longer were going to fight, he made sure not to let anyone actually know that, just in case the meeting was a failure. Baldur eventually later on in the day decided to call it quits and retire to the Longhouse. Feeling exhausted, Baldur hurried to the Jarl's chair and plopped down there, where he quickly fell fast to sleep and took an afternoon nap.

 

****

 

Returning to the longhouse, Rebec found that not Baldur was occupied with such urgent matters as drooling on the arm of the jarl's chair.  Kicking him in the shin to wake him, she then gave a theatrical bow.  "Excuse me, your excellency.  Might I have a moment of your time?"

Baldur woke up suddenly, and gave a snort when he did due to his breathing pattern changing so suddenly. He was a little unsure as to why Rebec had kicked him so hard, and now she was sarcastically addressing him as "excellency". She was clearly annoyed by something.

"What's wrong, Reb?”

"I told you I was going to the jail.  You didn't think I might need you there?  You certainly had time to talk to Boldir.  And to stare at the back of your eyelids."

"I-I thought you didn't need me! You always handled things on your own before. Besides, I wasn't just sleeping all day, I was addressing the townsfolk."

Hands on her hips, Rebec tried to tell herself to calm down, that she was just tired herself and frayed by the constant pressure of the responsibility for all these lives.  Her better lights just suddenly went dim, however.  "Of course, why would I ever need you?  Maybe you can sleep with the townsfolk tonight.  That ridiculous tavern girl makes eyes at you constantly.  Go snuggle up to her.  Isn't that more your type anyway?"

Baldur didn't really know where all this was coming from. He wasn't used to this at all, but he guessed that she must have felt neglected. They hadn't had any real time to speak, and the last time he did, he dismissed her like she was a child...

Boy, I guess I have been ignoring her after all.

"Reb, I'm sorry. We haven't had much time to talk or really do anything together since the wedding. It was a great night though wasn't it?"

Baldur stood up and tried to embrace her and kiss her on the neck.

Rebec pushed at his chest angrily, saying, "Don't just think you can..."  Her voice drifted off.  She hadn't asked him to come to the jail, after all.  They were both under so much pressure, that half the time she didn't know where to turn next.  It must be the same for him, too.

Catching one of his armor straps before he could back away, she pulled him towards her.  Smiling coyly, she said, "It wasn't half bad.  I was beginning to think I'd have to put that Hammerfell get-up back on or you'd never notice I was alive.  Is it the redguard girls you like?"

Baldur smiled slyly and whispered in her ear.

"Well, I wont lie, they are quite exotic, but..."

Baldur's heart began to pound intensely from his excitement. It was so intense that he could hear it pound away like an anvil in his ears. He smelled Rebec's hair and breathed in her fragrance deeply.

"I just want one woman."

A flush ran up her neck, but Rebec turned aside, keeping a hint of space between their faces. "Is that so. I recall what you wanted the very first night we spent together.  So, some bony Thalmor justiciar, then?"

Baldur knew her game, and he played along and pulled closer once more, kissing her on the left side of her neck and face while speaking.

"Believe me, I've had my fill of Thalmor Inquisitors."

Baldur had his left hand on the back of her waist, and decided to slide it down a bit.

"This suits me just fine..."

Rebec controlled her reaction, but the lift of her breaths gave her away.  An arm went around his waist.  "So we've played Altmer and redguard.  I suppose you're back there looking for a tail now."  His lips were tugging at her skin, and she had to close her eyes, knees weakening under her.

Baldur could feel her legs wobbling, and lifted her up off her feet so that she could wrap her legs around him while he held her.

"No, I think it's my time to dress up for a change."

Baldur took Rebec and started walking back to the Jarl's quarters with the Admiral in tow.

"If you ever had any doubt that I love you, that is about to change as of now...."

"What?"  Rebec laughed, wondering what this would be.  She wrapped herself tightly around him and kissed at his neck, murmuring, not able to play sly anymore.  Somehow he always made her cave like an imperial before a chest of gold.

Baldur carrying Rebec still over-enthusiastically kicked open the Jarl's bedroom door. Afterwards, he took Rebec and slammed her forcibly back first onto the bed and began attacking her leather armor and other clothing.

"Damn these straps! Ugh, here, I'll be back. You take care of those. I have something special planned..."

Baldur hurriedly dashed out of the room and slammed it shut to get whatever it was that he needed for the occasion.

"Kyne save me," Rebec said, laughing.  Her own fingers were trembling so much that she fumbled with the straps, cursing.  Armor was the best guardian of propriety, and damned if she didn't have to wear it all the time.  More reason to hate the Thalmor.  Rebec was considering taking a dagger to it when finally the pieces began to come off.  She glanced at the door, wondering what her husband was up to.

Baldur looked to see if his "prank" was still in Boldir's room. He started throwing clothes out of the cabinet until he finally found what he was looking for.

Hahaha, this will either go really bad or really really good...time will tell.

 

****

 

After several minutes, Baldur finally managed to get his damn armor off, but it took another several minutes to get the other outfit on. After it was finally on, Baldur put a dull brown cloak over himself to make the reveal more dramatic. Baldur hurriedly dashed out, thinking that Rebec may be losing interest, and soon as he made his way through the main hall, a citizen came running in to get his help.

"General, General!"

Are you kidding me right now?

"What the hell is it?"

"Hehheehheheh, my..hehheheh, my..."

"Well?"

The man stopped breathing heavily after a few more seconds and finally was able to speak.

"My prized goat...I can't find her anywhere! How am I supposed to get m-"

"ARE YOU FUCKING KIDDING ME?!?! Get the hell out of here!"

"But-"

"Now!"

The man couldn't get out of that longhouse sooner. Baldur was not going to let anything disturb the couple. Not even Talos himself. Baldur wasted no more time and barged back into the room in his cloaked garb.

 

****

 

"The hero has returned, milady..."

Rebec was down to her underclothes and had brushed out her hair, and was lounging on the bed, starting to think about getting angry again.  Surely he wouldn't...  As the door opened and Baldur appeared, she sat up, saw his impish expression and laughed.  "Looks more like a thief to me."  Standing, she came around to him and tugged at the cloak.  "What are you hiding in there, sneak thief?"

Baldur slapped her hands like a mother slapping a child's hands away from some freshly baked sweetrolls.

"Uh uh, not so fast! Turn around and count to ten.."

Rebec lifted a brow.  "Giving orders now.  Hmph."  Turning, she began to count.  One... two... three...  Cracking one eye open, she glanced back quickly.

"NO PEAKING!"

Baldur waited until he was sure she wasn't peaking through her fingers before he finally gave the reveal...

Well, lets see...whether this goes bad or not, it should be one hell of a story to tell...

Rebec turned back, counting.  Four... five... sixseveneightnine... She turned before he could protest, and stood in sheer shock a moment before sputtering into laughter.  "Oh gods, what did the redguard do.  At least they had to hit Boldir over the head to get him into that."  Pulling herself together, she crossed her arms and smirked.  "Alright, my exotic beauty.  I danced for you wearing that.  Let's see it."

"With pleasure."

Baldur moved around the room, mimicking quite well the strange Redguard dance, with some...modifications of his own. Baldur turned around with his backside stretching the outfit to it's limits and started shaking in front of Rebec before turning back around and pushing her on the bed. Afterwards, Baldur ripped the ridiculous outfit off of him, revealing his well defined muscular, yet scared physique.

"Now, no more games."

Baldur leaned down on his knees and pulled the Admiral's hips towards him.

"I love you...my little terror of the Sea of Ghosts and the Abecean."

Rebec was doing contortions of her own while Baldur danced, trying not to split her gut with laughter.  She was still laughing as he pulled her towards him.  Stroking her fingers through his hair, her face then grew serious, both from his words and the sensation of his mouth on her.

Grasping his hair, she tipped his head up and leaned back so that she could look down into his eyes.  She had, in fact, no control with him, and never had.  It wasn't really that that made him different, however.  Usually suspicious of everyone, Rebec had trusted him from the minute she began to talk with him.  And rarest of all things, he had actually proved worthy of her trust.  As she sat in the jail cell in Solitude, she had never expected he would even remember her, let alone keep his word to help her.

"Baldur," she said softly, brushing back the hair at his temples, "you have no idea..."  How much I love you.  The words still stuck.  She hoped he knew.  Pushing him back on the bed, she let him draw her to follow.

Baldur knew what she wanted to say, but he wanted to actually hear them.

"Rebec, I will make you say those words that you fear to say so much. Fair warning."

Baldur lay over her, his hair draping around her face so that all she could see was him. His hands had hers pinned down as they gazed into each  others eyes.

"Say it. I love you."

Baldur leaned back and tickled her navel with his tongue.

"I.."  She was going to try, then he distracted her once more.  Closing her eyes, she had to grip his shoulder to stop the feeling that she'd float off the bed.  Finally Rebec pulled him back towards her and lay against his chest, kissing him for a long while before she broke it.  Nose to nose, she nuzzled him, not able to look at his eyes.  The words wouldn't come.  She didn't understand herself why it was so hard.  Toki had never made her do this.  Maybe that's why it never amounted to much.

Meeting Baldur's eyes, she decided his time would be different.  "I love you.  I do.  I'm not a poet, maybe it doesn't sound right.  I didn't want you to think I was just saying it and didn't mean it."

Baldur put his index finger over her lips.

"Shhh...Don't fret. That is enough for me. You wouldn't have married me if you didn't mean it. Hearing the words from you knowing how hard it was for you to say it makes it that much more worth hearing. Now that you've said it...show me. And I will show you."

[The Good Doctor]

Jonus Rato

Falkreath

Day 6 of Siege, Morning

 

Jonus was leaning against a tree across the street from the damaged Longhouse. Today, the Longhouse was not what was on his mind. It was the building sitting across from it that he was interested in. Lod the blacksmith was already hard at work at the forge this morning, and Jonus knew he would be all day. He watched as a large Stormcloak whom he recognized walked up to the blacksmith to speak with him. Jonus cocked his head as he attempted to make out what the two were talking about.

"Sure thing Boldir. Shouldn't be difficult. I can have them installed by tomorrow around noon."

"Thank you Lod. I'm sure we'll all rest easier knowing that's been closed up. I'll talk to Baldur about paymen-

"Don't worry about it Boldir. I know money's tight right now, and after what happened to Dengier, I'm glad to help the Stormcloaks in any way that I can."

Jonus frowned. Damnit! I guess he's not gonna be one of our supporters then. Doesn't mean he can't still be useful though.

"Thank you Lod. Don't think we'll forget this."

Jonus gave Boldir a nod as he passed by on his way back to the Longhouse. The Captain briefly looked back at him without stopping. Jonus could swear that the man's eyes had narrowed a bit before his head turned.

Is he onto something? He has been spending a lot of time in the tavern lately. Nah, there's no way. Still, we're gonna have to keep an eye on him. I doubt even Malik could take on that brute. 

Jonus started at the thought of Malik. The man was supposed to be released yesterday, but the guard on duty at the time happened to hate his guts for some reason, and now Jonus planned to go and see about releasing him today.

Where's Ulren? I need to get this business with Lod taken care of so I can go help Malik.

Almost as if he'd heard Jonus's thoughts, the pompous looking Imperial strode around a corner down the street. Jonus left the tree and walked out to meet him. They shook hands.

"Well met friend. You ready?"

Ulren chuckled before responding in his typical loud and powerful voice. "Am I ready? I am always ready to serve my country Jonus!"

Jonus groaned. He'd lived a Nordic lifestyle his whole life, and rarely actually dealt with his own people. He often forgot how dramatic his Imperial brothers could be. "That's nice Ulren. But we're just here to talk to a blacksmith. No reason to tell the whole town that we're up to something."

"Yeah yeah, I'm sorry." He said without changing tone at all.

Jonus smiled at his companion. "Thanks." He turned and lead the way to Lod's. Stendar have mercy. This man will be what ruins us.

Lod looked up at Jonus and Ulren as they approached. "Hello sirs. Well dressed Imperials like yourselves, let me guess, you've gotta horse that needs shoein'?"

Jonus smiled. "Not quite. No, my friend here and I are looking to purchase swords. Any recommendations?"

Lod frowned. "Yeah, I recommend the ones in Whiterun. Ol' Gray-Mane's the best around, and he wasn't told to keep the weapon orders exclusive to Stormcloak leadership."

Now Jonus frowned. "Funny. But You know as well as I that no one is leaving this city with this siege going on. Forgive me for wanting to be able to protect my family if the Imperials break through."

"You're a refugee aren't you? I'd know if you were from here. Trust me, General Red-Snow and his men are all the protection you'll need."

"I pray to Talos you're right. And yes, I was a farmer. And a Stormcloak before that until I broke my leg and had to take leave. But my sword arm is still strong, and I'd gladdly kill another Imperial if he were to break through that gate and come after my family. I hope it doesn't happen, but please, don't deny me the ability to protect them. They're all that I have left."

Lod stood silent for a good twenty seconds before finally speaking. "Fine. But keep them hidden. Boldir doesn't want civilians carrying weapons right now. They say the man that killed the Jarl was actually disguised as a civilian."

"Of course." Jonus said as Lod went into his house. "Nobody will know we had them."

Lod returned carrying a long box. "There's two steel longswords and a dagger I threw in. You know this could get me in a lot of trouble, so I'm gonna have to charge double. That'll be one hundred and eighty septims."

Jonus looked back. "Ulren?" Ulren stepped forward and dropped a bag into Lod's arms. He gave an ugly grin as he did it. "That's two hundred septims sir. For the swords, and a little extra as thanks."

Lod looked surprised. Before he could speak, Jonus shook his hand and spoke himself. "No need to thank us. You didn't charge for that dagger anyway. Now we'll get out of here before we get you in trouble." With that, Jonus and Ulren headed back into the street. "Take that box to Jolfnir's house. Leave it closed for now. I've got something to do."

 

***

Jonus patiently waited at the desk in the barracks for the guardsman to bring Malik out of the prison below. He'd spent ten minutes arguing with the guard and now had spent ten more waiting for him to release Malik, a task that shouldn't take more than two. Finally, he could hear hollering as the guard that had left stormed up with another guard and Malik behind him. The two had apparently been arguing over Malik's release. Jonus stood up from his chair. "So he's free to go?"

One guard grunted. The other answered. "Yup. You keep your friend here away from the mead in the future alright?"

"Noted. Have a nice day officers." As Jonus and Malik made their way out the door, he could here the two resume arguing before it closed. They walked into the streets and towards Jolfnir's house. "That quiet one. He the guy that hated you?" 

Malik seemed as calm as ever. "Yup. Wasn't so quiet when he found out I was leaving..." A smile crept across his face. "Or when I bedded his wife."

"You what?!? How in Oblivion could you do that in prison?"

"Men and women aren't kept separate with the overcrowded prison cells. And his wife had had one mead too many several nights ago. Decided to threaten some Stormcloak grunts. She was only in for a night. Was all I needed."

Jonus was incredulous. "You idiot! Do you realize what could've happened if they'd decided to keep you longer? I need y-... Nevermind. You're out now. I got you a sword back at Jolfnir's, and there's a lot of news I need to catch you up on. We've had to make a little change of plans."

"What kind of change?" Malik asked suspiciously. 

"Let's just say that we can't wait any longer. I'm taking matters into my own hands now. I just hope you haven't tired in prison. I'm going to need you in shape for the raid tonight."

"Raid?"

"I'll explain inside."

Jonus and Malik continued down the street to Jolfnir's house. Malik feeling confused and Jonus feeling confident and somewhat excited.

[The Good Doctor]

Boldir and Jonus

Day 6 of siege

Almost Midnight

 

Boldir rolled over in his bed. As he usually did, he was dreaming of Whiterun and Carlotta.

The Bannered Mare was quiet that night. The only sound was the somber tunes from Boldir's flute filling the room. Carlotta sat next to him on the bench to the right of his chair. About a dozen others, mostly Nords, sat around the fire, mugs in hand. All were content to just sit and listen for the time being. Most bards would say that being a skilled musician requires your full attention and focus. Boldir never found this to be the case. He liked to think he was skilled enough, but his mind almost always wondered away from the music when he played.

I could do it. I could propose to her. I’ve never had something like this. We’d be a real family.

Boldir's mind snapped back to the song as he came to a rather difficult hook near the middle. It was the only part he couldn't play by instinct. The song wasn't one that you'd learn in the Bard's College. It was a nameless tune of Boldir's own making. It was slow, and fairly low for the flute, and Boldir had never played it anywhere but by himself. He'd made more additions to it here in Whiterun than he had in the two years he'd spent on it before. Now that he was with Carlotta, he decided that it was a good time to introduce it. He heard an impressed whistle from the audience as he finished the hook. Without stopping, he looked over at Carlotta, who smiled back at him affectionately. Her green eyes were filled with warmth.

Gods she is beautiful.

Boldir knew for sure at that moment that he wanted to looo into those eyes every day when he woke up. It had been weeks spent in Whiterun now, and he'd never been happier in his entire life.

Yes... Yes! I will do it here. Tomorrow.

Boldir's tune slowly rose in volume and intensity before reaching its end. The crowd clapped and applauded his skill. 

"Best one yet Lieutenant!" A Stormcloak on leave yelled out from the corner.

Boldir looked at Carlotta, who was now holding his right hand in both of hers.

"I thought I'd heard all of them." She said to him quietly and with her typical slight humorous edge. 

"I had been saving that one."

Boldir ignored the ruckus from the crowd as he leaned down and gave Carlotta that a kiss, which she returned with passion. His eyes closed as they held it for several seconds before pulling back. She looked at him with a solemn, yet happy expression, her green eyes filled with love.

 

***

 

Jonus looked up at the moon. It was almost midnight. His plans were about to go into motion. He stood at the edge of town, near the wall, with his dark cloak on and the cowl pulled over his head. He reached down and felt the hilt of the dagger Lod had given him protruding from his belt. He had it hidden under the cloak. He didn't plan on using it, but he felt good to finally have some defense in the event of someone getting onto him. Jonus wouldn't be meeting with Malik and the others. They knew what to do. This was a minor raid, but it would make the statement that he needed. He heard the bird whistle signal coming from the Stormcloak camp. He pulled out a potion vial and downed it. The darkness around him was replaced by a light shade of blue as the night eye took effect. From where he stood, Jonus could make out the large shadowed form of Malik followed by two others stealthily moving for the closest of four large tents in the Stormcloak camp. He knew that the soldiers wouldn't be able to see them like he could in this darkness. They disappeared from sight as they went prone in the grass twenty meters from the tent. After several minutes, Jonus saw the shadowed shape of a guard standing by the tent entrance unexpectedly go down as Malik rose beside the man's side and quickly wrapped his arm around the man's neck in a choke hold, dragging him to the ground as he did it. Malik rose back up and dragged the now dead body with him into the tent. The two other shapes rose from the ground and followed. Jonus waited another couple of minutes before the three shadowed figures left the tent in crouched sneaking positions. They hurried off in the direction of a nearby hideout. Intentionally avoiding the direction they knew Jonus would be watching from. It wasn't but fifteen seconds later when Jonus had to close his eyes as a blinding white light began to spread around the tent. He left them closed for several seconds so that the night eye would disappear before looking again. What he saw brought a smile to his face. In the middle of the darkness was a great fire burning. He could hear shouting from soldiers all around it.

Perfect. Jonus turned and headed back to Jolfnir's house, feeling the content that could only be felt from a plan gone right.

 

***

 

Most of the guests were gone now, and no music was really necessary, but Boldir raised up his flute again anyway, more for fun than anything. Before he could start playing however, Carlotta put her hand on his arm and brought it back down. He looked at her and she smiled up at him.

"You know, Mila won't expect me back home for a couple hours still..."

Boldir returned the smile, but wasn't sure what to think. Let alone say. This was the first time he'd ever heard Carlotta say anything that seemed to imply that Mila wasn't her first priority at the time.

"You've still got your room upstairs rented. Would you...”

Boldir's brows raised. "Are you saying what I think you are?"

She looked a little nervous, but it quickly became certain. "Yes."

Boldir felt his heart begin to thud in his chest. He knew how Carlotta felt about this. She was rarely the one to progress things. He grinned. "Right this way then."

He lead her to his room upstairs. As he entered he heard the door close and Carlotta immediately came onto him with a kiss, pushing him towards the bed. As he backed up, Boldir heard a deep voice boom out across the room.

"WAKE UP!"

 

***

 

Boldir stirred in his bed. It couldn't have been long past midnight.

"Come on, wake up you lazy Nord! They're right outside!"

Boldir opened his eyes. "Jodun?" He turned his head toward the voice. He could swear it wasn't coming from his head this time. It seemed to be coming from near his desk. He sat up and grabbed his axe.

"Who's there?"

As usual, nobody was there. 

Boldir stood and walked over to the satchel on his desk and opened it. All that was inside was a wadded up piece of paper and the flute Jodun had given him. 

Huh... What was that about outside?

Boldir hurried down the stairs, axe in hand, still barefoot, clad in his sleeping trousers and a green tunic. He walked down the street aways before being starled by a large fire erupting out of nowhere in the Stormcloak camp at the edge of town.

"Shor's beard!" Before he started to head for the camp, he noticed three figured running by in the corner of his eye. Boldir turned and sprinted after them. One of them yelled out. "Damnit! How did we miss him?"

The three men split up into different directions. Boldir chose one of the dark figures and pursued. He easily caught up with and tackled the man, who grunted as he hit the ground. Boldir flipped him over and looked him in the face. It looked like a normal enough red beared Nord. Not one Boldir recognized though. He looked up. The other two figures were gone.

Doesn't matter. This one will be enough.

"Get up!" Boldir dragged the man to his feet. Lacking bindings, he just put his axe to the man's neck and led him to the prison. 

"We’re gonna have a lot to talk about, friend." He pushed the man forward with his left hand. "Now move"

The worried prisoner spoke as he was walking. "You're gonna torture me aren't you?!"

Boldir had no intentions of torturing the man, but he didn't answer. Instead, he just grimaced and said, "You know, you've definitely done a good job of pissing me off tonight. I was having a good dream."

[The Good Doctor]

Eduard Laenius-Outside of Falkreath, Day 7 of the Siege, Early Morning

Eduard woke up, tired, but ready to get to work.

This training has been extremely difficult without an actual person teaching me. Maybe I should get Jon to come help me. He is about as skilled as Jodun was.

Eduard had been practicing the techniques Jodun had used whenever he had spare time. He was getting better, but he was far from combat ready. He was considering writing Jon on the matter, but he didn't want to distract him from protecting Livia.

Maybe when I write to them after the siege, I could ask for some pointers. I really should have taken his offer to teach me, back after Slipshot. Along with that magic training he offered...

He finally arrived at the spot in the woods he had been using to train. He pulled out the two ebony scimitars, that he made sure were in pristine condition. He had become pretty decent at the twirling and the overall flow, but he still wasn't very good at translating that into offensive maneuvers.

Alright, time to get to work.

He began to spin the blades at a high rate of speed, as Jodun had done at the beginning of their fight. Eduard had all but mastered this part of the fight. Then he twirled the swords in the same way he remembered Jodun twirling them when he deflected the first dagger. Then came the first part he hadn't mastered.

The first strike...

He attempted to recreate the first attack of the fight, but once again, he nearly lost control, resulting in a very weak strike.

Ugh... I'll get this right eventually.

He spun the swords up again and again, each ending with a first strike with varying success. Sometimes it would be a decent strike, other times not so much. A few times he actually landed a strong strike. But he was too inconsistent.

This training isn't over until I get this move right, and get it right consistently.

He continued to go through the motions, until at last, he landed 10 decent strikes in a row. Well, 8 decent strikes, 2 strong. He decided that was good enough for physical training.

I wonder what if what I'm doing is the right thing? Should I really be trying to remember the man that tried to kill me? I mean, I guess it will help me survive, but that's not why I'm doing it. I'm quite capable of handling myself. But what about him has been different? I've killed countless people. I've never dwelled on it this long. Is it what he said? Was it how he carried himself? I really need to finish this training soon. All of this crap is really distracting, and I'll be glad to be done with it... I wonder how Livia's doing. I really wish I didn't have to burden Jon with protecting her. But I have too many enemies. I couldn't just leave her alone. However, he's almost done. In about a week, I'll finally have secured a house in the city, where bandits won't be able to kidnap her. I'll still ask Jon to check on her, but it won't be as time consuming. Besides, it'll be good to work with Jon again.

He got up, and decided to shoot his bow. It was one activity that always relaxed him...

 

~-~~-~-~~-~-~~

 

Eduard, Jon- Outside of Falkreath, Day 7 of the Siege, Night.

 

It had been a long day for Eduard. He was going to call it a night. He approached his bed, where he noticed that there was a note on it.

 

Writing me again so soon, Jon?

 

He picked up the note, and began to read.

 

Eduard,

 

Meet me to the west of the Imperial camp, just past that clearing you usually hang around in. Oh, yeah, almost forgot to give you a time. Let’s make it an hour from now, alright? Make sure you aren’t followed. Keep an eye out for Thalmor. There were two of them who seemed to be scouting your spot. They looked very confused. It was probably their first time there. They left a while ago, but just to be sure, keep your eyes open.

 

-Jon

 

He scanned over the note again, to make sure he had read it correctly.

 

What? Why is Jon in Falkreath? He should be back with Livia right now. This had better be good. Knowing him, it probably is. He’s almost too good sometimes. Well, this meeting is in an hour, I had better get moving. I need to go to the east, just as it said in the letter. Don’t know why he hid the directions in the letter, it’ an Imperial camp. Better safe than sorry, I guess.

 

~-~~-~-~~

 

Eduard had arrived at the area in which Jon described, and had made sure that he wasn’t followed. Anyone but Eduard would believe they were alone, but Eduard knew better. He was able to spot Jon in the trees. Well, he could feel Jon’s presence. It was useful to always know where he was at, especially when they were on a mission.

 

“Jon, you can come out. I trust you have good reasons for being in Skyrim.”

 

“I wouldn’t be here if I didn’t. As a matter of fact though, I’ve been in Skyrim about as long as you have,” Jon said, gradually becoming visible.

 

“What? Jon, get to the point. Why have you been here?”

 

“Why do you think? To protect Livia, of course. Now, do you want the long story, or the shortened version?”

 

Eduard looked around him, before responding.

 

“I got time. Let’s hear the entire story.â€

 

Jon smiled, and began to tell the story.

 

“Well, first off, let me say that I had reason to believe our messages were being intercepted, and read by a third party. With that in mind, the bandit attacks began to make more sense. This wasn’t a petty kidnapping scheme. Someone was paying them to try and capture her, to get to you. They were also attempting to use our conversations as intel. Now, with that in mind, I realized that this little protection scheme was in over its head.

 

So I decided that I would have to improvise. So I pulled a fast one on whoever is trying to capture Livia. I created a double of Livia, who remained at the house in Cyrodiil. I took Livia with me here, where she has been safe. To make sure that even if they figured it out, they wouldn’t figure it out, here is what I did. I created a few more Livia’s and secretly led them to locations ranging from Cyrodiil to here. There are 4 in Cyrodiil, and 3 here. Livia and I have taken up residence in an abandoned home that I cleared out a while ago, in case we ever needed to flee. Don”t worry it’s a nice place, with plenty to do. Like I told you before, Livia is 100% safe with me.”

 

He really is the best at what he does, I will give my friend that much.

 

“That’s certainly a lot to take in. So, have all of the letters been a lie? What of the part that Liv wrote? It certainly looked like her handwriting.”

 

“Oh, it was Livia. I wouldn’t take it that far. They weren’t going to get any information from her, so I left it as is. It was from a little while back though, when we were still in Cyrodiil. I had been meaning to send it, but the bandits had been keeping me very busy. So I had it sent a little while later, making the switch even more believable.”

 

“I figured you wouldn’t do that to me. Now, what of the house? Has it been taken, or are your men still protecting it?”

 

“Nix still has the house secured. He was already in charge of defending the house. You won’t find a better strategist anywhere, besides yourself and maybe a couple of the higher up Legion members, and possibly a Stormcloak or two. Speaking of which, I can tell this siege isn’t normal. What’s going on here?”

 

Eduard shook his head. He couldn’t go telling everyone about this meeting. Jon was an exception though. He leaned into Jon’s ear.

 

“The enemy of my enemy.”

 

Jon immediately understood what was going on.

 

“I see. Well, hopefully the rest of the siege goes well. Speaking of which, how has the siege been treating you, other than your injuries I already know about.”

 

I guess I could tell him about Jodun

 

“Well, I recently killed a saboteur, which is where I got these two swords,” Eduard began, motioning to the ebony scimitars. “I’ve been trying to learn some of the techniques he used in battle, but I’m not doing that great.”

 

Glancing at the swords, Jon nodded.

 

“Redguard?”

 

“Yeah. You guys have ridiculous sword skills. I should have taken you up on your offer years ago.”

 

“You still remember that?” Jon said with a laugh. “I could still teach you, but not right now. We’ll wait until the siege ends. It’ll make it easier to meet. Besides, I need to get Livia some food.”

 

Eduard was only half listening to Jon. He had spotted a large buck to his left, a little ways off. He did hear that Liv needed some food though. He quickly got out his bow, and took the shot. The arrow pierced the deer’s heart, killing him instantly.

 

“Tell Liv dinner is on me. It was good to talk to you again. Maybe once this siege is over, you and I can work together again.”

 

“Talk about really convenient timing! Also, what would we be working on?”

 

“Who knows. Whatever comes up I guess. I’ll be seeing you Jon. Tell Liv I said ‘Hi’ “

 

”Can’t wait. And yeah, I’ll be sure to tell her.”

 

With that, both Eduard and Jon went their separate ways.

 

Jon, thanks. You’re a true friend, and it is nice to know you always have my back. I don’t know who is luckier, me or Liv. Maybe if this meeting goes well, and we kill these Thalmor, I could eventually pay her a visit. She’d probably enjoy that.

[The Good Doctor]

Jonus, Baldur, Rebec

Falkreath

Noon

 

Dead Man's Drink wouldn't usually be crowded this time of the day. Indeed, it would likely be almost empty. But when a city is housing over twice it's maximum capacity in civilians alone, few public places aren't going to be crowded. Least of all a tavern.

Jonus was sitting in the corner, watching the people mill about. He seemed even paler than usual, and wore a hollow expression on his face. His fifth mug of ale was in hand. Anybody there that day could tell that something bad had happened to him. 

Jonus made sure no one was watching and slowly poured the ale into a wide crack between the wooden floor and the wall. This was the fifth and final time Jonus had done this. He couldn't afford to get drunk. Not now, when he needed wits wits about him most. But he did need to make it seem that he was.

He stood up and swayed a bit before "drunkenly" stumbling across the room and out the door and into the streets, still carrying his empty mug. He spotted a Necro Nord in a cloak down the street. The man turned and Jonus saw that it was in fact the Stormcloak General, Baldur Red-Snow. He was talking to a woman that Jonus assumed was the High Admiral. The one that he'd recently married.

Here goes nothing.

Jonus hesitated. Damn Kilvar! Had to go and get himself arrested! Had to put this on me!

Jonus's current plan was a radical one. And he was far more involved than he liked. But there was nobody else that could do it. That Stormcloak Captain, Boldir, somehow managed to catch Kilvar. And Kilvar knew things that could jeopardize everything. He almost knew as much as Malik. Jonus needed to get into the prison and insure that he wouldn't talk.

Jonus criss-crossed his way down the street. He was smart enough not to do anything to Red-Snow himself. Instead, Jonus chucked his empty mug at the head of a nearby soldier and shouted.

"You owesh may a farm Shtormcloak!"

 

"I had to let her go," Rebec was telling Baldur, referring to he elf Aglaren that she had been holding in prison for a few days, ever since Runil's assistant Kust said she had been lurking around watching them and asking suspicious questions about Runil. The Bosmer had then been caught by night sentries trying to sneak out the gate, after which Rebec had had her locked up.

"I was hoping we'd find something Thalmor in her belongings, but she obviously was a careful one. I assigned some of the redguard to watch her, though. I still don't trust... What's this?" Rebec turned around to see a drunk man shouting something about his farm. Instinctively her hand went to her axe.

Baldur turned around to watch the spectacle. He placed a hand in front of Rebec so that she wouldn't step forward.

"Hold it, lets just observe for a minute."

As the angry soldier turned, Jonus sprinted at him and kicked him in the shin. As the surprised soldier got his bearings, Jonus through a left punch right at his helmeted head. 

Please don't hurt too bad. Please don't hurt too bad!

"AHHH!" Jonus reared back, clutching his left hand in the right. His knuckles were busted. And he was certain that he'd broken a couple fingers against the steel helmet. It was a solid punch though, and the impact had sent the Stormcloak to the ground.

Thats enough.

Jonus backed away from the downed man to avoid getting his legs hit. He fought back tears and threw out his arms towards the small gathering of soldiers near the General.

"Anyone elsh?!?"

Rebec pushed out around from Baldur, strode up purposefully to Jonus, and cuffed his ear with the flat of her axe to stun him. Grabbing his collar, she jerked him around and then laid a hard left hook on his jaw.

Baldur grimaced at the sound of the impact from Rebec's hit. He felt a little sorry for the man she just laid out. Rebec didn't seem like the type to hold back.

Damn...

"Well, no one can say I didn't try to hold her back. Throw 'em in a cell until he sobers up, someone."

 

***

 

Jonus's vision faded in and out as he could feel two men dragging him down a flight of stairs by his arms. "Uuuhhhng..."

Never again.

He shook his head and opened his eyes. Kodak stood before him, holding open a cell door with no expression on his face. 

Good man.

"Stupid drunk! We'll see how you're doing in the morning."

He was thrown onto the floor face first and heard the door close and lock behind him. He rolled over and looked back at the entrance. He saw Kodak and the two soldiers filter out of the room without looking back.

"Boss?" Jonus heard the whisper of a voice he'd been dreading to hear. It was Kilvar. He turned to see his ally sitting behind him.

"This a part of the plan Boss?"

Jonus groaned and clapsed his broken fingers.

"Yeah Kilvar... It's all part of the plan."

"Thought so. Too much of a coincidence otherwise. That you're willing to take a beating like you seemed to, really shows that you're serious about all this... I haven't told them nothing. I swear."

"I know you haven't yet Kilvar. But they'll come to you soon. They'll ask you questions. They may even threaten or torture you. I just need you to hold out for today. Just one day and the plans will be in order. Can you do that for me Kilvar?"

The red-haird Nord's face looked worried. But it suddenly flooded with bravery. "Yes, I can. I trust you."

Jonus groaned inwardly. This man's loyalty was ultimately going to make things more difficult.

 

***

 

Baldur followed Rebec to the prison shortly after the arrest to interrogate Kilvar. All Baldur knew was that someone on the inside was trying to sabotage them, and he had no idea why.

"You think it's Imperials? If so, why try to get me to come to some meeting if they're still trying to take the town? Doesn't make any sense."

"Who knows what the imperials are up to," Rebec grumbled. "I'm getting very tired of all these games." She didn't say it, but the stress of the past weeks was getting to her, and she felt like making an example. The civilians were scared, many of them were angry, but on most days it seemed like they didn't realize that this was actually a war and not something the Stormcloaks had set up purposely to inconvenience them. If they couldn't be grateful for the army's protection, they would at least learn to respect its authority.

"Bring out the saboteur!" she shouted at the guards as they reached the prison. It was loud enough so that everyone in the jail could hear.

Jonus, who was now sitting against the back wall beside some random sleeping prisoner, heard the Admiral's voice ring through the prison. He looked up at Kilvar, who met his gaze from across the cell. Jonus gave him a solemn nod. The man returned it. He didn't speak out loud, but he mouthed the words: "I'll be fine." Jonus, still clutching his injured hand, looked away and closed his eyes as Rebec and Baldur entered the room. It wouldn't do for them to know that he and Kilvar knew each other.

Baldur took a table and two chairs, and put them in the middle of the prison room for the prisoner to sit in. After setting the table up, he sat the prisoner down and had his hands bound behind the chair. He purposefully set this up so that the other prisoners could see. He too thought it time to set an example. Baldur sat across from the prisoner and began the interrogation with Rebec standing.

"Okay, lets start small. My name as you know is Baldur Red-Snow. This here is my wife, Rebec Red-Snow. What is your name?"

"Kilvar."

Like most other prisoners, Jonus had opened his eyes and looked up. He was surprised when he heard the resolve in his companion's voice. There was no fear in it at all.

Baldur smiled, putting on a facade of friendliness. Baldur didn't know it, but he was subconsciously adapting the Thalmor's methods of interrogating.

"Good, good. See? Not so bad is it? Now, as you know last night there was a raid on our supplies, and a group of men including yourself was seen running away from the burning tent containing a somewhat substantial amount of food for the town. Before we get to that, lets start with some basics. Are you an Imperial soldier? You seem tough enough to be one."

Jonus was as curious to hear Kilvar's answer as anyone else was. Kilvar was the only one of the three that had not worn a disguise last night, as they only had two and he was the fastest.

"Yes."

Baldur could tell he was lying. If he was a legionary, he wouldn't have told him that so easily. Not with the meeting that they wanted him to come to in the near future. This would surely make their plans of capturing him fail if that was their goal, as it would shatter any small amount of trust that they had built up. Which of course was none. And on top of that, Tullius would have no reason to poke around if they were still going to try and take the town. Baldur looked to Rebec and gave her a nod.

"I'm sorry, that was the wrong answer."

"Alright, Kilvar," Rebec said, looming over him. "You're obviously no legionnaire, and you don't look very smart, so you might not know about wartime justice. Let me fill you in. We're the law here now, and wartime rules are a little different than the usual milk drinker penalties handed out. A fine here, a slap on the wrist there. Not this time. Disrespect our soldiers like that other mead-swiller just did in the street, and we can lay your skin bare under the lash. You steal from the army, cause panic, that endangers everyone. And so you pay in blood and breath."

The admiral stopped, and her voice grew soft. She even sounded concerned. "Have you ever seen a man hanged, Kilvar?"

Kilvar shook his head. His voice remained strong, but there was now a dryness to it.

"No. I haven't."

"It's not pretty," Rebec replied, still keeping her voice sympathetic. "I much prefer tossing people into the Sea of Ghosts myself. The water is so cold it kills quickly, even Nords. But there's no ocean around here, so we'll have to hang you."

Pacing around him, Rebec came up behind him so he couldn't see her, only hear her voice. Her narration is slow, with pauses for effect. "A good hangman's knot can snap a person's neck instantly. But you see, I'm just not confident we've got any really good knot tiers here. Understand your dilemma? If you don't die on the first drop, it's going to take a while. You'll try to breathe, but you won't be able to. The rope will burn into your skin like it's on fire. You'll dangle there, helpless, and everyone will watch as you the shit and piss drip from your trousers. We won't cut you down right away, but once everyone's gotten a good look at you, you'll be in the ground and everything here will go on just like it was before. Even a knuckle-dragging sod-sniffer like you shouldn't end that way, don't you agree?"

There was a long pause before Kilvar answered. He spoke slowly, as if he had to force the words out. "I don't suppose there's a way out of that?"

Jonus's eyebrow raised. Shit!

Rebec glanced up at Baldur quickly, but kept on. From behind Kivar, she said, "We aren't unreasonable, but it's as I said. This kind of action endangers everyone, soldier and townfolk alike. You deserve to hang."

Baldur was rather disappointed but he didn't let it show. He was looking forward to see his wife rough up the prisoner a bit. He rather enjoyed playing good guard bad guard. His old self would have found it dishonorable, but his new self as a General knew sometimes honor just wasn't a commodity he could afford. Before as a captain, it wasn't as big a deal. Now...the fate of all of Skyrim rested on his shoulders. Baldur rationalized it by remembering that Stuhn, the god of ransom taught them the importance of taking prisoners of war. This was the reason you took them. To force them to give info. At first he thought that made him no better than Thalmor, but then he remembered all the demented things they'd do, and that they did it out of hate for their religion and the race of man. He was not like the Thalmor. Men like this in front of him were traitors. If he was wrong to enjoy hurting traitors, then he didn't care. 

But of course the point is moot if he's just going to tell us what we want to know.

"Tell you what, you tell us who those men were running away and you don't lie about it, and I promise you won't hang. You deserve it, but you won't. You'll serve your time, and when the siege is over and done with...you can go."

Kilvar shifted nervously in his chair. For a second, Jonus was worried that Kilvar was going to turn around and look at him for answers. Thankfully, he didn't.

Come on Kilvar. It's like I told you. Just hold out for one day.

After an even longer pause than the last one, Kilvar gave his half-hearted reply.

"I-I don't want to betray my friends...

Baldur decided to try another tactic then having Rebec brutalize the man. He decided to go with his old style, which was scare tactics.

"Rebec, tie your rope up to that wooden beam above us, please. Stand on the table."

After Baldur said this, he got out of his chair so he wouldn't be in the way.

"I can understand your reservations, but you owe loyalty to your country, not your friends."

Rebec glanced once at Baldur, wondering if he was really going to do it. But she didn't hesitate to do as he asked. She believed what she said about such actions endangering everyone. They couldn't rely on the hope of the imperials doing what they said they were going to do, or succeeding at it. The fate of all Skyrim could rest on whether they held here at Falkreath.

She climbed up on the table and slung her rope over the beam, then began fashioning a hangman's knot. Now Kilvar could see her, and she deliberately let him see her struggle with the knot, cursing once. "Hard to get these right," she mumbled, hoping he would remember her account of how hanging could be a slow, agonizing death. When the noose was ready, she stepped back down and stood aside.

Baldur hoped that he wouldn't have to kill the man, but he prepared himself for the worst if he had to. He helped burn their food supplies, and that was a military attack. He couldn't have his enemies thinking his marriage made him soft. He had to do what he had to do. Baldur grabbed the man by his arm, and forced him up on the table. After they were up, he put the man's head through the noose, and jumped back down off the table. Afterwards, he put his foot to the edge and waited for the man's reply.

"Last chance. Who were the men that were seen running from the fire?"

Kilvar's eyes widened. He was now visibly frightened. 

Jonus cursed inwardly. Damnit! Come on Kilvar, they're bluffing! Surely they'd make something like this public. He wanted to hollar out, but he knew he couldn't. So he just watched, hoping Kilvar would be brave enough to stand his ground.

Kilvar gulped and looked down at Baldur.

"The other Nord... His name was Stronlief."

Jonus sighed. It was the truth, and Stronlief was well known in Falkreath. He wouldn't be hard to find when he takes to the streets.

Baldur took his foot down and sighed with relief. Afterwards he nodded to Rebec so she'd take him down.

Well, that's one man. We'll get the rest from him after we grab this other nord.

Jonus felt a mixture of relief and frustration. On one hand, Malik was safe for now. And Stronlief knew Kilvar was arrested. He and Malik were both safe in different hideouts until Jonus's return. The problem was that Stronlief wasn't like Kilvar or Malik. He'd spill his guts to save his own life. He was useful, but now Jonus wouldn't be able to use him again. The risk of him being caught when going out would be too great.

Rebec sighed, too, but half out of disappointment. She had had it with all the games, inside and out of their forces. It was bad enough to have Thalmor and imperials slinking around, now there were Falkreath citizens doing the same. She stepped up and untied the knot, careful of the rope. That was the only solace- her favorite scaling rope wouldn't get this dung beetle's neck blood on it.

"Get down, you miserable coward," she said, jerking the man off the table by his tunic sleeve. "A few days of no rations ought to make you think about destroying food stores."

"Speaking of which, I need to address that issue with the townsfolk. I had to do that for a few days now. Have one of the men tell Boldir to organize the meeting for tonight in the street in front of the longhouse where that wooden platform was put up at. We'll have it when it turns dark." said Baldur.

 

***

 

Hours passed. At first, Jonus could hear many of the prisoners whispering to one another about Kilvar, who hasn't spoken to him since he was thrown back into the cell. As it got later, a guard brought some bread down for the prisoners. It wasn't much. Thanks to the heavier rationing, prisoners were getting very little food. As they lined up at the bars, Jonus made sure to stand beside Kilvar, who the guard intentionally skipped when handing out the small loaves. Jonus whispered in his ear. 

"You did good."

He handed Kilvar his loaf of bread and went back to the corner of the cell and sat down. Kilvar didn't look at him, but walked over beside him and sat between Jonus and another man. Without looking over, he whispered to Jonus. 

"Why are you in here Boss?"

"Assaulted a soldier."

"Why'd ya do that?"

"I needed to talk to you. Make sure you knew that if you could hold out today, everything would work out. It has. You'll be a hero, Kilvar."

"Why you though? Why not Malik? Or one of the others? Seems risky for you to be doing this."

"Malik just got out of prison. It's too risky to send him right back in. There's no telling when he'd be out. As for the others... I couldn't trust them with this job. How do you think most of them would've responded when you were about to hang? It had to be me.”

Kilvar nodded. "I see. What else will ya need from me then Boss?"

"Nothing Kilvar. Leave the rest to me."

 

***

 

Jonus didn't move for several hours. He just sat in the corner, head against the wall. He didn't speak to anyone. As the day came to a close, and the prisoners began to fall asleep, he himself pretended to do the same. His eyes closed and his head leaned against the hard wall. He began to count the seconds. One... Two... Three... Four... All the way to sixty. Then he counted minutes. Again, all the way to sixty. Focusing on nothing else, Jonus counted the hours away in his head. Long enough that he knew it had to be well past midnight.

Finally, after four hours of counting, Jonus opened his eyes. As far as he could see, all the other prisoners around him were asleep. Including Kilvar, who slept along the back wall several yards from Jonus. Without making a sound, Jonus removes his shirt and slowly rose to his knees and then to a crouch. He silently crept past the sleeping prisoners until he reached Kilvar. He reached down into his loin cloth and pulled out a small metal shiv.

Forgive me.

Jonus simultaneously covered Kilvar's mouth and plunged the shiv into his throat. The man's eyes shot open and his arms tried to jerk up. Jonus placed his knees on Kilvar's arms to prevent the attempts at flailing them from making noise. Jonus pushed the shiv harder, driving it deeper into his loyal friend's throat. He felt blood gurgle from his mouth, seeping through the fingers of Jonus's injured left hand. There was a wild look in Kilvar's eyes as they met Jonus's own. Unable to keep looking into them, Jonus looked away. After holding Kilvar still for several seconds, the Nord stopped trying to move and went limp. The whole ordeal was no louder than most of the snoring in the room.

Jonus used Kilvar's shirt to clean the blood off himself. Leaving the shiv in his friend's neck, Jonus snuck back to his corner, put his shirt back on, and got back into the same position he'd been in all night and closed his eyes. He appeared the same as before, but his heart was now racing, and his hands were shaking. Jonus had never killed before. And this man had trusted him. He was a friend.

What have I done?! I killed him! No. No! I need to calm down. That was always the plan. He'd have caved under threat of death eventually. He'd have given Malik's name. Maybe even mine if he had to... I made the right choice. Yes. I made the right choice... What have we gotten into?