Chapter Five: Dragon’s Tongue
Jorleif met me at the front doors of The Palace of Kings. The steward smiled faintly at me as I approached, like he had been expecting me for a while. The thick-bodied Nord rocked slightly on his heels, moving ever so slightly to keep warm. I saluted him in a greeting and bowed my head slightly. He bowed in return and chattered, “Jarl Ulfric wanted me to escort you. He’ll be pleased to know you came back.”
I smiled kindly. “Thank you, Steward Jorleif. You didn’t need to wait in the cold, though. I could have met you inside.” I giggled slightly.
He smirked in amusement. “I suppose so, but the Jarl wanted me to fetch you as soon as possible. He was… anxious for your return.” The way he said “anxious” had me suppose he was choosing his words wisely. It made me slightly suspicious. Jorleif noticed my reluctance and quickly added, “Don’t worry! He will be glad to see you. I’ll take you to him.” The steward turned on his heels and briskly walked inside, holding the door for me in a polite gesture.
I followed the man as he led me down the main hall and towards the throne. The Jarl was not seated there and I couldn’t hear his velvet voice echoing from any of the connected hallways. Curious, I kept pace with Jorleif as he walked past the throne and towards a large wooden door on the back wall. He hummed softly as he pushed open the door that led once again to the outside.
As I walked through, I noticed the air was a tad warmer and there wasn’t a trace of snow on the ground. I looked up to notice a large glass window for a ceiling. All around me the smell of various flowers and herbs mingled with the cool air. Raised boxes filled with a variety of soil types were filed in rows along the stone walls and in the center of the room. I realized it was a garden. I smiled at the unique sight. I never thought I could see such an array of plant life growing in such a cold place. The Nords seemed to have found a system that worked however, and I took notes of the set up. Jorleif shut the door as I wandered a bit further in, running the tips of my fingers over the leaves and petals of the plants that thrived in the Nordic greenhouse.
I stopped to admire a particular group of flowers that looked like they had been planted recently. The yellow petals were lined with brownish stripes while a purple pistil sprouted from the center. I gently cupped the flower in my hand to admire it closer. I heard a familiar deep voice mutter from behind me, “It’s Dragon’s Tongue.” I turned to look back at the Jarl, saluting him and bowing my head respectfully. He dismissed me with a wave of his hand. “You can take one if you like. Wuunferth has enough for his potions.”
I smiled softly but shook my head. “I’d hate to waste it. I’m afraid it would die before I got home. Besides, I don’t know what it does alchemy wise.”
Ulfric walked over to me, his callused hand cupping the flower and examining it. “Resistance, among other things,” he started, running his thumb over one of the sepals. “Fire, Ice, and Shock from what I understand. I asked Wuunferth to make some potions for the officers to carry on them in case of another dragon attack. Dragon’s Tongue makes a good base.” With a quick motion, he plucked the flower from the plant and turned to face me. He held out the bloom for me to take and muttered, “The wizard won’t miss one.”
I smiled warmly and gently took the flower. I tucked the short stem behind my ear and looked back up at him. “Thank you.”
He studied me a moment. Briefly, I could see a smile hint at his lips, but he turned away before it could completely manifest. He walked through an opening in one of the rows and I followed close behind. He asked, “Did you get the answer to your question today: how Skyrim is oppressed under the empire?”
“I heard many accounts and saw first-hand what the empire is allowing to happen.” I frowned. “I had no idea we allowed the Thalmor to walk around unchecked and do what they pleased to your people. I had no quarrel with them and even worked alongside some agents back in Cyrodiil before this. After today, however, I don’t see how I can look at them the same way.”
He nodded. “Those elves are wolves with the appearance of lambs. They present themselves as guardians of peace and order, but kill and maim innocents. When we win this war, I will personally drive out every Dominion agent from this land and have them pay for the atrocities they’ve committed against my brothers and sisters.”
“I find it hard to process how the empire could sit back and let people be dragged off in the dead of night,” I grumbled. “They want Skyrim to remain unified with them, but treat you as a lesser people. I think if more Cyrodillic citizens knew what was going on here, things would be different.”
“Perhaps,” he muttered. “I think you give too much credit to your kin. From what I know of Legionnaires, few Imperials care for the plights of their Nord brethren. After all, they see with their own eyes what is going on in this country and don’t defect to our cause.”
“It’s hard leaving what you know, Jarl Ulfric,” I informed him, a tinge of sadness in my tone. He looked me over with an understanding nod as I continued. “As much as it pains me, I cannot support an empire that allows her people to suffer. I’d be giving up my homeland, but I want to help you fight to liberate Skyrim.”
He hinted at a smile again, “You’ll join the ranks of the Stormcloaks, then?”
I sighed. “I need you to answer some questions first.”
He faintly chuckled, “I expected a catch. What is it you want to know, Imperial?”
“You don’t have a blameless reputation according to the empire, and I need my doubts put to rest before I fully commit myself to your cause,” I crossed my arms as I looked up in his steady hazel eyes. “I want your account on what happened to High King Torygg.”
He hummed a bit in response before nodding at me. “I suppose you’re in your rights by asking. The Legion has shrouded what happened in mystery and deceit. They portray me as a cold-blooded killer, am I correct?” He turned away, continuing his walk in the garden. I followed him, uncrossing my arms as he continued, “I killed Torygg, but I didn’t murder him.”
“Is there a difference?” I asked curiously.
“Is there a difference in murder and killing someone in war?” He asked in return.
“I reason there is, but I didn’t think the war was going on before Torygg’s death.”
He shook his head. “It wasn’t. Some say I started the war when I killed Torygg. I disagree, but history will say what it will.”
“So, what happened then?” I walked closer to him, holding my hands behind my back respectfully.
“Torygg was the Legionnaire’s puppet,” he started, picking a handful of snowberries as he passed by a bush. “After the signing of the White-Gold Concordant, Torygg was accepted as High King with the empire’s blessing. He had always been a Legion supporter, so it was no wonder why he let them and the Thalmor into our country. Most of Skyrim, myself included, saw him as an unfit king as he had no interest for the welfare of his people. With the support of many, I challenged him in the Old Nord Ways.”
As he placed a berry in his mouth, I asked, “So it was a duel?” He nodded faintly. “They say you shouted him apart with your voice.”
“You’ve seen the Thu’um for yourself. It’s powerful, but it can’t tear someone apart.” He looked back at me. “I shouted at him, yes, but it was within the rules of the challenge. We both fought by the ancient ways and he died by the ancient ways. I did Skyrim a service by opening the seat to a true Nord.”
“Like yourself?” I asked.
He thought a moment. “I could take the throne, but I won’t reject another Nord with the same convictions I have. I didn’t start the war to be king. I started the fight for independence from an oppressive empire. The first step was to remove their figure-head hold on our country. I don’t regret my actions.” He stopped and leaned against one of the crates that held the plants. He looked back down at me. “The empire will see me as a murderer out for power. My countrymen see me as a leader taking down a tyrannical throne. I suppose you can see me however you want.”
I nodded. “I understand why you did it, even if it wasn’t the best course of action.” He looked away in thought. I took a deep breath. “I’ll join you in this fight, but you must know I’m giving everything away for this: my home, my job, my family. I’m willing to give my life to this cause, but I don’t want to be left in the dark anymore. The empire has kept secrets for far too long. I need to know your Stormcloaks won’t hide things from me.”
“Talia, I can assure you everything will be transparent. We don’t believe in hiding the truth, even if it is dark. If you join, I guarantee you will be used. You have something we need to win the war. You have access to Imperial records and plans.” Ulfric popped another snowberry into his mouth. “You’re valuable to us. It would be a shame to lose you back to the Legion.”
I nodded to him. “That’s all I need to know then.” I smiled weakly. “I’ll help you in any way I can, Jarl Ulfric. Just tell me what you need.”
The Nord reached into his pocket, pulling out a smooth, sealed letter. I sighed in relief when I noted that it hadn’t been opened. He held it up, just out of my reach and stared at me blankly. “I need to know what this is and where you planned on delivering it. Consider this your first test as a Stormcloak.”
I nodded hesitantly. “My cousin, Gaius, wrote that letter for me to deliver to an Imperial operative here in Windhelm. It’s to be spread to all the other operatives in the rebel cities to help ensure safe travel of the Penitus Oculatus.”
“Why do they need access to our cities?” he asked.
“When the emperor arrives, he wants to make his rounds to all the hold capitals and try to bring peace or, really, acceptance of the empire.” I looked past the letter at him. “The Penitus Oculatus will need to meet with leaders in each hold to find a secure route for him to travel.”
Ulfric tilted his head slightly. “How long until the Emperor arrives?”
“A few months to a year,” I replied with certainty. “It will take a while for the agents to set up a presence in Skyrim. I think that’s why Tullius is pressing so hard to end the war. He wants the emperor to see he can handle things on his own.”
The Jarl looked at the letter and then back at me. He finally handed the missive over with a nod. “Do you know who the operative is in our city? I’d like to keep an eye on them.”
I shook my head. “She’s posing as a beggar on the streets. I’m supposed to meet her near the blacksmith’s.” I put the letter in my pouch. “Any idea who it could be?”
He nodded. “We’ve had our suspicions about a Nord beggar named Silda. Rumors have circulated about her ranging from her activities as a common thief to a member of the Thieves Guild. I wouldn't put it past her to be in line with the Legion for a few extra coins. I’ll have the guard keep an eye out.” As he crossed his arms he yawned, “I think you’ll be very useful to me and Galmar both.” I nodded in reply, but frowned. I knew what I was doing was right, but I couldn’t help but feel guilty for betraying such sensitive information. There was no turning back, I realized, and it scared me slightly. Ulfric must have picked up on my uncertainty. He turned to face me fully, his hand gentle as he place it on my shoulder. “Talia, you will be given back everything you lost because of this. It doesn’t make it easier, I know, but I promise as Jarl you will be repaid.”
I hesitantly smiled up at him. “You don’t have to do that, sir. I’m simply doing what’s right. If I lose all I have while doing what should be done, maybe it wasn’t mine to have to begin with.” He nodded and I continued, “I’m yours to command, Jarl Ulfric. What would you have me do?”
The man withdrew his hand from me and stroked his beard. “I’ve been thinking about that.” He looked past me at the door that I had come through. “I want you to deliver the letter and return to life as you would if you never joined us. I want as much information as you can gather about the emperor’s and the Legion’s movements. When I have a task for you, I’ll send someone to deliver a letter to Dragon Bridge.”
“How often should I return back to you?” I asked him softly.
“I would like to see you after each task, but otherwise whenever you can get away. The sooner I know about Tullius’ plans the better.” He started to walk back towards the door, motioning for me to follow. “Do you think you’ll be able to slip away from your station without anyone getting suspicious?”
“Gaius doesn’t know what I’m up to, but he supports me regardless. I think I can have him release me without my uncle growing suspicious.” I sighed. “What should I do about my Legionnaire missions?”
Ulfric hummed. “Do them as best you can without jeopardizing any of our security. I want to know about your movements for them as well. If they have intel on us that could help them in the war, mislead them.” He smiled faintly, “I’m asking you to risk a lot but you’re the best hope we have at getting ahead.”
I shook my head. “It’s nothing I can’t handle, sir,” I assured him. He seemed pleased as I continued, “I never liked Tullius, so I’ll consider this my chance to slander him.” I hurried past him to open the door. “My uniform is still in the room, I trust?”
He nodded, leaning over me to take the door from my hand. He motioned me inside. “If that’s where you left it. You can keep that armor you’re wearing though and use it as you choose. I'll advise my men to avoid all Penitus Oculatus agents to the best of their ability. The Emperor's Guard shouldn't be interfering if tensions between you and Tullius are as bad as you say.”
I nodded as I went inside. “As long as I don’t think I’ll be recognized by Legion soldiers, I’ll be wearing Stormcloak gear. Your armor is much warmer anyways. I should probably change back before heading home though.”
He hummed in agreement. I followed him to the throne as he spoke, “When you return, Galmar will swear you in as one of my soldiers, but you can still carry on as if you were a Stormcloak.” I thanked him. As he sat on the throne he asked, “Is there anything else you need to know or need me to do?”
I thought a moment before shaking my head. “No, sir. I think I’m ready to head back home.” I smiled up at him with a bow and he nodded in dismissal. “Thank you, Jarl Ulfric.” I turned to head to the stairs that led up to the spare room and smiled at Jorleif as I passed. The steward bowed his head to me, happy that I decided to join Ulfric in the fight. As conflicted as I felt about my betrayal, there was a sense of pride that came with it. I knew what I chose was right. Other Legionnaires and Gaius might not think as I did, but at least I wasn’t completely alone. I hoped that overtime the other Stormcloaks would come to accept me like Ulfric seemed to have.
~ ~ ~
I took a carriage that night to Solitude, taking small naps throughout the trip. The driver, Alfarinn, was kind enough to take me for a small extra fee for travel during the night. I reasoned any price was fine if I made it back home before they started to worry about me. From there, I took Epona back down the lonely road to Dragon Bridge. It was mid-morning when I arrived and I already appreciated the warmth of Mundus on my skin. The hamlet was much more inviting than snowy Windhelm. Still, the nip in the air covered my skin with small goosebumps. I wished for the comfort of the Stormcloak furs as opposed to the cold leather of my Imperial uniform.
I stopped just outside the town to release Epona and let her eat some of the forest grasses she longed for. I patted her rump as she walked past before going on my way as well. I passed Gaius’ and my shared tent as I walked along the road, knowing he wouldn’t be inside. If he wasn’t already busy with chores, he would be with Faida.
I peered ahead as I approached Dragon Bridge noticing a small group gathering outside of the outpost. Curious, I picked up pace to see what had drawn their attention. I noticed several Penitus Oculatus agents near the center, some kneeling while others were standing. Gaius was among them. He glanced over at me as I drew closer, relief flooding over his solemn expression. He ran over to me, wrapping his arms around me in a hug. “You’re okay! We were worried!”
I looked up at him, confused, but returned the hug. “Of course I’m okay. Why wouldn’t I be?” He slowly pulled away, taking my arm and leading me toward the crowd. The townsmen stepped aside as Gaius pushed his way through. I towed behind him until we reached the center, shock shaking my body. “By the Eight…” I whispered.
Laying on the ground was one of the agents that had followed us to Skyrim. His eyes were opened wide but contained no life in the brown orbs. The body had been dead long enough to grow stiff but the wounds still appeared fresh. The revolting smell of blood drifted from the carcass. There were lacerations around the throat and stomach area that were dealt with a weapon sharp enough to cut clean through his armor. Oddly enough, the cuts didn’t bleed. Instead, they appeared cauterized. I reasoned the weapon used was enchanted.
His comrades were searching the body intently for clues as to who killed him and why. I looked up at Gaius, whispering, “Was he killed here in the open?”
My cousin shook his head. “He went to Falkreath to deliver a letter for the commander last night. We found him dead on the bridge this morning. There were no signs of a struggle there and not a trace of blood. We think whoever killed him brought him back to Dragon Bridge.”
I gulped slightly. “Where’s Uncle Oritius?”
Gaius pointed to the outpost door. “He’s writing to Tullius to let him know what happened. You can go see him. He’ll be glad to see you’re all right.”
I nodded weakly and squeezed back through the crowd. I quickly climbed up the steps to the porch and pushed open the door. As Gaius said, my uncle was standing at a table, scribbling down words on a piece of parchment. I took a deep breath as I approached. “Uncle?” I asked softly.
The man looked over, sighing in relief. He walked over to me and not-so-formally pulled me into a tight hug. “My Talia…” He muttered. I closed my eyes and I leaned into his hug. “I knew you’d be okay, but I’m glad to have you back with me.”
“I’m glad to be back,” I replied quietly. I reluctantly pulled away and stared up at him. “Who could have done that? We’ve been here but a few days. Surely we haven’t made enemies that fast.”
He smiled sadly, taking a deep breath. “I should have told you and Gaius the moment I heard the rumors.” I tilted my head curiously. “When we first arrived in Dragon Bridge, I received some missives. They were anonymous so I couldn’t verify the validity of them. I dismissed them at first, but I should have paid more heed.”
“What are you talking about?” I asked, slightly nervous.
“The Dark Brotherhood is alive in Skyrim,” he stated solemnly. “We wiped them out in Cyrodiil, but they have a foothold here. The missives said they will probably target the Penitus Oculatus and anyone of significance associated with the war.”
“Th-they’re here?” I trembled uncontrollably as I tried to withhold my tears. “H-how? Hasn’t someone wiped them out?” If there was one thing that terrified me more than anything else in the world, it was the Dark Brotherhood. They were the source of my misery. Out of my request, my uncle spent years of my childhood eliminating their Cyrillic presence, which I assumed would be enough to force the rest into permanent seclusion. However, the dagger wielding assassin still haunted my dreams like flashbacks of my home in Anvil used to consume my waking thoughts. If they really still had a presence in Skyrim, I wasn't sure how I would face them.
My uncle knelt down quickly, taking my hand. “Talia, it’s okay.” He tried to calm me. “They won’t find you. Gaius and I won’t let them.” He rubbed my cheek with his free hand. “You trust us, right?” I nodded slowly. “Then trust us to take care of the problem. We'll just have to take them out here in Skyrim we did back home. Besides, he could have been killed by anyone.”
I took deep breaths to try and calm myself as he talked, wiping my eyes on my bracer. “I know, Uncle. I'm sorry. I shouldn't let my emotions get the better of me.”
He shook his head quickly. “It happens, my Talia. You're allowed to be scared. You just have to overcome it.” His small frown turned into a smile as he rose to his feet, gently taking off my helm and kissing my forehead.
I smiled warmly in return, taking a deep breath. “We should take precautions regardless, for everyone's safety. We shouldn't take solo missions anymore.” The words left my lips faster than I realized. While it would be safer that way for most, it would be much harder for me to slip away undetected to fulfill any tasks Ulfric had planned for me. As my uncle nodded in agreeance, I added quickly, “I want to stay with Gaius though. We work well together, and I feel safer with him.”
He hummed warmly at the though of his children working together. “I’ll talk to Gaius, but I’m sure he won’t have a problem having you around. Besides, I want you to stay closer to the outpost where we can keep an eye on you.” I frowned slightly as he chuckled, “You can keep things clean and cook for us. There's no need for you to”
“Thank you, Uncle,” I stated, trying to sound enthused. I was more than a little annoyed that he wouldn't be having me continue like normal, but I expected as much. Perhaps he was just over-protective, but he rarely had me do tasks with a certain degree of danger. He allowed Gaius to carry on as normal, but I had more of a servant role than soldier. I thought when he was taking me to Skyrim it would be a chance to prove myself. I was glad that Ulfric would allow me to work in a different way.
Before my uncle could respond, Gaius came in with a few items in his hand. I looked him over with a frown as Uncle Oritius asked, “What’s that?”
“Anything they found on him that was suspicious,” he informed us, setting the items down on the table next to the commander's letter. We studied them intensely, trying to piece together a meaning. There was a bloody dagger they had recovered from his boot which struck me as odd. There were also a couple of pieces of Nightshade petals. Finally, I saw an illegible book with blood stains on the opening pages. Gaius continued, “They took his breast plate off him to better examine the wounds. It looks like whatever got to him took his heart as well.”
I frowned. “What would someone want with a human heart?”
“If it was an alchemist,” Gaius started, “a potion. If it was a supernatural, probably food. If it was anything else, your guess is as good as mine. What do you think, Father?”
We looked over at Uncle Oritius, noticing his stone-cold gaze. He knew something we didn’t. I gently closed the book and asked, “What’s wrong, sir?”
He hesitantly shook his head. He forced a smile and looked down at me. “Nothing, Talia,” he lied. He looked over at Gaius. “Talia must be hungry after her trip to Riften. Why don’t you take her over to the tavern to eat before starting your assignments for the day?”
Gaius nodded in some mutual understanding. “Yes, sir.” He put an arm over my shoulders. “Come on, Tali.”
I took a deep breath, hesitantly following my cousin. It appeared they both new something I didn’t and were once again keeping me in the dark. As we went outside, I whispered to Gaius, “We need to talk.”
He nodded, keeping his voice at the same volume as mine. “Where?”
“Our tent.” I motioned up the road. “I just need us to be alone for a minute.” My cousin removed his arm from my shoulder with a nod. I led the way out of town, careful not to draw attention from the rest of the people still gathered around the square. When we were out of earshot, I sighed softly. “What was he upset about? What does it mean?”
Gaius shook his head as he walked behind me. “I’m not telling you. If he wanted you to know he would have told you. Some things are better if you don’t ask about them.”
I grumbled, “I need to know, Gaius.” He shook his head again. I stopped and stared up at him in annoyance. “I’m tired of secrets and lies.”
He frowned and kept walking. “What are you on about?”
I hurried to catch up to him, lowering my voice. “The empire’s been keeping things a secret, even from us. There is so much more to Skyrim than what the Legionnaires tell you. People are getting hurt here. Their god is oppressed. It isn’t even safe for them to walk the streets without the Thalmor snatching them away in the night! The empire does nothing to help them, Gaius!”
He frowned. “Who told you about the Thalmor?”
I staggered a moment. “You… You knew about them?”
He sighed. “Tullius told us he allows them to patrol for him so he doesn’t need to waste soldiers to enforce the rules. Sometimes there’s resistance and the Thalmor must do some illegal things. We didn’t tell you because we knew you’d probably be angry.”
“Do you think I’m not angry now?” I asked in an angered but hushed tone. “You’re okay with those elves kidnapping and killing Nords simply because they wish to choose their god?”
He stopped, pinching the bridge of his nose. “I didn’t say I’m okay with it. I just know that that’s the way things are. We can’t change Tullius’ mind, and the Thalmor are just doing their job. There’s nothing we can do, so why worry about it.”
“There’s nothing you can do,” I mumbled under my breath as I walked past him and went into the tent.
“Where did you go?” he called out, suspicion in his tone. I didn’t answer so followed in after me. He glared down at me as he asked again, “Where did you go, Talia?”
“It’s safer for you if you don’t know,” I replied, turning to face him.
He scoffed, “Who’s the one keeping secrets now?”
I took off my helm, tossed it onto my cot and ran my fingers through my hair. “It’s not the same. I’m keeping secrets to protect you. The empire keeps secrets to hide oppression. Why can’t you see that there is something wrong here, Gaius? Rather, why don’t you care?”
He took a deep breath. “I care, I promise. I just know there is nothing one person can do to change it. I’m not…” He hesitated. “I’m not as brave as you are.” The tightness in my chest faded at his words and my expression softened. “You’ve always been the one to fight for fairness and against cruelty. You speak out and act without fear of losing everything. I can’t do that; I’ve never been able to. I have too much to lose.”
I sighed weakly. “You’ve always had my back though, through everything.” I smiled weakly. “You are brave. You’re brave for me at least.”
He shook his head, frowning as he plopped down on my cot. “I can’t be brave on my own and when it matters most. I follow the crowd and do what’s expected. You don’t really care for that mentality much, do you?” I laughed faintly, making him smile. “You really think you’re going to make a difference? You think you alone can fix everything?”
I shook my head. “Of course not, but I have to try, right?” He scoffed with a smile and I added, “You don’t think I can?”
He shook his head. “You can’t without someone to cover your rear end here.” He smiled faintly, crossing his arms.
“You’ll still help me?” I asked, smiling widely as I sat down beside him.
When he nodded, I wrapped him in a tight hug. He chuckled as he returned the gesture. “I’m not brave enough to do whatever in Oblivion you’re up to, but I can still have your back.”
I shut my eyes as I buried my face in his chest. I breathed in the familiar scent and muttered, “Thank you, Gaius. Thank you so much.”
He nodded. “I trust you know what you’re doing. Just please don’t get hurt doing it, all right? There's only so much I’ll put up with. If you get killed, that would cross the line.”
I pulled away from his embrace with a nod and withheld laugh. “Deal.”
He smiled down at me before humming in amusement. “Now that we have that out of the way, mind telling me what happened here?” He ran his fingers along the scars on my arm and up to my neck.
I laughed weakly as I carefully dug through my pouch. Gaius watched me with curiosity as I produced one of the potion bottles, my canteen of water, and the single Dragon's Tongue flower that survived the trip through the cold wastelands of the pale. I poured water into the bottle and gingerly placed the flower inside. I looked back at my cousin with a small smile. “Would you believe me if I told you I got attacked by a dragon?”
<< Chapter Four ~ Chapter Six >>
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Hey guys! This chapter is shorter than the others because I ended up breaking Chapter Four in two (because I didn't want to force you to read 16 pages worth of story in one chapter). I'm working on Chapter Six currently, so don't let this one disappoint you too much. ;)
^_^ Thank you, sir. I just posted the 6th chapter for you!