Chapter Nine: Bear Claw
When I regained my senses, I felt a warm hand pressed against my cheek. I instinctively leaned into the gentle touch, finding comfort in my pained state. My head ached terribly, but the feeling was numb compared to when I first collided with the wall. I heard muffled voices nearby, yet couldn’t make out who they were. I was still far to dizzy to process the world around me. I simply focused on the touch as my trembling body tried to wake itself up.
A sudden rush of warmth came over my body. It felt like the flutter of butterflies flowing through my veins just under the skin. I recognized the sensation as the effects of restorative magic. There was faint cracking in my skull as the magic healed what I assumed was a fracture and eased the pain that chilled my body. As the sensation spread, the voices became clearer. “You should have seen her. She’s as talented as she is cunning.” The voice belonged to Kaita.
Galmar grumbled, “She’s decent for an Imperial, but she can improve.”
Kaita scoffed, “She just saved your life! I think she’s better than decent!”
“Bah!” The man exclaimed. “I could have handled it myself.” He was silent a moment before adding, “Still, she handled things just as well as, if not better than, the elites. She took out two squads by herself.”
“I think she’s ready for a hunt,” Kaita cooed. I felt the cot I laid on shift as weight was added to it.
“You think because she didn’t die on her first mission she deserves to be promoted into our ranks?” Galmar asked, appall in his tone. “If we are going to start giving away titles freely, I say we start with our own race and not some Imperial.”
Kaita growled. “Can’t you look beyond race for a moment, Galmar? She saved your life! I think at the least you owe her some respect.”
“Stop it, both of you,” a deep velvet voice commanded. “I’ll be deciding what we do with her. We can’t just promote her to Stormblade after one mission, but we can’t ignore what she’s done. If the two of you want to bicker and nag each other, do it someplace else.”
I felt the warmth of the magic pull away from me as I heard an elder voice mutter, “She’s healed, Jarl Ulfric. Give her a few moments to wake up and she’ll be good to go.”
“Thank you, Wuunferth,” the jarl replied. I felt the thumb brush my cheek as he murmured, “Talia? Are you awake?”
I forced my tired eyes open. The room was a blurry, shifting mess in my sight. I could barely make out the forms around the room. Quickly, I shut my eyes, croaking out, “I think so. I just can’t see right now.”
I felt Kaita place her hand on my leg. “You were hit pretty hard. Let the magic finish working before you try to move around.”
I groaned slightly, defiantly trying to force my eyes open again. It was a little clearer. Galmar stood across the room, watching me curiously. Kaita, as I assumed, was sitting at the foot of my bed, smiling over at me. The most surprising was Ulfric. The king sat on a chair beside my cot, his hand resting on my cheek. I smiled weakly up at him, trying to salute while lying there. “I’m sorry I can’t rise to greet you properly, sir,” I whispered.
Ulfric returned the weak smile. He tutted before adding, “You saved the life of my general. I think I can give you a pass this time.” He withdrew his hand from me, looking at Kaita. “Will you get her some water and something to eat. I’m sure she’s starving.”
“Of course, sir,” Kaita replied, rising to her feet. She walked past Galmar with a hum. I saw her hand brush across his chest to get his attention. “Want to help me? We can bicker and nag each other some more,” she teased.
Galmar rolled his eyes, looking at Ulfric for permission. When the Jarl nodded, he sighed and followed Kaita to the door. “You’re a pain, Snow-Hare.” He shut the door behind them as they left the room.
Ulfric looked back down at me with a sigh. “Were they like that the whole trip?”
I giggled faintly. “No, they must have just started that when they got here.” I looked up at the window above the cot, trying to judge the time. “How long was I out for?”
“They brought you in yesterday afternoon and you slept all through the night. I had Wuunferth come heal you when I realized you weren’t getting any better on your own.” I nodded weakly, glancing over at him as he continued, “They told me you were just feet in front of that draugr when it shouted you. I’m surprised you weren’t worse off.”
“I’d say a day in comatose is pretty bad, though,” I shrugged, groaning as I tried to sit up. Sharp pain shot across my scalp causing me to yelp. I swayed dizzily until I felt a firm hand pull my shoulder back down.
“Don’t,” Ulfric gently told me. “Do as Kaita said and wait for the magic to finish its work. You’ll hurt yourself more.”
I frowned, but agreed to do as he said. As he leaned back into the chair, I noticed the Jagged Crown sitting on the nightstand. “They got the crown?” I asked, relief in my tone.
Ulfric looked at the crown, nodding. “It would have been a waste if they didn’t. We nearly lost you because of the blasted thing.”
I furrowed my brows. “You aren’t wearing it, though. I thought that’s what we retrieved it for.”
He shook his head. “I told Galmar if he found the crown, the next true high king would wear it. I am not high king yet, so I don’t plan on putting it on any time soon.” He placed his hand on the helm behind the spikes, admiring it.
I looked up at him, keeping my expression soft. “You should be high king.” He looked over at me with an equally gentle gaze. “Galmar told me what you’ve done for this country and for its people. You’ve given so much. I can’t imagine a truer Nord or a worthier man to be king.”
He frowned, lowering his voice. “There are better men. Sons and daughters are giving their lives in a fight for their freedom. Families have lost their homes for this cause. I live in the safety of these walls with men and women ready to lay down their life to spare mine. There are worthier men, but I’m afraid they’ll all be heroes of Sovngarde when this war is done.”
“You aren’t giving yourself enough credit, Ulfric,” I responded softly. “You’re a leader for them. They would be lost without you. You make it sound as though you do nothing, but I know better. You’re a veteran who’s done more than your fair share of fighting. You’re a strategist, planning the war and attacks for them. You’ve given up your whole life for the betterment of this land. That’s more than admirable.”
He slowly smiled down at me. “I don’t fall for flattery so easily.”
I shook my head. “I’m not trying to flatter you. I’m telling the truth. Anyone who denies you the throne is blind. I can’t imagine a better ruler.”
He slowly reached over, tucking a strand of hair behind my ear. “You’ve given much yourself, and this land isn’t even yours. You’re fighting for a people that aren’t your own. What drives you to do something like this?”
I smiled. “I told you, I can’t sit back and watch the empire mistreat your people. I would be a coward to turn a blind eye on Skyrim when I know everything I do.”
“Justice and righteousness urge you to fight for us?” I shrugged. He continued, “You’d make a far better queen than the one we have now.”
I shook my head. “I don’t care to rule over people. I take orders better than I give them. Besides, I’m not a Nord. You’re trying to drive my people out of the country and back into their own. It wouldn’t be smart to have an Imperial take the throne.”
I faint chuckle left his lips. “Perhaps you’re right.” He looked down at me as I looked up at him. For several long moments, we just sat in silence, studying each other. Our roles were reversed from the day we first met. I was the one who was weak while he looked over me. I’m sure he noticed, his hint of a smile hiding what he didn’t say aloud. I admired how he looked then: more like a compassionate man than a stoic king. His soft hazel eyes studied my own as he tried just as hard to read my thoughts as I tried to read his. He only looked away as the door opened to the room and Kaita and Galmar came in.
“Food!” Kaita called, walking over to the cot and sitting back down. “It’s a little cold, but I figured it’s still something.”
I smiled at her. Ulfric looked between the two of us, asking, “Do you want to try and sit up again?” I nodded. He carefully moved the chair closer to the bed, placing his hand my shoulder. “I’ll help you, just take it easy.” I took a deep breath as I forced myself to sit up again. There was less pain, but I was still just as dizzy as before. Ulfric’s hand slid down my back as I leaned forward to help support me. He held it there for a moment. “Are you okay?”
I shut my eyes to wait for the spinning feeling to go away. I hesitantly opened them and nodded, “Yes, sir. I’m fine.” He slowly withdrew his hand and I pulled my legs close to me, sitting cross-legged to better keep my balance.
Kaita handed me the plate. “You’re probably weak from not eating. You missed nearly a day and a half’s worth of meals.” I gratefully took the food, not wasting time to start eating. I started with the rabbit legs first, as they were the most filling. I saved the roll of bread and creme treat for after. Kaita hummed as she watched me. “You eat so daintily.”
I glanced at her with a small smirk, “I’m sorry?” I asked.
She giggled, “No, no. I’m just saying that if I hadn’t eaten in so long I would be scarfing down the food like a skeever.”
Galmar leaned back against the wall beside the bed and scoffed, “You eat like that regardless, and always leave a mess.” Kaita frowned at him, making him smile slightly. “I suppose you can’t help it. You lack proper manners.”
Ulfric leaned back in the chair with a sigh. “Can you argue someplace else? Talia just woke up. I’m sure she doesn’t want to hear pointless chatter.”
I giggled. “I don’t mind, Jarl Ulfric.” I looked over at him, kindly. “To be honest, I’m happy to hear their voices. I was afraid we all wouldn’t make it from Korvanjund.”
Galmar hummed. “We had Talos’ favor. That’s the only reason we all came out alive.”
“And Talia’s help,” Kaita added, smiling over at me.
“You make it sound like you couldn’t have done the mission without me,” I told her. “I wouldn’t have made it out without the two of you. I actually felt more like a hindrance than a help.”
“You suggested sneaking our way through, Talia, and you were the only one small enough to fit through that hall.” She smirked at him, fighting off a giggle.
I frowned playfully and rolled my eyes. “I just tried to make things easier on the group. I wasn’t trying to be brave, I swear.”
“Regardless, I think you should be rewarded.”
“Kaita,” Galmar grumbled in a warning.
Ulfric sighed, “She has a point, Galmar. We sent her on an elite mission and she performed above the norm. We would promote anyone else.” Galmar grumbled to himself with a frown. Ulfric continued, “I think she’s ready for a hunt.”
Kaita grinned, looking between Ulfric and Galmar. The grouchier of the Nords asked, “When do you want me to take her?”
“I don’t,” Ulfric replied, rising to his feet. “I’m going to take her.”
Galmar frowned at him. “I advise against it. There are too many risks.”
Ulfric picked up the crown that rested on the nightstand and walked towards the door, motioning his second-in-command to follow. “I know the risks, and I know you aren’t going to like it. I’m going anyways, but I’ll listen to your argument.”
“Jarl Ulfric,” I called out to him. He paused to look back at me. “You don’t have to promote me. I don’t think I did anything all that special.”
He shook his head. “I know I don’t have to. I’ll take you, see how you fair, and choose your reward afterwards. Will you be ready to go in a few hours?”
I nodded to him. “Yes, sir. I should get my strength back after I finish eating. Where should I meet you?”
“I’ll be waiting in the main hall with Galmar when I’m ready. I have a feeling we need to talk before we head off.” He looked at his friend who assured him with a small nod. “Kaita can help you clean up and show you where we store the hunting clothes. You should restock on arrows as well. We don’t know what we’ll be facing.” As I nodded, the two men left the room, closing the door behind them. I heard Galmar start grumbling, but his words were muffled beyond recognition.
Kaita squeaked in excitement, grabbing my arm to catch my attention. “Talia! I’m so excited for you! You get to go hunting with Ulfric; that’s quite the honor!”
I smiled back at her, taking the creme treat and setting the empty plate on the nightstand. “Doing anything with Ulfric is an honor,” I told her, feeling the smile soften as I looked at the door. “He’s different when he’s alone.”
She nodded. “I know. I’ve been around him and Galmar when the two get drunk. It’s fun,” she giggled.
I hummed in response, still looking at the door. “I like talking to him alone. He’s real then and can show emotion. He’s definitely not who the Imperials make him out to be. He’s kind and gentle. I’ve never, in Cyrodiil or Skyrim, met a man quite like him.” She smirked slightly, understanding the subtle look in my eyes that betrayed my thoughts. I looked back at her, feeling a tinge of red cross my cheeks. I looked away, asking, “What?”
“Nothing,” she started, teasing me, “you just seem... enthralled by him.”
“I respect him,” I tried to tell her, frowning as I rubbed my cheeks. “He’s a good leader and a decent man.”
She rolled her eyes with a hum of disbelief. “I can read you, Talia. You have feelings for the Jarl.” I scoffed, looking away and crossing my arms. She giggled as she rose to her feet. “I can’t say I blame you. He has that effect on people. If you talk to any of the women here, they’ll all say the same, married or not. You have something they don’t have, though.”
“What would that be?” I asked in slight frustration, flustered with her teasing.
She hummed, “You’ve caught Ulfric’s eye.” I looked at her in disbelief, but she nodded at me. “He’s done things for you that he wouldn’t have done for anyone else. He’s never been on a hunt with anyone since Rikke defected. Even Galmar sees that.”
“I think he just believes he owes me for saving him at Helgen,” I reasoned. “I’ll reassure him that we are more than even, and he’ll let me be a normal soldier. No one like him would court someone like me. I’m an Imperial defect, while he’s a Nordic king- high king, at that. No one in their right mind would stoop so low.”
Kaita frowned at me, lightly punching my arm. I frowned as I looked over at her. “Stop saying stuff like that. Nord, Imperial, I don’t see how it matters. What I do see is a highly skilled, beautiful, intelligent woman who has her eyes set on a king. I don’t know how he feels about you for sure, but by his actions alone I know he sees something in you. Don’t worry about worthiness and political correctness. Let things fall where they may and enjoy it Talia.” She smiled at me, rising to her feet.
I looked up at her, smiling weakly in return. “Thank you, Kaita. Don’t tell Galmar, all right? I don’t need him to hate me anymore than he does.”
“He doesn’t hate you, but I won’t breath a word about it.” She extended her hand to me. “We better get you cleaned up for the hunt. It will probably take a while to wash the blood from your hair.”
I hesitantly raised my hand to the back of my head, frowning as I nodded to her. I took her hand with my free one, shakily pulling to my feet. I asked, “So, what exactly is this hunt you keep talking about?”
She smiled. “The ancients used to make young Nord men and women go on a hunt when they came of age to prove they were ready to be adult warriors. We use the hunt as an initiation into the higher ranks of the Stormcloaks. I can’t tell you what you’ll be doing since it will ruin the surprise, but I’ll tell you it will be fun. I went alone with Galmar since he usually initiates all the hunts, so I don’t know what all Ulfric has in store for you.”
I sighed weakly, following her to the door. “I don’t suppose we’ll be going somewhere warm.”
She snorted. “Of course not. That’s not the Nordic way.” I smiled at her laughter as we made our way down the stairs that left the spare room. I tried to comb through my knotted, bloody hair while we walked, dreading the bath that waited me in the barracks. While I wanted to get clean, I didn’t want to feel the frigid water on my skin. I supposed I would have to get used to it. If Skyrim was to be my new home, I’d need to tough it out like a Nord.
~ ~ ~
I knelt in the ankle-deep snow, holding my hand over a track that had been freshly imprinted. The bear we were tracking wasn’t more than a mile ahead, but we had been following it for hours. I suggested finding a different animal, but Ulfric had insisted this was the one I was to take down. I looked back at him as he stopped a few feet behind me. “He’s close now. Can you tell me what I need to do?”
The Jarl shook his head. “Keep tracking him. I’m here to observe you, not tell you how to do this mission.” He crossed his arms over his chest, looking up at the sky. “We still have a while until dark. Take your time.”
I sighed, but nodded to him. I began trudging through the snow again, keeping my eyes on the tracks. I was growing tired of walking, but at least I couldn’t complain about the cold. Our hunting clothes kept us protected from the frost in the air and well camouflaged from the predators we hunted. Every piece had been meticulously crafted to hold in body heat. Leather from dark-skinned wolf hides made up the exterior while the inside was made from various furs. The armor was pulled together tightly by more leather strips making it very form fitting. I especially loved the bottom half of the piece as it fit around each leg rather than hanging loose like a skirt. Ulfric wore the same attire I did, with the addition of a wolf skull helm. I chose to go without headgear, letting Kaita braid my freshly-cleaned hair out of my eyes.
My gloved hand held tightly to my bow as I walked. I wanted to be ready in case I ran into the bear unexpectedly. Not appearing nearly as cautious as I did, Ulfric kept his weapon at his side. I realized early on he expected me to do most, if not all, of the fighting. I still didn’t have the slightest idea what I needed to be doing on the hunt. I knew we were tracking a bear, and I reasoned I was expected to kill it, but I didn’t know if there were tasks or specific methods I should be using. I hadn’t studied Nordic rituals before, so I was very much in the dark.
It wasn’t snowing, but the afternoon sky was still grey. Light peeked through the clouds on occasion, giving us the faintest hint of the time. I had invested a lot of hours into the hunt for not actually killing anything. We had wandered miles north of Windhelm and I was sure we were in the Winterhold. We remained in the forest, but every so often the tracks would lead us too far west and I could see the vast, icy wastelands.
I stopped us again as the tracks led into an icy stream. I hesitantly stepped into the water, checking for tracks on the other side. I had to walk downstream some ways until I found where the bear came out. I waved to Ulfric to let him know I found the tracks and waited for him to cross as well. I kept my voice low as he approached, “There’s still drip marks in the snow. I think he’s right ahead of us.” A soft grunt from nearby confirmed my suspicions. We both instinctively crouched and I whispered even softer, “I can’t see over the hill, so I’m not following the tracks. The last thing I want to do is walk up on him. We’ll sneak around at a distance, if that’s all right with you.”
The king nodded faintly. “That’s what I would do.”
I smiled at him before diverging from the trail and heading east of the tracks. We approached the hill at an angle to where the bear could be, which proved to be the right choice. The young boar was about midway down the hill, standing at full height and sniffing the air. As soon as I saw him, I stood perfectly still. He had smelled us coming and was now looking for where we were. He made small noises, imitating sounds of fright as he frantically searched for our location. Ulfric nudged me gently, motioning with his head towards a large fallen tree we could use as cover. I nodded weakly, backing out of the bear’s path of sight and sneaking to the large trunk.
We sat beside each other, keeping our eyes on the bear. I wouldn’t be able to shoot while crouching, so I waited patiently for the bear to turn when I could take a good shot. I knew once I stood, the bear would see me. He would either attack or flee, and I needed to be ready for either incident. I carefully reached for an arrow in the quiver on my back and pulled it out. The faint rattle of the wooden shafts caught the animal’s attention. He lowered himself to the ground, growling in warning to the unseen danger. I moved extra slowly as I nocked the arrow and pointed the bow at the ground.
The boar pawed the ground with its front feet, growing anxious as our scent saturated the clearing. Still, he didn’t run away. Oddly enough, the animal didn’t move from his position at all. He tossed his head from side to side to try and find us, sniffing loudly in the silence. I heard Ulfric shift positions beside me, drawing the bears attention towards our tree. It rose to its feet again to get a better look and I saw an opportunity for a shot.
I quickly rose to my feet, pulling the bowstring back to full draw. The malachite tip of my glass arrow gleamed faintly as I aimed for the bear, hoping to strike it though the heart or lungs. I drew in a deep breath to steady my aim and held it. I started to release the string, but I hesitated.
I stared at the bear as it stared at me, and I noticed something I hadn’t before. Red blood coated the snow around its hind ankle. Metal teeth dug into the bear’s leg, holding the creature in place. The heavy trap couldn’t be moved by the young bear, and it was clear the animal wouldn’t be getting away. I quickly sat back down, removing the arrow rather than firing it. I looked back over the log to see the bear lower itself on all fours and try to bolt away. It made cries of distress as the trap clamped tighter around the leg and dug into the flesh.
“Why aren’t you shooting?” Ulfric asked, curiously.
“I can’t hunt a trapped animal,” I told him, frowning. “That doesn’t give him much of a fighting chance. If I’m going to kill something, it needs to be fair.” I put my bow on my back, still looking at the bear. I felt my heart ache at the sight. I had never been fond of traps or snares or anything that put animals at a disadvantage, but the bear was the first creature I had ever seen imprisoned by one. I couldn’t help but place myself in the position of the bear: defenseless, scared, and in pain. There was no honor in a kill like that.
I felt Ulfric’s eyes linger on me for a long while. When he finally spoke he whispered, “If you don’t kill it, the poacher that set the trap will. Its fate is sealed.” I looked over at him when he spoke, making him frown. I must have had a look about me because he could tell what I was thinking. He sternly stated, “You cannot rescue a bear, Talia. It won’t let you get close enough to pry the trap open, and even if it does, it will turn on you and kill you. Have you ever even fought a bear before?”
“There’s a first time for everything,” I told him, smiling shyly. He sighed as I stated, “I don’t have to get within striking distance. I just need to get close enough to take a shot at the trap. I might can break it with the malachite.”
“Or you can hit the bear and tick him off more,” he grumbled, looking back at the creature who stopped struggling and simply stood there, watching us. “If it works and you free the bear, what will you do when it comes after you?”
I patted the hilt of my sword. “It will be a fair fight then. If he attacks, I’ll defend myself. If he runs, I’ll let him go. He has the ability to choose once he’s free.”
Ulfric pinched the bridge of his nose. “It’s an animal. Do you expect it to be grateful and make the right choice?” I frowned as I looked up at him and then looked away. I leaned back against the tree trunk with a sigh. He looked down at me and mumbled, “This is your hunt. Do what you want, but I’m not going to interfere.”
I glanced up at him with a small nod. I hesitantly rose to my feet and drew the bow and glass arrow. The sound of the boar’s labored breathing and the crunching of snow beneath my feet were the only sounds as I made my way to the injured animal. He turned to face me, roaring at me in a warning. His front feet clawed at the snow as he tried to intimidate me. I knelt slowly when I was midway to him, making myself appear smaller. I talked quietly to him like I would to Epona when she was scared. The bears cries of fear slowly grew softer, turning from roars to growls to grunts. When I was satisfied with how calm he had become, I slowly lifted the bow from the ground.
The bear’s grey-green eyes stared at me, watching my every move with interest. He pawed the ground as I slowly pulled back the string. I tried to just focus on the trap, specifically the metal bolt that forced the two halves to clamp onto the boar’s leg. It was rusted and bloodstained, but I could just make it out at that distance. I drew a deep breath again to steady my shot. I knew If I aimed too high, I would hit the bear and never regain what little trust I had invested in him. I hesitantly loosened my grip on the bowstring and exhaled at the release. I opened my other eye as the malachite hit the metal on the trap, knocking loose the pin.
The sound startled the bear. He jumped in fear and charged forward a few steps, his leg slipping out of the newly opened trap. My body trembled as the animal ran towards me and out of fear I grabbed another arrow. Before I could nock it, the boar stopped in front of me, barely a few feet from where I crouched. I could see his warm breath as he stared down at me then looked back at the bloody trap. He grunted softly, walking slowly towards me with curious eyes. Too scared to move, I gripped tightly to the bow and arrow and stared up at the creature who held my life in its paws.
The bear shook its snow colored pelt as he stepped closer, his enormous paws just inches from my knees. I glanced down at the two-inch claws that spread from each toe before meeting the animal’s gaze again. He sniffed my face, warm air blowing from his nostrils. I felt his wet and cold nose on my forehead as he sniffed my hair, pulling down strands from the braid Kaita worked so hard on. Fear had me shaking, and he detected the sweat that beaded on my forehead. With a sudden move, the animal licked my face, cleaning away all the moisture that had collected.
After removing the salt from my skin, the boar grew bored of me. He took one last look at me before turning around towards the trap. I stayed perfectly still as I watched him walk past the metal trap and continue the trail he was walking on. As the sounds of crunching snow faded with each step, I finally felt myself breathe again.
As he disappeared over the next hill, I fell back in the snow, staring up at the sky. I laughed weakly, hugging myself in relief. I couldn’t believe I managed to escape death again. It became apparent Ulfric couldn’t believe it either. I looked up from the snow as I heard him rush over. He was smiling in disbelief. I laughed again, making him chuckle, “I wouldn’t have believed it if I didn’t see it for myself. How in Oblivion did you do that?”
I shook my head. “I don’t know,” I started, shrugging in the snow. “I actually thought he was going to kill me. I promise I was a lot more scared than I looked.”
Ulfric sat in the snow beside me, taking off his wolf helm and carding a hand though his hair. “You had me nervous, I’ll admit. I’ve never seen or heard of anyone doing something like that before. Most hunters would have just taken the shot.”
“I couldn’t have done that. It wouldn’t have been fair.” I closed my eyes as I leaned my head against the snow again. “I’m glad I didn’t now. That was a once in a lifetime experience that I doubt anyone will ever do again.” I sighed contently.
Ulfric leaned back as well, propping himself up on his elbows. He looked around the snowy clearing, listening to the silence that surrounded us. I peeked open my eyes to watch him, a small smile coming to my face. Without looking down at me, he muttered, “I forget how fun it is to go on hunts. Even if you don’t find anything there’s always the thrill of exploration and danger. It’s so much more interesting than sitting around the palace.”
“Why don’t you go more, then?” I asked, propping myself up like he was.
“Several reasons,” he started, glancing over at me. He noticed how interested I was and smiled faintly. “Galmar doesn’t like me going off alone. Skyrim is not as safe as it used to be and he believes I’m vital to the rebellion. I’m only out here now by arguing with him.” He hummed in amusement. “He’s always been protective. Losing family does that to a man. Besides, he’s sober-minded and gives great counsel. I try not to go against him too often.”
I looked away with a smile. “I don’t think he likes me too much.”
He chuckled. “He doesn’t act like he likes anyone too much. He’ll warm up to you. I think he’s just upset he had to have his hide saved by you. He doesn’t know how to express gratitude so it often comes across as anger. You seem to have Kaita’s favor, though. She’ll help Galmar come around.”
We looked around at the trees as the wind picked up around us, tossing around leaves and pine needles. I asked, “Did she help fight in the Great War, or was it just you and Galmar?”
He shook his head. “She was a few years too young to join or else I’m sure she would have fought alongside us. It was just me, Galmar, and Rikke who joined up together.” He sighed as he watched a leaf spiral from one of the tall trees above us. He shifted, holding out his hand to catch it.
“Kaita mentioned Rikke was the last person you went hunting with. Has it really been that long since you’ve done something like this?”
“Afraid so.” He slowly nodded, taking the leaf and crushing it in his hand. “I used to be sweet on Rikke, actually,” he muttered, sighing. “We used to hunt a lot together, so it wasn’t unusual when she asked to go the last time. We tracked elk from Windhelm to the Rift. She killed one that day, too. We were hauling it home when she told me she was leaving to join the Legion. She told me they were coming to set up a presence in Skyrim and she wanted to be a part. I couldn’t understand why she would want to join them, let alone leave what we had established together. I still don’t understand.” He let the pieces of the leaf fall between his fingers. “I suppose I could have gone hunting since then, but I’ve never been able to bring myself to it.”
I frowned weakly, looking over at him in concern. “I’m sorry, Ulfric. You didn’t have to take me out here. The last thing I want to do is upset you.”
He returned his gaze to me. “I know I didn’t have to; I wanted to, Talia.” He smiled slightly. “I’m not upset either. Rikke has made her choice, and I’ve made mine. There’s no use in holding on to something that you can’t change.” He laid back completely in the snow, shutting his hazel eyes. I admired him several moments. I was amazed at his willingness to be so open and vulnerable with me. I suppose he felt me staring, as he slowly opened his eyes to look back up at me. I quickly averted my gaze as he stated, “You want to ask me something. Go ahead.”
I smiled slightly, “Why did you want to take me? You could have just sent Galmar.”
He hummed in thought, not answering the question directly. “Galmar wouldn’t have given you a fair hunt. He would have made you track a hare or a pheasant. That wouldn’t have showcased your talents fully.”
I shook my head. “You could have sent anyone else to go with me, but you wanted to go yourself.” I sat up fully, looking down at him with a serious expression. “Do you think you still owe me from Helgen? You have more than made up for that day, sir. I don’t want you to feel obligated to treat me any differently that you would any other Stormcloak.”
He sighed, slowly sitting up. “Does it bother you?”
I frowned. “No, I would welcome all of your kindness if I didn’t feel like I was making you give it to me. I didn’t expect you to pay me back for what happened at Helgen. I don’t want you to feel like you owe me anything.”
He shook his head. “I don’t feel like I owe you anything, Talia. I’m doing all of this because I want to.” He looked me over. “I see something in you that I haven’t seen in anyone else. You have this drive of honor and righteousness that is something to be envied. You’re captivating to watch and enjoyable to be around. I think I’m curious to see how far you’ll go if given what you need to succeed.”
I felt my cheeks warm slightly. “I’ve done nothing special to earn your favor.”
“You’ve done more than you know,” he told me, smiling faintly behind his beard. He carefully reached over, tucking one of the stray strands of hair behind my ear. I looked up at him with rosy cheeks and a small smile. “I’ve let myself remain cold to the world for too long. You’ve done something to me that makes me feel more open. I don’t know whether I should be angry or grateful.”
I hummed, “I think the best kings are the ones with the biggest hearts. Besides, it hurts you most to be cold to everyone. You have to let some people in.”
The Nord remained silent, his gentle gaze resting on me as we sat side-by-side in the snow. He started to reply, but decided against it, letting the silence speak for him. I could see a spark in his old eyes. It was the same spark I’m sure I had when I stared back at him. My smile softened as I breathed out, the cloud rising into the sky above us. He leaned slightly closer to me, stopping when a small, white flake fell between us.
Ulfric looked up at the sky, sighing. “Looks like it’s about to snow again.” I followed his gaze, a faint pink tint burning my cheeks. He looked back at me before rising to his feet. He offered a hand down to me as he started, “We better start back to Windhelm. Galmar will send an army after us if we aren’t back by dusk.”
I took his strong hand, letting him pull my much lighter body out of the snow. I avoided looking at him directly, fighting off the warm feeling that Ulfric had put in my chest. “I haven’t killed anything. Did I fail the hunt?”
Ulfric looked over at me, curiously. “Failed?” He chuckled weakly. “There is no pass or fail on a hunt. Sometimes you bring home something, sometimes you don’t. That’s the way the Wilds intend it to be.”
“I thought this was some kind of test,” I told him, walking beside him as we headed back towards the stream. “Weren’t you supposed to be seeing how well I hunted to determine if I was ready to join your officers?”
He shook his head. “We evaluate you by several qualities, but an actual kill isn’t one. We measure skill and physical strength for sure, but the hunt brings out other qualities you can’t see visibly: discipline, courage, honor, compassion, purpose, self-reliance- the traits of a true Nordic warrior. You may not have killed today, but you proved yourself in a different way. I’ve never heard of anyone sparing an animal in a hunt, but you might have changed that.”
I smiled brightly. “Do you think I have what it takes to be a true Nordic warrior?”
Ulfric glanced over at me, scratching his beard. “A ‘Nordic’ warrior? No.” I frowned slightly, but he smiled. “You are an Imperial and you can’t change that. Still, you’re the greatest Nord-like Cyrodillic warrior I’ve come across. You’re Nord in mind and heart.”
I nodded slowly, asking, “Does it bother you that I’m Imperial as much as it bothers Galmar? Normally, I like to look past race, but it seems to be impossible here in Skyrim.”
“Galmar has always believed Skyrim belongs to the Nords, her native people. I do too, to the degree that it should be governed by the Nordic ancient ways. Just like if I were to move to, Gods-forbid, Cyrodiil, I would need to live by your ways. Still, I don’t see why we can’t share the country and live alongside other races. So, to answer your question, no. I don’t care that you are an Imperial, especially since you’ve become so fond of our ways.” The jarl crossed the stream in front of me, and I followed close behind. I sighed in relief and he continued, “Not everyone is going to respect you, but at least members of the Stormcloaks will if I grant you a title.”
I looked over at him, slightly surprised. “You want to make me an officer?” He nodded, and I smiled brightly. “Will Galmar agree to it?”
He scoffed, “Galmar disagrees with a lot of the decisions I make, but he supports them regardless. He’ll honor your title and enforce it with any unwilling Stormcloaks. The more Kaita lays into him, the quicker he’ll come around to accepting you. I don’t think you’ll have to worry about him much longer.”
“Thank you,” I said softly. “You really think I’m worthy?”
He looked back at me. “In the short amount of time you’ve been in Skyrim, you’ve saved my life, Galmar and Kaita’s lives, single-handedly infiltrated the Legion army, and retrieved the crown of legend. I say a title is the least we can do to repay you for your services.”
As we plunged deeper into the forest, the wind started to pick up again. It started to snow as well, but it was light. I instinctively huddled closer to Ulfric for warmth as we walked. “I hope I live up to your expectations then.”
“I have no doubt you will,” he told me, taking off his helm and placing it on my head. I smiled up at him in thanks. “You know, if you wanted, we could give you a more Nordic name.” I raised a brow curiously. “Nord names are usually passed on through families or given when they’ve done something extraordinary. We could easily call you Talia Bear-Tamer, and no one would think you were Cyrodiil born.”
I giggled. “Bear-Tamer, huh? I like it.” He chuckled. “I’ll use it when I write to you or when I work with the other Stormcloaks. I think using it around the Legionnaires would give away my ties to you.”
He nodded in amusement. “I suppose it would.” He sighed softly. “Stormblade Talia Bear-Tamer, a Stormcloak name if I’ve ever heard one.”
I hummed, walking ahead of him slightly as I giggled happily. “Thank you, again.” He nodded, eyes focusing on me as I broke from the trail a little, kicking over little piles of snow. We walked in comfortable silence, following the depressions in the snow that we had made on our way through. We went a long way down the trail until we came across a more commonly used path. Fresh tracks in the snow let us know we were on the right road back to Windhelm even if we didn’t see anyone ahead of us.
A tree had fallen along the path, but judging from the amount of snow covering the wood, I reasoned it had been dead a long time. Still, I climbed on the trunk, walking a straight line down the center. I looked back at Ulfric who watched me with a content smile. I returned the gaze before looking back ahead. For a moment, my eyes caught a faint glimmer in the distance. I curiously stopped to get a better look. I started to speak to Ulfric when I heard a faint whoosh of wind. I recognized the noise but was too slow to react. Pain surged through my body as a heavy arrow pierced through the leather and dug deep into my upper chest. I cried out in pain as I was knocked from the log and into the snow behind me.
“Talia?” Ulfric exclaimed, rushing to where I laid in the snow. He knelt beside me, gently covering my mouth to muffle the involuntary cries that slipped my lips. He lowered his voice to a whisper as he put his other arm around me and pulled us into the brush nearby, “How bad?”
I forced myself to whisper, “N-nothing vital, but… hurts…” I hesitantly looked at the shaft the protruded from my skin. My hand shakily wrapped around it and pried it out of the flesh and leather. I had to bite down on my tongue to prevent making too much noise.
Ulfric slowly looked away from me, peeking through the bushes to try and make out who had shot me. The placement of the arrow was just mere inches from my heart; whoever took the shot was out for a kill. He removed his hand from my lips, placing it over the hole to help stop the bleeding. He softly whispered, “Heal yourself as best you can. I’ll keep an eye on the road and warn you if they get close.”
I nodded, shutting my eyes tightly as I performed a healing spell on myself. My hand grew warm under my gloves as the magic filtered from my fingertips, down my arms and to the deep hole in my chest. I trembled weakly and tried to quiet my breathing to prevent drawing too much attention to our area. Ulfric felt my shaking and carefully pulled me into his arms. I buried my face in the leather of his chest, frowning as I heard the echo from my own labored breathing. I tried to hold my breath as I continued the spell, keeping my eyes closed.
I quickly stopped the spell as I heard the crunching of snow approaching us. A snake-like voice called out, “Come out, little girl! We know you aren’t dead yet!” I hesitantly opened my eyes, turning to face the road. Ulfric’s eyes remained fixed ahead. He growled nearly silently as two figures trotted up the road towards us.
“Do you think she’s going to answer you, Steals-The-Sun? You should have poisoned the arrow like I told you.” From the accent, I could tell the second man was a Breton.
“It’s more fun hunting and killing up close, don’t you think?” the Argonian asked, humming softly as he made his way down our path. I could vaguely make out his form, but I could see his armor from afar. My body trembled in fear. He continued, “Look for blood, will you? We’ll track her that way.”
“They’re with the Dark Brotherhood,” I whispered, completely unable to mask my terror. Ulfric looked down at me, concern in his expression as my voice trembled, “I can tell by their armor. H-how did they find me way out here?”
“They’re looking for you?” Ulfric asked, but didn’t wait for a response. He quickly asked, “Are you healed enough to fight?” I hesitantly nodded. “Good. You take the Breton.”
He looked back ahead as the two agents approached the log. The Breton leaned down, wiping his fingers over a blood spot on the snow. “You hit her. She shouldn’t have gone far.”
The Argonian hummed almost happily as he climbed over the log and looked at the impression I left in the snow from where I had fallen. He kicked over a stone as he walked, tail dragging the ground behind him. “You pulled yourself into the weeds? A clever trick, but a keen tracker would notice the drag trail.” He drew two daggers from his sides, cockily flipping them in the air and grabbing the handles.
He drew closer and closer, but Ulfric didn’t advance. He waited patiently, his eyes focused intently on the two. As they came into range, I heard the Nord draw in a deep breath. I knew his plan immediately and covered my ears beside him. The Argonian pulled back the brambles just in time to be greeted by a thunderous shout, “Fus Ro Dah!” Leaves and snow were kicked up as the force spread from Ulfric outward, knocking both agents off their feet and back onto the path. Only then did Ulfric rise to his feet and draw his sword.
I was terrified to attack the men, but I wasn’t going to let Ulfric fight alone. I stood up as well, drawing the blade and charging after Ulfric. Both were out of sorts from the shout, but the Breton was much better off than his Argonian counterpart. He managed to get to his feet and collect a dagger from the ground at my approach. He was quicker to strike, but the small blade was easily deflected by my leather. Without a larger weapon or shield to block, he was essentially defenseless against my attacks. After a few misplaced hits, I landed a solid slice across his chest. He cried out in pain and slowed enough for me to step in closer and force my blade through his weaker stomach armor. He winced as he collapsed, but didn’t breathe a word.”
I put my attention back on Ulfric. He had managed to subdue the agent, pinning him on the ground with his back to a tree. The Nord’s knee jutted into the Argonian’s gut while his blade pressed against the soft scales of his throat. I slid my sword into its sheath and walked over cautiously. Ulfric looked over his shoulder at me. “This is the lizard that fired the arrow.”
The Argonian grinned up at me, coughing slightly from the weight on his torso. “So that makes you the little girl with the hit on you...” He chuckled before putting his attention back on Ulfric. “The Listener was right. I should have taken you out first.”
Ulfric growled, “Who wants us dead?”
“Wouldn’t you like to know,” he cooed, completely unbothered as the blade dug deeper into his throat, drawing blood from the cut. “I know that look in your eyes, Nord-scum. You’re going to kill me regardless of what I do and don’t tell you. I’m not going to tell our secrets before I meet the Dread Lord.”
I hesitantly spoke up, “Steals-The-Sun?” The Argonian looked at me. “I heard the Breton call you Steals-The-Sun. That’s your name, isn’t it?”
“What’s it matter to you?” he snarled.
“If I know your name, I can track you. You have to operate outside of your base sometimes. Someone has to fetch the food, tend to the horses, and meet your contracts, right? I’m sure if I ask around enough, someone will admit to seeing a black-skinned, blue-eyed lizard in their hold. It will take a while, but we have the resources. When we find out where you like to spend your time, we can scour the hold looking for your hideaway.” It took all I had to keep my voice unwavering. He wasn't as scary subdued, but that armor haunted my memories. I forced myself to continue, “When my uncle wipes out your camp, he’ll be sure to tell your leader that Steals-The-Sun led us right to them. I’m sure your Dread Lord would be pleased with you then.”
He hissed loudly, “Harlot! How dare you frame me! I will be made to suffer for all of eternity!”
“Then I suggest clearing your conscience before you go.” I knelt down beside Ulfric, trying to slow my breathing.
The Argonian glared at me, then the jarl. He growled lowly, knowing he was defeated in both Nirn and the afterlife. As he contemplated his options, Ulfric grumbled, “I’m getting impatient, lizard.”
Steals-The-Sun sighed loudly. “The hit isn't on you,” he grumbled to Ulfric, “but we're allowed to kill whoever she's with. The Listener told us. It wasn’t some contract we picked up, but just a job he wanted done.”
“Why?” Ulfric asked, his tone unchanging.
“To Oblivion if I know,” the Argonian grumbled, looking over at me. “He’s crazier than the Keeper, and that’s saying something. He obsesses over the Maro family and the Penitus Oculatus. He has a hit on all of them, but he won’t say why. Since we don’t operate in Cyrodiil anymore, he’s determined to knock you off one by one while you’re here in Skyrim.”
“How did you know where to find her? No one was told where we would be going.”
The lizard smirked. “That’s an excellent question and one I don’t have an answer to. We are just told where to go and we go. You’ll have to ask the Listener when he comes.”
“When he comes?” I asked, staring at him in fear. “What do you mean?”
“When he realizes we didn’t kill you, I’m sure he’ll look for ways to come after you himself. After all, he seems very anxious to meet you.” He grinned widely, “You have right to be scared, Talia.” He chuckled, but it was cut off as Ulfric dug the blade farther into his neck. He then gasped for breath, but still managed to keep his smile. “The Night Mother told him everything. He knows you’re helping the Stormcloaks. He knows you’re hiding out at Dragon Bridge. It’s only a matter of time, little girl. If the war doesn’t kill you, he certainly will.”
I stared at him in shock, hesitantly looking at Ulfric. The Nord frowned at the Argonian. “What are his plans for after the war?”
“The war?” He laughed weakly. “He doesn’t care for war. He cares to bring about the wishes of our Night Mother and Dread Father. They call for the blood of the Maros and whoever stands in their defense. No one’s safe from us: the emperor, General Tullius, not even you Jarl Ulfric.” He grinned widely.
My fear turned to anger at the threat on Ulfric’s life. I didn’t know who this Listener was or why he had such hatred for my family, but I wasn’t willing to drag anyone, especially Ulfric, down with us. I growled, “We’ll see about that, Argonian. You underestimate what we’re capable of. I hope your Dread Lord makes you burn for eternity.” He simply laughed in response, a sound that made me shiver and slowly back away. Ulfric watched me in concern before slitting the lizard's throat completely, ending what was left of his life. I wrapped my arms around myself as I stood muttering to try and calm my nerves.
Ulfric rose to his feet as well, frowning as he watched me pace anxiously in the snow. “Talia,” he called softly. “Are you all right?” I shook my head slowly. He sighed, walking over to me and grabbing my shoulder to stop my pacing. “How did you know they were after you?”
I bit my lip slightly. “They’ve been tracking me since I was little. The Dark Brotherhood killed my family in Anvil, but my mother allowed me to escape. When my uncle took me in, he always took precautions in case they came after me again. After a few years, we grew lax to the idea that they were coming and I nearly forgot about them. When we came to Skyrim, they started threatening us again. I didn’t say anything because I didn't want you to worry. I especially didn’t think they’d find me with you.” I crossed my arms over my chest. “I can’t believe I dragged you into this. I’m so sorry.”
He shook his head. “Don’t apologize,” he responded softly. “You’ve done nothing wrong. Death threats are common, and I don’t fear the assassins. They are weaker than they let on.” He scoffed. “You saw what little fight they put up once we drew our weapons. They prey on those that travel alone. They don’t stand a chance against those in groups, and I don’t plan on letting anyone travel alone, especially you.”
I looked down, trying to hide the tremor in my voice, “If they hurt you for protecting me, I’ll never forgive myself.”
I felt Ulfric’s steady hand lift my head to face him. “They won’t hurt either of us. I’m not going to give up on you simply because someone is threatening my safety. If anything, it makes me want to help you more.” I started to protest, but he cut me off. “You have an entire army at your back. You’re one of us, Talia. Don’t think for a moment you’re facing them alone, because I won’t let you.”
“You’d risk your life for me?” I asked softly.
“You’re risking yours for mine,” he replied, his voice unwavering.
“It’s different.” I frowned as I looked up at him. “You’re a king. I’m supposed to be willing to give my life in service to you. I would never ask-”
He shook his head, cutting me off. “I know you wouldn’t, and that’s exactly why I’m doing it. You’re selfless- too selfless for your own good. There’s not enough people in the world like you, so I have to protect you while I can.” He smiled faintly down at me, his thumb brushing my cheek.
I hesitantly reached up, placing my smaller hand over his. “Thank you,” I whispered, staring up at him. “We’ll help each other, right?” He nodded and I squeezed his hand slightly. His eyes echoed such caring that I felt my chest warm. I shut my eyes, smiling happily as I leaned into his hand. “I appreciate everything you’ve done for me, Ulfric. I’ll repay you whe-”
My soft words were cut short as I felt warm lips press against my own. The taller Nord gently pulled me close, shutting his eyes as he committed to the gentle kiss. I was caught off guard for a moment, but naturally returned the gesture. The warm feeling spread through my limbs and into my stomach, kicking up butterflies and make me feel lighter than air. What little insecurities I had vanished. By the single action, I was reassured. Ulfric loved me.
He softly pulled away from me and my eyes fluttered open to look at him. No shock or concern rested in our expressions, only a gentle calm. The Nord tucked a strand of hair behind my ear again and muttered, “You owe me nothing.” I slowly nodded, unable to stop smiling as I stared up at him. He chuckled faintly and withdrew his hand. “We should probably continue to Windhelm. It’s going to get cold when the light fades.”
I nodded, “Y-yeah…” I looked away as I felt a soft sting on my cheeks. “I’m sticking close to you this time. I don’t want to be caught off guard again.”
Ulfric agreed, walking a few steps before waiting on me. “It will also be warmer.” I hurried to his side, leaning against him slightly to preserve body heat. He smiled through his beard, putting an arm around me. “We should make it before dark, but we’re safer and warmer together.”
We walked in relative silence for the rest of the way home, only speaking when one of us had a thought worth vocalizing. We didn’t mind the silence, as there was no need for words. Our close proximity spoke volumes between us. I found it a little strange how easy it was to actually fall in love. Gaius didn’t have a hard time with it, but I never had the chance to find it myself. Ulfric was the first person I ever shared such a connection with, and I reasoned he would be the last. From that moment on, he was more than a king and a commander; he was my first love.
<< Chapter Eight ~ Chapter Ten >>
Replies
This chapter is a bit more romantic than usual. I hope that's okay with you guys! Don't worry, I'll make it up to you in the next chapter. :)