A Matter of Trust

Morning wasn't as awkward as I thought it would be. Serana acted like nothing unusual had happened. I guess nothing had happened… Sure, she'd shared a number of personal details, but that was her choice. I simply asked questions and listened. She then wanted company while she slept. Nothing wrong with that, is there? Sometimes you just don't want to be alone.

After breakfast, we prepared for the journey back to Fort Dawnguard. Serana had the Scroll her mother had given us. I grabbed the second Scroll I had used to learn the Dragonrend Shout. The third Scroll we had left at Fort Dawnguard with Dexion. We now had everything needed to learn more of the prophecy and hopefully it would point us in the right direction.

Our horses had rested well and were ready to go once we'd saddled up and mounted. It was a dull journey to Fort Dawnguard, absolutely nothing of note occurring. Serana and I conversed nearly the entire way though we avoided any topics covered the night before. They didn't need any further examination and I figured Serana didn't particularly want to broach them again. I wouldn't ask unless she offered.

There were even more recruits training outside as we trotted along the path leading through the canyon towards the fort, tying our horses to a post near the entrance, Celann giving us a cheery hello as we ascended the stairs. I heard voices called out to Isran as we entered. He appeared through one of the side entrances a minute late, leading Dexion by the hand. It was immediately obvious something had gone terribly wrong.

"Good to see that you've finally returned, Dragonborn. Was your mission successful?" Isran asked. If I didn't know him any better, I figured he was impatient. But, knowing what he was like, I just put it down to him being how he usually was.

"We have both Scrolls needed. But…" I trailed off and looked at Dexion.

He probably had a sixth sense, knowing that I looked at him. "I'm sorry, my friend. I can no longer be of use in this matter."

"I can assume you're blind. What happened? Is it permanent?"

"It's my fault. In my haste to read the first Scroll, I neglected the careful preparation required. We usually spend weeks and even months preparing to read just the one Scroll. I thought I would be okay after a few days considering my experience, and I thought I'd be able to allay the after effects, but I was wrong." He simply shrugged, an amazing gesture considering his blindness. "Now I'm paying for it. As for being permanent, I'll have to let this simply run its course, and there's always the chance I may never recover."

"Is blindness a regular outcome?"

The old man shrugged again. "Sadly, yes. It is the inevitable fate we agree to pursue when reading the Elder Scrolls. It generally does not occur until a Moth Priest is in his later years, but in my case I simply was not preparing myself properly. It is a mistake, but I feel one worth paying to ensure we are successful in this endeavour."

"I'm sorry."

"Don't be. I did what was necessary. Nevertheless, all is not lost."

I couldn't help but chuckle. The old man's enthusiasm was infectious. "I'm glad you're confident! What can we possibly do now?"

"The question is, Dragonborn, how much are you willing to risk, to sacrifice, to find Auriel's bow?"

"I've faced down Alduin and lived to tell the tale. Just tell me what I need to do."

So that's what he did, speaking about places called Ancestor Glades and performing a ceremony called the 'Ritual of the Ancestor Moth'. I listened closely but couldn't help the sideways glance and smirk with Serana as the old man droned on about where a glade was, what I had to do when I got there, the history of such rituals and other information about the prophecy itself. In the end, I only had one real question.

"What about the Scrolls themselves? Should I read them in a particular order?"

"From what I saw in the vision, the Elder Scroll which foreshadows the defiance of the Gods with the blood of mortals is the key to the prophecy."

"Before you go, Ragnar, a word," Isran stated.

"Sure."

As Durak led Dexion away through the door he'd entered, I followed Isran into the kitchen. He gave a subtle gesture and the entire table disappeared in seconds, stating they had things to tend to. I sat down opposite Isran, Serana taking a seat next to me. I wondered what he wanted.

"We've had word of more vampire attacks. They are getting even more brazen, even attacking while the sun is still in the sky."

"How?"

"No-one is sure but this is further proof that no-one is safe until these vampires are dead."

"What do you need me to do?"

"Solitude are now aware of our existence and have requested our help. Head to the Blue Palace and ask for Sybille Stentor. She's the court wizard to Jarl Elisif."

"Any idea what the problem is?"

"Vampires."

I couldn't help but laugh. "Anything more than that, Isran? I know it'll be about vampires!"

"The message didn't say a lot but if Solitude want something handled nearby regarding the vampire menace then it must be a real problem. I replied, stating I'd send my best. You're it." He looked at Serana. "And I assume you'll be assisting?"

"You assume correctly."

"Very well. I guess you've been of some help to the Dragonborn."

I glanced at Serana and I knew she had about a dozen responses to give, most of them sarcastic. To her credit, she swallowed each of them down. "I actually care about your people because protecting your people may protect my own in the end."

Isran snorted but said nothing. "Report back to me once the job is done and you've read the Scroll. With any luck, we'll know what to do next."

*****

"From the castle, you used to just be able to see Solitude over the mountains. It's exactly what I imagined."

"So Solitude is an old city then?"

She laughed. "Of course, Ragnar. Skyrim is thousands of years old, remember?"

"I know. But…"

"It's a reminder?"

"No… Well… I sometimes forget. Sorry."

"Don't apologise. That just means you see me as… Well, me. Who I am, not what I am."

"I think that's fairly obvious, Serana."

She smiled. "Just thought you needed a reminder." She pulled the hood tight over her head, ensuring the rest of her body was covered. "Ready?"

"I'm ready. Are you sure you'll be okay? Solitude is very crowded."

"I'll be fine. Just stay close."

She grabbed my hand as we walked the hill towards the city gates. A line of Imperial soldiers was marching through them as we approached, moving to the side to let them past. They barely gave us a sideways glance as they passed, the sound of their footsteps moving, the clink of armour, shield and sword only drowned out by the marching song they performed. Wonder where they are going?

Once they passed, we approached the gates, the pair of town guard to either side not stopping us as we entered the city. Once again it was incredibly busy. The noise was deafening, the yell of shopkeepers selling their wares, shrieks of children running between the crowds, the conversation of locals no doubt catching up on the latest gossip. Solitude was alive!

I kept a firm grip of Serana's hand as we weaved our way through the crowd. I sensed she was slightly uncomfortable, keeping as close as possible to her, hoping just my presence would keep her calm. Even through my firm grip I felt her squeeze my hand.

"Are you okay?" I asked quietly, hoping she'd hear.

"I'll be better once we're through these crowds."

I made sure to hurry and we were soon clear of the crowds, though people still flocked past us as we walked in the opposite direction to the Blue Palace. We walked by the Bard's College, a cacophony of noise coming from within, all manner of singing and instruments being heard, wondering just how loud it must be inside if we could hear it from here. Serana made a subtle joke at my expense about becoming a bard.

The pair of guards at the door leading into the palace held up a hand to halt my progress. "Who are you?"

"I'm Ragnar of Whiterun. Dragonborn. I'm here as I've been summoned by the Jarl."

The guards shared a glance. "Dragonborn? Seriously?"

I sighed. "Do I really have to demonstrate my Thu'um? Listen, I'm here on Dawnguard business." I retrieved the letter from my pack. "Sybille Stentor has requested our presence."

"Oh, that. Of course. Head right in. You may have to wait a few minutes as the Jarl is deal with petitioners at the moment."

I'll be honest, I had been expecting something far grander when we entered the palace. Dragonsreach was an enormous hall, a statement of power as it overlooked the surrounding region. I was left feeling that the Blue Palace lacked that sort of impact, at least from the inside. That's not to say it was not exquisitely designed. Whatever it lacked in regards to projecting power, it made up for it in showing its vast wealth. It was clearly the seat of the High King. Or Queen, if you thought of Elisif that way.

Serana let go of my hand as we started to climb the stairs, dropping one or two steps behind me. I glanced back and she whispered "Don't want to be noticed too much." I understood what she meant and was ready for her to stop and head back downstairs. But she followed me to the top then shuffled out of the way, mostly out of sight. My attention was then taken by the man petitioning the Jarl.

"I swear to you, unnatural magics are coming from that cave! There are strange noises and lights! We need someone to investigate!" he pleaded. 'Could that be due to the vampires?'

"Then we will immediately send out a legion to scour the cave and secure the town. Haafingar's people will always be safe under my rule," the Jarl stated.

The petitioner appeared stunned by her response. "Th… Thank you, my Jarl. Thank you."

A woman to her left, dressed in robes and who I assumed was the court wizard, then cleared her throat. "Your Eminence, my scrying has suggested nothing in the area. In addition to that, Dragon Bridge is under Imperial control. This is likely nothing more than superstitious nonsense."

"But…" the petitioner stated but trailed off.

A man dressed in armour and with the wildest, reddest beard I'd ever seen added his own thoughts. "Perhaps a more... tempered reaction... might be called for?" he suggested.

Elisif was silent in thought for a few moments before nodding. "Yes, of course you are both right. Falk, tell Captain Aldis I said to assign a few extra soldiers to Dragon Bridge. That should put the people's mind to rest."

"Thank you, Jarl Elisif. But about the cave…?"

"I will have someone take care of the cave as well Varnius, you can rest easy. You're dismissed," Falk stated.

Varnius looked around the room, even towards me. All I could do was shrug. Not my fight, friend. His shoulders sagged and he slowly walked towards the stairs. All eyes then clearly turned to me. Falk gestured for me to walk forward.

"Who are you?" he asked.

"Ragnar of Whiterun. Dragonborn." I turned towards Elisif and bowed. "Nice to see you again, Jarl. This time under more pleasant circumstances… I think…"

"Congratulations on your success, Dragonborn. Word has spread near and far of your victory over Alduin. I'm pleased to state that the ceasefire you negotiated appears to be holding for the time being as well."

"You honour me, Jarl Elisif."

"I must ask what business brings you to my court today?"

"Since defeating Alduin, I have been working for the Dawnguard. I have a letter here stating that there is a vampire threat in the region that requires our attention. I've been sent her to deal with it."

Elisif gestured to her court wizard. "Please, speak to Sybille about the matter. She will have the details."

"Of course."

"Dragonborn, once you're done with that, perhaps I may speak with you as well?" Falk requested.

I nodded and followed Sybille towards what I assumed were her quarters. I had no idea why we needed to discuss this in secret but wasn't really ready to question it. Serana followed at a distance, still trying to remain incognito.

"I'll admit I'm surprised you answered our summons. Even more surprised that they sent the Dragonborn to deal with it," Sybille stated

"What makes you say that?"

"Because it's a relatively menial task that I could have given any halfwit out of the local garrison. But, since you're here and apparently eager to do the job, who am I to say no?"

"Just tell me what you know."

"We're aware of the vampire issue across Skyrim. The Jarl has received news of the numerous attacks that have taken place. We had heard rumours of the Dawnguard but gave them little credence until the town guard reported there were recruiters in town. Once fact was established, we sent search parties out for any sign of vampire dens. I believe there is one nearby."

"What evidence is there that the problem is the work of vampires?" She gave me a withering look. "Listen, I just want to make sure it is a vampire problem and not just an idiot group of bandits or something."

"Fair enough. There are the usual signs. Bodies have been found with blood drained. Rumours of the undead rising. And the fact attacks always take place at night. There's enough evidence to suggest that vampires are at work."

"Where is this den?"

"Pinemoon Cave. Do you have a map?" I nodded, taking it from my pack. I unrolled it across her desk and she marked the spot. "There's no direct route so you'll be heading through rough terrain. Your best bet is heading to Dragon Bridge then circle around to the north-west. Watch your step."

"I'll talk with Falk then head out immediately."

Falk offered me another contract of work. Though I was tempted by the offer, I wanted to give the Dawnguard my complete attention until Harkon was defeated. So I suggested he should send word to the Companions. I offered to sign a letter that he could send to Jorrvaskr. While I think he would have preferred me to handle it, he was gracious enough to accept the help of the Companions. It was better than nothing.

Serana was quiet as we exited the palace and headed through the crowds again, only stopping me once we'd walked through the city gates. "Ragnar, I have to tell you something."

I heard the concern in her tone. "What?"

"She's a vampire."

I raised an eyebrow. "Who? The Jarl?"

She laughed. "No. Sybille. She's definitely a vampire."

"How do you… No, stupid question. Of course you'd know. So, what do you think? Is the court in any danger?"

"I have a feeling she's very old, well, in human years at least. It's obvious no-one has a clue she is a vampire. Or they know and for whatever reason draw no attention to it. But the rest of them are as human as you."

"What do you suggest we do?"

She shrugged. "I'll be honest. I'm not sure. She'd sending us to go kill a bunch of vampires. As you know, we're not all blood-sucking fiends who want to turn humans into our cattle."

"Very well. I won't broach the subject but, when we return, I'll talk to her and see what I can learn."

"Just try not to be too obvious."

"You mean don't just ask 'Are you a vampire?' Give me a little credit!"

Knowing we would have to trek through the forest, we rode our horses only as far as Dragon Bridge. We asked for directions from the locals who were happy to oblige. We tried not to mention the fact we were hunting vampires but they were aware that something lurked out in the forest.

We headed out of town the way we came and, as instructed, took the road north until there was a break in the rock face. Turning west, we crested a rise and arrived at a lake, the water appearing crisp and clean, good enough to drink and bathe in, though it was far too cold to even consider the idea. In the middle of the lake was a small island. I was amazed at the creatures, three of them, that were there.

"What are those?" I asked in wonderment.

"Spriggans. You've never seen one before?"

"No. What are they?"

"Tree spirits. They have an affinity with the natural world. From research, they believe they are protecting the natural world from invaders, including us."

"So they're normally hostile?"

"Very. I suggest we skirt the edge of the lake and do nothing to tempt them."

I took the advice, staying as far away from the spriggans as possible. The trio looked our way and walked to the edge of their little island, but made no gesture to suggest they were prepared to cross. I made sure I kept an eye on them once we'd circled the lake, walking backwards until they were out of sight.

We found the cave a little later. Considering we were approaching a den of vampires, I was a little surprised to find a campsite outside the cave entrance. A fire had long extinguished, checking the embers but they were cold. Other supplies were clearly abandoned.

I unsheathed my sword and we walked into the cave. Surprisingly, the first cavern we entered was brightly lit by numerous braziers. Unfortunately, the light meant we cast shadows, which alerted the guard dogs. I heard the growls as they appeared around a couple of stone pillars. I expected them to charge us immediately. Instead they growled at us again and readied themselves to charge. Before either of them could move, they were shocked by Serana. A couple more bursts and both were dead.

We followed a tunnel out of the first cavern and could hear voices ahead. I held up a hand at the end of the tunnel and gestured that we should get down. The next cavern was darker than the first though braziers provided enough light for us to see. And then there was the smell. Even Serana muttered under her breath about them being 'disgusting creatures'. I know she cared about the plight of her people but I think her limits were when vampires turned feral.

"How many?" Serana whispered.

"I count ten. Is that what you have?"

"Agreed. So what do we do?"

"Two on ten isn't a good idea. I think we'll have to get them close then I'll use my Voice."

"How do we get them closer?"

"Like this." I stood up and cupped my mouth. "Hey, vampires!" I called out.

Ten heads swivelled in our direction. There was a moment of hesitation before a series of hisses and they simply charged at us. I felt Serana shuffle behind me. I didn't think she was going to run but the gap between us and them closed quickly. Once they were in range, barely seconds before they'd be upon us, I Shouted.

Shouts and shrieks. If it had been anything else, it would have been sounds that would have haunted my dreams for days to come as I was sure I heard skin sizzle as the vampires writhed in agony. I Shouted again, sending bodies flying. Serana and I wasted no time, finishing the job on at least a half dozen of them. A couple of others tried crawling away. I ignored them for a moment as there was one vampire who had not moved. Our eyes met across the cavern and I felt the presence of Serana alongside.

"Master vampire," she whispered.

"What's the difference?"

"More powerful. But just as susceptible as the rest."

The vampire moved around the pedestal he had been standing behind. I noticed he didn't take his eyes from Serana as a sneer formed. In his hands, a pair of daggers appeared. Surprising. They usually use magic. "Traitorous bitch! Who sent you?"

Serana said nothing.

"No matter. You will both pay for your insolence." He looked at me. "I think I'll keep you as one of my new thralls." He turned his attention back to Serana. "But I think I'll take you as my bride. Yes, you'll look very pretty once I'm done with you."

"Ragnar?"

"Yes?"

"Put down the rest. This one is mine."

She unsheathed her own dagger as I passed her mine. As I focused on dealing with the rest of the vampires, none putting up a fight, I heard the clink of steel on steel as I watched Serana battle. It was like poetry in motion. I can only assume she had spent hours if not years in training but her movement of feet, the skill with which she could use the dagger, the swerves and dodging… Her opponent stood little chance of drawing blood, even when he used cloaking spells. I tried to keep up but they both moved so fast that it was difficult to keep track. The vampire kept disappearing so that I couldn't see him. But I knew Serana could, moving in such a way that she was ready for him to strike. Then, as soon as it started, the battle was over. She crossed her daggers and slashed outwards, the master vampire uncloaking and grabbing his throat as blood spurted out. It took maybe five seconds for him to collapse to the ground.

She turned towards me, the adrenaline clearly coursing through her body. I tried not to make it obvious that her face was covered in a little bit of blood. She simply grabbed the bottom her robe and wiped her face. "Bastard," she stated once her face was clean.

"Got under your nerves?"

She looked at me and smiled. "Maybe just a little."

"You're good with a pair of daggers. I've never seen skill like that before."

"A lot of training but, as you know, I generally rely on magic. But that bastard was always going to taste cold steel."

"Remind me not to piss you off in future."

"It would take a lot for you to do that, Ragnar."

"Good to know. Come on, we should head back to Solitude."

Court was no longer in session upon our return to the Blue Palace, assuming the Jarl had retired to her quarters for the evening as had her advisors and Housecarl. The door to the court wizards' door was closed. I was polite enough to knock first, hearing a voice call for us to enter. She didn't appear surprised when we walked through the door.

"They're all dead?" I nodded. "Filthy creatures, aren't they? Living in the darkness, like they do. So uncivilized. I prefer finery like this," she stated, gesturing around the room. I glanced and had to admit she had a point. She then offered a coin pouch. "Here. For your trouble."

"Thanks."

"Will there be anything else?"

"You're a vampire," Serana stated.

I just looked at her, knowing my jaw had dropped wide. "Hang on a second. You said before that I shouldn't be so blunt."

Sybille barely heard a word I said, her eyes only for Serana. "That's a bold claim." Then she smirked. "You have anything to back that up?"

"I know my own kind very well."

Sybille looked at me. "The Dragonborn in the company of a vampire. Well, well, well…"

"She's my friend." I paused. "Oh, and she's helping the Dawnguard."

"Much as I help the Jarl and the people of Solitude." She looked back at Serana. "Are we any different, you or I?"

"It depends on your motives."

"I don't have to justify myself to you."

I held up my hands. "Ladies! Ladies! There is no reason to bicker amongst ourselves. Right?"

They both looked at me and, for a brief moment, I was actually worried. Then Serana smiled at me, as usual, while Sybille simply bowed her head. "Of course, Dragonborn. You are no enemy of mine, as long as I am not yours."

I shrugged. "I'll admit I'm just a little bit confused how a vampire manages to mingle in the Solitude court so freely."

Sybille was silent before she finally sighed, gesturing to some nearby chairs. "Very well. I'll share if I must. Before I do, you must give your word that what I tell you does not leave this room."

I looked at Serana. She nodded. I added that her secret was safe with me. Sybille closed the door and locked it before joining us at the table. I was surprised she then removed her hood and the eyes gave her away immediately. Otherwise, she still looked rather youthful, without the ravages the disease seemed to have on others. She looked unsure where to start.

"Are you a Daughter of Coldharbour?" Serana asked.

Sybille shook her head. "No. I did not undergo that ritual. I am not of pure-blood."

"But you know of it?"

"I do."

"How did you become a vampire?" I asked.

"I'd… I'd rather not discuss that. Let me just say that the person who changed me no longer lives. I had my revenge but… I can see the advantages of remaining a vampire. Therefore, I have not searched for a cure."

"So how is a vampire the court wizard to Jarl Elisif?"

"I was a member of the court during the reign of Torygg's father. It was Torygg who appointed me to the position. It was a proud day when I ascended the ranks."

"You were close to the High King?"

A wistful smile reached her lips. "I helped raise him from not long after his birth. Istlod trusted me more than anyone and I was therefore the first chosen to guide his son. Oh, I could not have been more proud to see Torygg on the throne. He made a fine king. A fine king... I miss him terribly."

"He is safe and well in Sovngarde."

Eyes widened in surprise. "How do you know?"

"I met him there." I then explained everything I did to defeat Alduin. "Mostly I sensed he loved and missed his wife more than anything."

"Many marriages are simply those of convenience, the consolidation of power between families or to ensure alliances or friendship. But Torygg and Elisif… They were a perfect match. I remember how giddy he was after their first meeting. I knew then and there that the two would be married. Everyone had high hopes they would be married for a long time and would continue the family line." She sighed. "All those hopes dashed in an instant."

She then started explaining the day Ulfric killed the High King. Though she made sure to use the word murder. She was there, front and centre, and saw it all unfold. I barely knew the woman but I could hear the heartbreak in her voice as she described the detail of the day. Neither Serana or I had even asked about it but, much like Serana, I was left believing she'd never spoken of it before.

"So why did he do it?" I asked.

"Because Ulfric needed a symbol. Someone he could defeat that represented the Empire, the White-Gold Concordat, the banning of Talos worship. Torygg's father Istlod had held Skyrim together for nearly twenty-five years but Ulfric would never have dared challenged him. When he died, Torygg became that symbol. And, though popular with the people, he didn't have his father's legacy."

"Therefore, he was an easier target," I stated.

She nodded. "And because of Nord custom, once the challenge was issued in court, Torygg had no choice but to accept. Had he not, Ulfric would have had cause to call a new moot and a new vote for High King. Torygg had some martial training, of course, but it mattered little that day." She sighed again. "All I feel is a sense of loss. But my own feelings are nothing compared to Elisif. I don't know how she manages from day to day. I think keeping busy keeps her mind off things."

"So, back to my original statement, none of them were ever or are aware?" Serana asked.

"No. Oh, I'm sure there are rumours. I've even heard some of them. I know some of the staff are frightened of me. Even if they accused me of being a vampire, I doubt Jarl Elisif would give the accusation much credence. I was a trusted advisor of High King Istlod. I was near enough a close friend of High King Torygg. And I am now a close confidant of Jarl Elisif." She then looked directly at Serana. "And if you're wondering if you should trust me, I've been here for long enough to not throw it all away over a little bit of blood. Solitude court is probably one of the safest places for a vampire to simply fit in. As long as no-one actually learns my secret, then everyone can simply continue to live in harmony." She looked at me. "Would you agree, Dragonborn?"

"I agree. Serana?"

"Your secret is safe with me."

"I'm glad we can come to an understanding. I will put in a good word for you at court tomorrow in regards to your assistance."

We left Solitude the next day having rented a room at the Winking Skeever for the night. It was time to find an ancestor glade.