Interlude #2: Report from Riften Spy

Legate Rikke,

I’ve been observing Honeyside and the housecarl Iona since arriving in Riften. I have not seen Kethrina return home even once, either by conventional means or by teleportation. It is unknown whether she could teleport directly into her house, but it does not appear she has.

We’re not the only ones inquiring either. Iona has been harassed about Kethrina virtually every moment she’s out of the house. She tells everyone the same thing, that Kethrina isn’t there, and she doesn’t know when she’ll return.

Several of those who asked are clearly outsiders. I’ve recognized agents from the Alik’r, the Thalmor, the Stormcloaks, the Thieves Guild, the College of Winterhold, the Synod, and members of the anti-Thalmor resistance in Valenwood.

I tried entering the house, but the locks on the doors and windows are some kind of mage lock, and I can’t open them. The Thieves Guild refuses to enter her house as well, as Kethrina is a member.

I fear that for now, the search here is at a standstill.

Interlude #1: Report to Legate Rikke

Legate Rikke,

To date, there have been no sightings of Tel’kiira Kethrina. There have likewise been no sightings of her unique spectral horse.

Two days after the incident at the Thalmor Embassy, a large parcel was found sitting on Jarl Elisif’s throne at Castle Dour. The parcel contained several items, most notably an Elder Scroll. There were also numerous documents, including all of Kethrina’s journals. There were also journals belonging to someone named Gerrick, who we believe was the Thalmor agent whose body was recently found in Ironbind Barrow, north of Whiterun.

Finally, we found a Memory Crystal device (what elves call an “Enyalie Palantir”). What is strange about this is that the remote for this device, which is normally implanted inside a person’s head, was also included. Our records show that Kethrina had such a device, but we currently do not know how she was able to safely remove the remote. A strong residue of magic was found on the remote, so it’s quite likely magic was involved in removing it.

Reports from my spies indicate that Kethrina has not returned to her house in Riften, even to retrieve her belongings stored there. The city is controlled by the Stormcloaks, so it will be difficult to gain access.

Letter #14: To General Tullius

20th of Sun’s Dusk, 4E 201

To General Tullius:

As you most likely know, the Thalmor Embassy was destroyed during the night. I’m aware that First Emissary Elenwen has stonewalled you regarding the details, but I was there to witness what occurred.

I was outside, chopping wood for the kitchen fire, when I heard shouts at the front, then a massive roar of white-hot fire bombarded the gates! I have witnessed spell fire on a number of occasions, but never hot enough to melt metal bars as this did. I swear to you General, a single assailant melted the gates!

With the gates melted, the assailant walked casually inside, as if she had been invited to one of the First Emissary’s parties.

Every Thalmor soldier and wizard who blocked her way died, burned to mounds of charred meat.

The assailant, who by now I was able to identify as Tel’kiira Kethrina, the Dragonborn, then simply blasted open the embassy’s front door and strode inside.

I ran inside as quickly as I could, and I could not believe the scene of mayhem! Kethrina had inundated the air with fireballs and explosions, so many that the air was too hot to breathe. It was as if she had opened a gate to Oblivion.

The two guards lay dead on the floor, their armor red hot, the carpet beneath them burning. It was as if she had cooked them inside their own armor. I do not know what kind of rage would be needed for such intense flames, but I would never want to be on the receiving end of it.

That sight was nothing compared to what I saw next. Elenwen was kneeling on the floor, gravely wounded, burns all over her body, the stone floor charred and cracked.

And, standing above her, was Kethrina. There was absolutely no expression on her face, not anger or rage like I expected, not determination, not grief, not even insane glee, nothing.

That was when I decided to escape from there. All of the guards were dead, and the other servants had either fled or had died. I felt it best to be among the living.

Less than half a mile from the embassy, a thunderous explosion knocked me to the snow. I got to my feet, turned around and, to my horror, the entire embassy had been leveled, as if a giant meteor had crashed into it. I do not know whether that was the result of magic or the thu’um, and if I may be honest, I do not want to know.

I am afraid I did not see what happened to either Kethrina or Elenwen. Obviously Elenwen survived somehow, although she is not seeing visitors.

As for Kethrina, I know nothing. She has not been seen since last night. I find rumors suggesting she died in the explosion to be doubtful as best, especially considering the events at Northwatch Keep.

Whatever the case, whatever the reason, it is clear that Kethrina has greatly decreased the Thalmor’s influence in this region and destroyed all records being held there.

I will continue to update you regarding the situation as I learn more.

Sincerely,

A.

Letter #13: From Tel’kiira to Elenwen

17th of Sun’s Dusk, 4E 201

To Elenwen:

From the plethora of Gerrick’s letters to you, I believe you recognize my handwriting, but to be certain there is no doubt, I am Tel’kiira Kethrina.

Gerrick is dead, as is the team he assembled to kill me. As is every Justiciar you have ever sent to kill me.

Antonius, Loki, Charlotte, and I have been running from you for much of our lives. Now, they are all dead. Now, I am Dovahkiin.

Today, I stop running.

I sincerely hope this letter reaches you soon. I will be following close behind it.

Sincerely,

Tel’kiira Kethrina

Letter #12: From Gerrick to Elenwen

(This letter was unfinished. The handwriting appears to have been written by a shaky hand, and in some places is illegible.)

To the Esteemed … Emissary …:

I am uncertain how long I have left, or even if I will be able to … but I must try.

Yesterday, Kethrina entered Ironbind … word wall. She had … from “a friend” stating … She emerged … made camp just outside of the entrance.

When I approached … read and copy … was awake and waiting …

… no choice. I had assembled a team of … an emergency, and they … protect me.

They failed. A dozen loyal … mages, three warriors, two … crossbows, all dead.

I am badly wounded, … crawl away … fighting.

I am hiding in the barrow …

Note #13: From Tel’kiira to Gerrick

Gerrick! Did you have something to do with this?!

Journal Entry #13: No Answers in Death

16th of Sun’s Dusk, 4E 201

I found Ironbind Barrow north of Whiterun, met a pair of adventurers there, new to the trade. We worked together until we reached the king entombed, then the Argonian tried to kill me. Normally I would’ve been furious at him and sympathetic towards his partner, but right now that doesn’t matter.

In the main chamber I found Loki, his body stuffed in a corner. He was wearing his shrouded armor that all assassins wear. On his body I found written instructions from Astrid:

As instructed, you are to eliminate Charlotte Corday by any means necessary.

We've already received payment for the contract. Failure is not an option.

You will be accompanied by a team of Thalmor soldiers and wizards on this contract. Apparently they want to capture and interrogate her first, so restrain yourself for once!

So Loki was contracted to kill Charlotte. I can’t say I’m surprised. It’s something he would do. However, I don’t see any bodies of the Thalmor. Were they carried away?

Close to the word wall, after I absorbed the word of power, I found what I now know I was trying not to see.

Charlotte.

My Gods … Charlotte.

She had been stripped naked, everything of value taken except for two things. The first was a note, hastily written in her handwriting. It had been tossed aside, and it was a while before I found it. The other was her rapier, the blade I made for her. I remember how she designed it, and how I placed a special enchantment on it. It was meant to act like a shock rune to anyone who touched it, anyone whose blood was not forged into the blade. Looks like it worked, for what little good it did.

She asked me to imprint a rose design onto the knuckle guard. I thought it was silly, but she insisted. I admit, it turned out very nicely. She called her rapier Autumn Damask, said it was a type of rose.

Charlotte moved like a silent wind with that rapier. I remember when I began hearing the rumors of how the fragrance of roses always followed every lethal cut. When I asked her about it, she blushed and admitted that she’d rub rose oil onto the blade before every mission. She could be a silly Breton, but she had style.

I suppose I was no different when it came to melodrama. Rumor said my scimitar had been stained black from the blood of countless Thalmor.

Her final note reads:

For the first time, I am frightened.

I can not walk anymore, my bow is broken, my throwing knives are gone, and I am out of potions. All I have left is my rapier, and I can not even stand to wield it.

I can hear voices speaking Altmeris. I know the language well enough to understand the gist of what they are saying. They think they have cornered me, and they have. I led them into this tomb in the hopes that the spiders and draugr here would fight them, allowing me to escape, but one of them shot an arrow into my spine. Now my legs are useless.

I can not let them capture me. They will torture me until I tell them where to find the others, so that they can capture and kill Antonius and Tel'kiira. Not only that, but each of us has secrets that must not fall into the hands of the Dominion.

I should have saved a bottle of poison for this, but I am out of that too. All I have left is my blade.

She was frightened … and she was alone. I should have been here. Why couldn’t I have come here sooner?!

I’m so sorry, Charlotte. I’m so sorry.

I love you.

Gerrick Journal Entry #11: Waiting

16th of Sun’s Dusk, 4E 201

Kethrina has gone inside Ironbind Barrow now. For all that I pride myself on knowing things, learning things, I have have no idea what she will find.

I was not here when Tragrim and several Justiciars went inside with Loki Black-Scar to find Charlotte Corday. She had led them here, probably to leave them fighting draugr while she escaped out the back door the barrows often have.

I remember when I discovered Tragrim had performed the Black Sacrament. I could not believe his audacity. However, since he had already done it, I intended to use it. Kethrina had disappeared, and although my reputation had recovered, I believed I would only benefit if I could claim responsibility for Corday’s capture.

Black-Scar accepted the contract, as I suspected he would, and with my forged letter he lured her to Skyrim. I made a deal with Tragrim, that we would split the credit for capturing the two of them if we succeeded.

But Tragrim failed. Corday committed suicide, and Tragrim killed Black-Scar in his rage at his failure. Tragrim claimed he took all necessary precautions. I should not have believed him.

Ironbind Barrow is not a large tomb, Kethrina will find whatever there is to find in only a few hours. My team will not be able to assemble here until tonight. I will have to wait until nightfall, until Kethrina makes camp.

Perhaps I will lucky, and she will find nothing but another word of power.

Gerrick Journal Entry #10: Irons that Bind

16th of Sun’s Dusk, 4E 201

I was hoping I would have more time. I was hoping my team would have had better mastery of their spells and crossbows.

Damn you Tragrim!

Did he have the bodies destroyed? Why didn’t I check for myself?! Damn it all! And damn that woman! Why couldn’t this aggravating Bosmer have stayed in one place long enough for me to have time to check?!

I’ll never get there before she does, her wretched horse runs too fast.

I have no choice now. There are no more choices left.

Journal Entry #12: Dragon-Hunter Child

16th of Sun’s Dusk, 4E 201

The dragons seem to follow me.

One of them attacked several students on the steps of the College about a week ago. I fought it, though the bloody bastard kept hovering above the tower. I fixed that problem by rushing up to the roof via the Archmage’s quarters. Archmage Savos Aren was pretty indigent that I burst through his private rooms, but once he followed me to the roof and realized what was going on, he helped me bring the dragon down.

It crashed to the ground like a tremendous thunderbolt, its head finally resting in front of Magnus’s statue, like a supplicant kneeling before the god of magic.

Some of the mages and students were thrilled once it was dead, they had a chance to study a dragon’s skeleton. Others, the more sensible ones I think, were afraid. This was the second dragon to attack Winterhold.

I’ve lost count of how many have appeared in the skies. I hate having to fight them, even when it’s to save my own life. They are so beautiful, their bodies cut from the very fabric of Aetherius and shaped by the hands of the gods. It feels sad to look at their skeletal bodies when they die, bereft of everything that made them beautiful.

Maybe I also hate to fight dragons because I’m so damned tired of fighting. I had my fill of it during the Great War. After that ended, I went back to adventuring because it was all I knew how to do, but what I really wanted was to retire somewhere and be left the hell alone. Not that the Thalmor will ever let that happen.

I went to Whiterun to visit Elrindir yesterday. I promised him I’d show him one of the Dawnguard’s crossbows. If he was interested, I’d talk to Isran about letting him make more for us. Sorine’s good at making them, but we’re growing too large for her to supply us by herself.

I was chatting with him in his shop when I heard the flapping of wings outside. I remember cursing, then running out with the crossbow in my hands. Like I expected, a dragon was just outside the city gates, dammit.

I fought the creature alongside a handful of guards, but this one was more powerful than the others I fought before. Soon the guards laid at my feet, and I was barely standing.

My magicka was spent, and my left arm was broken in two places. My crossbow was laying on the ground, useless. I didn’t want to use the thu’um, especially so close to the city, but I didn’t have any choice.

The words ripped themselves from my throat: Gaan, Lah, Haas. Their power shook the ground where I stood, sending me to my knees. I watched the air ripple, the dragon lurch, then it fell dead in front of me. I could feel hot tears in my eyes as its soul merged with my own.

Gods, I hate doing this!

A few hours later, I was resting in the Temple of Kynareth, letting a priest tend to my arm, when a courier arrived with a letter for me. It reads:

Tel’kiira Kethrina,

You caused a bit of stir in Whiterun when you demonstrated the power of your Thu’um. Not everyone is anxious for the return of the Dragonborn.

I for one desire to see you grow and develop your talents. Skyrim needs a true hero these days.

You should turn your attention to Ironbind Barrow. I understand it holds a mysterious source of power that can only be unlocked by the Dragonborn.

Sincerely,

A Friend

Lovely, another word wall. I’ve been sent a handful of these, wish I knew from who.

Note #12: From Gerrick to Tel’kiira

You’re actually asking me? I honestly don’t know.

Your pictures are fascinating to look at, but all I know is that this orb was powerful enough to have made a draugr invincible.

Note #11: From Tel’kiira to Gerrick

Tell me Gerrick, what do you think that artifact in Saarthal is?

Gerrick Journal Entry #9: College of Winterhold

8th of Sun’s Dusk, 4E 201

There are times I am brutally tired of following this aggravating woman all over Skyrim. At this rate, she and I will soon become leading authorities on its geography!

There are also times I wish the Chameleon spell from the third era still existed. It would allow me to follow Kethrina inside these caves and ruins without being seen the moment I opened a door. Not that it matters, she already knows I’m here. What am I going to do?

By all rights, I should report my failure to First Emissary Elenwen and allow someone else to take this assignment. But no, Kethrina may know I’m here, but she has taken no steps to stop me or my surveillance. If anything, it seems she is taking pains to hide that she knows of my existence. Perhaps because she enjoys toying with me!

No, I may be able to use this to my advantage, especially these little snippets of conversation we have. Already I have learned of the School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, and its spells are potent indeed. I shall send more of my agents there to learn its secrets. If Elenwen will not shut it down, then I will use it to become more powerful.

Then there are these crossbows and the other benefits of the Dawnguard. The armored trolls are also frightful to behold. Their trainer has a unique imagination. My agent in the Dawnguard is already working to give me the plans for the crossbows, he may be able to provide me with a few armored trolls as well. I’ll send him some coin to buy one.

This is giving me an idea, but it must be last resort only. I am forbidden to capture or kill Kethrina myself, but I would be allowed an exception if she discovered me.

Yes, I will have my agents train in this new magic, the crossbows, the armored trolls, and I will have my own team near me. If Kethrina ever tires of playing with me, or if she discovers any of my more compromising secrets, then my team and I will attack her myself.

Letter #11: From Gerrick to Elenwen

8th of Sun’s Dusk, 4E 201

To the Esteemed Elenwen, First Emissary of the Thalmor:

The object Kethrina found in Saarthal is extremely interesting. Unfortunately the mage Tolfdir is guarding it, so none of my agents can approach it to study it. However, Kethrina was able to capture numerous images of it and noted a number of observations. I have already made copies of these and sent them to Ancano, since there is little doubt he will be denied access to this artifact.

As I write this to you, the traitor is now in Silverdrift Lair, retrieving a rare book for Urag gro-Shub, the librarian at the College. Before then, she reforged Gauldur’s Amulet. She does not appear to be stronger with it equipped. Perhaps it has lost power over the centuries.

We could benefit from Serine’s research into these crossbows. Watching the traitor’s use of them has shown me that they can be absolutely deadly in a fight, especially at long range. One of my agents has already joined the Dawnguard to watch Kethrina when she is at the fort, and he is learning how they’re being made.

As always, I will continue to update you regarding Kethrina’s movements.

Sincerely Yours,

Gerrick

For the glory of the Aldmeri Dominion!

Journal Entry #11: College of Winterhold

7th of Sun’s Dusk, 4E 201

Since I left High Hrothgar, I’ve found and killed two more dragons, or perhaps I should say they found me. I’m not sure either way. One of them attacked Winterhold while I was there to visit the College. It’s almost as if they were waiting for me to emerge and discover what I am.

While I’ve been thinking about all of this, I’ve been doing jobs for the Dawnguard. Sorine has been thrilled with my work for her. With the plans I’ve discovered and a hell of a lot of work on her part, we now have Dwemer crossbows and three varieties of exploding crossbow bolts. Sorine believes they’ll help us hunt vampires. I enjoyed the look on her face when I told her they were good for hunting dragons too. I may not understand what it means to be Dragonborn, but I know how to kill monsters.

After that I found and rescued Dexion Evicus, a Moth Priest who came to Skyrim to find an Elder Scroll. I wonder if maybe he was looking for Serana’s.

Right now I’m giving Dexion time to head to the fort and recover. Since I had to join the college to gain access to it, and information regarding Dexion’s location, I’m now able to help the College. It’s a fascinating place, and so far is showing none of the politics of the Synod. I could’ve gone without Ancano however, the pompous, self-righteous s’wit.

My first assignment was to explore Saarthal with some other students and our instructor Tolfdir. Having half of a lifetime’s experience exploring these places came in handy in there. It was also one of the few times that my experience was not ridiculed by those who considered themselves the intellectual elite.

Inside that ruin, we found something amazing. After beating the boss nasty (the third son of Gauldur), Tolfdir enthused over this find, a huge floating sphere covered in runes. It looks it might’ve been assembled from many smaller pieces of glass and fitted together like a puzzle.

With the third piece of Gauldur’s Amulet, I can finally reforge it. I’ll finish that piece of business, then report to the Archmage.

Note #10: From Gerrick to Tel’kiira

I don’t even know what I should do.

Note #9: From Tel’kiira to Gerrick

You know what has happened. What do you think I should do?

Gerrick Journal Entry #8: Dragonborn

27th of Frostfall, 4E 201

Dovahkiin, dragonborn, the name explains so much, and yet so little.

I feel like I’ve been trying to hunt a skeever, only to realize it’s a sabre cat.

Not even Kethrina understands what she is, and that makes her all the more dangerous. As if she hasn’t been aggravating enough! Magic I can understand, but this?

Her indecision most likely means she’ll procrastinate again, take some time to think while she does something else. She went to Fort Dawnguard this afternoon, so there’s little doubt what she’ll do next.

I can still see the scorch marks in the tunnel where we ambushed her. I still can not comprehend how she was able to turn that tunnel into something resembling a volcanic eruption and emerge unharmed. I wonder how she explained that to Isran?

Dragons have returned to Skyrim. With their shouts and ability to fly, there is no reason why they can’t dominate all of Tamriel, if not all of Nirn. And Kethrina can kill them.

Kethrina can kill the dragons, something no one else seems able to do.

I detest Kethrina, she is an enemy of the Aldmeri Dominion, an enemy of the Thalmor. Her capture and death are vital to our survival and our reputation.

But the dragons could destroy the Dominion. I do not want to imagine what would happen if they were to attack the city of Alinor.

What should I do?

Letter #10: From Gerrick to Elenwen

27th of Frostfall, 4E 201

To the Esteemed Elenwen, First Emissary of the Thalmor:

This is disturbing news indeed. I assure you that the “Dragonborn” is not merely Nordic myth. I have witnessed this new power. From sources I have obtained, there are twenty-three possible “thu’ums” or “shouts”, each with a different effect.

If you will recall the destruction at Helgen, you will understand the destructive power of these shouts. The dragon’s attacks were shouts, namely the one I believe is named “Fire Breath” (Yol Toor Shul).

I am still unearthing all of the possible shout effects available to Kethrina now that she has discovered this power. Currently she seems reluctant to use it, and she only possesses a handful of of them.

Until this power and its effects can be fully researched, I strongly advise exercising extreme caution. She was dangerous enough without this power, I can only imagine what she will become with it.

As always, I will continue to update you regarding Kethrina’s movements.

Sincerely Yours,

Gerrick

For the glory of the Aldmeri Dominion!

Journal Entry #10: The Way of the Voice

27th of Frostfall, 4E 201

I haven’t slept well in days.

Twelve days ago, I raided Northwatch Keep and rescued Thorald. I showed him the best route to the nearest Stormcloak camp and watched him leave. Then, I summoned the most destructive magic I knew to wreck the Thalmor’s fortress. I used spells that I had never, and would never, use against people. When I was finished, Northwatch Keep looked like it’d been hit by a meteor shower.

After that, I faced Potema in her own stronghold, the catacombs beneath Solitude. The strongest draugr I had ever encountered would die only to be raised again to serve her.

When I finally defeated Potema and stepped outside into the clear, cold air, I ached all over. I wanted to lie down in the snow and rest. Instead I teleported to Solitude and delivered the queen’s skull to Styrr, the priest of Arkay, and then reported back to Firebeard. Then I finally teleported home, gave Iona the day off, and soaked myself in a steaming herb-infused bath.

Up until now, that was perhaps the most difficult and aggravating day in my life in Skyrim. But that was nothing compared to what I’ve been going through the past week. After putting it off for too long, I finally gave Alvor’s warning to Jarl Balgruuf. He asked me to help his court wizard, Farengar Secret-Fire, with some dragon research. I surprised them both considerably when I produced the Dragonstone Farengar wanted. I found that thing weeks ago and had been trying to figure it out its writings ever since.

Moments after that, a dragon attacked a watchtower just outside of the city. I fought it alongside a contingent of guards. They mostly used their bows while I used holy magic (very effective against undead and evil monsters, I’ve learned).

Just before it died, it said something. It sounded like “Dovahkiin, no!” Then it fell with a huge crash towards the ground. Its body self-incinerated, and a great rushing power escaped from it and rushed into me. I think … I think it was its soul.

The next several hours went by in a haze. I talked to the guards who witnessed what happened, Jarl Balgruuf, my new housecarl, but I didn’t really absorb what I was being told. All I really knew was that I had killed a dragon and absorbed its soul, and that soul empowered one of the words of power I had learned.

I went to High Hrothgar because I had been told to go. Before then, I returned to all of those dragon lairs I had found. All of them now had dragons inhabiting them, which I killed. There were nine of them. I used their souls to empower several Shouts, and practiced using them for a while. I wanted to experiment, try to understand what I had become … or maybe what I had always been.

I have finished what might have been called my basic training. Morning has just begun, and I am sitting on a ledge close to the temple. The view is beyond spectacular, a landscape artist would love being here. I can easily see Dragonsreach from where I sit.

I am still trying to understand what I am, Dragonborn. There’s so much for me to take in. The name “dovahkiin” is supposed to mean that I have a soul of a dragon, that I’m somehow descended from them. But … “Dov Ah Kiin” also translates into “Dragon-Hunter Child.” That suggests I’m supposed to hunt dragons.

But dragons aren’t just beasts or monsters. I’ve heard them speak; they have language, intelligence. When I fight them, they don’t feel like bandits and necromancers, people who have willingly degraded themselves for greed and power. They are power, and I just take that power when they die. What does that do to them? What is that doing to me?

Gerrick Journal Entry #7: Shock & Awe

17th of Frostfall, 4E 201

Seven loyal Thalmor stood guard on the walls of Northwatch Keep, twelve more were inside.

She killed them all. I watched her through a spyglass some distance away. It wasn’t even a battle. I could hear the magical explosions from where I lay, and sometimes could even feel them like tremors in the earth.

After her task was complete, and Thorald was free, she walked a short distance away from the keep, towards the tiny dock leading to Harkon’s castle. Then she turned back towards the keep and unleashed a maelstrom of destructive power like I have never before seen. It destroyed the keep, reduced it to blackened ruins.

This is more than powerful magic from that school. There were spells that had similar effects, but nothing approaching this scale. Not even an archmage could accomplish something like this.

What is she?!

Note #8: From Tel’kiira to Gerrick

You were never stupid, Gerrick.

Note #7: From Gerrick to Tel’kiira

You knew that I would deduce that you were going to rescue Thorald Gray-Mane, didn’t you?

Gerrick Journal Entry #6: Impotent

15th of Frostfall, 4E 201

I’ve sent my warnings to Elenwen. There’s nothing more I can do now except continue to follow Kethrina and report what she does, as always.

Elenwen will not listen to me, I know. She did not listen to me when I informed her regarding Ondolemar’s actions, the vampire attacks, or the school of witchcraft. She is not taking any of them seriously.

It angers and frustrates me when this happens! I heard that vampires recently attacked the embassy, and yet the First Emissary still turns a blind eye to them, like nearly everyone else in Skyrim!

If it were possible for me to capture Kethrina myself, I would, and be damned the consequences for disobeying orders. But I know her. Should I ever attempt it, she would kill me.

Letter #9: From Gerrick to Elenwen

(This letter was delivered by magic at great expense. The resulting letter fell out of the air and hit Elenwen’s head while she was working at her desk.)

15th of Frostfall, 4E 201

To the Esteemed Elenwen, First Emissary of the Thalmor:

Please forgive me for such abrupt correspondence, but I have only now learned this critical information.

The man in Whiterun Kethrina refers to in her journal entry is Avulstein Gray-Mane, who I have discovered has been hiding in his family’s home. His brother is Thorald, who we are holding in Northwatch Keep.

I know that Northwatch Keep is heavily guarded, but I also know Kethrina. She will assault the keep, and she will ravage it.

I urge you to fortify the keep’s defenses and increase the guards however you can, especially in regards to repelling magic. Thorald should also be moved to another location if at all possible.

I do not know how long until Kethrina arrives at the keep, so I urge you to hurry.

Sincerely Yours,

Gerrick

For the glory of the Aldmeri Dominion!

Journal Entry #9: To Make a Thief

15th of Frostfall, 4E 201

Part of me still feels sick over what I’ve done. That night, I couldn’t even think about it. After retching it in the grass, I found an inn and drank wine until I passed out. I haven’t done that since before the war.

I haven’t been in Markarth since, even though Eltrys is waiting for me to find answers regarding the Forsworn attacks and murders in the city.

Frankly I need answers of my own. I’m a thane in a couple of holds, and that gives me some influence, but not the kind I need. Charlotte had friends in the Legion, and some of those who are now in the guard were willing to talk to me, but none of them were able to help me find her. 

Meeting Brynjolf gave me an idea though. He approached me in Riften with a proposition, a job that was pretty easy with a little sneaking and an invisibility spell. That got me into the Thieves Guild. Antonius knew some people there, but I need to gain their trust and respect before they’ll talk to me. That is going to take a while.

Before I can do that though, I apparently need to take care of some unfinished business in Solitude. The steward Falk Firebeard sent me a personal letter regarding the job in Wolfskull Cave I did for him about a week ago. I remember when I witnessed that necromantic ritual. I couldn’t believe what they were doing!

Once I’m done in Solitude, there’s a man in Whiterun who’s asked for my help. His brother is missing, and he needs me to find him. Ironically, we met while I was sneaking into his house to steal a golden ship model. The encounter ended much better than I expected, and I still managed to steal the model. It’s a lovely piece of art. I hope Vex puts it on display.

Gerrick Journal Entry #5: Disturbing

9th of Frostfall, 4E 201

I have never seen Kethrina write so little in a single entry. What in that cave could have possibly disturbed this assassin so much?

She didn’t even mention visiting Eltrys this afternoon. I was able to listen to their conversation at the top of the stairs. He wants to her to investigate the murders in Markarth, and why the guards are doing nothing.

I’m starting to think Kethrina is right, the daedra are attracted to the blood and death in this city.

Journal Entry #9: Namira

9th of Frostfall, 4E 201

My business with Namira is done, done!

The moment I left Reachcliff Cave, I keeled over and retched in the grass. My Gods, Brother Verulus, I’m so sorry.

I tossed the daedra’s ring down the same hole as Molag Bal’s mace.

I hate Markarth.

Note #6: From Tel’kiira to Gerrick

You can’t blame a girl for trying.

Note #5: From Gerrick to Tel’kiira

I know what you want to know, but you’re not learning it from me.

Gerrick Journal Entry #4: Complications

6th of Frostfall, 4E 201

I can’t believe Ondolemar didn’t recognize one of the Aldmeri Dominion’s most notorious war criminals. I felt my jaw drop as I watched their conversation. I think she was struggling not to laugh in his face!

I strongly suspect she’ll be avoiding Markarth for a while, although I know she will return. She may be reluctant to become involved, but she always does. I’m concerned about what Eltrys wants to propose. He’s a Breton who recently married Rhiada, who works directly for Thonar Silver-Blood in the Treasury House. That kind of connection would give Eltrys access to certain information.

As for the Imperial woman, I’ve learned she’s a spy for General Tullius. But why would the Forsworn want to kill an Imperial with no ties to the Nords or the Stormcloaks? Something isn’t making sense.

I’m also experiencing a roadblock regarding Kethrina’s past. Neither my colleague nor those beneath her can access the Synod’s records on the traitor. For some reason they’re sealed, and the Synod refuses to tell us why. All I do know is that Kethrina was a member for a little over three years. That isn’t what I would call “briefly." What is she hiding?

Now that Kethrina has opened and cleared the sanctuary, I have an opportunity to plant evidence that Loki Black-Scar is in another province. However I must be extremely cautious. I can not allow anyone to learn of my involvement in Tragrim’s contract.

At least now I know why Kethrina is in Skyrim. She’s searching for her friend Charlotte. But how would a message have reached her in Pyandonea?

Letter #8: From Gerrick to Elenwen

6th of Frostfall, 4E 201

To the Esteemed Elenwen, First Emissary of the Thalmor:

Loki Black-Scar’s disappearance is an even greater problem than Kethrina realizes. He will be intent on revenge as she believes, but her destruction of the Dark Brotherhood sanctuary has made him a loose cannon. I sincerely believe Loki will not only hunt Kethrina, but also us.

I have several of my agents thoroughly searching the sanctuary for any clues Kethrina might have missed. If there is any clue as to Loki’s whereabouts, they will find it.

I hesitate to suggest this, but considering how dangerous Loki would be to us and our allies, it may be necessary to provide Kethrina with some kind of hint or clue, discretely of course. Though she is a war criminal and a traitor, she has the best chance of dispatching him.

On another note, I strongly recommend disciplinary action be take against Ondolemar. He actually met and had a conversation with Kethrina when she visited Understone Keep. She even stole an Amulet of Talos from Ogmund the Skald for him. I suspect she did it out of amusement. The entire time, Ondolemar made no attempt to arrest her. He did not even seem to recognize her.

As always, I will continue to update you regarding Kethrina’s movements.

Sincerely Yours,

Gerrick

For the glory of the Aldmeri Dominion!

Journal Entry #8: Blood and Silver

5th of Frostfall, 4E 201

I am bloody tired. What’s worse is that even with my stomach full of wine and bread, I can’t even think about sleep.

I visited Isran a few days ago, just in time to fight off three vampires. Isran and I defeated them, then he sent me to find some new members, specialists who might be able to help us.

After that I went to Markarth to deliver a purchase agreement Bolli in Riften gave me. The moment I walked through the gates, I had to stop a native of the Reach from killing an Imperial woman. It’s been a while since I had to move that fast.

I still don’t know the story behind that. Someone named Eltrys wants me to meet him at the shrine of Talos, but I haven’t yet. I’m not sure I want to get involved in whatever he wants to propose.

I don’t like Markarth. The Silver-Bloods and the Forsworn are fighting over both the city and the hold like selfish brats over a toy, not realizing they are destroying the toy with their fighting.

Molag Bal has a shrine in an abandoned house near the marketplace. Namira’s priestess was enjoying a buffet in the Hall of the Dead. I strongly suspect the two daedra lords are attracted to the blood and death, like flies. I’ve gotten caught in both of their games.

The moment I was finished with Molag Bal, I threw his mace down the deepest hole I could find in an empty mine. It was the only way I could tell him to go to hell. Namira is a different story. Her priestess is a siren. The entire time I was talking to her in that crypt I couldn’t think straight. I don’t know what’ll happen next.

Right now though I have a bigger problem. Two days ago, I reported to Commander Maro. He gave me the passphrase to get past their sanctuary door and ordered me to kill everyone in the sanctuary, alone.

There were very few people there, and with Astrid dead they were disorganized. It wasn’t difficult to complete this job.

But Loki wasn't there. I ransacked the place for any sign of where he might have been and found nothing. I have no way of knowing if he was out on a contract. Hell, I don’t even know if he’s alive. If he is alive, he’ll hunt me down, and he won’t give a damn about where I am or who gets in his way. I need to find him first, but I have no idea where to find him!

Note #4: From Tel’kiira to Gerrick

Because Charlotte asked me to.

Note #3: From Gerrick to Tel’kiira

Why did you come to Skyrim?

Gerrick Journal Entry #3: Questions, Questions

28th of Heartfire, 4E 201

I have watched this woman go inside countless places, always without fear or hesitation. She fights monsters like someone else would swat flies.

And still she’s reluctant to fight the greatest of battles. Reluctant to warn Jarl Balgruuf about the dragons, reluctant to face the vampires, reluctant to choose a side in the civil war.

Reluctant to kill a former teammate. It’s strange. In the Thalmor, we are told to never hesitate to kill any of our own who turn against us. That to hesitate would mean to die. Yet she does, and he was not even a friend. She didn’t even like him. I’m having difficulty trying to make sense of that.

Her actions are making her an even greater hero in Skyrim. She’s become a thane in two holds, and she’s close to gaining that title in a third. Yet it doesn’t appear that she’s actively seeking these titles, or even wants them. I think the only reason she earned the one in Riften was so she could buy a house.

There’s so much I don’t know about her. Why is she even here? I could ask, but will she give me a straight answer?

Letter #7: From Gerrick to Elenwen

28th of Heartfire, 4E 201

To the Esteemed Elenwen, First Emissary of the Thalmor:

From Kethrina’s journal entry, it appears it will be some time before she joins the College. I was unaware she had been a member of the Synod, but I already contacted a colleague of mine stationed in Cyrodiil. She’ll dig into those records for me.

The vampire attack in Winterhold that she described is only one of the attacks in Skyrim, as you are no doubt aware. Their attacks seem to be concentrated in the hold capitals. I suspect it is because they have the highest concentrations of people, i.e. potential sources of food.

While this would cause greater strife in Skyrim, they could also cause grave problems for us. Therefore, I believe it is our best interests to help stop them before we begin to suffer the consequences of their actions. Helping to stop them will also improve our reputation among the Imperials.

Kethrina is currently on her way to Fort Dawnguard. To get there, she needs to go through a narrow tunnel inside a mountain. It may be possible to pin her inside.

As always, I will continue to update you regarding Kethrina’s movements.

Sincerely Yours,

Gerrick

For the glory of the Aldmeri Dominion!

Journal Entry #7: Death and Daedra

28th of Heartfire, 4E 201

Lately I’ve looking into a number of legends I’ve been hearing or reading about. Skyrim is full of them. There was Red Eagle’s Bane, sought by the Forsworn. Then there’s Gauldur’s Amulet. I found two pieces of it, but I need access to Saarthal to get the third. I’ve heard the College of Winterhold is working there, so I suppose I’ll need to gain membership.

I’m not sure I want to join. I was briefly a member of the Synod when I was still living in Cyrodiil, and I hated the politics and the constant competing with the College of Whispers.

While I’ve been debating that, I’ve been doing other jobs. I found a hollow chamber inside an iceberg north of Winterhold where a wizard was residing. He was trying to open a giant Dwemer puzzle box, and he needed an Elder Scroll to do it. Of course anyone who isn’t a Moth Priest can’t read one of those, but he had found a way, a loophole that the Dwemer discovered. He gave me a blank Lexicon, and with Septimus’s direction I was able to inscribe the knowledge of an Elder Scroll onto it at Tower of Mzark.

I didn’t expect to meet Hermaeus Mora in the form of a black and purple maelstrom. Meeting him makes me wonder what’s really in that puzzle box. Septimus thinks it’s the Heart of Lorkhan, at least that’s what I think he’s referring to.

While I was searching for that tower, I found the remains of Sinderion. He died years ago, before I was even born, but it felt sad seeing his remains. I studied Sinderion, read all of his works. I even performed his same experiments with nirnroot when I was young (which, considering the rareness of the plant, was not easy). In honor of him, I helped to finish his research. I gathered thirty samples of the crimson nirnroot he was searching for, and then gave them to Avrusa Sarethi, his former student.

One of the more pleasant things I did lately (in the end at least) was helping to reinstate the Burning of King Olaf. It meant going through yet another ruin, only this time I was following a ghost (who I later learned was Svaknir). Now if only he had helped us restore the damaged King Olaf’s Verse.

That act gave me admittance to the Bards College, although most of the other bards don’t see me as a bard. I play the flute well, but most of the teachers and students see me as only a sword-wielding drudge. The only thing the instructors have me do is recover one famous instrument after another.

Still, it was nice to watch King Olaf burn, especially after I had to fight and kill the bastard.

I stopped by Winterhold after leaving Septimus’s place last night. I was about to head into the Frozen Hearth when I heard sounds of fighting. I grabbed my sword and helped the guards fight a vampire and two of his thralls.

Thankfully no innocents were killed. I fear what would happen if Harkon’s vampires attacked a large city. If they were to attack bandits or necromancers instead of innocents, I wouldn’t have a problem with them. But these predators don’t have that control, or maybe it’s desire for control.

I can’t delay any longer. I must return to Isran.

Note #2: From Tel’kiira to Gerrick

(Written on the back of Gerrick’s note and laid on top of her journal.)

You’re my shadow. I always know you’re there, even when I can’t see you.

Note #1: From Gerrick to Tel’kiira

(This note was slipped between two of Kethrina’s journal pages.)

How did you know I was here?

Gerrick Journal Entry #2: Frustration

16th of Heartfire, 4E 201

There are times I have wished Kethrina never returned from Pyandonea. Not capturing her was my greatest failure, but one from which I was able to recover when I confirmed she had escaped the limits of our influence.

I admit I began to panic when I discovered her missing in Windhelm. I had a devil of a time finding her again, and might not have if not for the rumors I heard. She is well or fairly known in four holds, and her exploits often make for a good story over a flagon of mead.

In her lies both my greatest glory and my greatest disgrace. So much depends on what she will do, on events I can not control.

When Kethrina reports to Maro, she will accompany his Legionnaires into the sanctuary. Her sense of duty won’t allow her to do anything else. When she does, she’ll realize Loki isn’t there. I would have some documents forged to make it appear he was away executing a contract, but neither I nor any of my agents can get inside.

That aggravating woman picks at things, rips at loose threads like an obsessive weaver at an imperfect tapestry. She’ll track down Loki one way or another, and when she does …

I can only hope I can hide my involvement.

Ironically, all of that can become moot if she dies in this or in any other ruin. I’m so frustrated by the restraints my superiors have placed on me! I can never enter unsecured areas, lest I be discovered. I can never be within sight when she is attacked by our enforcers. I can never take direct action against her.

I have disobeyed that final order several times.

What I can comprehend is how did she learn of my existence? How does she know I’m here? And why hasn’t she mentioned it or me in her journal? What is she trying to do?

Not only does she know, she was bold enough, brazen enough, to actually tell me! Why? Of course the aggravating woman would never answer my questions.

…

I wonder …

Letter #6: From Gerrick to Elenwen

16th of Heartfire, 4E 201

To the Esteemed Elenwen, First Emissary of the Thalmor:

As Kethrina’s journal entry illustrates, the Dark Brotherhood took an interest in the traitor. I suppose we should not be surprised. Even if she had not killed Grelod, she is an assassin, as she herself admitted. Also, Loki Black-Scar might have taken an interest in recruiting her for his organization.

Unfortunately, Kethrina’s violent response has nixed any chance we had of infiltrating the organization. However, once she does report her actions to Commander Maro in Dragon Bridge, the Legion will not only destroy the remnants of the Dark Brotherhood, but we will also be able to find and capture Loki. That one traitor and war criminal will help us capture another is ironic indeed.

Kethrina is a procrastinator and is reluctant to confront Loki, so it will be several days before she reports to Maro. This should give us sufficient time to prepare.

I thank you for the updates regarding the school of witchcraft. It is frustrating that we can not implant an advisor agent like Ancano in the College of Winterhold. However, I’ve learned the school is not particularly choosy regarding its students so long as they have sufficient talent. Therefore, implanting student agents may be the solution. One of the agents beneath me is already there and should be able to assist you.

Kethrina’s house is Honeyside, a two-story house on the edge of Riften. It will allow us to assign one of our undercover agents there to monitor any activity within.

Kethrina’s current location is Folgunthur, investigating Archmage Gauldur. I believe she is seeking the amulet bearing his name, in which case she will travel next to Gerimund’s Hall. The last ruin, Saarthal, will require access to the College of Winterhold. I have already sent a message to Ancano notifying him of her coming.

As always, I will continue to update you regarding Kethrina’s movements.

Sincerely Yours,

Gerrick

For the glory of the Aldmeri Dominion!

Journal Entry #6: I’ve Been Everywhere

15th of Heartfire, 4E 201

Damn, I am completely swamped! It’s like there are no other sellswords in all of Skyrim! I have over two dozen jobs to do in three cities. Sometimes a person will approach me in the street and directly ask me for help.

Once, a clearly insane Argonian in Riften actually grabbed my arm and thrust a Dwemer lexicon into my hand. Putting that back where it belonged was a surreal journey.

And all of that was after I woke up on the floor of a damp and chill shack nearly ten days ago. No one had lived there for years. The floor was covered in dirt, snow, and blood. A dark-clad Nord woman was lounging atop a bookshelf, watching me. She was Astrid, leader of the Dark Brotherhood.

She demanded that I repay the kill I “stole” from them when I killed Grelod the Kind. She had gathered three people, bound their hands and feet, and covered their heads with black hoods. Astrid told me there was a contract out on one of them, and I had to choose which one while she watched.

I told her exactly what I thought of her proposal.

Then I released the three prisoners. One of them, Fultheim, was a mercenary; so I paid him to escort the woman Alea home. Vasha, the Khajiit, asserted he was able to take care of himself. I just shrugged and let him go. Once we were outside, I was able to figure out that we were in a marshy area south of Morthal, showed the three where we were, and we went our separate ways.

I’ve spent the subsequent days doing jobs and trying to decide what the hell to do now. A Legion soldier visiting Morthal told me to notify Commander Maro of what I had done. I know where that will lead. The Legion will use this opportunity to destroy the remains of the Dark Brotherhood, and chances are I’ll be asked (if not ordered) to accompany them.

It means I’ll have to face Loki. I never liked him, but he was a teammate. He was one of the deadliest killers I ever knew. No average Legionnaire will be able to beat him. It’ll have to be me.

I’m pondering this now while sitting on my bed in my house. Yeah, I own a house now.

I did so many things in Riften the Jarl let me purchase property and made me a thane. It’s nice to be able to have a place to store all of my belongings. I could’ve gone without the housecarl though. Oh well, I bought Iona a few decent outfits and told her she didn’t need to wear armor inside the house. That’ll keep me from hearing it clank as she walks.

With the teleport spells I purchased from the school of witchcraft, I’ll be able to come home every night. Of course, now this means I have to manage this property. I’ve already stocked the larder and installed a strongbox into a wall. I’ll keep the box filled with coin in case Iona needs to purchase necessities while I’m away. Iona adopted a cat after asking my permission. I didn’t mind.

Before I leave for my next job, I plan on adding something to the doorframe outside. I’ve noticed a number of interesting marks near doors and on market stalls. They’re all over Skyrim, but they’re especially visible in Riften. It took me a while, but I found a book that taught me what they meant. I’m going to add my own little “shadowmark” to my house that will make it very clear that anyone breaking in here is in for some very deep trouble.

And if any Thieves Guild member wants to object, they’ll learn exactly what that trouble will be.

Gerrick Journal Entry #1: Controlling Panic

8th of Heartfire, 4E 201

What should I do?

I sneaked into Kethrina’s room last night when she should have been heavily sleeping. I know she drank several cups of an herbal tea she made to combat headaches. It should have dulled the headache pain and allowed her to sleep. She wasn’t in the room.

Her bed had been slept in, her bags were by the door where she dropped them, and her journal and other documents on the table in the room. Where is she?

She could have answered a call of nature, but I watched her room door all night, and she never exited it. She could have exited via a window, but they were closed and latched from the inside, and she would have taken her belongings besides.

Where is she?! I can’t lose her again. I was able to recover my reputation once when she fled to Pyandonea, but I’ll never be able to do it again. If I lose her again, I’ll lose this assignment and quite possibly my position. There would be an investigation that could also reveal secrets and actions I’ve hidden from Elenwen during this assignment, the lies I told, that I was responsible for Tragrim’s attack. It would mean my life, and whether it would be by Elenwen’s or Kethrina’s hands would be beside the point!

The threatening note she wrote of is here, a simple imprint of a hand with the words “We know” beneath it. Any one of her suspicions could be correct, but the handprint also suggests the Dark Brotherhood. Could they have taken her? Why?

Do they want to kill her for stealing their contract? No, if they did they would have simply killed her here in the room, perhaps with this note left beside her body. No, that doesn’t make sense. Kethrina is alive. She must be alive. I must believe she is alive!

But this other note … oh my gods …

I’m finished. If Elenwen learns I have been discovered … how did she know? When did she know? What has she learned from me?!

Letter #5: From Gerrick to Elenwen

(The following letter was heavily edited and rewritten several times before being delivered.)

7th of Heartfire, 4E 201

To the Esteemed Elenwen, First Emissary of the Thalmor:

To begin with, I must regretfully report that Tragrim’s plan to ambush Kethrina outside of Riften failed utterly. He and his people fought well, but were killed. Since, as per orders, I was out of sight distance from the fight, I can not adequately describe exactly what happened. However, after the sounds of fighting ceased, I approached the area.

My lady, every member of the force was literally frozen solid. Even after witnessing Kethrina’s magic on numerous occasions, I could hardly believe it myself. That school must be shut down! The guards did not see the battle, nor will they ever see the “frozen statues” she made. I disposed of the bodies before sunrise to prevent any such difficulties. A gang of dead bandits just outside of the city would have roused the Jarl and even the usually indifferent Maven Black-Briar (who of course is the greatest power in Riften).

I dislike criticizing the strategies and actions of my colleagues, especially after they die in service to the Dominion, but I must say it was a mistake for Tragrim to have used only Thalmor and not non-elven agents. I believe we have now only increased the traitor’s suspicions of us.

I’m afraid I can not provide a copy of the threatening note Kethrina received. According to witnesses at Candlehearth Hall, she threw it into the fire with an expression of disdain.

Kethrina has reserved her room for several nights. Between Windhelm being Ulfric’s base of operations and her actions making her into a local hero, she believes herself safe. It is possible she is devoting some time exclusively to solving the fragmented image puzzle. I am pleased you notified me there was no content on the device containing our secrets, although it begs the question what is she assembling? I will monitor her progress along with her movements and notify you of what happens.

Sincerely Yours,

Gerrick

For the glory of the Aldmeri Dominion!

Journal Entry #5: Vampires & Murder

6th of Heartfire, 4E 201

This has been a bloody rough several days. It feels damn nice to be sitting in front of a fire at an inn for once, a good meal in my belly.

After leaving Windhelm I traveled to the Rift and explored it for a while. I then visited the Dawnguard and finally decided to join. My first experience there was witnessing a conversation between its leader Isran and Tolan, one of the last of the Vigilants.

Watching their conversation, I remembered finding the Hall of the Vigilants, still burning. Vigilants and vampires lying together, and two dead doglike creatures, their hairless skin like black coal and colder than the snow. In Tolan, I saw someone who had not only seen what I had seen, but someone who had watched his home burn, his friends die.

When Isran sent me to Dimhollow Cavern, I wasn’t entirely surprised to find his body, surrounded by the vampires he had killed.

He died with the peace that comes with fatalism, may Stendarr have mercy on him. Perhaps it was best that he never knew the artifact the vampires wanted so much was Serana. She was a pureblood vampire, a daughter of Molag Bal, and she carried an Elder Scroll. How the hell did she get it?

I brought her to her home, Castle Volkihar, where she was met by her father Lord Harkon. In return for rescuing his daughter, Lord Harkon offered to turn me into a vampire lord. He even transformed in front of me to demonstrate the power he offered.

It was tempting, damned tempting. To possess that level of power, to be immortal. I could have brought the fight to the Thalmor instead of constantly evade them. Yet, at the same time, I looked at Harkon and felt the urge to shoot a bolt straight into his head. I think he saw that and sensed my refusal. He banished me from his castle before I said a word.

I have yet to return to Isran, having needed to complete several pieces of business. I found and bribed the pirates in Dawnstar to get the information I needed, which led to my meeting and helping a priest of Mara named Erandur to destroy the Skull of Corruption.

That’s three daedra lords I’ve dealt with now: Meridia, Azura, and Vaermina. Unlike the first two, I told Vaermina to go to hell. I don’t like or trust most of them, but at least they generally have an honest sense of purpose … like a snake. Still, being inside Azura’s Star was one of the most wondrous experiences of my life.

Then there was the necromancer trying to raise an army to destroy everyone involved in the civil war, working on those image pieces from the Memory Crystal, and finishing my business with the East Empire company. Damn battlemage. Between him and working with this fragmented image gave me a throbbing headache tonight. I don’t know what it is about this image that is causing me so much pain every time, but it’s preventing me from studying it for long on any given day.

Yesterday, when I finally realized I was doing all of these things because I was avoiding Riften, I rode Nyx straight there. I heard plenty of rumors in town about her behavior, and about how corrupt the city and its authorities were. No one needed to tell me on how incompetent the guards were, not after I was attacked by a gang of bandits near Riften Stables in the predawn hours. I wonder how the guards reacted when they saw the frozen statues glittering in the sun? It was strange though, most of the bandits were Altmer. Damn strange.

The orphanage was even worse. It wasn’t just how Grelod constantly insulted her charges. It was how she only fed them once a day, let them out only a short time a day, beat them frequently, and there there was “the room.” It was tiny, the size of a closet, and it had shackles on the wall.

I waited until Grelod was alone in her private room, then stabbed her from behind. The children actually celebrated.

And now I’m looking at a note a courier told me was given to him by a “creepy fella, black robe.” It’s obviously a threat, probably sent by someone with more bluster than bite. A black robe could mean a necromancer, maybe a rogue conjurer. I’ve killed plenty of both. I suppose it could have been a vampire. I should’ve asked the courier if it was given to him during the day or the night. Oh well.

I’ll use some of the money I earned from the East Empire business and rent a room for the night. I’ve earned a warm bed. Hopefully my headache will be gone by morning.

Letter #5: From Gerrick to Elenwen

30th of Last Seed, 4E 201

To the Esteemed Elenwen, First Emissary of the Thalmor:

As stated in the enclosed journal entry, Kethrina is finally beginning to enter the Hold capitals. She was correct in that we can not act openly in Windhelm, but I was able to follow her into the city, which allowed me to witness much of what she has described (most of it accurate). The clash between her and Calixto was dramatic indeed. It and her other activities have made her a minor hero in that city. That could cause problems should she ever seek sanctuary there.

However, we have an opportunity thanks to this information. Kethrina states she is going to Riften, where the Stormcloaks’ influence is not as a strong (Jarl Laila Law-Giver has doubts about Ulfric’s true intentions).

I also know that all visitors to the city are made to use the north gate where they are pressed to pay a bribe to the guard (the “visitor’s tax”). I believe we have two possible chances to capture her here:

The first is outside the north gate. I suggest having a team disguised as bandits lying in wait for her.

The second becomes available if she kills Grelod the Kind (my sources indicate the old woman is abusive to her charges). For this, we can either pose as guards or as citizens lending a hand to apprehend a wanton criminal.

This may be the best chance we have. Please, I urge you to take advantage of it. Knowing Kethrina, she will look for every landmark on her way there, so we should have at least two or three days to prepare. I will notify you again when she is close to arriving.

Sincerely Yours,

Gerrick

For the glory of the Aldmeri Dominion!

Journal Entry #4: Death, Served Cold

30th of Last Seed, 4E 201

Normally I’d appreciate the bright sun on cold days like this, but right now I’m wishing it was overcast. As I’m writing this, I’m sitting on a rickety chair at a camp just outside of Angarvunde, having just finished risking my life just so someone could get killed. Idiotic, greedy Dark Elf.

Yesterday I entered Windhelm. I had been needing some supplies I just couldn’t obtain in the smaller towns, even those like Riverwood and Falkreath. I chose Windhelm because Thalmor agents would have trouble infiltrating the city, and if they did and tried anything, Ulfric’s guards would tear them to pieces no matter who they were after. Besides, I was curious to see how Ulfric had fared.

I’m beginning to wish I never stepped foot on those ancient stones. I got into a brawl with a Nord bully who took exception to my reaction to his anti-Dunmer attitude. Then, just as I was looking for the marketplace, I heard screams and cries nearby in the cemetery. Someone had been murdered, cut up like a hog under the hands of an inexpert butcher. I’ve seen a lot of death, and this rivaled some of the things Loki did during the war.

I had no desire to walk the streets with a drawn weapon, and the guards seemed unable to solve this, so I offered to help. I really began to question the guards’ competency when it took me less than a day to discover the killer’s identity. I still have trouble believing Calixto sincerely thought he could resurrect his sister.

When we met in the marketplace, his target Arivanya had not yet arrived. We stared at each other, the business of Windhelm continuing obliviously around us. I knew why he was there, and he knew that I knew.

There was a moment of unspoken communication between us. He would never stop. I would never let him kill again. When my ebony scimitar thrust into his body, it felt like we were both colliding with destiny.

After I finished disposing of that piece of human trash, I did some other jobs in town. Most of it was finding and delivering things. I still need to track down those pirates in Dawnstar.

Before I left town, I heard a rumor about a boy named Aventus Aretino attempting to call the Dark Brotherhood. I couldn’t believe it, so I investigated it myself. I quickly wished I didn’t.

When I found him, I was completely stunned. He had everything the Night Mother could have wished for. For several moments I couldn’t even speak, which Aventus took as implicit acceptance of his contract. He was an orphan, when his mother died he was sent to an orphanage in Riften. The person he wants dead is the caretaker, Grelod the Kind. The things he described her doing …

I left his house, and Windhelm, with my head still reeling. I know what it’s like to be an orphan. My mother died when I was four, and my father died when I was close to Aventus’s age. I was sent to an orphanage in the Imperial City. The headmistress there wasn’t cruel, but she wasn’t kind either. To be forced to live through torture, beatings, and abuse after you’ve just lost the most important people in your life.

I’m going to Riften. It’s risky, but I need to witness Grelod’s actions for myself. Perhaps there’s a way to deal with her without bloodshed. If not, well, I am an assassin, just not for the Dark Brotherhood.

Loki would laugh his head off at this.

Letter #4: From Gerrick to Elenwen

25th of Last Seed, 4E 201

To the Esteemed Elenwen, First Emissary of the Thalmor:

Since my last report, Kethrina has three times approached these word walls and experienced the reactions I have previously described. At the first wall, the soldiers you sent me performed admirably, but we had the misfortune of appearing at the same time as a powerful lich-like undead creature burst from its coffin!

While the soldiers fought the lich, Kethrina recovered from her reaction fast enough to dispatch it and them. She rendered them into ice statues within seconds, such was the power behind her magic. Ever since then, she has never approached one of these walls on foot, but on her infernal horse, allowing her to race away from us at impossible speeds!

I regret to inform you that this means she knows we are hunting her; however, I have stayed hidden as you commanded, so she does not know about me or my surveillance.

At the moment we may have another problem. These image fragments Kethrina has written of are strange indeed. When I sneaked into her camp last night as she slept, I found they were as she described them.

The lines and circles seem to suggest some kind of star chart, but until they are reassembled it will be impossible to discern what it is.

I need to know what these fragments might be, if you know. If they contain any of our secrets, it may be necessary to risk detection and take these fragments and the Enyalie Palantir itself in case it contains any more.

Please send me what information you can soon.

Sincerely Yours,

Gerrick

For the glory of the Aldmeri Dominion!

Journal Entry #3: Return to Helgen

24th of Last Seed, 4E 201

I was heading towards Windhelm, marking landmarks on my map as I went. The last place I visited for more than a few minutes was Meridia’s shrine near Solitude. I didn’t have much of a choice going there either, it was either that or lug around a melon-sized diamond and hear the daedra lord’s voice in my head every night of my life.

She wanted a task done, naturally. It was a simple job, clear out her temple of undead and the necromancer who made them. Considering how much I hate undead, if Meridia had just asked instead of hoisting me hundreds of feet in the air and demanded it, I would’ve done it anyway.

It was night when I completed her task. Afterwards, I summoned Nyx and  continued on my journey with Dawnbreaker strapped to my back. Without realizing it until I saw the gates, I arrived in Helgen. I dismounted and walked into the ruins of the village. The wood in some places were still bright and warm, like charcoal.

It’s strange how some things can survive such an attack. I looked through the inn, and unbelievably found several bottles of mead mixed with juniper berries. I guess Vilod was still making it. I’d give some to Ralof if I knew where he was.

Finally I arrived the one place I realized I was avoiding, the chopping block. I touched the dark, dried blood still on the wood. A corpse charred beyond recognition, possibly the executioner’s, laid behind me. I’ve come close to death more times than I care to count, in more ways than I want to think about.

But that was the first time I was completely helpless, forced to stare at the axe about to descend. The appearance of the dragon added insult to injury.

I didn’t have the nerve to stay long, so I summoned Nyx and continued onward. Occasionally I’d capture an image with the “Enyalie Palantir,” the Dwemer image capturing device. I believe its name translates to “Memory Crystal,” probably because of the large decagon-shaped crystal the size of an arrowhead set into the center of the thing.

Sometimes I wish I didn’t have this damn device, even if it is useful. I sure as hell wish the Legion healers hadn’t implanted the damn remote for it into my damn head after I stole it from the Thalmor. It hurt like hell, and it took two weeks to master the Illusion spells that allowed it to work. Sometimes it still hurts before a storm.

This morning the bloody thing wouldn’t capture any more images. I had to make camp this afternoon and open it with the Dwemer tools I’ve collected over the years. I was surprised to discover that a torchbug had somehow gotten inside. Hell if I know how, the device is only two inches thick. I removed the bug, cleaned out the dust, then reassembled it.

It worked again, but then the remote flashed its light in my eye over a dozen times. It should only flash as many times as I have images stored inside, and I only should have had six images. I took out some paper and began transferring the images to paper. I still don’t know how the Memory Crystal does that, Alteration I think.

First the six images I captured were transferred to paper, but there were more, and they looked damn strange.

They seem to be ragged fragments of a single image, like puzzle pieces. There were ten of them of different sizes and shapes. I’ve never seen anything like them.

They maybe look like someone tried to capture an image of a document, but they developed extremely badly. I certainly didn’t take them. I wonder how long they were there? I’ll have to see if I can reassemble these pieces.

Letter #3: From Gerrick to Elenwen

22nd of Last Seed, 4E 201

To the Esteemed Elenwen, First Emissary of the Thalmor:

Please forgive my delay in sending this report. Kethrina has somehow obtained a horse that is clearly not mortal. Her journal entry refers to it as a “spectral horse,” and I believe it. It is able to travel faster than any other animal I have ever seen, run for hours without tiring, and leap off hundred foot cliffs without it or its rider being harmed. It is extremely difficult to keep up.

I believe we have discovered one of the reasons why Kethrina was so dangerous to us. As the enclosed journal entry illustrates, she possesses a form of elemental magic that is not only lethal, but also allowed her to mimic certain kinds of accidents and natural occurrences.

After Kethrina entered the main hall of this school, I procured a student’s robe and followed her. It was obvious she knew a few of these professors personally (a list of their names is enclosed), as they conversed like friends. She also purchased a large number of spells.

I observed her practice with those new spells in the outdoor training area, which is full of wolves and frostbite spiders. She was able to simulate rock slides, freeze water in a wolf’s lungs, literally blow spiders away with gales, cause fiery explosions and electrical storms that rendered monsters to ash, and other effects I am currently unable to describe or explain! I could not help but be impressed.

It is clear that this school of witchcraft, which I have learned has no ties to any other organization, is extremely dangerous, far more than the College of Winterhold and the Synod. For this, I strongly advise that it should be either taken over or shut down.

However, I believe I may have discovered a potential weakness. The word walls Kethrina describes are the curved walls covered in dragon runes, located in in Nordic ruins and purported dragon lairs atop mountains. I have witnessed the effects. A single word on the wall glows, the air is filled with chanting, and the moment she touches the word, she staggers and clutches her head. From that reaction and her mentioning of the herbs lavender, willow bark, and peppermint, I believe she is experiencing acute head pain.

Why this is happening is a fascinating mystery. These events only occur when Kethrina approaches the walls, and not when the bandits, rogue conjurers, necromancers, or forsworn who often congregate around these walls approach them. I have already contacted a number of historians who have studied these walls, and I should receive more information soon.

In any case, if we have a team of enforcers nearby when she experiences this reaction, they may have enough of an advantage and be able to capture or kill her. Please let me know if this would be possible.

Sincerely Yours,

Gerrick

For the glory of the Aldmeri Dominion!

Journal Entry #2: The School of Witchcraft

21st of Last Seed, 4E 201

I visited the School of Witchcraft and Wizardry today. I had to ride for two days, which is a long trip. If I didn’t have Nyx, my spectral horse, the trip probably would’ve taken four days or longer.

The place has changed since the last time I was here. There used to be pseudo open sky above the classrooms where two pale moons would circle each other. It was unnerving at times, but they were soothing to watch after I got used to it. Now there’s a ceiling instead. I suppose I understand why, but it makes the place darker.

Some of the teachers I knew before the Great War are still here, and they’ve advanced their studies of elemental, blood, and holy magic since I last met them. It was nice talking with them again.

Among other topics, we talked about the word walls I’ve found here and there, and the effect they’re having on me. None of them could explain why, although the professor of ancient history promised he’d look into it. I suppose I’ll just have to rely on lavender and willow bark. I really wish I had peppermint though.

I just wish I hadn’t had to go through the Forsworn to get here. Those people are crazier than Khajiit bandits on bad skooma.

Letter #2: From Gerrick to Elenwen

18th of Last Seed, 4E 201

To the Esteemed Elenwen, First Emissary of the Thalmor:

I sincerely regret to report that our operation to execute Kethrina in Helgen with the Stormcloaks failed, and that Kethrina is certainly alive. However, we encountered what may have been the ultimate unforeseen circumstance. Who could have possibly predicted the appearance of a dragon?

The dragon, which you no doubt witnessed yourself, wrecked the entire village. The situation turned into complete havoc. The Justiciars we had standing by in case the Imperials somehow failed were killed by the dragon. In the confusion, Kethrina escaped, along with Ulfric Stormcloak and a number of his rebels. We are not certain of the exact number of escapees, as many of the corpses are burnt beyond any kind of identification.

I haven’t heard anything about your condition. I pray you escaped without injury.

I managed to follow Kethrina to Riverwood where she stayed for a few hours. After which she went to a number of caves, camps, and ruins. Although I could not follow her inside these places, what I did see indicates she is reverting to her adventurer and mercenary roots, killing the bandits and other vermin infesting these places, then looting the corpses for supplies and coin.

As indicated by the journal entry I delivered previously, Kethrina is avoiding the large towns and cities. As she herself suggested, it will be more difficult to find her. However, it will also mean more opportunities to send our enforcers to kill her without being seen.

On a side note, “amonta de' toya” appears to come from a Maormer dialect (it’s a curse meaning “god damn it”). It appears Kethrina spent some time in Pyandonea, which would explain why we lost track of her about a decade ago. However, how she managed to get there has yet to be discovered.

It also appears that Kethrina is still making use of that illusion spell and associated device that she stole from us to capture images and imprint them onto paper.

Sincerely Yours,

Gerrick

For the glory of the Aldmeri Dominion!