As Etain worked her way around Riverwood on the other side she passed an old mine door that looked abandoned. But she heard a voice speak to her as she passed it. “Etain, when you are done up at High Hrothgar seek out the seeker of the Orb Of The Divines. You will need her; it is for you alone. No one else can find it.” Then all went quiet. Etain thought I’ll ask Rosenlyn if she knows anything about it once we are at the campsite.
She continued her way up to near the Standing Stones. And just sat down waiting for Rosenlyn. Rosenlyn appeared and Etain said come on I have a question for you. We might need some guidance from Azura on it though. Rosenlyn said, “Something happened didn’t it, on your way up here. Yes, but I am not speaking about I until we get to the campsite. Let’s go. We can work our way to the Mill and grab the boat there.
They both stood up and walked their way down the road toward Falkreath. When they got to the Mill Etain asked, Do they always work so much in the evening like that.?” Rosenlyn laughed, “Etain they are both Vampires.” Etain said, “Really, you mean they all followers of Molag Bal?”
Rosenlyn replied, “No, their becoming vampires was not by choice. They were both followers of Mara before that happened. Now they just try to live a quiet life here at the Mill. They don’t harm people; they hunt animals only and get what they need from them. “ “Okay then, let’s get the boat and get across to the campsite.” They found the boat was already waiting for them. Do they always bring it back here?” “Yeah, they assume if I am gone for a couple of days that I am out running around Skyrim somewhere and will eventually need it to return to the campsite. “
They both climbed into the boat and used it to return to the campsite. Once there Etain just flicked her fingers, and a roaring campfire was lit in under the cooking kettle. Rosenlyn said, “Okay you seem to be in a hurray so let me get some tea on and then we can talk about it.”
The both helped to prepare the tea and get the kettle on the fire. They both sat down on some of the tree stumps that had been tuned into benches. Rosenlyn then said, “What’s this about?” Etain asked, “What do you know about “The Orb of the Divines” Rosenlyn thought, “Nothing, we better ask Azura. I am betting she knows. She stood up and Rosenlyn said, “No, Etain, you’re not strong enough for that climb tonight. She’ll come to us here, just give me a moment.
Etain watched Rosenlyn pull back her hood, kneel down upon the ground then look up to the mountain temple and then suddenly a light appeared above her, and she bowed to show she was submitting to her will. Azura said, “Etain, I am happy to see your recovering after your little show of reality bending at the barrow.” Etain came and sat with Rosenlyn, “Thank you Azura!” So Rosenlyn would not have called me here if it weren’t important! Out with it!” Etain said, “What do you know about ‘The Orb of The Divines?’” Azura replied, “How do you know about that already?”
Etain said, “I was trying find a quiet path past Riverwood, there was a little bit of an incident with the Mages from the College Earlier. I wanted to spend some time alone tonight afterwards, here with Rosenlyn. I was passing an Old Abandoned mine across from Riverwood and something spoke to me.” “Tell me what it said?” Etain said, “A voice spoke my name as I passed the mine. It said when you are done up at High Hrothgar seek out the seeker of the Orb Of The Divines. You will need her; it is for you alone. No one else can find it.”
Azura was quiet for a moment then said, “Actually that makes sense although none of us have thought about the Orb since its creation right after Nirn came into existence.” Etain asked, “So it is that old, what is it?” “ It is a powerful artifact that is in someways like an Elder Scroll but different. “ Rosenlyn asked this time, “How is it different?”
Azura said, “ The Orb of the Divines was created by us. Even though it has the power to act as the scrolls do speaking of the past, present, and future. It also has the power to grant great power but only to the one who is chosen. You Etain, of course that makes sense that it would be she that had come to rewrite a new era into place.”
Azura then said, “ It said that its seeker was nearby right?” Etain said, “No, it simply said to find her.” Azura said give me a moment. She vanished and then reappeared. Arkay has told me she is currently in Whiterun. She has taken up residence with the Jarl there as she heard of all these incredible occurrences happening here and thought she might be able to help.”
Etain asked, “Do you know her name?” Azura said, yes her name is Adelaide, she is from the College of Whispers. A powerful mage and one that is not so judgmental as the ones from Winterhold. Azura said, “Seek her out when your journey is done to High Hrothgar. You’ll like her she is a lot like Rosenlyn?” Etain laughed, “Oh I am not sure I am ready for two of her, thank you.”
Azura said, “Her knowledge of the histories, lore and even lost languages is like no other. She is like a walking library of all the books ever written about Nirn.” Etain said, “Thank you Azura, now I need to get some rest. It’s been an exhausting couple of weeks.” Azura then said, “Kyne said she will watch over you both tonight so rest well. Also, Kyne has spoken to her Champion, he is going to quietly gather the others and have them leave and meet you all here at the campsite. That will give you some time to recover some more. Oh and Etain, don’t worry about her Champion, regardless of his conflict he would lay down his life for you.” Etain said once more, “Again, thank you for everything.”
She vanished and Etain said, is there room in that tent of yours for two, I don’t want to be alone tonight. I’d rather have my sister watching over me. Rosenlyn said, of course come along. Let’s get you tucked in.”
Back at the inn the mages were at a lost as to what to do. Saros said, “I am returning to the College. She obviously has decided she no longer wants our help.” Sotha Sil then said, “Why is that Savos?” Sotha Sil then said, “A word of caution Savos, this path you are choosing to take. If it puts you at odds with her, I think you can begin to count your final days.” Savos said, “ I am not worried about this so-called chosen one. She wouldn’t dare to raise a finger against me!”
Sotha Sil said, “You’re right! Etain would not do that, but Akatosh, the father of time and her mother, St Alessia! That is a fire I would not want to test.” Savos created a portal and stepped through it and was gone. Colette said, I am leaving the College and pledging my service to her, if she’ll have me. Maribelle said, I am too, I don’t know what dark path Savos is on, but it is a dangerous one.”
Leoht then said, “Has anyone been able to track her?” “No, the last we heard she and Rosenlyn were sitting out on the bridge that crosses the Whiterun River sharing their meal and tea together.” Maribelle said, “let me go and speak with the others. They will have to make up their own minds as to where to put the loyalties.”
Maribelle said, “she spent a great deal of time at Dragonreach with the Jarls there. I think that should be our next stop to see if they know anything about what her plans were after the incident at Bleak Falls Barrow. We’ll stay here tonight but be prepared to leave tomorrow morning for Whiterun.”
Leoht said, “I am coming with you then. I need to follow where she goes. I don’t understand Savos and his refusal to accept this. By the way, does anyone know what happened to some of the others, many have disappeared. You mean Delphine, Celestine, Hadvar, and some of the others?”
Sotha Sil then said, “They are all secretly joining her for her next journey. A long and dangerous journey that will be. I am returning to speak with Akatosh, I need to learn more of what is going on here. Your plan to go to Whiterun is a good one. They know where she intends to go next, but I sense something incredibly old here. Hidden, waiting for her. I did not know it was actually a real thing but apparently it spoke to her.”
Maribelle asked, “What spoke to her, “The Orb of the Divines!” “Maribelle said, “I thought that was myth, but it makes sense with her ties to the Elder Blood. Does she know?” Sotha Sil said, “ Yes, she is fully aware and has already spoken with Azura about it. However, I do not think she intends to look for it until she returns from her next journey. Go now, I can say no more. Get to Whiterun tomorrow, the answers you seek are there.”
The next morning Rosenlyn and Etain heard footsteps approaching the campsite. They figure it was some of them that were asked to go with her and Rosenlyn on the next journey. They were surprised to see the whole crew show up. Alea came in first and said that smells good. I hope there’ enough for all of us.” Rosenlyn said, “ Yep and how is that you are all arriving at once?”
Kyen’s Champion said, “The mages had a big discussion about you and Etain last night. Savos returned to the college but Collette, Maribelle, and Leoht the Psijic mage said they all plan on going to Whiterun to discover what your next plans are. They are going to leave the College and pledge themselves to you. They hope you can forgive them for Savos bad action.
Sotha Sil warned Savos that the path he was taking would eventual put him front and center to your father and mother. Sotha Sil left, he told us he was going to spend some time with your father and mother so he had a better understanding of what is actually going on so he can better advise the rest of the Psijic Order what is needed.”
Etain said, “I could sense that Sotha Sil was a good person. Kyne’s Champion laughed then, “you did something that really surprised him by hugging him and thanking him. It was uniquely heart felt. He became your ally once that happened.” “Rosenlyn joked, “Yeah Etain tends to have that effect on you doesn’t she?”
The all laughed and then Hadvar said, “It the original plan still in place. High Hrothgar next?” “Yes but settle in because I need a little more time to recover before we begin that journey. “ Alea came over and sat close to Etain. “Can I ask you something?” Etain replied, “Of course what is it?” “Why me, why not Fanedal?” Because Fanedal has served me well, but this is the harsh wilderness. I sense that you skills and more seasoned knowledge of wood lore and nature will be better for this trip. Also, you know how to heal well and if anyone gets injured. I expect you’ll be able to help.”
Etain thought for a moment, “This is a unique trip. There are great libraries I hear up in High Hrothgar. I think the journey will be good for you to experience something outside your normal role for the Companions.”
Alea said, “Thank you Etain you do me great honor but allowing me to go with you and yes, a chance to actually get inside the Monastery. That’ a once in a lifetime chance.” She asked Hadvar then, “How are Alvor, Sigrid, and Dorthe doing?” They are doing well, happy to take on a more normal pace for a while. Dorthe was really mad at the mages though. She just didn’t understand why it was so hard for them to hold hands.”
Etain said, “ Neither did I, I still don’t but I have heard that some of them have pledged themselves to our cause. That is good for we will need them.” Hadvar said, Collette was the first one to speak up for you. “ I am not surprised, it will be good to have her along and I really like Maribelle too.”
Etain asked, “Okay what’s the best route from this campsite to Ivarstead? I think the climb up the mountain will be hard; I need to stop and spend time with each of the stones on the up the 7,000 steps.” But it is a long way between here and there. Alea said, “You’ll not like this but the road past Helgen is the straight shot into the Ivarstead. There will be plenty of dangers along the way.”
Etain asked, “Is there a way to get there without going past Helgen. I have so many ghosts there, I rather not get too close to it on this trip.” Alea, said, “there is another way, It will be a little longer, but it should bring us up near Fort Neugrad.” Hadvar said, “That place is wall to wall bandits. We will need to pass there early in the morning when most are asleep and there are minimal guards on duty.”
Alea said, I can find a way to do that.” Etain asked, “How cold and how high is the mountain pass leading over the mountain to Ivarstead?” Rosenlyn said, “Cold, snowy, icy, possible trolls. It could be pretty dangerous. I say we stop in Falkreath. Etain, we can sneak in early morning pass into the Jarl’s Hall. “
“I hear they may have returned there from Whiterun. If we can get to Nenya, provide her with funds, she can get us some cold weather clothing and supplies to make it over the pass and down into the warmer climate of Ivarstead. Well, at least until we begin the ascent to High Hrothgar.”
Rosenlyn then looked at Delphine, “What’s wrong Delphine, you don’t look too good, are you good for this trip?” Delphine said,” The Greybeards will not be happy to see a blade in your company. We have been at odds a long time. Also, since we are sworn Dragon Hunters that will not go over well with them. “
Etain came over to her then, knelt on one knee and place one hand on Delphine’s shoulder. “ Is that what you still are? After everything we just went through or are you sworn now to our higher cause? To restore the honor of the Blades by pledging yourself to our cause to create a new age. One where all us, regardless of who we are, what we are, we can still live among each other in honor and as equals?”
Etain waited, silence fell upon the camp. Then Etain said after long moments, “You have two days to decide. We leave for Ivarstead on the morning of the third day. Either come with us or take your own path. However, understand this. If you take up the sword again against my brother and sisters you go against me.” You will not be able to undo that broken trust!” Etain leaned in then and kiss her on the forehead.
Rosenlyn, “Yes, take Delphine on the pilgrimage to Azura’s temple. Ask Azura when you get there to help Delphine understand what is at stake here.” You sure about that?” Delphine, will you go with her?” Delphine looked at Etain, then said, “Yes, I will go!” Rosenlyn said well come on. Hope you have some warm clothing with you or a tolerance for cold, because you will need it if we have to climb that path to the top of the mountain.”
Etain, was hurt by this more then she cared to admit to anyone. Then she said, “Of course, it’s Alduin. He can no longer use his dark magic on me but everyone else in the party he sure can.” She spoke to Kyne’s Champion and told him what was going on. He said, “Kneel with me, place your sword in front of mine. Then hold one hand on yours and one on mine. Let me complete a prayer to Kyne to see if she can lift it. It should work for us. Hopefully, Azura will detect the issue with Delphine, although I worry that it runs deeper than just Alduin. “
Etain followed Kyne’s Champion example and then she closed her eyes and asked her father and mother for help to lift the curse that had been place on everyone with her. The red diamond flare in her sword and his came to life as well with a bright halo surround it. Then the light expanded and engulfed the campsite. Everyone else there passed out as the curse Alduin had secretly placed on them was lifted.
It was not all that long before they came out of the unconscious state and realized that something had happen in the camp. When their unconscientious minds return to life they seen Etain and Kyne’s Champion kneeling together surrounded by a Halo so bright. Etain heard in her mind. Daughter we have lifted the curse from those within the camp and contacted Azura so she can do the same for The Blade, named Delphine.”
High above Rosenlyn and Delphine were on the last leg of the pilgrimage to the secret temple and shrine of Azura when they saw a large flash from down where the campsite was located. Delphine asked Rosenlyn, “Shouldn’t we see what that was about. Something must have happened down there? “
Rosenlyn then had Azura call to her mentally, “They are okay, bring Delphine to me, there is something I must do.” Rosenlyn replied to Delphine, “Come! Azura just told me they are fine. She’s waiting for us up there.” Delphine balked at first, “I am pledged to protect her!” Rosenlyn then asked, “So you have decided to drop your hatred of the Dragons and join Etain!”
Delphine looked confused then. Rosenlyn then reached out to her and sent a shock wave through her. She crumpled to the ground and Rosenlyn picked her up, threw her over her shoulders, and said, “Darn, Delphine! You’re heavy! No more second helpings for you!” Rosenlyn reached the temple, opened the door, and carried her in.
The spirit of Azura was waiting. “Lay her down before the alter.” She did so then Azura said, “Prepare yourself, she has had a curse of spirit placed on her by Alduin.” Rosenlyn immediately said, “What! What about Etain and the rest of them at the campsite?” Azura assured her, “They are fine, Etain realized what had happened and Kyne’s Champion and her combined their powers to lift the curse from the others.”
Rosenlyn said, “So that’s what that big flash was we saw down near the campsite!” Azura replied, “Yes, that is what it was!” I need your help Rosenlyn. Kneel and place your hand upon Delphine. I am going to use you as a conduit to reach deep within her and lift the curse. I will also place a magical ward around you so it cannot jump hosts.!” Rosenlyn asked, “It can do that!” “Yes, it was a powerful spell that Alduin placed on them to undermine the security Etain seeks from her connections to others.”
Rosenlyn reach out and touched Delphine’s heart. She then bowed her head and Azura reached out to Rosenlyn. Using her ability she set up a ward around Rosenlyn first then sent a conduit of divine power through Rosenlyn and into Delphine’s heart. The light grew brighter and Azura said, “Alduin does not want to let go of this one. He must see something buried in her that he had planned on using in some way against Etain.”
Rosenlyn did something then. It surprised Azura but it worked. She followed the example Etain had shown her. She pulled out her long knife, cut open her hand again. Just a small nick this time. She took her open hand and finger and touched her own blood, then brought her blood stained finger to her lips kissed it and then touched Delphine’s forehead.”
There was a sudden flare and Rosenlyn said, “One heart, one life, we are one, sister!” A great red mist rose from Delphine then twisting in agony from the extraction. Azura spread her holy radiance and filled the temple chamber. The red mist exploded and then they heard a loud roar from somewhere up high. Azura said, “It is done and Akatosh’s child is not happy about it.!”
The eyes of Delphine began to open, and she said, Rosenlyn, where am I? What happened to me?” Rosenlyn said, “It’s okay Delphine, Alduin was unable to touch Etain, so he placed a cursed spell on all of you. You in particular, he must have had some special plans for as he was not happy when Azura and I removed the spell from you.” Rosenlyn, said here, drink some sips of this, it will help you!”
Delphine slowly sat up. Then said, “Thank you Rosenlyn and Azura. Thank you for saving me.! However, I am tired.!” Rosenlyn said over there are a couple of resting places, take one and get some rest. “You’ll feel better in the morning.” Rosenlyn then asked, “Do you remember what Etain asked of you earlier today? “ Delphine replied, “ No, I remember nothing at all!”
Rosenlyn stopped in contemplation for a moment then continued, “While you sleep think on this. Etain needs you Delphine, she needs you heart and soul dedicated to what she has been tasked with bringing to this world. You know how hard this is on her!” It would be nice if you decided about whether you are dedicated to that cause before we return.”
Delphine said, “I will, thank you both again. “ She closed her eyes and was sound asleep. Azura then said, get some rest daughter of Azura. I am so proud of what you did for her.” She laid down on a bed next to where Delphine slept and was fast asleep as Azura watched over them both.”
The next morning came and Rosenlyn woke up Delphine, gave her some water, some food consisting of bread, beef tack, and some cheese. She asked, “Are you ready to head back to camp to meet with the others?” Delphine asked Rosenlyn, “ Do you know whether every else in camp was okay and if the spell had been lifted from them?”
Rosenlyn replied, “Yes, the great light we saw before entering the temple last night was Etain and Kyne’s Champion doing that.” Delphine said everything before you and Azura lifted Alduin’s spell from me is a fog.” Rosenlyn knelt before the ancient shrine of Azura and gave her thanks for helping her and Delphine. Then the both left and began the descent down the mountain to the camp again.
Once they were both down the larger part of the way to the camp. Rosenlyn stopped and spoke with Delphine. “Let me speak with Etain first, since you have little memory of what occurred before I need time to let Etain know what has happened. Okay?”
Delphine said, “Of course, hopefully they’ll have some of your excellent stew left in that magic kettle of yours.” They both laughed then continued the way down and across to the camp. Rosenlyn thought deeply about what had occurred to them. “She mused Alduin is not just powerful he is incredibly intelligent to determine a path such as that to undermine Etain’s path forward.”
Delphine and Rosenlyn were nearing the camp and Delphine called out, “I hope you haven’t empty that pot of Rosenlyn’s delicious stew yet?” Rosenlyn heard them laughing, and then a call came out from Celestine, “No Delphine we left a few bowls of it left for you. Welcome back!”
Rosenlyn thought quietly, “It is good that they are all growing closer to each other, beginning to feel the trust that Etain needs them have with each other. She will need that strength of character in the coming days.”
Rosenlyn then thought, “I hope Etain will listen to me concerning Delphine. That was such a powerful spell that Alduin used against the team and specifically Delphine.” She quietly gave thanks to Azura again. Then she smiled, “That’s it! If Etain won’t listen to reason I shall throw her over my shoulder in dump her into the cold morning waters of the lake. That will shock her!”
They arrived at camp and began to walk into it. However, the pilgrimage to reclamation was just beginning for Delphine.
**