It was getting near dinner time when Etain came through the door she had previously passed through to retire and spend some quite time with her thoughts. She opened the door, then asked Delphine and Celestine, “ Is dinner was almost ready?” They both replied, “Yes, Etain!” Etain asked, “How long do we have?” Delphine replied, “About an hour I think!” Etain thanked her but then said, “ I want both of you to go and relax until dinner. Get a nice warm bath maybe, okay?” Both of them said, “Yes, and thank you!”
She walked over to where Rosenlyn was busy with the dinner preparations. She smiled and asked, “May I have a taste?” Rosenlyn said, “Of course!” She dipped the ladle into the pot , then raise it to Etain’s lips. Etain blew gently on it and then told Rosenlyn, “ I suggest a bit of crushed Garlic, some finely crushed Bazil, and a pinch of ground up cinnamon.” Rosenlyn replied, “Cinnamon, really!”
Etain smiled at Rosenlyn and walked over to a central dining table to sit down. Once the evening meal was made ready and placed for each person at the table. Everyone sat down and then silently waited to see what Etain would do in terms of blessings.
Etain looked to Rosenlyn and asked, “Rosenlyn, will you provide the blessing for this meal and gathering?” Rosenlyn smiled then said, “Well Etain, let me give them my version of you first and then I will complete it with my true heart’s verse.” Rosenlyn bowed her head and everyone else did similar as they all held hands. Rosenlyn began,
“In a village where ducks loved to jest,
Fought not against those who disagreed, as they best.
But for those who just yearned to be free,
Wiped tears, lifted burdens, and danced in the spree.
A beacon of joy, in the night so bright,
Proved that kindness is truly might!
So chuckle and smile, let your heart take flight,
For in every laugh, the world feels just right.
Stand with a giggle, embrace every plight,
For in lifting each other, we sparkle and ignite!
Fight for connection, with humor as your art,
For the giggles we share, show we’re keen from the start!”
Rosenlyn paused for effect, then she said,
“Here we gather together, our merry family,
To enjoy another dinner, provided by none other than me,
Enjoy the food, the drink, and the company,
Don’t forget to belch, so I know you haven’t forgotten me!”
They all laughed together and Etain leaned over and hugged Rosenlyn saying, “Thank you for being you. I would be lost without your heart!” The all enjoyed a delicious meal, and the conversation was cheerful and helped to lift the hearts of the company. Then Etain asked, “We need to begin the planning for our journey into Bruma and its Castle keep. What are your concerns and ideas? “
Alea spoke first, “Rosenlyn, you said there is an unknown entrance into the Castle keep that we can use. How do we get to it without being discovered either by locals or agents who might be looking everywhere to find us?”
Rosenlyn replied, “The most dangerous time will be when we cross the road down below Rielle. Once we are across it though we can quickly hide our tracks into the deep snows and pine trees that surround Bruma. There is a small passage between two cliffs that I can guide us to. Once past it, the cliffs will hide us completely from anyone as we make our way up the mountain following the stream that flows out of the castle keep. “
Hadvar then spoke up, “If I may suggest, we should have Alea scout ahead. The rest of us can stay hidden in the tree line that surrounds Rielle.” Hadvar stood up then and went to Alea and said once it is clear for us to move, tie this Imperial handkerchief to a post. Imperial patrols use those all the time as markers and no one will give it a second thought.” Hadvar then seated himself again.
Delphine asked then, “The current Countess of Bruma and her advisors! Are there going to be any issues because I am a blade? You know it wasn’t just me that felt let down through the generations of our failure to protect the Emperor and his sons. Many of the families of royal descent disowned us as well.”
Rosenlyn replied this time, “The current Countess of Bruma is family to both Etain and myself. Once she is advised she will be committed to whatever Etain’s goals are. She has no great love for the Imperial Counsel. She has declared the city as a free city again. The Imperial City does not care this time. They see Bruma as a cold Nordic region that they are happy to stay away from as long as Bruma continues to provide mining materials and border patrol.”
Rosenlyn then turned to Etain, “I cannot protect you this time. The very stone of Bruma will echo to you. The stories of our generational sacrifice and love echo everywhere you go in Bruma. I would caution you to prepare yourself for the onslaught that will likely occur.”
Rosenlyn rose and hugged her friend and sister. “ I am sorry Etain, but this is something you must do if you are to understand those that wait for you someday on that remote island. You know their daughter will be there! She is excited to meet you as they all are. “
Delphine and Celestine came to Etain then, each one leaned in to hug her. “We are here for you Etain, we will support you however you need, as you walk through these trails ahead. We are sisters in this now bound by more than duty but by love of family.”
Etain asked, “Anything else?” Then let’s begin final preparations, we leave in an hour. She stepped away to grab her cloak that Nenaya had given her. But before she could finish putting it on, Rosenlyn came over and said, “Careful now sister, I know you’re worried about the ghost of the past but do not forget those who have pledge their very lives to you.”
Etain turned towards her and Rosenlyn saw the crushing weight of her fear. She was crying silently and Rosenlyn wrapped her harms around her saying, “We’re all here for you Etain. If we could walk this path for you any one of us would. The best we can do is be there with you. I love you sister. Don’t let this eat you up inside before we even get started.”
Etain hugged her back. The others in the company were watching from the shadows. They knew that for Etain, this would be difficult. Etain finished putting her cloak on and then said, “Time to go!” They all walked together back outside, across the courtyard and past the statue of Akatosh. Etain took a moment to drop to one knee and ask, “Father and Mother, please be with me as I travel this path. I will need you both.”
They then walked to the gates. They swung open for her as she approached them. Once they were all outside of the gates. Etain turned and said to them, “Bex Ni Erei Hi Haalvut Fin Sos Do Fin Dovah!” There was a flash of light that sparked and then Etain said to them, “ I told it to ‘Open Not Until You Feel The Blood Of The Dragon’.”
They made their way back across to Rielle, the old Ayleid Ruin, then down the path into the thick grove of pine trees that surrounded Rielle on the lower part. Rosenlyn pointed out the way to Alea and said, “There’s a gap between the fence there. Place the cloth that Hadvar gave you on the post once you feel certain the way is clear. We will quickly come down and across. Once were past the fence. We can lose ourselves amongst the deep snows, forests, and rocks below.”
Alea made her way down watching for any patrols or vendors carrying trades between borders pass the road below. The snows began to pick up which would be good as it would help cover their tracks. Alea was seen crossing the road, she waited a bit and then she tied the cloth to the post and disappeared further down.
Etain whispered to the group, “Let’s go folks, quickly. I’ll cover our tracks once were across the road.” They made their way down and across. All of them went downward except Etain. She knelt to one knee and bowed. She said, “Mother and sisters please cover our passage.” The winds picked up and the snows increased. She stood took the cloth and then disappeared down below.
It didn’t take her long before she joined the others. Rosenlyn said, “So you covered our tracks?” Etain smiled and said, “Well, I had a little bit of help!” They quietly laughed and then the group disappeared between the cliffs and the falling snows.
The group made their way alongside of the stream that ran down from the hidden entrance. When they got up to it Etain asked Rosenlyn, “Is that the sewer outlet for Bruma?” Rosenlyn laughed and replied, “Come on Etain, I thought you like making quiet entries. Remember Whiterun?” Etain replied, “Okay, so what’s the plan once we’re in there?”
Rosenlyn said, “I’ll lead you around to where there’s a hatch in the ceiling. That is the way into the keep. Once we’re in I want you to stay hidden where we come up. No one ever comes down there other than the guard. They won’t cycle through again until after lunch. I’ll go up and meet with the Countess or her Advisors to let them know we are here. They can guide us to where they want to meet and make sure no one disturbs us.”
She paused a moment then said, the Countess is likely to have her advisor and maybe a few others with her. They can all be trusted so don’t worry. She then looked at Etain. Rosenlyn felt she would be okay with so many people surrounding her.
Rosenlyn looked at Hadvar and said, “Hadvar, a little help here so I can reach the hatch. Hadvar and Alea lifted her up and she opened the large metal hatch. She climbed up then said, “I’m going to close it again until I speak with them as a precaution.” They watched the hatch close and then waited.
Etain saw something sparkle in the water, she reached down and moved some soil, and rocks around. When she picked it lose she discovered it was a locket. She knelt down and washed the dirt and grim away from it. Hadvar asked, “Etain, what did you find?” Etain answered Hadvar, “ I think it’s a locket. I’m looking for a latch to see if there’s anything inside of it.”
She clicked it open and inside was a painting of a women who looked a lot like her, standing next to her was a young girl who resembled her mother. There was an inscription on the lid, “To one who would light the way!” Etain realized with sudden sureness who it was and she fell to her knees weeping. Immediately, ghostly images began to appear all around them. All the group could see them.
Etain and the group watched in silence as they saw a series of images play out. A younger version of the lady in the locket with a man behind her. They hugged and they heard him say, “Maybe we should tell them!” The women said, “Dragonborn, No! Are you kidding me we agreed to keep it quiet for now. Then she reached up and kissed him. She said, “You know I love you right!” Then she said, “I fear that more than anything else right now. Can we maybe just stay with the original plan?” He said, “You know I would do anything for you!” then he lifted her up and they both climbed into the keep.
Delphine and Celestine along with Hadvar were helping Etain to stand. Hadvar asked, Echoes again?” Etain said, “Yes, It was her and her daughter in the painting inside the locket. That must have been them and my gosh they loved each other so much. You saw that right!” They all nodded. Then another series of images formed, this time it was her again in a nightgown along with her daughter. They jumped down through the hatch and the young girl slipped and fell. Her locket got caught on an old piece of metal sticking up and it broke off and fell under the water.
They both looked worried, in a hurry. Then they heard the mother say, “Come on, we have to reach the deep forest before they find us. Your father will know will to find us. Let’s go.” Etain watched the ghostly figures run towards the entry door and then the images were gone. The hatch up above opened and Rosenlyn called out, “What happened? I was speaking with the Countess and her advisors when all of a sudden ghostly images began to appear all throughout the keep!”
Hadvar replied, “Etain found something, a locket that belong to the same girl she saw in her dream in the Ayleid Ruin, it also has her daughter in the locket.” Rosenlyn cried out, “What, you found that. But it has been missing for a long time.” Let’s get Etain up here. I have the Captain and some of the loyal guards with me. Lift her up here will you and then we’ll drop a ladder down so the rest of you can follow. Make sure you pull up the ladder and close the hatch when done. We’re meeting in the main room where formal meetings were held.
They lifted Etain up, she was still sobbing clutching the locket. Rosenlyn said, “Etain, put the locket in your pocket. I need you to pull yourself together. There’s likely going to be more of this before we leave here. We need to have a serious meeting about strategy and such. Can you do that?”
Etain replied, “Yes! She took a deep breath and put the locket in an inside pocket of the hooded robe she still wore. She looked at Rosenlyn and said, “Thanks, I’ll be okay now. Let’s get everyone up here then head for the meeting. Can they bring me some hot tea and maybe some cheese and bread?” The captain turned and order one of the guards to get things prepared. The captain said that my great grandfather knew her, served her with honor. Let me help you Etain to the room, take my arm.”
Etain replied, “That’s truly kind of you! What’s your name?” The captain replied, “My family name is Grimboldus. We’re not supposed to let people know our first name. I am sorry my lady.” They made it to the room, and everyone rose to their feet that were sitting at the tables.
Etain saw the picture on the wall and was immediately drawn to it. She thanked the Captain for the escort and walked past everyone without saying a word. Rosenlyn came to her side. Etain asked, “That’s her isn’t it?” Rosenlyn said, “Yes! That is from a very long time ago. She had been given the title of Countess of Bruma when that painting was done of her.”
Etain, I will take you on a tour later tonight but for now, we need to show proper respect. Let me make introductions. There is much you can learn from them, and they in turn can learn from you.”
Etain pulled herself together internally. Rosenlyn walked with her to make introductions. They came before the Countess first and Rosenlyn said, “Etain, may I introduce our host; Countess Dearbh Oralaith Dia.” Etain replied, “Daughter of the golden princess and Sovereign to our father.” Rosenlyn said, “She is the granddaughter of the girl seen in your locket.” Etain reached out and gently touched both her hands saying, “Thank you for hosting us here in your home.!”
Etain was then introduced to Ferelith daughter of Nataniel Malachi, the advisor from previous age, now visiting his homeland of Summerset Isles. “ Ferelith said that my father will be heartbroken that he did not get to meet you.”
Etain was quickly introduced to the rest and then they sat down. Tea was brought in along with a small spread of twisted hot bread, cheese, and fruit. They sat down and then the Countess said, “We noticed a great deal of activity from the old Blades temple last night. Etain replied, “Could Ruler Temple. Yes, it was happy to see the return of one of its own.”
Etain then said, “My sincere apologies but can we skip the court protocols. I am sure Rosenlyn has advised you already that I have not come to support and uphold the practices established but to bring about an age of equality for us all.”
Countess Dearbh replied, “Thank the nine, I was hoping we could sit and get to know each other a bit without constantly worrying about who’d we upset.” Etain laughed then, “Please, everyone. Let’s have a conversation about what is needed before I find my way to the Imperial City. I know it is a very long road ahead and we shall need all the help we can find along the way.“
They spent a good evening together as Etain guided the conversations towards making sure each new person there felt like they had an opportunity to discuss their concerns and considerations as well as knowing that Etain and the others she brought with her were engaged and committed to the values she demonstrated throughout the evening.
It was getting late, and the Countess noticed she was growing tired. “You must be getting tire Etain. We have made sure the original room of your ancestor was made ready for you and Rosenlyn per Rosenlyn’s request. Additionally, there are two rooms upstairs on either side of yours for you Delphine and Celestine to use. Downstairs there is a hallway that has many guest rooms for the rest of your group. “
Etain rose, along with Rosenlyn and others said their goodnights. The Countess said she would see them all at breakfast. She told them she had some duties she had to attend to for the citizens but would be available for a time in the morning, at lunch, and again at dinner and on into the evening.
Rosenlyn told the group to follow her. She took them through a connecting door and then to the left and up some stairs. She opened a door that opened directly into the central studio where Rosenlyn and Etain would be staying. She let Delphine and Celestine examine the studio then Rosenlyn said, “You’ll have to split duties while here. There is that entry we just came through. However, there is also this one!” She opened another door and led them into a central reading room with bedrooms on either side.
Rosenlyn showed them the smaller guest room and then another smaller studio where her mother used to stay. Then she walked them through a set of double doors. She said, “Both of these doors open into the reading chamber where we just came through.” She lead them downstairs into another central chamber and then opened a side door.
“These are the chambers of that once were used by the Advisors, Tutors, Counselors, and at times for some guests. All the rooms have been prepared and freshened up as they have not been used for a long time now.” Rosenlyn pointed to another doorway and said, “I would not use that door. It leads into the central receiving chamber that is also used for balls and such. Across the way on the opposite side of it are the guards and captains quarters along with a small area used to house criminals. “
Rosenlyn took a breath and then said, “ I’ll leave it to all of you to decide who gets which room here. Etain and I are going to retire. I need to get her relaxed and ready for sleep. Goodnight, we’ll see you at breakfast.”
Rosenlyn then looked to Etain, “ let’s get ready for some sleep. I don’t know about you, but I am exhausted.” They headed up to the studio bedroom, and they found a night gown laid out on the bed for each of them. Rosenlyn asked Etain, “Which one Etain?” Etain reached out and said, well, that’s easy, that one is shorter and seems to be more suited for my size and that one is longer which will fit you easier. “
Rosenlyn joked with her and said, “Etain you’re so exhausting. You could have picked either one. I mean we’re going to sleep not go strutting through the hallways trying to find a mate for the evening.” They both laughed and then Rosenlyn said, you can change your modest self behind that dressing area over there.
Etain picked up the night gown that was shorter and walked over to the dressing area. She leaned her sword against the wall there in the corner then she slowly changed into the nightgown. When she was done she pulled the locket out of her cloak pocket and clasped it onto her. Then she saw the moonlight shining through the stain glass windows there and reached out to touch the ledge looking up at the moonlight.
The visions came alive instantly. Rosenlyn gasped and said, “ Etain, what are you doing?” However, it was too late and Etain watched a moment where the Countess of her past, who was scared liked her, stood there with a beautiful white, silver, and red dress on. The man she called ‘The Dragonborn’ was standing behind her as she cried and said, “Why is it we can’t have a normal life together? Evey where we go it seems something is following in the shadow to undo our happiness!” The man responded to her gently, “You told me once as we stood before the fireplace downstairs, that things would never be easy for us, that being normal was not in written in our stars.” Then the scene faded.
Etain walked over towards the bed with a blank look on her face. Then another vision formed. This time she saw her in her armor with the crest of Bruma on it. The man was standing there with her. Rosenlyn was seeing it too and said, “Oh no!” Then she said to him, “Would you mind watching over me tonight from the chair by my bedside. I want to know you are close by” There was a moment of silence between them as he searched her eyes. Then he said tenderly, “If that is the closest I can be to you tonight of course, I will be there. You know I would do anything for you.”
She replied as tears rolled down her cheeks, “I am sorry, it is late and I am just too tire.” He said, “Okay, get some sleep, I’ll be there in the morning when you wake up watching over you. “ Then the scene changed again; this time the room was full of other people. Her mother maybe, an older man, she was pregnant, but something was wrong. There was hooded elf there too, she saw the man simply identified as ‘The Dragonborn’ with sword drawn, a two-handed blade with burning runes all along it blade written in the Elder language. Then suddenly assassins sprag through both doors from the Dark Brotherhood.
She screamed out again, “Oh, please not my baby, please don’t hurt our baby.” The man was incredibly powerful and used a shout to blow one wave of the assassins back into the reading room. Then he used his burning sword in a swift movement like she did cutting down the assassins before they knew what hit them. Others were coming to help; she could hear their footsteps. Then as the other group came back at him he swiftly cut them down.
At that moment, a strange man just suddenly appeared. He ran directly for the lady who was trying to give birth. But the man saw him and they fought with fury both of them but in the end ‘The Dragonborn’ ran his burning sword through the strange man.
He crumpled to the floor dead. The man simply known as “The Dragonborn” then ran behind the pulled curtains and temporary changing dividers that had been placed around it. Etain followed him and saw the girl with a baby in her arms crying and yelling, “ Dragonborn, look, we have a daughter, but she’s so quiet, what’s wrong with her my love. “ He dropped to his knees, took their baby, and held it. He kissed it on the forehead and suddenly she began to cry. Etain knew with certainty then who the child was.
It was too much for her emotionally and she slowly walked to the central part of the bedroom and fell to her knees and cried out aloud, “Mother, Father, how could you! Why did you not do anything to help them.” Then she cried something that was so forceful it shook the keep’s foundations. The doors to both entries blew off their hinges and knocked both Delphine and Celestine across the hall and reading room.
Rosenlyn came and wrapped her arms around Etain saying, “I am sorry, I am so sorry Etain” Suddenly, Hadvar, Alea, Delphine, Celestine, Kyne’s Champion, and others were running into the room. They all saw the images of the ghosts of what had happened here and swords were drawn. Then the Countess arrived and saw the fading images and there was Etain lost completely within herself, her nightgown stained red and the carpets soaked with her own blood.
Rosenlyn cried to Kyne’s Champion, “Get her sword, it’s in the corner behind the dressing area. We’re losing her!” The Champion brought the sword to them, and she said bring it here. He stood it up and they gently placed Etain’s hands on it then Rosenlyn gripped it. Both Delphine and Celestine knelt then and placed their hands around both Rosenlyn’s and Etain. “ The red diamond flared to life and a light surrounded them then a voice could be heard. “You must get her to the Chapel, lay her before the alter so her father can come to her. Then they heard, I am sorry my daughter hold on, please hold on.”
Hadvar asked, “Why the chapel? How will that save her?” The Countess said that it is The Chapel of Akatosh now. It has changed names several times throughout the history of Bruma. Once it was called The Chapel of Saint Martin. It has always been tied to that blood line though. He can come there and attend to her. She turned and said Captain Grimboldus, “Get us a stretcher. We’ll take the way through the undercroft to the chapel. Quickly now!”
The captain and some others returned quickly with a stretcher, blankets and soft pillows laid out to keep her comfortable. Rosenlyn told them, “Do not touch the sword, help me to lay her down cover her up and then let’s go. Delphine, Rosenlyn, Celestine, and Alea all helped to move her onto the stretcher and cover her up. Her face had turned as white as snow, and she was losing the battle. So great had the stress been upon her psychic.
They quickly turned down a doorway that was not often used. The captain had to unlock the large metal door. The Countess asked, “Please be silent as we pass through these halls out of respect to those who lay here in eternal sleep.”
As they pass along the silent resting places Etain’s hand fell off the side and slid across the side of one of the stone tombs. There was an immediate explosive response. They all hear the voices of the dead call out to her, “She is here, the chosen one, Akatosh your daughter needs you; we are here for you Etain. Live daughter of past, present, and future, live!”
Etain moaned then and whispered, “Thank you, be at peace!” Everyone walking through those halls of the undercroft had sweat rolling down their faces and sadness in their hearts at hearing that even the dead recognized her.” They finally got to the other side. The priest of Akatosh was waiting with the door open and some others.
Quickly, we have everything ready for her. There is a bed laying across the Altar of Akatosh. We must lay her there. I have the oils and blessings ready. Everyone else will have to back away a bit.”
There was a series of people in front of Etain before she came through the door. The priest of Akatosh gasped when he saw her. “She looks so much like her mother but look at how pale she is. Quickly this way. The came up the stairs with her making sure what they carried her on stayed level. The saw the alter ahead and carried her directly to it.
Then they lifted her up and others help to slide her over to the bed that was prepared for her on top of the alter. The priest said everyone back away and pray to whatever divines you believe in. She is going to need their help.
The priest then knelt and said some words no one else could hear. He then raised up a simple wooden cup and filled it with the holy water from the alter. He had her drink some of it, then he used a silk cloth to begin to wipe her face clean with a combination of the waters and oils he had brought.
Then he knelt and began a prayer,
A Prayer for Healing: A Poetic Ode to the Divine
In the hallowed silence of twilight’s embrace,
We lift our voices, a hymn of hope and grace.
To the gods above, with hearts so deep,
We call upon their powers, for a loved one to keep.
To Akatosh, the Dragon God of Time
“Blessed Akatosh, Dragon God of Time, First of the Nine.”
Beneath the shadowed vault, where moments unfold,
My faith, the steadfast anvil, ready to hold.
Let Thy will be the hammer, mighty and true,
In the face of the waning hour, let Thy light break through.
Grant me the endurance of the mountains high,
*
*Unwavering in Thy presence, I stand to comply.
May my devotion shine, an eternal beacon bright,
In Thy divine design, my spirit takes flight.
To Great Mother Mara, the Nurturing Embrace
“Great Mother Mara, whose warmth nurtures all creation.”
From her bosom, life springs, a tender, loving kiss,
Hear the whispers of Kyne, the Mother of this bliss.
Breathe upon the fragile vessel, let Thy grace descend,
Cleanse the corruption, heal the flesh, spirit, and fend.
Restore strength to the weary, mend what is torn,
*
*Return wholeness to our daughter, forever adored.
In Thy gentle embrace, may she find her peace,
A testament to love, in Thy eternal leash.
To Stendarr, the Lord of Justice and Mercy
“Stendarr, Lord of Justice and Mercy.”
With righteous shield, Thou dost protect and defend,
Raise Thy hammer against the forces of dread.
Deliver our beloved from the clutches of woe,
Break the chains of affliction, let hope now grow.
Through the valley of peril, guide her safe and sound,
*
*By Thy mercy, set us free from every bound.
In Thy just and merciful gaze, we find our way,
Forever shielded, forever safe, no matter what happens.
A Heartfelt Appeal
Oh divine powers, hear our earnest plea,
For the healing of our daughter, may Thy grace be free.
In the unity of Akatosh, Mara, and Stendarr’s might,
We trust in Thy love, our guiding light.
Amen.
A great light shown down upon her now. The chapel filled with the misty starlight of a thousand star filled nights. The bed that Etain was resting on rose above the alter and a great light burned so brightly that no one could look upon it.
Then a booming voice could be heard, “My daughter we are so proud of what you have given to us, to them. I am sorry for your suffering, but we are here. Through the faith of those who would protect you even giving their own lives, to the souls who came before you, who would lose them to heal you, to the world that so needs your heart, we bless you with the power we still hold, be whole our daughter, be free of the pain. Know that you are blessed and someday we will grant you your deepest wish, to be free to live as you dream.”
Then another voice was heard, softer, quieter, “My daughter who we are one with, know that you have given all so that the covenant might live again. I am so proud of you my daughter, and we both love you so much. Be at peace, rest, heal, and fulfill your destiny, Etain, Saorlaith, Oralith. “
The great bells in the tower of the chapel began to ring and a light shone down from two stars above upon the chapel. All in Bruma, who were still awake bowed where they were as they knew something of great importance had happened. No one could get near the chapel as the light encompassed the whole of the chapel.
Inside the light shone through the stained-glass windows each one representing the nine with Akatosh at its head and sudden burst of light hit Etain as her she rested on her bed and then they heard Etain, say, Rosenlyn, I sure am thirsty.” The lights lessoned and everyone rose and came to see Etain.
Rosenlyn had come first, asking the priest for some cold water. He went down in the quarters underneath the chapel and came back with a cup and bottle filled with cold spring water. Rosenlyn then said, “Here, take it slow Etain.” They helped Etain down to the private quarters for the priest of Akatosh. They set up a place for her to sleep for the night and made sure others of her company were given options as to where they could stay.
There was an empty house close by they could get to through a back door that belong to a Countess from a long time ago. Some of them opted to take up residence there for the evening. When Hadvar, Kyne’s Champion, and Julian took up residence they found a journal there. Julian began to thumb through it as others looked at the fading drawings on the wall. There were clothes left lying around the main room on the lower level. Then Julian whistled, “Oh by the divines, we better keep Etain away from here!” Hadvar turned away from looking at the pictures and sat on a chair. “Why, what did you find in there?” This is the journal of the Countess that Etain is linked to. The one with the scars who fell in love with the person she simply referred to as Dragonborn.” Hadvar said, “Maybe we shouldn’t be reading that, I mean that’s her private thoughts she recorded there.”
Julian said, “Listen to this! She and this person she referred to as Dragonborn were separated for years. Apparently, something happened and when he escorted her to the border, he told her he had to leave her as he still had something he needed to do. She was so deeply in love with him. She talks about another person that she was seeing but in the end her last words are about him. “
Then Kyne Champion said, “She was a poet too. A pretty good one from what I am reading here. Listen to this:
A Poem of Resilience and Hope
“Cast adrift in this tumultuous time,
I bear the weight of another’s burden, a heavy price.
My very flesh cries out in crimson hues,
As cruel words pierce the depths of my bosom.
Oh, how I yearn to weep, to drown in sorrow’s tears,
Yet within me, a glimmer of strength quietly assures.
But one truth remains steadfast and clear:
Fate may try to silence me, but it will not break me here.
With every last breath that I draw, I stand tall,
Defying you, my demons, until my final fall.
For those who cherish me, I am alive,
Unseen, unheard, yet deeply cherished in the heart’s alibi.
Though shadows may attempt to erase my name,
In the tapestry of love, I remain unchained.”
Julian said, “That poem is about when she was a young child held by the Thalmor who were whipping her every day until she was on the brink of death. It tragic that so much has happened to this one family, that they have had to carry the burden for all of this. “
Then the heard the door open and Rosenlyn called out. “Hey, you all downstairs?” Hadvar replied, “Why aren’t you with Etain?” She’s resting peacefully and the priest is there watching over her with help from Delphine and Celestine as well as the Captain and Countess. They will come and fetch me if I am needed.
However, since you are here I thought it would be good place for story time. Grab yourself a cold beer or some wine and let’s sit down so I can fill in the blanks I bet you are all asking yourselves after reading her poetry, seeing her pictures, and looking through her diary.” Oh, there’s a latch on the floor that opens into cold storage, there should be some beer, wine, and cheese in there.
They all sat down and Rosenlyn filled in a lot of answers for them concerning their journeys. She spoke at length about Skyrim, and the long trip to discover where the Thalmor might had taken her mother. They fought a lot of people together, and their journeys together over most of the known areas of Skyrim at that time. “
The Septim bloodline. There were many events that tied the complete line of Septims to a long and historically rich history. Being of that bloodline put her in great danger as she would be considered an imposter to whoever held the throne at that time. Especially, once the Septim line ended.
The two of them had fought many battles together and it turned out that she a brilliant strategist when it came to military campaigns, which led them to their ability to win a great many battles and overcome all challenges against them.
Rosenlyn continued, “Long story but afterwards they returned to Azura’s Acolyte’s farmhouse. There the Ambassador who had saved her was there waiting too. It turned out he was an Acolyte of Mara. Starting to sound familiar. Like mirror stories right! “ She had waited outside for him, while the others spoke with him, The Dragonborn.
They had delivered a message from Mara that he was to take her to the border and leave her there. That if he crossed it now, it might end in them both being killed. It was almost the hardest thing he ever did. It broke both their hearts as they had fallen deeply in love with each other.”
Hadvar asked “How long were they apart. It seemed like a long time. “ Rosenlyn said four years it was. He was finishing up a meal in Whiterun when the Acolyte of Azura caught up with him and delivered a sealed letter from her mother. Apparently it had become very dangerous in Cyrodiil, and he was requested to come meet with them. He did so and once again became her Guardian Protector, as that was his actual role when they first meet.
Julian had tears coming out of his eyes and said, “My gosh, so many suffered to bring about the change that took place and to allow Etain to discover herself.” Rosenlyn replied, “Yes, there are however many more stories that you will learn in time about those two. Hadvar asked Rosenlyn then, so how is Etain related to all of them? The timing just seems odd. “
Rosenly replied, “Etain is unique as you well know by now. She is made up of generations of that same line, She has been roaming the lands now for generations without any memory of who she was, why she lived so long, and so on.” Rosenlyn thought then said, “As you already know from Etain’s vision, they were married, had a child that the Dark Brotherhood from Skyrim was sent by the Dark Court and tried to kill them but they overcame that as well and then eventually rose to rule the lands. They were actually married in the Chapel where Etain is staying currently. The Chapel of Akatosh.”
Rosenlyn yawned then said, “Well folks I am going back to check on my sister Etain. Sleep well, we have a full day of planning ahead tomorrow so get so rest.” With that she got up and went back to the Chapel. Etain was still sleeping peacefully and both Delphine and Celestine where switching out guard duties.
Morning came and Etain was up and better. She poured cold water on Rosenlyn who was sleeping on some bedding spread out next to the bed Etain was sleeping in. Rosenlyn woke up and laughed. She said, “Really Etain, there is way too much of me rubbing off on you.” Etain smiled and said, “Payback is so sweet and you’re the only one I can practice it on without being accused of crossing some moral high-ground.”
They both laughed and then Rosenlyn stood up and leaned over to hug Etain. “Welcome back sister. Ready for some breakfast, tea, and planning sessions? You know we still have to find a way into Skyrim and then to Ivarstead to High Hrothgar without being discovered by all the new friends you seem to be gathering along the way!”
Delphine and Celestine had heard the two, knocked than came in. Both exclaimed, “ Etain, you’re up and well. We were so worried about you last night.” Etain sat back down on the bed and said, “Father and mother were here weren’t they?” Rosenlyn replied, “Yes, let’s just say your ability to touch your history is getting a little strange! Wouldn’t you say ladies?”
Just then the Countess arrived back from the keep. She came and hugged Etain and said, “Welcome back, chosen one!” The Countess smiled after saying that. Then she said, “Come on ladies, we have a special guest waiting for her back at the keep. I have everyone setting up for a nice hot breakfast with herbal tea and fresh honey.
There is a hot steam bath waiting for you and your clothes have been cleaned and made ready for you. Also, we’ll have to take the walkway in the undercroft again. Apparently, our city of Bruma has magically doubled in size overnight. Something to do with a light show from the heavens. “
“Help her along ladies and let’s get going.” This way and she led them to the undercroft doors. The Countess turned back to Etain, then said, “Oh, when we pass through these hallways try and refrain from waking the dead again. They were quite excited last night as we brought you through here. I think I remember them saying something like, ‘Akatosh, oh great father, she has come, the chosen has returned, your daughter needs you!”
The Countess then said, “I believe I never saw the guards sweating so much as when that began. Imagine all of that just because you hand swiped across one of the tombs.” Then she said, “Shall We?” The small group made their way through the undercroft without incident this time. When they arrived on the other side. she led them out into the old chambers of the court and previous Countess.
They came to a double doorway down a long hall and Alea was there waiting along with a lady in waiting by the Countess. The lady in waiting said, “The bathing area has been prepared and ready for you. There is a private dressing area where you can enter the bathing tub in private then make your way to the public area.
They entered and of course Rosenlyn wasted no time and removing her clothing and sliding into the soap filled oily waters finding a place of relaxation. Etain appeared and Alea followed her in. She told Etain with a light-hearted voice, “You’ll just have to suck it up buttercup while I attend to your wounds from last night and make sure you are cleaned before meeting for breakfast with your guests.”
Rosenlyn then said, “You know Alea, I do believe I am beginning to rub off on you too!” Alea replied, “Actually, I have always been this way. It’s just that I have suppressed this part of me for a long time. That’s what happens when you are surrounded by grim warriors and grim deeds.”
They finished getting Etain cleaned up, then they all helped her to get ready for the day. The final touch was placing her tiara along with the hair pins, gifts from Jarl Elisif from Solitude. Rosenlyn had put on her formal robes as an Acolyte of Azura. They made their way to the same room where they met the day before. A large area where meetings were held and guests were entertained.
When they entered the room from the side door. The Countess and her advisors were all speaking to a small group off to the side. One she thought was an elder dressed in form ambassador robes who leaned heavily on an elegantly carved staff, then there was a younger girl maybe her age dressed in formal robes of the Imperial Court. She in turn was standing behind an older gentlemen hair white as snow but eyes as sharp and bright as a new day. He was sitting in a wooden chair with wheels on it. Then there was an older man who was dressed in the official clothes of the Count of Leyawiin.
Before introductions were made the Countess said, “Come with me, I have something to show you.” They took a stairway near the side into a tower that led up high. When they reached the top she unlatched a stain glass window and pushed it open. The air was cold and blew in against the two ladies standing there. The Countess said, “Come and see the faithful.” Etain look out across the City of Bruma and every inch of it was filled with people from all the providences and surrounding countries of Nirn.
Etain’s gaze wondered out past the gates to the road leading into Bruma and as far as she could see there were thousands of people streaming towards the city. There were tents set up everywhere and off in the distance was an Imperial legion camped to help provide guard service since there were many dignitaries who had traveled from afar to pay homage to the miracle of the events that preceded their arrival to Bruma.
Etain turned and wrapped her arms around the Countess and then with wet cheeks said, thank you, you’re going to have to tell me what happened last night to make all these people leave their homes and come to Bruma.
The Countess said, “You happened Etain! The signs of your ascension were announce all across Nirn last night. All of these people including the special guests waiting to meet you and provide whatever guidance they can offer. “Shall we make introductions. “ Etain said, “Yes, and thank you Countess.” I was told you were different now I know they spoke true. “
They both descended the stairways and the Countess asked one of the guards to go and pull the windows close again. They made their way back into the central chamber. The group that had been there were now in the light near the head of the table where she was to be seated. The Countess brought her first to the old man and young lady.
She introduced both of them by saying, “Lord Chancellor Hierem the second and his daughter who is now the current Lord Chancellor, Sinaide Aiene. Etain knelt on one knee leaned in and kissed him on the forehead and then gave him a hug. She then said, thank you kind sir for your long years of service and devotion to those who came before. I would not be here if not for steadfast people who dedicated their lives to see that this new age I bring comes true.” She then kissed her finger, then blew on it and her fingertip lit up like a bright star. She touched his heart with it and a light was absorbed into him.
Etain then said, “Someday when my time arrives to ascend to the ruby throne, it would be a great honor to have you present me and chair the ceremony. I have blessed you with the light of Alessia and all our bloodline to see to it that you stay healthy and wise for when that day finally comes. His daughter was weeping tears of joy and said, “Etain, you do my father great honor. I had heard you were different and this new age we would all stand as equals, but I believe there will be always one who will always lead the way.”
Etain came to her and hugged her then kissed her on both cheeks. She then said, “You make sure you keep him in good spirits until that day comes.” She said, “Thank you Etain.” Then they were seated nearby where she would be. Then the old Ambassador was introduced. He came to her and said, “I see in you the hopes and love of all of those who proceeded you. You bring tears to an old Nord’s eyes to see that all their sacrifices hold true in your heart. I could tell you many stories about the line of your blood that came before. But today, I offer you my wise consul if you would have it?”
Etain said, “It is unusual is it not for a Nord to be an Ambassador for Elsweyr however I know that there was both Rigurt the Brash and his sister Britt during the second Era. Are you related to them? I have heard there is no recorded children for either of them.” He said yes, Britt had fallen in love secretly with a Breton and they had children together who in turn had children of their own. So yes, I am related to them you mentioned. It was Britt’s wishes to have her life outside of being an Ambassador held in secret, so they could live out their lives like normal people. I have heard you have similar desires Etain.”
Etain said, “It would bring me great honor to listen to whatever wise counsel you have for us. I have seen the ghost of your past as you advised another like myself. Thank you and she leaned forward and touched her lips to his forehead.” He sat nearby too. Then the last person stepped forward and said, “You bring us all great honor. In turn, we pledge our service and ourselves to whatever your goals may be. I am Cassian, Count of Leyawiin, previous General of the Imperial Army and one who fought side-by-side those who paved the way for you. Thank you for allow us to spend time with you. “
Etain grabbed his old hands and kissed him on either cheek or said to him, it is my humble self that is honored by this company. Rosenlyn then said, “Thank the nine, shall we sit down and eat. I am starved.” Everyone laughed and Captain Grimboldus came and pulled out the seat for Etain. He said, “I know, I know, but allow me this small service to you this one day.” Etain smiled and said thank you!”
The planning went on a great deal of the day. Many good plans were brought up about possible routes for her to return to Skyrim, make their way to Ivarstead and then climb the 7,000 steps to High Hrothgar.
In the end, they decided to the road from Bruma to Cheydinhal. From there they would take the long pass into Morrowind then north up the dangerous area known as Blacklight. Some of the contacts who were there at the meetings would have trusted sources that have a trade ship which made regular runs between Blacklight and Windhelm pick them up.
Once back in Windhelm they would be able to cover the remaining distance to Ivarstead by staying out of sight. Everyone agreed to the plan and so she thanked everyone and said she wanted to leave the next morning.
There were many sad goodbyes, but Etain left them with these thoughts. “When next I see you I will be on the final miles to the Ruby Throne and the new age. So, happy thoughts everyone and we’ll see each other again!”
With that everyone retired and the night was quiet and restful for everyone. The next morning they were up early and made their way back through the sewer exit and down into the forest to start their way to Cheydinhal.