Elora sits down before a great gate. Serana ask, “What are you doing Elora? Can we not continue?” Elora pats he stone floor with her hand next to her. She whispers to Serana, “Sit, Listen, and Learn!”
Serana does so and Elora whispers, “Hear it?” Serana asks, “What am I supposed to be hearing?” Elora replies, “Great Evil Beyond, A Dragon Priest, Many followers, A Word Wall Whispers It’s Song.”
Serana asks, “You hear all of that?” Elora replied, “Yes, and more!” Serana asks, “So, Acolyte of ‘The Way’, tell me why a Daughter of Coldharbour should be worried about them? Isn’t this more a danger to you, not me?”
Elora replied, “A trap for you, not for me!” Serana asks, “How? What could be of danger to one who is, well not alive!” Elora turned and grinned, “Well, this particular Dragon Priest is ancient, before your time. It has been sent to separate that pretty young head from you and recover the Elder Scroll”
Serana asked, “That’s the second time you referred to me as pretty. Are you trying to seduce me?” Elora replied, “Well if you prefer maybe I should say ancient cold head since you said, ‘I must have been in there longer then we planned!” Serana said, “No, I like it when you say, “Pretty young head!” Serana continued, “By the way, it is normally I who does the seducing.”
Elora replied, “Do you think I am seducing you? Maybe I am just telling you what I observe, what I see!” Serana replied, “You know Elora, you really are strange!” There was silence then, they both heard something stir within. Elora said, “We will need to stay close to each other. Are you familiar with the concept of a ‘Shield Sister?’ “Serana replied, “You mean like those referred to in the old Nordic lore books?”
Elora responded, “Yes, exactly! Since I would like you to survive. If you could use that pretty young head of yours that is full of book smarts to merge with me as we dance the ancient path of ‘The Way’ “Serana asked, “Okay Elora, and just how do you propose we merge? I mean it still sounds like seducing to me.”
Elora replied, “You must be really lonely after spending so much time locked up in there. Let me teach you.” Serana watched Elora as she drew a long knife from her calf that glowed with whispers of death. She watched her slide its edge across her hand and draw blood. Then she kissed the blood of her hand, raised her index finger and blew on it. It came alive with a blinding light. She turned to Serana and asked, “Trust me sister?”
Serana said, “I think so, why?” Elora leaned in then and kiss Serana directly on the lips. As she did so, she took her glowing finger and touched what would have been the place where Serana had a heart. Serana felt something change then, she felt something warm come alive in her.
Elora released her kiss, then withdrew her hand from the chest of Serana. Serana gasped, “I sense a beating heart within me! How, that’s impossible! Malog Bal took it from me when I became a ‘Daughter Of Coldharbour’ “
Elora replied, “You are still a ‘Daughter Of Coldharbour!’ However, you are doing something much more now, as I have given you the gift of a beating living heart. I needed to merge our essences, our souls in such a way that you would sense me, know beforehand, what I was going to do.”
Serana said, “How did you do that, who are you anyway? I mean Malog Bal didn’t just give you my heart back.” Elora replied, “Well, he is not too happy right now. Well actually he is quite concerned that someone came in and undid the undoable. That has him quite worried right now.”
Serana asked, “Why do you do all of this for me? What you did was tender, caring, not controlling or overbearing.” Elora sat for a moment than said, “I want you to have a choice of where your life goes from here. I did not do that do control or dominate you. I did it to free you.”
Serana asked, “Trust me!” Elora replied, “We are sisters now. Not only by what we feel but by heart too!” Serana leaned in and kissed Elora on the lips. A long, passionate kiss then withdrew and said, “Elora, Thank you! No one has ever shown me compassion in that way.” Elora replied, “Well, I hope you still feel that way later. I cannot undo what has been done. What beats within you now will be there always.”
Elora then stood up, reached out her hand to help Serana up and said, “Come our destiny awaits. Trust and what you feel, I would have no harm come upon you.” Serana said, “I’m ready!” Elora pulled out her long blade and its edges burned with the combined lights of blood and holy light.
Elora pulled the lever, the large gate opened up and both Elora and Serana walked in to meet destiny’s call. Then they entered the great chamber surrounded by stairs with a burning pit with the remains of dead bodies scattered around its perimeter.
Elora said to Serana, “Let them come to us. I will slowly lead us to where the Word Wall is. I have a little surprise for them once we are there.” Serana asked, “Are they laughing at us?” Elora replied, “Yes, they believe we are both doomed. That they will have their prize soon.”
The first of them came up to where these two stood back-to-back. As the Draugr and Lich Lords approached Elora and Serana. They both moved as one heart and the initial Draugr and Lich Lords fell to the stone stairs as dust.
Elora began to slowly move her way down a few stairs then across towards where she sensed the Word Wall to be. Now every Draugr and Lich Lord along with the Dragon Priest were moving towards the location of where these two were going.
Elora quietly spoke to Serana, “When we reach the Word Wall, do not be afraid. Many things will begin to happen quickly that you have never seen. Trust in me sister!” Serana said, “I do trust you Elora, my sister!”
They made it to the Word Wall and as Elora approached it, all the ancient runic symbols of the Word Wall came alive, just like they had in Bleak Falls Barrow. Elora and Serana stood as one. Once they were surrounded by the Draugr, Lich Lords and Dragon Priest, Elora touched her long knife to the stone of the Word Wall. Every runic writing within those halls came alive and the hall rumbled.
Serana called out, “Elora, what are you doing? Normal Dovah cannot do this!” Elora replied, “One heart my sister, trust me a bit longer” Elora sensed Serana relaxing, letting her inner self merge with her. Then a great explosion arose from the pit and the whole chamber collapsed into rubble with the exception of where Elora and Serana stood.
Next, the souls of all the Draugr, Lich Lords and then the Dragon Priest himself were ripped from their bodies. Evaporated into mystic dust. When it all settled down the stars of the night sky shown above where before there had been only darkness.
Serana looked up and then around the chamber. She then said, “Elora, you’re glowing all along your edges.” Elora replied, “Well so I am! You are too, look here and she placed her hand where her new glowing heart was. Serana leaned and hugged Elora for a long time. Then she pulled away and said, “My father, the others, they are all going to see this aren’t they? What am I supposed to do?”
Elora replied, “Do not worry all eyes will be on me, and before I leave, I will provide a distraction for him that will keep him more worried about me, then you. I understand your concerns; I will not harm him. Just give him something else to obsess over.”
Elora then said, come on, You do want to be free of this place don’t you?” They both walked the final way to the last gate. Elora pulled the lever and the last gate opened. Then they walked out into the night air outside the exit of Dimhollow Crypt. Serana then said, “It’s good to breathe again!”
They began to walk away and Serana asked, “Once we get back to my home, will I ever see you again?” Elora said, “That is completely up to you Serana. Remember what I told you, your choices now for whatever happens from here. Finding me will not be hard, just follow your heart!”
Serana giggled then said, “Elora, you have a very strange sense of humor.” Elora replied, “I have been told that by others!” Serana then said, “You sure like your secrets.” Elora replied, “For now, we both do. In time I will let you know more of me, I hope in time that you will want to do the same.”
They walked down from the mountain. Serana said, “Even in this weather, it’s better than the cave.” Elora asked, “You said your home is near Solitude correct?” Serana replied, “Yes, there is a trail that leads up to a high snowy path. Then we travel west and south. Once we reach the shoreline, it is just a matter of following along until we see my home. It is big enough that once we see it, we can see if there is still a small boat to take us out to it.”
Elora sat down in the snow and placed her head in her hands with her elbows resting on her lap. Serana asked, “What are you doing Elora? Did I say something that annoyed your sensibilities?” Elora said nothing and waited. Serana then said, “Oh by the divines. Okay, let me sit down with you. “She did so and Elora spoke to Serana.
“Solitude is an exceptionally long way from here. We cannot catch a fairy or a carriage as you are a, well you know!” Serana replied, “Oh, you mean my blood red eyes might give me away?” Elora said, “Well they’re not as blood red as they were when we first met.” Serana replied, “What how did that happen?” Elora replied, “Come on Serana, I know you’re a really smart young lady, think about it.” Serana then said, “You mean my new heart. Yes, it has changed some of the attributes of your physical characteristics.”
They both sat there in the snow for a while. Then Serana said, “Elora, you must be getting cold sitting in the snow like this.” Elora asked, “Can I do something without you asking any questions about the how?” Serana replied, “What do I get in return for keeping my mouth shut?” Well, when we get to the shoreline, I think I will need to clean up before crossing over to meet your family. That means you will get to see me. Although, you might not be too happy once you do.”
Serana asked, “Why is that, are you some ugly person or something?” Elora replied, “I have been told I am quite attractive actually. However, let us just say that some very bad people did something to me when I was a little girl. I can say no more, trust me!”
Serana was quite for a moment then said, “Okay, trust you!” They both stood up and Elora said, “I am going to pick you up in my arms. You need to lean into me and hold on. Ready!” Serana simply nodded yes. Elora picked her up and said, “Now quickly hold on to me.”
Serana felt a sudden shift as if reality itself had shifted. Her heart was pumping and then suddenly there was this flashing light, and they were standing on an isolated spot alongside the road that led to the trail that were take them up to the high mountain road” Elora said, “There you go, all safe and sound!” Elora set Serana down and she looked at her as if to ask something.” Elora put her finger to her lips to say, “Ah! Remember no tales yet.”
Serana said, “Come on Elora, this way.” They traveled up to the high snowy path that led west and south towards the shoreline. Once they made it down to the shoreline Serana said, “This way, we will need to be careful of the wildlife along the way. “They continued until they saw an old fort. Serana asked, “What place is that?”
Elora asked, “Wasn’t there when you were last home I take it?” Serana said, “No, it was just wilderness here.” Elora said, “That is Northwatch Keep and is a heavily fortified Thalmor prison. I hear it serves as a black site for the Aldmeri Dominion in Skyrim. Primarily used to detain, interrogate, and hold high-value political dissidents and prisoners of war away from the public’s eyes.”
Elora said to Serana, “Come on they will just think we are two hunters. Especially if we skirt around it near the shoreline and never approach it.” They made their way through the deep snows and finally came to the spot where the ferry is. Elora looked out across the waters and saw a large castle.
Elora then said, “Wow, a castle! Then she said, “Come on, there is a hot spring over that way with a wall around it where I can clean up.” Serana teased, “You mean you don’t want to put on a show for all the elves in the fort?” Elora said, “No, especially not them.” They reached the hidden hot spring then Elora said, “I need your help a bit if you would not mind. If you could loosen the straps that keep the large, curved sword sheathed to my back. Do not touch it though, just loosen it.”
Serana asked, “What happens if I touch it. I mean I am still undead.” Elora said, “The sword and I are one in the same. It will defend me, even if I am injured. It would feel quite unpleasant.”
Serana replied, “Okay let me see here. It should be loose now.” Elora removed the sword and laid it leaning against a nearby stone wall. She then raised her arms and said there are clasp on the back of my robe. Could you undo them? I can undress from there.” Serana did so then Elora asked, “Close your eyes while I disrobe and step into the hot spring.” Serana said, “Really!”
Elora said, “Yes, I really am a shy person you know.” Okay, I will turn then so you can get undressed and into the hot spring. Elora did so, stepped deep into the hot springs and sat on some rocks with her back turned towards the stone wall.
Serana asked, “Can I join you?” Elora said, “Yes, of course if you want to.” Serana turned and undressed completely. She stepped into the hot waters next to Elora and said, “You are unexpectedly pretty and definitely Breton with that Auburn hair, slightly pointed ears and slanted emerald eyes.”
Serana and she sat there in silence for a while. Then Serana said, “You are a beautiful young lady Elora, Why hide it? I do not understand.” Elora said, “I have many enemies that want me dead. Some of them are immensely powerful and have been trying to kill me for a long, long time.”
Serana asked, “You have any soap? Elora said, yes, in my shoulder bag over there. Serana stood up and grabbed the bag. Oh, here it is. She brought it over and said here. Let me help, She gently rubbed the soft soap again her and said, turn a bit and I will get you back.”
Elora did so exposing the scars and Serana gasped, then began to cry. “Elora, who did this to you and why? How are you even still alive?” Elora said, “They did and she pointed at the fort where the Elves were.
Serana said, “I’m going to kill them all once where done here?” Elora said, “No, Serana not them but it was Elves, Dominion, and Thalmor. I was only eleven and a half years old when they did that to me. It was in a different place. “Serana gently washed her back, careful not to put much pressure on it.”
Elora said, “I can’t tell you the whole story yet, but I will in time.” Serana asked, “Do they still hurt?” Elora said, “Yes, they will always hurt. But it is better now. Not too long ago when I exerted my power, the would open up and bleed as if they were freshly whipped.”
Elora said, “Turn around and let me wash you a bit.” Serana said, “Thank you! “As Elora washed Serana she said, “Your heart sure is beating fast. “Serana asked, “You can sense that? How embarrassing!” Elora asked, “Why, it’s okay to feel compassion, love for others you know.” Serana said, “This is just all so new to me.” Elora replied, “Take it in strides.”
Elora then said, “Come on, help me get dressed and I’ll help you.” They both did so. Then once Elora was dressed and had her weapon strapped back on. Serana said, “When I get back home, I am likely going to leave you for a while. I need to understand what’s going on. I’ll find you once I am done.”
Elora said, “I am going to do some things that will not surprise you but your father and the rest of them will not expect what I do. Try to not reveal anything, okay!” Elora then said, “In part, I am going to do this in order to take your father’s attention away from you and that scroll you carry with you.”
They stepped in the boat, and it began to ferry itself. It made its way across and docked on its own. The both walked stepped out onto the dock. Elora began to lead the way up to the castle gate. Once they were both through it
Serana called out, “Elora, before we go in there…” Elora turned, “What’s up Serana?” Serana said, “I wanted to thank you getting me this far. You’ve been great and getting me back here safely.”
Elora asked, “You okay?” Serana replied, “I think so. Thanks for asking.” Serana then said, “Once were inside let me take the lead, okay?” Elora said, “Of course but before your father does anything a couple of surprises will happen.”
As they drew close to the front door. Elora turned and said, “You know you should consider a different decorator once this is all done. This place could really be a pretty place with a little work. “
They approached gate drawn down. Beyond was a watch man. He spotted Elora first and said, “Begone! You’re not welcome here!” Then he noticed Serana with the other person and said, “Lady Serana is that really you? Open the gate!” They both walked in and through the front doors.
Once inside another Vampire named Vinfalmo yells at you, “How dare you trespass here!” But then he noticed Lady Serana and joyfully exclaimed, “Lady Serana, is that truly you?” I cannot believe my eyes! He ran to the balcony and called out to everyone below, “My Lord, Everyone! Lady Serana has returned!”
Serana led the way down the stairs. Elora came behind covered in shadow. Harkon spoke first, “My long-lost daughter returns at last. I trust you have my Elder Scroll?” Serana responds, “After all these years, that’s the first thing you ask me? Yes, I have the scroll.” Harkon says then, “Of course I’m delighted to see you, my daughter. Must I really say the words aloud?”
Harkon pauses then notices Elora, “Ah, If only your traitor mother were here. I would let her watch this reunion before putting her head on a spike. Now tell me, who is this stranger you have brought into our hall?”
Serana replies, “This is my savior, the one who freed me.” Harkon looked at her trying to see beneath the cloak of shadow. “For my daughter’s safe return, you have my gratitude. Tell me, what is your name?” Elora stands to the side of Serana then replies, “My name is Elora.” Harkon replies, “I am Harkon, lord of this court. By now, my daughter will have told you what we are.” Elora says, “What does that mean to me. I don’t care what you are!” The others around them were beginning to notice their conversation now.
Harkon replied, “Perhaps you should. I count some of the oldest and most powerful vampires in Skyrim amongst the members of my court.” Elora steps towards Serana, hugs her and whispers, “Watch and learn my sister!” Elora then turns and begins to walk away. Harkon calls out to her, “You dare to walk away from me? In my own hall, before my own court, you dare to insult me? We have not finished speaking yet! Come back at once!”
Elora turned and replied, “I know what you would offer me. You would say something like, ‘There is but one gift I can give that is equal in value to the Elder Scroll and my daughter. I offer you my blood. Take it, and you will walk as a lion among sheep. Men will tremble at your approach, and you will never fear death again.”
Harkon grows angry and demonstrates his immense power by transforming into a Vampire Lord himself. Elora turns back to him, walks forward a few steps, then withdraws her sword from its sheath on her back. Her blood began to flow into it, and the edge of its blade came alive with fire and the runes glowed with a blinding light. Others in the room felt fear and they exclaimed, “Look! What kind of blood magic is that! Then Elora thrust her sword into the stone floor and everyone in the room was frozen in place with the exception of Serana who was watching her closely now. “
Elora walked forward and said, “By the way, those you sent to find your daughter and the Elder Scroll she carries. They are all visiting Malog Bal, he is not too pleased to see so many of his own returning in ash to Cold Harbour. “Elora paused then said, “You see, they all wanted to kill your daughter and return the Elder Scroll to you without her.”
She casually walked around Harkon and then said, “That would have been a fatal flaw to your plans Harkon. I had to make sure they were not allowed to hurt her. You see, you need her and the scroll. You simply don’t know why yet, do you?”
Elora then said, “What’s wrong Harkon, cat got your tongue?” I bet your wondering “Who is this that my daughter has brought into my home that command such power?” “Ah, you’ll have wonder a while I am afraid. However, know this. Protect your daughter, without her, you will be lost. You know she still loves you. It would be a shame if something bad happened to her. I might take offense to that!
Elora then went to Serana and whispered, “Be careful my sister, he does not mean you long life and good health.” Then she said, “Well, I grow tired of this little gathering. Good luck figuring all of this out. Oh, I almost forgot. If you send anyone looking for me consider what you’ve seen me do here already. We wouldn’t want Malog to have more unexpected visitors would we.” She took her sword and sheath it again. Turned and then simply vanished from the court.
Once she was gone everyone was able to move again. Serana just casually walked past her father without saying a word and headed for her room. He watched her then return to his normal form and fumed as he walked away from the main hall and to his inner chambers.
Back outside the castle, Elora had put on quite the show and could tell Rosenlyn was anxious to speak with her, so she whispered to her, “Give me a moment to get myself back to the hidden hot spring. We can talk there.”
Elora vanished again then appeared in the hidden hot spring area. She went ahead and used her abilities to undress herself again and take up a relaxing position back in the spring leaning against the wall. Elora then said, “Okay Rosenlyn we can speak freely now. Did you like my little show?” Rosenlyn replied, “Well I thought you put on the show of the century however our daughter was trying to jump outside of me. Especially when Lord Harkon turned into that thing.”
Elora then said, “I miss you Rosenlyn! Forgive me for what I did with Serana. I know that must have been hard for you to watch. I did what I did though to try and save her to show her a way different then what she lived with before she was locked up.”
Rosenlyn responded, “Yes, it was hard for me, but I trust you Elora, I know that whatever you did, you did it for all of us, not for some selfish obsession with the pretty thing you found.” Rosenlyn paused then said, “You know though she was very pretty, maybe if we can win her over we try a threesome. Imagine that!”
Elora replied, “Your such a tease Rosenlyn! I am already challenged with you to keep you happy. Me, you are the one with the insatiable appetite. Or do I need to remind you again.” There was silence then both said at the same time. “I love you so much!” Elora asked, “How is our daughter doing?”
Rosenlyn said, “She’s growing and so is my stomach. It won’t be long before people start asking questions.” Elora replied, “I know, just try and have fun with it. “I am going to take a nap here then get dressed and pop on over to Fort Dawnguard. I need to let Isran know what is going on. Okay, I need to tell him a story and see where it goes from there.”
Rosenlyn said, “Get some rest Elora, I will do the same. I am sure our daughter will wake me up if any danger gets close to you. She certainly has your Empathic abilities, like on super charge or something.”
Once Elora had rested for a while, she woke up and stepped up and out of the steaming hot spring water. She got dressed then thought Isran, “He must had something really bad done to him or maybe his family a long time ago. He’s turned all of the pain inward to become a raging forge of fire and grit.”
Elora thought to herself, “Well, I have to get back there so she closed her eyes then vanished from where she was and reappeared again at the hidden entry to Fort Dawnguard and the surrounding area. She sensed something. Harkon sending his faithful in to ambush someone. Well, nothing to be done about it but send them on to Malog Bal. He is sure going to be mad at Harkon at some point.”
Rosenlyn spoke to her then. “Elora, what are you getting ready to do? Our daughter suddenly began to do a jig inside of me and it woke me up. You know our daughter sure does wear me out.” Elora said, Harkon apparently doesn’t listen and has sent some scouts or something ahead. I figure I would help them on their way to an early visit back to Coldharbour.”
Rosenlyn said, “Okay sister, just be careful please!” Elora began to make her way in shadow up to near the fort. She sensed them first then she came out of shadow and so did they. One of them said, “I smell blood on the wind sisters and brothers. Shall we feed?” Before they could move though Elora vanished and reappeared briefly to slide her long knife across their necks. Isran and the others were running down to where they were. By the time they got there though, all the vampires had been turned to dust.”
Isran said, “You know you will need to consider teaching us some of that someday. I mean, you took all the fun away before we could move two steps. “Elora looked at him and said, “Well, we have more important business to discuss. Can we go inside for a moment. I need to brief you about The Hall of The Vigilants and Dimhollow Crypt.”
Isran, the Orc, and one other gathered around her inside. Isran said, “Okay, we’re waiting, what did you find and where is Tolan. First of all, Tolan was telling the truth about the training hall for the Vigilants. It had been completely destroyed. There were dead Vigilants, Vampires, and Daedra everywhere I went.”
Isran exclaimed, “Daedra, they had Daedra with them” Elora replied, “Yes, apparently The Dark Court has taken a keen interest and what Harkon and his clan are planning. We’ll get to that in a moment.”
Elora looked at the others, and nothing was said, “There was nothing to be saved so I returned everything back to its base elements. There is now a great garden where the Hall of The Vigilants had been. It is currently protected by a Spriggan Matron and her sisters. I would not plan on returning there anytime soon as they consider it holy ground now.”
Isran said, “Where’s Tolan?” Elora said, “Unfortunately, he decided to enter the Crypt before I got there and is now visiting my brother Stendarr. That place was wall to wall Vampires of all different types. Draugr were there, Lich Lords, and Daedra.”
Isran replied, “I take it none of them are there now since you’ve returned!” Elora said, “The Vampires in particular were not very nice. They had planned on killing Harkon’s daughter, taking the Elder Scroll and returning it to Harkon.” All there exclaimed, “An Elder Scroll, they have an Elder Scroll?” Isran then said, “This is much worse than I thought!”
Isran then asked, “Is that who was buried in Dimhollow Crypt, this daughter of Harkon and I take it he is some sort of Master Vampire?” Elora replied, “Worse, he is a Vampire Lord, Very powerful and very much bent on turning day into a forever night where he would rule all of Nirn.”
Isran then asked, “This daughter of his, where is she now and what was she doing with an Elder Scroll buried with her?” Elora said, “Well after fighting with Vampires, Draugr, Lich Lords, Daedric Creatures and a Brood Mother I made my way to a very ancient chamber. I found Brother Adalvald, He was killed by some very ambitious Vampires. I have returned all of them to Malog who is still trying to figure out who or what it is that is retiring so many of his followers to an early demise.”
Elora paused in thought, then said, “The journal Adalald had on him had some very interesting notes in it. So, I went down to the central structure and sat down to rest and figure out the puzzle to opening the tomb where Serana was buried alive. Well, of course that is all up for debate since she is A Daughter of Coldharbour. “
Isran said, “She’s what, and you didn’t kill her, didn’t think it was important to get the Elder Scroll from them. “Elora said, “Hold that thought Isran. First of all, she sacrificed thousands of years of her life to protect all of us. Her mother, a Daughter of Coldharbour too, and both are not too happy about the obsession Harkon has with some Obscur Prophecy.
Elora said, “I’ll only say this once Isran. Listen and know I mean what I say. She and her mother are important to me and my own mission here. They are both important assets to you succeeding as well at stopping Harkon and taking your revenge on those that still follow him. Do not harm her in any way. I have worked too hard to try and bring them along to help us.”
Isran said, “Just how did you do that?” Elora said, “Well, for one, Serana now has a heart again, her heart that they are required to give up to Molag when they become Daughters of Coldharbour. He is none too happy right now about that. He is still trying to figure out how someone came into his domain without him knowing that, got past all the wards and traps, then stole the heart from its chamber.”
The Orc said, “You did all of that, just who or what are you anyway?” Elora said, “In time, I will let you know but for now, it is critical that you don’t.” Isran then asked, “Okay, you freed this Serana and then what?”
Elora said, well after I destroyed some Gargoyles, reduce some undead to ash, and then did combat with Serana at my side of a large chamber full of Draugr, Lich Lords, and one very powerful Dragon Priest. I took her home.” Isran asked, “What happened to the chamber where all those things were?”
Elora said, “Well it no longer exist there is a large whole with the sky shining down on a large pile of rubble and dust where Dimhollow Crypt used to be.” Isran then asked, “So what happened when you took her home. Well, her father, Harkon was pleased to see his Elder Scroll returned. Less so, to see Serana still alive as she resembles her mother quite a bit and that really agitates him.”
Isran asked, “So this powerful Vampire Lord let you just walk in and sit around. Well, the short part of it is that he and his daughter had a very long talk. Then he noticed me and Serana told him she would not be here with his Elder Scroll if it was not for me. He then began this very long boring speech.”
She paused then said, “It was quite boring and nothing about the power of his blood. Then he turned into a full-fledge Vampire Lord and began to offer me his blood. I had already become bored though and walked away from him. He was not too happy about that and saw it as a personal insult to his ego, that I would walk away as if everything he said meant nothing to me.”
Isran said, “I’m listening, so what happened next?” I walked away again and he became very angry with me. I walked over to Serana told her to watch and learn. That no harm would come to her. I then turned and walked back to a very angry Vampire Lord. Unsheathed my sword from my back and they all gasped as they witness the ancient right of my blood rising from my pours and feeding the sword. I then took the sword and thrust it down into the stone floor of the great chamber.”
Isran said, “What happened then?” Well, they were all a little surprised to find that none of them could move anymore. They could still see me, hear me, but none could move an inch. Not even Harkon in all his glory. I walked around them and told them a story, about an ancient prophecy, about the importance of not only the Elder Scroll but his daughter as well. The short of it is when story time was over. I picked up my sword and simply vanished from his castle. I returned to some hidden hot springs to rest and recover. Then I came here.”
Isran then asked, “This Serana, where is she now?” Elora said, “I sense she is waiting for daylight when they will be waking up. She will come here next, with the Elder Scroll too. You can isolate her if you like Isran until I return from whatever errands you are wanting me to go on next. But remember, you have been warned.” Do you mind if I do something, to put my mind at rest.” Elora said, go ahead perform your little test on me.”
She sat down in the middle of the receiving hall. Isran and the others walked up some stairs and came out above her, then he used some type of device to shine a holy light on Elora. Something surprising happened then. A large booming voice spoke saying. “Isran, enough! Do not test our daughter again or I will reduce your fort to an ash pile. Do you understand me?”
Isran asked, “May I ask who you are? I am her father, Akatosh, the first Adrea and Dragon God Of Time. Her mother is Saint Alessia. Now do you understand!” Isran asked but who is she that yields such power?” Another voice spoke then, She is Etain, Saorlaith, Oralith, our daughter and the covenant of the Septims reborn. Our goals align with each other currently Isran, but her mission is to bring about a new age. For now, that aligns with yours as she cannot do so with so much evil constantly chasing her.
We have given you grace for now Isran, do not test it again.” Isran said, “May I ask how old she is?” Alessia replied, “You do know it’s not polite to ask a lady what her age is, but I will tell you this once. Etain, who you know as Elora, existed before the Elder Scrolls, Before the Elder Blood, and before the first spark of Creation. Her spirit is powerful beyond even us, even though she lives currently in a human body.
She will help you for now as it helps her. But be respectful to our daughter Isran.” Isran said, “Thank you for sharing that with us. We swear ourselves to silence on this matter and no harm will fall to your daughter while she is with us. We will give our lives if need be to protect her.”
Akatosh and Alessia both said, “Thank you and know that you help bring about a new age. One where none of this evil will exist.” Isran replied, “I cannot fathom that, but I believe you.” Isran bowed to one knee and called out to Elora. Stay there, I am coming down to speak to you about what and who we might need next.”
Isran arrived and spoke to Elora. “There are people I’ve met and worked with over the years. We need their skills, their talents, if we we’re going to survive this. If you can find them; we might have a chance.” Elora asked, “Who are these two people and where can I find them?”
Isran replied, “Sorine Jurard and Gunnmar are their names. Sorine is a Breton girl, whip-smart and good with tinkering. Fascination with the Dwemer. Weapons is particular. Last I knew she was out in the Reach. She’s convinced that she is about to find the biggest dwarven ruins yet. You’ll want to find Gunnmar. Big brute of a Nord hates vampires almost as much as I do. Got it in his head years back that his experience with animals would help. Trolls in particular, what I hear.” You’ll have to convince them to come and help. We didn’t leave on the best of terms.”
Elora said, so I am going to help you too. Once I bring Sorine back, give her some time to tinker and set up shop. Then send her to Markarth. There’s another Breton girl there even smarter than Sorine. She doesn’t know me yet. But she and Sorine will really hit it off. She can not only accelerate and improve Sorine’s weapons. With a little help, she can help capture some parts from some Dwarven ruins and build you some Dwarven machines that she can control. Imagine having a Ballista at your side when it’s time to go to battle.
Isran asked, “What is she doing in Markarth? She is having a little bit of an argument with a mage who does research there on Dwemer stuff. A bit of a disagreement between those two. We need her here and Sorine can convince her to come. They think alike those two.”
Elora then said, “In time, I will introduce you to the rest of the group who helps me. There are some powerful allies that travel with me.” However, this mission is for us to solve. They will join us for the final battle when it is time. I go to leave now. Isran said, “I’ll see you when you return with them. Be careful Elora. She smiled stood up and walked away out the doors of the fort.
Rosenlyn got up and walked to the doors of the Great Library where Etain and her had taken up residence. She stepped through them, went not the sleeping chamber but to the meditation one. Knelt on her knees and prayed, “Oh mother of the storm, please protect Etain as she travels this journey for all of us. I would see she that has given her seed to me again. I do not pretend to know what our future bears for us, but I cannot imagine a world without her.”
A warm light shone down on her and then she heard a voice, “So my daughter has done what we did not think she capable of, she gave life to another, her sister in blood. We will be watching over her. As your child grows, know that our blessings are with you both. We will help you when you need us most Rosenlyn. After all, you are now my daughter as well.” Rosenlyn began to quietly weep and then she laid down where she was and slept as the Divines watched over her and the new life within her.
Back out in the Great Courtyard. The Dovah so named The Great White Winged Hunter bowed to her and said, climb aboard my sister and learn to understand why we, the children of the sky, love Kyne as she lifts the currents around us to see the world in a way no one else can.” Etain climbed above him and he rose to lift his great bulk high into the currents of the wind.
He said to her, “You will never be the same young Etain, now that you have felt the beauty of this world as we do. Enjoy it while I take us to the entry way of the great Fort of the Dawn. Etain loved the experience she was feeling but also felt the loneliness already of not having those she loved most with her on this journey.
The ride through the winds above was an experience Etain would never forget. When they arrived at the hidden entryway to the Valley of the Dawn. Etain dismounted and came and said to the Dovah, “Bo Fin Vin Do Kaan, Haalvut Fin Sil Do Di Sos, Mu Los Gein!”, “Fly The Winds Of Kyne, Feel The Heart Of My Blood, We Are One!” He lowered his head and Etain kiss her finger, place it on her heart, then blew on it. It glowed and she touched his head. A warm glow was absorbed by him.
He said to her before leaving, “You have shown me great honor Etain, I am here if you need me, call and I will come to your side.” Etain turned then entered the valley of the dawn. She raised the hood of her robe, the one that Nenya, the Steward of Falkreath had given to her. She made her way through the snow that laid near the entrance and came around a corner. There a man who looked like a young farmer notices you and begins to speak.
“Oh, hey there! You here to join the Dawnguard, too? Truth is, I’m a little nervous. I’ve never done anything like this before. I hope you don’t mind if I walk up with you. Hey, uh, don’t tell Isran I was afraid to meet him by myself, Not the best first impression for a new vampire hunter, I guess. You’ve probably killed lots of vampires, huh? I’m sure Isran will sign you right up. Not sure he’ll take me. I hope so.”
Etain smiled, and quietly thought, “Actually, you would be surprised to hear how I deal with vampires thinking back to the two groups of them she meet so far. Etain then asked, “What’s your name?” He replied, “Oh, I am Agmaer. I am a Nord and heard about this so I decided to see if I could join.” Etain replied, “Nice to meet you Agmaer.” Then she turned to continue down the trail.
Agmaer began to talk again, “I heard what’s going on. The Vampires, the Dawnguard, all of it. I wanted to help, so here I am.” They continued to make their way down the trail and came around a bend to find a well armored Orc taking practice shots with a crossbow.
Beyond the Fort rising up out of the surrounding area. Etain thought, “Large it is, an ancient place it appears and I hear whispers of the past already. I will have to be careful while I am here to control my affinity for tonal apparitions.
Agmaer interrupted her thoughts by saying, “That must be it. Fort Dawnguard… Wow. Bigger than I expected. Where is everybody? This place looks almost deserted.” They arrived at the front door and Agmaer said, “I guess this is it. Wish me luck.” Etain entered the large fort. Agmaer was respectfully waiting while a man who she heard the other man call Isran was having a discussion with none other than a Vigilant of Stendarr.
Agmaer said, “You go ahead. I’ll talk to Isran in a minute.” You decide to walk closer to listen to the conversation between these two expecting you would hear something about what would become the beginning of your journey. Etain walked over and stood to the side standing between the two. She listened.
Isran asked, “Why are you here, Tolan? The Vigilants and I were finished long ago.” Tolan, the Vigilant responded, “You know why I’m here, the Vigilants are under attack everywhere. The Vampires are much more dangerous then we believed.” Isran said, “And now you want to come running to safety with the Dawnguard, is that it? I remember Keeper Carcette telling me repeatedly that Dawnguard is a crumbling ruin, not worth the expense and manpower to repair. And now that you’ve stirred up the Vampires against you, you come begging for my protection.”
Etain continued to stand there listening, but she already knew a bit of where this conversation was going because of her discussions with Kyne and her mother. Tolan then said to Isran, “Isran, Carcette is dead. The Hall of the Vigilants…everyone…they’re all dead. You were right, we were wrong. Isn’t that enough for you?” Etain thought, “Kyne and her mother told her this, it was hard for Celestine to hear. I will have to go there to see what remains so I know whether the hall can be restored or not. I owe Celestine that much.”
Isran responded to Tolan, “Yes, well…I never wanted any of this to happen. I tried to warn all of you…I am sorry, you know.” Isran then looked your way and asked, “Who are you, want are you doing here and what do you want?” Etain spoke quietly, I am an Acolyte of “The Way”. I have come to assist you with your Vampire problem.”
Isran smirked and said, “The Way? I never heard of such a thing. Why would that be important to us. We need Vampire hunters not Acolyte from some unknown cult!” Etain did not hesitate. She move faster than the eye could track be within a spit second had her runic long knife slid across the throat of Isran. She then said, “Because you might want your Dawnguard to learn a bit of what I know. I might be willing to teach them, maybe.”
She dropped her blade and walked back to stand between Tolan and Isran. Tolan spoke first, “The Way! Isn’t that the creed of the ancient Dragonguard from Elsweyr? I read about them in some old books we had in our libraries at our training grounds before it was destroyed.”
Etain replied, “Yes, that is correct Tolan. I am surprised to hear that a Vigilant is knowledgeable about such ancient practices” The Vigilants come from many backgrounds, many races. Some of us were scholars before pledging ourselves to the order.
Isran interrupted then and said, “Who are you? You have a name?” I am Elora, I am also of Breton heritage.” Isran said, “Why do you keep your head covered so?” Elora answered, “I have made many enemies as you might guess. I prefer to keep my identity hidden.”
Isran said, “Okay Elora I am impressed by your knowledge of ancient fighting techniques, especially those of the ancient Dragonguard.” Isran then turned to Tolan and said, “Tolan, tell her about, what was it, Dimhollow?”
Tolan replied, “Yes, that’s it. Dimhollow Crypt. Brother Adalvald was sure it held some long-lost Vampire artifact of some kind. We didn’t listen to him any more than we did Isran. He was at the Hall when it was attacked…”
Isran responded, “That’s good enough for me. Go see what the Vampires were looking for in this Dimhollow Crypt. With any luck, they’ll still be there. Feel free to poke around the fort and take what you need. There isn’t much yet, but you’re welcome to anything you can use.”
Tolan said to her, “I’ll meet you at Dimhollow. It’s the least I can do to avenge my fallen comrades.” Isran replied, “Tolan, I don’t think that’s a good idea. You Vigilants were never trained for…” Tolan exclaimed, “I know what you think of us. You think we’re soft, that we’re cowards. You think our deaths proved our weakness. Stendarr grant that you do not have to face the same test and be found wanting. I’m going to Dimhollow Crypt. Perhaps I can be of some small assistance to you.”
Tolan turned to leave. Elora turned to Isran and said, “Once I know something, I’ll return here and update you on what I’ve discovered. It may take a while depending on what we find once we’re there. She turned then and caught up to Tolan as he walked towards the hidden entry to the valley.
She asked him, “What can you tell me about Dimhollow Crypt?” Tolan replied, “Brother Adalvald had been there not long ago. Said he found something of great importance. It must have been important to the Vampires as well. For them to risk an open attack on the Vigilants.”
Elora asked, “You said something happened to the Hall Of The Vigilants?” Tolan replied, “Yes! By destroying it, the Vampires hoped to cripple our order’s activities in Skyrim. I suspect now that was Brother Adalvald and his journals they were after. He was obsessed with ancient Vampire artifacts and burial sites.”
Elora then asked Tolan, “What was the Hall of the Vigilants?” Tolan said, “The Hall was a place of respite, learning and comradeship. Where a road-weary brother or sister could rest for a time in peace and comfort. Most of our learning could be found there. We always studied our enemies, so we might better learn how to defeat them. But of course, those days are gone now.”
Elora said, “One final question then I have several other places I must go before meeting you at Dimhollow Crypt. Are there other Vigilants still out there?” Tolan replied, “Of course there are. Most of us spend our lives as nomads, traveling from place to place in our endless war against evil. I wish I could say how many we numbered, but only a privileged few knew that. And they are all dead now.”
Elora then said, “Thank you Tolan, I need to go now but will see you when I arrive there. May Stendarr and his blessing be with you always.” Tolan said, “You are an unusual and well-educated Acolyte Elora.” It has been an honor to meet you.” Elora replied to Tolan, “You too, Tolan.” Then she simply vanished and Tolan thought. “Maybe we need to learn more of this way she practices.”
Etain slowly made her way into Riften. Once there she spoke to the Carriage Driver and got a ride to Morthal. She skirted the town of Morthal by heading into the swaps. Once there she was able to make her way East towards the settlement of Stone Hill. It was pretty cold and snowy this far North. Once she hit the roads heading east towards the settlement of Stone Hill it became very cold and the lands covered with snow and ice as far as you could see.
Etain passed several hot springs where she stopped to warm up a bit and relax. Afterwards she came upon a snow-covered stone roadway that led to the settlement of Stone Hill. Once she saw the settlement of Stone Hill she continued walking up the road and came to an area where there was a narrow pass that stretched across under a Word Wall that was located high on the mountain ridges. She knew that Frostmere Crypt was below the Word Wall. No time to deal with any of that.
Etain continue to make her way across some hard snow-covered terrain but eventually came out towards evening on a trail that led into what had been The Hall Of The Vigilant. Already she saw dead people, animals, and vampires scattered about. As she made her way up the path there were broken gates, torn down towers, and dead everywhere of every type of race, animals, as well as Daedric creatures. Whoever was responsible for this had some powerful friends. The Dark Court being involved didn’t surprise her.
She came to the outside of the main hall. Etain thought to herself, “What a mess, nothing but total destruction. What do they hope to accomplish by doing all of this.” She pulled her blade from her back, and its edge licked the air around her. She walk through the front door, again nothing but destruction and dead everywhere. There wasn’t a single thing of value left here, books had been burned, furniture and walls destroyed. She left the survey of the place. She then thought to herself, “I can’t leave all this as it is.”
“Then an idea came to her, she would reduce everything back to its natural components. Leave it all as a new garden of life. Maybe in time, when all of this over I can fund the Hall to be rebuilt.” She walked back down the path, “Then she knelt on the ground, and she dug her fingers deep with the snow to touch the soils of Nirn. Much like the earth magic she had called upon involuntarily the day she created the scroll this time she used it to reduce everything to their roots. When she was done, nothing was left of the place. It had been replaced by a beautiful garden.
She walked away and then saw some Spriggans come from out of now where. They passed her by recognizing her as the root of how this came about. She heard within their song, they had come to honor her and what she did. They would guard this place as sacred ground now.
Etain turned and made her way into the snowy wilderness. She traveled far east then made her way up a path and eventually found herself outside of what she sensed was Dimhollow Crypt. She could sense the Vampires and other creatures within. Etain thought to herself, “Well nothing to do but go in. I think I know how to approach this. Etain (Who was referring to herself as Elora now) thought,” A bit of preparation.” She pulled out her long knife. Then her sword of the covenant. She whispered some words then rubbed the edge of the sword along the runic edge of the long knife.
The character and makeup of it changed in that moment and its edge glowed with a multifaceted light of red and white gold. Etain thought to herself, “That should do it.” Let’s continue shall we.”
As she entered a corridor that was primarily a cave at this point. She heard two voices ahead speaking. One person Elora presumed was a Vampire said, “These Vigilants never know when to give up. I thought we’d taught them enough of a lesson at their hall.” Another Vampire replied, “To come in here alone…a fool like all the rest of them.” The first one spoke, “He fought well though. Jeron and Bresoth were no match for him.”
The other Vampire said, “Ha. Those two deserved what they got. Their arrogance had become insufferable.” The first again, “All this talk is making me thirsty. Perhaps another Vigilant will wander in soon.” The second said, “I wish Lokil would hurry it up. I have half a mind to return to the castle and tell Harkon what a fool he’s entrusted this mission to.” The first replied, “And I have half a mind to tell Lokil of your disloyalty.” The second said, “You wouldn’t dare. Now shut up and keep on watch.”
Elora was not concerned about her use of her powers here with them. She vanished then reappeared with her blade against the neck of the first one. It’s edge burned with the combine holy powers of Stendarr, Meridia, and the Covenant. The first Vampire could not move. Elora whispered in their ear. Did you take part in the massacre at the Hall of the Vigilants. “Yes, so what of it?”
Elora replied, “In the age before time, there was a saying. It was beware the consequences of the unseen paths.” The Vampires replied, “What does that mean? How dare you…” She never finished those words as Elora swiped the edge of the blade against her neck and she turned into dust and fell to the ground.
The other Vampire was watching this from the shadows and began to try and vanish, but Elora simply vanished before her eyes and then reappeared with the blade against her neck. The same as she had with the first. The Vampire was clearly in fear, “What power do you possess that allows you to move as you do?”
Elora replied, “I am an Acolyte of ‘The Way’. Do you know what that is?” I’ve never heard of such a thing.” Elora then said, during the 2nd Era. There was a group known as the Dragonguard in Elsweyr. They practices this creed every day for hours. How would you know about that?”
Elora replied, “I am the root and the rain. She walked the worlds of before the first tick of time. Who is your deity you worship? “All of them, you see I am their sister, they are my sisters and brothers.” Now, did you have fun killing Tolan? You know he was not my friend. However, I have another who is very close, she is a Knight of Stendarr. You’ve heard of him right!”
She replied, “Weak, pathetic knights!” Really, well Stendarr, Meridia, and Alessia all send their sympathies for your early demise. I hope you enjoy what Malog Bal has waiting for you back in Coldharbour.” Elora swiped the blade and she turned into dust like the first one did.
Elora then walked towards a great gate, one of the pets launched itself at her and vanished into dust with a flick of her long knife.” Elora smiled, “Such a bad doggie.” When she arrived at the great metal gate. She simply flipped her fingers, and it turned into dust. She walked through and sensed both undead spirits and a Master Vampire hiding in the shadows. She decided to eliminate the Vampire first.
Elora vanished and then instantly reappeared with her blade to the Master Vampire’s neck. He was stunned but only briefly as she was tired of telling stories. Elora said, Molag is going to be so disappointed when you arrive in his plane of Oblivion. I wonder what he’ll do with that disappointment.” Then she slid her blade across his neck and he turned to dust. Having taken care of the Master Vampire, the restless spirits were unable to rise.
Elora walked to a large gate again with a Brood Mother Frost Spider having combat with another Master Vampire. She heard him screaming at the Brood Mother. Elora said,” This is taking too long and the Master Vampire glanced over a moment and yelled, “Just who do you think you are?”
Elora replied, “I am the root and the rain.” Then she raised her fingers made a complex set of runic symbols in the air the heavy gate door flew inward hitting both the Brood Mother and the Master Vampire with such force that it vaporized the Vampire and the Brood Mother was ripped into pieces.
Elora thought to herself, “I hope whoever this is that is trapped in here for all these years is a better person then these have been. Elora walked forward and came to a door. She slowly opened it, then let it close quietly. She heard voices ahead.
Adalvald exclaimed, “I’ll never tell you anything, vampire. My oath to Stendarr is stronger than any suffering you can inflict on me.” Lokil replied, “I believe you, Vigilant. And I don’t think you event know what you’ve found here. So go and meet your beloved Stendarr.” Before Elora could react she heard the sword being drawn across the neck of Adalvald.
Another Vampire in the area ahead said, “Are you sure that was wise, Lokil? He still might have told us something. We haven’t gotten anywhere ourselves with…” Lokil replied, “He knew nothing. He served his purpose by leading us to this place. Not it is up to us to bring Harkon the prize. And will not return without it. Vingalmo and Orthjolf will make way for me after this!” The other Vampire said, “Yes, of course Lokl. Do not forget who brought you news of the Vigilants’ discovery.” Lokil replied, “I never forget who my friends are. Or my enemies.”
Elora had heard enough. She casually walked in the room and leapt down to where Adalvald laid in a pool of blood with his journal next to him. They were both surprised to see her appear. Lokil said, “You don’t appear concerned to be standing here with two Vampires. Why is that!”
Elora replied, “First answer me this, what is it that this Harkon desires so much that he is willing to create a war between the Stendarr and the children of my brother Malog Bal? Neither of them missed the slight reference to her being a brother of Malog Bal. Lokil asked, “Are you an Acolyte of the Dark Court then? “Nah! However, two of them are quite familiar with me. I mean you should have seen Nocturnal and Sanguine faces when they were ripped from their Oblivion planes to kneel before me.
She had been paging through the pages of the journal of Adalvald. She said you too really are just too stupid aren’t you. I mean did you not read his journal, or did you not see it as being important? Elora then asked, How is it that you planned on freeing trapped people with you both being Vampires. You see, it requires real blood to work, and I am so sorry, but you no longer have any.”
Lokil exclaimed, “What how is you figured that out so quickly?” The other Vampire said I smell her, she has blood. Let’s use hers. Elora grinned then said, “Well, you see that will be a slight problem for the both of you since you are getting ready meet a very disappointed Malog. You know all your friends are already there wondering how long enterally really is.”
Lokil cried, “Get her, She slid her blade across their throats so fast they didn’t even realize what had happened. Then Elora said, “Do tell my brother how sad I am that he cannot find good help.”
Elora went to Adalvald and said, “I am sorry I could not get to you fast enough. “Go and return to by brother Sendarr. You did not deserve this fate. She laid her hands on him and he turned to dust. Then as she walked across the bridge she sensed another set of eyes watching her.
Elora said, “I hope you’re taking good care of our daughter Rosenlyn. Now, you have to be quiet and just watch as I getting ready to wake our sleeping Daughter of Coldharbour. “She walked to a center post and then walked around the circumference of the ancient structure.
Elora then approached the structure the sharp needle in the center of the chamber and said out loud, “This is going to hurt!” Rosenlyn suddenly cried out, “Etain or Elora or whatever you’re calling yourself wait, “There is a spell on that needle to make you compliant to the girl within. To keep you docile to her demand without realizing it. “Etain thought, “You can sense that?”
Rosenlyn laughed and said, “Oh by the divines our daughter just about jumped out of my stomach right before you got ready do that.” Etain silently replied, “Really, her Empathy is that strong already?’ Rosenlyn said to her through their bond, “Take a few drops of your blood, It is so much more powerful than a normal human.” Keep your hand high above the needle and just let some of it drip onto it. I am not even sure you need to apply the pressure that is built into the rim of that device.
Rosenlyn then said, “Remember to act the part though. We don’t know how much she knew before being entombed in there.” Etain smiled, “Well, with a few embellishments.” She did as Rosenlyn had instructed her. After the third drop of blood hit the needle it popped up and all around the chamber a purple mist filled the inner chamber.
Elora looked at the pedestals scatter around the circular chamber and thought to herself, “Oh! Look, puzzles. I love puzzles. “She heard Rosenlyn say, “You know you’re really becoming way too much like me.” Etain looked around the room and then with a single flip of her fingers, all the pedestals moved into their proper place. There was a loud noise in the middle and a sealed chamber began to rise from the center.
When it was done Elora sat down and sheathed her sword. She sat there cross legged for a few minutes and then she heard Rosenlyn say to her in her mind. “Etain, what are you doing. Are you going to free the poor girl or not?” She smiled then replied, “I was simply trying to find some especially funny lines. You know just rehearsing.”
Rosenlyn, “Yes!” Etain asked, “How is she has she calmed down? “Rosenlyn laughed, “Yes, I would like to keep her that way too. So, if you would.” Elora reached out and touched what she had guessed was he door. It began to slide downward with a grinding sound as it slid into the floor. “Then a very pretty young lady dressed in some fancy Vampire Garments dropped out and fell to her knees before Etain, who was still sitting on the floor. “
Elora silently asked Rosenlyn, “Do you see what is strapped to her back. We better hope it doesn’t react to me.” Rosenlyn said, “It that an Elder Scroll?” Elora replied, “Yes, now being quiet for a moment. She began to look up and saw Elora sitting there. Elora said, “Good day to you, did you have a nice nap?” The young lady replied, “Unh…where is…who sent you here? Elora replied, “Well, who were you expecting?” She sat down then in front of Elora and said, “I was expecting someone …like me, at least.”
Elora paused, then said, “You know your quite pretty?” She laughed, then said, “You are very strange you know. But thank you. I can’t imagine I am too well put together after just waking up. “Elora then said, “By like you I am supposed to know that that means. Really we just met.” The lady said, “You’re teasing me aren’t you? I mean a Vampire, can’t you tell?”
Elora asked then, “Why were you locked away like this? She looked at her for a moment then said, there’s something about you…” Elora replied, “You didn’t answer my question!” She replied, “That’s …complicated. And I’m not totally sure if I can trust you. But if you want to know the whole story, help me get back to my family’s home.”
Elora then stood up and reached out to help her stand as well. She said, “Why are you being so nice to me? “Elora replied, “Well you see I met some of your family that I suppose Harkon, who must be your father sent to retrieve something from you.”
Elora paused, “You know they were not very nice people. All they wanted to do was kill everyone they met, including you. “She looked at this hooded figure before her and said, “So where are they now?” Elora said, “I sent them back to visit with Molag Bal. I don’t think he was so happy to see them all return so soon. Well, we know what he does with those who fail him.”
She then said, “Wait a minute, you can’t kill Vampires.” Elora said, “Well you can, you just have to have a blade with the right mix of blood on it. I mean, we could go visit Molag Bal and see what he thinks.” She said, “Okay, this conversation is making my head hurt. Can you help me to get to my family’s home. Elora bowed before her and said, “Of course my fair damsel. Now where it that they live?
She replied, “Well aren’t you the charmer! They live on an island to the west of Solitude. By the way, my name is Serana, Nice to meet you…” Elora replied, “Elora is my name and nice to meet you too.”
Elora then asked, “Are you okay, feeling up to a hike, stretching your legs a bit? By the way, you have any idea on how to get out of here? Serana replied, “Your guess is as good as mine. This place looks pretty different from when I was locked away. They walked across a bridge that opened up to a courtyard of sorts with Gargoyle’s all around. Suddenly several of the stone Gargoyle came alive.
Elora simply said, “Golz Wah Ron!” They both turned from living stone to dust almost instantly. Serana asked, “Are you a Dragonborn? That was their language, but I never heard that form of it and seen it react so quickly.”
Elora replied, “Yes, I am Dragonborn. “What did you say to them? “It loosely translates to Stone To Rain. I know it sounds odd, right. However, remember their language is symbolic and there are many forms of it they do not know.”
Elora said, “let keep going up, I think that might get us out of here.” The continued walking and came to a door. Serana said,” This looks familiar.” Elora turned and sat down on a nearby bench. She asked Serana, “Tell me more about your home.” Serana sat down next to her and said, “Well, I already told you it’s on an island near Solitude. Hopefully we can find a boat to take us there. It’s my family home but not the most welcoming place, especially if it is my father who is there.”
Elora then asked, “Tell me about your father, what happened between you? I sense that you do not get along well. Serana said, “Old story, mother and father don’t agree on something, it gets worse, both get angry at each other, mother disappears father becomes obsessed about getting back at her. Make me sound like a spoiled common child doesn’t it. “Little girl who doesn’t get along with her father. Read that story a hundred times.”
Elora replied, “Well at least you remember who your parent were. I walked the land for a long time without remembering anything. Serana replied, “Really, you don’t know who your parents were? Elora smiled and said, “I do now but for there as quite some time when I didn’t. “
Elora then asked, “Can I ask you something then we can get up and continue.” Serana said, “Sure, what is it?” Why are you carrying an Elder Scroll around on your back?” Serana replied, “That’s complicated. I can’t really talk about it. I’m sorry?” Elora laughed, “Sorry for what, I didn’t ask you for it right, I was just wondering why you were lugging it around. “
They entered the next chamber and Elora stopped them. This place is full of restless undead ready to be released and come at us as soon as I pull that lever up there. Serana said, “You can sense that?” Yes, and I would free them, but they are too bound to the spells that have put upon them?
Elora said yes, “High Empathy. I can sense many things others cannot.” Elora then said, “Stay here it won’t take me long, beside you are still recovering.” Elora walked up pulled the lever and as each of the tombs opened up she moved quicker than the eye could follow, slid past them with her long knife and they all vanished into dust. When she was done she stood before Serana again and said, “Ready!”
Serana said, “Wait a minute, how did you do that?” I heard no words of the Dovah. Elora said, “It is an ancient creed I follow call “The Way”. We’ll talk about it more sometime in the future. Elora then asked, “Before we get outside, how long have you been in there?” Serana said, “Good question. Hard to say. I…I can’t really tell. I feel like it was very long time. Who is Skyrim’s High King? “
Elora replied, “That’s actually a matter of debate.” Serana replied, “Oh, wonderful. A war of succession. Good to know the world didn’t get boring while I was gone. Who are the contenders?”
Elora replied, “The Empire supports Elisif, but there are many in Skyrim loyal to Ulfric.” Serana replied, “Empire? What Empire?” Elora said, “You know the Empire from Cyrodiil.” Serana replied, “Cyrodiil is the seat of an empire? I must have been gone longer than I thought. Definitely longer than we planned. Let’s hurry to get me home so I can figure this out.”