“Of Storms And Half Light” – from Remastered Version of Beyond Skyrim Bruma – All rights for this audio belong to Daniel Ran
“Skyrim lies king less and bleeding. From the Jerall mountains will come a hero. She will ride with the echoes of her past calling forward when dragons return. She will rise to face the meeting of her destiny, not alone, but with one who hails from Helgen on the day that legends live again, and the world eater threatens all of Tamriel. “
The area and town of Riverwood had been inhabited since the Merethic Era, also known the time before when the Dragons and their cult ruled over much of the events of that time.
In its early days , sometime before the second era 582, the inhabitants of Riverwood feuded with another Nordic clan. Riverwood was a large settlement in those days during the Imperial Simulacrum, a time when Jagar Tharn, an Imperial Battlemage betrayed and secretly imprisoned Emperor Uriel Septim VII and used illusion magic to masquerade as the Emperor for a decade.
During this time there were many battles; The Five Year War, Arnesian War, War of the Blue Divide, The War of the Bend'r-mahk, and Invasion of the Battlespire.
This period ended with the Eternal Champion defeated Jagar Tharn in the imperial Palace labyrinths, restoring the rightful Emperor to the throne, thus ushering in a period known as the Restoration.
There was much history that transpired between Riverwood, the Nimalten City, Black Moor, Oakwood, Whiterun, and the Imperial City during that time. In time, Riverwood would become abandoned though until the Forth Era when a lumber mill was built on the banks of the river. a surviving member of the Blades named Delphine would open up an Inn named the Sleeping Giant as she fled the Thalmor assassins back in Cyrodiil.
In 4E 201, Riverwood was led by a local woman named Gerdur, whose family had built the lumber mill. Jarl Balgruuf the Greater of Whiterun tried to stay neutral during the new war between the Empire and the Stormcloaks.
It was during this time that Alduin, the World Eater would return, the "Last Dragonborn" came into existence because of Alduin's return predicted in the Prophecy of the Dragonborn. Also Delphine would depart Riverwood to re-establish the Blades as history and prophecy together were moving events of great import across the lands.
It is here that the story of the Child of Destiny comes into its beginning and two unlikely people find themselves thrown together in what would become an story unlike any other full of destiny.
Sensing the Dominion regulars looking them over as they read the poster, “Wanted, Rigmor of Bruma, 15,000 Gold Coin, Dead or Alive.” The adventurer stood there a moment thinking, “I wonder what she did to deserve so much attention from Thalmor operatives in Skyrim? It must have been something truly unique to earn that much of a reward. 15,000 Gold Coin could feed a family here in Riverwood for some time to come.”
The adventurer turned then and headed into the town towards the Riverwood Trader, the local goods store where Lucan and his sister were. As they neared the store, the adventurer saw a dark elf speaking with some authority to yet another Justiciar.
The adventurer casually walked up to the poster, yet another one of this Rigmor girl, then turned and watched from the walkway of the town in front of the Riverwood Trader.
What he heard was, “I have every right to be here, do you think your authority extends to the Dominion?” The dark elf lady appeared to be unconcerned with his declaration of superiority over her.
She responded, “I don’t care who you believe gives you permission to harass the citizens of the Jarl in Whiterun. I will tell you though; I am the authority here, and if you don’t take your group away from this town, stop bothering everyone you have a suspension about, I will have you and your regulars escorted out of town by sword point. Do I make myself clear?”
The adventurer smiled slightly and took an immediate liking to this lady. They thought, “She must be an officer of the Jarl of Whiterun to speak with such confidence.” Then the Justiciar responded, “Well I never, you can be sure the Jarl of Whiterun will hear about this from the authorities in Solitude.”
He turned and headed towards the entry where the rest of the Justiciar and Dominion regulars stood. With that, the dark elf lady looked briefly over at the adventurer. Their eyes connected across the distance. The adventurer felt her take the measure of their worth. She then turned towards the Sleeping Giant Inn, the local establishment for food, drink, music, and sleep if needed.
The adventurer quietly turned, reached out to open the door to the trader and stepped in through the doorway. Once inside they immediately picked up on the heated discussion taking place between the store owner and his sister according to Rose.
Lucan was speaking, “This discussion is over. There will be no thief chasing, no bandit tracking, nothing of the sort.” His sister Camilla stood there defiant and spat back at him, “Well, what are you going to do about it then? Nothing!” They then both noticed the new person standing there is the shadow of the doorway.
Lucan, turned towards them and said, “I don’t know what you heard but the Riverwood Trader is still open for business. We have just about anything you might need.”
The adventurer responded, “Thank you, I need to see if you might have some clean cloth for bandages. Hmm! Maybe a warm fur to be used as a blanket.”
Lucan replied, “I think you’ll like what we have here, I believe these will fit your needs.” Lucan paused briefly then followed up with, “I hope you’re not planning any trouble!”
The adventurer smiled slightly and responded, “No just helping some folks out, no trouble planned on my part.” The adventurer received the goods, paid Lucan, then began to leave the store with his sister quietly sitting behind him, likely trying to consider who this stranger was.
When the adventurer had stepped outside, he took a few paces forward and looked around at the town. There was no Thalmor anywhere. Musing, “Well, it appeared the Justiciar did indeed believe the Dark Elf lady had enough authority to encourage them to leave the town.” The adventurer chuckled quietly to themself, turned, and noticed the poster of Rigmor of Bruma was still there even if they were not.
The adventurer shrugged, then began their trip back to Rose and the injured girl who they now knew to be Rigmor of Bruma. The adventurer considered as this new information as they made their way back to the boat at the hunter’s camp.
Thinking quietly to themself, “Rigmor of Bruma is a title, not a common name. They would have only used the name Rigmor if she was just a local resident of the city of Bruma or the county.”
Continuing to think this through, “They needed to consider this some more concerning this girl. There’s something not adding up right now. I need to learn about what her reasons for being here are and where she was going if we are to have any hope of helping her.”
“Of Storms And Half Light” – from Remastered Version of Beyond Skyrim Bruma – All rights for this audio belong to Daniel Ran
“Skyrim lies king less and bleeding. From the Jerall mountains will come a hero. She will ride with the echoes of her past calling forward when dragons return. She will rise to face the meeting of her destiny, not alone, but with one who hails from Helgen on the day that legends live again, and the world eater threatens all of Tamriel. “
The area and town of Riverwood had been inhabited since the Merethic Era, also known the time before when the Dragons and their cult ruled over much of the events of that time.
In its early days , sometime before the second era 582, the inhabitants of Riverwood feuded with another Nordic clan. Riverwood was a large settlement in those days during the Imperial Simulacrum, a time when Jagar Tharn, an Imperial Battlemage betrayed and secretly imprisoned Emperor Uriel Septim VII and used illusion magic to masquerade as the Emperor for a decade.
During this time there were many battles; The Five Year War, Arnesian War, War of the Blue Divide, The War of the Bend'r-mahk, and Invasion of the Battlespire.
This period ended with the Eternal Champion defeated Jagar Tharn in the imperial Palace labyrinths, restoring the rightful Emperor to the throne, thus ushering in a period known as the Restoration.
There was much history that transpired between Riverwood, the Nimalten City, Black Moor, Oakwood, Whiterun, and the Imperial City during that time. In time, Riverwood would become abandoned though until the Forth Era when a lumber mill was built on the banks of the river. a surviving member of the Blades named Delphine would open up an Inn named the Sleeping Giant as she fled the Thalmor assassins back in Cyrodiil.
In 4E 201, Riverwood was led by a local woman named Gerdur, whose family had built the lumber mill. Jarl Balgruuf the Greater of Whiterun tried to stay neutral during the new war between the Empire and the Stormcloaks.
It was during this time that Alduin, the World Eater would return, the "Last Dragonborn" came into existence because of Alduin's return predicted in the Prophecy of the Dragonborn. Also Delphine would depart Riverwood to re-establish the Blades as history and prophecy together were moving events of great import across the lands.
It is here that the story of the Child of Destiny comes into its beginning and two unlikely people find themselves thrown together in what would become an story unlike any other full of destiny.
The adventurer approached the boat, prepared to head back to the hunter’s camp while scanning around the lake’s edges near the camp. They wanted to ensure there was no threatening activity from possible Thalmor or Imperial Scouts. They leaped into the canoe and made their way out onto the lake towards the hunter’s camp.
When they arrived at the hunter’s camp it was empty. Hedren likely had gone into Riverwood as he had told Rose, the other hunters were off somewhere on the next hunt stocking up to sell so they could get supplies in for the cooler season yet to come.
The adventurer made their way up towards the three standing stones that stood timeless on the rocky outcrop above where they stood looking at the hunter camp below. Beyond the blessing stones would be the road into Riverwood. Beginning their journey up the trail, paused, thought to themself, “What Alibi should I use with the Thalmor? Maybe none, just see where it goes.”
Arriving at the stones and the road, nothing could be heard other than the normal sounds of the woodlands and mountains surrounding this area. Still worried about what to do about Thalmor but instinctively felt something would come to them at the time.
As the adventurer made the way to the road, walked along its path a while and closed the distance to Riverwood, pausing near one of the falls where the waters would tumble, the mist would rise, and the White River finally settle down as it neared Riverwood. Thinking to themself, “What am I going to do about the Thalmor if they’re hanging around town and decide to cause trouble? “
Smiling to themself thinking, “Maybe I’ll shake them up a bit by throwing something their way they won’t expect, a little touch of aggression. That will make the Justiciar take pause and consider the outcomes. It was worth a gamble they thought to themself.”
Standing there looking ahead, they saw the large Elk across the river. Contemplating, “that would be a good prize for any of the hunters around the camp. Too bad none of them are around to take advantage of it. An Elk that size could put meat on the table for a whole family through the winter months.”
Continuing towards the town of Riverwood and whatever fate had in store for them there. Of course, they thought, “I would prefer that it is an uneventful trip, I purchase the supplies needed, learn what I can about why they are here and get back to the camp. Rose would be needing the supplies if they hoped to save that injured girl.”
“There they were they thought, is that a poster nailed to the wall there?” With that the adventurer continued forward and the Justiciar stepped forward once they approached them.
“Stop! What is it you are doing in this town?” The adventurer stepped closer and gave a cynical response with a crooked smile, “I could ask you the same thing! What are the Thalmor doing in this quiet little town of Riverwood so far from the embassy up near Solitude, the capital city of Skyrim?”
This did give the Justiciar pause, and he thought, “Just who is this that step forward instead of back when the Thalmor questions?” He considers how to respond, “Have you seen the girl shown on this poster?”
The adventurer responded, “No, is it not obvious I have just arrived here? How is that I am supposed to have seen her and who is she anyway that her mere presence somewhere requires so many soldiers and a Justiciar?”
The Justiciar thought briefly, “I think I’ll continue forward; doesn’t appear to be any immediate threat. Although, he observed that armor is not an ordinary Nord crafted cuirass. The detail and craftsman that forged this is no ordinary smithy. “He then responded to this person, “She is a dangerous criminal, as you can see if you can read? There is a sizable reward available for anyone helping to locate her in such a way to allow us to capture her.”
The adventurer responded quickly, “Your tone and insult does you no favors, Justiciar. A single girl requires a company of highly trained Dominion soldiers, an Imperial Scout, and his dogs, with a Justiciar?”
The Justiciar spate back, “She is a wanted criminal for murder, she is extremely dangerous, and I would caution you if you were to come upon her in your travels. If you see her let us know. Oh, one precautionary tale, anyone caught helping her will be summarily executed and their family sent to Valenwood, to the ports of the slavers. Move along now.”
The adventurer said no more but stepped towards the poster to inspect it closely.
“Shapeless” – from Remastered Version of Beyond Skyrim Bruma – All rights for this audio belong to Daniel Ran
“Skyrim lies king less and bleeding. From the Jerall mountains will come a hero. She will ride with the echoes of her past calling forward when dragons return. She will rise to face the meeting of her destiny, not alone, but with one who hails from Helgen on the day that legends live again, and the world eater threatens all of Tamriel. “
The body of water where the camp is located in the story is Lake Ilianlta. It is in the west-central Falkreath Hold, in the middle of Skyrim's pine forest.
It is the source of the White River a notable landmark that flows through the town of Riverwood and powers the lumber mill there and then tumbles through a series of small falls to the basin of Whiterun tundra's area.
The Imperial legion used to have a fort along its shore, until the entire structure mysteriously sank into the water in a a single day. These ruins became known as Ilinalta's Deep. It is a place of local legend, said to be cursed. Travelers are known to go missing in while traveling near it at times.
The area close to the camp of the huntress, Rose also has an entry into Brittleshin Pass. It is a small passage through the mountains between Whiterun and Falkreath Hold.
It is rumored to be the home of a powerful necromancer and the skeletons conjured to life through the use of the necromancer's dark magic.
It is one of the reasons the camp was located here, with so many rumored dangers nearby, it kept everyone else away most of the time from the area.
All the area around where the story begins is located within the Brittleshin Hills, a small mountain range that make up the border region of Falkreath and Whiterun. The sharp and protruding snow peaks are dominated by Bleak Falls Barrow, the lake, the river and the small town of Riverwood.
Rose turned then and spoke to the adventurer, “let’s get her settled carefully and securely into the boat and be on our way. Please be careful with her, there are some furs in the boat you can use to wrap her up a bit to keep her warm. It will be cooler once we’re out on the lake until we get to my camping site.”
They both boarded the boat and set out for the camp located further away from the hunter camp, near to the fort that had sunk and close to a cavern of some type.
She told them that this site was chosen because of its location. It would keep most people from being too curious and it was convenient for her with its location so close to the water, good hunting nearby and the mountains rising behind them.
The huntress then asked the adventurer, “Would you please place her down in my lean-to? It will protect her from the elements, and I can hang some furs over the front at night to keep her warm and give us both some privacy when I need it to work on her recovery.”
Nodding, they turned towards the lean-to, bent carefully down on one knee. Then they set her down onto the soft furs, reached out and touched her on her cheek, and whispered, “Sleep gently and may the healing winds of the blessings of Kynareth touch you.” She moaned briefly then a gentle warm breeze blew over them at the campsite.
“Kynareth, the goddess of the heavens, the winds, the sea, the elements, and the unseen spirits of the air”, the huntress thought quietly to herself, “She sensed the blessing of the goddess Kynareth, it was one of the nine and the first who sided with the original intent of some of them to support humanity in a positive gesture of good will.”
She turned then as she bent over the injured girl. She worked the armor loose and gently examined the obvious areas of injury. She then said to the adventurer, “Oh my, she’s injured bad. There’s a cut from the sword that made its way through her armor. It will take time, and I’ll need some help.”
She paused then asked, “We, I, and the girl, will need some help until she recovers. Will you, can you stay? At least until she is healthy enough to sit up on her own and help take care of her needs?”
All conversation paused, she stood up and walked over to a stump that had been set down near the fire. She looked first at the injured girl, then up at this person who had dropped everything to help her and waited.
You could hear the soft moaning of the injured girl, her raspy breathing, the hissing of the sap being boiled in some of the wood laid out for the fire. The sound of waves lapping onto the shoreline where they were camped, the creaking of the wood of the boat they had taken to arrive here were all swirling sounds around them.
Standing there a moment, eyes closed briefly, as if listening for some inner guidance to respond. The adventurer opened their eyes turned towards her then said, “Of course I will stay and help, what is it you need? What can I do for the both of you?”
She responded, “Can you travel back to Riverwood and get some clean bandages, more clean furs, or blankets, and maybe a healing spell if they have one? We need all the help we can get right now to get her on her way to recovery. “
She continued, “You can go to the Riverwood Trading Store and ask either Luken or his sister Camilla. They will sell you what you need. Please don’t tell them anything though about why we need them. I don’t want to endanger them; they are good people.”
The adventurer's lips formed into a slight smile, “Of course, I will be careful as to not bring any unwarranted attention. I would not want any harm to happen either to them, or anyone else in the town. It will be okay.”
She chuckled lightly at this warm response, “Be careful as the Thalmor may still be either in the town of Riverwood or nearby. Make sure you have some sort of Alibi concerning what you’re up to. We don’t need them sniffing around the hunter’s camp or scouting the fringes of the lake.”
The adventurer said, “Of course, I’ll get going right away. Do you want me to use the boat or leave it here for you?” She said, “No, take it with you. I need you back here as quickly as you can with those bandages and blankets. I will stay here and care for our girl.”
“Kynareth’s Wish” – from Remastered Version of Beyond Skyrim Bruma – All rights for this audio belong to Daniel Ran
“Skyrim lies king less and bleeding. From the Jerall mountains will come a hero. She will ride with the echoes of her past calling forward when dragons return. She will rise to face the meeting of her destiny, not alone, but with one who hails from Helgen on the day that legends live again, and the world eater threatens all of Tamriel. “
Azura, a Daedric Prince whose sphere is the dawn and dusk, the magic in -between realms of twilight including mystery and magic, fate, prophecy, vanity, and egotism. Azura plays a significant role in the story of this "Child of Destiny".
It has been said by those who are devoted to her that above all else, Azura wants us to love themselves. Azura maintains a female image, and is perceived accordingly.
Azura is also known by the following names; Azura of the Crimson Gate, Queen of Dawn and Dusk, Mother Soul, Moonshadow, Mother of the Rose, Queen of the Night Sky, Twilight Queen, Rom of all Holes and the Cosmic Severer.
Moonshadow is also the name of Azura's realm in Oblivion. Her star is visible at dawn and dusk low on the horizon below the constellation of the Steed.
In this story where fate, destiny, and prophecy play such a prominent role, Azura is discovered to be the "Child of Destiny's" spiritual mother.
Her influence is widely felt within its story as she creates Azura's Bane to bring justice to those who would see this child's destiny undone.
"I am the Goddess, Azura Mother of the Rose, Queen of the Night Sky, The Dusk and Dawn,
Behold Rigmor of Bruma, Protector of the Pure of Heart, Daughter of a Mothers Love,
I am the Bane of Azura, The Poisoned Chalice of Woe, Vanquisher of the Forces of Evil,
Behold Rigmor of Bruma, Child of the Twilight, The Chosen Champion of Azura."
Azura also brings a champion of unequaled power in the forth era, they that are to be known by the title, "The Last Dragonborn". Their fates and destines are threaded tightly as the dawn and dusk of Azura's realm is.
They arrived at the spot where the injured girl lied crumpled in the thick grasses with pieces of tree branches all around her from when she fell through the trees.
They didn’t say anything but turned and bent to their knees before the crumpled form. reaching out to gently touch her face to see what could be determined with their own senses. Something happened, upon their fingers touching her skin, they sensed a connection to this girl and felt something pass between them with this initial touch.
Thinking briefly, “That was odd, I’ve never felt anything like that before, it was like our souls leaped out to touch each other. It was as if there was a testing of trust between us.” The adventurer then inspected her to ensure there were no broken bones, carefully extended their reach under her and gently lifted her into their arms.
When they lifted her up, she leaned towards them as if to say, “I am safe now. She appeared to sense something from this person that held her, she felt comfortable with and had not felt for a long time now.”
The huntress turned, looked briefly at them, then began to lead them away towards the camp and her boat. They followed not far behind her, and looked first at the huntress, then at the person leaning into them as they followed not far behind. The adventurer thought, “Strange events are a foot here, two people in one day, separated only by moments, that I felt such a deep connection to.” Musing, “There’s something so familiar though with this girl I carry, hmm!”
The huntress came to the top of a rise that overlooked the road leading down towards Riverwood. She raised her hand to gesture for silence. As the adventurer arrived at the place she stood. She said, “Look below, Thalmor soldiers! If you come closer to the edge and where I stand you can see them as they make their way into Riverwood.
The adventurer made their way carefully to the edge, still holding the injured girl who leaned into them. Down below, you could see the Thalmor and Dominion regulars making their way slowly towards Riverwood. Thinking to themself, “They must be giving up the hunt for the day and going into Riverwood for the evening.
Behind them, the huntress quietly said, “Come on, we’ll need to take another way up past the old mine. I think we can still make it into the hunter’s camp and my boat if were quiet enough.” They carefully stepped back, turned slowly, and then followed her further up the trail past Embershard mine.
They made their way up past the old mine. Thinking briefly, “Lucky today, no one on guard duty currently if the stories of the bandits are actually true!” The ascent to the top of the ridge where the road winded down from the crossroads was just ahead. Quietly thinking to themself, “She’ll likely stop there to scout ahead. I know I would.”
They arrived at the edge of the woods. There they halted, standing still in a cluster of trees and tall grasses swaying from the breezes often flowing through these mountains. As they stood there amongst the dense hardwoods, pines, and rich soils the adventurer closed their eyes briefly, quietly thinking, “The deep scents of the woodlands were alive here. All the distinctive smells of this area filled one’s soul with a sort of renewal and energy.”
The huntress turned towards them, spoke softly, “Let me scout ahead a bit to make sure the way is clear. Wait here, and I’ll give you a signal once I have assured there are no more of them around.” Nodding agreement, they stood there and waited as they watched her slide out of the Shadows.
She made her way down the road towards the three standing stones, below them and along the White River was the hunter’s camp where her boat was expected to be. The adventurer could see her pause near the three stones, where she would be able to look in both directions, up towards them, where they stood in the deep shadows of the woodlands and down the road towards Riverwood where they had last seen the Thalmor from on top the rise.
It wasn’t long after that the huntress signaled that it was clear to bring her to where she stood next to the standing stones. These stones were also known as the stones of fate. There were thirteen in all, according to lore each one would grant a powerful blessing. Each blessing type varied due to the nature of the stone and its ties to either the Aedra or Daedra.
It was a legend of the Nords, the most populous people living in Skyrim, that these stones would allow heroes of old to rewrite their fates.
They walked close to the edge of shadows alongside the road as a precaution as the adventurer made their way down to the huntress who stood near the stones. Once there they could see the hunter’s camp located below them.
The White River was flowing gently by this hunter’s camp located near the beginning of what would become lake LLinalta, the source of the river.
The huntress turned towards them and spoke, “How’s our girl doing? My boat is right down there. Let’s get her to it. The quicker we can get all of us to my camp. The quicker were able to save her, get her recovering enough to be back on her feet again. Maybe, we’ll discover a bit from her about her story.”
The adventurer responded, “She’s holding up, I think this is one strong girl. However, I agree, we need to get her to your camp and see what can be done to save her.” The huntress nodded her agreement, she turned and walked down to the hunter’s camp where there was one person who came forward quick to speak with her. “Rose, are you crazy? What are you doing bringing this girl into our camp and who is this? Can we trust them?”
Rose responded to the hunter, “Hedren, I am not going to let the Thalmor have this girl, I don’t care what the cost is to me. I plan on taking her to my camp anyway, so we’ll be far enough away soon, and you’ll be safe.”
Hedren went quiet for a moment losing some of the initial bluster he showed then asked, “What about them? You still didn’t answer my question.” Rose responded, “You know Hedren, sometimes, you just must trust another person without always expecting the worst from them. This person has carried her all the way here without a single complaint. How many people do you know would do that for a couple of total strangers?”
Hedren responded, “Okay, but you better get her secured in the boat and be on your way. You know where to find me. I’ll be headed into Riverwood in the morning to help Alvor with the smithy work that has been picked up if you need me for anything.”
“Bloodlines” – from Remastered Version of Beyond Skyrim Bruma – All rights for this audio belong to Daniel Ran
“Skyrim lies king less and bleeding. From the Jerall mountains will come a hero. She will ride with the echoes of her past calling forward when dragons return. She will rise to face the meeting of her destiny, not alone, but with one who hails from Helgen on the day that legends live again, and the world eater threatens all of Tamriel. “
Dragonborn, what is it to be so empowered with that title? The lore states that Akatosh, the Father of Dragons, first Aedra, and chief of the Divines chooses who to bless the blood of the Dragonkind. There are those that claim the Dragonborn are themselves fragments of Akatosh's soul and share this status with Alduin and possibly all of those that are of the race of dragons.
Then there are references to this title being a blessing received from Akatosh, where as a mortal is blessed with the blood and soul of the race of dragons.
Those that are dragons from birth, fear the Dragonborn as they have the extraordinary ability to absorb their knowledge and sever their souls thus ending their immortality.
The first known Dragonborn was Miraak, a dragon priest of the Merethic Era who attempted unsuccessfully to revolt against his masters. That is a story for another time as the title itself is most often associated with the "Dragonborn Emperors" of Tamriel.
They who were a result of a divine covenant with Akatosh to maintain the barriers between Mundus, the world of man, and Oblivion, the plane of existence for the Daedra with at least sixteen major planes with each ruled over by one of the Daedric Princes.
Of course those were just the major realms within Oblivion as it was documented that over thirty seven thousand other planes , including chaos realms and pocket realities also existed. To understand Oblivion is to consider the existence of a different universe or dimension.
Returning to the subject of the "Dragonborn Emperors"; from the liturgy of the Re-Kindling of the Dragon Fires, the quote states; "So long as the Blood of the Dragon runs strong in her rulers, the glory of the Empire shall extend in unbroken years."
Few would understand that the title stretched back to Saint Alessia, who founded the Cyrodilic Empire in the First Era as a result of a covenant with Akatosh. He imbued Alessia's line with blood from his own heart, initiating a sacred compact which kept the Dragon Fires lit and Oblivion's influence barred from Mundus. This would remain true so long as those of the Dragon Blood wore the Amulet of Kings.
The Amulet of Kings was a pendant worn by the ruling emperor of Cyrodiil. In its center was the Chim-el Adabal, also known as the Red Diamond, a huge soul gem of Ayleid origin. It was held in a golden clasp surrounded by eight smaller gems that represented the Eight Divines of the original Cyrodilic pantheon, created by Queen Alessia. It served as a symbol of the divine right and covenant of the Dragonborn Emperors.
There is a poem that reads:
"Dragonborn, Dragonborn, by his honor is sworn, To keep evil forever at bay, And the fiercest foes rout when they hear triumph's shout, Dragonborn, for your blessing we pray."
"From the Songs of Skyrim, a compilation of popular songs and poems by Giraud Gemaine, Historian of the Bards College, Solitude, the capital of Skyrim."
The Dragonborn plays a prominent role in the legends of the Nords. It is unknown how many Dragonborn have arisen over the course of history. However, the Greybeards of High Hrothgar, those who practiced the values of the "Way of the Voice" warned that many of them met their downfall because of their arrogance. This arrogance said to have been born from the ease in which they could use the thu'um or dragon speech causing many of them to lead to violent use of it.
In 4E 201 the dragons return and with it the emergence of the first Dragonborn since Tiber Septim. It is said they were to be in fulfillment of an ancient Akaviri prophecy, known as the Prophecy of the Dragonborn, the title of "The Last Dragonborn" would be bore by that person as it was stated they would defeat Alduin, the first born of the race of Dragons who Alduin created to become known as "The World Eater".
The adventurer thought to themself while continuing to walk towards the three standing stones, “What were the Thalmor doing in Riverwood area? What has happened to bring them so far south from their embassy north of Solitude, the capital hold of Skyrim?” Their musing continued as they came upon the three standing stones; Thief, Mage, and Warrior and absently rested their hand on the Warrior Stone.
The stone began to vibrate upon their touch. There was a bright light that formed within its core that then shot to the heavens cracking with the power of something hidden within it. Not totally surprised by this considering the Nords believe their fates could be changed by using one of the thirteen known standing stones found throughout Skyrim.
Stepping onto the road from the stone that had been formed when the three standing stones were created. The adventurer walked to just before Embershard Mine and saw the old Barrow far across the White River standing there high upon a minor mountain nearby outlining the sky with its carved statues from ancient times.
Turning, they closed their eyes briefly and felt the hum of the stone. Every time the adventurer was in the vicinity of this barrow there was this feeling the arose within them, as if something inside it was calling out to them in some ancient tongue. Here the adventurer stood with the winds blowing down, the water racing away towards Riverwood and beyond, and the barrow behind.
Thinking to themself, “It is said that it was once home of one of the ancient Dragon Priest that existed in the first era of that age, when Dragons still dotted the sky. They were said to have been sealed away for using the sacred fires of the priests of Kyne. It was also thought, that only one with the blood of a Dragon could truly slay a Dragon Priest. “
Pausing then, letting the wind chill their exposed facial skin, the adventurer thought, “A person speaking in the tongue of the ancient Dragons, it was supposedly something that had been done a long time ago, but it sounded like nonsense. I mean a human who can speak with the power of the Dragons of old, imagine that!”
Turning then, the adventurer walked down the road a bit more before stopping to rest a moment. To let their eyes absorb the mysteries of this ancient land. Closing their eyes a moment, their thoughts continued, “Many believed the dead still served their ancient masters; both priests and dragons alike in those places.” There was a sudden whisper in that ancient tongue, “Fus” whispered through their mind, at least, that is what they thought was heard.
It stirred their blood and sent a wave of belonging through them. Pausing, then thought, “I should be continuing my way back to Riverwood. The old abandoned mine had rumors that bandits were using it to collect the treasures they had gotten from travelers who had come along this road and been unfortunate enough to become their next victim.
The adventurer walked down towards the town of Riverwood. They knew it wasn’t far now keeping their senses high for any movement coming from behind them and up towards the mine.
As a bend in the road became near where the ridge on the right- side rose up towards a cliff face, the adventurer could now hear a running movement, and their hand went to their sword held in a sheath strapped to their back. They did not pull it but watched with senses alert. There, a huntress was seen coming towards them from the general area of the base of the cliff line.
As she neared the location, she called out, “Help, could you please provide some assistance.” The adventurer stopped and relaxed their grip on the handle of the sword. She came to a stop up the hillside a little and waited. Thinking to themself, “She’s trying to demonstrate she meant no harm but taking a neutral position. I’ll go up and speak to her, she seemed generally concerned about something.”
The adventurer closed the distance between them and came close enough for them to find out why she sounded so urgent about something. As they drew near her, it was noticed she was attractive, had auburn hair, pretty eyes that sparkled with intelligence and wit.” Thinking to themself, “she was also in good shape from her days spent in the woods for the adventurer had noticed her huntress outfit.
Musing, “there something else here, a sense of connection to her, there was an inner sense she felt it too.” Smiling inwardly, “you know, there are times when you just connect without words ever being spoken to someone.” As they met there in the foothills of the mountains, she greeted them and began to talk.
“Please, I don’t know who you are or what your purpose is for this day, but I really could use your help.” Their eyes met briefly, then she continued, “I was doing some hunting for small game, when I heard what sounded like a small clash coming from up on that ridge.” She pointed upwards towards the upper ridge that could be seen above them. “
She paused a moment, then continued, “She was in a fight. She lost her balance when one of them struck her. She saved herself by allowing herself to fall. This likely cushioned her because of the trees and the thick blanket of grasses that grow close to the cliffsides. Would you please follow me and lend a hand, I can’t do this on my own?”
She paused and waited for my response, “Who was she in a fight with?” Her eyes glinted with consideration at that moment, but she must have determined something about the adventurer and said, “The Thalmor, I know what you’re likely thinking, do I really want to get myself involved with a Thalmor incident?”
Thinking a moment but before being able to respond she blurted out with her eyes beginning to pool with tears, “Please, she will likely die without our help. I have a small camp out on the lake, if I can get your help to get her there, we might be able to save her.”
At that point they committed then told her, “Let’s go, lead me to where she is.” She responded, “I can’t tell you how much this means to me. I don’t know why, but I feel something is important about this girl. That we need to do all we can to save her if we can?”
“Maker of Worlds” from Remastered Version of Beyond Skyrim Bruma – All rights for this audio belong to Daniel Ran
“Skyrim lies king less and bleeding. From the Jerall mountains will come a hero. She will ride with the echoes of her past calling forward when dragons return. She will rise to face the meeting of her destiny, not alone, but with one who hails from Helgen on the day that legends live again, and the world eater threatens all of Tamriel. “
“In the beginning was Akatosh, the first of the Gods to form in the Beginning Place. He who was the Aedric spirit (Aedra) or original beings. Embodied the qualities of endurance, invincibility, and everlasting legitimacy. He also promoted the virtues of duty, service, and obedience.
He, the father of dragons, formed the legacy of their importance to the future of Tamriel. Alduin, the “First-Born” dragon, who later betrayed Akatosh would play an important role in the coming of our hero.
Akatosh, known as Auri-El (Auriel) to the Aldmer and Bosmer (Elves), our father or Bormahu to the dragons, would also forge the Covenant of the new Empire of humanity. His blood was mystically joined with Alessia, known also as Saint Alessia and the Lady of Heaven.
It was she who led the first Era to establish and form the new religion of the Eight Divines and established her importance to the canon of herself and her heirs. Thus, the Amulet of Kings was created to represent and create a stabilizing influence on the world. Both Akatosh and Alessia would play an important part in the healing of an empire.”
How does this story begin? As with most stories, there are as many interpretations as there are stars in the heavens. The events of any age are nothing less than a collection of retelling of events, places, and people that become accepted or canon.
The further back in time, the more fantastical the telling becomes. But with most authoritative works, for this story too, there is enough material to understand the intent of its telling and the meaning of its story for the present as well as the future.
“Should I have come back here so soon?” The adventurer stood at the gates of what was left of Helgen. Helgen, the “Gateway to the North” they thought. “How do I remember that and so many other things are missing?”
Standing there looking at what remained of the town after the dragon had attacked. There was nothing left but burned-out buildings, broken walls, and towers. Thinking back a moment trying to recollect something, “I remember coming from Cyrodiil, as so many did before this happened.
We, a gathering of travelers, would often be seen passing through the Pale pass between Skyrim and Cyrodiil, all those travelers had been waiting in the cold snow for half a day?”
Pausing, hands raised to rub their forehead with the palm of their hand. Trying to encourage the memories to return. Thinking, “when the gates opened to let us pass there was a sudden rush of soldiers, Stormcloaks maybe?”
What was it, pausing, trying to remember something, “I remember a scuffle, there were so many waiting to pass through the gates on both sides. Those traveling to Skyrim and those into Cyrodiil. I remember my head being hit on something as I was pushed hard by someone.”
A moment, then remembering, “I woke up in a wagon, tied up, along with others, including some of the soldiers, Stormcloaks as they called themselves, true sons and daughters of Skyrim they liked to say.”
Chuckling to themself, “Wasn’t everyone born here in this province true sons and daughters of Skyrim? No, considering, that is not what they believe. Only those of Nordic blood, descendants of the Atmorans who came to this land and called themselves Nords thereafter, were fitting to hold the honor of being true sons or daughters. “
Looking towards the sky a cry was let loose, out came a loud scream, “Why does that even matter, why can’t I remember who I was? There was a sudden darkening of the sky after this outburst, and thunder rolled across the heavens briefly.
Thinking to themself, “it’s getting late, and I am wasting my time here.” Turning towards the road heading south towards the crossroads. It was here you could come into Riverwood from the road leading right or go directly down past three of the thirteen standing stones that stood there waiting to give their blessing to those who sought them out.
They began walking towards the crossroads thinking, "Why can I remember all of this but I can't even remember who I am, or why I came here, or why I was captured, then treated like a common criminal of the empire?"
The cold of the mountainous area stung their skin and lungs, the adventurer came upon the crossroads. Musing quietly, "Which way to go and decided, I think I’ll go down past the standing stones.” The adventurer thought briefly, “Yes, the Thief, Mage, and Warrior stones.” Considering a moment, “That way I can enjoy the waterfalls along the White River before arriving back in Riverwood.”
As the walk continued down the road, the adventurer came upon some Thalmor who appeared to be searching for something or someone. They saw an Imperial scout with his two dogs with them. Considering this a moment, “Must have been assigned that thankless duty by some thoughtless commander.
The Thalmor would of course use him and the dogs to assist them, but respect them, treat them as equals. No, they thought, they were no different than the Nords who cried out for a land free of any other races.”
Thinking on it a moment, "it is odd though, no one appeared to be doing anything other than meandering along the road.” Considering this, “What were they waiting for, were they actively hunting someone down?” A decision was made to pass them by quietly. The adventurer mused to themself, "Unless one of them stopped them for questioning."
Walking past them, one of them called out with a harsh tone to the other regular soldiers and Imperial scout, “What do you mean, you can’t find her? Must I do everything myself?” The adventurer passed the small company, musing to themself, “The one on the horse giving strong commands must be a Justiciar” Then one of the regular Dominion noticed this person passing them and said, “Move along, this is none of your business.”
Stopping briefly the adventurer stood there, listening to see if anything else was going to be said. There was no attempt to ever turn around to face them. In a few short minutes, the adventurer began walking on their way as if they was not concerned with what their business for being there was. Sensing the Dominion regulars were watching their passing carefully, he adventurer stood in place briefly, then continued towards wherever their destination was.
Beneath the towering Jerall Mountains' frosty embrace, A child of destiny first gazed upon the stars' grace. Cradled in Bruma's heart, where time's hand gently passed, She bore a noble heritage; in her veins it was cast.
Amidst a family of simple means, but hearts abundant and true, Their world, once warm with dreams, to a nightmarish realm withdrew. Her father, a warrior of valor, his battles renowned and vast, Yet his tale, steeped in sorrow, was to the shadows forever cast.
In the glow of the hearth, his feats became the minstrel's art, But silenced was his valor, by envy's venomous dart. His race, their history etched in stone by those who scorn and deride, Though blameless he stood, with dignity, he embraced his end with pride.
The mother, with her daughter, bore the weight of undeserved disgrace, As those around them averted their gaze, abandoning them without a trace. Injustice, with its thieving hands, struck them with a fate so dire, Into the unknown, they were swept away, their dreams set to the pyre.
Bound by iron and shrouded in gloom, their anguished pleas were cast, Their laments, though muffled by the void, echoed long and vast. In the silence, their hearts smoldered, a somber, wordless song, Together in the shadows' thrall, where only the cruelest belong.
Their captors, devoid of mercy, on that fateful day, Tore the child from her mother's arms and led them both astray. This innocent, born of enigmatic lineage, sold into despair, Yet within her, the flame of hope flickered, refusing to be snuffed out of the air.
In the solace of her dreams, a gentle voice would call her name, And though tears blurred her vision, the message remained the same. In the vast emptiness, a hand reached out, a beacon to implore, "Rise, for I am with you, in your darkest hour, I am the shore."
Her skin, marred by the lash, bore the crimson testament of pain, Yet even as darkness sought to claim her, salvation came like rain. For the blood of champions coursed through her, a lineage pure and grand, A destiny foretold among the stars, a future to command.
This maiden, a light amidst the tempest, would rise above despair, From the cinders of her suffering, she would conquer every snare. Through the trials that sought to break her, her spirit only grew, Defiant against the shadows, her inner strength she drew.
Destined to lead, her voice would ring with the promise of release, A herald of newfound liberty, a guardian of peace. The birth of Kintyra marked an era, a dawning bright and clear, A legacy born from a mother's love, a hope for all to hear.
So, remember the tale of Bruma's child, and the wrongs she did endure, From sorrow's depths, she claimed her might, her purpose ever sure. Within her beat the heart of Tamriel, a light undimmed and bright, A legacy of resilience, a testament to the eternal fight.
Beneath the verdant canopy's gentle sway,
A traveler's weary steps did slow that day.
In nature's tender clasp, the woodlands lay,
Where paths diverged, his heart in silent fray.
An elder, with her years spun into grace,
Emerged from paths where few leave trace.
Her eyes, like tomes, bore history's face,
Her voice, a tender breeze in that quiet place.
"Stray traveler, as stars in heavens roam,
For mere crumbs and a drop that shimmers like foam,
I offer my wisdom to light your gloom.
Your spirit shines clear, 'neath the sun's bright loom."
She spoke, her words a pact, a gentle plea,
He gave with grace, his heart as open as the sea.
"Thanks be to thee," her smile spread wide and free,
Paths are but reflections of what you wish to see.”
Life's odyssey brims with both joy and strife,
Like rivers rich with the essence of life.
In every soul you find under this earth's dome,
May kinship spark, casting warmth like a hearth's home.
The end of your quest is not the treasure to seek,
But in each step is love, that lights the sparks at each peak.
For when all paths converge, as they surely must,
It's the love you spread that turns gold from mere dust.”
A single tear, like morning dew, found its way,
Down his cheek, a silent tribute to the day.
With her wisdom close, a balm to his core,
He journeyed forth, with riches of the soul to store.
Their parting was a gentle fold in time's weave,
A testament to the gifts we receive and leave.
In that act of kindness, so pure and so deep,
Lay love's true seed, for the world to keep.
The destination is not the prize to yearn,
But the cherished steps at every turn.
For in the end, each path will blend,
And it's the cherished moments that will ascend."
Touched by her words, a tear did crest,
Upon his cheek, it found its rest.
With a nod and a smile, he took her lore,
And journeyed on, richer than before.
They parted ‘neath the soft light of the day,
Two souls touched by moments along the way,
The story found warmth, in that selfless creed,
Love’s most precious seed,
the simple act of a good deed.
