Sivaas

by hircines_hunter

Summary:

After her pack killed, Estinan wanders around Skyrim. With no home to call her own, she makes do with hunting or selling her sword arm. She ends up in Riften on a fateful day. With her pockets emptied by a handsome thief, she tracks him through the sewers and begins her strange quest with the Thieves Guild.
Eventual Brynjolf/OC

Notes:

Sivaas means beast in dovahzul. That is exactly what Estinan is. :3c
Divider by saradika on tumblr

Chapter 1: A Chance Arrangement

Notes:

art by me

The dark skinned Bosmer wandered the market stalls in the middle of Riften’s town circle. She perused the wares at each stall, wondering where each of the items were originally procured from. Sure, she could ask where they got the items from but there was no fun in that. She brushed her orange hair behind her ear. 

Someone stood entirely way too close to her. She watched the man out of her peripherals. Her eyes narrowed when she felt her pockets lighten. She adjusted her stance and looked at the items in the stall before turning. She watched as the man sauntered away. 

She trailed behind him as he walked down the streets. With her Bosmeri height, she managed to duck and weave between the crowd. She kept her eyes trained on the man. His red hair. The way he carried himself. 

By Hircine, he even tossed her coin purse as he walked. 

He made his way to the small cemetery and into the mausoleum. He was out of her sight now, but she could follow his scent trail. The sweet, honeyed mead scent he left behind. 

Her ears twitched as she heard a click and stones grating together. She walked into the small building and stared at the sarcophagus. She smirked when she saw the symbol in the middle of the stonework. “Thieves Guild, huh?” As much as she wanted to follow him into the hideout, she liked living. Their hideout seemed to be underground. The sewers?

The Bosmer meandered away from the mausoleum and back towards the town circle. She looked over the railings into the canals. The thief’s scent lingered. She could track him through the sewers. She spotted several sets of stairs and followed them down to the canals. 

The thief’s scent wasn’t as strong down here since it was muddled with the canals and sewers. At least it was there. For all she knew, he could’ve exclusively used the hidden entrance. 

She found an entrance into the sewer system. It was surprisingly easy. However, the stench of the sewers hit her hard. She felt her mouth water and not in a good way. She covered her mouth and took a deep breath to control herself. She slapped her arms as her skin rippled. No need to lose control down here. 

She pressed forward, following small hints of mead and honey. It was a maze of locked gates and filthy passages but she managed to find a door with a sign that read ‘Ragged Flagon’. 

She pushed the door open. The air was considerably lighter compared to the sewers, but her nose was sensitive. She could still smell hints of sewers. But, it was a lot better here.

Candlelight danced across the wet stones. Small grates in the ceiling let in precious natural light as well. Despite the stench and dampness, the tavern seemed alive and in working order. There were several people in this small sewer tavern. They all eyed her. Of course she was suspicious. 

She looked around, spotting the man who picked her pockets. The red hair and honeyed mead scent confirmed who he was. She made her way closer to the tavern bar. The bouncer blocked her path. She put on her best smile. “I am so glad to find a place for a drink down here.”

“Get lost.”

“And after I’ve come all this way. What kind of business is this?”

“Not yours.” The bouncer kept his ground.

She smiled again. “Well, you see. I do have business here. I really must talk to the redhead.”

“And why is that?” He looked over his shoulder at the other patrons. The redhead’s eyebrows furrowed. She thought she spotted a change in his face when he looked at her like he recognized her.

“If you must know, he pilfered my coin purse. I followed him to that hidden entrance in the cemetery. I thought about pressing the button but I wasn’t sure what I would be greeted with. I do like being alive and also uninjured. I just would like my coin purse returned, preferably with whatever gold is left over. I will even hand over my weapons if necessary while I am here.”

The bouncer arched his eyebrows and looked back. The redhead nodded. “Don’t cause any trouble or you will regret it. She’s all yours, Brynjolf.”

“Don’t worry. I’ll behave.” She walked over to the bar and sat down next to the redhead. “So, my coin purse.” She held her hand out.

“Sorry lass. I’m sure you have mistaken me for someone else.” He smirked. He rested his head on his hand propped against the bar. “But, since you are here, I could help you get more coin in your purse.”

“Oh. A job?”

“Interested?”

“Perhaps. If it gets me my coin purse back.” She mimicked his smirk. His pose, leaning against her hand.

“It’s a simple job.”

“I’m listening.”

He continued. “I need someone to steal a ring from Madesi’s stall and plant the ring in Brand-shei’s pocket. I’ll run distractions. What do you say?”

“Sure.”

“You didn’t need much convincing.”

“I seem to be short on coins, thanks to some handsome man.” She smiled.

Brynjolf smirked. “Handsome you say? Well lass, I’ll be sure to let him know that.” He stood up. “Let’s get to the merchant circle.” He started towards the sewer entrance. 

She frowned. He wasn’t going to let her see their hideout. She took note of the small hallway behind the tavern bar. There was a door. Her ears twitched. There had to be a second door. She could hear multiple drafts. She quickly followed behind the taller man. “Brynjolf was it?”

His eyebrows furrowed. “I guess Dirge said my name. What is it, lass?”

“I was simply confirming your name.”

“May I have your name, lass?” He held the door for her. “After you.”

“Estinan.” She walked unbearably close to him as she walked through the open door. She did her  best to keep a straight face as the stench of the sewers hit her. “So, why are we planting a ring on Brand-shei? Is one of your big clients mad at them?”

“You catch on quick.” He chuckled. “Yes. I’m sure you will meet them eventually, hopefully on good terms. Don’t worry he will only be in jail for a few days. A week tops.”

“You got this city wrapped around your finger, don’t you?”

“We used to have all of Skyrim.” His eyes darkened for a moment. “I’m sure you will hear the rumors. Watch that puddle, lass.”

She clutched at her chest and feigned a swoon. “Whatever shall I do?” She looked down at the puddle in front of her. Brynjolf offered his hand, which she took. “Such a gentleman.” She smiled as she stepped in the puddle. She followed after him as they walked through the sewers. It took less time to get to the canals than when she ventured through them. “So, why my coin purse?”

“You’re new to the city. Your pockets seemed pretty full at the gate when you entered.”

“Ah.” She remembered the first time into the city. “Ah, the guards. That operation is all yours? Is that other guy with you?”

“Maul? Nah, he’s Maven’s lad. He does help, but he’s not ours. And what about the guards?”

“They tried to get me to pay a visitors tax.” 

Brynjolf sighed and ran his hand through his red hair. “They’re only supposed to charge merchants.” He said under his breath. “I’ll need to have a chat with them. Did you pay?”

Estinan shook her head. “Oh no. I called them out. They freaked out. Besides, I never had to pay anything the last time I was here. You were probably a wee lad when I was here last.” She laughed.

“You can’t be any older than me. In fact, I do think you are younger than me.”

Estinan laughed. “You are jesting. But enough about me.” She looked at the circle in front of them. The ongoing hustle and bustle still occupied the circle.

“Right.” He pointed to an Argonian. “Madesi. His ring should be in the lockbox in the stall. Should be easy. You have lockpicks?”

“Yes. Brand-shei?” 

“The dunmer.”

Estinan nodded. “Alright. You go get your distraction started.” She surveyed the area, taking note of guards in the vicinity. She knew at least half of the guards would be loyal to the Thieves Guild. But which ones? She had to treat them all as normal guards. Besides, she didn’t want to get caught either way. She nodded to Brynjolf when he stood at his stall. He grabbed a bottle of strange liquid and began talking. Loud. At least his voice was nice. 

Estinan meandered closer to the circle. She trailed her fingers on the rock fence around the circle. She whistled. Madesi craned his neck, but was unable to get a clear look of what Brynjolf was talking about. He moved away to get closer. He joined the crowd gathered around Brynjolf and his stall. She took this chance. Thanks to her short stature, Estinan hid perfectly behind the stall counter. She listened to the footsteps as she quickly went through the lock on the door.

She felt a bead of sweat drip down her chin. She fumbled with the lock on the box. She heard footsteps approaching from the other end. She ducked further down against the wall. 

She went back to the box as the footfalls grew quieter. Success! She grabbed the contents of the box: a few septims and a few pieces of jewelry, including the ring. She shut the box and the door and checked her surroundings before moving away from the stall.

Estinan walked around the outside of the circle due to the crowd. She spotted Brand-shei sitting on some boxes outside his stall. There was enough room for her to take a seat next to him. She made her way towards the dunmer, accidentally tripping over a raised cobblestone. She landed on the unsuspecting Dunmer.

“What in Mara’s name!?” 

“Oh, I am so sorry.” She dusted off Brand-shei’s shirt and pants after she fell on top of him. “Are you okay?”

He grumbled but nodded. “Yes. Are you okay?”

“Yes. Sorry again. The stone caught on my boot.” She laughed and nervously rubbed her arm. “I’ll be going now.” She forced her cheeks to flush and walked away to the railings, waiting for Brynjolf to finish his speech about ‘Falmer’s Blood Elixir’.

“Never done an honest day's work for all that gold you’re carrying, eh lass?” He leaned against the railing. Estinan smirked at him. “You did a great job. And for your payment….” He patted his pockets, pulling out a potion. He reached into his other pocket.

Estinan tossed her coin purse in the air. “You’re right. I’ve never done an honest day’s work for this gold.” She stuck her tongue out at him. 

“When?”

“In the sewers.”

“Clever lass. Well, now that I’ve whetted your appetite, there’s one more thing we need you to do before you can officially join.”

“I’m listening.”

“Some dead beats owe us money for the protection we offer. They’re late on payments. Pawned Prawn, the Bee and the Barb, and the bunkhouse.” He pointed out each of the establishments to her.

“Consider it done. I’ll meet you back at the Flagon with the gold.”

“Keep them alive, lass. They just need to get the message.”

Estinan waved her hand as she walked through the city. She had a room at the inn and had mixed feelings about confronting Keerava. She would deal with the others first. She looked back, noticing that Brynjolf had disappeared already. She frowned, missing his handsome face and honeyed scent already. She would work first.

She would play later. Her lips curled into a smile.

Chapter 2: Taking Care of Business

Estinan sat down at a table inside the Bee and Barb. She watched Keerava talk with customers, serve them food and drink, offer them rumors or jobs. Her significant other,  Talen-Jei, showed patrons to their rooms upstairs or ran food orders to others. It was a bustling and busy inn. Estinan took a long sip of her wine, enjoying the intoxicatingly sweetness. 

How was she going to get Keerava to pay now?

It was obvious they made enough septims to pay the Thieves Guild. Estinan leaned back in her chair. She listened to conversations around her. Most were normal day to day goings on. But one caught her attention.

The Thieves Guild was struggling to stay afloat themselves? Failed heists? Shoddy thieves? So, that’s what made these fine folks not pay them. It made sense to her now.

Now, she had to find a way to make them pay. She had to make sure they got the message. She downed the rest of her wine and stood up from her chair. She walked over to the counter and took a seat. 

“More wine?”

“Maybe on my way out.” Estinan leaned on her propped up hand. She rapped her fingers across the counter. “The Guild needs you to pay up your debts.”

Keerava stared at her. She narrowed her eyes. She felt her frills straighten. “You can tell Brynjolf to jump off the pier. I can barely afford to keep this rathole afloat.”

Estinan smirked. “You’ve made several pouches of septims tonight. With the bed and board. Including mine.”

“Look, the war has drained me and the city of its resources. I can’t and won’t pay. Now, I suggest you either go to your room or leave.” Keerava turned away to prepare more food for new patrons.

Estinan frowned. “I’ll let you simmer on what I said. When I come back, you better have the gold and an apology ready.” Estinan pushed herself away from the counter and made her way to the door. She felt her skin itch with annoyance. Hircine damn it.

She spun when someone grabbed her arm, ready to attack. Talen-Jei held her arm. He leaned close to her and whispered. “I don’t want trouble. I’ve told Keerava to pay up.” He was nervous. He let go of Estinan’s arm. “Look, she has family in Morrowind. If you mention them, she will get the message.”

Estinan narrowed her eyes at him. “I’ll be back. I have others to visit.”

“To extort.”

Estinan shrugged her shoulders. She waved to both of them and walked out. The Pawned Prawn was next to the inn. She decided to make that the next stop. She opened the door and was promptly greeted.

“Welcome to the Pawned Prawn. What can I do for you?” The middle aged man behind the counter smiled. 

Estinan returned his smile and walked over to the counter. Her eyes caught the Dwemer urn on display. It was meticulously taken care of. “I hope you can help me.”

“Whatever it is, let me know.”

“The Guild needs their payment.”

Bersi’s face dropped. He swallowed. “I, uh.”

Estinan leaned against the counter. “Look. You know what happens if you don’t pay. Bad things happen.” She turned her back to him and leaned back against the counter. She kept her eye on the urn.

He sputtered. “You lot can barely protect yourself. And you want me to pay for you guys to protect me and my shop?”

“I assure you we can protect our own and yours. I can certainly protect myself.” Estinan pushed away from the counter and grabbed the Dwemer urn. She admired the glistening copper in the light. “This sure is a valuable piece.”

Bersi reached his hand out. He came from around the counter, reaching for the urn. “Don’t! Please!”

Estinan smirked. She moved out of his way. She skirted around him with ease. “I told you bad things will happen. So….” She lifted the urn over her head.

“Alright. Alright. I… let me go get the money.” Bersi slinked away behind the counter. He grabbed a pouch and returned back to Estinan. “Here. Take it.” He threw the pouch on the ground near her feet.

Estinan kept her hand on the urn and her eye on Bersi. She picked up the pouch and stashed it away. “Now,” she placed the urn back in its spot, “don’t do this again.”

Bersi put his hand on his chest and sighed. He nodded. “I’ll pay on time from now on.”

“Good.” Estinan waved and left the building. She looked up at the sky as the clouds rolled over the city. She smelled the rain hanging in the air. She heard the distant rumbling of thunder. She hoped she would be finished with this before the storm rolled over Riften.

The Bosmer walked around the city outskirts, following the wooden bridges to the other side. She looked around at the buildings. She could see remnants of old scaffolding around the alleyways. Shadowmarks etched into the door frames had signs of serious wear. Someone needed to fix them.

Something had happened to the Guild if they weren’t keeping up with simple things. She cursed as she ran her hands through her orange hair. Brynjolf was lucky he was attractive and that she was alone.

She felt a pang in her heart. Her skin rippled.

Estinan inhaled deeply. She reached up and smacked her face, leaving her cheeks darker. No time to reminisce. She had a job to do. No time for anything else.

Estinan let out a long sigh before continuing towards the bunkhouse. Haelga owned it. She offered rooms to the workers. She also heard rumors of Haelga being devoted to Dibella.

She opened the door to the bunkhouse. Estinan noticed the golden statue of Dibella off to the side. The place was mostly empty.

“New in town? Are you a worker?” 

Estinan looked over at the young woman who swept the floor. “New to town, yes. Not a worker. I am looking for Haelga.”

A slight blush darkened the woman’s face. “She’s uh. She’s tallying the ledger. If you want to have a seat and wait. I can see if there’s extra food or a drink…”

The Bosmer looked at her and shrugged. “I’ll wait for a bit. Are you her maid?”

“Her niece. My name is Svana.”

“Estinan. She has you working this hard for her?” Estinan looked over at the door behind the counter. Whoever was using that room went through the trouble of sound proofing it. But, Estinan could tell whatever was happening was not ‘tallying the ledger’.

“You have no idea.” Svana put the broom against the wall and sat down. “I’m grateful she took me in, but…. The way she treats me is no better than a slave. The people who sleep here aren’t any better. Her obsession with Dibella is getting worse.” Svana looked around, making sure there was no one else around. “She’s brought back 3 different men the past month. Multiple times.” She whispered. “Isn’t that crazy?”

Estinan stopped her face from revealing her emotions. “Tell me more. About Dibella.” She looked over at the statue.

Svana smiled. “It’s disgusting. She brings them around whenever. They’re in there for a long time. She gives them a mark. Dibella’s mark. Gems that she gets from Madesi.” She paused. “Maybe you could help me make her squirm. Do you think you can get the stones from the men she’s slept with?”

“Do you know who has the stones?”

“Well, not all of them. I could find them out. Would you help me?”

Estinan nodded. “Give me the names when you find them. It sounds like Haelga may be done with her tallying.” She grabbed the broom and handed it back to Svana.

Estinan waited by the counter. The door opened. A well dressed Nord man adjusted his fine fur and clothing before nodding to Estinan. A Nord woman followed him out of the room. Her pretty painted face was elated until she saw Estinan, who stood at the counter with a smile.

“Are you a new worker?”

Estinan watched as the man left. How she could stand him when he smelled of fish, she didn’t know. “Oh, no. I’m here with a message. From Brynjolf.”

Haelga’s face blanched before turning red. “Oh, it’s one of you people. Well, you can tell Brynjolf to choke on the gold he’s taken before. I don’t have any. And I’m not paying.” She crossed her arms and smirked. 

“Oh, and you have enough to afford the precious gems to provide for your lovers. Can you even call them that? Play things?” The Bosmer tossed up a blue gem.

Haelga’s face blanched again. She reached out and tried to grab the gem. Estinan backed away. She saw the statue gleam in the light. The wood elf grabbed the golden statue. “No! Not Lady Dibella!”

Estinan arched an eyebrow. “I can dunk this statue in the canals. Or perhaps the sewers.” She backed away towards the door with the statue tucked in her arms. 

Haelga held up her hands. “Wait. Just. Hold on.” She ducked back into her room. She came back out with a small pouch. Estinan looked at it and narrowed her eyes. Haelga swallowed. She felt a bead of sweat drip down her neck.  She knelt down to grab a second pouch from the counter. She laid them on the counter. “Now, please. Release Lady Dibella.”

Estinan looked over at Svana. “Bring those to me and I’ll give the statue to you.” She held up the statue.

Svana nodded. She walked over to the counter and grabbed the pouches. She turned and brought them to Estinan, who handed her the statue. 

Estinan leaned in close and whispered in her ear. “Give me names and I’ll find the rest of these.” She put the blue gem into Svana’s hand and closed her hand around it. She then leaned over to look at Haelga. “You better pay on time from now on. Or I will throw your precious Divine in the middle of Lake Honrich.”

“I hope you and Brynjolf both choke on your gold.” Haelga ripped the statue from Svana’s arms.

“I hope you choke on your next plaything.” Estinan shoved the pouches into her pockets and left the bunkhouse. She grimaced at the sky as it poured. She leaned against the bunkhouse and looked around the city, following different paths. She picked out the shortest path to get back to the Bee and Barb.

She hated getting any water on her. The slight dog scent she gave off from her beast blood smelled worse when wet. She wondered how man and mer even smelled her beast blood as wet dog. 

Once inside the inn, she brushed off the water on her clothing and hair. What she wouldn’t do for a good shake of her head, but that was not polite in fine company. She looked around. The tavern had more people than before. Keerava was bustling between orders and tables.

Estinan took a seat at the counter. She waited patiently. Her fingers rapped against the counter. She only had one more person. She smiled a bit when Keerava finally returned to the counter.

Keerava’s eyes widened slightly. She gulped. Her quills drooped. “Look. Can you tell Brynjolf everything was a big misunderstanding? I promise to pay on time next month. I promise. Just don’t do anything.” Keerava placed a pouch on the counter and slid it to Estinan.

Word must’ve gotten out about Bersi. Estinan smiled. “No harm. And you have the room I had rented for the month.” She stood up and pushed away from the counter. “Don’t worry about the funds I already put down. Keep them. Hopefully, the next time I see you, it will be under better circumstances.” She waved and walked out. The wood elf stood under the eaves. She leaned against the building, waiting for a break in the rainfall.

Rain was great compared to the snow from the Pale. She did miss the Pale, though. She missed her family. Her pack. Estinan looked to the sky. At least something projected her inner turmoil. A flash of lightning and crack of thunder broke Estinan’s trance. She closed her eyes and sighed. “You can mourn later. Besides, the moons are almost full.” She whispered to herself. 

The storm didn't seem to be letting up. She would have to get wet. She spied the closet set of stairs and made the daring step into the rain and continued on her way. She shook her head once she made it into the Ratway. She covered her nose as she walked through the sewer system again. At least this time, she knew where to go and had unlocked the doors already. It took her no time to reach the Ragged Flagon.

Once in the safety of the Flagon, she pulled off the wet, outer layer of clothing, leaving her in a loose linen shirt. She sat down at the bar next to Brynjolf. She threw the pouches of gold towards him.

“Welcome back, lass. Looks like you did a good job and you even got our gold. Best of all, you kept it clean.” He smiled at her.

Estinan took a moment to appreciate his red hair and green eyes. And his accent. “What’s next?”

Brynjolf patted his fine clothing and pulled out a few small bottles of potions. “I believe you will fit in just fine, lass. Here is payment for those debts.” He stood up. “We need more people like you in our outfit.” He walked down the small hallways.

Estinan followed him. “I heard the rumors. Guild isn’t doing good.”

Brynjolf stopped before the door and a closet. He clicked his tongue and sighed. He ran his hand through his hair. “We have hit a bad patch. But why don’t you let me worry about the guild and I’ll continue to give you jobs. What do you say to that, lass?” He opened the closet and pushed open the false back.

“Aye. As long as there is more gold in it for me.” She whistled as she stepped through the closet, closing the door behind her. She looked around the Cistern. “It’s a lot bigger than I thought.” She saw all the beds along the side, divided with small walls and side tables. She hoped her bed was close to Brynjolf’s.

“Come on, lass. Mercer is ahead.”

Mercer? The guildmaster? She thought to herself. She followed Brynjolf to the center of the Cistern. A lean Breton man stood in the middle, clearly annoyed. His arms were crossed and he tapped his foot. Estinan knew he was not the type to joke with. Despite doing two jobs, he was clearly annoyed at someone newly recruited into the Guild.

“Here’s the lass. The one I spoke about. Estinan.” Brynjolf waved his hand at Estinan.

“Hmm? Yes. This better not be a waste of our resources.” Mercer looked her over and sighed. “Well, since Brynjolf assures me you will do good. You’re in. Just remember to follow the rules. You listen to what we say, when we say. You get paid for clean jobs. Do I make myself clear?” Estinan nodded. “Good. Now, Goldenglow Estate—”

Brynjolf interrupted him. “You can’t be serious! Even our little Vex couldn’t get in.”

“Let her prove herself for this line of work. You believe she has the skills. Give her the details. I’ve got business to take care of.” Mercer  walked away in a hurry to his desk.

“Who stuck a stick up his arse?” Estinan whispered in Brynjolf’s direction, earning her a smile. “Tell me about this job.”

“Goldenglow Estate is a bee farm. Owned by Aringoth. We used to get a cut of septims. But, he stopped paying us suddenly. We need you to go in, clean out the safe, and burn three hives.”

“I feel like there is more to this.”

“Damned wood elf hired mercenaries. It’s not an easy job. You heard, Vex couldn’t get in. I’d rather this not be your first job, lass.” Brynjolf sighed.

Estinan shrugged. “What do you want me to do with Aringoth?”

“Keep him alive. He is vital to the operation and Maven would be upset. Get whatever is in the safe, burn three hives, and get out. Bring us what he had in the safe. If you are feeling risky and want to steal more things, feel free to do so. But I’d rather you returned in one piece, lass.”

“Aww, worried about little ol’ me?” She smiled and playfully punched his arm. “I’ll see how crazy the mercenary situation is before I decide if I want to loot anything else. Am I allowed to kill the mercs? Or would we prefer them alive as well?”

“That’s up to you. If you can sneak by without killing them, by all means. Before you leave, talk to Vex for any more information. Tonila should have some leathers for you. If you want to take on smaller jobs after Goldenglow, talk with Vex and Delvin. Well, off with you. And good luck, lass.”

Chapter 3: Loud and Clear

After she changed out of her wet clothing into her spare fur armor, Estinan walked back out to the Ragged Flagon. She looked around. Who would be Vex? One of the women based on the conversation earlier. Probably the Nord. The wood elf walked over to the tall woman, sitting in the corner of the makeshift tavern. Her hand gripped a mug tightly. Her light hair glistened in the low light of the nearby candle.

“Before you say anything, let me make one thing clear…” She gulped the drink and turned to Estinan. She was upset. Drunk even. “I’m the best infiltrator this Guild has.” Estinan nodded. “Good. Name’s Vex. Now, I guess Mercer is sending you on what was supposed to be my job?” She groaned. “If that damned wood elf hadn’t tripled the guard….”

“How did you get in? It’s that bee farm in the middle of the lake isn’t it?”

“Yes. In Lake Honrich. Sewers. There’s a few entrances. Shouldn’t be too many mercenaries near them. They do smell. They lead into the house near the safe, but it’s hard to reach and more of an exit. There’s also a tunnel that leads to the back door. It’s locked but unguarded. It should be the easiest way in. Bring extra lockpicks. And be careful. The mercenaries are no joke.”

“Thank you. I’ll try my best.”

“Don’t get yourself killed. You should talk with Tonilia. She should have some gear for you. Cannot be comfortable stealing in those.” Vex sneered at Estinan’s fur armor. She pointed to the Redguard sitting at the bar, flirting with the barkeeper.

Sure, it lacked real pockets. And, it did nothing for the cold. But, she felt free. If she ever lost control, she wouldn’t miss it. “I’ll talk to her then.” Estinan wandered over to the counter. She took a seat next to Tonilia. Both Tonilia and the barkeeper turned to Estinan. “I hear you can hook me up with better armor.”

“Sure can. That’s all you’ll be getting for free from me. Unless you want to end up in the canals.” Tonilia was annoyed.

Estinan almost winced, but she would be in the same mood if some stranger interrupted her flirtations with a certain Nord. 

“I’m the Guild’s fence. You can sell me your stolen goods. For a rate. And right now, my rates aren’t good.” She pushed herself away from the counter. “Follow me, I’ll find you some armor with actual pockets.” She looked down at the wood elf and then turned. She walked down the hallway behind the bar. There were a few beds and privacy barriers. The large one smelled strongly of her and the barkeep. The other beds smelled like the others that sat in the bar. Tonilia grabbed a wooden box and placed it on the bed. She opened the lid and rummaged through it. “I’m not sure we have smaller sizes. So, if you want to refit them, you’ll need to take it to the blacksmith. Balimund might help for a discount. He’s supposed to.” She threw a leather armor top and pair of breeches at Estinan. She found a pair of gloves, boots and a hood that would attach to the top. “They’re enchanted, so try not to lose or destroy them. You will be on your own after that. Anything else?”

Estinan shook her head. “Thank you. Go back to your man.” She smiled. She turned and walked away before Tonilia could respond. Estinan fastened the hood to the top. She shrugged the leather top over the fur armor top. It was a little big. She was more worried about the pants. She walked to the hidden door and through it. She wandered around the cistern, looking for a place to change her pants with a bit of privacy. Not that she was a modest person, no. But the others around her deserved that respect. She found a private corner and changed her breeches. The leather armor felt loose on her. She would need to find herself a way to sew them, but for now she would be okay after folding the waist on itself. She found a small piece of rope to tighten the breeches. This would have to do for now.

Estinan looked around the cistern. She noticed some of the other members eyeing her, but they did not approach. She would worry about them after Goldenglow. Mercer didn’t seem like a patient man. And, she didn’t want to waste any time. She heard a faint whistling of a draft and followed the noise. She looked up the ladder. 

The secret entrance. 

Estinan climbed up and closed the hatch. She saw a pull chain and yanked on it. She held her breath as the slab slid over her. Divines her ears. Estinan poked her head through and climbed up the stairs. The slab closed behind her. She looked through the small window. Coast was clear. No one was willingly out in the storm besides a few guards. But, they would stay under any available coverings, not in the open.

Estinan moved towards the entrance and looked around for her best course. One with no puddles and no rain. She shrugged the leather hood over her head and ran out into the rain. She found her next shelter under the stairs near the temple. She looked around again. Luckily for the Riften citizens, the majority of the wooden walkways were covered by balconies. She ran to one of these walkways. She had to control her urge to shake the water off herself like a dog. She already got enough wet dog comments from passersby. She sighed.

The bosmer walked towards the gate. The mercenaries would probably all pack themselves inside the damn house at this rate. The guards opened the gate as she pulled the hood down, trying to block out more of the rain.

Estinan felt a static charge in the air before the lightning struck nearby. She hesitantly covered her ears before the thunder. She cursed at her luck. She stared across the lake from the shoreline. She saw flickers of torchlight, barely holding their flame in the rain. Figures walked around the island. They must be as miserable as her. She canvased the shoreline and the island, spotting a shallow connector path. She didn’t need to swim across the whole lake. 

Estinan splashed through the pathway until it dropped into the lake. She waded in the water until she was forced to swim. She groaned as she felt the water soak into her clothing.

Estinan pulled herself onto the island's bank. She pulled back her hood to ring out the water in her hair. She pulled her hair into a low bun before replacing the hood. She crouched against the rock face and watched for the mercenaries. She couldn’t hear over the rain. She could barely smell anything but water and fish.

Estinan kept low and crept in the shadows. She cursed when she slipped or her boots stuck to the mud. She felt a rage bubbling in her stomach. She shook that away. 

Estinan followed the shoreline around the island. She avoided the mercenaries, though she had the storm to thank for their inattentiveness. She saw an unguarded door and pulled herself up on the rocks.

It took her 5 lockpicks to get the door open. Each time one of them broke she nearly felt herself lose control.

Once indoors, she shrugged off the leather top. She tied the wet garment across her waist. At least the house was warm compared to the wet rain outside. The house was also poorly lit. Something was off about that.

Estinan heard low talking and shuffling. More mercenaries were inside. She crouched low and crept through the house, looking for a safe. 

Vex had told her about the safe being near the sewers exit. The safe had to be located in the cellar. She paused when she heard shuffling. She readied her hand on her hidden knife and continued through the house. She paused again to listen around the house. She inhaled deeply, hoping she could track the scent of the sewers. She honestly did not want to inhale that scent again. 

She listened closely to each breath and heartbeat. A couple mercenaries were close together, talking. She heard a few people upstairs. Aringoth was most likely upstairs. She wouldn’t bother with him.

Estinan rounded the hallways and saw a trap door. That must be the cellar. She made sure the coast was clear before walking to the trap door. She carefully opened in and walked down. She crouched low when she heard a conversation. A bunch of furniture blocked her view of them, but she saw a door on the other side of the room. She hugged the wall and went through the door.

The cellar was a maze of small halls. Why had it been built like this? Some rich person probably thought he would be important enough to need an escape route like this. She crept through the hallway, listening for more people. She heard another person breathing in the hallway. She slunk down against the wall and listened. She heard the creak of the chair they sat in. She wasn’t sure how she would be able to sneak past them.

Her foot slid a bit under her. She looked down. She didn’t smell the whale oil before. She looked around. There. She grabbed a torch and dropped it on the puddle. It burst into flames and traveled along the spill.

“What in Oblivion?!”

Estinan back tracked to a room she saw to the side. She heard the person walk past the room, cursing about the freak fire. How they were finished with this job. Estinan listened to the footfalls grow faint before leaving the room. She back tracked to the hallway. The fire still blazed. She managed to sidestep the burning flames. She felt the heat through the leathers. 

Estinan found herself face to face with a locked double door. This lock was easier than the main door and only took her 1 lock pick. She walked down the stairs, grimacing when they creaked under her feet. She paused on the steps to listen but there was nothing besides the occasional crackle and pop from the fire.

She continued down the stairs and found another door. She opened it, finding a safe. She spotted a bag of coins on the table nearby. She pilfered the pouch and started working on the lock to the safe.

Her face contorted as she concentrated on the lock. She felt a bead of sweat trickle down her face. Her eyes squinted. 

She cursed. Her lockpick broke.

She pulled another one and tried again

Click!

She sighed heavily as she opened the safe. She found another pouch of coins and the deed. She glanced over the deed, but didn’t recognize the buyer’s mark. She rolled the deed neatly and carefully put it into one of her pockets.

Estinan looked around the room and saw a trapdoor in the corner. That must be the sewers. She propped the door open and looked in. It was a fairly long drop. She understood why Vex had told her it would be difficult to get into. She jumped down and followed the sewers to an exit.

Estinan crouched down and looked around to gain her bearings. The house was behind her. The rain was now a light sprinkle. This was manageable. She took in a deep breath, trying to find the direction of the bee hives.

There.

She followed the scent around the outskirts of the island, avoiding the mercenaries. 

Estinan pulled herself up the cliff when she heard buzzing. She walked around the wooden fence that guarded the bees and their apiaries. She grabbed a torch from the fence and walked over to the bees.

Estinan frowned. “Only three. No more.” She repeated what Brynjolf told her. She lowered the torch into the roof of the apiary and moved over to the next one. And the next. She tossed the torch  into the lake and made a run for it before the mercenaries caught on.

Estinan lowered herself to the shoreline and looked around for an easy way back to the main shore. She spotted another shallow pathway. But she would need to swim just a little. She unwrapped the leather top and put it back on. She quickly fastened it together before walking into the water. Her face contorted when she felt the water seep into the leather boots.

She sighed heavily once she reached the other side of the lake. She turned back to look at the smoke rising from the hives. She looked up to the sky as the rain lessened more. Of course the rain would let up after she suffered.

Estinan turned around and slowly meandered back towards the city. She pulled out the deed again, hoping it wasn’t as wet as she was. Luckily the inner pockets managed to get it semi-dry. She studied the symbol on the deed again. She still didn’t recall it. She sighed. Perhaps someone in the guild would recognize it.

The guards opened the gate for her. Since the rain had died down, she was able to take the shorter walk to the mausoleum entrance. She wasn’t worried about getting soaked this time.

Estinan eyed a guard near the entrance. He nodded and winked at her. He whistled as he walked away. He must be the entrance guard. 

As soon as Estinan entered the Cistern, she ripped the leather top off and threw it over to the bed she decided to claim. She sighed as the breeches stuck to her legs while she attempted to slide out of them. She hung it on a divider and groaned as she watched the puddle grow under it. She rummaged through the drawer, finding her old tunic and breeches. They were dirty, but they would be better than the damned wet ones.

She was fixing her shirt when she heard someone approach her. She could smell the sweet honey. She knew it was Brynjolf before she turned.

“Word is that Goldenglow has been hit.”

“Word certainly travels fast.” She turned and grabbed the contents from the safe and handed them to Brynjolf. She smiled.

He scoured the document. “Well, this doesn’t tell us anything.” He sighed as he rolled it. “You didn’t happen to recognize it, did you lass?”

Estinan shook her head. “No. I stared at it for a while trying to jog my memory. But, I do have a feeling they bought the bee farm to piss off your client.” Estinan unraveled her hair from the bun. She wrung out some of the water before braiding it.

“Aye.” He sighed again. “She wants to meet you.”

“Oh? Will I survive?” 

Brynjolf chuckled. “Oh, aye. Just a chat. Another job directly from her.”

“Black-briar?”

“Aye. You catch on pretty quick there.”

“Sensitive ears. Does she have a meeting place in mind?”

“The Bee and the Barb. Tomorrow. Don’t make her mad. I’ll take this to Mercer. Relax or take jobs from Vex or Delvin.” Brynjolf smiled and then walked towards Mercer’s desk.

Chapter 4: Dampened Spirits

Notes:

Hi! I haven’t forgotten about this girl.

The flames licked at her back. Sweat dribbled between her shoulder blades. She swallowed. She looked around frantically. The smells overwhelmed her. The noises pounded in her head. She turned when she heard a twig snap. She took off into a run, allowing her instincts to take over. She felt her bones grow and contort. Fur sprouted from her body. The same color as the flames around her. 

A growl left her throat. She continued to run. She paused briefly at a drop-off. She heard yelling behind her. They were gaining on her. Growing closer and closer. She jumped. She landed hard into the roll. Her bones ached from her transformation. Her muscles ached from the fall. She growled as she scrambled to her feet and continued. 

THWACK!

A whimper left her throat. She felt blood pooling on her fur and dribbling down. She saw the shaft of the arrow sticking out of her shoulder. Her ear swiveled. She ducked. Another arrow whistled over her head. She felt the wind brush against her fur. She growled.

She started to run again. She came to another drop-off. This time it dropped into a rushing river.

Hircine take her soul. 

She would not die by their hands.

She jumped.

Estinan opened her eyes. A nightmare? She felt a cold sweat drip down her face. She was too old for those. She felt a pain in her shoulder. Her old injury. She sat up and rubbed at the old wound, feeling the built-up scar tissue. From the injury. The infection that raged afterward. She cursed as she felt her skin ripple. She knew the Twins would be full soon. She would need to leave after talking with Maven. 

Estinan stretched after she stood up. She dressed in a simple shirt, tucking it into her now-dried breeches. She ran her fingers through her flame-colored hair, trying to get it under some semblance of control. It would be too early to meet with Maven. 

Estinan looked around the Cistern. Most of the members were still fast asleep. The only person awake was Mercer. But she believed that man hardly slept, considering the size of the bags under his eyes.

The Bosmer left the Cistern, via the secret entrance. The sun hadn’t risen yet. She sighed. She wished she could go to Maven now. Get this over with. She should’ve asked Brynjolf if she could’ve met her last night.

Estinan wandered around the city. She looked around at the broken-down escape system. The worn-down shadow marks. She sighed. She was only one person. She could offer help but without more hands, nothing would be fixed.

The sun peeked above the mountains and shined down on Riften. She meandered closer to the Black-Briar manor. How mad would Maven be? She knocked on the door. She heard movement inside. A servant opened the door. 

“The Black-Briars are not receiving visitors.”

“Tell Maven that I am Brynjolf’s protégé.” She smiled. 

The aged man shut the door in her face and walked away. She heard low arguing. The door swung open. Maven grabbed the elf by the arm and yanked her into the manor. The servant shut the door.

Maven pointed her finger at the short elf. Her finger poked into Estinan’s old injury. “You have some nerve to come to my home when we already had a meeting set up.”

Estinan smiled. “I have deadlines to meet, like you. So, let’s get this over with then?”

Maven blinked at the elf and then she smirked. “It’s about time Brynjolf found someone with balls. You are a firebrand, I like that.” She looked at her fingernails. “I hear there is a pest problem at Honningbrew Meadery. Outside Whiterun.”

“So, alert the authorities?”

“Oh, no. We have a plan to put them in ruin and take over the meadery. I need you to go to Whiterun and talk with Mallus. He goes between the Meadery and the Bannered Mare. Should be able to find him. He’s a weasel of an Imperial.” Maven nodded and the servant opened the door. “Next time I arrange a meeting, stick to those. And don’t return unless you finish the job.” The servant slammed the door in Estinan’s face.

Estinan frowned. At least she would be able to leave now. Estinan walked towards the back gate and slipped out. She sniffed the air. No one was around. She walked further into the forest before she undressed. She let the transformation take over. She grabbed her clothing in her mouth and tore through the forest towards Whiterun.

Whiterun came into view from the ravine. Estinan made sure no one was around before transforming. She quickly dressed. The moons would be full tomorrow. She walked into Whiterun. She smelled wolf in the city. She followed the trail. She stared at Jorrvaskr from the tree. 

Estinan caught another familiar scent. Sifkni? She tilted her head and thought for a moment. She shook her head. She turned back around and headed to the Bannered Mare. She looked around the inn.

Her eyes focused on a man. Another wolf. An Imperial. She ordered two mugs of ale and walked over with one. “Maven sent me.” She whispered.

He accepted a mug. “She doesn’t know about you.” He smirked.

“What about you?”

He shook his head. “You came at the worst time.”

“She gave me the job at the worst time.” Estinan laughed. “So, Mallus, what’s the job?”

“Sabjorn has a pest problem. But he has an inspection coming up.”

“Maven said that.”

“You’re going to help him with the problem.” Mallus smiled. “The beautiful thing? He will give you the poison.”

Estinan thought for a moment and then smiled sweetly. “Ah, poison the mead. Bring a keg to the inspector. Then Maven gets the meadery for the Black-Briars. Okay.” Estinan drank her ale in one gulp. “He probably won’t accept help tonight. I’ll have to pop by tomorrow morning.” She stood up.

Mallus raised his eyebrows. “Aye.” He looked at her. She was a pretty little thing. He could try his shot. “Let me get another round of drinks. We got time to pass.”

Estinan raised her brows and smirked. “Aye. I’ll drink with you.” She sat back down. She watched him as he grabbed two mugs of ale. She heard him tell the innkeeper to continue to bring ale for them both. She accepted the mug when he returned. 

They both drank late into the night. Estinan hung around his neck as they both stumbled outside of Whiterun towards the meadery. Mallus fumbled with his keys and eventually opened the door. He put his fingers to his lips. “Be quiet.” He whispered. He grabbed her hand and dragged her upstairs. He didn’t have a private room. But that didn’t matter. He’d have the big room if this little wood elf succeeded. He pushed her against the bed. He crawled over her and kissed her roughly. His  hands wandered under the soft shirt she wore. He removed it and kissed her neck. “I never thought a forest could smell delightful.”

Estinan cringed inwardly. “I’m not looking for romance, Mallus. Just fuck me.” She moved her hands under his tunic and she ghosted her fingertips across his body. She raised the tunic over his head when he pulled away, tossing it away.

“As you wish.” 

 

Estinan’s head pounded when she woke up. The sunlight beat on her face from the small window. It had to be mid morning when she woke up, judging by the sun. Divines. She felt a strong grip on her waist when she tried to move. At least she was drunk last night. Both the alcohol and Mallus kept her mind from wandering to darker places. He wasn’t horrible in bed.

Estinan pried herself from his arms and found her clothing, dressing herself. She might as well get this job over with. She sat back on the bed. She put her hand on his shoulder and leaned close to whisper. “Mallus. I’m going to finish this job.”

The Imperial groaned. He moved and put his head under a pillow. “I should be awake before you leave for Riften.”

“I would hope. The moons are full tonight.” She laughed. Estinan walked downstairs with her bag and weapons. She brushed her hands through her hair and pulled it back, tying it off with a leather cord. She stopped at the threshold of the main entrance. A large Nord stood behind the counter. He must be the owner, Sabjorn. 

Sabjorn stared at her. His eyes narrowed and he sighed heavily. “The front door is over there. If you’re done with my staff. I hate when he drinks. He never comes down in time. It’s worse when he brings over company.” Sabjorn looked her over. “He can't even bring a proper woman. Bringing in a damned elf.” He muttered under his breath.

Estinan grinned. “I actually came to Whiterun to help you with your pest problem. But it was so late in the night when I got here.” She smiled and walked up to the bar. She leaned over.

“Who told you?” Sabjorn sputtered.

“I just hear things. I didn’t even realize Mallus worked here until he took me to his bed.” She smiled. “But, I’m here to help.”

Sabjorn grumbled as he moved from the bar. He came back with a small bottle. “There’s a skeever nest down there. Pour that into the nest and kill any live ones you come across.” He pointed back to the room she came from. “Go on down.”

Estinan gave him a two finger salute and made her way to the basement. All she smelled was skeever and old blood. She opened the door. She saw a maze of traps. A few traps were tripped and empty and a few others had half rotten corpses. She gagged.

Estinan covered her mouth. She swallowed. Her world spun for a moment. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath. She held her breath and tiptoed through the maze of traps and old gore. She walked through the other door. She uncovered her mouth. She couldn’t smell them anymore. Her head pounded as oxygen refilled her lungs. She felt lightheaded for a moment, leaning against the wall.

Once she caught her breath, Estinan continued through the hallways. She heard the skittering of skeevers. A spider? She swore she heard distant muttering. She reached back grabbing her bow and an arrow from the quiver. She nocked the arrow as she crept through the hall that slowly opened into a cave system. No wonder there was a pest problem. 

Estinan rounded the corner. She loosed her arrow into an unsuspecting skeever and nocked another arrow. The other skeevers turned. She loosed that arrow as well and grabbed another arrow. The final skeever jumped at her. She kicked the large rodent and stabbed the arrow into his head. She grabbed her arrow’s shaft and yanked it out. She retrieved the other arrows as well, putting two of them back in the quiver. 

Estinan closed her eyes and listened. She heard a few more close to her. The talking grew clearer as she crept through the claustrophobic corridor. She pulled back on the string and loosed the arrow as a skeever poked around the corner. She grabbed another arrow and nocked it. She took a deep breath and held it. She listened to the pattering of feet walk towards the corpse. Her heart pounded in her ears. A bead of sweat dribbled down her neck. She released the arrow once she saw the head of the skeever.

Estinan grabbed another arrow and knelt on the ground. She slunk through the corridor. It opened into a large chamber. She saw a frostbite spider and more skeevers. She released the arrow, hitting the spider. It toppled over with a hiss. The noise alerted the skeevers. Two charged at Estinan. She grabbed her hunting knife from her belt. She kicked one skeever away and slashed at the other. She jumped forward and stabbed her knife down into the skull of the skeever she kicked. She spun, slashing at the other skeever as it charged her. 

Estinan breathed heavily to control her blood lust. She wiped the blood from her face. She sheathed her knife and smacked her face. Her skin rippled. She cursed. 

Estinan undressed as fast as she could. She barely kicked her pants off as the transformation took over. She huffed as she gathered her clothing and shoved them into her bag. She’d come back for her weapons and bag.

An annoyed huff left her throat. She shook off the stress and trudged forward through the cavern. Her ear swiveled when she heard another skeever scurrying ahead of her. She crouched to the ground and crept close, pouncing on the rodent. She shook it once and spat the corpse out. She continued along the wall.

Her ears picked up the muttering again. A growl left her mouth. She peeked around the corner. A few more skeevers hung around a man dressed in old threadbare mage robes. He leaned over an old dilapidated alchemy table, talking to the skeevers at his feet. He turned his head and looked at the flame colored werewolf. Estinan hunkered to the ground and charged at the group. Her claws slashed at the skeevers. She leaned on the ground as a skeever jumped over her. She spun around and raked her claws across the skeever.

Estinan yelped. She looked at her shoulder as an ice spike penetrated through her back to her front. She turned and looked at the mage. She bared her teeth and growled. She dodged the next ice spike and charged at the mage. Her teeth penetrated deep into his neck. She held on as the mage struggled. 

Estinan dropped his corpse when he went limp. Her heart pounded against her chest. The thumping in her ears made her anxiety grow. A pit dropped in her stomach as she resisted the urge to eat the mage’s. She rubbed at her snout before expelling the contents of her stomach. She let out a shuddered sigh

Estinan wiped her face off and cleaned the blood off her fur. She looked around and listened to more stragglers.

Nothing. 

Estinan reached over and bit the ice spike. She groaned as she pushed the remaining shaft through her shoulder. 

She was thankful for the beast blood. It would heal faster than if she was a mortal. But, by Hircine, did it hurt. She walked back to her bag and pulled out her healing potions. She transformed back before drinking them both. She winced as the wound partially healed. It would look better after the lunar transformation tonight. She sighed. She quickly dressed and grabbed the poisons she walked back to where the mage’s corpse laid. She saw a few skeever nests around the alchemy table. She poured the poison into the nests and walked through the caved-in wall. 

Estinan heard wind whistling through the wall. She followed it. It led into the fermenting vats. She found a hole big enough for skeevers to get in through. They’d have to close this all up on both sides. She sighed. 

Estinan found an empty keg and brought it to  the fermenting vat’s spigot. She filled the keg and added a few drops of the poison. Should be enough to upset the commander testing the Mead before delivering it to the Jarl. She adjusted her pack before picking up the keg. Her shoulder screamed in pain as she hefted the thing onto it. She clenched her jaw as she left the fermenting room.

A familiar brushed past her nose as she walked outside. Snowberries. Cedar. Tears blurred her vision for a moment before she blinked them away. A sigh left her lips. Estinan walked into Meadery with a keg of mead. She put it on the counter. “Here. Sorry, I’m late.”

Sabjorn looked relieved to see her walk through the door with the keg. He let out a quick sigh. “Thank you.” He turned his attention back to the Whiterun commander. “Here, Commander Cassius.” Sabjorn grabbed a mug and filled it with the mead from the keg. “This is my newest and finest brew. I call it Honningbrew Reserve.” He clasped his hands together after handing the mug to the Imperial.

Commander Cassius sniffed at the mead. His nose scrunched a little. “Oh, come on, Sabjorn. This is mead. Not wine.” Sabjorn frowned. Cassius brought the mug to his lips and took a sip. He was overwhelmed with sweetness at first and then a pungent after taste. He spat out the mead. It sprayed on the counter and keg. “What in Oblivion? Are you trying to poison me?!”

Sabjorn’s eyes widened. He grabbed another mug and filled it. He took a small sip. “What?! No! I wouldn’t….”

“You’re coming with us to Dragonsreach.” Cassius drew his sword. “Come quietly.” He held the blade towards Sabjorn who held his hands up.

“Aye….”

“You.” Cassius looked at Mallus who finally came down. “You’re in charge.” He pointed to the other Imperial.

“I’ll take care of the meadery. So long, Sabjorn.” Mallus whispered as he walked behind the counter. He smirked as the door closed behind Sabjorn, the Commander, and the guards. “Now,” he looked over at Estinan. “Here is Sabjorn’s key. He keeps everything in his closet upstairs. Find whatever Maven wants.” He tossed the key to Estinan, who caught it. “I’ll take care of the meadery. Let Maven know.”

“Aye….” Estinan walked upstairs and to the double doors. She pushed them open and looked around. She hummed. She felt her skin ripple. She had to hurry. It was close to nightfall. She took too long under the Meadery. She found a locked door and used the key and walked into the large closet. She looked around. There was a familiar scent. She threw open the drawers. It was the same scent from the bee farm’s deed. “Huh?” She shoved the papers into her bag and grabbed a few valuables and gems into her bag. She made her way down the stairs. “I’m going to run to Riften during the Full Moons. Be sure you lock your new Meadery. And,” her eyes darkened. “If you don’t warn me about a mage living under the Meadery with his rat army next time.” She smiled.

Mallus swallowed. He nodded. “You at least took care of him?”

“I had no choice. One more thing since you owe me.” Estinan glared. “Someone will catch my scent. Another werewolf. Short. Dark red hair. Let her know ‘don’t find me. I’ll look for you.’ Can you remember that?”

Mallus nodded and swallowed. “Aye. I can.”

“Thank you.” Estinan walked out of the meadery and looked around. She inhaled the air. She could smell Sifkni and more wolves. At least she found some other wolves. Estinan walked down the road and across the bridge towards Riften. Estinan walked along the road until she felt a strong tug on her chest. She turned and saw the moons start their ascent into the sky. She moved off the road and tore her clothing off before the transformation took hold. She shook the remainder of the transformation. She huffed loudly. Divines. The pull and blood lust were strong today. She shoved her clothing into her back and put the strap around her shoulder. She kept to the shadows as much as she could as she ran through the night. She used her keen senses to avoid as many people as she could. Something she was used to. Far too used to.

Estinan shook the transformation away. She quickly put on her clothing and walked back towards the road. Thank Hircine, she made it safely and in time for the forced transformation to end. Hopefully, if Sifkni caught her scent, Mallus would give her the message. But now, all she needed to do now was return the paperwork to Maven. And then she could rest. She winced as she rolled her shoulder.

She looked at the paper again. It was the same marking from the bee farm. 

Someone was trying to do something to upset Maven. Or at least drive a wedge in between her and the Thieves Guild.

But who?

She shrugged. It wasn’t her job to figure out who it was.

At least not yet.

Estinan yawned as she adjusted her bag and walked into the city. The smell of wet wood and fish bombarded her senses. She inhaled deeply as she walked towards the Black-Briar manor. It was, at least, later in the morning than when she left a few days ago. 

Estinan paused before knocking on the door. The same exasperated servant opened the door. He sneered at Estinan before allowing her into the manor. He made her wait in the foyer where she tapped her foot and sighed while she waited.

“So, you return? Rather quick. Did you even go to Whiterun?” The Black-Briar matriarch arched her brows.

Estinan rummaged through her bag and pulled out the paperwork. “Same mark as the bee farm.” Was all she said as she handed it to Maven. “No names. And here’s the deed. Mallus is in charge now for you.”

Maven looked over the paperwork and handed it back to Estinan. She took the deed and folded it before placing it on the platter on the table. “You worked fast and came back with good news.” The servant walked back into the room with an ornate dagger in his hands. Maven took it and handed it to Estinan. “Now, take that paper back to the Guild. Have them figure it out. If I have need of the Guild again, I’ll be sure to call for you. Don’t disappoint.”

Estinan smiled. “I never disappoint. We will figure out who it is.” She gave a small mock bow. “I’ll be on my way Lady Black-Briar.” She left before the servant could open the door for her. 

Estinan closed her eyes and took a deep breath. She was beyond exhausted. She meandered her way towards the Thieves Guild’s secret entrance. She would worry about giving the paperwork to Brynjolf and Mercer later.

Brynjolf watched as Estinan slid down the ladder and walked over to her bed. He looked away briefly when she started changing her clothing. He saw a large healing wound on her shoulder. He sucked in air. His eyes wandered to her other scars across her back. She turned abruptly. His eyes locked with her amber ones. She flashed him a smile and turned back to her small dresser, pulling out a clean tunic. Brynjolf walked over after finishing the bottle of Black-Briar mead. “Did something happen, lass? Maven isn’t upset, is she?”

Estinan turned as she put on the tunic. “I’m alive?” She laughed with a wide grin. “There was some hermit living under the Meadery. Tried to kill me. I’m fine.”

Brynjolf took a step closer and moved the collar of her tunic. He looked at the wound. “Magic?” He also noticed the bruises on her neck.

“Ice spike. I’m fine.” Estinan moved away and readjusted her tunic to cover her wound. She fixed her hair, trying to cover the bruises. She turned back to Brynjolf. “Do I get to keep what Maven gave me?”

Brynjolf looked at her. “What did she give you?”

“Dagger. Enchanted.” She flipped the blade and showed him.

Brynjolf looked at the ornate dagger. Maven must’ve liked her to give her payment outside of what she normally would. She did work fast. And efficiently. Maybe she would be the one to fix the mess they were in. “Aye, you can keep it. Maven will pay the guild for your work. You’ll get your cut when that happens. Maybe later tonight or tomorrow.” 

Estinan smiled and placed the dagger back into its sheath. She then placed the blade into her boot as she took them off. Estinan sat on the bed and leaned back, looking up at Brynjolf. “Now, unless you want to join me in my bed, I am rather exhausted.” She smirked as she watched his reaction. A slight twitch at his lips. He fidgeted with his hands. His heart thudded against his chest. 

Brynjolf smiled a bit and he looked at the bed. “It’s a little small to share, lass.” He chuckled. “I will let you sleep then. Good night, lass.” Brynjolf turned and left.

Estinan stood up to remove her pants. She climbed back into the bed and pulled the scratchy blanket up to her shoulders. Oh, she would need to get new bedding for herself.

Chapter 5: Crooked Trajectory

Summary:

Down time for Estinan

Estinan woke late into the afternoon. Close enough to evening. Her head throbbed. She held her head as she sat up and threw her legs over the edge of the bed. She stared at the scars on her legs before standing and stretching. She rummaged through the drawers and grabbed her Thieves’ Guild leathers.

Estinan pulled the pants on and tied them as tight as she could after tucking in her tunic. She’d need to find someone to take them in. She put the top on and left it open. 

Estinan needed food and a drink. Perhaps a strong one. She ran her fingers through her hair before plaiting in smaller braids. She yawned as she sat down on the bed and put on her boots. She grabbed her bag and pulled out the papers from Honningbrew Meadery.

Mercer sat at his desk. He rested his head on his propped-up elbows. 

Estinan really did not want to bother him, but she waited too long. She walked over slowly. “This was at the Meadery. Same symbol as Goldenglow.”

Mercer looked up at her and sighed. “I’ll look into it.” He snatched the papers from her. “Brynjolf has your payment from Maven. He should be in the Flagon. Or at the market. Now, leave me alone.” He waved her away.

Estinan looked around the Cistern. She walked across the bridge towards the Flagon. It was hard to track Brynjolf when the whole place vaguely smelled of him. She looked around the Flagon—no Brynjolf.

“Esti! Join us!” Delvin called over from the corner table where he sat with Vex and Tonilia.

Estinan smiled and walked over. “I was trying to find Bryn for my payment.”

“You don’t need that down here.” Delvin grinned as he waved at Vekel, who nodded at him.

Estinan smiled. “Whether I need or not down here doesn’t keep my personal coffers lined. But, I’ll find him eventually.” She rested her head on her palm. “I do know where everyone sleeps.” She smiled.

Delvin guffawed, nearly spitting his ale all over the table. He coughed and cleared his throat. “He really did find us a firebrand. You’ll do fine, kid.”

“Kid? Oh, how flattering.” Estinan laughed.

“You can’t possibly be older than Vex.” Delvin continued.

“Now you are flattering,” Vex muttered over her mug.

Vekel walked over with mugs of ale for the others and a glass with a mixed drink for Estinan. “House special.” He then leaned over Tonilia and kissed her cheek. “Don’t drink too much.” His touches lingered on her neck before he turned away.

Estinan looked at the glass in front of her. “Huh?” She blinked. She could smell the amount of alcohol. It was dizzying. “That’s…. That’s a lot of booze, my man.” She leaned back in the chair, tipping it to two legs and looking back at the bar.

“I’m here to serve. Let me know if you need it stronger.” Vekel turned to grab dirty dishes and began to clean them.

Estinan sat her chair back on solid ground and grabbed the drink. She took a small sip. The drink burned the entire time she swallowed. It was mostly alcohol with a hint of lime and other fruit. Sweet and sour. “Not bad.” Against better judgment, Estinan downed the glass. She took a deep breath. “Wow.” She giggled.

“She’s gone, thanks Vekel.” Vex sighed, but she smiled.

“I need a few more to get drunk.” Estinan laughed. “I would not trust me to help with a heist now though.”

 

Estinan stumbled back into Cistern. She was elated and high. Her brain and vision was fuzzy from whatever Vekel put in her drinks. She closed her eyes and swayed in place for a moment. She needed her bed. No. She needed someone in her bed. She looked around. No one here. She never slept with — a lie. What a lie. She laughed to herself.

Estinan turned her head as the familiar smell of honey and leather hit her nose. She smiled as Brynjolf walked up. “Bryn….” She tilted her head and clasped her hands behind her back. “You are certainly a sight for sore eyes…. Drunk eyes.” Estinan giggled.

Brynjolf arched a brow and smiled. “How much did Vekel give you?”

Estinan moved her hands and started to count on her fingers. “Well, Delvin has passed out. Half naked. Tried to swim in the water. Dirge had to fish him out.” She covered her mouth as she laughed. “I had a few….” She took a step close to Brynjolf. His scent was intoxicating. “Is your bed bigger than mine? We could share.” She looked up into his eyes. Light green with a brown around the pupils. Her eyes flitted to the scars on his face and then the freckles that littered exposed skin. She reached up. Her fingers ghosted across a scar on his lips. “Beautiful….” She trailed off and removed her hand.

Brynjolf smirked. “Please don’t fall for me, lass.”

Estinan looked back at his eyes. Her smile dropped. “I don’t fall.”

Brynjolf opened his mouth to respond, but Estinan pushed past him in a rush. He trailed after her and grabbed her arm before she stumbled off the ledge into the collected rainwater below. “Careful, lass.”

Estinan looked at the water, then at his hand on her elbow. Her eyes traveled up to his face. She bit her lip. “I am drunker than I anticipated.” She smiled a bit. “Apologies.”

Brynjolf let go of her arm. He fixed her hair and straightened out her leathers. “No harm. Why don’t you get to bed and sleep off the alcohol?” He directed her towards her bed.

“Oh, I cannot sleep more. I slept all day. Woke up to give Mercer the paper, looked for you to get my payment, and then got stuck in the Flagon getting drunk.” She laughed while she explained. 

“What do you plan on doing then? You can’t possibly do any jobs this intoxicated.” His hand lingered on her back.

“Oh, you know.” Estinan raised her eyebrows. “I am going to find someone to share the night with.” She looked at Brynjolf’s face. She heard his heart skip. “Do you—“

Brynjolf leaned close. “Sorry, lass.” His breath was hot on her cheeks. “I am not that person. I think you should rest, lass.” He moved away.

Estinan frowned. “I will not sleep, Brynjolf.” She looked down at her hands. Absentmindedly, she picked at her fingernails. “You should also sleep, I may be a drunk horker right now, but I can tell it’s been a few days for you.” She said as she turned away and walked to the ladder. She was going to find someone and share a bed with them.

Brynjolf watched her struggle up the ladder. He almost followed after her to make sure she was safe, but he knew she could handle her own, even as drunk as she was. He ran his hand through his hair and sighed. He rubbed the back of his neck as she walked from the Cistern into the Flagon. Sure enough, Delvin sprawled on the small dock, half-naked. Vex and Tonilia giggled in the corner. 

“Your new protégé. She’s not half bad.” Vex smiled a bit.

“You are handing out praise so willingly. I might start to think you like her.” Brynjolf sat down. He tapped the table and looked back at Vekel.

“She drank four of his mixed drinks. She was able to walk to the Cistern and talk coherently enough. I do like her.” Vex looked at Brynjolf. “I hope she takes some jobs when she’s not drunk.”

“I’ll remind her.”

“She went to bed?”

“No.” Brynjolf took a long sip of the mug Vekel handed him. “I think she is going to the tavern.” His eyebrows knitted together. He should’ve just accepted her offer, but that was always bad for business. Sleeping with colleagues.

“Ah.” Vex laughed. “Someone to warm her bed. At least she’s going outside the guild.”

“Rumors still spread even if they’re not true.” 

“Tell me about it,” Tonilia whined. “Rumors… are pathetic.” She emptied her mug and stood up, walking to Vekel.

“I can stay and drink with you. You look like Mercer. Trying to brood.” Vex laughed as she got up to refill her mug. “You are also allowed to have fun.”

Brynjolf hummed into his mug. “Not with her. Not unless we get this mess fixed. She will probably move on once she realizes how bad it actually is here.”

“She’s good. But I can tell she’s been a group jumper. Maybe a former bandit. She didn’t  give us much information besides her age.”

“And that is?” Brynjolf arched his brows as he took a drink.

“60.”

Brynjolf choked on the mead. “There’s no way. Even Bosmer should age faster than the other elves….” He trailed off.

“Well, Delvin kept calling her kid. So she let it slip. Ah, well. I hope we keep her for a while. I can feel a shift in the Guild.” Vex leaned back. 

“Thought you didn’t believe Delvin.” Brynjolf laughed.

“I don’t. But there is something wrong. The old man has a few loose gears. Well, I am turning in for the night. Don’t stay up too late.” Vex yawned as she stood and stumbled away.

 

Estinan managed to walk into the Bee and the Barb. She sat alone at the table by the door to watch newcomers walk into the door. She ordered wine from Talen-Jei. Her eyes darted to the door when a younger Nord man walked through. A blacksmith? She looked at his hands covered in soot stains. She smiled when their eyes locked. He ordered a mead and sat down across from her. “Relaxing after a long day?” She hummed into her wine bottle.

“Aye. I’m still an apprentice but it’s hard work at the forge. Asbjorn.” He responded as he took a long sip of the mead.

“I can imagine.” Estinan leaned on her propped-up arms. She smiled. “Estinan.” She moved and finished off her wine. 

Asbjorn rubbed the back of his head. “Do you want another?”

Estinan nodded. “Please.” She bit her lip. She laughed. 

Asbjorn walked to the counter and ordered more mead for him and wine for her. He returned to the table. 

Estinan took a sip. “Thank you. Have you tried this? It’s a little sweeter than the mead here. But, I know grapes aren’t everyone’s taste.” She offered the bottle.

Asbjorn took a sip of the wine. While it was sweeter than the mead, it burned the back of his throat with the acidity. He made a face that had Estinan giggling. He smiled awkwardly. “Definitely prefer the mead.”

Estinan smiled. “That’s okay. You tried it.” She took another drink. She watched him drink his mead nervously. She leaned close. “Why don’t you take me back to your bed?” She whispered just loud enough for him to hear. 

His eyes widened. Asbjorn coughed. He looked at her and then around to see if anyone else had heard her. He nodded. She was a pretty little thing. And she asked him. He finished his mug and stood up, offering his hand to her. Hopefully, Balimund wouldn’t mind.

Estinan grinned. She downed the wine bottle. She would definitely regret the alcohol in the morning. She grabbed his hand and followed him. She was glad he had a strong grip on her, otherwise, she would not be able to walk on her own. She could barely see straight. The world wobbled to and fro. She laughed as she looked at Asbjorn. She saw two of him. He flashed an awkward, lopsided grin.

Asbjorn opened the door to the smithy. He closed and locked the door behind him. He grabbed Estinan’s arm and pulled her through the darkened hallway to his room. He shut the door behind him. “Is this okay?” He whispered. He reached out and put his hand on her cheek. His thumb traced the scar across her lip.

“I asked you.” She covered her mouth as she giggled. She swayed in place. She shrugged off the leather top and pulled her tunic from her pants. She untied the pants. Due to their large size, the leather pants pooled at her ankle.

“You did….” Asbjorn took a step forward and helped her out of the tunic. He traced his calloused hands across her body. She shivered under his touch. He leaned over and kissed her. He backed her into his bed.

 

“You’d rather have the Ooze take you than continue what you’ve been doing for 20 years!? Is that what I’m understanding, Aurien?” A bone-covered boot kicked her face.

She groaned. She spat out the blood and a chipped tooth. “I’m done, Codriel.”

“You can’t just be done! Y’ffre won't let you just walk out of here. What in Oblivion are you thinking?! You sure are a cracked nut.” Codriel grabbed her hair and pulled her up as he knelt on the soft dirt. “You’ve killed Fillien! You need to give him a proper ritual! You have one day left! Eat his corpse.” Codriel whispered. He caressed her flame-red hair and cheek. He smeared the blood on her busted lip. “I’ll help you. I’ll get the tribe to help. You know we will help. So, come on. Let’s go.”

“No.” She spat in his face. “I’m done!”

“I should drag you to the Ouze pits now!” He yanked on her hair and dragged her along the forest floor. “Everyone will hate you even more! You’ll be forgotten! Y’ffre will give you to the Ooze. You’ll have no chance at rebirth. I hope you understand what you have chosen, Aurien.” He struggled yanking her through the thick brush of the forest. He felt her hair slip through his fingers. He turned back. His eyes widened as he looked up at the fiery werewolf.

She let out a howl and then bared her teeth. Her jaw snapped on empty air as Codriel scrambled away. Her chest rumbled with a deep, guttural laugh.

Estinan jerked awake and opened her eyes. She stared at the wall for a moment before she smacked her arms as they rippled. She cursed. She leaned over on her knees and took a deep breath to control her beast blood. She sat in silence, listening to Asbjorn soft breathing and slow heart. She looked him over. She sighed. If alcohol and sex didn’t help now…. Divines. Perhaps the Ooze was going to consume her then. 

Estinan shuffled over Asbjorn and stretched as she gathered her clothing. She dressed as quickly as she could. Another sigh left her lips. She pushed the door open slowly and shut it quietly. 

She fixed her hair before stepping foot into the foyer and dining room. She looked at the blacksmith, Balimund, and nodded, mumbling a greeting.

“I wondered who he brought home.” The blacksmith narrowed his eyes at her leathers. “Had to be a thief.”

Estinan chewed on her lip. “You won’t believe me. But my intentions were simple, biological needs on my end.” She turned out her pockets and tossed him the leather top.

Balimund looked through the pockets, only finding her coin pouch. He nodded and threw it back. “I’d prefer not to see you in my home again. Asbjorn can do what he wants with you in his free time. I wont stop him from that. But you’re not allowed back.”

Estinan nodded. “Aye. I understand.” She shrugged the leather back on and left the blacksmith’s house.

Estinan shielded her eyes as the early morning sun glared at her. Another sigh. She meandered around the market, watching the merchants set up their stalls for a few moments, before turning away. She walked to the railing overlooking part of the canals and leaned against the damp wood. She watched as the canal gates lifted for a small fishing boat to leave.

Brynjolf rounded the tavern. He stopped in his tracks when he saw the fiery new recruit. He frowned when he saw her reach up to wipe a stray tear from her face. Another tear rolled down her cheek, sparkling in the sunlight. She pushed from the railing and turned his direction. He watched as she walked aimlessly and slowly across the wooden ground.

Estinan used her sleeve to wipe a few more tears. She stopped in her tracks when she smelled honey and leather. She looked up. Her eyes locked with Brynjolf’s eyes. She instantly looked away, unable to maintain eye contact. She couldn’t avoid him now, though.

Brynjolf walked up to her. “Drink too much, lass?” She looked so small compared to the other days.

Estinan somehow managed a small laugh. “Aye. Way too much.” She looked up at him. She saw a hint of genuine concern. “I’m fine.”

“You say that a lot. I am starting to think you aren’t, lass.” He whispered.

“I’m alive.” She whispered. “Regardless if I’m not fine, I will be.” Her skin twitched and itched. She placed her arms behind her back, clasping her hands tightly. Her nails dug into her palms. Estinan smiled briefly. “I’m going to get greasy food from the tavern and grab a few jobs.”

“Before you go, lass. Your payment.” He patted down his pockets. His eyes narrowed on her. “When did you-?”

“I took it last night.” She tossed up the coin pouch while walking away. “Thanks.” Estinan walked past him towards the Bee and the Barb.

She was never going to open up. That wasn’t something people did in this trade. Best to keep to yourself. Keep to your business. Brynjolf had to remind himself. He rubbed at his beard and then ran his hand through his hair.

If those predatory eyes hadn’t drawn you in. He sighed.

Chapter 6: Summerset Shadows

“You’ve been doing good, Esti.” Delvin walked over to the wood elf while she sat at the bar in the Flagon. Low light flickered off her dark skin and fiery hair. Her amber eyes pierced through him for a moment.

“I am good, aren’t I?” Estinan laughed. She offered him a mug of one of Vekel’s strong drinks.

Delvin held his hands up, defensively. “Oh no. Not tonight. Not for me. I’ve got a special mission for you. Would you care to listen?”

“Oh?” Estinan downed the rest of the mug and turned to face Delvin as he sat down. “Tell me.” She looked at Vekel for a second and nodded. Understanding, Vekel started to make another drink for her.

Delvin continued. “We got a group trying to take what’s ours. A close friend lost his daughter. We can’t have that. Murder is Brotherhood business. Not ours. Can’t have folks think we are doing this. No. We aren’t some lowly bandits….” 

“Where am I headed?” Estinan took the drink from Vekel and took a sip.

“Windhelm.”

Estinan winced and choked on her drink. She cleared her throat and pounded on her chest. “You want me to go into Stormcloak territory?” She laughed. “I’m an elf. Divines, Delvin.” She laughed more.

He slapped her back. “You can handle this. I know you can. You’re the only one unaffected by this damned curse.” Delvin frowned as he rubbed the back of his neck. “You’ll be okay. I trust you.”

Estinan put her finger on the rim of her mug, tipping the drink back and forth as she thought. Estinan sighed, grabbed the mug, and drank the rest of the liquor. “I’ll leave tomorrow then.”

“Good! Good! Torsten Cruel-Sea. Find him and talk with him. He’ll give you more details.”

“Aye. Thank you.” She turned back to Vekel. “Two more. Then I’m going to my bed.” Estinan giggled.

Vekel grinned. “I am glad there is someone who likes my strong drinks. You all should take pointers from Estinan.” He mixed the drinks. He poured one into her current mug and handed her another full mug. “There. Be careful wherever you decide to go.”

“Just the Cistern. Thank you.” Estinan stumbled towards the Cistern. She paused to take a sip and swayed in place for a moment. She inhaled the air. The smell of honey grew stronger. She hummed. She heard soft footsteps. She turned. Her eyes could barely focus on Brynjolf as he walked over. “Bryn.” She smiled.

“Yer drunk.” Brynjolf smiled. 

“I am.” She laughed. “Indulge me.” She handed him the other mug.

Brynjolf took the mug. He brought it to his lips. His brows furrowed together. “Divines, no wonder yer sloshed. This could drown all of Riften, lass. How many have you had?” He watched her.

The drink sloshed over the edge as she moved her hands to count. “This is my fifth and sixth.” She pointed to his mug. She walked to the middle of the Cistern. “Sit with me.” She whispered as she sat down. She kicked her legs over the edge, humming. 

Brynjolf tossed the drink into the water when she looked away. He sat down next to her. “What’s got you drinking like this? What happened to ye, lass?”

Estinan laughed. “You’ll have to kiss me if you want answers from me.” She leaned against him, continuing to hum. She looked at the mug and finished the rest of the drink. A soft sigh left her lips. “Starters, I gotta leave for Windhelm tomorrow.”

“You agreed to Delvin’s job? Are ye okay with that, lass?” He took the mug from her hand and set it next to him. 

“Just gotta stop some people. Delvin didn’t give much information. I’ll figure out more when I get there. And I’ll be careful.” Estinan grabbed his hand and traced the scars across his knuckles. “You are very warm. I enjoy that a lot.” She traced the calluses on his palm. Another hum left her throat. Her grip loosened on his hand as her head nodded forward.

He smiled slightly. He watched as her head nodded forward. She was falling asleep. “Oh? Do ye?” Brynjolf moved and helped her stand up. “Why don’t ye get to bed, lass? Ye hae a long journey tae make.”

Estinan whined and leaned against his shoulder. Her cheek pressed against the leather spaulder. She inhaled his scent deeply. Instinctively, her arms latched around his torso. She looked up at him, yearning in her eyes. They twinkled in the low light. She pleaded with her eyes.

His eyes darted from her pleading eyes down to her lips. Soft. Two shades darker. Her lips parted slightly. He looked back into her eyes, which were mostly dark. He watched a flame flicker in her eyes. Another quick glance to her lips as she bit them. “I cannae join ye, lassie. Tis bad fer business.” Brynjolf whispered before she asked him. “You shouldn’t drink so much.” He held her arms and guided her towards her bed. “Get tae sleep.” He helped her into bed, pulling the covers over her.

Estinan hummed in the bed. “Good night, Bryn.” She grabbed his hand and held it to her face for a few moments. Her grip loosened as she fell asleep.

Brynjolf moved his hand and brushed her hair from her face. “Good night, lassie.” He sighed heavily as he moved away from her corner of the Cistern. He tilted his head slightly when he thought he heard a soft whimper. Brynjolf touched his earrings as he walked to the ladder. A soft sigh left his lips.

 

Estinan jerked awake as her arm fell off the bed. She groaned as she stared at the cobblestone below her bed. Her body was heavy. She squeezed her eyes shut until she saw stars in darkness. Another annoyed groan left her lips as she pushed herself and sat up on the uncomfortable bed. She brushed her hair into place with her fingers and yawned. She looked around the quiet Cistern.

Estinan rubbed at her forehead. Her nails dug into her skin as she rose from the bed. It was a dull ache for now. Hopefully, it did not get worse. She leaned over on the footboard for a moment before continuing her way through the Cistern towards the Flagon.

She needed food and water. That would help.

Vekel and Dirge conversed as she walked over. Estinan put her hand on Vekel’s when he went to grab alcohol. She grimaced at him. He laughed for a moment before filling a mug with water. “Finally done with my drinks?”

Estinan held the mug to her lips and groaned. “Please cut me off…. Next time.”

“I don’t get your coin if I do that.” Vekel turned to the fire pit, throwing some cured meats on a hot griddle. He cracked a few eggs. “Grease will make you feel better. Though, I’m sure Elgrim has something.”

“No alchemy.” She leaned her forehead against the counter.

Dirge patted her back as he walked by. “I can throw you into the canals. Or even Lake Honrich. Might cool you down.”

“Thank you but I’ll pass….” Estinan sat up straight and looked around. It was empty. She heard Tonilia sleeping in the back.

“Brynjolf left last night. Job.”

Estinan messed with the mug. “I was just thinking it’s pretty quiet here in the mornings….”

Dirge let out a loud laugh from his post. “You look like a lovesick puppy looking for him.” He turned his head. “Word of advice. He’s not worth the chase. He’s quite the serial heartbreaker. It’s only pain at the end. For you. For the Guild.”

“He’s actually quite hard to get to know….” Vekel served up the hot plate of food and refilled the Bosmer’s mug. “Bad for business. Like he said.”

Estinan looked between Dirge and Vekel. She sighed softly. “Well, you don’t need to know someone to kiss them. And we don’t have to tell anyone….” She shoveled food into her mouth. “I think he's pretty is all.”

Vekel raised his brows. “Aye. That’s what they all start off saying. The accent. The looks. The mystery.”

“You get sucked into those green eyes.” Dirge snorted. “It happens to almost all the new recruits.”

They’re hazel.

The words almost slipped from her lips. She stared at the grease pooling in a chip in the plate. She finished the rest of the food. “Well….” She cleared her throat and finished the water. “This has been an enlightening conversation.” She jumped off the stool. “My head isn’t pounding as much as before. So thank you.”

“Gonna head off to Ulfric’s beating heart?”

A grimace twisted Estinan’s face. “Aye…. I should pack warmer clothing.” She doubted there’d be anyone to keep her warm at night in that city. 

“Be safe.” Vekel cleared her used utensils and waved.

“I’ll be back home as soon as I can.” Estinan waved as she walked back to her bed. Brynjolf’s scent was gone. Faded. By the lingering hints, he left sometime after he forced her to bed. Her lips pursed as she rummaged through the dresser, grabbing her coat for the colder climate. She sighed heavily as she threw it into her knapsack.

Estinan pulled the hood down as she walked into Candlehearth Hall. She almost put it back up as the patrons stared at her. She focused on the woman behind the counter as she walked up, patting her pockets for her coin pouch. She sat at the counter. “I need a room for the night and something warm to eat.” 

“20 septims.”

Estinan arched her brow. She heard ten septims for another patron. A human. She opened her mouth but closed it while nodding. She finally spoke. “Aye.” She handed over the money.

“Third door on your right. Down this hall.” The woman handed her a key. “I’ll bring food ‘round when it’s finished.”

Estinan nodded and walked through the hall. She found the room and walked in. She took a deep breath. Of course, she was given the worst room. Dank, leaky, broken window latch. Oh, she would be okay because of her beast blood. She was tempted to open the window, prop her door open, and let the cold disrupt the other patrons. Estinan set her belongings down, walked around the room, and lit the sconces. She threw a log into a dying fireplace. The chair wobbled as she sat on it.

It was far too late into the night for her to bother Torsten. She sighed as she rapped her fingers against the table. She heard movement outside the door. Her hand went to the dagger in her boot. Someone knocked on the door. “Come in.”

It was the innkeeper with a small bowl of what she assumed was saltrice and small charred fish. She set a bottle of ale on the table. “You’ll have to pay for more food if you want it.”

Estinan watched as she left. It’d only gotten worse in Windhelm as the years went by. She shoveled the food into her mouth, finishing it faster than she wanted. A sigh left her lips. She was not going to pay extra for more food.

Estinan was far from tired but it was late. She was in a city that hated her kind. She stood and locked the door and propped the wobbly chair under the handle. She walked to the drafty window and checked it. It was nailed shut, but it would take little to break it. She grabbed a spare moth-eaten blanket and threw it over the window. She looked around the room. She closed her eyes and listened.

She wouldn’t be able to sleep properly even if it was safe.

Estinan sighed heavily as she flopped onto the musty, moth eaten mattress. She closed her eyes, knowing sleep would evade her.

 

Sun filtered through the moth chewed holes in the linen covering the window. Estinan stared at the ceiling above her. She sat up and closed her eyes, placing her feet on the cold floorboards. She shivered slightly as she dressed for the cold weather outside. She gathered all her belongings into her pack.

She’d rather sleep outside as a wolf all night than endure this room again.

Estinan looked around the room, making sure everything was left in its normal disarray. She didn’t need any more trouble than she already received. She moved the chair from the door and readjusted her coat and bag before leaving Candlehearth Hall.

Estinan inhaled the crisp, freezing air. The sharp inhale of the freezing air shocked her awake. She looked around the city.

Where to start?

The Cruel-Sea family owned a farm outside the city and an estate inside the city. She walked down the snow covered stairs towards the main gate. She glanced at the imposing stone gates. Her gaze turned towards the guards walking around the city. A sea of blue and steel.

She had every reason to be wary.

It’d be odd for the Mer to approach an esteemed Nord. 

Estinan closed her eyes and leaned against the stone wall. The ice permeated through her coat and leathers. Another shiver ran through her. 

These jobs would be easier if the clients found her instead.

Estinan kept her eyes and ears open. She pushed from the wall and meandered towards the growing crowds of the marketplace. She glanced around the stalls. The bits and baubles on display. She listened to the gossip. Conversations. Barters. The smell of freshly cooked food wafted through the early morning rush. 

A familiar name on the wind.

Estinan turned her head. She watched Torsten Cruel-Sea, as he walked around the stall, conversing with the owners. Promise of later purchase. Acceptance of condolences. Condolences? She kept her ears trained on him as he walked through the market. He started away from her range. She followed when he walked down the winding streets towards Candlehearth Hall and the main gate. She opened her mouth to call out but stopped. The man was more aware than she thought.

Torsten paused near the main gates. He had felt his shadow following him. Someone to finish the previous robbery and massacre? He turned. 

Estinan approached, removing her hood. She only said one word. “Delvin.” 

Torsten’s brows relaxed, if only a little. His hand twitched. He almost clutched at his chest with a sigh of relief. “Follow me.” He turned towards the gates. A guard nodded and opened the large doors for the esteemed man. Halfway across the bridge, he finally spoke, solemnly. “My daughter Fjolti.” He looked down at Estinan. “She was murdered.”

Estinan nodded. She heard as she eavesdropped.

“They left her to die in her own blood. Murdered on the street.” A strained laugh left his throat. “I had told her not to wear so much of her jewelry…. But, I hadn’t thought….” Torsten bit at his knuckle. “I didn’t think anything would happen. Not to her….”

“I’m sorry.” Estinan looked at the ground as they continued across the bridge. “I know it wasn’t us.”

Torsten nodded slowly. “Aye. I know how your group operates. And I know Delvin. Even if it was one of you, you’d be sent up here to me for repayment.” He looked over at Estinan. “But, no. It was some Altmer. If you can believe that? Here. Of all places.”

Estinan swallowed. Of course a Mer would be involved. She scratched at her brow. 

“Took me weeks to track him down…. Managed to get information before…. Well, you know.”

Estinan’s brows furrowed. “If the killer has been taken care of, what do you need the Guild for?”

“Her locket. Fjolti’s locket. It’s a family heirloom. But, importantly it’s my daughter’s.” He paused for a moment before continuing, “I may have handled the murderer, but this new guild is still active. I see it as us helping each other out. You get my daughter’s locket back and take care of this rival guild.”

“Aye. I understand.” Estinan stopped walking. “Where should I begin?”

“Niranye.” Torsten turned and faced Estinan. “That’s the name I got. She knows something. But, she’s wary. As most Mer in this city.” His arms crossed over his chest. “She slips from my grasp. And she plays dumbs with questions.” He hummed. “Perhaps, Delvin was right to send another Mer. She wouldn’t be as wary around you.” He rubbed his chin. “Shouldn’t at least.”

Estinan nodded. “I understand. I’ll return with the locket.”

Torsten looked her over. He gave her a single nod. “Niranye is in the marketplace with her own stall.” He watched as Estinan covered her head as she walked back towards the city. He turned and continued his way towards his farm.

Estinan chewed on her thumbnail as she wandered through the snowy streets. Twisting and turning through the icy cobblestones. Thinking. She stopped. A golden shine sparkled in the sunlight. Estinan felt her lips curl. A small statue of Auri-El gleamed in a small window. Estinan looked around the house. She ducked into the courtyard behind the fence. 

Estinan scrambled to the side of the house. She reached at the window. It budged as she pressed on the pane. She crawled through the small opening and listened. A small vermin wandered the rafters, but she was otherwise alone. Comforted by this, she walked towards the front door, overlooking the letters. All were addressed to Niranye.

Estinan looked around the house, spotting the bed and a chest in the corner. She rummaged through both areas. Nothing. 

She inhaled deeply.

Everything in the house smelled like the Altmer. But there were traces of another scent. She followed the hints down the stairs. Another chest sat against the wall. Unlocked. Estinan looked through the belongings. She found a letter stashed in the sleeve of a dress. She inhaled the parchment. Someone else’s scent. She opened the paper. Her eyes darted across the words. It was short. But, Niranye knew about the locket. She shoved the letter into her pocket and straightened the little mess she made.

Estinan lingered at the small golden statue. She swiped the statue and shoved it into her bag. Should cost something back home. 

She walked to the window and peered outside. Clear. She climbed through, struggling with her bag and the statue for a moment. She leaned against the wall for a moment. After checking her surroundings, she left the courtyard and walked once again through the snow covered streets.

Estinan held her hands over a brazier near the marketplace. She spotted the Altmer at her stall, selling goods to the good folk of Windhelm. A few of the hardier types avoided the Mer and her stall.

Estinan’s eyes locked with Niranye’s eyes. She pushed from the wall and walked over. She peered over the table of shiny jewelry and trinkets. Estinan felt a curl on her lips. Niranye was a fence.

“Are you looking for something in particular? Something for your lover?” Niranye smiled. She guided Estinan’s gaze to a glass case with rings and loose gems. 

“Oh, actually…. I do have something I’m looking for.” Estinan tapped her chin. She leaned over the stall and closer to Niranye. “Maybe you have a locket? One that used to belong to Fjolti?” Estinan watched as the Altmer’s brows rose slightly. She heard the woman’s heart skip a beat before pounding. A bead of sweat dribbled down the other Mer’s face. Estinan placed the letter on the countertop.

Niranye’s widened. She swallowed. “You…. Where?” She snatched the letter and shoved it into her satchel. Her face darkened as she looked back at the Bosmer.

“Exactly. Where is it?” Estinan whispered. “The letter is incriminating enough to close up this shop. And I know for a fact, no one would be lenient towards an elf in this city.”

Niranye’s eyes darted around. She swallowed. “I don’t have the locket. I refused to fence it…. Once I realized who it belonged to.” She whispered.

“Where is it?”

Niranye moved away and rummaged through her satchel. She handed Estinan a different letter. “He…. Linwe. The leader. This is where he wanted me to meet him.”

Estinan read the letter and looked at the small map. A cave. “They have you fencing for them?”

“Once things went under for Delvin and the Guild…. It’s been hard to keep in contact. Linwe opened a path for me….” Niranye’s eyes darted around. She wrung her hands. “Forced more like…. His entire Guild is there. Be careful.”

Estinan sighed. “You’re lucky. Having someone like you would be more beneficial to us…. I don’t think Delvin or Tonilia would like it if I did anything….” Another sigh. 

“Come back after you’re finished, we can discuss my future involvement.”

Estinan nodded as she glanced over the makeshift map one more time. “As long as I don’t find anything more incriminating towards you….” She tossed the letter towards the Altmer and turned away. Estinan made her way through the city and out the front gates. It would take too long to walk on foot. She clicked her tongue and made her decision. 

Estinan walked off the road and towards a small copse. She undressed quickly, throwing her clothing into the bag. She stashed it away before letting the painful transformation take over. 

Estinan held her snout to the air. A few patrols wandered on the roads around her. She huffed in annoyance. She had to be careful.

Estinan checked her surroundings before venturing into the open. Her orange fur stood out amongst the white and gray. She clambered up a cliff face to higher ground. She hunkered close to the ground as she looked around. Clear for now. Her ears moved around as she crept along the edge of the cliff, listening for anything. Anyone.

It didn’t take long for her four paws to carry her to the cave entrance. She stalked into the cave, clinging to the walls and shadows. Her ears twitched when she heard voices. She peered around the corner. A couple of high elves laughed as they conversed about old heists. She closed her eyes and listeners closer. Someone wandered the halls. More people down the way…. That’s all she could pick up from here.

Estinan hunkered down and stalked closer to the pair. She paused for a moment before pouncing on one of the unsuspecting Mer. Her fangs shredded through leather and flesh. She turned to the other Mer. A growl left her lips as she jumped at the other screaming Mer.

Estinan huffed. She spat the blood from her mouth and licked at her lips while a shiver went down her spine.

Divines.

She hated blood.

She hated blood lust more.

Estinan waited for a moment, allowing her blood lust to wane. She couldn’t lose herself here…. She inhaled deeply, calming her heart. She opened her eyes as her heartbeat evened. She took the first steps through the hall. She stopped as she saw a flickering shadow on the wall. 

A High Elf rounded the corner. He saw the glowing eyes at the end of the hall. And fire. He fell back against the wall as the large orange werewolf charged at him. A scream left his throat as claws slashed through the hardened leather armor. Straight to his flesh.

Estinan’s chest heaved. She turned down the hall and continued down. Her ears picked up on a soft conversation. They people hadn’t heard their comrade scream. She passed the door they were locked behind. 

Estinan paused at the end of the hall as it opened into a large atrium. She heard footsteps on the far end. If she could stick to the shadows….

Estinan clung to the wall, listening to the steps on the other side. She matched the pace as they walked the perimeter of the room. Her ears swiveled as she heard whistling under a door. She darted through the door. 

Estinan closed her eyes and listened again. 

One more patrol. 

Estinan continued through the hall. She stopped when she heard a bow string. She ducked as an arrow whizzed past her. The wind displaced her fiery fur. She turned and launched herself at the target. Her jaw snapped shut on air. She growled and spun. A yelp left her lips as she jumped back. 

“How in Oblivion did a werewolf sneak in so far?” The Mer held a dagger towards the werewolf.

Estinan bared her teeth. She charged. Her claws raked against leather, shredding the armor. She spun around the Altmer and pounced. She growled as they ducked down, avoiding her. “Annoying….”

“What are you even here for? To kill everyone? Satiate your blood lust….”

“Squashing some annoying fleas.” Estinan kept her eyes trained on the altmer before her. Her ear twitched as she heard a soft footstep. She jumped back and ducked to the floor. Another Mer flew over her; a sword grazed her shoulder. She huffed and jumped forward at the new opponent. Fangs clamped shut on air. She growled as leapt again. This time her fangs met their target. She bit. Hard. Her claws raked against leather and flesh. Blood poured to the ground. 

Estinan turned to the other Mer. They stared at their comrade as he bled onto the cobblestones. They swallowed as they glanced back at the werewolf, who took one step closer. Their hands shook as they held the dagger out. “Run….” Estinan whispered.

She reeled back her instincts as they dropped the dagger and took off down the hall. 

Estinan turned around and continued through the hall. She burst through the door. She stared at the Altmer sitting at the desk. He jumped up. His stool clattered to the floor. She inhaled deeply. She turned her gaze back to him. “You must be Linwe. The leader?” Estinan looked over her shoulder for a second. “At least, you were. Not sure how many will survive….” She licked her lips.

Linwe looked at her. He saw the bloodstained fur. An open wound. He glared into her glowing honey eyes. A drop of sweat fell from his brow. He swallowed as he reached for the sword at his side. He ducked as he drew the blade. Linwe ran into the chest by his bed as he scrambled away. He cursed.

Estinan pounced. She hesitated at his neck. Saliva dribbled from her maw onto his face. Her hot breath sent a shiver through his body. She inhaled deeply as she listened to his heart pound against his ribs, begging to be freed. She licked her lips before snapping her fangs shut on his exposed flesh. She let go and backed away.

Linwe grasped at his neck. Slick and hot with blood. He stared at his hands before coughing. Metal. Red. Red. Red. He sputtered and collapsed forward into his pool of blood.

Estinan turned away. She rummaged through his chest first. No locket. She let out an annoyed huff. Her paws were clumsy. She sighed and closed her eyes as her wolf form slowly formed back to a mortal. She looked at her bloodied hands. She closed her eyes and listened to her erratic heart. 

She inhaled deeply.

Opening delicate drawers was easier with her mortal hands. She tore through the desk, rummaging through papers and trinkets. She placed gems and coins on the table top. She walked over to the barely breathing Linwe and searched through his pockets. An unsent letter addressed to Niranye. She crumpled the letter and searched his other pockets.

Her hand landed on cold metal. She removed a small locket attached to a broken chain. She opened the locket, reading the small inscription. She closed it and sighed. It was Fjolti’s locket. 

At least this was over. 

Estinan rummaged through a cupboard, looking for clothing. She managed to find a simple tunic and breeches to wear. 

Estinan shoved the locket and other treasures into the pockets. And she left the cave. 

She carefully retraced her steps back to her belongings. It was past midnight when she reached her things.

Estinan carefully set up a quick camp and started a fire. She fell asleep, wrapped in her fur bedroll and extra blanket.

“Aurien….”

She stirred. Her eyes fluttered open. She looked at the canopy above. Sunlight barely penetrated through the thick. Little spots of light fluttered about her face as she sat up. She gagged and vomited the contents of her stomach. She stared at the ground covered in half-digested body parts and bones. She heaved again. Sour. Bile. Rotten flesh. She gagged again.

“The Green is rejecting you.”

Aurien looked up at Codriel. She wiped her face. She took a deep breath. “As it should. I’ve broken the rules.” Sweat dribbled down her cheek and chin.

“I can’t believe…. I cannot believe you would rather let the Ooze take you.” He grabbed her face, roughly squeezing her face.

Aurien let out a strained laugh. “What else is there?”

He let her go. “You….” Codriel kneed Aurien in the chin. She fell over into the mess. He pressed his boot into her face. “You will…. We will send you to your death. This is what you want.” He pressed on her face, squashing her into the ground and in the vomit.

Aurien closed her eyes. She gagged and heaved again as Codriel laughed. Soured, rotten flesh. Bile. She groaned as Codriel pressed her deeper into her own vomit.

Estinan’s eyes fluttered open. The putrid smell stuck to her nose. She rolled to her side and heaved over the fire pit. She heaved again. Estinan groaned as she wiped her face. She sighed heavily as she looked around. The sun barely started its ascent into the sky. She inhaled and slowly exhaled. The morning chill finally reached her as she shivered.  She gathered her belongings and packed them before shrugging on her coat.

It was mid-morning when Estinan finally reached Windhelm. She found and followed Torsten’s scent to the marketplace. He spotted her. She walked over and handed him  the locket. 

Torsten stared at the locket in his hand. His eyes watered briefly before he blinked. He thumbed the locket. “It pains me to see it again…. But, I’m glad it’s where it belongs.” He looked up at Estinan, noticing the dark circles and haggard appearance. “Tell Delvin he has allies here in Windhelm. And you as well. Should anything arise.”

Estinan nodded. She watched as Torsten walked away, still looking at the locket. She turned to Niranye. “I’ll tell Tonilia to get in contact with you.” She turned and left before the Altmer could say a word.

She needed to get home. 

Estinan smacked her face as she left the city. She took one look up at the imposing, dark stone before stepping into the carriage. “To Riften, please.” 

Chapter 7: Imitation Amnesty

Summary:

Estinan finally gets a job in Whiterun.
She can finally meet with someone she needs to see again.

“And here is your cut.” Tonilia handed Estinan a small pouch of septims.

Estinan’s eyebrows knitted together. “Toni….” She dumped out the coins onto the table and counted them. She knew it was short for what she gave Tonilia. “That statue is worth twice this! There’s not a lot of Auri-el things in Skyrim. I know there’s someone in this gods-forsaken country that would buy that.” She whined.

Tonilia held her hands up while shaking her head. “Look, Esti…. You’re bringing in too much. You’re taking too many jobs. I haven’t set up connections completely with Niranye yet. And even with Mallus….” Tonilia looked over the items. She handed the Bosmer back a few items and gems. “Hold onto those for a bit longer. I’ll contact someone and see if I can make a deal.” The Redguard sighed. “If the rest of the Guild could bring this all in….” Another sigh. “It doesn’t matter. I don’t have enough. So take that back and come to me another day. Now, leave me be before I tell Dirge to throw you into the lake.”

“Aye.” Estinan gathered the unsold items and walked back to her bed through the secret entrance. She sighed heavily. As she finished locking up her chest, footsteps approached her. Delvin by the scent. She stood, turned, and smiled at the old Breton. “Can I help you?”

“I’ve got another special job for you. In Whiterun.”

Estinan arched her eyebrows. “Go on. I'm listening.” She sat on her chest and looked at Delvin.

“I’m close friends with the Battle-Borns. One of their friends is stuck in the prison in Dragonsreach. We don’t usually deal with jailbreaks but I have a plan.” Delvin sat next to her. “I don’t need you to break him out. But, erase his name in the books and the Jarl has a letter in his room with his charges. If we can remove who he is, then—“

“He doesn’t exist and he can walk free. Oh, aye. I can do it. I needed to get a job in Whiterun soon anyway. I know someone there. Need to contact them. This makes it easier….” Estinan messed with the ends of her hair. “Any other smaller jobs?”

“Numbers job in Bannered Mare. You can handle it while you are out there.” Delvin patted his breast pocket and pulled out a slip of parchment. He handed it to Estinan.

“Aye.”

“Talk with Olfrid for more details on the prisoner job. Be safe.” Delvin squeezed her shoulder and used her to stand up. His knees cracked.

Estinan laughed. “Getting old?”

Delvin grinned. “My human body seems to age unlike yours.” He laughed as he walked away.

Estinan looked around. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath as she stretched. Brynjolf’s scent was faint. She didn’t hear him in the Cistern or Flagon. 

In fact, she hadn’t seen him in a few days. 

Estinan left the Cistern through the secret entrance. The street lanterns glistened in the gloaming. Torchbug lights pulsed around the graveyard. She looked up. The stars twinkled. She inhaled the crisp, night air. One moon was waning while the other was new. Only a little light illuminated from them.

She caught little traces of honey as she walked around

Brynjolf.

Estinan followed the scent around the city, until she caught movement on the rooftops. She followed the movement as it crept in the shadows. Darting across rooftops. Silently. 

Traces of honey followed after the shadow.

Brynjolf….

Estinan looked around for a way up. There. She climbed up the stairs and then jumped up on the rope ladder. She walked carefully across the rooftops, following Brynjolf’s scent. She stuck as much to the shadows as she could as she navigated the city. She noticed newer sections on the pathways around the city. New wood. New escapes.

Is that what he was doing? Fixing their escape routes?

Estinan stopped when she got to a flat roof that overlooked the lake. Brynjolf sat down against a chimney, looking at the lake. He hummed a soft song. Something she’d heard before. Where? Her brows furrowed as she tried to recollect the tune. She shook her head and walked towards him. She finally spoke. “You come here often?”

Brynjolf jumped. He looked at Estinan as she sat on the edge of the roof. “Oh, aye. The sunset and sunrise are best viewed from here. Overlooking Honrich.” He looked at her and then behind him. How did she manage to sneak up on him? She made it up here. He had yet to tell the Guild about the new paths. He looked back at her.

Estinan pulled one knee to her chest and leaned on it. The other dangled over the edge. “I would climb trees—“

Brynjolf snorted before she continued. “Does not surprise me. A wee Bosmer in the trees.”

Estinan smiled. “Up in the Pale.” She trailed off and stared at the lake. The waves lapped across the surface of the water. She turned to the sky. She held a hand to the sky, making sure Masser was between her thumb and fingers. “As high as those old pines would let me. Now, that’s a view. The Sea of Ghosts with the sun setting or rising. The ice rainbows. Even the fog had rainbows.” She sighed softly. “Not worth the cold anymore.” She laughed.

Brynjolf moved and sat next to her. “Oh, aye. The Pale is a cold place.” He looked at her. “What were ye doin' in the Pale? Seems an awful place for a bosmer. Seems awful for me as well.”

Estinan laughed. “It is. Windhelm was cold too when I went. And not just temperature.”

He rubbed the back of his head. “The beating heart of Ulfric’s cause. Anyone give ye trouble, lass?”

“Who didn’t? I’m fine.” She paused and looked at him. “Truly. Some racist Nords and some haughty high elves didn’t stop me from my job. And….”

“You’re alive.” Brynjolf leaned back as he laughed.

“You understand me so well now.” Estinan moved and lay down on the roof, staring at the sky above. “Southern and western Skyrim are ideal. The Rift. Falkreath. The Reach. It’s changed a lot. I do think it has seen better days. Regardless of who's in control in Markarth, the Forsworn control the lands.” Estinan held her hand to the sky again. “It was better before…. The Great War.”

Brynjolf watched her. His heart skipped a few beats. “Can’t say much about anything before the Great War.”

“You were a wee lad.” She smiled.

“Aye. How old were you? And where were you?”

“You should never ask a woman her age?” She laughed so hard tears fell from her eyes. “I was 30 at the beginning of the War. I was here. Around Skyrim. Ran around doing various things. Until 20 years ago…. Ran with some folks in Solitude. The Pale after that.” She sighed. “It’s…. I have a very colorful history.” She moved to her side, facing Brynjolf. “What about you?”

Brynjolf looked down at her. Her hair glistened in the moonlight as it splayed around her head like a fiery halo. Her eyes shined like gold as she looked at him. He cleared his throat and looked away. “I was at Honor Hall and Delvin caught me tryin tae steal food. Took me tae the Flagon and Cistern. The rest is history.”

Estinan looked at him as his accent thickened.  It was real. He was holding it back. For safety? She thought for a moment before continuing her original train of thought. Questioning him. “Was Mercer in charge back then?”

Brynjolf shook his head. Estinan watched his face change a few emotions as he thought, before settling on a melancholic smile. “Nae. Mercer was the assistant Guildmaster. Like I am now. We had someone else….” He rubbed the back of his head. He shook his head.

Estinan reached out and touched his arm. She heard his erratic heartbeat, contradicting his face. “It’s okay. We can stop….” She sat up and squeezed his arm. “Maybe some alcohol next time?” She smiled and tilted her head. Her hair fell over her shoulder and face.

“Some alcohol the next time we open up? Sae we both forget we talked sae deeply aboot each ither?” His accent thickened as he continued to talk. He fixed her hair behind her pointed ear. “Aye. When ya return. We kin dae that.” His hand lingered on her cheek. He looked at her lips. The small scar across them. He looked into her eyes. Pools of amber.

Estinan smiled. She covered her mouth as she laughed. “We kin.” She copied his accent and then moved away, missing the warmth from his hand. “Let me get to Whiterun for this job, and when I return we can continue this conversation with some much-needed drinks.” She stood up and stretched her back.

“Aye.” Brynjolf watched as she walked away. A sigh left his lips when she had disappeared beyond the walls. “Yer in tae deep there, laddie.” He ran his fingers through his hair. “Tae deep.”

He closed his eyes and inhaled. He looked at the night sky as he exhaled. He went back to humming the old song. A soft lullaby his mother taught him.

Estinan hummed as she woke to the sun in her face. She sought the warmth in the bed, wrapping her arms around the Imperial who slept next to her. He groaned. She kissed the back of his neck. “Thank you for letting me stay….” She whispered.

“If every night with you is like that….” He laughed and cleared his throat. “Regardless of our Guild ties…. You also at least understand the wolf….” Mallus turned in the bed and looked at her. “And I don’t have to worry about either of us getting attached.” He laughed again.

Estinan smiled. “I’m glad we are on the same wavelength.” She sat up and stretched. “I do have jobs to get to. Maybe I’ll stop by here before I leave.”

“You are welcome here anytime.” He held a lock of her hair and brought it to his lips. “Whether it’s for a night in my bed. Trying new mead. Fencing those items. I enjoy the company….”

“Oh, thank you.” She leaned over and kissed his nose. “I’ll see you around, Mallus Maccius.” She left his bed and gathered her clothing, dressing her as she walked out of the bedroom. She stretched her body as she reached the ground floor. She grabbed a mug and walked to the leg, pouring herself a drink. She gulped the sweet mead and sighed as she felt the dizzying effects of alcohol for a few moments as she walked outside. She shielded her eyes from the sun as she looked at the city in the distance.

It was a short walk to Whiterun. She stared at the high walls. Defensive walls. Palisades. She stood at the gate and waited for the guards to open it.

Her first stop: Bannered Mare.

Estinan meandered through the streets towards the city center. The marketplace. She looked around catching the hints of werewolf on the air. She looked up towards the other district briefly. She turned back to the marketplace. Her eyes locked with another bosmer. She felt a shiver go down her spine as she saw the fresh cuts of meat around him. Blood. She smiled briefly before looking away as her heart pounded.

Estinan wound her way through the small crowd and stalls to the tavern, pushing the heavy door open. It would be easier to do this job at night, but she was unsure how long it would take her to do her main job.

The owner nor her staff noticed the door opening. They continued their conversation in the kitchen. Estinan kept her ear on their talking, gossiping, as she crept through the building. She looked for the ledger behind the bar. There! She quickly wrote in new numbers before scurrying away from the bar.

“Oh! I’m sorry!” The younger Redguard woman walked over to Estinan as she leaned against the bar. “Are you needing something to eat?”

“Please. Whatever is the easiest and cheapest.” Estinan put some septims on the counter.

“Aye. I’ll cook some sausage and toast bread.” She took the coin and walked back to the kitchen to cook.

Estinan looked around the tavern. She smelled hints of snowberry mingled with juniper and cinnamon. Wolf. She had been here recently. Estinan let out a soft sigh. She needed to meet her. Sifkni. She turned backs to the counter as the Redguard walked back with food. She ate silently as she thought. 

Battle-Borns had a mansion in the city. Along with a farm outside the safety of the walls. Olfrid most likely would be at home or walking about the City. 

Estinan stood and left the tavern, thanking both women on her way out. She walked around the city, watching it slowly rise from its slumber. She walked the multitude of stairs higher into the city. She paused at the Gildergreen. She looked up the large staircase leading to the Companions’ Mead Hall. She watched their banner flap in the slight breeze. The scent of werewolf covered the entire overturned ship. 

And one of them was Sifkni.

Estinan turned away from the Mead Hall and the Gildergreen and wandered the streets around the large mansions. She meandered around, waiting to find out which mansion belonged to the Battle-Borns.

“Hey! Battle-Born!”

Estinan turned as a young girl ran over to a boy sitting outside a house, a book in his hands. She watched the girl as she bullied the young Battle-Born out of his septims. He wiped his face as the girl walked away. Estinan walked past, bumping into her.

“Hey! Watch it! I’m not afraid of fighting you! I’ll fight anyone.” She stuck her tongue out and took off down the streets.

Estinan walked over to the crying boy. She knelt to his level. “Here.” She handed his septims back to him. “Don’t tell her.” She winked. “Is this the Battle-Borns’ house?”

The boy nodded. “Aye…. Grandpa is still inside.” He wiped his face. “Thank you….” He sniffed. “Braith is always scary. And I can’t fight….”

“She is scary. And sometimes courage is hard to come by. That’s okay.” She ruffled his hair. “You’ll have your day.” Estinan smiled. “Would you mind getting your grandfather? I need to talk with him.” She stood and helped the boy to his feet.

“You can come in with me.” He opened the door. “Grandpa…. This lady helped me….”

Olfrid looked up from his book. He looked at Estinan with a confused look. “Lars. Why don’t you be a good lad and help your grandmother in the kitchen?”

“Aye. Thank you.” Lars smiled at Estinan and waved as he walked away.

“Delvin sent me.”

Olfrid shut his book and smiled. “Well, damned! That was fast! Good! Excellent.” He stood up. “Not a moment too late either.” He walked over to Estinan. “If anything should happen to Arn….” He towered over Estinan. “Listen. My good friend, Arn, taken to jail for being drunk? What Nord isn’t drunk in Whiterun? So he got a little rowdy. It happens. They don’t go arresting the lot of Jorrvaskr when they get rowdy? No….” He cleared his throat. “But, he’s set for the chopping block in Hjallmarch. If the Jarl and the others catch on that they have hind they’ll haul him up to Solitude where he will certainly be put to death. I need you to put a stop to it.”

Estinan nodded. “Aye. Aye. He’s in the dungeons in Dragonsreach?”

Olfrid nodded. “Aye. Arn can serve his sentence for being drunk. What man hasn’t spent a night in a cell? Change his name in the prison log. And to cover our tracks, find anything from Solitude incriminating my friend. Do all this, and the Guild will have the Battle-Born clan as allies.”

Estinan nodded again. “Aye. I understand. I’ll see it done.” She smiled a bit. “I’ll be back before sundown.”

“Certainly confident. I like that. And thanks for helping out the lad.”

“Oh, that’s no problem at all.” Estinan  looked around the house before leaving. She inhaled the air. 

Sneak into Dragonsreach…. 

She sighed. The dungeon was one thing, but the Jarl’s study? She laughed as she walked towards the imposing wooden castle that loomed over the city. 

Perhaps if she found a spare uniform. 

Or perhaps she could pretend to be a servant.

Estinan walked up the stairs. She turned and looked down into the city below. Whiterun was finally fully awake. She saw people in the training yard behind Jorrvaskr. None of them looked familiar. She shook her head and turned back to Dragonsreach. She walked around the side pathway. She hung close to the wall. She heard a door open and shut. She wandered towards the noise. 

Barracks? Dungeon?

She pushed the door. Clear. She listened as she ducked into a side room. Storage? She heard footsteps. 

“Where is that damned Aevar? He was supposed to relieve me an hour ago….” The door opened and shut.

Estinan pressed against the door and listened. No one was near. She poked her head out and looked around. There were a couple of guards walking around. She peeked around the corner. Two guards patrolled a cell block. Estinan ducked into the other room. A book loomed in front of her. She dashed over and read over the names and entries. 

Footsteps.

Estinan cursed. She quickly erased the name and wrote down a common Nordic name over ‘Arn’. She changed his sentence to a couple days versus the week-long stay. She cursed again as the door handle turned. She jumped behind the door as it opened. She ducked down.

“Damn it! I thought I heard him in here. Where is Aevar!?” The door slammed shut.

Estinan let out a soft sigh. She listened to the footfalls grow distant towards the cell block. She heard the guard complaining to herself as she stomped around. Estinan pushed the door open and looked around. She darted behind a bookshelf and peered around the corner, watching and listening. She inhaled. 

Three guards.

She walked to the hall and looked around the cell block. Another door stood open to her left. She could smell stored food. 

Did the dungeons and barracks connect to the servants quarters?

She took the chance to dash to the door. She paused once inside and listened. She heard movement nearby. Larder? She stalked past the closed doors. A set of stairs? She listened. A door opened behind her, forcing her straight upstairs.

She regretted not bringing invisibility potions. Estinan looked through the banister. Kitchen was surprisingly empty. She listened while she crept through, avoiding the tables of food. She regretted eating at the tavern as the high-quality food stared at her. She peered around the opening. The grand hall. She cursed as she looked around.

Four guards. Steward. A child.

The jarl and his housecarl weren’t around. 

Estinan slunk back against the wall and corner. She moved her knapsack and rummaged through it. Maybe she did have a potion…. Her hand landed on a small glass vial in the depths of her bag. She pulled it while praying. The shimmering clear liquid glistened against the fire light. 

Estinan pulled the cork and downed the vile tasting potion. She looked down and watched her body dematerialize. She looked out into the hall, spotting a set of large stairs going to the second floor. 

She made a dash for the stairs. A guard stood at a war table. She passed by quickly. Quietly. She found a set of doors and quickly darted in. Estinan clung to the shadows as she felt the potion wear off. She cursed under her breath. 

Estinan listened. A guard wandered the halls. She heard other voices. Jarl? She looked around, eventually looking up. Smaller stones were offset. She could climb to the next floor from here. 

And she did just that. 

Estinan knelt against the cold wall. She thanked the Divines that it was dark in the corner. She watched a guard walk towards her and turn down the stairs. 

Estinan clung along the walls as she crept up the hallway. She paused at an open doorway. Empty. She passed by quickly and continued. 

She stopped as she heard footsteps. A curse left her lips. She looked around quickly, darting into another empty room. She backed behind the door and listened. She looked around the room. Her lips curled. The Jarl’s study stood before her. She kept her ears open as she walked around his desk. She moved around papers and scrolls. Other items stood on the desk. A small gem caught her attention. She shoved it into her pocket.

A letter caught her attention. She saw Sifkni’s name. Her brows furrowed as she read the letter. Sifkni was Dragonborn? A possible high ranking member of the Circle? Already?

Footsteps.

Shit.

Estinan stashed the letter under another. She looked for something with Solitude’s seal. Where? Where…?

The footsteps grew close.

Shit!

Estinan looked furiously through the papers. She no longer cared about being neat.

There! 

Estinan ripped the letter. She quickly read. There! Arn’s name. Yes! She stashed the letter into her breast pocket. She looked around for a hiding spot. She cursed. She looked at the window behind her.

Estinan opened the window and snuck through the small opening, slipping onto the roof. The door opened to the study. She scrambled down the roof. She lowered herself to the next level and looked around. 

She was a sitting duck on this roof. She ducked against the outer wall and looked around. Luckily, the sun started to set. It would be dark soon. She heard voices echo from the room she exited.

“Someone left the window open. Papers everywhere.” A loud sigh.

“One of your children maybe.”

“Perhaps.” The window shut, muffling the voices.

Estinan sat against the wall and waited for the sun. She looked through her bag. Someone must’ve put those potions in her bag. She pulled another bottle out. Faint traces of honey lingered. Brynjolf. She smiled. She put the bottle back into her bag, along with the gem she collected. She looked over the letter again. She’d give it to Battle-Born, let him deal with the incriminating thing.

Estinan crawled to the edge of the roof. She wasn’t terribly high. She watched the guards wander around Dragonsreach. One the coast was clear, Estinan lowered herself and dropped. She tucked as she rolled to the ground, quickly moving away from the pathway to the shadows. She climbed over the rock wall and climbed down. 

Estinan let out a soft sigh as she walked through the city back towards the Battle-Born estate. She knocked on the door, which Lars opened in with a grin.

“Hi, lady. Grandpa, that nice lady is back.” 

“Oh, good. Come on in.”

Lars opened the door. Estinan walked in. “It’s done. Here. You can decide what you want to do with it.” She handed him the paper. “I also changed his sentence. He should be out by the end of the week.”

“Oh fantastic! Here.” Olfrid handed her a necklace and a bag of coins. “Your payment.” He held her hands. “Tell Delvin he has our support.”

“Aye. Thank you. I’ll let him know when I return.”

“I’ll send a courier to him as well. You really helped me out. I will let you get going.” Olfrid patted her back.

“Aye. Good night.” Estinan left. She inhaled the crisp night air. 

One more thing to do. A loud sigh left her lips.

Estinan walked around the city, taking in the sights and crowds. A few pockets picked. Some extra coin for her. She was stalling. Her heart sank a little.

Estinan walked up the steps and stared up at the Gildergreen. She looked further to the night sky. The stars twinkled. She turned her head when she heard fast footsteps. The smell of snowberries and cedar overwhelmed her senses as a smaller woman wrapped her arms around her torso and sobbed onto her shoulder. 

Estinan wrapped her arms around the woman and rubbed the back of her head. Her fingers brushed through the long red locks. “I’m fine. You’re fine.” Estinan looked up as another werewolf approached them. A large Nord. Concern spread across his face as the woman cried. Estinan continued to rub her back. “We’re fine, Sifkni.”

“Why did you wait so long?” Sifkni pulled away and wiped her face. She grimaced at the tears and snot on her sleeve.

A sharp pang thudded against her heart. Estinan chewed on her lips. “I know. I’m sorry. I’ve been busy with jobs. It’s not that I didn’t want to come say hi.” She smiled a bit. “I had deadlines….” A crooked smile.

Sifkni frowned. “I know. But you could’ve let me know sooner. Found me sooner.” Her brows furrowed.

Estinan nodded slowly. She closed her eyes before turning her head to the ground. “I know. I left a message with Mallus. The Meadery. At the Full Moons.”

“But you could’ve found me. I’ve been looking for you since I caught your scent. I….” Sifkni paused. “You left me again. I needed you and you left me.” Another sob broke through Sifkni’s lips. 

Her heart thudded against her ribs. A drop of sweat dropped from her chin. She blinked away the tears pooling in her eyes. Estinan clenched her jaw and fists. Her heart pounded against her head. 

Sifkni was right. 

She was a coward.

“I know. I smelled all the new werewolves around you. I got scared.” 

Lies. 

Lies.

“That’s not like you.” Sifkni rubbed at her arms.

“I know. I…. I fucked up.” Estinan admitted. She watched as Sifkni wiped her face and turned to the taller man. She swore she saw admiration flash across both their faces as they locked eyes.

“Can she come inside?” Sifkni asked as she fully faced him. She took a small step towards him.

The man rubbed the back of his head. He opened and closed his mouth a few times. His eyes darted around nervously. 

Estinan could tell he wanted to say yes. He was conflicted. 

He finally spoke. “We can sit on the patio. I’ll ask Vilkas though.” He turned and walked up the stairs and into the bustling Mead Hall.

Sifkni frowned but nodded. “We can go to the patio then.” She walked up the stairs. She sniffled. “It’s been a couple weeks….”

Estinan followed Sifkni as she explained about the patio, the training yard, and how loud Jorrvaskr was. She watched Sifkni sit at a table and lean over the table into her palms. “Who’s the big guy?” Estinan was curious.

“Farkas. He’s been helping me cope. After everything. Along with his brother, Vilkas, and the Harbinger, Kodlak. Aela. Júní, a wolf. Skjor. The rest of Jorrvaskr” She smiled softly.

Estinan bit her lip. “What happened?” She swallowed. “What happened to everyone?” She had an idea. After she returned to the ransacked camp. Her nostrils flared as she remembered the blood. The carnage. The burned flesh. She closed her eyes and took a few deep breaths. She gripped at her thighs to stop the trembling.

“Silver Hand.” Her words were feather soft. 

The pain was palpable. Heavy, even.

Estinan’s heart pounded against her head. “Silver hand?” She asked despite knowing the answer. She heard her. Loud and clear. She swallowed.

Sifkni nodded. Tears swirled in her eyes. Her lip quivered. “Lucret brought them to us.” Sifkni wiped her face as the tears fell.

Lucret? He finally cracked? “I didn’t think he’d go that far,” Estinan muttered under her breath. Her eyebrows knitted together.

Sifkni looked at her. The tears still fell. “What do you mean by that?”

Estinan shook her head. “No. No… it’s  nothing. Don’t worry about it. Lucret was a bastard until the end.”

Sifkni pursed her lips. “He was. But, it doesn’t make it any less painful.”

Estinan nodded. “Aye…. You’re right….”

They sat in silence for a few minutes. 

Her nerves were getting to her. A flash of heat around her body. Cold sweat on her brow and the back of her neck. Her palms were wet. She swallowed. 

Estinan’s fingers rapped against the table. “How are you doing? Here. Are they treating you well? Anyone I need to give a stern talking to? A thrashing?”

Sifkni looked at Estinan. “They’re all good. They’ve been helping me process everything and they’ve accepted me despite what I am. An outsider. It’s been…. Different. Having a bed. A warm bath. Someone else to talk to. Someone who’s not a wolf.” She smiled a bit. “What about you? Wherever or whatever you are doing? Are they treating you well?”

“I’m glad they’re helping you. I’m….” She paused. “I’m with a new group. In Riften. No wolves. At least where I’m at. Mallus is technically…. You met him. At the meadery.” She trailed off. She watched Sifkni stand up and walk to the walls. There was an overlook. It faced the plains. She leaned against the wall. Estinan followed her. The view was beautiful. “I think this is a good fit for you.” She whispered. “The Companions.”

Sifkni gave her a quizzical look. “Because they’re wolves?”

Estinan shook her head. “No. Because they’re good people. I think you’ll thrive here. Have a chance to be happy.”

“You don’t think I was happy with the pack? With you and the others? Papa and Thonro?” More confusion spread across the young woman’s face. Furrowed brows. A slight frown.

“I don’t think you thrived there. Listen, Sifkni. There was a lot—“

The doors opened abruptly, causing both women to jump. The large Nord called Farkas walked over. Disappointment on his face. He rubbed the back of his neck and sighed. “Vilkas doesn’t want to deal with another wolf tonight.” He looked from Sifkni to Estinan. “If you need to leave. Go for a run. I can tag along with you.”

Sifkni shook her head. “No. No. I think I’m done for the night. My head is fuzzy from the mead.” She rubbed her temples. Sifkni turned to Estinan. “Please visit again. Preferably when I’ve not been drinking. Maybe we can go for a run then?”

“If you’re in Riften, I’ll find you. I promise.” Estinan watched Sifkni for a moment before turning and leaving. Divines. Her eyes welled with tears as she walked away. She smacked her arms when she felt a ripple. She took a deep breath to control her emotions before her beast blood took over. She needed to get back to Riften. 

Back home.

After everything Sifkni went through. What did she expect to happen? Estinan sighed heavily as she walked through the city. 

It started slow. 

But, she picked up her pace. 

As she left the gates, she took off into a run towards Riften.

Back home. 

Back home.

The road and forests and skies blurred as she continued her run. Her legs burned. Her chest heaved. Each footfall sent a jolt throughout her body.

Estinan slowed down.

Hot tears streamed down her face. She coughed and cleared her throat. She wiped at her face.

She should’ve made her first task to find Sifkni.

What had she done?

Chapter 8: Conundrum

Summary:

Estinan makes it home.
Finally home.
Estinan and Brynjolf open up.

Notes:

Another update? Ehehe! This has been waiting to be posted for a while! The real grind starts soon.
Art by me

Home! Finally!

Her feet throbbed. Her chest burned. Her clothing was soaked with sweat and rain. She was miserable.

But she was home.

It was evening when Estinan finally made it back to Riften. She could smell the petrichor in the air. The smell of the lake grew stronger with each footstep. Clouds rolled over the city. 

She walked around the wooden pathways across the city. She looked up when she saw a flash of lightning. She covered her sensitive ears before the thunder. 

Divines. 

Her skin rippled from the static. She shivered.

A familiar scent brushed past her. 

Honey.

Her eyes instantly welled with tears. She needed to see him.

Divines.

She looked around. She followed the scent to the rooftops. She climbed up the slick roof tiles and carefully navigated across them. She felt an electric charge through the air before another flash of lightning lit the entire city. The hair on her neck stood. A shiver ran through her back. She pressed forward.

She soon saw a familiar figure standing on the roof of a building that overlooked the lake.

Brynjolf turned his head when he heard a roof tile slide and drop into the canals below. His brows furrowed together. Estinan? “Lass?” He removed the hood as she walked closer. “What’s wrong?” He saw her tear-stained face. The tears swirled in her eyes when another flash of lightning flashed overhead. He watched her lip quiver.

Estinan took a few more steps towards him. She wrapped her arms around him. “I’m not fine.” She sobbed against his chest. A hard, ugly wail left her lips.

Brynjolf pulled her close. “Shhhh. Tis okay, lass.” He rubbed her back. He rested his head against hers. He ran his fingers through her hair. “Ye will be fine now. Yer home.”

Estinan held onto him as tight as she could. Honey and leather overwhelmed her with each sob. His hands radiated heat through her leathers. She allowed herself this moment of weakness. Vulnerability. Release.

Estinan pulled away when her sobs stopped after a few minutes. She wiped her face of the tears, only for the rain to finally release on them. She looked at the sky briefly as the rain pelted against her face. 

Brynjolf put his hands on her face and moved her to face him. He looked into her amber eyes, which still watered with tears. “What happened, lass?” His thumb caressed her cheek, wiping a raindrop off with his thumb.

Estinan closed her eyes. “I’m just a fuck up.”

“Ye know that’s nae the truth.” He leaned forward, resting his head against her forehead. “Ye hae given us a chance out o’ this mess.” He whispered. “There’s nae a chance yer mucking it up.”

Estinan’s lip quivered. A slight laugh left her lips. “That doesn’t change what I’ve done. My past…. I hurt so many people. My family. My friends.”

“Yer part o’ this Guild now. We dinnae care what ye hae done. Who ye were. Ye know that, right? I dinnae care what ye done.” He looked at her. Tears still swirled in her eye. “What matters is ye right now. That’s what matter..” His eyes darted to her lips which were still quivering. He leaned close.

His breath was hot against her cheek and lips. She looked at him through half-lidded eyes as he leaned closer.

Brynjolf stopped a breath away and pulled away with a sigh. “No. No. Not wise of me…. Sorry, lass. Takin’ advantage o’ ye. I cannae do that.”

Her heart dropped straight to her gut.

Estinan opened her mouth to speak but then closed it. She nodded slowly. She wiped her face. She sniffed.

Even he despised her.

The dam broke. Excruciating pain radiated from her chest. Her body shook. Big tears rolled down her cheeks.

Estinan couldn’t stop the sob that broke from her lips. She collapsed on the roof, a wet, sobbing mess. “Everything about me is a lie. A fraud. I’m terrified of myself. Of feeling. Getting attached. To anyone.” She managed between sobs. “I let everyone I know and love down. I’m not worth anything. Nothing. Worthless.” She held her arms. She pinched her skin to stop her beast blood from taking over. 

Too late. 

Pain radiated from her chest. She looked at her hands as fur sprouted.

Brynjolf knelt down. He clenched his jaw. He reached out to hold her. She jumped away. He jumped up when she moved away. He watched her.

“No. No. No. No.” Estinan walked to the edge of the roof. She looked for a way down. Nothing was close enough. She needed to get away. She’d have to jump into the lake. She walked towards the edge of the roof and looked down at the water. Waves lapped at the dock. She jumped at a flash of lightning.

Brynjolf grabbed her arm and wrapped his arms around her before she jumped. “Lass! Wait!” He held her close. “Tis nae the right time….”

She didn’t hear. “Let me go! Brynjolf! Please I…. I need to get away…! I need to go before….” Her voice deepened and came out as a growl. “No… no!” She looked at her arms as fur sprouted from them. Her fingers and nails elongated. “No! Let me go!” Her clothing ripped at the seams as her body contorted and grew. Lupine. Fiery orange.

Brynjolf’s grip loosened as she grew in size. He let her go and backed away. His eyes widened as he watched her transform. “You….”

Estinan huffed and shook the shredded clothing from her body. She whined as she looked at Brynjolf. It was over now. She turned away and jumped.

“Wait, lass!” Brynjolf scrambled to the edge of the roof and watched as the fiery werewolf swam across the lake. “Damn it! Hells Teeth!” He punched the roof. Brynjolf moved away and ran across the slick tiles. He slid a few times on the rooftops. He slid down the ladder as fast he could. Finally, he managed to make it onto solid ground safely. He ran towards the South Gate. The guards opened it for him as he slipped through a small opening. “Come on, lass. Dinnae go far.” He whispered to himself. “We need ye. I need ye.”

Brynjolf raised his hood against the rain. He followed the shoreline, looking into the lake for Estinan. He spotted movement and a blur of fiery fur leave the lake. The orange werewolf shook water off her body and ran into the forest. “Lass! Estinan!” He yelled her name, chasing after her.

Estinan’s ear swiveled when she heard her name. She cursed. He managed to follow her? She slowed down and looked around, looking for her escape. She spotted movement in the shadows. 

Instincts took over.

Estinan pounced. She landed on Brynjolf. Teeth bared. A low growl hummed from her lips. She inhaled. The rain and lake only accentuated his smell of honey.

Brynjolf looked up at her. Not even an ounce of fear in his eyes. “Na gabh dragh, lassie.” He reached up and ran his fingers through her fur. She leaned into his touch. “Nae worries, lassie. Yer alright.”

Estinan blinked at him. “Tha mi gu math.” A huff left her throat.

Brynjolf stared at her before laughing. “O’ course, the lassie would know Reach.” He moved against the mud and sat up. He rubbed her furry cheek. “Yer alright. Yer alright….”

Estinan moved away, sitting on her haunches. She looked around. No one was near but him. “Give me a few minutes. I can change back….” She huffed. “Are you hurt? I…. I don’t have the best control.”

“Emotions git th’ best o’ a’body. I’m fine. Just covered in mud and rain. Nothing I’m nae used tae.” He looked at the lake. A sigh left his lips. “Well, now ye know about me. Where did ye learn?”

“Around. Most I know from rituals. For Lord Hircine.” She whispered.

Brynjolf arched his brow, knowing the truth. “They dinnae teach those words wit’ rituals, lass.”

Estinan’s chest rumbled. “I’ve picked it up, is all. I’m not fluent.”

“Still….” He looked back at her. “How long hae ye been a wolf?”

“Forty-something years. You’re used to werewolves…. Who was from the Reach?”

Brynjolf nodded. “Me Ma. Da was Nord. Ma had Nord in her, but she was full Reach.” He looked at the lake, grabbing a rock and throwing it. It skipped one time due to the rain and plopped into the lake. “Tha mi gan ionndrainn.” He whispered.

They sat together. Only the occasional thunder and the rain disrupted their silence.

Estinan finally spoke. “I know that feeling. I miss my parents, too. I’m sure they’re still alive. But it’s best that I’m considered dead to them.” Estinan whispered.

Brynjolf turned and looked back. He watched as she shrunk to her small, elven form. She shivered against the rain that pelted her naked body. Her orange hair clung to the contours of her body, covering vital parts. He saw a few scars on her rain-soaked body. He stood up, removed his leather top, and draped it over her shoulders. “Sorry, I don’t hae anythin warmer fer ye, lass. It’ll keep ye covered as well.”

Estinan pulled the top closer, feeding her arms through it. She tied the sides together. She buried her face into the top for a moment. Honey. “Thank you. I…. I’m sorry.” She wiped her face as new tears began to shed. She wrapped her arms around herself. “I…. I can gather my belongings and leave the Cistern. You won’t have to worry about me again.”

Brynjolf looked at her. He blinked a few times. “I already told you. Nae worries. Please, lass, ye dinnae hae tae worry about it. Let’s git ye back home.” He whispered. He took a few steps towards her. He grabbed her arm and pulled her along the shoreline back towards Riften. Estinan wiped her face with her other hand. She sniffed. She followed him. Brynjolf walked along the wall and moved a loose grating. “I’ll help ye wash the mud and refuse off yer legs.”

Estinan’s cheeks burned. “I-I can handle it by myself.”

Brynjolf turned and looked at her. She tried her best not to shiver from the rain. Water droplets fell from her hair and face. His leather top engulfed her, but fell short at her mid thighs. More scars. He looked at his tunic, which clung to his body. “Divines, lass. My tunic might be longer…. It’s soaked through, though.” A sigh left his lips.

Estinan laughed a little as tears fell from her eyes. “I’m fine. Really. I’m…. I’m used to lack of clothing.” She pulled the leather down. “Thank you….” She paused. “For letting me borrow this. And I’m sorry about the mud….” She reached up and messed with a lock of his hair.

“It’s probably all washed with the rain. Dinnae fash, lass.” He looked through the tunnel with a sigh. “I dinnae trust what’s in the tunnels.” He scooped her up and held her close.

“I…. I can walk.” Estinan verbally protested despite the fact her body melted into his body, sapping his warmth. She held onto his tunic.

“Ye have nae shoes. I got ye. Dinnae worry, lass. We’ll be there soon. We’ll get ye cleaned up an’ dry.” Brynjolf continued through the tunnels.

They walked in silence.

“What happened to your parents?” She listened to his heart beat hard against his chest. Her hand rested against his chest over his heart. She paused and answered her own question. “Mine are deep, deep in Valenwood. Green Pact cultists.”

Brynjolf stopped walking. “That’s why ye became a werewolf….” He looked down at her.

Estinan shook her head. “That was accidental. But it did help me escape. It’d be better for them to think of me as dead. Gone to the Ouze pits.” She rested her head against his shoulder and listened to his heart beat erratically.

Brynjolf continued to walk. He walked in silence for a few minutes. “The Markarth Incident…,” was all he whispered. His heart pounded against his chest. He hadn’t told anyone. 

He opened the door into the Cistern and walked over to her bed. He looked around. It was surprisingly empty tonight. “Let me get a bucket fer yer legs.” He set her down and walked away, rubbing the back of his neck.

Estinan grabbed clean clothing from her drawer and sat down on the bed. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath, ignoring the stares she felt on her from the few people there. 

They should’ve not come here. She rubbed her forehead. She looked up when Brynjolf walked back over with a bucket and cloth. He threw a large cloth on her head. He knelt. “Really… Brynjolf…. I can….” She moved the towel enough to see.

“Na gabh dragh, lass.” He said below a whisper.

Estinan watched as he delicately washed the grime off her feet. She chewed on her lip. She put her hands on his cheeks and tilted his head. She leaned over and kissed his forehead. 

Brynjolf looked at her when she pulled away, watching her cheeks darken. Her honey-colored eyes still swirled with tears. He looked down to her lips. He looked down her legs. His eyes trailed across the scars. “I’ll be done and out yer way soon.” He continued until the water ran dark and her legs and feet were clean. His touch lingered on her knee to her shin for a few moments, tracing a long scar. He stood and touched a lock of her hair. Still damp. “Ye rest fer the night and tomorrow. When yer well rested, Delvin has another special job for ye.” He stood.

Estinan looked up at him and nodded. “Aye.” She watched him walk away with the bucket. She took the opportunity to put on new clothing. She hung his leather armor on the footboard of her bed before climbing into it and pulling the new blankets to her shoulders. She shivered for a few minutes before she succumbed to sleep.

“Aurien. Aurien….”

She turned her head. She looked at the younger wood elf between the bars. “Go away, Ceriwe.” She turned away, brushing the mud out of her fiery hair.

“I’m helping.”

“Don’t! That’ll be a death sentence for you as well. Do…. Do you want to end up in the Pits with me!?” She growled. “Go away!” She crawled to the bars and grabbed the other bosmer by the leather tunic. “Before Codriel catches you here!”

“It’s not fair.”

“I’ve broken the Pact. It doesn’t matter if it’s fair. Get away.” She pushed Ceriwe away. “Please! Just go.” Tears streamed down her face.

Estinan stirred in her bed. Voices grew increasingly louder each minute until she finally sat up. She held her head. It pounded. It throbbed. She pressed her palms into her eyes until she saw stars.

“Lass?”

Estinan looked up. She nodded. Brynjolf wore the same fine blue tunic as when they met. She looked away when her heart palpitated.

Brynjolf sat on the foot of her bed. “Ye were thrashing in yer sleep, lass.” 

Estinan nodded. “Aye. I…. I’ve had a lot of nightmares the past month and half….” She bit her lip.

Brynjolf watched her for a moment as she nervously fidgeted. “Ye should rest more. If ye wanna talk later we kin….”

Estinan nodded. “I will certainly try to sleep more.”

Brynjolf smiled a bit when she looked up. “I’ll get ye new armor before ye go on the next job for Delvin. But ye rest. I’ve already told him ye would be resting today. So keep restin’.”

She opened her mouth and shut it. She nodded instead. She messed with the edge of the blanket before lying down.

Brynjolf stood. “Cadal math dhut, lassie.” He whispered as he walked away.

Estinan could barely hear his heart pounding above hers. She pulled the blanket over her face as it flushed. “Divines….” She whispered to herself.

Brynjolf watched her for a moment. He heard her mumbling to herself as he walked into the Flagon and sat down at the bar. He ordered a mug of mead. He took a sip and held the mug to his lips. A soft sigh left his lips. 

“Word on the street is that you showed up with Estinan. Her wearing only your leather top and you carrying her through the Ratways.” Delvin sat down beside him with a grin. 

Brynjolf looked over at the older Breton. “Lass had an unfortunate incident. Did what I needed to help her.”

“Washing her legs. I heard she kissed you.”

Mead sprayed from Brynjolf’s mouth. “Who told you that?” He put the mug down.

Delvin wiped his face with a slight smirk. “Cynric was watching the entire time. He was surprised you didn’t take her away to your bed after that show.”

Brynjolf covered his face with a soft groan. “Nae. The lass deserves better’n me. Dinnae fash.”

Delvin looked at him. “Your accent gets thicker around her or when anyone mentions her. I’ve noticed.” He held the mug to his lips with a smirk dancing on his lips.

A sigh left Brynjolf’s lips. Then he groaned. “She leaned over on my head, is all. No kissing. Nothing untoward. Jes helpin’ out the lass….” He looked away.

Delvin watched him for a moment. He smacked his back. “Whatever you say, Brynjolf.” The older Breton smiled softly. “After everything we all have been through, even you are allowed happiness.”

Brynjolf stared at him and laughed. “Whatever you say, Delvin.” He grabbed his mug and brought it back to his lips, taking a long drink. He sighed again. He need to get busy. Before he found himself…. He shook his head before his mind wandered. “Ya got any easy local jobs?”

“You bet your ass I do.” Delvin patted his pockets and handed Brynjolf a small piece of paper. A target and an item. “Should be easy for you.”

“Aye.” Brynjolf finished his mug and took the piece of paper. He left the Flagon through the Ratways. He rubbed his face as he walked around Riften. He touched his forehead, remembering her lips against them. He shook his head and then smacked his cheeks. “Nae need ta work yerself up, lad.” He whispered to himself.

She looked around the forest. She paused for a second only to be dragged forward by the chains on her wrist and neck. She stumbled, causing the group to laugh.

“Move! Your feet are dragging, Aurien.” Codriel tugged on the chain.

She fell forward into the earth below. She closed her eyes and inhaled the soft moss below her. She grabbed a handful of moss as she stood back up. “If you would let me walk without the chains….”

Codriel laughed. He grinned at her with his razor-sharp fangs. “I bet you want to be free. So you can run away.”

She smiled. “Figured out my plan already.” She laughed. Light. Soft. “It doesn’t matter. Whether you send me to the Ooze. Or the Ouze pits. Lord Hircine will—“

Codriel jerked the chains again. She fell into the dirt. He put his foot on her head and pressed down. Her face squelched against the mud and moss. “Either way, you’ll burn in Oblivion.” He dragged her through the forest floor.

Estinan jumped up. Moss infiltrated her nostrils. The deep green forests. Her skin rippled. She smacked her arms and paced around her bed. She took a deep breath. And another. And another deep breath. 

Honey.

Her nostrils flared.

“Lass?”

Estinan stopped. She wrapped her arms around herself. “I’m….”

Brynjolf put his hands on her shoulders. “Dè tha ceàrr, lassie?” He whispered as he leaned over her shoulder.

“I….” She took a deep breath. “Tha mi sgìth. Everything. Sorry.”

“Do ye wanna tae talk?”

Estinan shook her head. “Not without alcohol. And I have a job to start.”

“Do ye want tae stay here? I can talk with Delvin.” He squeezed her shoulders.

“No…. No. I’ll be fine. I need fresh air. Cold might help.” She moved away from him.

Brynjolf moved his hand to her back and directed her to the ladder. “Up ye go.” He followed her up. “This way, lass.” He grabbed her hand and dragged her along the wall. “Up again.” He stopped at a hidden part of the wall and looked around. “Go on.”

Estinan looked closely at the wall, seeing the handholds. Brynjolf lifted her up to the first one. His fingers lingered on legs for a moment. She climbed up the wall and sat down. Her back faced the city as she looked into the birch forest that surrounded the city. “Wow.” She looked around the array of orange and yellow amongst the white trunks.

“Tis my favorite in the winter.” Brynjolf pulled himself up and sat next to her. “The trees blending in with the snow. Tis beautiful. Also, admire the autumn. Yellows and vibrant oranges….” He looked at her. Her orange hair. Her honey-gold eyes.

Estinan smiled a bit. She inhaled deeply, held her breath, and slowly exhaled. “Thank you.” She whispered. She leaned over against his shoulder.

“Yer welcome.” Brynjolf rested his head on hers. He grabbed her hand and held onto it. His thumb caressed the small scars across her knuckles. “I can listen. Whether ye want tae talk or nae.”

Estinan looked at her hand. “Only if you tell me something about yourself too.” She took a deep breath. “I was in a werewolf pack for the past decade. I went on a hunting trip to get more food for us. I returned to the camp destroyed. Burned.” She closed her eyes. “Blood everywhere. I only recognized them by the scents. Lost my family. My lover.” She took another deep breath. “One of them survived. I found her in Whiterun. She should be turning 26 soon. Young. I…. I did see her as my daughter. I’m not sure… she sees me that way anymore. I….” She shook her head. “No…. I’m glad she’s alive. If she’s ever in Riften, I’ll find her. Her name is Sifkni. Shorter than me. But, she’s all Nord.” Estinan turned to look at him. She grabbed a lock of his hair. “Her hair is a bit darker than yours. More on the red side.” She turned her head to the forest.

“Was the meeting nae what ye wanted?”

Estinan pulled a knee to her chest and leaned against it. A soft breeze caressed her cheek and hair, blowing it around her. “I thought it would be happier. No….” She turned her head back to Brynjolf. “It wasn’t as happy as I wanted. But, she’s alive. So, I am glad for that. So glad for that.” She laughed a little. “She’s joined the Companions. I think that suits her better. Better than surviving the wilds….” She let out a soft sigh. They both sat in silence and watched the breeze carry away leaves.

Brynjolf broke the silence. “Me ma was a werewolf. We lived outside Markarth, along the Karth River. Jes a tiny farm. Me parents and me. Ma taught me Reach Tongue. Pa didn’t care too much for it, but if I was takin’ my grandda’s name, ma thought I could learn Reach. I am glad for it. It saved me a lot after the Markarth incident. I dinnae join the Forsworn, but it helped me leave the Reach safely. With help…. I was alone and wandered as far as my wee legs could take me…. Landed here in Riften…. Tis true about Delvin catchin’ me…. I was at Honor Hall for a bit…. Hated that old crone.”

Estinan grabbed his hand again and held it. “Thank you for telling me.” She ran her thumb across his knuckles. “Thank you for listening.”

“We all got stories. I’m happy tae listen tae yers.” Brynjolf brought her hand to his lips and kissed the back of her hand. “Are ye feelin’ better? Do ye want stay here longer? Ye should rest longer too.”

“Let’s stay here for a few more minutes.” She rested against his shoulder again. 

Minutes passed, Estinan finally spoke, “I should go talk with Delvin…. Thank you.”

“I think ye should rest longer.”

Estinan moved away. “Maybe in your bed?” She hummed and laughed.

Brynjolf looked at her as she watched the forest. He saw her turn and look at the bustling city below. “Nae yet….”

Estinan turned to him and smiled. “After some drinks….” She ran her fingers through her hair, plaiting smaller braids along the side. “Thank you. For this. For…. The other night.” She looked down at the ground below.

“Dinnae fash.”

Estinan smiled. “I will worry.” She let out a soft sigh. “I don’t have the best control. But…. I’ve never lost control. Not like….” She paused. “Not like back in Valenwood.” She shook her head. She stood and looked around them. 

“I trust ye.” He watched her as she clambered down the wall. He followed after her. “I’ve got jobs…. Will ye be okay?” He grabbed her arm.

Estinan tilted her head. “I think I will be fine. For now. We should talk again.”

“With some alcohol.”

“Aye. I’ll see you around, Bryn.”

Brynjolf let her go as she walked away. He watched her as she walked and disappeared into the crowds. He’d catch glints of fiery hair in the crowd. Brynjolf rubbed his face. A long sigh left his lips as he turned away.

Estinan wandered the crowds and down into the canals. She messed with her hair, adding in smaller plaits before pulling it all up into a ponytail. She sighed. 

How long before she would give up on him?

Estinan covered her face as she entered the sewers, wandering through the muck and grime. She walked down the stairs into the Flagon, spotting Delvin. She walked over and sat down.

Delvin looked at her. A smirk spread across  his face. “Well well. If it isn’t Bryn’ protégé.” He held a mug to his lips.

“Hardly.” She smiled slightly. “I’m here about the job.”

“Oh, aye. Are you rested enough?”

“Aye. I’ll be fine.”

“Good. Good. Well word is out what you’ve done. Erikur in Solitude has requested my best. And you. You are my best.”

“I don’t know about that. But I’m happy to help.”

“I’m not sure about the details on this one. Just that Erikur said he was cheated and he was to get pay back. You’ll have to talk with him when you get there.” Delvin grinned.

“I’ll get headed that way then.” Estinan stood. 

“I’d wish you luck, but think you’re the only bastard with it at the moment.”

Estinan laughed. “If you only knew.” She rubbed his bald head when she passed by. “I better have a hefty payment when I return.” Estinan walked back to the Cistern. She closed her eyes and sighed. 

Solitude was another place she didn’t want to associate with. Her past was slowly catching up to her. She hated this.

“Estinan!”

She turned her head towards the voice. Mercer sat at his desk as he waved over. Her lips pursed as she walked over.

“Got a lead finally. You’re already headed to Solitude so you can check on it.” He handed her a slip of parchment. “He’s the broker for the bee farm and meadery. Find out what he knows about the buyer. Preferably keep him alive. He can be useful.”

Estinan nodded. She sighed inwardly. This trip to Solitude was going to be long and busy. Now she’d have to stay at the inn. She glanced over the parchment. “I'll see what he knows.”

“Good. It’s a long journey. So I’d start now.” 

She turned.

“And I would stop trying to get attached to Brynjolf. If you know what is good for you. You’re only going to get hurt.”

Estinan blinked. How did she respond to that? She gathered her bag with extra clothing. Her hand landed on soft leather in her bag. She pulled out a new uniform. It smelled of honey. As she looked at it, it had been altered.

Brynjolf.

She smiled to herself.

If she was going to get hurt, at least he was handsome. And if things didn’t work, she could move on.

Notes:

Translations to come soon.
Context is there though.

Chapter 9: The Dainty Sload

Estinan shivered as she trekked up the snow-covered hill towards the protective gates of Solitude. She was glad to see the city despite her checkered past within the walls. She only needed to avoid the inn if she could. She needed to find somewhere warm to rest. She desperately needed the extra rest as it took her an extra day to travel due to the moons. To not cause trouble, she traveled on foot.

Perhaps Erikur had a spare room, or knew a place for her to stay.

The guards opened the large gate for her and a few other citizens who walked in and out of the city. The stone walls gave her some solace. 

Not a lot has changed in the past ten years. Winking Skeever stood in its usual spot. She walked past, giving the establishment a wide berth. She wasn’t sure how she was going to get information about Gulum-Ei. The Winking Skeever would be the best place. But she didn’t want to go there. She left this place for a reason. Digging up the past here….

A loud sigh left her lips. She ran her fingers through her hair. She’d figure it out. If she had to visit less than savoury places to get information…. She would. 

But, she would worry about that job later. Better to get the client based job finished. Erikur came first.

And who knows how long that will take.

Hopefully, it wasn’t complicated.

Estinan wandered the city until the sun fell. Once the sun fell, she leaned against Erikur’s house in the shadows and waited. Approaching him during the day while he worked for the Jarl would be difficult. And he probably wouldn’t have the time to talk with her. Being a high-ranking member of Jarl Elisif’s court.

Estinan turned her head when she heard someone talking. Erikur stood in the street, chatting with a guard. After a few minutes, they exchanged goodbyes, and he turned to his house, keys in hand. He saw Estinan walk from the shadows. He scowled and opened his mouth. His hand went for a dagger.

“Wait. Delvin sent me.” She said quickly before he called the guards back over.

Erikur’s face relaxed. “It’s about time. Delvin assured me you would be his best.” He looked her over as she walked completely out of the shadows. His lips curled. What a pretty little Bosmer. Fiery hair. Amber eyes. Lithe figure…. At least what he could see. “Well, well, I’m not sure about your skills, but….” He raised his eyebrows. “You sure are a looker. Perhaps we can take this discussion inside. Over wine.”

“It’s bad for business, you know?” She smiled slightly.

Erikur opened his door. “I’ll make it worth your while. My bed has to be more comfortable than that place called an inn.”

Estinan chewed on her lip. He wasn’t terrible looking. An upgrade from Mallus certainly. “As long as we discuss the job first. That is why I am here after all.” She walked past him into his luxurious mansion. He spared no expense on the decor. Nor food and wine on display. An upgrade for the night. Perhaps a place to stay in the future for a night or two. She walked around the foyer, admiring the artwork.

“We can discuss the job over some wine. Anything to eat? Finest fruit and cheese. Unless you prefer some meat. I can have my cook—“

“Fruit and wine sound heavenly.” She tilted her head.

“Wonderful. Would you like to start our conversation here? Or move it upstairs?”

Estinan answered by sitting on the plush sofa by the fireplace. She placed her belongings to the side and took off her leather coat and boots. She smoothed out her tunic. “Allow me to rest my feet. Imbibe in some alcohol. Eat something.” She pulled her hair down and brushed her fingers through the fiery waves. “I am here until I finish your job and another. A few days maybe….”

“Even better…. Allow me to call a servant.” Erikur called out for someone and gave quick but polite orders. He removed his outer clothing as well before joining Estinan on the sofa. “Even if you fail at the job, it won’t matter to me. As long as you stay the night.” He leaned on his elbow on the back of the sofa.

Estinan smiled as she brought her knees onto the couch and rested against the back, sideways. A soft laugh left her lips. “I won’t fail. This is my livelihood.” She smiled. “But I am glad to know, you will not get upset over anything. Should something happen.” 

Erikur grinned as the food and drink arrived. “Well, let me tell you about the job then?” He handed her a glass.

“Please.” Estinan took a sip of the red wine. Slightly sweet. She smelled the age on the grapes. The extra added fruit. Currants? Orange? It was a decent blend. Better than mead. She took another sip and grabbed a small piece of bread with fig and cheese spread. It paired nicely with the wine.

“Captain Volf of the Dainty Sload has broken a trade agreement with me. And he continually tests my patience by ignoring our mutual agreement.”

“That’s no good.”

“It isn’t. I have other clients. With his delay, it makes me look bad. I cannot stand to look incompetent.”

“We can’t have that.” Estinan looked at her nearly empty glass.

Erikur leaned forward and poured more wine for her. “No, we cannot. That’s where you’ll come in. I happen to know that another person is in town. Less than savoury type. Deals with smuggling and the likes. Drugs…. Sabine Nyette. Aboard the Red Wave. It’s anchored off shore.”

Estinan sipped more wine. She smiled. “I understand now. I get a hold of something illegal and place it on this Captain…. What was his name?” She giggled.

“Volf.”

“Thank you. So I’ll place the contraband on his ship. In his quarters.” She hummed. “And someone would alert the guards…. They search his cabin. Find something. Oh, I do like that plan. I can do that. It’s easy to move items and plant them.” She moved and placed the empty glass on the table. “That is something I can do with no trouble….” She moved and crawled over to Erikur. She pressed her lips to his. “Is there anything else about the job?” She ran her hands along the fine stitching of his tunic. Her hands wandered under the hem, pressing against the contours of his body. Her breath tickled against his face.

“No…. That’s enough talk.” He ran his fingers through her hair to her neck, pulling her down for another kiss. “There’s a reason I chose that wine.” He licked his lips.

“I can tell….” 

 

Estinan woke up with a start when strong arms pulled her close. Her heart pounded in her head. She calmed down once she realized it was Erikur. He pressed his lips against her shoulder. She whimpered.

“What a delightful noise.” He loosened his grip. “I must leave for the Blue Palace. I’ll leave my spare key for you. I’ll await your return.” He brushed his fingers through her hair, fixing loose strands. “Take your time here. Whatever you need. Ask the staff…. I don’t mind waiting for the job if it means you’re here.”

Estinan turned and looked up at him. “How tempting that is.” She smiled. “How lucky for me…. I’ll get the job done today…. But I wouldn’t mind another few nights in this comfortable bed…. And a few more nights with you….” She hummed as she ran her fingers across his cheek down his chin and neck. 

Erikur leaned down and kissed her. “Now, I don’t want to go to work….” He kissed her jaw and neck. She whimpered again. “I suppose, if you can finish in the day, I can wait until this evening.” He moved away and stood, stretching his back. He gathered his clothing and dressed. He looked back at Estinan as she slowly rose herself. He watched her as she dressed. A hum left his lips as he enjoyed the view. “Spare is on the vanity. Use it as it pleases you. I cannot wait to hear about the job later….” His lips curled into a smirk as he left.

Estinan grabbed the spare key and shoved it into her breast pocket, sealing the pocket. She wandered around the room, taking in the room with the sunlight. If only he weren’t a client….

A sigh left her lips as she gathered necessary items for the task: dagger, hidden knife, a couple of potions. Septims. She smelled the slight traces of honey that lingered not only on the bottles, also on her new leathers.

She sighed as she remembered Mercer’s warning. What (or who) she did in her free time shouldn’t matter to him. Or anyone. She sighed again, running her fingers through her hair before pulling it back into a ponytail. 

Estinan grabbed a pastry and an orange to eat. She left the estate and walked into the streets, eating the food as she meandered around. 

Estinan enjoyed the sun as it filtered between the buildings. She stretched while she walked through the gates. She wandered down the many steps towards the docks. 

She needed to board the Red Wave. It was docked further out due to its size. She asked around and finally found someone to take her to the ship. A member of the crew. 

As soon as she boarded the ship, deckhands were around her. She looked at them. She smiled slightly. “I’m looking for Sabine Nytte.”

The crowd parted. A tall Breton walked forward. “What does a bosmer need with me?” She placed her hands on her hips as she looked over Estinan with a sneer. “We don’t need any more crew.”

Estinan pursed her lips. She mimicked Sabine’s posture. “I’m here for something else….” She looked around the crew. “Perhaps we can discuss things privately?”

Sabine looked at her crew and then her head. The crew dispersed. “What do I owe this pleasure?”

Estinan leaned close. “I heard you have some Balmora Blue…. I have a need for it….”

Sabine grinned. “Well. Well. You have come to the right person then. I’m the only person in Skyrim that can get a hold of it.” She looked over Estinan again. “I’m not sure if you can afford it.”

“I’m sure to surprise you.”

“1500 gold.”

Estinan tilted her head. “Oh. I know you’re jacking up the price on me. Whether or not you are the only one in Skyrim with this….” Estinan looked at her nails. “The Guild is coming back. It’s only a matter of time…. Before we get contacts outside of Skyrim again.” She narrowed her eyes as she looked at Sabine. “We can work on this together.”

“I won’t go lower than 1000. And I won’t have my crew throw you into the bay….”

Estinan looked at the looming crew, ready to pounce if she moved a muscle. “I’m glad someone sees potential in them.” She looked back at Sabine. “I can do 1000.” She pulled out the coin pouch and threw it at the Breton.

Sabine caught and looked through the bag. She nodded, grabbed a key from her pocket, and tossed it at Estinan. “Chest is under the docks. Hopefully, you don’t drown.”

“Well, I’m sure someone will retrieve the key from my corpse.” Estinan turned and walked to the handrail, climbing up, and jumping into the frigid waters below. She took a big gasp as she broke the surface.

“I like you, you crazy son of a bastard!” Sabine yelled from the ship. 

“I’ll return your key in a moment!” Estinan swam towards the docks, diving once she was closer. The water stung her eyes as she looked around. She saw a chest stashed against the beams of the dock. She dove down and unlocked the chest, grabbing the stash of Balmora Blue. She closed and locked the chest before breaking the surface and gasping for air. She swam towards the anchored ship and tossed the key up to the deck, where Sabine caught it.

“Don’t get arrested for that! That’d be a real shame!” Sabine yelled.

“It’s not for me! Reach out to Delvin in Riften if you ever need help!” Estinan turned and swam back to shore. She pushed herself onto the rocky shoreline. She rolled to her back and panted while catching her breath. 

After a few minutes of rest, Estinan stood. She wrung the water out of her hair and walked along the shoreline. Her boots squelched as she walked along. The fabric rubbed against her legs in the most unpleasant way. She regretted trying to impress the drug dealer now. 

She sighed slightly as she continued. The Dainty Sload was docked near the lighthouse. At least it wasn’t anchored off shore. But she needed to find a way onto the ship without alerting the crew or guards. 

Estinan stopped under the natural archway, which held up parts of Solitude above. She leaned against the rocky wall and watched the ship bob in the water. 

A few crew members stood watch, chatting. She would need to get closer to see if there were more people inside the ship. She wanted to get in and out of the ship as quickly and quietly as she could. Preferably without a mess. She pushed from the rocks and walked down the road. She caught the attention of the crew members as she passed the ship. She slowed her pace as she rounded the ship, looking for a way to get aboard without alerting them. She spotted an open porthole right near the anchor line. She smirked. She continued up the road to not draw suspicion. As she rounded a large boulder, she scrambled down to the shoreline and peered around the rocks. No one moved from their post. She waded into the water. A shiver ran through her as the waters reached her hips. 

Oh, Erikur owed her a lot after this.

Estinan swam to the anchor and climbed up the slimy and slick rope. She listened for a moment before reaching for the porthole and climbing inside the ship. She ducked into the shadows and listened around. 

She heard rats scurrying about. If the drugs didn’t get him into trouble, perhaps the vermin would. She walked from the shadows and around the ship. She looked around. Where did she go? She ducked her head into various doorways, while keeping a listen for footsteps and breathing. She stopped at a large door. Locked. She knelt and picked the lock. She slowly entered the room. It definitely was the captain quarters. She grabbed the bottles of Balmora Blue and stashed them in a footlocker. She looked around the room. The treasure enticed her. She grabbed a handful of septims and gems, stashing them into her pockets. He wouldn’t miss them. He’d be in the dungeons soon.

Footsteps creaked above her on the deck. She cursed. She looked at the porthole. She was already wet. She threw open the small window and shimmied through it. Her stomach lurched as she fell down into the water with a loud splash. Estinan kicked her feet and swam under the surface away from the ship. She eventually broke the surface for air, gasping. She floated in the water for a few minutes, catching her breath. 

Estinan swam to the shore. She squeezed the water from her hair. She shrugged  out of the leathers and squeezed the water from it. She set them on a rock in the sun and worked on stripping her pants. She shivered slightly as a cool breeze brushed past.

At least she had a change of clothing in Erikur’s house. And she had a place to return. She struggled back into the damp clothing and made the trek back towards Solitude. She decided on taking the windmill’s stairwell. The long winding stair that connected Solitude to the warehouses near the docks. 

Her next target was connected to the warehouse. At least, she believed the Argonian was. She needed to collect more information.

Sabine might know something. Perhaps she should stop by the Red Wave again. At least for a more friendly chat. 

Estinan shielded her eyes as she walked from the stairwell into the city. She slowly made her way back towards Erikur’s house. She detoured towards the Blue Palace and alerted the guards about the illegal contraband she heard rumors about. She wanted the job finished while she was still here.

After leaving the Blue Palace, she meandered back towards Erikur’s house, using the spare to gain access. She stripped her clothing as she walked up to his bedroom. She placed the wet garments by the fireplace and lit it before changing into dry clothing.

Estinan slowly brushed through her hair, plaiting the wet locks out of her face. After that, she helped herself to expensive wine and some exotic fruits.

 

Estinan lounged on the plush bed. A half empty wine bottle sat on the side table. She stared at the wine in her glass. She wondered if Vekel would supply this wine back home. She took a sip. Too expensive. Maybe Maven would…. 

A giggle escaped her lips as her thoughts wandered.

Honestly she preferred the mixed drinks he made.

She looked around the room and all its grandeur.

Estinan closed her eyes and leaned back against the soft velvet pillows. She ran her fingers across the silk sheets and the softest fur blanket.

Luxury.

She giggled.

“You’re a far cry from the deep forests of Valenwood, Au…. Estinan.” She whispered to herself and giggled again. She finished the wine in her glass before pouring another glass. Bottle was nearly empty. She took another sip. She placed the glass on the table and snuggled into the bed.

She would enjoy this time. What little time was left.

Even if she didn’t like Erikur.

Comfortable bed. Delicious food. He did keep her warm at night. 

Maybe not as much stamina as Mallus. But Mallus was a werewolf….

A soft sigh left her lips as her mind wandered. Alcohol fueled her mind. Her thoughts wandered to Brynjolf. 

She giggled.

He wasn’t scared of her beast form. 

He opened up to her. 

As she did.

Another giggle.

She grabbed the wine glass and finished the rest of the drink before standing up and walking to the window. She opened the shudders and leaned against the sill. She enjoyed the soft breeze that cooled her skin. She hummed softly as she watched the streets below. 

The last remnants of sunlight disappeared slowly behind the mountain ridge. People scurried home. What night life occurred wouldn't be spotted near the Palace. It was quiet here.

Estinan heard the front door open and close. A few orders left Erikur’s mouth. Dinner and bath. 

Oh, she could use a bath.

She turned as she heard footsteps walk up the stairs. She leaned her back against the sill and smiled when Erikur walked through the door. He grinned when he saw her.

“Rumor is that Volf will spend quite some time in prison.” He shed his outer clothing. “You pulled off quite the stunt.”

Estinan giggled. “I…. I told you.” She felt herself slur.

Erikur smirked. “You did.” He walked over into her space, placing his hands in the sill, enclosing her. He leaned down and kissed her. “Have you eaten?”

“Some fruit. Drank some wine. Enjoyed the comfort of your bed.” She wrapped her arms around his neck. “I would love a hot bath…. With you maybe? That would be delightful.”

“That can be arranged. That can be arranged easily.” He rested his hands on her hips and moved her from the window. “I’ll have the servants fill the bigger bath. You can start while I eat, unless you prefer to join me for supper.”

Estinan hummed as she leaned against him. “I will join you. I could use something more…. Substantial to eat. And the bath would still be warm for you….”

 

Estinan stared at the canopy above her, watching the sheer fabric billow in the slight breeze coming from the window. Her head pounded. She moved away from the man next to her and stood. She shivered slightly as her feet landed on the cold floor. 

Estinan peeked through the window. It was still nighttime. A soft sigh left her lips as she wandered back to the bed and sat down.

“Something wrong?” Erikur whispered.

Estinan jumped, not expecting him to be awake. “No. Sorry. Go back to sleep. Just restless.”

Erikur looked her over. “If you need to leave, that’s fine.”

Estinan stifled a laugh with her hand. “That makes me feel like bad company.” She ran her fingers through her hair. “No, I’ve another job. It makes no sense to attempt it now.” She leaned back on the bed.

“Something for the Guild?”

“Aye. Someone’s been trying to drive a wedge between us and our important clients. Found a lead.” Estinan turned to face him. “I’m still new to the Guild.”

Erikur blinked. “I’d figure you were someone higher up. Considering I asked Delvin for the best.”

Estinan grinned. “I can still be the best.” She laughed a little. “I think I do my job really well.”

“You did. I’ve no complaints. I think I even got a better deal.” He reached over and ghosted his fingers down her arm. “If you ever  needed to stop it all….” He paused. “I wouldn’t mind taking care of you.”

Estinan stared at him. She looked away. “I’m flattered you feel that way….”

“It was worth a try.” He laughed. “Try to sleep if you have a busy day. If you’re still in the city after, you’re welcome here. For another night. Or two.” He laughed again and then yawned.

Estinan watched as he rolled to his other side until his breathing evened. She rolled to her back and stared at the canopy again. 

Divines. 

He’d asked her to be his caged bird.

She wanted to laugh.

She could enjoy the luxury. But was it worth her freedom? And how would he react to a werewolf in his bed on the full moon? 

She did laugh at that.

Brynjolf accepted her.

At least her beast.

Would he ever accept her?

Estinan rolled to her side and stared at the  nearby mirror. Her reflection stared back. Beastly yellow eyes tore through her soul. She closed her eyes and covered her face with the pillow.

Tomorrow, she would begin her hunt for Gulum-Ei. 

No time for her—No time for her to get caught up in her mind.

Chapter 10: Scoundrel’s Folly

Mercer whistled to Bryjolf as he walked from the ladder. "Brynjolf." He called out, letting Brynjolf know he wanted him specifically. He waited until he was at his desk before he spoke. "I need you to cut out Estinan." He looked up at Brynjolf’s face, wanting to see his reaction.

Brynjolf's face scrunched together. "Why?! She's been doin’ good. Great even. The lassie's given us a chance outta this mess." He leaned over on the desk. “There’s gold in the coffers. We hae connections back tae Whiterun and Windhelm o’ all places because o’ her. Soon, Solitude. She’s been the reason I’ve had time to fix our escape routes around the city. We can get back to serious business. Heists. Big jobs.” He cursed in Reach.

Perfect reaction. Mercer clicked his tongue and shook his head. “This is why.” He leaned close to Brynjolf. “Your Reach comes out. The savage in you. She’s trouble. For us. For you….” Mercer moved away and sat at his desk. “Find a way to cut her. You're too attached. I can’t have you fumbling around and messing up because your head’s thinking of her….”

Brynjolf narrowed his eyes at Mercer. He kicked at the side of the table as he walked away. “I ain’t cuttin’ the lassie. Ye hae nae given a good reason tae cut her! Ye can do that if ye wan’.” He whispered to himself as he stormed through the Cistern to the Flagon.

What in Oblivion is wrong with Mercer?! 

Cutting Estinan? 

After she’s brought in gold and treasures in troves. She’s dug them out of this mess…. 

Brynjolf had hope.

He had hope for once.

Brynjolf rubbed his face as he paced in the Flagon. He mumbled to himself in Reach. 

This drew attention to himself.

“What’s got you worked up?” Vex laughed as she drank from her mug.

Brynjolf looked at her and shook his head. “Dinnae matter.”

“You're mumbling…. In Reach….” Delvin pointed out. “It’s gotta be something bugging you.”

“Aye. I am jes’ thinking.”

“Estinan?” Vex and Delvin said at the same time. They both looked at each other and cackled.

Brynjolf looked between them both. He let out a sigh. Did he tell them what Mercer said? They also liked Estinan. They would throw a fit over it. Another sigh. “It dinnae matter. I’ll figure it out.”

“More heads thinking might help.” Delvin suggested.

“Bahaha!” Vex snorted. “Your brain’s as rotten as the fishery in the summer.” She held the mug to her lips. “What’s gotten you all bothered? Besides that little wood elf.”

Brynjolf messed with his earrings. He sat down and pressed his palms to his face. “Mercer….” He swallowed. “Mercer wants to cut Estinan out.”

“What!” Vex jumped up, mead sloshing over the rim. “He’s a rat bastard!” She turned.

Both Brynjolf and Delvin grabbed her arms. “Wait! I don’t plan on telling the lass. She’s been bringin’ gold. Clients. There’s….” They all sat back down.

“Mercer’s lost his damned mind. Probably this damned curse. Divines.” Delvin sipped on his ale. “It’s gotten to us all. Except your lass. She’s the only one unaffected. For now.”

“She’s not….” Brynjolf rubbed his face. “She’s not mine.”

“You can’t even deny it.” Delvin slapped his back. “It’s okay, laddie. I’m pretty sure the feelings are mutual between you and her.”

“I doubt that….” Brynjolf sighed. “We hardly know each other.”

“Whatever you say, Brynjolf.” Delvin rolled his eyes.

“Did she do something wrong?” Vex asked. “She’s had no problems on my end. She does the job. She does it clean. Hardly anyone sees the little minx.”

“Doubtful. Lass listens well. She is clean. Does well….” Brynjolf sighed heavily. Did he find out about her condition? Brynjolf doubted that. He was the only one that saw her. No one else…. He shook his head. “I’m not letting her go. If Mercer wants her gone, then he can tell her.”

“There! That’s the spirit!” Delvin slapped Brynjolf’s back. “I can have a talk with Mercer later. You know. Breton to Breton.”

Vex snorted. “Like you’ve been able to talk with him properly. You walk in and he starts ignoring everything that comes from your mouth.”

“I can try. This is nonsense. Gettin’ rid of her.”

“I’ll figure it out. Don’t worry about it.” Brynjolf rubbed his temples. “I’m gonna wait fer the lass.”

“Good idea. I’ll send her out to you if she stops here first.”

“Thank ye.”

Estinan stretched as she walked around Erikur’s room. He left his house with the rising sun, starting his day early. He left a payment on the dresser for her. She replaced the jewelry and septims with the spare key. She stashed her new items in her bag and then scrawled a quick note for Erikur.

Estinan adjusted the bag on her shoulders and left the house. She took a final glance at the large house as she walked down the streets. She grabbed a quick bite to eat at a stall. 

A familiar scent brushed past her. 

She stopped in her tracks, staring at the Imperial who lazily swept near the entrance of the Winking Skeever. Estinan ducked behind another building. She hadn’t seen Sorex in over a decade. Since…. She swallowed. Since Thonro was alive. Before the werewolf pack. Both her and Thonro left without a trace. Ghosted away in the middle of the night.

Sorex certainly moved on. They were all only friends. But, it still brought up painful memories.

After…. 

Estinan swallowed as she thought. 

After Mairi’s death. 

After Thonro…. 

She shook her head.

Estinan covered her face and bit back the tears. She swallowed the knot in her throat and walked the opposite direction of the tavern. She dashed to the windmill entrance she used yesterday. 

It would get her closer to the docks anyways.

Estinan walked down the spiral staircase. It left her dizzy at the bottom. She leaned against the wall to catch her breath. She smacked her face with both hands. She smacked her arms as she felt a ripple in her skin. Crawling sensation. Burning in her chest. She took a deep breath. She exhaled. “It wasn’t your fault.” She whispered to herself as she walked from the bottom of the tower. She made her way to the docks, flagging a crew member of the Red Wave. 

Estinan found herself on the Red Wave once again. Face to face with Sabine.

“Well. Well. I wasn’t expecting to see you again.” Sabine looked her over. “Not so soon at least.”

Estinan smiled. “I need information. And I believe you may be able to help me. At least get me pointed in the right direction….”

“Depends, if the money is right.”

“I know. I got my payment for the job yesterday.”

“That was you, wasn’t it? Volf is in prison now.” Sabine laughed and slapped her leg. “Hells. I like you even more…. You took out some competition for us. Come. Come. We can talk in my room.”

Estinan readjusted her bag as followed the Breton below the deck. She looked around. “Didn’t know he actually dealt in some underground.”

“He keeps himself clean. He was good about that. We all have gotten close to getting caught as well. But you know…. Gold.” Sabine pulled out a key and unlocked the door to her room. She held the door for Estinan. “Gold talks. Gold stays quiet.”

“Aye. Gold is good.”

“Wine? Mead? Rum? Got some more expensive stuff if you really prefer.”

Estinan’s eyes glittered briefly. “Rum. Wasn’t aware I was going to be drinking while we talked.”

“You’ve intrigued me.” Sabine grabbed an amber bottle and a couple glasses. She gestured toward the plush chair in the corner. “Sit.”

Estinan removed her bag and sat down, sinking into the comfortable chair. “Perhaps I should be a pirate instead of a thief.” She rested her head against the arm.

“I’m not sure you have the sea legs. You wobbled on the stairs.” Sabine poured a glass and handed it to Estinan. She pulled over a chair and leaned against the table on her elbow. She poured herself a glass and looked over the Bosmer that sat across her. “That was quite the stunt though. Getting the drugs on his ship. You didn’t get caught. No one knows who did it. Besides us. And your client. We were able to watch the guards from here.” Sabine twirled her cup before downing the liquor. “Go on, drink!” She poured herself another cup.

Estinan took a sip. “Can we talk business before you get me drunk and take me to your bed?”

Sabine laughed. “Straight to the point then. What do you need? More drugs? Daedric artifacts? Ill gotten goods?”

Estinan pulled out a piece of parchment and slid it across the table. “Need to track this broker. My lead took me here.”

“You’re quite the busy woman.”

“You haven’t the faintest idea.” Estinan took another sip.

Sabine looked over the parchment as she sipped on the rum. “He works for the East Empire Trade Company. Carries in stock and sorts. But….” She took another sip. “He helps smuggle. Another fence. He’s very discreet. Surprised you were able to get this far.”

“Oh. I’m just a lowly thief. The higher ups tell me what to do and I listen.” Estinan downed the rest of the liquor. “I’m good at that.”

Sabine poured her another drink. “It’s quite early to be drinking….”

“You invited me…. I was fine paying for information…. I don’t mind drinking early. Not with good company. And, when’s the next time I’ll be able to enjoy rum? Not exactly the most popular thing in Skyrim. Not in Riften.” Estinan downed the shot. 

Sabine laughed loudly. “Riften is the home of glorified bee piss! No wonder you chose the rum. I can see what else I got. You know we acquire so many goods.”

“I can only imagine the tales you have to tell.” Estinan leaned on the table and watched as the Breton moved about the room. “My broker works around the dock and the warehouse then?”

“Aye. He does. A lot of Argonians do. I don’t know what the guy looks like. But I’m sure you can ask around. Ah! Here! Have you had Maormeri liquor?” Sabine pulled out an iridescent shell shaped bottle. The liquor shimmered as the bottle moved.

“Oh! That looks almost too pretty to drink.”

“It’s got a bite. And it’s an acquired taste. But, it's worth a try, at least once. Sea Serpents Bite.” She grabbed shot glasses and poured the shimmering blue drink.

Estinan grabbed the glass and brought it to her lips. She threw back the shot. It was salty like the ocean and then slowly faded into a soft sweet. She grimaced.

Sabine laughed. “Not your thing?”

“It’s way prettier than it tastes.” Estinan licked at her lips. She covered her mouth as she laughed. “I’ll stick to the rum for now.”

“Good. That’s my favorite.”

“Stereotypical.” Estinan laughed.

“It’s easy to come back when your routes go all around Alik’r. But, I do enjoy it. It’s better than the wines back home. At least personally.” Sabine took another shot of the rum. “Want another?”

Estinan hummed as she tipped her glass back and forth. “Maybe one more.”

Sabine poured another cup. “I’ll let you have the information for free.”

Estinan smiled. “I don’t think it’s free.” She giggled.

“Even if you weren’t after information, you did try to impress me.”

“Did it work?”

“Aye. It did.” Sabine grabbed Estinan’s hand. “You may not have sea legs, but you sure are a swimmer. And you have stamina. That’s good.” She brought the bosmer’s palm to her lips and kissed it. “Enough business then…” Sabine stood and pulled Estinan to her feet. She pushed the smaller woman back towards the bed. She grabbed at Estinan’s clothing, helping her undress. Sabine tilted Estinan’s head. “You’ve got some intense eyes. Almost completely black with need.” She leaned down and kissed her. “It tastes like rum….” She licked her lips. Sabine ran her fingers down Estinan’s body.

Estinan groaned. She rubbed at her head as she sat up. Dull ache throbbed behind her eyes. Sabine snored softly next to her. She moved from the plush bed and found a waterskin nearby. She drank the cool water. Estinan stretched her body and gathered her clothing and belongings. She dressed quickly. She wasted too much time here. 

Estinan scrawled a quick letter to Sabine before leaving. She looked at the setting sun as she walked on the deck. The ship bobbed under her feet as she walked to the edge. 

“Need a ride back to the docks?” A crew member laughed.

“Aye. Please…. Sabine’s out cold.”

“She does that a lot. Surprised you’re awake before her…. Well, go on. Dinghy’s on the water already.”

Estinan slid down the ladder to the small boat on the water. Soon she was back on solid ground, which she was thankful for. She didn’t have to keep control of her legs and core with the waves. And she didn’t have to get wet to get to shore. She thanked the crew and wandered towards the warehouse. She flagged down a dock worker and asked about the Argonian in question. She was directed towards a ship that was being unloaded.

Estinan approached Gulum-Ei. “We need to talk.”

“Bit busy.” His tail twitched and his feathers rose slightly. 

“I can pay for your time.” She flashed a gem.

Gulum-Ei stared at her hand and then nodded. He pushed her towards a stack of boxes. “What is it?”

“Who did you help with the bee farm and meadery?” Estinan handed him the gem.

“Bee farm? Meadery?”

Estinan frowned. “I’m not stupid. We have your name in the contract. Gajul-Lei. Gulum-Ei. We know you are involved.”

The Argonian raised his hands defensively. “Look lady. You know we do deals and trades anonymously all the time. I…. I don’t know how the buyer is. I just was the broker. Exchanging the funds and deeds between the two parties. That’s all I can say.” He swallowed.

Estinan narrowed her eyes. “You know something more….”

“I don’t. And no amount of money will get you closer to your answer. As I don’t know anymore.” He moved away. “That’s all I can tell you. I swear.” He walked from the crates and towards the warehouse.

Estinan watched the Argonian walk away. She waited a few minutes before following after him. He entered the warehouse with a key. She sighed. 

Not only was the door locked but there were also guards on standby. If she could get inside, she only had to follow the damned lizard’s scent. She wandered closer and hid amongst the shadows, waiting.

After a few minutes, one of the guards moved away. And shortly after, the other left. Not wanting to waste another second, Estinan jumped towards the door. She quickly picked the lock and shut the door behind her. She stared at the large warehouse before her. Stacks upon stacks of barrels and crates collected in every shelf. No space was wasted.

Estinan inhaled deeply and followed the scent trail left by her scaly friend. She weaved through the aisles, avoiding guards and merchandise alike. 

Estinan climbed up a ramp onto the higher shelving, giving her better visual advantage. She saw the Argonian bob along more aisles of merchandise before disappearing behind a platform. Estinan followed the shelving until the scent of the Argonian was strong. She looked around before lowering herself into the aisle. She waded through the water and pushed open the heavy door. 

Estinan ducked behind a barrel. 

Bandits.

She watched the lizard walk past, greeting the lowlifes with ease. Estinan darted behind a wall of barrels. She peered around the corner and studied the others. She looked around the cavern, looking for a way to follow without alerting the entire area. 

She could swim.

Kill all the smugglers.

Somehow manage to sneak through small pathways without them noticing.

Estinan sighed heavily. She peered around the corner. Coast was clear. She jumped at the opportunity to follow Gulum-Ei. She wandered through the tight pathways and wooden planks, avoiding the people that meandered within. 

Estinan paused at a fork and clung to the shadows. She hid while a pair of guards walked past her.

A bead of sweat fell from her brow. Another rolled off her chin. 

Her lungs burned for oxygen as she held her breath.

She left the shadows as soon as they were out of ear shot. 

Movement caught her attention. Gulum-Ei sat comfortably by a fire with someone else. Estinan pulled out her dagger and jumped from the shadows at the Argonian once he was alone. “Tell me what you know.” She whispered. She glared at the dark elf who pulled a dagger. “This doesn’t concern you!” She yelled.

The lizard swallowed and nodded to his comrade, who scurried to safety. The sharp blade razed against his scaled neck, cutting into the scales and flesh. “Look! Let’s talk.” He let out a panicked whisper.

“Then talk….”

“It…. It was Karliah. Karliah is the one behind Golden Glow and the Meadery.” Estinan arched her brow. Gulum-Ei swallowed again. “Look! I had no idea it was her at first. I promise. Once I found out it was her I stopped. Laid low. From everyone. I don’t want to get caught up anymore in her schemes.”

“You say that like I should know the name.”

“She…. She’s the one that murdered your former leader. They’ve been on the hunt for her for years…. Listen, I really didn’t…. I didn’t know.” Gulum-Ei looked around. “Look. I’m more valuable alive….”

Estinan growled. She pushed against his back. He landed in the dirt and scrambled away from her. “They sent me here blind.” She turned back to him. “Get me out of here, and I’ll consider not killing you.”

Gulum-Ei nodded as he stood, dusting his pants off. “Aye. Of course. F-follow me.”

Karliah…. Karliah. 

She’d have to ask Brynjolf.

Estinan thought while she followed the lizard out of the warehouse. She needed to talk with Brynjolf before she talked to Mercer. Brynjolf would be honest with her.

Would he really be honest?

Estinan shook her head. She turned to Gulum-Ei. “I’d suggest you lay low. Until someone else from the Guild contacts you. And don’t lie to me again.”

“She said….” Gulum-Ei swallowed. “She said she would wait ‘where the end began’.”

Estinan nodded. “Thank you.”

Chapter 11: Speaking with Silence

It was a long walk from Northern Skyrim to the southeast side. Estinan was glad to be back in a more comfortable climate. She certainly had grown attached to the Rift. More than she thought she would. 

Honey caught her attention. She looked around.

Not Brynjolf. 

Estinan watched the bee farm from across the lake as she continued down the road. She wished she hadn’t gotten into this mess blind. But….

She thought about the first day she met Brynjolf. 

She was glad to be back home.

Home.

Estinan walked to the mausoleum and made her way down the ladder. Before she had a chance to walk away, Mercer yelled out to her. She grimaced as her brows furrowed together. She approached.

“I need you to pack your things.”

“What!? Why?” Her heart thudded once. 

Mercer moved papers across his desk. “I’m cutting you loose.”

“Wh-what for?” Estinan leaned against the table to catch herself. Her vision wavered. She swallowed. “I….” She dug her nails into the wood of the desk.

Mercer sighed. “Insubordination at the end of the day. Sure, you’ve been helping us get back on our feet. And we haven’t been this fruitful in a long time. But…. I told you before. Keep off Brynjolf.” Mercer looked up at Estinan. He saw the tears swirling in her eyes. The tremble in her lips. “Before you leave…. What did you learn in Solitude?” 

Estinan swallowed. Her mouth was dry. Like the sands of Alik’r. She looked up at Mercer. “He…. K-Karliah.” She managed to squeeze out.

Mercer jumped, knocking his chair over in the process. “Really? That’s not….” Mercer laughed. “Karliah is finally making a move. Good. I can tie up even more loose ends.” He looked at Estinan. “You…. You’re coming with me. Where did he say she was?”

“Where the end began.”

“Snow Veil Sanctum. Pack your things. Something warm. The Divines won’t give us another chance. And when we get back, you will leave. And never contact us again.”

Estinan nodded slowly. She watched Mercer gather his own belongings. She moved towards her bed and slowly packed. Tears burned in her eyes. She swallowed. 

Honey.

“What’s wrong, lass?” Brynjolf watched Estinan as she paced near her bed. He saw the packed bag. The tears in her eyes when she looked up.

She looked at Brynjolf and walked close, whispering, “Karliah….”

Brynjolf’s eyes widened. His heart stopped. He grabbed Estinan’s shoulders. “Wait. Is that what Mercer’s up to?? Tae git Karliah?” His fingers dug into her shoulders. He leaned over. His forehead pressed against the top of her chest. “I should go. Ye shouldnae hae tae go.” He mumbled. “Let me talk to him.”

“Mercer was very adamant about us going by ourselves. Karliah doesn’t know me. And we will have each other’s back….” She trailed off.

“Ye must be careful. Karliah is nae someone to mess with.” He moved his head and put his hands on both her cheeks. Brynjolf looked into her eyes. He looked at her lips for a moment and then back at her eyes. “I’m goin tae kiss ye, lass. I cannae deny ye anymore…. I cannae.” Estinan’s eyes widened. She bit her lip. “Mo chridhe fiadhain. My wild heart.” He leaned forward. His lips brushed against hers. Soft. Delicate. He pulled away when he felt tears roll onto his thumbs. “Oh, lassie.” He rested his forehead against hers. “Mo chridhe. It’ll be alright. I’ll be here when ye return.” He wiped her face.

“Estinan!” Mercer yelled from across the Cistern, causing both of them to jump. “The Divines won’t give us another chance! Hurry it up!”

Brynjolf leaned over and kissed her again. “Bi sàbhailte. Be safe, lassie.” He pressed his lips against her forehead. 

Estinan put her hands on his face. Her thumb brushed against his beard. “Please….” She bit her lip. “Please wait for me. We need to talk when I get back…. Please….”

“Aye. O’ course. I’ll wait fer ye.” Brynjolf put his hands on hers, caressing her knuckles. “Go before Mercer kills us both.”

Estinan nodded. “One more kiss for me.”

“Aye. Absolutely.” Brynjolf brushed his fingers through her hair and put his hand behind her neck. He leaned over and kissed her again. 

Deeper. 

Needier. 

His tongue darted across her lips, tasting the faintest traces of mead and sweet pastries.

Estinan parted her lips for Brynjolf. 

Divines. 

Her heart fluttered. She wrapped her arms around his neck, pulling him closer. She whimpered when his teeth grazed her lips. She pulled away to catch her breath. Her cheeks flushed. Her body was on fire. She needed more. She cursed against Brynjolf’s cheek.

“Estinan!” Mercer yelled from the ladder.

Estinan jumped and then laughed while tears streamed down her face. “I’ll be back….” She grabbed Brynjolf’s hand and squeezed it, holding onto it tightly as she turned and walked away. Her grip loosened with each step until she let go. She hastened her pace towards the ladder without taking another look into those stunningly beautiful eyes of his.

“I’ll be waiting fer ye, Estinan.” He said below a whisper, knowing she’d hear him.

Estinan nodded as she climbed the ladder. She wiped her face as she followed Mercer. Everything blurred as she walked along. People. Sounds. Smells.

All she smelled was honey.

All she tasted was honey.

“We’re gonna take horses. And we are not stopping at all.” Mercer grabbed her arm and dragged her through the city’s alleys when she slowed down.

A sob broke through her lips. “Can you take someone else? Someone who actually knows the history. I’ll leave the Guild…. I won’t be a problem to you….”

Mercer laughed. “Why? You helped unmask her. You should have the honors. Think of this as a way to keep your spot in this Guild. Helping me finally get rid of that murderer.” Mercer pushed her towards the stables. He tossed the stablemaster a bag of septims. “Get on the horse.” 

Estinan nodded and climbed on the horse. She followed Mercer.

“I’ll rethink your position. I might even ignore your continued transgressions. You have gotten me closer to getting revenge on Karliah. At least you have done that. Without you….” Mercer trailed off. “Let’s go. We have a long journey. And who knows if the weather will hold up for us.”

Silence took over the trip.

Brynjolf paced for a moment before going to the Flagon. Worry pitted in his stomach. Something felt wrong. He saw Delvin at his table, drinking. He leaned over and whispered in Delvin’s ear. “The lassie found Karliah.”

Delvin choked on his drink. He pounded his chest as he coughed, trying to clear his throat. “Truly? She found her? Is that why…?”

Brynjolf nodded. “Her and Mercer hae left.” Brynjolf sat down. He ran his fingers through his hair, pulling at his scalp. “I…. I should follow.” He took a deep breath.

“No…. If he’s gone…. Karliah is…. She won’t be easy. We cannot lose you to her as well. We need someone in charge here.”

“But the lass. She knows nothing.” Brynjolf rubbed his face. His nails bit at the edge of his scalp. “I….”

“They’re both together. I think…. Mercer’s survived her before. He knows her the best. I think they’ll be alright. And he’s got your lass. Esti is one of the best.”

“I jes worried. I should’ve…. We shoulda talked before…. Before they left. Divines. This isn’t anything she shoulda been roped into…. Divines. I don’t wan her gettin’ hurt….” Brynjolf groaned. “She’s….”

Delvin squeezed Brynjolf’s shoulder. “She’ll be alright.”

“This seems too well planned….”

“The Curse.”

“For all our sakes…. I hope….” Brynjolf rubbed his face. “I need a drink for once.”

Mercer slowed his horse and jumped off before it came to a halt. He grabbed the reins to Estinan’s horse and tied both equines to a low branch. “Campfire.” He pointed towards the ruin where a small smoke trail floated skyward.

Estinan jumped from her horse and pulled her coat closer around her, trapping as much warmth as she could. She smelled the camp. Another horse. No one else was around. She followed Mercer up the snow drift.

Blood.

Estinan covered her ears as the horse let out a dying shriek.

“She won’t be getting away from us now.” Mercer wiped the blood of his dagger and sheathed it. “Hopefully she doesn’t take one of our horses.”

Estinan stared at the blood that pooled under the massive creature. She closed her eyes and swallowed.

Blood.

She tasted the iron. 

Estinan turned away from the camp and followed Mercer to the ruins. 

“Usually you can’t get into these tombs without the proper key. But, there’s a trick to them. If you know how to exploit them..”

Estinan’s brows furrowed as she watched Mercer.

Shadows.

She felt the darkness overcome Mercer as he pulled something from his pocket. A key? The energy was oppressive. Dark. Shadowy.

Another Prince?

Nocturnal? 

“There….” He opened the door. “Ladies first.”

Estinan frowned as she walked past him. Mercer had something from Nocturnal. 

What did she get herself into?

“Be careful. Karliah is sure to reset all the traps in here. Last thing I need is you alerting her that we are here. Walk carefully and deftly.” Mercer followed her through the corridor.

Estinan grabbed her bow and nocked an arrow. She heard Mercer grab his dagger and unsheathe it. Worry pitted in her stomach. Every fiber of her beast blood coiled. She wanted to leave. 

But, she pressed forward.

Estinan stopped. She stared at the continuation of their path as it laid behind a gate. She looked around, spotting a chain. She walked over and ran her fingers along the carved holes in the stone. 

“Spike trap. Be careful when you pull that chain.”

Estinan grabbed the chain and yanked. The gate rose at the same time several metal tipped spikes jutted from the holes. One grazed through Estinan’s leather, leaving a small cut. She backed away and followed Mercer through the passage.

Mercer grabbed her arm before she stepped on a metal plate. “Fire trap.” He grabbed an urn and put it on the plate. A large plume of fire erupted from the wall. “Crawl under.”

The flames licked at Estinan’s back as she crept under the fire. She shivered as she stood up and watched Mercer navigate under the fire. 

“I’m sure she’s set more traps for us. Keep your ears and eyes open.”

Estinan nodded and continued. She stopped once she reached a doorway into a hall of catacombs. She knelt down as she surveyed the room. Bone chimes dangled from the ceiling. A few draugr laid in their resting spots. 

“Clever. It’ll alert the undead if you touch them. Creep along the wall. Over there.” Mercer pointed to the far wall.

Estinan took one small step after another. Mercer was a breath away from her. She ducked into the small passage. She let out a soft sigh. She continued down the halls. She stopped when she heard skittering. “Wait….” She whispered as she peeked around the corner. A couple skeevers sniffed around the room, looking for food. Estinan aimed her arrow and released the bow string. She quickly nicked another arrow and released it as well, hitting the other skeever.

Mercer followed her through the passage. He needed to find a way to get rid of her. She was careful with traps. And skeevers were too weak. He looked down when heard a splash. Whale oil? 

Estinan looked through the doorway. Oil coated the floors. She eyed a trip wire holding a lit pot. She looked up the stairs, spotting a draugr wandering aimlessly. She nocked an arrow and aimed at the fire pot. She ducked behind the wall as she released. The room burst into flames.

“Fuck!” Mercer cursed. “Why in Oblivion did you do that!?” He grabbed the front of her tunic and pulled her close. 

“You want to fight all the draugr? We needed to get up there. This saved time!”

“You let that bitch know we are here.”

“She is expecting you if she left that message with Gulum-Ei.” Estinan grabbed his hand and removed it. “Why don’t you tell me the truth? You’re hiding something. From the Guild. That’s why you want to cut me!? I’m getting close to figuring out your secret.” Estinan stormed through the room and up the stairs. She continued her way through the labyrinth of hallways until she came face to face with an ancient puzzle door.

Mercer followed behind her. “Let me get this door.” He pushed past her.

Estinan felt the overwhelming darkness as he pulled the key from his pocket again. She waited for the door to move and watched it slowly descend. Mercer hesitated at the threshold. Estinan heard someone else in the large room. She heard a bow string. An arrow whistled through the air.

Estinan fell back as the arrow impaled her shoulder. She looked at the shaft and then into the room. The wound seared with pain. Poison?! She tasted blood on her tongue. Her heart raced. It took every fiber to remain upright. Estinan blinked as her vision blurred. She collapsed into the ground.

Mercer laughed as he walked through the doorway. “Did you really think your arrow would reach me before my blade reached you?” Mercer twirled the dagger in his hand. “You’re a clever girl. Buying Golden Glow Estate. Funding Honningbrew. Driving a wedge between us and our last ally.”

“That was Gallus’ first lesson. Undermining your enemies' allies.” A dunmer woman walked from the shadows. A bow in hand.

“You were a quick study.”

“Not quick enough. Otherwise my Gallus would still be alive.”

“He had you and all the riches. He just needed to look away.”

“You forget we all took the Oath. He couldn’t do that.”

“Enough! It’s time for you and Gallus to be reunited! Come taste my blade.”

“I’m no fool, Mercer! Crossing blades with you is a death sentence.” She drank a potion and disappeared into the shadows.

Mercer cursed. He clicked his tongue as he walked back towards Estinan. “Well, it seems history has repeated itself. Karliah has been the reason I’ve been able to get rid of you. You’ll no longer be a thorn in my side. I’ll be sure to send Brynjolf your regards. I cannot wait to tell him of your outcome.” Mercer stabbed the dagger into Estinan’s side. He laughed as he walked out of the sanctum.

Estinan cried out. The only thing she could do. She closed her eyes trying to blink away the tears. She tried to move her arm but the paralytic poison in her bloodstream. A sob broke from her lips. She coughed. Blood tinged saliva. Pain radiated from her chest. She had no control as her beast blood took over. Her vision darkened as she transformed.

Mercer stormed into Cistern from the Ratways. He walked over to his desk. A growl left his throat. He missed killing that dark elf bitch. At least the other thorn in his side was dead. Between the arrow and his dagger, there’s no way she lived. He grabbed at his table and tipped it to its side. All the papers floated around the Cistern. A few of the baubles on his desk rolled into the water. He mumbled to himself as he paced around his desk.

“Mercer?”

Mercer looked up at Brynjolf. He felt a crack in his façade for a second. He looked away, shaking his head. Brynjolf definitely was in too deep. But this is news he would enjoy to break to him. “She’s gone. I’m sorry, Brynjolf. Karliah…. Karliah overpowered her. She…. I tried. She's dead.”

Dead?

His heart dropped. One loud thud and it dropped to his stomach. He swallowed.

Brynjolf shook his head in disbelief. “No. No. Yer lying. Ye hae tae be…. The lass is careful. She wouldnae….” Brynjolf backed away, shaking his head. “What happened?” He clenched and unclenched his fists. He tried to swallow again.

“Karliah shot her with an arrow as we walked through the Sanctum. I tried to help her. But…. It was too late. It happened too fast. She bled too fast. Karliah ran before I could do anything…. I’m sorry, Brynjolf. I tried.”

“How come ye lea her thare?! She’s family.” Brynjolf grabbed the collar of Mercer’s leather. Tears blurred his vision as he looked at Mercer, searching for anything in Mercer’s untelling face. 

Something. 

Anything.

It was stone cold.

“And I’ve told you not to get attached to new recruits.” Mercer grabbed Brynjolf’s wrist. “I did what I could. I am sorry.” He unclasped Brynjolf’s hands from his leathers. “I…. I tried.”

Brynjolf pushed against Mercer and walked out of the Cistern, wiping his face. He passed Delvin and Vex in the Flagon and ignored them as they called out. He continued through the Ratways until he reached the canals in the city.

He looked around. 

Where did he go? 

Brynjolf weaved through the market and left the city to the docks. He climbed to the rooftop that overlooked onto Lake Honrich. The setting sun reflected across the calm waters. He sat down against the chimney. “Oh lassie…. Mo chridhe.”

He looked down at his hands. Clenching. Unclenching. He cursed.

He had her for a moment.

And let her go.

“Hell’s teeth! Why did ye let her go? Divines!”