Dark Voice: There is much darkness in these lands,…because of which, sinister spirits now lurk within the hearts of men. It is a beautiful thing, the silence of death. For it is,…the music of life. But even that can become corrupted if left unchecked. I have a task for you my sweet child, for you are the one who listens. There is one such corrupt soul,…I wish you to visit my sweet kiss upon them. There is also a soul I wish for you to seek out. Go,…and see your mother's will be done, sweet child.
Candlehearth Hall was an inn located in the center of Windhelm. On this night, it was alive with music and the cheers of men. Windhelm was the home of the Stormcloaks and Ulfric himself, but it suffered from many problems all the same despite being the home of the True King of Skyrim. There were an abundance of racial indifferences between the Nords, Dark Elves, and even Argonians. This had the entire city population in unrest as the war proceeded. Kin and Gavhelus had just made it into town and met up with Minevi. They were also accompanied by Taviiah who had tagged along without asking. Kin was a bit annoyed by this. He was happy to see her but she had always had a knack for being overbearing. She explained to him that this was the only way to clear his name in Hammerfell. Unfortunately, Kin did not share her concern for whatever they believe he and his father did.
Minevi: Kin! Its so good to see you again. You've grown a bit in these couple of months you have. And who is this young lady with you?
Kin: This is-
Taviiah: I am Taviiah. Childhood friend of the dragonborn here.
Kin: More like childhood terrorist,…
Taviiah: Don't be like that Kinny,…you'll make me look bad.
Minevi: Right,…and Gavhelus,…how have you been? I hope training him by yourself wasn't too much of a hassle.
Gavhelus: A hassle doesn't begin to cover it luv. Trainin'im in the sword was nothin', but once he got to playin' around with that voice of his it became very difficult to keep the boy alive for some reason.
Minevi: Oh my,…what could've possibly been that dangerous?
Gavhelus: Oh let me tell ya! The kid starts shootin' hisself off of the mountain almost every mornin'. The bloody master of the greybeards himself had to pluck the lad out of the sky a few times.
Minevi: How,…how does one pluck someone out of the sky?
Kin: The greybeards are able to study the voice because of their master,…who is himself a dragon.
Minevi: Are you kidding me? A dragon lives on top of that mountain?
Kin: Yep. His name is Paarthurnax. He's a scary sight at first, but he's actually a pretty nice guy,…once you get past the dragon breath.
Taviiah: So this is Windhelm huh? This place is really cold, and there's ice everywhere. How do Nords live like this?
Minevi: It's in our genes luv. Nords are built for the cold.
Taviiah: Indeed,…
They all proceeded into the city, taking in the sights as they made their way. The happened upon a crowd of people standing in the city cemetery. A guard was attempting to clear the area but something had everyone's attention.
Minevi: I wonder what's this about.
Kin: Only one way to find out.
Kin begins walking toward the commotion as Taviiah followed behind. Gavhelus had stopped in his tracks for some reason. He began looking at the ground as if he was trying to listen to something. Suddenly his eyes grew wide and his jaw loosened open.
Gavhelus: Oh dear divines,…Kin! Wait!
Before he could warn the boy, Kin had already seen it. What had everyone's attention, and what had the guards up in arms. It was the body of a young girl, mutilated and laid out over top one of the tombs. There was blood everywhere around the graveyard. The body was missing parts, and the girl's stomach was torn wide open. Kin was in shock at the sight of the corpse laying in the middle of the city. He immediately covered his nose as he and Taviiah gazed upon the victim.
Guard: Alright everyone please! I need you all to stay back, and most of all stay calm!
Nord man: By the twelve,…this is is third murder of a young woman this month. This has to be the work of The Butcher.
Old woman: Poor Susanna,…I warned her not to be out past sundown. It's just not safe to do anything anymore.
Drunken man: I bet it was one of those damned devils! Ever since they started taking refuge here all manner of mischief has been going on. I wouldn't be surprised if one of them did it.
Minevi noticed the look on Gavhelus's face and approached him.
Minevi: Gavhelus is something wrong?
Gavhelus: There is a wicked energy about this place. So many souls are crying out all at once. I can't make sense of them all.
Minevi: Are the dead telling you something?
Gavhelus: None of them have any idea what's happened to them or why their dead. They're all drowning in sorrow and confusion.
Kin needed a moment to collect himself after what he had just witnessed. He was no stranger to death, but this was much more twisted. He walked back over to Gavhelus and Minevi, also noticing the stress on Gavhelus's face. Taviiah remained calm and unbothered. She stepped away from the rest of them and began surveying the area.
Kin: They said that this was the work of someone called The Butcher.
Gavhelus: They're all young women,…the voices. It's like I can hear their souls screaming.
Kin: What does that mean? Do you know?
Gavhelus: It means somehow they're still suffering,…even in death.
Minevi: How is something like that possible?
Gavhelus: My guess,…some sort of necromancy. Whoever is behind this is murdering for a reason,…a goal.
Kin: I didn't know there were such kinds of necromancy. Not ones that needed this sort of action.
As they all stood around the body with the rest of the town, Kin notices a peculiar looking man who looked as if he knew something. He was an imperial man with odd clothing that insinuated that he was not native to Skyrim. The man approached the guards and attempted to inform them of something.
Imperial Man: I saw the culprit running off shortly after we all heard the scream.
Guard: Are you sure Mr. Corrium? In which direction?
Kin watched as the man explained himself to the guards. He seemed to have a pleasant disposition despite the grim circumstances. Kin broke off from the rest to approach the man once his talk with the guard had concluded.
Kin: Excuse me sir,…did you really see him,…the culprit?
Imperial man: And who might you be young man?
Kin: Forgive my rudeness. My name is Kin. And you are?
Imperial man: Calixto Corrium. Owner of Calixto's House of Curiosities, at your service.
Kin: Can you tell me what you know about the culprit?
Calixto: I'm sorry kid. I don't know much outside of seeing a figure running off into the night. I've already told the guards everything. I believe I may be a suspect in all this.
Kin: Why would they suspect you?
Calixto: I imagine they simply need suspects. Gotta make it look like they're doing something about it even though they keep coming up with nothing. Wont last for long though. Something's got to be done about this.
Kin: I see,…thanks for your time sir.
Calixto: Anytime kid. Hey you don't look like you're from here. If you get the chance, you should definitely stop by my store. I'm sure I've got something you might want.
Kin: I may very well do that sir thank you.
Kin leaves the man's presence and returns to the others. Taviiah had made her way back as well. She did not say much. It appeared she was mulling something over in her head.
Minevi: Well,…this is all a bit grim for me. I had hoped for us all to visit the local bar for a drink to catch up. Doesn't really seem appropriate now though.
Gavhelus: Nonsense,…this whole thing has given me plenty reasons to throw back a pint or two. Lead the way.
Kin: Gavhelus are you sure you're alright?
Gavhelus: I will be lad,…soon as I find something to mute the screaming voices.
They all continued to the Candlehearth Hall. Right before entering, Kin stopped and looked back into the dark city streets. Taviiah noticed this and turned back for him.
Taviiah: Kin,…Is something the matter?
He did not answer her. He simply kept staring into the darkness for some strange reason.
Taviiah: Kin!
Kin: Yeah,…sorry. What is it?
Taviiah: Whats the matter with you all of a sudden?
Kin: It's strange,…I've been feeling watched ever since we came into town. Even now.
Taviiah looked out into the city as well, but could not see anything or anyone that might be watching them.
Taviiah: Come now, I know everyone's creeped out, but don't let it get to you.
She placed a hand on his shoulder and led him into the bar behind Minevi. Inside, it was almost like no one had been murdered at all. The men all cheered as the local bard sang and strummed his lute. The barmaids pranced around delivering drinks and singing along. It was quite the opposite of what was just outside. They all took a seat as Minevi made a signal to one of the barmaids for drinks. Gavhelus sat with his elbows on the table, still fighting off the sounds of the screaming dead. Kin sat next to Taviiah watching the people enjoy themselves. He noticed one of the barmaids had been watching him from the moment he stepped in. Taviiah had also noticed this.
Taviiah: Is she your type?
Kin: Excuse me?
Taviiah: The barmaid that can't seem to focus because of you. Is she your type?
Kin: I don't know what you're talking about. She's probably just trying to be friendly. Besides,…I don't have a type.
He then raises his hand and waves at the girl while smiling at her. The girl began to blush as she continued to deliver drinks to the guests. Kin was no stranger to attention from women. This was the first time that he had gotten it since becoming of age though. Taviiah seemed a bit bored with the interaction and turned her attention elsewhere. The others sat talking about the things that had happened since they all separated. They laughed at the stories of Kin's antics, especially the ones that got him in trouble with the Greybeards. It seemed Gavhelus had begun to cheer up as well. He was very drunk, almost unbearably so, but the night had lightened up for them all. After a short while of conversing, the barmaid made her way to their table. It seemed she was done serving drinks for the night. She was a pretty young lass, about Kin's age or a little older. She had long brunette hair that was braided into a ponytail, and a long blue dress that would flair out whenever she spun around while dancing.
Barmaid: Excuse me sir,…would you like to dance with me? I love this song.
Kin: Me? Dance? I'm sorry I'm not much of a-
Before he could finish the girl had grabbed him by the arm into the middle of the room. Kin was a bit caught off guard. He had never danced with a girl before and was a bit nervous. The girl then grabbed both of his hands.
Barmaid: Its ok. Just follow my movements.
Kin: O- Ok.
She then pulled him in closely and began to lead in the dance. Kin was unprepared for this, but the girl made it easy for him to follow. She stared him deep in the eyes every time their faces met while dancing. He was completely under her spell at this point. All he could do was watch her body move while he tried not to mess up. The men in the bar saw this and cheered even louder as they danced. Even Gavhelus and Minevi took pleasure in the sight of them. Taviiah however seemed uninterested and simply looked into her cup as she drank. After the dance was over the girl leaned in once more and gave Kin a kiss on the cheek.
Barmaid: Thanks for the dance handsome.
She then turned to walk away, but before she could start, Kin reached out and softly pulled her back toward him.
Kin: Wait,…you're leaving already?
Barmaid: Well I am done for the night. Gonna go home and get some rest for tomorrow.
Kin: Ok I guess. You be safe out there miss.
Barmaid: No need to worry about me. My house is just around the corner. I should be just fine. Thanks again for the good time. Will I be seeing you here again?
Kin: I sure hope so,…
Kin slowly let go of her hand as she started toward the door. He then sat back down with the rest of them now with a satisfied grin on his face.
Gavhelus: Kin you sly dog. I had no idea you were smooth with the ladies.
Taviiah: You call that smooth? He had two left feet out there.
Kin: Yeah well,…She seems to like guys with two left feet.
Taviiah: Whatever,…People like what they like I guess.
Taviiah then stood up and began stretching.
Taviiah: I'm gonna retire for the night. I'll see you all in the morning.
Minevi: Yes I suppose we all should retire as well. We won't be able to speak with Ulfric for some time, but I did want to have a look around the city tomorrow.
They all stood up and went to their respective rooms. Kin and Gavhelus shared a room, as did Minevi and Taviiah. The next morning they all met out in the city. Minevi was excited to see the town during the day.
Minevi: So guys,…where to first?
Kin: That Calixto guy wanted us to check out his shop. We could start there.
Minevi: Wonderful idea Kin. Do you know where it is?
Kin: He said it was called the Calixto House of Curiosities. We might have to look around,…or ask someone.
Minevi: I choose the former. We might see something else on the way journey.
With that they all set out around the city. They saw the area that was known as the Grey Quarter, due to its overpopulation with dark elves. It was considered the slums of the city with most of the dark elves living there being refugees from the war. Kin remembered the remarks made by the old man the night before about one of them possibly being a suspect. He realized that it was more than likely bigotry. Most of them looked starved and tired. On top of this, they were not treated very well by the guards or the other townspeople it seemed. He even witnessed a retired veteran harassing a poor dark elf woman who seemed to be doing nothing wrong. Kin could hardly believe this. Was this the state Ulfric left his city in to wage this cursed war? Did he only care about Nords and no one else? How could he allow these things to go on right under his nose? It was enough to fill him with anger. Taviiah noticed his fists were tight as he glared into the city. She placed her hand on his lightly. His fist loosened as he turned and looked at her.
Taviiah: Calm yourself. You will have your moment to address this.
Kin did not respond. His body language showed that he listened to her, although it was clear he wanted to scream.
Minevi: This is the toll the war takes on people. It turns them into their worst selves. Everyone wants to survive,…they want to have hope. The lack there of brings the ugliest sides of them to light. That in tern affects the next person. I believe the term for it is a "vicious cycle".
Gavhelus: Wow that's deep Minevi. I'd get that engraved on a sword or somethin'.
Minevi: Are you not bothered by the mistreatment of your people Gavhelus? Do you not despise us Nords at all?
Gavhelus: I do not despise any man. I despise wickedness,…and anythin' that would allow it sanctuary. I have always been deeply connected with darkness, and I know that no man is ever the master of it. We are merely puppets that dance to its tune. Some like the music more than others. 'Tis life.
Kin: Wow Gav,…That was even deeper.
Gavhelus: Hey no shortening my name lad. Just 'cause you want to go loppin' your's off, doesn't mean you get to go messin' wiv' mine.
Minevi: Hey look look! I see the shop. It's just up the way.
Taviiah: Well what are we waiting for? I'm starting to get depressed standing here in all this oppression.
The began walking in the direction of the store. Kin took one last look at the Grey Quarter before turning and walking away. He now had a few things on his mind, but they could wait for now. They were finally about the visit Mr. Corrium's curiosity shop. The inside of the shop was spacious with tall shelves along the walls. All of them held very interesting and odd looking items.
Calixto: Ah,…the young man from the night before. Glad to see you actually stopped by. Come in! Take a look around. I'm here to answer any questions you may have.
Kin and the others walked around the shop gazing at the odd trinkets in the store. Calixto gave in depth explanations on everything. It was almost like the trips taken by the children in the mages guild back home. Every single item had an interesting and sometimes spooky backstory. One of which was the Book of Fate, which appeared to have no writing in it at all. Calixto explained that no one knew why some people saw words and others didn't. He even said it could possibly mean death for a person. It was honestly a bit unsettling for Kin, Taviiah, and Minevi. Gavhelus just looked on with mild enthusiasm no matter how creepy the stories got.
Kin: This is all a lot to take in. Where did you find such unique items?
Calixto: Not just me. My sister and I. We traveled all over Tamriel collecting curious trinkets and the like. Sadly, my sister fell ill. She passed shortly after we made it to Skyrim. I decided to settle down here, in Windhelm. I opened up this shop in her honor and been in business ever since.
Minevi: That's really nice of you to do that for her. I'm sure she'd be proud.
Calixto: I sure hope so. Couldn't have done it without her. I miss her very much.
Gavhelus: Well I'm ready for a pint. Anyone wanna head back to Candlehearth?
Minevi: Seriously? We only did one thing.
Gavhelus: Yep,…all this history stuff has really made me thirsty.
Kin: You'll make any excuse to drink won't you?
Gavhelus: I don't think I'm feelin' it,… you know the shame you must be expecting me to have. Probably cause I need a drink. Haha!
They all said their goodbyes to the shop owner. He was very pleasant to them during their time there. Kin was reminded of the odd trinkets his father would carry with him, and how he often wondered where they came from. They had all made it back to the Inn, and were noticing the barkeep in a bit of distress.
Kin: Ma'am,…is something the matter?
Barkeep: Oh its probably nothing lad. One of our barmaids hasn't shown up for her shift yet. Got me kind of worried to be honest, what with that Butcher person on the loose.
Kin: Can you tell me about her? Maybe we might've seen her in town.
Barkeep: Oh she's a delicate little thing with long brown hair. Had on a blue dress last night.
Kin immediately remembered the girl he danced with the night before. He thought about what he said to her about being safe, and why he actually said it.
Kin: What time does she normally come in?
Barkeep: About two hours ago. She doesn't stay far,…normally she's on time.
Gavhelus and Minevi had already sat down at a table. Kin thought for a moment before breaking off to go back outside. Taviiah noticed him and silently followed behind him. Once she was outside she saw him brooding at the top of the steps leading into the Inn.
Taviiah: You worried about your girlfriend?
Kin: And if I am,…What does it matter to you?
Taviiah: Calm down tiger. Sorry,…that was insincere. What's bothering you Kinny?
Kin: I don't know. I just can't help but think,…what if he got to her? I should've walked her home. Why did I let you leave alone?
Taviiah: Hey hey,…You're only scaring yourself to death. This isn't helping you or the girl.
Kin: Then what do I do?
Taviiah thought to herself for a moment, and then had an idea pop into her head almost immediately. She looked kin up and down for a moment. This confused him as she said nothing while doing so.
Taviiah: I've got an idea,…
Kin: What's the plan?
Taviiah: Do you want to catch this guy and put an end to this or not?
Kin: I mean,…yes but,…how?
Taviiah: No more questions. Follow me. We need to run some errands before sundown.
She grabbed him by the arm, pulling him in the direction of the shopping district of town.
Dark Voice: Can you feel it my child? Darkness pouring into the streets of this city like flowing rivers. It is why I called you here. A sacrament has been made to us. Someone is calling,…for the death of another. Answer them,…and see their worries put at ease,…for I have a greater task for you yet,…my sweet, sweet child.
It was now night time in the city. The streets were quiet and empty. Most of the townspeople had shut themselves in due to the recent murders. Kin and Taviiah stood outside of Candlehearth Hall going over the plan to catch the Butcher. Kin was not happy with the plan she had come up with. It required that they both wear pretty dresses and make up. Taviiah had gotten them both dolled up for tonight. Kin wore a a purple dress that exposed the back, with a pair of matching heeled boots. Taviiah had on a red dressing wit matching sandals that had straps wrapping around her legs. They intended to just wander the streets as defenseless damsels, anywhere that looked secluded enough to commit a murder.
Kin: I cannot believe I let you talk me into this.
Taviiah: Dont worry you look great. Who knew you made such a cute young lady.
Kin: Not funny. I'm starting to believe this was more about getting me in a dress than it was about catching the Butcher.
Taviiah: Nonsense. All we have to do is have a casual little stroll through the city. If our killer is in need of young girls, he's sure to come after a couple of foxy ladies like us. Come on let's get going.
They both set out into the city, calmly walking through each alleyway. Kin was starting to have his fill of the whole ordeal. They had been walking for some time with only the occasional passing guard warning them to go inside. They did not heed these warnings, but their morale was starting to waver. After a few more turns they were right back in front of Candlehearth. Kin was now discouraged and ready to get out the dress finally. Suddenly they heard a women shout.
Woman: Would you please leave me alone?! I've done nothing to you or anyone!
They both turned to see the old veteran from earlier, harassing the same dunmer woman from before. He was very drunk, and had been yelling and swearing at the dark elves as they walked by.
Old man: Admit it! You devils are up to something! I bet you're the one behind these murders. I can't wait till Ulfric finally throws you all out of the city for good!
Kin had finally had it. He quickly walked up to the two while they argued.
Kin: Excuse me,…
Suddenly two nearby guards heard a loud thud as they turned the corner. They looked to see the old man face down on the pavement with his butt in the air. Kin immediately began playing innocent.
Kin:(Lady voice) Oh dear,…this poor gentlemen seems to have had too much to drink.
The two guards looked at each other and shrugged. They then walked over and began helping the old man up off of the cold ground. They threw his arms over their shoulders and started walking him home.
Guard: Come on you old Coot. This time we're locking you in your room.
Guard: I honestly don't know how he gets this drunk every night. His lip's completely busted.
Kin, Taviiah, and the dark elf woman all watched as they carried the old man off. The woman then turned to Kin to thank him.
Dunmer woman: Thank you for that. He can be difficult during the day, but at night when he's drunk, it is unbearable.
Kin: No problem ma'am. You should get inside though. I'm sure you've heard about the series of murders happening recently.
Dunmer woman: No worries. I was just on my way. Thank you again.
The woman then walked back to the Grey Quarter. Now it was just Kin and Taviiah outside. They both looked at each other and laughed for a bit. Kin shook his hand while they stood joking about the old man. Then, out of nowhere they both heard something.
Taviiah: Wait,…did you hear that?
Kin: Yeah,…It sounded close.
Out of the corner of his eye, Kin spotted a cloaked figure running into the back alleyways.
Kin: Over there!
He took off running after the figure.
Taviiah: Kin wait! Dammit!
She immediately took off after him. By the time she made it around the corner, Kin was gone, and it was deadly quiet. She should at least be able to hear his footsteps. How could he have gotten that far so fast? Then, she heard strange laughter from what seemed like all sides. Each street was lined by stone walls. The sound of the laugh bounced off of every surface. It was bone chilling. All she could do was scan her surroundings as the laughing became louder, and closer. Kin had made his way into a dark sector of the city. He was now staring down a pitch black corridor. It felt as if the darkness was staring back at him. He looked into the corridor as if he could see someone.
Kin: Hello! Are you looking for the murderer too?
He heard nothing in response except the winds.
Kin: I could sense you, you know? I felt your presence earlier when I came to the city. Why don't you show yourself? Maybe we can help each other?
He stood looking into the abyss, waiting for a response. A moment more had passed with no response. He was beginning to feel silly for talking to himself. Who exactly did he think would respond? Suddenly, a figure began to emerge from the darkness. The figure had scales, and horns that curled out of its head. It was an Argonian woman in black skin tight leather, with burgundy patches around the joints of the outfit. Kin was now mortified. He stood in complete shock as the figure slowly approach from the dark alleyway. The woman drew closer, until they were face to face. Kin wanted to ball up out of fear at this point, but the woman was already right in his face. She looked him deep in the eyes as she took slow breaths.
Argonian woman: How is it that you can see me child?
Kin: I,…I don't know. I could just feel someone, watching me. Are you looking for the killer as well? Or,… are you the killer?
Argonian woman: I am a killer indeed,…but I am not the one you seek.
Kin: Then what are you doing out here?
Argonian woman: The man known as the butcher is a crude killer, lacking in technique, and needlessly spilling blood for a foolish desire. I am charged with seeing that his,…butchering be put to an end.
Kin: Who,…who are you?
Argonian woman: My name is Pashha. I am a child of night, member of the Dark Brotherhood, and Listener to the Night Mother herself. She has spoken to me about you child.
Kin: Me? What does the night mother want with me?
Pashha: She told me to assist you in the hunting of this animal. His is the type of killing that blurs the line betwixt man and beast,…and he should be put down like one.
Kin: So you'll help us?
Pashha: Us? There is only you child.
Kin immediately remembered that he ran off from Taviiah. He hadn't even thought about it until now. How could he be so careless?
Kin: Oh no,… Taviiah!
Chapter End-