[2 months after the events of Book 1]
Riften was in a somber state this day. The sun was shut in by the clouds, and the mist from the docks blanketed the entire town. The whole city appeared to be doused in the color grey, but this did not stop the townspeople from carrying on their day. This was normal for the people of Riften, being close to a body of water and all. A cloaked man entered the city by way of the front gate. No one seemed to notice him as he made his way through town. He took a path that led behind the houses off to the right of the main gate. He walked until he came upon the Riften Cemetery. He stopped once he was in front of a large tomb with a walk-in entrance.
Hooded man: Now where is it,…Ah.
He felt around in the dark until he grabbed hold of a chain hanging from the wall. He tugged it firmly and then released it. Immediately the floor of the tomb began sliding away from the stone coffin inside. It opened up to a stairway that led down to a mysterious door. The man smirked and continued down to the door as the floor retracted back to its original state. He found a ladder inside and took it all the way down until he was in a very large room made of stone. It appeared to be the epicenter of the town's drainage system, known as the Cistern. The room was circular with a walk way that went all the way around. The floor was hollowed out with an island piece in the center only connected by several bridges. The man continued into the room until he was met with a bow aimed right at his temple.
Armed Man: You've got a pretty pair on you to show up here again, you know that?
Hooded Man: I appreciate the warm reception, but I promise I'm not here to make trouble,…scouts honor.
Armed Man: Honor my arse. What's stopping me from putting an arrow through your memory right now?
Hooded man: That leather so thick you can't feel my blade at your gut?
The man with the bow looked down to see a dagger was at his abdomen. This made the man smile as he lowered his bow.
Armed man: One of these days I'll get the drop on you I swear it.
Hooded man: Keep trying,…I get tired of being the best around here really.
The two men shared a laugh as they both dropped their hoods.
Armed man: It's good to see you again brother. How long has it been?
Hooded Man: Far too long Niruin.
Niruin was a Bosmer man much like Eradros, who was also very adept in archery. He was clad in full brown leather armor and appeared to be practicing with his bow before greeting his unexpected guest.
Niruin: And what prey tell has brought Eradros the prodigy himself back to us?
Eradros: Let's just call it a nostalgia trip for now huh?
Niruin: Fine by me. You lookin' for Brynjolf I reckon.
Eradros: Is he around? I'd love to have a chat with my old mentor if he's not too busy.
Niruin: Last I saw him he was at the Flagon. You might want to hurry before Mercer pulls him away for something.
Eradros: Thanks for the heads-up.
Eradros began to walk away. He got a few steps away before Niruin called out to him one last time.
Niruin: Oh and don't think you'll be leaving here without a friendly competition between marksmen.
Eradros smiled but did not turn around or respond. He simply waved, and continued on to the bar known as the Ragged Flagon. It was a bar located down in what was called the Ratway, which was also notoriously known for being home to the Thieves Guild. Eradros made his way into the pub discreetly. He had replaced his hood before walking in the room. He saw mostly familiar faces, the same barkeep and all. Things seemed to be at bit slow and drowsy compared to its normal speed though. Old members of the guild who had not yet taken the time to notice him seemed to be a bit down on their luck. He wasn't quite sure what this was all about, but he sat himself down at a table alone to scan the room. He signaled the barmaid for a drink and kept to himself. He heard whispers while he waited. A bald man by the name Delvin Mallory, sat at a table by the bar whispering to another man.
Delvin: It's a curse I tell ya. Lady luck ain't happy wit'us. How else d'you explain all the shit's been comin' down the pipe lately?
The man nodded in agreement as they both continued on drinking. Minutes later a drink was brought to him by the barmaid who couldn't help but stare.
Barmaid: I'm sorry,…Do I know you from somewhere?
Eradros paused for moment before answering. Before he could respond, a hand was placed on his shoulder. It was by a man with brownish hair who was standing behind his seat. He leaned in close to Eradros before speaking.
Man: You know we don't really like unfamiliar faces around our bar,…but you're not an unfamiliar face are ya pal?
Eradros smiled while taking a drink from his cup. He knew it was his old mentor, Brynjolf who had once again gotten the drop on him.
Eradros: When did you notice?
Brynjolf: Oh come on now. I was on to you before you even pulled the chain. I see everything in this city you know that. (Patting Eradros on the shoulder)
He sits down at the table across from Eradros and signals the barmaid for two more drinks.
Brynjolf: Don't worry I won't blow your cover just yet. Vex might still be a wee bit sore about your little vanishing act. Let's keep the reunion between us for now.
Eradros: Look, Brynjolf,…I didn't leave because of anything personal. It was just,..
Brynjolf: Save that explanation for her lad. What I want to know,…is what brought you back.
Eradros: It's honestly kind of hard to explain. It just doesn't feel right.
Brynjolf: What exactly?
Eradros: Gallus's death, Karliah,…all of it. It's why I left the guild. None of it sat right with me then, and it doesn't now.
Brynjolf: I hear you lad,…What Karliah did took everyone for a spin. I still sometimes struggle with believing it. But you mean something a little deeper than that I'm guessing.
Eradros: When we got word of what Karliah did to Gallus, we believed it. But the smell of death,…still lingered around even after she was gone. If she had really murdered him and run off, why do I still suffer the stench of death and wickedness in this place.
Brynjolf: I'm starting to think this is a conversation best had in private. Why don't we continue this back in the Cistern? Discretely now.
Eradros: Right.
With that, they both got up from the table and began walking toward the back door of the bar.
Brynjolf: Barmaid,…hold those two drinks for me will ya? I've got some business in need of sorting out. I'll be back soon.
Barmaid: Sure thing Brynjolf.
Once in the Cistern, the two of them continued their conversation while walking towards the back of the room where the guild vault was located. There were other members of the guild present, but the room was spacious, and as long as they kept a good distance no one would hear them talking.
Brynjolf: Ok. Now that we're clear I have to ask. Are you saying you don't think Karliah did it?
Eradros: I can't say for sure, and as of right now I don't have any proof.
Brynjolf: Why don't we talk to Mercer about it?
Eradros: I don't think,…
Voice from behind: Talk to me about what? And who the hell is this?
They both turned to see a brunette haired man in black leather armor, similar to Brynjolf's walking up to them holding what looked like traveling items. It was the current leader of the guild; a man by the name of Mercer Frey. Both Mercer and Brynjolf had aged a bit since the last Eradros saw them, with Mercer being a tad older out of the two. He had not gotten anymore likable since then it seemed, but Eradros was not expecting a warm welcome.
Brynjolf: Oh we were debating on if we should announce the return of an old friend.
Mercer placed his things on the floor and gave a good look at Eradros. He almost did not recognize him until he removed his hood.
Mercer: Well I'll be,…if it isn't the deserter! What happened to the pirate life? Did you finally get sea sick?
He spoke with a sarcastic excitement in his voice, an attempt to hide his displeasure in seeing Eradros. Mercer was never very fond of him. Eradros was nobody to him, and was only tolerated because of his closeness to Brynjolf.
Eradros: No one becomes a pirate to stay one forever. I got paid,…I got out. End of story.
Mercer: Ah,…but I heard you also got caught. Now,…What's the story behind that I wonder?
It was clear Mercer was already working to unnerve him. He was very skilled in mental warfare, but before Eradros could respond, Brynjolf spoke up.
Brynjolf: What's with all the gear? You planning a vacation or something?
Mercer: Sadly no. Business trip, and serious business at that.
Brynjolf: Whats going on?
Mercer: I normally wouldn't share this kind of info with an outsider present, but he was there when it happened. So why not? I got a lead,…on Karliah's whereabouts.
Brynjolf: This is serious. What do you intend to do then?
Mercer: I intend to end this, once and for all. She's evaded us long enough. Once Gallus is avenged, we'll finally be able to move forward as a guild.
Brynjolf: Do you think that's what the guild needs right now? Revenge?
Mercer: Look around you Brynjolf. You see the state this place is in. It's been this way ever since she double crossed us, and I don't think things will just go back to right with her still on the loose. For all we know, she could be waiting for another chance to murder one of us. Besides, this is the morale booster we've been praying for. Dont tell me you sympathize with her now.
Brynjolf could not argue his logic, nor did he wish to show any skepticism on the matter. He had been feeling the sting of Karliah's betrayal for some time now, and he wanted her to pay for what she did.
Brynjolf: You may be right about that friend. Are you going alone?
Mercer: I was going to, considering you had to stay and run the guild in my stead, but now I don't have to. He's coming with me.
He raised his hand and pointed directly at Eradros. This was unexpected and shocked the both of them.
Eradros: Me? You're joking.
Brynjolf: He's no longer a member of the guild. Is that really wise?
Mercer: Do you trust him?
Brynjolf: Of course,…I practically raised him.
Mercer: Then that's good enough for me. Besides, you don't need to be a member of the guild for this one. Just being another victim of Karliah's will do.
He then turned to look Eradros in the eyes.
Mercer: Do this for me,…and maybe I forget about you abandoning us all those years ago, hm. How's that sound?
Eradros cared little about what Mercer thought of him. In his days as a guild member, Mercer was merely a distant superior that he often made sure to avoid when possible. He did not like Mercer's energy, or his swiftness to look down on the less talented thieves, but this was an opportunity to finally get answers.
Eradros: Fine. Where to?
Mercer: That's the spirit my friend. I've got intel saying she's been held up at the very same place where she murdered our brother. A place called Snow Veil Sanctum, a ways north of Windhelm. It's a 3 day trip on horseback, and I plan on heading out tonight.
Brynjolf: Tonight? He just made it into Riften only this morning.
Mercer: No worries. Let him rest up for tonight. If you take a carriage from Riften to Windelm in the morn, and travel up from there, you should make it in time. I'll be camped outside of the place until you get there.
Eradros: Then it seems we have a plan.
Mercer: Good to hear.
He reaches down to pick up the items he was carrying and began walking passed them. He stopped next to Eradros and leaned in close with a serious look in his eyes.
Mercer: Oh and if you don't show up there,…don't ever show up here again. Clear?
Eradros slowly turned his head toward Mercer to return the glare.
Eradros: Crystal,…
Mercer smiled at this. He was aware of Eradros' distain for him, and found it somewhat amusing.
Mercer: Glad we understand each other. Now,…I'm gonna go finish packing before I head out. You guys take it easy.
Mercer continued out of the Cistern with his equipment until he was out of sight. Brynjolf then turned and placed a hand on Eradros' shoulder.
Brynjolf: Are you sure you want to get mixed up in guild business again lad?
Eradros: It's fine. This is precisely what I came for after all. To get to the truth.
Brynjolf: Karliah is a very skilled warrior you know. She won't be easy pickings if you two end up facing off.
Eradros: I didn't know Karliah for very long like you all did. To me she was just a part of your group of friends. But during that short time she was always kind to me. She would even steel extra food from the market to make sure we all ate. I just don't see how a person like that can murder their lover and betray the entire guild.
Brynjolf: Like I said earlier,…still struggling to wrap my mind around it to this very day. Karliah, Gallus, and I were as thick as thieves. No pun intended. I've resented her ever since she left us.
Eradros: Come 3 days from now we shall have our answers.
Brynjolf: I actually prefer that you be the one to go now that I think about it.
Eradros: Don't think you could go through with it if it came down to that huh?
Brynjolf: Ha,…I'm afraid you may know me a bit too well.
Eradros smiled as he turned and began making his way to the entrance.
Eradros: Worry not old friend. Whoever the culprit is,…I will do what needs to be done.
Brynjolf: You're not staying here for the night?
Eradros: Think I'll grab a room somewhere without so many criminals around.
Brynjolf smiled at the statement as he turned to go his own way. Eradros took the ladder up and back out into the city. He made his way to the nearby Inn called "The Bee And Barb", where he retired to a room for the night after having a few drinks. He had mulled over the details of his trip while he drank, but couldn't think much about anything once his head begin to spin. Eradros was not much of a drinker, but being in a bar while not drinking can draw attention. He prided himself on going unnoticed, and this was one of the many tactics he employed to do so. He stared at the ceiling as he dozed off. He was sure he would have to kill someone to end all of this. It was still a mystery as to who. He could only hope that he was on the right side of it all when the fallout happened.
The next morning, Eradros had already been out gathering supplies for the trip. He had just left the general goods store, and was making his way out of the city when he spotted Brynjolf and Vex standing by the front gate. As he approached, he could see that Vex was upset with Brynjolf about something.
Brynjolf: There he is now.
Vex turned her head to see Eradros walking their way. She immediately began marching up to him.
Eradros: Hey,…Vex. It's been a-
Before he could finish his statement, she had walked right up to him and punched him square in the mouth.
Vex: You weren't even going to say you were back, and now you're already leaving? Coward.
Eradros was now holding his face as blood began to leak from his lip.
Eradros: I deserve that,…
Vex: You deserve a lot more, but you're not worth making a scene over.
Brynjolf: Afraid it's a wee bit late for that luv. Come,…lets continue this outside the gates hm?
Vex was very upset with the both of them. She and Eradros were close during his time in the guild, much like rivals. Brynjolf taught the both of them everything they know. She was third in the guild in terms of authority, only taking orders from Brynjolf and Mercer, and very loyal to the cause. She stared at Eradros for a moment while shaking her hand.
Vex: Whatever.
She began walking out of the gates as the two followed behind. Once outside, they all stood in silence for a moment. Brynjolf was already in trouble for helping Eradros keep his return a secret, and Eradros was still tending to his now busted lip.
Vex: Well,…Say something dammit!
Eradros: I'm sorry Vex,…
Vex: Wrong answer. You know what you have to do to make right with the guild.
Brynjolf: He's not here to rejoin the guild.
This gave her pause. She looked at the two of them for a moment before turning her attention completely to Eradros.
Vex: Then what the hell did you come back for? And why is Mercer taking you of all people to deal with Karliah?
Eradros: By the divines how much did you tell her?
Brynjolf: Not I lad. Blame Delvin. You know he's got an ear everywhere, and a soft spot for Vex.
Vex: Brynjolf what is all this about?
Brynjolf: We can't go into it right now luv. It's better you let us handle this for now. I need your attention on something else.
Vex: What's more important than taking down Karliah?
Eradros: Did you find something out Brynjolf?
Brynjolf: Nothing concrete, something about a newly bought house in the city,… procured with funds from the guild.
Vex: Let me guess, you want me to infiltrate and do some poking around is that it? Figures.
Brynjolf: Whats the matter Vex? You should be jumping at this chance after your little Golden Glow Estate fumble.
Vex: How was I supposed to know they tripled their security?
Brynjolf: I suppose you couldn't have, but that's all in the past now. I need to know your head's in the game. We don't know what you'll find inside that house, and I'm sure I don't have to tell you that getting caught is not an option.
Vex: Trust me,…I've got this. You're talking to the best infiltrator in the guild after all.
Brynjolf: Good, get to it then. The sooner this is all over the better.
He handed her a paper with an address written on it. He made sure not to look at her while doing so. This was his way of saying "That's an order." Vex was frustrated by the command. She still had much more yelling to do at Eradros, but orders were orders.
Vex: Fine,…But don't think I'm done with you yet Eradros. You better come back in one piece.
With that statement, she took her leave of them. Brynjolf turned to Eradros after Vex was out of sight.
Brynjolf: Go and meet Mercer. I'll take care of things until you two get back.
Eradros: Are you sure?
Brynjolf: Not in the slightest, but it's all we can do for now. Now get going.
Brynjolf began going back into the city as Eradros turned toward the travel carriage parked next to the stables.
Carriage Driver: Where to traveler?
Eradros: Windhelm please.
He then drops a small bag of coin in the man's hand and begins to get into the carriage. He sat his things down and reclined into his seat as the carriage began to pull off.
[ 3 days later ]
Eradros had arrived outside of Windhelm that morning. The weather here was much different from Riften's. Snow blanketed everything, covering the mountains, the trees, even the people. Winds were aggressive, much like what they endured at the Throat of the World. The city of Windhelm itself was completely made of stone. A fortress sitting in the middle of an icy tundra. He still had a ways to travel to get to the sanctuary, so he decided to stop by the local stables to rent a horse. He spoke to the stable keep for a moment before dropping another small bag of coin into his hand. The stable keep walked into the stables and brought out an almond colored horse with brown spots. Her fur and mane were thick, and perfect for traveling in the freezing cold.
Stable keep: Her name's Sasha. Take good care of her now.
Eradros: Sure thing. Thanks again.
He saddled up and began making his way north. It would take him an hour or two to get to the destination. Most of the area was completely white with snow, with the trees being the only indicator he was actually coming or going anywhere. As the winds began to pick up, Sasha became unsettled little by little. She had the perfect hide for this type of weather but not the mental fortitude. Eventually she stopped in her tracks, stomping and shaking her head. Eradros leaned down and spoke to her very softly as his eyes began to glow green.
Eradros: Now now, there is nothing to fear my friend. If you are unsure, I will guide you.
Sasha immediately calmed herself. The glow from Eradros' eyes seemed to transfer to the her's as well, and as if she understood his every word, she continued walking very steadily.
Eradros: Good girl. You're getting extra carrots for being so brave.
He gave her a good patting as they continued on. He soon saw a faint light in the distance. It looked to be a camp fire. It was sitting at the top of a hill outside of what looked like stone ruins. There were rocky pillars jutting out of the ground that may have made some sort of formation long ago. As he got closer he saw Mercer's horse and the rest of his camp set up, but he himself was nowhere in sight. Eradros parked his horse next to Mercer's and began to survey the area. Most of the ruins were covered in snow, and the sanctum itself appeared to be mostly underground. There was a large man made hole in the ground that had stone slabs along the walls. They formed steps that lead down inside and to the doorway.
Mercer: Ah you finally made it. I was beginning to wonder.
Eradros turned around to see Mercer carrying firewood back to the camp.
Eradros: Were you just using a cloaking spell?
Mercer: Why do you ask?
He said this with a smile, knowing it was making Eradros uncomfortable.
Eradros: I surveyed this entire area just moments ago and you were nowhere in sight.
Mercer dropped the logs next to the fire and threw his hands back.
Mercer: Ok,…you got me. Damned mountain lion's been stalking me ever since I made camp. Had to do something to throw'm off my trail while I gathered wood. Geez,…nothing gets past you does it?
Eradros could see Mercer was toying with him once again. He ignored his question and took a seat by the fire. The plan was for the two of them to enter the sanctuary come sunrise. For now they would just prepare their equipment. They both sat in silence for an extended time, until Mercer broke it with a question that had been bothering him.
Mercer: Before we go in here,…I have to ask. Why are you here?
Eradros: I'm just taking you up on your offer to make right with the guild. Nothing more.
Mercer stared at him for a moment, watching him sharpen his knives. He was skeptical. Eradros had been gone for years, presumed dead or in someone's prison because of his no longer being under the guild's protection.
Mercer: I think it's very important that we not bullshit each other here. We're about to face a cold blooded murderer in there and I'd prefer it if the guy at my back actually has it. I don't believe for one second you came all this way just to re-join. I heard about some of the things you and your crew got up to in the Aldmeri Dominion; Robbing the rich and crooked. Diminishing their influence in the process.
Eradros: What of it?
Mercer: How about the fact that you haven't said a word about it,…or what you've been up to recently since you've been back. If I didn't know any better I'd say there's a story there.
Eradros: I'd say your imagination is getting the better of you.
Mercer: Is it now? Then tell me,…where'd you drop the Redguard boy off at hm?
Eradros remained silent. He was a bit startled at Mercer's mentioning of Kinetrius, but this wasn't a surprise that Mercer would know about him. The Thieves Guild's biggest commodity is information after all. He picked up another knife to sharpen before answering.
Eradros: The boy is no concern of yours. I'm here to set things in the guild back to right. I owe them that much. Once this business is concluded I'll be on my way.
Mercer: Thats actually very noble of you,…and precisely why a guy like you doesn't belong with the guild. You're too damned honorable. Look around,…we're all criminals. That is until you had to go and become a criminal with morals. Gag.
Eradros didn't respond. He began putting his things away and preparing to sleep.
Mercer: Y'know, you should be more like that one friend of yours. Ah what was his name?,…Rashish! Where is he nowadays?
Eradros: Dead last I saw him.
Mercer: Oh dear,…Thats too bad. He was a fiery one. Reminded me of myself as a youth.
Eradros: That's too bad,…but I'm turning it in now. I wish for this to end quickly come tomorrow.
Mercer: How right you are. I'll take first watch, you go ahead.
Eradros retired to his tent to rest. Mercer sat at the camp fire for a while longer before doing the same. The sun would rise the next morning accompanied with strong winds. Eradros awoke to the sound of unsettled horses outside, and the Mercer's voice trying to calm them.
Mercer: Now now, settle down you two. We need you to behave while we're gone.
Eradros stepped out of his tent geared up and ready.
Mercer: Ah you're up. Good. Lets get this over with.
Eradros nodded as both made their way into the entrance of the sanctuary. The door was locked, but Mercer had a peculiar key in his possession that allowed him to open it. Once it did, they both stood in the doorway for a moment.
Mercer: This is it,…it ends where it all started.
He looks back at Eradros and sticks his fist out.
Mercer: No matter what feelings we got between us,…we're doing this for the guild.
Eradros took a moment of pause, and then met Mercer's fist with his own.
Eradros: …For the guild.
They both began their decent into the sanctuary to hunt down Karliah. Eradros was at peace with whatever outcome as long it ended today. They just only need survive the ordeal.
Chapter End-