A Tale of Could-be Heroes Book 1: Hero, Dragon, Elf

Journey to Whiterun: Secrets Unveiled: part 1

{A.N: I don't have much to share for the next few chapters, so this may be my last update for a while. However, I hope you enjoy the upcoming content! Please keep in mind that this is not the exact Skyrim from the video game. I'll continue to do my best to ensure that the added content enhances the story without clashing with the established in-game lore.}

The companions arrived at the Guardian Stones sooner than expected, their journey blessedly uneventful. As they stood before the ancient monoliths, Aeyrie couldn't help but marvel at their size and intricate carvings, far more imposing and detailed than she remembered from the game. The stones towered over them, their weathered surfaces etched with ancient runes that glowed faintly in the dim morning light, a testament to their age and power.

In the game, selecting an aspect was as simple as pressing a button on the console, but here, in this world, the process felt far more sacred and mysterious. How did one choose their path when faced with such raw, overwhelming power?

"Have you visited any standing stones before?" Jenassa's voice broke through Aeyrie's thoughts, bringing her back to the present.

Aeyrie shook her head, her gaze still fixed on the towering stones. "No, I know that one can choose an aspect, but I—well, Loche and I aren't sure how it's done," she admitted, her curiosity tinged with uncertainty as she studied the glowing symbols.

Jenassa nodded thoughtfully. "I see," she said, her tone calm and reassuring. "It's not as complicated as it may seem. One must simply pray to the Divine of their choosing and ask to be bestowed the aspect they desire."

Aeyrie's interest deepened as she absorbed Jenassa's words. The idea of praying to a Divine for such a gift made the process feel far more personal and significant than she had imagined. As the three stones loomed before them, she realized this was more than just a simple selection; it was a commitment to a path that would shape her and Loche's journey from this moment forward.

"If you've never prayed for the blessings of the Guardian Stones, there are three aspects to choose from: The Thief, The Warrior, and The Mage," Jenassa explained, her red eyes glinting in the morning light. "Choose the one you believe will aid you most in your travels."

Aeyrie took a deep breath, her thoughts churning as she sifted through the memories of the original host, trying to recall the names of the Nine Divines. "Let's see," she thought. "There's Akatosh, God of Time; Arkay, God of Life and Death; Dibella, Goddess of Art, Beauty, and Eroticisms. Then there's Julianos, God of Logic and Language; Kynareth, Goddess of Earth and Wind; Mara, Goddess of Love and Fertility; Stendarr, God of Mercy and Law; Talos, God of War and Governance; and finally, Zenithar, God of Work and Commerce."

Despite her efforts, Aeyrie felt a distant connection to any of The Nine in this moment. After a brief hesitation, she decided to pray to Akatosh, the chief deity of The Nine Divines, hoping for his guidance.

Bowing her head, Aeyrie closed her eyes and began to pray in silence. "Akatosh, Lord of the Nine, I wish to receive the aspect granted by The Warrior. I pray that you will allow me to go forth with this blessing and continue on my quest to save this world from its doom."

As she whispered her plea, Aeyrie heard a faint, ethereal chime—a small ping, acknowledging that Akatosh had heard her prayer. However, instead of feeling the surge of strength she had expected, a subtle warmth spread through her, emanating from the stone she stood before. Confused, she opened her eyes, sensing that something was amiss.

Akatosh had indeed responded, but he had refused to grant her the blessings of The Warrior. Instead, he had bestowed upon her the blessing of The Mage. The realization dawned on Aeyrie as the magical energy coursed through her veins, a clear indication of the path the Divine had chosen for her, even if it wasn't the one she had sought.