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

Journey to Whiterun: Secrets Unveiled: part 2

When the group had put a good distance between themselves and the Companions, Aeyrie finally voiced the question that had been gnawing at her mind. "What was Aela's problem? And why does she seem to have something against you, Uthgerd?"

Uthgerd sighed, the sound heavy with the weight of unspoken memories. "I'd rather not talk about it right now."

Aeyrie turned to her, her expression softening as she saw the troubled look on Uthgerd's face. Offering a sympathetic smile, she gently placed a hand on Uthgerd's shoulder. "That's alright. You can tell us when you're ready," she assured her.

Uthgerd nodded, grateful for the understanding. The tension eased slightly as they walked in silence, each lost in their own thoughts. The road to Whiterun stretched out before them, the city walls growing larger with each step. Though the question remained unanswered, the bond between them felt stronger, fortified by the unspoken promise of support whenever Uthgerd was ready to share her past.

The group continued their journey, passing by the Whiterun stables and making their way up the winding path to the main gate of the city. As they approached, a guard stepped forward, blocking their path with a stern expression. "Halt, travelers. I cannot permit you entrance to the city," he said gruffly, his hand resting on the hilt of his sword.

"We seek an audience with the Jarl," Jenassa replied calmly, her tone steady. "These newcomers are accompanied by two of the city's residents," she added, nodding toward herself and Uthgerd.

The guard's eyes narrowed slightly, his suspicion evident. "I am sorry, but the city is on lockdown. There was an attack on Helgen, and we can't take any chances."

Aeyrie felt a surge of frustration and stepped forward. "But Riverwood calls for the Jarl's aid! We are simply the messengers!" she exclaimed, her voice tinged with urgency.

The guard hesitated, glancing over at the sentry standing by the gate. After a moment, the other guard gave a small nod of approval. "If Riverwood is in danger, then I suppose we have no choice," the first guard conceded, his tone softening. "We will have a guard from the inner streets escort you to Dragonsreach at once."

He turned to the gate, raising his voice to call out, "Open the city gate!"

With a groan and a creak, the massive wooden gates began to swing open, revealing the bustling streets of Whiterun beyond. The group exchanged relieved glances before stepping forward, ready to deliver their urgent message to the Jarl.

"You have our thanks, sir," Loche said with a polite nod, his voice respectful. The guard acknowledged him with a curt nod before calling out to a passing sentry. "Karsgrir! Escort these four to Dragonsreach at once. They carry information of great importance for the Jarl!"

Karsgrir, a broad-shouldered Nord with a stoic expression, nodded in response and beckoned for them to follow. As they made their way through the gate, Karsgrir led them down a side street to the left, guiding them up a steep path that wound through a densely packed residential area. The houses, built of timber and stone, stood close together, their thatched roofs creating a patchwork of shadows in the late afternoon light.

They soon arrived at a large common area, the centerpiece of which was an ancient, towering tree. Its once-majestic branches now hung limp, the leaves sparse and sickly. As they passed by, the sound of a priest's fervent voice filled the air, preaching the teachings of Talos to a small crowd gathered at the tree's base. Aeyrie glanced over, her attention momentarily drawn to the priest's impassioned words before Karsgrir led them onward.

At the foot of a great stone staircase, Karsgrir paused and gestured up the steps. "Climb the steps, and at the top, you will see Dragonsreach," he instructed, his tone firm yet courteous.