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

Journey to Whiterun: Secrets Unveiled: part 3

The group approached the grounds of Saggitar Stables, their footsteps crunching softly on the gravel path that led up to the property. The air was crisp, carrying the scent of hay and the distant murmur of horses grazing in the enclosed paddock. As they drew closer, Loche couldn't help but voice his thoughts, his eyes sweeping over the scene before them. "This place doesn't look anything like abandoned," he remarked, a note of surprise coloring his tone.

Indeed, the stables and the large home beside it stood in stark contrast to the eerie tale they had been told. The buildings were in pristine condition, their wooden beams and stone walls well-maintained, with no sign of neglect or disrepair. The grassy plains surrounding the property were lush and green, a picturesque scene that seemed more fitting for a peaceful countryside estate than a haunted stable.

Aeyrie tilted her head, taking in the well-kept grounds with a sense of unease. "It's almost too perfect," she murmured, her amber eyes narrowing as she scanned the area. The absence of any human presence only deepened the strange atmosphere. "Whoever—or whatever—is keeping this place in such good condition is doing so with meticulous care."

Jenassa, ever the pragmatist, drew her bow and nocked an arrow, her red eyes sharp with vigilance. "Appearances can be deceiving," she warned, her voice low. "Stay alert. If there's truth to the rumors, we might be dealing with more than just an overactive imagination."

Uthgerd nodded in agreement, her hand instinctively resting on the hilt of her sword as her eyes scanned the quiet grounds. The air around them seemed too still, too perfect, as if the scene had been frozen in time. "Let's not take any chances," she advised, her voice firm but cautious. "We should split up and search the area. Aeyrie, you and Loche take the house. Jenassa and I will check the stables."

Aeyrie met Uthgerd's gaze and gave a resolute nod. The unease she felt earlier had now hardened into a determination to uncover the truth behind the eerie perfection of Saggitar Stables. "Agreed," she replied, her voice steady. "Let's find out what's really going on here."

With their course set, the group divided, each pair heading toward their respective destinations. Aeyrie led Loche toward the large house, its stone walls bathed in the soft glow of the setting sun. Despite the beauty of the scene, a lingering sense of dread hung in the air, as if the house was a stage set for an unseen drama.

As they approached the heavy wooden door, Aeyrie exchanged a glance with Loche. "Stay close," she whispered, drawing her sword. "We don't know what we'll find inside."

Loche gave Aeyrie a reassuring nod, his expression serious but determined. "I'm right behind you," he said, gripping his weapon with a firm hand. Aeyrie took a deep breath, her heart steadying as she prepared for whatever awaited them inside. With a swift motion, she pushed open the door, and they stepped into the well-lit interior of the house.

The room they entered was spacious, lined with towering bookshelves crammed with tomes of various sizes and ages. Several doorways led to other parts of the house, and the entire space exuded an air of quiet, studious order. It was a stark contrast to the unease that had settled over them outside.

"Hello?" Aeyrie called out, her voice cautious but clear, echoing slightly in the silence.

To her astonishment, a voice responded almost immediately, filled with warmth and enthusiasm. "Visitors! Oh, don't be alarmed! Come in, come in! I'll fix ya some tea, maybe even somethin' to eat!"

Aeyrie and Loche exchanged bewildered glances, the tension in the room easing just slightly at the unexpected response. "Uh, sure," Aeyrie replied, still scanning the room. "But... where are you?" She sheathed her sword, her eyes searching the room for any sign of the speaker.