This is a work of fanfiction, written for entertainment purposes only. Elder Scrolls, associated characters and settings are property of Bethesda Game Studios and their associated companies and partners. The character of Isabelle Kingston is based on a character I created within the game Elder Scrolls Online, and is not canon to the Elder Scrolls universe. Many thanks to Bethesda for creating a deep and complex world for fans to explore and experience.

Isabelle Kingston smoothed over the silk of her new gown before entering the throne room. She wanted to wear something simple to court, the Breton style garb Verandis preferred. But Adusa-daro wouldn't hear of it.

"You need to look the part of a female noble of Rivenspire," the Khajiit had said. "You are new to these courtiers, at least as a member of their ranks. Adusa thinks you need to make a good impression. For all our sakes."

It was true. While the people of Rivenspire hailed the Ravenwatch as heroes, the rest of Tamriel still carried uncertainty. Resentment. Fear. Vampires were still unrepentant monsters to them. This was a chance to prove them wrong.

Isabelle's parents would be surprised to see their daughter leading a noble house, however minor its standing. Her family contained a long line of commoners, and more than a few thieves. As some would say, Isabelle came by her thieving trade honest.

Even as a small girl, she had the knack, and the charm. Once she was old enough, she sought out the Thieves Guild and honed those skills to a razor-fine edge. She was surprised that the skills that made her a good thief served her well in her work for the Covenant and for House Ravenwatch.

This was a path Akatosh and Mara set her on long before she walked it. She never ceased to be amazed by how the Divines worked their will.

Isabelle straightened her spine, turned on the charm, and entered the throne room. Not as an agent of the kingdom, but as the head of a noble house.

A variety of nobles stood around the room, awaiting the arrival of the High King. The noise of various conversations filled the space, lending a sociable atmosphere. Isabelle drew near to a small group of people and engaged them in conversation while she scanned the room, taking in as many pieces of information as she could.

Queen Maraya entered the throne room with one of her ladies, looking as regal and beautiful as ever. While the Redguard princess and the Breton king had wed for political reasons, they grew to love each other over the years that followed. It was obvious how they felt. Isabelle thought the kingdom was better for it. To have two rulers who cared for each other gave the people a sense that they would care for them.

The Queen stopped at the group where Isabelle stood, smiling warmly as they all curtsied or bowed to her. She spoke to them all, and to Isabelle she said, "I have a new book to loan you. Be sure to see me before you leave Wayrest today."

"Of course, Your Majesty."

After the queen stepped away and moved towards another group, Isabelle found a few surprised looks and at least two sets of raised eyebrows. She wasn't sure if Maraya's request had engendered respect, suspicion, jealously, or a mix of all three. She would have to wait and see. But in the moment, she was quite amused.

Soon High King Emeric entered the throne room and the official business of holding court began. Isabelle kept her wits about her, knowing that after this she had requested a private audience with the king. One she was both dreading and looking forward to.

———-

Another meeting with High King Emeric. But there was no need for secrecy this time. Isabelle didn't have to hide her face for fear of her vampirism being noticed.

She sought a similar request as before, but for much different reasons. It wasn't that she felt like she couldn't perform her duties to the High King. She wanted to belong to the Ravenwatch, and only the Ravenwatch.

"Ah, my friend!" Emeric began as he entered the meeting room. Isabelle smiled and curtsied to her sovereign. Emeric asked a servant to fetch him something to drink. Isabelle politely refused any refreshments.

"Well, how was your first official day as a noble in my court?" Emeric asked, taking the goblet of wine from the servant before dismissing them.

"Less… traumatic than I imagined, but just as intriguing, Your Majesty."

The High King laughed. "What a diplomatic answer, Isabelle. I think you'll navigate these shark-infested waters just fine."

He set the goblet down on the table. "Now, I have a feeling I know what this is about, but I'll let you tell me yourself," Emeric said with his characteristic wry grin. Sarcasm and snark suited the king, and he seemed to have an unending supply of it.

"Your Majesty, I humbly request to take my leave of your active service and devote my time and efforts to the Ravenwatch." Isabelle said it as slowly as she could, torn between rushing to get it out and speaking clearly.

Emeric studied her for a few moments. She knew she was one of his best agents, and a close friend, but she hoped he would be willing to let her go.

After what seemed like a hour, Emeric spoke. "While it pains me to lose such a valuable asset, I know I can count on you to continue Verandis' legacy and help the Ravenwatch continue to defend Tamriel." He sighed. "I had a feeling it would come to this one day. Just know that I reserve the right to call you back at any time."

"I understand, sire. Thank you."

"I won't do so unless my kingdom, or the world, is falling down around us. I know you and the Ravenwatch will continue to defend Tamriel. But I am not letting you go without some small tether to bind you to the Covenant."

Isabelle laughed. "As I expected, Your Majesty."

"Besides, you're the head of a Rivenspire noble house now… Countess Isabelle." She smiled politely at the use of her new title. She would have sworn he did it to get a rise from her. "I'll expect appearances at court when I visit Shornhelm. And don't hide your vampirism. The people of Rivenspire know that some vampires can be trusted, and the Ravenwatch has quite the stellar reputation now." He leaned in conspiratorially. "Don't do anything to ruin that, hm?"

"We shall do our best, Your Majesty."

"Good." Emeric reached out and took Isabelle's hand in both of his, and smiled warmly. "Verandis left his house in capable and honorable hands. You will do well, my friend." The older man said this last sentence like a proud mentor or a father. Isabelle smiled and accepted his praise. Emeric was not a man of lukewarm words, nor did he give praise lightly.

"Tell me something, Isabelle," Emeric said as he rose from his chair and walked to a nearby window. Isabelle watched him carefully, sensing his curiosity was about to get the best of him.

"What really happened to Verandis?"

Isabelle had mentally prepared for this moment. She never thought she could lie to her sovereign with a straight face.

"He was lost saving Markarth from the darkstorm. Without his sacrifice, Rada al-Saran's schemes would have devastated The Reach, and eventually all of Tamriel."

Emeric turned and gave his friend a stern look. Isabelle kept her face as blank as possible. Verandis was lost. He did sacrifice himself for Tamriel. She just couldn't say he was still alive.

The High King sighed, a knowing frown on his face. "Keeping to the story, I see. You learned well in your time with the Covenant."

For a brief moment, Isabelle considered telling him. Emeric and Verandis were close friends for many years. But she held her tongue. No one could know. Not even the High King. Not even Verandis' oldest friends.

"I am sorry for your loss, Your Majesty."

"And I for yours." Emeric paused. "Verandis did much for Tamriel and her people. All while being a vampire. Perhaps we could all learn something from that."

Isabelle smiled. Mara knew she had.