“For months now, you, along with Lachance, have stood at my side. Each grueling moment, we have struggled in hopes to reclaim that which was taken from us. And you, above all else, know that I… am by no account the definition of a good man.”

“Forgive me, my friend, but whatever are you –?”

“–But even thus, I do know a good man when I see him. And you are that good man, Martin Septim. No matter what trials may fall upon us in the impending hours, no matter the cost, know that I shall do all within my power to reassure your future as Emperor…and that I will forever value the friendship you have given me.”

“Well, Korbin, though I greatly admire your words, let us hope that you will not have to act upon such claims, yes? As you said, no matter what awaits, I know that we – the three of us – shall get through it together; as brothers.”

“Ah, now, dear Silencer, allow me to express that which the Emperor Priest left unspoken. As we march upon whatever Sithis-cursed horrors emerge from those fiery depths, I would advise the utmost caution, as well as forgoing any and all foolish thoughts you may have. For I, surely, shudder at the thought of having to replace you, should you decide to fall in place of…others.”

“Indeed? And yet, I wonder if the apprehension you feel is in regards to my possibly failure, or more so because you dread the impossible task of searching out another Silencer whom could never dream of being even remotely as efficient as I?”

“…You see, isolate child, the truth in my words were that I simply dreaded the notion of having to replace my brother, if you chose to give your life for the sake of our own. But now I regret bestowing you a warning at all.”

“Gentlemen, gentlemen; I believe that Bruma eagerly awaits our arrival. Shall we be off, then, or would you rather squabble among yourselves for a little longer?”

Martin Septim/Hero of Kvatch for @denerims