The great wooden gates of Whiterun rose before us as the sun hung low in the sky. The city looked impressive — strong walls, bustling activity, and the towering Dragonsreach sitting proudly on the hill above everything.
Two guards stepped forward as we approached.
"Hold there, travelers," one of them called. "State your business in Whiterun."
I dismounted and helped Meridia down. "We're just passing through. Looking for work and a place to rest. Heard Whiterun was the best place to find both."
The guard's eyes lingered on Meridia for a long moment. Her radiant beauty and faint golden glow made her stand out like a beacon in the evening light.
"You two don't look like ordinary travelers," the second guard muttered. "Especially her. You some kind of mage?"
Meridia lifted her chin proudly. "I am—"
"Just a priestess of Meridia," I cut in smoothly. "We've come from the north. Morthal area."
The first guard grunted. "Meridia, huh? Well, as long as you're not here to cause trouble or preach Daedric nonsense too loudly, you're welcome. Keep your weapons peace-bound and don't start any fights."
We were allowed through without further issue. As soon as we passed the gate and entered the city proper, Meridia's irritation flared.
"'Priestess'?" she hissed quietly, glaring at me. "You reduced me to a mere priestess again? I should smite you for that insult."
I grinned as we walked through the busy streets. "Would you rather I told them the actual Daedric Princess of Light was visiting? We'd be arrested or worshipped as heretics before sunset."
Meridia huffed but stayed close to my side. "These mortals and their small minds… Still, this city has more energy than that miserable swamp. I can feel opportunities here."
Whiterun was alive with activity. Merchants shouted their wares, children ran through the streets, and the smell of fresh bread and roasted meat filled the air. We made our way toward the marketplace near the center.
A well-dressed woman with a clipboard — a representative of the Companions — noticed us and approached.
"You two look capable. The Companions are always looking for strong arms. Interested in some honest work?"
Before I could answer, Meridia spoke first. "My champion has greater purposes than common mercenary work."
The woman raised an eyebrow. "Champion? That's an interesting way to speak of your… companion."
I quickly stepped in. "We'll think about it. Thank you."
As the woman walked away, Meridia crossed her arms. "She was looking at you too boldly. I do not like it."
I chuckled. "You really are jealous of every woman who glances my way."
"I am protective," she corrected haughtily. "There is a difference."
We eventually found a decent inn called "The Bannered Mare." The innkeeper, Hulda, welcomed us warmly.
"Two rooms or one?" she asked.
I glanced at Meridia. She gave a tiny nod.
"One room," I said.
Hulda smiled knowingly. "Got a nice one upstairs with a big bed. Enjoy your stay."
Once inside the room, Meridia immediately claimed the bed, lounging across it like she owned the entire inn.
"Not bad," she said, looking around. "Much better than that damp place in Morthal."
I set my pack down and sat beside her. "We should keep a low profile for a day or two. Get the lay of the land, listen for rumors about dragons or the civil war."
Meridia shifted closer until her shoulder pressed against mine. "And I will continue observing you. You are becoming more… noticeable. I cannot allow lesser women to think they have a chance."
I turned to look at her. "You know I only have eyes for one arrogant, beautiful, tsundere Daedric Princess, right?"
She turned her face away, but I saw the faint blush. "Flattery will not make me soften… much." She paused, then quietly added, "But it is… acceptable."
Meridia suddenly sat up straighter. "I sense something. A faint echo of power near the mountains. Not a full dragon yet… but something ancient is stirring."
"Great," I muttered. "Just what we needed."
She placed her hand over mine. "Whatever comes, we will face it. Together."
I squeezed her hand. "Together."
That night, as we lay in bed, Meridia curled against my side without hesitation. Her golden hair spilled across my chest as she rested her head there.
"Fisherman," she whispered in the dark.
"Yeah?"
"…I am glad I chose you. Even if you are still somewhat embarrassing."
I laughed softly and wrapped my arm around her. "High praise. I'll treasure it forever, Princess."
She made a small, content sound and held me tighter.