Caylin's Monsters
Chapter 3: First Mission
I was both eager and nervous for my first real assignment, but Farkas appeared to be in no hurry. Before we left Whiterun, he took me up to a platform outside the gates where we could look out over the Hold. “I just wanted you to see what we’re fighting for,” he said. “It’s not just for money. We’re more than mercenaries for hire. We’re protectors, Caylin. At least that’s how I see it.” He didn’t say anything else for a minute, and it gave me time to consider his words. I had joined the Companions to learn how to fight, but his perspective made me appreciate them in a whole new way; as a group of people protecting Skyrim.
After another few moments, Farkas broke the silence, “Are you ready?” I took a deep breath and responded, “I think so.” He looked over at me and said, “Let’s go then, and don’t worry. I’m here to back you up. We call ourselves Companions for a reason. We’re in this together.” His words were encouraging, and they quelled some of my fears.
This first assignment took us east of Whiterun. Someone needed us to retrieve an item they lost in a cave. It sounded mundane, but considering they hired warriors for this job, I could only assume there was something pretty dangerous guarding said item.
I was surprised by my anticipation and excitement for battle. I never would have expected this response from myself given how reserved I was growing up. I still wasn’t sure whether these feelings were good or not, but I just hoped they would help keep my senses sharp regardless.
A foul odor assaulted my nostrils as we entered the cave. Almost immediately I heard the sound of some kind of animal. It sounded like there was more than one. Farkas told me they were trolls. They must have heard us or picked up our scent because the sounds were getting closer. Out of the darkness, two huge trolls rushed at us. I was terrified, but with the help of the more-experienced Farkas, we managed to slay them both without too much trouble.
I had never killed anything before. I was surprised how easy it was to end a life. At this realization, I was filled with fear. The power of life and death… what a huge responsibility, I thought. It’s no small thing to wield such a power, even against the life of lower creatures like these beasts.
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