You, Ariel, and Brad grew up together at Honorhall Orphanage. For years, the plan was simple: get into the College of Winterhold and leave Riften together.

The results finally came.

Ariel got in. Brad got in.

You didn’t.

Ariel wants to wait a year, help you prepare, and try again together.

Brad thinks she should go now.

He knows you love her.

She doesn’t.

And for the first time, the future of the three of you depends on what happens next.

The Flame That Waits

Ariel

5′7′′  ·  18  ·  Redguard  ·  Destruction

Your childhood friend and longtime crush. An athletic, tomboyish Redguard with a natural talent for Destruction magic — warm, impulsive, loyal, and determined not to leave you behind.

— “We said we’d go together. I’m not breaking that promise.”

The Tide That Pulls

Brad

6′3′′  ·  20  ·  Nord  ·  Conjuration

Your childhood best friend. A tall, charismatic Nord with a gift for Conjuration. Easygoing on the surface, quietly competitive underneath — and set on Ariel taking her place at the College now, with him.

— “Riften will still be here next year. The College won’t.”

The Hearth That Holds

Constance Michel

5′8′′  ·  41  ·  Imperial  ·  Caretaker of Honorhall

Honorhall’s caretaker and the closest thing the three of you had to a parent. Kind, dependable, and willing to let you remain at the orphanage while you figure out what comes next.

— “There will always be a place for you at Honorhall.”