Being a vampire lord that can't associate with her own kind nor be seen in normal society had it's...limits. The road to Morthal was a dangerous one and three days had already went by and they had barely made any progress. Serana suggested not using a carriage or a horse again since it would require interaction with the townspeople. The less people saw them, the less information could be extracted. Still with all the running and even short walks during the day they had only made it to Ivanstead and Morthal was quite a good distance away. A wave of hope gave Elvi the confidence to continue. Morthal was a little to close for comfort, since apparently Harkon had several contacts in Solitude but she didn't care. Let them come. If there was a cure, nothing was going to prevent her from achieving it. Redemption was going to be difficult but she would spend the rest of her life trying to make up for the sins she had committed as a vampire and allowing herself to fall from grace. Serana had been very supportive and encouraging but she began to wonder if something was bugging her. Elvi had learned to try and keep her emotions and thoughts unreadable but Serana was always able to see right through her. Harkon could as well but it was more impressive coming from her since she didn't have the advantage of reading her mind. Unfortunately the same couldn't be said on Elvi's end. She always had a feeling when something was on Serana's mind but she could never tell for certain.
There was a crescent move shining above them and only a few stars were glowing in the sky. It made there surroundings much darker then normal but sad to say it allowed Elvi see everything perfectly. The advantages of being a vampire were useful on their trip. She rarely felt the cold and Skyrim was a harsh mistress with snow and even hail in most of it's terrain but it was hardly noticed now. They hadn't made it to any of the really snowy areas yet but when they did she would be prepared. The advanced speed and amazing stamina of course aided them extremely. Only now they were walking on a small path in the wilderness and silently enjoying the night and each others company.
"So, Elvi if we get to Morthal and you are able to get cured...will you try and join the Dawnguard again?" Serana ventured. It had been one of the many, many things on her mind and she had to voice it. If she did decide to go back to them and they accepted her, then it would be very rare she would see Elvi again. Sure, if she really really wanted to her father probably would welcome her back into the castle but she didn't want to go back almost as bad as Elvi. Like her, she had nowhere she could go. Not where she would be fully welcome anyway. She thought her father tolerated her simply because she was his daughter. As horrible as it was to say, she still believed he loved her but...she knew he didn't like her very much. Then again their relationship had always been that way. Since she could remember. A more...acceptance of each others existence and the only reason he was so protective of her was because of his lineage. So if Elvi decided to be a Dawnguard again...maybe they should part ways at Morthal. She didn't desire this at all but she wanted to be realistic with the situation instead of the rose colored outcome she wanted. Elvi took a long time to answer her and Serana considered repeating herself, thinking Elvi wasn't paying attention.
"No. Call me bitter or even jilted but I cannot align myself with anyone who would so easily dismiss someone for being what they are. I could understand if they questioned me but to shut me out completely...I just can't let that go. I want to cure myself of vampirism for me. Not for them." Elvi explained. Briefly she had considered it but after all she had done for them, to spit in her face for something she couldn't help made her open her eyes. She had been so...ignorant in the past. It was okay to hate or despise creatures that tore families apart and killed for pleasure but everyone had a voice and it needed to be heard. If she had came to them as a werewolf would they have done the same? Sure, she still hated vampires but at least now her focus was on a particular group of vampires not all of them together. Serana had to be the most brilliant, talented woman she had ever met and if she had turned her back on her just for being a vampire then she would have missed out on the greatest friendship she had ever known.
Serana felt relief but the entire ordeal...bugged her a little. She was thankful and grateful for the gift she was given even with all she had to endure to get it, so leading someone to cleanse themselves felt...wrong. Yes she had suggested it to Elvi but she was a different circumstance so she reminded herself that. She wasn't as narrow minded as her father on the ancient blood but she did see it as a gift. If anyone else had sired her she may even have tried to talk her out of it but that's not what had happened. Her father was a very powerful man and in some aspects he deserved respect but if he had been left alone with Elvi, she would have became just like him. Cold, arrogant and power hungry. She didn't want to see Elvi that way. When she looked over to her she smiled when she saw Elvi was humming quietly to herself. That light inside her showing again. It was refreshing.
"You are too good for them Elvi. The knowledge and spirit in you is well beyond your years. If they can't appreciate you for everything that you are then it's they who are the monsters, not you." Serana said giving a piece of her mind about the entire Dawnguard. Elvi chuckled and stated
"Thanks grandma." Making Serana roll her eyes but she chuckled with her. She was allowed to embark wisdom every once and awhile too, you know? Elvi sighed deeply then looked up at the moon. A warm smile on her face.
"That would be amazing you know...I look forward to it."
Serana was a little confused and she walked a little closer to her.
"Look forward to what?"
"Being a grandmother. I never knew mine, but some of the neighbor kids would tell me stories. Anytime they visited their grandmother they would come back with warm knitted sweaters and their bellies full of treats. I may not be a conventional grandmother mind you but I'd like to think I'd be able to bake the best cookies in Skyrim along with making the sharpest daggers my little ones could wield." the concept warmed her. It's not like she could adopt children as a vampire so the option of ever having grandchildren was taken from her. Well...so had a few other options that brought pain to her each and everyday but still she could live happily this way. It was enough. Serana stopped cold in her tracks, as if she had just been hit by a fast flying arrow. Elvi faced her and the look of confusion and concern on Serana's face was shocking. Had she done something wrong?
"You...you desire to be a grandmother? You want to grow that old?" it seemed so strange to hear someone so young and lively as Elvi say this. Everyone at some point or another dreaded growing older but from the way she had said it, it was like it's all she had ever wanted.
"Absolutely. Some of the proudest warriors I have ever had the privilege of knowing were fighting on well into their fifties and even seventies. Age only limits you if you let it. Kodlak wore his gray hair as proudly as he did his battle scars. I plan on doing the same. If I'm lucky it might encourage my someday family to do everything they want to do each and every day or their lives. Of course this is all assuming I live to a ripe old age but that's the plan."
Serana stared at her for a little while in silence. Elvi was a complex woman and every time she thought she had her figured out, she left her guessing again. Desiring a family was one thing but her acceptance of death and age seemed so...odd. Since Elvi was such a proud warrior she assumed that she would want the opportunity to fight as long as possible. Before her very eyes, Elvi's young and beautiful face seemed to shift to a wrinkled and tattered one. She did not like the image of Elvi being old and to tired to carry on. Not one bit. But if it was the life Elvi wanted then she deserved it. Serana and her father did have one very large thing in common. They both had attached themselves to the complexity and wonderment that was the blonde nord woman named Elvi Erissen. Probably not in the same way, but it was the truth. Even when Elvi was mortal she had deluded herself into believing their friendship really could last throughout the decades but...whether it be tomorrow or eighty years from now, Elvi was going to die. Yes, being a vampire death was still very possible but as a mortal it was inevitable. Even if she became the strongest warrior in all of Tamriel it wouldn't save her from aging and turning gray. If all this worked and Elvi was mortal again she would have no choice but to watch as she slowly faded away. Would anyone remember her in centuries to come? Would she just...disappear? Left only as a treasured memory in her mind?
"Are you okay?" Elvi's voice interrupted her train of thought and Serana shook herself back to the present moment. All well... if that's what she had to prepare herself for to remain close to Elvi, so be it. Her petty feelings on the matter should remain silent. Elvi like everyone else should have the life she wanted. That she chose.
"Yes, it just would be odd seeing your hand holding a rattle over a sword or wearing an apron instead of your heavy armor." Serana smirked. Oh how her and her family were masters of lying with the truth. The notion was strange to her but she should keep her negative thoughts on mortality to herself. She hadn't seen Elvi this happy in far to long and she wouldn't spoil it. Elvi laughed and the pair continued their course.
"I know, I know. I am probably the least motherly person in existence but I thought I would give it a shot one day. If I do not find a glorious death saving the world then I want to try and settle down. It may even be out of reach once I am mortal again but hey, a girl can dream right?" she chuckled. Serana was simply speechless. Most mortals dreamed of riches, fame or power but Elvi wanted the basic things that every being usually had and took advantage of. Serana decided that the conversation was becoming a little to...somber for her liking so she stated,
"Hey, let's pick up the pace. If we really try, we might be able to get to Riverwood tonight and stay at the inn there until nightfall. You said you knew the owner so we might be able to find some peace." Serana said and without waiting she took off into a swift run and Elvi ran after her. Still carrying the feeling that she had somehow said or done something wrong.
(xxx)
Not long now. Only a couple of miles and they would have finally made it to Morthal. Despite having to remain out of sight they had made it in only a few short days. They had managed to avoid being found by any of the Volkihar but they had to wipe out a couple of bandit hideouts just to have somewhere to stay during the day time. All that time Serana had tried to convince Elvi to feed but she never did. She would have to stomach the potions of blood until she could get cured. She wanted to return to mortality with a clean conscience not with her stomach full of blood. She could hardly contain her excitement the closer they got to the city. Serana had given her an extra hood she had brought with her and she decided to go ahead and wear it before they reached the city. Hoping to avoid to much suspicion. When she saw Serana pause and turn to say something to her she was surprised to see a panicked look come across her face. Jumping to the defense Elvi drew both of her swords and turned around to face the attacker before they got the jump on her. She looked around and strained her hearing for any signs of dismay but she was certain only she and Serana were on the road they currently traveled. When she turned back in her direction Serana was shouting
"Elvi...Elvi where are you! Elvi!"
This was extremely odd since Elvi was but a few feet away from her as she had remained most of their trip. Raising an eyebrow Elvi cleared her throat and said
"Um, Serana I'm right here..."
Serana looked in her general direction but her eyes weren't directly on her. Serana walked a little closer and Elvi could even reach out and touch her if she wanted but Serana was acting like she couldn't see her. Were they...playing a game she didn't know about?
"Where? Elvi this isn't funny, I was afraid someone had ran up and grabbed you without me knowing! You scared me." Serana scolded. A little confused Elvi reached out and grabbed her shoulder lightly which caused Serana to not only jerk back in surprise but summon one of her spells as well.
"Woah, I'm right here Serana, can you...can you not see me?" Elvi stated and questionably Serana reached out and nudged her shoulder. Elvi was about to ask her exactly how much moon sugar she had munched down when she wasn't looking when Serana chuckled and even seemed a tad impressed.
"Ah, that's interesting. I was wondering when we would see your night power. Well can't see in this case."
"What in Oblivion are you talking about?" Elvi asked only making Serana chuckle more.
"You may not realize it Elvi but your invisible. I really couldn't see you a few minutes ago and if you hadn't touched me, I wouldn't have had a clue where you were."
Elvi looked down at her arms in disbelief. Both of them had always had a strange sense of humor but she didn't think Serana would ever accuse her of being invisible just to get a laugh. Sure enough when she examined her hands she could see the outline of them but not her skin, bones, armor, anything. Only a slight tracing of where her hands were. She flexed her fingers a couple of times to be certain and she could see them move but barely. The entire ordeal was so strange to see. If Serana wasn't there, she probably would have assumed she was dying. She didn't feel any different, in fact she really thought she would be aware if she had suddenly turned invisible but she didn't have a clue.
"I'm invisible? What kind of sorcery is this?" she scoffed. Wanting to know how to return to normal but when she tried to concentrate nothing changed. Ugh, maybe after she got cured she should just run off and join the mages college so she would never be stuck not knowing how use a power again. Serana smirked.
"It's your night power. Vampire power if you will. Strong vampires often have a unique power upon their creation and I knew you were bound to have one as well. I had heard stories of a few vampires that could hold invisibility longer than most but I never met anyone that could. Every vampire lord can turn invisible for a brief time after an extended lapse in feeding but since we have carried on this conversation and I still can't see you, and from the shock in your voice I assume you didn't call on it, I'm willing to bet it's your power. We'll call it a night cloak for lack of better terms. It's actually really impressive, the night itself seems to give you favor if she is willing to hide you and keep you safe."
Elvi was thankful she was unseen because she rolled her eyes. She did not find anything impressive about it. Of course a power she was given would be something in the ways of stealth which would help a thief or an assassin over a warrior such as she. Just another way to kick her while she was down. No matter, it's not like she was going to have any kind of vampire power, hopefully soon. Still she wished she knew how to make herself visible again.
"Any of those stories tell you how to like...turn it off?" Elvi questioned.
"You don't know how to control it?"
Elvi shook her head in response then realized how dumb that was considering the circumstances, so she merely stated no.
"No problem, your powers are as simple as breathing once you get used to it. I can teac-" Serana stopped and looked away for a second. Elvi scowled. She was acting so...odd the past couple of days. She'd usually bring herself out of it but the slightest mention of something seemed to throw her back into a foul mood.
"Nevermind. Let's just...keep going. Morthal is just around the corner and since we took time to take a breath, my fathers minions are probably right behind us. I'm sure it will wear off soon."
At that she started to walk forward and Elvi followed. By the time they actually made it to the city, Elvi was visible again. Most of the villagers were already in their respected homes or in the Inn to get hammered or to socialize after a long day of work. Elvi looked over her shoulder nervously. Something didn't feel right. She had the suspicious feeling that she was being watched and she found the source. She noticed a few of the guards were eying her and Serana. It was natural. A lot of Skyrim's cities were leery of outsiders and two strange women wearing hoods to conceal their faces and were decked out with weapons was probably not something seen everyday. Like the unwelcome visitor that just wouldn't leave and showed up whenever it wanted, Elvi felt her hunger take it's grip. She sighed and ignored it. Never again.
"Come on, I'm sure someone in the Inn knows where this Falion lives. Hopefully he welcomes visitors." Serana said and made her way towards the Inn. Leaving Elvi to follow close behind. She was now nervous she would disappear in front of all the townspeople and it's not like that could be an easy explanation. When they walked inside, Elvi saw that no one in the Inn seemed to notice her and Serana at all. The few people sitting at the tables were laughing and talking amongst themselves or sitting alone and nursing the mead in their hands. Serana approached the counter to speak to the Innkeeper and Elvi wondered if Serana was so bold in her actions because she was used to either being the center of attention or being ignored all together. She let Serana take the lead since she was much better with words then Elvi was. She was so desperate to find this man she w,ould probably shriek the question to her, like a deranged maniac. When Serana returned with the location of Falion's house, Elvi raced out of the door as soon as Serana had finished her sentence.
Serana sighed but walked after her. Guess it was time to face the music. See if Falion really could do what they say he could. By the time she made it to Falion's front steps Elvi was already knocking on the door. The echo from her ebony gauntlet on the wooden door made it much louder then she had intended it to be but at least she was heard. She wondered what time it was and she hoped it wasn't really late or really early in the morning.
Serana and Elvi both were startled to see a little nord girl answer the door. She rubbed her eyes and yawned. When she was through she asked "Um, Can I help you with something?"
Elvi and Serana looked to each other then to the little girl. Not knowing how to respond to the situation. The last thing they expected to find in the powerful conjurer's home was a brunette nine year old. Luckily she heard a deep voice from inside the house ask
"Whose at the door Agni?"
The little girl shrugged and answered "Dunno, mercenaries from the looks of them."
Elvi furrowed her brow. When she was her age she had no idea what a mercenary was. Knowing she did, was a little disturbing. Then again mercenaries were better then assassins, so maybe it wasn't so strange. The man she assumed to be Falion told the little girl to let them in and Serana closed the door behind them. Anxiously she approached the man. He was a redguard that wore common blue mages robes. The inside of the house was also plain with a few fur skins spread across the walls and the floors along with a few cabinets filled with enchanting and alchemy ingredients and a table pushed against the wall by the door. Elvi could not help but feel a little disappointed when examining the man. She didn't know why she thought he would be seven foot tall with a staff and a long beard or something. His brown eyes traveled from her to Serana.
"How can I help you ladies this evening?" he asked in a friendly manner though there was a leery undertone to his voice and Elvi was skilled enough to notice when someone had subtly reached for their weapon and she knew Falion's hand was clenched around a hidden dagger in his robes. Elvi's eyes scanned over to the little girl not far from her and taking the hint Falion instructed.
"Go downstairs Agni. It's past your bedtime anyway." The little girl stomped her foot and let out a long disappointed 'aww' before saying "But Mister Falion I wanted to-"
"You heard me, child. We can restart your studies in the morning." Falion said firmly and Agni huffed then went downstairs. When Elvi was certain she was gone she looked to Falion. She let out a long sigh before beginning.
"Rumor has it that you have found a cure for vampirism." She waited for a response before continuing. Not wanting to pour her heart out to the complete stranger if the rumor was only that. A rumor. She saw Falion smile from beneath his hood.
"What you heard is correct. I can bring life into your dead body, vampire." he stated with confidence. Elvi really shouldn't have been surprised that the experienced mage knew she was a vampire even with her face mostly hidden but she was. It didn't matter though. The certainty in his voice was enough to make all her hopes come to reality. She wanted to drop to the floor and scream out in joy. It was over. The nightmare was over. "It will take some effort on your part however." he added and Elvi was willing to give him just about anything in return for this.
"What would you have of me?" she pleaded.
"In order for the ceremony to work I need a filled black soul gem. In case you didn't know already black soul gems differ from the white ones. They can harbor human souls which is needed for it to work. Yes, you will have to kill someone." Well...it's not like that was new to her. It's not like it had to be an innocent person, at least. "Bring me the black soul gem at sunrise and I will begin the ceremony. If you do not have one I can sell one to you from my stock."
That was it? That's all she had to do? Not questioning her good luck for once, Elvi nodded and reached into her knapsack to get out her gold. She froze when she remembered that she had given all of her gold to the carriage driver a week or so back in order to ensure a one way, no stop trip to Riften. Really? This is what set her back? She had a cure staring her in the face and she had to turn it down because she was broke...?
"I...I don't have any gold." she explained. She wondered how many times her hopes could be dashed in such a short amount of time. If Serana wasn't there she probably would have either cried or begged the man to cure her. When Falion walked closer to her she knew there was tears in her eyes but she was too stubborn to let them fall. He smiled at her and said
"I know who you are Dragonborn. I also know of the terror that could have befallen all of us were it not for you. You may not be as appreciated as you should be, such is the fate of most worthy heroes but I know how real your struggle was, and to face it at your age and come out unscathed is...humbling. The very least I can do to show my gratitude is give you the soul gem and your cure free of charge." Falion said and before her eyes she watched him reach into the cabinet next to him and offer the black soul gem to her. Elvi was in disbelief. A part of her couldn't help but wonder what the catch was. Everything in her life had some kind cost or price she had to pay, so for him to give her literally all she had wanted for months now in exchange for absolutely nothing at all...was mind boggling. Now she remembered that there were people in this world worth fighting for. Worth dying for. As few as they may be...people like him were worth it. He was also one of the few that had not only acknowledged all that she had done but had thanked her. She looked into his eyes and at first was speechless. She was so stunned and filled with joy it's like her brain had forgotten how to form words.
"Truly?" she couldn't help but ask.
"Yes, all you need do is fill this soul gem and meet me at the summoning circle in the marsh at dawn. We shall vanish the creature that you have become." She went to take the gem from his hands and she let her own linger on top of his for a few moments. When he looked at her she smiled and the light that came to her eyes, for once had nothing to do with the vampiric glow.
"Thank you. You have no idea how much this means to me. I will find a way to repay your kindness one day Falion. I promise." Falion was going to respond but Serana had to interject.
"So it's really going to work then? You're going to make her mortal? She's not going to become a Spriggan or explode into dust or anything? You've done this before? You know what your doing?" This wasn't a surprise to Elvi. They both were pretty protective of the other and trusting Elvi's life in the hands of a stranger was probably difficult for her to just do but Elvi was willing to try anything.
"More times then I ever thought I would have to in these dark times. You two aren't the first to seek this, since the vampire uprising were not supposed to know about it." he smirked slightly. "And yes, I do know what I am doing. I know many things. I have studied things beyond the reach of most humans, traveled the Oblivion planes, seen things one should not see. I have met Daedra and Dwemer and everything in between. Such things have their own prices to pay, including this cities assumption that I sacrifice children and eat the hearts of the dead. If they would prefer to think what they will of me instead of simply asking for the truth, that's fine. Unfortunately it makes people who seek my help and expertise feel like they can't approach me. What about you? Do you seek the cure as well?"
"I'll pass." Serana said simply. Again not a surprise. She in no way expected Serana to get cured along with her. She had made a lot of sacrifices to be what she was and Elvi would never force her to throw it all away. Falion nodded.
"Fair enough. I will see you at dawn Dragonborn."
(xxx)
Elvi awaited anxiously inside their room in the Moorside Inn. Dawn could not come quicker. With Falion's help they had managed to stay in the Inn for free that night which made her even more in debt to him. Filling the soul gem hadn't been a hard task. Just up the road from the marshes of Morthal, there was a bandit hideout and with the help if Serana's soul trap spell all she needed to do was deliver the final blow to the poor fool. She was thankful for this because Elvi did not know the spell and all her enchanted swords or daggers were in her home in Whiterun. It was finally going to end. The hunger, the shattering pain from the sun and probably the worst thing that ailed her currently was her constant thoughts revolving around Harkon. She felt...wrong without him. Like she was missing something vital to her. It was most unsettling. It was almost as though those invisible strings she felt around him was yanking her back into his direction and it took a lot of concentration to ignore it. Once she was mortal she could focus on what was important, which was defeating him and not keeping herself under control. She was already plotting ways she could achieve such a thing. Maybe Falion could provide even more help for her. She recalled his claim that he had traveled the planes of Oblivion and if his claim was true, then maybe he could help them figure out a way to. She smirked at the idea of not only ridding herself of Harkon's precious blood but actually beating him to the scroll. How...poetic. She looked over at Serana who was sitting on the bed opposite of hers and flipping through one of her many books. They hadn't spoken much to each other that night but then again a lot was happening. She knew she was still concerned with her father finding her but it was the last thing on Elvi's mind now. All she could think of was being able to breathe properly again. Let them come. Let him come. It didn't matter. If he killed her this time she would have the strength to resist him.
"Serana...you will go with me, won't you?" Elvi asked not sure if she could face whatever this ritual was alone. She looked up from her book and the look of bewilderment on her face was amusing.
"Of course I will. You didn't even need to ask." Elvi smiled.
"I'm glad you are here. Thank you Serana, for everything."
"Don't get mushy on me Elvi. We still have a long road ahead of us and I can't have you becoming a weepy little girl to face it." she smirked and Elvi threw one of the spare pillows on her bed at her as a retort. Serana chuckled and closed her book. "Hey, you should get a couple of hours of sleep before we meet Falion. I will stay on watch until then. Since you haven't fed from real blood in so long I'm surprised you can hold your head up."
"Brillant idea." Elvi said and laid back in her bed. The black soul gem clutched firmly in her hand. With sleep on her side she would be able to awake and it would be time to go instead of this impossible waiting. She was surprised at how easily sleep came to her but she embraced it. Her last night as a vampire. Good riddance.
Seemed like only a few minutes had passed when she felt Serana jerk her awake. When she opened her eyes she saw Serana smiling down on her.
"It's time." she offered her hand to Elvi then hoisted her to her feet. "Are you ready?" Elvi took in a deep breath.
"Yes." that was enough for Serana and together they walked out of the room and then out of the Inn. The sun was barely shining up above them but she could still feel her blood boil in her veins. Defiantly would not miss that. Despite the pain seeping into her body she could not help but smile throughout their entire journey. She could feel the song in her heart again and it was a missed a blessed feeling. After what the Dawnguard had done to her she didn't know if she would find happiness in it's entirety ever again. Now that she had it again she was never letting go. As they got closer to the stone summoning circle Elvi could not find Falion right away. Strange she figured he would be there before them. As they got closer she spotted the bright blue color of his robes and her smile grew. Ah, there he was. He must have been drawling some kind of ruins on the circle for the ritual. She stopped. He hadn't moved. He was just...laying in the center of the circle. Odd, what all was necessary to complete this? When she watched him for a few seconds and he still hadn't so much as flinched, a cold and sickening feeling swept over her body. As if everything moved in a slow speed she saw out of the corner of her eye Serana race over to him. She had already made the connection Elvi's mind was just not ready to accept. Serana rolled Falion onto his back but Elvi didn't need to see this in order to know what had occurred.
Feebly and in a naïve state of mind Serana tried to think of some kind of healing spell off the top of her head but as Elvi approached to stand by her side she could see with her own eyes it would do no good. His eyes were white and his hood had fallen backwards. Making his broken neck all the more visible considering the bone was protruding out of one side. If the world hadn't crumbled around her before, it certainly was now. Elvi dropped to her knees next to Serana and Serana turned her head from her. She just couldn't see that heart breaking look on her face again. It was too painful. Elvi couldn't even feel anything. She was numb. Lifeless. There it was...her chance to be normal...her chance to be free again...and like everything else it was taken from her. Her mind only for a second wondered who could be responsible for this but she didn't care. Even vengeance didn't appeal to her in that moment. The first thing that came to her mind on the subject was, while she and Serana were in the Inn the Volkihar vampires had found Falion standing out in the open on his own and attacked. Perhaps his claim to have seen Oblivion was true and he was one of the ones on Harkon's list to interrogate. When he refused to help them, a fight probably broke out and since he was an advanced conjurer they resorted to killing him to save their worthless hides.
Serana bit her lip and a tear fell from her eye when she heard Elvi begin to laugh hysterically. She prayed that Elvi's strength could carry her through this but she honestly didn't know. That's all Elvi could do. Laugh. She really was the biggest fool in all of Tamriel wasn't she? It couldn't be that easy, nothing ever was, why did she allow herself to think that she could actually belong in this world again? Her rising laughter turned into muffled sobs and she slapped both of her eyes with her hands in an attempt to cover them and hide her shame. She could count on one hand how many times she had cried in the past but since her days as a vampire it had escalated. This, this was crying. Not a tear here or there, or a few bitter sobs. It was letting all of her emotions pour out of her at once. She hadn't done this since Kodlak's death in the quiet solitude of the underforge after everyone had left. She couldn't be strong anymore. She didn't want to be. There was only so much one person could take and she was at her limit. She wanted to run back to castle Volkihar and beg Harkon to kill her. That was the only way out of this. Death. The only thing she had to look forward to, was death. Had she not suffered enough for her crimes? Would it never end? Was this her real punishment the Divines had planned for her. Not some hellish plane in Oblivion but the harsh cold reality of this world for an eternity? It wasn't fair. She tried dammit! She tried to be everything they wanted her to be.
Serana stood and walked over to Elvi. Gently rubbing the back of her neck in an attempt to comfort her since it was the only skin exposed. Lightly trying to pull her bangs away from her face. She didn't know what to say. What could she say? Was there any way to really comfort her now? She could only hope.
"What...how did...who..." Elvi tried to say rational words but she wasn't even capable of rational thought. She refused to pull her hands away from her face until the dreaded tears stopped. When that would occur she had no idea. Guessing what Elvi meant she looked to Falion's corpse then to Elvi. "I, I have no idea. He had said he had caused a lot of turmoil in this...backwards town. Maybe one of the paranoid villagers saw him alone and took their chance. It's hard to say."
How long they stayed there Elvi had no idea. When she calmed down, she reached into her knapsack with shaking hands and pulled out the black soul gem she was given. Smashing it into pieces on the stone circle. Watching as the pitiful soul flew out of it. She saw no need in keeping it in it's prison since she was no longer in need of it. She didn't need an explanation, maybe she was just cursed now and anything and everything she could ever want would never happen for her. Maybe she should send Serana away now before she got swept up in her wave of bad luck and tragedy befell her too. What made everything just a twinge more painful was knowing Falion was the only one that had been kind to her. He was also the only one that could take this curse away from her. She reached over to him and shut his eyes. Not having the heart or the courage to bury his body properly. She rose from her spot on the ground and boldly looked up into the sky. Letting the suns rays shine down on her face. It was burning her cheeks and Elvi slowly came to terms with the undeniable fact that this is what she would always feel anytime she wanted to enjoy a sunrise. It was forever and unchanging. Just like her. Mindlessly she started to walk off. Though no real particular emotion was controlling her but if she went back into the town of Morthal she was capable of shredding each and every citizen apart, just in case it was someone there's doing.
"Elvi..." Serana said softly but Elvi kept walking. Serana decided to remain quiet and follow her even in this horrible condition. What could she say anyway? Sorry sure as hell wasn't going to make a difference. It wasn't going to change anything. All she could do now was follow her and make sure she remained safe, and she was willing to do that as long as it took.
(xxx)
After what felt like a small eternity night finally fell over Skyrim. Elvi hadn't stopped walking since they left Morthal but in a slow and calm pace. Her brain trying to soak in everything that had happened and what she was supposed to do now. Her first and only real plan was to return to the Dawnguard and together they would stop Harkon no matter what it took. As it turned out...they didn't want her. In fact if any of her old 'family' saw her again they would try and kill her. Plain and simple. Well, for them anyway. She hoped she would never be put into that situation. Despite the harsh words that were said and the way they treated her she did not want to be forced to kill any of them. Maybe that made her the bigger person or maybe it made her weak, either way she couldn't imagine harming any of them. Then she had been told about the man in Morthal that was able to cure people of being a vampire. That had been true yet somehow the only man that could have saved her from her crippling agony was now dead. Murdered. Maybe only hours before she could have been free. So now...she did not know what to do. She almost didn't care. She didn't want to put forth anymore effort into anything just for it to blow up in her face like everything else. Nor did she care for the idea of sulking and hiding like a coward the rest of her life. So...she was lost. The moonlight seemed to cool her skin and heal it of her previous pain and discomfort, almost instantly. Like she had been holding her breath all this time and she was finally allowed to let out a long sigh of relief. Even with this change Elvi was anything but comfortable.
At the same time Serana and Elvi's head jerked in the same direction. Like they both sensed what was approaching. Elvi heard the monster like growl escape her throat and she really could not contain her rage any more. Now? Really?
"Good evening!" Darius called over to both her and Serana. Serana immediately summoned a spell in each hand and Elvi was too pissed off to react at all. Now, they had found her when they were still so close to Morthal? She was right...they had to have been the ones that killed Falion and she was ready to bring all of Oblivion down on them in revenge. As he approached she noticed he had a total of four other vampires behind him. A few of them she recognized after being seen with him that night he returned to the castle. He halted a few feet away from them, a respectable distance where he could still attack at any moment but they wouldn't have to shout to exchange words.
"Now, who let you pretty ladies out of the castle without an escort? It's just plain uncivil." he smirked and Elvi was sincerely surprised that he didn't hold any kind of anger of hatred for her in his eyes. It was rather refreshing despite the situation.
"Go home Darius and take your brainless minions with you. Elvi is staying with me." Serana said through her teeth, as she she moved to stand in front of Elvi.
"Woah, Woah. I know we're on the outs right now princess but there is no excuse for rudeness." he smirked and a few of the vampires behind him snarled and growled at them for Serana's comment.
"What the hell are you doing here?" Elvi asked viciously and Darius grinned at her. He saw no harm in telling their plans to her.
"Well sweetheart we were given word that Morthal's town wizard had a few well kept secrets, including the claim that he had traveled to Oblivion on more then one occasion. The last man we questioned turned out to be nothing more then a wealthy bookworm who liked to tell stories, so on our path to Morthal we happen upon something of even more value. I do believe fortune smiles upon me tonight. Lord Harkon was getting most...impatient while both prized Oblivion walker and precious progeny remained out of his grasp." Darius said taking only one step closer to Elvi. She narrowed her eyes. It was true then. It was his fault.
"You son of a bitch." Elvi said pushing past Serana to stand only a few inches away from Darius. Her fire burned even brighter when she had to strain to look up at him. He wasn't as tall as Harkon but he was only a few inches off. "You did it didn't you?" Darius looked at her inquisitively and waited for her to continue, but when all she did was stare at her he flourished his hand in a waving fashion to egg her on.
"I did...?"
"You killed him. Falion. He was going to fucking fix me you bastard, he was going to make everything right and you took my salvation from me! I should rip your heart out!" Elvi said and her rage blurred her vision to the point she could barely make out his features even though he was only a few inches away from her face. She was going to kill him, and every vampire that dared to try and take her back to that kingdom of filth. She was a little happy to see that Orthjolf wasn't in the same group as Darius because with their combined strength it could prove to be a problem. Darius rubbed his temple and let out a frustrated groan.
"Bah, the wizard of Morthal is dead? Great, looks like another wasted trip. It's almost as though reaching the planes of Oblivion isn't a simple task." If he did not lose that smirk on his face or the laughter in his voice she would see him without a jaw.
"Like you didn't know! I know you killed him! Admit it!" Elvi was beside herself and not thinking rationally but she was happy to both blame and take out all her frustrations on him. Darius raised his eyebrows and scoffed
"Why would I kill a man I was sent to retrieve?" he questioned but Elvi couldn't form the words she needed to speak. She didn't know if he had killed Falion or if it was some cosmic act of nature but it was so much easier to place the blame on someone like him. Darius sighed and placed both his hands on his hips.
"Look Elvi, I'm sure you already know but I have been given these icky orders to bring you back to the castle by whatever means necessary. And what Lord Harkon wants, Lord Harkon gets. One way or another." he looked behind him to the other vampires then back to Elvi. Somehow managing to lower his voice so that only she and Serana could hear. "Come back to the castle with me and make this easier on yourself. I can tell Harkon that you found us and returned on your own will. It will not change the outcome but it may soften the blow. I don't know what your issue with our lord is but you cannot evade him forever. He still holds a small amount of favor for you, don't see it extinguished because you are too proud to heed command like the rest of us."
"How moving. You really are just another puppet aren't you Darius? I actually thought better of you." Elvi said shining the same smirk he had given her. Darius scowled.
"I do not wish to see the amount of agony and woe that will rain down upon you if you continue on this path of self destruction. I know it's difficult for you Elvi, but it's really not as degrading as you have set your mind to believe. At least Harkon can be lenient and forgiving. I hope he finds himself in the same mood when he is faced with you again. Now, I'm giving you a final chance to come with me by your will otherwise I will have to take you in by force." Darius asked and extended his open hand to her. Elvi looked behind him again and saw that two more vampires had appeared to join their number which made it 7 to 2. Not exactly comforting odds but she wasn't about to roll over on command again. She smirked and pushed his hand away from her. Before he could reach for his weapon Elvi interrupted him.
"You were a Nord, once upon a time were you not Darius?" she asked and began to pace back and forth in front of him. He didn't answer but he had a curious look on his face.
"Then how about we do this in the old ways? I challenge you to fair combat, you and me and if you succeed I will go with you quietly. If you lose, then you never saw me." Elvi asked and Darius' smile grew as he contemplated. It was a bold move but a smart one. The chances of her getting away increased if he obliged, and if she had singled out any other member of his crew he may have just refused. But to battle with her as his sire had and see with his own eyes the skill of the fabled dragonborn...he just couldn't pass that up.
"I can abide by that." he gave her a full toothed grin and she moved to the forest line so that they could fight off of the road without drawling attention to themselves. When he stepped to follow her, he heard one of his fellow Volkihar complain.
"Stop playing around Darius, just grab the girl and lets be done with it. Harkon is waiting." he rolled his eyes.
"Last I checked, Trina I was in charge of this party, and we will do as I see fit. Don't worry. She will not get away."
Without even turning to face the whining female vampire Darius followed Elvi wherever she lead. Serana disarmed her spells and walked to both catch up with her and to put a good distance between herself and the others. She was not a big fan of this plan, but she wasn't sure if she was able to talk Elvi out of anything anymore. They knew nothing about Darius except that he was cocky and lecherous. If he was able to command six other vampires who didn't do anything to prevent his wishes, stated he had to be at least a little more above the normal stock. Elvi was hungry and weak. Maybe not so much physically but her spirit had suffered blow after blow the past couple of weeks and she may slip up easily in combat because of that. She sighed. It's not like they could out run all seven of them anyway. Best to just see how this played out. As they walked Darius looked to Elvi and shrugged
"Why do you mourn this mortal's passing Elvi? Your defeated exterior over a strangers loss, is rather bothersome quite frankly. You are above that." he stated and Elvi refrained from stabbing the curly haired vampire then and there.
"He was not just a mortal to me Darius. He was a good man. One that would have freed me from this demon. One that could have cured me."
"Cured you?" he asked and was a little appalled at the term. Like she really thought that she had some disease corrupting her. Then he recalled what the new big rumor was about vampires. "Ah yes, the man who could turn a vampire back to a mortal. I remember hearing this now. You bought into that hype did you?"
"I believe he could have done it were he given the chance. Call me a fool if you wish but my humanity was stolen from me and I find it hard to believe that you, or the other Volkihar vampires aren't responsible." Elvi said bitterly. When she looked over at Darius it was remarkable how relaxed he looked. His hands placed causally in his pockets. She couldn't help but feel a little insulted.
"Oh, I'm not questioning the man's abilities but at the same time his fate was inevitable. That's something...one does not play with, without there being repercussions. You would have pissed off more then Harkon were you to have forsaken his gift, Elvi. He would have been the least of your worries then. You'd be upsetting the very dark nature that is this world. And sometimes...those dark powers takes things into their own hands when they feel threatened."
"I really don't care who I piss off. Vampire, Daedra, Prince, let them come to me and then we will see their issue resolved."
"Did you ever think that maybe you belong to the night? That you were always meant to return to it? Sometimes, we cannot escape the will of those with power. It is done, even when we are unaware of it." Darius continued and Elvi rolled her eyes. Not dignifying his claim with a response. If 'those with power' meant Daedra it was all rubbish. The only Daedra she had ever acknowledged was Hircine and the rest can rot in Oblivion for all she cared. When they got to a small clearing Elvi paused and Darius went to stand on the opposite side of her. A decent gap between them. Darius still seemed as carefree as he always did. She looked over at Serana who seemed leery but she remained still yet close to Elvi.
"Looks like we are forced to cross blades after all baby girl. You still have a chance to come with us without any extra stress." he called over to her. Elvi responded by unsheathing both of her swords and she was a little...amazed to see him do the same.
"Fellow dual wielder, eh?" Darius said once his swords were drawn. Giving Elvi and her form a quick look up and down. "Damn you're hot." Elvi ignored his constant and inappropriate flirtations because she was taken aback. It was rare that you found many people whose expertise was dual wielding but from his stance, he had mastered it too. Where her's was offensive, his was the mirror perfection of the defensive one. She had honestly never faced another master leveled dual wielder and even though she knew the terror that awaited her if she fell she was...excited. In a heart beat the two charged at each other and as the battle was underway Serana felt a little impressed. Watching the two clash swords against swords was actually kind of beautiful. Fluid and in unison. It was almost like watching a sequenced and practiced dance. You know...without the blood and possible death.
Elvi, on the other hand was growing more and more furious as each second passed. He blocked and dodged every wave of her sword as if she was swinging butter knives at him. That damned smirk never leaving his face. She supposed since they had very similar styles it was easy for him to predict her moves but she did not care for it. Nor did she understand the Volkihar's way of ranking their members. With Darius she assumed he was just another lowly solider but he had already given her more grief the Orthjolf had and he was considered one of the highest in Harkon's court. Getting fed up with this she leaped into the air and over Darius' head and landed behind him. When she was about to slash at both of hamstrings to bring him to the ground he turned his head to grin at her then disappeared. Elvi tried to regain her balance since she had lunged herself forward for the attack, but it was difficult. She blinked and looked around. There was no way he was that fast it had to be something else. Even Harkon's incredible speed was visible to her. Did he have the same power she had?
Before she could contemplate it further she felt the cold sting of his elven sword on her throat. He had appeared behind her and one of his swords was back in it's sheath and his hand held firmly on the back of her neck. Probably to prevent her from head butting him to get away. Elvi growled her supernatural growl and Darius' grip on her neck tightened. There wasn't much she could do with his sword threatening to slice her throat open.
"I would love to dance with you all night baby girl, believe me but Lord Harkon demands his prize and I cannot leave him waiting much longer. You have lost Elvi. Submit."
"Let me guess..." Elvi said as she started to piece it together. Funny how everything that concerned the Volkihar looked one way but was the complete opposite. "You can teleport right? That's your vampire power? That's why you're always out in the field, you can make it back to the castle and deliver Harkon his precious information quicker then anyone. That's a dirty trick, Darius."
"Sort of. I can't travel from one side of the province to the other but I can get the job done, and I'm limited to using it only a handful times a day." He stated proudly. "Now, are you going to come with me, or do I have to render you unconscious? We had an agreement after all."
Elvi thought about it, then she realized that the vampire had made one very big mistake and that was sheathing one of his swords. She lowered her swords to make him drop his guard for a second and then with all of the power she had in her she stomped his foot and in the same fluid motion yanked his arm down and away from her neck. Having to drop one of her swords in the process but it was worth it. After another second she elbowed him in the stomach and he stumbled backwards. Not giving him a second of mercy Elvi whipped around, grabbed her second sword and attacked. His right hand quickly blocked her Nordic sword but since he didn't have any time to draw his second one Elvi successfully slashed a vertical cut against his chest. Serana could finally breathe again since Elvi was back on the defense. She was finding it very hard to remain still and not help Elvi especially after Darius almost had her. Darius howled in both frustration and pain and before she could make contact again Darius vanished out of her way. Elvi growled. Getting really tired of his evasion. Instead of appearing behind her again he reappeared in front of her and even though she blocked him, looked like the Nord vampire had taken a page out of her book and headbutted her while they were in their stalemate. She stumbled backwards and her vision was blurred. She was certain the bastard had broken her nose but fortunately she had the sense to jump out of the way of his next attack.
She did however remain on the ground once she had dodged to try and wait for her senses to come back. When she looked up at Darius she saw that it was now his turn to look bewildered and almost frantically search for her. She looked down at her hands and it appeared like in her pained and blurred state her vampire power had manifested on instinct. She didn't fight the smirk that came across her face. If she was stuck as a vampire she made a note to really learn how to use her power because it might be more useful then she once thought. Not about to let go of her advantage she charged the unknowing Darius and using the flats of both of her swords she slammed them into his wrists causing him to drop his swords in both pain and surprise and before he could recover she kicked him full in his chest. When he was on the ground Elvi raised her swords to finish him off but paused. She had agreed on an honorable fight and when he was presented with the same opportunity he spared her any pain. Sure he had to keep her alive but he didn't have to give her a chance to respond at all. Even though a large part of her didn't want to, she decided to spare his life, if their terms stood. She assumed that she was visible again because Darius was looking directly into her eyes. His hand clutching his chest and he was panting. Her last kick probably only added to the pain of his wound.
"Now whose the one using tricks?" he asked her. Though his voice suggested he was angry the smile on his face remained, as strong as ever. Elvi was about to respond but out of the corner of her eye she saw that the six others were running at her. Deciding that their agreement wasn't going to be honored for them. Serana was already sending her ice spell at them. Fine, if it was going to be an all on one fight, she still wasn't going to make it easy on them. She hissed at the amount of spells she had to dodge and most of the small area that they were in was illuminated with a bright red glow. As one slung their iron mace at her she dodged and with ease and decapitated the fool. Why anyone favored maces was beyond her. When an energy drain spell hit her stomach she took a few steps backwards to get accustomed to the loss but unbeknownst to her a different vampire was behind her and he stabbed her with his elven dagger. She screamed out in pain but was luckily her ebony armor had absorbed most of the blow. Only an inch of the blade had made it into the small of back. She elbowed her attacker in the throat and the blade leaving her hurt more then it had going in. She dropped to her knees and shouted an obscenity. Why in Oblivion was she already drained? With her nose gushing blood and her back beginning to do the same she started to feel woozy. Really? One of the few perks in her eyes to being a vampire was their quickened healing but even that wasn't working in her favor at the moment. Did her feeding effect this too? She saw two vampires head in her direction and from the looks of it Serana was having a hard time keeping the other three back. She braced for another attack and clenched her eyes shut.
She didn't steel or a spell, but instead a rush of wind sweep past her. She opened her eyes and saw a pair of legs standing in front of her. Guarding her. When her focus was clear again, she saw that they did not belong to Serana and when she looked up she couldn't believe her eyes. She had to be delirious. Only it was real...she knew that suit of Wolf armor anywhere. A battle cry from the left of her confirmed it, when she found the source she saw Farkas charging to Serana's aid and stabbing his Skyforge greatsword through the chest of the vampire closer to Serana. When she turned her attention back to in front of her Vilkas was already battling the two other vampires. Elvi's intention was to rejoin the fight once her focus was back but she was to stunned. They were here...they were really here. She came back to reality when she saw Darius had mostly healed and was beginning to stand back to his feet. She stood and ran up to him, kicking him back to the ground. He looked at her with resentment and he must have used up his power or else he could have just teleported away from her.
"Tell your master, that if he desires my capture so bad, he can come and claim me himself. Otherwise, stop wasting my time with his henchmen." she said with as much venom and certainty as she could. She was no longer afraid of being captured. With both Vilkas and Farkas here along with Serana they didn't stand a chance. Darius shook his head and his voice was almost pleading.
"You can't keep this up much longer Elvi. Come home. This victory for you is only one, and Harkon will not rest until you you are brought to him. Don't further his fury like this." Elvi brought the tip of her sword to his chin and lifted it up so that his neck was in clear shot of her second one.
"Can your lying tongue deliver a message or not Darius? Otherwise it is of no further use to me, so make your decision." Darius huffed for a few minutes but agreed. Allowing Elvi to remove her sword from under his chin and letting him up. Darius looked from her to her new allies as if he considered still trying to take her in himself but he grabbed his swords from the ground and took off in the opposite direction. Elvi sighed and sheathed her weapons. When she turned back around all of the vampires were already dead, except one that was trying to escape but Farkas chased after him shouting curses. When she was certain that Serana was okay her eyes searched for Vilkas. When she found him his weapon was also put away but he was stomping up to her with a dangerous look on his face. Oh no...not him too. If he said any of the things that the Dawnguard had said to her, she couldn't bear it.
"Where have you been?!" he shouted and he kept moving until he was only an arms length away from her. "We have been searching for you for months! All that time and not a word from you! Your letters stopped without a hint of where you were or what you were doing. We were afraid you had perished and your body was left for the crows. Would it have been impossible for you to send word just so we could know of your safety? Aela has searched all the surrounding areas around Whiterun for you every night and Farkas and I were forced to search the major cities and no one there had seen you either. What were we to think? I know you are the Harbinger now Elvi but that does not give you the right to run off and forget about us, now what do you have to say for yourself?!"
Elvi was filled with pure joy. Hearing his thick Nordic accent yelling at her was the sweetest sound she had heard in a long time. All she could do was smile and look up at him. She had almost forgotten how insanely pale his blue eyes were. The black war paint he kept around his eyes only made them pop out more. How...could she have ever forgotten those eyes? So the companions had not only missed her but they did go out looking for her. They cared...Vilkas' scowl softened when he had calmed down enough to notice the difference in her features. Elvi's heart stopped. She prepared the best she could for the upcoming hatred but the look on Vilkas' face was not an angry one but a somber and concerned expression. She felt his gloved hand cup the side of her face. His eyes scanned her up and down briefly before asking "What happened?" She didn't know why that was everyone's first question but she didn't care anymore. Before she could control herself Elvi wrapped her arms around Vilkas' neck and held him close. Somehow wishing everything that had transpired would pour into him in their embrace. When she felt his arms wrap back around her waist she felt at peace for the first time since she left the castle. Vilkas knew her well enough to know when not to bother her with persistent questions. If she hated breaking down in front of Serana she simply wouldn't do it around Vilkas. Though he was the only other being that had ever seen her break like Serana had. With her face buried in Vilkas' chest and the steel of his armor cooling her face she did not see both Serana and Farkas approaching them. Farkas shot his brother a questioning look and Vilkas only shrugged. Keeping his arm wrapped around her waist, Vilkas began to lead her to the camp he and Farkas had made only a short distance from where they were now. Not exactly knowing the pain Elvi had been subjected to, but if he had power to help rid her of it, he would see it mended.
