An: Hello everyone! Like I said life has gotten out of hand for me lately, so I know this isn't up as quickly as it used to be. I hope you forgive me but it looks like I will have to keep this pattern up for awhile. There is a lot of information piled in this chapter, so I really want to know your views on it so don't forget to leave me a review if you have the time! The vote favored Vilkas' perspective so that's where we will start. Also Warning: To be blunt this time, there is some smut in this chapter, but if you followed this story thus far, I assume it doesn't bother you. In case it does, you have been warned. I have been short on time, so I didn't get to look over this chapter properly so I sincerely apologize for any mistakes you may find. Seriously, thank you to everyone reading, reviewing and following this story. You guys are the reason it's still going strong (hopefully) haha. Now, enough of my babbling, on with the story!
Feeling the blood in his veins, burn like acid, made the seemingly endless journey all the more excruciating. Farkas begged him several times during their traveling to seek medical attention, but Vilkas simply wouldn't have it. His pain was nothing, his trials were nothing. Elvi was in danger, and he had to find a way to either protect her, or warn her about what was headed her way. If Hircine really called the wild hunt on her, he was certain she was already well aware that by now. Only Garrett and his pack of murderers, were unlike the rest of their kind in Skyrim. Hircine asked something of Garrett personally and whenever that happened, the Prince of the hunt's will was always carried out. Blood crazed lunatic Garrett was, he was very, dangerous. That and he had his own personal vendetta against Elvi to begin with, so now that he was granted permission to see his feud come to a close, Vilkas knew he would. No matter what it took. Before he could even contemplate how he could warn Elvi of these events, he had to fulfill his original purpose.
According to the map the mysterious 'thief' had given them, they were very close to finding this vampire's lair. There they could find out the secrets to this strange vampire blood bond and what he could do to break it. Then finally, Elvi would be back to normal and not swayed by the vampire lord's manipulation. Vilkas couldn't wait for that day. As his blood continued to boil in his veins, Vilkas was forced to halt in his footsteps and lean against a tree for support. Through gritted teeth Vilkas let out a roar of pain. His vision was altering and shifting in a sickening speed, which was making it very hard to focus on anything other than the pain. This process was so very different from the last time. Where the Companions were different from the rest of the werewolf population, considering their birth into Lycanthropy came from a curse, thanks to the glenmoril witches. When given the choice to bear the beast blood or not, once you agreed all you needed to do was, drink your forebearer's blood, and the curse was instantly upon you. Normally, if one was to survive being bitten by the wolf, their body slowly adapted to the change. Until the light of the next full moon and their transformation was complete, so Vilkas had time to find a cure before then. Only he hated...how often his mind swayed to allowing the creature back into his body.
When Farkas grabbed his shoulder to check on him, it brought Vilkas back to his senses. Seeing his twin's eyes filled with concern briefly altered his all consuming hatred, and he focused back on his current situation. Vilkas tapped his brother's arm, to show that he was alright. Fooling Farkas into believing he was well, when he wasn't was nearly impossible. He had spent his entire life with him after all. As simple as people thought Farkas to be, Vilkas knew his brother knew him better than even he did. With a stern scowl on his face, Vilkas pressed forward. Using the remainder of his strength in his body, he focused it on looking as healthy and pain free as possible. If for no other reason than to spare his brother from some unneeded stress. Vilkas had to admit, turning into a beast in this way, was far more extreme than he anticipated. He could feel the muscles in his body, shift and tense slightly already. An excruciating process, that brought him pain but incredible adrenaline. He and Farkas had been on the road over two days time now without stopping. By Farkas' slow and heavy footsteps, Vilkas could tell it was weighing on him but he wasn't weary at all. In pain and still enraged, but not tired. Vilkas knew he let vengeance rule his heart on far too many occurrences, but he never felt his fire burn brighter then it did now. He wanted Harkon dead. Reduced to nothing but a pile of bloody ash. He wanted to kill the vampire lord so badly, everything else faded into the background. As things often did whenever he felt such a need for destruction, centered on a singular being. Did he think Vilkas would just give up after their little encounter? The only thing the ancient fiend proved to him, was that he was a coward. To busy trying to keep up his manipulation, to dirty his own hands with Vilkas' blood. Oh, he would pay. He would pay for everything! If it was the very last thing he did, Vilkas would see the beast slayed and Elvi back where she belonged.
Only...he was able to sense Harkon's concealed, evil power and unfortunately after that it gave Vilkas...doubts. If he purified himself of the new poison in his veins, he questioned if he had the power to kill him, or not. Truth was, he still didn't know exactly what Harkon was capable of. It had to be impressive if he was able to beat Elvi into submission, at least once. She was the strongest warrior he knew. Yet...if he let himself turn...there was a chance. He'd have the power he needed, but he would also be throwing away his integrity and morals just for the chance. Vilkas knew it was worth it. Who else would stand against the vampire lord? Garrett had the potential to bring the vampire to his knees but Garrett didn't operate that way. Though his hatred for the vampires was rather inspirational, Garrett would only attack Harkon if he got in the way of him killing Elvi, or if for whatever reason, Hircine commanded it. So the only people remaining that was on their side for certain, was Farkas and himself. He had already all but made up his mind but it was still troubling. After how hard he tried to rid himself of the beast blood the first time, it seemed a waste to let himself remain this time. The hopes of reaching Sovngarde...perhaps was never in his destiny. Since the opportunity kept slipping away from him.
The damn burn on his neck stung more furiously than his blood, from time to time. Free of the beast blood or not, that burn on his neck would remain the rest of his existence. It wasn't as wickedly red as it was originally, but the gruesome sight of charred flesh bubbled around the majority of his neck was still appalling. The most surreal sight about the wound was seeing Garrett's bottom fang marks still perfectly visible on his skin. He noticed this the last time he looked at it, in the reflexion on the water of a nearby river. Now that...that's what made him lean more towards accepting the change. If there was anyone that could bring him the power he needed to rival Harkon, it was Garrett. A pure-blooded werewolf. Had a normal beast been the one to bestow the bite to him, he wouldn't even consider it. Though there was no denying that one bitten by a pure-blooded werewolf was far superior to the rest of the common lot. The members to Garrett's pack was testament to that, alone. When Garrett offered it to him freely. Vilkas denied him. Not once, but twice. So no one could claim his intentions weren't pure...but now with time to contemplate, and feeling the wolf inside howl once more, he knew his need for vengeance was going to outweigh his morals. How he was going to break this to Farkas or even begin to explain himself to Elvi, when they finally met again was a major concern, but he knew this was the only path available to him now. The only one that led him to destroying Harkon, and ensuring that this wretched prophecy was stopped, once and for all. He could sacrifice it all for Elvi. To have her back, and away from the beast polluting her mind. He would sacrifice his deserved paradise in the afterlife, his integrity, everything, for Elvi. It was a small price to pay just to have her back in his life.
The sound of Farkas clearing his throat to gain his attention made Vilkas, close his eyes tight for a few seconds, then open them again. Clearing the red, and foggy vision that was taking over, so he could see properly. Vilkas paused for a moment to reexamine the map in his pack. He looked from the map, to the sight before him a couple of times before shrugging. According to the map they were in the right place. Only the hidden lair of such an intelligent vampire...wasn't quite what Vilkas was expecting. By the side of a tall tree covered hillside, was a small house, constructed purely of wood, some of which wasn't even lumber, but sections of actual trees. So many leaves and bushes surrounded this house, it was almost unseen by anyone who happened to be traveling. Vilkas was aware they were far off the main road but he didn't realize just deep they were in the forest, until now. From his house, down it's surroundings, it was obvious that this Othello, did not want to be found. This made Vilkas, extremely wary. He didn't know this 'Thief' so therefore, he had no reason to trust him. Nor should he trust this other unknown vampire, and quite frankly...he was pretty much done, with vampires in general. What a blissful life it was, before all this non sense, and his dealings with them was very limited. For all he knew this 'thief' character was planning an ambush of some sort, though he had to admit if that was the case, the man went through a load of trouble. Especially considering that he had saved him from Harkon.
With a quick nod, he and Farkas approached the odd house. They didn't have much time, when it came to nightfall, and Vilkas was certain the vampire would be far more cooperative if the sun wasn't shining above. Three wooden, and creaking steps led to the front door, but before he could so much as knock, it sprung open. Next thing he knew, there was the tip of a poison dipped arrow, pointed directly at his face. He heard Farkas reaching for his sword, but Vilkas subtly gripped his arm, to stop him. If whoever was guarding the door wanted them dead, they would be. They had to get the secrets that this Othello knew, so there was no going back. If there was a chance he could reason with the creatures, and get his answers, he'd take it. With the arrow still inches away from his face, Vilkas smile and bowed his head slightly.
"Good evening, I am here seeking a man by the name Othello. I have a great favor to ask of him, and I assure you, I mean no harm." Vilkas introduced. From what he could see of the archer, she was a young Breton girl, her brunette hair was pulled back in a long ponytail, and she wore normal leather armor. Her light blue eyes, were painted with a darker blue line of war paint. Reaching from one eye to the other. Vilkas, narrowed his eyes. Mortal...and from the looks of her, she was no thrall. Perhaps he and his brother just aimlessly went on a wild goose chase and bothered a family of hunters. The bow in front of him lowered, but not by the woman's choice. A Bosmer, entered the small door way, while gently pushing the bow down, and away from Vilkas. Another oddity, he didn't look like a vampire either. His copper eyes were the normal color for his race, as was his reddish and copper short hair. His skin wasn't any paler, and though Vilkas had yet to see the elf grin, he doubted fangs were present. Yes...looked to be a goose chase indeed. The Breton gave him some room but from behind him, her bow was still drawn. Ready to be raised and fired upon command. The wood elf, smirked and leaned slightly on the door frame. His casual stance did not seem to deter his faithful body guard however.
"It's been a long time since I've been addressed by that name." The Bosmer now implied to be Othello, stated. His eyes scanning from Vilkas to Farkas with great interest. As if sizing up their worth.
"Hearing myself refereed to by such a name...I expected, a member of my race at the door. Though neither of you..." His eyes lingered on Vilkas, and his expression changed to a sour one, briefly. "...appear to be."
Vilkas scowled, but bit his tongue. Remembering the note he was meant to give this Othello, he reached into his pocket, grabbed it, and extended his arm to the wood elf. He looked at the note questionably then took it from Vilkas' hand. Vilkas observed as Othello read the letter and his eyes turned up to both he and his brother, with a greatly confused look on his face. After he was done reading the note entirely he chuckled for a moment, before holding the note and placing it in his pocket.
"Well, if your in his company, your arrival doesn't surprise me at all. I wonder how many times he has seen this exact moment with those all seeing eyes of his." Orthello said amused. As if he was perfectly accustomed to the shadowy vampire's behavior. Even...impressed? Well, it seemed that everything was going according to plan, but Vilkas could swear on his life that the elf wasn't a vampire. Now that he spoke, Vilkas kept a close eye on his teeth, which weren't abnormal in any way.
"Due to an old debt, I owe this particular vampire, I will answer any questions you seek, Companions. I also hold a great amount of respect for him, but i'm afraid our views differ greatly when it comes to certain matters. The dog stays outside." His voice was firm and unyielding at the end, so Vilkas felt the wolf within, clawing away at him. He kept his rage under control, but he was a little...impressed, that Othello could tell, their was something else inside of him, that was fighting to take control. How he accurately placed it was also rather ingenious. Vilkas smiled yet again, and struggled his best to remain polite, whilst being infuriated, which was quite the feat.
"As I've already said, I mean you no harm. I just need some answers, and I assure you, we will never meet again." Vilkas could hear the growl, shake his voice slightly and the body guard must have heard it as well because that bow was raised, once again and pointed directly at him. Vilkas couldn't hide his smirk. After all the near death instances he had faced thus far, in a span of maybe a week's time, if she truly believed that a mere bow would scare him away at this point, she was vastly mistaken.
"He's not...a wolf yet, Othello, if that's what you mean. After we learn what we need from you, we're going to cure him, before the disease takes effect." Farkas said, speaking for Vilkas in a less hostile voice. Hoping it would smooth things over between his brother and the Bosmer. Othello smirked, and turned his copper eyes to Farkas.
"I hate to tell you friend, but he is. I doubt you could find a cure in time, to rip the mutt, gnawing at your brother's heart away. Funny how I see no remorse in those dulling eyes, at this discovery." his smirk widened and yet again Vilkas was forced to bite his tongue. Looking over at his twin's expression, it was apparent that he was deeply concerned but Vilkas wasn't quite prepared for that conversation yet. So he'd have to just hope in the mean time that this decision didn't put a strain in his and his brother's relationship. Knowing Farkas' pure heart, it wouldn't. The concern would never fade away, however. Unfortunately Vilkas knew that. Any one attempting to master the beast blood, was at risk of falling prey to the wolf inside. Acting as most other werewolves did, and becoming wild animals any time the moon called them to. Vilkas clenched his jaw in determination. Not this time. This time, he was determined to use it to his advantage instead of fighting it. Strange how the supposed wise vampire so boldly, stated that there was no curing him now. Vilkas wondered if being bitten by a pure blooded werewolf like Garrett, would really make the change in him accelerate. It fit, but knowing that made Vilkas a bit...anxious. Battling his inner wolf the first go around, was rather difficult if he was honest. If this new one, taking control of his body was even stronger, it would take a lot of strength to fight it. Though Vilkas will face it, there was no other choice.
Othello, let out a long exasperated sigh, and stated
"Come on in, let's make this quick."
He moved out of the doorway and disappeared further into the house. Vilkas moved to follow him, but before he could make his way inside, Farkas gripped him by his shoulder. The stern look in his eyes was all Vilkas needed to understand his meaning. It meant that he intended to speak with him about the change that was going to occur sooner or later. Vilkas knew his warnings and his point of view, but when his mind was made up, there was no altering it. He'd merely have to come up with the right words to ease his twin's mind. He'd come around. It's not as though Vilkas would force him to become a werewolf too. After a firm nod in agreement, Farkas let him go, and carefully followed behind him. Vilkas decided that after Harkon was dead, and Elvi was free, that they would journey all of Nirn together, to try and find a cure for the both of them. Given she still wanted one, it mattered not to him if she remained a vampire. He loved Elvi, whatever package she may be contained in didn't matter. All that mattered was having her back into his arms. And he would have that...very soon.
Once inside, Vilkas smirked as the body guards eyes remained ever watchful on them. She had some courage, to bad his was far superior. The inside of the house was just as plain as the outside. The room they were being led to, had a normal fire place, and a wooden desk. Underneath their feet was a bear skin rug, and Vilkas was rather impressed with the amount of animal heads and pelts that were mounted on the wall. A snow bear, sabre cat, and even frost troll was amongst the collection. The room was almost pitch black since there were no windows in the room, but Vilkas saw the room fairly well. Othello walked around his desk then gestured to the two chairs in front of it, indicating that they take a seat. As Vilkas obliged he caught from out of the corner of his eye, that the woman was standing not far from where they sat. Her bow was placed on her back, but her stance obviously showed her mistrust. Before Othello sat down, he spoke to the guard
"It's alright, Tannis. I'll take it from here." he spoke softer to her in that moment than Vilkas had yet to hear him do so before. With a slight bow, the Breton left the room and closed the door behind her. Giving the Companions the privacy they needed to find out more about the blood bond that was tying Elvi down. There was a candelabrum on the desk that branched out, holding five separate white candles. With a slight wave of his hand, the candles became ignited with red flame and both Farkas and Vilkas jumped back a bit in shock once.
The common, and expected features of the Bosmer, rapidly changed in an instant. Now that his face was covered by the light of the candles, you could see the corrupt and demonic features as clear as day, in a matter of speaking. His eyes were no longer copper, but a deep blood red, that were glowing far to brightly to be considered natural for any of the elven race. His cheekbones were elevated, and his lips looked as red as his eyes. Showing his grin in amusement, allowed Vilkas to see the Bosmer's sharp fangs, as well. Having read the book 'Immortal Blood' about a dozen times on his trip here, and knowing that the vampire they were seeking was the author of said book, Vilkas shouldn't have been surprised, but it was still rather intimidating to see an almost innocent face turn to such a fierce one, in a second's time. Othello chuckled through his teeth, and stated
"Ah...it doesn't matter how many times I do that...it is still so very humorous to see the mortals reactions."
Vilkas rolled his eyes and was growing tired of the games. He was here for a purpose, not to entertain a demented vampire!
"Forgive me, if I am unaccustomed to vampiric treachery." Vilkas heard himself say, before having any real control over it. He tried his best not to take his anger of one particular vampire, out on the entirety of them, but it was difficult. His new found hatred for Harkon was very...very clouding. That and his daughter managed her own harm against them too, so most vampires that came in his contact, weren't exactly helpful.
"No treachery here, lad, I assure you. Just the nature of my kind. I assumed you would be more comfortable with a source of light, and a by product of that is seeing me as I am. Nothing more. We're not a...one size fits all type of race. We all have slight differences that may be minor but they make us unique to the others. Now, what is it I can help you boys with? I know it doesn't look like it, but I am a very busy man. The sun will be rising in a few hours and I'd prefer to be without company during that time." Othello explained and Vilkas liked the idea of getting what they needed without dancing around the subject anymore.
"We heard you know almost everything there is to know about vampires, so tell me, is there a way you can break a blood bond between two vampires that are afflicted with one?" Vilkas asked boldly. A little surprised at the almost...appalled look on Othello's face. Where he was sitting back in his chair, one side of his face was hidden in shadow while the other was illuminated by the candle light. Continuing to show his vampiric features. It truly was a sight to behold to see such a difference in one face. It was like you could physically see the monster inside of him and the mortal he masqueraded as at once.
"Why concern yourself with a bond between two vampires?"
"Because it's corrupting a once noble and fearless warrior, now answer me! Is there a way to break it, or not?" Vilkas said through his teeth. The growl was back in his voice. Vilkas narrowed his eyes and already began to realize just how difficult it would be to tame this beast, compared to before. He was losing his patience, far quicker than normal. Anytime he thought of Elvi. his rage calmed a bit, but it would howl even louder the second Harkon's smug face replaced hers. Knowing he had let the beast manipulate and control her for far too long already, was beginning to eat away at him. The human side of him was willing to fight sure, but the wolf inside wouldn't be satisfied until something causing him this distress, was torn apart. This vampire may be an unfortunate causality in his path of vengeance, if his questions did not receive answers soon. They didn't have time to waste, Vilkas still wondered how he was going to miraculously inform Elvi about Garrett pursuing her. He had quite enough of vague answers, for a lifetime. What Vilkas wouldn't give for someone to answer a straight question, with a straight answer! After examining Vilkas' face for some time, Othello sighed and leaned a little bit forward on his desk.
"To break a blood bond, is a very risky and delicate thing, dear boy."
Vilkas was a little concerned with the vampires tone. It was somber, serious. As if even attempting to do such a thing, would not only hurt Harkon but Elvi too. Just how deeply did this damn hindrance run? Just thinking of Harkon being physically and spiritually linked to his love, made him both sick to his stomach and extremely livid. He didn't deserve such a privilege! As Othello continued his explanation, Farkas watched from the corner of his eye, Vilkas fidget in his seat. Farkas frowned and looked away from him, when he saw Vilkas' eyes glow a bright vicious yellow in his no doubt angered contemplation. The vampire was right, they were too late. He tried to convince him to seek help sooner, but of course he wouldn't have it. Farkas was now grief stricken, thinking he should have done more to help him. Vilkas was his brother, nothing would make Farkas turn from him. Growing up, they only had each other for a very long time. He feared seeing Vilkas' turmoil knowing that this time he would have to go through it, alone. He prayed he wouldn't give himself a world of hell for it. Like last time...last time Vilkas was miserable. In fact, until Elvi joined the Companions, Farkas couldn't remember seeing any glimpse of happiness in his brother's eyes. It was painful watching him become the reclusive and pensive warrior during that time. Now, if this change really was intentional, he could accept it. Farkas didn't necessarily agree with his reasoning or the conditions for letting the wolf back in his life, but if it was what he wanted, then so be it. He'd have to learn how to stay up all hours of the night to be able to follow him properly without having to stop, but he'd manage. Vilkas wasn't good alone. Alone he did as he always did, and reflected on old mistakes, over and over again. If he was given unlimited time to do this, Farkas was more concerned about his mental state, than his physical one.
"The only definite way, to break a blood bond is death. Either the sire, or the progeny has to die, in order to sever the link. Blood, is life. Essence. To share such a thing with another living being, is an intimate act. Rarely, do any vampires turn a mortal on a whim, for this reason. We understand the chances we are taking, to virtually be linked and tied to another being. Sometimes, even without the bond, there can be the effects of one between a vampire and it's progeny. That's how powerful it is. I know of ways you can lessen the bond, bout that's the extent of my knowledge. There are theories of how you can break one, but they have never been executed, as far as I know." Othello explained and Vilkas actually growled this time. Of course it was their luck, that they traveled all this way, endured the hardship...just to be told the bastard would always have his claws in her! Vilkas supposed he could cut off the source by curing her vamprism, but that would be a much more difficult process, than he hoped for, nor did they have the time currently to seek a cure, when there was a lunatic vampire out there, attempting to blot out the sun! Being accustomed to the look in Vilkas' eyes when he was about to lose his composure, Farkas decided to press forward
"Alright, what are the theories? And how exactly can you lessen the bond? That may due for now, considering everything that's at stake, we'll take what we can get."
"Well, to start with, the bond is usually controlled more so, by the sire. So if the progeny sires vampires themselves, their link to one of them might over throw the one they have with their maker. Of course, that is also a hit and miss game, so they could sire five different vampires but that doesn't mean they will be blood bonded with any of them. A very...accepted theory is if a ground breaking shock, occurs between the two, it could be enough to break the bond. Again though that is only theory."
"What do you mean by...shock?" Farkas asked before Vilkas could shout out an ill tempered curse. This whole thing sounded very confusing for him, and for all he knew it really was impossible, but for Elvi they had to try. As bitter as that would be for Vilkas if it couldn't be done, at least now they had their answers, and they could say they tried.
"Something unexpected." Othello explained. It was very difficult to articulate such things, especially to outsiders. It was easy to speak to another vampire about the bond, because most at least had an idea of what could occur. Having seen it or felt it for themselves. It was like explaining why ones heart beat in their chest. Never questioned, just accepted as a vitality for life.
"Even in the most unusual of cases, there is a specific amount of trust and understanding between two beings that share a blood bond. If that trust was broken in the most severe of ways, it could cut the link between the two as a somewhat self defense mechanism. Example being, a broken promise or if the progeny stepped to kill their sire with every intention of seeing it through. Otherwise, death of one or the other is the only definite way. I'm sorry if that disappoints you, but it is the nature of our kind. Vampires that are not tied to their clan or coven by blood bonds of course have more freedom then those that do, but to continue forward as creatures of the night there has to be law and order otherwise we'd be running a muck in the streets, currently. That power is given to the ancient vampires and the judgment to gift their power to those worthy. Creatures who would carry out their command, and keep balance."
"There has to be a way." Vilkas said slamming his fist on the table. Making the candles shake a bit. "I won't let Harkon keep manipulating her! It's gone on far too long and I won't let it continue! Now you're telling me I have to just accept that he's using her, sorry but I won't abide anymore! If killing the beast is the only way, then I suppose I will just have to accelerate our plans, my way. No more sneaking around and acting as though the beast is some almighty being! I will kill Harkon, if it is the last thing I do!" Vilkas shouted, loud enough to make Othello's guard waltz back into the room and Farkas to place his hand on his forehead in a bit of shame. Yup, it was going to be almost impossible for Vilkas to control his rage if the wolf was inside his heart now. Othello didn't seem angered or fearful. Instead he looked...curious? He too rose to his feet and asked
"Harkon, has a progeny?" the Bosmer looked to be in complete disbelief. Seeing this cooled Vilkas rage slightly. Allowing him to take in shallow breathes to continue to try and calm himself. His body shook uncontrollably but he kept his mind clear at the very least.
"You know of him?" Vilkas questioned, and Othello sat back down in his chair. Pushing his short copper hair out of his face.
"I do. Enough to know, that if what you say is true, whoever bears Harkon's blood, must be very powerful to begin with, in order to survive the change. I didn't realize his progeny was the vampire in question. After all these years, I thought his bloodline would end with him. Hm...perhaps what they say is true then. There has been rumors circling around our community that Harkon, may actually complete the tyranny of the sun. Already he has gained a lot of powerful vampire clans support in his quest. Maybe I was wrong, I may very well live to see the day the sun's rein over my kind is finally put to an end." Othello stated and the small smile on his face that followed, made Vilkas want nothing more than to rip his throat out! Did anyone listen to him when he spoke?!
"That will never happen. Harkon will die long before the prophecy ever has a chance to be completed. He is not going to win, not while I still draw breath. He won't blot out the sun, and he sure as hell, won't get Elvi!" Vilkas continued to shout. He had far more to say but the burning in his blood overwhelmed him once more. He clenched his hand on his forehead, covering his now illuminating, yellow eyes. He felt like his head was being torn in two, and the fight inside his own body was raging on, but he was strong. His motivation to use this new found power to free Elvi, was far stronger than any wolf or beast in this world. This time, he would embrace the change as Skjor and Aela always intended him too. He wouldn't be a slave to it, he'd be a master of the beast blood. Using it and his rage as a weapon. Like Elvi always did. This was just the hardest part, making the actual transition over from man to beast. Othello smiled up at him, again as if he was amused with his behavior and actions, over being afraid. His one red eye focused purely on the burn on Vilkas' neck, where the two bite marks were still not healed completely.
"That's a nasty mongrel you got trapped in that weak body of yours, Companion. I pray that my friend knows exactly what he's getting himself into, if he plans on keeping you as company. You know, that is the first sign of the wolf, don't you? Foul temper, violent tendencies. Are you certain the transformation hasn't already occurred? I'd stop by any nearby villages and check the graveyards for a few fresh mounds. Funny how my race is considered monstrous, yet we never drink more than our fill or kill more than what's needed. Can your filthy kind, say the same?" All the while that damn smile remained on his face. Vilkas knew what he was up to. He was trying to force him to lash out, if for no other reason than to prove his point. With a lot of will power, Vilkas straightened up and regained his composure, even though his instincts were telling him to shed blood in any way he possibly could. His eyes kept that unnatural glow, however, while Vilkas flashed Othello the same friendly amused smile. A new sense of pride was coming over Vilkas. This vampire did provide everything he needed to continue forward. Now he had a new plan. A fitting one. He knew what needed to be done.
"No, he's normally this way." Farkas sighed. Hoping that the arrogant god complex might be vacant during this particular transformation. It was the last thing Vilkas needed right now. Garrett was right though, all 'pups' before and shortly after their first transformation was at their most wild and violent. What with all the added adrenaline and power pumping like mad in their veins. Farkas hoped he had the strength to restrain his brother, if the time called for it. Vilkas rolled his eyes at seeing Farkas pout. Perhaps he was being a bit ambitious at the moment, but he knew what he was doing!
He needed Elvi, and Elvi needed him. She needed him, while she was away from that damn castle and away from Harkon. Their bond was different then the one between those two, but it was just as strong...dammit! He knew she felt it too. They had went through so much together, the beasts spell couldn't erase it. So he was going to find her, and this time he wasn't going to let Harkon have her back. He'd have to kill Vilkas, before he let that happen. To bad killing him, wasn't going to be easy, what with all his minions to do his fighting for him. So therefore he had to get Elvi out of the castle first. Once he rescued Elvi, he could convince her to fight with him. Her betrayal of Harkon would be enough to break the bond this time, he just knew it. All he had to do was convince her. If Elvi listened to anyone in the past, it was Vilkas. His smile turned into a smirk as he stated
"Thank you, for all your assistance, bat. We're done here."
At that Vilkas turned on his heel and headed out the door. Pushing past the bodyguard in the doorway. With a slight bow of his head in appreciation, Farkas raised from his seat and chased after his brother. When they were both outside and now moving to find the main road again, Othello called from the stairway to the brothers. When Vilkas turned around, he barely had time to catch the jar that was hurdling towards his face. When he looked inside the jar, it was filled halfway, with this lime green, sludge like material. He shook the jar a little in curiosity, and watched the green color shift to a blood red one. Vilkas' silver eyes found Othello, who now looked as normal as any wood elf would, while not being under the candle light. That cocky smile remaining on his face.
"A little something to help you on your path, Companion. Due to some...unfortunate events of my own, I happened to have a bit of this elixir left, it will lessen the bond between your vampiress and Harkon. It won't last forever, and it won't break it, but it might clear her head a bit. That is of course, if your theory is correct and it's the blood bond that is swaying your friend and not...well a little something else. I'd suggest if you have intention of winning this woman's heart, to do something about that nasty wound on your neck. Being one of my kind, she will smell the filth in your veins, so you truly don't need anything else to make you more unsightly." Othello, smirked. Vilkas turned his back to the vampire and audibly growled again. Hmph, still way better looking than Harkon. As he started to walk away again, Othello added
"Oh and one last thing. If Harkon really did turn a mortal into a vampire, and it's his bond you're attempting to break, you may come across some...problems. Strong blood bonds inflicted by ancient vampires, such as he, have a tendency to be a little more physical than the others. So if you do somehow miraculously kill Harkon, his progeny will die along with him, since it is his blood that made her what she is. You could always kill her to break the bond then move on to him, since breaking it seems so important to you. Just something I thought you might want to know."
When Vilkas whipped around the second time, all he saw was the door closing behind the vampire. The sound of it being locked behind him stung Vilkas' ears and made him clench his jaw. It was very hard to resist the urge to rip the vampire apart after that! What the hell was that supposed to mean? If he couldn't break the bond between Elvi and Harkon...he couldn't kill Harkon?! Elvi could die too? How was that even remotely fair! Was he stuck with the bastard for all of eternity?! Oh, he was a diabolical, manipulative villain, alright. By turning Elvi and creating this unholy bond with her, he successfully stopped most of his greatest enemies. Anyone close to Elvi the dragonborn, would be the only other warriors that had the power to defeat him, considering the company she kept. Knowing that once they discovered this information, it would sway them into letting him live. Vilkas took in a deep breath but felt his body shake again. The only thoughts running through his head, was destruction. Wanting to take his new found rage out on something, anything weaker than him. But he couldn't be that way, not around Elvi, especially.
Vilkas closed his eyes for a few seconds until he slowed his heartbeat, to normal. No matter...his first plan would work. All Elvi needed, was to see him again and he'd be able to talk some sense into her. He was strong enough to protect her from him now, she had reason to go back to that monster. Keeping that in mind, he assured Farkas that he was well, and that they would discuss his decision as soon as they got to a decent town. Farkas needed rest, Vilkas could see plainly now how exhausted he was. He'd miss having a good nights sleep himself, but since all of this started, he had yet to receive one, so he supposed he wasn't going to miss much. Vilkas' mood didn't improve once they made it back to the main road. They took maybe five steps before Vilkas heard a voice call from behind them.
"Find what you were looking for, Companions?" the smooth, somewhat cocky voice stated. Vilkas grit his teeth, and when he whipped around, he growled. Standing in the middle of the road, was the mysterious hooded vampire. The one that led them here, and farther away from Elvi. Vilkas still didn't trust this man, given they still didn't know so much as his name, or where he came from. This life debt he owed him, would run short if he kept sending them to war, blind. He had to know what was going on, and Vilkas was determined to find out exactly what he knew, about everything. Vilkas charged up to the vampire, who remained perfectly still. He looked the same as before, this time his hood and cowl were hiding his face again. The quick glimpse they had of the Volkihar vampire, was already concealed again. Which was defiantly...frustrating.
"If you call, finding out that the love of my life may die, when the beast is finally destroyed, finding what I was looking for! Or that the only way the break the bond otherwise is by a violation of trust or something else just as vague. I have a bandage, when what I need is a cure! This elixir won't do anything to the bond save maybe dampen some of it's effects. As soon as it wears off, she'll be back to the mindless slave, he wants her to be!" Vilkas shouted and the vampire didn't so much as move or narrow his eyes. Merely shrugged and turned around so that he could stare at the night's sky. It would be sun rise soon, so he had little time to speak to the twins before having to move on to his next target. It would be the only time he could catch them, if he wanted his goals to come to fruition.
"I told you that you could find the answers you sought here. Not that they would necessarily be what you wanted to hear. In these times, we've run out of room for wishful thinking and prayer. If you wish to stop Harkon, you'll have to act. No other way around it." Thief said casually. Which naturally made Vilkas see red. Before he could lash out again, the thief asked
"So what do you plan to do, Vilkas? If you desire some help, I'm here to offer mine, considering they don't interfere with my own plans."
Vilkas narrowed his eyes. Again the vampire was offering his assistance to them, virtual strangers. The stakes being death, or possibly worse if they took so much as a wrong step. If Vilkas had any other choice, he'd tell the vampire to take a hike or force him to reveal his secrets to him. They didn't have time to play around anymore, things were getting way to out of hand, and fast.
"What's in it for you?" Vilkas asked in a low voice. Beginning to circle around the thief. He wasn't going to be made a fool of again. If he was going to continue to put his trust in the stranger, he had to be certain they were on the same side, first.
"Why put your own life in danger, for the plight of mortals? What does it matter to you, a vampire if the prophecy is complete or not. Why do you care, what happens to Elvi? Have you ever even met her, outside of the clouded visions in your mind? You're right, the time to act is now, and if you are yet another enemy on my path to her, I will destroy you, as I will everyone else that gets in my way."
Farkas inched himself closer, in a non threatening manner. He really didn't want to jump into the middle of another one of his twin's battles, but he was ready to. Thief, though unseen by his gray cowl, smirked. That tenacity rivaled Elvi's and it was refreshing to see it in another living creature. That determination and courage could prove to be very useful for the Companion, if he learned to direct it properly instead of letting his fire burn everyone in his path. Including those that remained on his side and were trying to help him.
"I told you, I am looking to see my own objectives completed. You help me further my ends, and I shall help you with yours. It's a fair and common bargain. You'll know my intentions very soon, Vilkas. Don't concern yourself with that. I mean Elvi no harm, nor do I wish to help Harkon. That's all you need know. Now, tell me. What can I do, to help you? You will know what I ask for in return, soon." Thief said. His voice was steady and even, like he hadn't had a care in the world. Damn thieves for their honeyed words and velvet tongue! Even while Vilkas struggled to keep his grip on the wolf within, his words calmed him. He had no reason to trust the vampire, nor did he like the idea of carrying out some unknown agenda without a choice in exchange for his help...but what else could really be done. He and his brother couldn't do it alone...and if the Thief truly had the gift of foresight...they could get far more accomplished now. If nothing else, with knowledge they couldn't get elsewhere.
"Tell me, does Harkon have the last scroll? The one in Oblivion?" Vilkas asked. Realizing he had no idea how that whole turn of events sorted themselves out, since he was never given the plan. To Vilkas' relief he answered,
"No." Only for his spirits to be dashed just as quickly with his next words. "Not yet."
"What do you mean, not yet?" Farkas asked before Vilkas could. It was rather disheartening to think that they actually succeeded to finding the last scroll first...only for Harkon to end up having it in the end despite. Thief sighed
"Harkon, will have the last scroll. Very soon. There is nothing that can be done to prevent this, now." There in...lied the problem. For everyone.
"That doesn't give us much time then does it!" Vilkas said through his teeth. Strangely as he did this, he felt the difference in them. His now longer k9's were barely an inch apart from the ones forming at the bottom row. Now that was new...before he only bore teeth like this, on the night of a full moon. Before his transformation. He was beginning to wonder if they were going to permanently be that way, like Garrett's and the rest of his pack. He never really considered it before.
"Elvi is only going to get more and more involved the closer he gets to completing the prophecy! I have to see her before that, or it may be too late and the only option left before us, is killing Harkon. I don't want to do this, if it means risking her life as well!"
Thief oddly put his hand on his chin and stared up at the stars. Carefully planning his next moves. It was fitting...it worked in with his plans and didn't hinder his cause. Funny enough how his involvement in all of this was the visions he rarely saw, yet he knew the everyone else involved part in this, perfectly. Well, he had seen himself there...so why not?
"So, you want to see Elvi and to stall Harkon's plans? Am I right?" Thief asked for verification. Vilkas frowned.
"What I want, is to stop his plans altogether, but if stalling them is my only given option, I'll take it. It will give me time to talk to Elvi and free her from Harkon's grip. Also allow us to come up with a plan of attack, seeing how little our number is in comparison to his. Don't get me wrong, when I vowed to kill the beast for all that he has done, I meant it. Only now, I have to be...more precise."
Vilkas watched the vampire carefully, as he walked past him. Noticing that all of his glass daggers were still securely placed in the leather bindings of his jacket. This vampire may not be a warrior, but Vilkas was certain he was still adeptly skilled in combat. At any moment he could change his mind and try to kill them both, if he wanted. Vilkas had to prepare himself for that chance, even if he hoped it would never occur.
"Continue on your path, the one you already planned on traveling. You'll find Elvi, this way. You have no idea...just how lucky you are that you have the opportunity at all..." Thief said almost mournfully. It was true, in all the visions he had concerning Elvi, most of them involved her dying for good, in Molag Bal's test. That very much was Daedric Princes, however. They were unpredictable. Especially the patron one of the vampires. Molag Bal acted on a whim, more often then not. Something Elvi or Harkon must have thought or done, pleased him. Enough to give Elvi another breath of life in this world. He was thankful in all honesty...yet it did cause another slab of problems now. As horrible as it was to say, his goals would be much easier to execute if Elvi had remained dead. Harkon was much easier to get to, without Elvi by his side. With the promises of a different pact being honored, also had it's own horrific outcomes. He had to keep them in mind as he continued to pull the strings in the proper direction. To be certain, he closed his eyes and concentrated. Sure enough, the blonde vampire lord was just now making her way out of Helgen to return to the castle. If he was correct, she had only been awake for a little over an hour now. She would have to seek shelter soon, as would he so it gave him enough leeway. Enough time to reach his next target tomorrow night before he left as well. Good..everything was still going according to plan. It was best Vilkas just remained oblivious to all of that exchange with Molag Bal, and the motivations behind it. They would probably be most...discouraging
"Leave the rest to me. You want more time, you've got it. I can't promise how much, but I can guarantee that you will see Elvi again and you will be able to develop your own means to defeat Harkon. While I prepare things on my end, in case you fail. Good luck, Companions. Don't fret, you'll know how to find Elvi, before it's too late." He began to walk off and Vilkas extended his arms in disbelief. That was it? Really? Keeping going on your path, and leave it to me?
"What in the name of Oblivion does that mean!" Vilkas called out to the vampire who continued to walk forward.
"Are you telling me Elvi is away from the castle?! How? And what exactly do you plan on doing to stall him, if you know he will receive the last scroll soon?!" Vilkas was becoming more and more outraged by the second. He was in the dark far too much when it came to this prophecy. It was bad enough he had to rely on the stranger but to just swallow his sordid words without question, was not something he had in mind. Thief halted but only for a few seconds. Gently he pulled the cowl from his lips and turned his head back in their direction.
"Yes, it is true that Harkon will have the scroll he has longed for, in the very near future. Only like all times before it's discovery, three scrolls are needed to reveal Auriel's Bow location. Two scrolls are currently in Harkon's possession, under lock and key somewhere in the castle. So it sounds to me, like what you boys need..." he grinned and showed his vampiric fangs. The moonlight bouncing off them for a brief second.
"...is a thief."
Vilkas saw him run off this time, but he moved to quick to be stopped. Vilkas sighed but felt a small sense of peace. Knowing if nothing else, he wasn't going to be sitting around in a town anymore waiting for instruction. The hope of seeing Elvi again soothed and comforted him to the point he didn't feel the slightest bit of rage anymore. He hoped his new alliance was everything he promised it to be.
(xxx)
What a fucking night. Being told someone so close to you was dead, was hard enough. Only for you to wake up the next night, with your heart still full of pain and being told...nope, she's alive! Now don't get him wrong, Darius was eternally grateful that Lord Molag Bal decided only to test both Elvi and Harkon, but...how he wished it hadn't occurred at all. That was one emotional and pain induced whirlwind of feelings, he never wanted to experience or even think about again. He was sitting on the floor in the dungeon when Serana found him. He didn't want to look at anyone, or be questioned. So funnily enough, he got his solitude amongst the mindless thralls and cattle locked in their cells. In a way their presence...soothed him. He wanted away from his kin, but he didn't really want to be alone either. So he found a happy medium, surrounding himself with living creatures, but ones that lacked any real thought or judgment. Seeing that heartbroken expression on Darius' face was rather painful in it's self for Serana. He just...didn't look like Darius while his eyes reflected agony, and the infamous smirk absent from his face. Explaining it...was rather tricky. When her father found her, he was still very much out of sorts but the message was clear. Elvi was alive. She was coming home! After speaking to her father briefly, and following up with Darius, they all concluded that the only explanation for this, was a test. Molag Bal had been known to test his followers in similar ways in the past, and in all honesty, Darius did not expect Elvi to see it through. Hardly anyone ever fulfilled their lord's quest to openly walk into death, despite being as loyal as they claimed to be. Elvi was both remarkable for displaying her courage the way she had and...annoying all at once.
So she did know she was supposed to die? That's what that goodbye was about? Why in Oblivion didn't she say anything? Why didn't she tell anyone that she was doing this? The relief and joy he felt at knowing Elvi was still alive, was tainted with her silence. He couldn't force himself to be angry with her, but he'd be lying if he said he wasn't hurt. Rationally it made sense. If Elvi thought it to be the only solution, or thought she didn't have a choice, why say anything and get everyone upset? Darius pondered if Harkon would have stopped her or not. Even he was surprised by the lord of the castle's reaction. He was certain that Serana, didn't expect the reaction either considering how shaken up she was afterward, even while she explained everything to Darius. Once he ventured out into the main hall, he could tell that Harkon was still...troubled? An obvious look of anger was painted clearly across his face while those fierce eyes of his was fixated, on the double doors. Darius hoped that he wasn't furious at Elvi, but more furious with the situation. Then again it was impossible to predict the inner workings of a madman's mind, wasn't it? After yet another heart felt conversation with Serana, and the reassurance that Elvi would be returning home, where she belonged, Darius decided it was time to clear his head in the best way he knew how. Thanks to having his oh so wonderful power back, it was possible. Luckily Orthjolf let him go and even offered to cover for his absence were it noticed. Claiming to have sent him on some non sense mission, which for this clan was very believable.
Now with all this talk of death and his own run in with it, Darius was under far more stress than he ever liked to be. Sad thing was, yet another revelation came to his mind, and it shook him to his core. Without his power to teleport...he really was nothing. He was a fair warrior sure, but the only reason he was ever acknowledged in this court, was for his power. Of course his voice, like everyone else was never heard but with his unique ability he was given opportunity others who have been in the clan longer, were without. Losing his power completely, even for a brief amount of time, made him see things differently. He felt powerless. Just another solider, as he was as a mortal. When he was a nobody. The idea of his vampire power being the only thing that gave him any well...purpose in this world was a little shattering. He truly was thankful for his rebirth into vampirism. Harkon was an ass, but he was more valuable as a vampire than he ever was as a mortal. Though like his life as a mortal he was doing the only thing he knew how to do. Follow orders. With all these dark thoughts swirling in his head he knew the perfect, much needed remedy. Since he was at last given leave, he could achieve just that. Now...which one, which one?
With the infamous smirk returning to his face, Darius teleported to Whiterun. He considered venturing inside The Bannered Mare, to relieve his troubles...but dismissed it. Whiterun was too risky, considering the guards roaming about all the time. Even now a few of them scowled at him, as he made his way back to the main gate, to teleport again from unseeing eyes. None of them so much as suspected that he was a vampire, which was a little amusing. Believe it or not it was quite easy for a vampire to mingle with mortals whenever they chose. For the Volkihar at least. It was an extra perk to their clan. On a whim, he could put up a magical cloak if you will, around himself. Having the villagers see him as he was, only just like them. More color to his skin, duller teeth, and non illuminating eyes. Obviously his godlike beauty shined through either way, so he didn't mind. With a quick change of his mind, he teleported to Riverwood. A small town and a small tavern, filled with friendly people. More importantly, quiet people, who kept to themselves. He walked down the road, watching the chicken scurry away from him. It was kind of nice that the town was a lot like the one he grew up in, all those years ago. When he got to his destination, he chuckled then made his way inside. Ah, the Sleeping Giant Inn. It was so much nicer now that the blonde bitch Innkeeper was away. She had the audacity to get sour with him, simply because he forgot to pay for a few drinks and a couple of over night stays? Like it was a crime or something. The new oaf behind the counter didn't seem to know him, so that was also a nice addition. He sat at one of the tables and gulped down his first pint of mead in a matter of seconds, once it was placed before him. Already the fog in his mind was beginning to clear and he started to feel like his old self again. Not the self pitying, mournful vampire he had been the past couple of nights. His mood improved tremendously, once pints two and three were down the hatch and he caught the eye of a nice red head by the bar. She winked one of her baby blue eyes at him, and Darius' smirk curled on his face as he returned the gesture. Feeling himself stand to move over to the nameless woman's side. Before he knew it, he was happily sandwiched between the cute, freckled red head and some petite little brunette, who was currently hanging onto his left arm, while his right was draped around the red head's shoulders. Empty tankard still in his hand. Deciding he should be a bit more cordial he finally asked the red head,
"So, what's your name darling. I answer to Darius on most occasions." When he smiled at her, he began to see the lust burning in her eyes and he got excited. He put the tankard on the counter behind him, so he could play with her silk hair. All the while the girl was admiring his flawless face. She was certain only fairly tales of noble knights were described as he was. His beautiful blonde hair and confidence was most alluring. In a tiny voice she responded
"My name is Fiona, very nice to meet you. This is my friend Anneke, also. You happened by just as her shift ended. Now isn't that lucky?" she said seductively. Gesturing to the girl to his left. Now Darius had become very accustomed to reading the vibes females would give him, while in his presence and so far...he was very much liking where this was going. Turning his head to the brunette, he smiled at her.
"Lucky, indeed. I rather like the name Anneke by the way. May I call you Ann for short? My memory is often hazy after a few good pints." Mmm, watching her squirm at his smirk and voice was quite satisfying. In a way it was a little bit of shame, all of this came so easily to him but how he relished in the perks. With reddening cheeks, Anneke answered
"You can call me anything you'd like, handsome." Oh yes, he was enjoying where this was going. How nice it was to be acknowledged for his superior beauty once again. When Darius licked his lips, Anneke let out a soft sigh. She was sure it wasn't meant to be seductive, but it really, really was. Gods, he was gorgeous, borderline perfect when it came to appearance. So much so, she subtly moved her hand to his most sensitive area, giving it a very light squeeze. Darius jerked a bit in surprise but it was a pleasant surprise none the less. Public displays of lust, was quite the turn on for him. Things were in fact moving...rather quickly.
Thank the Princes, for bar wenches! When the girl on his left gave him the look he knew all to well, he reached into his pack and pulled out a small pouch of gold. Throwing it at the Inn Keeper, before the saucy red head pulled him towards an empty room. Darius was very curious to know just how far down those adorable little freckles of hers went, but when he heard the door close behind them, and he whipped his head around to see the brunette also joining them. He smirked wickedly. Knowing his fangs were unseen by the friendly mortal girls, but in that moment he kind of wished they were. When the redhead...Fiona right...began to remove the front of his armor, Darius tensed. He was a little self conscious about the amount of scars that plagued his chest at first, even though they were usually well received or even unnoticed. The small amount of insecurity faded, when Anneke cupped the side of his face, and pulled him towards her. Her wine coated lips met his, and he felt the remainder of his stress melt away. Mindless, emotionless sex, with two cute strangers was an amazing stress relief, and something he had been missing for quite some time now. Rarely in the same encounter, but who was he to deny someone the splendor of his body? He twisted his body around, only slightly so that he could tend to removing the brunette's blouse, while Fiona moved from his shirt to his pants. Planting soft and delicate kisses along his torso as she went down. Very much enjoying all the tight muscles she found there, paying them extra attention. The sensation of hot lips on his skin, made him sigh softly but he focused on his work. Wanting to make for certain that both of his partners left this room with the up most satisfaction. With expert hands he unbuttoned her blouse, and his mouth found her right breast, before he removed it completely. Ah, the salty sweet taste of her skin was a nice follow up to all the delicious mead and wine he had consumed. He smirked when he heard the tiny whimper of the girl, encouraging him to switch over to the other breast, and to slide his hand down her skirt. His index finger finding her sensitive spot then beginning his exhilarating rhythm. It was always nice to feel how wet his partners usually were before having to put forth any real effort. Her body trembled, and he moaned into her chest as Fiona's scolding hot mouth took him, after he kicked his pants off the rest of the way.
Keeping up his work on the brunette, he rocked back and forth with his hips so he could get deeper into her mouth. When she began to lick at his head playfully, he hummed in pleasure. Feeling the ecstasy sweep through his body, was rather freeing. He couldn't remember why he distracted himself from all the wonderful carnal pleasures for as long as he had. Soon enough both the delicate mortals were naked and laying on the double bed, waiting for him. Now there is very few as glorious sights in this world as seeing beautiful naked women anxiously waiting for you. The brunette, examined his fully erect cock, with a look of amazement. Also, a very nice thing to see and it only fed his staggering ego. Flashing his smile one last time he decided carefully which lucky lady should receive him first. Feeling as though Fiona hadn't gotten near enough of his focus, he started with her. With her hand gripped into his hair, he thrust hard into her. His eyes moving to Anneke's all the while. Watching her shake with anticipation, when she saw how wildly he took the other girl next to her. Before Darius pulled out, he lightly grazed his fangs on Fiona's shoulder. Knowing by now the perfect amount of pressure to put on her without, causing her any real pain, but being able to taste the loveliness of her blood. Darius usually fed from his lovers but never a lot, especially not enough to kill. It was just a rule for him. Shame they couldn't see him for what he was, for his eyes ignited like fire once her blood touched his tongue. Urging him to finish the job as was the nature of the vampire, but he refrained. Instead when he felt the red head clench around him, he moved to the other girl.
She was fairly tighter than the first, and from the blush on her face, he knew she was unaccustomed to shacking it up with random men she met at a tavern, but Darius didn't mind. Perhaps he would be the standard for any men after him. What was he thinking...of course he would be! He continued to thrust into each one of the bar wenches until he felt them orgasm, then switched back over to the panting, neglected one until his time finally came to an end. Tingling from head to toe with pleasure he laid back on the bed. Both of the girls were still gasping desperately for breath, and he closed his eyes to focus purely on the sound. Mmm. As much as he would have enjoyed remaining beside them for a little while longer, he felt his second wind come to him, so he got up from the bed, and promptly put his armor back on. Well...mostly. Enough to hide his body, but he couldn't be bothered with putting it on properly.
"Nice to make your acquaintance ladies, I'll be sure to look you up, next time I'm in town." He winked and savored the sight one last time before opening the door. Swaggering back into the tavern, he grinned when he saw the residents stare at him questionably. The beautiful melody he and the girls made, must have been heard throughout the entire building, which he was more than happy with. When he sat down at the table, he saw the little green eyed assistant look over to him shyly. He smirked at her, and seeing those cheeks flush red, was also quite satisfying, rather that ended as well as his last encounter or not. When the Inn Keeper brought him another tankard of mead and he took that first sip, Darius finally felt back to normal. To bad he had to return to the castle soon, where the air was so thick with tension, it felt heavy just walking inside. Like some unseen force was pulling everyone down. Harkon had been intolerable in the past, but truth was, he was going to be more than on edge until Elvi was back. Which was understandable, but it also made it very hard on the Volkihar until then. Without Elvi...it was like Harkon's rage and anger was at it's worse. Before he left for the tavern, he could have sworn that he saw a few of the court members literally duck to the ground and crouch forward wherever they needed to go. Not wanting to so much as break Harkon's train of sight or to be brought to his attention. If Darius could guess, when he returned Harkon would still be in his throne. His cold eyes fixated on the double doors. Darius sighed and finished the last of his mead. He couldn't figure Harkon out. What was his angle? Was he putting on a show to help convince Elvi he cared for her? Or did he actually care? A little humorous that the latter was the more unbelievable one. While he stared into space and enjoyed the blissful combination of alcohol and endorphins, a glimpse of golden hair caught his eye.
He felt himself rise from his chair and his heart began to beat rapidly in his chest. Only for him to frown and be overwhelmed with crippling disappointment. A young girl had entered the tavern, but it wasn't the golden beauty that was Elvi. In fact as he looked at her, she was a pale comparison. Blast. When he sat back down, he wondered why he reacted so quickly and excitedly to the mere sight of golden hair. Memories and thoughts of Elvi consumed his mind from that point forward. He never missed someone to the point that it made him feel actual pain before, but he couldn't deny the tightening grip on his chest. She really was...one hell of a woman. If anyone could make a heartless man feel something besides hatred, it was Elvi. It made sense that Harkon felt a fondness for her in that sense, but he didn't deserve her. Not after everything he had done. Thinking of the two of them together made Darius clench onto his empty tankard with a breaking force. No one else...saw her directly after her punishment was over. It bothered him before, but now it was far more enraging. Maybe it was almost losing her that did it, but Darius found it almost impossible to keep Elvi off of his mind lately. Or maybe if he was allowed to be around his friend as often as he liked it wouldn't occur as often.
When another woman approached him with a similar goal as the first...he dismissed her. Usually three lovely ladies in one night was a good night or even a normal one when he set out with this purpose but, he still politely declined by saying "Another time, luv." Without really thinking about it. There was nothing wrong with the girl, and he had plenty of strength left he just...didn't want to. He was too busy with all the current thoughts that consumed him. Perhaps the world was either changing or coming to an end after all. He never turned down any kind of proposal from pretty ladies, but with his mind set on Elvi he didn't feel...right, engaging in his normal behavior. Dammit! If only he knew where she was, he could take her back home and maybe find some damn peace. He knew he was going to be pretty protective of her now because realizing he could one day lose her for good was...crushing. His home, though it had been the same for hundreds of years before her, did not feel the same while she was gone. Just an empty damned castle out in the middle of a sea. Everything, come to think of it felt different, while she was gone. And if he could guess, it felt that way for everyone.
Before Darius could dive back into his pit of foreign woe, the Inn Keeper brought him another pint of mead. Darius raised one of his thick blonde brows, as he placed the pint in front of him. Subtly the Inn Keeper gestured to a table that was directly in front of Darius, but on the far end of the tavern. As he went back to work, Darius' eyes found the figure of a hooded man, leaned back in one of the chairs. His head bowed slightly. A gray cowl hid the rest of his face that the hood could not, but It didn't matter. Darius knew what he was, which made his smirk return to his face. Vampires could always spot their own kind, even in a crowd of hundreds. As suspected when Darius saw the golden and red eyes flash up to his, his suspicions were confirmed. Darius admitted that he was at least a little surprised, though. Not because it was confirmed that the hooded man was a vampire, but because his eyes were so close to his kins, if not identical. It sounded like non sense unless you were one of them, but even the eyes of vampires varied due to their clan or creation. Most vampires that harbored both gold and red in their eyes, were usually made up of mostly red with a sliver of gold around the rim. The Volkihar's eyes were the opposite. Mostly gold, with a thick rim of red enhancing them. Almost equal in the amount of color. Darius' eyes were that way, as were his eyes. Only it was impossible. Darius knew every member of his clan, maybe not by name, but by appearance. Sure most of his appearance was concealed, but from his small frame alone, Darius swore he had never seen him before. Darius looked over to his tankard and couldn't resist the chuckle that escaped him. If the gesture was also a proposal, he didn't know what to make of it. He had never been hit on by a bloke before, but Darius shrugged it off. A compliment was a compliment, after all. To bad for him, if he was hoping to win Darius over this way, he'd find only disappointment. Eternity hadn't made him that curious. Darius raised his tankard in thank you to the vampire with the smirk back on his face. Yet when he picked it up, it felt...empty? With a frown he gazed inside of it and saw, what looked like a neatly folded bit of parchment. When he looked back up to the vampire, he should have known, he would be gone. He felt the rush of air from the front door closing, as it swept his hair to the side but that was the only indication where the vampire had left.
Darius quickly unfolded the message so that he could decide if he should chase after him or not. Once he read the message he wished he had stopped the man sooner! On the parchment the words 'Darius, get Serana out of the castle. Now.' Followed by a few listing of dates, and locations were scribbled on it. The soonest one being as early as tomorrow night. As if he was being asked to take Serana to one of the locations on the date next to it. Now Darius' mind had an insane amount of questions. How in the hell...did this man know him? Know that he had the ability to teleport, or that he lived in a castle at all? Better yet, how did he know Serana? What did she have to do with anything...? All the dates and locations were spread out almost in a...walking distance? As if he was tracking someone or something that was moving. Why would Serana need to get out of the castle? Was there other people in this struggle than once predicted and he wanted her to meet them so they could help or something? Even if it was only words vacant a voice, Darius could sense the urgency in the message. Hmph, like he owed a stranger any favors. Especially one that refused to speak with him personally. When he flipped the note around to examine it further, an extra message was added on the back. One that made him...want to play along with the mysterious vampires request, if not only to find the answer to the question that was written on the parchment.
'If you need further convincing, ask her what the blood of coldharbour's daughter has to do with the prophecy. She'll tell you. Keep her safe.'
Darius sighed. Seems his worry free bliss ended far too soon. This message was very concerning indeed. Never before had he heard Harkon or anyone else mention blood at all when it came to this whole damn prophecy. That and he knew the term 'Coldharbour's Daughter' was what pure-blooded vampire females were often called. Serana, being one herself, so it fit. How did the vampire know about the prophecy or even know more than Harkon himself did? Or how could Serana know something concerning the prophecy, that her father didn't either? He knew she and the Companions successfully made it to the Soul Cairn before Harkon, yet without the rewards. So what else...could they have found there? Bah, he really should have gotten more information on that entire encounter, but what with being almost mauled to death and priests showing up at the castle, there was little time to focus on much but the events at the time.
When Darius looked up, he saw that the inn keeper was sorting out his tab, so he sighed again. Well, looks like it was time to return home. It was fun while it lasted. Looked as though he had his own mess to work out any way. He had to make it to the castle and talk with Serana privately. Possibly even plan a way to teleport her out of there without anyone noticing. When he inn keeper moved from behind the bar, he blinked a couple of times before letting out a few colorful curses. In a matter of seconds the blonde glutton was gone. The door hadn't opened nor did he see him so much as stand from his seat. The only sign that the man had been there at all was the amount of empty tankards on the table and two girls who were just now stumbling out of the room, with small satisfied smiles on their faces. He sighed...well...at least he paid for the room.
An: Hm, looks as though 'Thief' has his hand in this far more than anyone thought. Who is he, and what exactly is his goal? I hope you all enjoyed this chapter, the next one should be up a little quicker than this one was, so I hope you all haven't lost your patience. The next chapter is both the point of view from the castle and Harkon's perspective, the other half is Elvi's journey back to the castle. Please let me know what you thought of the chapter, and any predictions you may have from this point forward. Also, just curious do I have any Vilkas fans out there? Haha. Thanks again to everyone reading, reviewing and following this story. You guys are the best.