Soul of a Dragon

by InMyMindsEyes

Serlina is thrown into an adventure in a world unknown to her. When everything she has ever known turned upside down, she must endure pain, loss, lust, power, magic, revenge and destiny. When she encounters a ranger who sparks her interest, making passions unknown rise, her life will never be the same. Some better. Some worse. Some language and smut in later chapters.

14. Alec, Prince of Song

Taking a table away from the small crowd of people, I let out a sigh as my body settles into my seat. Having a bath to wash away all that dragon blood nearly did me in, but I still wanted to sit and think about everything, while it was still fresh rather than passing out. My sleep could wait... Tempting thought though. Everything that had happened made sense, and though I should have self-lectured myself at not being able to keep my composure, I still spoke harshly to Delphine.

And through careful consideration, my verdict was still the same.

Delphine was a rude, sketchy, resentful old woman.

I didn't know nor care what her deal was, but it really rubbed me the wrong way. I know I'm new to the whole being dragonborn thing, but I still disliked the way she mocked the idea by getting the horn... And earlier tonight when she was all sloppy footwork and irritating positioning in our battle against the dragon...

My back still burned from where the frost hit. No frostbite, thank the gods, but not once did she say any 'thanks' for my covering her. I rub my eyes with my fingers as Bishop asked for some food with our next round and I drop my hands to my lap as I look to the small crowd by the large hearth.

It slowly parted until a man became visible. He looked young, smiling politely at the patrons who were standing around him as he tuned his lute... Looking over his features, he had many qualities that was common for an Imperial. He had prominent cheekbones and a well-defined chin and nose. While he talked to patrons I tuned into his voice. It was as deep as any young mans. He smiled with ease and made fluid arm movements to exaggerate his buoyant speech. He couldn't be much over twenty. He wore a deep red tunic with the collars flipped up around his neck, stripes of red, white and dark brown ran up and down until it reached his stomach which then changed into a red and black diamond pattern. Over that he wore a dark brown vest, that matched his pants and boots. His hat matched his outfit, a solid deep red with a brim that encircled around his head a few inches and feathers topped it off. I tilted my head to the side slightly as I looked him over. Some folks wear a smile, this guy was the smile. Everything about him was a soft and understated joy as he greeted each person.

Such an... odd looking hat though.

His gaze moved from one patron to another as he spoke, until his eyes lock with mine giving me a clear view of his face. His skin was clear of any markings, or dirt, leaving his skin looking like warm ivory in the firelight. His hair, from what I could see, curled over the collar of his shirt with light blond hair, matching his goatee. I had to admit he was an attractive man. He was too far away to tell his eye colour. Not once did he look away from me as his hands lifted to settle on his instruments neck, his long fingers taking their place on the thin strings. Taking a deep breath, he began singing an a cappella version of The Dragonborn Comes.

'Our hero, our hero

Claims a warrior's heart

I tell you, I tell you

The Dragonborn comes'

The group around him looked on in contentment, listening quietly as his voice rang out in the wide room. He had a pleasant voice, pitchy in some places for my taste, but pleasant nonetheless.

'With a Voice wielding power

Of the ancient Nord art

Believe, believe,

The Dragonborn comes'

Turning in my seat I thank the woman who brings us our meals and dig in. Bishop sits back after finishing his as I cut another bit from my venison chop .

"Do you find it odd to hear this song?" Bishop asked as he took a swig from his ale bottle. Chewing, I shake my head side to side weighing the idea as I dust my hands off from bread crumbs.

"I haven't thought about it much." I say after I swallow my bite and sip my wine. "But I suppose... Maybe a little. Thank you by the way for paying for dinner. And for dealing with that man downstairs." I add my eyes casting a look down to the floorboards.

"Don't worry about it ladyship." He waved a hand in dismissal as the final verse was sung.

'For the darkness has passed

And the legend yet grows

You'll know, you'll know

The Dragonborn's come.'

When the bard finished, I turn in my seat to look back and see that the patrons began to clap, making him bow.

"Thank you! Thank you one and all. You are most kind." He called amongst the applause. Swinging his lute onto his back he walked towards our table. I turn back in my seat and take another sip of my wine and notice that Bishop was raising a brow, his scowl deepening as the footsteps neared. Looking up, I notice that he had stopped at our table as I take another small sip from my wine and I finally can see his eyes now that he's closer.

Green. Soft quiet green. It reminded me of the stems of thistles from these lands. Though they didn't hold a single prickle of the plant they reminded me of. They looked at me with... Warmth? I found myself smiling politely, wiping my hands over my pants to rid them of breadcrumbs. He was standing there for a minute, just saying nothing and looking at me so intensely that I was beginning to feel put off.

"You're not a bad singer." I state breaking this overly long silence and his eyes widen slightly then bows his head a little.

"Forgive me, my lady, have I the honour to speak to the Dragonborn?" He asked gently, almost unsure. I stilled.

Don't people ask for names anymore? Although, I was wanting to turn to Bishop and introduce him as the Dragonborn, like with what happened in Riverwood but that would just make his scowl deepen. If that was even possible. Instead, I sat back in my seat and laced my fingers in my lap.

"That depends." I state cautiously as I gave him a slow once over. "Who's asking?" My question must have been misleading somehow, because he clutched a nearby chair with both hands as he looked at me, his face glowing with joy.

"By the Divines! It is delightful to be standing in your presence." He smiled at me and I smiled politely back, all the while internally I was trying to figure out if I was becoming nervous around this man or not.

"Yeah, I'll bet it is." Bishop muttered into his flask, making me look over my shoulder at him. The way he was looking at him made my back straighten slightly. He looked irritated and bothered by this man. Did he know him or…? I look back to the bard started to clear things up.

"I never said I was the Dragon-" He cut me off by standing fully, arms up and outstretched to call out to the whole tavern.

"Today, we witness a living legend among us, none other than the Dragonborn herself!" Many sets of eyes snapped to our table and whispers moved all around. Some looked impressed. Others scornful. Some just… looked. It made me want to go and lock myself in my room, or stand tall making sure that no one knew that I was feeling put off by all the looks. Hell, it wasn't my first time getting so many eyes to look at me in all sorts of ways, this was no different. Well. No. They weren't holding rocks this time. Still…

"Our hero, our hero indeed who claims this warriors heart." He laid a hand over his chest, where his heart would be under cloth, skin and bone. I think I heard Bishop behind me groan bitterly. I had to agree, it was a little… much. But I found myself nearly smirking at his reaction. Looking back to the bard, he was starting to point at random patrons. "I told you, I told you and the Dragonborn came." He gestured to me this time, making me rub a hand over my neck sheepishly.

"This living legend needs another drink." I mutter as I gently shake my empty wine bottle and start to rise when he leans forward, causing me to lean back into my seat.

"If I could just have one moment of your fine company, my lady." I gap at him when he sat down at our table. "Please allow me to introduce myself. My name is Alec. Pleased to make your acquaintance." His manners were something... refreshing, I had to give him that. Despite his temporarily lack of acknowledgement of personal space. I bowed my head in greeting.

"For me to you as well. So, tell me Prince of song, what does a bard want with me?" I ask crossing my arms over my chest.

"I have spent so much of my time studying your adventures." He states and for a moment, I found myself frowning.

"There haven't been that many." I say glancing to Bishop who nods in agreement. Surprisingly, he kept going, not hearing me.

"From your terrors at Helgen, to your eradication of the dragon menace."

"A couple of dragons." I mutter correctingly, slinking lower into my seat. Barley over a month here in Skyrim and word of my 'adventures' were already being told to bards? Good Gods, it was worse than dry wildfires! Just how many people knew about me? Alec leaned forward and laid a gentle hand on my forearm. "You are our hero. Your strength and humility brings hope to every heart in Skyrim. We bards sing your songs-"

"Songs?" I echoed, my head starting to spin into a headache.

"-so that our children's children may remember the glory of the Dragonborn, savior of Tamriel!"

I was too stunned to even pull my arm away.

So much in one day. Holy hells. I should have just gone to bed! Screw another drink, I needed to sleep. I wanted this day to simply end. Hadn't I already reached my quota? "Though,-" He pauses getting my attention again as his eyes scanned my face, lowering subtly then lifted back to mine. "-meeting you I see no account of your beauty has ever been given you the justice you deserve."

"Oh. Um, Well..." I fell silent after my stammering. His compliment left me feeling a little... Flattered. A touch uncomfortably, but flattered nonetheless. "Thank you, that's… very kind." I smile a little, making his own lips tilt up and his own smile grows when Bishop lets out a small scoff.

"Did you rehearse that until it sounded kind enough?" He asked, a fierce scowl on his face as he looked to the Alec, who regarded him with measured patience.

"Kindness hold no place over honesty. I speak only the truth." His green gaze shifted back to mine. "You are truly inspiring, a beautiful muse for the beating heart of a musician." He picked up one of my hands and held it between both of his. Weirdly, I found his hands to be too soft, until his fingertips caught my attention. Calloused from his lute no doubt, yet the rest of his hands held no markings. Hmm... He had no weapons to speak of, or to be seen either. Looking back to his face, I see his eyes had wandered down my body, stopping now and again, making the green deepen. My back straightened. There was compliments and then there was ogling. And I disliked the latter.

Well, just from him, or so it felt like. Not like...

I glance to Bishop who looks at our connecting hands with a look that nearly burns worse than the frost that hit me earlier. Slipping my hand from his, I laced my fingers back together over my knee.

"How kind of you to notice my looks before my brains, Alec." I enunciate his name, drawing his attention from my cleavage to my eyes again. He glances away, his face reddening at my having caught him red handed with his staring, then looks back to me, his eyes clear again.

"Apologies my lady. Please, you must come to a special performance I'm arranging here in Windhelm. I would be delighted for you to be my guest."

"Uhh... I don't think I would be comfortable with that prospect. I am not some grad title for you to advertise your performance with!" I unlaced my fingers, grabbed my empty bottle and rose, the men joining me. Alec didn't surprise me with it, however Bishop standing had me raising my brows a little.

"My apologies, perhaps that may have been a little too forward. My mouth seems to run away from me in your presence Dragonborn." I nod at his words and feel a slight tinge of pain. He still hadn't asked me for my name. I was just the Dragonborn…

"Don't forget, you have a world to save, monsters to kill, busy busy!" Bishop reminded me. His tone low and irritated as he subtly glared at the bard, who looked between the two of us and his eyes lost their shine. I feel like I just kicked a small dog somewhere from the way he looks at me, his smile fading as he looks saddened by what had been said.

"That brings a great sadness to my heart. I understand you must be very busy, my lady." He looks away, his eyes hurt and his face falls. It gnaws at me, despite his staring ogling from earlier when he starts to step away back to his crowd. He takes two steps before I found myself clicking my tongue and making a quick decision.

"Alec, wait!" I step towards him and do my best too look apologetic. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to sound so harsh." I look to Bishop and then to him. "I recall that we have a little time until our..." I paused for a moment. What was Delphine to us? A friend? Not really, despite what she put in her note. An ally sounded to warrish for my taste. Soo…"acquaintance-" I settled on, "-needs our presence. I would be happy to see this performance of yours." My words brought back some colour to his eyes and face. His smile returning.

"Just you wait, my dear! I am so pleased to share the experience with you. I will see you tomorrow evening at the palace, my muse." He takes my hand and kisses the back of it, bowing his head in a small farewell then joins his crowd again. I give up on getting my next drink, instead I just handed a barmaid the bottle then returned to our table. Bishop looked more at ease with him gone, yet he was watching me, his amber eyes hot and burning.

"I don't know about you, but after that encounter, I am ready for bed." I say quietly. Even to my own ears I sounded tired. Bishop looks between me and Alec, who is now taking requests, happy to be surrounded by his small crowd, then back to me.

"Sure. I'll walk down with you." He finishes his last drink and rises, motioning for me to lead the way in the direction of the stairs. We walk around the small group and head down. Momentarily I was shocked to see the man who had been speaking harshly in my face on the floor, his face swollen and bleeding, I stop at the bottom of the stairs and look between him and Bishop. He however, just steps over the man and grumbles something to the innkeeper about 'picking up the drunks'. I walked past the man, and found my eyes looking to Bishop again.

Gods. Did they brawl over-? But Bishop looked unharmed. I glanced to the bruised man. Comparing the two of them, Bishop was younger by several years and did fight with deft movements. My heart tumbled a little, making me press a hand to my chest. Gods. The feeling was so odd and alarming. We walk down the carpeted hallways, my room coming up first as my headache made a bigger appearance between my temples.

"So, what did you think of the bard?" I ask, testing the waters as we slowed upon reaching my door... I reach into my pack and grab my waterskin and pop the cork and pull out a few herbs, popping them in my mouth and take a long drink. I swallow as I catch the way he scowls and sneers the word;

"Bards." He scowls looking the ceiling, like he was directing his full scowl to the man in red upstairs. Shaking my head in amused disbelief as I take another swig, pushing the herbs down. "As if he'd know anything about letting a woman come for anything." I spit out some of my drink at his implication, gently coughing as I pat my chest trying to stop the burning in my lungs while I wiped my mouth with my other hand. "His voice alone is enough to send them running in the opposite direction." He finished while I got my coughing fit under control.

"Good gods Bishop!" I took a steadying drink, though his words were slightly harsh, they had me suppressing both a smile and a laugh. "Is someone jealous? Id like to hear you do better." I toss back and he shrugs.

"You offering to give me lessons?" He turns and faces me directly, his eyes twinkling mischievously. "Let's see who can hit those high notes first." He flirtingly teased and I had to try not to roll my eyes.

"I don't give lessons." I say softly, looking away for a moment then look back at him. "I'm a hands-on learning kind of woman Bishop." His eyes darken and the space between us crackles.

"Oh, I bet you are." The faint sound of clapping draws both of our attention, the heat dwindling away as Bishop glances up again. "Want him to teach you a few things, on his… lute." His way of turning a normal thing to sound vaguely sexual was both irritating and astounding. I roll my eyes and lightly smack his arm.

"Oh, shut it with that, ranger. There isn't anything he does with his lute that makes me want to learn." I state and the tension leaves him. "Besides," I say as I leaned my shoulder against the wall. "I prefer the drum." I shrug when he snorts a laugh.

"Cause you can play it one handed?"

"No, I just like men who know how to keep up a solid rhythm." I return and his lips tilt up in a knowing smile.

"Is that so?" He hums in approval.

"And his song that he did... Well, I thought it was..." Pretty? Decent? "Beautiful." I settled on. More out of politeness. My words were hushed, but I had to make sure that if someone had overheard me and told Alec, I didn't want to hurt his feelings again. Bishop only groaned.

"You would like a rotten cabbage if they named it after you." He tossed back, making me press a hand to my cheek in mock shock.

"That's a little harsh Bishop." I scoff and cross my arms. "Even I have standards." I made a false effort of looking bored then glance to him. "Leeks over cabbages." I make a cutting motion with my hand. "Any day."

"Does it matter?"

"To me it does."

"So, does that make the bard a leek?" He asked and I glower.

"No, he's a cabbage."

"So, what does that make me?" He asks and I look him up and down.

"Don't know yet." I admit.

He huffs a laugh.

"I doubt that it matters anyway if you're getting friendly with a bard."

"Bards aren't so bad. And I am not getting friendly with anyone!" I toss at him and his eyes look to mine with a small grin tugging at his lips.

"No one?" He asks and I get the feeling like we were dancing around something dangerously terrifying. At least to me...

"No one." I snap at him, running a hand over my head. "Gods Bishop. Can't you play nice for once?" I ask and he shrugs, smirking at me.

"Oh, I can definitely 'play'. As for the nice..." He glances back up to the ceiling, then quickly back to me. "No promises." He scratched his neck just below his Adam's apple. "I swear my ears are bleeding." He adds harshly, his face morphing into one of slight pain albeit mocking.

"Don't be so melodramatic. Your ears are fine. I will admit that when he was... Could you even call that singing? Sounded like he was just speaking words. I almost thought it was a couple of sabre cats in heat outside." I say jokingly and get a smirk out of him.

"Maybe it was." He leans a little into me making me watch his movements cautiously. "Maybe we should follow the example of those sabrecats tonight to block out this 'singing'." My heart lunges in my chest.

Swallowing again, I gently shake my head no, keeping my face looking amused rather than... I don't even know what I would call it. Hyperactive? Roused? He looked down the hall and gave a small pained groan. "I swear, I'd sing about you myself if it got them to shut up." He spoke of the joined voices above our head and I sigh, shaking my head.

"Do that and you are dead." I tried to appear a little threatening, only to get him to throw his head back and laugh, the sound rich that has my stomach flutter, even more so when he wraps his arms around his middle as his face lights up.

In that moment, I no longer see the scowling ranger. I saw Bishop. The young man who was happy and handsome, carefree and laughing at something I had said. The moment doesn't last longer than a minute, but when he returns his gaze to me, it holds just a hint of the humor from before, but most of his cold mask slips back. His eyes however, gleamed brightly as he walked forward until we are chest to chest.

"Really?" He askes and I say nothing. Only because I didn't trust my voice. I just nod my head up and down slowly. He leans forward and my heart starts to beat faster. "Something tells me you'd really like to hear me howl, princess." His voice was low, sending shivers over my skin as if he was speaking directly into my ear.

I'm nervous. I'm nervous, slightly aroused and disturbed.

Not because of the piece of me that doesn't want what he said to be true. It's the bigger part of me that does. Taking a steadying breath, I opt for a teasing tone.

"I would pay to see that. Do a duet with Karnwyr!" He laughs again and shakes his head.

"Yeah, nobody could get me drunk or pay me enough to do that." He crossed his arms over his chest as I tsked in a sound of disappointment.

"Well, if there won't be an encore done by you, I am going to go to sleep." I point to my room and his eyes follow, looking inside the small room, looking it over with a tight nod.

"It looks safe. I have the room next door, so I'll be around."

If I were to have had any fear sleeping here, in a place I was unfamiliar with, my fears would have diminished like vapor. I couldn't help it, I smiled and lifted to my toes so I could reach. I saw his eyes sharpen as I pressed my lips to his cheek. His skin was warm, smelling like leather, woodsmoke and faintly of pine. Pulling back and lowering to my own height, I see his eyes heat as they look at me.

"Thank you. I know I'll be safe with you around." I bow my head a little and step into my room, my hand resting on the doorknob.

"Though I'd say you owe me one after that." His lips curl into a smirk as he gives me a flirtatious wink. I smiled and slowly close the door into place. I wait a moment before walking away from the door. Faintly I can hear his boots making heavy footfalls away from my door. Reaching behind, I twist the handle so that it locked.

Leaning my head against the door, I exhale a long breath and close my eyes. I owe him one huh? I thought to myself, my eyes lifting as I peel myself off the door to walk to my bed. Dropping my greatsword beside the bed, I tuck one sword under my pillow as I lay the other beside the larger one by the bed. I was beginning to feel like I owed him a few things. My slowly growing concern was that he wouldn't like what I gave to him. Or what I wouldn't…

I woke early, my sleep deep and restful, thank the gods. I was up and washed by 10 and walking out my door. Nearing the doors to exit the inn, the innkeeper caught my eye with a gentle wave of her hand.

"Milady!" She smiled politely.

"Morning." I say as I walk to the counter.

"Morning. Your companion said that he needed to get a few things and would meet up with you later. He left this note for you-" She pulled a small piece of paper and handed it to me. "-then walked off with his wolf." Nodding at her words I opened up the note and gave it a quick glance.

'Ladyship,

Don't worry your pretty head, I haven't left your side completely, just had to get a few things done and I didn't want you to tag along just to have you get bored with it.

Be sure to look around, get used to the cold, buy warmer clothes.

Can't have you all chattering teeth again.

Don't worry about getting lost,

I'll find you.

-B'

I smiled as I read the note, my heart doing a small skitter over my ribs... His penmanship was quite nice for someone like him. Folding the note up, I tip the innkeeper and head out into the cold city. The snap of the wind had me slightly bracing, but it was nicer when the sun was out and shining above me. I listened to the chatter and made my way towards, what sounded to be, the forge. I came across the market, several vendors up and running, shouting about their wares. I bought a few things from the armourist, and got the forgeman to let me make a new lockpick hairpin. Didn't take a lot of time, and I was pleased with my work. Paying him for letting me use his equipment, I head to the fruit and vegetable venders. I was looking over the produce when a large shadow caught my attention.

"Morning my muse." I make an effort to keep my face pleasant as I fully stand up and turn to see Alec behind me, still in his bright red outfit and silly hat. The hat makes me smile, I will not deny that

"Alec, good morning!" I notice that he is putting a few wine bottles away in a satchel by his side, no doubt purchased them from the vender across from one I was standing at. "Getting in a little shopping in the market before your big performance?"

"Alas, you are correct." He looks shyly at his pack, then to me.

"Well it's good to see even well-known bards still walk amongst us folk who are less inclined to the musical arts. It's a... Humbling reminder that anyone could be as accomplished as you in what you do with instruments." He smiled, eyes casted downwards, looking slightly embarrassed. I turn back around and look over the food again. Hmm. I was feeling like soup. Cold weather always made perfect time for soup.

"Perhaps in someone such as yourself?" He asked, eyes meeting mine again as I squeezed and pinched, sniffed, and weighed things in my hands, and having agreed on the goods I would then barter on the price. The stallholders were unsure about me, no doubt from my unusual armoured clothes to my physical appearance, that was a sure thing. But they liked how much money I seemed to have, so they stayed quiet.

"You flatter me, but no. I don't think my voice was meant for... Singing." I end softy placing a few onions and potatoes aside to purchase... Once a long time ago I thought I wanted too. Until… I drop the thought when Alec leans in a little as I pay for my things.

"Ah, I suspect that is where you are wrong, my muse. I can hear it in your voice. A grace that could soar beautifully alongside a lute such as my own. If you would be as so kind to permit me." He offered, a hand reaching for the instrument in question. I quickly lay a gentle hand on his arm, stilling his movements.

"Oh, I think not. I am not as comfortable as you are about singing near people. Besides, I would like to wait until your performance tonight." I smile and head to the vendor with meats, where rabbits fresh from the fields, huge sides of beef, mammoth steaks and goats were hung up on hooks, and several different fish were spread out on wooden slabs. I selected some chicken livers, which were wrapped and set aside. Karnwyr would like them. He was looking better by the day. I also grabbed some fish and a few bags of flour and was set to go.

"But you do sing." He made the question sound more like a statement as I perused the stock once more, making sure I had everything...

"I am not comfortable singing. It doesn't matter if I can or not." I set aside some venison chops, a goat leg and a few small spices, cause why the hell not? Smiling at the butcher I count my money and hand it over. I thank him and he says that he can have it brought to my room at the Candlehearth Hall, that way I don't have to carry it around with me at the very moment. I nod in thanks and turn to almost step into Alec who looks at me like he is trying to figure something out. "Yes?" I ask, my body growing slightly tense at his stare.

"I just find it hard to imagine you and your beauty not being known in all of Tamriel, nor the sound of your voice." He stated gently and I found myself laughing bittersweetly.

"Oh Alec, I am sure that people all across Skyrim have heard or will hear my voice. One way or another." Hell, it echoed even when I lacked a deep room to stand in.

"Yes, but it is also a great deal when they will even want to pay to hear it. Even more when they are as captivating as you."

"Are you saying that being a bard isn't hard work if you are considered more attractive?" I asked teasingly and he chuckled.

"Well, not exactly." He glances away, then smirks a little. "But it certainly would help." He joked and I smiled ruefully.

"I am sure it does." His soft green eyes shift as I notice a large figure in black step to my right side. My body sensed who it was, hell even trembled slightly... I turn my head to see Bishop, a mask of his usual calm neutrality in place, Karnwyr by his feet, looking at everyone with an aloof look. "Morning Bishop." My voice sounded slightly breathless, causing Bishop to shift a little, lines of tension crossing his face.

"Told you I'd find you." He spoke low enough for me to hear, the clamour of voices around us keeping his words from prying ears. He leaned in close, his eyes held a lightness to them this morning that made me want to pull him close. I didn't understand it.

'Focus child. Undress him with you eyes later.' Kena teasingly scolded. I was glad that it was cold, it hid the blush that warmed my cheeks. Looking back to Alec, who has taken a step back from me, which I was thankful for, I offer a (what I hoped to be) kind smile as I gently gesture to Bishop.

"Alec, it was rather rude of me not to do so last night, so permit me to do so now. I want to introduce Bishop my traveling companion." Alec eyes get wide when I say the words 'traveling companion'. Looking at Bishop, I am sure he recognizes him from last night, but only know is he getting a real good look at him.

"A savage?! In Windhelm?" Alec blurts out and I see Bishop lift a fist to rest on his hip, one of his brows raised in question. Meanwhile, my humor from our conversation fades to dust.

Savage.

That word. It left a foul taste in my mouth even thinking about it. Just like the Imperials from my childhood, that's what they called my father's people... Alec's gaze snaps from Bishop to me. "Are you sane, Dragonborn?" He askes, his voice rising in volume. His tone in his question had my brows rising, in insulted shock. He notices what he just asked and softens his voice. "I'm sorry to have offended you, my lady. I just don't trust you with a-" He looks to Bishop and gives him a short and quick look up and down then looks back to me. "-man like that." He finishes, his words sounding like he had just swallowed something foul.

"A 'man like him' still has working ears, Alec." I say pointing out the obvious. Looking to Bishop, he glances to me. For a second, our eyes lock as we look at one another. His face rough with dark stubble, giving him a dark edge to him.

He hadn't shaved this morning. It would be rough on my hands, face and- whoa there! I mentally scold myself and resume my observation. His eyes sharp and attentive as they stayed on mine... "And if he is the savage-" I detest the sound of the word leaving my tongue, even making a face of intense agitation after it was said, "-I suspect you should watch yourself." I look back to Alec who almost gaps at my words causing Bishop to take a step towards him. I gently laid a hand on his chest, hoping to stop him from beating the bard with his own instrument.

Looking at my hand and then to me, I shake my head in, what I could only hope he understood, a 'not-worth-it' way and jerk it away from us, towards the stalls. He groaned, turning on his heel sharply and stalking to the armory stall. I was worried for a minute he was going to grab a weapon and beat him to death, instead, he began picking up materials, for more arrows by the looks of it, and I let out a small breath of relief. Looking back to Alec, he is also watching Bishop with a slightly alarmed look, like he still couldn't believe he was traveling with me.

"He is very protective of you, my lady." He states and I look at him, ignoring the twinge in my chest as Bishop steps in front of an archery target and draw an arrow, and lets it fly, landing deep in the center.

"He's my personal bodyguard." I admit gently looking back to Alec... "Or at least he likes to think so". I add with a little personal humor. Looking back at Bishop, his motions are a little more clipped, making the armorist nervous. I look back to Alec who was looking down at me, a hesitant smile lifting the corners of his lips. I only know realize that he stood a few inches above me. Not that being smaller than most people in these lands bothered me, but I would be lying if I said that compared to my 5'7", everyone around here made me start to feel like a dwarf. Alec must have been almost 6 foot solid, and yet Bishop still had an inch or two on him. Still, full blooded Altmer were well past both of them by at least half a foot. My mental thought was whisked away when Alec smiled, leaning towards me slightly.

"And there is the compassion I have heard so much about. How very considerate of you." I tense at his words slightly. "But I'm not sure if he should attend with you to my performance" Alec said gently. I raise my brow at him.

"You wouldn't deprive me of my safety, would you?" I ask, lowering my voice to (hopefully) sound a little frailer than I really was letting on." An unsure hum left his throat as he thought about it.

"The palace is going to be safely guarded, my lady. You need not fear." His voice became soothing, and yet, I felt more on edge as to why he wanted me to go alone then with Bishop. Shouldn't a musician be overjoyed at the thought of more onlookers? I stood tall, meeting his eyes and placed my hands on my hips. He stood a few inches taller than me, and yet he shrank away like I was a giant to him.

"I don't care for the guards. If Bishop isn't welcome then I'm not coming." My tone gave no room for reprieve, I was sure he could tell... He looked at the two of us, his eyes hovering over Bishop, then to me. His eyes lost their sharpness, as he took a gentle breath.

"For you, my muse, I would do anything." He looked back to Bishop once more as he paid for a few things of his own then back to my face. "I don't suppose there's anything I can say to change your mind?" I kept my face pleasantly neutral and shook my head 'no.' He nodded, letting out a heavy breath. "Very well, if that is what you wish, your-" He trailed off as Bishop returned to my side. "-ahem- friend… may join us." He bowed in farewell then made his way out of the market.

"Just what in the name of Oblivion did you just rope me into?" He asked after Alec was out of sight and I repressed the urge to smile.

"Nothing much." I turn and go to fixing his clothes which were slightly out of place. "Just a night of wine, some food... a little music." I say gently after smoothing his clothes into place over his chest. Lifting my eyes up, I see his have started to smolder like flames of a forge and my heart skitters a bit. My words must have slowly registered, making him blink to refocus as he pushes my hands away, looked displeased at me as if I was treating him like a doll.

"You can't be serious." He scowls as I walk away from the market.

"Though I do find your reaction amusing, I am being serious." He groaned making me let out a small laugh.

"Free booze, Bishop, just remember the free booze." I say softly enticing him and he just frowns.

"I would have happily stayed outside, far away from the city walls-" He gestures to the large entry doors to Windhelm with his hand, drops it to his side then casts me a cold glare. "-but no, Princess, you had to drag me into this." He lets out a long sigh as we walk around the city.

"Quite your whining already ranger." I said on a sigh. I was starting to feel bad, seeing as that he didn't really feel like spending his time during an activity like this. I forced it on him. I groaned low in my throat, great, I thought. Make him hate you instead of-

"Maybe I should sing about how I really don't want to hear this!" He raised a fist into the air like a poet would for a large audience, his face a look of mock pain. "Oh, how my ears echo with the sorrows of my soul". He slowly brought his fist to his stomach, like he was gutting himself. He finished with a scoff, his posture returning to normal... Though he had used a mock poets voice, I let out an amused chuckle.

"I give you credit Bishop, you were really committed to that. I really felt your anguish." He scoffed again, this one making the corner of his lips tilt up in a smirk.

"It'll be fun!" I hopped up a step and looked at him, almost nose to nose. "Just look at his hat!"

"Oh, noticed how funny he was dressed too did you?"

"You didn't? It was kinda hard to miss so yes, I did. Amongst other things." I say with a small sideways tilt of my head.

"Like what?" His voice went hard, eyes darkening a little. If I had known any better, I would say that the ranger before me was just a little jealous. I shrugged and carried on my way, stopping in front of a store that said 'Sadri's Used Wares' on the sign. I looked to Bishop who shrugged and walked in behind me.

"Welcome! Please feel free to look around. All my goods are legitimate, which is more than I can say for some." I glance around the small shop and looked to the merchant and my steps nearly falter.

A Dunmer.

For a moment, I feel as though I am back in Morrowind, browsing the shops after one of my many lessons. The familiar red eyes that used to unsettle me as a child made me feel slightly relaxed along with the greenish-grey skin. The skin was easier to work with, since my father's had been a shiny grey-silver. He too was taller than me, yet I felt no ill feelings about it. I smiled warmly, and bowed my head in formal Elvish greeting and as I shopped, I found myself speaking to him in Dunmeris, making his eyes widen and his smile was infectious as we talked. Nothing to much, just about his shop, how long he had been here, how I could speak Dunmeris, and where I was from. The last two topic I had gracefully avoided before Bishop cleared his throat, making me aware that he was slightly unsettled by our conversation. Sending him an apologetic smile, I resume the conversation in the more common tongue Tamrielic.

"Who supplies your goods?" I ask, looking around. Some of it looked… questionable to me, and some looked far to new to be considered 'used'.

"I've scraped this collection together by whatever means I could. I do some business with the trade caravans, and I've picked up a number of items from adventurers like yourself. A few intrepid souls even brought some items back from Morvunskar, the fort southwest of the city."

"Nothing in here is stolen? Nothing at all?" I held up a few trinkets, only to have him shake his head 'no'.

"Of course, nothing in here is stolen. Only a careless, shameful, idiotic fetcher would do something as stupid as to buy pilfered goods..." He trails off, like something has just dawned on him. A muscle twitched involuntarily at the corner of his right eye, his mouth formed a rigid grimace. "Oh, by Azura, I've made a terrible mistake." He paces a few steps then looks to me. "I bought a gold ring, and Viola Giordano has been missing a ring that looks just like it."

"Tough luck." Bishop quips as he set down a plate, only to get an irritated glare from the dark elf.

"You're telling me." He spoke incredulously.

"I could return the ring for you?" I offer gently and he shakes his head.

"It's not that easy." He almost whined, his hands twisting together. "She'd go to the Jarl if she knew I was even remotely involved. You have to get it to her some other way. Look, it's dangerous, but if you sneak the ring into her house..." He trailed off as I pulled my map out, letting him mark her house. "Put in a dresser or something."

"I'll see what I can do." I said refolding the map.

"And I will make it worth your while." He moves around and sifts though a glass case, lifting the ring out and walks to me, placing it in my hand. I was looking it over as we walked out of the store. It was a pretty little ring, delicate and made for a woman, judging from it's size. No jewels to adorn it. It had some wear on it, but it still glimmered with a polished shine.

"Thinking about keeping it ladyship?" Bishop asked as we walked to the woman's house.

"Not at all. Besides, I wouldn't want to." I mutter as I tuck the ring away.

"Why not? You could just sell it." He explained as I noticed the houses in the distance.

"As to the 'why not'... If it was given to her by someone important, I should think she would go to great lengths to get it back. It would eat away at me if I knew that I had taken something so important to someone."

"What if she just bought it herself for herself?" He asked and I shrugged.

"And what is so wrong with women buying their own things?"

"Nothing at all." We arrived to the house that I was to return the ring at. It was wealthy looking, not like the other houses on the other side of the town. It was two stories high and had a look about it that almost shouted 'privileged'. The house is one of those ones rich people buy when they get paranoid about having too much money. Perhaps behind those bricks they feel safe from harm, but I can't help think they've only built themselves a beautiful prison. Either way though, it's none of my concern, I'm just here for the returning of a ring. "You going to do the polite thing and knock?" Bishop teased making me silent mock laugh at him over my shoulder.

"As courteous as I believe I am, no. He said it was dangerous. So, I will have to sneak in."

"Want me to let you know if anyone comes by?" He asked, leaning his back against the outside the house.

"That won't be necessary. " I say pulling out my new lock pin.

"You serious? That lock looks difficult."

"I'll only be a minute." I knelt and start in on the lock.

"Seems like a hassle to just return a ring." He said on a sigh.

"Says you." I mutter, listening to the click of metal on metal.

"I'm just saying that if she bought it herself, she can surely buy another one."

"Or, she treated herself to something pretty." I stated casting him a glance which he dismissed with sharp wave away motion of his hand. Though by the looks of the house, she didn't really need it. But I was being judgmental. I shake the thought away as I try to turn the lock again, only to get it to jam a little. "Dammit." I mutter and reset the position of the pick.

"Women get things like that from all sorts of men all the time." He returns as I resume picking.

"Only ones that are married or courting." I counter.

"Unattached women get things too." He states stiffly.

"I don't." I gibed with a grim look as I tried to turn the pick, only to have it jam a quarter way. Tsking, I returned it to the center position.

"I find that… hard to believe." I could feel his eyes boreing into my profile as I adjusted the pick.

"Believe it ranger." The sweet sound of the lock clicking open had me letting out a victorious "Aha!" I quietly opened the door. I stayed crouched as I stealthily entered and glances around the room. It was a grand space, to say the least. The huge mahogany table took up most of the vast space the dark. Well furnished, no voices, warmth only from the fireplace off to my right. Not even the fire in the kitchen was lit. "She must be out of the house."

"I take it you have broken into a house before?" He askes and I tightly shrug and make my way upstairs, keeping my footsteps quiet.

"Perhaps." I glance back and see Bishop's brow rose a little. Looking back, I creeped into a large bedroom. Spotting a small dresser, I make my way over and shake my head at the large amount of space. "I never understood why people need so much space."

"What's wrong with having space?"

"Nothing. Just this much-" I waved a slow hand around us, "-would drive me crazy."

"Why?" He asked and I looked around.

"You don't need a large home to show how loving a family is on the inside." I said softly as I place the ring in the small nightstand by the bed. "That's what my mother would say. I also always found that large homes are for people who like having bragging rights." I state turning on my heel. Bishop was nodding, like he was slightly agreeing with me. We were out fast. Opening the front door, I glance around and look for anyone. No one in sight and we walked out. I knelt down and relocked the door making quick work of it. I am positive no one saw us as I stood and made our way back. We returned to Sadri's Used Wares and found the dark elf, pacing a little.

"Sadri!" I had to wave a hand in front of his face to get his attention. When his red eyes refocused on us again. "I placed Viola's ring in her house." The look of relief on his face practically said it all. His shoulder dropped with the release of mental weight. I found myself smiling at him, pleased with his response.

"Thank you. Thank you!" He raced around his counter and grabbed both my hands in his, gripping them tightly and shook them earnestly. "Azura's Prophecy always guide you to fortune. Speaking of fortune. Here." He released my hands and went back around his counter and pulled a satchel from underneath his counter. "Everything I earned from my last shipment. It's yours." He handed over the bag of septims and the weight of it had my brows lifting.

"Thank you. So much for such a little-"

"It was a great deal to me. Thank you." He thanked again and I bowed my head in farewell and I turn to leave. Just as we walk out the door, I smile as I hear a cheerful "Do come again!".

The gentle sunlight did bring the beauty of the ice for sure, that crunch under boot and the bold greeting cold air brings. I even flinched at it's bitter caress. Yet between now and watching my breaths rise as new white-puffed clouds, I know there will be a very cold night. The kind that only stops at the doors of the well-made houses. My eyes landed on a slender woman in rags. And harshly falls on those who have none.

"Will you spare a few coins to help someone who's got nothing?" She asked, looking at the both of us. Bishop, with a stern look on his face, looked her over. I was waiting for him to sneer and push the woman away, yet instead, his eyes slightly softened as he reaching into his own coin purse and handed over several coins. Doing so all the while, without saying a word. I was admittedly gaping at him a moment, while the woman smiled at him, and thanked him. She said something about the Divines and then he sneered, stomping away, Karnwyr at his side. There was the brute, I smiled.

Stepping closer, I smile warmly as a small gust of wind picks up, and blows over us. Though it looks like it blows through her more so.

"I hope the wind dies down before tonight. Hard when you've got to sleep outside."

"Sleep outside often?" I ask and the woman nods. I take the coin purse that I was given and split the coins in half. "Here." I hand the bag over and place it in her hands, making the woman gap. "That should be more than enough to pay for a few nights at the inn, a nice bath and maybe a few warmer clothes." I let the bag go and she bows her head over them.

"Oh, thank you." Her head lifts and her eyes glisten with tears. "Bless your kind heart."

"Don't thank me miss-?" I drawl and she nods her head a few times, the movement jerky.

"Silda. My name is Silda."

"Well, Silda, don't thank me." I start to move around and she lays a hand on my arm, stopping me from carrying on.

"Then who do I-?" I cut her off and return her gesture, laying a hand on her own arm.

"You can thank Sadri." I point to the elf's shop.

"The dark elf?" She asked, the confusion and shock was evident in her voice.

"Yup." I feel her release my arm and do the same to hers. "Enjoy it, and use it well." I say in passing and rejoin Bishop and Karnwyr.

"Wow. Just kicked my donation to the dirt." He teased and I smirked a little.

"I didn't. Sadri did." I tease back and hiss when the wind picks up again. I close my eyes and shiver when the wind fades.

"We need to get you some warmer clothes."

"I checked the stalls, nothing would fit me." I scowl. My curves proved to be a little irritating. "I did get some cloth. I'll have to make something though. It'll take me several hours, but I could sew up something." I say as we lingered near a burning stand near the gates.

"Then let's go back so you can get them made. By the gods, any more of your teeth chattering and I'll go mad."

"They aren't chattering!" I disagreed and he scoffed.

"Bah! They will be if we stand around. Come on, I could eat right about now." He led us back to the inn with sure strides. I can't help but notice Bishop as he walked by my side. It still slightly amazed me at how easily he moved in this frozen land. And still keeping his predators grace and strength. It seems my staring didn't go unnoticed. His eyes lock onto my own and linger. A minute passes before one corner of his mouth quirks upwards, and for some reason I found myself looking away as I walked up the steps into Candlehearth Hall.

The cold that had begun to seep past my clothes slowed ebbed away as I walked to my room, nodding at the other patrons. Bishop stopped at the counter as I walked on until reached my room. Faintly I heard him order a few drinks as I turned the corner. Upon entering, I noticed it had been tidied a little since I left it. Sitting down in one of the chairs, I start to set my weapons aside and set them on the bed. Pulling my pack off my hip, I rummage around until I find the thick dark cloth and pull it out to lay it flat out on the floor, being that the table was far to small to use. I set to measuring out my outline with some ink, using as little as possible so that the material wouldn't stain. After, I cut it and settled in on my bed, Karnwyr walking in with a happy trot and settling by the small fireplace in my room.

I was finishing a sleeve when Bishop walked in, causing Karnwyr to open an eye and let out a gentle sigh as it closed again. Bishop, drink in hand, knelt down to run a hand over the wolfs head. Karnwyr leaned into it, and even though his eyes remained closed, he had a look of sleepy contentment, while Bishop looked calm. The two of them... The look of pure trust and companionship seemed to always make my chest constrict. As we had traveled, I had noticed that Karnwyr, though he was a wolf, was able to portray different looks. He had a look for when he was puzzled, or excited or serious, all emotions that are so similar to ours as humans. And as the wolf had fought it's first dragon, he seemed to go after the dragons legs, like small dogs tend to do with bigger ones. It had almost made me smile during battle. Until I was drenched in dragons blood.

As I work, Bishop takes a seat and eats some bread and sips his drink, enjoying our silence.

I work the needle through the material and pull it taunt countless times, until an outfit began to form. A clattering sound draws my attention as I glance to Karnwyr who is chewing on a large bone that has my brows raising to Bishop.

"Something to keep him busy?" I asked looking back down to my hands, I push the needle down into another section.

"Everyone needs something to keep busy." The sound of a blade being drawn makes my eyes lift in slight alarm. Bishop moved to a seat near the bed, dagger in hand. My eyes follow his skilful movements as he sharpens it in his lap. We sit in a quiet silence as we work for a time. When he finishes, he reaches for his scabbard, the motion drawing my gaze as I pull the shawl taunt to test to make sure there were no holes. As I pull it in different directions, he seems to be working out rust as he sheathes it repeatedly. He does the in and out movement slowly, then gradually speeding up. This goes on until I look up and find that he's suggestively grinning at me. I shake my head, even as my own lips curve upward.

"Are you ready for Alec's performance?" I ask finishing up on my winter shawl. Holding it up to the light, I check to make sure that none of my stitching is off one last time.

"No," He snapped standing up and walking around, stretching his legs and then stops as he leaned against the wall of my rented room as I stood and packed our things that I bought from earlier today. "I didn't find enough wool to plug up my ears with." I smirked as I shook my head in disbelief. "There's not enough mead in all of Skyrim to make me ready for this shit." I turn and see him looking away towards the door, scowl still in place, Karnwyr resting in the center of the room, blinking slowly, like he was trying not to fall asleep again, lifting a hand on my cocked hip, I smirk at him.

"If you drink fast enough, you'll be too drunk to remember it!" I scold making him turn his head to me, giving me a wicked smile.

"Trust me, I have other ways of forgetting. Mead or not." He lightly chuckles at my raised brow. Walking to him, I lay a hand on each of his shoulders, squeezing them reassuringly.

"Come on, you'll love it if you try." I offer, avoiding what he was saying... He slowly smiles, leaning forward. He's so close I can faintly smell the soap he used in his last bath. His breath smelling lightly of sweet mead.

"Or we could be trying something else right now that we would both love." He tilted his head to the side.

"Like wha-" The question was nearly out of my mouth before I realized what he was implying. I felt my cheeks heating as he continued to stare, his eyes heating more and more as they settled on my face. Dropping my hands quickly I turn and head back to my pack, putting it in the chest that was supplied with the room. "Well were going anyway. So,-" I look over my shoulder at him. "-you'd better behave yourself." I playfully warn.

"What?" He unfolded his arms and stepped away from the wall, his eyes narrowing. "You afraid I'm not housebroken and will piss on their carpets?" he snapped at me, though despite I was torn between being shocked at his comment and laughing at the idea. Instead, I merely looked at him, keeping my face neutral as possible as I tied my warm shawl around my shoulders. " Pft." He rolled his eyes and re-crossed his arms over his chest, looking away in irritation. "Give me some credit."

"You will never lack in credit from me." I say as I tie the strings. It covered most of my shoulders and dipped low across my chest. "Can you excuse me a minute?" I ask motioning to the door of my room? He barley casts it a glance while he looks at me, his brows furrowing a little.

"Why?" He askes as I turn, my new clothes over my arm.

"Because I need to change. The weather is rather nippy."

"But you won't be out in the cold long. It's not a far walk".

"I know. But I'm still not used to the cold..." I reply softly. "And we still have to walk back to Riverwood." He looked ready to reply, but I just motioned to the door. Rolling his eyes, he and Karnwyr walked out, closing the door behind him. Letting out a sigh, I started to strip. I kicked my boots off my feet, and pulled on thicker pants and a thicker leather top with a dark red vest over it. The colours were darker than I preferred, but in a pinch, it had to do. The material was sturdy, and the stitches held while I moved around to test them out. Even drew a sword and did a few practice swings. Stitches held intact. Pulling on my boots, I grabbed my winter hooded shawl, tossing it over my arm as I strapped on my weapons. Standing straight I walked to the door. Pulling it open, I nearly tripped over Karnwyr who was laying across the threshold. "Karnwyr!" I snickered as I stepped over him. I looked to my right and there was Bishop, leaning against the corridor wall, staring at deer deer's skull that was being used for decoration on one of their tables, or at least he was until I had all but fallen on his wolf. "You having a staring contest with the skull there Bishop?" I ask as I place the shawl around my shoulder. He shrugs stiffly as he pushes ff the wall.

"The only way I could keep myself from looking inside your room. Was starting to get worried since you took so damn long. How long does it take for you to get into a set of different clothes?" He fully looks at me and I let out a sigh.

"It was only a few minutes." I state as I finish tying the cords together. I looked up and notice his eyes on my hands. "What?" I ask.

"Nothing. Just... Thought your hands looked a little bare." He frowned and looked away, like he was either upset or surprised that the words had left his mouth. He walked towards the door while I looked at my hands flipping them palm up, then down. I didn't bother with gloves, they were a pain to sew. Shrugging I follow behind. Nodding in farewell to the barkeep as we strolled outside, I didn't have to brace myself as hard as I had to earlier. He was right, the walk wasn't far. But even though we had walked around, we hadn't set foot near this… Palace of Kings.

I stood at the stone archway, looking at it with a critical eye. I had seen palaces before. None that looked so... Silently intimidating. In it's own way, it was both in your face and tucked away. The palace was overlooking the town. The walls were solid stone that glistened with the light covering of snow and ice. It was as big as twenty of the ordinary houses of the town and employed a good number of the townsfolk as servants. The guards outside the door were watching us, watching me with sharp eyes. It had me shifting on my feet as we walked forward.

"We're here for the performance?" I asked to the guards.

"Go on in. Second door on your left." The guards breath came out from under his helmet in a fog as he spoke. I nodded in thanks and the doors, large and towering over us, opened, thanks to the guards. We step in and welcome the warmth. Dusting the snow off from us, I looked up from my feet and my eyes widened slightly. Such a long, deep room. Banners hung from the walls, blue with a dark blue bear as its sigil. No one was in the room, everyone no doubt had gone to rest for the day. The whole room, long and deep as it was, held an air about it... It made it hard to breathe...

"Your frowning." Bishop commented offhandedly.

"Do they kneel at that stone throne at the end of the room?" He looked to where my eyes were set, even as we walked to the door to the performance.

"Don't know. Would you?" He asked, and I stood straighter though I didn't look at him.

"I would not. The last time I bowed to someone who said it was 'required' of me…" I trailed off, and let out a sigh. "I didn't do it willingly." I admitted looking at him. "And in return I had to get lashed for it." I opened the door and walked down the steps.

"You're kidding." He walked behind me as we entered another large room, muttering as we walked past a few patrons. I scanned the room. This one held a large wooden stage with luxurious red curtains. Rows upon rows of wooden chairs and two in front of them, dead center in front of the stage. Good Gods. I walked to one of the long tables that held the refreshments. Wine, mead, chicken breast, salmon steaks, boiled egg treats and sweetrolls. Grabbing a goblet of wine, I sipped as I looked around as Bishop grabbed a bottle of mead uncorking it as he stepped close so we could talk without talking to loud. "What lead to you getting beaten?" He asked. Looking up to him, I debated on telling him.

"What, can't see me being a rebellious teenager at some point?" I ask, skirting the question.

"Oh, I can see you being a lot of things ladyship. From what I have seen and how stubborn you are I can only imagine... Being lashed..." I heard the sound of leather on leather and notice his hand clenching by his side, even as his eyes looked around us. "Is not one I imagined."

"Then why are you asking me?" I asked him, having him glance away for a moment.

"Would you humour me if I said that I don't want to make the same mistake they did?" He offered taking a large swallow of his drink while I did the same to mine.

"Alright." I lift one shoulder then drop it as I walk to the desert table and grab a small plate for food. "I was accompanying a group in some..." I waved a hand in the air in a disregard for the details. "political thing. Even now, years later, I don't know what in the name of the Divines we where supposed to be doing there." I flicked my hand away in a 'whatever' motion. "Anyway, I did what they told me not to do."

"Being?" He smirked as I sliced a big slice of pie onto my plate.

"I spoke my mind." I admitted honestly. His eyes glimmered slightly with, what I hoped was, acknowledged amusement.

"I wouldn't think anything less. And they didn't appreciate it?" He grabbed a honeyed treat and popped a piece into his mouth. I let out a small of air, looking shocked.

"No, go figure!" I jested and shrugged. "Not every man can tolerate my words." I watch him slyly toss Karnwyr a chicken breast, letting him chomp at it at our feet. It lasted only a few seconds before the wolf was licking his lips as he waited for another potential morsel.

"What did they say?" He asked tossing the wolf another one. I nearly lectured him on feeding the wolf, but I didn't have to pay for anything, and if we were asked to leave, then Bishop's mood might… slightly improve.

Win-win.

"Contrary to what the men I had been dealing with at the time, they couldn't understand the fact that not every woman likes to be on her knees in front of a man who thinks himself her better. They called me... what was the term… " I thought back and with a snap of my fingers I finished with "contumacious."

"Big words." Bishop whistled.

"He was morally disgusting, not uneducated." I state as I bite into the pie.

"Still inexcusable. And from your tone, I take it he wasn't ?" He murmured quietly as the sound of a door behind us. A few women, dressed in fine clothes were laughing as they descended the stairs, dusting snow from their hair and shoulders. Hmm. Snow must be picking up now that the sun was setting...

"Your damn right he wasn't." I agreed with a small smile as we stepped aside to let them pass. They glanced towards us, then Karnwyr, now laying at our feet and then their eyes lingered over Bishop. He looked to them and they smiled invitingly at him, casting their eyes downwards as they walked to their seats, glancing over their shoulders slightly to see if he followed. He instead looked back to Karnwyr and gave him one more chicken breast and back to me. Not once glancing over my shoulder to the women who had passed. A small flip in my chest had me absently rubbing fingers across my chest, pressing harder than needed.

Calm down you stupid organ... It doesn't mean anything extravagant. He doesn't even want to be here, I reminded myself as I continue our conversation.

"The high and mighty bastard was convinced that a woman's mouth has few uses, and he didn't want mine to be used for speaking when it came to him." I let the words hang between us and his eyes sharpen and turn a dark amber. His face losses the humor that was there a moment ago. "Long story short, I spoke up, he got upset, I broke his jaw, I got 58 lashes." I suppressed a shudder at the memory as I ate my pie, keeping my eyes at the plate in my hands after I finished.

"Where?" He asked and I wince in memory, rolling my shoulders, shifted on my feet a little as if to remove the phantom pain...

"Everywhere." I whisper as I set the dish down, letting Karnwyr lick it clean. I nearly smile at the wolfs gusto but I cant bring myself to do it. I look back up and I see his eyes moving over my body in a new way. Not lustful, just... Observing. Worried.

"Is this why you wear full body armour?" He asked. For a moment, I think he was insinuating me hiding my body because it could be covered in marks... Scars. I sigh and shrug.

"I can't really defend my whole body all the time when I fight things. Though it does help if it's fully covered." I reply and he slowly shakes his head wagging a pointed finger at me.

"That's not what I was getting at." Bishop murmured.

"I'm sure it wasn't. Come on." I finish my wine and grab another. "Let's go find our seats." I walk passed him, even as he groans in mock pain and grabs another mead on the way. I hear a few hushed gasps as we walk past. My steps slow as we near our… seats.

"Front and center stage." Bishop murmurs as he shakes his head. I could have sworn he was scowling again.

"It's quite a... seat." I replied softly.

"It's not a seat, it's a small throne." He retorted.

The wood looked newly polished, the seat was lined with velvet, a bright red that looked washed and cleaned. There was even a red plush square carpet that was under the throne-like chair. I was almost flattered. Almost. Until I looked to the chair Bishop was to sit in. Small, uncomfortable looking, especially for a man Bishops size. The others in the rows behind us were well spaced and held padding in places. Some worn, but still in a slightly better condition than his. I raised my brow at the idea. In Alec's own way, he was putting Bishop in his own category.

'The savage.' My teeth grinded together as the words echoed. Like he didn't deserve the same treatment as anyone else.

Bishop looked like he couldn't have been bothered by it, but I felt my irritation go up a small notch.

A slender woman in a long robe, similar to ones that mages wore, stepped forward, her pale face complimented nicely by the candlelight. She walked with a slow grace that, for some reason, had my back straightening. She waved a hand gracefully in the air and with a gentle voice, she commanded the rooms attention.

"Please take your seats the show is about to begin."

There is a generous amount of applause as Alec steps out of a small side room and slowly makes his way up the stairs as Bishop and I took our seats. He hadn't changed into a different outfit. I saw his lute strapped to his back. At the height of the stage, and the angle I had in my chair, I had to crane my neck slightly. I would be lucky not to have a sore neck by the end of tonight. Alec steps onto the stage and faces the audience. I see his eyes go to them, then to me, then back to the crowd. I can see his mouth widening into a grin.

"Good evening, Windhelm!" His voice carried well from where he stood. "May I thank you all for venturing out on this cold, wintry night to witness the One, the Great, Alec, the Prince of Song!"

Good grief. I closed my eyes and squeezed them slightly to avoid and eye roll.

"He sure knows how to stay modest, doesn't he?" Bishop said leaning over to me. I looked to him and gave him a wide-eyed look while mouthing the words 'I-know-right? Our attention was redrawn to Alec who took a few more steps closer.

"I wish to dedicate tonight's performance to someone very special to me." He laid a hand over his chest, as he motioned to the crowd around us. However, I knew his eyes didn't leave from their position on me. "She is the most inspiring, beautiful woman I have ever met, and I have a song in my heart I must sing to her." He held out a hand, fully extended in my direction, his eyes never leaving me where I sat. As he pulled his instrument out, he tweaked with the pins on the sides, tightening the strings, the audience gave a polite and enthusiastic applause and cheer. I on the other hand, felt torn even as I lightly clapped along with them... I was flattered that I was getting a full performance, and the other was slightly flabbergasted.

This man didn't even really know me! I shifted in my seat, crossing my legs. His fingers lifted and I watched him take a deep breath and soon, he began to sing;

'Let me dream of you and me,

And a place to be.

Let me heal those scars unrevealed,

And wipe away the crying tears.'

His eyes never left me, even as his fingers were busy with his playing. His voice was soft and rising in volume. It was... Pleasant to hear.

'Only you can save me,

Only you can heal me.

Cure my eternal loneliness,

And kill my blinding hopelessness'

Only you can save me,

Only you can save me...'

He took another deep breath; his face held a look of... What I would describe as pensive melancholy.

'Let me stay near to you all day,

And walk this road so far away.

Let me love you,

Let me hold you,

I will never let you gooo'.

His voice trailed off after carrying the note and he went back into his chorus.

'Because only you can save me.

And only you can heal me.

Change my eternal loneliness,

Into everlasting happiness!

Only you can save me.

Only you can save me.'

His voice rose in pitch as he sang two more lines, then dropped back to his usual voice.

'And let me dream of you and me,

For all eternity,

In a place where you,

Can be with me.'

He trailed his fingers over his lute strings letting the music slowly fade with his voice. The cheers erupt like an auditory volcano. It is all quiet one second and then almost deafening the next, rising to a crescendo as he bows once, twice then starts down the stairs as the cheers began falling to a trickle before the same nervous tension commands silence once more. I untangle my legs and stand.

My mind was... Lost.

This bard, this man… Dedicated to me, a song, a love declaration almost. I couldn't help but look around, feeling lost. As I looked around, I found my brows raising to my hairline. There were women around us dotting their eyes, some giggling as Alec strolled off stage... And yet… I pasted a smile on my face as Alec neared.

"So lovely to see you once again." He smiled warmly as he stood in front of me. I bow my head slightly in greeting and straighten.

"And you as well. Your song was beautiful. I'm glad you invited me." I spoke... honestly. It was quite something to see, that's wasn't a lie.

"My beautiful muse. I'm so glad you enjoyed it." He leans forward and takes my hand , holding tight. I had to supress the urge to pull away, since there were many sets of eyes on us... The way he was looking at me made me feel uneasy. I knew the look young boys gave girls they… Doted on. It had made me roll my eyes even then.

And get a training pole to the back of the head.

"Please, dine with me tonight, my lady" Alec's proposition brought me out of my mental reminiscing. "I wish to sing for you more. I wish to hear all of your wonderful stories from the road. We can spend an unforgettable night together." He made my life sound like it was whimsical… Bards tended to do that, but it still he had made the efforts I had to get here look and sound like it was a walk in the woods, with it's own travel setlist.

"HAH!" I was slightly startled at Bishops outburst I jolted slightly... He mockingly laughed as he rejoined my side after getting us a drink each. I didn't notice that he had moved away or that I had finished mine at some point. Passing one of the goblets to me he sized Alec up and down again as I took a long swallow, glorying in the burn I got when it reached my stomach. "Don't make me laugh. The only things she will remember of you this night is the sight of you retreating as we leave." Bishop's tone had me raising a brow, and yet, even after his little rant Alec went on, openly ignoring him.

"Think of what we could accomplish if we travelled together. Join me,-" He held his hands out to me, letting them hang between the space between us "-and your name will be sung from every rooftop in Skyrim until the end of time."

Something about what he said had my body going stiff. I didn't want songs about me. I didn't want to become a highway show...

I said nothing. Instead I just took another long swallow of my wine.

"So, were playing the ignoring game now?" Bishop asked mockingly. Then sighed. "Let me tell you something, bard, only a savage wolf can truly appreciate a woman like her."

There it was again. That tumble in my chest, the heat that moved through me had me lifting my goblet to hide my face, no doubt heating up thanks to his words. I was glad that he faced Alec directly, but motioned to me. I held the wine in my mouth, my cheeks puffing out a little as Alec glanced at him, then to me.

I swallowed hard.

"So, you like wild and free men, my lady?" I looked between the two of them and felt the night slowly beginning to slip into one of those men's pissing patches. I tilted my head side to side, as if weighing the opinion. "Oh, I can show you a wild and free man right here." He pointed to himself and I raised my brow and sipped the last of my wine. Seems my opinion didn't matter here. My chest was beginning to burn from the wine. "We could live, and love together. Free."

I almost dropped my goblet.

"Live together?" I echo quietly, my voice rising in pitch nearly coming out in a squeak. I didn't even want to repeat the other bit. Bishop steps closer to him, his presence emanating anger.

"Wild? Free?! Pfft. What are you gonna do if you get attacked by a dragon? Pull out your lute and bore it to sleep?" He raised a good point. The idea proved to be amusing to picture though. "We're leaving!"

I suppose I should have tried to look upset at the idea, but instead, I internally let out a sigh of relief. Just... This place, his song, the way the bard looked at me, his words...

Bishop stepped to me, close but not enough to touch. I almost wanted to lean into him. Until Alec looked at him, his face loosing it's jovial look.

"She does not have to leave if it is not of her wish!" He argued and stepped towards me, as if to pull me away from Bishop. Instead, I stepped between the both of them.

It kind of was my wish to leave, though it was considered rude to leave and Alec did deserve a chance… Unless… I didn't have a reason to stay.

"You right. In fact, I think I know a way to clear up a few things." I smile warmly at him as Bishop stammered making me gently lay a hand on his arm, stilling his involuntary incoherent words. "Alec?"

"Yes, my muse?"

"I will stay on one condition."

"You can't be serious!" Bishop argued slightly shouting. I sent him a sideways look that had him becoming silent.

"Name it." Alec gave a gentle nod, looking pleased with Bishop's outburst... Almost looking smug.

"I would like you to simply… say my name." I state and beside me, Bishop blinks and a small knowing look lights his eyes, though he kept his face neutral.

"Your name?" Alec echoed, sounding confused while I nodded.

"Yes. If you have heard stories of me and my adventures, I am sure you have heard of my name."

"You are the mighty Dragonborn!" He smiled brightly.

I feel like I got dropkicked in my chest…

"That's what I am. Not who I am." I stepped up to him, nearly nose to nose. "What. Is. My. Name Alec?" I asked, gently punctuating my words.

He gapped like a fish.

He stood there and stammered as he thought about it, looking a little startled at the fact. I tried not to be hurt that my name, my real name, wasn't included in their 'songs or stories'. Or thankful that it was. I nodded as I let out a disappointed sigh as Alec slipped into a look of apologetic.

"I'm sorry, my lady. I do not know-" He trailed off as He looked at me. My face must have said it all.

"It doesn't matter." I attempt to smile and exhale a long breath. "It simply means that my real name was of little thought to you, both as you listened to the stories or… even in my presence." The tone was slightly bitter, but the hurt that flashed in his eyes would have no match for my own. Because I think both he and I knew… I was right. "So, seeing as you cannot properly sing about myself to myself, me and my companion shall take our leave." At the sound of my raised voice several people turned their heads to watch.

"It pains me to see you leave, my beautiful muse. We will meet again. This may not be the last you see of Alec, Prince of Song!" He declares with slight flair and I cant help but feel a slight tinge of regret that even after what I had said, he didn't bother to ask me for my name. Instead, he left me with his own. Almost forcing a smile, I bowed my head slightly in farewell, I turn and walked away, my footsteps sounding heavy in the large room, even to my ears. I marched up the stairs, disregarding the peoples staring, pushed the door open and walked out into the large throne room. Looking at it, I flinch as I mentally imagine the sting of the lash against my skin and turned sharply again and go to the large the doors, and wait for the guards to open it. I feel a pain in my chest and absently rub at my diaphragm and let out a shaky breath.

"Ladyship, you alright?" Bishop asked me as I trudged through the snow back to the inn. I was right. Night had made the weather evidently colder.

"I will be fine." I was still rubbing the pain away "It's probably the amount of wine I had. Just need to sleep this off." I explain as I let out a breath, watching the cloud of white rise into the air around us. I can feel Bishop's gaze on me and I have to force my body not to tremble. Why in Gods name was I reacting like this? What was in that wine? "Ready to go?" I asked glancing to him. I watching his shoulder drop, looking relieved.

"About time we got out of there. I was convinced a Deadra trapped us in a realm of torture." I chuckled low as we walked through the newly fallen snow.

"What if it still is?" I ask and Bishop gets this mocking pensive look about him, like he really thinks it over.

"Then I think Sanguine is the one responsible for this, and Sanguine deals in pleasure if I remember correctly." He steps over in my way, halting our walk. "How about we make some?"

I looked at him and slowly smiled.

"I'm not convinced that your 'wild and free' enough." I say teasingly, recalling Alec's words as I step around him and continue on. Bishop lets out a small laugh as he catches up.

"Is that so? Then tonight let me show you just how much of a savage wolf I can be." His eyes stay locked on mine, and my body wants to move closer, but I keep my legs locked.

"As much as I find the idea of being devoured by a wolf intriguing-" My breath stutters a bit in the back of my throat when his eyes sharpen and burn into me. My body warms, regardless of the sharp winds. I snap my attention down to Karnwyr as he sits down at our feet and rub a hand over his head, earning a gentle whine. "But I am not in the best frame of mind to do the act justice Bishop." I said evenly. My face falls as I talk and I was waiting for the typical male response, for him to sneer and push for it harder, but instead, he tightly nods his head. "But let me get this straight. You think that a Deadra that deals with torture and pleasure will fade away into nothing if we just start, as you so gently put it, making our own?" I ask and he snorts.

"It would be worth a shot." He smirks and leans in a little, making me lean away slightly. His voice was teasing, but he laughed when I nudged him away, a smile tugging at my lips.

"Bishop, you and I both know your aim is best between the both of us, but the direction of this conversation is anywhere but going to hit it's… intended mark." He sighs and steps back a bit. I slow to a stop and glance back to the palace. "I will admit I did enjoy the performance, so the counter-pleasure would be pointless and needless." He lightly groans as we resume walking.

"Despite what you just said, it wouldn't be pointless. And in a palace." He gestures to the large stone structure we just walked out of. "Tell me, d'you think he'd even be up to watching your back with what you do? He'd run at the mere mention of danger!" I tilt my head to the side.

"I agree. I thought about the idea too, and from the looks of him, he doesn't exude the 'warrior vibe." I state. "Though I will say, Alec is an amazing bard."

"You sweet on him or something?" He asked tightly and I let out a sigh feeling the day, though less intense than yesterday, drain me.

"Again, no. I just respect him being a bard." I state and walk to the inn.

"Are you like this with all bards, or just him?"

"Are you alright? Normally you aren't this inquisitive." I return. And his demeanor changes subtly.

"I just want to make sure I have all the true facts." He states and my heart lurches in my chest again. The wine and my lack of eating proper food playing a number on me. Yet, through the haze of it all, I felt a sliver of joy. He looked at me, so steady and patiently that I slowly felt my lips rising in a small pleased smile. He had his moments of being a sharp and gruff looking man, but sometimes...

"You're so cute." The words are out of my mouth before I could stop them and he blinks, his expression morphing into one of pure shock and disbelief.

"Cute-what?!" And my smile grew bigger as I saw his cheeks pinken in the light of one of the lanterns. "Ladyship, sometimes you make me wonder how your mind works… and if it works at all." The last of his statement was added after he continued on walking to our inn muttering about my words being influenced by the booze... I glanced to my feet, smile still in place as Karnwyr looked up from where he laid down.

"Your cute too." I say and get a happy bark from the wolf. We followed behind and entered the inn. Bishop seemed to keep to himself for the rest of the night, as did I. Seems the ranger was a little bashful. At times. Wanting to sleep off all the wine, I turned in, giving Bishop a silent nod as we parted ways for the night.

It wasn't until we were on our way back to Riverwood when he had spoken up.

"You never did answer my question ladyship." He spoke as we walked out of the frost covered woods.

"Which one?" I countered as I ran a hand over the wide trunk of a tree bare of snow.

"Are you like... that, with all bards or just the one?" I scoffed and faced him directly. I was slightly confused at his tone as well. He sounded like he was almost judging me. Even after having a good nights sleep, he was STILL thinking about this?!

"I don't understand what you are trying to insinuate here ranger."

"No, what I am saying and asking that you were all sweet on the bard-"

"I was not!" I shoot back earning a snort of disbelief.

"From what I saw, you were nothing but smiles and- look all I want to know if you just have a thing for them or just him." He crossed his arms over his chest.

"Do you have something against all bards, or just Alec?" I ask and his brows raise.

"Oh, so its Alec now?" He was beginning to sound exasperated. I was already feeling it, and our day had only just begun.

'Irritation' I thought to myself, 'my name is Serlina. It's good to see you again. Meet my companion Bishop.'

"Yes, that's his name, and you didn't answer my question ranger." I tried for civil neutrality, though it was becoming rather trying with his almost sneering or derision.

"Why should I when you wont even give me one from my own?" He threw back and I dug my heels into the dirt and faced him directly.

"Because I am more than forthcoming in anything we talk about and I don't know about you, but these past few hours, I am more than done with things being about me!" I snap, and silence fell like a heavy rock in a calm lake. We both stared at eachother, a muscle in his jaw ticks. "So, please ranger. You tell me something." I gestured to him with my hands, palm up, my fingers open then dropped it to my side. We stand there, Karnwyr sitting near us, letting out a gentle whine as he looked between the two of us. Bishop continued to look pensive. I felt my temper thinning and burning out as the silence dragged out... When he said nothing, I felt my throat tighten. "Fine." My voice was tight and quiet. I bobbed my head a little, letting the sting of his lack or sharing wash through me as I continued on, my fists at my sides, clenched tight.

"I didn't like the way he looked at you."

My steps falter and stop at his admittance. Looking over my shoulder I see the distance between us, feel the tension at his admission. His arms were still crossed, his face looking beyond irritated.

"I don't know how I look to you ranger, but I am not stupid. I gathered that much as we talked and lingered around Alec." I state softly. He scoffs and strides towards me.

"Not only that, but I didn't like the way you looked when he got everyone in that room to watch and stare at you." He stops in front of me and the sting from earlier lessened. "I don't like how he was so full of himself on that stage that he didn't care how you would feel if he did so."

"I didn't and I don't. It doesn't- didn't," I correct "-bother me." I stammered a little and he casts a loose bored look my way...

"Mhm. Yes, it does." He states and I feel a small flip in my stomach at his words.

"You can't possibly-"

"You got this look on your face that was a cross between 'I'm going to kill someone' or 'Get me the hell out of here'. It's something to see." He was slowly becoming amused. I found myself glaring at him.

"I don't look like that!" I walked away, only to have him call from behind me;

"Sorry Princess, would you rather have been told that the look you get is a cross between frightened and angry?"

I stopped, my breath coming in shallow gasps and felt a streak of apprehension settle down my spine... Awareness as well. In one hand, in so many hours, I felt exposed in so many ways and it was making me uncomfortable. In the other... Bishop was able to see it, my discomfort and fear... My hard-earned training was slipping. Steeling myself, I set my back straight.

"I am not afraid of people staring at me Bishop." I say evenly as I look to him. "I just don't like people looking through me, like I am a plane of glass." I end softly.

"I am not saying this as if I am looking through you." Bishop strides to me, stopping until he was standing a foot away from me. "I'm saying this because I am beginning to see you."

To some, this wouldn't have been such a big deal, but to me and what happened last night... I didn't know what I wanted to make of it. I wanted to advert my eyes from his hard and piercing ones... I wanted to kiss him. I wanted to scream. I wanted... I took a long breath in, and let it out slowly. His brows were frowning when I finished my exhale. He saw me.

"I-" I swallowed gently, my throat feeling tight. "I thought we were done talking about me." I grit out, turn sharp on my heel and walk to Riverwood all the while pushing the emotion that rose in me down.

Deep. Down.

My mood did not improve in the slightest when we found that Delphine hadn't returned yet either.

Bishop had decided to wait outside the inn as I went in to check everything out. When she wasn't seen , I asked Orgnar. He shook his head and served another ale to his customer who sat at the bar. I simply walked back out, my mood dampening deeply. I was closing the door behind me when a courier was running up the brick road. Stepping down the stairs, I met him at the bottom.

"I've been looking for you. Got something I'm supposed to deliver - your hands only." He mumbles, "Let's see here..." He rummages around in his large satchel, pulling different letters, looking them over, muttering things until he finally pulled the letters out and handed them over to me. "Here's a letter and another from the Jarl's steward. Looks like official business." I nod and take them, my hearts thumping when I recognize my uncle's emblem upon the wax seal. The other had me frowning. The sigil was unfamiliar to me, so it wasn't from Whiterun, like I had been expecting when the courier had spoken. Their coat of arms on the wax seal depicted a deer's head, antlers intertwined. I glanced to Bishop, sitting on the bottom step, his face lost in though as I opened my letter from my uncle.

'My dearest Serlina,

After receiving your last letter, I must say, I do not know how to interpret it. In fact, the new title you have been given, 'Dragonborn'… It let me feeling lightheaded, Gods know how you felt when you were told, by the Divines. I hope you realize that when I told you that it was time for the 'sun to rise' I didn't think you would have made such leaps and bound in such a short time.'

I admittedly let out a small snicker getting Bishop to glance over his shoulder at me.

'From what I gather, times ahead of you will surely test you, not only as a warrior, but as a sensible and compassionate being. Bare in mind child, that Destiny doesn't always come when it's convenient or when you think it should. It comes when you're ready, whether you know it or not… And I do hope that you know you are not alone in this. As you stated in you last letter, in regard to this... Bishop, character. I only ask you to be careful. However, if I was allowed to explain why you are feeling so drawn to him, there isn't much to say. In some ways, he's as much a mystery to me as he is to you. The way you spoke of him would lead me to believe you have a certain… liking towards him'.

My cheeks heated as I clenched the letter slightly. Even through paper, my uncle knew how to coyly speak of matters such as that... I hadn't even written much, in fact, I had ranted slightly. Oh gods... My whole face warmed.

'But my child, you need not fear these emotions. Embrace them. You have held yourself together for much to long. It was almost… unhealthy while you were learning and growing. Your lack of sleep may be in regards to that. I never thought I'd care enough to say this to a hard-headed woman such as yourself, but be careful. I don't know what your plans are now, but I have a feeling trouble follows you around. If you are in need of aid from Morrowind, you need not ask.

Now, moving onto the other matter I wish to talk about-' I flipped the page to the second one.

'As to the money you have sent us… It's too much. I won't ask how long you have saved up, let alone what you are doing with so much money to simply have it on your person. But the family, your aunt especially, sends her thanks. I swear that woman does nothing but spend it on needless things. On the other side of our family, you, so much like your parents, spent so little if they could have helped it. For that, I am thankful.

You are in our thoughts and prayers. The Elders no longer care that we are receiving letters from you. They deem it 'out of sight, out of mind.' And the feeling left us with joy. We are also free to see you, but we shall refrain until things are steadier on your end. Thank you for informing us of your new home address. Your aunt has things and clothing material she wants to send you. No doubt that bag of yours needs to be re-done.'

I sent it a quick glance and shrugged. Maybe a little.

'With this, I eagerly await word from you again soon.

With love and care,

-Kalomon.'

'I always liked his writing'. Kena's gentle voice echoed in my mind, making my breath hitch slightly in startlement.

'Did you know him?' I projected and after a beat of silence I received a gentle;

'I recognize the writing. That's all.' And with that, I felt her pull away, and fade. She was doing that a lot recently. Hmm.

I discreetly wiped a tear that had managed to slip passed my notice as I tuck the letter away into a pocket of my pouch for safe keeping and look to the other.

'Serlina,

Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Siddgeir, and I have the honor to be the Jarl of the proud and ancient city of Falkreath.'

Where in the hell was that?

'The fame of your exploits across Skyrim has brought you to my attention. I ask for your assistance in regards to clearing out a bandit camp near my city called Knifepoint Ridge. They have proven to be to much for travelers, resulting in far to many unnecessary deaths, taking our incoming supplies and a few kidnappings and I am fearing for my people. I have only so many guards to protect the city, let alone enough to send out to clear out such a large camp that is steadily growing in numbers. Any help you can offer will be rewarded. In such, if you are interested in becoming a Thane of Falkreath hold, I invite you to speak to me the next time you are in or around Falkreath. Aside from the honor that accrues to the title, my thanes are entitled to a personal housecarl. I also can tell you privately that a choice parcel of land in Falkreath would be available for your purchase should your services prove useful to me.

I look forward to meeting you in person.

I remain,

Jarl Siddgeir of Falkreath'.

Re-reading his note, I pulled my map out of my satchel, and focused in on where this Jarl was needing my help. If we headed south, follow along this path, then head southwest, we could pass through the city and make a direct line to-

"You should stop biting your lip like that ladyship." Bishop called out, breaking me out of my travel planning.

"Why, does it bother you?" I ask after I release the lip from between my teeth. When he didn't respond right away, I look up to see he had stood at some point, his eyes on me, deep and smouldering.

"I wouldn't say it bothers me." His voice deepened, the words glide over the few feet between us and for a moment, I feel like they almost caress me leaving my body humming. Steady. Focus.

"Well, thank the Gods for that. That's the last thing we need." I tuck the letter from the Jarl away. "I don't know about you, but since Delphine is still a no-show, do you mind if we take a side trip?"

"Depends." He set his fists to his hips. "Where we going?"

"A little ways south-west from here." I say and I see the playful glint in his eye fade.

"Don't feel like waiting?" He asked tensely.

"No." I say flatly. "That woman hasn't earned enough of my respect or patience to sit and wait here like damn trained dog." The sad whine had me glancing down to Karnwyr. "No, not you Karnwyr. Your better than that." I state and get a tail wag. I look back to Bishop. "Feel like clearing out some bandits? I got a request from a Jarl." I ask holding up the letter and his eyes light with a combative fire.

"Always. Lead the way." We began walking out the opposite way from which we walked into town. We walked up the slender forest rode and my footsteps slowed when the path separated. Helgen to my left, the other route to my right. I recalled my uncles words and straightened my back and moved onwards to the right path.

We walked for a couple hours, and I was still surprised at the change in weather and temperature. Taking off my winter shawl, I mental scold myself for not changing out of my heaver outfit when I was at the inn in Riverwood. But, gauging from my map, we should be arriving in Falkreath soon.

Falkreath Hold, I thought with a shake of my head.

From what I gathered, it was surrounded in pine forests and covered in a fine mist that makes it seem almost seasonless. The mountains rising above Falkreath are well above the snow line striking a different feel from the rest of the holds we had seen. So far. A vast blanket of white hung heavy over the hills. It suffocated every tree at their base, swallowing every distant object and vanishing around every corner.

"Hold up!" Bishop called from behind me making me slow to a stop till Bishop reached my side. His whole body looked tense, his eyes scanning around us. "Now that were in Falkreath, I need to tell you about something." Something about the way he spoke had me mentally bracing.

He was sharing? Here? Now? Why?

"What are you talking about?" I ask carefully and he takes a sharp breath.

"Someone you rather not meet." He states plainly. "His name's Thorn and he's nothing but a vicious, son of a bitch that needs to be put down like the rabid dog he is." His voice, held such anger and contempt that it made me nearly flinch. It was so harsh and held a hint of barley contained fury. I found myself missing his playfulness from earlier. Why was he so angry? Bishop must have read it clearly, as he looked over my face, his amber eyes darting to different places, bright with caution. "Let's just say he'll take you by force, if he can." He closes his eyes, rubbing his fingers against his lids, his movements tense. "Everytime I hear his name mentioned it comes with another sad story of a wench being raped."

My whole body tensed and was put into alert.

"What does this have to do with you Bishop?" I asked and he paced a step, another and then looked back to me, his mouth open slightly as he tried to form words. He let out a tense sigh and steps toward me. "Alright look, I was a bandit too, but he is somethin' else." His words dripped with distain as he looked away, his eyes on the treeline while I let that sink in. He continued. "I never liked him. We were pretty much on opposite sides. In fact,-" He looks back to me, "-he still wants me dead."

The opposite of Bishop? I had to picture it. Bishop was cautious and blunt at times, playful and flirtatious. Crude, but funny. Strong and protective. If this Thorn was his opposite… I mentally cringed. Cold. He would be cold, heartless and despicable. And from Bishop had told me moments ago...

"I'd rather avoid someone like that." I say quietly. Though, the thought of someone going after Bishop, for whatever reason, had me feeling ready to fight. His nodding in approval grabbed my attention.

"Good." He looks a little more relieved. "The things he enjoys doing to women. It's disgusting." He looked ready to throw a punch.

"He sound positively charming. Shall I bring wine?" I opt for sarcasm to break the tension and just from the look in his eye, I didn't do a good job at it.

"Joke as you like, but he's a raping son of a bitch. He's not just rough Ladyship, he's sick." He spit the last word, his face shifting to one of disgust. His words dripped with venom. "The things he'd do to you if he got his hands on you…" He trails off, his face turning stoic. His eyes roam over my face, soften and he gives a tight shake of his head. He steps close, so close I can smell the scent of pine and leather and my breath catches a bit. I sure as hell wasn't going to argue about it with him like this... Gods. He looked like his anger was making him bigger. His hand lifts to my hip and I found myself waiting for his touch, my eyes on his and yet, I don't feel anything. "No, that wont happen. He'll die before he gets the chance." His head snaps up, like the statement was final. Until I hear the sound of paper rustling between us. I look down and see my map, charcoal in his hand, moving over the page, searching until it rests and draws a small circle over a place. He hands me the charcoal back and folds the map up again. "I've marked his hovel on your map. Whether we avoid it or hunt him down is up to you. But I won't lie that I'd like to see his head rolling." He steps back, his shoulder looking tight. Continuing on, we walk under a stone gate and into the small village. Looking around, I see several people walking, talking. Some leaning on railings as they watched people who walked.

I looked at the shops as we passed, and a spark of relief filled me when we walked upon the inn. The sign looked cheerful enough. Dead Man's Drink. A little foreboding after what Bishop just told me. I pointed to it then looked back to him. His eyes were hesitant and lingered in places, over certain people.

"Bishop, do you mind if we head in? I could use a bite to eat and I can change out of these heavier clothes."

"Sure. Fine." He spoke dismissively. I shook my head and climbed the steps and walked in. Nice place, a few patrons, a warm fire. We chose a table and after I ordered our food, I asked to use one of the rooms, simply to change out of my gear. Valga, one of the women who worked here, looked at me and with a tight smile, she gave me the go ahead. I changed and was happy to be in clothes that made it easier to move around in. Picking up my satchel I unlocked my door and walked back to our table. Sitting across from Bishop, I saw he was watching all around us.

"Bishop?" His eyes snap to me. "You stare at people any harder and you will start puncturing holes in em. Relax, or you'll draw attention to us. Attention we don't need if were just passing through," I comment making him look to me. Tightly, he nods as a young girl walks to our table, our food in hand. She sets our food down plate by plate, her eyes on her hands, making sure not to drop anything. After she looks up and her eyes land on Bishop.

"Shor's bones!" She quietly exclaimed getting Bishop's attention, "A handsome man in Falkreath!" She leaned against the table, putting her back to me, facing him head on. Both my eyebrows raised then my teeth gritted when she leaned forward to him, talking low. "I've half a mind to ask if you'll take me on one of your adventures. Or maybe you wouldn't mind just taking me to your-" My fist rose and fell on the table, jolting her to both my presence and knocking my glass of wine over. Bishop looked both irritated and alarmed. Then slowly, his face changed into one of sly amusement that hand my hands clenching. What in Divines possessed me to- Nevermind. I watched as the girl turned to face me, I met her eyes coolly.

"Hi." I smiled, a little too sweetly. "Anything you can tell us about Falkreath?" I ask sharply and her eyes widening slightly, no doubt embarrassed at her little act. At least I hope she was.

"Oh. Um, not much exciting happens around here. You're as like as not to be bored to death if you stay too long."

"Good thing we'll make this visit a quick one then. We're not staying long." I move my boot out of the line of dripping wine.

"Bored already?" She asks, no doubt trying for humor, only I don't laugh. I just smile weakly at her, only it didn't reach my eyes.

"No. The weather depresses me." I smile overly sweetly and Bishop snorts, leaning back in his chair. Her head swivels to face him and she smiles, a little shyer this time at him, her head bobbing understandingly.

"A strong drink will chase off that chill in the air." She informs us and I do my best to curb my smart mouth. Again, we were only here for a group of bandits.

"Yes. And hers is all over our table." Bishop finally points out. She looks and her face gaps at the wine, reaching about her waist for a cloth, she wipes down the table, quietly apologizing.

"Would you like another drink?" I cast my eyes to Bishop, looking at her and me with a small glimmer of levity casing me to let out a sigh.

"No thank you." I no longer felt hungry. After she scuttles away, I lean over, dropping my plate to the floor, Karnwyr takes a mad dive and scarfs it down.

"You okay?" He asks and I chuckle in irony placing my elbow on the table resting my temple to my knuckles. .

"I should be asking you that. A minute ago, you were looking like you were willing to burn the place down, and now, you look like your just full of glee."

"Not glee really." He counters, finishing his stew and sets the bow aside.

"Then what has you all chipper all of a sudden?"

"Just you." He gives me a pointed look with a smirk.

"Me? What about me? I didn't do anything." I lean back in my seat and continue resting my elbow on one of the arms of my chair and place my knuckles against my temple. I was starting to get a headache.

"From what I saw, you looked like you were jealous." He stated causing my eyes to snap to him. And slowly my arm lowered.

"I am not jealous ranger," I say evenly. He mockingly nods his head in agreement.

"Right. Whatever you say princess." I glare at him, making his lips tilt upwards.

"If were going to talk about the whole jealousy spiel, mind telling me what yours was about?" I ask and one of his brows raise sharply.

"Oh, were going to talk about this now? And it wasn't jealousy princess, it was a question. You going to give me one now?" He asked. I thought about talking the man in circles and decided against it.

He had told me something. Something I didn't know. I breath in, then exhale.

"I have a large appreciation for all bards alike. I had a good friend who was traveling to become one in Black Marsh." I scratch at the table under my hand. "My father was a bard when he met my mother. He didn't sing though. He played the drum." I explained. "He entertained nobles when he was a slave, playing for them. Until he met my mother. He used to tell me that 'in a single beat, he needed to know her name." I smile gently as I recall his words.

"Is that having anything to do with the bard knowing your name?" He asked tightly and I found myself shrugging.

"To be honest, I didn't think of it like that at the time, but I suppose now, it makes sense." I shrugged. "If he wanted to know me, really know me, he would have asked me for my name. Wouldn't he?" I ask looking at him. "I mean, me being his 'muse'." I air-quoted with two fingers on the word muse. "His hope. His inspiration. And the damn man didn't even care to ask me for my name."

"Even after you lectured him for not knowing it." Bishop tsked.

"Exactly." I exhale a long breath. "Just goes to show you how important I was to him. Or maybe it was just the idea of me." I cross my arms over my chest and for a minute, we sit in silence. Only because I am sure Bishop doesn't know what to say to that. Instead, he sat, looking around the bar again, his eyes wary. In the light of the fire, he looks so much like a rogue it's almost startling. I can see why the girl had fawned over him a little. His amber eyes, sharp and searing watched, glinting in the firelight. His jaw covered with light dustings of a day too many without shaving. Looking around the room, I could see what she meant. Not many men here held your attention. And yet, he had to simply look at the girl and commanded her full attention. Hell. He just had to sit down in her line of sight. Bastard. A good looking one, I had to give him that much. With a rude but honest heart to go with the gruff looking man. The words he said earlier taking me by surprise.

"I can't see it." I state aloud, making him blink once or twice.

"See what?"

"You. A bandit?" I recalled and his face drops, his cold mask slipping back into place.

"What? I, no, forget I said that. I don't want to talk about it." He looks away and I feel another twinge in my chest. He was alright to talk about it if my life might have been in danger, but anytime else, pft. Not a chance.

"So, this Thorn guy..." I trailed, making his hand clench slowly on the table. "Think we could make a stop to go see him after we take care of the other bandits we're here for?" I ask and he relaxes some. Just not a lot.

"I don't see a reason as to why not." He says tightly as our dishes were cleared. Nodding in thanks, I lean forwards, placing my elbows on the table.

"Good. I was looking for a reason to kill someone today."

"Bloodthirsty, are we?" He chuckled deep and low, my body tightening, nearly shivering at the sound. I cover it with a shrug. "Works for me." Bishop leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms over his chest. "He belongs in the pits of Oblivion for what he's done. We'll send him there after I've snapped every bone in his body."

Damn.

I swallow gently.

I wonder if it's healthy for a woman to find what he said incredibly sexy. From how he was positioned, I could see he was silent power and strength, hidden in plain sight. I had seen only certain glimpses. Most women would be intimidated. Others, like the girl, were curious and eager.

So where would I fall?

That being, if I wanted to. And the more I watched, talked and lingered around him... I found that my fingers itched to go under his armour and trace every sharp plane and follow every ridge. I wanted to know every tale and secret he had... But he looked worn and he closed up fast. No need to push or press. If he wanted too, he would tell me.

"Well if you're alright with brewing and imagining that whole scenario here for a few minutes, I am going to go talk to this… Jarl." I stood, my chair scrapping along the floor while Bishop looked up at me, a look of puzzlement settling over his face.

"Are you sure? You don't want me to come with you?" He asked. "You don't exactly know your way around." He hesitantly implied.

"It's a small-town ranger. I am sure I will be able to figure it out. I will be fine and yes, I am sure. I have a few compromising questions for him and I may use any means to get an answer."

"Any means? What, you gonna kill him?" He teasingly asked making me send him a mocking expression of insulted shock.

"Why I would never!" I overexaggerated by pressing a hand over my chest, like his playful jab wounded me. It got a smirk out of him. "No, I will not kill a Jarl. Seriously maim, absolutely. But no. Not kill. Even I have limits when meeting new people." I stand. " Besides, depending on how everything goes, I may need you to bail me out if things go sideways." I smile as I tighten my weapons straps as I spoke, all the while his smirk got a wider and wider.

"You think I would bail you out?"

"I should hope so."

"What makes you think so?"

"You kidding? You cant resist." I rest a hand on my hip, his eyes lingering there. "And for the stories or explanation alone, you wouldn't be able to. Trust me." We grinned at eachother.

"Well when you say it like that, I feel like I would be missing out on seeing quite a spectacle." He leans back in his chair, looking up at me.

"You would. But I promise you ranger, I shall keep my misbehaving habits in check until I am back in your presence. Does that work?" I ask with a flirtatious smirk and repress a shiver when his smile turns wicked and his eyes burn on me.

"That-" He points a finger at me, "-I will hold you too. Just don't leave me waiting too long." He drawled as he drops his hand, settling in.

"And miss this sight?" I look him up and down, happy with our playful banter and the fact that he looked more relaxed then he did a few moments ago. "Wouldn't dream of it." His smile fades until a look of something more intense passes over. Hunger? I take a leveled breath and gave a tight nod of my head. "I'll be back soon." I smile and head towards the door, hearing him call for another drink as I walk out.

Stepping out, I let out a long sigh, smiling lightly as I see my breath rise in a small cloud like in Windhelm. Only this time I didn't feel like I was freezing my ass off. There is little to no sound in the streets, yet everyone is moving, moving and not talking. Walking down the stairs, I look around and walk to one of the men who is walking through the town.

"Excuse me?" I call and he stopped walking, turning to me.

"Need something?" He asked. But when he talks to me his eyes don't meet mine for long. They travel down to my boots and almost back to my face, stopping somewhere around the cord I keep about my neck.

"Yes, I hate to bother you, but I am new to this town, could you tell me where the Jarl's place is?" I glance around and the man nods.

"Sure thing." His voice trails as if he's struggling against a back-drop of loud thoughts. Then after he fails to respond to my question, he snaps out of his lurid daydream and smiles at me like a guilty child. He points down the road behind me. "Carry on down this road, pass Corpselight Farm, turn left, follow the road and at the end, you will be there." I looked to where he was pointing and nodded.

"Great thanks." I start off, and follow the directions that was given to me. Turning after the weirdly named farm, I turn down and fallow the narrowed path. The mist was so thick here, it made everything feel like it was leached out their colour, turning everything the same stony grey as the rock that rose around me.

I slowed when I saw a Hall of the Dead.

"Sonofa-"

Looking over my shoulder sharply, I see figures in the thick mist.

"Dammit."

I barley heard the feet shuffling behind me, but as they neared, I could tell I was surrounded. By the looks of them, four, no, five. As they approached, they could have passed for brothers, though they were actually no relation, they no doubt were bonded by their perversions rather than by blood. I'd seen it before. The unsettling feeling that was rising in me spread in my stomach spread. I took a cautious step backwards, turning to walk to the Hall of Dead and unflinching, unblinking, one blocked my path. His face was mostly masked by a helmet, unlike the others... The axe that was being toyed with in his thick fingers glimmered in the subtle light as it was twirled so deftly.

Shit.

"Hey there lovely. Where you going? You take a wrong turn somewhere?" He spoke without any nerves, this wasn't his first hold up.

"She's armed." Someone called from behind me. I fully gripped my swords handle.

"Don't make a fuss of this. Wouldn't want to hurt that pretty face of yours." Helmet head stepped up close, making me draw my sword partially, only to have his axe across my throat. His eyes, hidden mostly, moved down my face, down my body and snapped back to my chest. "Pretty thing." His hand lifted to my throat and my heart stilled.

"Touch me, and I'll kill you." I pressed against the blade, not caring about the slight sting I got when it pricked my skin.

"Hmm... How about you give me that necklace your wearing, and I'll make sure to keep my men's hands off you?" His eyes gleamed darkly, making my blood go cold.

"I'll keep it, thanks. And in return, you will keep your hands to yourself regardless!" I rose my voice, hoping to cause someone to hear from the town as I met Helmet Heads stare, at least, as best as I could. "Touch it, and it will be the last thing that your hands ever touch!" I felt the others presence closing in. Surrounded by 6 men, thick fog that seemed to become more and more thick as time passed and a rock wall to my right.

Time was suspended for a minute. Or maybe two. It was like the mist separated us from the rest of the town... But how? I couldn't hear anything. The town had been bustling. Hell, there was even a lumber yard nearby. So why couldn't I hear it? My eyes dart sideways as another walks to me as Helmet Head grabs at my neck, mainly my necklace.

'Don't let-'

I feel the snap before I hear it, and after, it went to hell. I yelled in rage, feeling Kena's voice ripped from my mind as I saw the string dangling from the mans hand.

I raised my leg, and kicked with such force that Helmet Head was falling back with force that even surprised me and all at once, they were everywhere as I fully drew my sword.

I would retrieve my necklace! I blocked swings from many weapons, staying on the defensive and flinched as an arrow flew by my chest. Helmet was up and rushing into the fray, the sound of weapons clashing. Turning to face him, I felt a sharp pull on my back, glancing back I see one of them has made a grab for my greatsword, eyeing it with a toxicity that had me swirling around, and slicing at his hands. One of them fell to the ground, the other hung on by flesh, the bone showing from the cut. The man fell backwards, screaming in pain.

"This broad is proving to be a problem!" Another shouted as I parried an onslaught of attacks.

"Seems she needs a firmer hand." A Khajiit grabs my sword hand, making me glare at him and reel my empty hand back. My fist connected with the Khajiit's face, and the crunch of bone on bone had me grinning. Turning, I sweep a leg along the ground and catch Helmet heads legs, knocking him to the ground again, even if the effort had me nearly sweating. I heard him exhale a harsh breath, groaning. Looking around, I see my necklace on the dirt close by. He must have dropped it when I kicked him from before.

I start towards it when I let out a sharp hiss when I feel a slice to my leg, an arrow sinking in front of me. I kneel and cover it with a hand. The cut just above my ankle, over the rim of my ankle boots. Blood seeps past the space between the fingers and I groan. Letting go, I rise and take a step toward the archer and my legs wobble. The paralyzing hurt spread through my body like icy, liquid metal. I clenched my fists as I hesitantly took each step. I noticed my feet tremble more each step.

"Tut tut, I did warn you. Now look what you've gone and made me do... Should take but a minute." The Khajiit spat as he wiped his face.

A minute? I looked down to my leg and yell in frustration.

I turn to the last one who spoke and my vision slightly blurs. Potent stuff to be working this quick. My body trembled and I was feeling sluggish. It had to be a sickly mix of Virulent Stamina Poison and a potent Paralysis Poison. My body was locking down. I grit my teeth and swung my word, angry that the flat of my blade hit the one who charged, sending him into the dirt off my left.

I haven't fought this horribly since I was new at it. I shake my head. If I just lasted until the effects wore off. I tried to turn my head to the fight, seeing them slowly closing in on me. I stepped back, feeling my chest constrict as I fought for air, my head swirling and dizzy. I blinked once. Twice. Strong hands grabbed my shoulders, making my eyes widen and sharpen as I was spun and pushed into the jagged wall of stone. It stung, and sent swells of pain through my body. A chin rested on my shoulder, whoever it was breathing onto my ear. "Boss'll have a time taming this broad!" He called to his brother in arms, who laugh coldly. I tried to struggle and squirm against the wall, not caring that it bit into my cheek, chin and temple. But his hands held tight on my wrists as I saw the light leave my vision for a brief moment.

My uncle warned me that, though I was strong, a bigger target, especially multiple numbers are the hardest to fight against. And I knew that these men were physically stronger than me, even if I fought as hard as I could. But would I give up because of that?

Fuck. No.

I shook my head, as best as I could, my hearing of the conversation going in and out. It sounded muffled.

Focus!

"Give her another."

I swore angrily in Kothringi as another slice came across my bicep. My head was sharply pulled back by my hair. The rancid breath was back, closing in on my ear. Teeth turned to a tongue. It slid over the rim of my ear and caused me to cry out a bit. Two hands slid down my sides and landed on my waist, just above the hem of my leathered pants. My mind scrambled. I could Shout, but with my face so close to this rock wall, I didn't know what would happen. I could barley get a breath in.

I struggle enough to bring my leg up between me and the wall, plant my toes as good as possible and push off from the rock, stumbling us both backwards, landing on our backs. My vision blinks again. Pairs of hands grab both my arms and I am pulled up, my legs turning to water, supporting none of my weight.

'Let…Me… Go." I wheeze. They look amongst themselves.

"Lets get her to the boss. He'll like this one." Helmet head was back, axe in hand. I sneered and spit at his feet. I tasted blood, most likely my own from lips from being scrapped from the rocks.

"And I'll enjoy watching him break her." A large one walks up, an Orc, dual wielding a mace and sword. I had to block most of his attacks.

"I don't … break… easily." I huff as I pull at my arms, fighting as much as I could.

"No doubt. But I won't worry." He bowed forward, putting us nose to nose. "You will. They all do." He stood straight, brought his mace hand back and with the butt of the handle, connected with the top of my head. My vison blurred completely, and I felt myself being dragged somewhere. My mind was fading, receding into a stage of sleep-inducing recovery. Even though I was afraid, I kept my fears hidden. It wouldn't do me any good with these louts. I should have moved more. I should have used the first weapon any woman who is attacked by a group.

My VOICE. I should have screamed more. But I had yelled quite loudly. It felt like my words had been absorbed by the thick fog. I should have had my- My vision fades to black and only one word falls from my lips.

"Bishop…"

AN:

Hello!

Just a warning for future chapters!

Things will get a bit dark. I am going to try to warm up into the harsher things. I didn't want to add a disclaimer in the middle of my story, I feel like it breaks the momentum, the submersion and I for one hate it when authors write disclaimers IN the middle of their chapters.

Now, if you guys think I should write one at the beginning of the dark chapter or at the end of the one before it, be sure to let me know!

I'd appreciate it!

Sorry for the delay in my chapters. Work is becoming more and more busy, but fear not, any spare minute I have, I am writing. I have a full layout of future chapters, just getting them written out is the tedious part.

Be sure to let me know what you guys think, I love getting your messages and reviews! Gives me all kinds of warm fuzzies!

Stay romancing and I'll post again soon!

-IMME