Chapter 6:
A New Addition
Hi everybody – I'm back! So I told myself I would post this chapter last week but…finals kicked my butt. But here we are today! I'm sorry it took so long for me to add another chapter – this semester was, to say the very least, hell. I've been going through some personal struggles lately which have left me feeling unmotivated to write, but I was able to complete this chapter. And for those who have also been waiting for me to post a new chapter for Becoming His Angel, never fear, I plan to update as soon as I can :)
Disclaimer: Still don't own Skyrim, or Farkas…so sad…so very, very sad…
~ oOo ~
7 Years Later – Age 22
For the last several days in Whiterun, the citizens of the city were experiencing a massive cold wave that hadn't decided to lift, leaving cold afternoons and even colder nights. The people wore their thickest fur cloaks to keep themselves warm. Each day when the sun started to set, everyone would pack up their stalls and head home for the day; even Eorlund claimed it was too cold to work at the forge. But within Jorrvaskr, the deep fire pit continuously blazed, leaving all the Companions toasty warm and ready to work whenever they were needed.
For Serah, she absolutely loved the cold. She wasn't sure if it was because of her Nord blood, but she loved it all; the cold and even the way her breath was visible within the air. The gray, cloudy skies, the crisp chill that flew with the wind and the snow – oh the snow! Ever since the first time it snowed, Serah had always spent her time in the white, fluffy flakes. But as she grew older, her ability to play decreased as she spent most of her time training hard to become a stronger Companion and shield-sibling. And ever since she had become a member of the circle all those years ago, she had been busier than ever.
But, she never complained. Despite some of the jobs she was given from the people of Whiterun or from the other Companion members, she loved to explore the land of Skyrim. As a young girl, she was always told that she had to stay within the city walls unless she had someone right by her side. Never knowing why, Serah simply obliged to it; but now with the door to Skyrim open for her and her trusty steed Star always wanting to gallop away, she left whenever she had the chance.
Lately though, something had been telling her to stay home within the safety of Jorrvaskr. From what she could tell, nothing seemed out of the ordinary. Unless one took the time to consider Ulfric Stormcloak, the Jarl of Windhelm who murdered the High King and brought upon the "Stormcloak Rebellion". Serah always scoffed the nonsense away. Just as the other Companions, she preferred to stay neutral between the Stormcloacks and the Imperials; she didn't want to partake in something that could jeopardize her life or those that were special to her. But as she sat outside and pondered over everything that had been occurring lately, she pulled her cloak tighter around her slimmer frame. She was so lost in thought that she didn't hear the scarping of the wooden chair against the flooring until someone sat down and called her name. Turning her head, the hairs at the back of her neck instantly stood as she jumped out of her seat, a gasp escaping from her lips.
All the while, Vilkas smiled in her direction.
"It's not like you to be so easily spooked, Serah."
The girl sighed, running a lazy hand ran down her face before saying, "Just lost in thought, I guess."
"Oh? Anything specific on your mind you want to discuss?"
"Nah, just thinking about all the stuff going on in Skyrim."
"Ah, the Civil War…not a fun topic to think on, eh?"
"If you ask me, it's just a load of crap that's doing no good for the people of Skyrim."
Chuckling, Vilkas took a deep swig of his mead. Opening his mouth to speak, another voice cut through.
"Tha's very blunt of you, Serah." Both Serah and Vilkas turned their heads to the doors of Jorrvaskr to find Torvar walking out, a bottle of hard ale grasped firmly within his hand. Serah raised an eyebrow in his direction.
"Look who's talking. You're the king of blunt, considering all the mead you drink by the time the sun is high in the sky."
Torvar took a swig of his beloved mead to spite her words. "Ah, but mead brings me happiness, along with the company of some Nord women." Winking in her direction, Serah held up her hand and turned her head away.
"Not on your life, Torvar."
Scratching the back of his head and down more of his alcoholic beverage, the drunken Companion threw down his hand on the table and pushed his face into Serah's; the mead on his breath nearly made the female gag. "S…'o wha', Serah? You sayin' that you don' enjoy my company?"
Ugh…she thought. "Please, Torvar. If I have to sit here and gag from the way you're breathing on me any longer I swear I'll head down to the Bannered Mare and tell all the women who will actually sleep with you that, because of all the mead you drink, your dick doesn't function properly and won't be able to please them."
Chocking mid-drink, Vilkas turned away and coughed to clear his throat. Never before had he heard Serah speak in such a manner. Then again, Torvar had always acted in such a manner towards her; Vilkas knew it was only a matter of time before the female Companion snapped. Daring to glance at the glare Serah was throwing in Torvar's direction, Vilkas had to guess that the time was now.
Blinking, Torvar walked off, mumbling a string of curse words aimed towards Serah, but she ignored them. She and Vilkas laughed that she had proved him wrong and watched as Torvar sat against the stone walling near the straw practice dummy, glaring back at the two of them. They turned towards each other and Vilkas was about to ask a question when Farkas and Aela walked out of Jorrvaskr and headed in their direction. "What're you two doing out here?" Farkas asked, eyeing the two of them with a smile on his face.
His twin pointed towards the drunk Companion across the way. "Serah just put Torvar in his place."
They raised an eyebrow in her direction and she giggled. "Hey, he had it coming."
"So what happened this time?" Farkas questioned.
Vilkas answered for his shield-sister. "Torvar came out basically told Serah he wanted her company so she threatened him." Looking at Serah he added, "In a very creative way, too."
She smiled. "Well thank you. It was fun."
"Wait…" It took Farkas a few seconds to process what was being said. He was still lost on Vilkas' words. Torvar basically said he wanted to sleep with her? That stupid, mother - …
"Whatever the reason," Aela ran her hand through the air. "We got a call that a giant is ravaging the farms outside Whiterun and they need our help; Vilkas, Serah, you in?"
Shaking his head, Vilkas replied, "Not today, I need to go speak with Kodlak."
"And ruin the chance to beat up a nasty giant? You're no fun, Vilkas. Serah! What say you?"
But she shook her head too and Farkas widened his eyes slightly. At any chance to take down a giant, she was always the first one to volunteer. "Tilma asked me to help her bake more sweet rolls and I already agreed to help her."
Aela lightly growled as her eyes narrowed. "So, just to see if I'm hearing you correctly…you'd rather go bake then fight like the Companion you are?" When Serah smiled in her direction, the huntress held a hand towards her head and sighed. "Unbelievable…" As to save her from Aela's confrontation, Tilma opened the doors and peered her head out, asking if Serah was ready to help with the baking. Serah asked for a few minutes and then she'd meet her in the kitchens. Looking up at Aela, she smiled again. "Well, you heard Tilma – duty calls!" Aela growled and walked off towards the city's gates. She watched as Aela left before turning towards Farkas. "Make sure to give that giant a beating for me, ok?" He locked his eyes with hers and nodded, delaying for a few extra seconds before following Aela.
Turning towards Jorrvaskr, she and Vilkas walked through its double doors, the twin heading down towards Kodlak's personal living quarters and Serah walking towards the kitchen. Once inside, Serah was bombarded with the decadent smells of fresh bake bread, cooked venison and even a freshly baked apple pie. Although she had just eaten, her stomach growled for more, but she declined its demand for more sustenance. Standing by one of the ovens, Serah called towards Tilma and the two females began the somewhat tedious challenge of cooking a few dozen sweet rolls; mainly to be kept within the Companion hall, and some to give away to the other Whiterun citizens.
With her arms deep in flour, Serah was happy to be doing something other than fighting. Just recently, she had discovered a side of her that actually appreciated doing activities that didn't resolve in killing. Granted, fighting and training still made her happy and would help her relax after a tiresome day. But once in a while, Serah found herself wearing a dress and occasionally helping Tilma around the mead hall, or she would walk around the city and help the citizens within its walls. Either way, she had discovered a new part of her that she gradually began to accept.
But as she kneaded the dough, Serah glanced around and wondered what Aela and Farkas were doing with the giant. Oh Farkas… Just thinking of the muscular twin sent Serah's heartbeat into an array of quick thumps that left her speechless. Taking a few seconds, she closed her eyes and imagined Farkas fighting the giant. His ever tight muscles clenched as he used his strength to strike with his great sword, his long, dark hair swinging in the wind. And finally his voice…his voice that always reverberated throughout her entire body and sent shivers down her spine, and even lower…
Groaning, Serah pounded her frustration into the dough that required her attention. She pounded the damn mound of flour until the table trembled beneath, causing Tilma to look up from her own work. "Something wrong, dear?"
Wiping the sweat from her brow with the inside of her arm, Serah shook her head. "Nothing to worry about, Tilma. I'm ok." At least, that's what she continued to tell herself.
But the older lady grinned, knowing perfectly well what was going on. As she turned to look at the young Companion, Tilma could see that Serah was breathing harder and her cheeks were flushed, but not from the heat in the room. She had known what was going on for the last several years. But as she turned back to her worked, Tilma only said, "You know dear, it wouldn't hurt if you simply told Farkas."
Straightening her back, Serah turned slightly as she starred at the maid over her shoulder. "And pray, Tilma, what are you speaking of?"
But the maid continued to work on her own dough, without turning towards Serah. "You know exactly what I mean, young one. Your heart would feel better if you just spoke aloud whatever it is that's on your mind."
Shocked by Tilma's words, Serah quietly returned back to her work. Deep down, she knew exactly what the old lady was talking about, she just didn't want to press the matter. What was the point anyways? What if Farkas didn't feel the same and she opened up like a fool? No, she couldn't – wouldn't – go through that. If it meant protecting the amazing friendship they had, then so be it. Her feelings would have to be stored in order to keep Farkas by her side. But as she continued to knead the dough and separate it into little sections for each individual sweet roll, she could feel her face burn with a passion that wouldn't be released anytime soon.
~ oOo ~
"Take that, you monster!"
"Farkas, duck!"
Dipping his body close to the ground, Farkas was barely able to miss the swing of the giant's club. Both Ria and himself were the closest attackers towards the giant, with Aela off in the distance using her bow and arrows to gradually bring down the beast. Several arrows were protruding from its back as both Ria and Farkas stabbed and sliced with their swords, but this particular beast was slightly stronger than the usual group of giant's they dealt with.
"Why won't this damn thing just die already?!" Farkas could hear Aela growl from her position as she released more arrows from her bow. Farkas questioned the same thing, but he was more concerned within bringing the beast down. But as the minutes passed, their attack slowly began to work, but nothing was going to bring the monster on anytime soon.
"Flames!"
Farkas tore his gaze away from the enemy towards the person casting the destruction spell. At first, the Companion though it had been Serah, for she was the only other person – despite Farengar Secret-Fire – who knew how to weild magic. But when he saw a male standing off in the distance, instead of Serah, Farkas' shoulders tensed, but hoped this person was aiding them and not against them. The individual held one hand up as he continued to cast his spell, the other hand held an iron sword as he neared the giant. Walking around towards the other people fighting the giant, the stranger used his strength to help bring down the giant after a few minutes, with several stab wounds across its body.
Wiping the sweat from his brow, Farkas turned towards the stranger to thank him for his help, but Aela beat him before he could say anything. Walking up towards the man who wore mismatched armor that seemed to be too big for his frame, Aela said, "You handle yourself well. You could make for a decent shield-brother."
"Hm, I did what I could to help, I know giants can sometimes be a pain in the ass."
Throwing her head back, Aela barked a laughter into the open air. "You have a mouth on you, I like that. What do you call yourself, friend?"
"Aragon."
"Hmmm," Aela held a glint in her eye as she glanced the stranger over. "Not a bad name, friend."
"And who do we have here, Aela?" Farkas walked up as he sheathed his sword upon his back, Ria striding right behind him.
"This one is called Aragon, the one who helped us bring down the giant. I told him he'd make a good shield-brother."
"Is that so…" Turning towards Aragon, Farkas smiled and clasped the man on his back. "Take it as a compliment, Aela doesn't usually tell people they would make a good shield-sibling." And with that, Aela leaned over and punched Farkas right in the arm, but with the bulging muscles he held, the man felt nothing as he barked with laughter. "But I think she has a point. If you consider it, head to Jorrvaskr over in Whiterun and join the Companions. We could always use someone like you."
"Doesn't sound all that bad…" Aragon scratched the back of his head as he waved towards the people he just met when they walked off towards Whiterun. His situation was an interesting one and at that moment, he was more concerned with finding a place to sleep and something warm to place into his belly. After searching the giants dead body for anything useful – in which he found several pieces of gold – he grabbed his weapon and headed off towards the city. He had never been to Whiterun, but given the circumstances of the last few days, he urgently needed to speak with Jarl Balgruff. As Aragon walked towards the city gates, he was stopped by two guards standing watch.
"Halt, stranger! What business do you have in Whiterun?"
Grunting, Aragon switched his gaze between both guards. "My business is my own, but if you must now…I come from Riverwood, I must speak to Jarl Balgruff immediately."
The guards glanced at each other, unsure whether to believe the stranger and let him into the city. "And what makes you so special that you need to see the Jarl? What is so important?"
Now glaring at the guards, Aragon was growing impatient. He didn't have time to dilly dally around when there was a dragon on the loose. "The information I have for the Jarl is for the Jarl's ears alone, but if you must know…I am a survivor from Helgen and I need to discuss the threat of a dragon attack."
That caught the guard's attention as their breath caught in their throats. One looked down at his feet, not sure what to say while the other whispered. "Helgen…we've heard whispers and rumors but we didn't think…so it's true then? That the city was destroyed by a dragon?"
Growing impatient, Aragon simply nodded his head. "Yes, and the more I talk with you, the less time the Jarl has to protect this wondrous city."
The guard who had been mainly speaking with Aragon sighed as he scratched the back of his head. "Hmmm, alright stranger, we'll grant you access to Whiterun. But if we find out you're causing trouble, believe me, you'll hear from us." Nodding in response, Aragon pushed one of the heavy wooden doors open and entered the city. From all the cities he had seen, Aragon was still impressed with what he saw. People of all ages walked around, merging from shop to shop while children ran around playing with each other. There were blacksmith shops, Alchemy shops, and the General Goods store. It was probably the liveliest city he had seen in a while and that made him smile on the inside. At least these people don't seem to be suffering…
As he slowly took his time through the city, Aragon thought back to battling the giant on the city's outskirts and the people they met. They stated that he should consider joining the "Companions" because they needed people like him. He had heard of the Companions growing up bet never considered joining. But then again, he never thought he would be traveling around in the middle of Skyrim. Although Skyrim was he native home, he hadn't visited home in a very long time. But thinking back about the Companions, Aragon agreed that it wouldn't hurt to consider the option. What did he have to lose anyways?
Walking deeper into the city, Aragon realized he had no idea where to even find the Companions. Were they in a simple hut? Did they live outside the city? Even though he hadn't traveled back to Skyrim in some time, his hometown had been Dragon Bridge – nowhere in the vicinity of Whiterun Hold. Realizing his mistake of not asking earlier, Aragon walked towards the closest person, an older man with a graying beard, his arms muscular, indicating his life of hard work. "Excuse me, sir?"
The man turned towards Aragon. "Yes?"
"I'm new in Whiterun, and was wondering if you could point me in the direction of the Companions?"
Chuckling, the man pointed directly in front of him past the withering Gildergreen towards a large mead hall where the roofing was that of an ancient boat. "That's Jorrvaskr, the Companions hold. Are you looking for someone specific?"
Shaking his head, Aragon said, "No, just a few people I met outside the city suggested I consider joining."
"Well my lad, I would definitely consider, it would be worth your life to join."
Saying his thanks, the young man walked up the steps towards the building called Jorrvaskr and opened the dual doors, leading him inside where he found a large fire pit in the middle of the floor surrounded by wooden tables laden with delicious smelling food. As the doors closed behind him, he heard yelling to his side and glanced towards his left to find two individuals caught in a brawl. Aragon took a few steps forward to see more of the fight but stood his ground when he realized they were fighting to teach the other rather than because they wanted to beat the living crap out of the other. Several other people were gathered around the two who were fighting, and from the people in the small crowd, he could see Aela and Farkas were among those watching. Maneuvering his way backwards, Aragon was going to go around the tables to meet the two Companion members on the other side. But as he backed up to turn around, he felt something stab his back and the squeal of a female behind him cursing. Quickly turning around, the female was holding a large plate full of fresh sweet rolls, but as he looked at the ground, he noticed a few had rolled off when the plate had hit his back. Kneeling down, he grabbed the few that fell and stood, looking at the female in the eyes. Oh the great Divines…look at those eyes…
Aragon continued to stare at the female in front of him before he could mutter, "I-I'm so sorry. Are you all right?"
The female quickly smiled and nodded her head before speaking. "Oh, I'm perfectly fine! It was my fault that I ran into you, I'm the one who should apologize."
"Well, as long as you're not hurt, right?"
She smiled again. "Yes, that's true." Turning towards the table, she placed the plater down and turned back towards Aragon, taking the pieces that fell from his hand and tossed them into the raging fire. "I'm Serah by the way. What's your name?"
"I'm Aragon, it's nice to meet you Serah."
"It's nice to see new faces around here. Were you searching for someone?"
"No, actually I'm here because – "
"Hey Serah! I see you've met the new guy!" Aragon was caught off when Farkas appeared by Serah's side and smiled in his direction. Looking up at Farkas in confusion, Serah asked, "New guy?" Then she turned towards Aragon. "Did you come here to join the Companions?!" Nodding, Aragon went on to explain what happened outside of Whiterun and how he ran into Farkas and Aela and what they offered. He didn't explain anything much other than that, considering he had other matters to attend to. But right now, he was content with talking to Farkas and Serah for a bit.
Once he was done, both were smiling and Aragon could tell that something was going on between the two individuals; Farkas was standing extremely close to Serah and she had continuously glanced in Farkas' direction, hoping no one would've noticed; but Aragon did and he could tell these two weren't telling the other something vital. Best NOT to go there. Wouldn't want to get caught up in between those two in the future.
"Since you're here, you seem serious about joining the Companions," Serah said as she brushed some hair out of her face. Aragon nodded in agreement.
"Then you'll need to go see Kodlak, the Harbinger. He'd downstairs in the living quarters, all the way down the hall."
"Is he the leader?"
"Uhh," Farkas said, as he and Serah looked at each other, not sure how to answer Aragon's question. "Some of us would say he is, but Kodlak insists that the Companions don't have a leader. So, in a sense…"
"What Farkas is trying to say," Serah gently laid her hand on Farkas' arm. "We don't have a leader, but Kodlak is respected by every Companion member and the citizens of Whiterun that he is considered one."
"Ah, well, ok, that makes perfect sense then…" I think.
"Don't worry, lad. I don't see why Kodlak wouldn't consider you as a new member. You fight well and have the desire to help others, that should be enough for him." Farkas grinned as his direction turned towards Serah as she nodded in agreement. After a few minutes, Aragon left the two to their own conversation as he made his way downstairs, awaiting the opinion of the Companion's Harbinger.
Watching Aragon head down into the living quarters, Serah grabbed the platter of sweet rolls she abandoned on the table as Farkas stole one from the plate. "Farkas, you'll ruin your appetite."
"No I won't," he said with a mouthful of the chewy goodness seeped into his mouth. Serah scowled in his direction, but when he tried to smile, small bits of the flaky dough fell from his lips and she giggled.
"Well, since you took one, you could at least help me."
Nodding his hand, he took the platter from her hands and said, "Yes ma'am," as a smile dance across his lips. But as they turned towards the kitchen, Vilkas appeared from the living quarters with Aragon right on his trail; Farkas' twin didn't seem all that happy, but lately, he hadn't been. Farkas called out towards his brother and asked what he was doing and his brother replied with a smirk and pointed his thumb towards Aragon behind him. Nodding his head, Farkas and Serah walked towards the kitchen and placed the platter on one of the various tables.
"So he's going to test Aragon, eh?"
"Seems like it, which means Kodlak approves of the new one." When Serah didn't reply, Farkas looked up at her and noticed her eyes were glossed over. He brushed his thumb over her cheek and cupped her face with his hand, turning her attention towards him. "What's wrong?"
"Nothing, it's just…my family's growing bigger." She opened her eyes wide. "It makes me happy…"
"I know it does, my little Serah, I know…"
~ oOo ~
Dinner that night was eventful because Farkas and Serah sat around Aragon, congratulating that he has been given the chance to become a Companion; although he still had his trial to complete before Kodlak would initiate Aragon within the Companion ranks. Serah held her plate against her chest, gradually tearing off pieces of perfectly cooked Venison meat and bread, swallowing it down with hardy mead. Farkas had already scarfed his plate down and was discussing with Aragon about what it meant to him about being a Companion. Turning her head, Serah noticed Vilkas sitting in the corner table and she stood, carrying her plate as she made her way to sit with her other favorite twin.
"Everything ok, Vilkas?" Serrah asked as she took a seat.
"Why wouldn't everything be ok, Serah?"
"You've been…gloomy for quite some time now. Just want to make sure if there's anything I could do. Does it have to do with the talk you had with Kodlak earlier?"
The twin chuckled as he picked his loaf of bread apart. "Sometimes I wonder who the smart one is, here. You always seem to catch things no one else can see."
"I was always taught to pay attention to detail. Now…who was the one who taught me that, I suppose?" Serah tilted her head and looked into Vilkas' silver eyes, his lips breaking into a smile. He had been the one to always tell her that people usually ignored the finer details that were the most important.
"Alright, you got me there." Sighing, Vilkas ate the rest of his bread in silence and Serah down her the rest of her mead. "There's…there's been something on my chest lately…"
Leaning forward, she whispered, "Is it the beast-blood…?" Vilkas nodded, purposely avoiding her gaze as his cheeks burned with shame and embarrassment. "Hey," Serah reached forward and placed her hand over his. "Would you rather talk later tonight?"
"That would be best. Meet me in the underforge later when the moon is higher." She nodded in agreement as Vilkas stood and walked out of Jorrvaskr and into the chilly night. As she followed his backside, her eyes landed on Farkas as he too watched his brother exit the building. He turned his head and their eyes locked, his eyebrow raised in questioning. Nodding her head and indicating towards the door to the living quarters, she mouthed "bedroom" and stood from her seat, taking her food down towards her room.
Walking into the chilly hall of the living quarters, she could hear footsteps behind her, but didn't stop until she entered her bedroom. Farkas was right on her tail and gently closed the door once both were inside. As he turned towards her, he chuckled when he sat her sitting in the middle of her bed eating what was left on her plate. "Still hungry?"
"Stavling!" She said with a mouthful of venison and bread. Farkas chuckled as he dragged a chair closer to the bed and sat down, waiting for her to finish. "So what's going on with Vilkas?"
Gulping down her food, she replied, "He didn't really tell me, other than the fact that it's related to the beast-blood."
Shaking his head, Farkas sighed. "Yeah, he's mentioned the same thing in the past but…never really explained what he was feeling."
"He wants to meet me in the underforge." When she noticed his questioning look, she said, "He didn't want to speak about it in front of everyone."
"Ah."
They fell into an uncomfortable silence as Serah finished her food, setting the plate onto the bed beside her. Glancing up, she noticed Farkas watching her and turned her head away, her cheeks burning with a familiar heat she had grown accustomed too over the last few years. Anytime she was around Farkas, her brain fogged over and she couldn't think properly – all she could think about was Farkas. And tonight was no different, despite that he was only a few feet away from her position.
Taking a risk, she asked, "So…how do you feel about the beast-blood, Farkas?"
Scratching his head, Farkas didn't immediately reply. This was a topic they rarely spoke of and every time they did, it made him uncomfortable – he always thought back to the night of his transformation and it sent shivers running down his body. "It's…I don't transform as much as I use to. The call of Hircine is growing tiresome. Its…my one biggest regret I have."
Shaking her head in understanding, Serah chewed on her fingernail. "I think Vilkas feels the same. It's finally taking a toll on the two of you. But…Vilkas has a harder time controlling the call than you, huh?"
"Yeah, it's always been harder for him."
Looking across her room, she whispered, "I wonder why…"
It's because I have you, Serah, and Vilkas…Vilkas has grown to close himself off to those around him, other than you. But he knows I…and you…Oh my little Serah…I…
Serah knew Farkas was gazing in her direction and blushed even more. Thinking back to the conversation she had with Tilma earlier that day, Serah opened her mouth to speak, taking a leap of faith to speak the truth. But the fear she had overpowered her bravery and she cowered back, the words lost on her tongue as she simply breathed rather than say anything. Despite the feelings she had and the words on her tongue, she wanted to break the silence. "I think Vilkas might already be in the underforge."
"Alright," Farkas said. Standing up, he held his hand out for her to take. Her fingers slipped perfectly into the palm of his hand and as she stood, her feet tripped over the length of her dress and she fell directly into the arms of Farkas, who caught her before she could slam her face into his armor.
They had each hugged the other all their lives, but in that one moment, neither one knew what to do. Farkas wanted to desperately tighten his arms around her waist and Serah wanted to lean on her tiptoes and plant a kiss on his warm, luscious lips. But since both would rather keep their friendship, both instantly pulled away from each other at the same time. Serah took a step back while Farkas had his hands on her arms for support until he knew that she could stand on her own.
"Uh…y-you ok? Can you stand?"
The blush that flowed against her cheek betrayed everything she had wanted to ignore. Grabbing a handful of hair, she twirled her fingers in its locks and looked away from Farkas' eyes. After a few moments, she finally looked up into his face and saw he was smiling his usual Farkas smile. "I…I think so. I just tripped on my dress is all."
"Well, then we'll probably just have to get you to wear something shorter so you don't trip anymore." But as soon as the words left his lips, Farkas knew that what came out sounded completely wrong than what he had intended. He immediately held up his hands in defense as he mumbled, "No, no that is not what I meant! It's just…all I meant by that…" Slapping a hand against his forehead, Farkas growled, but over his embarrassment, all he heard was Serah's adorable giggle.
"I know what you meant Farkas, don't worry." Stepping towards his side, she made her way to the door and as she opened it, she glanced back at him, a sudden wave of daring courage crept within her. "You know, might not be a bad idea for me to wear something shorter." Farkas physically felt his mouth drop as Serah winked in his direction and walked through the door towards the stairs leading to the main hall. Her face burned with humiliation as Farkas slowly placed one foot in front of the other and followed her to find his brother. As he watched her back and gazed at the swing of her womanly hips, he had only one thought run through his simple mind:
Gods I love that woman.
But as they made their way upstairs, the rest of the Companions were paired into different discussions, Serah not so surprised that Aragon was speaking with Aela. The two made their way out the door and towards the secret entrance that led them into the underforge; once it was open, they slipped in unnoticed to find Vilkas already standing in the middle waiting for them. As the door closed shut, he turned his head towards them in acknowledgement and began pacing around the small cave. Walking up to his brother, Farkas placed a hand on his twin's shoulder and asked, "What's been going on, Vilkas?"
Shaking his head, Vilkas knew not what to say; he had all the words in his head but once he tried to speak, they wouldn't come out. Almost like the beast inside was controlling what he was allowed to say. "I…"
"Vilkas, we know this is about your beast-blood. We're your shield-siblings, you can talk to us." Serah glanced up from her spot along the wall, hoping her words on encouragement would help.
Taking a deep breath, he turned towards Serah. "You remember the day we received the beast-blood, am I right?" She nodded her head because it was a day she would never forget anytime soon. "That day…ever since then, I have not been able to relax. Those with the blood, we…" Both twins looked at each other because they understood the other's pain. "We haven't had a decent night's rest since that day many years ago. The beast inside me is…becoming too powerful and I wish it would cease to control my life!" Growling, Vilkas turned and rammed his fist into the nearest wall, causing the cave to shake slightly and the rock to crack from the point on injury.
But Farkas pulled his brother away before he could do anything he would regret. His brother had strength deep within him, but it took a lot of stress and power to pull it from the depths of his warrior soul. "Vilkas…you've been refraining from transforming, right?"
"Yeah."
"Shouldn't that be enough then?" The twin's turned to Serah as she walked up to them both. "I mean, if you refuse the beast from overpowering you, aren't you the one in control…?"
Farkas' eyes lit up as he looked at his brother. "Never thought about it that way before."
"Your words make sense, Serah but…you don't…" Vilkas looked away before he could finish his sentence; the next few words were technically unkind.
But Serah knew what he was about to say. "I know, Vilkas. I know that I don't truly understand what you two have gone through since you've taken the beast-blood. But I'm the one who's been watching you for the last twelve summers. I see what you two suffer with and that alone causes me much pain."
Vilkas scoffed at her statement. He knew it was true, but at the same time, her words were causing the anger of the beast to run forth and attack. "That's not the same and you know it. Until you know the pain of your bones breaking and your skin stretching, you'll never understand what it's like to be part of the hunt, to be attached to Hircine."
This time, it was Serah's turn to growl, she had never heard Vilkas speak to her in such a manner. "Last time I checked, you were the one who decided to take on the wolf. So this is all your doing."
Throwing his head into her face, Vilkas' voice echoed across the near empty cavern. "We took this on to protect you! Everything we have done has always been to protect you," he jabbed his finger into her chest. "And you have done little to show your appreciation for it!"
Farkas instantly pulled his brother back. "Vilkas! That's enough!" As he looked into his brother's face, his eyes glowed a deep amber and his teeth were growing sharper. Farkas knew his brother was on the verge of his first transformation in weeks; the beast was in control and in that moment, he was the one speaking so harshly to Serah, not Vilkas. But the damage had already been done.
"You're really blaming me for this, aren't you…?" As he looked at her, Farkas knew Vilkas' words had cut deep. But Farkas could tell that the few tears that were running down her face were not enough to display the hurt his brother had caused her.
"No, Serah he…" Looking between his angered twin and the crying Serah, Farkas was at a loss for words. "He didn't really mean that."
"Ohhh, of course I did! We sacrificed the rest of our lives, tied ourselves down to Hircine in order to protect her. And for what? Just because her idiotic father couldn't raise her so he dumped her off here so now it's our turn too – "
SLAP!
Chest heaving, Serah breathed in deeply; she backhanded Vilkas across the cheek, the attack reverberating across the cavern walls. A red hand print immediately appeared on the Companions face, whose head was turned to the side, staring off into the into the unknown distance. "Don't you dare mention my father in front of me!" Her voice resonated cross the cavern walls and Farkas shuddered at her tone. He knew Fenrir was a tough subject for Serah and avoided it at all costs. But Vilkas…
"And why not? He abandoned you here, Serah. Doesn't that mean anything to you?!"
"Of course it does, Vilkas! How could it not? Ever since I was little I've questioned whether he loved me or if even wanted me. But I came to the conclusion that he did what he thought was best. Regardless of what he did, I have to accept it and move on because I know that he's never coming back!" And with that, Serah stormed passed the twin's and swiftly left through the front entrance. As she left, both brothers idly stood by one another, left behind inside the underforge as she practically ran into Jorrvaskr and down into the living quarters, slamming her bedroom door shut behind her. As she fell onto the bed, she forced her eyes to shut, hoping no tears would fall, but her body betrayed her as she lay sobbing into the night until exhaustion claimed her mind and she fell into a dreamless sleep.
Still within the underforge, Farkas' body shook with an uncontrollable rage towards his brother. He knew that, between the two of them, Vilkas suffered the most from the beast-blood but never before had Farkas heard his twin blame Serah for the matter. Not knowing how else to express his fury, Farkas turned towards his brother and socked him straight into the jaw, which sent Vilkas stumbling backwards as he fell on his rear.
"What the HELL were you thinking?!"
If Vilkas thought Serah was loud, he was wrong; Farkas' deep voice echoed across the stone for several seconds, his brother's words seeping deep into his brain. As he stumbled back onto his feet, Vilkas held his chin, a trail of blood sliding down from his now split lip. On shaky legs, he shook his head back and forth. "I just…I don't know what to say…"
"Funny, because you knew perfectly well what you wanted to tell Serah a few minutes ago!"
The shorter twin cringed because he knew it was true. "This is what I'm talking about, Farkas. The beast inside, it…it takes control and I start to lose my mind. It tells me what to say when I don't want to say it…"
"So everything you just told Serah…it's not true?" When Vilkas didn't answer quick enough, Farkas rushed towards his brother and peered down at him, since he was the taller one. "Tell me it wasn't true."
"No it wasn't true! Gods, I'm mad as hell at myself for taking the beast-blood!"
"But we both agreed to take it for Serah's sake!"
Vilkas growled. "Don't you think I know that? The human side of me understands that but the beast inside…" Vilkas lowered his head as well as his voice, the true reasoning behind his actions caught in his throat. "The beast inside wants to blame Serah…"
"Why?" Farkas probed for more answers, determined to get the truth out of his brother.
"We took the blood to protect Serah. But I've become stronger since taking it and I no longer need the wolf within me to protect her when I can do it all on my own. The beast is rearing its teeth towards her because it thinks she's the main reason why I won't transform anymore…"
Taking a step back, Farkas wasn't expecting an answer such as that. As he thought about it, what Vilkas said was logical and, in the long run, made sense. A part of Farkas' heart immediately forgave his brother, but a good majority of it still wanted to beat the shit out of Vilkas for yelling at Serah. And for making her cry. And bringing up the topic of her father. Staring at the ground, Farkas felt he was caught between a rock and a hard place. On one hand, after listening to his brother's story, he couldn't refrain from his continuing anger. But on the other, he made Serah cry and just thinking of the tears running down her face, Farkas cringed. He couldn't stand to see her beautiful face saddened, it made him physically sick, and this moment was no different.
Walking back up to his brother, Farkas clasped Vilkas' shoulder and forced his brother to look up at his face. "I understand Vilkas, and although you may not agree, Serah does too. She just sees the problem in a different light."
Raising an eyebrow, Vilkas countered with, "Since when did you become the smart one?"
Laughing with all his might, Farkas replied, "A little girl once told me years ago that I was smart; so I'd like to think she was right." He winked in Vilkas' direction.
"Serah told you that?"
"The morning after your first transformation."
That made Vilkas' cheek burn in shame as he looked away once again. "I…fucked up, didn't?"
"Big time, Vilkas. You fucking made her cry. And you know she doesn't cry so easily anymore."
Blowing some air out, Vilkas ran a hand through his dirty hair. "I need to apologize, don't I?"
"Brother, you're the one who has the smarts of Ysgramor. Do you really need to ask me that?"
Vilkas was finally able to laugh as he said, "No, I guess not." Walking away from his brother, Vilkas made his way towards the entrance before turning his head over his shoulder. "Hey, just for the record, I think it's about time you tell Serah how you feel."
Farkas' back tensed up as he took a step back. His cheeks began to burn and he turned away from Vilkas' growing smirk. "I have absolutely no idea what you're talking about."
As Vilkas chuckled again, he pressed the hidden button, thus opening the stone door. "You're doing no one favors Farkas by keeping your feelings bottled up." As he walked away, the walling closed behind him just as Farkas was about to yell something back, but bit his tongue instead. But as Farkas stood in the damp, abandoned cavern beneath the almighty Skyforge, he whispered Vilkas' last words to himself. Should he do it? Should he finally come clean with everything that he had bottled up? And then his brain thought back to earlier that night when Serah tripped and fell into his arms. Farkas held her close against his armor-clad body for as long as he could. He loved to hold her within his arms; she always smelled of snowberries and her hair was always so soft and luxurious. Taking a deep breath, Farkas realized that his body felt heated, and the more he thought about Serah, the more his body began to register towards the feelings he held. Closing his eyes tightly, Farkas could feel the bulge growing in his leather breaches and growled, more to himself than anything.
Standing still for as long as he could, Farkas eventually left the suffocating confines of the underforge and traveled downstairs where he found his brother standing outside Serah's door. As he walked up, Vilkas held a finger to his lips, indicating for Farkas to listen. As he placed an ear against the thick wooden door, Farkas cringed once more because he could Serah crying just on the other side. Shaking his head, Farkas turned his saddened eyes towards his twin who looked equally as sad and guilty. "I expect you to apologize in the morning, brother." And with that, the muscular twin walked into his own bedroom and collapsed on the bed, his dreams that night plagued by Serah and her lustrous, untouched beauty.
~ oOo ~
Standing outside her door, Vilkas was unsure what to do; should he knock? Should he wait? Should he even be there in the first place? Vilkas wasn't sure he even had the right to be standing where he was. After his outburst last night and the way he treated Serah, Vilkas couldn't live with what he had done. Never before had he said such words to her. Other than his brother, Serah was the person he trusted the most. Tough they were several summers apart, Serah was just as much a sister to him as Farkas was his twin brother; he loved her all the same and when he and Farkas swore to protect Serah with their lives, Vilkas took that to heart. She had always been there when he needed someone close by and the one time she wanted to be there for him, he couldn't keep his mouth shut. Serah was never in the wrong and it took Vilkas until the early hours of the morning to realize that he was, by the far, a complete jackass.
Gritting his teeth together, Vilkas ran a hand through his already messy hair and held up his hand towards the door, preparing to knock – but he didn't move. Dropping his hand, Vilkas proceeded to duplicate this action numerous times but decided to turn away when the door opened slightly and Serah poked her head through the gap of the door, her eyes instantly trailing upwards to find his. The shorter twin's heart sank when he saw her face. Her eyes were slightly swollen and rimmed in red. But when he didn't avert his eyes, she spoke, pulling the guilt-ridden Companion out of his trance.
Though her throat was a still raw, she quietly asked, "Did you need something, Vilkas?"
Eyes widening a fraction, he tried to regain his composure, which only made him stutter. "O-oh, w-well I…uh…" Looking away Vilkas was at a loss for words. The Companion had stayed up throughout the night and paced back and forth within his confined bedroom, thinking and muttering what he would say to Serah in the morning. But nothing Vilkas thought of would be suffice enough to cover his ass for what he had said. Taking a deep breath, he did the one thing – the only thing – he could do in such a situation.
"Serah…" She turned her eyes to look up at him, his face full of sincerity and guilt, while suddenly grew shy. "I'm sorry," he whispered. "I'm…so sorry for what I said. I…I didn't mean…"
But the female warrior smiled up in his direction and Vilkas cocked his head to the side. "It's alright, Vilkas. I understand why you said what you said. You don't have to apologize."
"Of course I do!"
But Serah shook her head. Taking a step forward, she poked his chest with a finger as it met the steel plating of his wolf armor. "You're internally battling with your beast, and just like I said last night, I can see that, Vilkas. I can see the turmoil on your worst days and I can see the smile of triumph on your good. Yes, your words stung and were bitter but I know it wasn't really you who was speaking."
"Then why were you crying…?" Vilkas whispered as he traced a knuckle across her cheek, one silent tear falling from her already reddened eye.
Sniffling, Serah smiled even more. "Is it that obvious?" He nodded and she sighed. "Your words did hurt initially but…the more I thought about it last night, the more I realized I wasn't angry about your words directed about me, I was…angry about what you said about my father." Withdrawing, Vilkas cringed and looked away. Shame clouded his vision because he wasn't sure what he was more ashamed of: blaming Serah for becoming a monster or insulting her father. Trying to think more about what he'd done, the Companion was unaware that Serah had curled her arms around his neck and pulled him into a tight embrace; his arms wrapping around her, ironically seeking her comfort. "As long as you're sorry Vilkas, I forgive you. You know I could never stay mad at you for long."
Chuckling, Vilkas pulled Serah back and looked into her eyes. "You're just like Farkas; always ready to forgive people."
"I believe in second chances. Or multiple chances if the person is truly sincere."
"I am sincerely sorry."
Her giggled echoed across the bare halls of the living quarters. "And that's why I forgive you. Both you and Farkas have always apologized to me so I can't stay mad at my favorite twin." She winked and giggled once more, wiping away any remaining tears within her eyes. A creaking sound echoed through their ears as Farkas' door opened, his head popping through and glancing at his brother and the woman he…Serah, the woman he…
"Have you two made up?" They both nodded and within the blink of an eye, Farkas wrapped his massive arms around both their necks and brought them into an even tighter hug. "Aw, I knew you two would make up!" He chuckled and Serah could feel her cheeks starting to burn when she realized how close her face was to Farkas'. Her eyes slightly widened when his found hers as he smirked. "Hey, I thought I was your favorite twin?"
Serah giggled and – sadly – nudged herself away from the confine of Farkas' arms. "Eh, depends on the day," she said, winking in Vilkas' direction, whose cheeks instantly burned with embarrassment as he turned away and cleared his throat.
But Farkas knew she was playing and gently flicked her forehead with his finger. "Ha, very funny, little one."
She gawked; Farkas always called her his "little Serah," but he has not called her "little one" in a long time. "Hey!" She puffed out her chest as she pointed her chin upwards, staring deeply into his eyes that glinted with mischief. "How many times have we had this discussion? I am not little!"
Both twins turned towards one another and after a few seconds of their brother telepathy, both turned back towards Serah and flicked her against her forehead. With their combined strength, her head tipped backwards as her hand flew to her forehead, rubbing the reddened skin. Growling in their direction, Serah leapt forward but both twins dodged her attack; Vilkas turned and headed towards the stairs while Farkas backed towards Kodlak's room. His rough laughter barked across the empty bed quarters as he watched his brother and Serah chase after each other, eventually racing upstairs Jorrvaskr's dining hall. The stronger twin knew that Serah had been hurt by his brother's words the night before but watching them in that moment, he truly did know that all had been forgiven. The relationship between the three had always been in that manner – forgiveness would always be granted to those who casted unwanted words against another. Grinning, Farkas followed his shield-siblings upstairs to begin their quests for the day. As he made it upstairs, Farkas chuckled to himself to see that Serah had leapt onto Vilkas' back and had her hands over his eyes. As he watched the two, the muscular Companion only wished that each and every day from thereon out would be sights such as the one he was looking upon.
Struggling to keep her grip on Vilkas, Serah eventually let her hands drop as she slid to the floor, laughing all the way. Turning towards the twin she attacked, she asked, "You give yet?"
Scratching his head, Vilkas nodded. "Yes ma'am."
"Good boy!" Reaching forward, she scratched behind his ear and giggled when the Companion immediately pulled away.
He growled. "You know I don't like that."
"That's ok, we're even now." She smiled as she walked off towards Farkas, who was leaning against one off the support beams, a giant grin plastered across his face. "And what're you smiling about?"
"I think it's funny what you did to my brother."
"Oh don't worry boy, you're next." Walking away from the gawking Farkas, she walked in Kodlak's direction as Farkas asked what she meant as he followed her. Gladly ignoring the pleas behind her, she approached Kodlak and stole the seat next to him.
Turning towards his goddaughter, Kodlak smiled and placed one of his hands over hers. "How're you this morning, Serah?"
Glancing back behind her at the twins who were now engaged in their own conversation, she smiled and replied, "Better." Kodlak raised an eyebrow and wanted to questioned what had happened, but she shook her head and only smiled. "Nothing to worry about, Kodlak. So, what's on the agenda for today?"
"Good that you asked. Today is the day for Aragon to prove himself in order to become a Companion."
"Already? That was quick."
"That's because of the task at hand I am wanting him to complete."
"And that would be?"
"To…" But Kodlak's attention turned towards the entrance of Jorrvaskr as Aragon himself entered. The Harbinger called out to him and Aragon made a beeline straight to where they were seated. "Aragon, are you prepared?"
"Should I question what for?"
"For your trial before we can fully commend you as a Companion."
"Oh, yes of course, Kodlak. What would you have me do?"
"You're new here, but do you know the story of Ysgrammor and Wuuthrad?"
Shaking his head, his eyes glanced between the Harbinger and Serah before saying, "No, unfortunately not."
"Don't worry, I'll have Farkas fill you in, since he'll be the Companion trailing with you and assisting in fulfilling this mission."
"What will I be doing?" Placing a hand on Serah's shoulder, Farkas appeared with Vilkas not far behind. Looking between the three, he asked, "What're you all talking about?"
"Aragon's trial – Kodlak wants you to go with him." Farkas nodded his head. "He also wants you to explain the importance of Ysgrammor and Wuuthrad are to Jorrvaskr and the Companions."
"Where will we be going?"
"Dustman's Cairn, our resources say that there is a fragment of Wuuthrad there and I would like the two of you to retrieve it. Farkas," Kodlak turned towards the younger twin. "While on this quest, I would like you to assess Aragon's strength and determine whether you think he will make a fine Companion."
Looking up towards the almost newest member, Farkas offered a grin. "Oh don't worry, I already think he will make a great Companion."
Nodding in agreement, Kodlak then turned towards Serah and Vilkas. "As for you two, I have a quest I'd like for you two to complete."
"Of course, Kodlak," they said in unison.
"I'd like for you to travel to Broken Fang Cave. We've had reports of people from Rorikstead being taken in the middle of the night, never to return. Witnesses are saying that they're being taken to Broken Fang Cave, but none of the hostages have returned alive. This has been happening for some time now and the people of Rorikstead have asked for help from the Companions to defeat whatever is in the cave."
"So is this an infiltration quest, then?"
"Yes, infiltrate the cave to see what creatures are taking off with the innocent citizens. You two have been through this before – use violence if needed and remember to protect yourself." Both nodded in response. Looking across all four individuals, Kodlak gave one last remark before standing. "I suggest leaving today and getting a head start." And with that, the Harbinger turned towards the entrance and left in the direction of the Skyforge. Looking up at Vilkas, he nodded as well and they both headed downstairs to quickly pack; Farkas and Aragon were trailing behind, deep in their own conversation.
Walking into her room, Serah grabbed the worn, but valued, travel bag that she kept within the chest at the end of her bed. They were gifts given to her from Eorlund right after she had been granted as a Circle member and were made of exquisite craftsmanship. The pack had been purposely made where it could fit on Serah's bag, and then placed and secured into Star's saddle if she needed to go somewhere her horse couldn't follow. Quickly going through her belongings, Serah grabbed several healing potions, an extra shirt and various other potions; since they didn't know what they were going against, it was better to be safe than sorry. Once ready, she headed upstairs and grabbed different types of food, along with apples specifically for Star. Once finished, she waited for Vilkas who almost immediately made his way upstairs the moment she was finished, with Farkas and Aragon on his heels. As the four walked off towards the gates of Whiterun together, Serah walked next to the almost-newest member and questioned if he was ready for his trial.
"I don't see how I'm not ready. I've been on my own and traveling for the last few weeks, defeating anything that crossed my path. I think Farkas and I can handle Dustman's Cairn."
"Eh, you never know, so be careful. Just because you've managed to defeat some creatures above ground, doesn't mean that those underground will be any easier."
Aragon chuckled. "I'll keep that in mind. But what about you? Have you ever had a quest that was within a cave?"
"I haven't had one in a long time…to be honest, dark, confined places really scare me, I think that's why Kodlak doesn't send me on missions that deal with caverns a lot."
"What about them scares you?"
Rubbing her face, Serah could see the dark, gloomy cave she resided in as a young child, the one she practically grew up in while her father left her behind to fight off any "monsters" so the outside area was safe enough for her. But what said "monsters" were, even to this day she still was not sure.
"Serah?"
Shaking her head, she glanced forward to realize that, while she was deep in her thoughts, she had stopped and the rest had continued on their way. Farkas walked back to her and placed a gently hand on her shoulder. "What's wrong?"
"Oh…" She shook her head one last time and lightly rubbed her eyes. "I-It's nothing. Just spacing out a little. Have to go to a cave…you know I don't like those."
"Yeah, I know. But Vilkas will take care of you, you know that."
"Tch," she began walking again and resumed her placed between Farkas and Aragon. "That or I'll be the one taking care of him." The three laughed while Vilkas sneered and glared in her direction.
"You think so?"
"I know so."
"If that's what you think…who was the first one to be injured that last time we defeated the Silver Hand?"
"Well…"
"Or when the three of us traveled to Morthal to complete a quest for their Jarl?"
"Come on, that quest – "
"Oh!" Farkas intervened. "There was the first quest you did once you became a Companion."
Turning sharply, Serah landed a crunched up fist against Farkas' shoulder. "You're not helping, you goof!" But all the man did was lean back and laugh. Serah walked on forwards, seeing they were almost towards the stables, she whistled for Star, who heard her Master's call and cantered her way towards Serah. Gently rubbing her horse's cheek, she then began to place her pack on the saddle as Aragon caught up with her.
"Uh, did I say something back there that I shouldn't have?"
"Like what?"
"I asked you questions about caves."
"Oh, that. Nah, don't worry about it. You'll eventually learn that although I'm tough, there are still some things in this world that I am still frightened of."
"Hmm, if you're sure."
Pulling up his steed beside hers, Vilkas was already mounted on his horse, waiting for Serah to mount Star. She nodded in his direction and turned towards Farkas as his brother began trotting off into the distance at a pace she could easily reach in no time. "We'll see you when we get back, ok?"
"Hey, don't worry about me. It's you I'm worried about."
"It's just a cave – I'll be fine, Farkas." Serah tried to reassure the younger twin, but to no avail; over the years, he had grown the ability to detect a lie from the truth.
"I know you don't want me to, but I asked Vilkas to keep a close watch on you. He may not understand your fear the way I do, but he still feels guilty over last night; I think this will be his way to prove that he really is sorry." Serah opened her mouth to say something but Farkas held his hand up and placed it against the edge of her neck. "Don't. Just let him prove he deserves to be forgiven. And you better come back to me in one piece."
"You know, I could say the same thing to you, Companion." Leaning in for a hug, Serah wrapped her tinny, yet muscular arms around Farkas' ever muscular neck. In turn, he lifted her off the ground and squeezed her tightly. Farkas knew that he and Aragon would return to Jorrvaskr quicker than Vilkas and Serah, and for some reason, that frightened him. Since learning where she was going, the younger twin had had a strange feeling deep within his gut but he couldn't quite place why it was there. Setting her back on her feet, Farkas leaned down and kissed the top of her head; an act he only performed when he felt it was necessary. But Serah took a leap of faith and stood on the tips of her toes and landed her lips against his rough cheek, her kiss leaving a deeper imprint. Mounting Star, she turned towards Aragon and waived. "Good luck, Aragon. Next time I'll see you, I'll be able to call you a Companion and my shield-brother." Clicking her tongue, Serah urged Star forward to cover the short distance between her and Vilkas. Turning in her saddle, the last view of Whiterun she could see was Farkas touching his cheek before she finally turned her vision towards the horizon.
Watching Serah ride off into the distance, Farkas didn't hear Aragon walk towards him until the lad finally spoke. "So…am I too guess that Serah is someone special too you…?"
Finally turning towards the young man who was to become the newest member of the Companions, Farkas said, "We have much to discuss, Aragon, so let's be on our way." As they walked off into the direction of Dustman's Cairn, Farkas stated, "First, your question will be answered later. Second, Ysgrammor…what do you know of him?"
~ oOo ~
Thanks to everyone who waited!
Chocobocolina :3
