Chapter 12
You Are My Everything
A/N: I am so sorry it has taken me this long to update, my attention has been on other fanfics I've been working on. This chapter was giving me some trouble too, and that didn't help with my writing. There was a certain outline I had planned, but it didn't go in that direction, but I'm still pretty happy with the outcome. I'm only hoping people have been waiting for this chapter and are excited to see what happens next.
Comments are most appreciated! I love to hear what my readers have to say 3
Disclaimer: I don't own Skyrim – Just Serah.
~ oOo ~
Grasping the reins within her fists, refusing to lessen the strength within each individual finger, Serah of the Companions stood tall amongst her steed, halted upon a rock outcropping, vision extended over the entire view of the Whiterun Hold. Viewing the land for which she loved, the female Companion didn't budge, limbs and body solid as her steed. Somewhere out there, in the vast openness that was Skyrim, there was the Dark Brotherhood, searching for Serah, wanting, needing something from her, for which she had no reason to what it was.
But still, the female pushed forward.
Her now injured arm was resting in a sloppy makeshift sling the Companion threw together, having to remove the arrow that penetrated her skin from the mercenary attack. All her muscles ached, as she was still healing from her endeavor at Falkreath. Goodness, what am I going to tell Farkas? How am I going to tell him? He's going to be upset and blame himself that he didn't travel with me.
Nudging Star the remainder of the way, both Companion and steed crossed the plains and farmland of Whiterun, nodding in several directions and familiar faces waved or expressed their good faith. These faces were what made Serah smile, knowing the people of her homeland were safe, with food on the table and a roof over their head. She would do anything in her power to stay active as a Companion, risking her life for the sake of others.
Removing herself from the saddle, Serah guided Star into her personal stall, slowly taking extra time to remove the steed's gear, placing it where it was due to be and groomed her best friend. Giving Star several apple treats, Serah finally made her way up the curvy, stone path to the city gates. Soldiers turned their heads, noticing the young, female Companion limp her way towards the gates with one arm in a sling. A few stopped to question, but Serah surged forward, a woman on a mission. Once at the front of the city, Serah's breath was labored, and her head was swimming, but nonetheless, the soldiers opened the door without question, knowing they wouldn't receive an answer in kind. Speed decreasing, Serah could feel her thigh becoming strained; she had used magic to seal the wound and stop the bleeding in both her thigh and wrist from the battle, but the muscles were weakening from constant movement.
And…well, the sudden onslaught from earlier didn't quite help either.
Tingles and the shakes overwhelmed her senses, and as a gasp left her open lips, Serah fell upon her good knee, the strength she had was consumed and thus evaporated. The drumming of her heartbeat escalated, vibrating the insides of her ears, closing off the whispers of the outside world.
"Serah! Oh my…girl, are you alright?" Hand being placed upon her shoulder, the female turned to her side, noticing Adrianne Avenicci kneeling to her level. "You poor thing, what on earth has happened to you?! Ulfberth? Ulfberth!" Adrianne's husband stormed out of their blacksmith workshop, concern etched his face, thinking his wife may have injured herself from the smithy.
"My dear, what in blazes…! Is that Serah?" Dropping to her level, the man known as "War-Bear" gazed over Serah's body, instantly recognizing her wounds and assessed the situation. "She's injured, my dear."
"Please, husband, run up to Jorrvaskr and fetch Farkas!" Nodding his head, Ulfberth took off flying as Serah's better leg gave from numbness collapsing into her blacksmith friend, who caught her before falling upon the cobblestone path. Numerous Whiterun citizens had gathered, forming a circle, inclined to see what was happening. Checking her head for a fever, Adrianne exhaled in content, as her friend was not burning with infection. Only moments passed before the roar of Farkas could be heard over the murmuring of the crowd, before the giant of a man pushed through the circle, hands instantly cupping Serah's face, falling to his knees besides her.
"My little Serah, what has happened to you?"
Despite her tired state, Serah couldn't help but smile at the man before her. How she had missed the man so, after nearly a week apart; the thought made her cringe that she couldn't even handle almost seven days without her Farkas. "There was a battle, and I won, but I got hurt."
Shaking his head, her shield-brother growled, more at the thought of his precious Serah suffering from injuries, though angrier at himself that he was not there to protect her. Eyes cast downwards, Farkas noticed one arm in a sling, one thigh was slightly swollen than the other, small gashes and scrapes adorned her skin, sadly being kissed by the sharp edge of a sword. Bruises were upon her skin, but she was alive. Farkas gently pulled Serah into his arms, a hand grasping the back on her neck, holding her tightly against his chest. "Don't ever scare me like that again, Serah. The way Ulfberth dragged me here saying you were dying, scared me to Sovngarde and back!"
Adrianne stared at her husband as she stood. "You told him she was dying?!"
"It was the fastest way for him to follow me!"
Standing to his feet, Farkas lifted Serah into his arms, carrying her against his big, cuddly chest, then turned towards the two who managed Warmaiden's. "Thank you."
"No need, Serah's our friend too," Adrianne smiled as she noticed the loving way he treated her. Farkas truly was kind creature, and his compassion truly displayed when Serah was in the picture.
Without saying another word, Farkas quickly made his way up to Jorrvaskr, and along the way, Vilkas ran up to his side, having been with Kodlak when Ulfberth first appeared. "Farkas! I heard Serah's dying, what in blazes…?!" But her other favorites twin noticed Serah, alive and well, within his brother's arms, gently waving in his direction. "Serah? My goodness, the hell happened?"
"Brother, let's get her inside first before we ask." Nodding in agreement, the twins made their way down into the bottom level of Jorrvaskr, seemingly avoiding all stares and questions of the other Companions. Though both twins requested they fetch a healer, Serah shook her head, replying that she needed her magicka potions to gain enough power to heal herself. Placing her gently upon her own bed, Farkas pulled a chair to her side, watching the female squirm within her fur covers, back firm against the head of the bed as she downed several blue potions, one after the other. Removing the arm from the sling, Serah placed a hand over her skin where the arrow had pierced her muscles, just a few hours prior. Hissing, her hand glowed as she used every ounce of power within her tiny figure, her hand dropping against the fur as she inspected her handiwork. Just as her thigh, the wound was sealed, a small, white scar the only visible evidence of the injury.
Her muscles would still take some time to heal. She had made the mistake of using it as quickly as she had, but the poor woman had just been attacked by a mercenary, someone wanting to kill her! Now, the Companion had faced warriors, bandits and creatures alike that had threatened her, but never had a professional killer been paid to seek her out and end her life. The revelation froze the female Companion, her eyes glazed over, staring uninterested at the other side of her room. Farkas, glancing between the wall and his shield-sister, touched her arm, voice resonating through her ears. "Serah? What's wrong?"
Exhaling, she lifted her head as Vilkas walked through her door, closing it behind as he took the seat opposite of his brother, handing Serah several stamina potions. Pulling the cork off one, she tilted her head backwards and down the green liquid, flicking her tongue against the roof of her mouth due to the slight aftertaste. "Where do you want me to begin?"
"Why not start in order?" Vilkas stated, rubbing the small hairs upon his chin, glancing over at his brother. "Tell us what happened from when you first left last week."
Nodding her head, Serah pushed her hands against the bed, wanting to sit more upright, but her injured arm seared with a blistering ache, her hand other cradling the closed wound. Farkas appeared by her side instantly and, with his assistance, helped her to sit more comfortably. Once she was in a position where her injuries weren't affecting her ability to focus on the twins, she began her tale.
Her lips moved, words speaking of the occurrences from the last week, hands tightly holding the furs at her sides. She explained what happened within Falkreath, with the previous bandit attacks and the hunting party she joined. Farkas, surprisingly, was all ears as he listened intently to what she had to say, though Vilkas, opened and closed his mouth numerous times, question protruding his mind from her adventure.
Serah discussed the fire, the threats from those dressed in black, and how she ventured in Helgen alone, requesting no aid from the Jarl. Openly, and honestly, she mentioned each and every detail, stating how she was injured, and when Norin unexpectedly arrived, which in turn, saved her life. Over time, Farkas reached forward with his hand, fingers rubbing against hers, until finally intertwining together once she mentioned killing one of the two individual who'd been seeking her out. Everything she said, each word, every detail left her lips, relieving the pressure upon her chest. The twins had the knowledge of the Dark Brotherhood targeting her since she returned on her last trip from Riverwood; but knowing that they would know everything was such a relief.
Protected by her strong shield-brothers, Serah the Companion knew nothing would thus go wrong in her future.
At least, that's what she wanted to believe for the time being.
As she finished retelling what had occurred, silence fell upon the three Companions, the twins casting a sideways glance at the other, not sure what to say, nor what to feel regarding the situation. Vilkas eventually cut through the stillness, hands rubbing his face, mind trying to digest each and every detail, unable to form a single cognitive thought until, "And they haven't mentioned what it is you supposedly have?"
Shaking her head, Serah sighed. "No, that's the thing. It's been a riddle since day one. Back in Helgen, the lady in red said I would find someone in Riften to help me with this game. But that's all I was given."
"No name?"
"No name," she answered softly.
Farkas, who had remained quiet the entire conversation, let go of Serah's hand and stood to his feet. Walking towards the opposite end of the room, he held his back against the two people most important in his life – other than Kodlak, that is – his mind contemplated all that he learned. Some information wasn't new, though what happened in Helgen disturbed the beast of a man to his core. What exactly is the Dark Brotherhood after? And why attack Serah now? Thoughts and questions plagued the twin's mind, but to no avail, no answers were available.
"So Riften is where you're going next," Farkas asked, arms crossed over his muscular chest.
"Aye, I leave in the morning after I rest for a bit."
"You will do no such thing." Turning towards her, Farkas frowned in her direction. Serah opened her mouth to speak but the man shook his head. "No. You need more rest than one night, Serah. Rest for a week, only then will we leave for Riften in search of this person."
Raising an eyebrow, she asked, "We?"
"You heard me, little one. We've said this before, you are no alone, and I will not let you continue this maddening game on your own. I will travel with you to Riften." She tried speaking once more, but Vilkas placed a hand against her thigh.
"My brother is right, Serah. We understand that this may be something you're wanting to do on your own but let us help. We've conquered much as your shield-siblings; let us help as your friends." Switching he vision between the youngest and oldest twin, Serah landed her gaze on Farkas, seeing as he resumed his position in the chair, hand reaching for hers as Vilkas grabbed the other. "You're not alone anymore, Serah. You've never been alone."
Squeezing the hands within hers, Serah nodded, unable to argue with one twin who had the mind of Ysgramor, while the other twin had his strength. For so long, Serah knew her shield-brothers would be by her side, but deep within, the female Companion had always felt that she must conquer adventures on her own, that she had to be tough and prove her worth. But now, seeing the concerned faces of her twins, Serah knew she wouldn't be able to escape the wrath of the Dark Brotherhood without their assistance.
"Then it's settled. We leave in two weeks."
~ oOo ~
Leaving Serah to rest and regain her strength, Vilkas retreated upstairs to fetch some mead whereas Farkas retreated towards the end of the hallway, knuckles knocking against the thick wood. The voice within stated their approval as Farkas opened the door to see Kodlak sitting at his table, deep in a thick book, a hand trailing the fine hairs of his ever-whitening beard. Glancing up at his visitor, the Harbinger smiled brightly and waved his shield-brother over. "Farkas my boy! I heard the commotion outside and Vilkas has filled me in with very little information. Whatever has happened?"
Sighing, the large Companion shook his head, not knowing how to relate the last hours events to the Harbinger. "It's Serah, Kodlak…" Upon hearing his words, the Harbinger was about to protest, needing to question the safety of his goddaughter, when Farkas quickly answered, "She's alright…! She has returned from her job in Falkreath, but things have…happened, something she wasn't expecting."
Over the next hour, Farkas retold Kodlak everything Serah had described to him. He went through each detail, from when she arrived in Falkreath, the events that transpired within Helgen, to when the hired mercenary attacked her just within the Hold. The whole while, Kodlak remained quiet, though the Companion could see the darkening his Harbinger's eyes. Fury was growing deep within the Harbinger; there was anger towards himself, anger towards the Dark Brotherhood, and sadly, anger towards Serah's parents. Once Farkas concluded, Kodlak leaned forward and grabbed his tankard of mead, and after drowning the contents, with drips smearing down his beard as he slammed the mug onto the table.
"Farkas, tell me honestly…how is Serah faring?"
"Besides her injuries? She won't tell me or Vilkas how she truly is, but…I can see it's getting to her. She's scared and doesn't understand what's going on."
His words caused the old man to groan, closing the book he had been reading. It took him a few moments of contemplation before he asked, "My boy…do you remember the day Serah arrived at Jorrvaskr? The day her father left?"
"Of course," he quickly replied.
"Do you remember what you asked me that day?"
This caused Farkas to groan, rubbing the side of his neck. "Kodlak…you know Vilkas is the smarter one, you should ask him…"
"No, Farkas. This question came from you, not your brother. Look back: you were concerned about Serah…"
Scratching the side of his head, the large Companion pushed his memory as far as it would go. He could remember seeing Fenrir and Serah standing at the front of Jorrvaskr, how she clung both to him and his brother, and that she wouldn't speak after her father left. "Wait…" Grasping the bridge of his nose, Farkas squinted his eyes as he could see him and Vilkas sitting at the very table he was at now, speaking with Kodlak… This is to be her home from now on, Kodlak's words vibrated through his recollection.
"Kodlak…I asked you what we were protecting Serah from, and you said not to worry about it." Looking at the man who'd been a father figure throughout his life, Farkas, for the first time, truly looked upon his Harbinger. His eyes had sunken in as worry lines formed within the corners; he had led a long life, and for the first time, Farkas truly considered how old his Harbinger was.
"That you did, Farkas," Kodlak threw his head back and down the remainder of mead from a bottle he grabbed across the table. "That you did, my boy."
"But…why all this secrecy? Why not tell Serah everything that you know?"
His words caused the Harbinger to slam his tankard down, one hand covering his mouth, shaking his head. "Farkas…" he stated, his voice barely a whisper. "I want to… For the last eighteen summers I have wanted to tell that girl everything…for the love of Hircine, Farkas, she doesn't even know that I am her godfather!"
And for the first time since he and Vilkas were rescued by the Companions as pups, Farkas raised his voice at his Harbinger. True fury emanated from his voice, roaring across the room, most likely echoing through the stone halls of Jorrvaskr's basement. "So tell her! What the hell is stopping you Kodlak?!"
"Because her father ordered me to not say anything Farkas!" Words echoing off the closed door, Kodlak stood and grabbed another fresh bottle of mead, handing one to Farkas as well before sitting once more. "The night Fenrir arrived, we sat at this very table and he made me swear that I would never tell Serah anything he told me as long as I remained alive."
"But why would he make you do such a thing? Doesn't his daughter deserve to know?! Wait… What did he make you swear, anyways? What is so horrible that he doesn't want Serah to discover?"
Stealing a peek at Farkas before latching the mouth of the bottle to his lips, Kodlak growled before snarling, "That the Dark Brotherhood wants to kill her." It only took Farkas one second to realize what he had just heard; slamming his crunched fist upon the table, Kodlak was able to grasp the open bottle before it toppled to the floor. Holding his face, Farkas growled, tints of gold seeped across his irises; breathing deepened, while his teeth grew to abnormal lengths. "Farkas? Farkas!"
Retracting his transformation, Farkas stood to his feet and moved towards the bookcase, hands tightly curled, wanting to drive each fist into flesh and beat it raw. "You've known this whole time." Fact, not a statement.
"Yes," the man replied honestly.
"They truly want to kill her."
"Yes."
Turning towards him, Farkas whispered menacingly, "Tell me why."
Exhaling, the Harbinger nodded before motioning Farkas to rejoin him. Once seated, the man gently whispered, "Fenrir wouldn't tell me everything. The only information he gave me was…" He sighed once more, rubbing at his aging temples. "…was that Serah's mother, Asta, used to be a member of the Dark Brotherhood."
Swallowing the lump in his throat, Farkas was now the one to toss his head and down the entire contents of his bottle until the alcohol burned his throat, igniting the itch of his burning nerves. "And you never knew."
"No. She… Fenrir and another Companion were the ones to find her, actually. I sent the two of them on a mission, this was…about twenty-five years ago? They explained that on the way back from their job, they stumbled upon a cave they wanted to explore, unknowing that it was crawling with vampires. Well, fighting their way through, they stumble upon males and females in cages, all of them dead – except for one."
"Serah's mother," Farkas answered.
Kodlak nodded. "Mhm. Remember a few months ago I sent Vilkas and Serah on the mission to aid the people of Rorikstead and they killed the vampire leader Grevlin?" Nodding in remembrance, Kodlak continued. "Grevlin was the one who had captured all those individuals. Fenrir and his shield-brother tried to kill him, but they were only able to weaken the vampire and save Asta before retreating from the cave. Upon returning to Jorrvaskr, Asta explained she had no family and nowhere to go. She became a Companion not long after, and before everyone knew it, Fenrir and Asta fell in love and were married."
"Wow, that's…that's actually sweet."
Kodlak smiled, fingers unknowingly tracing the book he had been reading. "It really is; I mean, they were perfect for one another. Both tough as nails, but the most endearing couple who loved one another unconditionally. But not long after the wedding, Asta discovered she was pregnant." Raising an eyebrow, the Harbinger looked upon the twin. "You have a question, young one, I know you do."
"Something isn't right, Kodlak. Serah's age and…how long ago you said Fenrir met Asta…it's not right. Serah should be older, shouldn't she?"
"That you are most definitely right, Farkas. Asta…was pregnant after the first year of being rescued by her husband. They were headed to Riverwood on an errand to see a friend when they were ambushed by the Dark Brotherhood – wait, no Farkas, let me finish this first or we'll never get to the end." Closing his mouth, the Companion continued to sip his mead, sitting on the edge of his chair, needing to know the history Serah had yet to discover for herself. "Asta was poisoned and, unfortunately…she lost the child. She and Fenrir knew that it wasn't safe to remain within Jorrvaskr or Whiterun – they didn't want to bring the Dark Brotherhood here. Once Asta healed, the two left the Companions and…never came back. Though they said they would never risk their child's life, they must've had Serah several years after they left. That's why I knew nothing of her."
"But…where does the Dark Brotherhood come from in all this? They just suddenly appear, attack Serah's mother, and now they want to kill her?"
"Farkas…Asta was attacked by the Dark Brotherhood because she was once a member of the Dark Brotherhood. From what she told me, 'once a member, always a member, only death can separate you from the pact'."
"Oh hell…" Farkas muttered. Leaning both elbows onto his knees, the brute of a man grasped his head, rampaging thoughts murdering the inside of his skull. "This is…Kodlak this would kill Serah. I…" Glancing upon the man who raised him, Farkas grasped at his chest. "I am sorry for speaking to you the way that I did. You…you've kept this to yourself all this time? I didn't know…"
"Do not blame yourself, my boy, I hold no grudge. Serah is someone very important to you, it's fitting that you would protect her even when she is not near."
"Kodlak, I would give my life to see that woman breath."
A true smile formed upon his lips since discussing such a saddened matter. "I am truly glad to hear you say that, my boy. Though she has had a…troubled upbringing, Serah is surrounded by those that love her, and I wouldn't have it any other way."
"I've been telling her that all my life."
"Good, I'm very fortunate to hear that. But Farkas, let me tell you this. I don't think it's a good idea for Serah to be seeking answers from the Dark Brotherhood, it truly frightens me to think what they could do to her."
"You know she won't stop searching for answers."
"Her tenacity is admirable, but it's her stubbornness in searching on her own which concerns me greatly."
"She will not be alone, anymore."
A twinkle appeared in the old man's eye. "Is that so?"
"Serah is heading to Riften in two weeks to solve this so-called game she's playing, and I will be accompanying her the entire way."
"You have eased the pain within this old man's heart, Farkas. As your Harbinger, but most importantly your shield-sibling, I am requesting you do not leave Serah alone. Something darker is about to happen and it makes me nervous what Serah will experience, what pain she will feel. Stay by her side and be the friend that she needs; Farkas, be the man that she needs." Kodlak smirked as the Companion glanced up, heat and embarrassment coating his cheekbones. "I know you love her, dear boy. Use that love and ensure her survival; she needs you as much as you need her." When the Companion didn't respond, Kodlak simply placed a fatherly hand upon the younger male, patting it gently. "Farkas, you love for the woman runs so deep, so pure. Don't let these marauders take that away from you."
Nodding, Farkas twisted his hands together, wanting both to openly admit his love, but not wanting the words in the air. "On my life, Harbinger, I will protect Serah; no one will ever lay another finger on her as long as I live."
~ oOo ~
In the time between she and Farkas would leave for Riften, Serah took one health potion every morning after she woke from slumber and every night before heading to bed; her arm was the first injury to heal first, though her leg had caused some minor issues, but was back to her original strength in no time. The twins and Serah worked on training and building her core in the time they had before leaving; she wanted to increase her endurance and knew that it would take longer than the two weeks to do so, but she might as well start somewhere.
Several of the other Companions questioned Serah what was happening, but she didn't want anyone else to know; her answer each time they questioned was that she was preparing for another job she had taken. Skjor and Aela knew something deeper was amidst their shield-sister and probed her more times than Serah would have cared for. The female could understand their curiosity but was annoyed nonetheless.
Through her struggles, Serah found herself spending a good amount of her time with Aragon when she wasn't with the twins. Aragon recapped his own adventures, as she did with hers. Serah was surprised to find her shield-brother had accepted his fate as the Dragonborn, and she was happy to find her friend content with his decision. She questioned where this new path would lead him, but he didn't have an answer, only that he would discover what it was along the way. In her moment of resting in preparation for the next part of her journey, Aragon bid his friend farewell as he was off to the Throat of the World to speak with the Greybeards. Watching the back of her friend, Serah was left wondering if she would be able to seek any answers to questions plaguing her own mind.
However, aside from Aragon and Vilkas, Farkas was the individual she stayed with the most. He was by her side when she woke the next morning and helped with her bandages when she needed to heal and consume each health and magicka potion. He was there when she pushed herself with strengthening her muscles, concerned she was pushing herself more than when she first began her training as a child. But he was there when she couldn't sleep at night; Serah asking, begging for the beast of a man to run his fingers through her hair or simply hold her when a nightmare burst forth within her dreams.
There were stares and snickers from some of the newer Companions, but they made sure that it wasn't when Farkas or Serah were around – though she knew it occurred. Hips glued and hands touching, Serah couldn't let go of the man; she physically held onto him, afraid that he might turn to ash and slip through her fingers, ever finding his way to Sovngarde for eternal slumber. The woman discovered herself watching her dear friend more than she had previously; her fingers always found his under the table, her head leaning against his shoulder when she needed a small break. The fear which blossomed deep within grew each passing day, but from that fear brought on an anxiety that wasn't related to her journey. No, this uneasiness was her terror of forever losing Farkas, of forever losing the chance of proclaiming the love she held within her heart.
But though she was being consumed, the woman declined the idea of seeking solace within her shield-brothers. Vilkas was the one who stated they were there to help, as she didn't need to face this endeavor alone. But what of the Dark Brotherhood? How much did they know of the twins? Of her other shield-siblings? Of her friends within Whiterun?
Not wanting to take the chance, Serah reserved everything and locked it within her heart.
As the day she and Farkas were to leave for Riften, anxiety and fear bloomed within Serah's heart. What was she to do upon arriving in Riften? Who was she to look for and question? Would she find anything needed to help her with the Dark Brotherhood on her back? Each night she lay awake, wrapped in the comfort of layered furs, unable to distinguish the swelling dread in the pit of her stomach. Whenever she was confronted by Farkas or Vilkas, she only answered with something vague, but they knew the truth.
Counting down the hours on the final day before they were to leave, Vilkas grabbed his brother and Serah, bringing them into his room so they could go over what they needed for their journey, discussing strategies and considering if things were to turn for the worse. Sitting in the corner of his bed, Serah chewed her finger, inhaling a shaky breath as both brothers spoke to one another before turning to their friend.
"Serah…?"
Glancing upwards, she found the twins staring at her from their seats. Shaking left to right, the Companion muttered a sorry before standing, walking the short distance to the small bookcase Vilkas kept within his room. Trembling fingertips traced the bindings of each book, knowing full well her favorite twins stared at her back as she wouldn't look at them.
But Vilkas knew she needed to speak. "Are you prepared for tomorrow?"
Taking a few moments to gather her thoughts, she finally replied. "As prepared as I'll ever be, though I do need a few more potions before we leave in the morning."
"No need." Turning, Farkas held her gaze, her confusion evident. "I took the liberty of getting some this afternoon. We have enough to last us until Riften."
"Oh, good…" she stated softly. The twins shared a curious look with one another.
"Serah, I can't say I know what you're thinking, but whatever happens in Riften, everything will work out." Arms crossing over her chest, Serah stood still, knowing Vilkas meant well, but his kind words couldn't ease the torment ever growing deep within. When she didn't say anything, Vilkas groaned while his brother clenched his fists, knowing there was nothing he could do to ease her silent suffering.
"How will I know what to look for?" The twins raised their eyebrows in her direction. Within the last two weeks, each had attempted and failed to coax Serah into discussing the thoughts plaguing her mind. Vilkas wanted to know her strategy upon reaching Rifted and Farkas wanted to understand how she was fairing or how he could help. Neither received in answer in kind; their shield-sister avoided their inquiries like a thief dodging the guards. So when she spoke her mind, both twins were stunned into silence. "I wasn't given any information other than someone will be there waiting for me. But who? How will I know to believe what they say? How can I trust myself to believe anything that could happen?"
On cue, both twins heavily exhaled, their fears and concerns were the same as Serah, as the brothers discussed the same matters on their own throughout the previous week. Both knew this journey was an impulse to see if there were any truths to be told. What would Serah find? Who would they know to speak with? Standing from his seat, Farkas strode the several steps until he was in front of his shield-sister his friend.
The woman he loved above all else.
Calloused hands grasping a should while the other cupped her chin, pulling her attention upwards towards his eyes, Farkas could see the formation of glistening tears ready to fall. "That is why I will be going with you, Serah. You need to remember this: you are not alone and will not face this alone."
Widening her eyes, Serah peered over at Vilkas, switching her gaze between the two brothers before covering a mouth with a hand. "Oh my goodness…" she muttered. "Farkas…Vilkas…I-I am so sorry! This past week, I've been dragging myself through each day fearing this day, I just…you two have already done so much that I –"
Joining his brother and longtime friend, Vilkas clasped her unoccupied shoulder. "Serah, from the moment you were brought here, my brother and I swore we would do everything in our power to protect you. Remember our words and never forget them: you are not alone and we will always be with you."
Throwing her arms around their waists, she pulled each brother close to her chest as she hugged both at once – at least, as much as she could. Pulling away, Serah smiled for the first time in several days. "I…I won't forget. Beat it into my brain until I do, but know that I won't leave you either."
The three stayed for another hour until Serah declared that she wanted to check her pack before retiring to sleep, as the journey to Riften would be long, and possibly tedious. Closing her door as she entered, Serah claimed the seat on her bed and looked closely through what she was bringing: cloths, stamina and magicka potions, – as Farkas know had the health potions – minimal, but spare clothing, food, the dagger she kept within Star's saddle, and anything else she felt was necessary.
Closing the pack and placing it next to the door, the Companion lay on top of the fur blankets, curled on her side as she lackadaisically stared off into the distance, following the intricate curves of the wooden door. Alone in her room, Serah of the Companions was lost, knowing that anything could happen on this trip, but probed herself and wondered if going was even worth the trouble. But even then, she couldn't refrain her mind from wandering, conjuring question after question until the last few months were blurry and muddled together.
What is it the Dark Brotherhood is seeking?
Why do they think that I have it?
I've never done anything to them – why me? What have I done to deserve their unforeseen wrath?
Sitting up, Serah threw her legs over the furs and exited her room, heading straight towards the door on the right. She knew it was closer to the middle of the night but knew her favorite twin would still be awake; his werewolf refusing his body any sustainable sleep. Most, if not all, of the Companions would be asleep this time of night, though she heard the rambunctious noises from the notable drinkers of the notable warrior group were still upstairs. Fingers knocking against the aged wood, she could hear movement from within before the door opened, revealing a surprised Farkas, but when he looked upon her façade, the beast of a man stepped aside, allowing Serah to walk in and sit in her spot on his bed.
Grabbing his mug, Farkas offered Serah some mead, but shook her head and denied. Taking his seat by her side, he waited until she turned and watched him, but she never said anything. Swallowing the cool mead, Farkas could see the tired look in her eye and assumed she hadn't slept, but still asked, "I thought you'd be asleep by now."
"So did I," she answered. "Unless you count staring at my door since I left you and Vilkas."
"You're overthinking this." Standing, the male placed his mug on the bar stool, hand grasping his chin in mid thought. "Regardless of what happens, I will keep you safe."
She scoffed at his statement, causing the man to turn, eyebrow raised. "I can take care of myself, Farkas."
"That's not the point, Serah." Kneeling in front of her form, Farkas cradled her fragile hands within his calloused paws. Despite the years she trained with swords and bows, her hands were still smooth, and Farkas couldn't stop his thumbs from gently tracing her skin. Serah watched Farkas; he was the largest and strongest of the Companions, but the man held a heart of gold, as he was the most loveable human, and one of the kindest. Retracting one hand, Serah cupped his cheek and used her thumb to ghost over his cheekbone.
"I'm afraid of what will happen, Farkas. These…the Dark Brotherhood is after me, I wouldn't know what to do if you were caught in the middle."
"Serah," Farkas sighed her name, tightening his grip on her hand. "Why is it lately you have forced yourself to do things on your own? Why must you force yourself to suffer without the aid of your shield-siblings? We have been through thick and thin together, it's…it's troubling how you don't trust me enough to seek my aid."
"No, no Farkas…That is not it at all!" Switching their positions, she grasped his hands, holding his fingers close to her face, she kissed each one. Having the man this close was becoming too much to bear. "I'm…I'm confused. When I ran into the female from the Dark Brotherhood at Helgen, her partner knew who you were. He…called you by your name before I killed him…I don't…I don't know how they know about you, but if they know your name, then they're bound to have more information about you, Vilkas, the other Companions!" Breathing heavily, Serah held his hands against her face, the saltiness prickled the corners of her eyes. "I'm so scared…I have no idea what these people could do, and I fear all of you will be hurt because of me…I can't…" Closing her eyes, Serah sucked in each breath, her fear spilling forth. Muttering her last words in a breathy whisper, she admitted, "I can't lose you, Farkas…Not you…not you…"
She was pulled from her isolated trance when Farkas removed his hands from her grasp and cupped her cheek, his face closing in towards hers. Their eyes bore into the other, neither looking away. "Serah, you are…the strongest female I have ever known, and if there is anyone within the Companions who can stand up against the Dark Brotherhood and fight their way through survival, it would be you." Afraid of his words, she looked away, but the man refused Serah to isolate herself from this moment as her turned her direction back to him.
"I can't lose you either, Serah. You are…the most important person in my life. Hearing these tales about the Dark Brotherhood hunting you down, and the way they've injured you makes me want to turn into the beast that I am and wrench their guts out, to spill their blood so they can never hurt you again."
"Farkas…"
"You are everything to me, my little Serah. I'm not protecting you on this journey because I think you're weak and can't take care of yourself. The thought of you leaving scares me to Sovngarde and back that I'm protecting you so you will not leave me behind…" Inching his way forward, Farkas realized that Serah was also inclining her head, their breaths mingling, tips of their noses touching. "You're my reason for living, Serah."
A gasp left her lips by his words, as Serah searched the face of the man she loved. The erratic beating of her heart slowed and accelerated her breathing all in one. Tongue gracing her lips, Serah glanced upon Farkas' mouth and noticed he had done the same. "Farkas," she whispered, his name falling from her lips. Brushing away several strands of hair, the man in question leaned forward, tenderly pressing his mouth upon hers.
Sparks scourged her lips, heat engulfed her chest, and it seemed ice immobilized her muscles, as if she cast Destruction spells upon herself. Eyelids falling shut and her body pressed into his, Serah knew she'd been waiting for this moment, knew that this is what she had been seeking for the last several weeks. Moving as one, their lips connected as he mouth slightly opened, desiring more, wanting, the ache of his burning touch scorching her insides.
And just as the stories she'd heard from females within the city, it had ended quickly as they pulled away from each other. But the moment she opened her eyes, Serah wished she hadn't; cheeks flushed and burned, her vision unable to see Farkas in the same light. Her warrior and friend held the same expression as she, his eyes wide as saucers as if he was unable to believe what just occurred.
The male Companion repeatedly opened and closed his mouth, unsure of the words that needed to be said, unsure of how to proceed. "Serah…" he could only whisper her name.
Touching her lips, Serah could still feel his upon hers, and it was tying her stomach into knots. To say the least, the woman was stunned, split between the reality of the situation and believing it all happened in her mind. "W-What does this…? Farkas?"
Visibly seeing the man swallow the lump in his throat, his actions caused her muscles to pleasantly clench. "U-Um…th-there's something…Serah that was…" An insistent knock echoed across his room, Vilkas' voice leaked through the door.
"Farkas? I need to speak with you." Quickly standing, Serah edged away from the muscular twin, breath being released in shallow gasps. The man slowly stood to his feet, attention zoning out, but his brother's voice shook the man from his stoic posture. "Farkas open the door, I know you're not asleep."
Glaring at the door, Serah desired to leave, her confusion wasn't helping as her body was delivering two different messages, both opposite of the other; her brain was telling her to leave, to let this moment pass, but her heart said she and Farkas needed to speak, to see what it meant. Deciding to run, she gripped the door handle and stole a quick glance at Farkas; his expression remained neutral, the silver color of his eyes pleading with her, begging to stay. Opening the door, she was met with Vilkas' fist within her vision as he had raised his knuckles to bang on the door.
"S-Serah? I thought you had already gone to bed." Any other moment and the surprise upon his face would've had the woman laughing, but the small uplifting of her lips was all she could muster.
"Sorry Vilkas, I…I had to question Farkas on something for tomorrow. P-Please excuse my intrusion." Stepping away from the doorway, Serah gave one last glance behind her as she muttered a "Goodnight" to both males before retreating behind the confines of her private room.
Blinking, Vilkas hadn't moved from his spot, even after Serah had already closed her door. Farkas had watched her leave, unsure what to even think. Vilkas observed his brother and instantly noticed the dismay in his features. "Pray, what just happened, Farkas?"
Running a hand along his mouth, Farkas would only mutter, "Brother, I don't even have the slightest idea."
~ oOo ~
I truly appreciate everyone who has remained with this story. Please let me know if you liked – or didn't like!
Chocobocolina :3