Chapter Sixteen
Are There More Truths To Learn?
A/N: I am so happy I was even able to update today! The screen of my computer's been breaking for the past year and finally a few days ago the screen actually cracked. I mean it freaking CRACKED! Thankfully my husband bought me a new computer; I love that man so much. Since I finished this chapter on a brand new computer (mind you, I switched from Windows to Mac, so everything on it is brand new to me!) please inform me of any errors. I no longer have Microsoft Word so the program I'm using is different and I'm just not used to it. But, there is big news!
Todays my birthday! 3 Happy Birthday to me! I am now XX years old, haha. Read, review, send me a PM, favorite, anything will make me happy.
I'll be back soon with the next chapter! Hopefully.
Disclaimer: I don't own Skyrim – Just Serah.
~ oOo ~
Running through the darkness of the night, Farkas scoured the earthen scent, desperately clinging onto the lingering of Serah's smell. It was gradually depleting as the morning storm flooded his senses with that of nature, making it difficult to continue his tracking. He knew where the woman had fled, though not if she had taken any short stops or sidetracked along the way. Paws digging into the muddy ground, Farkas' fur was soaked to his molded bones. Flying, the male ran as fast and as hard, not knowing what Serah would was doing in that moment.
Until he heard her scream.
The harshness of Serah's voice resonated around the forest, all trees shaking in fear of her rage. Altering his direction, Farkas veered slightly north just as the early sun veered its light hidden by the storm. Blasted with a fresh wave of Serah's scent, Farkas knew where she was as he maneuvered around trunks, making way to the very spot they occupied earlier that night. Upon arrival, his thick paws slid in the mud, the heavy rain still pounding into his skin. Staring forward, he spotted Serah, knelt before her parent's grave as she hammered her fist into the earth; his hearing having magnified her sobs and cries.
"Why?!" she screamed again, ignoring the rumble of thunder filtering within the harsh, gray skies. "Why was everything a lie? My mother, my upbringing...everything!" Whimpering, she scratched her mother's grave, clawing into the etched runes.
Breaking away from hiding, Farkas whimpered as well, signaling his presence while moving closer. With a crunch beneath his massive feet, Serah swirled around, hand against her sword until she realized who it was. She'd grown used to Farkas' werewolf form and could easily recognize his from others. Crying out his name, the male ran to her position, kneeling next to her side as Serah fell into his fur. Clenching his thick mane, Farkas carefully wrapped his hands around her, avoiding her skin with his claws as best he could.
The poor woman cried and cried.
Staying in the same position, Farkas glanced around, the environment having stayed the same as they left it earlier. He wondered how long Serah had been out here, but as he sensed the shivers coursing her body, he knew it had been too long. Wiping her eyes, she looked upward into his blood-red eyes, ones she once used to fear; Farkas was unable to see her tears while they rain continued to cry in its own sadness. Nudging her shoulder with his snout, her hands tightened.
"It was a-all a l-lie...I d-don't know my f-family at all...I even had an older brother!" Raging even more, Serah beat the wolf's chest, all the while Farkas accepting all her anger. He would be her vessel for all negative feelings cursing her mind. "All t-this time! Kodlak lied to me! Why didn't he tell me the truth? Why hide it?!"
With no idea what to say nor a way to speak, Farkas merely nudged her softly, licking her cheek tenderly to show he was at least listening. What he didn't expect was for the woman to cup the side of his wolf face. No smile appeared. Doubting one would show on her face for some time, the male held her protectively.
"I'm sorry."
Lightning illuminating the darkened sky, the werewolf observed Serah, her face clearing of tears. Tilting his head, Farkas raised a paw, gently running the tips of his nails over her face, contemplating returning to his human form then and there. Capturing his paw, Serah kissed the inside, directly in the middle of where his palm would've been.
"I know I caused you to worry...the letter, did you read it?" Farkas nodded slowly, still watching her. "My anger...t-took over and I just…exploded, and…" Snapping her head upward, Serah inhaled sharply, several whimpers escaping past her lips. "NO! Farkas! You…oh my goodness, I didn't even notice y-you…you transformed!"
Grumbling with his throat as an answer, Farkas merely licked her face, aiming to erase her tears as more fell like rivers.
"B-But you've been withholding the call from Hircine for so long!" The growl rumbled harsher as Farkas stared intently into the depths of her eyes. Lowering her head, she somehow understood. Weakly, she asked, "Please, take me h-home? I d-don't want to be near this place a-anymore..."
Obliging, Farkas scooped the woman into his arms, holding her close as he ran full strength back to Riften. Carrying the woman in his arms, he could still hear her occasional hiccup. He knew naught what to do. He knew the reason for Kodlak's lies, all leading back to Fenrir, who wanted his daughter to know an altered truth of her past. There was still on overhanging truth yet to be revealed: why, in all the nine, was the Dark Brotherhood after Serah in the first place? Kodlak already explained to Farkas how Asta had been a previous mother of the outlandish group. Still, the man fought hard in thinking what on earth could've brought this bloodshed.
Kodlak said Asta USED to be a member. Meaning she left for some unknown reason. Had she been kicked out? Did she leave on her own? Trying to think while avoiding trees, Farkas withheld a growl.
Once a member, always a member, only death can separate you from the pact.
Kodlak's words entered the man's mind, remembering their discussion before leaving for Riften. If they were after Asta for leaving, it would make sense based on her own words. But why carry on and kill Serah? Could it be they wanted to take out her whole family for if she ever spoke of any secrets the Dark Brotherhood held? No...there's still something missing.
Nearing Riften, Farkas gradually slowed before placing Serah on her feet. Knowing they were close and he still in his werewolf form, the female Companion watched her lover transform, reversing Hircine's effect as he morphed from the beast into a man. Fully clothed, Farkas grabbed her hand, wrapping an arm over her shoulder as they dashed for the city gate, both guards eyeing them, yet refrained from speaking when the male growled menacingly. Trekking through the back alley, they quickly made to Honeyside and entered. Turning to see Serah focusing on the sprawled letters on the table, Farkas took her hand, leading the woman downstairs towards a much needed soak in the tub.
Being in the storm, the woman was freezing, and he didn't want her to become sick; she already had enough on her mind.
Standing silently behind the man as he worked on filling the tub, Serah merely watched. It had already been an extremely rough day, and the morning had only been ignited within the last hour. She was lost, overthinking, the answer's Delvin provided, her mother's letter and grasping everything within her tiny head. Calling her name, Farkas was done as she inserted her fingers, heating the water to a warmer temperature with her magic. Removing her sodden clothing, the male turned to leave, respecting her privacy when she stopped the man by grabbing his wrist. With a pleading look, she asked him to stay; agreeing, the male shed his trousers and stepped inside the tub, holding his hand for Serah to take. Entering, she sat, back against his chest as they both sighed, the heated liquid soothing their near-numb limbs.
Remaining quiet, neither knew what should be said. The topic was there; the words, not so much.
Taking a breath, Farkas broke the silence. "Serah," he whispered her name. "Please...tell me, what're you thinking?"
Exhaling heavily, Serah grabbed the man's arms, wrapping them around her chest, holding his limbs protectively in her grasp. "Everything...and nothing. I've got Delvin's voice whispering in one ear and the words of my mother from her letter in the other. Who do I believe? The man who was friends with my parents or the mother who I thought to have died while giving birth to me? Everything...everything I've been told has been a fucking lie..."
Tightening his grip, Farkas kissed her woman's head, resting his chin on her shoulder. "My love...I cannot even imagine what you're feeling. It's painful for me to see you this way and...I'm sorry for it all."
"...I'm so confused," she stated quietly. "Why would my father have Kodlak lie all this time? It's like...my father wanted me to know certain things, but only in an altered truth."
Pinching the bridge of his nose, Farkas felt this wasn't the best time to give the woman more truths, but knew she deserved to know. "S-Serah, there's...something I need to tell you."
Twisting, she peered up at the bulky man, eyebrow raised in curiosity. "A-Alright...?"
"I-I..." Scratching his head, the muscled Companion grew afraid. "The night you returned from your mission in Falkreath? I met Kodlak to tell him of your injuries. We then, had a discussion about you, and he…explained some things about your mother."
Kneeling in between Farkas' legs, Serah crossed her arms, hiding her chest as she stared at the man. "What things?"
"He..." Breath, in and out. "Kodlak told me a few things about your mother and...I think you should know."
"You mean...Farkas, you knew something about my mother and didn't say anything...?"
"I'm sorry...Kodlak made me swear to not speak of it to you. But, with all that you've learned, I feel this is something you need to know." Swallowing thickly, Serah brushed the corner of her eyes, staying quiet as she waited for him to speak. "It would seem that your mother...was a member of the Dark Brotherhood." One minute, Serah was staring blankly at Farkas.
The next, she hastily stood and exited the tub, drying herself off as she moved to their room.
"S-Serah!" Following her, the male Companion dried himself quickly just as she was getting dressed. "What're you doing?"
"I'm going to speak with Delvin. There's some answers I need to know and he's going to give them to me. Right now." Shoving her limbs into loose trouser and shirt, she fitted her feet with boots before stomping towards the stairs.
"Ohhh, no. Hold up now!"
"Let me go, Farkas!"
Twisting her arm around in his grasp, she tried prying her arm away, but Farkas' strength could not be matched. "Serah please, I did not want to keep this from you."
"Then why did you? Just because Kodlak promised?!" Screaming, Serah was able to release her arm, turned and smacked Aragorn's sparing dummy in the face, knocking the mannequin onto the ground. Huffing, her cheeks were flared, and Farkas had to force his mind away from inconsiderate thoughts. All the while, the male quickly clothed his naked body, readying himself for the upcoming battle. In this state, Serah was a ferocious person who wouldn't take no for an answer; Delvin would speak with her and he would hand over whatever the woman wanted.
"Kodlak made me promise because your father made him promise!"
Stepping down from the first step, Serah's expression fell. Forming a fist, it took all her might not to break her hand in the process of smashing a hole through the stone. "Still..." she breathed, ignoring the fact her cheeks were glistening. "You kept this from me. From me, Farkas!"
"What would you have thought if I said something before we left? What would you have done?"
"I don't know!" she screamed. "Who can I trust right now? For all I know, you probably know more about me than I do!"
"Other than Kodlak explaining how your parents met – which Delvin explained to you earlier – I know nothing else! What you learned last night is new to me!"
"Still," Serah stepped upward several steps, suddenly wanting to keep a distance between herself and the other Companion. "You know what this has been doing to me, what it's done to me. My whole life's been one giant lie!"
"That's not true!" Roaring, Farkas' voice echoed throughout the home, Serah stepped back, her body hitting the wall as she covered her mouth; the man had never yelled at her in such a way before! Unclenching his muscles, Farkas, heaved a sigh, shoulders falling forward. Tentatively stepping forward, Serah didn't move, merely watched as he grew closer. "Serah...yes, the facts you believed were to be true, were altered. For some reason, it seemed your parents thought it best to do so in order to keep you safe. But...your whole life has not been an entire lie."
Bracing her cheek, Farkas smiled when she fell into his hand, her warm breath heating his skin. "My love, I didn't want you to feel any pain on my behalf; but it looks like I failed. I'm so sorry this has been troubling you. Your life? It's been beautiful and...I apologize for my words but...if it hadn't been for your father's decision in bringing you to Whiterun, I never would've met you. Secretly, I am glad your parents made the decisions they did. Because I love you, Serah the Companion." Kissing her forehead, Serah released another sob, collapsing into the male's chest whose arms raked around her smaller frame. "The first few years may have been clouded, but the life you lived with me, Vilkas and the other Companions has all been your reality. All because you have made it so."
"I-I know that, but Farkas, I just..."
"Shh, hey, little one I know...If I had any information on the parents who brought Vilkas and I into this world, I'd probably act like you and search for anything Skyrim could offer. What you're doing, Serah? My love, I fully stand by what you're seeking. It's ok in wanting to know. Promise me something, though, if possible. Promise me that you won't forget this life, you won't forget me," Farkas pulled her hand and laid it over his frantic heart. "That you won't forget to live now and not the past."
Water seeping through his cotton shirt, Farkas kissed the female's head repeatedly over and over. Her fingers gripped the fabric, threatening to rip the material as she screamed and cried. "I'm sorry, so sorry for doubting! I'm just so scared...!"
"Hey, look at me." Lifting her face, Farkas could only smile at her beauty. Removing strands of tears from her cheeks, the man refused to loosen the closeness they held. "I understand, your apology is not needed, little one. I will be by your side through all of this. It's just what Vilkas said before we left: you will not be alone."
Nodding her head, Serah leaned forward, kissing the visible chest hair peeking through the openness of his shirt. "After all my crying and screaming, I don't deserve you."
"Now that's a lie, Serah. You deserve me no matter how much you scream and cry. You're hurting, I just wish I could take away your pain." Once her sniffles, gradually diminished, Farkas asked, "Now, would you still like to see Delvin?" She nodded, moving back into the room to properly change. In her hasty decision, Serah cared naught about wearing her armor nor bringing any weapons. Now with her head able to think more clearly, she knew it would be best to be prepared for anything that may arise. When the two were dressed in their warrior attire, and weapons strapped to their bodies, the two strolled up the stairs, the male following behind.
Freezing in the open doorway, Serah glanced behind her towards the table, moving past Farkas to grab the letter; folding it and hiding in her trousers.
Ground soaking wet, the sun was peeking through, the storm having ended sometime while they were inside. Taking hold of his hand, Serah led Farkas through the city, its residents filtering through, now that it was traversable without the hinderance of the storm Walking through the central market, they headed across the bridge towards the orphanage, taking the stairs down towards the shops and rooms beneath the city. Stopping before an iron gate, Farkas uneasily asked, "You do know where you're going, right?"
"To the Thieves Guild. Delvin said we could find him there."
"Yes, but do you know where the guild is?"
Rolling her eyes, she allowed herself to chuckle slightly. "You honestly think I can't find their hideout? Please, Aragon blindfolding us the other day was nothing. I counted my steps and listened to what was around. Once we enter here, it shouldn't be that hard to find them."
"Hmm, well, alright. I'll trust your judgment on this, I couldn't keep track where he was leading us."
Nodding, Serah opened the door to find another, thicker door mere feet apart. Stepping inside, they were met with a dark, dank smelling underway. Walking down the stairs, the air was quiet. No people, no skeevers. Just how Serah hoped it would be. Not caring about wanting to sneak inside, the two Companions made their way within, surprised to not find a single person on lookout duty. Maneuvering around corners, Serah noticed a wooden drawn bridge with candlelight in the following room. Deciding that was the direction, their feet trekked quickly until Farkas spotted another door on the other end of the room.
Taking a chance this was the route Aragorn led them the other day, Serah opened the door, surprised to find a large, circular room with the main stone pathway wrapping around the right side. On the opposite side, a wooden port was spouting halfway into the pool of water located in the center of the room.
"This is where we were the other day," Farkas stated, glancing around the room.
"It is..." Stepping forward, Serah didn't know where to go next or where Delvin would be.
"Woman! What the hell are you doing here?!" Suddenly grabbed, Serah was thrown against the wall, noticing several males appeared out of thin air. Back shoved into the stone, her breath escaped, forcefully exhaled from her lungs.
"Serah! Get your filthy hands off her!" Reaching for his sword, an arrow was pressed into the nape of his neck, halting the Companion's movements as he eyed his partner. Snarling, Serah kicked the man's leg holding her beneath him as he toppled to the ground. Removing the dagger from her thigh, the female took hold of the man's hair, forcing him to kneel as she placed the sharpened end into his neck, copying his partners moves.
"Release him! I mean you no harm, but if you hurt him, I swear...!"
"Wha' in the nine is going on here, lads?!" Hurrying from the port where the bar had been, a man with red hair and a full beard dressed in the Guild attire reached for his blade at seeing one of his men under attack.
Not given the chance to speak once more, Serah held the dagger tighter. "I am Serah, daughter of Fenrir and Asta, honorary members of the Thieves Guild. I came here to speak with Delvin!"
Taking a step backwards, the red-headed one couldn't decide to grab his weapon or not. "Now lass, anyone could say they're the daughter to some of our more prestigious members."
"My name is Serah!" the woman repeated. "I was born here in the Guild. My mother was poisoned by the Dark Brotherhood and didn't make it and my father left with me, returning two years later with mortal wounds that led to his death!"
This man, separating his glare between the female and male, still didn't give the order for his men to drop their weapons. "Brynjolf!" Casting his eyes behind, the red-head named Brynjolf nodded to the person who called his name. Coming forth, Serah gasped to see Delvin standing right beside the man, his gaze having not seen she was there. "Wha' on earth is all this commotion abou'?"
"Delvin!"
Snapping towards the female, the man in question had to double-take his vision, taken back by seeing the one female he never thought to see again. "Serah?! Wha' on blazes...? How did you ge' here?!"
Smiling at Delvin, Serah frowned when glancing back at Brynjolf. "Have your man release Farkas, and I'll drop my knife."
"Do as she says, lads." Farkas, able to move, stepped aside to Serah's side, her own dagger placed back into its hilt at her thigh. "Her words are true then, eh, Delvin? She truly is the daughter of Fenrir and Asta?"
Clapping the red-head on the shoulder, the Treasurer for the Thieves Guild snickered. "She indeed was telling the truth. Now, young one, it seems you sought me out, but, uh, how did you find this place?"
With crossed arms, she answered smugly. "I memorized the path Aragorn took the other day. You think simply blindfolding me would work?"
"Ah, so you're friends with the Dragonborn?" Brynjolf questioned. Stiffening at her side, Farkas noticed the male eyeing Serah up and down, his arm snaking around her waist for emphasis. Blinking in shock, the two males caught glances, the red-head merely looking away, understand the woman was not to be trifled with.
"Smart girl, you truly are your parent's daughter. Well, if you sought me out, then you must 'ave questions. Come. Let's 'ave some mead, that'll help." Following the man around the cistern, the three sat at one of the tables near the makeshift bar; Devlin dismissing Brynjolf to keep everyone out of the Ragged Flagon until their conversation was over. Drinking from a fresh bottle, Serah slammed the glass onto the table, removing the letter from her trousers. Flattening the paper, she slid it towards the man.
"Straigh' to the point I see." Glimpsing through the words, the Companions could see the fall in Delvin's eyes. The more he read, the softer his expression grew to be. "Well now, tha's something I haven' ever seen."
"I would think not. After reading this, I find myself with more questions, Delvin. And, if you stay true to your word, you said I could seek you out if I needed anything." Snatching the paper from his extended hand, she carefully folded it up to place the letter in its original spot. "I have more questions; therefore, you need to give me some more answers."
With the mouth of the bottle to his lips, the Treasurer heaved a heavy breath, downing the last contents of mead before standing to retrieve another. "There's not much else I can tell you Serah. Tha' chest you dug up is meant to give everything you need."
"Oh really? Because this was the first letter I read from the pile and it's brought me nothing other than more confusion!"
"I really wish there was more I could tell you, honestly. But your parents – "
"Made you swear not to tell her anything than what they asked you to?" Straightening his back, Farkas wrapped around arm behind the woman atop her chair. Quickly glancing at Serah he said, "Sorry for what I'm about to say," then turned his attention back to the male. "But her parents are dead. Serah's life seems to be on the line by the Dark Brotherhood and you won't break a promise to help her?"
"Because I've already told her everythin' I know!" Delvin roared. Sensing the rage filtering off his skin, Serah eyed Farkas, as his silver-grey eyes turned into slits. Pinching the bulkiest muscle on his arm, the man hissed, eyes instantly turning to their original shape and color. "Look, Serah...This makes me look really pathetic, bu' your parents were strict on what they told people about who they were. I was only told the Dark Brotherhood was after your mother; they never explained why."
"But she must've told you she was previously a member, didn't she?"
Having opened his mouth to respond, Delvin promptly closed it once she finished, slowly nodding I defeat. "Ah, yes, tha' is something I knew. But it was something I wasn' supposed to tell you."
Now the one to close his mouth, Farkas growled. "Of course it wasn't."
"Why you, though?" Folding her hands neatly, Serah bent forward, dropping her voice, knowing they were becoming a bit rambunctious. "If the Guild is family, similar to the Companions, why would my parents only give you information this sensitive and secretive?"
"Mm, interesting you caught onto tha' so quickly. You see...I'm a former member as well."
"O-Of the Dark Brotherhood...?"
"Tha's right. Long time ago, before I even knew your parents, I go' into some, uh, trouble here with the Guild and our previous Guild Master made some connections where I could lay low with the Dark Brotherhood. I was with them for several years before coming back. Mm, I don't consider myself a member anymore, but I still hold connections with their leader from time-to-time if contracts cross paths."
"So...you didn't know my mother before she joined the Guild?"
"No. I don' know the circumstances of her leaving, but she did before I was to join. They asked me to keep their secrets because of my history with them."
"But...why you? If anything, you should've been the one person they avoided." Looping her arm through Farkas', Serah scooted her chair closer. His body heat was soothing and she needed the help to keep a somewhat level head. "They didn't fear you turning on them...?"
"Heavens, no! If anything, I'd risk my life for your parents if the Brotherhood had attacked." Consuming his second bottle of mead, Delvin swiped his chin of alcohol. "My time with the Dark Brotherhood taught me much, but I ended up hatin' every second. I'm all for murdering someone when necessary, but they…by the nine, they kill cause it's fun. Look," taking her spare hand in his, Delvin leaned forward, connecting his eyes to hers, never moving. "I keep my connections open with them because it brings in decent money for the Guild, but tha's all."
Staring long and hard into his fixed gaze, Serah finally decided to fully trust this man. She only met him two days prior, but as he was the one main connection she had to her parents, Serah was willing to place all her faith in Delvin. "Alright, I'll leave it at that. Now...there's one last question I have."
"It's abou' your brother, ain't it?"
"So...so it's true?" Placing a hand over the pocket of her trousers, where the letter lay underneath. The increased beating of her heart had the woman in shambles. Rubbing her back, Serah gave Farkas a grateful smile, though it did little to ease her spout of jealously.
"Aye, but, it's no' what you're thinking, Serah."
Raising an eyebrow, the first words to escape her mouth was, "Huh?"
Running a hand along his face, Delvin mumbled into his palm. "By the nine in Skyrim, your parents should've numbered the letters they wanted you to read in order. There should be something in that chest explaining in detail their life before you lost them. Still," chest rising up then down, Delvin swallowed. "Las' night, I told you how they met, yeah?"
"Mhm?"
"There's more to the story than what I told you…your father was actually a Companion, just like you. He was even a member of the Circle."
"What? No, no way! He was not a Companion..." Turning to Farkas, he met her questioning stare with the same Delvin held. "Farkas, you knew?"
"I...I did. Kodlak told me and Vilkas the night you were brought to Jorrvaskr. He..."
"Made you swear not to tell me, I know. Seriously, I'm getting sick of that answer." Smacking his arm, she added, "I should be mad at you, Farkas. You said knew nothing else!" Rubbing her temples, she was attempting to avoid a nasty headache. All the information she received in the last few days was circling her mind to the point she still couldn't discern truth from lie, and what was new from what was old news.
"Your father and another Companion rescued your mother from Grevlin, that much is true. Asta became a Companion as well and they were married by the end of the year. Your mother discovered she was with child not long after, but...unfortunately, she lost the child. That was your older brother."
"Wait, so she – she didn't even have the baby? She lost it before it was born?"
"Tha's right; they both believed the child was to be a boy, so they always believed you had an older brother."
Face falling into her hands, Serah breathed slowly. In and out; in and out. "How...how did she lose the child?"
"Your mother..." Copying her previous movements, Delvin folded his hands and shut his eyes, fearful to see the sudden expression on her face. "Your parents were traveling to Riverwood when they were attacked and she was badly poisoned. She barely survived herself."
"Let me guess," Serah stated gruffly. "The Dark Brotherhood was behind the attack?"
Delvin nodded slowly. "After that, they didn't want the Companions getting involved so they left and soon came to Riften, thinking they best place to live a secret life in all of Skyrim was with the Thieves Guild – which they did."
"So..." Removing the letter one last time, Serah narrowed her eyes n one particular sentence. "Is that why she called me their miracle child? Because they lost their first?"
"Yes. After the poisoning, Asta didn't think she could be with child again – until you."
"...until me," she copied, murmuring the words to herself. "And you..." Clearing the moisture in her eyes, she tried smiling, though it was difficult to maintain. "You're sure you know nothing about why the Dark Brotherhood was after my mother? Why they're after me?"
"I don't. The only possible answer for wanting to kill your mother is because she was a previous member who left without permission. The only reason she gave for leaving is she was tired of its members and their way of life, had been for some time. Once a member, always a member. Tha's the code they live by. But for their reasoning in attacking you? Tha'...I don' have an answer for."
Pushing herself away from the table, Serah stood, arms crossed over her body. "Fuck! So, what'd we do now? Farkas?"
Standing, he walked to her side, taking her hand in his. "I think it might be best to head back to Whiterun. We can talk with Vilkas and think this all over." Dropping her forehead into his chest, she did the same movement several times.
"If you might be heading back, then there's something I need to give you. Excuse me for a moment." Suddenly leaving the two alone, they watched Delvin as he left through the door beside the bar. Blinking, Serah shrugged, not knowing what he was going to get. Suddenly jumping, she noticed Farkas attract her attention by poking her nose.
"How...how're you feeling?" he asked cautiously.
"I-I...to be honest, I'm still confused. All of this has just been thrust on me and I can't process it all."
"I don't want to say it'll get easier, yet you know it will."
"Yeah...there's just something bothering me. Everything I've learned circles back to one important event that happened before I was born."
"And that would be?"
"My mother leaving the Dark Brotherhood. It all started there, but Delvin doesn't know why; I bet Kodlak doesn't know either." Scratching her head, Serah ground her teeth, annoyance crawling along her skin.
Pulling her arms to her sides, Farkas kissed Serah's forehead. "That's why I think heading home will do you some good. You need to be around friends, and I think sharing what we've learned with Vilkas could help too."
"You're right..."
"Alrigh' I'm back!" Delvin, entering through the same door he exited, came carrying another chest, roughly the same size as the one they discovered. Removing a leather band from around his neck, he handed the necklace to Serah, who noticed it held an iron key as well, similar to the one he gave her the night before.
"Again with the key?"
"Tha's the last one, I promise. I've been guarding this chest since your father passed, Serah. The other chest is to help in your struggle against the Dark Brotherhood. This one," Delvin patted the iron stronghold box, the faint clattering of its contents jiggling slightly. "This one is your inheritance. Everything your parents could gather was to be given to you if we ever met."
"I, well ok...but what if we never met?"
Thinking quickly, Delvin answered with, "Not sure! They, uh...never said anything about me not meeting you." Seeing her face fall, Delvin grasp her hands around the key. "All of this is confusing, I know. But your parents planned everything for you, knowing this would happen. So since we did meet, this now belongs to you."
Stealing a glance at the chest, Serah peeked at Farkas who nudged her shoulder. "You wanna take it back to the house?"
"N-No, I'm curious now..." Inserting the key, the mechanism clicked and turned as she was able to lift the lift. An audible gasp escaped her lips, hand covering her mouth as the flames surrounding the bar flickered the contents of the chest.
It was filled to the brim with nothing except septims!
"My g-goodness!" Trailing her fingers lightly over the gold, Serah was nervous to ask if Delvin knew how much was inside. Her question, though, appeared evidently on her face.
"Your inheritance, Serah of the Companions: one-hundred thousand septims."
Choking on his drink, Farkas rammed a fist into his chest, the cough echoing loudly as he somewhat cleaned the mead spilling from his chin. Eyes wide as dinner plates, Serah could only create squeaks for words. Quickly, she closed and locked the lid, placing the key around her neck. "This c-cannot be possible! Are you sure this is all for me?!"
"It is, Serah. This is all yours."
"No...no, this is...it's too much! Delvin! Please, for all your help let me give you some!" Reaching to remove the key she had just placed, Delvin took hold of her hand, clapping the back as he merely smiled.
"My dear, tha' is thoughtful, but it is not needed. Gift or payment, I wan' neither. Merely seeing that you are alive and well is the best gift you could give me." Pulling the woman into a close embrace, Delvin was surprised to feel her arms wrap around his waist. "It may not seem like it, young one, but you mean so much to me. I am overjoyed you have found your way in life and are living it."
"Delvin...a-are you sure?" He nodded once more. "I-If this is truly what my mother and father have left for me, then I will accept the in their memory."
Deciding it was best in returning to Honeyside, Serah said her goodbyes, explaining she'd send a letter to Delvin when she returned home per his request. Once back inside their temporary housing, Farkas locked the door behind them, sighing as they each took a seat at the wooden table. Still covered with papers and letters, Serah carefully placed the aged parchment into the first chest, securing it tightly. Eyeing both chests she now held in her possession, the Companion couldn't comprehend what to think. There was more truth to her parents history, and then she suddenly receives an inheritance with more gold than she had ever gained in one instance. Dropping her head over her crossed arms, the female sighed; a sudden blanket of peace covered her lithe frame, leaving her smirking.
"Whiterun," she mumbled through her arms, eyes peering up at him over the tip of her limb. "You think it's best to head back home?"
"Aye, I do. You had enough happen here, and I think going back to Jorrvaskr would help with the information given to you."
"You're right about Vilkas. But…what'd I do about Kodlak? From what Delvin has said, Kodlak's known everything this entire time. I mean, he's the one who told you about my mother being from the Dark Brotherhood!"
"Hey, hey," he whispered, engulfing her small hand into his. "Worry about Kodlak later, you need to worry about yourself, Serah. Go home, think about everything we've learned, and then speak with Kodlak, but only when you feel comfortable."
She nodded, standing to her feet, face towards the door. "In that case, we better prepare to leave. I say we leave at first light tomorrow."
In agreement, the two made their way back into town, the city bustling with citizens eager for gold. Purchasing the necessary items, they carried potions and food with them back towards Honeyside, their swords having already been sharpened. Once back inside, they worked on packing their gear, ensuring everything they needed was to be saddled on their steeds the following morning.
Beside the bed they had been sharing, Serah stood into the mirror, fingers tracing over the etched design in the leather of her armor. The same armor which belonged to her later mother. Lingering over her curves and slight scuffs, now knowing who this belonged to didn't faze the woman as she thought it initially had. Serah may not have any memories of her mother, and very few of her father, but if these last few days have taught her anything at all, it's that she felt loved. In a twisted, completely complexing way, her parents were loving her from their sacred place in Sovngarde.
"What're you thinking?"
Having not seen Farkas lean against the open doorway, Serah jumped, grabbing at her chest. "Damn, Farkas! Shit, as bulky as you are, your sneak is better than mine."
Ignoring her statement, he walked behind the woman, wrapping his arms around her waist, dragging her into his chest. "You didn't answer my question."
Sighing, Serah smartly answered. "You'll think I'm crazy."
"Never," Farkas said, with a slight snicker.
Smacking the man's arm, she grinned. "I feel somewhat peaceful. Let's be honest, it's been crazy since we arrived and it's been almost non-stop of something being tossed our way. But.." Turning in his arms, Serah dropped her forehead against his armor, the coolness calming her skin. "After everything I've learned…I'm surprisingly calm. Almost like…like a burden's been lifted from my shoulders. Is it wrong to feel this way? Just this morning I was so angry and now…now I think I feel the love my parents had for me."
"If that's how you feel, then don't stop; accept what's happening. But, I only want to say this: don't let it cloud your judgement."
"What'd you mean?"
"I…" Running a hand through her hair, Farkas grabbed the small section by her ear that was braided with beds and a feather at the end. The very signature of Serah the Companion she'd worn for years. "I believe Delvin has told you nothing but the truth; still, we have no evidence to support he hasn't at the same time. All I'm saying is please don't follow everything your parents have laid out for you. They may have concocted a plan, but whose to say it'll work? If the Dark Brotherhood does mean to kill you, we need to work with a plan that'll work."
Her face fell. "That's…that's true…"
"No, Serah I'm not saying what they've left for you won't help - "
"Relax, Farkas. I know what you meant. It's just like you said; all of this is a lot to take in. But first! Let's focus on getting back to Whiterun, that's another few days, at least."
Chuckling, he kissed the top of her head. "Say, what about leaving right now?"
"Right now? Really?"
"Why not? It hasn't been that long since the sun rose. We'll still make a good distance whether we wait till morning or not."
Taking a moment to think, Serah considered the thought, and nodded almost instantly. "You know what? Sure, what the hell! However, there's something we need to discuss before leaving. I'd rather do it here than back in Jorrvaskr." Farkas, following the woman upstairs, had an eyebrow raised the entire time, confusion radiating off his muscled body. Gabbing the chest with her inheritance, Serah unlocked the iron box until all its golden contents were on display. "Farkas, I want to give you half of my inheritance."
"Oh no, Serah there's no way - hold on now! Half?!" She nodded, as if giving away nearly fifty-thousand septims freely was natural. "S-Serah, why…? First of all, why're you wanting to give me some of your inheritance; and second, why half?!"
Hand firmly holding the chest, she peered upward at him. "Because of everything you've done for me since Kodlak took me in. Both you and Vilkas were always there, yeah, but…" Snickering behind her hand, the woman stepped forward, grabbing his as well. "Well, look what's happened to us since we've been here! You've done so much and…fuck, I don't need this much gold, Farkas!"
"No, Serah."
"Please, Farkas? You can give it away, do whatever you want with it!"
His turn to sigh, Farkas glanced at Serah, to the gold, then back to Serah. "I don't doubt you wanting to give me some, but are you sure that's really why? Or you just don't feel comfortable taking septims from your parents, even if it's your inheritance?" Meekly nodding, she refused to meet his stare, embarrassed he knew the truth without her stating it. Then again, this was Farkas; the man might as well be gifted with the ability to read her thoughts. "Alright, I'll take whatever you want to give me."
"Thank you," her words were quick, hugging him from around the neck. Hastily, she locked the lid, eyeing around the room, making sure they had everything they needed. "If we're wanting to leave, let's not waste another minute. We might be able to make it to make it past Mistwatch Tower."
"Oh, that far, huh?"
"Mhm. You're the one who put the idea of returning to Whiterun in my head, now all I can think is seeing Vilkas and sleeping in my own bed!" Skipping, towards the stirs, she promptly stopped, glancing over her shoulder. "You know, that kinda reminds me. What're you wanting the others to know about…us?"
"Oh ho, worried what the others might think of us, eh?"
"No and…yes?" Seeing his eyes narrowing in questioning, Serah added, "I just don't want to be teased!"
"Who'll tease you?"
"Everyone!" Surprisingly, she laughed at the thought of the faces of everyone in Whiterun, especially Jorrvaskr once they noticed the closeness they she and Farkas now shared. "Torvar, Ria, Skjor might ignore us, but Aela will definitely say something."
"Oh by all the nine." Grasping her shoulders, Farkas leant forward slightly, eyes on balance with hers. "Let me ask you this: will anything change between us if others were to discover what we have?"
"N-No," she struggled to speak, a chuckled escaped from her lips. "Fine! But if they say anything, I'm sending them to you!"
"Don't worry, little one. I'll take care of them for you." Kissing her temple, the man nudged her slightly back towards the stairs. "Well, let's move; we're losing daylight."
"Psh! No we are not! It's not even midday yet, Farkas!"
"Says you." Swatting her butt, Farkas edged her to move faster, to which it worked. Her beautiful giggle the sound he loved to hear, whenever he could. Keeping his eyes trained on her, he couldn't resist to observe as she hastily grab the last of her items. Thinking back on her wanting to gift him half her inheritance, the male Companion was in disbelief. He didn't deserve such a gift based on her reasons. He had done everything in his life for her because it was Serah! He would've done it anyways. Asked or not.
Still, the man thought. This couldn't have been given to me at a better time.
"Finally! I'm all ready. Let's get going!" Upstairs, they made sure to each hold one of the chests before locking the door; Farkas was to guard the key until they were to see Aragorn again. They both hoped he would be in Whiterun when they returned home. Outside the north gate, they secured their steeds with their belongings and were off into the wilderness of Skyrim.
I believe it's time to speak with Proventus Avenicci. He did mention the plot between Olava and Ysolda's house was in consideration for constructing another house, with no buyer having been interested. Well guess what, Proventus. A buyer is now interested, and I'm hoping it'll be completed by the time I want to ask a certain someone an important question.
~ oOo ~
Thanks for everyone whose read, it really means a lot.
Chocobocolina :3