DISCLAIMER: I do not own Skyrim or it's characters. This story is based on the game storyline, but does on occasion fall victim to my creative liberties. Some things may be out of order, non existent, or go off on a completely new path. Hope you will forgive me, and enjoy.

WARNING: This story is rated M for language, violence, and sexual situations.

Always

Sleep was an elusive thing, often bearing down upon the mind at the most inconvenient of times and an impossibility when actually desired. The mind and body needed rest to function. Required those blissful few hours in which all thoughts were cut off and all motion stilled. In the distant past such nights of rest were plentiful, but rarely taken advantage of. Such was the way of the young. Such energy taken for granted. Never a thought in the mind of the young that one day such negligence might catch them up. But to the old, much more rest is needed, but unattainable. Many, many nightly hours simply lying prone and waiting for the dreams that will not come.

Or so it was for an old female such as her. Tossing and turning did little but cause the ache in her knee and hip to return despite the tonic she'd taken to both dull the pain and to encourage sleep. Neither was working. The brain simply wouldn't shut off. Images and memories of years past refused to cease their constant replay in her mind's eye. She sighed in depressed acceptance. Perhaps she could walk off the trapped energy. Maybe even tire her old bones out so that sleep would finally come.

Though she hadn't realized she'd done it, her wrinkled and thin hand touched the open place beside her where once her mate used to lay. The sudden shock of her absence sent a painful jolt through her very soul. A lump rose in her throat as she looked. The pillow still remained where it had always been. The blankets slightly ruffled from her own tossing and turning. Still the same after all these years, and yet she could hardly bear to look upon the… emptiness. Yes, a walk was necessary. If not to encourage sleep, than to escape the horrid ghost haunting her memories.

Up was not a simple concept. Often one of the children would need to help her rise to her feet, but there was no way she was calling for help. Eisra scolded her for trying to move about the house by herself. Pride and pure stubbornness would be her aid. After three tries, her ancient bones bore her weight and she was up on her feet. Wobbly though her knees were. The slightly painful ache in her chest subsided after a few moments of careful breathing. The hand carved wolf's head cane at her bedside, smooth and worn from many years of use, fit perfectly in her bony hand. Getting through the manor was a simple task. She knew every inch of the home she and her mate had shared throughout their entire lives together. Even in the dark of the early morning, each and every step was confident and sure.

The stairs though… were a trial. Twelve steps in all, and her knee complained the whole dozen. Her mind went back to their first mishap on these stairs. The children were playing inside while the skies above poured down buckets and buckets of water. That year she and her mate had been concerned with flooding in the lower fields. They'd both spent an exhausting day working to bring in their and their neighbors livestock. Soaked to the bone and trying to warm up by the hearth fire, a loud bang vibrated through the house. Hroar, maybe fourteen or fifteen years old then, came rushing to his mothers, shouting and wailing that, "It wasn't my fault!"

Francois, the youngest boy at the time, had slipped on the first step and fallen face first into the stairs during a game of tag. The sharp edge of the stair busted the young boy's chin wide open. He shrieked and cried in both pain and the sudden panic of seeing blood. The old female that she was remembered so clearly her mate's swift, yet caring response. After she patched Francois up and got him calmed down, all three of them sat by the hearth fire and read one of the boy's favorite stories. Soon after she'd started all the children joined, sipping on warm tea and listening to the tale.

The old female passed by the worn hearth, still warm from that night's fire. The stones like a long lost friend, fondly remembered and lovingly cherished. So was the weathered chair that was once her mate's favorite spot to sit and watch goings on in the main hall. No one sat in it anymore. Not for years. In her current mood, the old female could bear to look upon the empty chair almost as much as she could the empty side of the bed. Which was not at all.

The night was cool, edging on cold for this time of year. Last Seed had come and gone, fall returning once again to Skyrim. It had been quite some time since… since the hearth-side chair became empty, many a changing of the leaves, and still the pain never dulled. She and her mate had been married this time of year a little more than forty-two years ago. A lifetime ago it seemed. After thinking on that, she realized that's exactly what it was. A lifetime spent with the female she loved, though… it hadn't been as long as either one of them had expected.

The garden was quiet. Calm. Lovingly tended by herself and by those of her and her mate's children, or their grandchildren, who resided at Solstice. Eisra, made head of the household when the old female had lost interest, kept everything as it was in her childhood. The Fighting Academy, the stables, the fields, the servant homes, the gardens, the house and so on and so on. Everything. All but one place. Just one. Her far less nimble fingers carefully picked a dozen or so of the many flowers in the garden before slowly passing through the gate.

The place she steadily made her way to was down the path from the garden. A nook jutting out from the rocky hillside, shaded beneath a great tree, big enough for a stone bench and a gravestone. She'd spent hours and hours beneath the bows of that tree. Hours spent in either quiet contemplation, one sided conversation, or in silent tears. Most often in tears. At least of late. Tonight however, she felt like talking to her mate. Even though she knew her wolf was unable to answer.

"Forgive me, Love. I looks like I'll be disturbing your rest again. I hope you won't mind." Serana's voice creaked. She hardly heard it anymore. Whenever she did, it was to answer a question, but no more than a word or two. Visiting Alessia's tombstone was the only time she found the strength or will for anything more. Not even their children could draw more from her.

The gravestone was a simple one, as Alessia would have wished it to be. A thin slab of white stone, pale as moonlight, carefully carved and placed just so. It said simply, "Beloved" underneath Alessia's name. Many of the children wished to use one or more of their Mama's many proud titles, but Serana had overruled them. Her wolf had been humble in all things. Her burial would be no different than how she'd have wished it. Serana's own fire had burned her beloved's remains to ash, then buried here beneath the stone marker.

Carefully, Serana lowered herself to her knees and cleaned off the pale stone; dead leaves and bits of dirt and grass. That chore done, one of which she did almost daily, she then removed the old flowers from the vase and put the new, fresh ones in their place. Her long fingers then traced the familiar letters etched into the stone. A path they knew well.

"We didn't make it our fifty years did we?" Serana asked, placing her withered brow against the cool rock. Her mind wandered back to that night they'd first spent in each other's arms. How worried Serana was back then, thinking her immortality would forever separate her from the female she loved. Alessia had consoled her, explaining that a lifespan of a werewolf was a long one. Fifty years at least, she'd been promised. They hadn't been given that long. Not even forty years. "But you were right about one thing. You did get to see our great grandchild before you left me. I don't blame you, Love. It wasn't your fault."

Indeed it hadn't been. In fact, her wolf had gone into the After doing what she always had. Protecting those she cared for. Her wife, her children, her friends… even complete strangers. Alessia had only just started showing signs of decline. Those who knew of her lycanthropy suspected the early decline was because she'd endured the traumatic ritual of becoming a werewolf twice. No matter how strong the individual, a body can handle only so much. Alessia was still hanging on, fighting the downward spiral, when unexpected tragedy tore Serana and her mate apart. Serana's heart lurched, a physical pang that had her short of breath and struggling to regain it.

Was it possible to die of heartbreak? Gods knew she'd lain awake countless nights begging for her heart to just stop. She hadn't cared that their children would miss her, or that she'd promised her mate she'd keep on living… All that mattered was the empty place in their bed. And her waking up in the middle of the night thinking the past five years had all been one long nightmare. Then remembering that it wasn't. That side of the bed really was empty. So was the chair by the hearth and the workroom and the office and the stables and…

"I'm trying, Alessia. I'm trying to keep my promise. But I'm tired, Love. I am so tired. I'm just… here waiting. Waiting until I can follow after you." Serana cried against the cold stone, knowing full well that there was no one there to hear. Despite the tears and the lump in her throat, Serana chuckled sadly. "I was hoping you'd be the one sitting around waiting to die and missing me. Not the other way around. I guess that serves me right for wishing I would go before you did."

Serana sighed and situated herself a bit more comfortably on the ground. Not that any position on the ground would be comfortable for any length of time. But she simply couldn't bear the thought of being so far away from all the remained of her wolf. Not even the few feet between the stone and the bench. She talked a little while. Telling Alessia of all the goings on in Solstice. The new students, new teachers, lesson plans, tournaments scheduled and so on. There were new babies born, both human and equine. Though Jasa was long gone, the famous mare's decedents were still around. As for Skyrim, there was endless news on what was happening politically. Serana hardly bothered with that though. In Alessia's later years, she'd cared less and less about that sort of thing.

"I've been asked back to Volkihar Castle. I head out tomorrow. Mother asked me to visit. My guess is she wants to try and convince me to take up immortality again. Fat chance of that. Who wants to be an old bag of bones for eternity? Not this old lady." Serana spoke as if she'd received an answer. Something Alessia would have said in their earlier years together. Something about not wanting Serana to give up her immortally for the sake of a mere mortal. She reached into her nightclothes, pulling out a small golden chain that was still around her neck. On it was the wedding band Alessia had once worn. The ring was worn and tarnished with age. "The answer is still, no. I made up my mind years ago. I'm not doing it."

Another pause for an imagined response.

"No, I'm not going by myself. Eisra offered to come with me. Our girl hardly lets me tend the garden by myself. You really think she'd let me go as far as Volkihar Castle alone? She's as stubborn as you are…" There was that jolt of pain again. She corrected herself. "Were. As you were."

Another pause. One of which she could have sworn she'd heard an actual response. Perhaps the wind in the tree overhead, leaves rustling out sounds her mind was trying to make sense of. Wishful thinking. Or… not so wishful thinking. Maybe her wolf really was trying to say something, using what effects she could to speak.

"I love you, too. And I miss you, my wolf."

Serana didn't know when it happened, but sleep started to weigh her eyelids down. She would be sore in the morning, stiff jointed and back aching. Other than hearing Eisra's constant chattering at her, there would be no regrets. Why would she? Why would she ever regret sleeping alongside her mate again?

"Mother, you shouldn't be out by yourself at night." Eisra complained the next morning when she'd come looking for Serana. The female hadn't been pleased. Not at all. She was like her Mama in so, so many ways. She worried so much over her Mother. Cared almost too much for everyone around her. Worked to insure everyone's safety and happiness.

When she'd awoken to Eisra's worried and angry shouts of alarm, Serana opened her eyes and thought she'd seen a ghost. Not only was the female so much like Alessia in behaviorisms, she was also a dead ringer for her Mama. Tall. Lithe, yet muscular. Hair black as a raven's wing and cut short. The difference was her eyes, and even that was only slightly. Eisra had a rare eye coloration that, after many years of inquiry, Serana and Alessia learned was called heterochromia. Her eyes were two different colors; one emerald green, like Serana's, and the other ice blue, like Alessia's. It had startled her new mothers when first they'd adopted the girl at the age of two months old. It was as though the Gods had known where the babe was to end up, and gave her the eyes of both her parents.

Serana awoke once again thinking the past few years had been some horrible nightmare. That her wolf was alive and well and searching for her. Then the dark haired female turned, showing her one green left eye, and reality fell back into place. Eisra had been both angry and relieved to find her Mother, her justified scolding halting after she realized where they were. After that, she'd bit down on her comments and simply helped Serana to her feet. When it became apparent that she couldn't walk, Eisra just picked her elderly Mother up and held her gently in her arms. Not that Serana weighed very much, but still… the female was strong. Lycanthropic strong.

That had been… a very hard time for Alessia. When Eisra grew old enough to begin making her own choices on how she would live her life, the change into a werewolf was one such choice. Alessia was always honest with her children, telling them what she was and, more or less, how she'd come to be what she was. That had always fascinated Eisra as a child. When she was of an age, she asked for her Mama to turn her. Of course, Alessia refused, just as she had with all her children who'd asked. She'd always been very, very clear that she would never pass on her lycanthropy. Eisra persisted. Going so far as to go outside the Circle pack, after they all refused as their Alpha commanded.

Once Alessia learned of her daughters wanderings… Things got very bad for a time. Not even Serana could calm her wolf for any considerable length of time. As Alpha of the strongest pack in Skyrim, Alessia warned any other packs away from her daughter. Most obeyed, knowing full well the power of the Circle Pack Alpha. One wolf, did not. The male openly tried to lure Eisra to him with promises of power and pack. Thank the Gods the girl had had enough sense to keep her distance, sensing something off about the male. Alessia took care of him, her beast unable to resist a blatant challenge by a male who'd set his eyes upon her whelp. Wolf hunted the young male, killed him. When Alessia returned home, blank faced and bloody, she didn't speak for nearly a fortnight. Not even to Serana.

After that, Eisra understood far better what she was asking of her Mama. But still she asked. Alessia toiled over the request for many weeks, often seeking Serana for guidance and advice. Serana had liked the idea no more than Alessia had, but feared that their daughter might again go find someone willing to change her should her Mama still refuse. So, they made a compromise. Three years. They asked three years of Eisra. She would study lycanthropy, speak with the Circle Pack and other packs, speak with Alessia; learn absolutely everything there was to learn about werewolves. Only after those three years would Alessia agree to be her forebear. Three years later, they traveled to the Underforge in Whiterun and Eisra became moonborn. The years after that day were hard on both the wolves of the family, but they'd done it.

Now in her mid thirties, Eisra was as fine a wolf as her Mama was. Strong of body, sound of mind, and loyal of heart. Before the female could walk away from the gravestone, Serana stopped her. "Wait, Dear. One more goodbye before we set off for Volkihar Castle."

With a nod, Eisra bent so that Serana could reach out and touch the pale stone. She wasn't sure why, but something told her she needed to touch the gravestone one last time before leaving. As if, she might not ever be able to return to this place. Despite an irrational fear that that was so, another part of her truly hoped it was so. Though she was considering calling off the trip altogether, Serana gave the werewolf a nod and Eisra started back up the path.

"I'm sorry I got so angry before, Mother. I just get so worried about you." The wolf whined, obvious guilt in her tone. "Every time I don't find you in bed, I think, 'This is it. Mother has gone and died on her way up to see Mama.' Do you know how much that scares me?"

"I know, I know. I couldn't sleep until I was near her." Serana explained, knowing she was only repeating what she'd already said a hundred times before. "You know how I get sometimes."

"Yeah. I understand." Eisra turned her head. At that angle, only her blue eye was visible. Oh, how much she looked like Alessia. She must have seen the look on Serana's face because she turned back so that both eyes were easily seen. "Sorry. I know… I know it's hard for you to… look at me. Without seeing Mama, I mean."

"It is an uncanny resemblance. And, yes, it is hard sometimes because you do look a lot like her. But you are you, Eisra. Don't think I don't know that." Serana touched her daughter's cheek, not mentioning the wetness there. "I love you, Dear. And I'm proud of who you've become. If your Mama was here, she'd say the same thing."

Eisra chuffed. "She'd muss my hair and call me Cuan. Her 'little wolf'. Where'd she learn that word anyway? Is it Draconic?"

"Not any Draconic I'd ever heard her speak. But that doesn't mean much. I never managed much more than a few words of the dragon tongue here or there." Serana said. "Perhaps you could ask Elder Brother? He would be more than happy to speak with you. Especially about your Mama."

"Maybe I'll send a message to High Hrothgar when we get back." The wolf thought about it. "Mother, are you sure you want to make this trip? I could always go and escort Grandam down here for a visit. Or we could meet up at Solitude. Why do you have to be the one to make the journey?"

"Because it will do me good to get out of the house. Or so, I've been told. Your brother thinks I'm depressed." Serana sighed. "Actually, all my children think I'm depressed."

"No offense, Mother, but you just spent the night sleeping next to your deceased wife's tombstone because, and I quote, 'you couldn't sleep until you were near her.' I think we're a bit beyond depressed now."

Serana actually chuckled. "Can't deny that. Which is why I agreed to go visit my mother."

Eisra gave her a look. "And seeing Grandam is supposed to help you not be depressed how, exactly?"

Now Serana laughed. It felt good to do so, despite her melancholy.

"There you are. Good to see you laugh again, Mother." Eisra smiled as they passed through the archway into the garden proper. The Gildergreen Alessia had planted in the center of the garden had flourished here, growing as big and strong as it's fellow in Whiterun. Seeing it brought another painful pang, but one accompanied by a small smile. Her wolf had been so proud of that tree, spending hours and hours tending it. Eisra noted her mood and tried to keep it up. "How about breakfast? I can get the cook to make that porridge you like. The one with the apples and cinnamon?"

Despite herself, her stomach rumbled. Serana hadn't much of an appetite, but apparently her body had other ideas. That too brought back painful memories of her mate. But she pushed them aside for now, sending a soft apology to her wolf. Wherever she was. "That sounds lovely, Cuan."

The trip to Solitude was a long, uncomfortable one. Eisra, of course, accompanied Serana. But also Hroar and Samuel as well. They'd insisted upon it. Samuel, Serana and Alessia's eldest son now grown to a man well into his later years, and with children and a very young grandchild of his own, rode alongside the wagon on a gray steed. He'd been a soldier up until only a few years ago, serving in the Imperial Legion. Alessia herself had taught him how to use a sword. That solid foundation had served him well during his time in service, earning him a high rank early on. Even now, even as an older man, he was still formidable with a sword.

Hroar, now in his late forties, drove the wagon Serana was in. The young man had traveled around all of Skyrim in his youth, seeking out adventure and riches just as his Mama had in her youth. Though less successful at it, he eventually settled down in Riften. Within a week's time, Alessia had received a letter from the Thieves Guild asking if her son would make for a good member. To their surprise, Hroar sent another letter shortly after asking about the shadowy figure he'd caught glimpses of around town. Alessia hadn't even needed to send a reply. Shortly after that, Hroar sent another letter stating he knew who it was and that he was now employed and very happy.

They took the western path out of Whiterun, stopping for a night in both Rorikstead and Dragon Bridge. Though in her youth, roughing it in the wilds was a common thing. Alessia always seemed to enjoy the time spent outdoors. Serana tried not to linger on thoughts of her mate while in either town. The pair had stayed in both so often that the memories of such times were plentiful. The reminiscing was harder to resist in Dragon Bridge.

Serana found herself walking back behind the tavern, gazing upon the very spot where she and her mate had finally decided to take that frightening first step out of mere friendship and into an actual relationship. The place hadn't changed much. A few things were moved, but little things. The stream where she'd watched her wolf wash off the sweat and grime from a few hours worth of wood chopping. The stump where she had done said chopping. That same patch of dirt where Serana had slapped her wolf for her apology, then kissed her because she couldn't do otherwise.

She'd sat hours by the stream, trying to recapture all the sensations from that moment. Trying to remember each and every tiny detail. When it grew late, Eisra tracked Serana down and helped her back inside. The female said nothing, sensing more of her mother's melancholy. Inside, her sons were seated and talking with each other happily. It appeared as though, Samuel was trying to convince his brother to do something. Eisra carefully guided Serana over to the table and got her into a chair before taking a seat herself.

"Are you hungry, Mother?" Eisra asked, glancing around for the tavern wench.

Before she could answer, Samuel smiled at her. "Mother, will you tell my little brother to live a little? Please?"

"I told you already, I'm not interested." Hroar sighed, looking to his mother. "Samuel seems to think I'm… staring too closely at the lass serving our table."

"It's called ogling. How many times did our mothers have that conversation?" Eisra sniffed, eyes still searching.

Hroar rolled his eyes. "Whatever it's called. I'm not doing it."

"Oh, I beg to differ." Samuel chuckled into his mug. "Look any harder and the poor girl will catch on fire."

"I said I am not interested."

Apparently finally catching sight of the wench, Eisra asked, "Is that her, Sam?"

The elder brother turned to look. "That's her. Pretty little thing, isn't she. Perfect for our Little Lion."

"Better hope Hera doesn't hear you say that." Eisra warned, still looking.

Following Eisra's gaze, Serana finally saw what all the fuss was about. The "girl" was actually a woman. A young woman, but old enough for the word. At least in her late twenties, maybe early thirties. Though she was by no means a large woman, the wench was a little thick. Mostly in the hips and thighs. Which… was actually quite attractive. Her face was full, pleasant to look upon, with a lovely smile. Long, mousy brown hair, hung in a careful braid and coiled up at the nape of her neck with a red ribbon. Though Serana couldn't tell from the distance, her eyes looked like a lighter shade of brown. Golden almost.

Though her eldest son was making covert glances and picking at his younger brother, who was entirely focused on not looking, Eisra on the other hand, most certainly was looking. Serana recognized that look. She'd been on the receiving end of it for many, many years. A wolf's rapt attention. An instinctual draw of the eyes that they could no more fight than the sun could remain in the sky after sunset. Eisra's whole body tensed, preparing for… something. Cautiously, Serana placed her hand over her daughter's. There was a slight twitch, and an ever so light turn of the head, but no more.

In a voice only the werewolf would hear, Serana asked, "Cuan, take a breath. Remember what your Mama taught you."

That got through. Slowly, Eisra's shoulders relaxed and her breathing leveled out. Though she was obviously still shaken, stealing quick glances towards the wench, the wolf turned back around to face her mother. In a small, terrified voice she said, "That was… intense."

"I didn't know you…" Serana paused, her own eyes flicking towards the woman. "Liked women."

There was a small blush in her daughter's cheeks. "I've… liked both. But… I've never felt that… strongly towards anyone."

Serana smiled, remembering back to that first moment Alessia's blue eyes locked on her. "Your Mama once told me how it felt to her. How did she put it…? Her Wolf was very… insistent. An inkling at first, but the feeling kept growing."

"That's certainly the right word, 'insistent'." Eisra muttered. "It's taking everything I have not to get up from this chair and go over there."

"Why haven't you?" Serana grinned. "This isn't a bad thing, Eisra. Your Mama bonding with me was the best thing that had ever happened to me. And vice versa. You could have the same. Better maybe."

The wolf thought about that for a moment, then shook her head. "I don't know how to do this… I'm not as strong as Mama was. I'm not that brave."

"You'll take on rival packs, trolls, bandits, ghosts and so on without flinching. And yet this scares you?" Serana motioned to Eisra's chest right where her heart was. "Trust your instincts. They'll tell you what to do."

Eisra sighed, appearing to hesitate with what she wanted to say. That was when the wench spotted Samuel's searching gaze and padded over. No doubt thinking he wanted something. In a warm, friendly voice, she asked, "Yes, were you wanting something else?"

Samuel slapped his younger brother's shoulder. "My little brother did. Didn't you, Hroar?"

Recovering from the smack, coughing through his spilt mug of ale, Hroar shook his head. "I only wanted to get your attention for my mother and sister. Eisra, you wanted to get Mother something?"

The woman's full attention turned to Eisra, who visibly tensed. Serana could easily see the woman's face now. Freckles lined her cheeks, red and slightly damp from a night of running about the tavern. Her eyes were in fact gold. Pretty little thing indeed. Poor Eisra, eyes downcast and to the side, stammered a bit in her nervousness. "Erm… Mother, what did you want to eat?"

That pulled the woman's attention to Serana. She looked a bit confused, having been passed off from not one, not two, but three customers at the table. If Serana didn't know any better, the woman looked a little irked. But Serana wasn't pleased with how her children were behaving. Treating workers so rudely was never a wise course of action. Especially ones who would be handling your food.

"Forgive my children's rudeness, my Dear… Um, what was your name again?" Serana said in her most put on "innocent old lady" voice.

"Falean, Ma'am. Though, most just call me Fae." The woman, Falean, answered with a genuine smile.

Serana smiled back. "Ah, that's a lovely name. Don't you think so, Eisra?"

Seeming as though she would be more than happy to sink into the floor and down into darkness, Eisra nodded once, eyes looking anywhere but at Falean.

"Names are interesting things… They have power." Serana kept up the act. "Why my late wife often called Eisra by 'Cuan', which means 'little wolf'. I'm not sure where my Alessia got it from, but was it ever accurate. My Eisra is quite the fighter. Strong and fast. Like a wolf, one might say."

"Mother…" Eisra groaned.

That drew Falean's attention back to Eisra. With a sly smile, the woman looked her over. "Is that so? Your mothers must be very proud Miss… Eisra, was it?"

"Yes. Cuan is just a nickname." That seemed to peek Eisra's interest, eyes lifting to look at the woman addressing her.

Falean's eyes widened in surprise, making direct eye contact with Eisra. After a moment, the woman bent in close. "My stars… Look at those eyes… Two different colors."

It was obvious the closeness was making Eisra uneasy. Obvious to anyone who knew a werewolf's body language. Eisra nodded. "Born that way. One blue, one green."

"They're beautiful. I'll be all the men chase after you with eyes like that."

"Not really."

Pause, then Falean must have realized she was making Eisra uncomfortable. But instead of backing off, she gave a sly grin. "You're shy."

The blush gave Eisra away. She said nothing, but her nose was sniffing away. Serana could smell the woman even from across the table. Falean smelt of sweat, food and drink. She was, after all, a tavern wench. Underneath that though, she smelt of flowers and herbs. Earthy. Perhaps she liked to garden.

"Mmm… A shy little wolf. That's actually quite adorable." Falean chuckled as she stood back up. Eisra seemed to relax a bit, but her gaze did not. Something shifted in her eyes. A predator's gaze. Wolf's attentive stare. Even her brothers seemed to notice, though they'd stopped talking when the whole conversation began. Falean, on the other hand, hadn't noticed at all. She turned to Serana. "What can I get for you, Ma'am?"

Satisfied she'd done her part, Serana made her dinner selection; venison stew with hearty vegetables and a hunk of bread. As Falean turned towards the kitchens, one last look at Eisra, the female wolf watched her go. Serana watched her daughter watch the woman, and chuckled. "You're welcome."

"Mother, was that wise?" Hroar asked, eying his sister's interested gaze following after the woman. "To be so… up front about, well, you know. Our Cuan."

Serana narrowed her eyes at her son. "For one, I said nothing of the sort. Second, your Mama did call Eisra by Cuan, and, three, Eisra is a fighter."

"You shouldn't have done that, Mother. It's dangerous for-" The low growl was a surprise to the whole table, even to the one who'd uttered it.

Eisra glared at Samuel despite her surprise, a clear warning in her eyes. "That's none of your business, Brother."

"Like hell it isn't." Samuel said, though he kept his eyes averted. "I know you wouldn't do it on purpose, but you might hurt that woman. And if you do, you'll hate yourself for the rest of your life."

Another growl, Wolf apparent in Eisra's tone. "You think I don't know that?"

"No. I don't actually." Samuel crossed his arms and shook his head slowly. "Eisra, this is one of the things Mama tried warning you about. Only you didn't listen."

"I did listen and I can handle myself." Eisra bared her teeth in anger. "I knew what I was getting into. I don't need another lecture from you."

"Both of you stop." Serana said softly. "Now."

The table quieted. It took a moment for Eisra to calm herself fully. Serana knew very, very well when a werewolf was about to lose control. Her daughter's fists were clenched, shoulders tight, teeth bared, whole body shaking… If Samuel didn't back off, things would be getting hairy very quickly. Serana waited patiently, giving her daughter the opportunity to relax. In that time she glared daggers at her eldest son. To his credit, Samuel looked chastened.

"Cuan?" Serana asked calmly.

Eisra swallowed and nodded once. "I'm fine."

"Samuel, has your sister ever given you any reason to doubt her control?" Serana asked.

The man glanced at his brother, who hadn't said a word in all of this, back at his mother, then at Eisra. "No."

"Then why do you doubt me in this?" Eisra asked, hurt plain in her eyes.

"I don't doubt you, Sister. I just think this is… careless."

Serana sipped daintily at her mug. "Sam, I seem to remember many a broken hearted lover in your wake. Need I mention that red headed woman from the Rift?"

Hroar chuffed. "The one who claimed he was the father of her unborn child? Such pretty words you whispered in her ear so that you might spread her-"

"Alright! Alright." Samuel cut his brother off. Hroar just laughed and slugged his brother's shoulder. "Maybe I have little room to talk about leaving a woman high and dry."

"After what you said about that night, I'd hardly call the woman dr-" Samuel slugged Hroar's shoulder to shut him up. "Ow!"

"Cut it out, you two. You're acting like children." Serana hissed.

"Men…" Eisra sighed, running her hands through her hair in frustration.

It was so much like Alessia it made Serana's heart lurch again. The memory of the many, many times her wolf had made that same motion came to bear. Alessia had tried so very hard to prepare Eisra for the life she would lead as a werewolf. Making sure she understood all that would be required to know and understand. The abilities she would gain, as well as the burdens she would bring upon herself. Aside from the permanence of the change, Eisra would become barren. No children of her own. Only those of her heart. Likewise, partners who could accept her beast were few and far between. Plus… the bond. Taking hold unexpectedly, and remaining despite whatever was done to remove it. The bond would lessen over time and distance should Eisra not pursue the relationship. But should she even try… it would lock into place for good.

Not that Eisra had bonded to Falean. Not that Serana could tell for sure anyway. The bonding scent was unique for each wolf, so she wouldn't be able to tell that way. Plus, the scent wouldn't develop until later. And it was still too early for an outside observer, even one so experienced as she, to tell just by looking. Only Eisra could know that. Which was probably why the poor female looked so distressed. She may want nothing more than to pursue the bonding, despite her fears on how Falean would react to her… Wolf. Or she could be trying to suppress the feeling altogether.

The very thought of her daughter suppressing such a thing made Serana's heart break. She knew the depths of a mated wolf's devotion. Denying the bond could cause physical harm to the wolf. Especially if the feeling was first encouraged then cut off. Alessia told her of the struggle she endured those three months she and Serana were apart. Her wolf had buried herself in her work, attempting to exhaust herself into forgetting. It hadn't worked. But when Serana had returned, it was like… water given to one who had just crossed an endless desert. A starving man given food. A suffocating woman who'd at last received air.

The two men straightened up when Falean brought Serana's meal over and sat it on the table. Serana watched her. Watched Eisra too. The wolf kept her eyes down, not daring to even look at the woman. Falean, however, eyed Eisra curiously. She said nothing, merely asked if the table needed anything more. They said no, and she was gone again.

After a long moment, Eisra muttered, "How did Mama do this for so long?"

"You're a little older than she was when we first met. By that time, she'd been moonborn for over ten years." Serana answered. "I don't think it was ever easy for her, but that was your Mama. Stubborn as an ox when she wanted to be. Even when she had a chance to be normal again, she didn't."

"No cure. I know." Eisra nodded. "I guess I'll just have to be like she was. Stubborn and brave."

"That's my girl." Serana smiled at her daughter. "She'd be proud of you, you know? I have no doubts about that."

That got the wolf to smile, albeit a small one. "She'd probably tell me to go for it, wouldn't she? Make it work somehow."

"I will move mountains to make it so. Whatever we have to do, we will make this work."

Alessia had told her that the very same day they'd defeated Harkon. They'd been… discussing Serana's decision to give up her immortally. Her wolf hadn't much liked the idea of her sacrificing who she was, not even for the sake of keeping them together. Even so, Alessia had promised she'd help. In the end they'd been able to compromise, Serana settling for being a mortal half-breed. Still, Alessia hadn't relaxed until Serana had told her she was satisfied with the change. After that, her wolf had made it her goal in their life together to make Serana's choice worth the sacrifice. And she'd succeeded.

"Just… be open to the idea, Cuan. You're brothers mean well, but they can't understand." Serana advised, reaching over to take her daughter's hands. They were warm. Very warm. Like Alessia's had been. "If your Mama hadn't let herself accept the bond… I would have lived a life never knowing the kind of love and happiness I have now. I'd probably be dead. Or worse."

Eisra eyed her mother's hand over her own, then smiled. "If I only have half of what you and Mama do… I'll be a lucky female."

"Do…" Not did… Because that was true. Serana still had that love despite the pain of her loss. Alessia had given that to her throughout their long marriage. Love. More than anyone could ever hope to attain. And once Serana faded from the mortal coil and went unto the After, she would find her love again.

Eisra

The hour was late. Or… rather the hour was early. Wolf was restless, pacing about under Eisra's skin like a predator on the prowl. She knew what the problem was. Knew that there was only one solution. But it was one she hesitated to pursue. Sam, though painfully misguided as he was, did have a point. Eisra's beast was dangerous. At times she felt as though her wolf was ready to burst out from her skin at the slightest provocation. That had lessened over time as she grew more skilled at controlling her temper. Mama had always been a solid fixture she could count on to help keep herself in check. Training was key. Knowledge of one's self was key. Understanding of Wolf's wants and needs was key.

Sometimes, Eisra would find a secluded, quiet place near Solstice simply for the purpose of meditation. She often found that helped her connect with Wolf better. They'd held hundreds of conversations between them, most one trying to understand the other. Because of this, Eisra felt her wolf understood the human world far greater than even her Mama's wolf had. Or at least it had felt that way at the time. Now…

Now Eisra couldn't stop thinking about Falean. It was frustrating as hell. She'd hardly spoken a full sentence to the woman. And what she had said made her sound like some babbling idiot. Especially since her fool brothers had made such… well, fools of themselves in front of Falean. Fae… She liked Falean better. It was an absolutely beautiful name. Matched the woman who owned it. 'Cat-like', it meant. With those golden eyes… Falean very much resembled a cat.

Go find her, Wolf insisted.

I'm not doing that. She's probably asleep by now anyway.

And? Go wake her up.

No. She didn't seem interested. Why would I put myself through the embarrassment when I know she's going to reject me?

She smelt interested. Or did you miss her scent on purpose?

The thought brought Eisra up short. You're pulling my leg.

I am not pulling your leg. Why would I do that if not to tear it off?

Sometimes Wolf still didn't quite get the idioms. Eisra clarified. I mean, you are not being honest with me.

I am always honest with you. I am you, dolt.

Still doesn't mean I'm going to do it.

Hroar will then. He smelt interested.

What?

Your brother. He lied about not being interested. I could clearly smell his arous-

Ack! I don't want to hear that!

So, does that mean you'll go?

You're pulling my leg again. Hroar is not interested.

He is.

Is not.

Is.

Not.

A small sound from the room next to hers caught Eisra's attention. Mother still lay snoring softly in her own bed on the other side of the room. It had taken a very long time for her mother to fall asleep, so Eisra most certainly did not want to disturb her. Sam and Hroar were sharing their own room beside theirs. Which was where the sound came from. Eisra's hackles rose, and before she could stifle it, a low growl crawled up her throat.

Wolf smugly added, Is.

Damn it.

Eisra was out of bed in a flash, throwing on her pants and boots as quickly and quietly as possible. Despite her rush, she paused to check her image in the mirror by the wash basin. She looked terrible. Like a sleep deprived raccoon with a bad hair day. Hastily she dipped her hands into the water and tried taming her short, dark hair. No good. It just looked like a mess of bed head that was now wet. How had Mama managed to make her mess of hair look so perfectly tousled? So neatly messed up?

You look fine. Now hurry up. Wolf snarled.

With a small snarl of her own, Eisra carefully opened and closed the door behind her. Looking around, Hroar was nowhere to be found. She sighed. Likely one of her brothers had kicked the wall while turning in their sleep. Oh well. She might as well go back to bed and try to-

"Eisra?" A familiar voice said somewhere to her right. Falean rose up from behind the bar, apparently having been kneeling. "Is something wrong?"

"Um… no. No, nothing's wrong. I just… ah…"

Is this some mating ritual you haven't explained to me yet? Wolf asked. Humans are strange creatures…

Shut up!

"I couldn't sleep. Mother snores." Eisra explained. Not a complete lie. Mother did snore. It just wasn't loud enough to keep her awake. Eisra scratched her head, trying to ignore how damp her hair was. "I just thought I'd get up and… do something, I guess."

Smooth…

I said shut up! I swear I will not speak to you for a month if you don't-

"Oh, I see." Falean said, obviously trying to hide an amused grin. "Well, have a nice night. I have some work that needs done before I can take off."

Do something, fool!

"Do you need a hand?" Eisra asked, looking about the tavern. The place was still a bit dirty from the night's festivities. "You had a busy night it seems."

That got the woman to smile. "I could certainly use the help. No one else helps out around here. I'll be glad to pay-"

Eisra shook her head vehemently. "No. I'm up anyway. Might as well do something useful."

The smile grew larger. "Where have you been all my life?"

Eisra chuckled at that, then began doing what she could. Falean directed her to gather all the mugs and platters and lug them all to the kitchens. Tables were cleared off and scrubbed in no time. The floors were next, getting a good sweep done before spot cleaning the worst places. That done, the dishes and glasses were then washed, dried, then placed back in their proper place. The bar was next. Eisra focused on polishing glasses with a clean rag while Falean took stock.

Talk to her, Wolf pushed. You already showed her you're a hard worker. A good provider. Now win her affections by seeming emotionally invested. Females like that.

Seem invested? I am invested.

Ah… So you admit it?

That's it. I'm not listening to you anymore.

"So, Falean, does this happen often?" Eisra asked. When the woman turned to look at her with a confused expression, she clarified. "The work, I mean. I saw at least three other women working tonight, plus the bartender. Why are you here by yourself so late?"

"Because I'm an idiot."

She hadn't expected such a blatant response. She chuffed, "Oh?"

Falean paused in her work and plopped herself up on the counter facing Eisra. "What I mean is, I don't have a social life. The other servers all have lives outside this place. So… when they skip out on work, I'm left with all the tasks. And since I don't have a life outside this place… I tend not to complain about it until I'm alone and doing them."

"Or you have some sleep deprived guest you can lasso into helping you." Eisra joked, which earned her a small laugh from Falean. She found she very much liked to see the woman laugh.

"Or that." Falean smiled. "Thank you, by the way. For the help. And for listening."

"Mama always said, 'More hands make for lighter work'. She would roll over in her grave if I was asked for aid and didn't grant it." Eisra said, carefully placing a clean and shining glass on the table.

Falean was quiet for a moment, thinking. "You've said both 'Mother' and 'Mama'. And the elderly woman I met earlier sitting with you said 'wife'. I don't mean to insult your family in any way, but…"

Knowing what she was trying to ask, Eisra smiled, showing she was not at all insulted. "I have two mothers, yes. Serana, the one you met earlier, I call 'Mother'. And Alessia, the one who's passed away, I call 'Mama'. It's a little confusing until you get used to it."

"So, you're adopted."

"Well, two females can hardly have a baby the natural way." They both chuckled, Falean seeming a bit embarrassed. Eisra continued on, not wanting to cause the woman any more discomfort. "But, yes. Me, and all twenty of my siblings are."

"Twenty?" The woman barked in surprise. "You have nineteen siblings? I can barely handle the one I have."

The wolf shrugged. "My mothers wanted a big family. Mama was an orphan growing up, no family at all, and Mother was a single child with… very difficult parents."

"But twenty?" Falean still seemed stunned by the mere thought of so many. "What was that like growing up?"

"Crowded."

Falean laughed. "I'll bet. What about having two mothers? What was that like?"

Eisra thought about it. "I'm not really sure if it's different from a regular family. I mean, a family with a father and a mother. I was only a few months old when my mothers took me home. At the time, the youngest of nine children by nearly ten years. There were only eight of us in the house at the time. My eldest sister was already married and about to have a baby. As for my mothers… They were amazing. I don't think I could have asked for more loving, caring, or kinder parents."

She suddenly grew very sad. Remembering how she'd found Mother only just a few days ago huddled next to the grave of her lost mate. The memory was only one of many mournful ones Eisra had of similar moments. It broke her heart each and every time. It was also a very large reason she'd had trouble with relationships thus far in her lifetime. Mama had warned her, tried preparing her for it. But, like Samuel had said, she hadn't listened. How was she to commit to loving someone when a similar fate like Mother's awaited her somewhere down the line? How could she do it knowing that lonely and sad existence was in store for her?

"Eisra?" Falean's voice pulled her out of the memories and fear. The woman was staring at her, golden eyes worried. "You went somewhere unpleasant. I could see it in your eyes. Do you… want to talk about it?"

Eisra looked down, ashamed of the sudden desire to share her burden. Though her siblings try to help in any way they can, most didn't see the daily breakdowns Mother endured. They just didn't have the senses a werewolf had. She could smell the tears on her mother's shirt, knowing full well it wasn't just perspiration from her working in the gardens. Or the puffy eyes that were not from lack of sleep. Or rather not just from lack of sleep. Or the lack of an appetite, leaving Mother as nothing more than a bag of bones. The female was seventy-one. No spring chicken, but she looked at least a hundred years old. All of that was from sorrow. A soul deep yearning to be with the female she loved again. Suicide. Just instead of a knife or a rope, it was a poison named heartbreak.

No doubt thinking the pause a decline to speak, Falean nodded once. "That's alright. You don't owe me anything. I just thought you might like someone to talk to is all."

"My mother is sick." Eisra said without thinking. It surprised Falean for a moment, but she recovered quickly and listened. "After Mama died, Mother… stopped trying. Just stopped. I think… I think she wants to die. Wants to go find her wife in the After, but… before she died, Mama made her promise she wouldn't do anything foolish. They had thirty-eight years together, thirty-seven of those they were married. They built a home together, took in twenty children, cared for those children until they had children of their own. Built a life together. Took on the world together. A real, honest to the Gods, happily ever after."

They were quiet for a little while, both thinking to themselves. Finally Falean said, "That… doesn't sound like a bad life. Sounds like they were happy."

Eisra nodded, wiping away tears. "They deserved it. After all the hell they went through… Gods did they ever deserve to be happy. Hell, Mama saved the world. Twice. Mother helped the second time, but-"

"Wait. What?" Falean interrupted, surprise and disbelief in her eyes. After a moment, those golden eyes widened impossibly further. "No way. No. Way. Serana and Alessia… The Serana and Alessia? Like from the stories?"

Eisra blinked.

"You mean to tell me, your parents are the legendary Dragonborn and the Vampire Princess? Are you kidding me right now? They are your mothers?"

"Uh…" Eisra muttered, unsure how to answer. "Yes?"

"Holy crap!" Falean just about fell backwards off the bar counter. Eisra caught her in time, trying to get her righted so she wouldn't fall again. That ended badly. The woman thrashed forward, slamming into Eisra and tumbling to the wooden floor with a surprised yelp.

Eisra did her best to cushion the fall, angling herself to take the brunt of the impact. It wasn't at all a long fall, but it did knock the air out of her lungs when Falean landed on her hard. Breathless, she gasped for air. When she finally got it back, her heart stopped mid beat and she froze in place. Falean's face was mere inches from hers, golden eyes wide with surprise. Red bloomed on that freckled face as she remained unmoving, just as shocked and embarrassed as Eisra was.

She should say something. Help Falean up and apologize profusely. Her brain was sending commands for her body to do just that, but nothing was happening. It was like her limbs were receiving the messages, but her body wasn't listening. Wolf rose to the surface, instinct kicking in when and where it felt it was needed. Falean smelt wonderful. A mix of sweat and growing things that had Eisra fighting off the urge to start thrumming. If Mama was the example, such a thing could get very loud. And with the woman practically lying atop her body…

A door creaked somewhere, drawing both of their attention back towards the rooms. Eisra realized it was her own room door that had opened. Mother peeked through the crack, no doubt coming the check on the commotion she'd heard. The female froze when she saw the pair laying on the floor, only their upper bodies visible from that angle. Though obviously surprised, her mother's eyes twinkled and her lips spread into a wolfish grin.

"My apologies. Don't mind me. Please continue." Then her mother went back inside her room and shut the door.

There was silence for another long moment. Finally, Eisra's vocal cords started working again. "Are you hurt?"

"No. I'm fine." Falean said as Eisra helped her up. The woman covered her face with her hands in an attempt to hide her blush. "Just a little mortification is all. I feel like crawling into a hole somewhere."

"Just be glad it was Mother. Had it been one of my brothers…" Eisra cringed. "I'd never hear the end of it."

More silence. The poor woman was standing there wringing her hands nervously. Finally she said, "Thank you for catching me. Sometimes I'm such a klutz."

Eisra shrugged. "Sure. Usually when a beautiful woman jumps me there are daggers involved. It's nice that it's happened at least once when said beautiful woman isn't trying to kill me."

Falean froze, then slowly lifted her eyes to meet Eisra's. "You- Beautiful? Me? You think I'm beautiful?"

"I… I-I… um…" Not realizing she'd said the words aloud, Eisra felt her face redden. That apparently was all the woman needed as answer.

"Wow… That's… It's- You… Just wow. I'm sorry. It's just that… I've never been told that before. And I never expected to hear it said by another woman." Falean eyed Eisra. "At least not by a woman who… looks like she means it more than a passing compliment."

Thinking she might die from embarrassment, Eisra lowered her gaze for a moment. Wolf didn't like that much.

Confidence, Eisra. How do you expect to win her if you show weakness now? Go get her.

Not now. Go away.

You go. I will handle this. She will be our mate by the end of the-

Eisra cut Wolf off. No way was she letting her beast handle anything. If she did, poor Falean would probably run away screaming. Instead, Eisra lifted her gaze. "Does that bother you? That I find you attractive?"

The woman seemed to think on it, Eisra waiting with her heart in her throat. Finally, Falean shook her head slowly. "No. It doesn't. It's just I've not had a woman come onto me before."

"Actually, you came onto me. Well, fell… technically." Eisra's heart started pounding harder when Falean giggled. Actually giggled. It made her hope rise despite herself.

"I did, didn't I?" Falean grinned. "Honestly, I'm flattered. Truly. Someone like… you, calling me beautiful."

Without realizing she'd done it, Eisra tilted her head in question. A very Wolf gesture that had somehow leaked through her bestial lock down. It worked to her favor. Falean's grin widened and she took in an astonished breath.

"Oh, Gods… that was adorable. How do you do that?"

"Do what?" Eisra's head tilted again in the opposite direction.

"That!" Falean mimicked the motion. "I mean you're already drop dead gorgeous, but when you do that… I can guess why your family calls you… What was that name again?"

"Cuan." Eisra answered immediately.

"Yes, the shy 'little wolf'." The woman smiled, eyes making their slow way up and down Eisra's body with those cat-like eyes. Eisra didn't move, not an inch. Allowing the inspection and giving Falean the opportunity to really look. Seeming to come to some decision, the woman straightened and stepped forward, stopping mere inches away from actually touching Eisra. "Kiss me."

"What?"

"Kiss me." Falean repeated, golden eyes challenging. "You want to, right?"

Eisra tried holding back the growl. She really did, but it came out anyway when she answered. "Very much."

"Then do it." The woman grinned up at her. She was nearly half a head shorter than Eisra, but she might as well have been towering over the female.

Despite her wolfish desire to do just that, and more, Eisra kept herself still. "I can't."

Falean raised one eyebrow. "Why?"

Because one kiss won't be nearly enough for me, Eisra said internally.

Because one kiss might seal the bond. And once that happened there was no going back. Not ever. Her mind flashed to that image of her mother sleeping beside a cold tombstone. Mourning still the loss of her mate. That would be Eisra's fate eventually. Or, somehow worse than that, the one kiss would be all she'd ever have. Perhaps Falean would decide she didn't want the affections of a 'shy little wolf'. Push Eisra away. What then? What would she do if she were bonded to an individual who wanted nothing to do with her? Or even worse still, what if she never tried? What if she threw away a love that could potentially rival even that of her mothers' love? Could Eisra live with that? Live with knowing she'd been too scared to even try?

Too long. Eisra had gone too long without responding. With a look of… was that disappointment? Falean started to step back. Eisra reached out with her hands, snatching the smaller woman with a small snarl, and pulling her back. She tried to at least be gentle when she pressed her lips to Falean's. The woman gave a surprised gasp that was quickly muffled. Eisra used her upper lip to push Falean's mouth open, her tongue darting in to taste. Oh, she tasted good. Like honey and sunlight. And she smelt like falling rain. Growing things. Earthy with a sudden sharp tang that revealed her arousal and excitement. Eisra growled her pleasure, feeling her own warmth pooling in her lower belly. To her surprise, the mouth against her responded in kind. Wolf thrummed happily, pushing off the bar to press Falean into the opposite counter. The glasses and bottles clanked loudly on impact, the whole of the shelves rattling.

Eisra let the kiss go for a few heartbeats more before breaking it off and shoving Wolf, howling her displeasure, back into her cage. Falean panted heavily, Eisra feeling the pounding heart and the heaving chest pressed against her own. The woman kept her eyes closed, hands in a tight fist grasping at Eisra's shirt. Eisra eyed the woman carefully, trying to gauge her reaction.

"Shor's bones…" After a long moment, Falean grinned and opened her eyes to look up at her.

"Sorry." Eisra said a little sheepishly. "I didn't mean to be so rough."

"Don't ever apologize for kissing someone like that. I thought my head was going to explode. How has someone not snatched you up yet?"

Chuckling, Eisra backed up a step. "I can be a little intense."

"I can see that."

Trying for honesty, Eisra added. "By 'intense', I mean… I want more than a one night stand."

Falean raised her eyebrow at that.

"Not that that's what I'm expecting." Eisra said quickly, but couldn't help adding, "Though you are… very, very attractive and I wouldn't mind at all doing that with you… I can't just… grab and go. I want…"

"Something long term. Something that will last beyond one night of fun." Falean helped out. Eisra nodded, which made the woman give her a small smile. "To say such things in a tavern… A place where those kinds of promises are often empty ones."

Eisra said nothing, but she didn't have to.

"But… somehow I believe it when you say it. Strange, huh?"

Eisra chuffed. "Ironic maybe."

The joke made Falean giggled again, followed by thoughtful silence. Only a few moments passed before she said, "Alright."

Confused, Eisra tilted her head again. "Alright, what?"

"Alright, you can spend the night with me. I live on the other side of town. Across the bridge. We'll… have privacy." Before Eisra could respond, Falean blushed again. Her eyes suddenly shy and downcast. "I've… never been with a woman. I won't know anything, but…"

Finally, Eisra blurted. "Falean, we don't have to-"

"You don't want to?" She asked, suddenly seeming hurt.

"Yes. I mean, no. I mean, yes, I very much want to, but…" Eisra ran her fingers through her hair in frustration. "I don't want you to feel like you have to. Not if you don't want to. We can stay here and talk if that's more comfortable for you."

A slow smile replaced the hurt and embarrassment on Falean's face. She closed the space between them, placing a sweet kiss on Eisra's lips. Wolf roared for her to do more, but she didn't. She shoved her beast down and simply enjoyed the feeling of Falean's warm lips on her own. It was better than anything she'd ever experienced before. Better than air. Better than water or food. How very much she already loved the feeling of her mate's lips on her own.

Wait… Mate?

Before she could completely lose herself to panic, Falean pulled back and smiled warmly up at her. "For some reason, just by you saying that… I know I'm in good hands. Don't ask me how I know. I just know I can trust you."

Do you get it now? Wolf asked in a mocking tone. She feels it too, Eisra. She's your mate.

My… mate. Eisra tried wrapping her head around the idea, but it was just… too much to comprehend. So, she decided not to try. Just go with it and see where it took them.

A little hesitantly, Falean asked, "So… Are you coming?"

Eisra awoke in an unfamiliar place. It took a moment for her to remember where she was, though at first she thought she was still at the tavern. Not so. Beside her in the bed, a warm, naked body groaned in sleep and pressed itself into her side. That was when Eisra noticed she was also naked. More than that, her nose picked up trace scents of what had happened in that bed the night before. The lingering scent of Falean's arousal hit Eisra like a charging bull, stirring her wolf's instincts into action again. Her bonding scent lay heavy on the blankets and sheets, more so on Falean's bare skin. The woman, her woman, slept peacefully at her side. Despite her nearly overwhelming instinct to wake her and have her again, Eisra resisted. Preferring instead to watch her mate sleep and dream good dreams.

She hadn't actually intended to take Falean to bed. Merely to talk and get to know her better. They'd done that. Talked about Falean's family, friends, work, and so on. Eisra had spoken of her own family as well. Less of the current doom and gloom, and more of how it was growing up. Falean asked question after question about Skyrim's heroes and what it was like having the Dragonborn and the Vampire Princess as parents. Hours later, when the late night had become early morning, Eisra rose to leave. She'd promised to call on Falean again when she and her family were on their return trip to Solstice.

The kiss goodbye lasted a fraction of a second too long. The second kiss most certainly lasted too long. With the third kiss, Eisra found herself pinning Falean against the wall and Falean putting up zero resistance. Before long, Eisra had her mate naked in bed and writhing beneath her lips. Despite Falean having no experience in bedding women, she most certainly made up for it in enthusiasm. By the time they were done and lay panting and sweating on the bed sheets, Eisra didn't bother with the walk back to the tavern. She simply covered them both with the blankets, pulled Falean's back to her front and held her while they waited for sleep.

"Was I-" Falean started. "Did I do alright?"

Eisra chuffed once, nipping gently at her mate's ear before kissing the smooth skin just below it. "You were marvelous."

She felt the huff of air in the body against her own. "Flatterer."

"Honest to goodness." Eisra thrummed a pleased thrum as she trailed a few more kisses down Falean's neck and bare shoulder. "So much so, I'm considering going back for seconds."

"You had seconds. And thirds. Hey, t-that tickles." Giggling, Falean wriggled until Eisra behaved herself. "What is that?"

Thrumming, Eisra asked, "What's what?"

"That. It feels like you're purring. Only, it's deeper than that."

"It's…" Eisra wasn't sure how to answer. Telling the truth, saying she was a werewolf and that was just what werewolves did when they were happy… She couldn't have that talk yet. Not yet. So instead, Eisra tried telling only part of the truth. "I've done it since I was younger. It's subconscious."

"Oh."

"Does it bother you?"

A short pause. "No. It's actually quite soothing. Do you know why you do it?"

"It usually happens when I'm pleased or happy. Sort of like a purr."

Another pause. "So, you're happy right now? Pleased?"

The thrumming grew louder. "I am. Very."

That brought a smile to her mate's face, even though she couldn't see it from behind. "Good."

"Does that mean you'll see me again?" Eisra asked. "When my family comes back this way?"

Falean snuggled closer into Eisra's arms and yawned. "I would like that."

Eisra smiled at the memory of that conversation. How very badly she'd wished to see her woman again. How badly she didn't want to leave. How badly she wished she'd had the courage to tell Falean the truth. What would her mate do once she learned what Eisra was? Would she be angry that that information was withheld from her until after they'd slept together? Would she, and the very thought of it just about tore Eisra's heart out, be fearful? Call her a monster? Push her away? Worse, call others to hunt her? The woman was kind, gentle, funny, pure… innocent. What the hell was a good woman like Falean doing in bed with a beast like Eisra?

Stop that. You're acting like you're some sort of monster. You're the one who begged Mama to change you, remember?

Yes, I remember. And, no, I'm not a monster. But Falean will think I'm a monster.

And you know this how, exactly? You haven't even told her what you are yet. Give our mate the chance to make her own decision.

So, you want me to just come out and tell her? Right now?

No, idiot. Do that now and she's more than justified in shoving a silver knife in your heart. You did just bed the woman before telling her the whole story.

And I was just supposed to come right out and say, "Hey, you don't know me but I'm a werewolf and I'm your mate." Like that was going to go over well?

Whether or not she knows or understands why, she's your mate. She trusts you, obviously. Why won't you trust her with this?

Wolf had a point. If Falean didn't trust her, she most certainly wouldn't have asked Eisra home with her. And she most certainly wouldn't have slept with her. But… still. The problem remained.

Werewolves are feared by other mortals for a reason. She will be afraid of me because werewolves are generally bad news. Dangerous.

Then prove to her you are not like others of your kind. You are daughter to the honored late Alpha. Her blood runs through your veins.

The body beside hers twitched slightly, groaned, then began moving in earnest. "Eisra?"

"Right here." Eisra said softly, forgetting all worries when those golden eyes landed on her.

Falean smiled, still a little groggy from sleep. "Morning, Cuan."

The pet name sounded good coming from those lips. So good in fact, Eisra wanted to taste them again. So she did, giving her mate a soft, slow kiss. She thrummed when Falean sighed happily. Eisra pulled back, smiling down at her woman. "Good morning."

"I'm surprised you're still here." Falean said sleepily.

"Why wouldn't I be?"

With a wry smile, her mate said, "Because it's light out, and you were supposed to be on the road at first light."

That took a moment to sink in. Then Eisra was out of the bed and grabbing at her clothes. "Crap! Mother is going to kill me!"

Though she was frantically trying to find her clothes, many of which she grabbed were Falean's, Eisra noticed her woman watching with amused, rapt attention. Staring at Eisra's bare backside no doubt. She chuckled, "Such a mother's girl."

Eisra comically hopped on one foot trying to get her pants on over the boot she'd hastily put on too soon. "Well, yeah. No Papa's around. All I've got are mothers."

When she lost her balance and fell over, Falean giggled. "I guess that's true. Do you need help?"

"No. Nope. I got it." Something was missing. Eisra's hand went to her neck. "Have you seen my necklace?"

After a moment of searching in the sheets, Falean held up the leather thong with a fang on it. Mama's wolf had lost it in a tussle a few years back. Eisra had kept it for some reason, fashioning it into a necklace after Mama died. Falean looked at it curiously, then asked, "Is that a… fang?"

"A wolf fang, yes. It… belonged to my Mama. She gave it to me before she died." Eisra took the offered necklace and put it on.

There was a pause. "You must miss her very much."

"Every day. She and Mother made me all that I am. Gave me a home when my own mother couldn't." She smiled at the fang hanging between her breasts. "This is my small way of keeping her memory with me."

They remained silent for a long moment, the mood slightly dampened. Eventually Falean said, "You really should get going. Your family is probably waiting on you."

Eisra nodded. "I'm sorry I have to leave in such a rush. I'd… I want to stay, but…"

"I know. I know. Family is important to you. I admire that about you."

"Can I still come see you again?"

Falean rose up a little and pulled Eisra down for a long kiss. They parted reluctantly. "Yes. Now get going before I pull you back in this bed and make you really late."

Wolf thrummed, stealing one last kiss before Eisra darted from the room and out the front door.

Serana

Serana sat across from her daughter, astonishment evident on her ancient face. Eisra had been absent from their rented room that morning, which had made her worry, but not immediately rush to seek her out. After all, she had a pretty good guess as to the whereabouts of their wayward wolf. Samuel and Hroar, on the other hand, had been worried out of their minds and rushed out to find her. Of course, Serana hadn't told either of them what she'd seen the night before. That was none of their affair. Still Serana had been totally surprised when Eisra had rushed into the tavern smelling strongly of…

Eisra shoveled food into her mouth, completely ignoring her mother's eyes upon her. Serana couldn't judge, not at all. But her daughter had been so hesitant at supper the night before. Then to come rushing in smelling of bonding scent and of Falean… It was just so unexpected.

"Are you angry with me?" Eisra asked out of the blue.

That knocked the confused look off Serana's face. "Now why would you think that? I told you to follow your instincts. You apparently listened."

"Mother…" Eisra frowned. "You knew right away what Mama was. Had you been anyone else besides… well, you, would she have scared you?"

Serana's face softened, suddenly understanding what was bothering Eisra. Obviously she planned on pursuing a relationship with Falean. Otherwise, what she was wouldn't have mattered. It would be a bit embarrassing to pry, but she had to know in order to provide the right advice. So, she asked what exactly happened during her time with Falean. Not details, she didn't think she wanted to know that, but in regards to her wolf.

"Wolf called Falean my mate." Eisra admitted. "I know it took a while for Mama to understand what her beast was telling her about you, but mine is… more direct. Came right out and said it after- After, you know."

"And you intend on continuing to see this woman?" Eisra nodded to Serana's question. "Then your bond with her will only grow stronger. In time you may find that Falean is your perfect match. Your Mama and I had our differences, believe me, but we worked well together despite our differences. That is how the bond works, I think. It pairs us with a person who makes us complete. Better than we ever could be on our own."

"But how does it know?" Eisra asked, meal forgotten. "And why? Why her?"

"Well, that is something only you and time can tell." Serana shrugged her shoulder. "As for me, I needed Alessia's help to stop my father's plans. And she needed me for the same reason."

"So, to complete a task of some sort?"

"You're thinking too small, Cuan." Serana said. "The vampire war was certainly one reason, a big one, but go beyond that."

As the wolf sat back in her chair to think, Serana watched the thoughts coming and going across the female's expression. It didn't take long for Eisra to come up with the answer. "You… both lived on. Kept together to do a lot of good. The school. The good men and woman of the land profiting from all you and Mama had to give. You adopted children who might have otherwise gone unnoticed in the world. Unremarkable. Forgotten."

Serana smiled. "Children who grew up in a home full of love and guidance. Men and woman who now live out in the world being what they were raised to be. Protectors. Healers. Teachers. Leaders. And all of them might not have been given that chance had a certain good hearted werewolf not wandered into a tomb to wake up a four thousand year old vampire. The bond knew. I don't know how, but it did."

"Then why didn't Aunt Aela bond with Aunt Ysolda sooner? Didn't you say the two lived in the same town for years before the bond locked into place?" Eisra asked. "If Aunt Ysolda was her mate, why delay?"

"I believe that was because of your aunt's desires for her Alpha's affections." Serana didn't much like talking about another female wanting her mate, never had, but then again it didn't matter much anymore. "Imagine standing before a bonfire at night. Against the darkness, you can see little else. When that fire goes out, it is much, much easier to see the stars. I think your Mama burned so brightly in Aela's eyes that she couldn't see what was right before her until that light was gone."

"The bond waited until she was capable of loving someone else." Eisra thought again. "What would have happened if Aunt Aela never got to that point? What if she wanted no one else?"

"The bond might never have taken hold. Or it might have for her own good. Knowing Aela, though, she might have resisted out of pure stubbornness."

"Wait. That's possible?"

"From what I've heard, sometimes it is. If one does not encourage the bond further." Serana winked at her daughter. "Though, my nose tells me you did a lot of… encouraging already."

That made Eisra blush more. Serana would have laughed, but the blush did not hide the look of worry and fear on the female's face.

"Cuan, for all I've said, bonding is still quite rare among wolves. If you have been so lucky as to experience it, I ask that you try and consider this a blessing."

"And if she rejects me because of what I am?"

Serana paused for a moment, thinking how best to phrase her words so that she could set Eisra's mind at ease. "The bond goes both ways. I felt it's pull even though I am no wolf. That said, I fell in love with Alessia because she was the strongest, kindest, bravest person I've ever met. I stayed because of who she was, not because of what she was. Her wolf only magnified that big heart of hers."

Despite her words, Eisra still looked frightened. "Mother, I'm not Alessia. I'm not the hero she was. I've slain no dragons, or saved the word, or anything like that. I'm just me. Falean doesn't know me."

"Then show her, Eisra. Be the female I know you are." Serana sat up straight and proud. "Cuan, you were created and raised by the Alpha of the Circle Pack. You may not have been born from her, but her blood runs through your veins. You are just as strong, kind, and brave as she was. Your wolf does the same for you as Alessia's did for hers. Be who you are. Prove that you are worthy of your mate, and she will accept who and what you are. She is your mate, just as you are hers. Remember that."

The tavern was silent, empty for the most part since it was still early in the day. Eisra sat there, stricken somewhat. Finally she asked, "Just… be myself? That's all?"

Serana chuffed. "You are your Mama's daughter. I love my mate, but Alessia was as simple as they come."

Another long pause. Then Eisra smiled. "I might have promised we'd come back this way in a few days. I wouldn't want to disappoint."

Smiling, Serana's attention shifted to the two men who entered the tavern. Samuel and Hroar sighed with relief when they saw their sister safe and sound. Serana said in a low tone only Eisra would hear, "I think we can manage that."

Their late start made for a bit of hasty travel. Despite her brother's constant questions, Eisra remained silent on where she was and who she was with. Not that it was very hard to guess. Eventually Serana quieted her sons' constant nagged, which earned her a grateful look from Eisra. The sun was already gone from the sky as they reached Solitude. After a hearty supper and a few mugs of ale or wine, the group went to their room to sleep. Eisra fell instantly to sleep, which didn't surprise Serana at all. If the night before was only half as busy as their day had been, the poor wolf must have been completely exhausted.

As for herself, Serana wasn't able to fall asleep so easily. Although tired from a long day of travel and just overall weariness, she still couldn't drift off. And her chest was bothering her again. With each breath, a dull ache throbbed in her chest. A nuisance, but a familiar one. Instead of laying there bored, she rose slowly and quietly from her bed, grabbed her carved wolf head cane, and left the room she and her daughter were sharing. The Winking Skeever was fairly empty, the bartender on duty busying himself with tidying up the place. He paused in his sweeping when Serana appeared at the stair landing.

"Madame, is something amiss?" The man said.

Serana shook her head with a slight smile. "No. Just an old lady unable to fall asleep."

The man mirrored the smile. "I see. My mother used to have the same problem before she passed. Might I offer you something to help? Some warm milk perhaps?"

"No, thank you. I think I'll go for a nice stroll around the market square. It's a lovely night for it."

"That it is, Madame." The man picked up his broom and began sweeping again. "Should your sons or daughter come looking, I will tell them where you went."

The night was fairly cool, a light breeze coming in from the nearby inlet. The guards by the main gate and patrolling about the square paused in their duty to glance at her. Some went back to their tasks, showing no suspicion at her appearance, while a few others gave her polite nods of greeting. Aside from the guards and a few Legion soldiers milling about, Serana had the whole place to herself. The place was well lit with lanterns, but they were hardly necessary. The stars and the moon above lit the city streets well enough for her to see. Perhaps a human might need the lanterns, but the half blooded vampire that she was did not.

After she got to the edge of the market, Serana decided to go a bit further on. Though her knee complained during the walk, she did nothing but lean on her cane a little more. The neat and cobbled path was well known. She and Alessia had stayed in Solitude many, many times over the years. More often for business purposes, but on occasion for their own pleasure. Despite Alessia's aversion to anything fishy, she seemed to enjoy the sea air. So much so that she hadn't rented out their house in the city after the last tenant left and used it as a vacation spot for she and Serana when they wanted to get away from Solstice for a time.

Currently the place held a tenant. After Alessia started Fading, Serana had rented the property out. She hadn't wanted to stay in Proudspire Manor after that. Too many memories. Which was sort of ironic, she supposed. After all, Serana hadn't fled from the memories in Solstice. And there were far more memories of her mate in the home they'd built together than in their vacation home. But, she hadn't wanted to forget any memories, even the ones outside Solstice, no matter the pain they held. Not ever. Because they held far more joy than pain.

Even now, Serana's thoughts stretched back across the years to she and Alessia's last visit to Solitude. Elisif, reigning queen of Skyrim, had recently passed away and the prince was taking her place. Serana and Alessia came for his coronation as friends and allies to the crown. Though only a handful of people, namely the Circle, knew Farkas had shared the queen's bed for a time, the werewolf was not the boy's father. Elisif's and Farkas's time together had been brief, like a roaring flame that consumed its fuel and died far too soon. After the Companion returned to his duties, and eventually died fulfilling them, Elisif took a new husband and the prince was born a few years later.

It was during that short period in Solitude that Serana first noticed Alessia begin to ail. They were on their way to the manor when her wolf suddenly started to sway as she walked. After a few moments, Alessia completely collapsed and didn't regain consciousness for nearly an entire day. She burned with a slight fever and struggled to breathe. When finally conscious, nothing she ate would remain in her stomach. Despite the collapse and unconsciousness, that worried Serana the most. Wolf always had an appetite. Not once in their many years together had Alessia ever been unable to retain what she ate.

They returned home to Solstice immediately. Alessia seemed her usual self for a few weeks more, not complaining of any weakness or illness until her next episode. That time she'd collapsed while in her study, luckily with one of the children nearby. Serana had been in the outer gardens. Only after Alessia had regained consciousness did she admit to slight bouts of shakes, pains, and blackouts. Alessia had hid it away in an attempt to keep Serana from worrying.

"How am I supposed to help if I don't know you're ill, you damned stubborn wolf?"

Alessia hadn't responded, though Serana could see what wasn't said. "You can't stop this…"

Indeed, Serana couldn't. Try as she might, fight as Alessia did, nothing stopped the decline. First was the weak spells, fainting, and bouts of nausea. Slowly, her body withered away into a thin frail version of it's former strength. She wouldn't eat. Wouldn't drink. Her sleep was plagued with horrible nightmares, if she even slept at all. Eventually, Alessia couldn't even stand on her own power. Serana had to help her to and from the privy. Help her relieve herself and bathe. Alessia's fever rose to dangerous heights, then plummeted into alarming depths.

Alessia instructed Serana on the many things that still needed to be done after she was gone. Serana knew her wolf had already prepared the estate for after the inevitable, but neither one of them had seen the decline coming for at least another decade. Serana listened if only to placate her mate. In her heart she knew the end was upon them, but she hadn't resigned herself just yet. Thankfully, there was an abundance of help. All their sons and daughters, and grandchildren, arrived soon after to give whatever aid they could. Most took over the daily chores around the estate, freeing their mother to focus entirely on Alessia's care. Others worked with Serana to find a cure or, at the very least, comfort. Those tasks around the estate taken care of, Serana remained at her mate's side as often as possible. Sometimes days would go by and she wouldn't leave the bedside.

Though her body was failing, Alessia's mind retained its former sharpness. One night while Serana carried out her vigil, she'd long since stopped laying at her wolf's side since any pressure on her body caused Alessia pain, Alessia awoke and looked up at her. Serana remembered how much that look frightened her. Normally a pain filled determination filled those blue eyes. Right then, there was still pain and determination, but also… resignation. Acceptance.

Slowly, Alessia's frail arm slithered out from underneath the blanket and cupped Serana's cheek. Her wolf's flesh was so warm. Feverish again. As Serana made to stand and retrieve water, Alessia shook her head with a sad smile. That made Serana frown but stay put. In a weak voice, Alessia said, "Do something for me, Love?"

Serana swallowed the lump in her throat and answered. "Anything."

"The bookshelf, there." Her blue eyes flicked to the opposite side of their bedroom. "Third volume from the right on the fourth shelf. Bring it to me?"

She did so, noting how unusually light the book was for it's size.

When she returned to the bed, Alessia nodded to it. "Open it."

Again, Serana obeyed. She was surprised to find the book wasn't a book at all. Or at least it wasn't anymore. The inside pages were carved out to create a hollow inside the hardback cover. A clever hiding place. How very like her wolf. She was surprised again to find within that hollow something she had long ago given to Alessia. For safe keeping, as well as a final decision. Violet glowing light grew as her fingers touched the gem inside the hollow. Frowning, Serana slowly closed the book, cutting off the glowing light.

"It's not too late, Love. You can still-"

"No."

"Serana…"

"I said no, Alessia. And you promised not to bring it up again."

Alessia signed. "I know. I'm sorry, Love. I just can't bear the thought of you following after me when I go."

Stubbornly, Serana glared down at her mate. "You are not going anywhere. Don't you dare give up."

Though it was obvious Alessia hadn't believed that statement for a single moment, she nodded slowly. A mere three days after that conversation Alessia died, though it wasn't the Fading that killed her. Not really. That had been an accident that had permanently maimed Serana's leg and sealed Alessia's fate.

A sudden, unexpected sound pulled Serana out of her memories. A soft footstep that did not repeat, and seemed like there was an attempt to stifle it. Serana's eyes lingered in the direction of the sound, her senses working overtime to try and locate the source. After a long moment listening, Serana chuckled. "You don't have to hide, Cuan. Come out and join me."

Eisra stood from her crouch behind a low stone fence. She looked a little sheepish, but smiled. "I'd hoped you hadn't heard me. You seemed lost in thought."

"Just reminiscing."

"About Mama?"

"Mostly, yes." The two moved down the path for a while, walking in companionable silence. Finally Serana asked, "Nightmare?"

Eisra sighed. "Just one of the many things Mama tried warning me about that I didn't take seriously. The dream wouldn't let me return to sleep, so I decided to come find you."

"Was it the same one?"

Eisra nodded, either unable or unwilling to speak. Serana frowned down at her feet. While Alessia had often dreamed of Mahrik's dungeon, Eisra had the more usual werewolf dreams. Dreams of the hunt and the kill. Blood and moonlight. Wild things.

"Will we be staying long at Volkihar Castle?" Eisra asked suddenly. "I can think of only one reason Grandam asked for the visit."

"No doubt to try and convince me to take up my immortality again." Serana shook her head. "The same as every other time I've visited the castle."

Hesitantly, Eisra said, "My offer still stands, Mother. You and Hroar can stay in Solitude while Sam and I go fetch Grandam. Gods know I would feel better if none of us stepped foot inside that castle. You least of all."

Serana stopped walking and turned to her daughter. "You think my mother would harm you? Or me?"

Seeming a little ashamed of the insinuation, Eisra said nothing for a moment. Carefully, she continued. "I think Grandam does not wish to lose her daughter. I think she might be… tempted to force the issue."

"Eisra, I know my mother has never been…" Serana struggled for the word, "pleasant, but she would never harm you or your brothers. If not for your own sake, than for mine."

In a growling voice that surprised Serana, Eisra asked, "So it was for your sake that she refused to help Mama when she got sick?"

"Cuan, she didn't refuse to help. Nothing she could have done would have helped your Mama. You know that."

Eisra huffed. It was an angry sound. "She didn't even try. Not a peep from her until after the fact. She probably danced with joy when she heard Mama was dead."

"That's enough, Eisra." Serana snapped.

She wasn't sure what hurt more; the fact that Eisra so disdained Valerica, or that Eisra was correct. Serana's mother hadn't responded to any inquires during those weeks that Alessia was still capable of moving about on her own. Once she'd been bedridden, the Fading took hold quickly and viciously. Had there not been that accident, Alessia might have held out long enough for Serana to convince her mother to help. Still, she felt as though she had to defend the old female. After all, despite Valerica's teachings, Serana had been unable to do a thing about the Fading. After Alessia died, the letters started arriving again. Valerica claimed she hadn't received them until after a violent snowstorm had calmed, but was eager to make the trip to Solstice and provide what aid she could. Appreciated, but… too late.

The two continued walking, the silence thick enough to cut with a knife. Serana allowed her daughter time to regain control of herself. From the shaking of her balled fists, obviously Eisra's Wolf was close to the surface. The task of walking would help. Finally when the fists loosened, Eisra sighed. "Sorry, Mother. That was unfair."

"No need to apologize, Cuan. I understand your pain. Believe me, I do." Serana let that sink in for a moment before continuing. "Your Grandam won't do anything. Even if she wished to, the Soul Gem is back in Solstice. And she wouldn't dare harming you or your brothers. Not if she wishes peace to remain. The Dawnguard are just itching for another reason to visit Castle Volkihar."

"Because nothing encourages good behavior like the threat of vampire hunters knocking on your door." Eisra chuffed.

Serana chuckled. "Exactly. Mother has worked long and hard for her peace. She won't risk that on the chance that she can get me to reconsider."

"Would you? Reconsider, I mean?" Eisra flinched at the look Serana gave. "Not that I'm asking you to. I've beat my head against that particular rock enough times to know better. It's just that… well, Mama is gone and you've had time to…"

"To what? Get over it?" Serana shook her head. "Perhaps you will one day understand that there is no 'getting over' a loss like that. Actually, I hope that you one day have a love like that to lose. I regret none of my decisions. Not a one. All of them lead me into a life with the female I love. And if forgoing my immortality, if dying is the price I have to pay to see her again, than die I shall."

After a long pause, Eisra nodded then grinned wolfishly. "Plus… you're old as dirt. Who wants to live forever as an old goat?"

Serana reared back and slugged Eisra's arm. Surprisingly she yelped and rubbed at her arm, which made them both laugh.

Eisra

"Serana." The ancient vampire opened her arms wide and wrapped them around the old, frail female that was her blooded daughter. Eisra tensed unintentionally. She honestly didn't think Valerica meant any harm, but Wolf didn't one-hundred percent trust the female. Their last interaction hadn't ended on the best of terms. Her Grandam took a few moments to greet Mother, then moved on to Hroar and Samuel. "It is good to see you both. Sam, how are the children? Hroar, no wife yet? Wait any longer and…"

The chiding proceeded for a few minutes more. Serana watched on with a pleased smile, but kept giving Eisra small warning glances. Mother had made her promise to be polite and courteous. A promise she had all intentions of keeping. The issue was Grandam. The female often found ways of picking at Eisra, "pushing Wolf's buttons" as Mama used to put it. Mama had had years of practice ignoring the slights, often giving as good as she got. Eisra, on the other hand, didn't care much for the insults to either herself or her Mama. Her Mama least of all.

Eisra never could quite understand Grandam's dislike of Mama. Never could quite grasp why she found it acceptable to insult her own daughter's choice in partner. Yes, Mama explained all their encounters during the vampire war and the years after but… still. Mother had made her choice, kept making the same choice each and every time she was asked to reconsider. Why was it so hard for Grandam to accept? Or, if not accept, respect? Mama had at least earned respect if nothing else.

"And, Eisra, of course." Valerica finally turned her attention to her. "How are you, dear?"

"Hello, Grandam." Eisra smiled. It was forced, but polite enough. "I've been well. How are you?"

"Fine. Fine. Happy to see you all." Valerica nodded, but did not approach as she had Mother and the men. No hug for Eisra, it would seem. Fine by her. "How was the trip, Serana?"

Irritated, Eisra answered. "Long. Mother needs to rest for a little while."

Grandam paused, glancing at her daughter, then back at Eisra. "Of course. Please, come this way."

Mother glared back at her for a moment before following. As did Hroar and Samuel. Sam hissed under his breath, "Do you have to do this again? Behave yourself, Sister."

Eisra said nothing as she pushed her way past her older brother and stepped onto the balcony overlooking the main hall. Hroar was already giving Mother his arm, helping her descend the stairs, so Eisra took a moment to look around. The place was a far reach from what Mama had once told her about the place. Gone were the blood stained tables and chairs. Gone was the blood stained floor and walls. Gone was the bloody throne. All "new" furniture lay scattered about the hall, used and worn but clean. As were the floors and walls. The throne was no longer a throne but a regular chair. Cushioned, but regular.

All about there were banners portraying the House of Volkihar, a once royal bloodline that was no more. The banner was a group of golden stars on a red and black field. Mother had once said that their line was as old as the stars. Eisra felt a little pang of sadness. The line was broken now. The king gone mad. Slain by a hero who'd taken the princess as her wife. Though the family would live on in Alessia and Serana's many children, the line was broken. All that remained of the House of Volkihar was its queen and princess. Soon, if Eisra was any judge of her Mother's condition, only it's queen would remain.

Grandam led the travelers to a long table laden with food and drink. Servants hopped to and fro to help them each with their chairs. Though she knew there were at least another dozen vampires living in Volkihar Castle, not a one dared join them. Eisra eyed the young man servant who tried helping Mother into her chair. He noticed the glare and backed off. Eisra herself settled her mother then settled into her own seat. Though Mother was smiling, the old female shook her head.

"Cuan, please…" Serana whispered. "Give her a chance."

You're being an ass, Wolf chimed in.

Eisra nodded to Mother before responding to her beast. You don't like her either.

Not the point. This is Grandam's home. She is Alpha here. We may not like her as far as we could throw her, but at least be respectful to her in her own castle. What would Mama do?

Sighing, Eisra relented. Fine. But any wisecracks about me smelling like a wet dog and all bets are-

"Cuan, dear, how are things in Solstice?" Grandam asked suddenly, completely breaking off conversation with Sam to ask the question. "From your mother's letters, I understand there have been some… issues with the academy graduates of late?"

Oh… Right for the conversational jugular… Wolf chuffed. No wonder Mama struggled with the female…

Trying to retain her calm, Eisra took a sip of her wine and answered. "Yes, a couple have turned mercenary for the bandit lords in the area. We've been trying to flush them out for months now."

"With little success." Valerica said, though most would think it a question.

Eisra felt the jab, but ignored it. "Unfortunately. But their time will come. Eventually, I will catch up and remind them of the oaths they swore when Mama took them in."

To Eisra's surprise, her Grandam nodded her approval. "Good. Teach them the error of casting aside their oaths, Cuan. Show them that their master's law still lives on in her successor."

And then conversation moved on from Eisra back to the men, then to Serana. The meal was roasted pork and a hundred different side dishes ranging from salted and mashed potatoes to grilled little cabbages. Brussels sprouts, Valerica called them. Wolf sniffed at the small green orbs and decided against them. Eisra though was curious and speared one on her fork before popping it into her mouth. She tasted garlic, salt, butter and a bit of char. All in all, it was good. She speared another, noting the bit of bacon in the next bite. Before she knew it, Eisra had eaten almost half the plater of sprouts. After that was a large haunch of pork. Then a large hunk of bread covered in rosemary.

While she ate, and since the conversation didn't require any input from her, Eisra thought back on the problem with the rogue fighters from the academy. A handful of deflected men and women whom didn't see fit to follow the creed Mama had set forth. Many the scoundrels had been destitute. Outcast vagrants wandering about Skyrim with seemingly nowhere to go. No family. No friends. Nothing to live for, or even die for. Mama, with her big heart and kind demeanor, had taken them in. Given them purpose. A home.

The vast majority of these men and women were grateful and followed the Hero of Skyrim's law. That handful though… Thirteen in all had spat on Mama's law, taking what she'd taught them and using it for ill. Broken their vow of Valor and Virtue as well as Honor. And one of these… Thirteen Oath Breakers had been the reason Mama had died before her time. That man was dead, died in the collapse, but the others were alive. Eisra would find them. Find and kill them. One by one, if necessary.

After dinner, the group retired to another room for more conversation. It was a large seating room with more shelved books than even Solstice's large selection. While Grandam and Mother talked on small things, and the men chatted amongst themselves, Eisra roamed about the shelves as she often did during their numerous visits over the years. Mama had instilled in her a love of the written word. It was one of the many things they had in common. While she walked, browsing the titles great and small, Eisra wondered what hobbies or interests Falean held. During their talks, she mentioned much of her family, friends, work, but little about herself personally. Did she like music? Or art? Or perhaps the woman shared Eisra's love of books.

The question brought forth an idea she hadn't before considered. Perhaps a way to allow Falean to learn about lycanthropy beforehand. A tactic Alessia had used on all her children. Speak the truth and allow Falean to read the many journals both Eisra and her forebear had written on werewolves. If the woman decided she wanted nothing to do with Eisra after that, she need only leave. If not, Eisra would answer whatever questions were to be had after giving Falean a baseline of knowledge. A truthful one. Gods knew there were outlandish rumors and speculations about werewolves that were beyond ridiculous. This way she would be getting her information right from the horse's mouth. Or rather, the wolf's mouth.

The conversations between mother and daughter dwindled, Serana showing her fatigue from the long journey on the road. Eisra saw the yawns and the small tremors in Mother's hands as she reached for her blood laced wine. She drained the last of it in a few gulps and said, "I'm off to bed, Mother. My age is catching up with me."

"Here, Mother." Eisra was instantly at her side. "I'll help you to your room."

Her mother's room was a large one. Pale stone and wood with a high ceiling. It was maintained over the years when it's owner was absent. Dust and cobwebs kept at bay by the servants. Eisra helped her mother into her sleeping clothes then settled her into the bed. That done, she herself changed for sleep and set out her bedroll in front of the room door. Despite the fact that no vampire had once tried entering the room while they slept, Eisra didn't want to take chances. Mother had given up trying to keep her from sleeping on the floor, so said nothing while she snuggled under the covers. Samuel and Hroar had a room just across the hall from them. Eisra heard her brothers' voices coming down the hall, then muffle as their door opened and closed.

Sleep came quickly, though Eisra waited until she heard her mother's soft snore before allowing herself to slip into dreamland. Before drifting off, her last thought was of Falean. What she was doing? Where she was precisely? The tavern? At home? A slow smile stretched across Eisra's lips. In bed maybe? Maybe lying there thinking how the sheets smelt of Eisra? The smile widened. Perhaps she would send her mate a letter in the morning.

Serana

The days carried on like any others. Her sons kept themselves occupied elsewhere in the castle, probably drinking and sparring in one of the many courtyards, while Serana and her mother piddled around the laboratory and talked. Just like they'd done during her childhood. Eisra was never far away, either in the next room or within arm's reach. Lounging with her feet propped up, a mug of wine in her hand, and her nose in a book. So very much like Alessia.

At times they forgot the laboratory and simply walked about the castle parapet. The nights were pleasant, and the days were overcast enough to dim the sunlight enough for Valerica to be comfortable. These walks were never long ones. Serana's knee wouldn't allow for it. More often they would start walking, sit for a time, then continue on when the pain lessened to a degree. Valerica offered a tonic, which Serana accepted every once in awhile. She was used to the familiar ache.

"How are you, Dear?" Valerica asked on their last night together at the castle. Serana and her children would start the long journey home on the marrow. "How are you, really?"

There was a hint of real worry in her mother's voice. Serana knew what she was really asking. The concern warmed her a little, a small child's desired for their mother's attention. She would answer honestly, as she always had, but knew where the conversation would end up. That she didn't much like, but Valerica would be Valerica if she didn't try.

"Tired, Mother. Very, very tired." Serana answered.

After a long pause, Valerica spoke again. "The time is drawing near, isn't it?"

Without a word, Serana nodded.

Another pause. A heavy one. "It needn't happen, Serana."

And there it was. Serana stopped in their walking. The sudden halt hurt her knee, but she didn't care. Valerica kept going for another few steps before turning around to look at her. Serana smiled. "Mother… I want to go."

Valerica's expression gave away her anger, hurt, and disappointment. The look vanished in an instant, as it always had. "Still as stubborn as ever."

Serana chuffed. "I come by it honestly."

More silence.

"Mother, let's not argue. Please?" Serana looked up at the star filled sky and breathed in the cool night air. "It is such a lovely night. If this is to be the last time we speak, let it not be in anger."

Valerica frowned. "You ask me to ignore the fact that my daughter is going to kill herself? This I cannot, Serana. The wolf is gone. You needn't follow after her."

A bit of anger rose in Serana. Even now, her mother couldn't, wouldn't, say Alessia's name. Still, she wouldn't comment. It would do little good. "Mother, I am not killing myself. I am old. Moral. Mortals die. It is the natural way of the world."

"No. You are making a choice to die, Serana. You have another option, and you won't take it." Valerica snapped. "Suicide by another name."

"Yes, it's my choice. Not yours. And I choose my mate. I will always choose my mate."

"I could force you." Valerica snarled. "As you said, you are old. Powerless. It would take only a few days to find and retrieve your immortality. And then I could-"

A snarl rose from Serana. One of which she hadn't given in years. Furious and dangerous. It silenced not only Valerica, but also every other living creature on the island. The only sound for nearly a minute after was the crashing of the waves far below. "If you dare, Mother… If you take my choice from me, I will make another. I will choose to tear this castle apart stone by stone, brick by brick, until nothing remains of our family but dust and ash. Then, I will make another choice. I will follow Alessia one way or another. Be it a blade. Be it fire. Be it poison. I will see my mate again."

The shocked silence continued, Valerica staring wide eyed at Serana. When she at last responded, it was in a soft whisper. "You would go that far? You would do such a thing?"

Serana said without hesitation, "I would. To be with her again, I would."

The pause was a short one. Then Valerica straightened and nodded curtly. "As you wish."

Before Serana could even try to speak, to try and heal the hurt and pain she'd caused, her mother spun on her heel and strode away at a fast pace. One that Serana hadn't a prayer of matching. So, she didn't try. Instead, she leaned against the short wall at her side and gazed out onto the darkened waves. She didn't blame Valerica. Not at all. She understood what her decision was doing to her mother. Valerica probably imagined her daughter was choosing someone else over her. Which, in fact, Serana was. If she were to accept her immortality back, despite being an old female for the rest of eternity, she would eventually leave Solstice. Return to Castle Volkihar and remain among her mother and her own kind. There were… too many memories in Solstice. Too many wonderful and heartbreaking things to remember for an eternity. It would eventually drive her insane. No. She couldn't remain. She would leave.

Serana looked in the direction her mother had gone. Though there was understanding of her mother's frustrations, and a knowing Serana wouldn't change her mind, she didn't want to leave the castle knowing they were at odds. She didn't much care for chasing after her mother either.

"Go talk to her, Love. You'll feel better after."

Serana blinked at the memory. Tears coming to her eyes when she remembered her mate's voice giving her advice and encouragement. Like the current situation, Serana and Alessia had taken a trip to Volkihar Caster at Valerica's request. The request had been for Serana only, but she'd insisted her mate come as well. Much to Valerica's irritation. They'd had a similar argument that ended with both storming away. Alessia at the time had been relaxing in the library, devouring volume after volume in the castle's vast library as she often did during their few visits. At Serana's rather… explosive entrance, Alessia instantly dropped her book and waited for the raging storm to subside somewhat. After that, she'd listened while Serana ranted and raged about her mother's stubbornness.

"Serana, I know this might not be what you want to hear right now, but-"

Serana whirled on her mate. "You agree with her?"

"I didn't say that." Alessia held up her hands in placation. "What I was going to say is for you to try and see her point of view. She's a mother who's already lost her daughter once and is terrified of losing her again. Only this time is permanent."

Frustrated, Serana paced back and forth in front of the fireplace. "So, what? I'm supposed to just sit around and watch as you age without me? No. Alessia, this is my choice."

At that, Alessia rose and came to her. As angry as Serana was, her wolf's touch was soothing. "You're right. As I've always said, the choice is yours to make despite what I or your mother wants."

"So you do agree with her."

To her surprise, Alessia chuckled. It was obvious she was trying not to, but failed miserably. "Serana, I am only saying that I understand why your mother is so against you making this decision. You're going to let yourself die for my sake. I can sympathize with her anger. Everything in me wants to protect you, keep you alive no matter what. But, like I said, it's your choice."

After a long moment, Serana groaned and buried her face into her wolf's shoulder. Slightly muffled she said, "What am I supposed to say? How do I make her understand?"

"Well, I know little about how to be a daughter… That's your area of expertise. I do, however, understand how to be a mother. I know what it's like to sit and watch while one of our children makes a decision I don't agree with. It's hard. Especially if there's a chance they can get hurt."

Serana chuffed. "Remember Runa's little misadventure that first summer in the College?"

"How could I forget?" They both chuckled at the memory. "Poor girl had that horrible high pitched voice for a month before the mages could figure out what went wrong with the potion."

"I warned her not to used too much of that root."

They remained that way for a while, leaning against one another and gazing into the fire. Finally, Alessia pulled back to look at her. "Talk to her, Love. Speak to her, daughter to mother. It might accomplish nothing, but you will have at least tried."

The conversation had gone exactly as Serana had expected. Valerica hadn't understood and repeatedly called her a fool and Alessia a murderer. Among other things. They'd parted on less than happy terms. It was months before they communicated again via letter. Valerica didn't apologize for anything she'd said. Neither had Serana. They simply continued on as if the fight hadn't occurred. As the years passed, the topic resurfaced many, many times. Each time, it ended the same way. And each time, Alessia gave her unyielding support. Patient and tranquil. Even when Valerica threatened to drain her dry.

Now, Alessia was gone. Serana couldn't rely on her wolf's strength and support. At least not in any way but in memory. Still, that memory gave her some peace. And also the determination to not allow what could possibly be her and her mother's last conversation to end as such. No matter how difficult it would be, Serana would try to make amends. She wouldn't change her mind, but she would try mending her bond with her mother.

Despite her body's complaints, Serana followed after Valerica. Before she'd even gone three steps, her cane slipped from her left hand. She stared at it, confused at the slight numbness. Her fingers wriggled at her command, but the tingling sensation only got stronger. How very odd. Perhaps she would chase down her mother in the morning before they left. Now didn't seem like the…

The slight ache in Serana's chest flared. Suddenly it was no longer an ache, but a sharp, needle like pain that felt as though a giant was squeezing all the air out of her lungs. Each heartbeat was an agony as it pounded. Her vision grew blurry and all the strength suddenly left her body. She began to fall, reaching for something, anything to grab onto.

"Mother!" Distantly, Serana heard Eisra's voice. She sounded frightened. Panicked even. Strong arms caught her before she hit the stones of the parapet. The cold of the stones felt nice. She liked cold when she was trying to go to sleep. And she very, very much wanted to go to sleep. But Eisra kept shouting at her. "Mother, tell me what's wrong! Mother!"

"Eisra…" Serana mumbled. It was difficult to speak. "Eisra, can we go home? I wa- go home."

"Grandam!" Eisra looked away for a moment, shouting to someone nearby. "Grandam, something is wrong!"

"Move aside. Let me see her." Suddenly, Valerica's pale face appeared overhead. She looked just as frightened as Eisra. "Serana, don't go to sleep. Breath slowly."

Serana tried to obey, but… "It- hur- hurt to- bre-"

"Eisra, help me get her to the lab. Quickly."

Hands lifted Serana. The motion hurt, but she somehow couldn't find the air in her lungs to say so. The pain in her chest continued, a throbbing agony that was starting to move throughout her entire body. It hurt almost as bad as the accident that ruined her leg and killed her wolf. That accursed mine. Those damned traitorous academy dropouts turned bandit who captured the lucrative cave by force. Took hostages when the Companions arrived to clear them out. Took Irbran, one of Alessia and Serana's sons, hostage. Alessia shouldn't have gone. Shouldn't have been anywhere near that mine. Serana begged her to stay. But she wouldn't hear it. Not when one of their children was in danger.

They went in together. Tried to negotiate with the bandits. When they learned who they were dealing with, one of the bandit mages panicked. Tried blasting his way out. That was a very bad idea. The very stones began to shake and fall apart. Alessia, Fading and ill, was unable to move as quickly as the others. And Serana refused to leave her side. They'd almost reached the surface when the tunnel they were in collapsed. Alessia shoved Serana ahead of her at the last instant and fell beneath the weight of the rocks. It had saved Serana's life, but she had not escaped harm. One boulder had landed on her leg, crushing the bone and damaging it beyond any hope of repair. Alessia… hadn't been so lucky.

Incoherent as Serana was while Eisra and Valerica carried her through the castle, her mind could recall that moment so long ago with perfect clarity. The moment after many long hours of labor trying to clear out enough rubble to get to Alessia. Serana helped as best she could, despite her destroyed leg. That moment when they pulled Alessia's lifeless body from the tunnel. The moment she'd come to fear. The moment she realized her mate was… gone. Actually… gone. She hadn't realized she'd been screaming until there was no more air to scream with. It hardly mattered. Nothing mattered. Nothing. Her mate was dead. Her powerful, amazing, loving, wonderful, beautiful werewolf… Her Alessia… dead.

And now, much like that day when her world shattered, Serana found she couldn't breathe. There just wasn't enough air in the room. Not enough air in the world. Her head began spinning round and round until she thought she might throw up. Maybe she had. The sharp stink of bile hit her nose when she was able to take in some air. At least she wasn't being carried anymore. She was laying on something hard and flat. It hurt her back. She tried saying so, but there just wasn't enough air for words. And her chest hurt. Even the smallest movement made her want to scream.

Bright light started creeping into her vision. She tried blinking it away, but that only made things worse. The voices in the room, though familiar, sounded far away. And they were a bit muffled as if she were holding her head under water. Water… Like those warm spring days Serana and Alessia had spent swimming together on their honeymoon. Alessia had been so… beautiful. So alive. So…

"Mother! Breathe! Mother, please!"

A familiar face came into view. Short, dark hair. Eyes blue and bright as cold mountain ice. And the other… green as emeralds. Alessia? What happened to your eye? It looks like mine…

"We're losing her! Move!"

Another face came into view. The face was hard to make out. It was getting harder to see. Red orbs of light stood out clearly against the growing white. Mother?

The pain was lesser now. Distant. There was a quick jolt of pain that cleared away the blurriness for an instant. The shock of it made her take in a single breath. Only one. She was lying on her mother's work table in her laboratory. Eisra and Valerica were standing over her, both showing clear signs of panic and fear. Eisra was crying, though she hardly seemed to notice. Valerica's fingers glowed with small arcs of violet electricity. That explained the jolt. She smiled at the two. She couldn't help it.

"Mother…" Eisra whimpered.

Serana tried moving her arm to reach for her daughter, but the damned thing wouldn't obey. At best she managed a twitch. It was enough. Eisra took her hand gently, kissing the back of her hand once before holding it to her cheek. She could feel her daughter's hot tears on her fingers. That was alright. This wasn't going to be pleasant for anyone. But… it was what she wanted.

"Serana-" Valerica fell to her knees, bring the pair face to face. She too was weeping. "I'm sorry, Serana. I'm so sorry."

Speaking was impossible. Her body just wouldn't take another breath. Already her vision was darkening around the edges. So, Serana tried to express her forgiveness and love through her gaze. She prayed her mother would understand. Understand and forgive her for wanting to go.

To her surprise and relief, Valerica nodded once. "It's alright, Dear. Go. Alessia is waiting."

Despite knowing it was her decision, hearing her mother say those words released something deep inside Serana. A daughter's deep desire for her mother's approval and blessing. With those words, Serana finally felt at peace. Like… Valeria's words were all she'd been waiting for. Everything was… alright now. Just as it should be. With a smile, Serana let herself fall. Let the darkness swallow her up and take her to the one she wanted most to see again.

Falean

The night had already been a long one. Tera and the other wench took off early again. Baldor, the barkeep, at least cleaned up his area before taking off. He hadn't, however, restocked the bar. Again. Which… Falean would do for him. As always. As well as clean the tables and chairs, sweep, mop, dishes and so on. A long night. Another long night. The frustration left Falean almost instantly, a small smile curving the corners of her lips, at the memory of the last long night she'd had. The one where Eisra had helped her clean the tavern, then spent the remainder of the night in her bed.

Falean shivered at the memory. The woman was like a force of nature; savage and powerful. And yet… so very gentle. Absolutely every word she spoke or move she made was tender and considerate. Even though Falean had offered herself, terrified as she was, Eisra hadn't taken advantage of it. She probably wouldn't have done anything on her own had Falean not initiated. Which spoke volumes on the woman's character. Despite the fact that they had only that short time together, met only the once, Falean found herself pausing constantly throughout the day. Lost in thoughts of the woman with sapphire and emerald eyes.

Which… was exactly what Falean was doing currently; staring out into open space, hands frozen in the task of cleaning a table, grinning like a fool and eagerly wishing she knew when she'd see her lover again. Lover… Yes, Eisra was her lover. That had a nice ring to it. She shook herself and focused on her washing. Perhaps she would request a night off when Eisra came back. They could… go walk amongst the trees and flowers in the hills. Take a bit of lunch and have a picnic. There was a lovely spot beneath a massive tree up in the hills. The mountains in the distance would look amazingly beautiful this time of year.

A sudden knocking pulled her out of her dreaming. A familiar man stood at the doorway, a large satchel hanging on his shoulder and a smile on his face. Falean smiled at him. "Evening, Hidar. What are you doing out so late?"

"Falean." He said in greeting. "I's got a letter for ya. Ran inta a bit a trouble on ma way. Gotta late start."

Excited, Falean came to him and accepted the letter. She didn't get mail very often. "Will you be wanting a room, Hidar? I'll have one ready in a moment, if you like?"

"I's appreciate tha. Long day. Me ol' feet could use a bit a rest."

Though she very much wanted to open the letter right away, Falean tended to her customer first. It took only a few minutes to get the room ready and only a few more to fetch Hidar something to eat and drink. After that, she hurriedly opened the letter. The handwriting belonged to no one she knew. It was a bit scratchy, but neat enough to read. It took only a moment to realize it was from Eisra. Falean grew even more excited, but her joy slowly seeped from her as she read. Replaced by a heavy sadness for her lover.

"Oh, Eisra…" Falean muttered as she slowly sat beside the hearth. Eisra's mother had died. Quite suddenly. Something about her heart. Falean read the first half of the letter again. Yes. Her heart had given out. A… heart attack. Unexpected tears fell from her eyes due to her own sadness, if not for Eisra's. She'd hoped to get to know Eisra's mother a little. The woman had seemed so sweet and kind. It was obvious Eisra loved her very much.

Blinking her tears away, Falean read the rest of the letter. She was disappointed to learn that Eisra would not be coming back to Dragon Bridge as she'd planned. At least not as soon as they'd expected. The woman was eager to get her mother's remains back to Solstice for burial. Disappointing, but understandable. Eisra needed time to grieve. Grieve and tie up her mother's loose ends. A daunting task.

At the end of the letter, Falean blinked and reread the last few lines. Eisra was extending an invitation for her to visit Solstice. She read it a third time just to be sure. Her first reaction was to head off immediately. She very much wanted to see Eisra again. And with what's happened, provide some comfort or help in some way. It surprised Falean just how badly she wanted to be there for Eisra. But another part of her hesitated. Was it appropriate for her to go? She was, after all, just a one night stand. The thought brought back the conversation she and Eisra had had that night in the tavern.

"More than a one night stand." Eisra had said. And judging by the invitation, Eisra was proving that desire to be an honest one. She did want more.

Falean smiled. Their night together had been fun. A learning experience if nothing else. Though she hadn't truly thought it would be anything more than just a good time, something in her warmed to the fact that Eisra had been entirely honest. She wanted something that lasted. How long exactly was something only time would tell. But in the meantime, Falean could use a few days away from the tavern. Away from Dragon Bridge. And truly she also wanted to pay her respects to Eisra's mother. Madame Serana had been kind to her. True kindness was a rare thing nowadays. Especially to a common village wench. And even more true… She wanted to see Eisra again. The very thought of the woman made her heart flutter.

Decided, Falean went into the tavern office and scribbled a short note. The other workers often did this when they wanted time off, so she felt justified in doing the same. If the boss had issue with it, then he could take it up with her when she got back. That done, Falean finished up for the night and rushed home to pack for a days on the road and however long in Solstice. In the morning she'd arrange for a carriage driver and that would be that.

Serana

Serana awoke somewhere unexpected. Her eyes opened to a blue sky filled with clouds. Sunlight shone down on her face, warm and comforting. It took a moment for her to realize that there was no discomfort. Not at all. The rays of sunlight did absolutely nothing to her bare skin. Odd. As she sat up and gazed about herself, she found she was laying in a large field of grass and flowers. The tall blades of grass tickled at her skin. Butterflies floated in the gentle breeze and birds sang in the distance. The air smelt of grass and flowers and cool water. It was… peaceful.

As she stood, she also realized her ruined leg was whole once again. Serana bent and touched it cautiously, amazed. That's when she noticed her hands. Gone were the wrinkles and age spots she'd grown accustomed to. They were… as they once were in her youth. But… that wasn't quite right either. The small scars she'd accumulated over the years from a slip of the hand while cutting herbs were gone too. Not a blemish remained. Upon further inspection of herself, everything was new.

"That's strange. Didn't I die-" Serana's hand slapped over her mouth. Her old crone, crackly voice was also gone. Hesitantly, she spoke again in a somewhat singsong voice. "Just wait. Though wide he may roam, always a hero comes home."

A little giddy with excitement, Serana continued to speak aloud to herself for a short while. It was just such a shock. Finally accustomed to her transformation, she turned in a slow circle to see further beyond her immediate surroundings. Fields and trees as far as they eye could see. Mountains in the distance, their peaks topped with the pure white of fallen snow. Beautiful to view. Also… a large structure glowing with radiant lights. An aurora, if she remembered correctly. Curious, and seeing nothing else worth investigating, Serana started towards the structure.

It took what felt like hours to reach the structure, and yet… no time at all. In that strange passage of time, Serana felt no hunger, thirst, or fatigue. She felt as though she could march straight on to those far off mountains without stopping once. She felt… amazing. Better than she'd felt in years. Better than ever, actually.

When she finally stood before the structure, Serana had to stop and gaze at it. The staircase up to it's massive doors were flanked by numerous statues of hooded figures. Large stone statues that looked out of sorts in such a grand place. While the building and it's surroundings were of light and life, these figures were somewhat dark and foreboding. Shrugging, Serana ascended the stairs and approached the building's massive doors. Inside, muffled by the thick wood, she heard laughter and music. Even out here she could smell roasting meat and the sweet tang of mead. Suddenly, Serana realized where she was.

She shoved her way inside, flinching at the sheer cacophony of noise that hit her. Booming laughter. Loud chatter. Stomping boots and clanking armor. Dishes clashing. Mugs smashing. Mead splashing. The fire crackling. Music playing and voices singing. The whole room, which seemed to go on in each direction forever, radiated joy and life. And endless feast for the warriors who'd passed into the After. Sovngarde…

"How am I supposed to find Alessia in this?" Serana said as she waded into the fray.

"Serana!" A loud voice boomed over the madness. Large, strong arms clamped around her shoulders and practically lifted her off the ground in a huge hug. "It took you long enough! What did you in? A sword? A hammer? Maybe an ax?"

When the arms finally let her go, Serana spun to see a familiar face. Though the last time she'd seen the woman, she'd been a ghost. "Gormlaith?"

The large woman grinned, her face flush with drink. "Aye! I knew you'd remember me! So, what was it then? Blade? Bow?"

"Actually-" Serana started.

"No, no, no, no! Don't tell me! Lemme guess!" Gormlaith went into a long list of extremely morbid and creative ways one could die. Most of them brutal and terrible.

Finally, Serana simply said. "Heart attack."

"Is that it then? You're heart gave out?" Looking a little disappointed, Gormlaith shrugged. "Ack, well… Not everyone can go out in style, I guess. At least tell me it was because something terrible scaring you so badly."

"No, just old age." Serana shook her head, trying not to laugh at the woman's further disappointment. "Gormlaith, I need to find Alessia. Have you seen her?"

It seemed to take the warrior a good, long while to think about the question. "I… have. It think. It was quite some time ago. Then Ysgramor came and took her away. Tight arse won't say where she went though."

Serana blinked. "They took her away. Why?"

"Well…" Gormlaith hesitated. "Serana, you know what she is. She belongs to Hircine. Him and quite a few other powers have a claim on her soul."

Sudden fury rose in Serana. "You mean she isn't here?"

Someone cleared their throat nearby. Serana whirled her anger on whoever had interrupted their conversation. The man that stood behind her was tall and barrel chested. Formidable. The only male she'd ever met that large in stature was Farkas. And this man dwarfed even him. He was bearded with a mat of dark hair on his head. He wore iron armor, one similar to some she'd seen in Jorrvaskr. The helm he carried under one arm was thick and heavy looking. The open maw of a wolf served as the decoration. Despite her anger, the man bowed lowly, placing one hand over his chest as most Companions did when they bowed.

"Do I have the honor of addressing Lady Serana, mate and wife to the Harbinger Alessia? Once Alpha of the Circle Pack of werewolves?" The man asked. His voice was surprisingly gentle for a man of his stature.

Serana curbed her anger for the time being and returned the bow, if only slightly. "I am Lady Serana."

At that, the man rose. "I am Ysgramor. Leader of the Five Hundred Companions. It is truly an honor, Lady."

"Do you know where my mate is?" Serana asked.

Ysgramor nodded. "That I do, Lady. As first in command of our shared Order, it is my duty to bring you to her dwelling."

"Dwelling?" Serana glanced around the hall. "Why is she not here in the mead hall? Why is she-"

The man raised one hand to stop her from speaking. "Of this I cannot speak, Lady. I can only lead you to your mate. Any questions you have must be answered by her. Come. I will take you now."

As they left, Gormlaith shouted. "Give Alessia a kiss for me, will you?"

Outside, the two descended the stairs and started off in the direction Serana had come. To her surprise, two horses stood waiting in a nearby field. Ysgramor mounted the first, but the second walked right up to Serana. It was a large gray stallion. He nuzzled her arm until she pat his nose, then he made happy little horse noises. Pleased, Serana leaped up onto the horse and they started off again. It felt good to ride again. She'd grown tired of the rough wagon rides in her old age. Horseback felt so much better. She felt free again. With an excited yip, Serana urged her steed onward. The stallion seemed happy to oblige. He took off, nearly tossing Serana off his backside. Laughing, Ysgramor kicked his horse and chased after her.

They rode on for hours. Or what seemed like hours. Time was immeasurable. Unimportant. Hours passed both quickly and slowly. The joy of riding going on and on into eternity. Then Serana realized… she could do exactly that. If she so wished, she could ride through the fields at full speed forever without stopping. Neither she nor the horse would ever tire. Ever hunger or thirst. It was… an amazing feeling to feel so free. Perhaps when she found Alessia again, they could ride through the golden fields forever together.

It surprised Serana when Ysgramor veered off. Regretfully, she had to rein in the stallion and follow. The elder Companion lead them to a grove alongside a crystal clear, flowing brook. The water sounded like chimes of gems or glass in the wind. Beautiful and mesmerizing to listen to. So mesmerizing, Serana almost missed the familiar voice singing in the background. Her heart stopped.

Serana looked to her guide. Ysgramor nodded. "Go on."

She was off the horse and racing towards the voice faster than lightning. Within the grove was a cottage. One that looked very similar to the one they'd spent their honeymoon in. This one was a bit larger, but made out of similar brick and mortar. Black smoke drifted from the chimney and a warm glow shone through the open windows. The door was open, but that wasn't where the singing was coming from.

"Just wait.

Though wide he may roam,

Always,

A Hero comes home."

Serana sprinted around the cottage, sliding to a staggering halt on the loose stones beneath her feet. The brook wrapped itself around the cottage and meandered through the glade. Not far from the dwelling was a large tree shading a grassy spot along the bank. Much like the one she and her mate had lain under in the Great Forest. A lone figure sat leaning against the trunk of the tree, a long thin pole in her hand with a line drifting in the water below.

"He goes where no one has gone.

But always,

A Hero comes home."

Alessia was exactly the same as she'd always been. Tall and strong and perfectly beautiful. Her hair was still that short mess that somehow always looked attractively tousled. Her clothes the same blouse with men's pants and boots. Currently she was barefoot, her boots sitting in the grass nearby. The only change was… she was younger than she'd been when they'd first met. Early twenties maybe. And the… tension always present in her demeanor was gone. She looked… at peace. Mostly.

Serana made to speak, but could only manage a small whimper. It was enough. Alessia's shoulders tensed, her back straightened. Slowly, she turned and finally, finally saw her. Those big blue eyes widened in shock and awe. The pole fell from her hands and was comically dragged away in the current of the water. Serana chuckled at that. She couldn't help it. Tears streamed down her face, dripping off her chin to be carried away on the wind.

Alessia leapt to her feet and was sprinting all out towards her. "Serana!"

Gods… Her mate's voice saying her name. She started running and leapt. As always, Alessia caught her in solid, strong arms. She spun a few times in the air, both of them laughing and weeping openly. Then she was being held so tightly she couldn't breathe. Didn't care. Didn't care at all. Then they were kissing. Then hugging again. Then kissing again. Finally, Alessia pulled back and just looked at her for a time. Big, worried, blue eyes searching for any sign of stress.

Serana giggled. "Still overprotective, I see."

"You know me." Alessia smiled. Gods… She'd missed that smile. It went away quickly, replaced by a slight frown. "How?"

Serana's hand went to the place over her heart. "Gave out. I was visiting Mother when it happened."

Though there was a bit of relief in her eyes, Alessia still frowned. "Was your mother with you? You weren't alone?"

Understanding her concern, Serana nodded. Alessia took her hand and lead her back to the tree. They sat together, as much of their bodies touching as possible. "Mother and Eisra. They tried to revive me, but… it was my time."

"And how is my lovely mother-in-law? Still cursing my name on a daily basis?"

Serana chuckled. "Sometimes twice a day. But she's fine. Or… at least she will be. I did, after all, just die. In time… she'll be alright. The children will help her as best they can."

Alessia nodded. "And Eisra? You said she was there too."

"Eisra will be fine. She takes after you. It will be hard at first, but she's strong." A wide grin spread across Serana's face. "Plus… our 'little wolf' bonded."

Alessia grin mirrored her own. "Oh? Do tell? Who has our Cuan wrapped around their finger?"

Time passed pleasantly as Serana told her mate about their recent encounter with the tavern wench Falean and Eisra's instant attraction to her. Serana chuckled, "Hook, line, and sinker. Our Cuan's bonded. Made her move a hell of a lot faster than you did."

Alessia chuffed. "If I do recall, you jumped me first, then rejected me two minutes after that."

"I did not 'jump' you." Serana sniffed. "I slipped and fell on you."

Alessia's booming laughter filled the grove. After it subsided, she said, "Eisra really does take after me. My mate 'fell' on me. Her mate 'fell' on her. The universe has a strange sense of humor."

Serana smiled, thinking how much she'd missed that laugh.

"But you're right. If I'd have had things my way, we'd have been mated a lot sooner than we were."

Silence fell on them for a time. Serana wasn't exactly sure how much time passed. The sound of the flowing water, the wind in the trees, the birds and crickets… All of it just… melded into her soul as if she'd never known anything else. Which was hard to imagine. Knowing anything else but the music and the warmth of her mate beside her. Forever like this was… heaven.

"I heard you, you know? When you last came to see me." When Serana said nothing, Alessia continued. "It was the night before you left for your mothers. You sounded… sad. I was really worried about you. Worried that you might give up."

"You heard that?"

"My grave, my domain. If I focus hard enough, I can hear or see whatever is going on around it. Give it a few days and likely you can hear the same at your grave."

"Our grave." Serana corrected. "I asked to be cremated and have my ashes joined to yours."

"Ah." Alessia frowned again. "It was killing me I couldn't help you. I would have given anything to ease your pain."

Serana kissed her mate again. Oh, how much she'd missed the feeling of her wolf's lips on her own. When she finally, regrettably, pulled back, she smiled.

"Don't dwell on it, Love. The hard part is done. We're together again. This time forever." Alessia said nothing which frightened Serana to no end. "What aren't you telling me? Why are you out here by yourself?"

Alessia sighed and made a face that looked like what she was about to say tasted like sour lemons. "I… have a lot of things to answer for, Serana. Most of them bad. I made deals and promises to some very powerful beings. By all rights, I shouldn't even be here in Sovngarde. It's only by the Gods' mercy that I've been allowed to stay here as long as I have."

"Alessia, you're scaring me. Are you saying you won't be staying here in Sovngarde?" Serana's heart pounded in her chest. Fear and anger waring for residence.

Seeing how afraid she was, Alessia took her hand to calm her. "No, I can stay here. It's only that I have… obligations to fulfill on other planes. From time to time, I'll be called to other realms to repay my debts. Nor can I enter the mead hall in Sovngarde. A punishment of sorts. That's why I'm so far out here. I'm not allowed to join the others."

"But that's…" Serana struggled for the words, "Bull shit!"

Alessia laughed, but shrugged. "It could be worse. And I kind of like it out here. It's peaceful."

"But… didn't you get lonely out here all by yourself?"

"Others from the mead hall come visit often." Alessia smiled happily. "My mother and father come every few days or so. They're eager to meet you."

"Wow, that's… amazing." Serana paused. "But, I don't understand. Gormlaith said Ysgramor wouldn't tell her where you were."

Looking a little abashed, Alessia said, "That's because I asked him not to. If Gormlaith knew where I was, she'd never, and I mean never, leave. And now that you're here, if she knew where I was, she'd most certainly never leave. I think she hopes you'll give up on me and take up with her."

Serana laughed. "Territorial as always."

More silence.

"So… these obligations. How long will you be gone?"

"From what I'm told, it's still being settled between the powers involved. Nocturnal is pissed. Hircine is about ready to tear one of Hermaeus Mora's tentacles off. It's a real mess. Serves me right for getting around so much." Alessia sighed. "The Gods are fighting for me. Akatosh, or Auri-El, mostly. The others help, but Stendarr refuses."

"Really? Why?"

"He's… more 'Justice' than 'Mercy' right now. Angry with me for the lycanthropy." Alessia chuckled. "You should have seen how angry he was when Akatosh allowed me into Sovngarde. But Julianos reminded him to use his reason. You know, 'Wisdom' and 'Logic' are his thing. The lycanthropy wasn't my doing, after all. Not truly. I wasn't a raving monster like many of the others they'd not allowed into Sovngarde. Plus, I wasn't a werewolf at the time of my death."

Serana blinked. "Wait, what?"

Alessia grinned at her. "Akatosh pulled a fast one on Hircine. He took the lycanthropy from me just before the rocks came down. Cured me in an instant. That's how I got the strength to shove you ahead of me. The Fading stopped and I had a sudden burst of energy. So really, neither Stendarr nor the Lord of the Hunt have a bone to pick with me. As I passed into the After, I was one-hundred percent human. For all of maybe two seconds, but still… human. A gift, he said. My reward for returning his bow to him."

"He already gave us a boon. He helped me, and in turn, you." Serana said aloud.

Again Alessia grinned. "That's what I said, but he wouldn't budge. And honestly, I didn't push very hard."

"So…" Serana started, still a little surprised, "So, that leaves only Nocturnal and Hermaeus Mora?"

"A few other entities tried putting a claim on me, but none would stick. Technically, the bargains we made were null and void when I died. Either my death did it or they'd found some other mortal champion long before my death. That's the Gods' argument against Hermaeus Mora right now. From what I'm told, it's holding water." Alessia paused. "Molag Bal tried to argue for your soul. He claimed you still had some of his power, and thus, you belonged to him. Don't worry. Akatosh shut him down faster than he shut down Hircine for me. He swore that, despite what happens to me, none shall take you from this place. Not ever."

Relieved by that, Serana asked, "And Nocturnal?"

Alessia's grin vanished. "That one I think will stick. Despite every conceivable counter argument I've come up with, I still owe Nocturnal my services."

There was quiet while Serana struggled with the idea of losing Alessia again. In a small voice she asked, "What does this mean, Alessia? Will the Gods make you leave Sovngarde?"

Quickly, Alessia shook her head. "No. Like I said. This is where my soul will reside for the rest of time. I will only have to leave to another realm occasionally. It is only how long I will be gone still to be decided. I will be tasked in guarding the Twilight Sepulcher in the Evergloam with my fellow fallen Nightingales until the Night Mistress feels my contract fulfilled. Once it is, I'll be free to stay here full time."

"Will it be dangerous?"

"Brynjolf and I talked at length with Karliah about it. Really it's just like any other guard post, only the guards are spectral Nightingales and the boss marches about scolding everyone in sight. Not really dangerous until some idiot like Mercer Fray tries to break in. But, our 'Lady Luck' won't be fooled so easily again. That's for damned sure." Alessia smiled hesitantly. "It's actually not so bad. I mean… this place is amazing, especially now that you're here, but… there's no… I mean… it's a little too…"

"Peaceful? Safe? Lacking in damsels to save?" Serana tried hiding her smile. Alessia did too. It was so adorable, Serana kissed her mate's cheek. "You really haven't changed at all, have you? Still need some chaos with your peace and quiet."

Looking a little abashed, Alessia looked down. "It's really the only drawback here. They have some rough housing in the mead hall from time to time, but I'm not allowed in. Going to guard the Twilight Sepulcher feels like a welcome change to the monotony. I mean I can hunt all I want, duel whoever comes to visit, but it's not the same."

Chuckling, Serana shifted, placing herself atop Alessia's lap. Her hands slid up her mate's slim neck and ran through her mess of hair. Gods… she'd missed doing that too. With a sly grin, Serana purred, "Surprise, surprise… You're a fighter after all. All you need is a little 'action' to be satisfied."

With one dark eyebrow raises and a wicked grin, Alessia looked up at her. "I prefer to wield a blade against my opponent, but… I'd be willing to go hand-to-hand. If… my opponent is up to the task?"

"Oh, she's up for the task. And she'll raise the stakes by challenging a contest of stamina, strength and constitution. Say… a struggle through the remaining daylight hours, throughout the night, and unto dawn's first light." The growl Serana receive was feral, despite the lack of lycanthropy behind it. She giggled darkly. "What say you? Accept my challenge?"

"My dear wife, you have no idea how much I've missed you."

Serana leaned down, whispering against Alessia's lips, "I think I have some idea."

Alessia carefully laid her upon the soft grass by the brook. It felt more comfortable than any bed she'd ever laid upon. Better still was her mate's solid weight above her as they slowly undressed each other. Just as her own flesh, all of Alessia's scars were gone. All the remnants of her torture as if they'd never been at all. Still, Serana took the time to place a loving kiss on each and every place where they had once been. All by memory.

Their lovemaking was tender, careful, and sweeter than any other time they'd been together while they were alive. It lasted far beyond the appointed time at dawn's first light. Actually, they were still intertwined with each other until night fell again. They'd paused for short periods of time, happy and content to simply lay side by side and look upon the other or speak softly on the many things they'd missed these past years. Then at the slightest touch or look, one would roll onto the other and start all over again. None bothered them. Not for what Serana guessed to be many days. Time was still hard to tell. Even with the steady rotation of night and day.

They'd at last separated, albeit reluctantly and with promising looks of later revelry, just a short while before their first visitors arrived. A young man and a young woman approached hand in hand and looking a little embarrassed. Alessia and Serana chuckled, a little embarrassed themselves. Had they been that loud during their reunion? The man was tall, lean, and dark of hair and eyes. The woman was likewise but lacking the eyes. The same ice blue eyes as Alessia looked Serana over. It surprised Serana just how much Alessia looked like her mother. Eisra, Alessia's mother and their Eisra's namesake… Alessia's father was Lasskar.

And still, a third stranger entered their glade. A boulder of a man Alessia was more than happy to see. Thorm, them Wandering Swordsman who'd taken Alessia in as a child and raised her as his own. The five sat around the fire while a meal of goat and various root vegetables roasted on the fire. Thorm had brought the food as well as a small keg of mead from the hall. None of them needed to eat or drink, but the simply joy of family and food was the idea. While they talked, mostly stories of Alessia's misadventures growing up with a few tails of Alessia and Serana's life together at Solstice thrown in, Serana remained closely at her mate's side. Alessia pulled her close, always keeping her tucked under her arm and tightly against her side. They laugh and ate and drank until long into the night.

When the food and drink were gone, and their guest departed to their own corners of Sovngarde, Alessia buried the fire under handfuls of dirt. That task done, they finally went inside the cottage. Serana froze as she entered. It wasn't a cottage at all. She went back outside, checked to see if what she'd seen of the inside was accurate then marched back in again.

"Impossible." Serana muttered much to Alessia's chagrin.

Alessia chuckled. "I said the same thing when I first came inside."

"But didn't you say you built the cottage yourself? How could you not know about…" Serana motioned to the large hall. "This."

From the outside, the dwelling was indeed a cottage. A large one, but still a cottage. Inside however, the pair looked upon the massive main hall of Solstice Manor. Each and every inch of the place the exact same as the last time she'd seen it. The hearth, the table, the candles, the stairs… everything just as it was. Serana shook her head, exited, then reentered again.

"It's not a trick. The entire house is just as I left it. The only difference it the exterior. Sadly your garden is gone, but the interior one is still here. Even most of the plants are there." Alessia said.

"Most?"

Alessia looked down at her boots. "I… might have killed a few while trying to maintain them. How that happened in a place where nothing dies, I'll never understand. You know I don't have your green thumb."

"Everything is the exact way it was after you died? Everything?" Serana asked.

That's when the sadness overtook Alessia. She shook her head. "The structure is the same. The house is exactly as we built it. It's not a 'home' though. It's been empty ever since the day I first came. I only ever came inside to tend to your plants. Other than that, I stayed outside. It's… hard."

"Yeah. I can see that. More of a curse than a blessing." Serana went to her mate and pulled her into an embrace. "But I'm here now. You'll never be alone again. Not ever."

After a moment, Alessia asked, "Do you want to stay inside? I'll move in if you want to."

With a sly smile, Serana look up at her mate. "At least we'll have the whole house to ourselves as often as we've always wanted to. No one to walk in on us while were having sex on the long table. Or in front of the hearth. Or on the stairs. Or in our office. Or-"

Alessia burst out laughing, which was what Serana had been aiming for. "Good Gods, Love! I'm going to be very busy for the rest of eternity, aren't I?"

"That's the idea. Or would you rather I spend my time in the mead hall with Gormlaith?"

The possessive snarl was exactly the response she was looking for. Alessia backed her up against the table and took her mouth roughly. After what felt like forever, which in actuality it truly could have been forever for all Serana knew, Alessia released her and growled, "Clever little fox. You wanted me to do that."

"You remember how to play our little game... Good." Serana purred. "I'm yours, Alessia. And we're together again. Now and forever."

Alessia smiled, fingertips brushing gently across Serana's check. "And I am yours. Now and always."