Voltagelisa: Noted. I'm now at four points. (Just from you alone!) Glad you like the ending my dear. I'll update as quickly as possible.

WaffleNommer: I'm trying! I'm glad you're happy~ Lol, I kind of want to play again and rejoin the companions too.

Herelies: ….Wonder wolf. That. Is. Amazing. Love it so hardddd. Yes. Major conflict is coming and it is coming soon. It's like a dark cloud hanging over the companions and it won't be pretty when it comes to light. Thank you for sticking with me so far dear. Your support means the world to me.

Kogouma: Thank you for the kind words, my dear. I'm glad you enjoyed the chapter.

Whelp, on another note, I'm sorry if this update was slow. I burnt both my wrists at work. Long story short, I was cooking and I'm a klutz. End story. I'll do my best to update quicker.

Lol, btw. You tube has a thing called the 'Vilkas Murder song.' Listened to it and laughed my ass off. "That is Vilkas. He'll cut your d**k off."

Chapter 22- Carry on

But I like to think
I can cheat it all
To make up for the times I've been cheated on
And it's nice to know
When I was left for dead
I was found and now I don't roam these streets
I am not the ghost you are to me

If you're lost and alone
Or you're sinking like a stone
Carry on
May your past be the sound
Of your feet upon the ground
Carry on

- Fun "Carry on"

Three weeks passed and Vilkas watched his little lover slowly reform their guild. Vincent had been working furiously, trying to get them better contracts and taking the extra effort to review their requests for work. Vilkas would often find Vincent asleep on his desk in the wee hours of the early morning. He'd of course, pick him up and put him to bed. In these past weeks there had been no sign of Cadrian or Daric but Vilkas knew it was only a matter of time.

He'd sometimes watch Vincent sleep and wonder if he had made the right decision. Vincent was doing a good job as Harbinger. There was no argument about that…but Vilkas couldn't help but feel…strange about it. He'd promised to support Vincent in his causes and even accepted the fact that he was chosen as Harbinger. Yet he still felt odd and watching his stressed mate sleep only awakened that feeling more and more.

Maybe Vincent shouldn't be Harbinger. Maybe Vilkas would be better off being in charge instead. Part of him…and I mean a very deep part of him, admitted he was slightly jealous. Kodlak had groomed him to be a leader. He was Master at Arms at only twenty-five years old. He was a master of two handed weaponry and was intimately knowledgeable about the inner workings of the companions and Jorrvaskr. Ideally…he was the best choice…and a part of him always wanted to be harbinger.

He'd been shocked when Vincent told him the news. Kodlak chose Vincent for such a sacred duty…Vilkas wasn't mad…just disappointed. He'd always thought that he'd be the one to succeed Kodlak. Vilkas fought hard, learned what he needed to diligently and excelled through the ranks. He felt…slightly robbed of it. Why would Kodlak chose him? Why Vincent? A mage of all things to lead a group of warriors….

He loved Vincent, mage or no and knew he was worth fighting for. He also knew Vincent had it in him to lead the companions…but he couldn't argue that it wasn't slightly unorthodox. He didn't lie to Vincent when he asked. He was chosen and he would have to be the leader. Vilkas would stick by him no matter what choices he made. That's what loving someone meant…to Vilkas anyway. Loyalty. He'd stick by Vincent as long as the fates allowed him and love him just as long.

His wolf, however…was not so convinced.

He could hear it at night, thrashing about like a caged animal. HE was the dominate one. HE should be the alpha wolf. His mate was his submissive and should behave as such. It was always growling now…deep inside Vilkas. It didn't help that Vilkas hadn't intimately touched Vincent since that night and his wolf was chomping at the bit. It was…painful. Vincent was so stressed out and tired, so Vilkas didn't want to bother him with something foolish like that. He was a grown man for gods sake.

Vincent cracked his eyes open and yawned softly against his pillow. Vilkas, who had been watching over him while he slumbered, reached over to pet his hair and he heard Vincent give a contented purr for his efforts.

"I need to get up and finish my work…"

"I finished them for you last night after I put you in bed. Rest for today, Harbinger."

Vincent hummed and snuggled more into his pillow. "You're so good to me."

Vilkas felt guilty for thinking as he did. If Vincent needed anyone to believe in him, I was Vilkas. He continued stroking Vincent's hair gently and saw him relax further. He couldn't help but think of that night Vincent had left their old room. Vilkas couldn't even be mad at him for packing and shipping off to the next room so abruptly. Even if Vincent hadn't begged for him to stay, Vilkas would have packed his things and intruded anyway. Even if that tiny part of him was jealous, he'd never abandon the man he loved.

"What are you thinking about?"

Vilkas put on a small smile for his mate. "Nothing. You should try to sleep more."

Vincent shook his head and turned so he could rest his head against Vilkas' thigh and rubbed his leg gently. "Can I sleep like this? I like having you near."

Vilkas knew he was going to regret this. "Aye."

Vincent murmured a soft 'thank you' and nuzzled his thigh as he made himself comfortable. Vilkas was now, anything but. His wolf, growled darkly and sharply from within. He pushed back the sound and the feeling and just stroked his lovers' crimson hair.

Sex wasn't everything. He knew this. His wolf disagreed. The wolf loved the more basic of instincts that all narrowed down to three things. Eating, fighting and fucking. The pack mentality was still there and beating as strong as ever. The wolf felt like he had his pack and there was no longer any fear of it moving on without him.

The next few days seemed torturous as the feeling intensified. It felt worse then before he'd met Vincent and he just repressed everything. He'd try to train Vincent more in two handed weaponry but his close proximity would lit a fire deep in Vilkas' chest and he'd call the lesson off early. Don't get him wrong. He wasn't running…just….temporarily retreating. Vincent meant the world to him and after the hell Cadrian had put the mage through…Vilkas wanted to do anything but hurt Vincent.

'Claim him! Take him! He is willing you fool! Dominate! Be the Alpha!'

His wolf was no help what so ever….to say the least. It was worse now then it had been before Vilkas claimed Vincent. Now, he'd had a taste of his mate and needed more. Vincent's body, his lips, his smile, every bit of him, every fiber…Vilkas needed it. The scariest part about needing someone like that, wasn't feeling weak. Vilkas did not see Vincent as a weakness, oh no. If anything the mage gave him strength. The scariest part…was that Vilkas was afraid to lose himself.

"Are you feeling alright, Vilkas?"

Vilkas glanced up at his mate who sat across from him in the courtyard. "Hum?"

"You've been distant lately. Is everything okay?"

Vilkas shrugged, non-comitial. He swirled an apple on the table between his hands. "Just a lot on my mind."

Vincent's lips formed to a straight line. "About…Cadrian?"

"Part of it." Vilkas muttered. "He's been quiet for too long. No sign of him anywhere…I don't like feeling hunted. I would much rather be the hunter."

"I know…" Vincent sighed. He glanced up at Vilkas and their eyes met. His copper pools said that he was sorry but he did not voice the words directly. Vincent had come to learn that apologizing to Vilkas for Cadrian and Daric was not a good idea. "What's the other part…?"

Vilkas huffed. "I don't want to talk about it."

"Vilkas…"

"Vincent, no."

"Don't be like that, Vilkas…" The redhead let out a soft whine that lit Vilkas' body aflame.

"Just…! Stop. Please."

Vincent looked away, his eyes downcast and defeated. "Okay."

Great. Now he felt guilty. Vilkas abandoned the apple on the table in favor of rubbing his temples. He didn't want it to be this way. Their relationship was backsliding again… he wished that it didn't have to be this way and he had stopped to question why he was making it that way. Vilkas' wolf was apart of him and he should be able to share his pain with his mate… However, pride was involved and he was a stubborn Nord after all.

"I heard Nadia talking." Vincent broke the silence. "She doesn't think I have it in me to be the Harbinger."

"She didn't leave when you gave your speech. She toasted with the rest of them…she just…needs to be mean. It's just her."

Vincent huffed. "Our first meeting was proof enough of that. I was bringing Aela her shield and Nadia slammed into me in the hallway. When I didn't back down right away, we almost got into a fist fight."

"That would be bad. I wouldn't want you to get hurt."

"…" Vincent lifted an eyebrow. "I could take her."

Vilkas stared at his pretty little mate for a good few minutes. "She is very skilled."

"I'm not defenseless Vilkas."

"I know your not…"

"You don't think I could beat her." The redhead replied, matter-of-factly and almost scowled.

"She is an excellent, fist fighter."

"Have you fought her before?"

Vilkas rested both his hands on the table. "Once or twice."

"Did you beat her?"

"Aye…" Vilkas admitted. "She power swings with her fists. I let her tire herself out."

"So If I can beat you, then I can beat her."

"…What?"

Vincent stood up and grabbed Vilkas by the wrist. "Come on then."

"I'm not fighting you." Vilkas made sure he didn't budge.

Vincent pulled regardless. "Come on Vilkas. I'll prove to you that I'm worthy to be Harbinger."

"You don't have to prove it to me."

Vincent stopped tugging. "Do I not?"

"I told you I stand behind you in this."

"I know what you told me, Vilkas." The redhead huffed and still pulled on his wrist. "I have a feeling through…and via this short time that I've come to know you and I do believe I know you…You really don't think I'm suited for this job."

"…" Vilkas couldn't bring himself to confirm that. The mage read him like a book it seemed.

"So come on. Let me prove you wrong."

Vilkas guessed he couldn't argue with that. He stood up and allowed his mate to lead him to the training ground. Vincent pulled off his coat and gloves and set them aside, then smiled sheepishly at Vilkas. Vilkas just pulled his sword off and placed it near Vincent's coat.

"Ready?"

Vilkas sighed and raised his fists slightly. "Aye." He really didn't want to hit him.

Vincent got into a stance that was slightly unfamiliar to brawling. His slender legs were spread slightly father apart and his hands were up, but not clenched in a traditional way. His hands were level, but open as if he was going to catch something.

"Well, swing at me."

Vilkas pulled his punch a bit and aimed at Vincent's shoulder. Vincent easily brushed it aside with the back of his palm.

"Vilkas. Come on. Hit me like you mean it."

Vilkas almost sputtered. "I don't want to hurt you."

"I'm not made of glass. Come on, Vilkas! Man up!"

Well shit. Vilkas growled and swung, hard and fast at Vincent's stomach. Vincent deftly evaded the punch and spun out of the way. Vilkas pulled back to hit him on the back swing but found himself only striking air. Vilkas kept his swings calm and controlled but powerful. He'd probably floor the Mage if they connected.

He fought Vincent across the yard, none of his hits connecting as of yet. He wasn't tired and didn't put all his force into a blow like Nadia would. He could keep this up for hours.

He finally went for a feint. He went to slam his fist into Vincent's side but instead brought his right hand up to punch him in the shoulder. No matter how into it he was getting, he wouldn't punch his lover in the face. He'd been beaten enough by that Devil…

Vilkas found his feint ignored and Vincent snatched his wrist and twisted. Vilkas felt his footing stumble and one of his lovers legs shot out to trip him. Vilkas grunted and tried to catch himself but Vincent twisted Vilkas' arm arms back and made him fall flat on his back on the cold ground. Vincent followed the movement and mounted him once he fell, keeping Vilkas' arm pinned over his head. He slammed the flat oh his palm against Vilkas' shoulder, ready to catch the other arm if it shot up to topple him but Vilkas' arm limply stayed in the dirt.

Vilkas was too shocked to continue. He'd certainly been proven wrong and all the agonizing over Kodlak's decision seemed to fade. He looked up at his mate, who smiled so beautifully at him and all his worry drifted away. Vincent fought differently, yes. With Dexterity, with guile, with- oh…he should keep moving his hips like that…

Vincent was slightly rocking his hips and his eyes had turned slightly coy. Vilkas had to admit, he liked a man who could force him down like this and he'd be lying if he said he didn't get a bit hard from this roughhousing. By the way Vincent was rocking on him, he must know by now.

"Should we be doing this here?"

Vincent chuckled and let the hand resting against Vilkas' shoulder, drift up to cup his face. "Why not?"

"Someone might come out here…" Vilkas growled slightly at the end when Vincent rolled his hips just the right way.

Vincent leaned in until they were nose to nose. "Who cares? Lay in the dirt and get weird with me."

His mate's lips descended upon his and Vilkas let his eyes slid shut. Somewhere in the back of his head, he understood that he should not be doing this in the courtyard where any person could walk back here and see them together. His mind knew this…his body was past the point of caring. His arms reaches up and wrapped around the mage's midsection to keep him pinned against his body

Vilkas felt himself almost ebb away with the feel of Vincent's velvety lips moving against his and the slight roll of his slender hips. He heard himself growl against their lips as his arousal increased. The feeling was intense and yet he had a strange drifting feeling. He could feel Vincent smile against his mouth and Vilkas was suddenly struck with the desire to gaze into his copper eyes.

He let his eyes open slowly, only to see Vincent meeting that gaze. His copper eyes were slightly hazy in lust and pleasure to start…but Vilkas slowly saw that look fade and those eyes widen slightly in surprise instead.

Vincent pulled his mouth away, sat slightly upright and gasped out loud. "V-Vilkas!"

Vilkas hooked himself up on his elbows and looked up at the mage. His head was spinning slightly, almost feeling drunk in a strange way. "Aye?"

"Your…eyes."

"My eyes?"

"They're gold."

Vilkas suddenly got it and shoved the mage off him quickly. How could he be so god damned stupid!? Had it really been so long since he'd come so close? His wolf had nearly tricked him! If not for Vincent, Vilkas might of… Vilkas could feel his breathing accelerate. Now that the deceit was over, he could feel his wolf forcing his will against Vilkas', while he still had a good strong footing.

Vilkas gasped in pain as the assault began. He could hear that ear spitting howl echo in his head and he clutched his head in a feeble attempt to silence the horrid noise. Pain exploded in his gut so intensely that he could feel it shoot up his spine. Vilkas pulled his legs up to his chest and grit his teeth against the pain.

"Vilkas!" He smelt the redhead coming in close and touching his arm. What seemed to usually calm and sate his inner beast did nothing but make it worse now. His wolf would no longer be soothed by Vincent's gentle and loving caresses. It wasn't enough. Not anymore.

"Don't!" Vilkas wheeled on him, snarling and bearing his teeth. He scrambled a few good paces away from Vincent in the dirt, until his scent was not so intense. "Just…don't…" Vilkas tried to control his breathing.

"Vilkas…" Vincent began, standing and walking closer. "Please…we can work this out…I can help you…"

"G-get away!" Vilkas growled feebly at him as that tempting and intoxicating scent came closer yet again. His wolf howled again, sending another wave of pain into Vilkas' head and body.

"Don't send me away, Vilkas." He came closer. "Let me help you…" He reached out to touch him.

"GET AWAY FROM ME!" Vilkas snarled again and managed to get to his feet. "LEAVE ME ALONE! DON'T TOUCH ME!"

Vincent looked confused for a moment…then Vilkas could see the hurt sink in. "I'm just trying to help you…"

Vilkas could feel his heart ramming up into his throat but he pushed the guilt aside for now. He was doing this to protect the man he loved…why couldn't Vincent see that? "Just…leave me alone for a while… I'll sleep in my old room until I can sort this out." Vilkas then retreated before his wolf had any say in it and while he still has the willpower to do so. He could hear Vincent calling out to him to come back but he ignored his call. He just keep reminding himself that he was doing this to protect Vincent.

"He's been like that for two days now." Aela spoke softly.

Farkas sighed and glanced up at their harbinger who was sitting by the window completely silent and looking downright exhausted. "He and Vilkas haven't been talking."

"What's going on?"

"Apparently, brother almost lost control of the beast and ended up lashing out at Vincent." Farkas looked down at his mug of mead. "Now Vilkas is beating himself up over it and hiding out in his old room until he can 'get it under control.'"

"Vilkas has been struggling for two days now?"

Farkas shrugged. "He says he came really close."

Aela shrugged right back. "He should just give in."

"You know he doesn't want to."

"I know…but it would be a lot easier on their relationship." she jerked her thumb in Vincent's direction. "We can't have a stressed out Harbinger in a time like this or an ailing Master at arms. Something needs to be done."

Farkas nodded, grimly. When they had got back from Ysgramor's tomb, Vincent had filled them in on the whole story like he had promised. He told them all about Cadrian and Daric and what was officially wrong with him. Farkas, only knowing half the story before had not realized how horrifying the truth really was. He still backed Vincent one hundred percent though. He was the harbinger now and practically married to his brother in all but name. Aela had been the most accepting. Vincent's condition seemed to bring her closer to him and she vowed to protect him like he was her blood kin.

They were as thick as thieves now, the four of them. So it was easy to tell when there was trouble in paradise. Farkas had noticed the change almost instantly. The air seemed thicker and tense. Something was just…wrong. Then he could hear Vilkas shuffling about in his old room and he knew that spelt bad news. He finally made Vilkas spill the beans and it wasn't a pretty story. Farkas could clearly see that his brother was exhausted and in pain by the look on his face. He must be doing everything in his power to hold his wolf back.

Farkas' wolf was not nearly as demanding as Vilkas'. He'd placated it at Vincent's proving by letting it out and even Farkas' wolf seemed to shy away from the current disturbances. He could live with this wolf but he too wished to see Sovngarde one day. To do that, the wolf would have to go. So be it.

"Shall we intervene then?" Aela asked.

"Yeah. Guess we should."

Farkas finished his mead and slid the empty tankard across the table before getting up and walking over to their Harbinger with Aela.

"Harbinger. A word?" Aela asked pulling up a chair to sit across from Vincent. Farkas remained standing but stood close to Vincent's side.

"Sure. What is it?"

"You don't look well." Aela came right out with it. Subtly was not her strong point. "You look tired and stressed. Surely this job can't be that hard?"

"No, no…that's not it I just haven't been sleeping well."

"Not sleeping well, or not sleeping at all?" Farkas interacted with a gruff.

Vincent pursed his lips for a moment. "I…Look; I'm guessing you want to talk about something important?"

"It IS important." Aela took him by the shoulders and shook him slightly, and then she scowled almost instantly. "You look pale and you feel thinner. Have you taken your medicine?"

"I took it this morning." Vincent shook off her hold. "What's this all about? I'm fine."

"You're not." Farkas crossed his arms and stared down at the mage. "We can tell. This is about Vilkas."

Vincent glanced around the hall; Farkas was guessing it was to check if anyone was within ear shot. When he found the company of the hall was only occupied by the three of them, he seemed to relax slightly.

Yes and no." He ran a gloved hand through his red hair and sighed. "Vilkas is only part of the issue."

"Well, we can help with the Vilkas part, but we need to know what else troubles you." Aela spoke, relining back in her seat slightly.

"Paranoia. Dreams or more like nightmares really. Cadrian and Daric have been too quiet and it's making me nervous. I know a Harbinger is supposed to be strong but I relied on Vilkas to calm me. His presence seemed to make my worry subside but he's withdrawn himself from me and I don't know how to handle it."

"Tell him so?" Aela suggested.

Vincent shook his head. "He made it clear that he doesn't want me to come near him."

"I'm sure he didn't mean it." she countered.

Vincent gave her a stony look. "He screamed at me Aela. He told me not to touch him and to leave him alone." He looked back out the window; his eyebrows furrowed and scrunched up as if he was going to cry. "I don't want to get yelled at like that again…"

Aela gave Farkas a worried look. Her gaze was screaming at him to say something, anything that would make this situation better. He was Vilkas' twin after all and no one knew Vilkas like Farkas did. He laid a heavy hand on Vincent's shoulder and almost flinched when he felt the mage tense under his touch.

"Listen Vincent…I'm sure he's calmed down by now…I think he was only trying to protect you. He almost lost control of his wolf."

"We're supposed to help each other!" The mage turned toward him, tears fresh in his eyes but they did not fall. "I may not be the expert on dating and being in love but that's what couples do right?! Support each other! I could of helped him, I know I could have!"

"Listen Vincent…I don't think you understand." Farkas kneeled slightly to be eye level with him. "You're intentions are good and yeah…you're something that my brother has always needed…but all the wolves are different. Mine does not plague me like Vilkas' does to him. It is a fight inside his own body…just like how Vilkas can't help you with your sickness." He felt Vincent relax and he almost sighed in relief.

"He still didn't need to yell at me…"

Aela exchanged a soft smile with Farkas. "Yeah…we'll yell at him for that…but for now, we need a game plan. What can we do?"

"I have a plan…" the redhead spoke up and rolled his eyes at the look both Aela and Farkas gave him. "I haven't been up all night just moping, you know."

Copper eyes suddenly locked with Farkas own and made the bigger man tense. "What?"

"Farkas…I know this is going to be a lot to ask…and I understand if you don't want to go through with it but I have a plan to help Vilkas and I could really use you there…"

Farkas smiled broadly. He would hear the Harbinger out. "Okay, if it will help my brother. What did you have in mind?"

"You again…" Vilkas scowled and stood, crossing his arms in obvious displeasure.

"Me again." The small girl answered, her dark hair blowing in a wind that Vilkas could not feel.

"What do you want from me? Why do you keep showing me these things?" Vilkas gestured around him. The bodies of the companions lay around him in a snow covered field. Aela, Farkas, Nadia, Athis, Torvar and Ria…All dead. Vilkas had fallen in the snow beside the body of his beloved brother and almost freaked the fuck out. Then that light had showed itself and the girl was there. This whole thing was just another dream…not matter how real it felt.

"We need you to understand."

"Understand, what!? For these past two days you've been plaguing my dreams! I have no peace! Awake or asleep, I suffer. Is that what you want?"

Her dark hair continued to flow about her as she stepped toward Vilkas. He watched her bare feet walk through the frigid tundra without a misstep. He was a Nord and even he would have been cold without shoes on.

"We need you to understand true suffering. Only then can you see."

She stopped within arms reach of Vilkas and he kept his eyes on the small child. He didn't understand what she meant. He'd lost Kodlak and Skjor. He was in almost constant pain due to his wolf's thrashings. He'd hurt the man he loved the most and alienated himself from his twin and Aela. Hadn't he suffered enough?

The girl smiled and made Vilkas flinch. "You're Grace…aren't you?"

She cocked her head to the side. "Grace?" She spoke as if she had never heard the name. The sly smile that slowly formed on her face was proof otherwise.

"Aye. Grace. Vincent's late sister."

She tapped her chin as if trying to recall that information. "I am a messenger."

Vilkas huffed. "A messenger for who then?"

"You know the answer to that. You've seen his mark many times now."

"Talos?"

"Maybe."

"Can't you give me a straight answer for once?"

"I am."

Vilkas face palmed. "The worship of Talos has been banned."

"Banned, but not forgotten. Only living creatures can ban their thoughts but not their hearts." She swayed in place. "Do you believe, Vilkas?"

"In Talos?" He ran a hand through his hair and breathed in hard. "Maybe. It's a nice thought."

"A nice thought." She echoed, sounding amused. He reached out and gently took Vilkas' spare hand. "We are more then a thought."

Vilkas almost jerked his hand away in surprise. "By the Gods, are you Talos?"

"Just a piece. A small piece…but enough to give this form substance. I am Grace, as you said but I am something else too. A messenger. A herald. I have been given a privilege that most do not receive….as have you, Vilkas."

"Privilege? Being shown these horrible things is a privilege?"
"Nirn is an ugly place, Vilkas." She sighed and it sounded slightly of the wind. "It is filled with evil men and women, Daedra and demons…One ray of light among the massing darkness is hard to miss. Your heart burns with a passion unseen in most times."

"What are you talking about?"

"What we have planned for you in an honor greater then any other. Being Harbinger pales in comparison."

"I've let that go." He sighed. "after everything, Vincent deserves it."

"Vincent may have taken Kodlak's place in title but you will take his place in spirit."

"I don't understand."

She nodded, almost grimly. "Kodlak did not tell you things he should have. He wanted to but all men folly. We cannot condemn him for his judgment."

"This is…It's all just…" Vilkas felt like ripping his hair out.

"It is dangerous for men to know the future. What I have told you is already very dangerous information. We have taken the risk because it will make you stronger. All will be clear in time and it is very important that you do not push away those closest to you. Do you understand?"

"I suppose…" Vilkas tried not to sound exasperated.

"That will do for now." Grace smiled and twirled slightly in place. "We will leave your dreams alone for now. We have shown what must be and will not bother you until needed."

"Hey…wait a minute…"

"Give Vincent my love."

"Wait, I said. WAIT!"

Vilkas shot up in bed and instantly grimaced against the splitting head ache he currently had. He'd fallen asleep in full armor…He was mentally and physically exhausted. He grabbed a spare change of clothes before heading for the bath. As he washed, he was aware of the subtle growling of his wolf. The fight had lessened and it seems Vilkas had come out on top this time. How long before he finally lost control though?

He remembered the hurt look in his mates eyes and it made he want to kick himself over and over. He should have stayed and explained but he'd been so…scared.

In all the close calls, that had been the closest. There was no telling what his wolf may had done to Vincent if the mage had not caught the change in time for him. Not being in control, loosing his loved ones, loosing grip on what was important…all these things scared Vilkas…and a warrior should be fearless…

When he came back to his room, fully clad in his new set of clothes, he found a small brown journal lying on his bed. Vilkas raised an eyebrow at it and slowly walked over to it. It hadn't been there when he left. Vilkas glanced around and found himself alone. The living quarters were eerily silent today.

He leaned down and picked up the leather bound book and eyed it suspiciously. He'd never seen it before…He sat on his bed and opened the book.

In my dream, I see the line of Harbingers start with Ysgramor. Each of them ascends to Sovngarde, until we come to Terrfyg, who first turned us to the ways of the beast. He tries to enter Sovngarde, but before he can even approach Tsun, he is set upon by a great wolf, who pulls him into the Hunting Grounds, where Hircine laughs with welcoming arms.

Terrfyg seems regretful, but also eager to join Hircine after a lifetime of service as a beast.

Then I see every next Harbinger turn away from Sovngarde and enter the Hunting Grounds of their own accord. Until it comes to me, and I see great Tsun on the misty horizon, beckoning me. It appears I have a choice.

Was this…Kodlak's?

And then, at my side, a stranger I had not seen before. As I look into his eyes, we turn to see the same wolf who dragged away Terrfyg, and he and I draw weapons together.

I realize this is only a dream, but a strong enough dream to inspire a man like me to take to writing, so it must be of some import.

Vilkas blinked and re-read the text again. This was defiantly Kodlak's journal. He recognized the writing… Kodlak had eluded to having prophetic dreams…and now Vilkas was having them?

He remembered Grace's words. "Vincent may have taken Kodlak's place in title but you will take his place in spirit." Is that what she meant? Becoming a Prophet? It seemed far-fetched…

Vilkas decided to keep reading. If the journal was left here on his bed, he had every right to keep reading it.

I've spoken of my thoughts to the Circle, with holding the part about the stranger lest Skjor worry I will no longer seek his counsel, and I was not surprised to see them torn by it. Skjor and Aela are strong in the ways of the beast, and even seemed to suggest that the Hunting Grounds would be their choice of afterlife, if it were truly a choice. Vilkas seemed most troubled. The boy is as fierce as a Sabre cat in battle, but his heart's fire burns too brightly at times. He felt deceived, and I don't blame him. Farkas didn't know what to think, but I believe he will come around with me and his brother eventually. He usually does. I don't know what to do about Skjor and Aela. I know they respect Companions, and me, but they take to the blood more deeply than the rest of us.

Fortune smiles upon us yesterday, Vilkas was telling me how difficult it had been for him to give up his transformations. Until we can pursue a true cure, the twins and I have chosen not to give in to the beast blood. For me, it's provided a clearer head, but Vilkas seems to be suffering a bit for it. Farkas seems completely untroubled. That boy continues to amaze with his fortitude.

Vilkas smiled a bit. It was good to know the old man had such a high opinion of him and was still able to criticize. Vilkas agreed with him…he could be too passionate at times.

While Vilkas was confiding, through the shadows of Jorrvaskr, I saw a newcomer approach, who wished to join our numbers. It was the stranger from my dream, the one who would stand with me against the beast. Vilkas began speaking obliquely, not wishing to air our problems in front of our guest, and I had to be doubly cautious to not reveal anything of our secrets to the newcomer while also not revealing the details of my dream to Vilkas. I don't know how the politicians deal with these sorts of machinations daily.

In any case, I've sent Vilkas to test the newcomer. We'll see if he is truly the great warrior I dreamt of.

This newcomer, it seems, is made of decent stock. He calls himself Vincent Renalt and has already impressed some of the Circle with his mettle. I still keep my own counsel on his place in my dream, for now. Let us see what kind of destiny he is carving before hitching to him.

In the meanwhile, I look for ways of cleansing my blood. The writings and legends on the subject are sparse and contradictory. I don't wish to engage any wizadry on this matter, but I fear they may be the only ones who best know how to navigate these worlds of knowledge.

Vilkas almost laughed at the Wizadry part.

It's apparent to me now that Terrfyg's choice to turn us was indeed a mistake. Magics and their like are not in keeping with the spirit of the Companions. We face our problems directly, without the need of such trickery. I can only hope to guide us back to the true path of Ysgramor before the rot takes me.

Vilkas sighed. He was amazed after reading such a line that he let a mage take his place as Harbinger…

Vincent continues to impress. I don't know where he will stand on the question of the blood, but the question has not been presented yet. He does know that we carry the beast blood, and appears curious about it. Soon enough, I can explain our troubles, and hopefully see what role he will play.

I'm amazed that Aela thinks she can keep a secret among this drunken rabble. Especially with the loss of Skjor (my heart aches), emotions are fraying, and the walls of discretion are the first to fall.

Apparently she and Vincent are waging their own separate war against the Silver Hand, in retaliation for Skjor's death. Their hearts are noble, but the course of vengeance is running hot, and I fear the counterstroke that may come if they do not rein in their fury.

Vincent shows valor, though even in this more underhanded time. We have not had cause to speak, much and that is something I deeply regret. I have high hopes for his destiny, as I realized that his appearance in my dream may indeed mark him as the Harbinger to succeed me.

Vilkas sighed and tuned the page. There was not much left but then again Kodlak was not really a writer.

I have received few dreams over the course of my life, but when they come, I have learned to trust them. I have also learned to trust the instincts of my heart, which tells me that Vincent can carry the Companions legacy as truly as any residing in Jorrvaskr, especially with the loss of Skjor.

Aela is too solitary, Vilkas too fiery, and Farkas too kind-hearted.

Only Vincent stands as a true warrior who can keep a still mind amidst these burning hearts.

"…"Vilkas flipped to the last page.

I will not speak to him of any of this, though. It is too much to burden another with. My hope is that he and I can keep counsel over the coming years, that I can impart the wisdom of the Harbingers. All things in time. Firstly, I will seek his assistance in the matter of the witches of Glenmori. It would appear that our path to the cure is not without some poetic justice for the tricksters who first cursed us.

What did all of that mean…? Kodlak was having visions…like Vilkas is now. He saw Vincent. He saw Vincent helping him fight against the wolves that took all the other Harbingers to the hunting grounds. Vincent had stopped it…

Is that what Grace meant? He wished he could just get a straight answer out of someone.

"Vilkas."

Vilkas' eyes shot up to his doorway, only to find his mate standing there with a blank look on his face.

"Vincent."

"Can I…" He shifted slightly. "Can we talk?"

"Aye…" Vilkas shut the book but kept it in his hands. "You left this here, didn't you?"

"Yes." Vincent confirmed. "I think Kodlak wouldn't have been opposed to you reading it."

Vilkas stopped within arms reach and looked down at his mate. "Thank you for showing this to me." Those copper eyes lifted to meet his. Vilkas wanted to kick himself again when he caught a small glimmer of lingering hurt in them. It had been the first time they had spoken in two days…and for two people who were supposed to be in love, that was wholly unacceptable.

Vilkas slowly lifted his arms and encircled his mate. He rested his cheek against his lovers hair and breathed in his fiery scent. He braced his will against his wolf in case it tried to push against him but he found no resistance. Not surprising this time. His wolf must be tired from the struggle…Vilkas knew HE was.

Vilkas soon felt Vincent's hands encircle him as well and he hid his face in the crook of Vilkas' neck. There was no need to say sorry…he knew that Vincent knew already.

"I won't send you away like that again. I promise."

Vincent nodded against the crook of his neck and placed a feathery kiss there. "okay."

They stood in silence for awhile, just holding each other. The silence was comfortable and not even slightly awkward.

"Hey Vilkas…" Vincent began after awhile. "I was talking to Farkas…and we decided something."

"Oh?" Vilkas pulled back slightly and took Vincent by the hand. "Lets continue this conversation in our room, aye? Possibly after I've slept…" he was still horribly tired.

Vincent slowly smiled and nodded, pulling Vilkas to the room they shared. The tension in Jorrvaskr ebbed away gently.

"A cure?" Vilkas eyed his mate warily. He'd managed to fall asleep for a few hours and they were thankfully peaceful. Vincent had not left his side the whole time and even fell asleep beside him. They'd woken only a few moments before and once fully awake, began to talk.

Vincent nodded. "It worked on Kodlak. We saved him. It should work on a living person too! Kodlak was depending on it in the first place. Farkas agreed with me and we are going to cure him of his lycanthropy. We want you to come with us Vilkas."

Vilkas let it sink in. A possible cure. He could be free. No longer afraid to be around the ones he loved. No longer having to deal with the pain… "It seems too good to be true."

"Kodlak was freed." Vincent persisted. "He's going to Sovngarde now. In the end, it's up to you. I've seen you suffer and I'd do anything to take it away. I won't fail anyone I love ever again."

Vilkas weighed his options. Yes, he wanted to rid himself of this infliction…but deep inside he wondered if it was the best idea. With Cadrian and Daric hiding somewhere in the wings, would he need his bestial form to protect Vincent? Was it worth it?

Vilkas cupped Vincent's face to get his full attention and gently pressed his lips against the mage's. He felt Vincent melt against him and close the space between their bodies. He hooked his arms around Vincent's waist and hoisted the mage into his lap without breaking lip contact. When they broke apart, they were both gasping for air and gazing into each others eyes.

"Alright." Vilkas spoke after a moment.

"Alright..?" Vincent smiled slightly.

"Aye…" He nuzzled the side of Vincent's face with his own and heard him giggle because of it. "Lets do it."

"Really?"

"Aye. Really. We'll go tomorrow." He shut his eyes and took a deep breath. "I'll get the cure."