Nori-239: Glad you enjoyed it dear. Yes…I do believe Vincent would probably explode from embarrassment and I can tell you that Tilma HAS probably heard them. She just doesn't gossip about it like the other girls in my mind. It's okay dear, thank you for the PM to clear up who was leaving a review. I appreciate it.

Alduin eater: First off, awesome name. No emotions? Yay? I'm glad you like the story though dear.

Guest: Ah. I'll remember that dear. Thank you for the review.

Guest (2) - I'm sorry the update took so long dear. I'll work on making it faster.

Bamamaphram: I lol'ed at the name. I like it! I love you too? Lol. Honeymoon, coming up!

Now the title song for this chapter is actually MY WEDDING SONG. My husband and I used this song as ours when we married and it holds a special place in my heart. I didn't have a traditional wedding, being pagan and all. We went out under a sword arch with our hands bound together on the first day of fall. It was such a beautiful day. Well, enough reminiscing. On with the chapter!

Chapter 32- All these words I don't just say (Bonus chapter 2)

So close no matter how far
couldn't be much more from the heart
Forever trust in who we are
and nothing else matters

Never opened myself this way
Life is ours, we live it our way
All these words I don't just say
And nothing else matters

Trust I seek and I find in you
Every day for us something new
Open mind for a different view
And nothing else matters

-Metallica "nothing else matters"-

4E 199, 4th Sun's dusk

They were getting married today. It had been a long and bumpy road but they were finally tying up all loose ends in their relationship. Vilkas was under the firm impression that they did not need to be married to prove that they loved each other and Vincent had whole heartedly agreed. They were basically married already…all that was left was for everyone else to see so too.

In the days leading up, Vincent spent time planning with Aela and Ria. Vincent, much like Vilkas, did not want a giant wedding. A few official words, a kiss perhaps and that would be enough. Aela insisted on a huge feast at Jorrvaskr afterwards in which the couple relented. Invitation was easy. Everyone in Jorrvaskr was invited to go and only one invitation (Which was sent by Vincent personally) was not of the companions. Needless to say, when Vilkas found out…he didn't take it well.

"Her?" Vilkas asked with an annoyed expression and crossed his arms. He glared at his mate, who seemed to shrug off Vilkas' foul mood and continued writing away at his desk without even so much as glancing up at him.

"Yes. Why not?"

Vilkas slammed his hands on the desk but Vincent managed to pull his quill back from the page he was writing on before he ruined his work. Vincent didn't even so much as flinch. "How about she tries to eye-hump you every time she see's you!?"

"Oh hush, Vilkas. She does not."

"Aye! She Does!"

"You're just overreacting Vilkas." The redhead spoke calmly, setting his work aside for the moment. "Cassandra is a nice girl and she did help us find Cadrian."

Vilkas visibly seethed. "I don't trust her."

"Because she's a mage." Vincent stated deadpanned. He was obviously sick of this argument.

"Aye." Vilkas growled. "One reason among many."

Vincent raised a fine skeptical eyebrow. "Need I remind you that you sleep, eat and frequently get weird with a mage?"

Vilkas' scowl deepened. "You're different."

"Uh hun." Vincent nodded, not sounding convinced.

"You EARNED my trust."

"Earned?" Vincent scoffed. "I do vaguely recall you hating me for my magic but wanting to screw my brains out at the same time."

"Vincent…" Vilkas growled a warning but his pretty-little redheaded lover ignored it.

"And marking me before you even really got to know me…" he continued, looking up at the ceiling in whimsy. "And I lied to you for the first half of our relationship…"

"Vincent…"

"Oh, and all that sexual tension between us was enough to drive us and everyone around us crazy. Yet you still wanted me and I was…AM a mage."

Vilkas surged forward and grabbed Vincent by the chin. Vincent grinned, knowing that Vilkas wouldn't hurt him and stared back defiantly. The little shit…

"Shut. It" Vincent stuck out his tongue and Vilkas narrowed his eyes. "Put it away before you lose it."

"So mean." Vincent rolled his eyes. "I'm not changing my mind Vilkas. She's coming to the wedding."

Vilkas growled. "Must she?"

"Yes."

"Great…"

"Look on the bright side Vilkas."

"There is a bright side to this?"

Vincent rolled his eyes again and put a hand over the one holding his chin. "If she wants me like you say she does, she'll have to sit there and watch me marry you."

Vilkas blinked. He didn't think about it that way. "…"

"Better?" Vincent asked, his smile growing. "Although I don't think she likes me in such a way. I'm inviting her also to improve relations between our factions."

"Shush."

"Don't shush me!" Vincent sassed with a smile still present on his face. "I'm the Harbinger, damnit."

"Shh." Vilkas tried again, a soft smile coming to his own face.

"Shh yourself! You are a-"
Vincent was cut off when Vilkas' lips descended on his. He let out a mewling purr of satisfaction and Vilkas felt Vincent's arms slide around him and try to pull him closer. Vilkas almost chuckled and pulled back slightly.

"Really? Right here?"

"Why not?" The redhead's smile was now coy. "Remember…I kind of like it when we fight."

"Mmm…" Vilkas made a noise in agreement. Only battle and Vincent could ever get his blood pumping this way. "What if someone walks in?"

"It's my office. I'd hope they have the manners to knock first."

It was Vilkas' turn to raise an eyebrow. "Have you not met Aela?"

Vincent shrugged. "I don't really care. Come get weird with me."

Vilkas couldn't argue with that.

They did end up 'getting weird' right there in Vincent's chair and partly on the desk. Vilkas awoke with a slightly stiff back and pleasant memories of the night before. He remembered Vincent arching against the chair, his bare legs sliding around Vilkas' waist to keep him in place. He remembers the roll of his insistent hips, wanting more from him with each passing second. He remembers and feels the scratches across his back and shoulders. He remembers seeing his lovers blue eyes at that moment of ecstasy.

…Needless to say he awoke with an obvious problem and had to wake his lover to ease the situation. Vincent didn't seem to mind, thankfully.

Then the day had finally arrived. Vilkas awoke and found himself at ease. He kissed his little lover, soon to be husband, on the lips to wake him. Vincent had opened his eyes and smiled calmly. Vilkas ran a strong hand through those crimson locks of hair and watched Vincent's smile widen.

"Good morning." The redhead took Vilkas' hand and pulled it down to his lips. Vilkas couldn't help but smile as Vincent pecked the inside of his palm over and over.

"Morning." Vilkas answered and pulled his hand away from Vincent's lips in favor of wrapping it around his waist. He pulled the redhead closer and laid his chin atop Vincent's head. He heard Vincent let out a soft sigh in pleasure and snuggle into the crook of his neck. When Vilkas swallowed he could feel his lover's lips press against his adam's apple. That sent a few sparks of arousal igniting in Vilkas' lower half but before he could act upon it a harsh knock came to the door.

Vincent pulled away. "Just a moment!" He got up with more energy than a man just rousing from sleep should have and started to dress. Vilkas gruffed and sat up, silently enjoying the small show of his naked lover scrambling to get clothes on. Seeing all the fresh scars on his little mate always sparked unpleasant memories of not too long ago but Vilkas pushed them aside for today. Today was not as day for remembering the bad. Today he was to move forward with the man he loved, not backward.

Once Vincent seemed presentable, he opened up the door and Tilma, Aela and Ria came busting in and grabbed the redhead.

"Come on Vincent!" Ria cheered. "Time to go!"

"Isn't it early? The wedding isn't until four in the afternoon." Vincent protested weakly but Aela wagged a finger at him.

"Never too early. Say goodbye to Vilkas, Vincent because you're not going to see him until the wedding."

Vilkas scowled. "Who says?"

"I say." Aela grinned.

"Yeah!" Ria agreed. "It will make the moment just that more special."

Tilma cleared her throat. "Ladies…" Vilkas wasn't sure whether or not she was being sarcastic using that word to describe Aela and Ria. "…It is all well and dandy that you're excited about this joyful day, but I see that our Master at arms is not in proper dress to be in present company other than the Harbingers."

Ria's eyes widened and locked on Vilkas as if it was the first time seeing him. Vilkas huffed. Yeah, he was naked but his lower half was covered with a sheet. Aela raised an eyebrow and her smirk grew wider. Vincent just seemed embarrassed.

"Ria…" Tilma warned.

"Yes…lets be off shall we?" Aela pushed the still staring Ria out the door and Vilkas heard Ria squeak as she probably tripped. Vilkas rolled his eyes. Vilkas suddenly remembered why he had never tried to sleep with any of the girls in Jorrvaskr. Besides not really being attracted to them, seeing most of them like siblings after all…They were also all crazy…. Aela grabbed Vincent next and almost forcibly shoved him out the door. Vilkas heard Vincent call out a farewell to him before Tilma shut the door so Vilkas could get up and dress in peace.

Vilkas got up and dressed himself in his clothes and armor, like any other day. He applied his war paint and made the bed before going over to his sword stand. He pulled his two handed blade off the wall and sat in the chair by the door as he grabbed a whetstone. He also pulled oil and a rag out of the drawer and began his task of meticulously caring for his weapon. About halfway through the process, another knock came to the door.

"Aye?" He called without looking up.

Torvar, Athis and Farkas all waltzed in and looked at him silently. Vilkas was content to continue caring for his blade but the eyes on him made him feel uneasy. So he sighed deeply and looked up at them with his eyes narrowed. Torvar had his arms folded defensively and looked a tad peeved off in Vilkas direction. Athis looked like he was about to pass a kidney stone and Farkas seemed normal, if not a bit exasperated.

"What is it?" Vilkas asked, already wanting to get this over with.

"What exactly is it you're doing to prepare?" Torvar snapped.

"Prepare?"

"For your wedding?" He seemed really annoyed. Vilkas wasn't surprised.

"Nothing." He turned back to his blade.

Before Torvar could snap at him, Athis chimed in. "Nothing? What do you mean nothing?"

"This isn't a big deal." Vilkas explained, not bothering with eye contact and focused on his sword.

"It IS a big deal!" Torvar yelled but Farkas gripped him by the arm in a silent warning not to do anything stupid. Torvar checked himself and cleared his throat before continuing in a much lighter tone. "You're marring our harbinger today."

"I am aware. I'm not a moron." Vilkas spoke deadpanned and didn't look up at him. He could almost hear Torvar bristling and he didn't need to look up to see that.

"So you're not even going to dress differently?"

"There is no reason to." Vilkas remained calm even though Torvar was grating on his nerves. "Vincent will take me as I am. There is no need to change anything about my looks."

"I tried to tell them this, brother." Farkas finally spoke. "They insisted on coming down here."

"Torvar insisted." Athis covered his own ass and ignored the glare form Torvar.

Vilkas stopped mid motion and sighed. He set his yet unfinished blade aside and stood up. Athis looked like he instantly wanted to run for cover but settled for hiding behind Farkas instead….although he'd deny ever hiding. He stopped in front of Torvar and locked eyes with him. Farkas still had a grip on Torvar's arm but it was loose.

Vilkas' icy blue eyes stared directly into Torvar's darker blue hues. He saw Torvar's courage waver slightly and Vilkas could of almost sworn he heard his wolf growl at Torvar's incompetence. His wolf had been gone for a while but he still felt somewhat connected to the beast. From time to time he would swear he could hear old echoes of the creature in his head, but the hunger was gone. Finally Torvar looked away and Vilkas crossed his arms and rolled his eyes.

"I know why you've come down here and I believe we already settled this, Torvar." Vilkas nearly growled in annoyance. "We will not speak of this again. Do you understand me?"

Torvar was silent for a minute, probably trying to think of something he could say to sound smarter then he actually was. He settled on "Whatever" before he tore his arm away from Farkas and left the room.

Athis nodded respectfully to Vilkas. "I'll go talk to him."

"Make sure he doesn't get too drunk." Vilkas scolded. "Vincent wants all the companions there."

"Sure thing." He ran after Torvar, leaving the twins alone in the room.

"What was that all about?" Farkas asked.

Vilkas sat back down and picked his sword back up, resuming the work he'd been trying to complete. "Torvar was just being jealous." He answers simply.

Farkas leaned against the door. "Jealous, hum?"

"Aye." Vilkas shrugged. "When Vincent first joined us, I supposed Torvar showed some interest. I'd picked up on it but Vincent didn't show him interest in return. I suppose he holds a small grudge."

"Grudge?" Farkas raised an eyebrow. "Should we go talk with him?"

"No. I already have…awhile ago. He won't let his sore feelings get in the way of the companions and his work. Let him just be…" Vilkas thought for a proper word at that moment and almost smiled. Almost. "…a sore loser."

"You sound so pleased." Farkas commented.

Vilkas shrugged. He supposed he was slightly. He was a very possessive man when he wanted to be and he'd beaten out Cassandra, Torvar, Cadrian and Daric for Vincent. He'd earned the right to be proud about it. He wasn't out to rub it in Torvar's face though…Maybe Cassandra's but only because he hated her with the intensity of a thousand burning suns…

No, his goal was not to hurt Torvar but he wasn't going to give Torvar any room for hope either. Vincent was going to be his husband and that's that. Bottom line. End of story. They'd had that conversation before and Vilkas knew Torvar was at least smart enough to remember that…but he also figured that Torvar was already drunk…and a drunken Torvar was either a confrontational one or a happy one. Today, confrontational. That attitude better change before the wedding though. Vilkas would hate to interrupt a happy moment to put a surly drunk in his place.

"Are you nervous?" Farkas asked softly.

Vilkas blinked. "No. Should I be?"

Farkas shrugged. "I am."

"What for?"

"…" Farkas stared at Vilkas for a long moment. "Because. This is the stuff people get nervous about. You're my brother. My blood and my kin."

"I get it." Vilkas finally finished his blade and inspected his handiwork. "I appreciate it brother but Vincent is already mine. We are just making it official for others sake."

Farkas scoffed but sounded amused. "Our sake, hum? More like so no one else tries to claim him."

"That too." Vilkas admitted, and nodded once he was satisfied with his work. He stood up, grabbing his sheath and strapping it to his back before sliding his blade into place.

Farkas grinned at his brother and Vilkas found his mood infectious. He cracked a smile of his own and walked over, putting as hand on Farkas' shoulder. Farkas mirrored his action and pressed their forehead's together. They'd gone through hell together and emerged from it stronger than ever. Vilkas knew that neither of them thought it would ever be like this. They were no longer children with foolish dreams of glory and pride. That glory had become reality and they earned it. That pride had been bruised and humility learned the hard way but they were stronger for it.

Life moved on as it always would, with or without them. The reality of it would make a strong man feel weak but not them. Kodlak and Skjor were gone and although Vilkas missed them terribly and wished they could both be here to share this day with them, he knew he couldn't linger on it. Besides, he knew Grace…or was it Talos… watched over them with favor…maybe Kodlak and Skjor were watching too.

Vilkas looked into the eyes that matched his own and smiled broadly. He was his twin mirror the smile and everything in that moment was perfect. There was nothing to fear and everything was going to be okay.

Time passed quickly and within hours of waking, Vilkas found himself on a carriage with his shield brothers and sisters, with the destination of Riften in mind. He should say Sister, though. Njada was the only woman present on the carriage. Tilma, Ria and Aela had all stayed with Vincent…wherever it was they vanished off to. Torvar seemed in a better mood and spoke avidly with Athis and Farkas about the feast sure to follow the wedding procedure. Leave it to food and booze to cheer up almost any man in Jorrvaskr. Njada was being Njada and looked surly the entire ride.

Vilkas remembered the first time Njada had met his soon to be husband. From what he heard from Tilma, it seemed they were about to get into a fist fight but due to Tilma's interference, they backed away from each other. Looking back, Vilkas was sure Njada would have knocked the mage flat…now…he wasn't so sure. Vincent usually held his temper in check quite well but certain things got instantly under his skin. The argument of magic seemed to be one…Although that became less of an issue and Vincent seemed less defensive about it…at least when it came to Vilkas. Anything to do with his 'sister', Cadrian, Daric, or really his past in general, could put the redhead into a fiery mood. Njada would just have to say just the right thing and Vilkas wasn't sure if he'd be able to hold the Harbinger in check.

Even though Vilkas knew everything now, Vincent didn't like talking about it. Ever. The last time he'd even mentioned it was shortly after Cadrian's death when it was reveled to them that Vincent's wayward mother, Lilliana was really that monster's sister… That man who had humiliated him, nearly raped him, chased him for nine long years, killed and manipulated a once dear friend of his, mentally and physically abused him and murdered his sister…was really his uncle. Family. The only true blood relative that Vincent had left. Vincent had ended that cruelty by his own hand and although he wore a smile, Vilkas was the one who slept beside him and he knew that knowledge had broken Vincent. Not even his father was really his father. He wasn't even a Renalt. It was a borrowed name from a kind man who saved his mother.

Looking back, Vilkas knew why Lilliana Belemonde had not told her son everything. It was the same carnal feeling he had to protect the one he loved from everything that would do it harm. She wanted to protect her baby boy from the horrors of the world and from within her own twisted bloodline. Love made her lie and Vilkas knew that love made you do things you wouldn't normally do. Vilkas tried to talk to Vincent but the mage refused to hear it. He wanted to move on and forget and Vilkas really couldn't blame him.

Then again, they didn't even really need to talk about it. It was that feeling of knowing someone so well that words became useless. He'd just know…when something was wrong. Some days he'd catch Vincent starring into space, his blue eyes murky and unfocused on some distant memory. The subtle twitch of Vincent's lips and the slow inching horror that would creep into his eyes was enough for Vilkas to interfere. He'd snap the mage out of it and hug him until he felt him calm. Vilkas liked to compare those moments to old war veterans, who had seen his comrades die and had flashes of the horrors of war. He'd seen them come and go within his time at Jorrvaskr and hell, Skjor was one. He'd sometimes hear him screaming at night from the nightmares.

The scars on Vincent's body had healed and only left faint marks but Vilkas knew not all scars were on the outside. Vilkas told everyone he was marrying Vincent to make it official. It was only half the reason. He was marrying Vincent not only because he loved him but because he wanted the mage to heal. Sentimental for a man like Vilkas? Maybe. He couldn't bring himself to care though.

A hand on Vilkas' shoulder brought him back to Nirn. Farkas smiled down at him but Vilkas could tell he was nervous. How silly.

"We're here. Ready?"

"Aye." Vilkas did his best to put his nervous brother at ease. "I'm ready."

The chapel at Riften was a pretty place, Vilkas supposed. He tried not coming to Riften as often as possible. A treasure trove of villainy and corrupt law…that and Vilkas had heard the Thieves guild was back in business and stationed somewhere within the city limits. He wanted now, more than ever, for this to be done and over with. They all piled out of the carriage and made for the temple of Mara in the center of the city. Since it was later in the afternoon, not many people where out and about at this time of day. Vilkas just thanked Talos for small favors and walked confidently toward the temple. Farkas pushed open the doors and let everyone in before firmly shutting them behind.

"Ah! You must be here for the wedding!" A Redguard priest stepped forward with his arms outstretched. He stopped and looked between Farkas and Vilkas. "One of you…yes?"

"Aye. Me." Vilkas answered. Vincent must have just given the priest a description.

"Good! Good! Oh this is such a happy day. Now we simply wait on the…" He hesitated for a moment. "…Groom." He finished wisely.

He stepped away and Vilkas had a moment to look around. In the front row on the side Vincent would be standing on…sat Cassandra. She was done up pretty in her mage robes and obviously spent a lot of time making herself look as pretty as possible for this. She was smiling politely but Vilkas could see through it and it made his blood want to boil. Witch.

She was talking avidly with that Khajiit mage that had accompanied her when she came to visit Jorrvaskr. J'zargo, Vilkas thinks his name was. As Vilkas moved closer to the front with Farkas and the other companions in tow, he could catch bits and pieces of their conversation.

"What do you think she's like…the Harbinger's wife, I mean?"

He heard J'zargo chuckling. "Manly." Vilkas' lips formed a straight line. So the Khajiit wasn't as stupid as Vilkas first thought.

"Manly?" Cassandra whispered but not softly enough. "Well...I suppose. All the women there are used to intense martial combat…Do you think I'm prettier then she is?" Vilkas could hear the anxiety in her voice. Poor fool.

Vilkas cleared his throat before this got too out of hand and he saw Cassandra jump in surprise. Vilkas walked past her, pretending he didn't hear a word of her conversation and stood up front near the priest. Farkas, Njada, Athis and Tovar all sat on the side Vilkas was standing on. Vilkas stood with his hands behind his back and took on a rigid posture as he waited.

He watched Cassandra cover her mouth and lean over to J'zargo. "Why is he standing up there?" She attempted to whisper. Vilkas fought back the impulse to roll his eyes at her. Later he would tell her that hiding her mouth wither hand did nothing to muffle her words.

"He is the Harbinger's Master-at-arms, milady." Vilkas caught the sarcastic edge in his voice and the Khajiit looked quite pleased by this whole situation "There is no reason for him to NOT be up there."

"Hmm…I guess."

The door creaked open and Tilma shuffled in with a tissue to hide her tear soaked old face. Ria followed close behind, her hands on the old woman's shoulders, trying to comfort her. Crying already…It made Vilkas smile. Sentimental old biddy. They sat in the seat behind Cassandra and waited patiently. Within moments Aela and Vincent walked in. Aela was gripping Vincent's sleeve, her knuckles white as she walked with him down the small aisle. She looked at least ten times more scared then Vincent did and she wasn't even the one getting married. Vincent…he was smiling that happy smile. A smile of a man who no longer had anything to fear and Vilkas could have sworn he felt himself fall in love all over again. His heart beat just a little bit faster when they locked eyes and he felt his breath catch when Vincent's whole face brightened in response. He was happy…and that was all Vilkas could ask for.

Cassandra's eyes were locked firmly on Aela…obviously thinking THAT was her competition. Vilkas caught the brief glare and scowl that followed before she hid it away behind a fake smile. The priest seemed overjoyed and held his arms out again.

"Ah. Now we are all here. Let's begin the ceremony."

Vincent walked up with Aela still clinging and smiled at Vilkas. "Hey." Vincent's voice seemed a bit breathless but calm.

"Hi." Vilkas spoke back as steady as he possibly could. He was a bit nervous deep down but he'd be damned if he showed it.

The priest held his hands up over the procession and Vincent looked to Aela and smiled kindly. "I'll be okay. Go take a seat Aela…"

She nodded and let go, sitting in the front next to Cassandra and J'zargo. Cassandra instantly looked confused and glanced at Aela. Seems like it hadn't sunk in just yet. That would change quickly.

"It was Mara that first gave birth to all of creation and pledged to watch over us as her children." The Priest began. "It was from her love of us that we first learned to love each other. It is from this love that we learn that a life lived alone is no life at all."

At that moment, staring into Vincent's blue eyes, Vilkas couldn't help but agree.

The Priest continued. "We gather here today, under Mara's loving gaze to bear witness to the union of two souls in eternal companionship." He smiled brightly for the crowd. "May they journey together in this life and the next, in prosperity and poverty and in joy and hardship."

Vilkas felt a small scarred hand reach over and take his hand. He looked down to see Vincent's ungloved hand intertwined with his own. He couldn't even believe he hadn't noticed that Vincent wasn't wearing his trademark gloves. He was bearing his scars in front of everyone to see but no anxiety showed on his face. He was at peace.

"Do you agree to be bound together in love, now and forever?" The priest asked, knocking Vilkas out of his observation.

"I do." Vilkas answered instantly. Gods, he'd never been so sure of anything in his whole damn life. "Now and forever."

The priest then turned to Vincent. "Do you agree to be bound together in love, now and forever?"

Vincent nodded and tightened his grip on Vilkas' fingers. "I do. Now and forever."

The priest beamed at the young lovers and held his hands high again. "Under the authority of Mara the Divine of love I declare this couple to be wed."

Vilkas wasted no time. It may have been his possessive streak but he grabbed Vincent and pulled him in close. Vilkas had never been a man to openly display his affections in public. Sensitive was not a word Vilkas would use to describe himself. He wasn't much for the romantic declarations of love or the reciting poetry type. (Not that he didn't know any poetry because in reality he knew quite a bit of it, being a scholar and all.) He could love without having to say or show it on the outside… But today…in front of all these people… he grabbed Vincent' face with both hands and passionately pressed their lips together.

He kept his eyes shut but his ears heard it all. The priest let out a startled but good-hearted "oh my!" He heard Farkas laugh and clap. He heard Tovar and Athis cat-calling and cheering. Apparently seeing Vincent so happy must have cooled Tovar's head. He heard Aela and Ria squeak in delight and Njada huff in…approval? He heard Tilma bursting out into tears and caught something along the lines of "they grow up so fast," between her sobs. He heard J'zargo laughing in sadistic delight at the face Cassandra was most likely making and the gasp of disbelief that Vilkas heard from her made it just that much more worth it.

But of all the noises that Vilkas could hear the best one by far was the surprised gasp Vincent made before his lips were captured and the pleasing purr that followed it. He felt Vincent's marred hands move to his back and grip tightly for the entire world to see. He felt the pressure of the redhead's lips as he kissed back, keeping the kiss innocent but longing.

When they pulled away, only a few moments later, they were both smiling. Vilkas couldn't even bring himself to look at the crowd because he was too lost in those hues of blue. Apparently they had spent some time doing that because the Priest got impatient and cleared his throat. Vilkas tore his eyes away and looked at the slightly embarrassed Redguard.

"Your rings." He offered them out with a kind smile.

Vilkas took the smaller one and inspected it closely. He eyed the other one before picking up Vincent's hand and sliding his ring on. Vincent then took the other ring and slid it on to Vilkas; hand. It fit perfectly.

"How'd you know my size?" Vilkas asked the priest.

Before he could answer, Vincent spoke up. "I gave the measurements."

Vilkas' eyebrow rose. "And you knew how?"

"I told you." The redhead spoke, a coy smile coming to his face. "I like the feel of your hands. Let's say I have a real good memory and leave it at that, hum?"

"Probably a good idea." Vilkas replied…less they scar everyone in the room. His own thoughts wandered to a dirtier place. He felt a growl stirring in his throat but he managed to hold it at bay.

"Congratulations!" Farkas yelled, running up and grabbing them both in a two armed hug.

"Farkas!" Vilkas wheezed, almost feeling all the air rush out of his lungs from the powerful bear hug. "I'm so happy for you both!" He let them both go and smiled broadly. Aela ran up and hugged Vincent tightly. Ria soon joined in on the hug and they chatted happily away with him.

Tilma walked up, her face still tear soaked and her eyes puffy from crying. Surprisingly she did not go to Vincent, whom she appeared to have favored. Instead, she went to Vilkas and hugged him tight around the middle. She felt frail in his arms and Vilkas gave her a soft hug back. She cried softly a bit more and Vilkas just let her. He was vaguely aware that Vincent was watching with a soft loving smile on his face.

Tilma finally stopped and looked up at him with her watery eyes. "Oh Vilkas…you've grown up so fast. I remember when you were just a child, fighting with your brother and getting into mischief." She sniffled and smiled up at him. "Jergen and Kodlak would be so proud of you."

Vilkas felt a lump form in his throat at their memories and he nodded stiffly. Her words touched a deep part of him that he usually kept locked away. He just swallowed the pain of their absence and smiled just for her. "Thank you."

She smiled proudly and gave him another short hug before moving on to Vincent. Vilkas decided that he needed some fresh air and walked outside. He leaned against the temple wall outside and took in a deep calming breath. He didn't know why Tilma's words affected him as they had but he needed to take a step back and think. He was not a man that cried often but he was suddenly struck with the urge to do so. He pushed aside the feeling, knowing he shouldn't mourn them. He'd had his time to despair in their passing and he shouldn't be thinking about it now…but Gods, what he wouldn't give to have them both here now.

"You love him then?"

Vilkas blinked and looked to the doors. Cassandra came out and walked over to Vilkas but didn't look at him just yet. "What?"

"Vincent Renalt." She clarified as if he was an idiot. To be fair, he did say 'what'. "You love him?"

Vilkas scowled. He wasn't in the mood for this. "Aye. Is that a problem?"

"No." She answered with a shrug. "It explains everything though."

"Aye? How's that?" He kept the hostile edge out of his voice. No need to start a fight here…although he certainly could use one to let off a little steam.

"Just…" She hesitated, trying to find the right words. "...just everything. How long…? Since before we met?"

Vilkas actually felt a bit bad to tell her this. "Aye."

She laughed humorlessly. "Ah. I never stood a chance then. He only ever had eyes for you." Vilkas didn't want to answer her. They both knew the answer anyway. He wasn't sorry and wouldn't apologize but then again she didn't ask for one. They just stood in silence for a while before she finally looked at him and smiled. "Well then, I guess I'll have to wait for such an interesting man like your harbinger to come to his senses then."

"Aye. I guess you will." Vilkas folded his arms and kept calm.

She nodded. "Farwell then, Vilkas of Jorrvaskr. Congratulations on your marriage."

"Good-bye Arc-Mage Cassandra." He nodded respectfully. Not that he respected what she did and what she stood for but she still held a station. "Safe travels home."

She smiled and waved in response and left quickly for the carriages. J'zargo came out soon after still chuckling. He pet Vilkas on the shoulder but quickly removed his hand once Vilkas scowled and glanced at the offending appendage.

"J'zargo is sorry. No offense meant, Master-at-arms. It was…a beautiful ceremony."

"I appreciate your kind words." Vilkas kept his arms crossed defensively. He may be smarter then he looked but he was still a mage.

"I'm sure you enjoyed watching my boss squirm. " He guffawed again. "I am glad at least that J'zargo did not miss it."

"Go easy on her." Vilkas surprised both himself and the Khajiit.

"What?"

"Go easy on her." Vilkas repeated. "She's had a tough night."

The Khajiit seemed to thankfully understand. "Ah. Yes. I'll be sure to hold my tongue…at least until she smiles a real smile again." With that, J'zargo took his leave and hurried after the Arc-Mage.

Vilkas watched them go, strangely feeling no pleasure in her heartbreak. She fell in love with Vincent at first sight and Vilkas couldn't blame her. Although he personally didn't fall in love as soon as he laid eyes on him, he understood why she was so attracted. Even when he thought he hated Vincent, he couldn't deny the lust he felt and the primal urge pushing on his will, making him want to fuck the pretty little redhead into the floor. He understood her…and even though he had wanted to rub it in her face before…he felt no satisfaction from it.

"There you are." Vincent spoke placing a soft hand on Vilkas' back. Vilkas smiled for him and his posture relaxed at his touch. "I've been looking for you."

"I just needed some air."

"Are you ready to go back now?" Vincent asked, taking his new husband's hand tightly.

"Aye." Vilkas squeezed the hand that gripped his own. "More than ever."

The feast had been amazing. Aela and the others really did do everything they could to make the night enjoyable and entertaining. Tilma had actually rented rooms for everyone at the inn so Vincent and Vilkas could have the place to themselves tonight.

So now, long after everyone had left and long after the time they SHOULD have been in bed, Vincent and Vilkas sat across from each other in the mead hall. They sat close together, watching the fire burn and light up the area around them. It reminded Vilkas of the night Vincent first mentioned Cadrian. Back before they admitted they loved each other and all the lies and doubt were still thick between them. Now all that was gone. All the Doubt, the fear, the anger and the threat. It was all gone. They certainly had come a long way from burning hatred to mountain moving love.

"Something happened, didn't it?" Vincent asked softly passing his half-full mug of mead back and forth in his hands.

Vilkas looked at his lover, now-husband and sighed. Gods, did he look beautiful right now. The light of the fire fell on his just the right way… "What makes you say that?"

"I'm not blind." Vincent smiled sadly. "It's about what Tilma said right? About Kodlak and Jergen." Clever boy.

"Nothing gets past you, does it?"

Vincent shrugged. "Maybe. I pay close attention to you, however."

"Ah."

"What's wrong Vilkas?" He asked, not unkindly.

"It's stupid. Don't worry about it love." The affectionate name fell easier from his lips now.

"It's not stupid if it upsets you." He sighed and put his mug aside. He stood up and took Vilkas' mug away and set it down beside his own. He then sat in Vilkas' lap and rested his cheek against Vilkas' shoulder. "You're sad because they aren't here anymore. Right?" Very clever boy.

Vilkas sighed and wrapped an arm around him to keep him in place. "Aye. I suppose."

"For what it's worth…I'm sorry Vilkas. I'm at least partially responsible for Kodlak and Skjor's deaths…"

"Skjor was a good man." Vilkas interrupted. That was another he man he missed. "He died like how he lived though…in glorious battle and knowing him…he wouldn't of wanted to go out any other way."

"But Kodlak…"

"He died defending you and everyone else who he called a companion. He wouldn't have had it any other way either…I just hope he's in Sovenguarde now."

Vincent smiled. "I'm sure he is." He rubbed a hand along Vilkas' breastplate and Vilkas found himself wanting to feel that scarred flesh upon his bare skin. For once, he internally cursed his breastplate for being in the way. "What about Jergen?"

"What about him?" Vilkas gruffed out.

"Do you think he's happy wherever he is?"

Vilkas paused. "He was cursed with the beast blood like us so I guess he's with Skjor now in the hunting grounds."

"Did he want that?"

Vilkas felt that lump form in his throat again. "I was too young to remember…and I doubt he would have told us at all…he didn't share things like that."

"…I see." Vincent pursed his lips for a moment. "Sorry."

"Don't be. I told you it was stupid…and I'm sure he's happy." Vilkas wasn't sure who he was trying to make feel better.

"I also saw you talking to Cassandra." Vincent thankfully changed the subject. "You weren't being too hard on her, were you?"

"No." Vilkas answered truthfully.

"I honestly don't know what either of you see in me. What anyone saw in me…"

"Are you fishing for compliments?" Vilkas asked, trying to lighten the mood.

"Is it that easy to tell?" Vincent asked in a mock distressed way.

"Aye. I can read you like a book." Vilkas really knew what Vincent meant. The mage was still finding it hard to accept that he was drop dead gorgeous. All of his self esteem had been beaten out of him though and it would take time to repair. Thankfully, now with Cadrian gone, Vilkas could focus on giving his husband the attention and affection that he deserved.

"Well, don't let me stop you. Go ahead."

Maybe it was the drink getting to him or the way that Vincent wriggled on his lap, but it made him say things he wouldn't normally say. "Ever since you've made that off-handed comment about my hands, all I've wanted to do was get you naked."

He watched Vincent's blue eyes widen in surprise at his comment and honestly, Vilkas surprised himself with that one. "Well then…" Vincent stood up and grabbed his mug. "Can you get us some furs then?

Vilkas raised an eyebrow. "Really…? Here?"

"Haven't you ever thought about it?" Vincent smirked and took a long sip of his mead.

Vilkas couldn't argue with that. He got up and headed for their room. While there, he took off his armor for ease of access. He grabbed some warm fur blankets and headed back up to the mead hall. Vincent was setting down the wooden bars to cover the doors as he was coming back.

"Don't want anyone walking in." Vincent mused and then went back over to the fire. He grabbed his drink again and finished the contents.

Vilkas laid the furs down on the floor in front of the fire before reaching for the mage. He grabbed him around the waist with one hand and took the mug from him with the other. He set it back down and pulled his husband toward the furs. He rid him of the coat instantly and slung it over the side of a chair. Vincent's incessant hands instantly went for Vilkas' shirt and helped him sling it over his head. The minute that hard flesh was exposed to the mage, his scarred hands ran along every dip and curve. The mage let out a pleased purr before ridding himself of his vest and shirt, then pressing the two of them together.

Vilkas' mouth descended upon Vincent's and he could taste mead on them. A not so shy tongue came out to caress the seam of Vilkas' lips and he let the appendage in willingly. Vilkas felt a spark of arousal shoot down his spine as their tongues' touched so he gripped the redhead in his arms tighter. He could feel Vincent's hands moving down to the hem of his pants and cupping him through them. Vilkas jumped a bit, surprising himself by how hard he was already. He pulled his lips away, brushing away the string of saliva that had them connected.

"Lay down?" Vilkas asked and Vincent nodded. He let go and laid he warm himself down on the warm furs. Vilkas followed him and helped his husband rid himself of his pants and shoes. Then he took off his own so they could lay naked together.

"You know…" Vincent mused, reaching out for Vilkas. "I'm never going to be able to look at this hall the same way again."

"Mmm…" Vilkas caressed Vincent's lips with his own again, taking in the sweet taste. "You're drunk…aren't you?"

"No…" He defended weakly. He tried to push Vilkas flat but Vilkas grinned and didn't budge. The redhead huffed. "Please?"

"Since you asked nicely." Vilkas spoke softly and lay on his back. The minute his back touched the furs, he found himself being straddled by the Harbinger. "Grab my mead…would you?"

Vincent blinked then complied. He found that he could just about reach it on the table and handed it to Vilkas. He set the mug aside on the floor and then ran his hands over Vincent's form. The mage seemed slightly confused. "I thought you were going to drink it."

"No…" Vilkas growled slightly as he took in such a beautiful form, scars and all. "I have better plans for it."

"Okay…?"

"How would you like it?" He'd do anything Vincent asked of him.

Vincent thought for a moment. "I'll ride you tonight if that's alright."

It was more than alright. It was actually Vilkas' favorite position. Why? It was hard to explain. Vilkas would just call it a fetish and leave it at that. "Aye." He answered him before pushing on Vincent's hip. "Lean forward."

Vincent did as asked, resting his arms on the sides on Vilkas' head. Vilkas reached for the mead and dripped his fingers in the liquid. Vincent laughed, when he saw what he was doing. "Really?"

"It won't hurt you." Vilkas coated his fingers well before moving them up. "You may get a bit drunk from this."

"Oh yeah?" Vincent tensed as he felt the first slick finger enter him. "Where'd you learn about that?"

Vilkas shrugged the best he was able from the floor and thrust his finger slightly, loving how Vincent tensed around his digit. "A book somewhere. I can't remember."

"A book?" Vincent strained, trying to keep talking to distract himself from the discomfort. "What kind of books are you reading?"

"Very interesting ones…" He added another finger and chuckled when Vincent yelped slightly. "Is that nice?"

"D-don't distract me." Vincent's will wavered as Vilkas felt him twitch around his fingers. So he prodded that spot again and watched the mage's mouth hang open.

"Go ahead then…" Vilkas let that husky edge enter his voice. "Talk."

Vincent hesitated, breathing in deep to get air back into his lungs. Then he glared, half-heartedly at Vilkas under him. "Cheeky bastard."

Vilkas just grinned and added one more finger. He saw that brief pain cross his husband's face and he raised his other hand to rest on Vincent's hip. He caressed his side to try and soothe the discomfort away and Vincent seemed thankful for the gesture. After a time, Vincent seemed to relax and sighed deeply.

"Ready then?" Vilkas asked, pulling out his fingers.

"Yeah…" Vincent reached over and dipped his hand in Vilkas' mead before reaching behind him to coat Vilkas' member in it. Vilkas hissed and squirmed, pulling a laugh from the mage atop him. DAMN! That was cold! "What's wrong Vilkas?" Vincent had asked innocently. "Talk."

"Shut up." Vilkas growled with no real heat behind it.

Vincent let out a slightly breathless laugh and lined himself up with Vilkas. He planted his legs firmly as he slid himself down, groaning out loud when the head of Vilkas' cock pushed past that first ring of muscle. Vilkas had a firm grip on Vincent's hips and he bit back a noise of his own when he felt this. He remembered vaguely that they were all alone and he could be as loud as he wanted but hell…old habits die hard.

Vincent slowly sunk down all the way to the base and even though it was maddening for Vilkas, he let his husband set the pace. Vilkas kept his grip loose enough that Vincent could move and he rested his head back against the furs as he waited for his husband to adjust. If he was a vocal man, he'd tell Vincent how wonderful he feels inside and how much he loved him. However, this was not the case but he had faith that Vincent knew. Every time they would lock eyes, Vilkas would speak volumes without saying a word and Vincent just seemed to know.

Vincent nodded. "Okay…I'm good."

The mage began to move and Vilkas arched his back from the sudden pressure. He gripped Vincent's hips tighter, most likely leaving marks but Vilkas didn't want to lose control so quickly. Luckily, the redhead didn't seem to mind and purred at the added pressure on his hips. Vilkas grit his teeth as Vincent rocked faster.

"Hey…Calm…" Vilkas couldn't really finish the sentence as one rocking motion pulled most of his breath from his lungs.

"Hmm? What was that?" Vincent smirked and sounded quite smug. Vilkas growled in response and he watched Vincent put on a mock distressed face. "Aw. Have I upset you?"

"No…" Vilkas managed to growl out, silently cursing those hips but loving it just the same. He must be masochistic…

"You sure?" He teased, rocking his hips in just the right way and the little bastard knew it too. Given time, they had learned to handle each other's bodies so well that it was practically instinct now. Vincent knew how to drive Vilkas wild and vice versa.

"Shh…" Vilkas tried although he was sure it wouldn't work.

"Just admit you like it." Vincent laughed and kept that pace. Vilkas could tell that the mage was not unaffected though. His cheeks were flushed red and Vilkas could see those blue eyes becoming hazy.

So Vilkas sat up but grabbed Vincent around the waist so he wouldn't dislodge the mage from his lap. Vincent let out a gasp at the motion but didn't seem surprised. Instead, he let his hands wrap in Vilkas' hair and kept their lips close together; not quite touching but close enough to close the distance at a whim. Vilkas moved with practiced precision and kept one hand on the mages' hip, while the other moved up to grab hold of Vincent's crimson red hair.

Vincent took his time to adjust to the new angle before he started moving his hips again. He let out a soft mewl noise as Vilkas pressed against that special spot inside of him no matter how he moved. Vilkas let a smirk slide onto his face as he bucked his own hips up and pulled Vincent's hair sharply.

"Ah! V-Vil-!" Vincent's eyelashes fluttered and his cock throbbed between them.

"Hmm? What was that?" Vilkas couldn't help but give the mage a dose of his own medicine.

Vincent attempted a half-hearted glare but his face kept faltering with every powerful thrust of Vilkas' hips and every tug on his hair. Vilkas hummed in pleasure. He was barely holding on but he wanted Vincent to come before he did. The little redhead seemed to be just barely holding on for dear life. He tightened his grip on Vincent's hair and instead of pulling back he pushed him forward and smashed their lips together in a fierce kiss. He almost grinned when he felt Vincent whimper against his mouth and explode between them at that moment. He kept all witty banter aside for now and focused on that coiling feeling in his lower half. Vincent's walls had tightened like a vice with his climax and Vilkas was powerless to stop his own peak from being reached.

"Hey…"

Vilkas let out an acknowledging sound as he felt Vincent run his fingertips up and down his spine. He was lying on his stomach amongst the furs they had piled on the floor into a makeshift bed. He had pulled up the fur blanket to their waists as they recovered from lovemaking. There was nothing to keep them warm but the fire, blanket and each other…and Jorrvaskr could be quite cold at night.

"Does this…change anything?"

Vilkas turned his head to look at his husband. Vincent was resting his chin on his hand, looking thoroughly ravished and oh so beautiful by the light of the fire. He knew that Vincent hated being called beautiful, so he just kept it to himself for now. "Change what?"

"Being married. It doesn't change anything, right?"

Vilkas thought for a moment. "Nothing. We'll carry on as before. It's only official that you belong to me now."

"I belong to you, hun?" The redhead seemed amused.

"Aye. You belong to me and I belong to you. That is the way of it."He saw at pretty mouth curve up into a genuine smile and at that moment, everything was perfect.

"I can deal with that." Vincent chuckled before smiling coyly. "Want to get weird again?"

Vilkas scoffed. "Are you drunk?"

"A little." He admitted his coy smile widening. "You did shove some IN me."

"True."

"So?"

"Aren't you tired?"

"Me? No. It's my wedding night after all." He shook Vilkas by the shoulder. "Come on love. Get weird with me."

Vilkas rolled his eyes. "Aye. Whatever you want." Like he'd really ever say no to sex with Vincent.

Vincent grinned and kissed Vilkas on the cheek. He didn't need to whisper, since they were the only ones here, but for some reason, the slightly inebriated Harbinger felt the need to. "Right. But this time, I'm on top!"

"…" This man would be the death of him. He just knew it.

Alrighty. That's the end of this chapter. Sorry it took so long to get out guys but I've been working a hell of a lot and spending much needed time with my own husband. Yeah, so fun fact…I guess if alcohol enters through the back door you can get drunk faster…dangerous in large quantities but what isn't. Don't ask me where the idea to do that came from…but now you'll never again be able to drink mead without thinking about this.

On a side note…I feel bad for Cassandra. I know what it's like to be on the side of unrequited love. She fell hard and fast for our little redhead harbinger but hey…it does happen. Cassandra will have a bigger part to play in the sequel and who knows? Maybe she'll find love. I was hoping to make the sequel a little more interactive with the fans. I have the beginning the middle and the end…all s needed is to fill in the blanks. That includes romantic relationships. Some are set in stone while others are not. Ah. You'll see. Only three more bonus chapters planned and then the next part, Dragons and Daedra will start.

Sorry if there are tons of mistakes. I rushed to get this done. Goodnight folks.