Chapter Four
Evelynn
Evelynn decided to take Dusk on their journey. He wasn't the best travel horse, but he'd seemed upset watching Dawn get saddled and packed up. Serana volunteered to have her mare carry most of the gear, as she was less likely to be reckless. With her carrying most of the weight, Dusk was happy to lead, albeit at a hurried pace. Evelynn had to argue with him constantly to slow down.
"There's not much for stops between here and Winterhold. We won't reach the city until well after sunrise. Do you want to get a room there and go to the college after dark?" Evelynn asked Serana. They'd just passed Whiterun, but it was still early in the night.
"That might be for the best. There's probably not much in the way for resting quarters for outsiders, and I probably shouldn't be so cranky when meeting these people."
They'd found a way for Serana to feed; animals. And the occasional rogue bandit who would try to intimidate them, but Serana refused to drain them completely. It made Evelynn feel oddly proud of her, even though she, personally, wouldn't have left them alive. Bandits would fight to the death just for walking too close to their stolen property. They could only hope for a death with so much purpose as sustaining a life. It showed a lot about Seranas' character, and Evelynn respected that greatly.
So Serana would not be hungry meeting these people, but being awake well into the day made her quite edgy. Resting before was likely the best option.
The ride was more or less uneventful; except the occasional wolves, Evelynn was alone in her thoughts often. Which… she didn't mind. It was good that Evelynn was in front, so she couldn't ogle Serana and get lost. She loved her. She knew, without a doubt, that she was shamelessly in love with the Vampire. Evelynn didn't think Serana would necessarily handle that well, so she decided not to bother her with it.
Leaving the Manor had been far more difficult than Evelynn had expected, but they had things to do. Harkon needed to be stopped. It would only be a matter of time before he'd send his minions for the scroll. And so, they'd needed to leave.
Saying their goodbyes was always sad. Camilla sent them with more of the stew, and more water than was necessary. She'd smiled and kissed Evelynns' cheek; noticing but saying nothing of the dark red bruises that showed around Evelynns' armor. The Imperial kissed her children, and rode off into the sunset with her vampire. She knew she'd return as soon as she could. Her home finally felt… complete. It finally pained her to leave it.
Another wolf grabbed Evelynns' boot and tried to pull her off her horse, jerking her out of her thoughts. Serana knocked it off of her with an ice spike. It got back up and charged at Seranas mare. Evelynn quickly shot a bolt into the back of its neck. It fell to the ground, but still growled viciously. Evelynn pulled Dusk around to investigate. She put one more bolt in it's eye, ending it's suffering. I'm sorry, brother.
"Ice wolves? We must be getting closer. I didn't even see the snow." Evelynn mused, looking at the soggy greenery that hadn't frozen yet.
"The sun will be coming up shortly."
Had Evelynn been so lost in thought that she'd lost track of time? She looked at the sky; sure enough, it would be an hour or less before daylight. "Let's get moving, I want to get you safe before that happens."
The snow was mere minutes away from where the ice wolf attacked. With the snow came the wind. The further into the snow they ventured, the more intense the weather got. Evelynn hated traveling in blizzards. The visibility was shite and all the wind distorted and disrupted her sense of smell. Even hearing was more difficult, though not completely gone. The sun was just peeking through the clouds when Evelynn heard it in a break in the wind.
She stopped and whipped her head around wildly, searching in the whiteout. Nothing. She could see nothing. Her heart hammered. Serana stopped next to her and touched her thigh. She'd been riding close so as not to lose each other.
"What is it?"
"I have to get you out of here. Now."
Serana wanted to ask, but the blizzard softened just enough for them to be spotted, and Evelynn heard it again. That roar. She drew her crossbow, but a massive arm swiped out, slammed into her chest and knocked her from her horse. She gasped hard trying to breathe. A rib was definitely broken. Serana sent ice spikes sailing into the Frost Troll and Evelynn could do nothing but watch as it turned its attention to her. No! Gods no! Not again! Not her!
Evelynn couldn't breathe, couldn't speak, couldn't tell her to run. Dusk stood high on his hind legs and kicked the Troll hard. The Troll simply brushed the pesky colt off and continued to the vampire throwing magick.
Evelynn shook and called it. Called her wolf. Her wolf was stronger, faster. Save her. She felt her chest ache and her bones crack. Fire ripped through her body as fur sprouted. Her lungs finally inflated and she screamed so hard she shook the skies.
Her eyes distorted everything until she only saw red in the white, and the Frost Troll. She charged hard with her longer feet. She hit the Troll in the side, catching a swipe of its jagged claws and she roared. She tackled the beast to the ground and hit. Left. Right. Left right left right left right. All while screaming. The thing was dead but she could not stop clawing at it. Carving out it's face, it's throat, it's chest. Blood was everywhere, all over the snow. All over her. She roared again and kept attacking. She barely noticed as her bones shifted again.
Her claws returned to hands and she could feel them break and cut, but she could not stop hitting. Her snout returned to a face, and she could not stop screaming. The red swirled to black, and still, she could not stop fighting.
Serana
She could feel the change in Evelynn as she halted in the blizzard. She was afraid.
"What is it?" She asked Evelynn.
"I have to get you out of here. Now." Evelynn was strained, her eyes wild.
Before Serana could ask anything, a calm came over the storm and Evelynn was knocked from her horse by a massive white Troll. No!
Serana hurled ice at the creature, not thinking of anything but saving the Imperial. Obviously ice was not the right choice, as it only angered the ugly thing. Evelynns' poor colt tried hard to fight it, only to be cast aside like a childs' doll. Serana hurled more magick at it as it stalked towards her.
Serana heard a great roar that she could feel in her bones just as she saw the blur of black fur collide with the Troll. The wind stopped completely and the snow fell in buckets as the two animals warred with each other. The beautiful black wolf carved at the troll until there was nothing left. Roaring and tearing away at it. The Troll was dead, long dead, and Serana could only watch as the wolf bathed in its blood. She couldn't recall ever seeing such a raw display of rage in her centuries of life.
Minutes, hours, even days later, Serana couldn't tell, the wolf was still wailing on the dead animal. She saw the wolfs' spine ripple and spasm. Slowly, the fur and limbs receded until she only saw Evelynn. Naked and painted in blood, Evelynn continued to fight. Serana dismounted her horse and ran to the Imperial.
"Evelynn. Evelynn stop! It's over. Stop." She pulled on her shoulders. Pulled her off the mangled carcass.
Evelynn stood staring at the mess. Serana could see the shattered bones in her hands, breaking the skin in some places. By the Blood…
"Evelynn, we need to go." She removed her cloak and put it over the naked Imperial.
Evelynn looked at her then. Her silver eyes were black. Evelynn shook, exhaled, and collapsed in the snow.
"Evelynn! Evelynn, wake up! Wake up!" Serana saw the gaping wounds across Evelynns' chest. Three large rips in her flesh, from shoulder to shoulder, the lowest one across her ribs. Marring her skin, her breasts. Serana cried out in fear, in anguish, and placed her hands on the wounds, praying again. But the warmth would not come, it was not sustainable. Serana could not save her. The sun was in the sky, and Serana could not call forth any more magick. The city. She'd have to get to Winterhold.
Serana tied her cloak tight around the bloody mess and lifted the dead weight of Evelynn. She put her over the shoulders of Dawn and covered her the best she could with the scraps of Evelynns' shredded leather armor, securing her tightly to the horse. Dusk. Where was Dusk? Frantically, she looked around for the colt. She found him struggling to get up in the snow. She ran to Evelynns' young horse and knelt to him.
"Easy boy. Eeeeeasy. I need you to try to stand. Calm. We have to get her help. I know you are hurting. You did well, young one. You're a fighter. I need your help once more. Just a little further. We need to get help."
She pulled on the horses' lead and he was determined to stand. The horse cried out in pain and Serana winced. But he did not stop. He stood. He limped to find his footing, breathing hard in pain. Dusk went to the other horse. He cautiously nudged Evelynn with his snout. He must've been afraid of the wolf. But he cried loudly for his rider. Serana tied his lead to Dawn.
"You'll have to follow this time, young warrior. Slow and steady." Serana mounted Dawn.
Serana continuously tried to heal Evelynn for the next half hour until she reached the gates of Winterhold. She was completely drained of any energy, and she called out to the guards.
"Help! Help us!" Serana slid off her horse and leaned against her.
The guards rushed her, hands rested on their weapons.
"What is it?" One of the guards asked.
"Troll. Please. The Dragonborn. She needs help. Please."
Mentioning the Dragonborn got their useless arses moving. Rushing to untie her and carry her into the gates.
"And a stable master. Her horse was hurt as well." Serana fumbled her feet trying to follow, but she was so drained. Serana crumpled into the snow, the too white world turning black.
Evelynn
Evelynns' eyes did not want to open. She did not know where she was. What she was. Who she was. Her limbs felt too heavy. Her chest throbbed. Her hands ached. She tried to right herself, falling over onto something soft. It smelled of rabbit and juniper berry. Evelynn gasped in pain.
"Easy. Take it easy." A soft voice caressed her as cold hands pushed her back down.
She fought with the strange hands as her vision blurred to return. She could see dark hair. Glowing eyes. Eyes didn't glow. Gods what is happening. The beautiful face became more clear. Perfect. Was this what waited after death? She'd take all the pain to gaze upon this face for eternity.
"You're finally awake." She said, causing an odd familiarity in Evelynn.
Serana. The vampire. Her vampire. She was remembering. She reached for the beautiful Nord awkwardly. Serana smiled sadly and took her large gauze-wrapped hand, squeezing it.
"I was wondering when I'd see that silver again."
Snow. Blood. Pain. Anger. Evelynn looked around the strange, warm room as flashes of memories flooded her brain. She rubbed her face with her free hand and noticed the wrap around it, trying to shake the groggy feeling from her head. Frost Troll. She stilled, and looked at the Nord beside her.
"Where are we?" It came out heavily slurred, her old accent harsh in the question.
"The Frozen Hearth. We're safe. In Winterhold. The mages here… they've been helping you."
Evelynn could remember nothing since the blood. "How long have they been helping me?"
Serana looked at her with an odd, pained expression.
"How long, Serana."
"This is the morning of the fourth day we've been here."
Four days? Fucks' sake. Evelynn tried to stand, and fell again, gasping.
"Easy, Dovahkiin. You were severely injured… The mages are wonderful, but there are limits."
Injured? Evelynn looked at herself. Thick white bandages were tightly wrapped around her entire upper torso. Clean, no blood shown through. Her hands were also wrapped tightly.
"I've only just changed those at dawn." Dawn… Dusk.
Evelynn panicked. "Dusk!"
Serana put a hand on her face. "He is fine, Dovahkiin. Two broken ribs, but he is alive. He is recovering with the stable master. He is unhappy about light duty, but he lives."
Evelynn softened a bit. "Everyone is okay?"
Serana grimaced at her bandages. "Almost okay."
Evelynn rolled her eyes.
"You almost died, Evelynn. You would have died, if I could not get you here. If I could not get help." Seranas' voice was cracking and tearing at the soreness in Evelynns' chest.
"But I didn't. And you did. You saved me. And you saved my horse." Evelynn pulled Serana to her chest and held her tightly, the pressure on her hands causing a screaming pain around her knuckles.
"You saved me first…" Serana mumbled petulantly into the bandages on her chest.
Evelynn laughed. And winced. Four days. "What in Oblivion have you been doing for four days?"
"Well… the first day I was out, just like you. I didn't expect them to bring me into the city. Soon after nightfall, I regained my strength."
"Okay, what have you been doing for three days then?" Her slurred accent was of great annoyance to her. She should at least be drunk if she was going to sound like it.
"I've been… looking after you. And… trying not to eat anyone."
Evelynn chuckled. "They that bad here?"
"The mages… they wouldn't let me in to see you. At first."
"Ah. What did you do to change their mind?"
"Don't worry about that."
Evelynn laughed painfully. "My scary vampire." She hugged her tightly.
"I thought I'd lost you…" Seranas voice was strained.
Evelynn lifted her chin until she saw the tears on her face. "You can't lose me, My Love. I'm here until you wish me away." She kissed her softly.
"You're beautiful…" Serana whispered against her lips.
Evelynn rolled her eyes. "Yeah, the bandaged look really goes well with my complexion."
"I mean… your wolf. She's beautiful. And dark. And dangerous…"
Evelynn went silent, staring at the ceiling.
"Thank you for saving me."
"I couldn't lose you too."
Serana searched in her eyes. "... Too?"
"My Housecarl. She was killed by a Frost Troll. It was my fault." Evelynn shut her eyes hard against the memory.
"Do you want to talk about it?"
"Not really. But you deserve to know how I failed. Lydia… she was my first Housecarl. Appointed to me in Whiterun. Everything was so new. She was helping me get to High Hrothgar, to answer my summons from the Greybeards. Near the top of the seven thousand steps… we ran into a Frost Troll. It was the first one I'd seen. I fired arrow after arrow into it and it didn't even slow it down. Lydia was protecting me. I screamed for her to run. But I lost my footing and fell down the mountain. The last thing I saw was the Troll breaking her neck."
Serana listened carefully. "It sounds… like Lydia died fulfilling her oath."
"She shouldn't have had to. I'm nobody."
"You. Are not nobody. You are Dovahkiin. You are our savior. And you are my first and only Love."
Evelynn stared at the intensity of Seranas raw gaze. She smiled weakly and touched the Nords' face. "It is daytime. You should be sleeping, my Love. Come. Rest."
"You should eat. Are you hungry?"
Something stirred in Evelynns' abdomen. "I find that I'm suddenly famished…" she stared heatedly into the vampires eyes.
Serana blushed and straightened herself. "By the Blood, do you only think about one thing?"
Evelynn shrugged. "Perhaps you've created a monster."
Serana smiled at her joke, but it felt… off. "I will get you food. What would you like?"
"Beef, I suppose. And ale."
"They've given you quite a bit of drugs, I'm not sure ale would be helpful…"
"Ah. That explains my speech and lack of coordination. Wine then."
Serana rolled her eyes and left the room.
Evelynn sat up and began unraveling the cloth from her torso. Her hands ached terribly, they'd been broken. The bones seemed to be healing, but still severely uncomfortable. She couldn't remember being this injured, only the breaking of her rib, which she could still feel crunching. Exposing her skin, Evelynn sighed. Fuck… Three gaping slashes glared up at her. They were closing and clotted well enough. But blood still tried to ooze out. Serana had seen this. It looked terrible, but she was sure she'd live. She wasn't entirely sure how she'd lived this long, magick probably, but she was definitely on the mend.
"Gods…" Serana exclaimed softly at the door.
"Shite- sorry." Evelynn pulled the sheets up over her.
"Stop. I've seen it. It just… doesn't get easier. You'll get it dirty." Serana set the food and drink down and began wrapping her up again. Evelynn lifted her arms and winced.
"Your ribs and hands will likely heal faster than this. We've been fighting infection, that's why it still looks this bad. Doesn't your body fight infections and heal faster?"
"Not if I don't… eat… it should fight infections, but healing doesn't happen on its own."
"You must've lost a lot of blood…" Serana fastened the bandage again. "Now leave this on. The Mages will be back today for a better look. Healing might go better, now that you're awake."
"Sorry… I just wanted to see it."
"And now you have. Eat."
"Yes, My Lady." Evelynn grinned at her and ate.
"It's hard. Seeing you so… helpless. It's been very unsettling."
Evelynn swallowed the food and reached for the bottle; water. "I'm sorry you were alone." It hurt her to say the words aloud. She'd left Serana alone.
The vampire smiled. "You deserved a rest."
Rest. Ha. "I'll not be leaving you alone again." The food was clearing her head.
"Please… try to act as though you are mortal."
Evelynn looked at her, hearing what she hadn't said. She exhaled slowly. "I will try…" Evelynn finished her food.
Serana brushed her hair from her face. "Do you want to go back to sleep?"
Evelynn laughed. "No, I don't want to sleep. You should, though. Where have you been sleeping?"
"In that chair, a little."
"By the Nine, you're ridiculous. Come. Get in." Even shifted over and opened her arms.
Serana smiled shyly and snuggled up to the Imperial, but kept her arms around herself.
"Is this uncomfortable for you?" Evelynn asked her cautiously.
"Yes. But it is better. Manageable."
"Okay. You can bite me if I upset you."
Serana kneed her leg, but there was no power in it. Evelynn laughed and put her arm around her vampire.
"Sleep, My Love. I'll be here when you wake."
Serana
She woke to the most beautiful sound. The music made her smile. She opened her eyes and she was looking up at Evelynn. The Imperial was leaning against the headboard, her eyes closed, and she was humming softly. Serana trailed her fingertips over Evelynns' stomach, just under the bandage.
Evelynn stopped humming. "Did I wake you?"
Serana shook her head and kissed Evelynns' wrapped ribs. "I don't think I'll ever mind waking up to you." It was surprisingly sweet, Serana hadn't meant to be so… open. Almost losing the Imperial had really done a number on her.
"It's not yet sunset. You should sleep more."
"I'm awake. Can I get you anything?" Serana asked, wrapping her arm gently around Evelynns' waist.
"Yes." The familiar tone in Evelynns' voice made her stomach clench.
Serana rolled her eyes. "Are you so obsessed with sex that you disregard your own health?"
"I am only obsessed with you."
"You are injured. No. Can I get you anything else?"
"I only want you…" By the Blood she's making it so difficult.
"Don't be so selfish. Focus on getting well, and I will make it worth your time." She lightly traced the waist of Evelynns' underwear. She could hear the Imperials heart beat harder and she worried about the wounds in her chest. Evelynn just moaned slightly.
"It'd be easier for you to lie to me if I couldn't smell you. But you'll be happy to know some mages came by while you were sleeping."
Serana pressed her thighs together and blushed. "Oh?"
"They gave me some potions to drink, since I am awake, they said it'd work better with my system than the magick seems to. Would you like to have a look?"
"You haven't looked?"
"You were sleeping so peacefully on me, I didn't want to disturb you."
This woman and her blatant disregard for her own well being. Serana shook her head and sat up to look at Evelynn. The Imperial seemed perfectly relaxed before her. All of her awkward nervousness seemed to have disappeared completely. There was a little blood showing through the bandage. Serana helped her lean forward to unwrap it.
When Evelynn was completely bare and leaned back again, Serana saw the wounds had healed significantly. Instead of gaping holes, they were just thick, dark lines. The angry red outlines were completely gone.
"By the Blood…" Serana whispered softly, touching the tender skin around the lines.
Evelynn never looked. She only watched Seranas face as she inspected her. One line ran just under her collarbone. The middle one was the worst, across the top of one breast, and a little further down in the other. Serana tried not to notice Evelynns' nipples tightening under her stare. The bottom line was much shallower, already a pink line instead of blackened with dried blood, but it ran into the bruising on her left ribs.
"These will scar." She said simply.
Evelynn merely shrugged.
"You have many scars."
"I'm sure I've earned them." Evelynn propped one knee up and leaned her head back, looking at Serana, who struggled not to look at her nakedness."We could leave tonight, if you'd like. We're far behind schedule." Evelynn offered.
"Fuck the schedule." Serana said in a most unladylike fashion.
Evelynns' silver eyes darkened and she smirked. Serana blushed.
"Are you really sure you trust yourself another night here?" Evelynn asked her. The cocky edge to her voice was maddening. Serana shifted.
"I think I'll manage."
Evelynn shrugged, and put her hands behind her head, breathing deeply. Serana realized she was staring at her naked breasts, watching them rise and fall with each breath.
"I'm going to bathe." Serana said abruptly.
"Would you like privacy?"
"I… um. Sure. I suppose." Privacy… What an odd concept.
Evelynn stood, and wobbled. Serana reached to catch her.
"I'm all right, My Love. I'm just going out for a drink, enjoy your bath."
Evelynn kissed Serana softly. Not softly. Evelynn stood only in underwear and was much too close. She parted her lips and sighed into Seranas' mouth. Serana dug her fingers into Evelynns' hips and bit her lower lip, not enough to draw blood, and growled.
"Don't drink too much. Come back in fifteen minutes." She turned Evelynn away from her.
Evelynn laughed. "Yes, My Lady."
Something in the response tugged at Seranas' restraint. This woman enjoyed driving the vampire mad. She watched as Evelynn pulled on a pair of soft leather pants. They hung loose from her hips and with no shirt… the sight was truly erotic. Serana walked up behind Evelynn as she leaned to grab a shirt.
When Evelynn stood, Serana reached for her throat and pulled her back into her, squeezing lightly to disrupt the flow of blood. She kissed the side of the Imperials neck, feeling her relax into her.
"And you'll stop torturing me, dog." She murmured against her skin. Evelynn trembled.
Serana took advantage of the untied pants and slid her hand down into the front, her fingers dancing over the soft curls, pulling her backside firm against herself.
"It isn't fair." Serana scraped her fangs over Evelynns' heated skin and licked.
Serana sealed her lips to the Imperials neck and sucked, hard, but still refusing to break skin. Her fingers toyed with the woman and Evelynn opened her legs more. The vampire ran one finger over her slick flesh and squeezed her throat harder, running her tongue along the edge of her ear. Evelynn let out a strangled moan. Serana ground herself against Evelynns' ass once and then released her.
Evelynn slammed a hand into the wardrobe to keep from falling, breathing hard. Serana laughed. "Enjoy your drink."
Evelynn looked at her with moonstone eyes, and Serana, very deliberately, sucked her fingers.
Evelynn
Evelynn walked out of the room, her ears were burning red and her legs did not want to function properly.
She says I torture her? Evelynn walked to the bar.
A friendly looking Nord fellow greeted her. "Good to see you're feeling better, Dovahkiin. What can I get for you?"
"Please, just Evelynn. Have you got any Firebrand Wine?"
"Dagur," he introduced himself. "Sure do. One bottle?"
She looked back at the room. "Ah… three bottles, if you would."
He laughed. "She's tenacious isn't she?"
"You have no idea." Evelynn produced four hundred gold pieces. Always tip your bartender.
"You're too kind, Miss Evelynn. Is there anything else I can get for you?"
"Have you… by any chance, got any healing potions? My friend is rather… Concerned."
"Aye. You were a bloody mess when they brought you in here. I didn't think you'd make it." He pulled out a potion bottle and set it before her. "Your woman was definitely something. I don't blame her though. I'd be the same way if it were my wife."
Evelynn blushed hard and tried to hand Dagur more gold. He shook his head.
"Can't do that, Miss. You've given me more than enough for the wine. And Miss Serana was very generous upon arrival. It wouldn't be right."
"Consider it a tip, for exceptional service." She set the gold on the counter with a smile and walked to find a seat.
The linen shirt felt very loose and airy on her skin, sitting by the fire felt amazing. She uncorked a bottle and smelled the wine. Subtly sweet and warm. She took a sip. Surely Serana would have an adverse reaction to her not breathing it properly first. She smiled as the crisp liquid warmed her mouth and throat.
The Bard was okay, he sang well and had early evening energy. Evelynn tapped her feet to the floor and drank. She felt amazingly clean; she wondered how often Serana bathed her since they'd been here. Her hair was soft and free of any tangles. Even her legs felt freshly shaved.
A hand pulled on the back of her hair. "Your fifteen minutes are up, Dovahkiin."
Evelynn smiled and closed her eyes. "So they are. Would you like a drink?"
Serana kissed her neck and whispered "I'd love a drink…"
Evelynns' fur pricked the back of her neck and she closed her eyes. She'd let this woman drink her even in this crowded room. She turned her head. Serana clicked her tongue.
"Tsk tsk. Hickies are unbecoming of the Dovahkiin."
Evelynns' hand shot to her neck and she whipped around to look at Serana. The vampire was wearing a very revealing, blood red nightdress and no shoes. Her wet hair dripped softly onto her breasts and Evelynns' heart stuttered. Serana gave her a twisted, sexy smile, and turned to walk back to the room. Evelynn watched her hips sway the entire way before stumbling to catch up. She heard the giggles and whispers from the other patrons.
Inside the room, the door slammed shut and Serana moved with inhuman speed to pin Evelynn against the door by her throat, kissing her hard. She tasted her tongue and moaned.
"My wine tastes good on you, Dovahkiin." She murmured against her lips. One more lick and she was gone, taking a bottle with her.
Serana uncorked the wine and started drinking immediately. Evelynn just stood there, confused and very very aroused.
"You make it difficult, you know." Serana wiped the wine from her lip slowly with her thumb. "Here I am, trying to be good and kind. And you just make it so hard." She licked the mouth of the bottle and drank again.
Evelynn drank from her bottle and watched this wild woman unleashing… something. Gods it was… sexy.
"I know what you want." Serana set her bottle on the table. "And since you are not well yet, you're going to do something for me first."
"Anything…" Evelynn breathed.
Serana strutted her long, pale legs to stand in front of Evelynn. She lifted her hand to her mouth and smiled dangerously. She dragged her thumb across her fang and then pushed it into Evelynns' mouth.
"Drink."
Evelynn drank. And moaned. Without hesitation, she drank from Serana. Gods it was better than anything she'd ever thought possible. The familiar taste was undiluted by any wine, and far more intoxicating.
"That's enough." She said softly.
Evelynn sucked harder, wanting, needing more. Serana smiled wickedly.
"That's enough, Dovahkiin."
Evelynn released her and waited.
"Good girl."
Evelynn could feel her excitement at the words.
"I don't want you turning. I'd rather like to keep my wolf."
Her wolf. Evelynn trembled.
Serana ran her fingers lightly around the collar of the linen shirt before ripping it open completely. She stared at Evelynns' bare chest hungrily. Almost satisfied.
"Look what happens when you drink from me."
Even looked down and saw the lines in her chest softening, shedding, healing. Serana walked away and picked up her bottle again. She sat in the chair and crossed her legs. The nightdress ran high up on her thigh and Evelynn swallowed hard.
"That will still scar, but I would like to speak with you while it finishes. Won't you have a seat?"
Evelynn walked and sat in the chair opposite the vampire. And she was truly a vampire. Sexy, seductive, dangerous. Deadly. Evelynn was throbbing with desire.
"You crave pain." Serana stated.
"Yes." Gods yes.
"And you want me to cause it." Serana took another sip.
"Yes."
"I need you to tell me why."
"I want to hurt so you'll never have to. Not with me. I want you to let me hold your pain and be with me."
Seranas' expression faltered briefly in her eyes. "I see." She got up and went to an end table. "I've got some presents for you, Dovahkiin. Come and see."
Evelynn stood and walked over to Serana. Serana laid items out on the table. A lot of leather and metal.
"Do you know what any of this is?" Serana asked her.
Evelynn looked harder. She recognized several sets of steel shackles and her heart thudded. And a long leather rod with a leather tongue at the end. "Only the shackles and the crop. I don't know what that one is." She pointed at several scraps of leather in a heap.
"This, Dovahkiin, is a flogger. It has quite a bite." She picked it up by a handle that Evelynn hadn't seen and held it out to her. "Touch it."
Evelynn ran her fingers through the strands. "It's soft…"
Serana smiled. "For now. My question for you is… do you want to play with me?" Serana traced her fingers over the fresh scars.
"Yes…" Evelynn breathed and closed her eyes.
"Good girl. I cannot hurt you more than I can bear, but I will do the best I can, is that understood?"
Evelynn nodded. Fire exploded in the side of her face and she opened her eyes. Serana had slapped her. Hard. She felt her body respond eagerly.
"You'll answer me verbally. Is that understood?"
"Yes, Serana."
"You learn quickly. Get rid of that shirt."
Evelynn let the torn shirt fall to the floor.
"You look lovely like this. I enjoy these pants. Put your hands on the bed." She pointed to the foot of the bed.
Evelynn put her hands on the bed, causing her to lean over. Serana kicked the inside of her ankle, forcing her feet apart. Evelynn breathed. She heard the leather crop cut the air before she felt the sting. Across her backside. She stood to turn and Serana pressed the tip of the crop into her throat.
"You were not told to take your hands off of that mattress. You won't be warned again, mutt."
Evelynn thought she'd climax right there at those words, with that sting. She returned to her exposed posture and waited. Another sting. Evelynn whimpered. Another. And another. Serana reached and untied the front of Evelynns' leather pants, pulling the material loose. Another sting. Evelynn was feeling weak in the knees.
The next sting was aimed upward, directly into her sex. Evelynn fisted the sheets on the bed and cried out, her knees buckling toward the floor.
"Stay as you are." Serana commanded.
Evelynn stayed, her legs shaking hard. Gods this was… hot. Serana caressed a hand over her stinging backside, inside her pants. She slid her hand down until her fingers touched the wetness between her legs. She pressed lightly against the sensitivity. Evelynn fell and screamed into the mattress, bursting at the seams.
Serana moaned. "Already? Well that won't save you Dovahkiin. I'm not done with you."
Serana pulled and lifted the back of her hair until she was standing on her shaking legs. Her eyes were burning fire into Evelynns' soul. Serana let go of her hair to firmly hold the back of her neck, and kissed her; a hot, wet, desperate kiss. Then she pushed Evelynn backward. Hard. Evelynn flew onto the bed, just short of crashing into the headboard. The vampire moved at an unnatural speed, clicking shackles at her wrists, securing one hand to each top corner of the bed.
"I do so love these pants, but they're inconvenient for what I have planned." She pulled them off, underwear along with them.
She went back to work with shackles, cuffing her ankles to opposite corners. Evelynn was completely at the mercy of this vampire, and she wanted nothing more. Serana straddled Evelynns' naked body, still wearing her silk nightdress. She slid back until she'd ground her sex against Evelynns'. Evelynn moaned hard. She'd not been wearing underwear the entire time. Fuck…
"I wanted to introduce you to the flogger but I'm feeling suddenly impatient. Tell me what you want."
"I want you…" Evelynn was lost; mad with hunger.
"Are you sure?"
"Yes…" Evelynn whimpered.
Serana hit her again and she tilted her hips up to feel her wetness on hers. "Louder!"
"Yes! Please!" Evelynn begged desperately.
Serana slid off of her and hungrily licked between her legs. "Oh… you taste like me."
She licked again. She kissed. Evelynn moaned and panted like a bitch in heat and she didn't even care. Evelynn thought she heard some sort of metal buckle, but didn't bother asking anything. Serana was torturing her slowly and Evelynn was falling hard. Serana moved up, kissing her hip, her stomach, nipping her ribs and breasts, until she was at Evelynns' neck, the weight of the vampire holding her in reality.
"I really hope you learn to appreciate Mages, Dovahkiin."
Evelynn felt the painfully freezing shaft bury inside her and she fought hard against the shackles. No! Yes! Fuck! She convulsed hard and cried out. Serana kissed her, moaning into her mouth. So cold. So hard. Serana thrusted hard into her. Gods! Fuck! Climax hit her hard for the second time. Then the third. Fourth. Oh it hurt. There was nothing more for Evelynn to give, and Serana kept taking. Five. Evelynn pulled hard against the shackles, trying to hold this woman. She could do nothing but take it. Six. She cried out, over and over again. Finally, Serana sank her fangs into Evelynns' neck and penetrated her again. Everything swirled together, Evelynns' climax, Seranas climax, the world, everything, and nothing.
Evelynn
Evelynn woke. She had slept more in the last few weeks than in the past several months. She shifted and found that she was being cradled gently. Serana laughed.
"I hadn't meant for you to pass out on me." She said, finding Evelynns' eyes.
"Sorry." Evelynn mumbled and wrapped her arms around her, closing her eyes again.
"It's time to get up, sleepyhead." Serana laughed again.
"No."
Another laugh. "Are you hungry?"
"No." But Evelynns' stomach growled and betrayed her.
"Hey… how are you feeling?" Serana asked her seriously.
Evelynn grinned wide. "Very satisfied. And you?" The soreness inside her ached appreciatively.
"I'm feeling… awed."
Evelynn looked at her curiously. "Why?"
"You… surprise me. You amaze me. I've never known anyone like you."
"You haven't known many people."
"True. But… I'm glad I know you."
Evelynn just smiled.
"I didn't… hurt you? Did I?"
Evelynn raised her eyebrows.
"You know what I mean." Serana rolled her eyes.
"No, My Love. You didn't hurt me. That was just… new."
"Mages." Serana flashed a fanged grin.
"I meant all of it."
"You've had sex before. You're married."
"I've never found sex as thoroughly as I have with you. But I've also never… never like that."
"You've never been dominated."
"No."
"Never?"
"Nope."
"But you seemed so adamant…"
Evelynn just shrugged.
"You know… I've never dominated."
"Well. Whatever you did. I liked it."
Serana hugged her close.
"What… What did you do?" Evelynn asked her shyly.
"Magick." Serana grinned again.
Serana
Traditionally, Serana hated traveling in the daylight. But she was tired of being cooped up in that small Inn. They'd been there almost a week. Although she found she could stay in bed with the Dragonborn forever, they did have a job to do. Guilt was weighing on her a bit. There was no time for romance, for sex, for love. But it was damn hard to deny Evelynn anything. She'd found her own enjoyment in their time as well, which seemed to make the guilt worse. Her father could not move forward without the Elder Scroll, but every day was another risk that was, logically, unnecessary.
There was no logic in love. She'd heard that in every story she'd ever read. She knew it with every fiber of her being. But she'd never truly understood until her. This woman had single handedly dismantled her life, and she knew that she'd burn forever for just a taste of her. The world could go down in flames, with Serana in it, as long as Evelynn emerged from the smoke. Serana had a difficult time compartmentalizing just how much her entire world, and focus, had shifted.
It was no longer that Harkon needed to be stopped. It was now: I need to help her stop Harkon. I need to help her stop Alduin. I need to help her. And boiled down to the most basic fact in her darkened soul… I need her.
Serana tripped on the stone walk and would've face planted directly on the floor, if those perfectly calloused hands had not caught her. Again. She didn't know how to ever tell her just how completely she loved her. She could only hope that Evelynn saw it in her actions. She couldn't know… but Serana desperately wanted her to know. Molag Bal would find a way to take her only joy from her… but looking into Evelynns' eyes gave her hope. Hope that Evelynn could survive her.
"You okay there, night owl?" Evelynn asked her, smirking.
"I'm perfectly dandy, thank you." Serana smiled, but she knew her face had to look cranky. The sun would be out for just under another hour and Serana was awful before dark.
Evelynn laughed. It was a tragically beautiful sound.
"Let's just get to this college, yeah?"
"Of course, My Lady." Evelynn made an exaggerated bowing gesture. "Then maybe we'll find you someone to eat…" she added under her breath.
"I have extraordinary hearing, if that interests you at all." Serana rolled her eyes.
The walk looked to be painfully long. Serana wished she'd stayed in bed with this magnificent creature instead of walking in the snowy sun. Luckily, some magey twit stopped Evelynn early on, saying some rubbish about not allowing entry until she proved herself or something. That'd be bad, as they needed answers. But with the evening sun so bothersome, Serana couldn't help but feel relieved that their journey may be cut short. They may be able to go back to bed and…
Evelynn cast a perfect rune spell onto the stone floor. She'd hated spellwork. And she'd done it with bare minimum instruction. Serana couldn't help her jaw dropping in utter pride and… primal desire. Gods, she was in love with this woman. And the woman had chosen her…
The annoying stranger was also impressed with Seranas' wolf. So much so that she'd decided to escort them personally to the school. Serana had to stifle the urge to drain the novice mage in her own territory. Mine, was all Serana could think. The Darkness that consumed her was staking its claim on her Love… That would not do. Serana recognized it, and checked it. Evelynn would not be more touched by Darkness than she already was.
The walk was agonizingly long and slow. Slower still, as the twit insisted on creeping and lighting every Blood forsaken signal fire on the way to the door.
Gods, Serana. Get a grip. It'll be dark soon.
The massive courtyard was crowded by Mages, and normally she would've been thrilled to learn more of modern magicks, more recently about mortal magicks, but she could not shake the need to get out of the daylight. Thankfully, the college was a fortress, though not completely dissimilar to a dungeon. She instantly felt more relaxed inside. She smiled at Evelynn, as she went off to ask her questions.
Serana poked around in the main hall, looking at obvious alchemy ingredients. She even came across a few scattered Spell Tomes. The restoration symbol was burned into one particular book, and she opened it. Trying to pick up anything about healing mortals.
"They say we should see some librarian named Urag? Wanna help me find this library?"
Serana snapped the book shut and stuffed it back on the shelf, hoping Evelynn wouldn't see.
"Let's go find this librarian." She flashed her sexy smile in an attempt to distract the Imperial.
Evelynn rolled her eyes and took her hand, heading towards the entrance. After trying the wrong door, they found a staircase that went somewhere and decided to try that direction. At the top of the stairs, they did find an oddly clinical type of room with a grumpy looking Orc in it. There were a few books, but Serana would hardly call this a library. But the Mage mumbled something about respecting books, so she guessed they were in the right place.
Serana impatiently waited in a chair and watched her love talk to the grumpy man. There was an older woman near her. She was talking to herself, clearly upset.
"...Restoration is a real skill…"
Serana sat bolt upright. "I'm sorry, Miss? What was that about restoration?"
The woman looked surprised that anyone had spoken to her. "You consider Restoration a valid school of magic, worthy of study, don't you? Don't you?"
"Of course it's valid." Serana sat on the edge of her seat.
"Good, good. Not that I require validation, of course. There are just some - and I shan't name names - who would disagree. It can make life difficult when one's colleagues fail to recognize the research one engages in."
Serana quickly asked the Mage if she had any books. Evelynn was walking back towards them. Serana definitely overpaid and tucked the book into her armor before the wolf reached her.
"We have to go. Now. He was here, but he left For Dragon Bridge. That's a fucking hike. We have to go." Evelynn pulled her hands and headed for the door.
Evelynn
"Evelynn, slow down! You're not going to run the entire way, you don't even have a horse to ride. Let's figure something out." Serana ran after her.
Evelynn stopped halfway across the college courtyard. She hadn't even gone to check on Dusk. And here she was, running off to save the world again. She was such a shite.
"There are no carriages nearby. We have to walk. And I have to go even further north to talk to some shite about the other Scroll. We have to get moving." Evelynn massaged her chest.
"You need more armor. You can't travel and fight in these clothes."
Evelynn looked down; leather pants, linen shirt, a vest, and fur shoes. "I'll be fine."
"No." Serana said simply.
Evelynn wanted to say something else but that piercing scream ripped the skies again. Evelynn drew her crossbow and looked up. No bloody rest in Skyrim, eh?
Blood dragon. Frost breather. It landed on the wall of the college and roared again. Evelynn fired. Her crossbow needed to be recharged, her fire enchantment barely caused a spark against its scales. Fuck. She had no soul gems, no poisons on her. All her belongings were still at the Inn.
Evelynn sighed. "I guess I'm going back to basics." She fired another bolt and the dragon took flight.
Serana started with her ice again.
"Haven't you got any fire magick?" Evelynn asked her.
Serana rolled her eyes and called fire to her other hand. The other Mages came to defend their sanctuary, blasting magick everywhere. The blood dragon finally landed on the ground, too close to Evelynn, snapping its jaws.
"YOL TOOR SHUL!" Evelynn engulfed the dragon in flames and fired another bolt directly into its eye, ending the battle.
This is going to be a long bloody trip, was Evelynns' only thought before the dragons' soul blacked out her vision.
Serana
The journey west had taken quite a bit of time, but Serana was glad she'd made Evelynn take the time to get properly ready for it. The Imperial had wanted to make her own armor, but buying it was so much quicker. She'd complained of the fit and the leather, but not often. Camping out in caves had been awful, and Serana looked forward to bathing somewhere other than a stream. But they'd made it to Dragon Bridge fairly unscathed, in just under two weeks. Evelynn was now completely healed.
The bridge itself was definitely a sight to behold; a massive, beautiful stone structure, with the head of a Dragon overlooking the travelers. The town seemed fairly active and lively. Evelynn immediately went to asking any person she saw about the Moth Priest, Serana even asked a few guards.
"He's headed south. Today. We might be able to catch up with him. Come on!" Evelynn told her, grabbing her hand and pulling towards the bridge.
Evelynn was sprinting. The sun was still up and Seranas' stamina had a difficult time keeping up with her wolf. Within ten minutes, Serana was completely drained. She'd slowed to a walk, fighting for breath. Just around the bend, they saw an overturned carriage. Evelynn looked at her in panic.
"Go... I'll… catch up… with you…" Serana breathed.
Evelynn squeezed her hand and ran as fast as she could to the scene. Serana could see bodies everywhere surrounding the chaos, and dread washed over her. Evelynn had searched several of them and was running back to her, shoving a paper into her satchel.
"Forebears Holdout. Vampires. I can track the scent. Take this." Evelynn shoved a green bottle into her hand.
The potion tasted bitter, but Serana instantly felt better, stronger. Vampires… Serana didn't exactly look forward to fighting her fathers minions. He must've preemptively abducted the priest, planning to get the scroll next. Serana steeled herself for truly turning on her father.
A cave. Of course it was another cave. At least it's out of the sun… she would regain strength inside. It wasn't very far from where they'd found the ambush scene, but Serana could feel her energy depleting fast. The vampire wanted this over with as quickly as possible, and Evelynns' stealth approach was maddening. At least she was considering her mortality, finally.
Evelynn was surprisingly amazing at sneaking around undetected. Sneaking up on vampires was an entirely different level of stealth, yet Evelynn displayed her abilities smoothly. It made Serana question what had made her hesitate to kill her when she'd found her. Evelynn was clearly trained for this. She'd taken out several hounds from the shadows with her fancy crossbow; Serana gained a deeper appreciation for the weapon. Creeping further into this winding cave was setting the vampire on edge though. Twice, Serana overreacted to the hounds, giving away Evelynns' position. But Evelynn seemed ever patient, killing her targets and pushing forward. This was the first time Serana had truly seen her as a soldier. Of course Evelynn was a fighter, but her determination to her mission was… a little terrifying, if Serana was being honest.
Serana had been her mission. And Evelynn had abandoned it all to risk her life helping the vampire, and she hadn't even known her. Why? She made a note to talk to Evelynn about it. She doubted Evelynn accepted failure well.
The hounds were one thing. Serana had known them, even depended on their protection. And killing them was sad, but Serana was not prepared for killing a vampire whose face had once lived in her home. She'd killed the woman without a thought, just protecting her wolf. Looking at the vampire's corpse, Serana knew she was truly a traitor. She was no longer Volkihar. She'd abandoned everything she'd ever known for the Dovahkiin. And the Dovahkiin had given her… everything in return. She would follow this woman to the end of the world. Serana had made it so Evelynn was literally all she had left. She silently vowed to never make this Evelynns' problem.
"Wait here." Evelynn told her quietly, jerking her back to the task at hand.
What? Then Serana heard a voice.
"The more you fight me, the more you will suffer, mortal." It was Malkus. She'd not particularly liked him, but her father had always been fond of the man.
"I will resist you, monster. I must!" An old man's voice was barely audible over the rushing magic.
Malkus was exceedingly arrogant. "How much longer can you keep this up, Moth Priest? Your mind was strong, but you're exhausted from the struggle."
"Must... resist..."
"Yes, I can feel your defenses crumbling. You want it to end. You want to give in to me. Now, acknowledge me as your master!"
"Yes. Master."
Evelynn creeped up the stairs and fired a poisoned bolt at Malkus, killing him in a single blow. His apprentice came charging at Evelynn as she was reloading.
Fuck waiting here. Serana sprinted up the stairs at the woman, sending shards of ice into her chest. The apprentice barely scorched Serana, before she collapsed into ash.
Evelynn ran towards the whirlpool of magick, attempting to retrieve the old man, the magick knocking her backward onto the stone floor. Serana ran to the Weystone Source, attempting to break the magick.
"Check Malkus. He must have the key."
Evelynn looked odd at her usage of the vampire's name, but searched his body. "This?" She held up the Weystone Focus.
"Yes, that's it. Bring it here."
"Just looks like a fucking rock." Evelynn was muttering in her thick accent.
Evelynn arranged the key and Focus in place, and the blue magick dissipated. The old man in tattered robes sank to his knees as he was released. Evelynn rushed to his aid. The man attempted to fight her, the grief of his fallen master fueling him. The Imperial calmed him quickly and explained things. Dexion was the mans' name. He agreed to meet them back at Fort Dawnguard, but he was oddly refusing her offer for safe escort. Serana hoped the stubborn priest would make it.
Evelynn
"Is it hard for you? Fighting for the other side?" Evelynn asked her softly in the night.
"I didn't much fight for my fathers side to begin with. But fighting with you, for you, is not hard, Dovahkiin. And I believe we are fighting on the right side." Serana squeezed her fingers lightly and smiled.
It was odd, having just teamed up to kill her people and now they were holding hands so sweetly and walking through the forest. "You called him by name. You knew him."
"I knew him." Serana said simply.
"Are you okay?"
"I am well, Dovahkiin. I made a choice. My life is different now. I understand what must be done."
"You'll let me know if you want to talk about it?" Evelynn felt so heartless just dropping the subject.
Serana smiled. "Yes, I would let you know. I just do not need to talk about it."
"Okay…" Evelynn lowered her eyes.
"There is… something I would like to talk about though."
"Sure."
"You're very good at what you do."
Evelynns' ears warmed in the cool night. "Yes."
"I was more wondering… why you didn't kill me. When you found me."
Evelynn stilled. "I just… couldn't."
"But… why? I'm just a vampire."
"No. You're not. You're… something else."
Serana blushed and looked away. "But you didn't know me."
"I just… could think of nothing but… protecting you. It didn't sit well with me, to lock anyone away in a tomb. You speak highly of your mother, but I'm still not sure I can forgive her for that. You just… needed help."
Serana was quiet, listening, searching the Dragonborns eyes. "Well… whatever stopped you… I'm forever grateful to know you."
Evelynn started walking again. "Mara," she muttered.
"I'm sorry?"
"Nothing."
"Thank you. For helping a strange vampire." Serana squeezed her fingers again.
"Thank you."
"For what?"
Evelynn felt love pooling in her eyes so much that it burned. Her chest swelled and ached for the beautiful creature beside her. The girl who'd been sheltered, and abused, and thrust into a life of darkness, and still found a way to be by Evelynns' side. Fighting to be happy, to be good. She wished so much that she could battle Seranas' darkness and let her feel love without fear. And selfishly, she wished the vampire would never leave her.
"Everything." A tear rolled off the end of her nose.
Serana
Fort Dawnguard would never feel exactly comfortable for Serana, but she felt safe by Evelynns' side. There were more soldiers now, and Serana knew she would not sleep well here. Dexion had made it safely. It had been difficult to tail him, traveling at night and sleeping by day. But Evelynn had tracked his scent, continuously half a day behind, constantly assuring Serana that he was safe.
They'd not gotten farther than the main hall when Isran stopped them. It was harder than Serana had anticipated to give her scroll to Dexion. Had that not been the plan all along? Why, then, did it fill her with dread to let go of it? The man was to read it, to help them. Serana could hardly focus on his show of opening her Elder Scroll. Evelynn laced her fingers into hers and smiled reassuringly at her.
"I see a vision before me," the old man began dramatically, "an image of a great bow. I know this weapon! It is Auriel's Bow! Now a voice whispers, saying 'Among the night's children, a dread lord will rise. In an age of strife, when dragons return to the realm of men, darkness will mingle with light and the night and day will be as one.'
"The voice fades and the words begin to shimmer and distort. But wait, there is more here. The secret of the bow's power is written elsewhere. I think there is more to the prophecy, recorded in other scrolls. Yes, I see them now... One contains the ancient secrets of the dragons, and the other speaks of the potency of ancient blood."
Serana stilled, her heart pounding frantically.
"My vision darkens, and I see no more. To know the complete prophecy, we must have the other two scrolls." Dexion finished.
When dragons return to the realm of men. Now. This prophecy is exactly now. And ancient blood must be used. Serana could not remember the last time she felt physically sick, but that was all she could feel now. He needed to be stopped. Harkon would have to die.
And Serana knew where at least one more scroll was.
Evelynn
"Do you have a moment to talk?" Serana asked her in a hushed tone, once they were away from everyone.
"What's on your mind?" Evelynn stoked the forge; Sorine had taught her to make her own steel bolts.
"That Moth Priest, Dexion. He said we needed two other Elder Scrolls. I think I know where we can start looking."
"Why didn't you say something earlier?" Evelynn slipped and burned her hand. Again.
"Didn't want that lot getting wind of it. Half the people of your little crew would just as soon kill me as talk to me. That doesn't exactly make me want to open up. I got a warmer welcome from my father, and that's saying something." Serana handed her a steel ingot.
A pang of guilt shot through Evelynn. She hated making Serana be here where she was clearly so uncomfortable. And she was right; no one here cared about her and that gutted Evelynn even worse.
"Does Harkon even care about you anymore?" Evelynn bristled at her mention of her father.
"You know, I've asked myself the same thing. I thought... I hoped that if he saw me, he might feel something again. But I guess I don't really factor in at this point." Serana was dancing with The Sadness again and Evelynns' wolf rattled its cage. "I don't even think he sees me as his daughter anymore. I'm just... a means to an end."
"So where is this Elder Scroll?" The Imperial asked, trying to calm down, while finishing up her steel work.
"We need to find my mother, Valerica. She'll definitely know where it is, and if we're lucky, she actually has it herself."
Her mother? "You said you didn't know where she went." Evelynn cooled her bolt tips in the trough.
"The last time I saw her, she said that she'd go somewhere safe... somewhere that my father would never search. Other than that, she wouldn't tell me anything. But the way she said it... 'someplace he would never search.' It was cryptic, yet she called attention to it."
"Sounds like she was being cautious." Just because Evelynn loathed Valerica, didn't mean Serana didn't still love her mother.
"Maybe. What I can't figure out is why she said it that way."
"Maybe your mother didn't trust you, either…"
"That's always a possibility. She was almost as obsessed as my father by the time she shut me in. But I can't worry about that now. We need the scroll, and she's our only lead." Serana shook her head. "Besides, I can't imagine a single place my father would avoid looking. And he's had all this time, too. Any ideas?"
"Sealed away like you were?"
"I don't think so. She said she wanted to stay awake in case the situation was resolved. It had to be one of us, and, well, she's so much more powerful than I am. It just made sense for her to be out here. Anything else?"
Evelynn wished Valerica had sealed herself away instead of her daughter. But then Evelynn might've never found… "In Castle Volkihar?" Evelynn suggested, half joking.
"Wait... that almost makes sense! I used to help my mother tend a garden in the courtyard here. All of the ingredients for our potions came from there. She used to say that my father couldn't stand the place. Too... peaceful." The Vampires' eyes lit up.
"Isn't that pretty risky, staying around the castle?" Oh… she was serious?
"Oh, absolutely. But my mother's not a coward. That is... I don't think we'll actually trip over her there. But it's worth a look." Serana looked oddly energized; euphoric.
"They aren't going to let us use the front door…" Evelynn shafted her bolts quickly.
"True. But I know a way we can get to the courtyard without arousing suspicion." Serana flashed her sexy fanged grin.
"Sounds like we've got a plan. The mad man in Winterhold gave me some information about the other Scroll we'll need. We should find it on our way north."
Serana
They'd decided to spend the remainder of the night and day in Riften, then take a carriage to Dawnstar at nightfall. Serana had said she wanted to at least travel a bit before resting, but, truth be told, she really just didn't want to sleep at Dawnguard ever again if she could avoid it. They'd gotten a room at The Bee and Barb, which was considerably larger than the Frozen Hearth. Still… Serana was finding herself actually missing Evelynns' Lakeview Manor. The house was so open and cozy at the same time. The beds were soft and clean. The cellar… Serana flushed and shut it down.
"Do you want a drink?" Evelynn asked her over the noise.
It was so late by human standards but the party seemed to never die in Riften. Serana nodded. She wanted to be alone with Evelynn, but didn't want to deprive her Dovahkiin of social interaction. She seemed friendly with most of the rough and tumble crowd, but not familiar like in Whiterun. Although the citizens seemed unusually nervous, they were determined to have a good time. There were a few friendly brawls. One Dunmer even challenged Evelynn. The thought of her sweating and using her own fists in a duel… made Serana squirm in her seat. But Serana thought of her reaction if the petite man managed to land a lucky shot… and her face twisted in disdain. Evelynn seemed to notice her reaction, and declined the challenge.
They'd found a table to sit and drink their wine. Alto wine. Evelynn had said the only thing with expensive taste had been the Black-Briar Reserve, but she was clearly not fond of that idea. at least there were glasses to drink from, although Serana was starting to enjoy the drink from the bottle kind of life with the Dovahkiin. They'd cleaned up quickly before attending the chaos. Serana was appraising Evelynns' cream colored, sleeveless linen shirt and black leather pants so intently that she didn't even hear the Nord man speaking to her.
"Hello?" He sounded annoyed.
"I'm sorry?" Serana wasn't in the mood.
"I asked if you would like to dance. Clearly you're new around here." He adjusted the cuff of his too fine clothes.
"Oh. No thank you, sir."
"Come on. Beautiful woman like you. You should consider knowing a real man."
"The Lady said 'no', Hemming. Piss off." Evelynn took a sip of her wine. Her annoyance was minimal, but real.
The pretentious Nord pulled on Seranas wrist. "Don't worry about it. Come."
Evelynn sprang from her chair, fist in motion, and connected hard with the mans face. Serana heard the break in his nose before she smelled his weak blood. Hemming, she'd called him, fell loudly to the floor, holding his face and screaming. Several other patrons paused to stare, most of them burst into laughter.
"My mother will have your head for that, Imperial!"
Evelynn picked up the bottle of wine and crouched down next to the man. "Tell Maven I'll be waiting." She winked at him and took a long sip. "He's had enough. Get him out of here."
Serana stared, mouth open. Several men dragged the Nord out as Evelynn walked back to the table. She ran a hand through her dark hair and took another sip from the bottle. By the Blood… this beautiful beast had assaulted a man in a crowded bar… for her honor. Serana could not contain herself. She practically jumped at the Imperial, grabbing her face and kissing her fiercely. In front of everyone. A few people whistled, but she didn't care. She tangled her fingers into her Dovahkiins' hair and loved her. Evelynn wrapped her hands around Seranas waist. Lower. Gripping her backside, Evelynn lifted her. Excitement flashed through her and she could not get enough. She wrapped her legs around Evelynns' waist and squeezed. Cheers filled the dining hall as Evelynn carried the Vampire to their room.
Evelynn
"We should probably stop destroying borrowed clothes…"
Serana lifted her head off the Dovahkiin and looked around the room at the shredded garments. She laughed.
The soreness inside Evelynn mingled with the stinging on her back and she sighed contentedly. This seemed to be getting easier, more comfortable, them being together. Serana no longer held herself so tightly, but lazily draped herself across Evelynn. She didn't even seem to mind Evelynn running her fingers through her hair, or up and down her naked back.
"This is going to be a long ride…" Evelynn sighed, mostly to herself.
Serana just lightly squeezed her in a hug, and Evelynn knew she was drifting off to sleep. She envied that. Sleep. She looked at the beautiful Nord, so peaceful. Her dark hair was wild and splayed out across Evelynn. She ran her fingers lightly over Seranas' lips, causing the Nord to smile softly. It was hard to think, or care, about anything else when they were close like this. The Dragonborn should care about Alduin. A Dawnguard soldier should care about Harkon. Any person in Skyrim should care about any number of dangers in the world. But Evelynn could only see Serana. She would continue saving the world, but now it was for her. To make her proud. To keep her safe. There was so much feeling in Evelynn that she was drowning in it. First Harkon, then to finish Alduin. She'd sort out the mess in her afterward.
"I love you."
Evelynn stilled. It was so quiet she was sure she'd imagined it. She looked at Seranas' face; sound asleep, breathing evenly against the scars on her chest. She traced the silver ring that Serana hadn't taken off since she'd made it. Poisonous affections. Serana wore silver, because Evelynn had made it. She'd made herself vulnerable, because Evelynn had wanted her. The Imperials heart hammered in her chest and she knew she hadn't imagined it. Serana loved her. And it terrified Evelynn.
Serana
She woke to see Evelynn staring at her. The Imperial smiled when her eyes opened.
"It's creepy to watch people sleep, you know."
Evelynn chuckled. "Are you ready to get up? The sun is completely set."
Serena stretched the soreness from her muscles. "How was your night?" She asked.
"Not a bad way to spend the 'night' awake." Evelynn grinned.
Serana rolled and laid on her wolf. "What did you do?"
Evelynn just shrugged and gestured to her posture in the bed.
"The whole time? Isn't that boring?"
Evelynn grinned. "Not at all. You're quite the conversationalist when you sleep."
Seranas' face flared with heat and she groaned. By the Blood. She remembered flashes of dreams. Dreams she could never touch. Evelynns' face, her body. Her strong hands holding Serana gently and making love to her.
Serana smiled into the warmth of her wolfs' skin. She kissed her ribs. Licked. Bit down for a taste. Evelynn squirmed and moaned. She ran her hands through Seranas' hair.
"Breakfast in bed…" Serana murmured against her.
Evelynn laughed, effectively distracted. "Are you going for dessert too?"
"That sounds divine… but perhaps we should get moving."
Evelynn sighed deeply. "You're probably right."
Serena watched as the Imperial staggered out of the bed and searched for clothes. Her back was covered in deep red welts. Evelynn had enjoyed the flogger so much. She'd decided to keep it. It had taken a bit for Serana to feel good doing that to her. She still wasn't sure how she felt, but her Dovahkiin had reassured her that it was only pleasurable. A few of the welts had dried blood.
"Do you want me to try to heal that?" Serena asked her.
Evelynn laughed. "No, I do not." She slid on a pair of the soft leather pants that Serana liked so much.
Evelynn looked every bit of the Dark Temptress wearing only those pants. Bare feet soft on the floor. Perfect breasts and softly sculpted abs showing off her life's scars. Deep brown hair wild and shining in the candlelight. She looked dangerous. But her face still showed her youth. No lines, just bright, happy warmth. Her marred beauty. Those silver eyes…
"Are you just going to lay there gawking?" Evelynn was holding another linen shirt to put on.
"It's very tempting."
Evelynn laughed. "Get up. Things need our attention. You can devour me again later."
