Chapter 14: On Friendship

Amidst the chaos Arliss hadn't complained or struggled when he was suddenly grabbed by the arm and hauled off to who knows where. Sure, maybe it wasn't wise to be so complicit, but if it meant escaping the crowd he could comply a bit. He and his apparent captor slipped away quietly, and he soon found himself in what he assumed was the stranger's home. Finally being let go he looked at the man, or rather mer with a blank face, and an odd tilt to his head as they studied each other. Feeling content that he didn't seem to be in any real danger he decided to look around. A quick glance around the room told him a wealth of information. The size was smaller than Gerdur's home which he assumed to be a sign that he likely lived alone and even at a glance he quickly noted that it was well stocked with plenty of game, and pelts. There was also a couple bows, and his place was well stocked with arrows.

After an uncomfortably long time in silence Faendal spoke. "Aren't you gonna ask why I brought you here?" If the pawn had been a bit more adept at reading people he might have noticed the elf's agitation at being ignored.

Arliss looked to him with a seemingly uncaring and bored looking expression. He was quiet as he thought before promptly shaking his head. "Tis' unnecessary."

Faendal pinched the bridge of his nose in exasperation. "I don't know why I even bothered to help you."

Arliss tilted his head again, his brows furrowing ever so slightly. That's right he was forgetting his manners, not only had he helped him get away from all those people, but he also had yet to apologize for his earlier rudeness in the inn. Straightening himself he bowed, his hand raised to show his pawn print. "If that was your intention you have my gratitude."

"Don't mention it." Said Faendal, his dark eyes focusing curiously on the scar on the odd mage's hand.

Realizing where he was looking Arliss quickly, and not so discreetly hid his pawn print. He would have to remind himself later to get out of the habit of making his usual pawn salute. Earlier he had been troubled when he noticed the lack of a glow, but he supposed that mayhaps it's a good thing in this case. A glowing scar would no doubt attract even more unwanted attention. Clearing his throat he continued, "I also wish to apologize for my earlier rudeness. I was not aware of the implications of what I was saying. Forgive me."

Faendal smiled. Whether it was genuine, or out of politeness Arliss couldn't say. "It's fine, and thanks."

Arliss nodded, before asking, "Why are you thanking me?"

"For not being like the rest of... them." Arliss waited for him continue and Faendal sighed. "I've dealt with a lot of rude folk, and nasty rumors. As you might have noticed Nords don't take kindly to outsiders."

Arliss' brows furrowed at the new information, but nodded in understanding. He and the Arisen hadn't been in Skyrim for long so that warning would be useful. 'That must be why Sir.Kriger went out of his way to collect more local attire for us.' At the same time he had an idea of what kind of treatment the elf was referring to. He surmised it must be akin to the treatment of pawns in Gransys.

"I've been called things like a Thalmor sympathizer, just because I happen to be an elf. And many who side with Ulfric Stormcloak claim I'm an Imperial spy because I'm not interested in the war. I've even been called a cannibal for being a Bosmer." He threw his hands up at the last one. "At least most of the time they're polite enough to talk behind my back," he said somewhat sarcastically. "That Sven though is the worst!"

Arliss stepped back, his eyes flickered between the door and the ranting elf. He contemplated staying, or returning to the boy he was told to watch. On one hand staying could provide him with information that could prove useful to his Arisen, on the other hand though he didn't want her to be upset with him for leaving the boy.

Noticing his uncertain glances Faendal stopped. "If you're so uncomfortable, you can leave." His eyes and voice were sharp.

"Don't misunderstand." Arliss said placatingly. "I would certainly like to continue speaking with you, but my-" He paused recalling how calling his Arisen 'Master' earlier was seen as strange, and he also wasn't certain if he should use the title of 'Arisen' either. "My Mistress asked me to watch o'er the boy for a spell." He hoped that what he said wasn't too strange.

Faendal's brows furrowed. "Your Mistress can't possibly be Gerdur right?"

Arliss shook his head. "No."

Faendal sighed in relief. He got along well with Gerdur and her family, and imagining something like that- well he certainly didn't want them in scandal. Then his mind went to a dark place. "It isn't Camilla is it?" He stiffened, his eyes went dark.

Arliss shook his head. "I know not who Camilla is, like as not you know not my Ma- Mistress either." He caught himself at the last minute, but decided to add on to prevent the elf from latching on to his near mistake. "I noticed you seem to be an adept hunter. Likewise my Mistress is also quite skilled with a bow."

Faendal noticed the odd hiccup, but was more interested in his relief that it wasn't Camilla, as well as the purported skill of this mysterious woman. "Oh, really?" He said, his dark eyes glinting. "In that case I would like to meet her sometime, maybe have a little contest in skill?"

"She would win." Arliss said blankly.

Faendal was taken back momentarily before he laughed. It was more like a short release of breath than Ralof's hearty hoots and howls, but it was a laugh just the same. "I'm sure she's quite skilled for you to have so much confidence, but don't count me out just yet. I'm the best shot in Riverwood!" He couldn't help, but puff out in pride. Sure he wasn't always treated most kindly, but they had to give him this even if only begrudgingly. He always provided the most meat for the village, as well as plenty of pelts for the Trader and Alvor's smithy.

"She would still win."

Faendal tried to hide the way his irritation grew at the odd mage's surety, succeeding only because he was dealing with Arliss. He felt that he could better handle a more smug attitude, but the way the odd mage kept his face straight and his voice flat as he spoke irked him. It was like stating a fact, and he couldn't deny feeling his ego bruise. "Well, I don't like to brag, but—" He crossed his arms, head held high with a tight lipped smile. "I once took down a bear at three hundred yards." Noting Arliss' lack of a reaction he quickly added, "In a blizzard."

Arliss couldn't help but frown. While he supposed such a feat might be impressive he had seen far greater from his Arisen. It was folly to compare them, after all unlike his Arisen; the elf had ne'er defeated a Dragon. Like as not though he knew it wouldn't be wise to say it. He had no choice but to hold his tongue. "I have questions. Might we speak a bit?"

Feeling like he had won a victory Faendal grinned. "Sure!" He chirped. "Why don't you take a seat."

Arliss nodded with a polite smile as he sat at the table. "My thanks." He was sure he hid it well, but he couldn't help feeling like a failure of a pawn for not defending his Master's skill. He was also holding off on returning to his charge, hopefully the boy wouldn't get into any trouble in his absence. 'Tis' fine,' he mentally reassured himself. 'I shan't be long.'

"So, what do you wanna know?" Faendal's dark, inquisitive eyes seemed to be studying him, but he seemed relaxed and friendly enough. "Oh, I just realized that we haven't officially introduced ourselves. I'm Faendal." He held out a hand and waited with a cordial smile.

Arliss tilted his head as he looked at the elf's outstretched hand. He had never been greeted like this before. He looked back up at Faendal who's smile was beginning to falter. With only slight hesitation he took his receding hand and shook it. "Arliss, that is my name." He took a deep breath before deciding upon his first question.

For a short while the two enjoyed their conversation. Arliss was pleased to learn a wealth of new information, and as for Faendal... Well, Arliss couldn't really say, but thus far he had not shooed him out with a broom so that was something. It became a back and forth as Faendal began to ask about himself, noting his curiosity at his obvious outlandishness. Arliss answered as best as he could, careful not to give away any more than was given to their Nordic friends, and it seemed to be going surprisingly well. Things however soured a bit when the conversation turned to the object of the elf's affections; Camilla. Faendal made no attempt to hide how smitten he was with the Imperial maiden, and sighed longingly.

"Are you alright?" Arliss asked.

Faendal sighed again. "Yes, no. I don't know." He rested his head and arms on the table. Arliss stared; waiting for him to elaborate. With yet another sigh he straightened and continued; explaining his hopeless infatuation with Camilla, and his rivalry with Sven. "What do you think I should do?"

Arliss stroked his chin. No one had ere asked him for such advice afore. "If you wish to woo this woman, and make her your beloved then mayhaps you could raise her affinity with gifts?" He hummed. "If memory serves most ladies seem to like flowers." He thought back to the days when he and his Arisen traversed Gransys; trying to recall what kinds of gifts she offered when trying to forge friendships. "You can also try other things as well such as wine, pies, blank scrolls, foreign knives, large fish, and human skulls."

Faendal raised a brow as he listed off the last items. "Uhh," he said intelligently. He shook his head ultimately deciding not to point out his new friend's odd choice in romantic gifts. "I've already been giving her gifts, but I don't know if it's enough to win her heart against Sven. I'm starting to worry that all his serenades, and sweet talk might actually get to her."

Arliss nodded. "Conversation is the heart of any bond. In time it can foster great affinity." At his words Faendal groaned, and as Arliss watched him thrum his fingers on the table his brows furrowed in concern. "Mayhaps, if you think you're up to the task-" He pressed his lips together, unsure if he should continue. What he was about to suggest could be risky. "You could ask if she wishes to go somewhere, and offer to be her escort."

At this Faendal looked up; interest piqued. "What do you mean?"

"Back when we traversed Gransys we oft took on escort quests; usually for the coin, or rewards offered, but on occasion we took them for the sake of growing friendships." Arliss could still recall them even now. "By traveling together, and experiencing aught together you can strengthen your bonds." Once more Arliss rubbed his chin. "In Gransys we oft took them to historical sights like the towering fortress at the border, else places of sentimental value such as the graves of their long lost loved ones, many were just looking for protection so that they might conclude their duties or good company to make travel less tedious. A fair number were looking to see what beauty the world could offer."

His blue green eyes gazed into the past, even now his memory had remained vivid. "Gransys was truly full of sights to see." He hadn't thought much of them at the time, but thinking back on it now he could understand why the people wanted so badly to leave the safety of their walls, and brave the wilderness for the chance to gaze upon them once in their fleeting lives. "From the towering walls what stood the test of time, to the calm seaside that glistened beneath the setting sun, to the figure of a scarred man carved into a hillside, of streams of water that cascade endlessly, and healing springs what glow with water imbued by holy magic." He looked on wistfully. Why was it that back then he took no interest in such things save for the practicality of knowing their location, or reaching their destination? Better yet, why was he feeling this way now? He shook his head. 'If I could see such things again, I'd like to appreciate them proper.' It was a strange thing for a pawn to feel desire save for that which yearned to be by the Arisen's side, yet he could almost ken what it meant to long for something not within his grasp. "In this land, are there such sights?"

"We don't have figures carved in hillsides or glowing ponds here as far as I know, but still there's beauty here just the same." The two sat silently a moment afore Faendal shook his head with a snort. "Such sights you describe sound unbelievable to me. You're sure you're not pulling my leg?"

Arliss turned to him with a furrowed brow, and raised his hands in defense. "How could I pull your leg when I haven't touched you?"

Faendal raised a brow. "No, that means- you know what? Nevermind." He resisted the urge to shake his head again. "If you're really serious about such places though I'd love to see them someday."

"I speak truly, though like as not such things are beyond our reach."

"Don't give up so soon. Where there's a will there's a way, and besides-" Faendal cracked a grin. "You can still enjoy what Skyrim has to offer. Dwelling on the past won't bring you happiness. You should enjoy the present, and set your sights on the future before it slips from your grasp."

"That sounds like sage advice." Arliss nodded.

"I know, they're words to live by." He looked ahead, smiling fondly to himself. "From my father."

"Your father sounds like a wise man."

"He was."

"Oh?" Arliss wasn't sure what to say to that. "I'm sorry?" That was the expected response in this kind of situation wasn't it?

Noting the awkwardness Faendal quickly added. "Don't worry. You don't need to offer any condolences or anything." He waved a hand casually. "It was a long time ago, and he had a good life." Recalling something he quickly offered Arliss a concerned frown. "Wait, you didn't have anywhere to be right? I'm sorry I didn't mean to keep you so long."

Arliss jumped up in realization. He had only meant to stay a short spell, but before he knew it an entire hour had past. 'What will she think when she hears this?' He offered a polite bow to the elf. "Forgive me, but I must be going now."

"I hope to see you again friend."

That caught him off guard and Arliss had to pause. "Yes, I'm sure we will." He nodded, but it still didn't seem enough. He swallowed afore quickly adding, "friend." He turned on his heel to the door feeling a strange heat in his face. Reaching for the door he stopped. "About that contest. She would still win." Without waiting for a reply he quickly rushed out the door.

Arliss could almost swear he felt the barest hint of a smile tug at the corners. of his lips. Despite the fact that his Arisen might be disappointed in him for leaving his charge he still felt as if he had accomplished something. He had gained more knowledge which would certainly be useful, and he even managed to defend her skill in the end. Mostly though he felt a giddiness at a new revelation. He had made a 'friend' in the elf Faendal, and he had done it all on his own to boot! He wondered how she would react to this. Mayhaps she would be pleased with this development? He certainly hoped that she would.

In the past she had often attempted to get him to befriend her loved ones, and encouraged him to try to get along well with others. She had apparently been under the impression that pawns weren't so different from humans, and that if humans and pawns could learn to understand each other then maybe pawns wouldn't be treated so badly. Unfortunately the attempts never really went anywhere. At least they were usually polite to him... most of the time. Unfortunately he surmised that the basic courtesy her friends and acquaintances showed him most like had more to do with the fact that they were friends with his Arisen and didn't want to upset her than any real desire to befriend a mere pawn like himself.

Yes, most of them didn't truly have a desire to interact with him. He had been oblivious to it at first, but as he began to learn about his Arisen's emotions, he started to recognize them in other humans as well. The wariness that she had displayed as they trekked through the dark nights; fearing ambushes and dangerous creatures lurking in the shadows just beyond the glow of their lanterns; was also apparent on the humans who were forced to be near him and his kind. He never truly understood why. It wasn't as if he had any desire to attack them, nor a reason to. For some strange reason humans just didn't like pawns. He didn't really care though. Not even when they struck him, or spit on him, or said things that were probably meant to be offensive.

He could recall the whispers and the sneers though the words meant naught one wit to him. How pawns were creepy and gloomy. Mere puppets or dolls with blank faces, and eyes like a corpse. They probably weren't wrong. Some things they said though were ridiculous; like the idea that they crawled up from the ground same as the undead, or that they were cursed shadows given human form. Others resented pawns because unlike them; they would never age, or suffer illness, or even truly die. To humans; pawns were strange otherworldly creatures that looked like humans, but didn't quite fit in; An eery, uncanny, people who felt nothing, wandered aimlessly through their world, knew only of battle, and constantly upset them with their obliviousness of human ways. Why the Arisen thought that he could possibly befriend humans was beyond him; although thinking of it now it probably had something to do with Barnaby.

Upon meeting the pawns the Arisen had already become incredibly curious about their kind, and that had only increased after meeting the leader of the pawn guild. Barnaby was well versed in the ways of humans, and could mimic them perfectly. So great was he at imitating humans that he was welcomed among them despite his true nature as a pawn. If not for his pawn print you would never be able to tell that he wasn't really one of them, and even with his scar the humans still did not seem to notice. Barnaby wasn't just good at feigning humanity; he was charismatic, and well liked among the humans. He had to be in order to form the guild, and take care of it as well as his fellow pawns there.

If pawns could feel aught Arliss surmises that he might have been jealous of the accomplished, and well learned pawn. Such thoughts were foolish though. As a pawn he assured himself that it was folly to dare think that he might have felt a small inkling of the emotion for even a moment. Not even as his Arisen seemed to take much joy and time conversing with the more socially adept pawn did he feel upset, or how often she turned to him for advice, or even that time when she asked if he'd join them on her quest. Sure maybe there was the occasional fleeting thought that he was inadequate as the main pawn compared to Barnaby, but such things were only logical thoughts and did not count as such an emotion. Jealousy implied resentment, and he had no such thoughts or feelings towards the more experienced pawn. He shook his head putting the illogical thoughts and memories to a halt. He had no reason to worry about being replaced, especially not now. At the time the thought had oft plagued him, but the Arisen herself had assured him that he had no cause to worry; even though he wasn't worrying in the first place.

He allowed the memory to grace his mind. They had just come back to Gran Soren from a successful hunt; thanks in no small part to Barnaby's sound advice, and the two hired pawns he had recommended. As he watched his Arisen happily offer him gifts in gratitude the unpleasant thought had once more gripped him, feeling unusually heavy in his gut. When they once more began to walk about the city Arliss found himself calling out to her despite himself. "Master, I" His voice was quiet, and unsure, and she should not have heard him over the bustling people in the market, but still she turned to him with a smile, patiently waiting for him to say what was on his mind. Said mind went blank and his voice dry as he knew not what to say, certain that he shouldn't say it. "Forgive me, tis' naught of import."

He watched as her smile dropped, brows knitting in confusion, and eyes searching him in concern. Her expression didn't last as her face quickly changed to the more serious one she wore when they had a mission; he recognized it as her determined look. "Let's head out." She ordered, and soon they found themselves in the plains just outside the city. Turning to their companions she gave an order to keep a look out awhile; then she took him by the hand and led him to the nearby shore. It was here that she released his hand, and chose a grassy patch of land for them to sit. It was silent as he watched her gaze upon the horizon, then she spoke. "Arliss, is there aught bothering you?"

"My condition is normal."

"Don't lie to me, Arliss." There was something in her voice that he didn't recognize, something he hadn't heard before. "You have ne'er shied away from telling me what's on your mind afore." She looked at him and her eyes held a sadness in them. Her hand reached out to touch his cheek and despite the strangeness of the action he did not react. "I like to think that we're friends. Pray tell me, what thought plagues you?"

Arliss suddenly found it hard to face her, instead he turned to face the sea as he searched for words. "I fear I've naught to say, Arisen. I myself know precious little of what is wrong with me."

"There is nothing wrong with you!" The tone of her voice took him by surprise and when he turned to look at her; her eyes seemed to be alight with flame and she seemed resolute in her answer. "I know not what makes you think that, but we can figure this out together! Please, won't you try to explain that I might help?"

"Aye," Arliss nodded somewhat hesitantly before turning to the sea once more. "I, I have these recurring thoughts," he began slowly, paused, then spoke again. "They are unpleasant thoughts."

"What kind of thoughts?"

He spent a moment fiddling with the nearby grass afore he asked, "What exactly do you think of Barnaby?"

"Barnaby?" She asked, her face scrunched up in confusion. "Aught does Barnaby have to do with this?" He didn't answer, but continued to observe the grass as if it was the most interesting thing. She hummed thoughtfully. "Well, Barnaby is a friend." She began. "He's helped us a lot, and I'm very grateful for all his expertise." She noticed not how this word seemed to cut into him. "He's quite impressive in his own right, and an interesting person besides. His mission is fascinating, and after hearing about his past I can't help but feel for him."

Arliss swallowed, his throat feeling dry. "Do you wish for Barnaby to be your main pawn?"

"What‽ What made you think that‽"

"Barnaby is more suited for the position of main pawn."

"Don't be ridiculous!"

"Tis' the truth, Arisen!" The words were bitter and harsh on his tongue. "He's more knowledgeable and experienced than I, and he understands the way of humans. He wouldn't cause misunderstandings, or make the same foolish mistakes I have made, or be as clumsy and fall off buildings, or find himself mauled by wolves. He would be accepted by your loved ones. You must surely regret choosing me as your main pawn. You would fare far better with a pawn like him instead."

"Enough!" Once more he was startled by her voice.

"Forgive me." Arliss quickly hung his head; averting her gaze.

She sighed. "No, I'm sorry. I shouldn't have raised my voice like that, but I couldn't stand listening to that." Her jaw set tight, and her eyes fixed themselves firmly on his form. "Arliss, look at me." She reached out to him again, turning his head so he was facing her. "You're wrong. I don't regret choosing you; not for one moment." She hoped he believed her. "I did not choose Barnaby, I chose you. It matters not how many things he's better at, nor what anyone else thinks. At the end of the day I want you by my side."

"Why?"

She was taken aback a moment afore she answered. "You complete me. We're meant to be."

"That doesn't sound logical."

She laughed. "Maybe not, but tis' the truth." She looked out at the sea as she hummed thoughtfully. "There are plenty of pawns full of knowledge and experience, but I like having someone learn alongside me, and plenty of pawns have already seen what the world has to offer, but It's nicer to experience it together." Her cheeks went pink as she continued listing her foolish reasons, an embarrassed smile upon her face. "And it's fine if you make mistakes; everyone does. We'll improve together." She offered him a grin. "Just be more careful when we're traveling by rooftops, and I'll kill any wolf that tries to attack you!" He didn't answer and she kept going. "And tis' true that Barnaby is quite handsome and charming, but so are you."

Arliss couldn't help raising a brow and tilting his head at the last part. He was certain he hadn't said anything about appearance, and calling him charming was just ridiculous. "Arisen, it would appear that the liar here is you. In what world would my complete lack of social awareness be called charming?"

"You are though!" She shot back. "Sure, mayhaps not in the same charismatic way that Barnaby has, but you do have your own charm." Seeing his blank look she continued. "You can be a bit awkward, but you always try your best, and you're genuine, and earnest." She looked forward. "You're like the sky; allowing the sun to shine upon the earth, or sharing the stars of night. You don't hide your intentions like the sky, all it takes is one look at the grey clouds to know if a storm is coming."

Arliss could only continue looking on confused. The analogy didn't seem to make sense to him, it sounded a lot like illogical nonsense. For one thing the clouds in the sky hid the sun; obstructing the warmth and the light, and at sea the weather could change quite suddenly; being from a fishing village she really should have been aware of the latter. Furthermore, he didn't understand why he was being complimented for doing his best. Didn't every pawn do their best? And earnestness implied honesty which he wasn't sure was apt for him either. He wasn't genuine, he was a pawn; he tried to mimick humans even if he wasn't very good at it. The expressions and gestures he made didn't come naturally to him; he had to force himself to make them in order to be well liked, and even then it wasn't enough. Wasn't forcing pleasant smiles and exaggerating movements like that a form of lying? How could he be called genuine or earnest then? He wasn't like the clear sky, but the cold and unfeeling sea, that hid danger beneath it's dark depths, and capable of inflicting great damage depending on how the tide turned.

She turned back to him again; her gaze met his and their eyes locked. "I chose you. I don't need another main pawn, nor do I want another. I will never replace you, I promise!" Arliss knew that her reasons were illogical and based on foolish human emotions, but still despite knowing that as he looked into her determined gaze he wanted to believe her.

"Thank you, Master."

Shortly after this he would receive a slightly less pleasant reassurance, but he shook his head to halt the memory once more. That was enough reminiscing for one day.

Arliss was grateful to see that the crowd had dispersed. He wasn't sure how Sir.Kriger had managed to convince them to go on their way, or if they had just gotten bored and left on their own, but seeing the road clear of a mob was a relief. That was one thing he wouldn't have to deal with today at least; although he still had yet to spot Frodnar. He glanced about in the hopes of seeing his charge, but he saw neither hide nor hair of the children. Now his earlier sense of accomplishment had quickly diminished as worry began to take hold. Had the boy been hurt or taken amidst the chaos? His Arisen would not to be happy if something had happened while he was supposed to be watching him; furthermore how would Gerdur take it? Would his mistake cause problems for his Arisen? Anxiously he scanned about himself. His eyes quickly flickering about in the hopes of seeing him.

"There you are!" The now familiar, gruff voice made Arliss whirl around; equal parts startled and hopeful. Mayhaps Kriger would know the boy's whereabouts. "I was beginning to think someone spirited you away in the middle of that shitshow earlier."

While his guess wasn't exactly wrong; Arliss had more pressing matters on his mind at the moment. "Sir.Kriger, have you seen Frodnar?"

Rather than immediately answer the question Kriger crossed his arms. "Not one for small talk, huh?" A lopsided grin stretched across his face. "Aren't you at all curious about what happened to the crowd? Or how I managed to convince them to leave you alone? Or offer your thanks for what I did for you?"

Arliss bowed; offering his pawn salute. "I am very grateful to you for dealing with that crowd on my behalf." As he straightened Kriger couldn't help but notice the scar on his hand. "And as curious as I am about how you did it, I am afraid that I have not the time to hear it now. It is of the upmost importance that I find him post haste as I have been tasked with his charge."

Raising a brow and his hands Kriger said, "Hold on, I was joking earlier; there's no need to thank me. And calm down, will ya?" Seeing the tilt to his head; Kriger ran a sooty hand through his greasy hair. "The kids are fine; I've been keeping an eye on them while I work. After the crowd went away they got bored and went to play in the shallow stream near the bridge; looking at fish or something." Hearing his explanation Arliss once more bowed and thanked him. "There's no need for that; look, why don't you go back to the house? Tell the ladies that I'm looking after em' and if anything happens the responsibility will fall on me."

Arliss was taken aback by this, and could only stare a moment afore he asked, "Why?" His brows furrowed a bit as he pondered it. ' Why would he bother to take over this task for me? What does he have to gain?'

"Why not?" Kriger scratched his neck confused. "It's not a big deal, and anyway we're friends aren't we?"

If he was taken back before; now he was downright stricken. 'Friends‽ Has Sir.Kriger actually thought of me in this way?' Arliss hadn't really thought he had friends besides his Arisen before today. Pawns didn't have friends; they held a kinship with each other, but it was mostly in name only. His first 'friendship' had been with his Arisen according to her, and he guessed according to himself as well, but he didn't really understand what that meant. Until now "friend" was just a word. Even when Faendal had said it Arliss hadn't thought too much of it. In truth he felt that hearing it meant he had succeeded in appearing human; like Barnaby, but there was supposed to be more to it than that... wasn't there? His mind once more returned to the past, to the first time he heard of friendship.

He couldn't recall exactly what had led to this point, but after showing his Arisen his usual respect he found himself reprimanded by her. "There's no need to do that, Arliss. Please, stand and stop being so formal."

He quickly stood up as ordered. "Are my mannerisms troubling to you, Master? If so I apologize." He bowed. "If you wish it I can take on another persona that would please you more?"

She held up her hand and waved them about frantically. A curious gesture that he didn't understand. "No! No! Er, maybe..." She then did the most curious thing by slapping her face with a hand and resting her face in said hand. "I don't want to force you to act in any certain way or anything like that. It's just that I'm not used to such formality since I'm just a common fisher who hunts sometimes, and also—" She paused then, brushed her hair behind her ears and looked back at him with oddly pink cheeks. "I'd like to think that we're friends."

Arliss tilted his head upon hearing this new term. "Friends?"

Noting his confusion she continued. "Yeah, I mean-" She paused awkwardly as her face went through a lot of expressions in a short time that Arliss couldn't begin to try to decipher. "We are friends aren't we? We've only been traveling together and fighting together for a short time, but I already feel like I can trust you and rely on you, and I'd like to think that you'll trust me too, and rely on me too."

"We are Master and Pawn, of course you can rely on me, but how can I dare to trouble you?"

Her mouth and eyes were agape. "Because that's what friends do! Friendship is a special bond between people of trusting and supporting each other."

Arliss nodded. "I see. And we have a unique and special bond as Arisen and Pawn where you can trust that I'll support you, therefore according to that definition we must be friends."

"Arliss, a friendship has to go both ways." Seeing his head tilt in confusion she once more slaps her face. "Oh, well I guess as long as you consider us friends I'm happy." She then smiled at him; an expression he found most pleasant. "Just know that I'll be here for you too, because we're friends."

Back in the present Kriger was awkwardly observing the odd mage. He wasn't sure what he had expected after saying that, but it certainly wasn't for him to just up and space out like he was doing now. "Uh, you okay?"

Arliss' brow furrowed and he couldn't help, but ask; "Sir.Kriger, what does it mean to be friends?"

Kriger couldn't help, but stop. 'What kind of question is that‽' He wasn't sure what to say, but one thing was for sure; he certainly didn't need to deal with existential type questions right now. "Right now, I'd say that a friend is someone who doesn't take your bullshit. Just go back to the house, and stop thinking about dumb questions like that."

"Alright." Arliss nodded, and headed back without another word. Along the way he wondered if maybe listening to his advice and putting it out of his mind would be for the best.

As Kriger returned to the forge he couldn't help but think about how strange this all was. 'Maybe I should have answered him. It would have helped him to trust me more.' He still had so many questions about the two strangers, but he pondered what he could. The scar in particular had caught his attention and he fully intended to ask about it later. As for that question though; he was uneasy about the implications of what that meant. The only thing that he was sure of was that he should keep a close eye on Arliss specifically.

Chapter 14: On Friendship End

Author's Note: So here we have another Arliss centric chapter. I have mixed feelings about this one. On one hand I love seeing Arliss get a chance to grow, and I get to show what the Arisen was like before. I also get to explore both the idea of what pawns might be like if they have emotions that they just don't understand, and how these characters change. On the other hand some of it feels a little embarrassing. Silva is the type to attempt to wax poetic whether it works or not. lol.

Anyway I kinda want to talk a little about the direction of this story. Some readers have guessed that Kriger will be the Dragonborn and that is correct. He is the 3rd main character in terms of importance, but at a certain point he's going to go off on his own to fulfill his destiny. The story of the Dragonborn and Alduin is important to the world, but it's not the main focus of this story. At first Silva will react to what's going on, but they're bound to go separate ways. I'm going to mostly cover the adventures of Silva and Arliss while Kriger is doing things in the background off screen. (While occasionally giving him focus, growth, and his own mini plot involving the backstory I gave him.)

The main purpose of this story is the growth of these characters. Figuring out their place in the world, their wants and desires, how they might have changed morally; how far they're willing to go, and if they can live with the choices they make. The bonds they forge. How they have changed, and how the others react to change. These are the arcs I want to explore with them.

I'm saying this so as not to give an unpleasant surprise. I probably should've said it earlier, but this is the plan. I hope you enjoy watching these characters grow as much as I'm excited to share their arcs and their growth with you.

Thanks so much for reading! I hope you enjoy the next chapters too!