ɴɪɢʜᴛᴅᴡᴇʟʟᴇʀꜱ [Rea & Agnes]

Off they went, women in stride free from the mess they'd left behind. It was someone else's problem, now. Aela led the way easily, pointing out landmarks and recognizable trees or fences to explain how she knew where to go. She was happy to teach Serana how to navigate better, but the day was spent without too many personal subjects. They just weren't close enough yet to inquire about such things; vague, at best. Aela explained how she'd come into the Companions: her mother died when she was young, and her father had joined them shortly after. She followed his footsteps. Serana talked a little about what she'd done since emerging from the cave her mother had sealed her in, but as for why Aela did not press further, nor did she inquire more about the ritual and the elder scroll. Aela couldn't get too close; she cared enough to assist the vampire's journey home but that had to be it. Vengeance for Skjor, and the demise of the Silver Hand, was her forefront thought. The journey was largely uneventful; in daylight the wilderness was mostly peaceful. In the distance to the left as they approached Whiterun, Aela pointed out an extremely large trail of smoke emerging from a lifted ridge. It was a giant's camp, and Aela warned that they'd have to stay away from them. They could pass by, as long as they didn't get too close. Giants kept to themselves, and their mammoths, for the most part but if threatened it would be a battle far more difficult than a few Dawnguard. Those clubs came down hard. By the time they reached the surrounding barrier of the city, it was approaching midnight.

Guards stood at the gate, but as Aela approached, they stepped aside quickly. "Welcome home, Companion," said the right male, while the left female gave a friendly nod and smile, before squinting to Aela's companion. It was a curious gaze, but since the woman was with Aela, she wouldn't question the stranger's presence. "Any trouble?" The Huntress asked, to which the female guard laughed.

"Brenuin stole some ale from The Bannered Mare; he's in a cell for tonight. I'd bet he's happy for it - least he's got a bed for the day. He'll be back to begging tomorrow. Hulda didn't care to press charges this time."

So, nothing exciting - good to know. Aela thanked them both quietly before they opened the doors to allow the women passage into the city. Well, what had been a city. Whiterun had once been bigger than Solitude, but now? It was less than Riften - population wise, that is. At least they had morals here, and didn't house the Thieves Guild. Just werewolves, disguised as Companions. Aela waved her wrist, indicating Serana should follow. Up from the Plains District into the Wind District. Only one other building matched Jorrvaskr; the temple of Kynareth to the opposite side. Similar size, varied structure. One was a place of worship, the other larger and spread out. As Aela approached the grand double door entrance, she looked to Serana.

"Remember two things: my gift is secret. Yours is obvious, but as long as you are beside me, you will be safe, anywhere in the Hold. And second?"

Aela turned from the vampire, to place her hand on the wood preparing to open it.

"Do not say you bested me in the woods. The boys will not let me live it down."

Aela pushed, ignoring the fact she gave Serana the ammunition to make up for all the condescending, albeit taunting, insults the Huntress had thought of in the last day.
 
And with the sun peeking out from the edge of the forest at dawn, the two women set off for their destination. Serana clad in her new leather armor and fur-lined cloak, concealing most of her body and face like a coccoon, and Aela proudly displaying her sculpted figure in that armor of hers. The whole of the Rift was beautiful, cloaked in autumn yellows and greens, dotted with verdant forests and hot springs, even when they were at the edge of the region near Ivarstead. Serana had a crude map she had nicked off a marketplace stall in Riften, but she was no use when it came to navigating, so she followed Aela's lead appreciatively, taking notes of the pointers she gave her.

It was actually so impressive, really, how she seemed to be attuned with nature, a primal force whose gait seemed like the prowl of a beast. The conversation between them was pleasant and non-committal, neither of them particularly comfortable with sharing personal details. Aela told her about her parents, how she came to be part of the Companions, and how much her armor and now meant to her. Serana even felt a bit of envy at her childhood, wishing she also had gifts and heirlooms to hold onto. Question about who Skjor was tinged at the tip of her tongue, but she kept her lips tightly shut, reminding herself to respect the other woman's privacy, as she did hers. Serana also spun some tales of her own; how she was sealed away by her mother, what she did after she awoke and found both the Dawnguard and the imposter 'Volkihar' vampires hunting her. She also opened up a bit about the time she was alive in— back in the third era, back when Cyrodiil wasn't the seat of the Empire, when the High Elves stayed on the Summerset Isles and there was no Aldmeri Dominion, back when Skyrim was ruled by its jarls and was free. A revolution was underway, but apparently the Companions did not pick sides. Curious— she would've expected proud sons and daughters of Skyrim to side with their kin.

The landscape quickly changed when they crossed into the Whiterun hold, forests and mountains traded in for snowy plains where she could see ahead for miles. Aela gave her a specific warning about staying away from a giant camp right outside the city of Whiterun, and Serana made a mental note to heed her friend's advice... if she could call her that. Those clubs looked like they could send her halfway across Tamriel with one smack. Finally, at duskfall, they arrived at the city gates, though Serana still kept her hood on for fear of repercussion. Aela was obviously well known and respected around these parts, judging from the way the guards saluted her. The vampire was just glad she was able to go in with her; getting in the city by herself would've been an insurmountable task.

The city beyond the gates was... quite underwhelming, actually. She'd never visited Whiterun before, but she'd heard grand stories of it— the biggest hold in all of Skyrim, with its Jarl presiding from Dragonsreach up in the clouds. The keep still looked magnificent high up on the hill, but she'd expected more. Regardless, she was in no position to complain; Whiterun was miles ahead of Riften, and people here seemed like good folk. Her yellow eyes wandered from the Blacksmith closing up shop on the left, to the empty Marketplace, to the huge tree that Aela introduced to her as the Gildergreen, the temple of Kynareth, and finally, set atop a flight of steps, the upturned rowboat that was Jorrvaskr, the hall of the Companions.

The building was both alien and magnificent to Serana's eyes, who could not comprehend why someone would reuse an old boat for anything, much for housing, but her tired legs superseded her questions for now. "Only if you stop calling a princess or a pretty parasite," she retorted with a slight grin, having no real intention of smearing her name like that, not when she'd helped her get back into the folds of civilization safely.

The doors creaked as they entered, and the vampire was not prepared for the liveliness of the hall. Tables were set around a huge hearth with a roaring fire, decked out in food and wine that could feed thirty people. A brawl seemed to be breaking out on the left, a dunmer and a nord woman slugging it out, all the while their peers cheered on. "Is this what you companions do for entertainment? Beat the living hell out of each other?" she asked amusedly, though she grew silent as a man with a greatsword strapped to his back approached her.

"Aela! Back from hunting that parasite, eh? Ria told me you left with haste that night; the bounty must've good. I thought you'd want to take a moment after Skjor, but obviously I was wrong," said the man with smudged war paint around his eyes, one who Aela would know as Vilkas. But then he noticed the hooded woman standing beside the huntress, instantly spotting her yellow eyes, her pale skin and the tip of her fangs upon her lips. The friendly smile turned into a frown, and he his slowly went to the greatsword on his back.

"Aela... who is this?"

Serana panicked, her heart suddenly beating at a breakneck speed, and she desperately turned to Aela, looking for help.
 
It was not surprising that a fight was occurring within the building - Aela hadn't heard anyone outside, so of course they were inside. Amusement danced in the Huntress's eyes as she watched the two land non-fatal blows with their hands. "Entertainment, and training. No warrior can win a fight if they do not prepare ahead of time." Turning from the others, Aela noted Vilkas approach from the opposite side. So wrapped up in the fight none of the others had noticed Aela's - and company - arrival. At first The Huntress nodded with a gentle, friendly smile but it was quick to fall into a thin-lipped frown at the mention of her fallen lover. Anger flashed across her face as the others finally heard the soft scraping of a drawn weapon. The fight paused as they looked between their shield-siblings, and the strange newcomer. Before he could fully draw his blade, Aela took a commanding step forward.

"A friend."

Obviously further explanation would be necessary to fully welcome the stranger, but Vilkas noted the cold expression of the Huntress. He had made a mistake mentioning Skjor, and it was not the time to question Aela. He released the hilt of his blade before stepping aside toward the others. Aela exhaled slowly as her tension lessened. Turning to Serana, Aela waved toward the table. "I need to speak to Kodlak. Take a seat, eat if you'd like," her eyes traveled to the others, but she continued to speak to the vampire. "You will not be threatened here," Aela promised, catching every face of her shield-siblings. The intention was clear; the stranger would be allowed to stay under Aela's command. With a softened gaze, Aela nodded to the vampire. "I'll be back shortly."

The Huntress disappeared down a flight of stairs at the right of the room. As soon as she was gone the fight resumed, with Vilkas standing in a corner. Arms crossed, he would occasionally glance at the vampire, but said nothing directly to her. Just because she was allowed entry doesn't mean they needed to initiate - not until Aela fully explained the situation, which is what she was doing downstairs at the moment.
 
For a moment, Serana worried that they might come to blows, the tall man's demeanor suggesting that he was every bit ready to hack her into two, but one word from Aela quelled any hostility there might've been. It almost felt like they were telepathic, communicating just through their gazes, a confused Serana glancing between the two bemusedly before the man stepped away to go stand in the corner. The vampire allowed herself a small sigh of relief-- the tension remained in the room, of course, but Aela made sure to make it clear to everyone that she was not to be harmed, just as she had promised. Most didn't even seem that interested in her, only a select few eyeing her suspiciously, and soon the Huntress was gone, leaving her to feel suddenly alone and exposed.

Not wanting to seem like a demure ingenue, she tentatively stepped forward and took a seat at the table, ignoring the fight that broke out again and the occasional glances from the man standing in the corner. At least he no longer seemed like he wanted to make vampire steak out of her. Speaking of, the smell of seared venison hit her nostrils, along with the slight pungency of cheese and heavy mead, and Serana only realized then just how starving she felt. The social awkwardness now taking a backseat in her mind, she took a slice of meat from one of the plates and dug into it, coming damn well near moaning in pleasure at the taste of the juicy, tender meat.

Another woman slid into the seat beside her, an Imperial, by the looks of her. Unlike the man that greeted them, this woman was all smiles, and greeted her with a friendly, yet inquisitive grin. "Welcome to Jorrvaskr," she said, "Name's Ria, and that brooding fellow over there is Vilkas." Vilkas gave them a gruff wave when Serana turned to look at him. It seemed as if she wanted to ask her if she was the vampire Aela set out to hunt, but she was obviously more tactful than Vilkas, and settled for making small talk about everything in general; the beauty of Whiterun, the recent civil war between the Stormcloaks and the Imperials, how Tilma, the cook at Jorrvaskr, was such a talented hand in the chef. Serana could only give her opinions on the lattermost topic, with which she agreed emphatically, hungrily wolfing down the venison and draining it down with mead.

"Who's this Kodlak Aela went to talk to?" the vampire asked with a mouthful, a delicate hand covering her face. "Our Harbinger. Think of him as our... guide. Every companion is their own person, and we are free to conduct ourselves as we please, but we could always use some weathered experience from old bears like Kodlak." Serana nodded in agreement, settling into the place and waiting for Aela to come back.
 
After a few more minutes the pair ended their fight - panting and bruised, they laughed before shaking hands with mutual respect. One had a cut brow, the other a split lip, yet they sat next to each other at the table with happy smiles and dancing eyes. Vilkas nodded in approval; a proper battle indeed. Furiously they began to eat for recovery, cups clacked together in a toast to a fun fight. Thankfully Ria had enough manners to introduce herself and make pleasant conversation with their guest. A few others joined but not as enthusiastically, giving short answers and small talk just to not be rude.

Downstairs, the old bear grinned as Aela approached. "Glad to see you're still in one piece, Companion; that vampire was no trouble?" Aela laughed softly before sitting beside Kodlak. "Yes, well, about that…" Aela nervously bit the inside of her cheek as his brow perked curiously. "She's upstairs at the moment." "What?!"

It took about half an hour to relay the whole story; no detail was left out. Aela told the truth - only to their Harbinger, of course. He was surprised, and not too thrilled about Aela needing to leave for an undetermined amount of time, but the Huntress was honor bound to this vampire who had spared her life. Tradition could not be broken; regretfully he would allow her to depart with whatever supplies they needed. Gratefully Aela gave him a brief, gentle hug. She was rarely affectionate to anyone, but this old bear had been like an uncle to her - friends with her father, had helped raise then train her. Aela could die on this journey; she needed one last hug just in case. Neither suspected it would be he that left this plane first.

Together they ascended to the main entry, with Kodlak in the lead. Aela glanced at Serana first, glad to see most of the others had decided to play nice. Kodlak cleared his throat softly to gain their undivided attention.

"Serana is a guest of Jorvasskr," he began, speaking clearly and loudly, obviously a voice of command. "Unless provoked, no one will raise their weapon in her direction. She will stay here with Aela as they gather what they need."

Vilkas stepped forward, a look of concern present - not at Serana being here, but wondering why they'd need supplies. It was then Aela matched his movement, her eyes soft as she met her shield-brothers gaze, but speaking to all her siblings.

"I am to accompany her home, that is all." Where was that, anyway? Aela couldn't remember asking, but that could wait until they were alone. He frowned, not liking this either. He still didn't understand why Aela wanted to do this, but now was not the time to question it. After a disgruntled sigh he eased back, to which Aela could only give the tiniest of smiles.

Since there was no question to Kodlak's command, Aela gave a gentle wave at Serana, indicating she should follow. "There's a spare room across from mine," unfortunately, "That you can stay in as we prepare."

Aela led the way through their living quarters; thankfully they would have their own hall. Aela nodded left at the end of the passageway. "Mine, and yours," she explained, pointing to the opposing door, unable to even look at it directly. "Settle in. I must speak to Vilkas and Farkas privately. If you need anything, speak to Tillma. I won't be long."

Suddenly Aela was gone, as if she did so coldly while walking away. She didn't mean to but … it had been his room. She knew the others would not be comfortable bunking with the vampire. There was no choice, but Aela felt her heart ache knowing someone else was in Skjor's bed, other than herself and him.
 
It felt like an eternity before Aela came back up, an old grizzled man Serana assumed to be Kodlak in tow. By then she and Ria had run out of topics to talk about and were reduced to just sitting awkwardly in silence. Well, mostly on Serana's part— Ria soon found conversation with the other companions, and while a bit difficult to get into, Serana did join in on the banter and laughter eventually, and learned the names of most of the Companions feasting in the hallway. There was amiable Ria, gruff Vilkas and his brother Farkas, and the others, Njada, Athis, Torvar. When Aela reappeared, Torvar was in the middle of trying to drunkenly convince the table about how he slept with four women in the span of two hours. No one was really having it, and Vilkas looked like he was ready to punch him in the face, so it was good the huntress appeared when she did.

Kodlak declared her a guest of Jorrvaskr and afforded her protection, much to her relief. Vilkas seemed intent on disagreeing but Aela shut him down with a single sentence just like before, and Aela felt a warm sensation bloom inside her chest when she looked at the woman. Gratefulness, perhaps? The others had no qualms with Kodlak's judgement, and with the official business over, she followed Aela down the stars to the lower floor, as beckoned.

It was unfathomable how large the whole building really was, and Serana counted corridors upon corridors as they passed by walls decorated with trophies, weapons and shields. Truly a home of many proud warriors, she mused. The vampire could see where Aela gets her fighting spirit from. Her whole family was like this, even if they were chosen rather than born. They turned a corner and came to a stop in front of two adjacent rooms, one for each of them, Aela said. Serana smiled beatifically, grateful to have such a companion looking out for her. She would still be sleeping in the dirt if it wasn't for the fierce woman beside her.

"Thank you, Aela. I—" Before she could finish her sentence, Aela was off, not even bothering to look at her or poke fun at her, soon disappearing from her view as her footsteps faded away. The vampire was left feeling bemused, wondering if she had done something wrong to upset her. Suddenly feeling melancholic again, she shuffled inside the large room, taking note of the assorted armors and weapons along the walls and the display cases. It looked a little too well decorated and lived in to be a guest room, but Serana didn't dwell on it much, settling down on the bed to give her body some much needed rest, sighing as she felt the comforting touch of a down-filled mattress for the first time in months.

And in that bed she tossed and turned for what felt like hours, her body tired but her mind still fresh and alert, thinking back to the events of the previous two days. She had only known Aela for two days now, and already it felt like she was her closest friend, though it would seem the feeling wasn't mutual, from how cold the she-wolf was earlier. The fact that such a little detail was bothering her frustrated her to no end, and even though she told herself she probably had other things on mind, Serana still found herself sulking. Finally, unable to bear it anymore, she arose from the bed after everything had fallen silent, well after midnight, and gently made her way across the narrow hallway. She had ditched her armor and cloak for a nice, low cut maroon dress Tilma had been nice enough to bring in earlier, and the lack of clanky armor helped in her stealth.

Taking in a deep breath, she knocked the door to Aela's room twice. "Aela?" she whispered. "It's Serana. Can we... can we talk?"
 
Dismissing thoughts of a pretty parasite princess across the hall, Aela quickly fled to the Underforge to speak with her shield-brothers. Farkas, busy appeasing a farmhand earlier, was quick to appear beside his brother beneath Eorlund's forge. Both men crossed their arms as Aela entered, but no weapons were presented. This was a sacred place, and only five of the Companions could enter it. Not even the blacksmith abo- … four, now, Aela had to remember painfully. Kodlak, Vilkas, Farkas, Aela and … no one else. Would this pain ever leave?

Quietly the Huntress talked with her brothers; some truth was given, but stretched. They need not know she was bested, only that the vampire had saved her life. Aela kept the story to a battle with the werewolf change in place, but rather than leave the she-wolf as a prize for the Dawnguard Serana had pulled her away to safety. Aela was thus indebted to her. Kodlak, knowing the whole truth, gave the brothers a swift nod. Instantly they softened, before giving their shield-sister a light embrace. She, too, loved them very much, but there were more pressing matters to attend to.

Aela quietly slid downstairs again, heading to her own room immediately. She did not care if Serana was across the hall in the room of her lover - yes, she did, but chose not to dwell on it - there were things to do, to prepare for. She had pulled on comfortable sleep clothes - loose soft shorts, and a shirt that covered only her breasts and shoulders. It stopped just beneath her chest, revealing her toned and slightly scarred stomach. It was rare for her to be without armor, but this was home, and she was safe here within the hold. She had even bathed, smelling sweetly of lavender. Softly, she sang the lullaby her father had gently whispered to his weary daughter held in a warrior's arms but somehow gentle and soft as he held the heir.

"I can see lights in the distance, trembling in the dark cloak of night…"

Useful ingredients were pooled together, a few potion recipes, quiver restocked to the brim.

"...candles and lanterns are dancing, dancing, a waltz on All Souls Night."

Finally, Aela turned to her armor and weapons. She held the main front section close, with cheek pressed to his gem. When the knock came, Aela flinched. Serana's voice, gentle as it was with soft words, disturbed the Huntress. Aela dropped her things before yanking the door open harshly. She stepped sideways with a curl of her wrist to invite Serana to sit on the bed, yet she stood against the wall with arms crossed, eyes cast to the side. There were many things to discuss, yet frustration bested the Huntress.

"What?" Aela spat with venom in her tone, violently running a brush through her still damp wild red tresses.
 
A sweet melody slipped through the cracks of the wooden door, carrying Aela's voice to Serana's unaware ears. She had never noticed that she had such a lovely tone, having only heard her shout battle cries and spit venom. For a moment, she briefly wondered if she was disturbing her peace, if she might want to be alone. However, she wasn't prepared for the harsh manner in which the door was opened and Aela beckoned her inside, nor the frustrated frown she wore upon her handsome face. Serana, suddenly unsure of what to do, shuffled awkwardly into the room, taking a seat on the bed as instructed.

The tired yellow eyes didn't fail to notice that Aela was wearing a scant top for her nightly attire, one that exposed her toned stomach, patterned with scars where blades had cut and wounds had healed. Unlike Aela, who seemed to be at ease in the halls of Jorrvaskr, Serana did not feel comfortable sleeping without covering herself, and was clad in a simple sleeveless red dress that went to her ankles and had a cut down the side of her right leg.

Aela wasn't looking at her, just like from before. Except this time, she didn't even bother to speak affability. Serana flinched at the spite in her words, golden eyes growing wide in shock, anger and perhaps a tiny bit of fear, wondering why she even bothered to come in the first place. "I... I thought you had something on your mind and that..." she took in a breath, trying not to trip over her words and looking warily at the way Aela seemed to butcher her own beautiful crimson locks. "And that you might want someone to talk to." Lips pursed in apprehension, she observed the huntress, almost wanting to shirk away from her, before she steeled herself and stood up.

"But I can see that I'm not wanted. Forget it." Brows furrowed together, Serana reminded herself that they did not owe each other anything, and that she didn't have to take the verbal lashing, just as Aela didn't need to share her personal life. They might be travelling together, Aela might feel indebted to her because of some foolish sense of honor, but in the end they were still strangers. Cold, unaffected strangers, who saw each other through moments of life and death and slept in each other's arms. The thought stung more than she would've liked to admit, and her lips quivered briefly, as if she wanted to say something more, perhaps wrack a hurtful sob, but Aela would not be privy to seeing what was on Serana's mind, as the Vampire stormed out of the room and went back into her own without a second glance.
 
Aela clicked her tongue against her teeth as the parasite offered to be an ear if she chose to divulge what was in her brain. Noting the light sadness in the woman's words, the Huntress paused midstroke. As Serana rose, Aela sighed softly, feeling rather terrible about being so rude. It wasn't her fault - she hadn't killed Skjor, didn't even know it was his bed she would rest in. Gathering herself to a calm just as the vampire departed, Aela swiftly turned to follow her. "No, Serana, wait," she asked quietly, meeting her in the hall between their rooms.

Shyly Aela looked at their feet, fidgeting in place. "I'm sorry; I didn't mean to snap at you. It's just … well, there is something." Gritting her teeth, Aela stepped to the side, then placed her palm gently on his door. She hadn't entered the room since his death; no time like the present, she supposed. Aela opened the door before giving Serana a gentle wave, inviting her inside first. In the doorway Aela stood, looking over the room as if she'd explode upon entering. All his things left behind, weapons never in his hands again. Clothes never to be worn again. Love never to meet the bed. She sighed slowly, sadly, before stepping within.

"This was his room," Aela explained, unable to say the name and hoping Serana knew who she spoke of. There would be no one else she'd be so upset about. Aela went to the dresser, gently trailing her fingertips over the abandoned axe. "I haven't been in here since…"

Leaning against the wall, Aela laughed softly. "We were a lot alike; he went to battle alone as well. After what happened, I should have known not to go after you without help, but I've never been very good at listening. You were kinder than The Silver Hand, though."

Trying to shake away the melancholy feeling, Aela gave Serana a soft, grateful smile. "What of you? A pretty parasitic princess such as yourself must have suitors lined to the end of the city."
 
Serana's angry steps slowed into gentle stutters at Aela's voice, soft and quiet, devoid of the venom from before, and stopped completely when the she-wolf caught up to her in the narrow walkway. The petty side of her wanted to continue walking on, ignore her for a bit, but how could she when her friend, her only friend as of now, was obviously troubled with the entrappings of her own mind? Pursing her lips and calming herself, she turned to see Aela fidgeting, looking at the ground, still not meeting her eye. A flash of worry crossed Serana's mind. What was so terrible that made such a strong, confident woman sulk like this? Did none of the Companions want her here? Was that why she was so cross?

Brows raised, she gave the slightest nod, urging Aela to continue. Instead, she beckoned her inside the room, so Serana followed, still a bit apprehensive of what was to come, but willing to lend an ear, as she promised. Once Aela started to explain though, all the pieces fell into place. This was his room. Skjor's room. No wonder she couldn't bear to face her-- she was probably taking up an abode in a room that was inevitably filled with memories. Once sweet memories, perhaps, but painful now, she assumed. Her heart sank, the natural empathy that plagued so much of her life going out to share Aela's grief.

"Oh, Aela," she whispered, padding forward where she leaned against the wall, pulling her into a tight embrace and burying her face into her neck. She smelled sweetly of lavender, the stench of blood and leather from before long gone. Warm and comforting, Aela felt familiar, thinking back to the night before when they fell asleep in each other's embrace. The vampire hoped the wolf could draw strength from her embrace, just as she did from hers, or at the very least, know that she was there for her. "I'm sorry..." Curious about who or what The Silver Hand is, but she didn't push, not wanting to drag her deeper into melancholy.

But the mood shifted suddenly, and Serana found herself scoffing and smacking Aela's arms once again, suddenly back to their normal banter. "Stop it, you delinquent pup!" Her lips were curled up into a grin though, relieved to see her smile again if only for a bit. "Not to the end of the city... to the end of the castle halls, perhaps," she said, stepping back a bit, but still keeping a close distance. "Many people wanted to curry Father's favor, and so they approached me. Rich men. Old men. Sometimes both. I pushed them all away, of course... they were wrong to assume I had any influence over my father, anyway." She let out a faint laugh, those it died down into a wistful grin as yellow eyes cast down to the side. "I did feel love once... one of the outrider knights serving under our banners. Emeric, his name was. We were close growing up, and I thought we'd be forever but... you know, life has its cruel ways. He left me after my whole family turned. Told me he was disgusted with what we've become. Father executed him for desertion."

"So I know what it's like to lose someone, pretty wolf," she whispered, glancing back up to meet those amber eyes.
 
Stunned by the sudden, albeit soft, embrace of the Huntress just stood still for some seconds; her arms were slightly lifted, and she slowly blinked into the air. Once Serana's breath tickled Aela's collar bone she reciprocated the affection. Gently, Aela's arms wrapped around the vampire's torso, then she rested her cheek atop the other's head. Funny, Aela thought: it was rare she showed a soft, feminine side yet today she'd been in the arms of her shield-brothers, the Harbinger, and finally a vampire - not to mention they'd slept in each other's hold just the night prior. "Don't be," Aela whispered, turning to nuzzle her nose into Serana's raven locks. "You didn't know; it's not your fault." For the briefest of moments Aela tightened the hug before releasing Serana entirely.

Glad that was over - the sad part anyway, not necessarily the affection - Aela only laughed at Serana's pitiful snacks and returned insult. Yet the continuing story made Aela furrow her brows in confusion; she'd been meaning to ask about this family of hers, why the father was seemingly so important, and why the mother had locked Serana away for so long; oh, and that Elder Scroll, whatever that was for, or why she was never without it. Where to start?

"We need to discuss our plans," Aela began. With a gentle hand on Serana's shoulder, she guided them to find a comfortable sitting position. Aela took the chair beside a dresser; she could not yet place herself on the bed. "I will help you however I can, but I must ask: why do you wish to return? From what you have told me, your mother placed you in a cave for so long, and now, I hear your father murdered the one you loved? If I were you, I'd stay as far away from them as possible," Aela gave a quick wave of her wrist, hoping to dismiss any offense given, "I am not judging, merely curious. Where is it we are headed, anyway? I'd like to pack an appropriate amount of supplies." Not that it really mattered, Aela was the Huntress after all, and knew well how to survive in the wilderness. Truly, she needed to make sure the milk-drinker would have enough coin to stay in the inns, as she very much doubted Serana would enjoy sleeping in the woods or another cave again. Given Serana had yet to find them, it must be far away. Aela could ask for some funds but she didn't want to take all the gold the Companions had. That, again, didn't matter much. She could sell pelts from hunted animals if necessary, or ask for jobs from the Jarls in whatever cities they visited. Oh, that was another thing.

"The Companions are well known in Skyrim; I've visited every city for various tasks we are assigned. I will be recognized; you may not. Given the Dawnguard's presence from the uprising of rogue vampires, the people may not be receptive to your presence. As long as you are with me, you will be granted travel, but within city limits, you should not leave my side."
 
The embrace tightened, and Serana shuffled just a little closer into Aela, letting the warmth of their bodies wash over each other. The moment felt over a bit too soon, but Serana let go when prompted, content with simply being an anchor for the Huntress at this moment. It wasn't her fault, she said, but even then guilt seemed to take a hold over the vampire's chest, knowing she was intruding on a private memory, even if she didn't want to.

The two now separated, Serana let herself be guided to the bed, taking a seat on the edge while Aela began planning for the journey ahead of them, her melancholy snapped away just like that. Perhaps that was her way of coping. It was her turn to shuffle and fidget in evading the question, however, as the topic of her family was broached. It was not something she was comfortable sharing, and would never be, but with the pretty wolf, she felt obligated to shed light on her past, since Aela herself had already laid bare her past before her. "I... don't really know myself," she said with uncertainty, turning away to gaze at the many trophies and weapons that lined the walls. "I've always had a strange relationship with my parents. They might do horrible things, but I do believe they want what's best for me. I... I want to believe they're good people. They are all I have. When the world ends and everyone else is gone, they will be the ones left standing with me." Golden, shimmering eyes trailed back to the redhead before her, tinged with sadness and uncertainty. "I know I'm not making a lot of sense... I'm sorry."

Sighing, she stood up and started pacing around, running her fingers along the aged wood of the dresser, passing by her friend. "It's fine. I know you meant well. There is an old keep north-west of Solitude, hidden among a shrouded mist in the sea. Castle Volkihar. Father's domain. I suspect it will be long abandoned by now, but I'm hoping to find some answers there. And if they are truly gone..." She paused for a moment, shuddering in realization that she had no plans if that were truly the case. "Then I suppose I am free. I will pay my respects and disappear. I have no wish to linger in a place where upstart mongrels smear my family name." The bitterness was palpable as she mentioned her kin, though it eased up as she heard Aela's words of concern for her safety.

"I won't leave your shadow, don't you worry. I'm a pretty princess parasite, remember?" she quipped with a small grin, coming back to settle down on the bed, this time throwing herself onto it and laying down, hands behind her head, her dress riding up to her knees. "I know I will be a burden to you. I will try to earn my keep however we can regarding supplies but... there's the matter of my need to feed." Fearing Aela might reject her request, she bit her bottom lip and tentatively glanced at the Huntress, gauging her reaction. "I don't want to force myself on random locals. I know it's a lot to ask but..." She sighed. "I know it's a lot. I understand if you don't want me to. It will only be once every couple of days, and I promise I won't go overboard like last time."
 
Obviously this was a touchy subject - Serana displayed the same signs of uncomfortability that Aela gave just moments ago. The Huntress gave a nod of confirmation before speaking. "I do not claim to understand your loyalty to them, but I accept it, and I hope you find them." North-West of Solitude, though? Damn; that was a long journey. Never fond of the capital, Aela didn't exactly wish to return to it, but it could provide substantial supplies for the trip home to Jorvasskr after she'd dropped off Serana. It pained her to hear the woman would be free - well, not that part, but that she'd have nowhere to go or anyone to know upon the discovery her family was gone. Aela could invite her to stay, but she'd need to join the Companions. Well, that was a discussion for another time. It all depended on what they found at this hidden castle.

A playful grin, then, as Serana called herself the insults Aela had come up with. "You are not a burden," she added quickly, almost defensively. The vampire wasn't - she couldn't be. She had saved Aela's life; honor bound now, the Huntress didn't even consider the notion of such words. Never was it a burden to assist the life of one who had spared another. Aela did kill before, indeed, but it was in a well placed battle. She wasn't a cold blooded murderer, and the very fact Serana wasn't either spoke volumes to her character. The following words, though, caught Aela's attention. At first she could only stare blankly at Serana, then she finally laughed softly - as if there was any question at the necessary feeding rituals. Perhaps they'd be willing participants throughout their way but if word got out that a hungry vampire was prowling the city - despite being beside a Companion - Aela would not be able to stop every guard. So, with a braced slow inhale, Aela finally sat upon the bed next to Serana.

"I will feed from my hunts and you will feed from me. I have no qualms with this trade. I'd prefer it. We do not need you to interact with the city unless required; the less attention, the better. But…"

Aela turned her back to Serana, then slid her hair across to one shoulder to expose her bare neck. "I cannot give you my wrist often; I will need it for my bow. Drink." Knowing Serana would definitely protest, Aela grabbed the vampire's wrist and gently pulled, indicating she should not hesitate. "We've traveled all day, and have several ahead of us. We must be ready. Do not argue."

It seemed to be enough to persuade the vampire. Although Aela would see this adventure through, she didn't need a milk-drinker as a partner. They'd proven their worth in battle, but to keep it that way, they must be ready. Aela closed her eyes, waiting for the pinprick pain.

As soon as canines descended the Huntress shuddered - not uncomfortably, but almost pleasantly. She'd always been sensitive in that area, and feeling lips - and even teeth, especially in this room - brought deeper emotions and sensations than she'd expected. Melting backwards against Serana she didn't even notice the vampire had finished quickly - true to her word, only enough to sustain; yet the feelings within Aela remained. Slowly she turned, intending to give Serana a welcome smile. There was blood upon the vampire's cheek; Aela lifted a hand to brush it away but suddenly her lips were against the other woman's. Gentle, at first, Aela's palm to Serana's cheek. After a few seconds, though, the Huntress slid her hand up and back through Serana's dark, midnight hair and her kiss deepened, becoming more aggressive by the second.
 
Her concerns were met with gentle laughter, and Serana sat up curiously, wondering as to what Aela would find so humourous. "What?" she asked with a bemused smile, finding the wolfess's melody laugh beguiling, yet confusing. Was she wrong in thinking she would willingly let her feed on her lifeblood? Strings of worry and anxiety threaded through her chest, but they all seemed to unwind and fade as Aela came to sit down on the edge of the bed, explaining her view. Crimson locks were swept away to bare her pale, lightly tanned neck to her, but Serana found herself freezing up at the thought of doing it so soon after she'd already taken so much in the cave.

"Oh, I... I don't mean right now. Perhaps when we—" The words died on her lips as Aela grabbed her wrist and tugged her forward, urging her on. Uneasy, yet in no position to refuse - she needed to sustain herself after all - the vampire got on her knees on the bed and edged closer to her companion, golden eyes fixated on the patch of skin she would soon puncture. Two hands on Aela's shoulders to steady herself. First came her lips, almost like a kiss, an apology for what was to come, placed gently on the side of her neck, the scent of lavender caressing her nostrils. She smelled wonderful. Then came the fangs, extending out from her gums, her canines broke the pale skin, allowing seams of blood to flow into her awaiting mouth. The strong, intoxicating taste was all too familiar. It was not vile or tainted, like the Huntress had said, but almost addicting and overwhelming to the senses. Serana almost didn't want to stop, but mind often beat matter, and she broke apart after only a few seconds of feeding, having taken enough to last her for a couple days, maybe more if she doesn't exert herself in combat.

Done with the quick ordeal, she gently licked the wounds she had made, healing up the little holes with her warm saliva, kissing her again on her skin, this time in gratitude. Aela turned as Serana leaned back, gently wiping her lips, smiling softly to match hers. "Thank y—"

Soft, demanding lips capturing hers, slender hands on her cheeks. Serana was caught by surprise, eyes wide open at first, but there was only a split second before she kissed Aela back, breathing in her scent and taking in her taste with a hunger she didn't know she possessed. Her lips parted, invaded by a tongue that wrestled hers into submission, enthralled in an urgent dance as the kiss deepened, their bodies melding together. The she-wolf's strong hands wound themselves in her raven locks; the vampire's dainty ones in her red mane. The kiss became more aggressive by the second, and Serana felt her heart hammering in her chest, beating with borrowed blood from the woman with whom she was sharing her first intimate moment in centuries.

Suddenly, she was being pushed down, back flat against the down mattress, her shoulder held down by one hand as the other raked up her thigh, slipping beneath her long, red dress. Yet this stirred something inside her, memories of an event buried deep down, bursting out onto the surface with excruciating vividness as Aela shifted atop her and pawed at her breasts. It was conflicting— what Aela had been doing to her was pleasurable beyond measure, inexplicable. She could almost say her body needed it, being devoid of intimacy for so long. Yet, she couldn't help but think back to the ritual that turned her into the monster that she is. Kneeling before Molag Bal, the Daedric Prince of dominion. Infernal hands that groped her delicate breasts, not Aela's caring touches. Chains that held her body down, not Aela's weight. Lashes of the whip that broke her skin, not Aela's kisses. Tears upon her face, just as they fell from her eyes now.

She didn't realize she had started crying.

"Stop, stop... Aela, please, stop," she whimpered as she choked back a sob.
 
Aela hadn't even realized what she was doing until the taste of her own blood lingering inside of Serana's mouth was tasted. When she did, she didn't hesitate to continue; it felt better than it had any right to, and as Serana parted her lips Aela hungrily claimed the other's breath. Tongues danced the little death, Aela adamant at controlling the movement between them. Instinct took over, then, as Aela shifted to force herself physically on top of Serana. Strong palm pushed the vampire's shoulder down while the other slid her fingers to the lower hem of Serana's dress. Just the touch of baring thighs was enough to make the Huntress growl with need. The hand at her shoulder slid down, a rough palm began to knead and squeeze the vampire's breast over the fabric. Aela's mouth shifted to the vampire's throat, peppering wet kisses beneath her ear heading toward her jaw.

Nor did she realize Serana had tensed until the woman spoke, her voice broken with fear and apprehension; Aela paused immediately, keeping her hands where they were but lifting her head to glance curiously at Serana's expression. Noting the dampened cheeks and quivering lips, Aela frowned - she'd never forced herself on another, and no one had ever tried with her. A fearsome warrior, she was, and could easily take down with ill intentions. Aela was surprised at herself for so forcefully initiating physical contact but it had seemed, initially, that Serana was receptive to it. Something was wrong quickly - Aela didn't know what it was, but now wasn't the time to ask. She needed to contain herself. Slowly she shifted, hands falling to the bed instead. Though she remained atop the vampire, Aela pressed her face into the pool of black hair, breathing gently to steady her racing heart. After a few seconds, she exhaled deeply, then turned to whisper into Serana's ear.

"All right," came the confirmation. Carefully the Huntress rose. Honestly, it surprised herself for suddenly lunging forward, and she couldn't blame Serana for being surprised, even unwilling. Before rising entirely, Aela gave a chaste kiss to Serana's cheek just at the corner of her mouth, tasting her tears briefly.. And she grabbed the woman's hand, aiding movement upward to let her sit but before releasing, she kissed her knuckles. "Sleep now, princess. We've a long journey ahead."

Aela exited the room, but as soon as the door closed she rested her back against it. Head fell, face shielded by unruly crimson locks. After a moment she laughed softly, at herself. What had come over her? Some desire rocketed her sudden affection toward the woman who - just yesterday morning - was about to take her life. Perhaps the Daedra lust for battle and freedom, mingled with the emotional conversations they'd shared. Aela crossed to her own room, silently scolding herself for letting her heart speak louder than her mind.

Restless in bed the Huntress slept, tossing and turning positions as well as mental thoughts. It was late morning when she finally rose, stretching eagerly and cooing as her joints popped to release pressure in the cartilage. Wondering if Serana was yet awake, Aela crossed the hall before gently knocking - which felt weird. She'd never had to knock before. "Serana?" Aela called softly, "Ready to face the daylight, milk drinker?"
 
Serana honestly hadn't expected Aela to stop. The last time she had whispered these words, they were all for naught. Screaming and begging and pleading until her voice was hoarse and her body had gone limp, but even then, they didn't stop. But Aela did. The hands caressing her breasts slipped away and fell onto the bed. The Huntress was still atop her, but Serana could differentiate memory from reality now, and as she opened her tear-stained eyes she saw the redhead looking at her quizzically, with worry. The words died in the Vampire's mouth-- she wanted to beg her to get off her, but she didn't want her to. She wanted her close, wanted to smell that lavender scent again as she buried her face into her neck.

Aela seemed to solve her problems for her, and the conflicting voices in her head died the moment she leaned forward to nuzzled into her midnight black hair, spread in a halo around her head. "I'm sorry," she whispered through another sob, tears still leaking down her cheeks, gentle hands wrapping around Aela's waist, almost desperately clinging onto her. Soft, warm lips brushed the edge of her mouth, wiping away the strand of tears, and Serana sucked in a breath in an attempt to calm herself, trying to repress the torrent of emotions that threatened to burst to the surface at any moment. "I'm sorry," she repeated as she let herself be pulled upwards, only able to look on as Aela kissed her knuckles and retreated out of the room, not even able to laugh at being called Princess. At that moment, she felt less like a princess and more of a gutter whore.

A heavy sigh fell from her lips, and she flopped back onto the bed, all energy seemingly having drained out of her. What was wrong with her? Furiously, she wiped away the tears and curled up into a fetal position, blocking out the vivid imagery of Coldharbour as she rocked herself to sleep, still feeling Aela's kisses and soft touches on her skin. They were soft and warm and affectionate, yet reminiscent of the cruel, painful, burning hands.

What was wrong with her?

The raven-haired vampire was in much better shape come morn, and when a knock came on her door, she was ready to answer with a serene smile, as if none of the events last night had actually happened. Her hair was combed meticulously, her frame clad in light traveling clothes that would let her easily blend into the crowds, and the woman looked a far cry from the sobbing mess she had been when Aela last saw her. "You simply can't go one night without calling me something, can you?" she said with a grin as she rolled her eyes, purposefully avoiding talking about the events of last night.

Cracking her knuckles and grabbing the Elder Scroll and some other essentials, she stepped out of the room and let the door swing shut behind her, leaving the two of them in a confined space. A small silence fell over the two of them as Serana gazed into those handsome amber eyes, pursing her lips as she felt anxiety and fear starting to spread through her again, but she shook them off as fast as they came. "We should gather some supplies and say our farewells to your shield-siblings. I owe them much for providing me shelter for the night." Even if it was in the room of Aela's dead lover.
 
Honestly Aela only called her that to break the tension the Huntress assumed would be between them, but it seemed Serana was once again herself. Remarkable, really, that there was no indication something had happened between them the night before. Obviously not wishing to discuss the event, Serana busied herself gathering supplies. Aela watched silently for a moment, the question tickling the tip of her tongue, but she swiftly bit down on it to keep the words unspoken - for now. It was Serana that had apologized but Aela felt it was she who needed to do so. But the vampire was smiling, even jesting in return, which confused Aela. Wouldn't she be bitter? Annoyed? Angry, even, that the Huntress had been so bold and aggressive?

Serana spoke, breaking Aela's chain of thought. "Yes, right," she replied, collecting herself and ignoring the lingering concerns she held about their sudden, rough kiss. Aela led the way upstairs where the Companions waited to see their sister off. Ria had a bag with a rope attached that Aela slung around her shoulder. Vilkas and Farkas nodded respectfully to Aela, and surprisingly, toward Serana as well. The others talked with them briefly before Kodlak approached, signaling Aela alone should approach him. She did, noting the furrow of his brow. What now?

"There is a horse ready for you, but …" Aela frowned, not liking his hesitant pause. "The Silver Hand has been spotted north of here," Aela visibly stiffened but said nothing. "Avoid them, Huntress. You cannot live for vengeance. It will consume you, as it did Skjor."

Aela huffed breathily, feeling like a child scolded by a parent. "I know. I will, Harbinger. Thank you." She'd try her best, that is, but as Aela mentioned previously to Serana, she never did listen well. Returning to the group with Kodlak sighing exasperatedly, she noted Eorlund had prepared freshly tipped elven arrows, far superior to the steel she usually carried. When goodbyes, farewells, and promises to return were finished, the pair stepped out of Jorvasskr and into the warm sunlight of Skyrim. Immediately Aela inhaled deeply, calmed by the scent of the outdoors, and suddenly craving some of Carlotta's vegetables, and she could say goodbye to the little fairy Mila as well.

Descending the steps, Aela stopped briefly now and then to wave at those she knew, which was everyone, actually. A few glanced at Serana but no one said anything; not when she was accompanied by a Companion. Once at the market stands, Aela did indeed stop by the Valentias. "Headed out again, Aela?" Carlotta greeted, noticing the supplies held close. Aela nodded, tossing a coin on the stand before taking a green apple. Carlotta slid the gold back with a smile. "Thank you, Carlotta. Mila around?" The mother laughed, nodding toward the front gate. "She's running around with Lucia and Braith by the bridge. Tell her to come back, would you? She's supposed to be helping me. An apple for your friend, as well?"

Aela waved at Serana, inviting her to take one if she'd like, but was quick to find the girls chasing each other in front of Warmaiden's. "Your mother needs you, Mila." The girl gave a defeated whine, departing from her friends with a swift hug to Aela's legs before fleeing back to the stand. Aela shook her head with amusement. "I suppose we're off, then. Kodlak has managed to secure us a horse at the stables." A horse - they'd have to ride together.
 
It was obvious Aela had her mind stuck on the events of the previous night as well, but Serana tried her damnedest to move past the awkwardness and silence move on with morning preparations. It would've been so much easier to talk about it, and a part of her wondered why she didn't want to - Aela was the only person she could trust to keep her secret after all - but perhaps she simply wasn't ready. The old scars ran deep and healed slowly. Double-checking all her things and her scant supplies, she followed Aela out of the narrow alcove and up towards the main dining hall of Jorrvaskr, where a small farewell procession was waiting for them. The vampire envied the bond and closeness the Huntress shared with her shield-siblings but found herself smiling a little when both Vilkas and Farkas offered her a respectful nod. It felt good to be accepted, to have a sense of belonging, even if she truly did not.

While Aela went to Kodlak to receive some seemingly stern warnings, Serana took the time to express her gratitude and bid farewell to those that had welcomed her into the halls. Friendly Ria, drunken Bruenor, Njada and Athis, the brothers... she would remember them, the first people who actually treated her like a person upon waking in this unknown world. And then there was Aela, of course, but she didn't need to say goodbye to her, not yet. The time would come when they part ways in front of Castle Volkihar, but Serana wouldn't think about that now. They still had a long, arduous journey ahead of them, and the golden eyes vampiress could already feel her heart constricting at the thought of being alone again.

So off they went from the Hall of Warriors, descending along the steps onto the Gildergreen and Marketplace, where Aela waved and chatted with basically everybody. Serana had her hood down, wanting to enjoy the morning air and the comfort of a bustling crowd, being so used to cold empty halls and dark, damp caves. The sunlight pricked her skin, but it was nothing she could handle, and she looked on almost endearingly as the Huntress, this strong, fearsome woman, chased around little children near the gates of Whiterun. Biting the apple she took for Carlotta's stand, she followed the redhead out of the city and towards the stables, where their mounts were presumably waiting for them. She was almost like a shadow to her companion, she supposed— no one ever paid her a second glance when she was traveling with one so deeply trusted like a Companion. Serana was comfortable with being a shadow— at least people weren't eyeing her with suspicion or gawking at her with awe anymore. Here, she was just another traveler passing through.

"It feels nice to be outside again," she quipped as they padded along the path leading to the stables, numerous guard posts dotting the wide canal. "Without having to look over my shoulder, that is." Skulvar Sable-Hilt was waiting for them with their horses, or rather, horse, and waved Aela down when she saw the Huntress and her companion approaching. "A horse?" she asked quizzically, squinting her eye as she looked forward. A singular black mare awaited them by the man waving at them, but there were no other saddled mounts prepared for them, and Serana slowly connected the dots. "A horse. We'll have to ride together, then."

Skulvar greeted Aela with a familiar smile and gave Serana a swift nod, which she returned and slapped the mare's hindquarters proudly as he presented the animal to the pair. "Her name's Queen Alfsigr, or Allie for short," he introduced, bringing her forward. Serana gently petted the beast's muzzle, and was rewarded with a lazy nuzzle as the mare seemingly inspected her new supposed owners, not the other way around. "Finest warhorse you'll come across in Skyrim, friends, guaranteed. Take good care of her, will you?" Serana nodded with affirmation, having a natural talent for bonding with animals, and already developing a growing affection for Allie. "Perhaps it would be better if you rode," she said, turning to Aela. "I've never been much good of a rider."

After helping Aela to load their supplies onto the horse's back - a week's worth it looked like - Serana waited for the she-wolf to climb on first, then offered her hand so she could be pulled up behind her. It has been ages since she's ridden, and even then it was for a leisurely stroll through the gardens of Castle Volkihar. Not strenuous travel like this. Donning her hood and wrapping her arms tightly around Aela's waist out of fear that she would fall, the raven-haired maiden leaned her chin gently on Aela's shoulder as they trotted out of Whiterun northward.

It was the same position from last night, when she had bitten her from behind to feed... before things escalated. Her eyes fell to the soft, pale skin of her neck, guilt welling up inside her as she saw the wounds she'd inflicted on her hadn't healed. "You still have marks from yesterday," she whispered, a finger gently trailing across two red marks where her teeth sank into her skin. "Here, let me." She placed her lips upon her skin again, soft and sensual as before, and slowly licked along her the bite marks, running her tongue lightly and deliberately until Aela's skin held a light sheen of her saliva, the red marks fading away until they were no longer visible. She tasted good, she mused, the taste of her skin mixed with the saltiness of sweat. Not to mention she smelled wonderful as well, trading in the lavender from last night for a warrior's musk.

What was wrong with her, thinking all this about Aela?

Shaking her head exasperatedly at herself, and decided to stay quiet as they journeyed north, wind whipping through their long flowing hairs as they passed by verdant woods, steaming springs, giant camps, abandoned holds, mines, and a plethora of other locations. It seemed quite smooth sailing for the first day of their travels, until they came across a group of lightly armored warriors traveling perpendicular to them towards a hold in the west, carting around what seemed to be... a dead werewolf. She felt Aela go tense in her arms, and instinctively reached for her hands, holding them tight in case she might do something rash.

"Aela, don't," Serana warned, her voice barely above a whisper.
 
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Preferably Aela enjoyed a languid, relaxed hunt but this was a determined task, not for a hobby. Of course she had ridden often but she rather liked putting her feet to the ground instead. This was quite far, though, and they'd need a ride. A horse was bad enough, in Aela's mind, she certainly wasn't going to use a carriage. Skulvar was thanked quietly, and despite already being paid, she slipped him a handful of extra coins. Although Aela wouldn't intentionally run Allie ragged, there was always the chance of a bear or sabre cat attack if they called in the wilderness. Biting back another milk drinker comment - of course the princess couldn't ride - Aela merely nodded as they strapped their supplies securely to the mare's backside. Aela quickly perched herself up and forward before helping Serana up with a firm grip, and strong tug. Once in place, Aela gave a swift kick of her heels, and with a loud neigh, Allie led them slowly out of Whiterun and to the north.

Just as the trot shifted to a charge, Aela felt Serana move behind her. "Hmm?" The Huntress questioned with closed lips, not quite hearing what the vampire had said initially. Serana's gentle finger stroke made Aela shiver lightly, but it was her lips that made a short, soft gasp sound quietly from the Huntress. What was this vampire thinking? Just last night she'd denied Aela's advances, yet here she was, touching the very spot that had spurned the Huntress on. If not for the fact they were riding, Aela might have just acted again - actually, it was how Serana had reacted. "I-uh, you…" Swallowing her stammer, Aela swelled her chest with confidence, ignoring the fierce heat rising to her cheeks. "Thank you."

The start of their journey went fairly smoothly; Aela would have normally stopped at abandoned camps or outposts just to explore but there wasn't time for that. She slowed once in awhile to let their horse drink from the streams and nibble at grass but they never fully stopped moving. Not until Aela saw them - smelled him rather. As soon as they were spotted Aela tugged the reins sharply, eliciting an annoyed huff from Allie. There were six in total, three moving the cart and the others walking close by. Serana grabbed her hands, said something, but Aela didn't even notice. The dead wasn't Skjor, his body had been recovered. Aela could avoid this...Kodlak had warned her..

But one of the men wore Skjor's boots, and that is what changed Aela's mind instantly.

Within a second Aela was crouching low, bow held and arrow taut. Any protests by Serana were ignored; she said nothing, only violently pushing her away should the vampire try to pull her back. Normally stealthy and careful, Aela didn't bother. All she knew was to turn one of their heads, so she could watch them die.

As soon as the first faced the Huntress, her arrow flew directly into his chest. With a throaty growl he held his hands there, but the others were already drawing arms to battle. Aela barely managed to turn from an arrow in time - it cut her bare shoulder but didn't connect. Angry and feral, Aela drew another while the mage of the group started to crackle lightning toward her.
 
"AELA!"

Serana's shouts of warning went completely unnoticed, the werewolf seemingly now in a feral rage as she rushed towards the group, bow readied in hand. Cursing to herself, the vampire jumped down from the mare and tried to reach for Aela's hand again, only to be shoved back with such a force that she went stumbling to the ground. A sharp pain shot through her as she fell on her hands, but that wasn't important now; Aela would kill herself going against all six of them, even if she had surprise on her side. Allie neighed beside them, spooked by the whole sudden affair, and Serana scrambled to calm her down, taking her muzzle in her hands and gently cooing at her, all the while typing her reins to a nearby tree so she wouldn't run away.

All the while she held a wary eye on her friend, now blinded by rage, engaging the group by loosening arrow after arrow, each of them striking true. What was it about them that Huntress flying into a frenzy? Were they the Silver Hand that she'd been hearing so much about? Didn't matter now, she would have to help Aela now and ask questions later. A bow of violent violet energy formed around her left hand, coalescing into a bow while an ethereal quiver full of arrows appeared on her back. Spotting the mage of the group sending an arc of lightning, she sent an arrow that flew straight into his throat, knocking him off the cart and sending his limp body ragdolling to the ground.

The immediate threat taken care of, she quickly cast a simple barrier around Aela that would block some projectiles and repel physical strikes, at least while the magic held. With the number of enemies surrounding them, it probably wouldn't be very long. Nocking another arrow in her conjured bow, she shot at the man Aela had hit earlier, and he slumped down to the ground, dead. Two down, four more to go, and Serana raced across the field to give the redhead some much-needed backup, nocking another arrow, but her magic fizzled out when a stray dagger hit her right in her thigh, thrown by a hooded figure that had managed to sneak up on the pair of them.

Gritting her teeth and unfeeling of the pain in the rush of adrenaline, she sent a wayward spike on ice towards the assailant, missing her by inches. Fuck. "I'll kill you and skin you for a rug, bitch!" screamed one of the men Aela was fighting. FUCK.
 
Aela couldn't count how many arrows she let loose as she charged toward the group; half her quiver was empty by the time she was too close for ranged combat. The mage's magic was cut short, thankfully by Serana from behind aiding the Huntress along. She didn't even notice, too busy grabbing an abandoned shield and drawing her dagger. The orc swung his mace down hard; Aela blocked the bow but staggered backward, nearly dropping the shield. "You rats! Skeever tails!" Aela shrieked, swiping with her dagger at the orc who wore Skjor's boots. "Damn thieves!" The orc grunted as her blade sliced his forearm. "What the hell are you talking about?!" He demanded, bringing the mace down again. Although the Huntress managed to block once more, the upper sharp edge cut her cheek. She growled, shoving him forward. "Those boots are not yours!"

For a moment he was still, stunned by her words. Realization clicked in quickly; his face darkened as the rest of the group also figured out what she meant. "She's with those dogs!" One cried, Aela's teeth baring in a snarl. She took advantage of the orc's momentary stop - her dagger thrust into his throat. He dropped the mace, palms up to try pulling free the blood but only coating his chest in a shower of crimson, some spattering across Aela's face.

Three down, two to go. One had turned tail, fleeing from the chaos to find backup. Aela ignored the deserter to focus on the next combatant approaching. It was this swordsman that insulted Aela. He was quick with his swipes and she was only just quicker. Leaping back from the blade, his only advantage was the length; several small cuts landed as she moved but none were into the muscle. They danced the deadly waltz, barely cutting each other. He knocked her shield away, she got his stomach thinly, he cut her brow, she sliced his upper arm, he shoved her roughly, she got his wrist forcing him to drop the sword. Angry at being disarmed he leapt upon her, twisting her wrist forcing her to drop the dagger. Onto the ground they went, fighting with their fists instead. Blows landed as they rolled in the dirt, until at last Aela landed on top. A punch to the nose stunned him, and she didn't stop. Seeing red, both with anger and blood in her eyes, Aela pummeled his face unable to stop herself.

Only when Serana called her name did the Huntress stop, panting and weak. Yet she rose, looking in the direction where the deserter had fled.

"I'm going after them," Aela stated plainly before starting to recover her gear. "Get the horse."

She didn't wait; the Huntress took off to the west, chasing those who murdered her lover.
 
Serana felt like she didn't have enough eyes to focus on everything; the hooded woman approaching her, Aela tearing into the two warriors like they were made of paper, Queen Alfsigr neighing and pulling against her bonds. For now, though, she focused on the immediate threat, and hastily scrambled away from the rogue, hissing in pain as she pulled the dagger from her skin, letting dark blood spill onto her breeches. Aela's blood. Gritting her teeth, she quickly got up to her feet, limping as she threw spell after spell at her enemy, which were all dodged with surprising ease. While Aela was loud and screaming profanities at her enemies, Serana moved silently and quick as night, and the woman across her seemed to share the sentiment. For a moment, time seemed to still, with nothing but the rapid heartbeat inside her chest ringing inside her head-- and then it was over, the two of them rushing at each other. Serana had her dagger pierced into her throat, and after a bloodied gurgle, she fell down, dead before she hit the ground.

No time to savor the victory, she turned to Aela with worry, ready to offer further assistance if needed, but it seemed there was no real need. Instead, the vampire found the horrifying sight of Aela pummeling one of the men into the ground with her bare hands, blood and gore staining her fists and her armor. Warily, she approached her and called out to her, her voice weak and raspy from the massive amount of magicka she just had to expend. "Aela, he's dead." That seemed to break her out of her stupor, but still she would not relent, telling her to get the mare while she marched westward. Serana could only purse her lips and run her fingers through her hair in frustration. Why wouldn't she listen to reason? Even if she wanted to wipe out every single one of these supposed Silver Hands, they could strategize and attack the fort together. But no. She just had to run in.

Clicking her tongue as she observed her take off, a graceful fury about her steps, Serana took a moment to catch her breath before she went back to calm down Allie. It took a while to even get the mare to let her mount it again, and even then she was an amateur rider at best, and so she made the unsteady trot following after Aela, unbearably slow even though she wanted to ride with breakneck speed. By the time she arrived, the battle seemed to be in full swing, and Serana wasted no time in securing Allie and rushing in to join the fray. Arrows rained down from all sides, roars and screams of pain pierced the cold midday air, and Serana angrily called out to her friend, "Aela, get the fuck over here and listen to me so we can actually fight together, you stupid wolf!"
 
The fleeing guard had enough time to prepare the rest of the group; they met Aela with a flurry of arrows and warning shouts - as far as they knew, this woman was with the wolves, a friend or sympathizer. Anyone she'd shifted in front of had been killed; there was no way she could kill them all, and in the back of her mind the Huntress knew that, but the front of her mind insisted every last person in this fort must die. Her shield blocked most but with it in hand, she could not ready her bow. A few sharp tips cut across her exposed skin, yet every draw of blood seemed only to spurn the crazed woman forward. Two with swords in hand approached first; Aela swung the shield into one of their heads, knocking the female out, but the male dipped out of the way. She advanced nonetheless, grabbing an arrow with her bare hand since the dagger was too short to spar. It thrust into his chest as his sword came down, the tip slashing her ribcage. Aela grunted in pain, knowing soon she'd have to shift and devour their blood to aid her healing.

Serana screamed from the entry of the fort, calling Aela's attention. Others were approaching but not yet an immediate danger; the archers were, though, three perched high above. Two arrows missed but one connected as Aela glanced back; the Huntress shrieked as it caught her calf. With a sharp growl she yanked it free before quickly hobbling to the vampire, with two of the Silver Hand running forward from within the fort, one with a greatsword slower than the one with a dagger and fire in their hands.

Aela grabbed Serana's shoulders, swiftly yanking her until they had brief cover behind an outer wall of the fort. "I am not leaving until they are all dead," the Huntress warned, her voice low and slightly weak from the numerous wounds she'd thus sustained. The arrow pulled from her calf was the worst thus far, but there were still at least six to go, and however many still inside. "They killed him. They stole from him! And I'll meet him with Hircine before I let them get away with it."

The mage with a dagger rounded the side, quickly shooting a fireball at the pair. Aela spun with her hands still on Serana's shoulders, leaving the vampire's arms free. Aela's back greeted the mage so she could absorb the worst of the spell. As her armor and skin burned, pained tears struck her lashes, yet she remained in place, her own hands falling slightly so they rested upon Serana's forearms instead.

"Please help me," Aela whispered, clinging to the pretty parasitic princess for the support the Huntress desperately desired.
 
Aela had visibly gone mad. Serana almost shuddered to look at the crazed frenzy in her eyes, and deep down she knew the Huntress knew every single word she said. "Are you insane, Aela? There's only two of us and a whole garrison of them, in their own hold! Please, just let me get you out of here so I can clean your wounds," she bargained desperately, even as the shouts and footsteps edged ever closer, her hands tightly holding onto the other woman's forearms for support, feeling as if she would crumble into pieces if it weren't for the hands gripping her shoulder. Her voice as already weak and raspy from the damage she'd taken, and Serana could see multiple cuts all across her body, where steel had slashed armor and skin. Everything confounded her, thoughts running at a million a minute, but it all clicked together when Aela revealed her reasons for wanting to hunt them down. They were the ones who took Skjor from her.

"I—" The vampire hesitated, not as dead set on her stance as before knowing how much her friend had grieved for the loss of her lover, and how much this would hurt her, seeing his murderers walk around in his things. Before she could give an answer though, a mage swung around the corner, dagger and spell at the ready, and Aela threw herself in the way before it could hit Serana, prompting a scream of horror from the ravenette. "Aela, NO!" The smell of burnt flesh overwhelmed her olfactory senses, mingled with the scent of blood, and she didn't even know she had shot lightning out of her fingers and killed the mage in retaliation until after the dull thud of the body hitting the ground hit her ears.

Even then, she did not give a lick about the dead mage, instead rushing to hold the injured she-wolf in her arms, worry and fear written on her face clear as day. Even through the pain, Aela begged her to help her, clinging to her for dear life as she did so, and in that moment Serana knew she would do anything to get her out of this place alive, even if she had to slaughter every unlucky milk drinker that came in her way. Overcome with emotion, angry tears stinging at her eyes at seeing Aela in so much pain, she lunged forward and took the redhead in a furious kiss, her hands squeezing her arms in reassurance. She needed her right now, and she would be there for her. "I'll help you," she whispered desperately, fumbling her fingers as she cast a quick healing spell to alleviate some of Aela's injuries and get her back into fighting shape, even if temporarily. "I'll help you. Just don't die on me, okay? You promised me you'll see my journey through."

Taking ragged breaths to calm herself down, she paused for a moment to formulate some thing resembling a plan, instead of just running in like madwomen, and after a moment, she nodded with affirmation. "We won't make headway barging in like that. You distract them from the front, and I'll levitate up to the rafters and take out the archers. You take care of the brutes in the courtyard. We... we might have to change into our true forms, I think." The mere thought of having to shift into her Vampire Lord form disgusted her, made her shudder to her core, but in this moment, they needed every help they could get. "We'll make it through," she breathed, more to herself than to Aela, and giving her one last urgent kiss on the lips, she pushed her back towards the gate while she leviated up to the walls of the fort, unseen and unknown.
 
Stunned by the urgent advance of the vampire - and still weak from growing exhaustion - Aela didn't fully comprehend what Serana had done. Their mouths were harshly pressed together, indeed, but the Huntress didn't initially respond. She felt the pressure of their lips locked in place of course, yet her eyes widened as surprised
trumped fatigue and Aela merely stood still in place. Once Serana pulled away the redhead exhaled a breath she hadn't known she was holding; rather enjoying the lingering tingle upon her lips she momentarily forgot they were in the middle of battle. "I'll help you."

Whether it was the kiss or the vampire's spells (likely both) Aela suddenly felt fit for war. She itched to get back in the fray; at least one of their heads was level-minded. Before the Huntress could turn to engage Serana spoke her quick plan, which actually made a lot of sense. Perfect, that is, causing Aela to question ever calling the princess a milk-drinker. They had yet to see the vampire … but the greatsword holder was coming closer, just about to round the corner. Aela nodded swiftly to confirm the plan, just as a second heated kiss was placed. Before Aela could reply, again, the vampire was away and up - literally. That damn magic certainly came in handy. Not even the swordsman noticed; he was busy drawing the massive steel while advancing on the Huntress. "Here she is!" he called, every archer's face turning to the cry. Only one could see them fully, as the other two stood at the opposite walls. Fueled by the warmth of another, Aela met him eagerly. Massive heavy armor and sword was no match for the newly envigored Huntress; she dodged every blow, strategizing as she dodged his strikes. Her dagger and arrows couldn't pierce the thick steel easily; she needed to keep their deadly dance … until he fell on one knee from exhaustion. Aela was quick to bound behind before wrapping his head in her arms. A sharp twist yielded a sick bone breaking crack; he fell sideways and the Huntress leapt over his broken form to attend the entryway of the fort.

Once facing the framing again, multiple shouts sounded - most of those from the few remaining ground crew. Two advanced swiftly but Aela was quick enough to land an arrow into the shin of the axe holder - not a fatal blow, but enough to keep the larger of the pair behind so she could deal with the two handed dagger wielder. A shield blocked most blows; the Huntress suffered a few smaller cuts but finally she managed to smack the hide against the woman's face, knocking her out. The man with a greatsword was up, but hobbling in pain. He, too, got a few good swipes cutting Aela's stomach in several places yet she managed to subdue him as well by leaping from a fallen beam onto his head with her own dagger in hand.

The scene was suddenly calm and quiet, the only sound was Aela's deep panting to recover her breath, and mind. There was still the inside of the fort to cover, yet the Huntress was rapidly running out of steam. "Serana?" Aela called weakly, wiping blood from her face and eyes. "We got this, right?" she asked, mostly to herself, eyeing the door into the fort warily. No one emerged, yet she knew the remaining enemies were deep within. With no immediate response and in desperate need to recover, Aela tore away her already tattered armor so she could shift. Neither of them knew what lay inside, so she took the monetary respite to start feeding from the fallen bodies littered nearby. Once the vampire came close, the wolf howled into the sky before tilting her head to the door leading inside.

Time to finish what she started.
 
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