Careful What You Wish For

by Vivifriend

Summary:

Raised on legends of werewolves, vampires, and Daedric Princes, Ileana Hawkwing always assumed she'd keep a healthy distance from all of them. But an attack on her family's merchant caravan throws that into disarray.
Sent to Evermore with her brothers to train with an offshoot of the Fighter's Guild, she finds herself learning more about werewolves and vampires than she ever expected. And when the Daedric Prince Hircine offers her a way to have a child without risking romantic entanglements, she accepts.
But raising a demi-prince is no easy task, and she'll need the help of her brothers, her Guild, and some of Hircine's strongest followers to raise him to adulthood.

Chapter 1: Special Training

Notes:

Time to meet Lewin's family. ^_^

Like every member of the Merchant's Guild before her, Ileana Hawkwing was raised with stories of werewolves, and the dangers they posed to the caravans. She learned early to call upon Stendarr for his blessings over the caravans, or more secretively, to call upon the Daedric Prince Hircine himself to steer his wolves far from their wagons. It worked. Sometimes.

She saw her first transformed werewolf at sixteen when two ambushed their caravan at dusk. The pair moved in sync, their focus on one of her family's new guardsmen, Nivos. She'd watched as they'd dragged him screaming away from the road, feeling sick to her stomach, her martial lessons fleeing her mind, her magic still in her veins, her feet frozen to the ground. Her father had armed himself with a silver sword from his private wares, stalking toward the pair when Nivos got free of them and turned into a cloud of bats, tearing away from the caravan, the werewolves in hot pursuit.

Just as she knew the stories of werewolves. So, too, did she know the stories of vampires.

Her father had cursed, sheathing his blade, urging the group to move faster toward Camlorn, his hand rarely straying from his sword hilt over the next six days.

The werewolves didn't return. Nor did Nivos.

But it wasn't until Ileana managed to eavesdrop on her mother screaming at Lady Greening, the woman in charge of vetting new caravan guards, that she learned just how easy it was for both werewolves and vampires to infiltrate 'normal' society.

Naturally, she ran for the weavers shops, luring her best friend Alice out of her parents shop with promise of gossip and boiled creme treats.

 

"What was Nivos like?" Alice asked, laying back on a stone wall, shading her face with a wide-brimmed hat, the streaks of blonde in her long brown hair showing it was a common habit. "They say vampires are all pale with red eyes."

"Obviously not or we'd never have hired him," Ileana retorted, her own brown hair soaking up the sun, darker than Alice's and lacking the streaks. "He was average height, dark brown eyes from what I recall, and he kept his hair trimmed so it'd fit under a helmet."

"So, you had no idea he was a vampire at all?"

She shook her head, hopping onto the wall herself, picking at her treat. "He did always volunteer to take the middle of the night watches. But as far as I know he didn't drink from anyone." She wrinkled her nose, "I hope he didn't anyway."

"Was he charming?"

"Very. But mama always told me to steer clear of the guards. Says they're not to be trusted in regards to romance."

"That makes sense," Alice said, "considering how many romance books talk about merchants and nobles falling in love with lowly guards or bodyguards." Levering herself up on an elbow, she grinned at Ileana. "That's probably what makes your mother worry."

She snorted. "You know I don't care about romance. I like those books though. Anything new come in while I was gone?"

"Mm, I haven't checked. I've been busy at the shop since my pa says I'm almost old enough to take over."

Drawing a leg up onto the wall, she frowned, opening her mouth to respond when a shout rang out.

"Ileana!" 

"Oh damn, they found me."

"You're awful," Alice laughed, swatting her with her hat as she sat up, shading her eyes with her hand, a flush darkening her cheeks. "And your language is inappropriate."

Ignoring her comment, she watched Theo approach, sunlight glinting off his spectacles. Glancing at Alice, she found her toying with the ends of her hair, hat forgotten on the wall. "You know he's going to realize you've got a crush on him if you keep blushing like that," she said, smirking when she smacked her arm and hopped down from the wall to walk toward him.

"Is it just you?" Ileana asked, jumping down herself and sauntering over to her older brother.

"So far," he said, brushing his dark hair out of his face. "Did you hear about Nivos?"

"I heard mama yelling at Lady Greening about him."

"I think half the city did," he said dryly.

"So, what did you hear?" she demanded. "Or are you going to hold that info over my head?"

"Hmm, there's an idea. What is the information worth to you?" he asked, grinning when she glared at him.

"I'd like to know," Alice piped up, tilting her head.

He sighed, reaching out to tug a lock of her hair. "I'm outnumbered. Fine. But only because you're not as annoying as my sister."

"You're so rude," Ileana complained.

He waved his hand lightly, brushing her off. "So, I may have overheard our parents discussing this." He lowered his voice. "This cannot go any further than you two, do you understand?"

"Got it," Ileana promised, Alice nodding, eyes wide.

"Nivos enthralled the man who gave him his referral. From what father found out, about six days ago, that man suddenly jumped out of his chair and ran out of the tavern yelling for his master. He hasn't been seen by anyone since that night. And there's been no sign of Nivos either. Personally, I think the werewolves caught up to him."

"Do you think the werewolves were hunting him specifically?" Ileana asked.

"I think so. Otherwise, how did they know what he looked like?"

She laughed. "They could probably smell what he was, Theo."

"That's true," he agreed, moving to drape his arm over her shoulders. "Did you tell Alice you were so scared you forgot you were wearing a sword?"

Wrinkling her nose, she slipped out of his hold. "I didn't see you drawing steel or silver on them like papa did," she countered.

"True. I should have been quicker. But that's part of why I came to find you. Our parents were discussing sending the four of us to special training. Seems they were worried that we could have been killed because we froze instead of running or fighting."

"Even Karic froze?" Alice asked. "Hasn't he always said he's not afraid of anything?"

"Apparently he lied," he responded, a smirk playing about his mouth.

"Never going to let him live that down," Ileana said, matching Theo's expression.

"Do you want to go to special training?" Alice wondered.

"Could be fun," Theo said, "depending on what it entails."

"Maybe they'll teach us battle magic," Ileana suggested. "That would be a nice change from only learning enough to keep us from burning out to our gifts."

"Could be why they were arguing about it," he agreed, "you know they're not in agreement on how useful battle magic is."

"I hope you won't be gone too long," Alice said morosely, moving to lean against Ileana. "I'll miss you."

"Who says we'll have to go anywhere?" she asked.

"Why else would they be arguing about it?"

"She makes a good point," Theo agreed.

"Then I'll write you once a week," Ileana promised. "Until the day we get to come home again."

"I'll hold you to that."

"Have you told Karic or Sorais yet?" Ileana asked.

"Didn't have to. I spotted Karic lurking on the roof as I left, and Sorais was hiding in the bushes where I'd first planned to hide myself."

Alice shook her head, making a disparaging noise in her throat. "Sometimes I think you four wish you were thieves instead of honest merchant folk."

"Ah but if you think like a thief then it's harder for them to steal your merchandise," Theo said, grinning at her when she rolled her eyes.

"Thanks for the heads up, Theo," Ileana said, moving back toward the wall.

"Ah, that's not the whole reason I came out here," he said. "I bolted when mother said she was going to send Edrien to track us down. I figured I'd save him some time since I know where you like to go."

Groaning under her breath, she moved to his side. "Fine. I'll see you later, Alice."

 

"So, who eavesdropped, and who heard from a sibling?" Remius asked, sitting on his wife's desk, leaning down to kiss her hair when she glared at him.

Ileana's brothers shuffled their feet, looking appropriately embarrassed.

"Did you see any of them?" Ileana asked curiously. "Or did you just guess they were there?"

"What an odd question," Claudine said. "Why ever would that matter?"

She laughed, giving her mother an unrepentant look. "Because if it's the former, then they need to work on their hiding skills. If it's the latter, then they need to switch up their habits some."

"You've been listening to Edrien again," Remius said, shaking his head. "He's a brilliant man, and he's been an irreplaceable asset to our family. But some of his habits are not proper for people of your station to mimic."

"I told Ileana," Theo said. "I thought she'd like a heads up since we all heard it first hand. And since I know where she goes, thought I'd save Edrien the hassle of tracking her down."

"So, you all know we were discussing specialized lessons," Claudine said, glancing at Remius. "You scared your father half to death out there. And I would have been just as frightened to see it. Why in Oblivion didn't any of you run?"

"I'd never seen a werewolf before," Theo said. "After the shock wore off, I was more curious than scared. Primarily because their focus was definitely Nivos."

"Yes, well. As you heard, we have been discussing specialized training. And we've decided that you'll all four go to Evermore."

"Evermore!?" Karic yelped. "That's so far away though! How will I continue my training with the bookkeepers? How will any of us memorize all the routes properly?"

"It's also the headquarters of that chapter of the Fighter's Guild that focuses on fighting monsters," Theo said thoughtfully, giving their parents an appraising look. "That's not coincidence, is it?"

"It is not," Remius said. "Normally they wouldn't accept anyone under the age of twenty, but it's run by Edrien's sister, and he promised he could get the four of you in. As long as we accepted that he would be going with you."

"Normally we would hate to send you that far," Claudine said. "And losing Edrien from our guard at the same time is going to be difficult to work around. But we need to know you'll be safe. And this is the best way we could think of."

"What about Alice?" Ileana asked.

"I'm sorry but you'll have to subsist on letter for some time," she said. "I know it will be difficult but it's how it has to be."

"How long will we be gone?" Sorais asked.

"We can't answer that," Remius said. "The only one who can is whoever gets put in charge of your training."

 

"Evermore," Alice said softly, tearing strips out of her cheese, fiddling with each strand before eating them. "You'll at least get to come home for the Holidays, right?"

"I don't know," Ileana groaned, passing her the bottle of wine she'd nicked from the pantry, looking around the small shop, tracing her eyes over every corner she could see from her vantage point on top of the main counter. "And with you taking over the shop after your birthday..."

"Not taking over," she countered. "Practicing for it. I won't be spending that many days in charge. My parents aren't that old yet."

Leaning on her shoulder, Ileana sighed. "Maybe it'll only be a year or two. Then we'll come home."

"Maybe. Guess it depends on what this 'specialized training' looks like," she muttered, passing the wine back. "You promise you'll write?"

"I promise."

 

It was a morose party of five that left Camlorn the next morning. 

Edrien chivvied them carefully away from home, the only one of their group not nursing a hangover, their parents watching them leave from the doorway, Claudine leaning on Remius' shoulder, dabbing at her eyes with a handkerchief.

Sorais pulled his mount, Coal, to ride next to Ileana's Ivy, reaching out to offer her a small glittering bottle. "It'll make you feel better," he promised, his blue eyes sparkling with mirth.

"What were you three doing?" she wondered, looking down at the potion in her hand.

"Split a couple bottles of wine with the folk we'll miss." He shrugged. "I guessed that you and Alice were doing the same thing."

"We were," she said, sighing and knotting her reins so they wouldn't slip, tugging the cork from the bottle. "I didn't expect father to be that concerned after what happened," she said, downing the potion, grimacing at the taste, feeling it ease her headache. "You made this," she said, passing the empty vial back.

"I did. And I agree. We weren't in any real danger with the guards on hand. Don't see why he reacted so strongly."

"Sorais," Edrien called. "Come ride with me. I need to ask you a few things."

Brows furrowing, he nudged his horse faster, leaving Ileana to ride alone.

Silently, she dropped Ivy to meander behind Theo and Karic as well, watching them ride ahead. Of her brothers, Sorais had the easiest seat on his horse. Earned by spending hours on end taking Coal out to collect plants with anyone from the alchemists shops who'd ride with him; or gathering plants based on expert description. All in exchange for lessons on brewing his own potions, his skills with alchemy far outstripping everyone else in their household.

The only member of their family with blue eyes, he'd weathered more than one parentage joke over the years. It didn't help that his plant gathering had bleached his short cut hair a near permanent light brown, or that he rarely went a season without tanned skin on his face and arms. Already he had a knot in his nose from a brawl he'd started when he'd overheard a small cluster of guardsmen taking bets on when his father would realize his wife was obviously deceiving him.

Idly, Ileana wondered if the jokes would continue with Evermore, or if the people there would even care what they got up to.

Karic, in contrast, was such an exact replica of their father that it almost hurt to look at him this morning. Long dark brown hair tied in a braid, dark brown eyes that saw too much, and freckles that multiplied every spring and summer. He was built like their father too, the broadest of the triplets from his obsession with studying heavier two-handed swords over the light blades that most merchants preferred. A habit their father had strongly encouraged, as he preferred two-handed swords himself.

Theo slowed his horse Bloodmoon until he walked alongside Ivy, turning brown eyes on her with a lifted brow. His hair hung loose around his shoulders, a habit that irritated Edrien to no end for the risk it presented in combat. When they'd been younger, he'd privately confessed to Ileana that most ties gave him headaches. She'd promptly informed their mother, and she'd had a set of spectacles designed for him on their healer's orders. But the habit had proved to be a hard one to break, and Ileana wordlessly rooted about in her nearest saddlebag, extracting a ribbon, passing it over to him, gesturing toward his hair. 

"Thanks," he muttered, pulling it back and tying it up. "What's got Edrien in conference with Sorais?"

"I'm not entirely sure. I know Sorais knows this part of the road better than any of us. Maybe he's just asking what the conditions are likely to be right now?"

"That's possible," he agreed, pushing his spectacles up, reaching into his nearest saddlebag.

"Did you seriously pack a book?" she demanded, trying not to grin too widely.

"Do you really have to ask?" he returned, lifting it close to his face, his hand loose on his reins.

"Edrien is going to have a fit," she warned, shaking her head and dropping back again, watching the landscape change as they road from the outskirts of the city to the open road. 

 

"Ileana, to your left!"

Edrien's voice was just enough to startle her into sidestepping, a sword edge cutting through the fabric of her cloak, tearing a long line up her shirt.

Hissing through her teeth, she lunged forward with her sword, repulsed when it sank into the bandit's chest, his scream and the spurt of blood sickening her even as she pulled back and cast oakflesh.

Screaming still, he ran, falling into the snow a few paces away, lying still.

Looking around, she found that the rest of the bandits were dead or fled, Theo moving to her side, hand glowing with a healing spell.

She shook her head. "I'm alright. Just got my favorite shirt," she grumbled, poking it, pointedly not looking at the dead man. "Look at this! Do you have any idea how hard it is to get fabric like this? And that was in Camlorn? What is Evermore going to have?"

"Be glad it was your shirt and not your arm," Edrien said briskly, looking her over. "Aim a little more to the right next time for a clean kill."

Repulsed, she stomped away, reaching for Ivy's reins. "How did you even know they were so close anyway?" she demanded, swinging into the saddle.

"I was paying attention," he responded, scowling up at her.

"Good for you."

"Are you done?" he demanded.

Glowering down at him, she turned Ivy back along the road. "How much further do we have to go today?"

"I'll take that as a no," he grumbled, mounting his horse, directing her brothers to do the same.

She stewed as they rode, glaring at the snow that crunched under Ivy's hooves, forcing herself not to dwell on the man she'd killed, hunching her shoulders, tugging her cloak tighter around her neck, scowling when cold air pierced through it, the cut bit flapping in the light breeze. "Stupid Evermore," she grumbled. "Why does it have to be so cold here, anyway?"

"Well, it's pretty simple," Theo started. "You see."

"I don't care," she snapped, glaring at him.

Scowling, he pointedly turned his gaze away from her.

"Was that necessary?" Karic asked gently.

"Oh, shut up," she grumbled. "He's already explained the geography seventeen times. And you were the one complaining about it this morning, or have you forgotten?"

"Enough," Edrien barked. "From all of you! Honestly."

"Hey, I didn't say anything," Sorais said. "Why are you lumping me in with them?"

"You know you would the second you saw an opening. I know you four are tired of traveling. I know you're not used to pressing this hard. But for the love of Hir... Julianos, shut up."

Sulkily, Ileana fell silent, poking at the hole in her shirt, letting herself stew over it as they rode, forcing herself to think of anything except death.

 

"Well, here we are," Edrien said, the relief in his voice palpable. "Told you it wouldn't take too much longer."

Without responding, Ileana dismounted from Ivy, leaning against her to let the feeling return to her legs. It had taken three more days after the skirmish to reach their destination, and her thighs ached from spending an equal amount of time in and out of the saddle, Edrien insisting on their walking for spells each day to give their mounts a break from the snow. Sourly, she glanced at her brothers, glowering when Karic looked her way.

"Still sore?" he asked, moving closer to her, giving her a sympathetic smile.

"How come you're hurting the least?" she demanded, feeling petulant.

"Blame it on my gear," he suggested, rapping the thick leather and plate armor he'd taken to wearing daily. 

"Should've begged our parents for some armor then," she muttered, taking as deep a breath as she could manage, trying to let go the agitation of the journey, pushing the face of the bandit to the back of her mind once again, turning to look at the Guild Hall.

It was two stories, built of a light brown wood that hadn't seen a lick of whitewash or paint in what Ileana guessed was decades, the windows propped open by sticks, a thin layer of snow on the edges souring her hopes for a comfortable habitation.

And standing on the steps, watching them with the same keen eyed gaze Edrien sported, was an Orc woman in heavy steel armor, her arms crossed over her chest, a sneer on her face.

"Edrien. You promised me fighters. You brought mangy pups."

"Akgruhl! You would not believe how impossible it is to shepherd four siblings cross-country without them getting at each other's throats."

She tilted her head, four braids sliding to the side. "Do I need to remind you of our trip from Kvatch to Taneth?"

"Please don't," he said, reaching a hand up to rest on the back of his neck, his skin darkening some with a flush. "Let me introduce you to the Hawkwing's. In order, from oldest to youngest, we have Sorais, Theo, Karic, and Ileana."

"Have they had any training?"

"Some! I haven't shirked my duties that badly."

"Hmmm." Stepping off the porch, she approached them, roving her gaze over each of them. "Have any of you ever killed before?" she demanded.

"They all have," Edrien responded.

Ileana glanced to the side, Karic making a soft noise.

"What is it?" Akgruhl demanded, turning on him.

"I just realized something is all," he responded.

"Well, spit it out!"

"There was a skirmish three days ago. And that's the first time Ileana's ever killed anyone."

"And how did you deal with it?" she asked, turning her gaze on her.

"I'm trying not to think about it," she muttered, looking toward Ivy. "Where can we settle the horses?"

"Edrien," Akgruhl growled.

"She's fine. She was complaining about ripping a hole in her shirt."

Audibly grinding her teeth, she rested a firm hand on Ileana's shoulder. "Good to think of your mounts before your own comfort. Are they solid beasts?"

"I think so," Ileana said, trying to decide if the metal encased hand was comforting or not.

"Good." Reaching her free hand out, she offered it to Ivy, eying her critically as she sniffed at her palm. "Edrien. Any trouble with them? Two nights ago, specifically?"

"Sorais' horse got a bit aggressive but settled after a few moments. Other than that, not even an ear flick."

"Good."

Two nights ago Secunda was full. Was there trouble nearby? Or... werewolves? I don't remember hearing any howling.

Releasing her shoulder, Akgruhl crossed her arms, scrutinizing Ileana closely. "How old are you?"

"I turned seventeen two weeks ago," she responded. A day that normally would have been spent with Alice and our friends. With feasting and a dance. Instead of a little cake that Edrien and Sorais cobbled together out of camp supplies. She grimaced, burying her feelings of resentment.

"Don't do that," she ordered. "What we hunt preys on people who hide what they feel. Who make themselves vulnerable by burying their true emotions."

"How does hiding weaker emotions make you vulnerable?" Karic demanded, moving in closer.

"Simple," a new voice called, a hooded and armored Khajiit rising in a crouch above them, leaping off the roof, catching herself on tree branches before the leaping the rest of the way to the ground. Her eyes glowed dark red in her hood, and Ileana took an involuntary step back, Ivy snorting her displeasure.

"How is it simple?" Karic asked, shifting his weight uneasily.

"It makes you more susceptible to persuasive magic, or can, depending on your willpower," Edrien said. "Dra'ri, did you and Akgruhl plan this? Trying to terrify the wits out of my wards in some sort of game?"

She cackled, prowling to the side. "You've grown soft five-claw," she said. "You should recall this is how we greeted you and Akgruhl your first day here."

"Yes, but I was twenty-five, and Akgruhl was twenty-one."

"Either they can handle the pressure, or they prove they're too young," Akgruhl snapped.

"You're a vampire," Theo said, moving to stand next to Edrien. "Why are you part of a monster hunting guild?"

Dra'ri cackled again, light glowing around her hand a moment, the red shine to her eyes fading, leaving slightly reflective yellow eyes in their place.

"Do all vampires excel in Illusion?" Karic demanded. "Nivos hid his appearance too."

"Nivos?" Dra'ri asked, tilting her head.

"The catalysing incident," Edrien explained. "A vampire infiltrated the caravan guard."

"How did they escape your notice?" she hissed, moving in close to him. "Has guarding soft merchants made you weak?"

He glared at her. "Hah! You wish." He turned toward Theo. "Vampires can use Illusion or Alteration to trick other senses. It's good to learn quickly when to trust your gut." Turning his gaze back to Dra'ri, he scowled. "And I was outvoted. Who do you think warned the guild about him?"

Ileana blinked. Warned the guild? Is he saying?

"And these four all froze instead of running when they saw their first shifted werewolves," he continued. "It's why their parents thought this was the best option to ensure they learn to never do that again."

Theo caught her eye and shook his head slightly.

I'm not the only one thinking it. What kind of guild could contain werewolves and vampires? What else are they hiding?

"This way young ones," Dra'ri said. "There is a barn for your mounts. Decent pasture for warmer months."

Edrien nodded when they hesitated, and they followed her, Ileana watching her warily.

"Do not focus so much on me that you forget your surroundings," she warned, turning to walk backward. "We have passed three places where an opponent could attack from. With your focus on me, you'd all have been dead thrice over."

 

"Do you think father knew?" Sorais whispered as they clumped up to set their tack in a small side room.

"Edrien's talking like he does," Ileana responded. "And if he was trying to trick him...,"

"There are hundreds of places between here and Camlorn to vanish all four of us," Theo agreed.

"We've known, and trusted him for the last five years," Karic said. "I vote we stick around. See what's going on."

"Agreed," Sorais said, nodding firmly.

"I admit, I'm very curious to see what we could learn," Theo added. "Ileana?"

"Alright. But we only trust Edrien at first. Until we know we can trust the rest. Deal?"

"Deal," Karic agreed, putting his hand out in front of him, Theo, Sorais and Ileana resting their hands on his. "And we look out for each other. No matter what else happens."

"Play to our strengths," Theo agreed. "We'll make this work."

Before they could separate, Karic caught Ileana up in a hug. "I'm sorry."

"For what?"

"I should have remembered you'd never killed anyone before," he said. "I thought it was just the traveling getting to you like it was to us. I thought you were extra snippy because you were tired."

"When did you three kill anyone before?" she demanded.

"Last year," Sorais said. "Bandit company attacked us. There were too many of them for the guard to pick off before they reached us. I'm not sure if we all actually killed someone. But there was death a plenty that it didn't really matter."

"It does get easier," Theo said. "To forget about it. And I'm sorry too. Let us know if you want to talk about it once we get settled tonight."

"Alright," she agreed, a knot easing in her shoulders. "Sorry I got so snippy with you all."

"It's alright. We understand," Karic promised. "Come on. Let's get out there before they assume we can't take care of horses properly or something equally ridiculous."

Pulling apart, they slipped outside, Ileana noting Dra'ri was standing suspiciously casually against a tree. She listened to us. She's acting too casual.

She caught Ileana's gaze and nodded slightly, beckoning her closer.

And she knows I know. What exactly are we supposed to learn here? Slowly, she approached her, her brothers hovering behind them.

"Remember that you fought bandits," she hissed softly. "They would have killed you."

"I know."

"Yes. But imprint it on your mind. Every time you feel upset, or sorry. Remember. It was his life. Or yours."

"Does it get easier?"

"Sadly. Yes."

"Sadly?"

She gave her a crooked smile. "Stay with us and one day you will understand." Pulling away from the tree, she stretched. "Come along young ones, this one will help to get you settled so you can rest up before your first day of training."

"We're not going to start right away?" Theo asked.

"No. Three days. To recover. And then the training begins."

Chapter 2: News From Home

Summary:

Ileana and her brothers take their final test to become full members of the Guild.
They learn something new about some of their Guild-mates and get an unexpected visit from home.

"Ileana! Duck!"

Ignoring Theo's shout, Ileana cast a stronger ward and braced, casting a quick glance around to be sure she was in no danger from a melee attack. If I duck, the fireball goes into the grain and then we're all doomed.

The bandit's spell fractured her ward, the heat piercing through it, not enough to burn, but enough to warn her against another attempt.

With a whisper, a crossbow bolt sped past her, piercing the man's throat before he could form another spell, leaving him gurgling.

"Thanks, Karic," she said, dropping her hands and reaching for a magicka potion. "You know, when Dra'ri said she had a test for us, I wasn't expecting she'd set us on the Fanged Crew."

"It's not a bad test," Theo said, adjusting his spectacles. "I'm more curious what else they have in store."

"I'm more curious what they're trying to keep us from learning about too early," she responded. "I overheard Akgruhl and Edrien talking about something bad having happened back home."

"But we knew something was wrong. Mother's last letter was infuriatingly vaguer than normal," Sorais noted, sorting through the bandit's gear. "No papers, but there is a key," he said, pulling away.

"Find what it opens then and let's get back," Karic called, not moving from his post at the door, his crossbow still loaded, his attention mostly on the hallway.

Sorais nodded, moving through the room, poking through boxes, grunting slightly as he lifted a shelving unit, bracing and shoving it back to reveal a safe.

"Think there was a Thalmor raid?" Ileana asked. "I know father suspected they were planning one last year when that group of Nords defected from the Legion rather than disavow Talos."

"If it were, they'd have no reason to suspect the artisans and merchants," Sorais noted, crouching by the safe.

"Since when has that stopped Thalmor?" Theo asked. "Any traps?"

"Not that I can see," he responded. "Ileana?"

She moved forward, crouching by Sorais, examining the safe closely, pausing when she noted the tiniest glint of wire, pulling a set of picks out of her waist pouch and dismantling a small device, plucking a dart out of the firing mechanism. "Probably poison."

Sorais wrinkled his nose. "Fits with the information Dra'ri bought." Opening it, he pulled out a small stack of envelopes and a visibly light coin purse. "Either they weren't doing well for themselves, or they keep most of the loot elsewhere."

"Dra'ri or Drinks-Well will know," Theo said, watching Sorais tuck everything into his alchemy pouch.

"If their contact told them," he agreed. "That's everything?"

Ileana turned away, casting first a Detect Life, and then a Detect Undead spell. "Nothing moving in the building except us, and a few mice. Surprised at that. Thought Dra'ri would be closer to make sure we didn't get into trouble."

"Probably didn't want to mess with your spell. Or she's disguising herself somehow and finding her will be part of the test," Karic suggested.

"We'll find out," Theo muttered.

"I'm glad she trusts us enough to not be lurking that close," Sorais said. "I think she's the only one of the trainers who does."

"She probably has the best hearing out of everyone," he responded, heading toward the door.

 

The first mile passed uneventfully, Karic pausing and pointing to the top of a boulder where gleaming red eyes gave away Dra'ri's position: Ileana re-casting her candlelight spell when it started fading.

Hate it when she doesn't warn us before dropping her illusion spells. Always makes me think she's hungry. Forcing herself not to react too openly to the gleam, Ileana moved purposefully forward, her brothers following, unable to resist wrinkling her nose when she spotted the bandit crumpled at the foot of the boulder, his skin very pale. So eerie. I don't think I'll ever get used to how the people she feeds lethally from look.

She laughed as they approached, her voice pitched low. "You did well cubs. Well enough that this one was able to keep your mother hen from approaching. Although he is still lurking." She grinned, her fangs gleaming. "This one is curious if you would be able to find him from here."

"Why do you always insult Edrien?" Sorais wondered, looking around with the others when Ileana cast her Detect Life spell.

"It is our nature to clash," she said.

Ileana stared at the shape her spell revealed, focusing on the magic to ensure the spell was acting properly. "Werewolf vs vampire," she whispered.

Dra'ri cackled. "Took you long enough."

"I mean, we've suspected for a while now," Theo said, pushing his glasses up, giving her a disproving look. "He asked you to keep it quiet though, didn't he?"

"For too long," she said, her ears flat against her skull. "He should have been honest when you made it through your first tests."

"Why?" Sorais asked, passing over the papers and pouch they'd recovered when she hopped off the boulder to stand closer to them, her tail lashing around her ankles.

"Because Drinks and Dra'ri were open from the beginning. Makes a Khajiit feel unwelcome when we have to be the only one to be truthful."

"Drinks is an Argonian," Karic muttered.

She cackled again. "Feeling embarrassed to know for sure that your crush is a werewolf?"

He turned crimson, Ileana shaking her head. "I take it by the teasing that we're done?"

"Yes. You did well five-claws. Not the mewling kittens you were when you first came here."

Ileana smiled, the praise bolstering her. "Thank you, Dra'ri."

"Do you know what happened back in Camlorn?" Sorais asked. "Edrien and Akgruhl have been cagey about it."

"Edrien seeks to protect you from much." Her ears flattened when heavy footsteps neared. "And he is here to be sure this one cannot tell you more than that."

"You've already told them too much," he said, stepping onto the road, wrinkling his nose at the body.

"No judgement wolf," she hissed. "This one has seen the result of your kills."

He waved that off. "I'll never get used to the desiccation. Makes them smell wrong," he said, turning to Ileana and her brothers, sighing heavily. "I'll bring them back Dra'ri. Since you've insisted on giving them too many questions, I should be sure they get true answers."

Smoothly, she leaped back to the boulder. "Acceptable. They got the information from the bandits. This one shall confer with Akgruhl about our next steps."

He nodded, frowning as she jumped off the other side and vanished beyond the reach of Ileana's candlelight spell. "So, how did she have you find out?"

"She had Ileana cast a Detect Life spell while you were in your werewolf form," Karic admitted.

"The side route. Very like her."

"Is it because of your natures that you argue so much?" Theo asked.

He snorted. "No. It's because we're too much alike so we pick at each other. Can't help it."

"I suppose that makes sense," he agreed.

"If it were our natures then Drinks-Well and I would also butt heads. And we don't."

"That's true."

Karic very carefully didn't look at him, his expression set in grim lines. 

Edrien glanced at him, the strange mask-like expression he always wore around him fixed firmly in place. "Come on. Let's go back. If Dra'ri didn't have to move from her rock, you must have done very well."

"It wasn't all that difficult," Ileana said briskly. "Just a handful of bandits with more weaponry than sense."

"You'll run into that a lot when you're on your own," he warned. "Just make sure to never get complacent. The moment you do, you'll run into someone who thinks. And if you're lucky, you'll survive."

"Are Nils and Audrey back yet?" Sorais asked. "I was hoping to verify if they were the werewolves we saw three years ago."

Edrien scowled. "Yes, they were," he grumbled. "How did you guess?"

"There aren't many other options left," Theo said. "There's you, Breeze, Click and Akgruhl. Is Akgruhl a werewolf as well?"

He sighed heavily, then nodded. "All of us are some stripe of 'monster'. But I'd hoped to wait another year or so to tell you four." 

"Why?" Ileana asked.

"To make sure that your parents wouldn't want you back in Camlorn. If they'd called you back as planned, then there wouldn't be any reason for you to ever learn what we are."

"So, everyone in this branch of the Fighters Guild is... 'monster'?" Karic asked. 

Edrien grunted, heading toward the path. "Who better to fight monsters than other monsters?"

"So, what are the others?" Theo asked, jogging to reach his side.

"Breeze is a werebear," he said.

Ileana blinked, trying to wrap her mind around the Bosmer turning into a bear. "How big is she as a bear?" she asked.

"Black bear," he said.

"That makes sense," Theo said thoughtfully. "Cause she's so small."

He snorted. "Yes. But don't let her hear you say that. You know she's tired of jokes that reference her size. And truthfully your physical size has little to do with it. Before you ask, I'm not entirely sure what does affect it. I just know I've met at least one Nord werewolf who was my size when shifted. And I'm certain there are others."

Ileana glanced at Theo just in time to see him adjust his spectacles again. We really need to tighten those. I'll try to remember to remind him later. "So, what about Click?"

"He's a special case," he said. "Don't be too surprised, or upset, if he never explains his situation to you. But rest assured he's as much 'monster' as the rest of us."

"Are we the only 'mortals' in the Guild?" Sorais demanded.

"You are. And after this job you'll be eligible for full-time, solo, jobs. If you want to take them."

"Why wouldn't we want to?" Ileana wondered. "Nothing else to do until our parents agree we can return to Camlorn."

"Right... Camlorn."

"Edrien," Karic demanded. "What do you know?"

"You have a visitor from Camlorn," he said. "Try not to react too strongly to her appearance. Alright?"

"That sounds ominous," Sorais noted.

"I suppose it does."

 

Edrien refused to answer any further questions, and they made their way back to the Guild house in silence, Ileana worrying at her sleeve hems, agitating over his silence. What's going on in Camlorn? What do our parents and Edrien refuse to say?

A hooded figure stood on the porch as they neared the house, arms crossed tightly over a heavy woollen dress, her cloak tangled around her elbows.

Reaching hands up slowly as they neared, she pushed her hood back and Ileana froze for a long moment before bolting forward. "Alice!"

She made a soft sound of agreement, returning Ileana's hug, making a strange sound when she tightened her hold, and Ileana pulled back, giving her a concerned look.

"Alice?" Ileana asked, studying her face properly, noting the thick cosmetics spread over scars running the full length of her jaw, more cosmetics on her throat. "What happened?" she asked, pulling her into a more ginger hug.

She sniffled, pressing her face in the crook of Ileana's shoulder. "It's awful," she whispered. "I don't know if I can..."

"A vampire clan attacked the crafting and merchant guilds in Camlorn," Drinks-Well hissed, stepping onto the porch from the side of the house, her cloak wrapped tight around her, gaze on Ileana. "They are not a clan known to me. But I will find them."

"I have an idea of where to start," Edrien said grimly. "If you want assistance in your hunt."

"Your parents?" Ileana whispered. "My parents?"

"Your father lost his left hand," she murmured. "I saw it happen. He was trying to protect...," her voice broke. "He was trying to pro...," She stopped, wailing into Ileana's embrace.

"They burned the weavers shops," Drinks-Well said, her feathery crest drooping. "I was able to get close because the Thralls believed that another vampire was no threat to them." She bared her fangs. "They were mistaken."

Alice nodded, pulling back, wiping her eyes. "Drinks-Well saved your father and I but she wasn't able to..." Her voice broke again. "She wasn't...,"

"Alice," Ileana whispered. "I'm so sorry."

"No wonder our parents were so cagey in their last correspondence," Theo said, moving to stand nearby, his attention on Alice, expression twisted with sympathy. "They didn't want to tell us by letter."

"They're in town," Alice said, glancing at him before turning her gaze back to Ileana. "At one of the inns. I wanted. I wanted to see you, Ileana. I wanted..."

"I'm here," she said, pulling her into another hug. "You can sleep in my room for as long as you need."

"Are you sure?"

"Yes."

Sniffling, she pulled away and dabbed at her eyes. "We stayed long enough to put them to rest. And to make sure...," she glanced at Drinks-Well.

"They will not rise," she said. "This is good."

Resting her arm around her shoulders, Ileana coaxed her gently toward the door, Theo darting ahead to hold it open, shaking off a thanks when Alice tried to mutter one.

"I'll get you some tea," he offered, darting down the hall.

Alice sniffled, walking slowly with Ileana, tracing her fingers lightly along the railing as they moved up the stairs. "I wanted to visit you. But not like this. Never like this."

Unsure what to say, she guided her to her room, carefully tugging her cloak off, frowning over her when she flinched. "Can I heal you?"

"You can try," she sighed. "I was partially healed in Camlorn. So, I'm not sure how much good you can do. Your mother said I just need rest from the journey."

My mother's not the best healer. "Let me see what I can do. Knowing Theo, he'll have a tea that'll help you sleep. That plus a bit of healing will be good for you."

She gave her a wavering smile, holding still while she pushed a bit of healing into her. Carefully Ileana knitted fractured ribs, grimacing over the bruising on her collarbone.

Alice sat quietly while she worked, only startling when the door pushed open, blushing and glancing away when Theo entered with the mug of tea.

"Here," he offered, sitting on the other side of her, helping her hold the mug until he was sure she had a solid grip on it.

"Thank you," she murmured. "Both of you." Sipping at the tea, she smiled, less wavering this time. "You put honey in here?" she asked.

Theo nodded. "I remembered you like sweets and I thought I'd guess that extended to tea."

"It does," she said, Ileana reaching swiftly for her tea when she burst into tears. "I don't know why I'm crying now," she sobbed. "You're being so nice to me."

"You're overtired from everything that's happened," Ileana said gently, wrapping her arm around her, helping her finish her tea. "Get some sleep."

"Will you be alright here alone?"

She nodded. "I know your parents want to talk to you. I'll be okay."

Theo rose, taking the mug. "We'll bring you something to eat from town. You'll need it if Ileana healed you."

"Alright," she agreed.

As soon as he was gone, Ileana helped Alice strip down to her underclothes, tucking her into her bed, shrugging over her soft laugh. "I'll be back after the meeting," she promised, worrying over her fresh scars as she headed out the door to join her brothers.

 

As Alice promised, their parents were staying at a local inn, Remius rising as soon as they stepped into the taproom, his left arm heavily bandaged, Ileana trying not to think too hard about how it ended just above his wrist.

"Children," he greeted, his face lined with relief, a small smile touching his mouth. "Though, I suppose I can't really call you that anymore. Come. I got a room set aside for when you got here. Your mother is already waiting."

Silently, they followed him, Theo closing the door behind him.

"Suppose the secret is out then," Claudine said, moving to greet each of her children in turn with a light kiss on the cheek. "You know why we sent you here."

"You knew there was a chance of a vampire attack," Karic said, moving to sit down where she gestured. "Was that the reason behind Nivos infiltrating our guard?"

"Yes. But as is the nature of vampires, it took time to find out the shape of their plan. Sometimes, I wish we would have listened to Edrien from the beginning, blocked Nivos from accompanying us at all. But as you well know, not all vampires are untrustworthy."

"Drinks and Dra'ri would be the first to say never trust a vampire," Theo noted.

"That doesn't surprise me from them," Claudine said. "I've known them for a very long time. Dra'ri is the one who suggested Edrien to our guard in the first place. Something about butting heads."

"They do that, yes," Sorais said.

"Is Alice going to stay here?" Ileana asked.

"Yes. I spoke with Akgruhl already," Remius said. "I've made arrangements to pay Akgruhl a stipend for her in case she never becomes part of the Guild, and ensured that what's left of her family's estate is safe for when she wishes to access it. She can stay here for as long as she wants."

"I'll be glad to have her around," she said. "I just wish it wasn't because of this."

"I know," he said quietly. "But she'll heal better having her friend around." He sighed. "Unfortunately, because of the damage done. And because we need to do a lot more digging to make sure we got rid of all threats..., we won't be able to come here much. Nor will we be in Camlorn as often. So, expect communication to take longer."

"We understand," Sorais promised.

"There is another matter," Claudine said. "Something that we need to put in the works swiftly." She looked between each of them. "You four are our heirs. But you haven't made any movement toward marriages. And that's in a large part, our fault, because of sending you here. But we have had offers for a marriage alliance for you Sorais, and one for you Ileana."

Instantly, Ileana's heart pounded harder in her chest, and she fidgeted with a bit of fabric on her chestplate. "Did you respond?" she asked, feeling faint.

"We haven't. We put them off for a small amount of time because we didn't want to spring it on you."

"I...," She grimaced.

"I appreciate it," Sorais interrupted smoothly. "Who approached you about me?"

"The Ashing family," Claudine said. "They wish you to marry their second eldest daughter, Emilie."

"Emilie," he mused. "Isn't she the sister who's Ileana's age?"

"A year older," Ileana muttered, trying to conjure her memory of her. She wasn't much for gossip, but she did have excellent book recommendations. Almost surprised Theo wasn't suggested. Maybe Sorais' alchemy skills are the reason behind their choice. Or it could be they're assuming that since he's eldest he'll be the one to inherit everything.

"Alright. So, she is who I'm thinking of. What does she think?"

"From what her parents said, she is resigned to the idea of an arranged marriage but likes the idea of marrying someone from our family because of our travel requirements," Claudine explained.

"And have you met her?"

"We have. She's a very friendly, and well educated young woman."

"Then that sounds alright," he said. "I'd like to arrange to meet her."

"Excellent," she said. "I'll be sure to have a letter proceeding us. Now Ileana..."

"I don't want to get married," she blurted, heart racing. "I don't... I don't care about romance. I don't care about relationships. I mean other than the friendships I have. And all of you. I care about that. I just don't... I don't want to get married. Not now. Not ever."

"Ileana," Remius started softly. "Where did this come from?"

"Nowhere? Everywhere? I've always felt like this," she said, not daring raise her eyes to meet his.

"But you're always reading those romance novels," Claudine murmured. "And I know you've dallied with young men."

Her cheeks burned. "Yes, but that's different. I enjoy that part, but I don't want anything else. And romance novels are fun because they're...," she clenched her hands harder, nails digging into her leg. "They're happening to someone else. And I love reading about that."

"I thought you wanted to be a mother?" she asked.

"I do. I just...,"

"It would be very difficult to find someone willing to have a child with you without marriage," Remius said quietly.

She arched an eyebrow, a laugh choking in her throat.

"Alright, let me rephrase. It would be very difficult to find someone honourable who is willing to have a child with you without marriage."

"Or expectations of a relationship at all," Claudine added, then sighed. "Alright. We'll not respond favourably for you in this request. But you have two years to decide if you're willing to get married. As for Theo and Karic. You two have the same deadline to help us craft marriage requests or find someone on your own."

"What happens in two years?" Theo asked.

"In two years we will pass the business over to the four of you," Remius said softly. "And a year after that we'll be moving to High Isle."

"What!?" Ileana asked. "Why?"

He sighed, lifting his arm. "Even if I were to find a good replacement, this will slow me. And travel will be more difficult."

"And my parents are getting old," Claudine added. "They could use some help around their home."

"There are a lot of memories we're going to struggle with in Camlorn. I'm certain we can handle them in the short term but not permanently," Remius added, bowing his head slightly. "We lost a lot of good friends to the attacks."

"You'll tell us everyone lost?" Karic asked.

"We will," he promised. "But tomorrow. We need rest after our journey."

"Take some time tonight. Talk it over amongst yourselves," Claudine suggested. "We'll have breakfast with you tomorrow and explain everything. We'll spend about a week here, wrap up some loose ends with your Guild, and then we'll head back toward Camlorn."

Pensively, they bade them farewell, heading back toward the Guild house, the silence heavy between them, Theo swinging a basket light, before moving to drape an arm over Ileana's shoulders. "So, you won Karic some money," he said. "I'm not too pleased with you about that."

"What were you betting on?" she wondered, glancing up at him. 

"Well, I thought, with the number of men you've flirted and tumbled with, that you were attracted to men. Sorais thought you were attracted to more than that. And Karic is the only one who reasoned that you only liked the tumbling."

She flushed, half glancing over her shoulder to try and get a glimpse of the others' expressions. Not what I expected when I finally told them about my conundrum.

"What can I say?" Karic asked smugly. "You always underestimate my ability to read people."

"You could have just asked," she pointed out.

"We didn't want to push you," Sorais said. "We figured that there was a reason you didn't talk to us about it. But speaking of relationships; do you remember Emilie?"

"A little. Her family are bookkeepers, so I spoke with her a time or two. She always had her nose in a book, and never wanted to sneak out for treats or gossip so, Alice and I spoke to her about book recommendations but not a lot else."

"So, I am remembering the same person. I wonder why she wants to travel now."

"We didn't talk about travel," she said thoughtfully. "It's possible that's something she's always wanted but didn't have an option to make it happen before."

"Maybe you should write to her," Karic suggested. "You can ask her what makes her want to travel now, and you can get to know her at the same time."

"That is probably the best idea," he agreed. "I'll make sure to have a letter written before our parents leave."

"So, none of you care?" Ileana asked, tugging away from Theo to spin and stare at all of them.

"No," Theo said. "But I think father is right in what he said about having a child. It's going to be very difficult to find a willing... erm stud."

She snorted, Sorais and Karic bursting into gales of laughter, Theo very red.

"I don't know what else to call it!" he complained, then cleared his throat. "Anyway. Back on track. The main problem I can see is how hard it would be to raise a child on your own."

"Why would I be on my own?" she asked. "I have you three."

Sorais snorted, Karic guffawing, even Theo chuckling a bit.

"What? You know it's true. You can't kept your noses out of my business already. Why would that change when I have a child?"

"Suppose you're right," Theo muttered. "Something else to mention to your future fiancée, Sorais. See how she feels about having a close-knit relationship with her in-laws."

"I'll make sure to mention it," he said dryly, then reached over and gently tugged at Ileana's braid. "We'll back you up, whatever you decide."

"I appreciate it."

"Come on," Theo said. "We need to get this food back to Alice and check on her injuries."

Nodding, she fell in step with him, gently slugging his arm. "I'm glad none of you care but you could have brought it up any other way."

"Maybe," he agreed. "But it's in the open now." 

Chapter 3: Making Bargains

Summary:

Ileana decides on a way of soothing her brothers' fears about being able to raise a child alone.
She meets Hircine and agrees to a bargain.

Notes:

The only explicit sex scene is in this chapter. It starts at the second page break.

 

"Sometimes it feels like your friend has been here forever," Edrien noted, leaning against a bookcase.

"She has that effect on people," Ileana responded, lowering her book and looking over to where Alice was polishing a desk while talking to Theo. I wonder if she still has a crush on him. I'll have to observe them more closely now that she's starting to feel better.

"Ileana. Your parents told me about the discussion you had before they left," he said. "I agree with your father."

Wrinkling her nose, she looked at him. "Why wait this long to tell me?" I know they trust you, but I don't like that they told you about this.

"I wasn't sure how to approach it," he said. "And I admit I was scoping out the locals, listening in to gossip. I can honestly say, there's not a single man in this city I would trust to not go after your family's money or reputation."

She sighed. "I know." Closing the book, she set it on the table in front of her, fiddling with the bookmark. "But I could always adopt. I don't have to go through a pregnancy. Probably be more comfortable for me in the long run anyway."

"That's a good point," he agreed. "And I'm glad you've given it serious thought." He frowned, tilting his head. "What's bothering you?"

Did you think it was a whim? Shaking the irritation off, she straightened. "I've been meaning to ask you something. I guess now's as good a time as any."

"What is it?"

"Could I become a werewolf?"

He frowned. "Why do you want to?"

"One of the things my brothers are worried about is that I might not feel strong enough to protect a child. If I'm a werewolf..."

"I can understand your reasoning," he agreed. "What do you brothers think?"

"I haven't talked to them yet. But I know they suspect." She shook her head, a small smile tugging at her mouth. "They always suspect."

"I'm not against it but I think you should talk to Akgruhl about it. She would be a strong donor if she agreed it was a decent idea."

"Not you?"

"Akgruhl is stronger than me. She's probably the strongest wolf in a hundred mile radius."

"Because she's an Orc?"

He shook his head. "I'm not sure what lends to her strength. All I know is I've been glad on more than one occasion that she has it."

"Does it matter how strong your donor is?"

"It can. Usually, it gives you an initial boost of strength while you accrue your own."

She nodded, pushing back from the table. "Well. No time like the present."

Finding Akgruhl in her office, she rapped on the door frame, waiting for her to look up from her paperwork and beckon her in. "What can I do for you Ileana?"

"I was wondering if I could become a werewolf."

Frowning, she stacked the papers in front of her, tapping her fingers on the desk. "Why?"

"I want to have a child and there is worry I won't be strong enough to protect one on my own."

"You are never alone," she said, "your brothers and friend do not allow it."

"I know. But they still worry."

"Some werewolves are strongly taken by their instincts," she warned. "They become very aggressive. In manners you may be ill-equipped to handle."

"Well, that's what the donor is for, right?"

She smirked. "Yes. If they're not worth killing. I suspect that your brothers, and possibly Alice will wish to join the pack as well. Once they catch wind of your scheme, which you know they will."

"Would you be alright with that?"

"Dra'ri, Click and I have been expecting it since your parents left. That you did not approach me immediately speaks well to your patience. We'll see if that extends to what your wolf spirit brings you."

"So, you agree?"

"I agree. The rest of the pack and I will mix our blood if your brothers and Alice wish to join you in this decision." She smiled, turning her gaze back to her papers. "Will you tell them? Or will you let them approach you?"

"I'm not sure yet."

She chuckled. "When Secunda is full, we shall perform the ritual. For any who wish to be changed."

 

"When were you planning to tell us?" Alice asked softly, smiling when Ileana startled and whirled to face her, seeing her brothers arranged in a semi-circle behind her, all of them with their arms crossed.

"I figured it was my decision and it would only impact me," she admitted, blushing furiously when Theo tilted his head slightly to better peer down his nose at her.

"Since when do any of our decisions only impact one of us?" Karic demanded.

"I had thought that if it goes well for me that I could talk you around to considering it for yourselves," she said, shuffling her feet. "Or suggest it, without the talking around. Because it is asking a lot. We all know how badly some werewolves can act. And we all know it closes Aetherius to us."

"I for one would love to have the strength to headbutt a vampire through the wall if I ever meet anyone from a certain clan again," Alice said, her voice hard. "Drinks and Dra'ri have made it clear just how horrible Coldharbour is so, I've no desire to go the undead route. But I'll be damned if I'm ever that powerless again."

Alice.

"Can't be shown up by my baby sister," Karic said dryly. "You know the blood will make you quicker and stronger than I am." He tsked his tongue. "We can't have that. I'd never live it down."

"I want to know I can still take care of you," Sorais said quietly. "And I want to be able to head off any incidents like what sparked all of this."

"I just want to know what it's like," Theo said, laughing when they all looked at him. "I'm joking. It's not an experiment one should take lightly. But we've all seen how much good the Guild puts in the world even with their natures. And we all know that Dra'ri and Drinks are right. The risk of Coldharbour is daunting. Hunting Grounds or Coldharbour. It's an easy choice for me."

"Are you certain you want to lose out on Aetherius?" Ileana asked, a small smile playing about her mouth, relief bubbling in her chest.

"We always wanted to run wild and free in the forest," Alice said. "And wasn't our favorite romance The Merchant and the Beast? We'll just... all take the part of the beast."

She laughed, startled to hear how relieved it sounded. "I was willing to do it alone."

"We know," Karic responded. "But why, when you don't have to?"

 

Akgruhl laughed when they reported their decision to her, giving Ileana a knowing look, gathering Nils and Audrey, the Guild's married werewolf couple, as well as Dra'ri, Drinks, Breeze and the ever enigmatic Click to a small clearing in the woods on the night Secunda was full, unwrapping an earthenware basin, settling it on a flat stone.

Akgruhl, Edrien, Nils, and Audrey shifted, Breeze slashing each of their arms, dripping blood into the basin, healing each gash before shifting into her werebear form, moving to stand by Click and the vampires, Click itching around one of the antlers that graced his head, his gaze focused on the blood, his expression as inscrutable as always.

When the change took them, the Guild ran alongside them, keeping them company as they took to their new senses.

To everyone's surprise, Alice and Ileana took to the blood the swiftest, outrunning everyone else as they tore through the trees, Alice's growls and howls spurring Ileana on, the woods welcoming, the beast blood slowly overpowering her senses, pulling her under until she could only feel.

---

Ileana woke alone in a wooded clearing. Pushing up carefully into a seated position, she brushed twigs off her bare skin, looking around. Searching her memories, she tried to orient herself, not recognizing her immediate surroundings. Standing, she focused on the guild house, casting a clairvoyance spell, frowning when it spun in her hands, wrapping around her in soft blue light. I've never seen that before.

A rich, unearthly smell filled her nose, and she turned swiftly, facing a tall antlered man as he stepped into the clearing, his form reminding her strongly of Click down to the pointed ears and pine green eyes. "It is not easy to find this place," he greeted, crossing muscular arms over his broad chest. "And you stumbled into it by accident. Tell me, new-blood, what is it that you so desperately want?"

Biting her lip, she stared at him for a long moment before bowing her head, her senses telling her what her mind was having trouble accepting. "I appreciate your interest in me, Lord Hircine. But I fear my desire is beyond even your great reach." Strange that Click would choose a form that mimics his so closely.

"Interesting," he responded. "It's been a very long time since anyone was able to truly say that. So, tell me. What is your heart's desire?"

He can probably know if I lie. "I want to have a child," she said quietly. "But I don't want to get married. I have no interest in romantic entanglements." She sighed. "It makes things more complicated than I like."

He nodded slowly. "I see. Well. Return to this clearing in two mortal months. I will have an answer for you. And... perhaps a bargain."

"Of course, my lord."

He smiled, vanishing, Ileana's clairvoyance spell unwinding so swiftly from her that she stumbled, turning the direction it shone. I didn't even realize I was still casting it. Following the trail, preoccupied with the meeting, she nearly stumbled over Karic, pausing to crouch by him, shaking him gently awake.

He rolled over, groaning, reaching a hand up to press on his temples, massaging gently, pushing tangled hair back behind his ears as he sat up, Ileana glancing swiftly away, not before noting a mage tattoo on his right thigh. They really got the tattoos? Or did only Karic get one? 

"So much for being able to keep up with you," he grumbled. "How did you get so fast?"

She grinned, trying to shake off her embarrassment. "Just lucky I guess."

"Have you found anyone else?"

"Not yet."

"Best look together," he suggested.

Offering him a hand up, she frowned when she caught a new scent. "Can you smell that?" she asked.

He nodded, frowning. "I'm not sure what it is."

"Who," a soft voice corrected, Dra'ri tossing a pack at their feet. "Get dressed. Sorais is coming with Edrien and Akgruhl. The rest of the Guild headed back home."

"Thank you," Ileana said, dressing swiftly from the pack. "Have you come across Alice or Theo yet?"

"Not yet, but this one will move ahead. You and Alice are very swift, yes?"

"Apparently so," she said, relieved to have her boots on. "Almost a pity we don't get tougher skin as a side effect."

Karic snorted, tugging at her hair, grinning when she batted his hand away and braided it swiftly, wishing she had a brush.

"So, two left I see?" Edrien said, walking into the clearing, Sorais walking with him, both fully dressed.

"I'm surprised you and Alice got separated," Sorais said. "I didn't think anything would draw you two apart on this new adventure."

"Luck, good or bad, we don't know yet," she said easily. I'm not telling anyone about that meeting. I feel like I should keep it a secret until we meet again at the earliest.

 

Dra'ri was waiting for them about a mile further in the forest. "This one has picked up the trail of the last two. It is here. Now you wolves have fun and don't get into trouble," she said, tossing the pack toward Karic. "This one is going to join the others indoors, before the sun gets any brighter."

"Of course," Edrien grumbled. "Over here. Looks like they found each other so, that's going to make things easier."

Ileana and her brothers nodded, both crouching with him when he pointed out the trail, listening as he explained how to focus their newly upgraded sense of smell on the particular scents needed.

A fresh scent hit Ileana's nose as the trail got stronger, and she puzzled over it. Smells almost familiar. I know I've smelled something like this before. Not this strong of course. But what is it? And why is it so familiar?

"Um, Edrien," Sorais started. "Maybe we should wait for them to find us."

Edrien paused, tilting his head slightly, clearing his throat. "Right. Maybe we should."

Strange. Why does this smell bother them? She stopped with them, frowning over the scent, turning when she noted which direction Alice's scent was strongest. "And if they're still asleep?" she asked. "I had to shake Karic's shoulder pretty hard."

"I'm sure they'll wake up soon," Karic said, his cheeks flushed. "We can wait a bit longer."

"Coward," she teased, grabbing the pack from him and following the scents. The realization of what exactly she was picking up struck her when she stepped into a clearing and found Alice draped over Theo, one of his arms under his head, the other wrapped tightly around her best friend. Oh. That's why the others didn't want to come over here. She frowned at them a moment, chewing at her lip, feeling unaccountably embarrassed.

Wrinkling her nose, she shrugged it off, walking forward, casting about for something to say, rejecting comments on Alice's scars immediately, seizing on the spot of ink she could see on Theo's right thigh. "I seriously thought you three were messing with me when you said you got matching mage tattoos," she said loudly, tossing the pack to land next to them, biting back hard on a laugh when they jerked awake, blinking up at her.

Alice pulled away from Theo, blushing furiously. "Um."

"Didn't realize you still had a crush on him," she noted casually, "or that he reciprocated now," she added, grinning when Theo's blush darkened and spread down his chest. "Impressed you managed to hide it." She turned, facing the trail. "So, any regrets?"

"About which part?" she asked.

"The change," she said, lifting her hand up, studying the back. I should know better than to entertain the idea of a bargain with a Daedric Prince. But isn't that what I just did by deciding to become a werewolf? Not like Hircine... don't finish that thought. There's plenty he could ask that I wouldn't want to give. Plenty he could hold over my head.

"Do you have any regrets?" Theo asked, moving to her side.

"No."

"We'll get used to it in time," Alice said, joining them on Theo's other side, slipping her hand into his.

"Our parents are going to be ecstatic," Ileana said softly, nodding toward their hands.

Alice gave her a trembling smile. "I think mine would be happy too. I mean, we don't know how far this could go."

"But it's worth a try," Theo agreed.

"And we'll have you and the others to rein us in if we try to go the bitter route if it fails."

"You bet you do," she agreed, grinning at them. "I'll take Alice's side in everything."

Theo snorted, shoving her gently, Ileana bracing harder than she was used to. "That'll take getting used to," he muttered.

"It will," she agreed. "Come on. The others were too scared to follow your trail the rest of the way."

They flushed, Ileana snickering as she led them down the path. "At least our brothers have a sense of decorum," Theo grumbled.

"No comment about the tattoo?" she asked.

"Not our fault you didn't believe us," he said. "And we figured you'd have noticed how gingerly we were treating our legs for a while. Tattoos take a bit of time to heal."

"I suppose I had other things on my mind," she said.

The others were waiting where she'd left them, wearing varying levels of embarrassment on their faces, Ileana catching it in their scents with interest. I like being able to smell so much. Wonder if I always will.

Heading back toward the Guild House, Ileana studied the path as they walked. Was that really Hircine? Or did I dream that interaction? Rubbing her temples, she looked up, enjoying the feel of the wind on her face, wondering how long it would take for her to really get the feel for her new abilities.

"What are you thinking about?" Karic asked, moving to walk at her side.

"I like my new senses. I'm trying to think about how I might feel about them in the future."

He chuckled. "Of course that's what you'd focus on."

"What about you?"

"I'm wondering how much easier this will make trading. I'll be able to pick up on the emotions of the people we trade with which should help us during negotiations in the future."

"And of course that's what you'd be thinking about," she said. "But it's a good thing. You'll keep us from getting taken advantage of when we take over." Melancholy overwhelmed her, souring her thoughts. "It's hard to think about taking it all over," she murmured. "I'm still not sure what I think of our parents moving to High Isle. I guess I always knew it was a possibility since they were born there, but still..."

"I know," he agreed. "But we'll do as they asked and do our best. It's the only thing we can do."

She nodded, falling into companionable silence with him as they continued along the path, her thoughts turning back to the clearing. Was that truly Hircine? Does he truly want me to return? Could it be possible that he'd have a solution for all of this?

---

Somehow, she found the clearing easily when she returned. Walking around it, she studied it, finding the grass softer and sweeter smelling than anything in the rest of the forest, and she brushed her fingers against the ground, looking around. It was so easy to find but Hircine promised I found it by accident before. But maybe he made it easier for me to find this time?

That same overwhelming presence from before compelled her to turn, and she found herself facing Hircine once again. There's no mistaking his power when I'm this close. He was honest about who he is. But now I need to find out what he thinks will be the proper solution to my situation.

"Well met Ileana," he said, smiling at her startle. "Of course I learned your name. And I have been wandering this land, thinking of how to respond to your request. I've listened, and learned, quite a lot about the shifters I have in this area." He sighed, sounding content. "They're good followers. And I'm pleased that they're flourishing and seem to have avoided the hunters who bow to Stendarr."

"I think the guild I'm part of has something to do with that," she admitted. "We try to make sure that there's nothing happening that could draw their attention."

He smiled, moving to her side. "I gathered that. I am pleased to have so many clever followers." He lifted a hand to his chin, glancing down at her. "As to your heart's desire. I listened in on discussions about that as well. And it was enlightening to learn about the constraints that mortals have lain on themselves."

"I suppose it would look that way from the outside," she agreed.

With a small laugh, he waved his hand, the world shifting around them slightly, a shimmering barrier surrounding the clearing. "I would offer you a bargain, Ileana."

"Oh?" she wondered, studying the boundary, wondering if she could replicate it.

He nodded slightly. "Your desire to have a child matches mine." He smiled at her when she looked swiftly up to meet his gaze. "It has been many years since I last sired a demi-prince, and I have learned much since then. You wish to avoid emotional entanglements with the father of your child. And while you have spoken of taking in a foundling, anyone with a good nose would know that you do wish to have a child of your own bloodline. An idea that I cannot fault you for."

She blinked, taking in his words, letting them settle in her mind, considering the idea. "Would raising a demi-prince be dangerous?" she asked softly.

"I hesitate to answer that," he responded. "Because what I find dangerous is nowhere on the level what mortals do. Would it be more difficult than raising a mortal child? Most likely."

"So, they would be immortal?"

"Mm," he frowned, itching around his antlers. "More accurate to say that it will be more difficult than raising a fully mortal child. Immortality is never a guarantee for a demi-prince. There are outliers, but it is hard to know if that is because of who their second parent is."

"Good to know," she murmured. It would be difficult to outlive everyone. I'm not sure what I hope for a future child's sake. "But what would make it more difficult?"

"You are wise to ask these questions," he said warmly. "A demi-prince inherits a good portion of their parent's power. That can be uncomfortable for mortals to be around. A child of mine would become a powerful shifter. Probably wolf over any other kind. And your being the mother means that they will have much in the way of magic, bolstered by my power. And unconstrained by the confines that plague the magic of mortals."

"So, they would be a powerful mage, and a werewolf," she said softly, looking at the trees. "A small price to pay," she said. "What else is part of this bargain?"

He shrugged. "Not a lot that will affect you. When they reach a particular age, I will send one of my First Turned to help train them to wield their power effectively. And I would expect them to know who I am from the beginning. I claim all werewolves when they pass. There will be no need for me to take them to my world."

"What do you get out of it?" she wondered, giving him a sceptical look. There has to be something. You're a Daedric Prince. You don't do anything out of altruism.

"I get a powerful follower, and I get the chance to see if I can avoid a situation from centuries ago. It is good for a hunter to see if he has learned from his past. And that is what I am aiming to find out."

So, an experiment. "They will be able to mingle with regular mortals?" she asked.

"They will. They will not be the only demi-prince of this age."

Is that part of why you're doing this? Because other Princes have? I'm not sure what I think of that.

"What is your decision?" he asked, turning to face her fully, crossing his arms.

She studied him, letting herself appreciate the swell of his muscles, the sharp planes of his face. Though I know he could appear deer headed if he wished, I like this face much better. Lifting her chin, she nodded. "I accept," she said. "Thank you, Lord Hircine."

He grinned, swooping in and pulling her tightly against him, pressing his mouth to hers. "I promise you that I am well versed in providing pleasure," he murmured. "You will not regret this night."

She flushed, pulling back when he did, yanking her clothing off swiftly, permitting herself to run her hands over his broad chest when he came back in, willingly following him to the sweet smelling grass when he pulled her down. Sucking in a deep breath, she let out a soft cry of pleasure when he ran his mouth down her throat, running her hands down his sides, skimming with her nails.

His fingers found her clit, and she writhed beneath him, flushing when he chuckled, drawing a hand up his cock, enjoying his throaty moan.

Lifting his hips, he slid his cock into her, filling her as no man had ever done before.

She could smell magic in the air, feel it in her blood. For a brief second she worried about the potions she took to control her menses, the worries swept away with the rush of a heady orgasm.

Matching his pace, she focused on the sensations, tightening around him, watching his face, marvelling at how easily he let his pleasure be read.

He leaned over her, holding her leg against his side, picking up his pace, pausing a moment with a low grunt, his face slackening slightly, before he shifted their positions, pulling her into his lap, his cock still hard inside her.

She leaned into him, bracing with a hand against the back of his neck, the other resting on his chest. He held her tight against him, rocking his hips, driving his cock into her again, and again, the sensations close to overwhelming, pleasure swamping her, singing in her blood, her head light.

Finally, when she thought she could take no more, he came again, pressing a kiss to her cheek. "You take me well, Ileana. You should be pleased with your skills."

Flushing hard, she pulled back slightly, seeing the sincerity in his eyes. Too overwhelmed to respond, she rested her head against his shoulder, trembling with exhaustion.

He chuckled, smoothing her hair down. "You will need to rest often after this. Do not push yourself too hard." Carefully, he pulled her off his lap, resting her in the soft grass, draping a blanket over her. "I will come see you again sometime soon."

"Thank you," she murmured, drowsily closing her eyes. "I'll see you then."

 

The spattering of light sleet on her face woke her, and Ileana sat up, clutching the blanket to her chest, the ache in her body, and the blanket the only sign she had of what had happened the night before. Silently, she gathered up her clothing and dressed, running fingers through her hair until they caught on snarls.

That wasn't what I was expecting when Hircine said he could bargain with me. And I feel like he didn't tell me the whole story of what he wanted. But that he wants someone to raise a child for him was clear enough. And I do want one. He was right there.

Pensively, she left the clearing, heading back to the Guild House, retracing her steps.

"Ileana!"

Sorais' voice caught her attention, and she slowed, turning to face the direction he'd called from.

He burst out of the trees, gasping for breath, his hair mussed, eyes wild. "Where have you been!?" he demanded.

"What do you mean?" she asked, furrowing her brows. "I was only gone the night."

"The night? Ileana, you've been gone for three days."

She blinked, turning to look back down the trail. How could it have been that long?

"Where were you?" he repeated, startled cries proceeding the approach of the rest of her pack.

She turned to face them as they spilled onto the path. "I was with Hircine," she said softly, smelling the disbelief and startle that rippled through the assembled group, looking up to meet Theo's eyes. "We made a bargain."

"What, kind of bargain?" Edrien asked, smelling worried.

She smiled, looking at Karic. "The night I got the blood, I found a clearing. I met him then, and he told me most people never found that place. That he would give me what I wanted most. When I told him what I wanted, he told me to meet him back in that clearing in two mortal months."

"What you wanted most," Alice repeated. "You don't meant to say..."

"He wanted someone to raise a demi-prince for him. And...,"

"You want a baby with no strings attached to their other parent," Breeze said, rocking back on her heels, arms crossed. "Well, this will complicate your work with the Guild. Won't it Akgruhl?"

Akgruhl blinked, glancing at her, then looking at Ileana. "It was your choice?" she demanded.

"It was a mutual decision but even with the power he wields, I did not feel pressured. I swear it."

"Then we will make it work," she said firmly, exchanging glances with Edrien.

"Why didn't you tell us about your first meeting?" Theo asked, smelling slightly hurt.

"I wasn't entirely convinced I hadn't dreamed it," she admitted. "It wasn't until I went back that I realized it had been real."

He sighed. "I suppose I can understand that. But there's no mistaking some of the scents clinging to you. And that would be quite a tale to spin if it weren't true."

"You know I try to only tell believable lies, “she agreed.

"What will you tell your parents?" Audrey asked.

"That I met a hunter who was willing to agree to my terms." She glanced over her shoulder again. "It's a minuscule shadow of the truth of what He is."

"But an easy story to stick to," she agreed, glancing at Nils with a smile. "And you were worried our baby would have no friends their age."

Ileana lifted an eyebrow. "Your baby?"

She nodded. "I am not far enough along to make shifting inadvisable. We were planning to tell the Guild in another week or so, if no one figured it out before then."

"At this rate you'll have us nursemaids to a gaggle of children rather than a proper Guild," Akgruhl grumbled, amusement heavy in her scent. 

"We'll make it work," Breeze said, grinning up at her. "And who knows, maybe one day we'll be adding one of our own to the mix."

Huffing out a hard breath, smelling unaccountably embarrassed, she started forward. "Come. Guild paperwork needs sorting. Audrey and Ileana will learn how to manage that, so we are all prepared for when their condition makes their usual work dangerous."

Chapter 4: Nobility

Summary:

Ileana discovers that raising a demi-prince of Hircine is going to be even more interesting than expected.
She makes another bargain that sees them elevated to minor noble status.

Pregnancy was miserable. Ileana often found herself leaning against bookcases and walls to catch her breath in later months, cursing the senses she'd enjoyed only a short time before. And she spent every morning reminding herself that this was what she'd wanted. That it would be worth weathering the physical symptoms, the snide glances and comments, the disappointment from both her parents.

"On the plus side, your parents won't be able to coerce you into a match," Alice said, sitting next to her on her bed one morning.

"I'm aware," she said, levering herself up into a sitting position, wincing when the babe shifted, Alice reaching out to rest her hand on her belly.

"Your babe is very active," she said, smiling fondly. "Did Sorais tell you that he got word back from Emilie that she doesn't care about the stigma of marrying into a family that refuses to disown an unmarried mother?"

"He did. And I apologized for jeopardizing his marriage contract in the first place."

"What did he say to that?" she wondered.

"That perhaps my timing had been a good thing after all. This way there's no chance of broken expectations."

"Your parents will be here next month for Theo's and my ceremony," she said. "Are you excited to see them?"

"I always am," she said softly. And I'm glad they didn't seek to disown me after they found out. They could have. And that action would have been applauded by many in their circles.

She fidgeted with the blanket. "And you're still alright with me and Theo? I know things will change some with our marriage. He'll be my first choice for confidant over you, but..."

"Things are already changing," she pointed out, resting her hand on her belly pointedly. "And you've loved Theo for years. It would be cruel of me to be unhappy for you two." And selfishly I'm glad you two are together. Because it means I'll never lose my best friend to another household. Having you here has done much to make Evermore feel like home.

Alice smiled, moving to lean against her. "I can tell you're deep in your thoughts," she said. "We're going to be sisters legally soon. I'm glad."

"Me too," Ileana said, resting her head on hers, soaking in the peace.

 

It was a mild day, Ileana blessing it as she fanned her face lightly with a silken fan, trying to ignore the occasional glance from her parents as they waited for Alice to enter the room.

The local Priestess of Mara spoke quietly with Theo, her gaze very knowing as she glanced at the trio lurking at the back of the room. 

Theo picked at his doublet as he fidgeted, turning swiftly when the door opened, shifting his weight, very obviously holding himself back from moving forward.

Ileana glanced toward the door, watching Alice walk in, radiant in a deep blue off-shoulder gown, her scars readily apparent, no longer a source of deep pain she felt compelled to cover.

She watched her, mood buoyed by the smile on Theo's face as Alice reached out for him. The rest of the ceremony passed in a bit of a blur, Ileana holding herself back when the well wishers converged on the couple, loathe to risk the heat generated by the press of bodies. Alice caught her eye as she returned a hug from Breeze, her smile bright.

Inclining her head, she sighed, pleased to watch the pair get pulled into a discussion with Akgruhl, Audrey moving to stand next to her.

"Too hot?" she asked, her hand resting lightly on her stomach.

"Too hot," she agreed. "How are you handling it?"

"Ready for this little one to be born already. But they're taking their sweet time about it."

"They just want to be closer in age to mine is all," she said, laughing when Audrey snorted.

"Alice looks radiant," she said.

"She does. I'm glad to see her so happy."

"We all are. Well, best leave you to your family. Good luck with your discussion with your parents. And I hope that by the time the celebrations are done we'll be preparing for a naming ceremony."

"Gods willing," Ileana said, straightening her shoulders when her mother turned her direction. Time for an uncomfortable discussion. 

 

"A conversation beforehand would have been the right thing to do," Claudine said. "A chance to meet the father. People are talking."

"We had discussed it," she pointed out. "Is it so surprising that I would move forward when I had the chance?" And what do I care what people in Camlorn say anymore? So long as I'm not the one going out there to trade, I won't impact the business. Might even help it. Wouldn't surprise me if Karic is willing to use my reputation in some way during negotiations.

"Still. Knowing that some unknown hunter is the father isn't nearly enough to satisfy my curiosity. You've never even told me his name."

"Does it really matter?" she asked.

"Do you fear that we would try to track him down?"

"Something like that."

"Ileana. We could have found a marriage of convenience for you. One where there were no expectations of love."

"Don't worry too much," Ileana said, moving gingerly to the chair next to her mother, wishing she couldn't smell her wine. "You'll be moving to High Isle soon. Do you fear the gossip following you all the way out there?"

"It may," she said quietly. "You are certain the father has no interest in meddling?"

"I am," she said. He won't meddle in the way you worry over.

"Well, hope that there are no multiples on his side then," she said. "You'll likely regret this otherwise."

She laughed, bracing her hand against her stomach. "I've had healers look me over, there's only the one."

"Do you know what you'll name them?"

"I was thinking Loriel for a girl, or Lewin for a boy."

"Good names," she said, the irritation finally seeping out of her scent. "What did you think of the ceremony?" she wondered, changing the subject as she lifted her glass again.

"It has been a long time since I saw Theo that flustered. But he was happy too. I'm glad. Alice looked radiant of course."

"She did," she agreed. "I'd always hoped she'd join our family in some way. For a while I thought she might join through you. Thought maybe your eschewing of romance was because of feelings for her."

Repressing a snort, she shook her head. "No, she's had a crush on Theo for years. I'm glad it was reciprocated. Besides, I already knew because of how you reacted to Karic that if I did ever develop feelings for a woman, it wouldn't bother you."

"It's hard for me to understand the idea of not having romantic feelings for anyone. Did I ever tell you about the first time I saw your father?"

She nodded. "I remember. And honestly, what I told you is the truth, I have no desire to fall in love with anyone. I'm not sure I've ever had a crush. People describe them to me, but I don't recognize it as something I've ever felt."

"Then it seems this was the best route." She frowned. "It will be a while before I readily accept knowing nothing about the father of my first grandchild."

It's better this way. Even if you know one or two werewolves, that's very different than knowing your daughter made a bargain with a Daedric Prince. "I think it's easier this way," she said quietly. "You'll never have to judge him for not wanting to raise his child."

"That is a very good point," she agreed. "I'll remind your father of that later." Rising, she gave Ileana a hand up. "Come, let's get you back to bed. I can tell your energy is slipping away."

"Thank you, mother," she said softly, leaning into her offered hug. "I'll make sure this child writes to you."

"Good. I'll hold you to that."

---

"He is a beautiful infant," Hircine said, sitting down on Ileana's bed, reaching into the cradle to brush his thumb against Lewin's cheek, smiling when he shifted slightly. "I've always loved watching little ones. Animals and mortals alike."

Ileana watched, taking a steadying breath before speaking. "I've been meaning to ask. How will you go about ensuring his beast blood? I assume you'd want someone specific." Probably not how I got mine. 

"That is part of why I came when I did," he said, scribing a pattern in the air, a small, almost ethereal wolf pup appearing in his arms. "I fashioned him from part of my soul," he said, lifting the pup to his face, turning him to show Ileana. "Usually, I create the spirits from what naturally exists in my Hunting Grounds or alter Daedric blooded creatures but...," he smiled. "For my son, it is only right to do it this way." He sighed, nuzzling the pup against his cheek. "He's been waiting for a partner for some time now, I'm glad to give him one."

She frowned, staring at the spirit. "He's not a pup?" she wondered. I'm confused. Is the sleep deprivation getting to me?

"He is. But most of his growth was delayed while I waited for a mortal worthy of him. He has all his memories of his time living in the Hunting Grounds. They will grow together." He gave her a small smile. "He'll be just as big as your wolf spirit one day. Larger probably, so long as Lewin nurtures their connection properly."

Ileana blinked, watching him bring glowing hands and pup down toward Lewin. "He's going to be a werewolf from this young?" she asked, trying to wrap her mind around it, and the potential repercussions.

"He will," he said, Lewin making a soft sound, the wolf pup vanishing.

Carefully, Hircine lifted Lewin in his hands, staring down at him for a long moment, passing him over to Ileana when he started fussing.

She accepted him without question, looking down into her son's face. "I thought you'd said he'd be able to mingle with other mortals. If the wrong people realize that an infant can shift there will be questions." And worse. I'll have to think quickly about what to tell the Guild. When to tell the Guild. They'll need to know.

He hmm'd, crossing his arms over his chest, watching her closely. "What would you suggest? You know mortals better than I."

She thought quickly as she fed Lewin, certain this was a test of some kind. "Funding," she said finally. "If I have enough money to purchase rural land, I can be sure he'll only be seen by his family."

He nodded. "The wilderness, or close to it, is an excellent place for my son to thrive. I shall confer with my First Turned and be back in a few mortal days," he said.

 

There was no hiding what Hircine had done.

The morning after he'd left, Alice slipped into the room, sniffing the air curiously as she made her way to Ileana's side, stopping dead when she looked into the cradle. "Ileana?"

She shifted to the side of the bed, pushing into a sitting position, peering into the cradle to see that Lewin had shifted in the night, a tiny werewolf sleeping in the crib. "Hircine came by last night," she said quietly, resting her hand gently on his head.

"He gave him blood?" she demanded, smelling and looking horrified.

Shaking her head, she winced when Lewin shifted again with a small cry, the sound changing swiftly to the sound of hunger. "He gave him a wolf spirit directly." She looked up at her as she lifted Lewin. "A pup." An ancient pup. I'm still not sure on how that worked but I'm not going to think about it too much, I'll only hurt my head.

Staring at her, she glanced down at Lewin again. "Well, on the one hand, I'm glad he didn't give blood. But on the other..., I've never given much thought to our wolf spirits. How will a pup change things?"

She sighed. "I'm not sure. Honestly, with the way he was talking, the spirit has been around for a while but never grew. But will grow now? I'm very confused about it, honestly."

"Theo might have ideas about how it works. But I'll give the rest of the guild a heads up about what he did," she said, shaking her head. "This will complicate things a lot."

"I know. I told Hircine I needed enough money to buy some rural land. Keep him away from prying eyes and he promised to be back in a few mortal days."

"Well, let's hope he comes through with that."

Ileana nodded, rising slowly, bracing Lewin against her shoulder, rubbing his back. "He doesn't seem to be distressed by shifting but...,"

"What does your wolf spirit think?" Alice asked, tapping her chest. "Getting any impressions?"

"She's been pretty quiet the past week. Other than the overwhelming protective feeling when you handed me Lewin the first time," she said, pacing slowly.

"My wolf's pretty protective of him too, and I could smell the same in the others. I think most of it is because we're pack. I felt similar when I met Aurane."

"I did as well. It's stronger with Lewin but that's probably because I'm his mother."

"Definitely," she agreed. "Do you need anything?"

"Moving is a bit less painful today but I think another day of rest before I chance the stairs so, something to eat?"

"Sure. I'll see you soon." Shaking her head again, she brushed her finger against Lewin's downy hair. "Troublemaker already. And only a few days old."

 

Hircine returned when he promised, four large chests and a brown haired Nord man coming with him. "This is Jolfr. He advised me on what you would need. And you will see him again when Lewin is old enough to start training."

"Well met Ileana," Jolfr said warmly. "I hope what I've recommended will be enough," he said, opening each of the chests to show they were filled completely with gems and gold.

Her eyebrows lifted at the amount, and she glanced up at Jolfr.

He shook his head slightly, mouthing. "Don't argue it."

Bowing her head to Hircine, she passed Lewin over when he reached for him. "Thank you, my Lord," she said. That is far more than I needed but... Jolfr likely has reason for suggesting I not say anything. And he has a point. Questioning a Daedric Prince may have gone alright for me a few days ago but there's no reason to believe it would go well today.

"I will try to look in on him over the years," he said, kissing Lewin's forehead, glancing at Ileana. "I am relying on you to raise him well." Passing him back, he frowned. "Teach him cunning. And teach him humility. I will not be pleased to lose him because he was raised to think he could challenge me."

"I'll do my best," she promised, a chill running down her spine. What happened to your previous demi-prince?

Hircine and Jolfr vanished seconds later, and she paced, holding Lewin close to her chest, wolf spirit rousing enough to agitate softly, feeding off her nerves. I need to hunt. It's been too long, and it'll be a good way to clear my head.

Taking a deep breath, she moved to the door, slipping out, looking for her brothers.

She found Karic in the library, focused on a book in front of him, a quill forgotten in his hand, his brow furrowed. "Did Akgruhl give you the sling wrap yet?" he asked distractedly, rolling his shoulders back as he looked up, the tension on his face easing when his attention dropped to Lewin.

"I haven't seen her yet. But there's something I need to show you."

He sighed, tapping the page in front of him. "I wish I could, but I need to finish these reports," he said.

"You're going to want to see this," she promised. I'm glad I found him first. He's got the best head for money in our family so he should know what to do with the windfall Hircine brought us. 

Grumbling, he pushed back from the desk and rose, moving toward her, reaching out to take Lewin, smiling down at him as soon as he was in his arms. "Alright. I suppose I have a few minutes."

She grinned, leading him back to her room, taking Lewin back when he exclaimed over the chests. "He came through," she said. "This will be more than enough to finance a rural estate."

He nodded. "What do you think about setting up the Guild Hall there? I'll float the idea to Akgruhl first of course, but it would keep them close, and it would give all of us even more place to retreat to when people start asking questions."

"I'd like that," she said. "It would give Lewin several good role models as he grows. And if Drinks and Dra'ri agree to move with us..."

"They'd be good teachers," he agreed. "Click would too."

She frowned. "He would. Wonder if we'll ever find out what he is."

"Maybe." He frowned down at the chests. "I'll go get the others. This is going to take planning and a lot of math."

 

Within hours, Akgruhl was in her element, sending every guild member not on a job to search through the building to make a full accounting of every item currently in the Guild's possession while she drafted letters to send to Cyrodiil to inform them of their 'anonymous donor'.

"They never gave us enough money in the first place," she said, giving Ileana a wide grin, her tusks gleaming in the lantern light. "Finally, we'll have a place worthy of our reputation."

"Drinks-Well and Breeze said they know a couple good werewolf families who've been struggling against some vampire incursions. Think they could move in with us?" Audrey asked, rocking Aurane to sleep in her arms.

"We'll have the room for it if we do our job right," Akgruhl responded. "As soon as the others are done cataloguing everything, we'll know the minimum size for what we'll need to have built."

"We should get a proper manor house built for Ileana and her brothers," she suggested. "Give people something to see from a distance that can add to whatever rumors we want to spread about the place."

"What kind of rumors were you thinking of?" Ileana asked, rubbing Lewin's back gently when he started fussing.

"Eccentric nobles are renowned for taking on strange passion projects," she responded.

"We're a merchant family though," she pointed out.

"With the amount of money Hircine gave you, you could easily buy into noble circles. And it would keep other nobles from trying to cause problems for us."

"I'd listen to her," Akgruhl suggested. "Her parents were Guards to a prominent noble family in Daggerfall. They trained her to follow in their footsteps. Which means understanding what nobles are like."

"And then I met Nils in Camlorn." She smiled fondly at her daughter. "And now I'm here."

"I'll talk to Sorais and Karic about how they want to approach it," Ileana agreed. "They know nobles and merchants better than I do."

"And Sorais is the eldest so, he'll be taking the brunt of the scrutiny. His willingness to go through with an arranged marriage may play in your favor."

She nodded, thinking of his fiancée. I hope Emilie will be alright with everything she ends up learning.

---

"I know it's not much to look at yet, but the plans are incredible," Ileana said, gesturing toward the in-progress manor house, her newest sister in law standing next to her.

"I've seen them," Emilie said quietly, studying the work site. "And Akgruhl spent an hour complaining about the argument she lost with Karic regarding gryphon accommodations."

She grimaced. "I was hoping she'd let that go by now. Karic made good points."

"Oh, Akgruhl will admit to that. But she doesn't like to lose."

Looking over the site pensively, she watched her newest sister-in-law out of the corner of her eye. Plump, with long black hair, dark skin and brown eyes inherited from her mother, she dressed in thick dresses to stave off the cold. "Are you disappointed?" she asked, trying to evaluate her scent, get a proper read of her emotions.

"About?" she asked, turning to face her properly.

"The current accommodations."

"Oh. No. A little discomfort won't kill me. And when Sorais warned me the estate was underway I knew what to expect." She shrugged, tugging her intricately embroidered brown and gold short-cloak tighter around her shoulders. "My father loves designing new buildings. I've visited several work sites over the years. And there will be shelter for the winter here."

"And... how are things with Sorais?" she asked delicately.

Immediately she glanced away, her scent souring with disappointment. "I knew what I was getting into with an arranged marriage," she said. "We're learning how to communicate better by the day."

Mmhmm.

"You know I won't take his side just because he's my brother, right?"

"There's no side to take," she said, glancing to the side when Alice approached. "Hello Alice."

"Emilie. Ileana. Surveying the estate?" she asked.

"We are," Ileana said. "What brings you out here?"

"Just feeling restless," she said, Ileana giving her a sympathetic look.

I hated when I got to the point where I couldn't shift as well. "Only a few more months," she soothed.

"I know. I'll be honest, I think my pregnancy is going easier than yours did. I haven't thrown up nearly as often."

"That's good to hear."

"Emilie. I've been meaning to ask you something," Alice started. "If you're willing to tell me."

"What is it?" she asked. 

"Why did you agree to an arranged marriage? I've met your family. They never would have required it of you."

Frowning, she studied her, turning to glance at Ileana, then sighing heavily. "My father's sister was worried that I spent too much time studying to meet any eligible men. She wanted me to spend more time with the gossip circles, embroidering and knitting."

"I've seen your work with both," Ileana said. "You obviously spent quite some time in those circles."

"Well, before you moved to Evermore that was certainly the case. But the discussions started getting less interesting. I'd say about a year after you left, my mother was getting complaints about my bringing up inappropriate topics."

"Like what?" Alice wondered.

"History apparently," she said dryly. "I suspect some of the families worried that I would delve into topics that the Thalmor would take issue with. My aunt suggested I attend daily social meetings instead of the twice a week I was currently going as a way to curb my studying, ensure I could meet a marriage partner. My parents disagreed. But my aunt and mother don't get along so, she got pushier, started claiming I would never find a decent marriage if I didn't ingratiate myself with the city's 'match-makers'."

"Why doesn't your aunt like your mother?" Alice asked.

"Because my mother has family members still living in Hammerfell, and she has always been open about maintaining ties with them. My aunt worries that it will one day bring the Thalmor down on our heads."

"That makes this place even safer for you," Ileana noted. "With how close we are to Hammerfell."

"Yes," she agreed. "My mother was pleased to hear about the estate in the making. And also very pleased that Sorais declined to break the contract when your family bought into noble circles."

"He's not one for breaking his word," she said.

"It's a good quality."

"Most of the time. It's gotten him into more than one scrape."

"It's Sorais," Alice laughed. "He just brawls his way out. Makes him real popular with the Orc and Nord traders."

"I'm aware," Emilie said, smelling pensive. "He asked me to travel with him to Jehanna to sign a new contract with a few Strongholds and Reachfolk villages in the area."

"He was telling me about that," Ileana said. "I wasn't aware he'd asked you to travel with him. Do you have enough snow gear? It's a lot colder than here."

"I do. He made sure of that. We'll leave tomorrow."

"We'll miss you while you're gone," Alice said. "It's been nice having another woman from Camlorn around."

She blinked, smelling startled. "I wasn't sure what to expect from your Guild but there are some good people here." She glanced toward the work site. "I look forward to seeing what's changed when we get back." Nodding, she took a step back. "I'll speak with you both later."

"Of course," Ileana agreed. "Rest well."

"We'll see you before you leave," Alice said.

Frowning, Ileana watched her walk away, turning to Alice when she sighed. "I thought, with how well Sorais gets along with Theo, that he'd be alright with marrying a scholar," she said quietly.

"Yes, but he can tell Theo to stop talking and leave him alone when he starts getting tired of it. It would be a bad thing to tell his wife."

"That's true," she agreed. "But this is the most Emilie has spoken to us. Do you really think her talking too much is the issue?"

"You're the one who brought up her being a scholar."

"Yes. But my point was her silence. How often she's tucked in a corner with a book or writing case in hand."

She fell silent, pensive, staring the way Emilie had gone. "Sorais is gregarious enough for the both of them," she said finally. "Have faith in your brother."

"It's not a matter of faith, Alice." She sighed. "I think it would be easier if they were butting heads. But they're not. She claims they're getting better with communication but we both know that was a lie."

"They're going to tiptoe around each other until something forces them to search for a middle ground," she agreed gloomily. "Do you think she regrets the marriage?"

"I'm not sure. I hope not."

"Me too. I like her, and I was honest about being happy to have another woman from Camlorn around."

"We'll give her time," Ileana said, glancing toward the work site again. "I'd best go rescue Karic from his nephew and see if Akgruhl has anything she needs done. Do you need anything?"

"No. But I'll walk with you."

Chapter 5: Of Wolves and Changelings

Summary:

Ileana learns a surprising new fact about her son, and Edrien leaves the estate.

Taking a moment to breathe, Ileana leaned against a wall, closing her eyes. The air was filled with the distant sound of shouting and laughter, the clash of weaponry echoing through the air. It had been five years in making but the Estate was finally finished. The manor house had been the last of the projects and she faced it now, watching the sun catch on the roof, the tendrils of ivy and roses too short to creep up much of the wall yet. The echo of a whinny drew her attention toward the main gate, and she squinted, trying to make out the individual traders, giving up after a few seconds. 

The werewolf families that Breeze and Drinks-Well had brought in had integrated swiftly into the Guild. Two proving to be adept blacksmiths, Akgruhl happily folding them into the pack, nearly vibrating with excitement when she'd been informed by Sharn, the wife, that she and her husband Jonis had both been trained by her family before striking out on their own. The other pair weren't much for fighting outside of excursions with the pack, but Sienna was an adept baker, and her wife Estoril a fletcher, both welcome additions to both Guild and Estate.

Alice and Theo were awaiting their third and fourth child at once, Ileana idly searching the grounds for any sign of her sister-in-law, giving up after a few moments, closing her eyes to soak in the sun. 

A familiar scent brought her attention, and she opened her eyes with a smile, turning to face Emilie as she approached slowly, a wolf pup in her arms. To this day she didn't know what had led to Sorais telling his wife about being a werewolf. But since the moment she'd gotten the blood herself, she'd proven to be the steadiest werewolf she'd ever met. She rarely hunted with the pack, but she never backed down from a fight, something the whole pack had learned when a few of the children had gotten a bit too close to a bear and she'd inserted herself between them, staring it down until it finally bolted. The event that had led all of the older children to view her as the strongest pack member.

Ileana frowned, trying to understand why she was holding a wolf pup, the pup itself huffing a sigh of defeat when she reached her, and her frown deepened. "Where do you find that pup?" she wondered.

Emilie lifted her eyes to meet hers, her scent brimming with bemusement. "Ileana. This is your son."

"Excuse me?" she demanded, taking a step back. "Did someone...,"

"No," she cut her off, holding the pup out toward her. "I watched him shift into this form when I was...," she broke off, smelling slightly embarrassed.

"Looking to avoid our visitors," she guessed, taking the pup, lifting him to eye level, feeling the familiar overwhelming protective urge from her wolf that assured her that Emilie was right. "Since when can a werewolf shift into a true wolf form?" she wondered, setting him down. "Change back right this instant, Lewin. You have explaining to do."

The wolf flickered into the shape of her son, and he looked up at her, rocking back on his heels, bracing his arms on his knees. "He likes it better than the other form," he pouted. "It's faster too."

She crouched by him, moving swiftly to help Emilie sit down herself, frowning over her laboured breaths. 

"Thank you," she said, "I theorize this ability is a side-effect of having gotten his wolf spirit so young."

"Well, it's certainly unexpected," Ileana said, moving back into a crouch, studying her son.

"Are you mad?" he asked.

"How long have you been able to do this?" she asked, opening her arms, closing them around Lewin when he clambered into her lap, settling properly on the ground.

"Um."

"Lewin?"

"I dunno."

She sighed, meeting Emilie's eyes over his head. "Has anyone else seen you do this?"

"Nu-uh. I hide."

Emilie arched an eyebrow at that. "How is it you didn't notice me then?" she asked.

"You were reading," he whined. "Uncle Theo wouldn't have seen me."

"I'm not your uncle," she retorted. "And you shifted under the table I was reading at."

"We'll have to ask the others if they've noticed anything," Ileana decided, rubbing her cheek against his hair.

"Maaamaaaaa. Stop that."

Laughing, she released him, watching him dart away. "No shifting!" she called. "You stay in that form until I've talked to your uncles, you hear me?"

He waved a hand back at her and she rose, resting her hands on her hips. "Lewin! I mean it!" Shaking her head, she leaned down and offered Emilie her hand, helping her rise. "How are you feeling?"

"I'm not sure how Alice did this twice and then thought she should go for a third," she responded.

"To be fair, she wasn't struck with the multiples curse until this pregnancy."

"My grandfather was a twin. Suppose my families luck was bound to run out again eventually." She looked the way Lewin had run. "I'm just glad you dodged it. Could you imagine having two or three demi-princes running around?"

"Perish the thought," she laughed. "Come on. Let's get you somewhere quiet, and then I'll track my brothers down to tell them about this new development."

"Karic is finishing up with the suppliers, Sorais should be in the training yard, and Theo was in the library last I saw."

"Thank you. I'll go drag Sorais into the library and talk to him and Theo together," she said. "Should give Karic enough time to finish up." I need to get ahead of this as quickly as possible. I know Lewin's not going to listen about shifting. And the last thing we need is someone thinking he's a livestock risk. She groaned under her breath. He probably is a livestock risk. He's going to chase everything that moves. Maybe if I get him a dog he can run with that'll keep him in check. One of the livestock dogs so he's not causing trouble.

 

"A dog seems like the best option," Sorais agreed, fidgeting with his sleeves.

"I'm impressed Emilie managed to haul him out to you with her condition," Theo said.

"Stop baiting Sorais," she scolded, glancing at him again. "Go on. She's in your rooms.”

Without another word, he darted away, Theo chuckling and lifting his book. "A true wolf shape," he said, shaking his head. "Your son certainly makes life interesting," he said. "We should ask Karic about the dog. He has the most contacts, and he's the one who got the dogs we do have around."

"Good idea. Any idea if he's almost done?"

"He should be. He's been at it for about an hour now."

"Thank you." Slipping out of the room, she headed down the hall, hovering near the door when she reached it, watching Karic joke around with the suppliers as they saddled their mounts and loaded their mostly empty crates. Perfect timing. Good.

He turned when they started off, smiling when he spotted Ileana. "Ah, perfect. I needed to show you something."

"Did everything go well with the supplies?" she asked, moving to join him.

"Yes. Just toward the end of our discussions, a wolf pup showed up and tried stealing a sack of jerky. I managed to trap him in a box stall, but I was curious... what's wrong?"

"I have an idea of who that wolf pup is...," she said, rubbing at her temples.

"Who?"

She nodded, pointing at the stall door swinging open, Lewin hanging by his arms, trying to adjust his grip. "I was thinking we should get him a dog to keep him from bothering the livestock."

"And the suppliers," he said dryly, striding swiftly down the aisle to lift him by his shirt collar and set him on the floor. "You were the wolf?" he demanded, crouching so he was at eye level with him.

"I was hungry," he protested. "And mama went inside so I couldn't ask her for anything."

"There are others you could have asked," he pointed out. "Or you could have gone inside after her. And stealing is always wrong."

"The bag was with our stuff though," he pouted, crossing his arms.

"We need to sort everything we purchase before we can eat anything," Ileana said, moving closer and sweeping him off the ground. "Don't do it again."

"But I'm hungry," he complained, giggling wildly when she tipped him upside down, shrieking laughter when she levered him over her shoulder. 

Securing him against her shoulder she glanced at Karic.

He shook his head. "I'll give the dog some thought. Go on and get him something to eat. I'll join you in a while."

"Ileana. A moment please. And you Karic."

Ileana turned, watching Click walk toward them, his gait loose and easy, his scent rife with nerves. "What is it?" she asked, studying the most secretive of their guildmates. Tall as Akgruhl, with elfin ears and multi-tined antlers, he'd always reminded her of the form Hircine had spoken to her in; and she'd wondered if he had attached the antlers with magic to make himself look more like him. I may be about to get a proper answer to that.

"I know a way to watch over your son," he said. "But it would require that I," he grimaced. "You have long been curious about me. About what makes me more monster than Mer."

"We have," Karic agreed, tugging a small piece of jerky out of his waist pouch, handing it to Lewin when he squirmed on Ileana's shoulder with a muttered complaint. 

Click paced, producing a wrapped chunk of hard cheese from his pouch when Lewin finished the strip of jerky, passing it to him. "I was a Bosmer once," he started. "A guardian of sorts. I went by the name Gaelding Dusklake." He scuffed his boot against the floor. "I was young. And stupid. But no one in my village truly thought anyone would come after us. We were in the middle of nowhere. We were nothing. Why would the Dominion care what we did?" He sighed, looking pensive. "But the beast of war requires fodder, and they were loathe to give up any chance of soldiers. And more, they were determined to wipe out any instance of dissidence."

"The purges," Karic said softly, passing Lewin another strip of jerky.

"Yes. The other guardians and I sought to buy the villagers time to flee by performing the ritual of the Wild Hunt. A ritual that famously leaves no survivors, as those who perform it tend to turn on each other once the threat is ended."

"What happened?" Ileana asked, shifting Lewin to her hip. Maybe I should have sent him up to the house before this conversation. I suspect he'll remember this, and I'll have some difficult answers to supply as a result. 

"We were interrupted. Sold out by a merchant who came so often to the village, we didn't think anything of his presence when we were making plans. But some of us had already transformed and we attacked the Dominion soldiers. And at the end of it..., I was the only one standing. The village. The merchant who'd betrayed us. The soldiers. They were all dead. And I felt..., lost. I wasn't expecting to survive the ritual. And I thought I would become a monster. I was ready for it. Instead..., I became this." He gestured to himself. "Well, not quite." His form shuddered, green light surrounding him, as he changed into the form of a spindly bark-skinned creature, looking spriggan like, his teeth sharp when he bared them. His form shuddered again, back into the shape they knew him as, shuddering again until he was a large dog. He shifted again, back to himself. "I can take any form I wish. So long as I return to this one in-between." Lifting his hand, he studied it. "At the beginning, the form I first showed you is how I looked. And I could take other forms then return to that one." He fell silent, curling his fingers slightly, looking at Lewin, Ileana looking down herself to find him watching Click, a thoughtful expression on his face.

"Why Click?" Karic asked.

"Because when Dra'ri was hired to track down a monster in Valenwood, she claimed that was the sound I was making in the form I had taken. And it was as good a name as any. But I can watch your son. And I have intelligence that a dog cannot claim."

"But why would you offer?" Ileana asked.

"I could lie and say that it is only because we are Guild mates. But you and I both know I did not seek to ingratiate myself to any of you over the years. But Y'ffre taught Bosmer how to reject the ooze and choose a permanent shape. By invoking the Wild Hunt, and regaining the power of my ancient ancestors..., I feel unworthy to follow him. So, I turned to Hircine. And it was finding a shrine to him. It was bowing to him, seeing drawings of one of his forms, which allowed me to change my base shape. I know it had to have been his hand in it, else why couldn't I have returned to my Bosmer form?"

"Far be it from me to try and understand a Prince's mind," she said.

He smirked. "You have one of the greater chances than many. But I agree. That is an avenue best left unexplored. However, this form is not unpleasant to live in. And it allows me to live among mortals again. So, what better way to serve him than to protect his son from himself?"

"Thank you," she said softly. "It would be foolish of me to turn down your offer."

He inclined his head, moving closer. "And what say you, young master? Will you accept my presence at your side?"

Lewin frowned, chewing the last of the jerky. "Fine. My wolf likes you."

"I'm glad to hear it."

Relieved, Ileana held Lewin a bit tighter. "I am blessed with the Guild," she murmured. "I never thought I'd have such an extensive network when I left Camlorn all those years ago."

Click shrugged. "We grow on people." He looked at Karic. "While I'm being open, there is something I wish to speak with you about. About the supply run that just finished."

He nodded, jerking his head toward the door, Ileana watching them walk away.

"I'm still hungry," Lewin complained, wrapping his arms around her neck.

Fighting down a laugh, she turned, heading toward the main house. "Let's find you something filling then."

 

"Are you trying to drown yourself?" Ileana asked, moving to sit across from Karic.

He lowered his bottle of whiskey to click lightly on the table. "Supplies, Click said." He laughed bitterly, swigging more from the bottle, his emotional scent nearly buried by the overwhelming smell of whiskey, what she could get of it dripping with despair.

I've never seen you this drunk before. "Karic?"

"Edrien left this morning," he snarled, slamming the bottle down again, lowering his head to his arm. "He didn't say goodbye. He didn't say anything. Fucker's been acting weird for the past few weeks."

"Do you know why?"

He lifted his head, sighing heavily. "Yeah. Unfortunately, I do."

"Tell me," she said softly, moving to sit next to him, reaching out to pull him into a hug.

"I don't know how he found out. Oblivion, I don't know why he told me. Ileana. Do you believe in soulmates?"

In stories, sure. But I've never given it much stock in real life. "I've never given it much thought. It wasn't something that ever interested me considering the connection to romance."

"According to Edrien, they're real. And not only that. A very small percentage of people have multiple soulmates. Multiple chances at a deeper connection than anything...," he trailed off, trying to focus. "Edrien told me that he had two soulmates. And that... That, he'd realized I was one of 'em. That I had two soulmates too. Him and this Dibellan knight from Wayrest. And he told me that what I felt for him wasn't... wasn't true connection. Said I didn't really have feelings for him. It was just the manifestation of the soulmate bond. But that..." He growled, swigging more of the drink. "I met him once. The Knight. And fuck, Il. I knew Edrien had been honest with me. I got his scent. And I... Edrien distracted me. Got me working on one of the toughest moneylenders in the damned city. Used it to chivvy him off somewhere."

"Do you know his name? Maybe you could find him yourself," she said softly, scenting Akgruhl nearby now. "If you wanted to."

He shook his head, wincing and swaying in his seat, grabbing for his bottle. "Edrien told me his name about a year after we met. Claimed he was worried about ruining their bond. And now. I don't care that they're older than I am. Oblivion, Il, the knight is a fucking Dunmer. And Edrien's out here saying I'm too young. Damned hypocrite."

Carefully tugging the bottle out of his hand, she slid it to her other side, knowing he'd topple over before he'd be able to pick it up, scenting Sorais and Theo nearby. You can't know that about the Dunmer. He could be Edrien's age, or younger. But damn you Edrien for leaving without a word. For doing this to my brother. Why didn't you leave sooner? Why did you stay so long? With a low sigh, she tugged him against her again.

"You're lucky," he slurred. "Because you don't feel like this. You won't ever have to feel this way. I wish I was like you. Then none of it..."

"Karic."

He made a choked sound, trying to reach for the bottle again, sighing and lowering his head when he failed. "I loved him Il. I loved him since I met him. And maybe, maybe if I'd met him later. When I was already an adult. Maybe he'd have seen me as an equal. He'd have realized the age difference didn't matter. And sometimes I want to blame Hircine. Y'know? Blame him for making us nobles with the money he gave you. Making that separation too. But that would mean being sad about Lew." He groaned, turning slightly to grab onto her. "I'd thought. With the last few years. I thought it meant...,"

"You thought it meant he'd changed his mind," she said, realization stoking her anger. 

"I hope Lew grows up to be like you. I hope he never learns any of this pain. I hope he doesn't learn..." He coughed, smelling bleak beyond the alcohol. "It's not worth it. Gods... was any of it worth it? Was he even honest about...," he cut off, trembling, staring at nothing. “Did he realize? Was I lying to myself the whole time?”

“Karic.”

He shook his head hard, nearly toppling out of his chair, trying to reach for the bottle again. “I can’t.”

"Let's get you to bed," she said softly, half turning to make eye contact with Sorais, getting a slight nod in return as he approached the table, Theo moving to join him.

Carefully, Sorais and Theo helped Karic stand, Ileana watching them guide him out the door.

"My brother is a coward."

Ileana turned her head, watching Akgruhl pull away from a wall. "Did you know he was planning to leave?"

She nodded. "Click and I tried to talk him out of it. And he lied. Said we were right. That he needed to be honest with your brother." She shook her head, swiping the whiskey bottle off the table and taking a swig. "Click realized he left a couple hours after he did. Came to tell me before finding Karic." She quirked a small smile. "Came back and told me what happened with your son. And told me he pulled Karic aside after that to explain." Resting the bottle down gently, she rocked back on her heels, scent shimmering with rage of her own, and a sharp note of disappointment. "He will not be welcome back. He doesn't get to shatter a packmate's heart like this and come back again. He should have been honest with Karic from the beginning."

"Did you know?" Ileana wondered.

"I guessed. When I realized that Karic's crush wasn't going away. When it didn't fade over the years but got stronger instead. If Edrien didn't know how to talk to him about it, he should have come to me. Or to any of the others. Instead of ignoring it. And worse, the way he treated him the last three years. All the attention he was giving him."

"He led him on," she agreed, leaning on the table. "I should've realized."

"We all should have," Akgruhl agreed. "He was flattered, I think, that Karic still held that torch for him, even after his injury. If I were to guess? Guilt over it, is what drove him to run away. But guilt is not reason enough to act with so little honor."

"What about you?" she asked softly. "Do you believe they were really soulmates?"

"Yes. I do. And that compounds my anger. He knew how much this would hurt him. But he did it anyway, because he is a coward." She growled under her breath. "I am sorry that my kin brought so much pain to yours."

She sighed, shaking her head. "Not your fault. But thank you." 

"Be wary of what he might tell Lewin as he grows."

"Oh?"

"If he grows too bitter. He may turn against the concept of soulmates as a whole. I worry what that may lead to."

Rubbing her temples, Ileana nodded. "I'll keep that in mind. How did he learn about them?"

"Nils and Audrey," she explained. "They're soulmates. And they speak of them often. Talk about how romantic it all is." She sighed. "And..., Breeze."

"Breeze?"

"She's mine. I don't know why we all found ours. And I'm not sure if Sorais and Emilie or Theo and Alice are soulmates. I don't know how to tell for others."

"Then I hope they don't try to find out," she murmured.

"I agree." Taking another swig of the whiskey, she studied her. "What will you do if Lewin finds his?"

Groaning, she snagged the bottle from her, taking a swig herself. "Pray."

Chapter 6: Power

Summary:

Lewin's power begins to overwhelm the Guild.
On a recommendation from his trainer, Ileana brings him into Skyrim.

"This is bigger than I expected."

Ileana turned, facing a faintly familiar looking Nord werewolf. "I'm sorry?"

He grinned. "I'm glad to see you used your windfall wisely. How is Lewin?"

Oh! "He's doing well. It's good to see you Jolfr."

"I hope he isn't too old?"

"He's nine."

"Ah, good." He shrugged when she lifted an eyebrow. "Sometimes Hircine loses track of time. Because time moves differently in the Daedric Realms," he explained. "Has anyone started teaching him any fighting skills?"

"A little. Not much though. As I mentioned, he's nine."

"Plenty old enough to get a start on things," he said cheerfully. "Where is he?"

"Probably exploring the forest with Click," she said. "But he'll turn up when it gets close to dinner time." She frowned. "Actually, you'd be a good person to ask about this."

"Hmm?"

"He has a true wolf shape. Says his wolf spirit prefers it?"

Frowning, he crossed his arms. "There are a couple other First Turned who can talk to their beast spirits. I suppose I shouldn't be surprised to find out that's something Lewin can do as well. Those two need to be in Hircine's Realm to do it but it makes sense for a demi-prince to be stronger."

"And the wolf form?"

"That, I suspect, is a Lewin thing."

"Emilie, one of his aunt's theorizes it's because of how old he was when he got his spirit."

"Could be. I'm no expert on what causes certain gifts to manifest. And this one... I think maybe Dearola could do it but she's a rather aloof individual."

"Dearola?"

"Hircine's first demi-prince. She spends most of her time wandering the Reach."

"She's immortal?" she asked, unease eating at her.

"No. She wanders as a spirit; her wolf spirit walking at her side. I don't know how she does it. And she's not too fond of Nords this decade so..., I've been trying to give her space."

"When I spoke to Hircine about training Lewin, I got the sense that he'd made a mistake with a previous demi-prince. That I was to ensure I didn't allow Lewin to go down that same path."

He sighed. "Yes. I only know who he's speaking of because I watched what happened from the Hunting Grounds. His second demi-prince was boastful. Proud of his skills. Too proud. He refused to acknowledge how he'd come to have them and... he sought to challenge Hircine for his position as Prince."

"Is that even possible?"

"No. But he would not be dissuaded." He sighed, lowering his gaze. "Hircine does not like mention of him. So, I will not speak of him much."

"Do you know what happened to him?"

"What do you think happened?" he asked, meeting her gaze for a long moment.

"Right," she said, "I can guess."

They fell silent, then Ileana turned, scenting Lewin approaching, his steps light. Jolfr straightened, and she glanced to see him watching the hall intently, a thoughtful expression on his face when he stepped into the room and stopped, tilting his head.

"Lewin, this is...,"

"Jolfr," he said, giving her a sunny smile and tapping his chest. "My wolf recognized him."

"He's here to help you learn."

"More lessons?" he asked. "Aunt Emilie already has me studying every bit of history she can. And uncle Karic has me studying math constantly."

Ileana smirked, glancing at Jolfr before looking back. "And what of Theo, Alice and Sorais?"

"You know," he grumbled.

"But Jolfr doesn't."

Sighing heavily, he looked up at him. "Theo is teaching me manners. Alice is teaching me mending because she says it's important. And Sorais is teaching me how to take care of animals."

"Anyone teach you anything about fighting yet?" Jolfr asked.

"Mama has."

"Oh?" he lifted an eyebrow, turning to her.

"Not a lot yet," she re-iterated. "Just basic footwork for one-handed sword use. And I introduced a crossbow because I found a light one he can use."

"I'm glad to hear it. I always hate starting from scratch."

"What will you teach me?" Lewin asked.

He smiled. "How to survive. How to fight. How to run. And how to tell which option to pick."

---

It happened gradually. Hesitation from the pack whenever Lewin caught them off guard. Long looks from several when his back was turned. She put it down to the time of year, assuring Lewin that it would pass soon. Then Nils and Audrey started taking more jobs away from home. The wolves they'd brought in heading out on trading trips more often, their children making excuses for why they didn't want to spend time with him. Then Karic took Lewin on a trip to attend a feast at a nobles home. And when he returned, of the werewolves, only Jolfr, Ileana, and her brothers could look her son in the eye, and there was something, a sense of power wreathed around him that she could feel her wolf spirit responding to with a wary deference. 

Uneasy, she sought out Jolfr, hoping he could give her an explanation about what was happening. "Jolfr," she said, striding around a corner, finding her quarry perched on a boulder, sharpening his sword.

"Ileana. I wondered when you would seek me out," he greeted, jumping down, leaning against the boulder now. "I had hoped this wouldn't happen until he was older."

"What is 'this'?" she asked. "What's happening with my son?" And why didn't you warn me?

"He's coming into his power," he said. "And everyone can sense it. I'll be honest, I wasn't expecting him to discomfit the mortals as well but it's possible they're cuing off the others." 

"It's likely," she said. "They've all got werewolf relatives. Drinks-Well, Dra'ri and Click don't seem to be affected."

He sighed. "I am hopeful that training will help. But I fear it's only going to get worse."

"Hircine promised he'd be able to walk among mortals," she protested, fear curdling her stomach.

"And so he shall. But never forget that Hircine is the Prince of the Hunt. He is a predator, and he thinks like one. If his son is viewed as a predator, well that would be accurate. And that is part of his birthright."

"But he won't be able to maintain any friendships this way. He'll be alone," she said.

"I did not say that I thought this was a good thing," he pointed out. "And this power of his could easily give rise to his becoming what Hircine fears he could be."

"Someone who thinks he could challenge him," she said, crossing her arms over her chest, worry eating at her.

"Precisely. Mortals will follow others because of fear. Lewin could gain a great many followers if he leaned into his presence. I admit I hope to keep that from happening."

"You're not the only one," she promised.

"I know. I remember our first discussion. Karic and your other brothers have begun the very hard task of teaching him complete control. And I would like to accompany them on future trips. I know it is not what you would like to hear, but I believe that sending Lewin on more of these trips will be the only way to keep him from entrenching a feared reputation among your pack."

"Do you think control will allow him to walk easily among mortals?"

"If he maintains his current power level? Yes."

"But if he gets stronger?"

"I'm not sure," he said quietly. "It's part of why I want to travel with them on their next trip. I want to see for certain if the children are cuing off their parents, or if he's affecting mortals as well. In the meantime, there's a pack just across the border in Skyrim. It's a bit of a journey but there's a woman who lives there named Eda. She may be a very good person for you to get to know."

"Any particular reason?" she asked.

"Her father is a First Turned. One who also disquiets people with his presence."

"How would I get in touch with her?"

"I can walk easily in Hircine's Realm. Give me a day or so and I could bring her a message myself. I would not tell her all of why. But enough that you would be welcome in her village."

"Do it. I need to take care of Lewin."

He nodded, slipping a ring on his finger and vanishing.

Closing her eyes, Ileana took a steadying breath. I knew there would be complications. But I never expected something like this. My poor boy. Letting herself worry for several more moments, she shook her head, moving back toward the manor. We'll figure it out. He'll not be alone forever. I won't allow it.

 

She waited until Lewin was on another trip with Karic and the others, heading across the border into Skyrim with Dra'ri and Click, slipping across the border well away from any official border crossings, unwilling to deal with any delays. 

The path to Eda's home was lined with macabre collections of bone spiked goat heads, the air rich with the scent of necromantic magics. Dra'ri tugged her hood a little further over her muzzle, her soft hiss nearly lost in the stiff wind.

"Hagravens ahead," Click said.

"Eda is expecting me," Ileana said quietly. "I know what to say to them."

"I know. But forewarning is only right."

She inclined her head slightly, acknowledging his statement, rounding the corner.

As he'd promised there was more than one hagraven. Three stood on the path ahead, a plump Breton-ish looking woman with mousey brown hair standing with them. "Ileana, I presume?" she asked.

"Yes. Jolfr sent me to speak with Eda," she responded.

"We assumed as much," the leftmost hagraven croaked, inclining her head toward the woman. "Eda is here."

"What did you need to come speak with me about?" she asked warmly. "Crossing the border with the current political climate is much more difficult than it used to be."

Not when you can avoid the checkpoints by sticking to the wilderness. "I took steps to ensure I would not be delayed," she responded.

She grinned, exchanging amused glances with the hagravens. "A pretty way to say you avoided the border crossings. Come. You are your traveling companions are welcome in our village."

"Thank you," she said politely, following her when she turned and started away, the hagravens shuffling slightly to the side, watching them closely.

"Now, tell me why Jolfr sent you my way," Eda suggested.

"He said you might have some advice to help my son," she responded, smiling at a young gray-haired woman watching them pass, her eyes a striking purple.

"Interesting. What plagues him?" she asked, glancing at the onlooker. "Elilia, did you need something?"

She flushed, shuffling her feet. "No."

"Curious about the newcomers hmm?" she asked. "Next time stay somewhere hidden."

"But I can't hide from most the people here," she pointed out, her scent heavy with amusement.

"Sounds like a good opportunity to test your brewing skills then, don't you think?"

Her eyes widened slightly, and she nodded, darting away.

Shaking her head, Eda continued through the village, skirting around chickens and the occasional raven. "You were telling me what plagues your son?" she prodded.

"His presence makes people nervous," she responded. "Jolfr said your father was much the same."

"Interesting," she said. "My father had a spell he used to quiet his presence. How old is your son?"

"He's twelve."

She stumbled, turning to face her. "Twelve?" she hissed.

"Yes."

"What... exactly... makes his presence so disquieting to others?"

"He is Hircine's son," Click said, frowning down at her. "He is a demi-prince."

"And he's coming into his power," she murmured. "I understand." She sighed, twisting her dress in her hands before shaking her head, smelling regretful. "I don't know the spell. My father never told me how to cast it, because I did not inherit that particular trait. But I might be able to cobble something together. I'd have to meet your son, though. You left him home?"

"He's traveling with his uncles and Jolfr. Learning how to listen to nobles backbite without losing his temper."

"An interesting exercise. What made you consider it?"

"The first feast my brothers and I attended after getting the beast blood nearly had half of us turning because of the absolute vitriol rife in the air," she said dryly.

"I can understand your reasoning," she said. "Well. Can you bring your son here?"

"Yes."

"I can't promise I can help. But I'll see what I can do. And between this and our next meeting, I'll send my father a message, see if the spell is something he can write down."

"I was hoping Jolfr could help, but he said he couldn't do anything about it."

"He's not a mage," she said dismissively, smiling when Ileana lifted an eyebrow. "My father told me stories about each of the First Turned," she explained. "Odd that Hircine wouldn't think to have a mage watch over your son, instead of Jolfr, though. But I suppose he didn't have a lot of options with my father where he is."

"Where is your father?" she asked.

"He's currently in Skyrim. Looking into a pack filled with rot."

"So, he may have an answer by the time we return."

"It is possible," she agreed. "For your sake, I hope so."

That isn't ominous at all. "We appreciate it."

She inclined her head with a small smile. "Go on. Get out of here. I look forward to your return."

 

"That was not as useful as I hoped," Dra'ri said.

"Does he make you uncomfortable too?" Ileana asked, feeling resigned. It's never seemed like it. But I know you could be hiding your discomfort so I can't discount the possibility entirely.

"In a way," she said. "It is not just the fact that he is powerful."

"It's how he watches people," Click said, nodding slightly when Dra'ri inclined her head toward him. "He is a clever lad. And he learns much about those around him. Too much."

"And I know he bothers wolves much more than he bothers Drinks or I," Dra'ri said. "Because they recognize that he is one of them. And Akgruhl has privately told me that part of the problem is people fear a wolf who was turned so young. In short, he awakens a lot of different uncomfortable feelings in people, all at once."

"Then I hope Eda's father can help," Ileana said, her shoulders sagging. "Hircine told me he'd be able to move among mortals. But I never thought to ask if he would be able to do so comfortably for all involved."

"I'm not convinced he would have known," Click noted. "What does moving among mortals mean to a Daedric Prince?"

"Depends on the Prince," Dra'ri mused. "But let us not stew over what we cannot change. And let us hope that Eda's kin can help."

---

"But why do I have to have so many extra lessons?" Lewin complained, snapping the book shut, rising and dropping it on the teetering stack Eda had placed next to him. "No one else I know has even a third of the lessons I do."

"They also don't have anywhere close to the power you have access to," Eda said. "Now sit back down and meditate."

Ileana watched, sipping at a mug of tea, absently taking note of the corner where Elilia was testing her new potion. "You need a bit more moth wing," she said, looking that way. "I can smell that you stinted on it in favor of the ice wraith teeth."

"Do you know alchemy well?" she responded, her voice seeming to come out of the air.

Lewin glanced that way, giving Eda a sheepish grin when she made an aggravated sound.

"I am neither novice nor expert. But I may be able to show you a few things when Lewin is done for the day." Might as well teach both of you at once.

With a low sigh, Lewin closed his eyes again, the sense of his power dampening then suddenly increasing two-fold, Eda jerking backward, guilt souring Lewin's scent. "Nothing works!" he shouted, bolting from the house.

Heart aching for her boy, Ileana rose.

"Let me go talk to him?" Elilia asked. "Maybe if he knows at least one person beside his family isn't bothered by him, it'll help."

"But he knows it's because you've got no beast blood," Eda sighed. "I'm afraid it won't do as much as we'd like. Damn Lorse. Damn him to Oblivion."

"I'd still like to try," she insisted.

"If you'd like," Ileana agreed, watching her become visible just as she slipped out the door, turning to Eda. "Who is Lorse?"

"He's the head of the pack my father is investigating," she responded. "I couldn't handle seeing how he and his lackeys run things. And how he treats his children...," she sighed, tidying up. "I'm glad I left when I did, and I'm unsure if my father will accomplish what he's hoping to there."

"What is he trying to do?"

She frowned, setting the books down. "He's trying to undermine him. My father is far from straightforward so, the solution he's looking for relies on Lorse's children. And I'll be honest, Lorse has inadvertently helped him, by turning them against him himself. It's just a matter of combating their fear." Glancing toward the door, she looked back at Ileana. "Will you keep a secret for me?"

"Yes."

"Lorse is seeking a marriage contract with a few different packs here in the Reach, and one more in Falkreath. My father came out for a brief visit to talk it over with people here, and I'm trying to put pressure on the leadership to choose Elilia. She's unsure about getting the Beast Blood, and she knows she doesn't have it in her to be a hagraven." She picked at her dress, smelling pensive. "It would put her in danger, much more danger than I can ever like. But she's even-tempered, and she knows how to read people. I think she could help young Sarlfi, Lorse's eldest, become what my father believes he can be."

"Have you met this Sarlfi? Would he treat her well?" Would Elilia be alright with an arranged marriage?

She nodded. "Yes. He took over raising his younger sisters when he was twelve. He has a compassionate streak he inherited from his late mother, that his father has been unable to crush. Elilia would give him reason to nurture it further." She smiled. "Especially because according to my father, they're soulmates."

This again. I haven't thought about soulmates in some time. "Is that a good thing? I'm not sure how I feel about soulmates."

Shaking her head, she started another pot of tea. "You learned about soulmates from books, right?"

"Mostly. I've... seen a few," she said, frowning moodily at the floor. I know Akgruhl said that she and Breeze are soulmates, and they're doing well. And no one can deny how close Audrey and Nils are, but I wouldn't wish what happened to Karic on my worst enemy.

"Never seen someone upset about knowing soulmates actually exist. You know they don't all have to be romantic, right?"

"One of my brothers." She shook her head. "His soulmate, soulmates, didn't want anything to do with him. Though one led him on for years before they both moved to High Isle to work for our parents." A betrayal I don't think any of us will ever forgive. I know we couldn't explain the depths of the pain Edrien caused. And I worry Karic hasn't told us all of it. He is too quick to change the topic. But that he'd caused any at all should have been enough to blacklist him.

"It's difficult when you have more than one," she said sagely. "My father would never believe it. But more than once I've seen those situations end badly. Usually because two met much earlier than the others and formed a bond that didn't allow for another."

"That's what happened with Edrien and his match," Ileana said. "From what we've learned, they met years before he realized, or admitted, what Karic was to them."

"How is he now? Your brother."

"Untrusting," she said softly. "He has never settled with a long-term lover. I don't believe he thinks himself capable of it. He always fears that their soulmate will come along and steal them away. Figures there no reason to try."

Eda shook her head. "This is why I sometimes think it would be safer for no mortal to know of soulmates. I can promise you that I've seen more soulmates work out than otherwise, but I know that's poor comfort with what you've seen." Picking at her dress, she nodded decisively. "Well, once we can get my father to lay eyes on your son, we'll ask him about his future soulmate, or soulmates. See if we can head off future heartbreak. Or at least warn him of the potential."

"He can see that?"

"Yes. I'm not entirely sure how. It's either a spell he developed, or a gift Hircine gave him, and he can be absolutely insufferable about it." Shaking her head, she lifted the kettle, filling both cups. "But I think he's right to try and get Elilia and Sarlfi together. Hircine knows that Sarlfi could use a trustworthy friend. And she's capable of befriending almost anyone."

Glancing at the door, Ileana nodded. "I can see that," she agreed. "She didn't think twice about going to check on Lewin."

"I hope she gets through to him. I don't want him giving up." She sighed again, smelling vexed. "I had hoped that the information my father sent me would be enough to craft our own version of the muffling spell. But I suspect much of it is instinctual."

"Would he be able to teach it to Lewin?" Ileana wondered.

"I think so." She considered it, stirring a bit of crystalized honey into the mugs. "I hope so. Have you noticed anything at home? Has he made any progress there?"

She grimaced. "He spends most of his time at home hiding in the woods in his wolf form. Jolfr, Click, Dra'ri, and Drinks-Well keep an eye on him most often." With a sigh, she sat back down, leaning forward on her knees. "He's happiest when traveling with Karic. And even then, he has few people he can talk to." With a low groan, she rubbed at her temples. "Karic told me that at one of the feasts they went to recently, he found amusement in disquieting one of the nobles. From what Karic said, the man deserved it, but it doesn't sit well with me that he'd find pleasure in his power."

"Not until he's mastered it?" Eda guessed.

"Depends." I worry he'll never be able to cloak it. That Jolfr is right. He may choose to gather fearful followers just so he doesn't have to be alone. Or worse, he may revel in holding power over others. I don't want him to turn into a cruel man.

Eda gave her a conciliatory smile, pressing a fresh teacup into her hands. "I won't give up. We'll find some way to help him. Sooner or later."

The door creaked open, Lewin slipping inside, his eyes downcast, smelling of shame, Elilia behind him. "Sorry mother. Sorry Eda," he murmured.

"Everyone gets frustrated," Ileana responded, setting her mug to the side and rising, moving to his side. "We'll work on your reactions. And it will get easier over time."

"I just wish I could stop scaring people," he muttered. "Have you seen them? The briarhearts and hagravens and werewolves here all watch me like they're scared I'm about to attack them. I hate it."

"I'm not shying away," Eda pointed out.

He scowled at her. "You don't count. Poppy said you're tougher than stone is hard."

She laughed. "My daughter has a way with words," she said, giving him a sympathetic look. "Lewin. I know it's difficult. But I'm not about to give up on you. Nor is your mother."

"Nor will I," Elilia said, grinning at him when he half turned and looked up at her. "What? It's good for you to have more than werewolves to talk to."

"No, I was just wondering what you mean."

She shrugged. "I could show you around the village properly; show you some of the paths around it. How we dodge the Silver-Blood mercenaries when they come through."

"Silver-Blood?" Ileana asked, glancing at Eda.

She scowled, her mouth pinching. "Cowards from Markarth," she spat. "They own most of the mines in the Reach and put pressure on the independent miners to sell to them. They've staged more than one 'Forsworn attack' on mines that don't fall in line."

"They call us Forsworn," Elilia said, resting her hands on her hips. "Because they fear us."

"And one day they will pay for that hubris," Eda agreed. "But that is Reach business." She gave Lewin a fond smile. "As powerful an asset as you'd be to any Reachfolk cause, there is reason that Hircine chose a Breton with no ties to our culture for your mother. And we'll just need to trust there is need for you elsewhere."

He nodded, frowning thoughtfully. "Jolfr said I'm not the only demi-prince of this age. Maybe one of the other Princes chose the Reach already and he didn't want us to butt heads?"

"It's possible. But trying to understand why a Prince chooses a mortal to favor can be dangerous business. Better to just accept that they are enigmatic beings who sometimes see fit to meddle in mortal lives." Turning further into her home, she waved him forward. "Back to business Lewin. Let's write the spell down and see if we can find another angle."

Sighing heavily, he nodded, moving to her side.

Ileana watched, glancing at Elilia. "Did he go far?"

"Not too far," she said. "Just to the garden out back. You really think I need more moth wing for my potions? I thought the teeth would make more sense because of their strength."

"They're more powerful than the moth wings," she agreed. "But invisibility is about subtlety, that's why you want more moth wing. But if you really want to trick werewolf senses, chameleon potions are a better bet."

"Do you know how to make those?"

She smiled, glancing back toward Lewin and Eda. "I do."

Chapter 7: A New Teacher

Summary:

Jolfr is sent to Valenwood, and a new teacher appointed to take over Lewin's training.

"Ileana."

"What is it?" she asked, turning away from the bookcase, to watch Jolfr approach.

"I came to say goodbye."

She frowned. "What do you mean?"

"I'm being relieved as Lewin's primary instructor," he said. "I believe you've heard of Wenselon?"

"Eda's father."

"Yes. He has finished what he set out to do in Skyrim, but considering Lewin's situation, Hircine has extended his allowable time on Nirn by several years."

"You only get a certain amount of time on Nirn?"

"Between time spent in the Hunting Grounds, yes. We would lose many of the gifts Hircine has given us over the centuries if we didn't return."

"An interesting way to keep you from wandering too long, I suppose."

He laughed. "Yes. Wenselon is observing your son as we speak. It will be interesting to see how long he remains unobserved. One lesson Lewin excelled at learning from me was how to know when he’s being watched."

"And how to find the watcher," she agreed. "A lesson Dra'ri and Drinks bemoan in one breath, while praising in the next."

"I will miss him," he said softly. "I will miss your pack. You've been good to me."

"We'll miss you as well. You've been a good friend, and a good mentor to Lewin."

"That's kind of you to say. I wish I could have been better able to help him with his presence."

"Where will you go?"

"Hircine has a task for me in Valenwood. Should prove to be entertaining."

"Thank you," she said. "For everything you've done for my son. You told him goodbye?"

He nodded. "As soon as I sensed Wenselon, I told him I would need to go. I've mentioned it in passing so he wasn't too caught off guard." He shook his head. "But now I see why Wes asked leave to raise a family on Nirn. There's something wonderful about watching a young person learn the lessons you wish to impart."

"There is," she agreed.

"Farewell Ileana. May Hircine guard you and yours."

"Farewell," she said softly, watching him slip his ring onto his finger and vanish.

Curious about Wenselon, she wandered out of the library, casting about for Lewin's scent, following it swiftly toward the forest surrounding the estate.

It didn't take her overly long to find her son. He stood facing a weathered and scarred Breton looking man with short dark hair, both with swords bared. Dra'ri, Drinks, and Click hovered near the edges of the clearing, the vampires loathe to leave the comfort of the shade, Click's scent heavy with curiosity and hesitation.

"Now that opening you used. That's nothing like Jolfr," the stranger, Wenselon, said cheerfully. "Who taught you that?"

Lewin considered it, taking a step back, shifting his weight in a way Ileana knew very well. "My mother," he said, shifting his weight again and dodging a step in from Wenselon, twisting slightly to the side as he did.

"And that one?"

"My uncle Sorais."

"More brawler than swordsman?" he guessed.

Ileana bit back a snicker, watching with interest. He knows how to use sword and magic well, but yes, he defaults to fists most often.

"He says brawling is a good way to make a point without killing anyone. So long as you're careful about where your opponent falls."

"Be interesting to see him visit Skyrim then. Lot of folk there think that way as well. Keep going."

Lewin sighed, squaring his shoulders, rushing him, twisting, blade out, Wenselon just dodging to the side.

"Combination there," Wenselon said cheerfully. "That last maneuver was all Jolfr. The first?"

"My uncle Karic."

"You have three uncles?" he asked. "Show me what you've learned from the third."

"Alright," he said. "Uncle Theo taught me this." Bringing his free hand to rest against the flat of his blade, flames erupted along the edge, and he pulled it swiftly away, lifting his free hand again, holding a shimmering ward in front of him as he lunged forward with the still aflame weapon.

Wenselon nodded, sidestepping, casting a frost cloak to counter the heat of Lewin's blade, touching the back of his own blade, sparks twining around it. "Good. Any other teachers?"

Lewin shrugged. "Akgruhl says she teaches me most by having me haul things. Dra'ri, Click, and Drinks-Well teach me how to walk quiet and use Illusion spells." His shoulders sagged, blade lowering toward the ground. "But none of their illusion spells can do anything for...,"

"Your presence," Wenselon said. "Eda told me." He sighed. "Put that blade away and come with me. Since your presence is what hampers your growth, we need to deal with it. And I have an idea how to approach that."

"You think you can? Your daughter hasn't managed. And neither has anyone else."

Ileana winced to hear the bitterness in his voice. He's too young to be so cynical.

Wenselon laughed, snapping his fingers, Ileana grimacing at the increased weight of his presence, tracking her gaze to Lewin, watching him frown thoughtfully, seeming unperturbed by the change.

"Is that what my presence feels like to others? I don't see why it's so bothersome."

"Yours will be much stronger than mine in a year or so." He shrugged. "And yes, it bothers others. Because people don't like being reminded that they're not the strongest person in a room. Especially werewolves. A lot of wolves get the blood to make themselves stronger than others. And you threaten that, which makes them uncomfortable."

"But I'm not the strongest person here," he protested.

"You could be," he said firmly. "Come. Let's see if we can teach you how to muffle your power."

Silently, he followed him, Click, Dra'ri and Drinks moving to stand next to Ileana.

"He will continue to get stronger, he says," Drinks said softly. "Just how strong will he become?"

"He will take the world by storm," Click said, admiration in his voice. "Once he is no longer hiding in the woods."

Dra'ri snorted. "If this Wenselon can help him."

"We can hope," Ileana said softly. 

 

"So, you'd be Ileana?" Wenselon asked, striding easily into the library. "And I'm assuming the rest here are aunts and uncles?" he asked, looking around the room, nodding to each of the adults there.

"Yes," Ileana said. "These are my brothers: Karic, Sorais, and Theo. And these are my sisters-in-law, Alice and Emilie. Did it work? Were you able to teach Lewin how to muffle his power?"

Wenselon nodded. "I was. It was more difficult than I expected at first, he was convinced it wouldn't work and reluctant to try. But Eda was on the right track with the tactics she tried. And we tested it on the Orc werewolf in the training yard. Akgruhl, Lewin called her. She seemed relieved."

"I can imagine," she said, grinning. "She's going to be able to teach him a lot more than hauling now."

He laughed. "Yes, she will. I have permission to be here for several years. If your son is as intelligent as Eda leads me to believe, that will be more than enough time to be sure of his control with the spell as his power grows. And in the meantime, I'll see what I can do about his magical training. He's much further behind in several of the schools than he should be."

"We've been teaching him practical applications," Theo said. "It's family tradition."

"You've given him a good base," he agreed. "But there is so much more he could do. And his Restoration is woefully underdeveloped. By the time I'm done with him, he'll have a much more rounded understanding of his gifts."

"We travel with him often, to be sure he can mingle with nobles without losing his temper," Sorais said, inclining his head toward Karic. "He accompanies Karic most often."

"Jolfr told me. I applaud your reasoning. And I see no reason why that should stop. I also believe that continuing to visit Eda on occasion is a good idea. And not just because I like seeing my family."

"We can work that out," Ileana said.

"Good. Now. To further test the spell, I'd like his aunts to go and speak with him. As they're not blood related, that should help ensure I did my job well."

Curious, feeling more hopeful about the situation than she had in years, Ileana followed them out, hanging back, certain they knew she was there, relieved that Wenselon didn't try to get her to leave.

Lewin was perched on the fence by the training yard, talking animatedly to Click, shaking his head over something he said, his scent strangely muffled as they neared, and more than that, the feeling of power that so concerned her wolf was barely noticeable.

Biting her lip, Ileana glanced swiftly at Alice and Emilie, relief sweeping through her when Alice stepped to his side and reached out to tug at his hair. "Hey kid. You figured it out, I see."

His face lit up, and he swung his attention to Emilie.

"I hear your Restoration could use work," she said, moving to stand by Click. "I can help you with that. So long as you don't mind having to sit with your cousins while I teach them as well."

"She's a good Restoration mage?" Wenselon asked, falling back by Ileana.

"Yes," she responded.

"Good. The more teachers he has, the more tricks he'll learn."

"My boys have been missing you," Alice chided gently. "Will you spend more time with them?"

"Maybe I could start teaching them what I know about sword work. Eda says sometimes the best way to learn something is to teach it to someone else."

Wenselon chuckled. "As your new teacher, I'm not opposed to that idea if it meets your aunt's approval. How many cousins do you have?"

"Seven," he said. "They're all younger than me."

"Myn is only two years younger than you are," Alice noted. "And Varnis, three years."

He shrugged. "And Caly and Anya are five years younger. Zylle, Kaye and Corwin as well." Glancing at Wenselon he shrugged again. "The biggest problem is that none of my cousins really like wandering the woods. Maybe that will change if they become werewolves as well, but they don't spend time with me because they don't want to."

Ileana winced, smelling the hint of guilt off both Alice and Emilie.

"Hard to keep up with a wolf," Click said, giving Lewin a long look. "Don't forget that you have a tendency to enter the woods in that form. The blame of the rift between you and your cousins is not entirely on them."

"You didn't see how they looked at me whenever they'd travel with the caravan," he said, frowning down at his hands. "I know everyone was having trouble with my power, but it bothered Varnis a lot that I made uncle Theo uncomfortable. And everyone hated that I disquieted aunt Emilie. Because she faced down that bear without flinching. And if I made her flinch where a bear didn't..." He shrugged. "Well, how dangerous was I?"

"I never told anyone but Sorais that your power bothered me," Emilie said.

"I think someone overheard you because I heard Breeze talking to Akgruhl about it. Or maybe those two could smell it and they talked, and the others overheard? Not sure. But everyone knows."

"I should have thought of that," she murmured.

"Did you explain to the rest of the pack what he is?" Wenselon asked, turning to face Ileana.

"Not all of them," she said. "We thought it could cause problems."

"You should have tried it," he said. "If everyone understood why he disquiets them, it could have gone a long way in smoothing his way."

"We discussed it as a Guild," Alice said. "And it's only been a few years that he's had trouble with his presence."

"Five years since he stopped taking classes with the other children though," Emilie noted.

Wenselon nodded. "Lewin. You need to be prepared for the possibility that you're right in that part of the reason for the rift is lack of shared interests. But with this spell in place, you'll have a much easier time connecting with others."

"I'm looking forward to it," he said, smiling at Ileana. "You can stop worrying about me so much."

"I'm your mother, Lew. I'll always worry over you."

---

"Lewin, right?"

Ileana peeked around the corner of the barn, watching a girl around Lewin's age approach him. Is that Aurane? She's grown a lot since I last spent any time with her, taking after Audrey more than I expected.  

"That's me," he responded, lowering his sword. "You new around here?"

Ileana winced at the hesitation in his tone, forcing herself not to move further away from the barn, knowing he was still deflated from the lacklustre 'reconciliatory' conversation Alice had engineered for him and his cousins. I can understand why she tried it, but I fear it drove a further wedge between them.

Aurane laughed. "Course not. But you stopped taking lessons with me and the others, what four, five years ago?"

He sighed, looking away. "I guess I did."

"My parents explained it to me. Said I wasn't to tell anyone else. But I always figured that gossip about a person should be told to them. You're a demi-prince, right? Already a werewolf?"

Frowning, he looked at her. "Yeah. How did you find out about my father?"

"Well, my pa said that your new trainer passed the word to everyone. Cause he said that your birth pack needed to understand why they were so scared of you. But he said they've known for forever and he was wondering if Wenselon had done the right thing. That he worried about more people knowing about you." She frowned, crossing her arms. "You don't seem so scary."

"It's a werewolf thing," he said quietly.

I hope their fears, and mine, are unfounded. I hope Wenselon is right and the others can accept him.

"Pa said that Wenselon said only the adults needed to know. That otherwise it'd be your secret to tell. And I only asked a few leading questions to figure out what they'd been talking about. I don't think the other kids were told though. Most of them aren't very curious about things they can't find in a book or training manual. Honestly, I think my parents only told me because I heard them talking to each other about it and they realized I was eavesdropping. But I was just bursting to tell someone. Figured you'd be the best option."

He shook his head, sheathing his blade. "Did you want something?"

So cynical.

"Of course! I've heard that you and your mother travel into Skyrim sometimes to visit a Reach village? I've always wanted to meet a hagraven, and Drinks-Well said that the last hagraven the pack was trading with this side of the border died of old age about eight years ago."

"It wasn't old age. She got killed by a gryphon."

"Really?" she asked. "Wonder why Drinks didn't tell me the truth about that. I'll have to ask her the next time I see her."

"She was probably testing you. Trying to see if you could figure out she was lying. She does it to me all the time."

"That sounds like her," she agreed.

"But you want to meet a hagraven?" he wondered. "Why?"

"Well, all the old tales claim that hagravens are evil and terrible and just the worst creatures known to mortal-kind. And I want to see if they're telling the truth."

"They're exaggerating," Lewin responded. "I know there's worse things in the world. Oh, have you heard of briarhearts? I think they're much more intimidating."

"I have! They're undead right!? Your aunt Emilie was saying that they get their whole heart taken out. Can you imagine!?"

He nodded vigorously, Ileana biting her lip, almost surprised to realize she was tearing up. I should stop eavesdropping but... it's so good to see him talking to someone like this. I'll talk to her parents about letting her come with us the next time we go. It could be good for both of them.

"Hey, do you think if I spun it as research, that your mother would let me come with you next time?"

"Would your parents let you go?" he wondered.

"So long as Click or Dra'ri go with us, I think they'd be fine with it."

"They both usually come along," he said. "So um, I'm embarrassed to admit it but...,"

"You don't remember my name?" she guessed, her laughter peeling out around the training grounds. "I wouldn't expect you to. It's been so long. I'm Aurane."

Swallowing the lump in her throat, Ileana slipped silently away, heart full.

 

"Are you angry with me?" Alice asked, intercepting Ileana as she headed through the manor.

"About the reconciliation meeting?" she asked, pausing to turn and look at her. "No. I understand what prompted it. And we were all hopeful."

"I thought my boys would be more excited that he wanted to spend time with them again," she said, smelling weary. "They talked about it often enough."

"They just don't have enough in common," she responded. "But they know now that there's no hate or pride on either side. Just an impossible situation that finally got a solution."

"True. I just... I guess I always thought our children would be as close as we were when we were younger."

Stepping forward, she pulled her into a hug. "I know."

"Where were you off to?" she wondered.

"I was going to go find Audrey. I wanted to talk to her about something her daughter eavesdropped on."

"Oh dear, what has Aurane done now?"

She laughed, moving to wrap her arm over her shoulders. "Nothing wrong," she said. well, technically eavesdropping on what she did could have ended poorly. "She wants to go to Skyrim the next time Lewin and I go."

"Oh, interesting. Do you know why?"

"She claims she wants to meet a hagraven," she said, shrugging when Alice grimaced. "She's one of the most curious children I've ever met so I suppose I'm not too surprised."

"Good luck getting Audrey to agree."

"I appreciate that," she laughed, stepping away.

 

Audrey and Nils were sitting on their porch, conversing quietly, both turning toward her when she approached. "Ileana. Been a while since you sought us out," Audrey greeted. "Everything alright?"

"Heard that Aurane found out Lewin's secret," she said.

She winced. "...yes."

"It's alright. Honestly, it's better than I expected."

"How so?" Nils asked, setting a bit of wood to his side, snagging a waterskin from next to Audrey’s chair.

"She decided to tell Lewin that she knew his secret. Said something about how it felt right to tell the subject of gossip about it."

"She has a good heart," Audrey said. "But surely you didn't come out here just to tell us our children are striking up a friendship?"

"Correct. It seems Aurane had an ulterior motive in seeking Lewin out. She wants to meet a hagraven."

"This again," Nils groaned, leaning on his hand. "Nothing curbs her curiosity.”

"She wants to join Lewin and I on our next trip to Skyrim. Not entirely sure how she found out there are hagravens there," she said.

"Probably eavesdropping on Click or Dra'ri," Audrey said. "Those two join you fairly often, right?"

"Every time."

"Would you be alright with having her tag along?" Nils asked. "And before you think we're being oddly permissive. We're not. We just know when to pick our battles."

"You're worried that she'll eventually try to follow us if you don't give her permission." And I thought Lewin’s escapades were difficult to manage.

"Exactly."

"I came to speak to you in the hopes that you'd be alright with her accompanying us next time," Ileana said. "So, yes. I would be quite alright with it."

"It will be strange to have her be the one leaving the estate," Audrey sighed. "But so long as Dra'ri and Click are along, they'll keep her out of trouble."

"And it won't bother you to have her strike up a friendship with Lewin?" she asked, wolf spirit agitating slightly as she waited for their response.

"We took more jobs away from the estate because we worried we'd grow to resent your son," Nils said. "It's not his fault his power disquiets us. But with the spell Wenselon taught him, that's not a concern any longer."

"Which means that we have no worries about him and Aurane becoming friends," Audrey agreed. "Because when she gets the blood, it will not cause strife."

"Thank you."

Rising, Audrey moved to her side, offering her a hug. "It's hard, seeing your child be lonely," she murmured. "I have to admit. I'm hopeful about a potential friendship for another reason."

"Which is?" she wondered, returning the hug.

"Aurane has trouble making friends," Nils said. "Because she has a tendency to tell people things she's eavesdropped about. And her eavesdropping itself causes strife with others. She has trouble understanding why it upsets people. Hircine knows we've explained it time and time again..."

"But she never remembers," Audrey agreed. "Was Lewin angry to know she knew his secret?"

Ileana shook her head. "He wasn't. He was surprised, and he expected an ulterior motive, but they were speaking quite happily when I left." She gave her a lopsided smile. "As his cousins reminded him yesterday, and as Click warned him the day before..., he's not been the most approachable person. But he's been lonely. So, I think our biggest concern is his irritating Aurane."

Audrey laughed. "Well, we'll see who irritates who first then. Aurane and her habits, or Lewin and his."

"And we'll hope they find a middle ground," Nils interjected. "Not natural for a wolf to be alone. And Aurane isn't wolf-blooded yet. But she understands wolves better than most kids her age."

"I'd best go before Aurane realizes that I eavesdropped on her conversation then."

Nils smirked, retrieving his whittling. "We'll be sure to pretend surprise when she brings it up. I'm curious what tactic she'll use this time."

---

"So, I was wondering. Can you transform into a mammoth?" Aurane asked, looking eagerly up at Click.

"You waited until we were away from home to ask?" Click responded, frowning down at her, tracking his gaze to Lewin and back.

"Of course! My parents say I shouldn't pester you about your abilities."

"How did you come to find out about my transformation ability in the first place?" he asked.

"Oh, I eavesdropped."

Ileana bit back a snicker. She is far too honest about that habit.

"Uncle Theo says you shouldn't necessarily be open about eavesdropping," Lewin piped up. "He says only to admit it when confronted with evidence."

Click sighed. "That is not a lesson she needs to learn."

"He has a point though," Ileana said, grinning when he glowered at her. "My brothers and I used to eavesdrop all the time when we were growing up. How else could we learn new things?"

"Terrible," he muttered. "Where did Dra'ri go?"

Lewin frowned, surveying the campsite, pointing North. "She's that way."

"I'm so excited to become a werewolf when I'm old enough, that seems so useful," Aurane said, looking up at Click. "You didn't answer me. Can you transform into a mammoth?"

"No."

"So, there's a size limit?" she wondered, eyes bright.

He sighed heavily. "There is."

"What's the largest creature you've ever turned into?"

Frowning, he glanced at Lewin. "You want to know too?" he wondered.

"I admit, I am curious," he said, flushing brilliantly.

Click grunted, looking where Wenselon was reclining against a tree. "I don't suppose you'll assist me, old wolf?"

Wenselon smirked. "You're on your own, changeling."

He grumbled, shaking his head. "Not exactly what I am," he muttered, sighing again.

"If you're uncomfortable, don't do it," Ileana said firmly. "Learning when they won't have their curiosity sated is an important life lesson."

"You're right," he agreed, Lewin and Aurane protesting loudly, Wenselon chuckling.

"Well, I'm not going to stop pestering you until you agree," Aurane proclaimed. "That's how I've learned a lot of things over the years."

Your parents indulge you much. But I can understand the impulse. 

"I'm curious to see how long it takes for you to give up," Click said, glancing North. "I'm going to go check on Dra'ri. It's unlike her to take so long away from camp. I want to be sure she hasn't run into any trouble."

"There's another vampire with her," Lewin offered. "I caught their scent when I was looking for hers."

He grimaced. "That's the kind of thing you tell me right off."

"He's right," Wenselon said, lurching to his feet. "I'll go with you."

"Sorry," Lewin muttered, hugging his arms around himself.

Hand resting lightly on her sword hilt, Ileana watched for trouble, most her focus on the Northern side, when she spotted Lewin jump to his feet out of the corner of her eye.

She whirled, leaping past her son just in time to block a swipe from the claws of a hooded vampire.

"Stay by the fire," she ordered, twisting her blade, lashing out at the vamp, ducking under their counter, summoning a ward in her right hand.

With a snarl, the vampire lunged at her, stumbling back from the next lash of her blade, a firebolt flaring past, catching his shoulder.

With a strangled yowl, Dra'ri flashed out of the darkness to leap onto the vampire, Click, Wenselon, and a strange vampire close behind.

After a few seconds, Dra'ri stepped away from the downed vampire. "You were right," she purred, addressing the stranger. "As soon as others came to find me, he circled around."

The strange vampire, an Orc with darkly gleaming red eyes, inclined his head. "Four left. Are you certain you don't want to hunt the rest with me?"

"This one is expected in Skyrim," she countered.

"Why are you hunting other vampires?" Aurane asked curiously.

"They're trying to claim my territory," he said roughly, frowning down at her. "You're comfortable around vampires. Perhaps, too comfortable."

Lewin growled softly, moving to stand in front of her, summoning fire around his left hand, his hand on his sword hilt.

Was that your firebolt? I hadn't realized you'd been taught that spell!

The Orc chuckled. "I am no danger. But it pays to be wary of our kind."

"I'm only this comfortable around vampires Dra'ri is comfortable around," Aurane said.

Dra'ri smiled, tail lashing. "She is telling truth, Ogrul. This one was certain to teach her swiftly when to trust, and when to prepare fire." Her tail lashed. "But this one smells no magicka around her. Which means she did not react properly. So, you see my friend, this one must continue traveling with these young ones. Because more lessons are needed."

"Hard to fault your reasoning, Dra'ri." He inclined his head. "Werewolves, Click, young mortal. It was good to cross paths. Now if you'll excuse me, I have more quarry to find."

Ileana watched him leave, wiping her blade clean, watching Click burn the vampire's corpse. "You know him well?" she asked finally.

"Some," Dra'ri said. "This one and Ogrul were turned by the same vampire. But he prefers to fight lonely battles. It is a sentiment that this one could never understand."

"Which is why you're part of the Guild, right?" Lewin asked.

"Precisely," she said, ruffling his hair, hissing a soft laugh when he grumbled. "This one saw your thrown spell. Next time, take a step to the side so you do not need worry about your ally in front of you."

"Alright," he agreed, glancing at Ileana. "I'll remember that."

 

"Who's this?" Eda asked, moving to greet them with a smile, accepting a hug from Wenselon with a soft sigh. "It's good to see you."

"This is my friend Aurane," Lewin introduced. "She asked her parents if she could come with us."

Aurane flushed, her scent warming with wary joy, and the discussion Ileana had had with her parents flashed in her mind. Oblivion. She's been just as lonely as Lewin.

"It's good to meet you, Aurane," Eda said, gesturing toward the corner stool. "Once Elilia's potions wear off, she can show you around the village."

"Really?" she asked, straightening.

"Really. I need to speak to Ileana and my father." She looked at Click and Dra'ri. "Both of you are welcome to stay for the conversation as well if you'd like."

"This one appreciates it," Dra'ri said.

"I've got a few folk to catch up with," Click said. "I'm sure Dra'ri will tell me the important things later."

"Elilia. Cast a cleanse spell so you can get moving," Eda said. "Do it the way I taught you and it will clear the potion as well."

Ileana glanced at the corner, watching Elilia fade into view, her scent brimming with amusement. "It's good to meet you Aurane," she said, rising and dusting off her dress.

"Can you teach me how to make those potions?"

She laughed. "Let me show you around the village first. And then I'll see what I can do."

"Thank you!"

Amused, Ileana watched the trio head out the door, Dra'ri occupying the now truly empty stool.

"What were you thinking, hurting those boys like that?" Eda demanded, jabbing her finger into Wenselon's chest. "Sarlfi wrote me a letter. Nevian blames himself for your 'death.' And Sarlfi blames himself. You know that's going to set him back months."

"I didn't have a choice," he said, pulling away from her, moving around her small house, setting about making tea. "Sulell slipped a poison into a 'peace offering.' I had to get rid of it before it could impact any of the children living there." He groaned, turning and leaning against the counter. "Then Lorse decided that Nevian needed to get the blood."

"At sixteen!? Wait, wait. Back up. You poisoned yourself?"

"No, Sulell did that."

She scowled. "You allowed yourself to be poisoned. Why?"

"Because there's nothing else I can teach Sarlfi. And Lorse hated me. He was starting to agitate more of the pack against me so, I had to allow him to get rid of me in a way that would keep from undoing my work. Silka figured out that I'd been poisoned. Told Sarlfi. And when he confronted me about it, I told him that giving Nevian my blood would kill me."

Shaking her head, she turned away. "The marriage contract between Elilia and Sarlfi was approved. She's scared."

Ileana winced. I don't know much about this Lorse's pack. But even what I just overheard is enough to make me understand why she would be.

"I'll talk to her."

"No, you will not," she snapped. "Let her be. She needs to process this on her own. Just leave her be."

Sighing heavily, he nodded, turning to Ileana. "Promise me something."

"What is it?"

"Make sure that you, or one of your relatives is willing to talk to Lewin the way Eda talks to me. It will help keep him humble."

"I'll see what I can do," she said, looking at Eda.

“Good as it is to see you, I don’t understand why you came out here,” Eda grumbled. “You can teach him more than I ever could.”

"Because it’s good for him to understand briarhearts as well as werewolves. If there were more werebear enclaves in Skyrim proper I’d arrange meetings with them as well. But Solstheim is too far for now. And, as I told Ileana, the more teachers he has for magic, the more well rounded he will be."

"You sure that's why?" she asked.

He grinned. "The bulk of it."

"Travel this way is good for the cub," Dra'ri interjected. "He has already learned much."

"He has," Ileana agreed. "And I admit, I would miss our conversations."

Smelling slightly pleased, Eda nodded. "Fine. I'll see what else I can teach him."

Chapter 8: Loss

Summary:

Ileana learns that Lewin has two soulmates.
Lewin and Aurane travel to Camlorn and run into Sanguine's son.

Notes:

CW: character death. Not on page.

Aurane traveled with them every time they went into Skyrim after that. She and Lewin spoke often with Elilia until the day she left for Falkreath, Wenselon's teachings meaning that Lewin could travel more comfortably around the village. He still put many on edge but learned almost alarmingly quickly how to talk other werewolves, and even the briarhearts down. Wenselon smelled of pride every time he talked one around, and early one morning, Ileana sought him out to find out why.

"I've always liked Reach mornings," Wenselon said easily, pouring two mugs of tea.

"Were you expecting someone?" she asked, moving to settle on the boulder next to him.

"You've had that look about you that says you're concerned over something for a while now. I was expecting you to track me down."

"I'll lay it out bluntly then," she said. "Why are you so comfortable with Lewin talking other werewolves down? Aren't you worried it'll go to his head?"

He shook his head. "He's not trying to assert dominance when he does it. So, I'm not concerned that he'll begin to abuse his gifts."

"I can see that," she murmured.

"You worry about it often," he noted. "Why?"

"Hircine mentioned fear of him believing he could one day challenge him."

"Ahhh. I understand. And I'll be honest, I don't think it's a concern." He glanced at her. "Do you think Lewin is the type to want to control others?"

"No. But power can corrupt."

He chuckled, pouring her more tea. "You've set him a good example. Have more faith in yourself, your brothers, and your son."

She sighed, crumbling bits of crystalized honey into her cup. "I'll see what I can do," she said quietly. "There is something else I wanted to ask you."

"What is it?"

"Eda said you could tell about someone's soulmates by looking at them. Is that true?"

He smirked, drawing a leg up. "Want to track yours down?"

She shook her head. "No. Last thing I need is to find out mine wants romance, when I don't."

Inclining his head slightly in acknowledgement, he stirred his tea. "Lewin."

"Yes."

He tapped the side of his cup thoughtfully. "Interesting that someone like you is interested in matchmaking."

"Rude," she snapped. "I just want to give Lewin the best chance at happiness as possible. Is that so awful?"

"It's not," he said easily. "He has two. Not sure how you'd go about tracking them down," he mused. "Right now, they're nowhere near here."

She swallowed hard, clenching her hand against the cup to disguise her shaking. "Are there signs you can see if they'll be platonic or not?" she asked, pleased by the complete lack of trembling in her voice.

"No."

Damnit. "Well, I'll give him the information, so that he knows. It will be up to him what he does with it."

"Is that all you needed?" he asked, sounding a bit surprised when she rose.

"For now. I'm sure I'll think of a dozen other questions as Lewin gets stronger."

"He's a good lad. With the help of the muffling spell, he won't need me for too much longer."

"What will you do then?"

"Go back to the Hunting Grounds. I could use the rest."

"We'll miss you when you go," she said honestly.

 

She tracked Lewin down in the library the day after they got home. "Lewin. I found something out while we were at Eda's," she said.

"A good thing?" he wondered.

"Maybe," she said softly. I don't think so. Not with how things turned out for Karic. I hate having to put this pallor over everything. "I spoke to Wes about your soulmates."

"Plural?" he asked. "That's interesting."

"Yes," she said. "I'm sorry."

"Why?"

"Because you have to face the possibility that with two, you might not be able to meet both. Or, that they may have met each other first." Wenselon said they were far from the village. You might not even meet them at all.

"What's wrong with them meeting each other first?" he asked, leaning back in his chair.

"Sometimes, when that happens, they don't want to entertain having another soulmate. They don't want to risk their current relationship or do the work to integrate another."

He frowned, setting his book to the side. "You mean like what happened with Uncle Karic?"

"You know about that?"

"Yes, he was acting weird and Sorais told me why. But it could work out. I don't see why we should worry about it. Aurane says that soulmates are more likely to get along with each other. She says that she's going to start looking for hers as soon as she has the blood." He grinned. "So she can sniff them out better."

"Aurane knows about soulmates?" she asked.

"She does. She eavesdropped on her parents talking about them," he explained.

"It's how she gets all of her information," she said dryly.

"She says since it works, she shouldn't stop."

Hard to fault that logic. "Well, hopefully she learns more prudence around being open with what she's learned."

"Would you be upset if I eavesdropped?" he wondered. "I know we've discussed eavesdropping before but..." he shrugged. "I never asked you what you thought about me doing it."

I know you've already started eavesdropping. Don't try to pretend at innocence. "Depends on what I learn you've overheard," she said, ruffling his hair, smiling fondly at him when he grumbled and put it to rights.

"I'll keep that in mind," he promised. "Mother."

"What is it?" she asked, her guard up by the formality of his address.

"Aurane was thinking I could travel with her after she gets the blood. We could explore High Rock together."

She frowned, rocking back on her heels, crossing her arms over her chest. "We'll discuss it when that day comes."

"I thought I should give you time to think about it," he said, grinning up at her.

"Prudent," she said. "I'll talk to your uncles. It will cut into your time with the caravans."

"True, but it would be good experience."

"Save your arguments for after I've talked to them," she suggested. "We'll see what they say."

 

"I don't see why not," Sorais said, smelling pensive as he leaned against a wall.

"Agreed," Karic said. "But we should talk to Audrey and Nils as well. You know Aurane will leave telling them until the last minute if she can help it."

"Best they not be blindsided," she agreed.

---

"He's learned well," Wes said quietly, dropping into a chair near Ileana, smirking when Karic startled away from the wall. "All that's left for us is to teach him a bit more of the Hunting Grounds."

"Us?" Ileana asked, glancing up from her letter.

"The other First Turned and I," he clarified. "But that can wait until after he's done this tour with Aurane that he wants to do."

"It's an experimental trip," she corrected. "They're going to Camlorn, and they'll come back after about a week spent there. See how traveling alone treats them."

"And your brothers will be doing what at the time?" he asked, grinning when Karic grunted.

"We've got business in some of the small settlements near Camlorn," he said. "They've agreed to meet with us in one of the inns along the route. And we'll return here together."

"There are worse ways to hover, I suppose," he said.

"It was the only way any of us felt comfortable with it," Ileana admitted. "Audrey is going to go with Karic and the others." She sighed, running her fingers over the letter. "It's hard to believe he's an adult now."

"You should be proud of the son you've raised," Wes said easily. "He has a quick mind, and he's one of the best fighters I've had the pleasure of training. Don't be surprised if he takes to traveling after this trip. He's got a restlessness about him."

"We know," Karic said. "It's part of why he's done so well with the trips we've taken together. I told him that if this trip goes well, he'll be able to start working his way up the caravan leadership."

"He told me."

 

Ileana was proud of herself. She did not cry when she said goodbye to Lewin and Aurane, handing Lewin a full belt pouch with admonishments on how best to hide it from view.

He laughed, tucking it away. "I know. I'll be back before you know it," he promised.

How did I ever think that nineteen was grown up? They both seem so young.

Aurane approached, eyes bright, hair braided in a crown around her head. "Come on Lew! We're going to miss our carriage!"

"They grew up too fast," Audrey lamented, waving when the pair whirled to wave madly, Aurane more enthusiastic than Lewin.

"They did," Ileana agreed. "But they'll watch out for each other."

"They will," she agreed. "Good friends, those two." She laughed. "And they both made sure to assure me that they were only friends. More than once in fact."

"Yes, they did the same with me," she said, shaking her head with a smile. "And I made sure his uncles took him aside to explain everything he needed to know."

Audrey nodded. "I did the same with Aurane."

"How about a bout in the training yard?" she asked, dropping her hand to her sword hilt. "Something to bleed off the tension before you and my brothers leave."

"It's a good idea," she agreed, casting one more glance over her shoulder.

 

The first indication they had of something being wrong was the date. They were late. Nils and Ileana took to pacing the walls, riding out for short distances along the road. Trying to catch a glimpse of the travelers. But when they finally showed up, there were only four. Ileana's brothers and Audrey, all four pale and silent, eyes red rimmed.

"They met someone in Camlorn," Sorais said, hands clenched tightly around a mug of tea. "Lewin said he was a Sanguinite. Said that he was charming. That he convinced Aurane to go off with him to visit the brothels."

Nils turned to Audrey, trembling when she nodded, grief in her scent.

"Lewin said he tried to track them down. That he lost track of them. He said he warned her that this man, Seanwen, made him uncomfortable. And...," he swallowed, slumping in the chair, tea sloshing over his hand. "Somehow, Aurane ended up in the Myriad Realms. Lewin doesn't know how. We managed to drag that much out of him. But."

"But?" Nils asked, his voice tight with fear.

"Seanwen brought her back out..." He broke down, dropping the mug to cover his face with his hands, the liquid seeping into the rug. "After... After she ran lethally afoul of a Dremora."

"We found Lewin with an injured hip, laying on..." Audrey started, squeezing her eyes shut. "He was laying...," she wailed, gripping Nils's shirt, burying her face against his shoulder. 

"Laying on the grave he'd dug," Theo finished, resting his hand on Sorais' shoulder.

Ileana sank down into a chair, staring at her hands, Nils making a choked sound, trembling, Ileana unsure who was supporting who between them.

"I... I... I asked him why he didn't come find us. When she first vanished," Audrey said, voice rough. "I asked him why."

"What did he say?"

"He said it was his fault. That he should have. That he should have run straight for us, but he was scared he'd miss a window to get her out."

"He told us that Seanwen is the one who told him where she was," Karic said.

"It wasn't his fault Ileana, but I told him it was," Audrey said, tears streaming down her face. "I agreed when he said it was his fault. I told him he was right that he should have stopped her going with him. I'm so sorry."

"Where is he now," she asked, throat tight with grief. Where is my son?

"He's hunting Seanwen," Karic said. "He refused to come back with us. Said he wasn't going to let the bastard get away with murdering her and running off like he had. Wouldn't even let us heal him."

"It wasn't his fault," Audrey sobbed. "I wasn't thinking. I couldn't think."

"Who is this Seanwen?" Nils snarled.

"We only know he's an Altmer who follows Sanguine," Karic said. "Probably one of his high ranked followers if he can enter the Myriad Realms at will."

"He injured your nephew, murdered my girl, and Lewin thinks he can bring him down alone?"

Karic shook his head. "He wouldn't take any input. We tried to talk him out of it. Tried to talk him into letting us heal him at the very least. But he's gotten too good at making himself impossible to track. He ran off on us. We stayed for as long as we could manage; trying to track him down. Trying to learn about this Seanwen."

"I have his scent," Audrey growled. "And I will be going back."

"We both will," Nils hissed. "Lewin is going to need help, and when I lay hands on that Daedra... may his Prince help them because there will be nothing left."

"I'll go with you," Ileana said quietly. "Maybe I can get some straight answers from Lewin."

"How do you intend to enter the Myriad Realms to deal with the Dremora?" Wes asked, startling several in the room who hadn't noticed his presence.

"We'll figure it out," Nils growled. "Barring that. We'll follow Lewin's lead and kill Seanwen as being the reason she was there. Do you have a problem with that?" he demanded.

"None. I understand it."

He nodded sharply. "Good."

 

"He's been here," Audrey said, not bothering to stifle her tears as she crouched by the grave and rested a wreath in front of the newly placed headstone, brushing her fingers over the sprigs of lilac and mountain flower. "Aurane's favorite flowers."

Nils nodded, kneeling by the grave himself, Ileana standing a few feet back, her own tears running unchecked down her face, her wolf spirit mourning with her, a subdued presence in her chest. 

"You don't have to stay," Audrey whispered, looking at her. "But...,"

Moving closer, she crouched by her, offering her a hug, holding her close when she leaned into her, reaching her arm out for Nils, offering as much comfort as she could manage. 

"It shouldn't have been this way," Ileana whispered, voice choked. "It shouldn't...," sucking in a hard breath, she squeezed them both tighter. "I'll go back to the inn. Come back when you're ready."

Her steps dragged as she entered the city, heart heavy. I grew up here. When did it become so dangerous? Wiping her eyes, she made her way to the inn, slipping into her room, shifting and curling up on the bed. Lewin. Where are you?

 

The inn room felt stifling, Ileana tossing and turning on the bed, re-living the moment she'd said goodbye to Lewin and Aurane over and over. If I'd known... Groaning, she gave up on sleep, dressing and leaving the building, wandering the once familiar streets aimlessly, pausing when she caught Wes' scent, following it swiftly, casting a chameleon spell on some instinct she couldn't quite name.

Stepping into the forest clearing near the city, she paused, ducking back into the trees, staring at the pair in front of her sitting by the newly decorated grave, heart clenching.

"Your mother worries about you," Wes said, passing Lewin a small bottle.

He lifted it to his nose, scowling and shoving it back at him. "Drinking is a Sanguinite vice," he growled.

"You know it's not," he responded mildly, taking a swig. "Or, not only."

"Seanwen kept trying to get me to drink. Seemed to think it would make me more open to his ideas. He wanted me to go to the Myriad Realms too."

"Tell me what you can about him," Wes said.

"I've already told you enough," he retorted. "And I will hunt him to the ends of Nirn if I need to."

"Lewin. It wasn't your fault."

"I could have stopped her," he hissed, voice cracking. "I could have found a way."

"No. You couldn't have. Just as you have gifts from Hircine, so too does Seanwen have from Sanguine."

What does he mean by that?

"I'm stronger than he is," he growled. "I can sense it. And I hid my strength from him. He doesn't know how easily I could rip him apart."

Wes frowned, looking at his side pointedly. "Oh yes, I can see that."

He snarled, reaching for a blade, Ileana stepping swiftly into the clearing, wiping her chameleon spell. "Lewin."

Looking up at her, the blood drained from his face, and he moved to his feet, yelping in surprise when Wes yanked him back down. "No running, pup," Wes ordered.

"Mother," he whispered. "I can't. I can't face them again. It's my fault."

"Lewin," she murmured, moving to sit next to him, tugging him into her arms.

He twisted, sobbing brokenly into her shoulder. "It's my fault," he sobbed. "I know it is. I could have protected her. I should have. What use are these gifts otherwise?"

She held him, letting him cry himself out. "Lew."

"I'm going to find him," he whispered. "I'm going to track him down, and I am going to kill him. I don't care how long it takes me."

"Lewin, come back home? We can plan together."

He shook his head, voice muffled slightly. "No. I can't. I need to find Seanwen before I can return."

"And what if he outfights you?" she whispered.

"Then I'll die. But at least I'll have tried."

Absolutely not! "Is there nothing I can do to convince you otherwise?"

"No." He pulled away from her, rising, and wiping his eyes carefully. "I'm sorry mother. But this is what I have to do."

"Don't think you can escape me so easily," Wes said quietly. "There is more you need to learn."

With a shrug, he took a step back, looking at Aurane's grave. "I started figuring out the right questions to ask. And Seanwen has a circuit he runs of High Rock and Hammerfell. He'll be in Daggerfall next." Clenching his fists, he stared at the ground for several long moments before looking at Ileana. "I'll come home once he's dead."

"Lewin."

He snarled, his face twisting into something almost unrecognizable, Ileana's heart breaking. "This is my path mother. I'm sorry that it upsets you, but I can't let him prey on anyone else. If I couldn't prevent Aurane's death. At least I can avenge her and prevent more."

"Write me," she whispered. "Please. Don't cut me out in your quest for vengeance."

He frowned, scuffing the grass slightly. "Alright. I promise to keep you appraised of my efforts."

Carefully, she approached him, pulling him into another embrace. "I love you, Lewin. Please be careful, and please, write me when you need anything. Money, backup, anything."

He trembled, taking a shaky breath, before pulling away, glancing at Wes. "You seem to be able to find me easy enough. So, I'll see you when you next show up." Throwing another look at Aurane's grave, he stalked away, shifting into his true wolf form and vanishing into the night.

Sobbing, Ileana sank to the ground, hugging her arms around herself. "It wasn't supposed to be this way," she whispered, looking up at Wes.

"I'll look in on him until his training is complete," he promised, looking older than she'd ever seen him. "I'll try to make sure this doesn't harden him too much. And maybe we'll even get a chance to take out Seanwen."

"What do you know about Seanwen?" she demanded.

He sighed, crossing his arms. "I suspect based on what happened, and a few things Lewin said, that he's more than just a disciple of Sanguine."

"What do you mean?"

"The only beings I know who can easily enter and leave other Realms are Daedra and Daedra blessed. Hircine has his First Turned, and Lewin. Sanguine has some Dremora, and..." he grimaced. "Sanguine has a son. An Altmer demi-prince."

She swallowed hard, glancing at Aurane's grave. "So, you think that Seanwen..."

"Is a demi-prince." He sighed. "Which means I need to step up your son's training. He hasn't lived for the length of time an Altmer may have. And I need to make sure that...," he looked at the grave, conjuring a flower and laying it down, his meaning more than clear. "I can keep an eye on him from the Hunting Grounds. And, give it a year or so. You should be able to get him to accept more help as time takes the edge off his grief."

"Thank you, Wes," she said. "For everything you've done for my family."

He nodded, staring at the grave. "She'll be in the Hunting Grounds, you know. It feels unfair to be able to see her, when her parents and Lewin are grieving so deeply. I'll check in on her too. Sometimes the transition is, hard to get used to."

"Will Lewin be able to visit her?" she asked, swiping at fresh tears.

"Cruel as it may sound, I won't let him. Not at first. Not until he lets go of his guilt. I don't want to risk him choosing not to leave again."

"I knew one day that Lewin would leave for his own interests. I just never imagined..."

"I'm sorry." He turned the direction Lewin had gone. "Give him time."

---

The letters trickled in slowly over the years. Messages interspersed with the occasional meeting after more than a year of avoiding them. Audrey and Nils spent years hunting Sanguinite cultists, trying to track Lewin down to force him to accept help. Nearly five years after Aurane's death, with no sign of Seanwen, or Lewin, they gave up, returning home, shells of their former selves, throwing themselves into training the other guild members to recognize signs of manipulation, lessons hard learned during their hunt.

Lewin hardened over the years, talking casually of his hunts when they met, raging whenever Seanwen gave him the slip, refusing steadfastly to return home, walking out of the room when Alice and Emilie berated him for staying away so long. It had taken nearly a year for him to accept a meeting after that, and walking away from him never became any easier.

Now, years later, Ileana found herself facing the loss of her son again, her heart thudding hard in her ears, eyes burning with unshed tears.

"You're certain there's no sign of him?" she asked, massaging her temples, staring up at Karic.

"Nothing. I'm not sure where he's gone off to this time but, no one even saw him leave the inn."

"Damnit. I thought we were past this."

"I know," he agreed. "What do you want to do?"

"Only thing we can do," she sighed. "Wait for him to resurface. Put word out that we're looking for his whereabouts."

He nodded, leaning on the desk. "I wish he'd come home," he murmured. "I know you do too. But. It's been so long, and he still..."

"Still blames himself for Aurane."

"Yes."

 

"Ileana," Akgruhl called gruffly, limping over to her, a letter clenched in her hand. "It's his handwriting."

Eagerly, she took the letter from her, opening it, reading it where she stood.

Mother:

Wenselon meddled beyond what he should have. He convinced my father that I needed to take a prominent position in tracking down a wayward wolf. But I am safe. For now. My father showed up in Wayrest and pulled me to the Hunting Grounds before sending me to Skyrim.

"He's in Skyrim, she announced, smelling relief from the small gathering that surrounded her. "Says his father pulled him there directly." Explains why no one saw him leave the inn.

"Interesting," Akgruhl muttered. "What could he need there?"

"Something to do with a wayward wolf," she said, looking back at the letter.

But there's more to Wenselon's meddling.

I...

I've met some people since I've been here. I thought at first that it was a terrible overstep on Wenselon's part. And I'm still not convinced that it wasn't. But...

I know I'm avoiding the topic. I'm sorry mother. Do you recall when you apologized for finding out about my having multiple soulmates?

Well, I've met them.

And I cannot tell yet how things will go in the long run. But they know about soulmates. And they knew about each other. And I was convinced that it meant they wouldn't want anything to do with me.

Wenselon told one of them what I was to them. I'm still angry with him about that! But my wolf talked me down. He's apparently been worried that I would be alone forever. Which is, of course, ridiculous. I just had a plan. And he threw that in disarray.

Granted... I probably wouldn't have thought to check Skyrim for my soulmates at all! So maybe... maybe this will be a good thing.

I feel like I'm falling too fast. Already we've been through something terrible together and they didn't send me away. They could have. I know they could have. And they could have blamed me for what happened. But they didn't.

But worries aside. I know you're going to want to know about them. So, I'll tell you what I've learned so far.

A weight lifted from her shoulders, Ileana holding the letter against her chest for a moment, tears pricking her eyes. "He says he's met his soulmates. And he's hopeful." Maybe they can help. Maybe they'll help him see reason about everything to do with Aurane. I can't remember the last time he sounded hopeful.

Vilkas is a Nord werewolf. He's a member of the Companions, and he knows an incredible amount concerning the history of Skyrim, and other topics as well. A proper warrior scholar. Honestly, I could sit and listen to him wax on about any topic for hours, it's endearing how enthusiastic he gets about everything.

He can tell when I'm trying to talk to his wolf though. It's very strange. And he can handle the full brunt of my power, which is very disconcerting, but I can't pretend it doesn't make me feel good.

Copper's father was a Nord, but their 'mother' is an Imperial, and they look much like what I imagine she does. They're an enigma in human form and they carry a lot of secrets. Most of which they tell no one because they're trying to protect people. Don't make that face. I know you're making your 'now you know what it feels like' face.

She let out a choking laugh. You're right about that. I am making that face. A werewolf and an 'enigma.' And better, a werewolf who can handle your power unmuffled. I never would have thought to hope for such a thing.

They excel in mixing conjuration and destruction with conjured daggers. And there's often just a sense of mischief about them. Very hard not to be drawn to them. Vilkas assures me that he feels the same way. The same draw.

There is..., a complication.

A chill thrilled down her spine, and she frowned. Of course there is. It was looking to be too easy.

"What is it?" Akgruhl asked.

"He says there's a complication," she said, reading onward.

Copper was raised in a cult of Vaermina in Cheydinhal. Their 'mother' is determined to drag them back and, for obvious reasons, Vilkas and I feel compelled to resist that. The wolf my father wants dealt with is from that cult and is a danger to them. It's complicated.

But I thought that maybe you and some others could take a little trip to Cyrodiil. Good to know how things are going with the Emperor's death. Could impact our businesses, right? Your businesses.

I'm hoping we don't need to go into Cyrodiil because of Copper's 'mother' but..., I fear it will need to happen. Their 'mother' doesn't deserve the title. Everything I've heard about her paints her as a vile priestess of Vaermina. Having a mother who deserves the title, I struggle giving it to Mirona. And I realize now how lucky I am to have you.

Mother, it occurs to me that you might have heard of their family. Their cousin escaped the cult with the help of the Vigilants of Stendarr some years back. So, if you know of a family out of Cheydinhal that had a member join the Vigilants, that's the right one. And not to worry, she's not a danger to Vilkas or I. She's engaged to Vilkas's twin brother in fact. And she was in contact with a Priest of Stendarr named Averio who has been trying to fight the cult for years. There may be hope he’d be willing to work with you if it means their end. But be careful, please. I don’t want you to put yourself at risk.

This letter is getting long. Give the others my love, and respond once you're able?

With love,

Lewin

P.S. I may have drawn the attention of Molag Bal's Champion to myself, and he's actively hunting both my soulmates but Vilkas in particular. So, if you could ask Uncle Theo, Click, Dra'ri or Drinks-Well for any vampire hunting tips that would be useful. And if you’re able, I could use a bit more coin. I'm afraid my father didn't give me a chance to grab more than what I was carrying at the time. Wenselon fetched the rest, but I was already running low. I have enough for a mage missive but not much past that. Pity I never got around to learning that spell for myself... I may need to rectify that.

With a low sound, she nearly dropped the letter. "You've drawn what attention to yourself!? How!?"

"Do I want to know?" Akgruhl asked, Ileana scenting other pack members drawing close, smelling curious.

"Lewin is safe," she said, pressing the letter to her chest. "He's in Skyrim, he's found his soulmates. And there are some complications regarding one of their family's that he wants my brothers and I to look into." She frowned at the letter. He didn't mention his aunts. Is he still sore with Emilie and Alice for berating him for staying away from home? It would be like him to hold a grudge this long. I'll have to talk to him about that.

"I should say, he's safe for now," she said dryly, passing the letter to Theo when he approached. "He seems to have run afoul of Molag Bal's Champion."

"This one was unaware he had named a new one," Dra'ri hissed, trading uneasy glanced with Drinks.

"I'll pick his brain about it," Ileana promised. "He wants my brothers and I to go down to Cyrodiil under the guise of seeing how the emperor's death may have impacted trade."

"It's a sound excuse," Theo agreed. "And it would be a good test for the children to run the caravans without help."

"Agreed," Akgruhl said. "And you know we can run the estate without oversight."

"I've never questioned that," she responded, looking back at the letter, tears welling in her eyes. I choose to believe that his proactively asking for help is a good thing. Thank you, Wes. Your meddling may have given me my son back.

Notes:

---

meant to post this yesterday but spent the entire day in bed due to a migraine. 🙃

Series this work belongs to:

• Part 13 of Meanwhile Fics Connections