Meme Announcements!
Oct. 29th, 2011 12:36 pm![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
skyrimkinkmemeANNOUNCEMENTS: UPDATED 12/16/2017
Happy Holidays, fellow Kinkmemers! I have returned and have no reasonable excuse for my absence except LIFE. I will be working on updating the archives. If anyone sees anything amiss, please let me know.
I am also hoping to find another Mod and an Archivist.
The more dedicated people we have in this Meme the less chance of it dying. I admit that being the sole keeper of the Meme is not great for the fandom. If something were to happen to me, for good, this place would go the way of the Fallout Kink Meme. Let's not let that happen! If anyone would be interested in Modding/Archiving, please drop me a line. Thanks! <3
Re: Now and Forever (7/8)
Date: 2013-07-27 04:03 am (UTC)“By the eight, you are magnificent,” Argis murmured, hands running up Nikolai’s back once more. He could feel Nikolai’s weight shift backwards and he soon found himself holding the young man at a slight angle, still moving against him. For a moment he wondered if he was being used as nothing more than toy, something to help Nikolai get off. Those thoughts were quickly tossed aside as Nikolai’s hands came to rest on his shoulders.
“Fuck me.”
Argis looked at Nikolai, confusion mingling with the euphoria of the moment but said nothing.
Nikolai pulled himself close to Argis, mouths clashing once more as Nikolai quickened his pace. “I want you to take control,” he whispered, breaking the kiss. “I want to see you enjoying this.”
With one swift motion, and a cry of surprise, Argis had Nikolai pressed against the bedding. Those hazel eyes stared up at him filled with shock. Yet it wasn’t long before those eyes fluttered and a breathy moan escaped his lips. Argis set the pace, nearly pulling out of the man only to bury himself fully. Nikolai’s hands clawed at him with each thrust, his whimpers and moans urging Argis to continue.
Argis found a slow pace, one that seemed to draw a moan from Nikolai whenever he was fully seated. A smile of pure rapture inched it’s was across the young man’s face and his eyes locked with those of Argis. He reached for him and pulled the warrior into another kiss. Nikolai moved with him, meeting every thrust as best as he could.
The rhythm began to change and, it seemed, without a second thought Argis’ hand moved to take hold of Nikolai. The young man let out a low moan as Argis’ hand deftly kept in time with the rhythm he set. He murmured Argis’ name and was answered by sudden buck of the man’s hips. Nikolai smiled weakly, whispering the man’s name again and receiving a similar response.
“Dammit, Nikolai,” Argis growled. He tightened his grip slightly, the younger man’s only response becoming a moan as he bucked against him.
Nikolai ran his hands down Argis’ back and causing the man to arch his back in response. “You keep this up,” Nikolai breathed, “I won’t last much longer.”
Argis smiled, hair spilling over his shoulders as he brought his lips to Nikolai’s ear, “I want to hear you scream my name.”
Those words left Nikolai dumbfounded. He hadn’t expected this from Argis. Then again, this whole situation had long been a fantasy of his. Now he had that fantasy; this hardened warrior was his alone and he was loving him like no other. Nikolai knew that all he could do was comply.
Nikolai rolled his head to the side and grunted as Argis’ pace slowly grow erratic. He wanted this to continue but knew that he was reaching the end of his rope as well. Argis breathed his name and Nikolai found the sound of it exhilarating. The lust in the man’s voice, never before had he heard such a sound and he found it to be the tipping point.
Argis’ name seemed to echo through the room as Nikolai came. The warrior buried his head into the crook of his neck and let out an animalistic growl as he followed in kind, pumping himself as deep as he could into Nikolai. And Nikolai took it, panting and clinging to Argis as he emptied into him.
“You are a loud one,” Argis said with a heavy breath.
Nikolai looked into the man’s eyes, “I only gave you what you wanted.” He was shocked to see the slight blush sudden form in Argis’ cheeks before the man rolled off of him. Nikolai sighed. ‘Reality strikes so soon.’ “If we’re going to get an early start to Windhelm we may want to turn in.”
The only response Nikolai was given was a noncommittal grunt.
Re: Now and Forever (8/8)
Date: 2013-07-27 04:06 am (UTC)With a deep breath Argis straightened himself before glancing over his shoulder. He frowned slightly, “I know you’re awake.”
Nikolai buried his head beneath his pillow, “Am I that horrible of a liar?”
“No,” Argis replied, “I just know you that well. Get up; we’re leaving in an hour.”
Muttering obscenities Nikolai sat up like a bolt and stared hard at Argis. “Are we going to ignore last night?”
Argis raised an eyebrow, “What do you mean?”
“What. . . . What do I mean,” Nikolai laughed. “I mean your response! How the world seemed to come crashing down around you once everything was said and done.”
Argis turned his gaze away.
“No. No, no, no. You are not avoiding this.” Nikolai grabbed Argis’ hand and with one powerful tug, pulled the man into his arms. “Argis, if you didn’t want-”
“Look,” Argis snapped, “I know I could have said the word and you would have stopped, but I didn’t. I didn’t because I didn’t want to stop.”
“Oh.”
Argis pulled out of the awkward embrace and, with a shaky breath, locked eyes with Nikolai. “I enjoyed last night, believe me I did. You are something special, Nikolai. I guess it’s just hard for me to come to terms with this in just one night.”
Nikolai nodded, “I suppose you’re right. You have my apologies.”
“I should be the one apologizing,” Argis replied, kissing Nikolai softly. “You got yourself tangled with someone out of their depths.”
“Well, I’m willing to help you out.”
Argis chuckled, “I know that you are.”
“So, it’s a long ways to Windhelm.”
“That it is.”
“Think you can handle me alone in the wild?”
“I suppose I’ll have to find out.”
(I hope everyone enjoyed this, because I sure as hell did!)
Re: Now and Forever (8/8)
Date: 2013-07-28 12:35 am (UTC)This was really fantastic. So kudos A!A for the great job; I really hope that you write more in the future and if it’s anything with this two the better. ;)
Re: Now and Forever (8/8)
Date: 2013-07-28 12:53 am (UTC)OP!
Date: 2013-07-28 01:20 am (UTC)Re: OP!
Date: 2013-07-28 06:17 pm (UTC)My Favorite Drinking Buddy (1a/?)
Date: 2013-07-28 06:25 pm (UTC)-----------
Traveling with Nikolai was never so straight forward. There was no point A to point B for that man. No, if there was something off in the distance that may be worthwhile he had to see it. Whether that item was a ruin or just a collection of flowers, Nikolai was driven by curiosity. While it would have bothered most companions Argis found it rather entertaining to see a grown man watch butterflies with a child’s eye, or even spending hours just looking across the country from a cliff side.
“No horses,” Nikolai had said the very first time they set out together. “No horses and no carriages. You’ll miss what there is to offer. I promise that you’ll always find something breath taking when you travel on foot.”
Nikolai was never one to break a promise.
Traveling together after the wedding was no different than it ever had been. While they set off towards Windhelm Argis soon realized that their simple path was becoming a winding one thanks to Nikolai’s flights of fancy. When the young man did decide to walk in stride with Argis, he lingered close and his fingers would reach for his. To any passerby the two appeared to be nothing more than close companions and it was that thought that eased Argis’ nerves.
“Ah! A spring,” Nikolai grinned. He hurried away from Argis’ side and jogged beyond the bushes and sparse trees. “Do you want to set up camp here?”
“Set up camp already? It’s barely past midday.” Argis stopped as he came to the edge of the spring. It looked rather inviting. He glanced at Nikolai and sighed; the young man had already dropped his pack and was pulling his weapons from his belt. “There would be no way to convince you otherwise, would there?”
Nikolai laughed, “Come now, this place looks more than inviting. Plus the spring looks rather relaxing if you ask me.”
Argis shrugged off his own pack, “Well, I’m not. Besides, if it wasn’t for you running after every animal and shiny object we could be relaxing in Windhelm.”
“Well pardon my curiosity but a straight march from here to there would be rather boring,” Nikolai explained matter-of-factly. “Either way, make yourself comfortable. I’m going to have a look around.”
“Don’t wander too far.” While he sounded more like a father reprimanding his child, Argis knew it needed to be said.
The sound of nature slowly filtered out anything else. If Nikolai had responded Argis hadn’t heard it as he stared at the spring. His body ached from the previous day’s travels and escapades through a cave. He wasn’t lying when he told Nikolai they could be relaxing in Windhelm; it was something he desperately wanted.
Glancing around Argis figured that there was no reason not to follow his urge. Slowly he stripped off his boots and clothes until all that remained was his breechcloth. Without a second thought Argis stepped into the water and found it warm rather than chilled like expected. He waded into the middle of the spring, finding that the water only rose to his waist. Never-the-less Argis slipped beneath the surface and reveled in the soothing warmth.
Argis surfaced with a gasp for air, standing his full height. He smoothed his hair with a slow breath and closed his eyes. This was what he yearned for: the comforts of home. Or at least a decent bath house. Argis figured that one of the first things he would do once they returned to Markarth was soak his tired body. He was beginning to wonder if the travels were starting to take a toll on him. He wasn’t that old but Nikolai seemed to have endless energy.
Re: My Favorite Drinking Buddy (1b/?)
Date: 2013-07-28 06:26 pm (UTC)The water rippled around Argis as Nikolai joined him. He glanced at the younger man, "You're too quiet for your own good. Too much like a damned cat."
Nikolai laughed, "It's never done me wrong." He slipped beneath the water, surfacing quickly beside him with a happy sigh. "This feels wonderful."
"Not quite like home but it'll do," Argis smiled.
"True enough," Nikolai replied, "but out here we're able to enjoy ourselves." He circled behind Argis and wrapped his arms around him. Nikolai could feel the kneejerk tensing in his body but it seemed to vanish just as fast. He smiled against Argis' neck, "Wouldn't feel too comfortable doing this with prying eyes, now would you?"
Argis lowered his head slightly, "I suppose not." He took in a steady breath as Nikolai's hands moved. He watched them; watched as they trailed lazily over chest before one hand slipped beneath the water's surface. Argis' breath caught in his throat and happy hum escape his companion. "What are you doing?"
"I think it's kinda obvious."
"We're outside."
"There's no one around to see us."
Argis knew he couldn’t deny that and even if he tried there was little doubt that Nikolai would have listened. Rather than argue against it he told himself to relax. He could feel the smile on Nikolai’s lips that submerged hand slipped beneath the scrap of clothing that separated them. A contented sigh escaped Argis. While he was still getting used to the idea of being married to a man there was no point in denying the fact that, that very man knew how to please him.
“Lean against me,” Nikolai whispered.
All Argis could do was comply. He let himself be used and lost himself in the sensation of Nikolai’s hand. It was the first time something like this had happened since the two left Riften. He knew that the young Nord was holding himself back and that he had wanted something more than holding his hand while they slipped through the wilderness. Argis had to admit that he was beginning to want more than that as well. His dreams had been plagued with the memories of their wedding night and it was becoming difficult to get a decent night’s sleep.
Nikolai said nothing as he slowly stroked Argis. He kissed the man’s neck and listened to the sounds that escaped him. Argis leaned into him more, a stray hand slipping up and holding Nikolai in place at the nape of his neck. Nikolai smiled slightly as the man’s head lolled against his shoulder as he moaned. There was quip in his thoughts but Nikolai pushed it away, knowing that it would ruin the moment.
The fingers at Nikolai’s neck flexed, almost clawing at his skin as Argis’ jaw tensed. With a knowing smile the young Nord pumped his hand faster. He could feel Argis’ hips buck and the tension in him grow. The man came with a roar that echoed through the still afternoon, slumping against Nikolai who held without a complaint.
“And you worried about being seen,” Nikolai whispered.
Argis gave a weary laugh, “I suppose you’re right.”
Nikolai stroked Argis’ damp hair with a smile, “Let’s get out of the water. I don’t know about you but I am hungry.”
“Eat?” Argis craned his neck to look Nikolai in the eye, “What about-”
“Let’s just say you owe me one.”
Argis was grateful for those words but in the back of his mind he wondered exactly what Nikolai meant.
Re: My Favorite Drinking Buddy (1b/?)
Date: 2013-07-28 10:41 pm (UTC)By the way I love everything of “Now and forever.” This week was kinda rough on me so I didn’t really have much to check the meme. Thus the lack of comments in the previous parts.
Re: My Favorite Drinking Buddy (1b/?)
Date: 2013-07-29 05:00 am (UTC)Re: My Favorite Drinking Buddy (2/?)
Date: 2013-07-29 06:47 pm (UTC)Nikolai glanced over his shoulder and motioned towards the city, “It’s probably because we’re so close to Windhelm. Do you honestly hear the sounds of wildlife just outside the walls of Markarth?”
“No,” Argis frowned, “but that’s because the Forsworn are slinking just out of sight. The animals know to steer clear.”
“Could it possibly be the fact that it’s snowing and they found shelter of their own?”
“I suppose.”
The younger man rolled his eyes and turned his attention back to the road ahead. “Another few minutes and we’ll within the city. We’ll have a hot meal and a warm bed, so no more complaining.”
Pursing his lips together Argis said nothing more. They were both in sour moods thanks to the current weather. Neither had been prepared for snow. Argis thanked the Divines that it happened so close to the city. There was no telling how things would have progressed if they were another day out.
Argis never heard the animal before it hit him; never saw it’s shadow or the flash of fur out of the corner of his eye. The roar of the sabercat cut through the silence like a knife and was echoed by Argis’ cry of surprise as he was wrenched back. The claw that was undoubtedly supposed to slice into his back had instead lodged itself into his pack. Now he lay on the ground, heart racing as he heard the creature snarl.
The sound of Nikolai’s screaming his name was lost to Argis. All he heard was the rush of blood in his ears and his own mind trying to get him to move. He tried to scramble to his feet, hands frantically reaching for his weapon but the cat deftly knocked his legs out from beneath him. Argis rolled onto his back and stared wide eyed into the face of the animal as it stood over him.
“Fus Ro Dah!”
With what sounded like a crash of thunder the sabercat was knocked off of Argis. He could feel the force of it wrack his own body and for a moment he feared that he too would be thrown be the sound. Yet there was nothing, save for the hard beating of his heart.
“By the gods,” Nikolai cried suddenly coming into Argis’ view, his face pale. “Argis, are you okay?”
Argis gave a slight nod, “I think I’m fine.” He let Nikolai help him to his feet and waited as the man looked him over.
“Nearly tore your pack in two. We can buy you a new one. The damned thing doesn’t look like it’s coming back.”
“That sound. What was it?”
Nikolai gave a nervous chuckle, “That was me, actually.”
“You? That sounded like-“
“The dragons, yes?”
Argis gave a slow nod as he gave Nikolai an uneasy look. “We’ve always steered clear of them but could hear their battles. How is it that you can sound like them so easily?”
“I guess it’s because I’m Dovahkiin.”
There was nothing Argis could say in response to such a revelation. He knew he wore a shocked expression thanks to the nervous response Nikolai seemed to have. All it did was illustrate how little Argis knew about his companion. When Nikolai had arrived in Markarth he was no-one of note, just a man wishing to aid the city in some way. Argis listened to those in the Jarl’s employ about this newcomer and before he knew it this he was serving this newcomer. Neither spoke about their lives before working together. Argis didn’t even know where Nikolai hailed from.
“W-we should get moving, Argis.” Nikolai stammered. “I think we both deserve a drink after that.”
Re: My Favorite Drinking Buddy (2/?)
Date: 2013-07-29 07:53 pm (UTC)This is... Argh... SAADSJETGHVNASJF *coherent thinking stopped altogether by the fluffiness and sexiness of this story*
Re: My Favorite Drinking Buddy (3a/?)
Date: 2013-07-29 08:03 pm (UTC)Nikolai led the way without a word and Argis followed in kind. Neither had said a word since the revelation of the young man’s mythic identity. In truth Argis didn’t know how to respond. Why hadn’t he said something before? How long had Nikolai known what he was? So many questions rolled around in Argis’ mind but he knew of no tactful was to broach the subject.
“Go and find a place by the fire,” Nikolai said as they entered the inn. “I’ll see to getting us a room and some food.”
The sound of singing drifted from the upper floor of the inn as Argis ascended the stairs. The room above opened before him, the hearth being the focal point of it all. Few people milled about, most drinking and having hushed conversations. Argis shook off the remaining snow and the cold as he settled close to the hearth.
“Can I get you a drink?”
Argis glanced up and paused, staring a moment too long at the young barmaid. “Yes, two pints of mead for now.”
The woman smiled, “Two?”
“Yes. My companion is getting a room.”
“Alright,” the woman chuckled, “two pints coming up.”
Argis watched the barmaid disappear down the steps and cursed softly the moment she was out of sight. This was the last thing he needed. Thinking about it Argis didn’t know if Nikolai was the jealous type let alone if he knew how difficult it would be for Argis to try and curb what was only natural. ‘Either way,’ Argis thought, turning the ring he wore about his finger, ‘I just need to watch myself.’
“Hope you don’t mind soup.”
Argis turned his eyes to Nikolai as he took his seat. “Sounds fine. You manage to get a room?”
“Yes,” Nikolai nodded. “Had only a few rooms left but managed to get something relatively nice.”
“What is your business here anyway?”
“I’m trying to get an audience with Ulfric Stormcloak.”
Argis’ eyes widened, “Ulfric? Do you know how hard it is to see that man these days? Do you truly believe that you can just walk in to the Palace of Kings?”
“I’ve had a run in with Ulfric once before,” Nikolai grinned. “Jogging his memory should be more than enough to help get an audience.”
“A run in?”
“Yes.”
“And what are you planning?”
“I was going to inquire about his cause in this war.” Nikolai lowered his voice, “Maybe even seeing what the Imperials have to offer. Just a little information gathering on my part.”
Re: My Favorite Drinking Buddy (3b/?)
Date: 2013-07-29 08:04 pm (UTC)“Thank you,” Argis replied with a slight smile.
Nikolai watched the woman leave with a smile of his own. “She is a pretty one.”
Argis felt himself flush with embarrassment, “I suppose she is.”
“Come,” Nikolai sighed, raising his tankard. “To our health.”
“To our health,” Argis replied raising his own glass.
They ate their meal in relative silence before the mead began to do its job in relaxing the two men. Gone were their worries of the events earlier that day, as well as Argis’ own embarrassment. They chatted about the war over the coming hours, something they hadn’t touched on during their times together. Their hushed whispers went unnoticed by the amount of growing patrons as well as the barmaid who kept their tankards ever full.
“Excuse me, gentlemen.” The slurred voice brought the conversation to a halt as the duo glanced up. A robed Breton stood at their table, a smile on his face and a tankard in hand. “I was wondering if either of you were interested in a game.”
Argis eyed the man and felt something tugging at his mind. “Have we met before?”
The Breton turned his gaze to Argis and raised a brow as he studied him. “I don’t know. I bump into a lot of people. This your first time here?”
“Yes.”
“Then I don’t think I’ve had the pleasure,” he said with a wink. “I just happen to have one of those faces, I guess.”
Argis frowned slightly, “I suppose.”
“What kind of game?” Nikolai chimed in with a smile and a rosy hue in his cheeks.
The Breton grinned, “That’s more like it! A drinking game. You Nords seem to be able to hold your drink and I’ve wanted to see how I stack up against the lot of you.”
Nikolai gave a cheerful laugh, obviously interested in the man’s suggestion. He looked at Argis, “What do you say?”
Argis shook his head, “I’ve told you what happened the last time, Nikolai. I don’t plan on letting something like that happen again.”
“This time’ll be different. I’m here with you.”
“Sorry but I’ll pass, and you should too; you’ve already had a few as it is.”
The Breton laughed, “Then it’s an even playing field.” He grabbed an unoccupied chair and pulled it over to the table, sitting too close to Nikolai for Argis’ peace of mind. “What do you say? Offer still stands,” he said.
“No,” Argis replied, his mind sobering rather quickly. “I’ll be in our room, Nikolai. Find me when this is over.”
Without another word Argis left the table. He paused at the stairs when he heard the Breton shout for the barmaid, and glanced back at the two. A pang of anger and jealousy suddenly sprang forth as he watched the Breton slip an arm around Nikolai. It was made all the worse when Nikolai didn’t remove the man’s arm. With a frown he disappeared down the stairs, deciding he needed some fresh air and that his room could wait. At that moment he could care less about what happened to Nikolai.
Re: My Favorite Drinking Buddy (4/?)
Date: 2013-07-29 08:45 pm (UTC)The Nord woman shrugged, “He and that Breton left at some point last night and I never saw them come back.”
“This Breton, did he have a room here?”
“No. The man shows up from time to time for a drink but that’s it.”
Argis didn’t know how to feel. Angry? Betrayed? He didn’t want to admit to anything else as they crept through his mind. The woman behind the counter watched him without a word. “Did my companion pay for the room yesterday?”
“He did.”
“Okay. If he shows up looking for me,” Argis frowned, “tell the bastard I left for Markarth.”
Argis left Windhelm by way of a carriage. He didn’t care about seeing what the country had to offer and knew that those few days alone would only cause his emotions and thoughts to stew. The driver and other passengers provided distractions for the most part through idle conversations.
By the end of his travel Argis found he was no longer angry but worried about Nikolai. No word had been sent and there was no sign that he had returned to Vlindrel Hall. Nikolai could move through the city unnoticed by most others so Argis found little point in questioning people. All he could do was wait for something. Anything.
‘I shouldn’t have left him alone,’ Argis thought as he slipped out of Vlindrel Hall. It had been nearly a week since he had seen Nikolai. He found himself worrying about the man and missing his presence. The more he thought about it the more had realized that these days had been unlike the days before their strange marriage. Yes, he had worried about Nikolai’s safety and health when he wasn’t with him, but now those worries were tinged with other emotions and ones that shocked him.
“Argis.” The sound of his name brought Argis out of his thoughts. Ascending the stairs was a Breton woman dressed in robes. He recognized her as one of the priestesses of Dibella, a woman by the name of Senna if he remembered correctly. He also recognized the fact that the woman was beyond angry.
“What’s wrong, Senna? I don’t see you wandering the city often.”
Senna stopped a few steps below Argis and stared up at the man with anger in her eyes. “I want you to keep that Thane of ours in check and out of our temple if at all possible.”
Argis’ heart jumped, “Nikolai? You’ve seen him?”
“Seen him? I found him in our temple! Drunk and making-”
“When?”
Senna’s eyes widened, shocked at suddenly being interrupted, before a frown settled over her lips. “Days ago. He left me with the lovely job of cleaning his mess.”
“Do you remember where he went? Was anyone with him?”
“He was alone and left for Rorikstead but, like I said that was days ago. Who knows where he is now. Argis, is everything alright?”
Argis nodded, running a hand through his hair. “Thank you and I apologize for my Thane’s actions. Is there anything I can do as compensation for any harm that he caused?”
Senna sighed, the anger obviously no longer present. “A donation would be more than acceptable.”
“Consider it done,” Argis replied. “I’ll have the donation to you within a day or two.
The priestess muttered a thank you before descending the stairs. Argis felt his shoulders slump as he turned and entered Vlindrel Hall once more. He wasn’t fond of the silence anymore, letting his thoughts cry out louder than he’d like, and the account Nikolai’s actions only caused him more worry. The man could be anywhere in Skyrim and there was no way Argis could track him.
Argis settled into a chair beside the hearth and stared at the dying embers. There was nothing else he could do but wait. Wait and worry.
Re: My Favorite Drinking Buddy (5a/?)
Date: 2013-07-30 05:26 am (UTC)It would be the first time in Argis’ recollection that someone had broke into Vlindrel Hall and it was something that he was going to remedy. Another clatter echoed from the entry, followed by a muttering voice. Argis smiled to himself. ‘This will be too easy.’ Tightening his grip on the hilt he crept towards the sound.
A figure knelt before the hall’s door, their leather armor dirty and torn, intent on rifling through a bag on the ground. Behind them sat a lantern, its flame low and tossing shadows over the figure and across the walls and floor.
“Hands out of the bag and I promise I won’t hurt you,” Argis growled.
The person’s head snapped up, “Argis?” There was no doubt in Argis’ mind on whose voice that was.
Nikolai stood and took an uneasy towards the housecarl. The sword in Argis’ hand clattered to the ground as he suddenly seized the young man. He held him close and whispered his name. Nikolai tensed for only a moment before returning the embrace.
“If I had known this be your reaction I would have disappeared sooner,” Nikolai said with a soft laugh. He quickly regretted speaking his mind as he felt Argis loosen his hold and quickly shove him back. Nikolai slumped against the door and watched the warrior disappear in the darkness of the main room, not bothering to grab his weapon. Mentally kicking himself Nikolai picked up his pack and lantern and followed slowly. The room gained soft light as Argis started a small fire in the hearth before turning to head to his room.
“I’m sorry.”
Argis paused, “What are you apologizing for?”
Nikolai sighed, dropping his bag on an empty chair. “Sorry that I made you worry. I was gone for some time.”
“Why?”
“Why what?”
Re: My Favorite Drinking Buddy (5b/?)
Date: 2013-07-30 05:28 am (UTC)“The priestess found you?” Nikolai asked with a wince.
“I hope Oblivion takes you,” Argis snapped.
“Look, it was that damned Breton, okay? After a couple drinks I blacked out! When I woke up I was on the other side of Skyrim and I had a priestess screaming at me. All I could do was retrace my steps after that, and all I found was problem after problem.”
Argis frowned, “I knew that he looked familiar.”
“The Breton?”
“He was the same damned lunatic that got me drunk years ago.”
The color in Nikolai’s face drained as he stared at Argis. “That was the same man? Are you sure?”
“I said as much that night but he didn’t remember either. Took us both for fools,” Argis replied. “Did you make your back to him?” Nikolai quickly shook his head as he turned his attention back to his pack. Argis gave a heavy sigh and turned once more to his room, “Get some rest. It looks like you need it.”
Nikolai pushed the chair aside and took a frantic few steps as he reach for his companion. “Argis, wait!” He paused as the man turned around and studied him. Nikolai could see both the anger and the worry on Argis’ face, and knew that he was only seeing a portion of what was going on in the man’s mind. He was tired, upset, yet happy that Nikolai had returned. “I’m sorry if I caused you any distress. It was not my intentions, I swear.”
A hint of a tired smile passed over Argis as he slowly approached Nikolai. The young man rarely had a chance to fully take in the man’s appearance and against his better judgment he did at that moment. He was a man built for battle. Tall and broad, muscles trained through hours of practice and sweat. He housed few scars, the most noticeable being the one that took the sight of one eye.
Argis came to rest before Nikolai, clasping a hand behind the man’s neck. He rested his forehead against Nikolai’s with a sigh. “I was angry with you,” he explained. “No idea where you wandered to and why it seemed you left with that Breton. Truth be told I worried for your safety and found myself jealous that you may have found interest in that man.”
“You were jealous,” Nikolai smiled.
“As strange as it is,” Argis chuckled, “yes. I am happy you’ve returned safe.”
“I’m happy to find you here. A part of me was convinced you would have left me altogether.”
“We pledged an oath and I am not one to break such things.”
Argis kissed the young Nord, slipping an arm around his waist to bring his body close. He was surprised when he realized that he missed Nikolai’s touch and this was the culmination of that need. He nipped at the man’s lower lip before pulling away. It was torture doing that. Argis felt like he needed more than just a simple kiss, more than a touch, but it was late and Nikolai had a rough journey.
“I couldn’t help but notice that you were trying to retreat to your old room,” Nikolai said as he met Argis’ gaze. “I do hope you realize that we share the same bed now.”
“Am I to assume you are requesting my presence?”
“It’s more than a request at this point,” Nikolai replied, draping his arms over Argis’ shoulders.
Re: My Favorite Drinking Buddy (5b/?)
Date: 2013-07-30 03:35 pm (UTC)Re: My Favorite Drinking Buddy (5c/?)
Date: 2013-07-31 05:49 am (UTC)Nikolai flashed a smile, “Don’t keep me waiting.”
Watching Nikolai disappear into his darkened room Argis couldn’t help but let the smile linger. The man had returned safely and, after a tense moment, both were in relatively high spirits. Argis moved slowly through the hall and retrieved his sword, hefting the item absentmindedly as his thoughts wandered. What was going to happen now? They were both happy to see each other, more so than Argis had anticipated.
‘Let’s just say you owe me one.’ Nikolai’s voice echoed in Argis’ mind even after a week of uttering those words. The one eyed warrior wet his lips as he strode back towards the main room. He had no clue what Nikolai had in mind but he found himself willing to do much to appease him.
Argis replaced the sword in his hand for the young man’s forgotten lamp as he moved towards the bedroom. For a moment he paused, feeling as if stepping across the threshold cemented everything. Shaking his head he stepped into the room. There was little point in over thinking.
The sound of soft snoring caused Argis laugh softly. He raised the lantern, tossing faint shadows across the walls as he looked at Nikolai. The young man lay across his bed, one boot off, and sound asleep.
“Poor fool,” Argis murmured. He placed the lantern on a bedside table before turning to his sleeping companion. Slowly he moved Nikolai, removing his remaining boot as he repositioned him. Argis ran his hand across the chest of the leather armor and trailed over the tears with light fingers. There was no sign of wounds to Nikolai himself but it must have been close. “What did you go through?” The armor was alien to him, a suit that Argis had never seen the young man wear. Leathers dyed black and red dotted with metal studs, all of it close fitting.
Argis pushed the thoughts from his mind as he brushed his fingers along Nikolai’s jaw. Nothing else mattered. Not what Nikolai did during his absence nor any worries that threatened to creep in his thoughts. He moved to the opposite side of the bed and slid close to Nikolai. Argis was thankful that the man had fallen asleep, saving him from the embarrassment of shaking hands as he pulled Nikolai close and hugged him. He smelt of the wilds and the dying embers of a fire.
“I missed you,” Argis whispered. “Gods know that I missed you every night.”
Re: My Favorite Drinking Buddy (5c/?)
Date: 2013-08-01 01:29 am (UTC)Re: My Favorite Drinking Buddy (6/6)
Date: 2013-08-02 04:06 pm (UTC)Argis woke to the feeling of Nikolai slipping from his arms. He opened his eyes and watched as the young warrior stood, stretching cautiously. Slowly the leather was pulled away from his skin as Nikolai’s hands worked at the buckles across his chest. Argis watched as the armor slipped to his hips and found himself eying the man’s back. The skin was littered with bruises and scrapes, wounds that hadn’t broke the skin but bore a pain that obviously made every muscle cry in pain.
“You’re injured.”
Nikolai jumped at the sound of Argis’ voice and turned slightly. “I didn’t mean to wake you, Argis. I’m sorry.”
“More than likely it’s time for most decent people to be awake.”
“I’ve never been one for common decency,” Nikolai replied as he continued the slow process of removing his armor. “And don’t you worry about me. I am more than able to bounce back from whatever happened to me.”
Argis propped himself up on his shoulders, “Your armor should be mended. I can take it to the smith.”
Nikolai shook his head and settled onto the bed, “No. I can take care of it myself. Stitching the leather shouldn’t be too hard. Plus I need the right fit.”
“Where did you happen by the armor? I haven’t seen it before.”
“It was given to me by a woman I work for.”
Argis paused and gave Nikolai an uneasy look, “A woman you work for? You’ve never mentioned something like this before.”
“Never you mind,” Nikolai replied, waving his hand. With a slight wince he bent over and slipped his legs from the remainder of the garment. Argis could see the bruises that dotted his legs and it made him frown. “My work with her is few and far between. The armor, though, was a nice treat. Enough protection while I fight and not cumbersome while I move.”
“And you had this particular set with you while we traveled?”
“Yes but enough about my armor,” Nikolai sighed, letting himself fall back and onto Argis’ lap. He looked up at the older man and smiled slightly. "Have you ever thought of leaving Markarth?"
Argis cocked his head to the side as he brushed back Nikolai's hair. "Leave? We leave often enough."
Nikolai smiled at the aged warrior, laughing softly, "No, not on travels. I suppose what I should have said was, what do you think about living elsewhere?"
"Elsewhere?"
"Yes. You seem to have no family here, no ties other than your job and some acquaintances. With me being your employer, and your spouse, moving should hold no worries."
It was true the more Argis let that thought linger. There was nothing binding him to Markarth, not anymore. His parents were long dead and he had no siblings. "I suppose I see no reason not to."
The smile on Nikolai's face widened as he pushed himself up to kiss Argis. "Wonderful. I'll begin the procedures as soon as I am able."
Re: My Favorite Drinking Buddy (6/6)
Date: 2013-08-03 11:50 pm (UTC)Home Again (1a/?)
Date: 2013-08-06 12:51 am (UTC)--------
It hadn’t bothered Argis that they never traveled to Falkreath. Yes they traveled through the hold but Nikolai seemed to be well aware of the area and steered cleared of it. Argis didn’t question it. Perhaps it had to do with Nikolai’s childhood or maybe he disliked the place on principle. Either way, it was none of Argis’ business. It struck him as strange, though, that they now had a home not too far from the village.
“How were you able to get land here?” Argis asked as the two trekked out of the village. Nikolai had surprised him once more, vying for a carriage to take them from Markarth to Falkreath rather than walking.
Nikolai shrugged with a smile, “I helped out Jarl Siddgeir a few times and it seems like I made a bit of an impression on him. The offer had been set for a while and I finally have a reason to accept it.”
Argis could feel himself blush slightly, thankful for the fact that Nikolai was rather focused on leading the way. He was getting used to Nikolai, albeit slowly. He enjoyed the man’s presence and touch, yet when it came to voicing such things or being within view of others Argis found himself nervous. They acted no different than before but it was little things that only lovers did that worried him.
Slowly they moved off the road and wandered down a rather newly worn path. They moved through the foothills slowly, seeming to go at a pace where Nikolai could admire the trees. “We’re lucky,” he explained. “Not only do we have easy access to Falkreath but Riverwood is not too far away. Close to people without being in the thick of ‘em.”
“I should have known you weren’t too keen on city life,” Argis replied.
“Don’t get me wrong,” Nikolai laughed, slowing so he could walk in stride with Argis, “I like it just fine but being surrounded by all of this is comforting. Plus, it was built to my specifications and we don’t have to worry about nosy neighbors.” The two crested one of the foothills and came to a stop, a smile wide on Nikolai’s face. “Here we are. Lakeview Manor!”
Re: Home Again (1b/?)
Date: 2013-08-06 12:53 am (UTC)“Beautiful, isn’t it?” Nikolai breathed.
“Very much so,” Argis smiled.
“I’m glad. It belongs to the two of us.” Nikolai took Argis’ hand into his own, squeezing it tightly before letting it go. “Why don’t you go inside and get comfortable? I need to check around back for something.”
Argis nodded absentmindedly as Nikolai trotted away. It was the first place besides his childhood home that was something more than the residence of another. This was something he could be proud of. He told himself he’d had to thank Nikolai for this. It was more than he had imagined the man would have gone through. A home, custom made for the two of them.
With a slight smile on his face Argis disappeared into the home. Looking back on it he should have known something was strange but the smell of freshly made breads and foods just made Lakeview Manor seem homier. He shrugged of his pack and let it remain near the front door as he slowly traveled through another set of doors, these laying open and giving a welcoming view of large dining table and a fire already burning in the hearth. This was better than he could have imagined.
Glancing at the walls, Argis noted with a frown that there was a lack of weapon racks. ‘Guess I’ll just keep it on me for now,’ he thought, fingers trailing over the pommel of his blade.
“I knew I heard something! You’re. . . ”
Argis turned at the sound of a child’s trailing voice. A young girl stood in the doorway of what had to be the kitchen, her eyes wide was she stared at Argis. He knew that he shared the child’s confusion and it took him only a moment to realize that her eyes were glued to the hand that rested on his sword.
The girl didn’t wait for Argis to move or begin to respond before she let out a panicked shriek. He tried to talk to her, to make sense of the situation but he could hear clamoring from an adjoining room. She darted towards the sound, reaching the door as it opened and as a Redguard woman appeared. Argis had little time to react before the woman was weaving around the items in the room and pulling free her own weapons, a set of two scimitars.
Argis raised his hands, making it clear that he had no weapons but the woman either didn’t seem to notice or didn’t car. She lunged at him, swinging both blades with a grunt, and all Argis could do was dodge away. He turned and bolted towards the door that he had entered through. The woman’s voice followed him, spitting threats as she pursued.
Bursting into the open air Argis shouted for Nikolai, spinning around and producing his own weapon. The Redguard showed no fear and met him head on. The woman was a flurry of movement and biting blades. Argis deflected the strikes with ease which only seemed to enrage the woman as she tried for lethal strikes. With a snarl the Redguard struck low, pulling Argis’ legs out from beneath him with the dulled sides of her scimitars, and brought both blades of her head for a final strike.
“Rayya, stop!” Argis pushed himself away from the woman and to his feet, breathing heavily as Nikolai hurried towards them. The young Nord stopped beside the Redguard who was still staring Argis down. “I promise you, he is not an enemy.”
“But my Thane-”
Re: Home Again (1c/?)
Date: 2013-08-06 12:54 am (UTC)Nikolai shrugged bashfully.
“Papa, you’re back.” The sheepish expression on Nikolai’s face flashed from apologetic to one of pure joy as he wheeled around. Argis watched as his companion scooped up the young girl with ease. She squealed with joy as she clung to Nikolai and voiced her dislike of his absence.
“What is going on here,” Argis spat.
The girl snapped her attention to Argis and he could see her tense as she held on desperately to Nikolai even as she was placed on the ground. “Who’s he?”
“I found this man, my Thane,” Rayya interjected, “in your home just now. He scared Lucia and if it wasn’t-”
“I’m your Thane’s husband.” Those words erupted from Argis with little thought. If it wasn’t for his own anger he knew he would have felt uneasy about the fact but it didn’t matter. He could see the shock on the Redguard’s face, and confusion on the child’s, at his declaration but his eyes bored into those of Nikolai’s and conveyed his anger at the situation.
“Gods, Argis. . .”
Argis turned and began an angered trek away from the home. He could hear Nikolai shouting after him but ignored the calls. He let his anger fester. Thoughts and rants rolled through his mind as he made his way back to the road.
“Damnit, will you listen to me?”
“Why,” Argis asked, not bothering to slow. “Why should I listen to you now? There was enough of a chance for you to explain this to me while we were traveling. Not once did you mention your standings here, which may not be any of my business.” Argis stopped suddenly, wheeling around and striking Nikolai hard against the jaw. “But I do think mentioning that you are a father to a child should have been a subject you broached early on.”
Nikolai rubbed his jaw, his head down as he sighed. “I know, Argis. This wasn’t how I expected things to happen.”
“Really? Did you think parading a child before me as I arrived was going to make this any better?”
“What?”
“I’m not stupid, Nikolai. That was that ‘something’ you went searching for behind the house.”
Slowly Nikolai raised his head, “I’m sorry. I honestly didn’t know how you would react to a child. I met her in Whiterun. It was during the time I was here making preparations and plans for the house. Poor thing was begging for money and I just couldn’t let her keep living on the street.”
“You’re a damned bleeding heart.”
“Look at it this way,” Nikolai said with an unsure smile, “we’re a family.”
Argis frowned, “Did it ever cross your mind to ask me for any input? Did you ever think that I may not like children?”
Nikolai began to respond but seemed to quickly reconsider what he was about to say.
“What about the fact that neither of them knew about me? That woman seemed shocked when I announced who I was.
Nikolai’s shoulders slumped slightly defeat, “If you would like to return to Markarth, I-”
“No,” Argis replied with a shake of his head. “There’s no point in returning, especially since you had this place built for us.”
“Are you sure you’re okay with this?”
“I’ll have to be. Just don’t expect me to be quick friends with the child.”
“Her name is Lucia.”
“Whatever. Is there anything else you need to tell me? No other secrets?”
“Nothing, I swear.”
Re: Home Again (1c/?)
From: (Anonymous) - Date: 2013-08-06 02:31 am (UTC) - ExpandRe: Home Again (1c/?)
From: (Anonymous) - Date: 2013-08-06 09:30 pm (UTC) - ExpandRe: Home Again (2a/?)
From: (Anonymous) - Date: 2013-08-07 12:59 am (UTC) - ExpandRe: Home Again (2b/?)
From: (Anonymous) - Date: 2013-08-07 01:00 am (UTC) - ExpandRe: Home Again (2b/?)
From: (Anonymous) - Date: 2013-08-10 12:14 am (UTC) - ExpandRe: Home Again (2b/?)
From: (Anonymous) - Date: 2013-08-11 11:21 pm (UTC) - ExpandRe: Home Again (2b/?)
From: (Anonymous) - Date: 2013-08-19 10:28 pm (UTC) - ExpandRe: Home Again (2c/?)
From: (Anonymous) - Date: 2013-08-27 04:50 am (UTC) - ExpandRe: Home Again (2d/?)
From: (Anonymous) - Date: 2013-08-27 04:52 am (UTC) - ExpandRe: Home Again (2d/?)
From: (Anonymous) - Date: 2013-08-28 06:02 am (UTC) - ExpandRe: Home Again (2e/?)
From: (Anonymous) - Date: 2013-08-28 10:03 pm (UTC) - ExpandRe: Home Again (2f/?)
From: (Anonymous) - Date: 2013-08-30 02:01 am (UTC) - ExpandRe: Home Again (2f/?)
From: (Anonymous) - Date: 2013-09-01 04:21 pm (UTC) - ExpandRe: Home Again (2f/?)
From: (Anonymous) - Date: 2013-09-03 06:34 am (UTC) - ExpandRe: Home Again (2f/?)
From: (Anonymous) - Date: 2014-06-14 02:27 am (UTC) - Expand