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: 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/?)
Date: 2013-08-06 02:31 am (UTC)Like the whole thing that they never really talk about regarding Nikolai been the Dragonborn, or the mysterious lady. (Although anyone that have played the game already knows who she is.)
And they haven’t said something else that I imagine that it would come eventually, especially since Argis is obviously still coming to terms to this whole marriage thing. But neither of this two has said “I love you.” (Yeah; I know that I’m a sap. Lol.)
But disregarding all that; I’m so glad that this two have become some sort of a series already around here. And for that I thank you so much A!A, may all the divines bless you. :)
Re: Home Again (1c/?)
Date: 2013-08-06 09:30 pm (UTC)Please never stop writing!
Re: Home Again (2a/?)
Date: 2013-08-07 12:59 am (UTC)------
Argis could feel someone watching him, an odd sensation that roused him from his sleep. He rolled onto his side and opened his eyes lazily. He found the girl, Lucia, standing on the opposite side of the bed watching him. It took Argis a moment to realize that there wasn’t a body beside him. “Where’s Nikolai,” he murmured.
“Papa went out to Falkreath to see if your belongings have arrived yet,” Lucia replied, her gaze never wavering.
“Why didn’t you go with him?”
“I didn’t want to go to Falkreath today.”
“And watching me sleep is more entertaining?”
Lucia shrugged in response.
“What did you want, kid,” Argis asked, realizing that the child didn't seem on the verge to leave.
“Rayya had me bring a plate of food up here for you," Lucia explained. Argis followed her pointing finger and frowned slightly. The sight of the food didn't upset him but it was the face that the girl had managed to wander into the room without waking him. "She thought you might feel a little more comfortable eating by yourself."
Argis nodded and pushed himself into a sitting position. For a moment he didn't think about it but when he realized that Lucia still wasn't leaving, he refrained from climbing out of bed. "Was there something else you needed?"
Lucia shook her head.
"Then why are you still here?"
"If you're married to papa, does that mean I have to call you mama?"
"Out," Argis barked, grabbing his pillow and throwing it at the girl. Lucia squealed as she dodged the pillow, laughing as she ran down the stairs. Argis sat for a moment in silence and listened to the muffled sounds below. Things seemed a little more lively than the previous night. The two were making an effort to welcome him. He'd have to do the same.
The meal was basic, nothing more than some fish and bread, but it was enough to get Argis moving. He wore a simple set of clothes as most of his belongings had yet to arrive, and he figured roaming the house in armor may not be the best thing. Yet he kept his sword on hand. It felt strange otherwise, knowing how defenseless he would be without something as protection with him.
"Don't go too far now. Only to the lake."
Argis descended the stairs and found himself staring at the Redguard woman. She eyed him, lips drawn into a slight frown. "Thank you for the food," Argis said, figuring he should break the silence. "It was more than I expected."
"You're welcome." The woman's face relaxed slightly as she eyed him, "If you don't mind me asking, are the two of you truly married?"
With a sigh Argis nodded and raised his hand to show the band on his finger. "It's been less than a month but yes, we are wed."
"And how did you meet?"
"Am I being subjected to an inquisition?"
"Humor me."
It was Argis' turn to frown, "Alright. Nikolai became Thane of Markarth and I was his housecarl. He and I traveled everywhere together for some time, becoming friends through battle."
Rayya seemed to relax more so with the admission. "Then I hope you took no offense at my reaction when I first saw you."
"At the time I did," Argis replied, "but looking back on it I understand."
Re: Home Again (2b/?)
Date: 2013-08-07 01:00 am (UTC)Argis glanced around, "There doesn't seem to be much around."
Rayya smiled slightly and motioned towards the rear of the home. "In the back room there is a door to the basement. Down there you should find some training dummies and a forge. It's a place of solitude for my Thane, so you may find some comfort there." She left without another word, slipping into the early morning sun and calling for the child.
For a moment Argis debated on what to do. He could wander after Rayya and try to talk with her, probably listening to the inane questions Lucia would have when she saw him. His unease around the child made up his mind and Argis found himself disappearing into the hidden basement.
The basement was large and dimly lit with oil burning lamps. Argis could make out the dim shapes of the training dummies spaced through the room. Cautiously he moved towards one of the lamps and fed the flame. Slowly the shadows were pushed back as more of the room became visible. There was a door way leading to another room that held the smithy and work tables. The room Argis stood in was a mishmash of ideas. There were racks of weapons, barrels filled with unknown items, chests thrown open to show clothes and armor, and, on the right wall, shrines dedicated to the Divines.
Argis moved towards the shrines, noticing that one was set up for Talos. He smiled slightly as he realized that such a thing was of little surprise. Nestled in a darkened corner was a chest. What caught his eye wasn't the fact that the item was closed, others were shut tight as well, but the rather large and impressive looking lock that was bound to it. Argis knelt before the chest and turned the lock in his hand. It was heavy. The chest itself was well crafted, made out of dark metals and woods, and would have remained unnoticed in the dim lights.
"I see you found my hiding spot." Argis jumped at the sound of Nikolai's voice which caused the younger Nord to laugh. "My apologies. I thought you heard me."
"I told you before," Argis grumbled as he stood, "you're like a cat. You and that daughter of yours."
Nikolai grinned, leaning against the ladder, "I guess she learned a thing or two from me."
Argis shook his head, "So has anything arrived?"
"Unfortunately no. If it's not here tomorrow I think I'll head out and track them down myself."
"Fair enough. What now?"
A sly smile passed over Nikolai's face. He reached up and with a quick flick of his fingers closed the latch over the only exit. "I think we have earned some time to ourselves," he replied.
Argis couldn't help but smile as well, meeting Nikolai in the middle of the room and slipping his arms around his waist. "Shouldn't we be worried about someone hearing us?"
"Always so worried about that," Nikolai chuckled. He leaned in close, letting his lips brush against Argis'. "No need to be concerned. We're alone in the house and even if they do come back inside, I've made sure the basement is damn near soundproof."
"Really now?"
"I'll have those moments late at night when I need to come down here to blow off some steam."
"Steam. . . right."
Re: Home Again (2b/?)
Date: 2013-08-10 12:14 am (UTC)Still can’t wait for more!
Re: Home Again (2b/?)
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