FSE

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Chapter Eight

Velanis woke with a slight murmur, sunlight lighting the room past her closed eyes. She blinked them open slowly, tilting her head off the pillow to glance downwards at the warmth next to her. At some point in her sleep she must have pulled Falren closer, for he was nestled against her chest, still sleeping soundly. She rested her head back down with a small grin; the fact that he hadn't woken and was sleeping contentedly was enough to say her idea had helped.

She wasn't entirely sure what had given her that idea; perhaps Aemon's suggestion that her company helped him, or perhaps it was just that he was her friend. Whatever the case may have been, it made her feel better. And she'd learned to keep the things that gave her that feeling, as few as they'd been.

It was a bit odd that Falren had even stayed asleep this long though; she thought he liked to be awake with the sun. But, he seemed to be sleeping deeply, so even his habits had to take a break sometimes. And she didn't really mind, it was... nice to have someone she trusted giving her company. No one had ever done that before. She simply rested her head against the bedding, not feeling like sleeping anymore, but content to wait until he woke up. Which would probably be soon, she doubted he'd stay asleep much longer.

She had to wonder what he would say though, or if he'd given her request anymore thought. He'd seemed unsure the night prior, despite the fact he had more or less said no at first to her question. She was really hoping he would come around; having him along when he knew something about that place would be helpful. And... she didn't want to go alone, nor did she particularly want to part company with him. In truth she didn't even know where or how to get to Nel'Vrak in the first place, but her mind had impatiently jumped to a decision as usual. She always managed to find her way though...

A small amount of movement shifted against her, causing her to look down as Falren began to wake from his slumber. He looked a bit confused as he opened his eyes, lifting his head from her fur. After a moment though he must have recalled his memory, turning his gaze to look up to her.

"Sleep well?" She asked quietly.

"Ah. Yes, I did." He replied separating himself from her hold a bit. "It looks late."

"It isn't too late." She said to him. "But, I didn't want to wake you. It looked like you were peaceful."

"I... was." He said slowly.

"No bad dreams then?" She questioned.

"No, not at all." He responded. "I suppose I may have you to thank for that after all."

"Of course." She said with a smile, darting her tongue out across his face quickly. He didn't seem to react negatively to it this time, so she guessed he was more accustomed to it now.

"Alright..." Falren said, sitting up and swinging his legs off the bed. "I think it's time I get washed and start this day in full."

"I suppose it is." She said, sitting up as well.

She was treated to another view of the scars he bore, still an unexpected sight much like the first time she had seen them in the light. She wasn't foolish enough to believe that any who lived their life as such wouldn't have scars, even those with his ability. Most of the ones he bore looked old, aged lines from battles years before she had met him. Not all appeared to be from created weapons either, the telltale appearance of nature's variety standing out to her eyes.

It reminded her of the fact that he wasn't raised amongst other humans, and of the fact that she knew little of what it was like in Nel'Vrak. It also struck her that he had been accustomed to real fighting for some time, even since he was a youngling perhaps. And for every scar he bore, she wondered how many more he had faced down in combat...

Before he stood she gingerly reached a hand over, lining three of her claws up with a scar on his back in comparison. Falren's muscles twitched a bit as he felt them press against the old wound, turning his head to look at her questioningly.

"That was made by another Sergal, wasn't it?" She asked, withdrawing her hand.

"Yes, it was." He replied, standing to his feet.

"So you got that back in... Nel'Vrak then?" She queried.

"Yes..." He said slowly, slipping his shirt back on. "If you'll excuse me, I'm going to have a bath now as well I think."

"Alright." She responded as he padded his way to the door, slipping from the room.

She brought her legs up, resting her head on her knees thoughtfully.

So he fought other Sergals then? She wondered.

It wasn't really a surprise to her of course, but it was just another point to add to the things she didn't know about. With both Falren, and with this Nel'Vrak place that seemed to make up a good part of her history. With a sigh she climbed to her feet, giving her fur a once over to make sure it was presentable and rearranging the sash's that she hardly parted with if it could be helped.

She made her way to the door then, clawed toes gripping at the floor as she stepped out into the hall. Some food was in order she supposed, although she was starting to get the urge to hunt something herself. Having all this food prepared for her, even if it was good, was starting to become boring. She wanted to put her own effort into it, and get the satisfaction of the reward at the end.

For now though, she'd have to be content with what was provided to her. She didn't mind it, but she'd have to find a way to repay Aemon and his mate in some small way. Which, she wondered if the man had already made off to his smithy. Taking a moment to talk to Melan wouldn't be so bad if he had though. She ended up in the most used room of the den, looking around for the person in question.

"Oh hello Vel." Came the woman's familiar voice.

"Hello." Velanis replied, turning to look at her with head tilted.

"Thought you might be up soon, since I just saw Falren earlier." She said with a smile. "Would you like something to eat?"

"Yes. But I can make my own if you show me." She said to her suggestively.

"Oh don't you worry about it." Melan responded with a wave. "While you're a guest of our home you'll be treated as such, and I don't really mind it at all."

"Alright..." She conceded, ears twitching.

"I'll go make you something and be right back, take a seat." The woman stated, departing the room.

She made her way to the table with a huff, sitting down in one of the chairs. There wasn't really much point in arguing with their hospitality, but she wished they'd allow her to do something...

She didn't have to wait long, for Melan returned after a short time with food. She set the plate down for her, the scent of the meat and butter-smeared bread reaching her nose.

"Thank you." Velanis said, as the human took a seat across from her.

"Of course." She replied. "Aemon already went off to his shop, he said to tell you that your mail was almost finished and that if you wanted to stop by later you would be able to try it on. That was this morning though, so it may be done already."

"Oh?" She mouthed, ears perking up at the mention of the mail being done. "Well... I suppose I'll go there after. Thank you."

Melan hummed in response. "We take care of our friends. So how did you sleep?"

"Fine... Why?" She asked curiously, biting at her food.

"Well... I noticed you weren't in your room, and when I didn't see Falren this morning I checked in to make sure he hadn't just gone sneaking off in the night." Melan told her sheepishly. "Sorry to have intruded."

"Ah, well, it's alright." She replied with a small shrug.

"Didn't mean to seem rude." Melan said. "But you looked comfortable together."

"I... Yes." She said, ears laying back.

"Well, it's good that he's opening up to someone. I think it will help him, and he seems to like you."

"Everyone says that." She mused.

"Because it's true." Melan said with a small laugh. "I suppose it's maybe different for Sergals?"

"Ah... yes. A bit."

"Well, if you both enjoy the company it doesn't much matter, does it?" She asked.

"I suppose not." Velanis replied quietly, taking another bite from her food. "When you say he 'likes' me... what do you mean?"

"Hmm?" Melan hummed questioningly. "To me it means you're his friend. Why, what do you think it should mean?"

"Well... usually when males liked me, or any female I suppose, it was because they wanted to mate with me." She told her, scratching at the itching wound on her arm. "But I don't think he wants that, or if he even 'likes' me that way."

"Oh..." She said curiously with a quirked brow. "I wouldn't be able to say, he's always stuck to himself."

She gave a grunt, mulling that over. She'd never really considered any of the males back in her clan her 'friend', and she doubted they had either. Pretty much the only person who'd been close to her was her mother. Beyond that Falren was the only person who she'd felt that same... attachment for, and she wasn't sure what it meant or if he even felt the same.

"So," Melan began, distracting her from that thought, "Aemon told me you want to journey somewhere far away?"

"Yes." She replied flatly. "I'm not sure exactly how far it is though."

"Why would you want to go there, if I may ask?"

"It's... difficult to explain, but it's something personal." She said, looking at her claws.

"I see, and you asked Falren to come so he could help guide you?" Melan asked. "Aemon mentioned that this place was where he came from?"

"It's called Nel'Vrak. I... came from there too, I think." Velanis informed her. "Falren has a past there, but I want him to come because I, well, enjoy his company."

There wasn't much point in denying that she liked having him around, and that was oneof the reasons she had asked him to come.

"Ah." The woman aired. "Then I take it his past there isn't a pleasant one, that would help to explain the way he is."

"Yes..." She said distantly.

"I don't know the whole story, but I'm sure he'll come around Vel." Melan said reassuringly. "He doesn't strike me as the person to abandon his friends."

She hummed in response, chewing the rest of her food. She hoped he would "come around" as they put it, but she wasn't sure. It seemed like he wanted to help her, but asking that of him might have been too much... Either way she'd try talking to him, at least find out more about Nel'Vrak if she could. Her ears perked up a bit at the sound of feet as she ate, making her turn her head to find Falren coming into the room, freshly cleaned and dressed.

"Falren." She said in greeting after she'd swallowed the last of her food.

"Hello Velanis, Melan." He said, walking over.

"Ah hello Falren." The woman said, lifting her head to look over at him. "Hungry?"

"No, I'm fine. Thank you anyway." He declined, taking a seat.

"Did you hear that Aemon almost has my mail finished?" She asked, watching him with a grin.

"Is he? I'm surprised you haven't gone to try it on then." He said, resting his elbows on the table.

"I was waiting to see if you wanted to come with me..." She said, looking at him questioningly.

"Oh... Well alright then." Falren replied, raising a brow. "When do you want to go?"

"Now?" She asked, cocking her head at him.

"Sure..." He said, looking to Melan. "Need help with anything before we go?"

"I think you already know the answer to that Falren." She said with a smirk. "Go on, get out of here."

He looked over at her, giving a nod as he stood from the chair. She followed suit, following him to the door as he opened it and crossed out into the midday sun. Closing the door behind her she made after Falren as he started off towards Aemon's shop, falling into step beside him.

***

He made his way down the ever-familiar streets to Aemon's shop, his Sergal companion next to him as they walked.

"Falren?" Velanis started, breaking the melodic silence of their walk.

"Hmm?" He hummed in response.

"Have you... thought anymore about what I asked?" She finally asked.

He gave a sigh, glancing over at her as she fiddled with her sash, watching him curiously.

"You don't really leave me much choice if that's what you want to do." He said.

"You don't have to come with me, I'd understand if you didn't..." She said, the droop in her ears telling him she didn't completely believe that.

"No, it's a bit too late for me to just turn my back now." He told her, his mouth a hard line.

He'd allowed himself to get too attached to let her go off on some journey to just get herself killed. Or worse.

"So... You'll come with me then?" She asked, a hopeful hint to her voice.

"Yes." He said with an exhale. "I will."

"Thank you Falren." Velanis said.

"I just hope this won't be something we both regret." He said grimly. "It's a long way, so there are some things that will need to be put in order first."

"How far is it?" She queried.

"I only know how long it took me to come here." He said, mind drifting back to that journey. "A month, probably more. The passage of time wasn't something I cared to pay attention to then."

"Oh." The Sergal mouthed, looking ahead. "It is a long way then, isn't it."

"Aye." He said, turning a corner down the street that would lead them straight to the smithy. "You... may want to visit your clan and at least tell your mother where you'll be going. Once we start that trip there's no telling when we might return."

"Would you be coming with me there as well?" Velanis asked.

"Of course, it isn't _too_far out of the way." He said with a small shrug. "Guess you'll get to show me around after all, eh?"

"Yes." She agreed, giving him a smile. "I, ah, think my mother would like to meet you too."

"Well... we'll just have to see." He said with a frown. "But for now, let's see if Aemon has finished shall we?"

She gave him a nod, looking up as the face of the smithy came into view.

They made their way to it without any more questions, Velanis seemingly just anticipating seeing what the finished mail would look like. He opened up the front door, letting her step inside eagerly before he entered as well. As was usual Aemon wasn't in the front of the shop, always spending his time working unless otherwise needed. He walked over to the forge door, giving it a knock in announcement.

"Aye, come in!" Came the muffled call of the blacksmith.

Falren opened the door, swinging it inward to find the man standing at his workbench, fiddling with something laid out on its surface. He stepped into the room, letting Velanis follow in after him.

"Oh, hello! Perfect timing." Aemon greeted them, looking up from his work. "Just putting the last touches on Vel's mail here. Want to come have a look?"

That question was redundant on Velanis' part, as she eagerly strode over to the bench, looking on with interest. He trailed behind her, coming to stand off to the side as she inspected the pieces laid out there.

There were three in total, starting with the gleaming mesh of metal rings that made up the shirt. That familiar craftsmanship of Aemon's was present in the pants, resting neatly spread out on the bench-top in their finished state. The third piece he didn't recognize in its function, but that would be explained soon no doubt.

"Can I...?" Velanis asked to Aemon, reaching out a hand to gesture to the pieces.

"Of course!" He said with a laugh. "It is for you after all. Go ahead and try it on. I didn't make it so it could collect dust. I'll give you a minute to get it settled."

Aemon turned and departed at that, leaving him and Velanis in the room. She had a wide smile on her face, displaying her teeth as she reached out a hand to brush over the metal before picking up the lower section carefully. She held it up, turning it this way and that, as she looked it over.

"So, ah... how do I put these on?" She asked, turning her head to him with a sheepish expression.

"Ah right, I suppose you've never worn pants before. Take your sashes off first." He said with a chuckle, moving next to her as she removed the cloths and placed them down. "Here, lift your leg up..."

After a couple minutes she managed to wriggle her legs in, threading her tail through a special hole Aemon had left for just that purpose. It also looked like he'd built padding into the attire, so she wouldn't have to worry about wearing anything else under the armor. Once she'd gotten the pants to her waist, he told her to tighten the belt built into the construction.

With those done he lifted the mail shirt and passed it to her. It seemed Aemon had followed the same line of thought as his own armor, making it so the shirt buckled up the front so to make it easier for her to get it on and off. He instructed her to put her arms into the sleeves, settling it around her form as he went about tightening the buckles. She stood still, watching him with a grin as she allowed him to fit the armor to her.

When it was all snugly fit, he moved back to the bench and picked up the piece that was left. It was a long, narrow sleeve of mail, and it took him a moment before he realized what it was.

"Turn around, please." He beckoned.

"Alright..." She replied, doing so while looking over her shoulder at him with a confused expression.

He walked up to her, bending down and beginning to line one end of the mail sleeve up with the flared tip of her tail. She darted it out of the way on reflex as he tried to grasp it, unconsciously giving a growl as she half-turned to him.

"It's for your tail." He said, holding the piece of armor up to her annoyed gaze.

"My... tail?" She asked, her face relaxing as she brought her tail back down to rest near his hand. "Well, alright."

Now that she understood what he was doing he went back to putting the armor on her tail, sliding the wider end up its length to the thick base of the appendage. She continued to watch him intently as he clasped the piece to some buckles that were fixed to the pants, their function now clear. He stepped back from her then, now that all the mail had been donned.

He'd seen Sergals in armor before, such was a common sight before he left, and even just wearing the mail she was no different of a sight. The shining silver mesh covered her from neck to feet, resting on her form in a fashion one would expect from the custom fit creation. Velanis brought her arms up curiously, looking them over as she ran a claw over the metal. When she was done inspecting it she moved her arms and legs around, even flexing her tail like a silver snake as she tested the armor.

"It almost doesn't feel like I'm wearing anything." She said curiously, turning to look at him.

"Indeed, that's the benefit of having it made to fit you." He said. "It'll do its job well though, Aemon always makes sure of that."

As if summoned by his name, the man in question came back into the room, walking over exuberantly as he looked Velanis over.

"Looks good." He concluded, stopping a few steps away. "How does it feel? Any uncomfortable spots?"

"No, it fits perfectly." Velanis said, giving a grin.

"That's good to hear." Aemon said. "Wasn't sure if it would need any tweaking, making armor for a Sergal isn't something I've done before."

"It's good." She replied. "Thank you, Aemon."

"Don't mention it little lady." He said with a smile. "Why don't you walk around and get a feel for it? May take a little time to get used to, if you've not worn it before."

The Sergal gave a nod, starting to walk around the shop as she tested out the balance. Falren watched her a moment, a strange amusement in his eyes. Velanis wasn't like what he expected when he first took her on... or maybe it was just the fact that she'd grown accustomed to him, and was more at ease.

"So, lad." Aemon started, turning to look over at him. "Did you decide what you're going to do?"

"Yes, I have." He said with a sigh, knowing full well what he was referring to. "I'll... be going with her."

"Ah." Aemon uttered. "So I suppose that means you'll be going away again soon."

"Whenever she's ready." He said with a frown. "There will be some things to get in order first, it's a... long trip."

"Aye, how long do you think you'll be gone?"

"I couldn't give you an answer to that Aemon." He replied with a shake of his head. "We'll be visiting her clan first as well, so I don't know how long we'll be there depending on what she wants to do."

"Well, that doesn't seem so bad in any case, going to see her family and such." The man said with a grin. "And besides, you're still here a little longer I'd imagine, so we don't have to worry about you running off just yet."

"No... not just yet." He hummed in response. "I think I'll take her to the markets again."

"Okay then." Aemon said with a chuckle. "Better than being stuck in this old place!"

"Thank you again, Aemon."

"Anytime lad, anytime." The smith replied with a nod.

"We'll be back later." Falren said in farewell, making sure to retrieve Velanis' cloths first.

He made his way over to the sergal, her head perking up at his approach.

"Feel like going to the markets?" He asked.

"Alright." She said with a grin.

"Here, don't forget these." He stated, holding up her sashes.

She took them from his grasp, quickly rewrapping them over her armor. When she was done she gave him an intent look, ready to be going. With a nod he led her back to the door, ducking back into the front room.

"So you like the mail then?" He asked as he made his way to the front door.

"Yes, a lot." She replied with a toothy smile. "I've never seen what it's like for, ah, one of my kind to have armor like this. My mother only gave me hers when I was determined to go off on my own, she never wore it though."

"Ah." He mouthed, stepping out into the street. "Well it's useful to have, and you can rely on it if the need arises."

"Thank you." Velanis said, to a bit of confusion on his part.

"I didn't make it." He said with a shrug, leading the way towards the market.

"No, but... if you hadn't helped me back in that forest I wouldn't have gotten to come here." She said, amber eyes looking down at him as she walked besides. "I'm not sure what would have happened."

"Well, you're here now, so there's no need to worry about what may have happened." He stated matter-of-factly.

"No... I suppose there isn't." She said, turning her head forwards as they walked.

***

Falren led her to the avenue, a now familiar trek to her after the days she had been here. Little changed in the city of stone and wood, very unlike how it had been for her in the sprawling forests around her clan. These buildings all stood diligently, whereas the environment in the wilds could become altered with the passing of days. As interesting as the city was, she wasn't sure if she could have lived there for a long period. The time would come when she had explored what it had to offer, and as unwavering as it stood there would be little new things to come along.

But, at least the food was good here. She chuckled to herself at that, grinning as Falren brought her to what seemed to have become their usual spot: that same bench from the past days. She didn't mind though, the quiet and shade made it a nice spot to relax. Admittedly it wasn't as pleasant as the place he'd taken her to before, but still nice nevertheless.

She sat down on the stones cool surface, tail waving behind her idly as she looked around. Her human friend took a seat with her, folding his arms across his knees as he lent forwards a bit.

"Falren, can I ask something?" She prompted, glancing over at him.

"I don't see why not..." He said.

"What does it mean when you say you're 'attached' to me?" She asked, watching him curiously.

"To me it means you're a friend. I suppose the best way to explain it would be to say I see you as a 'clan mate'." He answered with a frown. "Why?"

"It's just you humans have so many different ways of saying if you like someone or not." She said, flicking her ears. "But, why were you weary of letting me... become that?"

"Because," Falren said with a sigh, "Getting close to people isn't something I'm good at, not anymore at least. I've seen a lot of things, alright?"

"Oh, I'm sorry." She replied, ears lowering.

"No... Don't be." He said, bringing a hand up to rub his forehead.

"Well..." She started, scooting next to him. "We're 'close' now, yes?"

"I guess." He responded, casting a glance sidelong at her. "I'm not really sure what to think."

"You're my friend, that's what I think." She said simply, tilting her head at him. "And very few have shown me what you have, that's enough for me."

"I... Aye." He replied, exhaling through his nose in a fashion she'd related to him being unsure.

She watched him a moment longer before she turned her head away, looking out over the street. She thought she understood not what Aemon had meant when he said her company helped him. In truth his company helped her just as much as it may have helped him. She'd been alone for the most part, taking solace in her adventuring and with her mother when she was younger.

At times she wondered what it would have been like to be amongst a clan that didn't treat her like she didn't belong. Or at the very least what it would have been like to know her father, the person that everything about her seemed to trace to. She looked down at her hands, and the mail that covered her arms, flexing them a bit. Perhaps she'd ask her mother those questions finally, and see if she would give her some answers. She sighed; those answers would come eventually.

"Naleen." Falren abruptly said, making her look over at him peculiarly.

She was about to ask why he was saying the female's name, but that same familiar laugh rang out from her right. Velanis jerked her head in that direction, finding the female leaning up against the tree trunk with a smile on her face.

"Hello Falren, Velanis." Naleen said, looking down at them with emerald eyes. "I wonder, how long have you known I was here?"

"A few minutes." Falren replied, turning his gaze over to her.

"Ah, well it was worth a try." She said with a chuckle, looking at her with amusement. "Someone is starting to look like a true warrior, I think."

"Ah... thank you." She said sheepishly, recovering from the surprise.

"May I ask what you may plan to do that such a quality looking dress of armor is needed?" Naleen asked curiously, looking her up and down.

She turned her head to Falren, giving him an unsure look on whether she should say. He simply gave a small shrug, turning his gaze up to the female.

"A man I've known for a long while is a blacksmith, and he decided to forge the armor for her." Falren said to Naleen, bringing his eyes down to peer into her own. "As for what she may be doing... we shall be venturing to Nel'Vrak."

"Oh, will you then." Naleen responded, tilting her head at them with a knowing look in her eyes. "Such an interesting choice, yet I do not need to ask the reasons. But if that is where you will be going, I would have one thing to ask of you Falren."

"And that would be?" The man asked, giving her a level gaze.

A large smile stretched Naleen's features. "I think it has been too long since this old Sergal has set sight upon her homeland..."

"Are you saying you want to join us?" Falren questioned, narrowing his gaze at her.

The female gave a chuckle. "Yes, defiant one, that is exactly what I am saying."

A surprised expression crossed her features. "You'd... want to join us? Why?" She asked.

"Ah, I simply have an urge to see my home once more." Naleen said; looking down at her with green eyes crinkled in amusement. "And, I think I wish to see what it is like to have companions once more. Especially such... interesting ones such as yourselves."

She turned to Falren again, a frown on her face. She didn't exactly see anything wrong with having her along, Naleen hadn't done them any wrong and she seemed like a kind person.

"Falren?" She prompted, to which he looked at her thoughtfully.

"...Alright." He finally said with a sigh.

"My thanks, human." She said, giving a bow of her head. "Do not worry, I can carry my own weight. And it will not be so bad to have another 'watching your back', yes?"

"No, I suppose not." Falren said flatly.

"Ah, but I will leave you two to each other's company." Naleen said, looking between them both with a smile. "I shall... prepare my things for when the time comes you decide to leave."

"Soon, I think. Whenever Velanis wishes to depart." Falred responded, glancing at her.

"Farewell, Naleen." She said, to which the female gave a nod.

Velanis watched her go as she strode away, tail waving uncaringly. That was an odd surprise that she would want to join them, but she couldn't say it was unwelcome. She liked the older female, and she wouldn't mind having her along.

"So, are you ready to be heading back to Aemon's?" Falren asked. "I'd imagine he will be getting home soon, and preparing their evening meal... That is, unless you'd like to have something from the markets?"

"Ah, no." She replied, turning her head to him. "Aemon's would be fine."

"You're sure?" He questioned.

"Yes, Falren." She said, grinning at him.

"Alright, well, let's get going then." He stated, climbing to his feet. "Before we get anymore surprises."

She mirrored him, standing to her own feet as they made their way down the stones back to their temporary home.

***

He walked in silence as they trekked, looking up into the sky as he let his mental wanderings take hold. It seemed he'd inadvertently managed to pick up another unexpected companion, and was soon to be returning to a past he had thought to leave behind.

Funny, the turns fate throws at me. He thought idly, giving a sigh.

And what would it hold this time, for both he and his new companions...

"Falren?" Velanis prodded, making him blink back to reality.

"Ah, sorry." He said, seeing that while he'd drifted they'd arrived at Aemon's home.

"It's alright." The Sergal said with a grin, looking upwards. "You were just staring up at the sky."

"I was... thinking about things." He told her.

Velanis gave a hum. "You think too much."

"What?" He questioned with a frown.

"You think too much." She repeated, bringing her eyes back down to his. "I let my instincts guide me, you can't solve everything by thinking about them. It just frustrates me to dwell on things, I much prefer to act."

"Perhaps..." He said with an exhale.

"Were you thinking when you helped me that first time?" She asked pointedly.

"No." He replied slowly. "I just acted."

"See." Velanis stated. "You didn't think about that, yet it worked out for both of us."

"I suppose it did." He said with a chuckle. "Come, I imagine they've already prepared dinner."

He stepped up the door and opened it with a knock, moving into the faintly smoky smelling front room of the home. The first thing that greeted his eyes was the sight of Aemon sitting at the table, a mug in front of him as he sat with his elbows propped.

"Hail, lad!" The man called, waving them over.

He walked over to the table, pulling out a chair for him and Velanis as he sat down. She joined him shortly after, settling into the proffered seat.

"Well, seeing as she's still wearing it that must mean the mail suits her." Aemon said with a grin.

"I like it very much." Velanis said to the man.

"That's good." He stated with a grin. "Now, dinner is almost done, so let's leave the talking for later."

As suggested they kept their words to themselves, and soon Melan brought out their supper; as well as the usual tea for them both. The food was good as always, but he wasn't one to complain about a meal. And, he supposed having one in friendly company helped that some. When the meal had been finished and the plates cleared away, they all sat and tended their various drinks.

"Aemon?" He started, looking down into his cup.

"Aye lad?" The man said, awaiting his question.

"Do you still have that box I gave you?"

"Of course, you gave it to me for safekeeping didn't you?" Aemon responded. "It's in the same place, want me to go fetch it?"

"No, that's fine. I'll get it myself." He said, downing the last of his tea.

"Ok." He replied with a nod. "I never opened it, by the way."

"I'm surprised after all these years your curiosity didn't get the better of you." Falren said with a small smile.

"Naw, I know what to respect a man's privacy." Aemon stated with a shake of his head. "Not my place to go nosing in something I don't belong in."

"Ah, well thank you for that." He replied, pushing himself away from the table. "Thank you for the meal, Melan. I'll talk later, Velanis."

"Alright..." She replied to him.

He made off out of the room after that, walking down a hallway towards the one Aemon had stashed his... keepsake in long ago. After turning a corner he soon came to the room in question, promptly gripping the door latch and pushing inward. The space beyond was a moderate room, a single window allowing the aging light to illuminate the room. It was set up quite simply, a row of bookcases holding most of the literature Aemon had collected over the years. Underneath the window sat a desk, and tucked into one corner was a chair and small end table.

He walked over to the bookcase, stopping in front of a shelf devoid of everything but a long, thick case. It was made of a dark wood, smoothed and polished until it had a shine to it. Falren reached out and picked up the case in both hands, noting that while Aemon may have refrained from opening it, he'd kept it clean. He tucked the heavy case under one arm, making his way back to the door. If he was to go back, he would be bringing this one thing with him, this one last thing that had been given to him...

***

"What's so special about that... stuff, that makes you drink it?" She asked Aemon as he sat across from her.

"What's so special about teat that makes you drink it?" He prodded jokingly. "Tell you what, how 'bout you try a bit and see what you think?"

"Ah... alright?" She agreed. It seemed a common thing, so maybe their choice in drinks would be as good as their food.

Aemon departed the room, returning just as quickly with a new cup in hand. He placed it down for her, and she gingerly picked up the filled vessel. She gave it a sniff, the pungent scent making her grimace slightly. Nevertheless she brought the cup up and poured some of the liquid into her maw, swallowing it down. It left a trail of warmth down her gullet, and she wasn't sure she particularly enjoyed the taste.

"That's the more mellow stuff, figured you wouldn't want to try the stronger kind if you've never had it before." Aemon said after she set the cup down.

"It's... not that pleasant." She concluded.

"Mostly about what happens after you keep drinking it." He said with a shrug. "You don't have to drink it though, thought I'd let you give it a try."

"Well, thank you..." She replied, hesitantly taking another small swallow from the cup. "Still not sure why you humans like it so much."

"Acquired taste, I suppose." He chuckled.

"Perhaps..." She mused. It did leave her with an odd sensation...

The sound of footsteps distracted her from the new feeling, making her look up to see Falren come back into the room. He had a rather large... case she realized, tucked under an arm, made apparent by the silver latches fastened along its length.

"What's that?" She asked curiously, tilting her head at him.

"A piece of the past." He replied simply. "I'll... show you later, if you really want to know."

She watched him leave the room with a frown, turning to Aemon.

"Do you know what that is?" She asked him instead.

"Afraid I don't." He said with a shrug. "He had it when I first met 'em and after awhile he gave it to me for safekeeping. Never cared to open it; thought it was personal."

"Oh..." She muttered, taking another drink. It was starting to leave her with a warm feeling.

She kept quiet for a bit, periodically taking swallows from her cup. That didn't last for long though, for she soon drank the last of what he'd given her. She blinked curiously at the empty mug, giving a frown.

"Well I guess you didn't dislike it too much, since you drank it all." Aemon stated with a chuckle. "Do you want me to refill that?"

"Alright..." She responded, as he picked up the mug and took it to be filled again.

When he returned she took the newly filled mug, setting about drinking down its contents. Her ears occasionally twitched as she drank, the sun outside the windows starting to sink lower. She still didn't understand why humans liked the drink so much, though the feeling it was giving her was certainly peculiar. She wondered where Falren was, but she concluded after a moment that he must have simply retired to his room. With one last swallow she downed the last of her second mug, setting it down a bit unsteadily than before.

"More?" Aemon asked, quirking a brow at her.

She opened her mouth to respond, but Melan spoke up then.

"Husband, I think she's had enough for now." She stated, giving the man a stern look. "I don't think Falren would appreciate it if you promoted her going into a drunken stupor."

"Ah... you're probably right." He admitted with a nod. "Sorry Vel, but the lady speaks the truth."

"Okay." She said with a huff, standing shakily to her feet. "I'll... go talk to Falren then."

"Can you get there alright?" Melan asked her, giving a concerned look.

"Yes... why couldn't I?" Velanis questioned incredulously.

"Just be careful Vel." She said.

She gave a grunt in answer, beginning to move down the hallway leading to the stairs. Her footing was unbalanced as she walked up the steps, which made her frown. Being unsure in her movements was never something she had issue with...

Regardless, she made it to Falren's room, giving it a knock as she waited for an answer. She soon heard him give a response, quickly opening the door and stepping inside. Falren was standing near the small table, looking as though he was just latching that case of his closed as he set it down by his armor. She stepped over to her... _his_bed, half sitting, half falling onto its edge.

"Are you alright?" Falren asked, turning to her with a frown.

"Yes..." She replied, fiddling with the buckles on her mail. "Aemon let me try some of his drink."

"Did he then." Falren said slowly, stepping over as she tried to get the clasps undone. "Here..."

She gave up with a huff, moving her hands out of the way as he made to do them for her. She peered at him as he quickly had the buckles unfastened, now working on getting the shirt off her. She lifted her arms and tried to help him shrug it off, the garment of metal soon coming free.

"I need you to stand up so I can get the rest off." He told her, setting the mail down on a chair.

She did as he bade, standing up as Falren started taking the armor off her tail. The lower armor came off faster at least, its weight helping it fall from her rather than clinging to her. As he moved on to getting the pants off her, she had to place a hand on his shoulder to steady herself, her stance wobbling a bit. He promptly had the pants loose, slipping her legs and tail from of them. With that done she finally allowed her unsteady feet to give out, plopping back down on the bed.

"Exactly how much did you have to drink?" Falren asked her, shaking his head as an unconscious grin stretched his features.

"... Two cups." She said, staring at him.

"Ah, doesn't take much first time I suppose." He concluded, hesitantly taking a seat besides her.

"Why don't you get some sle-" Falren started, only for her to rest her head on his shoulder while wrapping her arms around his chest.

He didn't say anything as she nestled into the crook of his neck, but that was fine. She didn't really feel like talking anymore anyway. She continued to nuzzle his neck, letting her tongue come out to gently lick at him.

"Velanis..." He finally said, attempting to lean away from her. "What are you doing?"

She gave a quiet growl, squeezing him tighter. She really didn't understand why he treated her nicely, but then tried to resist when she gave the treatment back. At least after a moment he relented, letting out a breath through his nose as he brought a hand up to stroke the fur on her arm.

"I thought you wanted to see what was in the case?" He asked, giving the wall a silver stare.

"Show me in the morning." She responded. "This is better."

"Alright..." He said slowly. "Well, since you won't being going anywhere, do you at least want to lay down? Or... are you fine like this?"

She gave him his answer by putting her weight into him, tipping him back on the bedding with a grunt. Once there she proceeded to pull him close, resting her head on his chest.

"Can I at least take my boots off?" Falren asked.

She gave a grumble, but allowed him to sit up and pull the boots from his feet. He sat up for a moment even after they'd been deposited on the floor, before finally falling backwards and letting her resume her position. With her head against his chest she listened to the steady beating, the rhythm lulling her muddled mind.

"Falren?" She asked quietly, opening her eyes to peer up at him. "Do you not like it when I do this?"

He gave a sigh, dipping his head down to glance at her. "It's not that I don't like it, it's just being close to people is something I try to avoid after... why I'm here in the first place."

"So do you want me to... leave you alone?" She asked, blinking her eyes open as drowsiness attempted to close them.

"No..." He answered, bringing a hand up to lightly stroke the back of her neck. "I don't mind your company. It's just, well... my mind was in a poor state I guess you could say."

"Ah." She said, peering sleepily at him. "But I'm helping with that, yes?"

"I... suppose." He replied. "Why don't you get some sleep now."

She grunted in agreement, raising her head to the pillow and stretching her legs before curling them onto the bed. She pulled Falren close, resting her head above his as her tail draped over both their legs.

"Don't forget you promised to show me what was in that case." She murmured.

"I will." He replied with a small chuckle.

She gave a hum, relaxing as Falren continued his light motions on her neck. The feeling brought a smile to her face, and she happily let herself drift into sleep.