FSE

Furry search engine

formerly SoFurry search engine

Folcwine stood awkwardly before Jarl Ulfric, who despite casually reclining on his throne gave off an aura of intense energy.

'So, you are Folcwine of Falkreath, Thane Beorns' son?'

'As he was, lord, yes.'

'Yes, "Jarl" Siddgier has much to answer for. Don't worry, when we win this war, we'll restore your family to their rightful place. But tell me, who is your companion?'

'S'fara lord, a sell-sword who assists me.' he replied, deciding not to disclose their engagement just yet

Ulfric snorted derisively, Khajiit were always in it for money no matter how they got it.

'Galmar tells me you were the one who provided us with the location of the Jagged Crown. You have my thanks.' he said, deciding to ignore the cat

'It was an honour lord.' Folcwine answered humbly

'I'm glad to hear you say that. I have another mission that I think you are well suited for.'

'Name it lord, and I will do it.'

'Our next target is the Reach, we need to put an end to the raping of her silver mines. To that end, I want you to go to Markarth. I know from experience that there are still Talos worshippers there. I need you to find someone of high importance that we can convince to help us - one way or another.'

'It will be done, we will return with news of a suitable target.'

'Good, see that you do. A word of warning - watch yourselves in the Reach. The entire hold is crawling with savages called "the Foresworn" they attack anyone who isn't one of them.'

And with a bow, Folcwine turned and left the palace.

As they left the city, Folcwine became aware that S'fara was not happy.

'Err, S'fara is there something you wanted to say my love?' he asked nervously

'Oh, it's "my love" now is it?!' she shouted, hands balled into tight fists

Folcwine was taken aback, 'Was it something I said?' he asked helplessly

If looks could kill, he would have died from the look S'fara gave him at that moment

'Something I didn't say?'

'Finally the dummy gets it! Why didn't you tell him who I was? What I was?' she thundered

Folcwine seemed to shrink, she was right. Not telling the truth had been cowardly and dishonourable.

'S'fara, I - I'm sorry, I didn't think.'

'No, you didn't!' she replied thickly

It was then that Folcwine noticed she was crying, tears making wet tracks down her fur.

'I'm so sorry, oh my love, I'm so sorry!' he exclaimed, wrapping his arms around her

'Are you ashamed of me? Do you regret our relationship?' she asked, her voice choked with emotion

'No, I could never - It's just...' Folcwine paused, searching for the right words ' My courage failed me. I let my fear of Ulfrics' disapproval outweigh my love of you. That was a mistake, and I won't make it again.'

'You promise?' she asked in a voice that seemed so fragile that Folcwine scarcely believed it could have been hers

'I swear by Talos, I will never deny our love ever again no matter what.' he assured her

'All right then.' she replied, her voice taking on some of its' steel again

For the next hour they walked arm in arm, and with her tail curled around him.