Eyes Opened

Eyes on the Prey

He was oddly silent as you were picking through the underbrush. This was Vilkas' idea to come out gathering with you, though you had supposed after all the hard work he was putting up with it was only natural to want a slow day. Sitting up you held a flower in your hand, looking at it with admittedly too much admiration. "Are you going to kiss that flower?"

His playful tone always made you wish to simply ignore him, but you had to admit to yourself the bit of laughter you could hear was sweet. He was softening up to you. "Oh, ha ha, Vilkas. You're such a comedian, I think you've missed your calling as a bard."

He placed his hands on his hips. "And go around singing in all the holds? I think I'm right where I need to be."

You shook your head. "I think so too. This isn't just a flower though. Watch." You ate it, only prompting the man to raise a brow. After a moment when you were sure that it's effects had kicked in you held your hands up. A small fire sprouted from your palm, you pushed your hand down into it, without flinching. He marveled at you. "See?"

"Are you fire proof?" He had leaned forward, trying to get a better look.

"Not proof, but I'm not strong enough in any magic to hurt myself with the Dragon's tongue. It fends off heat. Our ancestors used to use it to navigate deserts, I think." Your eyes met his.

"You really are well read, then. Magic is not the strong suit of the companions. Farkas would be fearful just to see you using it in this capacity. I've talked him into letting you heal him with it. Most of us think it's weak. Uh, not that you're weak."

"I am." You chuckled.

He was smiling softly. "Modest as well, I've seen you take down an elk without magic."

"Yeah, I don't use magic to fight. Is that enough if the eyes of the companions?" You watched him nod, before standing up. Your pack was stuffed with flowers now, a few pelts and some meat. "Well I think I'm done for today. Sun's setting, we should get back. Talks of vampires have been swirling." A smirk formed. "Not that I don't think you could handle your own."

"And protect you while doing it." His confidence was appealing in a way you never thought Vilkas could be to you. He motioned for you to start walking, the man stepping slightly behind you but still keeping himself close. It felt like you had a body guard for the moment- a feeling not too unfamiliar. "So what are the flowers for?"

He was making idle conversation, which was a little strange to you but still you found yourself warmed by the thought. "I'm going to mix it into potions, then use said potions to take on fire Atronachs." You glanced to him, his face alarmed.

"But... those are so dangerous!"

"Yes, that's what the potions are for." Looking again you noticed the alarm didn't fade.

"Why would you be hunting them?"

"I need the fire salts." You spoke very plainly.

His stride quickened, walking at your side with one hand on your shoulder. "Why would you need those?"

Looking to him your lips held a soft smile. "Well, a few reasons. They make excellent potions that boost a person's magical ability. Worth lots of money, and would let me help you guys further." You looked forward. "And... well Eorlund made my sword and bow. I'm not a member of the companions and yet he still thought I was worth his time. I should prove him right and help him at the same time. Fire salts would made the forge burn a little hotter. Yes, it's already the best forge in Whiterun- possibly all of skyrim- but if I can raise the temperature of the forge, even a little, it would vastly improve the weapons he can make you." You paused. "Which means that you're better at doing your job, you can get more work, more money. Not to mention the other weapons and armor he makes will be slightly better too, allowing him to charge more. The Gray-Manes have been kind to me. Anything to help them. Any of them."