A Wood Elf's Life in Skyrim

The Underforge

In the morning I am woken up by Farkas.

"Come with me, the circle is waiting for you." He said.

"What for?" I asked groggily.

"Your initiation into the Companions. Officially." He said and I jumped out of bed and quickly followed him out. We meet the others and join them in the circle, the initiation begins.

"Brothers and Sisters of the Circle, today we welcome a new soul into our mortal fold," Kodlak begins. "This woman has endured, has challenged and has shown her valor. Who will speak for her?"

"I stand witness for the courage of the soul before us," Farkas stated.

"Would you raise your shield in her defense?" Kodlak questioned.

"I would stand at her back, that the world might never overtake us." Farkas nodded.

"And would you raise your sword in her honor?"

"It stands ready to meet the blood of her foes." Farkas smiled.

"And would you raise a mug in her name?" Kodlak looked  him in the eyes.

"I would lead the song of triumph as our mead hall revelled in her stories." Farkas announced.

"Then this judgment of this Circle is complete," Kodlak smiled. "Her heart beats with fury and courage that have united the Companions since the days of the distant green summers. Let it beat with ours, so the mountains may echo and our enemies may tremble at the call."

"It shall be so." Everyone else said at once.

"Congratulations on making the cut Valerica." Aela said as she continued back inside with the others.

I stayed behind and approached Kodlak.

"Well, girl, you're one of us now. I trust you won't disappoint." He smiled at me.

"I'll certainly do my best and fight with honor," I nodded. "Kodlak...is it true? That the companions are werewolves?"

"I see you've been allowed to know some secrets before your appointed time," he frowned. "Yes, it's true. Not every Companion, no, only members of the Circle all share the blood of the beast. Some take to it more than others."

"So Vilkas, Aela, Skjor...they are too? And you?"

"Indeed." He nodded.

"I..." I was at a loss for words.

"I understand it may be a lot to take in."

"I'll be alright, after some time." I sigh. "What do you think about it?"

"Well, I'm growing old. My mind turns towards the horizon, to Sovngarde. I worry that Shor won't call an animal warrior as he would a true Nord warrior. Living as beasts draws our souls closer to the Daedric lord. Some may prefer eternity in his hunting grounds, but I crave the fellowship of Sovngarde."

"Is there a cure?" I questioned carefully.

"Yes, but it's no easy matter." He nodded. "But you don't need to share the worries of an old warrior. This day is to rejoice in your bravery. And while we're at it...speak to Eorlund for a better weapon than... whatever that is."

"Right, I'll take anything at this point." I nodded and headed up to Eorlund in the Skyforge. "Kodlak said you would help me find a better weapon?"

"I was hoping you'd come get rid of that awful axe," He chuckled. "Choose anything, first ones on me."

"That's awfully nice of you," I smiled. "Afraid I'm new to it all. What would you recommend?"

"For you? I'd say a classic sword will do you good for now."