VERY powerful stuff!!!
I am poor at speculating, so, like others, I will wait to see what happens next. This was certainly spellbinding though!
Full Version: A New Sun Rises - Maxical's Adventures
Pages: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43
@ EVERYONE - Thank you so very much!!! The part of Agronak was my first attempt at doing a truly duel character and having a slow revealing of his evil side.
For me it was the hardest character I have ever tried to write, hence the choppiness when his evil side was emerging.
You are all very appreciated, and each and every one of you ROCK!!!
For me it was the hardest character I have ever tried to write, hence the choppiness when his evil side was emerging.
You are all very appreciated, and each and every one of you ROCK!!!
*
Chapter 54: Ode To Marie Regina Palielle
The horse reared up as we approached a thicket of trees, almost unseating me. Fathis dropped the reins and leaped off quickly, casting a shield spell over both me and the horse. A bellowing roar was the only warning before a minotaur charged from the thick overgrowth. Fathis rapid-fired so many lightning spells into it that it died standing up between steps towards us. It crumpled forward in a heap, the smell of its burning hair overcoming me.
Fathis saw my ill expression and hurried over. “Ma'Thjizzrini Qa, there is naught to fear now, it is dead. I will never let that happen to you.”
The minotaur attack that killed my parents was on this same stretch of road. I’ve never remembered it, and don’t recall ever having nightmares as a child about it. But Fathis was convinced I suffered trauma from seeing it charging us…till I began vomiting from the smell of burning minotaur hair.
Castle Skingrad was closer to us than Skingrad proper, and I was vomiting on his horse. Fathis brought me to the castle to recuperate.
“You’ll recognize the healer in Skingrad, she was at the Arcane with you. Do you remember Marie Palielle?”
“The girl that stalked Hannibal till he began sending Irlav Jarol in his stead every time she needed healing?”
“Ahem. Er…yes, I believe that was her. Here is Hal-Liurz, she will care for you while I conduct business with the Count.”
An Argonian woman with breasts that looked like two giant pillows stuck on her chest was waddling down the stairs.
“Dear gods…is that…her breasts? If she stood in the parapet she could use them as beacons to draw ships in from the Eltheric.”
Fathis snorted loudly, then barked out a laugh. He began choking as he fought to stifle his laughter before she was close enough to hear. I whacked him on the back, but when he left for the Lords Manor his choking could still be heard echoing through the hall.
“Oh my poor dear girl! Fathis told us everything, what a fright you must have had! My name is Hal-Liurz. Now you just let me make you comfortable till Marie arrives …“
She insisted I recover in a guest room, helping me bathe and tucking me between soft cotton sheets while my armor and clothing were taken to be cleaned.
“Now then, just let me comfort you from your scare dear…”
Hal-Liurz sat down on the bed beside me and cradled my head on her gynormous bosom. After everything that had happened in the past two days…I needed the comfort. Almost as soon as my cheek made its first bounce on her soft cushiony mountains I found myself exhausted and near tears.
“There, there dear…“
She rocked back and forth, which got her breasts rolling in a motion somewhat like what sailors must experience in huge ocean swells. I doubt it was good for my pukey stomach, but she was so kind I was hesitant to stop her in case it may hurt her feelings.
When Marie arrived she waited until Hal-Liurz slipped from the room, then exerted herself to wrangle information about Hannibal from me in what I’m sure she hoped was a subtle manner.
“You live in the Imperial City, don’t you? That is so near to the Arcane…do you go visit it often? I’ve wondered how Arch Mage Traven fares…”
“Hannibal? Oh, he’s fine. So, do you just give a potion for the nausea? I‘m feeling pretty queasy.”
“Hannibal! You must see him frequently to be on a first name basis with him…”
“Oh! Er…well, yes. I’m an Arena fighter, he is there frequently healing someone. So, I‘ve been puking a lot…”
“He is such an attractive man…he probably has a surfeit of females hounding him for favors…have you noticed any women around him?”
“Say, could you treat me while you’re here?”
“But women, have you seen any with him? What about at the Arena, does he treat women there?”
“No…well, I’m the only female on the Blue team. Here, let me just look in your bag for a potion.”
“So, has…Hannibal ever had to treat you since you left the Arcane?”
“Er…yes.”
“Aren’t his hands just perfect for healing? Gentle, yet firm…soft… What did he treat on you?”
“Both of my shoulders and…”
“Your shoulders? You kept your chest covered, though…right?”
“Er…I guess…yes.”
“And? What else did he treat on you?”
“Er…well…I was impaled through the abdomen once…”
“Your abdomen! How low on the abdomen are you talking about? You didn’t lay on his table…disrobed…did you?”
“Er…no…er. Oh, I’m remembering it wrong. Oh yeah, it was my leg, not my abdomen. Hey! Is this for nausea?”
Marie barely glanced at the bottle. “Yeah, that’s the right stuff. So how high up on your leg was it? Hannibal wasn’t able to see your…”
“No! It was all the way down on my toe, I forgot. That’s what I meant to say.”
Marie eyed me suspiciously. “Your toe? How can you confuse your toe with your leg or your abdomen?”
“I slept through all my anatomy classes. OH! Hal-Liurz! I’m so glad you’re back! I…need more comforting…” I gave her a desperate plea with my eyes.
She took the hint and routed Marie. I heaved a sigh of relief that I hadn’t mentioned Hannibal’s gynecological exam. Marie would have shaken me like a bulldog does a rag till every detail spouted out of me.
The potion calmed my stomach, but my eyelids felt very heavy and I became extremely drowsy almost immediately. Hal-Liurz picked up the empty bottle.
“This isn’t for nausea, this could knock out a horse…uh oh.”
My last vision as I fell heavily into a drugged stupor was Hal-Liurz’s breasts leaned over my face watching me.
It was over four hours later when I awoke disoriented. The air in the room was thick with a whopping amount of testosterone, so dense it was hard to breathe. A strong odor wafted from some grounds in an empty coffee cup sitting on the bureau by the bed. I reached one finger in and touched the grounds. What was that stuff?
The aroma of a really good men’s cologne tingled my nose, creating almost a hunger. I took several deep whiffs as I glanced around the room trying to get oriented.
There was a concentration of it on my palm. I sniffed my hand, eying Hal-Liurz. No…it wasn’t her.
“There was a man in here, who was it Hal-Liurz?”
“The Count always visits his guests, I’m sorry you were asleep and missed his visit.”
“He sure smells good. How embarrassing that he saw me sleeping though. I hope my mouth wasn‘t gaped or drooling, or I didn’t snore or anything.”
Hal-Liurz laughed. “Did you see the portrait of him in the Great Hall?”
“I saw an old one, he was quite handsome in it. I must have missed the Countess’s though.”
“There isn’t one. She passed away three years ago after a very long illness.”
“Oh, I’m so sorry! I hope you’ll convey my condolences to him, along with my thanks for the wonderful hospitality.”
“No condolences are needed now, he put away his mourning long since. He’s been ready to seek a mate…alas, the running of County Skingrad keeps him too busy.”
“He should stand in the parapet when the wind is blowing from the west, every woman in Skingrad will be beating his door down if they smell him.”
Hal-Liurz doubled over to laugh, but the weight of those giant melons set her off balance, nearly pitching her to the floor. I watched fascinated as her breasts heaved in laughter, wondering if they would burst through her dress.
“That scent he wears is…quite delicious. Do you know the name of it? I may talk Fathis into wearing it.”
“That cologne is a special blend made just for the Count by an alchemist in the Imperial City.”
“That’s where I live! I wonder if she takes bribes?”
Hal-Liurz doubled over again, gripping the bureau by the bed to keep from tumbling this time.
“Would you like a cup of tea?”
“Not that kind.” I pointed to the stinky grounds by my bed.
“No, you can’t have that. That’s Hist tea. It doesn’t bother Argonian’s to drink it, but would make you quite ill. Now then…tell me a little about yourself…”
This certainly was a different experience than going to Castle Bravil with Fathis was. I watched Hal-Liurz bundling around making me a cup of tea. Argonians are supposed to be good swimmers, but I doubt she would ever be able to go below the surface with those floatation devices billowing out of her chest. Still, she was probably the kindest person I ever met.
“Now you come back and see us again, you are welcome anytime.” She hugged me goodbye when Fathis and I took our leave.
******* Janus Hassildor
Janus pushed the door open quietly. Hal-Liurz was rocking slowly, her mind totally rapt with the embroidery she was doing on a piece of fine linen. And there she was, the fiance’ of Fathis. The risk had been well worth the possible sanctions by the Mages Guild had he been caught putting their liaison under spell.
The scent in the room was overwhelming…virgin blood. One would expect its aroma to be more delicate than that of a flower, a rarity to capture in one’s nose as it wafts among what should be in comparison the heavy cloying stench of roses…but no. Purity shouts its presence louder than the sounds of any battle…demanding attention. Its call so powerful there is no denying it. Instead you become a slave to it, as necessary to obey as breathing.
Primal instincts borne by the inheritance of the Dark Gift came alive with instant recognition as if it were the greeting of a long lost lover, familiar even on first breath.
Janus had barely been able to hear the words as Fathis prattled on about Lovidicus and his fate. It took every bit of willpower not to silence that blabbering because it was interfering with the sound of that blood so pure rushing through the vein in her neck…creating a song sweeter than any Dibella ever dreamed. Good gods he wished the man would hush. But he would take no chances by casting any more spells on Fathis, not with everything within hand’s grasp…
“I must take care of a few things, will you excuse me? Please…make yourself comfortable.” Janus hurried out, signaling his bodyguard to miss-direct Fathis should he leave the suite.
He felt giddy as he hurried to the guest quarters, like a child who has been given a long awaited gift. His plan was unfolding with the precision of an assassin’s mission, everything falling into place…yet appearing random. And here she lay, her neck exposed as if daring him to break free from the shackles that kept his nature at bay…taunting him to take her. Dear gods.
Decades of smothering his nature crumbled before that scent, the vampire that lay dormant so long rose up inside him…he was stunned by the voracity of it.
His fangs were fully engorged and hardened before they tore through the membranes of his gums like the taking of a hymen. Juices trickled from the sharp points before the gleaming ivory erections extended fully, sending rivulets of fire down his throat and leaving a trail of explosions and euphoria in their path. Nerves came alive, tingling with heat. Testosterone and adrenalin flooded into his system bringing an arousal such as he had never known. His heart pounded till his own blood rushing sounded like thunder roaring in his ears.
As if a plateau was reached powers began channeling to the senses, heightening each in turn. Hearing so acute…honed. The faint sound of her breaths, the beating of her heart…the rushing of blood in her veins…magnified till the volume of it was deafening. Sounds not of her faded into non-existence.
The room darkened till it was pitch black; his vision became thermal, only showing the glowing red channels of her veins pulsing, the thickest like a river in her neck making a deep throbbing…calling him to come near…begging him to taste its sweetness.
His fangs dripped a steady stream of red wine-like juices down his chin and neck now. His heart felt like it would pound out of his chest. She became a crescendo of intense sounds…her heartbeat was earsplitting booms, her blood deafening as it roared through her…the need to silence her was driving him to madness.
He must regain control quickly…couldn’t attack a guest in the castle…one heartbeat more and he would be savoring…dear gods…
A movement from Hal-Liurz startled him, reminding him of her presence. With relief he realized the dark cowl he wore kept his blood lust hidden, and the disturbance gave him a desperately needed measure of control.
Janus signaled her to leave him alone with the girl. He slid down into the rocking chair and stretched his legs out straight, inhaling deeply as he lay his head back against the flat pillow tied there. There could be no drug as intoxicating as that scent…overpowering in its demand he act.
*
Chapter 54: Ode To Marie Regina Palielle
The horse reared up as we approached a thicket of trees, almost unseating me. Fathis dropped the reins and leaped off quickly, casting a shield spell over both me and the horse. A bellowing roar was the only warning before a minotaur charged from the thick overgrowth. Fathis rapid-fired so many lightning spells into it that it died standing up between steps towards us. It crumpled forward in a heap, the smell of its burning hair overcoming me.
Fathis saw my ill expression and hurried over. “Ma'Thjizzrini Qa, there is naught to fear now, it is dead. I will never let that happen to you.”
The minotaur attack that killed my parents was on this same stretch of road. I’ve never remembered it, and don’t recall ever having nightmares as a child about it. But Fathis was convinced I suffered trauma from seeing it charging us…till I began vomiting from the smell of burning minotaur hair.
Castle Skingrad was closer to us than Skingrad proper, and I was vomiting on his horse. Fathis brought me to the castle to recuperate.
“You’ll recognize the healer in Skingrad, she was at the Arcane with you. Do you remember Marie Palielle?”
“The girl that stalked Hannibal till he began sending Irlav Jarol in his stead every time she needed healing?”
“Ahem. Er…yes, I believe that was her. Here is Hal-Liurz, she will care for you while I conduct business with the Count.”
An Argonian woman with breasts that looked like two giant pillows stuck on her chest was waddling down the stairs.
“Dear gods…is that…her breasts? If she stood in the parapet she could use them as beacons to draw ships in from the Eltheric.”
Fathis snorted loudly, then barked out a laugh. He began choking as he fought to stifle his laughter before she was close enough to hear. I whacked him on the back, but when he left for the Lords Manor his choking could still be heard echoing through the hall.
“Oh my poor dear girl! Fathis told us everything, what a fright you must have had! My name is Hal-Liurz. Now you just let me make you comfortable till Marie arrives …“
She insisted I recover in a guest room, helping me bathe and tucking me between soft cotton sheets while my armor and clothing were taken to be cleaned.
“Now then, just let me comfort you from your scare dear…”
Hal-Liurz sat down on the bed beside me and cradled my head on her gynormous bosom. After everything that had happened in the past two days…I needed the comfort. Almost as soon as my cheek made its first bounce on her soft cushiony mountains I found myself exhausted and near tears.
“There, there dear…“
She rocked back and forth, which got her breasts rolling in a motion somewhat like what sailors must experience in huge ocean swells. I doubt it was good for my pukey stomach, but she was so kind I was hesitant to stop her in case it may hurt her feelings.
When Marie arrived she waited until Hal-Liurz slipped from the room, then exerted herself to wrangle information about Hannibal from me in what I’m sure she hoped was a subtle manner.
“You live in the Imperial City, don’t you? That is so near to the Arcane…do you go visit it often? I’ve wondered how Arch Mage Traven fares…”
“Hannibal? Oh, he’s fine. So, do you just give a potion for the nausea? I‘m feeling pretty queasy.”
“Hannibal! You must see him frequently to be on a first name basis with him…”
“Oh! Er…well, yes. I’m an Arena fighter, he is there frequently healing someone. So, I‘ve been puking a lot…”
“He is such an attractive man…he probably has a surfeit of females hounding him for favors…have you noticed any women around him?”
“Say, could you treat me while you’re here?”
“But women, have you seen any with him? What about at the Arena, does he treat women there?”
“No…well, I’m the only female on the Blue team. Here, let me just look in your bag for a potion.”
“So, has…Hannibal ever had to treat you since you left the Arcane?”
“Er…yes.”
“Aren’t his hands just perfect for healing? Gentle, yet firm…soft… What did he treat on you?”
“Both of my shoulders and…”
“Your shoulders? You kept your chest covered, though…right?”
“Er…I guess…yes.”
“And? What else did he treat on you?”
“Er…well…I was impaled through the abdomen once…”
“Your abdomen! How low on the abdomen are you talking about? You didn’t lay on his table…disrobed…did you?”
“Er…no…er. Oh, I’m remembering it wrong. Oh yeah, it was my leg, not my abdomen. Hey! Is this for nausea?”
Marie barely glanced at the bottle. “Yeah, that’s the right stuff. So how high up on your leg was it? Hannibal wasn’t able to see your…”
“No! It was all the way down on my toe, I forgot. That’s what I meant to say.”
Marie eyed me suspiciously. “Your toe? How can you confuse your toe with your leg or your abdomen?”
“I slept through all my anatomy classes. OH! Hal-Liurz! I’m so glad you’re back! I…need more comforting…” I gave her a desperate plea with my eyes.
She took the hint and routed Marie. I heaved a sigh of relief that I hadn’t mentioned Hannibal’s gynecological exam. Marie would have shaken me like a bulldog does a rag till every detail spouted out of me.
The potion calmed my stomach, but my eyelids felt very heavy and I became extremely drowsy almost immediately. Hal-Liurz picked up the empty bottle.
“This isn’t for nausea, this could knock out a horse…uh oh.”
My last vision as I fell heavily into a drugged stupor was Hal-Liurz’s breasts leaned over my face watching me.
It was over four hours later when I awoke disoriented. The air in the room was thick with a whopping amount of testosterone, so dense it was hard to breathe. A strong odor wafted from some grounds in an empty coffee cup sitting on the bureau by the bed. I reached one finger in and touched the grounds. What was that stuff?
The aroma of a really good men’s cologne tingled my nose, creating almost a hunger. I took several deep whiffs as I glanced around the room trying to get oriented.
There was a concentration of it on my palm. I sniffed my hand, eying Hal-Liurz. No…it wasn’t her.
“There was a man in here, who was it Hal-Liurz?”
“The Count always visits his guests, I’m sorry you were asleep and missed his visit.”
“He sure smells good. How embarrassing that he saw me sleeping though. I hope my mouth wasn‘t gaped or drooling, or I didn’t snore or anything.”
Hal-Liurz laughed. “Did you see the portrait of him in the Great Hall?”
“I saw an old one, he was quite handsome in it. I must have missed the Countess’s though.”
“There isn’t one. She passed away three years ago after a very long illness.”
“Oh, I’m so sorry! I hope you’ll convey my condolences to him, along with my thanks for the wonderful hospitality.”
“No condolences are needed now, he put away his mourning long since. He’s been ready to seek a mate…alas, the running of County Skingrad keeps him too busy.”
“He should stand in the parapet when the wind is blowing from the west, every woman in Skingrad will be beating his door down if they smell him.”
Hal-Liurz doubled over to laugh, but the weight of those giant melons set her off balance, nearly pitching her to the floor. I watched fascinated as her breasts heaved in laughter, wondering if they would burst through her dress.
“That scent he wears is…quite delicious. Do you know the name of it? I may talk Fathis into wearing it.”
“That cologne is a special blend made just for the Count by an alchemist in the Imperial City.”
“That’s where I live! I wonder if she takes bribes?”
Hal-Liurz doubled over again, gripping the bureau by the bed to keep from tumbling this time.
“Would you like a cup of tea?”
“Not that kind.” I pointed to the stinky grounds by my bed.
“No, you can’t have that. That’s Hist tea. It doesn’t bother Argonian’s to drink it, but would make you quite ill. Now then…tell me a little about yourself…”
This certainly was a different experience than going to Castle Bravil with Fathis was. I watched Hal-Liurz bundling around making me a cup of tea. Argonians are supposed to be good swimmers, but I doubt she would ever be able to go below the surface with those floatation devices billowing out of her chest. Still, she was probably the kindest person I ever met.
“Now you come back and see us again, you are welcome anytime.” She hugged me goodbye when Fathis and I took our leave.
******* Janus Hassildor
Janus pushed the door open quietly. Hal-Liurz was rocking slowly, her mind totally rapt with the embroidery she was doing on a piece of fine linen. And there she was, the fiance’ of Fathis. The risk had been well worth the possible sanctions by the Mages Guild had he been caught putting their liaison under spell.
The scent in the room was overwhelming…virgin blood. One would expect its aroma to be more delicate than that of a flower, a rarity to capture in one’s nose as it wafts among what should be in comparison the heavy cloying stench of roses…but no. Purity shouts its presence louder than the sounds of any battle…demanding attention. Its call so powerful there is no denying it. Instead you become a slave to it, as necessary to obey as breathing.
Primal instincts borne by the inheritance of the Dark Gift came alive with instant recognition as if it were the greeting of a long lost lover, familiar even on first breath.
Janus had barely been able to hear the words as Fathis prattled on about Lovidicus and his fate. It took every bit of willpower not to silence that blabbering because it was interfering with the sound of that blood so pure rushing through the vein in her neck…creating a song sweeter than any Dibella ever dreamed. Good gods he wished the man would hush. But he would take no chances by casting any more spells on Fathis, not with everything within hand’s grasp…
“I must take care of a few things, will you excuse me? Please…make yourself comfortable.” Janus hurried out, signaling his bodyguard to miss-direct Fathis should he leave the suite.
He felt giddy as he hurried to the guest quarters, like a child who has been given a long awaited gift. His plan was unfolding with the precision of an assassin’s mission, everything falling into place…yet appearing random. And here she lay, her neck exposed as if daring him to break free from the shackles that kept his nature at bay…taunting him to take her. Dear gods.
Decades of smothering his nature crumbled before that scent, the vampire that lay dormant so long rose up inside him…he was stunned by the voracity of it.
His fangs were fully engorged and hardened before they tore through the membranes of his gums like the taking of a hymen. Juices trickled from the sharp points before the gleaming ivory erections extended fully, sending rivulets of fire down his throat and leaving a trail of explosions and euphoria in their path. Nerves came alive, tingling with heat. Testosterone and adrenalin flooded into his system bringing an arousal such as he had never known. His heart pounded till his own blood rushing sounded like thunder roaring in his ears.
As if a plateau was reached powers began channeling to the senses, heightening each in turn. Hearing so acute…honed. The faint sound of her breaths, the beating of her heart…the rushing of blood in her veins…magnified till the volume of it was deafening. Sounds not of her faded into non-existence.
The room darkened till it was pitch black; his vision became thermal, only showing the glowing red channels of her veins pulsing, the thickest like a river in her neck making a deep throbbing…calling him to come near…begging him to taste its sweetness.
His fangs dripped a steady stream of red wine-like juices down his chin and neck now. His heart felt like it would pound out of his chest. She became a crescendo of intense sounds…her heartbeat was earsplitting booms, her blood deafening as it roared through her…the need to silence her was driving him to madness.
He must regain control quickly…couldn’t attack a guest in the castle…one heartbeat more and he would be savoring…dear gods…
A movement from Hal-Liurz startled him, reminding him of her presence. With relief he realized the dark cowl he wore kept his blood lust hidden, and the disturbance gave him a desperately needed measure of control.
Janus signaled her to leave him alone with the girl. He slid down into the rocking chair and stretched his legs out straight, inhaling deeply as he lay his head back against the flat pillow tied there. There could be no drug as intoxicating as that scent…overpowering in its demand he act.
*
I simply adored the scenes with Hal-Liurz and Marie!
Hal is wonderful! She is so nice and caring! Despite her pair of distractions, I'm so pleased you had her join the ranks of adorable Argonian women found throughout Cyrodiil. And, finally someone to supplant our Nordic Sigrid from her busty throne.
Marie. Well, congratulations, mALX. I am normally not a fan of TES humor, but I must confess you had me chuckling throughout the 'I'm sick here' vs 'Did Hannibal look at your bits?' conversation. Simply magical in its goodness - reading, I felt like I was in the presence of the creative genius that is mALX. You go, girl!!!
Hal is wonderful! She is so nice and caring! Despite her pair of distractions, I'm so pleased you had her join the ranks of adorable Argonian women found throughout Cyrodiil. And, finally someone to supplant our Nordic Sigrid from her busty throne.
Marie. Well, congratulations, mALX. I am normally not a fan of TES humor, but I must confess you had me chuckling throughout the 'I'm sick here' vs 'Did Hannibal look at your bits?' conversation. Simply magical in its goodness - reading, I felt like I was in the presence of the creative genius that is mALX. You go, girl!!!
mALX, did you forget this is PG-13??!!
Have you been watching too many KY Intense commercials lately?
Dhertee Innu-Endo is HERE in his full glory!!
Like Acadian, I loved Hal Liurz - from the descriptions of her pillows to her care for Maxical. And Marie had me cracking up!
But the icing on the cake (or should I say whipped cream -) is Janus's first appearance. Quite different from the previous version. I shall sit back and see if I like this one better.
Have you been watching too many KY Intense commercials lately?
QUOTE
His fangs were fully engorged and hardened before they tore through the membranes of his gums like the taking of a hymen. Juices trickled from the sharp points before the gleaming ivory erections extended fully, sending rivulets of fire down his throat and leaving a trail of explosions and euphoria in their path. Nerves came alive, tingling with heat. Testosterone and adrenalin flooded into his system bringing an arousal such as he had never known. His heart pounded till his own blood rushing sounded like thunder roaring in his ears.
Dhertee Innu-Endo is HERE in his full glory!!
Like Acadian, I loved Hal Liurz - from the descriptions of her pillows to her care for Maxical. And Marie had me cracking up!
But the icing on the cake (or should I say whipped cream -) is Janus's first appearance. Quite different from the previous version. I shall sit back and see if I like this one better.
QUOTE(haute ecole rider @ Oct 3 2010, 12:36 PM) 
mALX, did you forget this is PG-13??!!
Have you been watching too many KY Intense commercials lately?
* Snip *
Dhertee Innu-Endo is HERE in his full glory!!
Like Acadian, I loved Hal Liurz - from the descriptions of her pillows to her care for Maxical. And Marie had me cracking up!
But the icing on the cake (or should I say whipped cream -) is Janus's first appearance. Quite different from the previous version. I shall sit back and see if I like this one better.
Oh...er...did that reference seem...a little...phallic? Er...oops! ...Er...but maybe it will lure Foxy off his TDY !!!
PS: Chapter edited for content, is now PG rated !!!! Yeah !!!!
Sorry everyone, I was watching Naked Gun 2.5 with Leslie Nielsen while writing that, anyone who has seen the hilarious "love scene" in that movie will know exactly what I am talking about. (Patriot missiles being aimed, trains running through tunnels, missiles launching, submarines releasing their load, oil wells striking, gushing, TNT, fireworks, etc.)
Anyway, here is the censored version, lol.
Sorry everyone, I was watching Naked Gun 2.5 with Leslie Nielsen while writing that, anyone who has seen the hilarious "love scene" in that movie will know exactly what I am talking about. (Patriot missiles being aimed, trains running through tunnels, missiles launching, submarines releasing their load, oil wells striking, gushing, TNT, fireworks, etc.)
Anyway, here is the censored version, lol.
I am so glad that hautee quoted the first version of that paragraph so that I could compare it to the edited one. Either way your ability to capture the eroticism of vampirism knows no bounds!
The conversation between Maxical and Regina absolutely made my day!
Take away the period after someone and this sounds like Maxical doesnt have a very favorable opinion of the esteemed arch-mage! That is how I read it at first and I went through a few hilariously confused moments before I realized my mistake.
Does this first appearance of Janus mean that everyones favorite mouse is soon to follow?
The conversation between Maxical and Regina absolutely made my day!
QUOTE
Oh! Er . . . well, yes. Im an Arena fighter, he is there frequently healing someone. So, Ive been puking a lot. . .
Take away the period after someone and this sounds like Maxical doesnt have a very favorable opinion of the esteemed arch-mage! That is how I read it at first and I went through a few hilariously confused moments before I realized my mistake.
Does this first appearance of Janus mean that everyones favorite mouse is soon to follow?
Foxy is back, and as soon as he comes in the back (er er I meant comes back.... ) what does he see? Why, tangible tumescence and turgid testosterone teasing tallywhackers into taut tension....
... causing De Fox to use apt alliteration's artful aid.
Tsk, tsk.
Our mALX needs to take either a cold shower or a hot lover.
Or perhaps both.
) what does he see? Why, tangible tumescence and turgid testosterone teasing tallywhackers into taut tension....... causing De Fox to use apt alliteration's artful aid.
Tsk, tsk.
Our mALX needs to take either a cold shower or a hot lover.
Or perhaps both.
Aahh... I missed the uncensored version.. 
I preferred the new version of Janus. He is a lot more scary in your rewrite.
I preferred the new version of Janus. He is a lot more scary in your rewrite.
Lots to love here. The single-minded Regina, Hal-Liurz and her twins- and the first appearance of Janus. (I will refrain from using his accidental name from the previous version). Have to agree with Remko that this introduction makes him much more impressive.
Hmmm....what name could that be? 
@ Acadian - I thought you'd feel the relief for poor Sigrid! ROFL !! Thank you so much Acadian !!!
***
@ Naughty Haute - ARGH !!! I know if you said something it was bad. I will never watch Leslie Nielsen again while writing my story, lol. Thank you so much Haute, and for the tip !!!
***
@ Destri - I almost wrote "This Bud's for you" at the top of the page - you inspired that chapter with two comments you made, one on here and one on your thread. I wanted to give you something to laugh about when you remember what you endured, lol. Hope it worked.
Er...unfortunately you might be right on that, but it should have known some bounds, lol. Thank you so very much Destri !!!
***
@ Foxy - I was forced into writing double entendres to lure you off your TDY, we missed you too badly !!!! (and it worked!) You ROCK FOXY !!!!!! And Damien is coming up soon, let me know when you will be ready to edit his role !!!! Thank you so much Foxy, and for returning (finally !!)
***
@ Remko - Thank you so much Remko !!! I hope so, all my men were wimpy girly men in the original, I am trying hard to make them more manly in this version - Winter Wolf was giving me tips, but is hibernating in the wastelands now.
***
@ Treydog - You remembered! Foxy had just come off TDY then too, and was still loopy from the chopper - and he said it first. When Maxical came back to life I just had to have her call him that, lol. Lets hope Janus stays much more impressive this time, I have really been working on my men being more manly in this version. (although according to Destri they still all look iffy, lol). Thank you so much Treydog !!!!!
For anyone here who missed it in the original, Foxy nicknamed Janus Anus - which may or may not be censored on here, lol.
***
@ EVERYONE - sorry about the lack of comment thanks last chapter, my eyes had been bad all week. They are finally on the mend now !!! You all are always appreciated !!!
***
@ Naughty Haute - ARGH !!! I know if you said something it was bad. I will never watch Leslie Nielsen again while writing my story, lol. Thank you so much Haute, and for the tip !!!
***
@ Destri - I almost wrote "This Bud's for you" at the top of the page - you inspired that chapter with two comments you made, one on here and one on your thread. I wanted to give you something to laugh about when you remember what you endured, lol. Hope it worked.
Er...unfortunately you might be right on that, but it should have known some bounds, lol. Thank you so very much Destri !!!
***
@ Foxy - I was forced into writing double entendres to lure you off your TDY, we missed you too badly !!!! (and it worked!) You ROCK FOXY !!!!!! And Damien is coming up soon, let me know when you will be ready to edit his role !!!! Thank you so much Foxy, and for returning (finally !!)
***
@ Remko - Thank you so much Remko !!! I hope so, all my men were wimpy girly men in the original, I am trying hard to make them more manly in this version - Winter Wolf was giving me tips, but is hibernating in the wastelands now.
***
@ Treydog - You remembered! Foxy had just come off TDY then too, and was still loopy from the chopper - and he said it first. When Maxical came back to life I just had to have her call him that, lol. Lets hope Janus stays much more impressive this time, I have really been working on my men being more manly in this version. (although according to Destri they still all look iffy, lol). Thank you so much Treydog !!!!!
For anyone here who missed it in the original, Foxy nicknamed Janus Anus - which may or may not be censored on here, lol.
***
@ EVERYONE - sorry about the lack of comment thanks last chapter, my eyes had been bad all week. They are finally on the mend now !!! You all are always appreciated !!!
*
** There is a cameo mention of Rumpleteasza in this chapter!
Chapter 55: Janus Hassildor
******* Janus Hassildor
The rank odor of Hist wafted toward Janus from a coffee cup resting on the bureau beside the bed where Maxical lay sleeping. Only the grounds remained of what had been Hal-Liurz‘s Hist leaf tea, how she could drink that horrible stuff…but that stench would distract his mind enough to garner desperately needed control over the vampire.
Straining for every ounce of willpower through swimming senses he leaned over the arm of the rocker, his arm extended to grab the cup. A creaking groan was ignored till it was followed by the sound of fracturing wood and the rocking chair suddenly tipping to one side. Janus made a wild grab for the down mattress to keep from being pitched over.
The Khajiit made a scowling face at the disturbance of her sleep, then stretched as if she would waken. Janus froze in that position, not daring to move or breathe lest it wake her further. She would be frightened to find a man in a cowl by her bedside…
He rapidly cast a sleep spell onto the girl as she began to sit up. She seemed to hesitate in a half-sitting position, swaying a bit. Janus cast the spell again. As if in slow motion she tumbled forward, the sheet sliding from her…dear gods, she was unclothed. Her cheek landed close to where he still clutched the mattress, and immediately her nose and whiskers began wiggling as if catching a scent. They tickled his hand as she whiffed it.
Janus was rigidly tense, ready with a spell in his other hand to stop her if she made an outcry. Instead she cradled his hand in hers, rubbing her nose and cheek across it several times inhaling deeply. A loud purring sound seemed to be coming from somewhere inside her. Finally she lay still, her breathing leveled out. She was in a deep slumber again, but the purring continued. Janus exhaled with relief, but didn‘t want to chance moving his hand.
The purring was strange to hear, but pleasant…her hand and cheek were soft and warm touching him. A familiar ache rose in him, the need for a spouse, companionship…dear gods, sex.
The number of women seeking marriage with ancient vampires can be numbered at zero - no, one. That stinking Glenmoril witch that tried to lay him down nearly atop Rona‘s body. Janus would rather mate with sheep like Gaston Surilie before he‘d touch that filthy…but wait!
The sudden realization struck him so forcibly that he almost leaped up from the tipsy rocking chair. The pink eyes and fangs would be gone for at least a day once he fed on this Khajiit! It would be the perfect time to seek a mate!
But…would one day be enough time to meet someone and develop a rapport? It may be best not to chance taking the Khajiit till he at least had someone in mind, found out if they reciprocated interest…that would be the best plan. Spend a few days wearing the cowl while he scouted…
Once again a thought struck him with such force that he had to restrain himself from leaping out of the chair. That music festival would be the perfect place! Ideal! A large number of women gathered in one spot, it would be like fishing in a barrel! Just browse through selecting those that caught his interest!
Once he chose…then feed on Maxical so he could remove the cowl. Admittedly the courtship would have to be hurried…he‘d have to sweep her off her feet quickly before the effects of Clavicus Vile’s gift wore off and the fangs and pink eyes returned.
His excitement grew as Janus began visualizing what qualities he would look for in the next Countess. Visions of chesty blondes with seductive smiles floated through his mind…no, the citizens of Skingrad would balk at something like that.
Maybe someone like Rumpleteasza Goldwine. She was legal age now, and had grown into a real beauty. A marriage between the two Counties…Janus’s reverie was brought up short.
Who the hell was this Gils Maxical was dreaming of? Janus honed in on her thoughts…good gods, she’d been sneaking around behind Fathis’s back…cheating on him!
Dear gods, all these risks Janus had taken would have been for naught! Thank goodness Fathis extracted a vow of fidelity from her, Janus didn’t have a spell on this Gils person to keep his sword inactive like he had on Fathis.
***
Janus leaned back to see the embroidery Hal-Liurz had been working on, when the Hist grounds in the bottom of the coffee cup caught his eye…such an odd pattern, yet…somehow familiar. A strong feeling that it was something he should be remembering overtook him…almost foreboding.
Hal firmly believed in them as forecasters of things to come, swearing they were never wrong. Janus had the eerie feeling this pattern was trying to tell him something.
He forced his mind back on the embroidery, grabbing it and turning back around. With a sinking feeling he realized it was a wedding proclamation, silver bells and birds with ribbons in their mouths. The name Maxical was stitched on one of the ribbons. …made for a wedding that won’t take place.
The door opened and Hal slid soundlessly back into the room, her eyes immediately falling to his arm stretched to the bed, the girl cuddled up over his hand…the upper half of her still exposed. Hal gave him a glowing smile, beaming like a playwright that is seeing her work come to fruition.
…Surely she doesn’t think…oh no. Just then Janus’s eyes fell to the other name stitched on the embroidery, his own name. Holding the embroidery up in his one free hand, Janus raised his middle finger and used it to point at his name on the embroidery. Hal just smiled and nodded. Oh no.
He couldn’t tell Hal his plans. She knew he was a vampire and loved him…but she would never understand what he was about to do, especially since she had obviously become attached to the girl already.
Janus waved Hal over and slid his hand out from below the girl’s, leaving the room quickly before Maxical awoke and saw him. He had to prepare for his trip.
This plan could not be more perfect. A vampire attack in the Imperial City would never be connected to himself. If questions ever arose Arch Mage Traven would verify he never left his castle…and Fathis would swear to that, even if he brought the girl to Janus himself.
Putting Fathis under his power had been spur of the moment…in his upset over some armor a girl sold, Fathis forgot to protect himself against magic before coming to the castle. On reading his mind Janus discovered the girl was promised to Fathis…a virgin. Before he could think better of it Janus had cast the spell, not even having a plan at the time…only that Fathis’s sword be unable to raise when with her so she remain a virgin; and that Fathis trust Janus, even with the girl. As an afterthought Janus thought it best Fathis stay away from Maxical so the spell wouldn‘t be discovered…or removed. That was how it began.
For months Janus did nothing, waiting for an outcry that never came. Using powers against the liaison for the Mages Guild would be considered an attack. Over fifty years of good relations with them would end in sanctions being brought against him, and that would mean exposure of his nature to the Palace.
Not just the forfeit of his position as Count Skingrad was at stake, Uriel Septim placed a bounty on vampires in Cyrodiil. Clavicus Vile’s gift of anonymity to vampires is only received if they feed. If caught feeding it is a crime, if caught with fangs and pink eyes you are put to death. Being immortal…that would mean an eternity in a dungeon when they found death was not an option.
Nothing had ever been worth the risk of leaving the isolation of his castle before. Now…the scent of that pure blood in his nostrils made taking risks imperative, and any conscience was pushed aside in the desire to taste that sweetness.
***
Janus gapped the window, and in spite of the burning sun he stood near the aperture to breathe in the aroma as Maxical and Fathis departed the castle. That song created by her blood racing through the veins of her neck could still be heard clearly. He could track her anywhere by that sound, she could never get far enough away that he could not find her.
Janus remained in the aperture and tried inhaling deeply when her scent became faint. Instead an offensive vibration of odor blowing from the west filled his nostrils. Lovidicus…no. It couldn’t be him, Fathis said he was dead. Lovidicus must have actually made one before dying. Fighting would only pass on the disease, not the ancient line.
A green vampire could come in very handy. He wouldn’t have a full grasp on his powers, his scenting wouldn’t be developed yet. Few but thieves or assassins understood the stealth required to slip unobtrusively about. New vampires usually tried to continue their lives; going to work, visiting friends…being seen stumbling around publicly he would be the first one blamed when the Khajiit’s body turned up.
Janus had just donned his cloak and cowl and was heading toward the door when Hal stopped him, holding up the embroidery with Maxical‘s and his name stitched.
“You are going for her now, right?”
“I’m going to the Imperial City and seek a mate. She is Fathis’s fiance‘, remember?”
“She is the one Janus, your chosen mate. The Hist leaves have never been wrong, you’ll know it when you meet her.”
“I already had one spouse chosen for me, you know how that turned out. I plan to spend a little time choosing someone who suits me. Regardless who, I will not be alone when I return. Have the castle in readiness to receive a Mistress.” Janus began walking briskly away.
“Ancients don’t choose their mate, she is chosen for him. The homing instinct is placed at the time of your making, nothing is random. Go enjoy yourself looking, but meet with her before you choose. You’ll see she is the one.” Hal was waddling as fast as she could to keep up with him, panting heavily and tugging at his arm to slow him down.
Janus pushed the door open and started stepping out into the night air. “She belongs to Fathis. The people of Skingrad would never accept a Khajiit as their Countess.”
“They wouldn’t accept a vampire if they knew, either. You never leave the castle, she’d be in your lair with you always, your constant companion.“ Hal was dragging hard on his arm for support now, gasping from the effort of trying to keep up with him.
She made one last effort. “The desire for her blood will leave you once you claim her, Janus. That drive you’re feeling is what brings you to the right one.” Hal’s voice rang out loudly.
To her relief, Janus came to an abrupt halt. She propped one arm on the wall and clutched his arm with the other, gasping for breath.
“You…knew?” Janus asked quietly.
“I knew.”
“But you left me alone with her, were you not worried?”
“The vampire brings you to her, it’ll make you follow her. But it won’t let you kill the chosen one. It takes the blood lust from you as soon as you decide. Just talk with her, tell her who you are, you’ll see.”
“Tell her I’m Count Skingrad?”
“No, the Immortal. She’ll know…and still come willingly. You’ll see, Janus. She‘s the one.”
Hal couldn’t expect him to tell anyone he was a vampire, it would be foolhardy.
Janus shook his head and hurried out, signaling his mounted guard.
“I need your horse.”
Instead of turning toward the Imperial City Janus turned toward Anvil. He followed the scent of the new ancient to Crowhaven. The pieces of Lord Lovidicus were rotting everywhere around him. One whole end of the living quarters was gutted by fire. In a small alcove laying among the blackened remains was a badly burned Orc clutching a charred Elven sword. He was clinging to life by a thread.
Janus hesitated out of reach of that blade.
“Help me. I can’t heal…I’m burned badly.” The Orc’s voice was wheedling, child-like.
“I’ll heal you, but first we are going to have a talk.” Janus cast a spell over him and read his mind.
Janus considered for a minute before healing Agronak.
He was no green vampire as Janus originally thought. True, he was new to actually being a vampire…but he was the son of Lovidicus. As such he had powers well established from birth…and knew well how to use them. He had been using them avidly to his benefit at least that long. Now that he was a full vampire those powers would be extraordinary.
The Orc was obviously unbalanced. That may render mind control over him unreliable…he could be dangerous and unpredictable.
It may be best to just leave without healing the Orc. Still, with the Orc blundering around it would draw blame for the Khajiit’s death onto him…
***
Janus Hassildor:
*
** There is a cameo mention of Rumpleteasza in this chapter!
Chapter 55: Janus Hassildor
******* Janus Hassildor
The rank odor of Hist wafted toward Janus from a coffee cup resting on the bureau beside the bed where Maxical lay sleeping. Only the grounds remained of what had been Hal-Liurz‘s Hist leaf tea, how she could drink that horrible stuff…but that stench would distract his mind enough to garner desperately needed control over the vampire.
Straining for every ounce of willpower through swimming senses he leaned over the arm of the rocker, his arm extended to grab the cup. A creaking groan was ignored till it was followed by the sound of fracturing wood and the rocking chair suddenly tipping to one side. Janus made a wild grab for the down mattress to keep from being pitched over.
The Khajiit made a scowling face at the disturbance of her sleep, then stretched as if she would waken. Janus froze in that position, not daring to move or breathe lest it wake her further. She would be frightened to find a man in a cowl by her bedside…
He rapidly cast a sleep spell onto the girl as she began to sit up. She seemed to hesitate in a half-sitting position, swaying a bit. Janus cast the spell again. As if in slow motion she tumbled forward, the sheet sliding from her…dear gods, she was unclothed. Her cheek landed close to where he still clutched the mattress, and immediately her nose and whiskers began wiggling as if catching a scent. They tickled his hand as she whiffed it.
Janus was rigidly tense, ready with a spell in his other hand to stop her if she made an outcry. Instead she cradled his hand in hers, rubbing her nose and cheek across it several times inhaling deeply. A loud purring sound seemed to be coming from somewhere inside her. Finally she lay still, her breathing leveled out. She was in a deep slumber again, but the purring continued. Janus exhaled with relief, but didn‘t want to chance moving his hand.
The purring was strange to hear, but pleasant…her hand and cheek were soft and warm touching him. A familiar ache rose in him, the need for a spouse, companionship…dear gods, sex.
The number of women seeking marriage with ancient vampires can be numbered at zero - no, one. That stinking Glenmoril witch that tried to lay him down nearly atop Rona‘s body. Janus would rather mate with sheep like Gaston Surilie before he‘d touch that filthy…but wait!
The sudden realization struck him so forcibly that he almost leaped up from the tipsy rocking chair. The pink eyes and fangs would be gone for at least a day once he fed on this Khajiit! It would be the perfect time to seek a mate!
But…would one day be enough time to meet someone and develop a rapport? It may be best not to chance taking the Khajiit till he at least had someone in mind, found out if they reciprocated interest…that would be the best plan. Spend a few days wearing the cowl while he scouted…
Once again a thought struck him with such force that he had to restrain himself from leaping out of the chair. That music festival would be the perfect place! Ideal! A large number of women gathered in one spot, it would be like fishing in a barrel! Just browse through selecting those that caught his interest!
Once he chose…then feed on Maxical so he could remove the cowl. Admittedly the courtship would have to be hurried…he‘d have to sweep her off her feet quickly before the effects of Clavicus Vile’s gift wore off and the fangs and pink eyes returned.
His excitement grew as Janus began visualizing what qualities he would look for in the next Countess. Visions of chesty blondes with seductive smiles floated through his mind…no, the citizens of Skingrad would balk at something like that.
Maybe someone like Rumpleteasza Goldwine. She was legal age now, and had grown into a real beauty. A marriage between the two Counties…Janus’s reverie was brought up short.
Who the hell was this Gils Maxical was dreaming of? Janus honed in on her thoughts…good gods, she’d been sneaking around behind Fathis’s back…cheating on him!
Dear gods, all these risks Janus had taken would have been for naught! Thank goodness Fathis extracted a vow of fidelity from her, Janus didn’t have a spell on this Gils person to keep his sword inactive like he had on Fathis.
***
Janus leaned back to see the embroidery Hal-Liurz had been working on, when the Hist grounds in the bottom of the coffee cup caught his eye…such an odd pattern, yet…somehow familiar. A strong feeling that it was something he should be remembering overtook him…almost foreboding.
Hal firmly believed in them as forecasters of things to come, swearing they were never wrong. Janus had the eerie feeling this pattern was trying to tell him something.
He forced his mind back on the embroidery, grabbing it and turning back around. With a sinking feeling he realized it was a wedding proclamation, silver bells and birds with ribbons in their mouths. The name Maxical was stitched on one of the ribbons. …made for a wedding that won’t take place.
The door opened and Hal slid soundlessly back into the room, her eyes immediately falling to his arm stretched to the bed, the girl cuddled up over his hand…the upper half of her still exposed. Hal gave him a glowing smile, beaming like a playwright that is seeing her work come to fruition.
…Surely she doesn’t think…oh no. Just then Janus’s eyes fell to the other name stitched on the embroidery, his own name. Holding the embroidery up in his one free hand, Janus raised his middle finger and used it to point at his name on the embroidery. Hal just smiled and nodded. Oh no.
He couldn’t tell Hal his plans. She knew he was a vampire and loved him…but she would never understand what he was about to do, especially since she had obviously become attached to the girl already.
Janus waved Hal over and slid his hand out from below the girl’s, leaving the room quickly before Maxical awoke and saw him. He had to prepare for his trip.
This plan could not be more perfect. A vampire attack in the Imperial City would never be connected to himself. If questions ever arose Arch Mage Traven would verify he never left his castle…and Fathis would swear to that, even if he brought the girl to Janus himself.
Putting Fathis under his power had been spur of the moment…in his upset over some armor a girl sold, Fathis forgot to protect himself against magic before coming to the castle. On reading his mind Janus discovered the girl was promised to Fathis…a virgin. Before he could think better of it Janus had cast the spell, not even having a plan at the time…only that Fathis’s sword be unable to raise when with her so she remain a virgin; and that Fathis trust Janus, even with the girl. As an afterthought Janus thought it best Fathis stay away from Maxical so the spell wouldn‘t be discovered…or removed. That was how it began.
For months Janus did nothing, waiting for an outcry that never came. Using powers against the liaison for the Mages Guild would be considered an attack. Over fifty years of good relations with them would end in sanctions being brought against him, and that would mean exposure of his nature to the Palace.
Not just the forfeit of his position as Count Skingrad was at stake, Uriel Septim placed a bounty on vampires in Cyrodiil. Clavicus Vile’s gift of anonymity to vampires is only received if they feed. If caught feeding it is a crime, if caught with fangs and pink eyes you are put to death. Being immortal…that would mean an eternity in a dungeon when they found death was not an option.
Nothing had ever been worth the risk of leaving the isolation of his castle before. Now…the scent of that pure blood in his nostrils made taking risks imperative, and any conscience was pushed aside in the desire to taste that sweetness.
***
Janus gapped the window, and in spite of the burning sun he stood near the aperture to breathe in the aroma as Maxical and Fathis departed the castle. That song created by her blood racing through the veins of her neck could still be heard clearly. He could track her anywhere by that sound, she could never get far enough away that he could not find her.
Janus remained in the aperture and tried inhaling deeply when her scent became faint. Instead an offensive vibration of odor blowing from the west filled his nostrils. Lovidicus…no. It couldn’t be him, Fathis said he was dead. Lovidicus must have actually made one before dying. Fighting would only pass on the disease, not the ancient line.
A green vampire could come in very handy. He wouldn’t have a full grasp on his powers, his scenting wouldn’t be developed yet. Few but thieves or assassins understood the stealth required to slip unobtrusively about. New vampires usually tried to continue their lives; going to work, visiting friends…being seen stumbling around publicly he would be the first one blamed when the Khajiit’s body turned up.
Janus had just donned his cloak and cowl and was heading toward the door when Hal stopped him, holding up the embroidery with Maxical‘s and his name stitched.
“You are going for her now, right?”
“I’m going to the Imperial City and seek a mate. She is Fathis’s fiance‘, remember?”
“She is the one Janus, your chosen mate. The Hist leaves have never been wrong, you’ll know it when you meet her.”
“I already had one spouse chosen for me, you know how that turned out. I plan to spend a little time choosing someone who suits me. Regardless who, I will not be alone when I return. Have the castle in readiness to receive a Mistress.” Janus began walking briskly away.
“Ancients don’t choose their mate, she is chosen for him. The homing instinct is placed at the time of your making, nothing is random. Go enjoy yourself looking, but meet with her before you choose. You’ll see she is the one.” Hal was waddling as fast as she could to keep up with him, panting heavily and tugging at his arm to slow him down.
Janus pushed the door open and started stepping out into the night air. “She belongs to Fathis. The people of Skingrad would never accept a Khajiit as their Countess.”
“They wouldn’t accept a vampire if they knew, either. You never leave the castle, she’d be in your lair with you always, your constant companion.“ Hal was dragging hard on his arm for support now, gasping from the effort of trying to keep up with him.
She made one last effort. “The desire for her blood will leave you once you claim her, Janus. That drive you’re feeling is what brings you to the right one.” Hal’s voice rang out loudly.
To her relief, Janus came to an abrupt halt. She propped one arm on the wall and clutched his arm with the other, gasping for breath.
“You…knew?” Janus asked quietly.
“I knew.”
“But you left me alone with her, were you not worried?”
“The vampire brings you to her, it’ll make you follow her. But it won’t let you kill the chosen one. It takes the blood lust from you as soon as you decide. Just talk with her, tell her who you are, you’ll see.”
“Tell her I’m Count Skingrad?”
“No, the Immortal. She’ll know…and still come willingly. You’ll see, Janus. She‘s the one.”
Hal couldn’t expect him to tell anyone he was a vampire, it would be foolhardy.
Janus shook his head and hurried out, signaling his mounted guard.
“I need your horse.”
Instead of turning toward the Imperial City Janus turned toward Anvil. He followed the scent of the new ancient to Crowhaven. The pieces of Lord Lovidicus were rotting everywhere around him. One whole end of the living quarters was gutted by fire. In a small alcove laying among the blackened remains was a badly burned Orc clutching a charred Elven sword. He was clinging to life by a thread.
Janus hesitated out of reach of that blade.
“Help me. I can’t heal…I’m burned badly.” The Orc’s voice was wheedling, child-like.
“I’ll heal you, but first we are going to have a talk.” Janus cast a spell over him and read his mind.
Janus considered for a minute before healing Agronak.
He was no green vampire as Janus originally thought. True, he was new to actually being a vampire…but he was the son of Lovidicus. As such he had powers well established from birth…and knew well how to use them. He had been using them avidly to his benefit at least that long. Now that he was a full vampire those powers would be extraordinary.
The Orc was obviously unbalanced. That may render mind control over him unreliable…he could be dangerous and unpredictable.
It may be best to just leave without healing the Orc. Still, with the Orc blundering around it would draw blame for the Khajiit’s death onto him…
***
Janus Hassildor:
*
Interrrresting . . .
I see you're starting to weave a new web here around Janus.
Promise me you won't disappear for two months which would result in me forgetting the finer points of this plot?
I sit here waiting to see where we would go next . . .
I see you're starting to weave a new web here around Janus.
Promise me you won't disappear for two months which would result in me forgetting the finer points of this plot?
I sit here waiting to see where we would go next . . .
Now this is a Janus Hassildor with teeth (no pun intended)! I think he might be able to redeem himself after what you did to him in the other version of this story. No wonder Fathis had trouble maintaining his . . . er . . . ardor when intimate with Maxical. The idea that an ancient vampire is somehow controlling his . . . er . . . sword reaches into new levels of creepiness.
It does seem like (J)anus is taking the very real risk of exposure and alienation from the Mages Guild to simply preserve some virgin blood. Especially when you consider that all he wants to do (despite Hal's sage council) is kill this particular virgin. Someone should remind him that he is an immortal, and that they are making new virgins every day.
I especially liked his line about not buggering sheep like Gaston Surille!
And thank you for the chapter about Regina. I remember both of the comments you alluded to, and your desire to make me laugh worked like a charm.
It does seem like (J)anus is taking the very real risk of exposure and alienation from the Mages Guild to simply preserve some virgin blood. Especially when you consider that all he wants to do (despite Hal's sage council) is kill this particular virgin. Someone should remind him that he is an immortal, and that they are making new virgins every day.
I especially liked his line about not buggering sheep like Gaston Surille!
And thank you for the chapter about Regina. I remember both of the comments you alluded to, and your desire to make me laugh worked like a charm.
So Aggie is a vampire now.... Interesting.
I'll say again; I love the new Janus.
Fathis' "sword" is cursed?
That explains a lot
I'll say again; I love the new Janus.
Fathis' "sword" is cursed?
That explains a lot
Ah, so this confirms Agronak is a vampire. I thought that might be the case. And quite an interesting one at that.
So we learn many things. A little about the witch of Glenmoril. How Hal feels about Janus. Some reasons for Fathis' odd behaviors. Even a glimpse into Castle Kvatch!
Lots of intrigue going on here! Nicely written, mALX!
Nit:
So we learn many things. A little about the witch of Glenmoril. How Hal feels about Janus. Some reasons for Fathis' odd behaviors. Even a glimpse into Castle Kvatch!
Lots of intrigue going on here! Nicely written, mALX!
Nit:
QUOTE
Janus froze in that position, not daring to move or breath lest it wake her further.
Breath is a noun (he took a breath). Breathe is the verb that I think you want here (afraid to breathe).
This is a much deeper study of Janus' obsession with Maxical. Although I loved the comedy of errors version, this promises to be even better. The spell on Fathis'- umm, mage's staff- is an interesting twist.
At this moment, new and old readers, I invite you all to step back and compare MaLX's later writing with her earlier style...
... and see, with awe, how much she has grown in technique, and subtlety, with time.
*which is why I am buttering her up - when she becomes a 100 million and more selling author I shall perhaps be invited to her yatch, (where I might find some...er...er...matches! Yeah, that's right, I meant matches!!! ) and there get a cushy job as her well paid security detail*
... and see, with awe, how much she has grown in technique, and subtlety, with time.
*which is why I am buttering her up - when she becomes a 100 million and more selling author I shall perhaps be invited to her yatch, (where I might find some...er...er...matches! Yeah, that's right, I meant matches!!!
) and there get a cushy job as her well paid security detail*
@ Naughty Haute - Thank you very much Haute !!!! I hope nothing like that happens again, lol.
***
@ Destri - Thank you so very much !!!! You picked one of my fave lines out, (that one and the 'fishing in the barrel') - oh, I see problems ahead on that statement, lol.
"They make new virgins everyday" - No children will ever be harmed in the making of Maxical's story! ARGH !!! Lol.
I have no doubt adult virgins were as rare back then as they are now. Something happens to girls by at least age 17 ... hormones. Short of locking them away they will not be virgins when they reach age 21.
Janus said he acted before he could think about it when he heard she was a virgin...but Hal-Liurz said that everything Janus did was the vampire instincts bringing him to his chosen mate. (she saw it in the Hist leaf tea grounds)
And that was the first time he didn't suffocate the vampire in him, (see un-edited virgin fang breaking membranes as if hymen in Haute's comment - that was the first time the vampire ever came out that he didn't fight it off using willpower).
** I am so glad you got a laugh from the 'Regina' segment !!! I had a ball writing it !!!
***
@ Remko - I appreciate that a lot!!! I have really held back on lampooning the men in this story - but...some of them may experience an "off day" every here and there. Thank you so much Remko !!!
***
@ Acadian - Thank you so much Acadian !!! I fixed the nit, thank you for catching that !!!
This chapter was definately one of foreshadowing - almost everything in it was. I'm tickled you caught that !!!!!
***
@ Treydog - Thank you so very much Treydog! I miss the comedy stuff a lot, Maxical is not inept as much as I would like her to be in this version, lol. Darn it! But I'm glad to hear my men are coming out a little better. There will be a bit of lampooning on them, but not like in the original version, lol. You ROCK !!!!
***
@ Foxy - Woo Hoo! My own bodyguard !!! We could use Hal-Liurz's beacons to guide us to Cyrodiil...
Interestingly enough, Damien's first appearance is in Chapter 69, (a bit of trivial trivia)...that is about 26-28 days from now...so...if you ever find an unbusy moment I will forward his script for your edit-ification.
Thank you so much Foxy, You ROCK !!!!!!
***
@ Destri - Thank you so very much !!!! You picked one of my fave lines out, (that one and the 'fishing in the barrel') - oh, I see problems ahead on that statement, lol.
"They make new virgins everyday" - No children will ever be harmed in the making of Maxical's story! ARGH !!! Lol.
I have no doubt adult virgins were as rare back then as they are now. Something happens to girls by at least age 17 ... hormones. Short of locking them away they will not be virgins when they reach age 21.
Janus said he acted before he could think about it when he heard she was a virgin...but Hal-Liurz said that everything Janus did was the vampire instincts bringing him to his chosen mate. (she saw it in the Hist leaf tea grounds)
And that was the first time he didn't suffocate the vampire in him, (see un-edited virgin fang breaking membranes as if hymen in Haute's comment - that was the first time the vampire ever came out that he didn't fight it off using willpower).
** I am so glad you got a laugh from the 'Regina' segment !!! I had a ball writing it !!!
***
@ Remko - I appreciate that a lot!!! I have really held back on lampooning the men in this story - but...some of them may experience an "off day" every here and there. Thank you so much Remko !!!
***
@ Acadian - Thank you so much Acadian !!! I fixed the nit, thank you for catching that !!!
This chapter was definately one of foreshadowing - almost everything in it was. I'm tickled you caught that !!!!!
***
@ Treydog - Thank you so very much Treydog! I miss the comedy stuff a lot, Maxical is not inept as much as I would like her to be in this version, lol. Darn it! But I'm glad to hear my men are coming out a little better. There will be a bit of lampooning on them, but not like in the original version, lol. You ROCK !!!!
***
@ Foxy - Woo Hoo! My own bodyguard !!! We could use Hal-Liurz's beacons to guide us to Cyrodiil...
Interestingly enough, Damien's first appearance is in Chapter 69, (a bit of trivial trivia)...that is about 26-28 days from now...so...if you ever find an unbusy moment I will forward his script for your edit-ification.
Thank you so much Foxy, You ROCK !!!!!!
*
Chapter 56: Countess Millona Umbranox
******* Fathis
“Fathis! What are you doing here at this time of night? Has something happened to Maxical?” Hannibal pulled himself out of bed.
“I need a full physical exam Traven, the works. Check for everything, take blood samples, whatever you need to do. Oh, and give me a shot of that vitamin concoction you make too.”
“At this time of night? What’s wrong? What symptoms are you having?”
“Nae Traven, I’ll not say. Just look for everything till you find something that isn’t right. This is one thing I’ll discuss with no one, not even you.”
******* Janus - The next day
The Merchants Inn was booked solid well in advance for the music festival. Janus raised his bribe to 300 Septims before the innkeeper would even consider bumping any of the reservations.
The innkeeper pocketed the Septims and began scanning the list to determine who was the best candidate to juggle. The sound of the outer door opening distracted him. He glanced up and hailed the guests.
“Fathis! Hannibal! Good to see you…”
Janus cast chameleon instantly, hoping they hadn’t caught sight of him.
The innkeeper looked around. “Where did he go? He was just here a minute ago…”
“Did you lose a customer?” Fathis smiled, sliding a silver longsword across the top of the desk. “This is for you Velus. I was just in Anvil and saw a little shop called ‘The Peacemakers’. Remember what you said the other day about needing a ’peacemaker’ with all the tourists coming for the music festival? I had him engrave it for you…”
“Synchronicity. That’s what it’s called when meaningful coincidences occur, you’ll probably need it then.” Hannibal cuffed Velus on the shoulder. “Here’s a bottle of that ginger root drink for your upset stomach. I always make it for the students, they swear by it.”
“Thanks Hannibal. Fathis, this is beautiful! Look at the engraving, ‘Velus’ Peacemaker’! That was really the name of the shop? I’m going to lean this on the wall behind the counter in plain view so the tourists will know not to bring their trouble here. Thank you, Fathis. Here, take a bottle of my best brandy on the house.”
“It was nothing. Like Traven said, coincidence. Had to act on it.” Fathis thanked him for the brandy.
“Karma. When a deed…” Hannibal began.
“Traven, if you keep prosing on I will revoke the invitation to stay.” Fathis snapped.
Velus shook his head and grinned, carefully laying the sword on a shelf behind the bar so it could be seen; then hurried to the front, standing in different places and admiring the sword.
“Beautiful! Just look at that shine!” Velus moved to another spot, nearly bumping into Janus who was still in chameleon.
Janus moved quickly out of his way. With Hannibal here it wouldn’t be safe to remain. Janus reluctantly left his 300 Septims worth of bribe behind. Everything was in his grasp now, it wouldn’t do to take chances at this stage of the game. He walked out as Velus was buffing the fingerprints off his new sword.
******* Gils - Yes, Gils!
A tunnel of light beckoned Gils from the dark void that surrounded it. At the end of the tunnel…movement. A female voice. Maxical? No, who was she? Her face swam into view.
“Feeling better now?”
“Where…?”
“This is the Chapel of Dibella. I’m the healer here. You were in quite bad shape. My name is Laralthir.”
“How long…”
“You’ve been here two days. You almost didn’t make it.”
“I’ve been exposed…vampires. Did you cure it?”
“Yes, of course. Pinarus said you are a famous singer, I guess we‘re not used to getting celebrities in our midst here. Unlike Countess Lump-ox, some of us have to work for a living.”
“You sure I’m cured of that vampire stuff?”
“You think I can’t do my job here? What, are you friends with Countess Millass?”
“No…I’m just scared, I don’t want any scurvy disease.”
“Oh. Sorry. She just chaps my buns with her hoity-toidy ways.”
“Don’t you mean hoity-toity? Er, never mind. What about my hand and ankles, are they okay?”
“Unlike Countess Humpmyass, I do my job. You got complaints?”
“No, no! Er…how did I get here?”
“Oh, Pinarus Inventius found you while he was out hunting. He is so…well anyway, he brought you right to me, because unlike Countess Mybona Isanox, he knows who gets things done right in this town. I got not even a thanks, but HE got a nice personal invitation to the castle for finding you…get my drift? Her husband has been gone 30 years, don’t blame him for leaving if you get my…what are you doing?”
“I’m a fighter in the Arena, my boss will kill me if I’m late for work. You know how that goes. Well, it was nice to meet you, and thank you so much for healing me and saving my life. I am going to tell everyone what a good job you did and send them here for all their healing from now on. Thank you so much Laralthir. You are a wonderful healer.”
Gils checked to see if his feet were facing front like they should be. He looked at his hand. “GAAAH !!! Where is my ring?”
“Oh, well. Your hand was so swollen we nearly had to cut it off. Well, so I was kind of wearing it and pretending we were engaged. You know, just play acting. We can‘t all be like Countess Milliona Tampona and play all day. I get my fun where I find it…if you get my drift.”
“That is my engagement ring, I don’t want another woman touching it! Give it back this instant before I call Countess Gonnamillyourass if you don‘t give it back!”
“Geez, no need to get huffy. I saw your package, and if you ask me your fiance’ is getting cheated. Here‘s your stupid ring.” She reached between her breasts and pulled out a chain with the ring hanging off it.
“We can’t all be Orc you know…TEE-HEE.” Gils spun around. “Where’s the other ring. This one wasn’t on my engagement hand. Are you thieves here? I‘ll call the guards and have this place searched before you‘ll steal my engagement ring from me!”
“Settle down, it’s right here. You guys with nothing below are always trying to put on a show. We healers aren’t fooled by your type.” She pulled the ring off her engagement finger, making a show of buffing it against her breast.
“Give it to me now! I’m going to the Countess and tell her how you usurp people’s property around here!”
“Here, take it. You know they make potions for people like you, they add inches where nature shorted you. I suggest you get some before the wedding.”
Gils tested the ring by sliding it on his finger. Whew! It was his ring from Maxical. Thank goodness. He limped over to the wash bowl and awkwardly scrubbed the rings, then tucked them into his small pocket.
***
Gils stopped in and thanked Pinarus Inventius. “I hear you pulled me from the grave…”
“Yeah, you wouldn’t believe the action it’s brought me with the ladies! I recognized you in town, but didn’t want to look the rube coming up to you. I’ll bet you get that a lot. You’re Gils, right? The singer? As long as you’re here…tell me what you think of this guitar. My wife almost killed me for spending so much on it, but listen to the tone.” Pinarus handed Gils the guitar.
“I can’t believe you remember me from singing, I haven’t done it in…a long time. My hands are a little sore, your healer here…isn’t what I’m used to.”
“Oh, she’s a nut!
“She seems to have a problem with the Countess.”
“It‘s called jealousy. The Countess is hot. Her husband disappeared thirty years ago. Either she’s doing the smithy or when her husband gets back Anvil will explode and sink into the sea.“
“SPEW!”
“Hey, watch the guitar man.”
“Sorry.”
“If you have to go back to that healer, don‘t ever let her know you don’t like anything she does or she‘ll insult your equipment in front of the whole town.”
“She already did.”
Pinarus’s eyes lit up. “What did you say to make her mad?”
“She stole my rings. She was wearing one and had the other on a chain around her neck. Said she was pretending we were engaged, can you imagine?”
Pinarus laughed. “She’d be lucky if a dog would mount her leg. We’ve got some real pretty girls just moved into that Gweden Farm though. Why don’t you come with me to the Flowing Bowl for a pint. My treat if you’ll sing to draw the ladies in to us.” Pinarus had lowered his voice and pointed his finger up to signal his wife was upstairs.
“I’m not in the market right now.”
“The white Khajiit?”
Gils nodded.
“Talk to me, my good man. I can tell something is bothering you.” Pinarus offered him a pint of stout.
Gils did, telling him about Maxical and their break-up after he failed in protecting her and gave her the impression Aggie came first. Then he showed Pinarus the rings Maxical had given him.
“She gave you those? You know how much these are worth? Especially this one, WHEEYU! You must have a tool like a mule, man!”
“SPEW! Not according to your healer. She said my fiance’ should feel cheated.”
“She said she would send my wife a sympathy card.”
“SPEW!”
“Damn, man! You sprung a leak or something? I’m gonna quit wiping the table if you’re just going to keep spraying on it!”
Gils choked.
Pinarus stood up and slapped him on the back. “You really messed up. There isn’t a woman worth having that would stay with you if you don’t protect her first. Everyone else has to come second, that‘s the way it should be. I saw her, she loves you. It was written all over her face. But you, you screwed up man. That Orc isn‘t even really kin to you. I can’t imagine choosing someone you’re not even kin to over someone you love. If it was me, I‘d pick the Khajiit. You ever been with one, man? REEOW!” Pinarus made a sound that Gils assumed was supposed to be a cat meow, but actually sounded more like a pig squealing.
“I think it’s too late anyway. The man who was her intended showed up ‘Johnny-on-the-spot’ and walked off with her.”
“The rich Dunmer? One of the girls that works at the Inn said she heard them arguing in there. She couldn’t understand the words, different language you know. But she heard both their tones of voices angry. They weren’t in there making up the way you think.”
Gils' head snapped up. “Seriously?”
“She’s a reliable source, we kinda got a…thing going, you know?” Pinarus lowered his voice and pointed up at the ceiling.
“That’s the first hope I’ve had since this whole fiasco started.” Gils had a good idea exactly what that arguing had been about. Maxical may yet be unstarted. He exhaled in relief.
“I saw him challenge you out front at the gate. He’ll be looking for your blood.”
“He is. He scoured the town looking for me.”
“I remember when you were singing, girls would line up to be next with you. I had to pull my girlfriend out of the line, she‘s my wife now. Hard to think of you staying with just one.”
“Oh, I’ve got five on the side” Gils held his hand up.
Pinarus laughed. “Don’t we all. So…I saved your life, do I get a free song from you?”
“Which one do you want?”
“The one that got me the most action at the concerts in the park you used to play.”
“I think everyone got action on that song except the band. I saw more butts in the air than I care to remember on that one.”
Pinarus laughed. “You probably saw mine a hundred times. Tell you what, if you ever play Anvil again I’ll write a message on my [censored] so you’ll know it’s me.“
“SPEW!”
“Damn, do I need to take you to the healer for that spraying? Say, I’ll bet I get plenty of action just telling people you sat in my chair. I may have to send my wife to her mother for a while, the women will be wanting to sit where you did.”
“If you don’t lower your voice and your wife hears, the only action you’ll get is that healer at the chapel removing the frying pan from your head.”
“And then telling everyone my equipment don’t measure up.”
Gils choked.
Pinarus laughed, smacking him on the back. “Say, save that song till you’re leaving and I’ll get my wife down to hear it. It’s her turn anyway.”
“Pinarus, you need to live in the Imperial City, or I need to move to Anvil. If things don’t work out with the Khajiit and I’ve lost her, I’m coming here and let you cheer me up.”
“Deal! Although if you‘re back on the prowl, my wife is off limits.”
“Deal.”
*
Chapter 56: Countess Millona Umbranox
******* Fathis
“Fathis! What are you doing here at this time of night? Has something happened to Maxical?” Hannibal pulled himself out of bed.
“I need a full physical exam Traven, the works. Check for everything, take blood samples, whatever you need to do. Oh, and give me a shot of that vitamin concoction you make too.”
“At this time of night? What’s wrong? What symptoms are you having?”
“Nae Traven, I’ll not say. Just look for everything till you find something that isn’t right. This is one thing I’ll discuss with no one, not even you.”
******* Janus - The next day
The Merchants Inn was booked solid well in advance for the music festival. Janus raised his bribe to 300 Septims before the innkeeper would even consider bumping any of the reservations.
The innkeeper pocketed the Septims and began scanning the list to determine who was the best candidate to juggle. The sound of the outer door opening distracted him. He glanced up and hailed the guests.
“Fathis! Hannibal! Good to see you…”
Janus cast chameleon instantly, hoping they hadn’t caught sight of him.
The innkeeper looked around. “Where did he go? He was just here a minute ago…”
“Did you lose a customer?” Fathis smiled, sliding a silver longsword across the top of the desk. “This is for you Velus. I was just in Anvil and saw a little shop called ‘The Peacemakers’. Remember what you said the other day about needing a ’peacemaker’ with all the tourists coming for the music festival? I had him engrave it for you…”
“Synchronicity. That’s what it’s called when meaningful coincidences occur, you’ll probably need it then.” Hannibal cuffed Velus on the shoulder. “Here’s a bottle of that ginger root drink for your upset stomach. I always make it for the students, they swear by it.”
“Thanks Hannibal. Fathis, this is beautiful! Look at the engraving, ‘Velus’ Peacemaker’! That was really the name of the shop? I’m going to lean this on the wall behind the counter in plain view so the tourists will know not to bring their trouble here. Thank you, Fathis. Here, take a bottle of my best brandy on the house.”
“It was nothing. Like Traven said, coincidence. Had to act on it.” Fathis thanked him for the brandy.
“Karma. When a deed…” Hannibal began.
“Traven, if you keep prosing on I will revoke the invitation to stay.” Fathis snapped.
Velus shook his head and grinned, carefully laying the sword on a shelf behind the bar so it could be seen; then hurried to the front, standing in different places and admiring the sword.
“Beautiful! Just look at that shine!” Velus moved to another spot, nearly bumping into Janus who was still in chameleon.
Janus moved quickly out of his way. With Hannibal here it wouldn’t be safe to remain. Janus reluctantly left his 300 Septims worth of bribe behind. Everything was in his grasp now, it wouldn’t do to take chances at this stage of the game. He walked out as Velus was buffing the fingerprints off his new sword.
******* Gils - Yes, Gils!
A tunnel of light beckoned Gils from the dark void that surrounded it. At the end of the tunnel…movement. A female voice. Maxical? No, who was she? Her face swam into view.
“Feeling better now?”
“Where…?”
“This is the Chapel of Dibella. I’m the healer here. You were in quite bad shape. My name is Laralthir.”
“How long…”
“You’ve been here two days. You almost didn’t make it.”
“I’ve been exposed…vampires. Did you cure it?”
“Yes, of course. Pinarus said you are a famous singer, I guess we‘re not used to getting celebrities in our midst here. Unlike Countess Lump-ox, some of us have to work for a living.”
“You sure I’m cured of that vampire stuff?”
“You think I can’t do my job here? What, are you friends with Countess Millass?”
“No…I’m just scared, I don’t want any scurvy disease.”
“Oh. Sorry. She just chaps my buns with her hoity-toidy ways.”
“Don’t you mean hoity-toity? Er, never mind. What about my hand and ankles, are they okay?”
“Unlike Countess Humpmyass, I do my job. You got complaints?”
“No, no! Er…how did I get here?”
“Oh, Pinarus Inventius found you while he was out hunting. He is so…well anyway, he brought you right to me, because unlike Countess Mybona Isanox, he knows who gets things done right in this town. I got not even a thanks, but HE got a nice personal invitation to the castle for finding you…get my drift? Her husband has been gone 30 years, don’t blame him for leaving if you get my…what are you doing?”
“I’m a fighter in the Arena, my boss will kill me if I’m late for work. You know how that goes. Well, it was nice to meet you, and thank you so much for healing me and saving my life. I am going to tell everyone what a good job you did and send them here for all their healing from now on. Thank you so much Laralthir. You are a wonderful healer.”
Gils checked to see if his feet were facing front like they should be. He looked at his hand. “GAAAH !!! Where is my ring?”
“Oh, well. Your hand was so swollen we nearly had to cut it off. Well, so I was kind of wearing it and pretending we were engaged. You know, just play acting. We can‘t all be like Countess Milliona Tampona and play all day. I get my fun where I find it…if you get my drift.”
“That is my engagement ring, I don’t want another woman touching it! Give it back this instant before I call Countess Gonnamillyourass if you don‘t give it back!”
“Geez, no need to get huffy. I saw your package, and if you ask me your fiance’ is getting cheated. Here‘s your stupid ring.” She reached between her breasts and pulled out a chain with the ring hanging off it.
“We can’t all be Orc you know…TEE-HEE.” Gils spun around. “Where’s the other ring. This one wasn’t on my engagement hand. Are you thieves here? I‘ll call the guards and have this place searched before you‘ll steal my engagement ring from me!”
“Settle down, it’s right here. You guys with nothing below are always trying to put on a show. We healers aren’t fooled by your type.” She pulled the ring off her engagement finger, making a show of buffing it against her breast.
“Give it to me now! I’m going to the Countess and tell her how you usurp people’s property around here!”
“Here, take it. You know they make potions for people like you, they add inches where nature shorted you. I suggest you get some before the wedding.”
Gils tested the ring by sliding it on his finger. Whew! It was his ring from Maxical. Thank goodness. He limped over to the wash bowl and awkwardly scrubbed the rings, then tucked them into his small pocket.
***
Gils stopped in and thanked Pinarus Inventius. “I hear you pulled me from the grave…”
“Yeah, you wouldn’t believe the action it’s brought me with the ladies! I recognized you in town, but didn’t want to look the rube coming up to you. I’ll bet you get that a lot. You’re Gils, right? The singer? As long as you’re here…tell me what you think of this guitar. My wife almost killed me for spending so much on it, but listen to the tone.” Pinarus handed Gils the guitar.
“I can’t believe you remember me from singing, I haven’t done it in…a long time. My hands are a little sore, your healer here…isn’t what I’m used to.”
“Oh, she’s a nut!
“She seems to have a problem with the Countess.”
“It‘s called jealousy. The Countess is hot. Her husband disappeared thirty years ago. Either she’s doing the smithy or when her husband gets back Anvil will explode and sink into the sea.“
“SPEW!”
“Hey, watch the guitar man.”
“Sorry.”
“If you have to go back to that healer, don‘t ever let her know you don’t like anything she does or she‘ll insult your equipment in front of the whole town.”
“She already did.”
Pinarus’s eyes lit up. “What did you say to make her mad?”
“She stole my rings. She was wearing one and had the other on a chain around her neck. Said she was pretending we were engaged, can you imagine?”
Pinarus laughed. “She’d be lucky if a dog would mount her leg. We’ve got some real pretty girls just moved into that Gweden Farm though. Why don’t you come with me to the Flowing Bowl for a pint. My treat if you’ll sing to draw the ladies in to us.” Pinarus had lowered his voice and pointed his finger up to signal his wife was upstairs.
“I’m not in the market right now.”
“The white Khajiit?”
Gils nodded.
“Talk to me, my good man. I can tell something is bothering you.” Pinarus offered him a pint of stout.
Gils did, telling him about Maxical and their break-up after he failed in protecting her and gave her the impression Aggie came first. Then he showed Pinarus the rings Maxical had given him.
“She gave you those? You know how much these are worth? Especially this one, WHEEYU! You must have a tool like a mule, man!”
“SPEW! Not according to your healer. She said my fiance’ should feel cheated.”
“She said she would send my wife a sympathy card.”
“SPEW!”
“Damn, man! You sprung a leak or something? I’m gonna quit wiping the table if you’re just going to keep spraying on it!”
Gils choked.
Pinarus stood up and slapped him on the back. “You really messed up. There isn’t a woman worth having that would stay with you if you don’t protect her first. Everyone else has to come second, that‘s the way it should be. I saw her, she loves you. It was written all over her face. But you, you screwed up man. That Orc isn‘t even really kin to you. I can’t imagine choosing someone you’re not even kin to over someone you love. If it was me, I‘d pick the Khajiit. You ever been with one, man? REEOW!” Pinarus made a sound that Gils assumed was supposed to be a cat meow, but actually sounded more like a pig squealing.
“I think it’s too late anyway. The man who was her intended showed up ‘Johnny-on-the-spot’ and walked off with her.”
“The rich Dunmer? One of the girls that works at the Inn said she heard them arguing in there. She couldn’t understand the words, different language you know. But she heard both their tones of voices angry. They weren’t in there making up the way you think.”
Gils' head snapped up. “Seriously?”
“She’s a reliable source, we kinda got a…thing going, you know?” Pinarus lowered his voice and pointed up at the ceiling.
“That’s the first hope I’ve had since this whole fiasco started.” Gils had a good idea exactly what that arguing had been about. Maxical may yet be unstarted. He exhaled in relief.
“I saw him challenge you out front at the gate. He’ll be looking for your blood.”
“He is. He scoured the town looking for me.”
“I remember when you were singing, girls would line up to be next with you. I had to pull my girlfriend out of the line, she‘s my wife now. Hard to think of you staying with just one.”
“Oh, I’ve got five on the side” Gils held his hand up.
Pinarus laughed. “Don’t we all. So…I saved your life, do I get a free song from you?”
“Which one do you want?”
“The one that got me the most action at the concerts in the park you used to play.”
“I think everyone got action on that song except the band. I saw more butts in the air than I care to remember on that one.”
Pinarus laughed. “You probably saw mine a hundred times. Tell you what, if you ever play Anvil again I’ll write a message on my [censored] so you’ll know it’s me.“
“SPEW!”
“Damn, do I need to take you to the healer for that spraying? Say, I’ll bet I get plenty of action just telling people you sat in my chair. I may have to send my wife to her mother for a while, the women will be wanting to sit where you did.”
“If you don’t lower your voice and your wife hears, the only action you’ll get is that healer at the chapel removing the frying pan from your head.”
“And then telling everyone my equipment don’t measure up.”
Gils choked.
Pinarus laughed, smacking him on the back. “Say, save that song till you’re leaving and I’ll get my wife down to hear it. It’s her turn anyway.”
“Pinarus, you need to live in the Imperial City, or I need to move to Anvil. If things don’t work out with the Khajiit and I’ve lost her, I’m coming here and let you cheer me up.”
“Deal! Although if you‘re back on the prowl, my wife is off limits.”
“Deal.”
*
Typical men!
And the healer in Dibella's chapel - ROFLMAO!! How many ways can she come up with Millona Umbranox's name??
And the healer in Dibella's chapel - ROFLMAO!! How many ways can she come up with Millona Umbranox's name??
Something about the scene you did in the Merchant's Inn. Well, the whole thing really. I absolutely loved it! The intrigue with Janus, the natural and wonderful dialogue among the innkeeper, Fathis and Hannibal. . . just fabulous! In that scene you portrayed some very admirable things about the character of both Fathis and Hannibal, especially Fathis in giving that sword to the innkeeper. The icing on the cake is realizing what a wonderful sword Fathis gave to the innkeeper, while his own weapon is, well, in need of some attention. Lol.
And Gils the crooner does Anvil! Nice reference to the lovelies of Gweden Farm!
Ahah! Gils sees an opening within the rumors of a spat betwixt Fathis and Maxical.
Lots going on here! Wonderful job, mALX!
And Gils the crooner does Anvil! Nice reference to the lovelies of Gweden Farm!
Ahah! Gils sees an opening within the rumors of a spat betwixt Fathis and Maxical.
Lots going on here! Wonderful job, mALX!
Maxical never dissapoints
Laralthir and Pinarus just made my day! Countess Humpmyass? Mybona Isanox? Milliona Tampona?
So thats why Orrin in Castle Anvil is always smiling! Given that he has a Mercantile skill of 90, How much do you think he charges her for services rendered?
Two small nits:
Since Gils is speaking in both of these quotes, it might be wise to string them together to avoid confusion. Or you could add a bit of stage business or a speech tag to let the reader know that Gils is still speaking.
Ah, the magic of punctuation! I submit to you that this sentence is in want of a comma after the word one. As it reads now it seems that Pinarus is asking if Gils has ever been with one man (as opposed to two men, one would assume
).
QUOTE
Either shes doing the smithy or when her husband gets back Anvil will explode and sink into the sea.
So thats why Orrin in Castle Anvil is always smiling! Given that he has a Mercantile skill of 90, How much do you think he charges her for services rendered?
Two small nits:
QUOTE
Dont you mean hoity-toity? Er, never mind.
What about my ankles and my hand, are they okay?
What about my ankles and my hand, are they okay?
Since Gils is speaking in both of these quotes, it might be wise to string them together to avoid confusion. Or you could add a bit of stage business or a speech tag to let the reader know that Gils is still speaking.
QUOTE
You ever been with one man? REEOW!
Ah, the magic of punctuation! I submit to you that this sentence is in want of a comma after the word one. As it reads now it seems that Pinarus is asking if Gils has ever been with one man (as opposed to two men, one would assume
).
Destri is right, I had to re-read that sentence again (after cleaning my keyboard and screen) to realise a comma was missing behind "one".
The scene with Pinarius and Gils had me lol several times.
Countess Humpmyass........ whoehahahaha Are you a Mel Brooks fan?
The scene with Pinarius and Gils had me lol several times.
Countess Humpmyass........ whoehahahaha
Are you a Mel Brooks fan?
The humorous mALX has returned from her journey to Anvil. Fathis exam from Traven caused much laughter - Just bend over and relax.
And Laralthir talking about her rival, Mywata Dumpyox.
Pinarus was even more inspired hilarity. There must be something in the water in Anvil. I wonder if they harvest oysters there?
And Laralthir talking about her rival, Mywata Dumpyox.
Pinarus was even more inspired hilarity. There must be something in the water in Anvil. I wonder if they harvest oysters there?
QUOTE(Remko @ Oct 8 2010, 11:32 AM)
Destri is right, I had to re-read that sentence again (after cleaning my keyboard and screen) to realise a comma was missing behind "one".
LOL, likewise!
mALX, these chapters are great! I love the idea of "Aggie" the powerful vampire...and then healed by that fool?! Ohhh...Janus is shaping up to a less likable, but much more interesting, character than previously!
And...I have to admit...I am still sort of rooting for Gils...although I know it will probably all come to naught.
BTW, I * love * that Fathis did not just disappear in this version, but is actually trying to win Maxical back! Like treydog, I still have my reservations about him...but I like him much better in this one than in the other!
Cannot wait to read more!!
@ Naughty Haute - I was researching her character and found out she had quite a jealousy of the Countess...couldn't let that go by! Thank you so much Haute !!!
***
@ Acadian - Thank you so much Acadian !!! I loved that scene where Janus eavesdrops on Fathis, Velus, and Hannibal too. That scene popped up when I was editing the chapter somehow, and I made room so I could keep it in.
Having visited the basement at Gweden Farm, I happen to know Pinarus was a visitor there...so it had to come out in the story, lol.
TRIVIA: The Imperial woman that winked at Maxical in chapter 50 was Faustina Cartia from Gweden Farm.
***
@ Zalphon - Thanks Zalphon !!
***
@ Destri - Thank you so very much Destri !!! These are some of my favorite chapters, I miss the comedy in my story too much and had to inject some. Laralthir's documented jealousy of the Countess offered the perfect answer. To be honest I never meant Pinarus's meeting to be funny, the two of them took over my keyboard !!!
** Fixed the nits, thank you so much for pointing them out for me!!! You ROCK !!!!
***
@ Remko - I hate to admit it, but I am a huge fan of Mel Brooks. I think I was only put off by one of his efforts, the rest I can quote lines from at any given time, lol. Thank you so much Remko !!!
***
@ Treydog - ROFL !!! (bend over and relax) - ROFL !!!! I should have consulted you, that section with Hannibal could have been extended, lol. There actually is quite a bit of sex going on in Anvil, so oysters is a good guess.
Mirabelle Monet, Proprietor of the Fo'C'sle is sleeping with all 5 of her tenants. Her fave is Thurindil, that crazed Wood Elf. She admits openly that she only allows "Seamen" (get it?) to stay at her rooms, but as far as I can tell, Thurindil is no seaman.
If you check out the basement of Gweden Farm when doing the "Siren's Deception" quest, Penarus Inventius had to be naked when he left that house! His pants, armor, and prize Minotaur horn were left behind. You will also find Heinrich Oaken-Hull has left his clothing and family jewels (I didn't embarass him by returning them).
Oaken-Hull tells his wife he is at sea nine months out of the year. She thinks he's gone, but he really spends his time between Mirabelle's, the Gweden Farm, and the Flowing Bowl.
Don't feel too bad for Oaken-Hull's wife, though. She is having an extended affair with Enilroth, who works at the Morvayn's Peacemakers. You can find a love letter in the Oaken-Hull house upstairs behind a table. She meets him in the stables for a "roll in the hay." (find them there between 4-8 pm)
Here's my fave part of that story:
If you ask her how she handles it with Heinrich being away at sea nine months out of the year, she says:
"The nine console her."
I wouldn't touch that line with a nine inch pole.
Thank you so much Treydog, you ROCK !!!!
***
@ Rachel - Thank you so much Rachel !!! I give Fathis a little credit because he has never been in a relationship that lasted more than an hour or two (if you count re-dressing afterward) - but he seems to be learning slowly as the story progresses, so maybe he's got potential. There are three things about Fathis that will come out, two affect his actions, one has already come out in the story. The other two won't come out for at least a month. (after Foxy's "Damien Reynard" makes his appearance).
I'm with you, I have to root for Gils. He is like the first real boyfriend every girl has fallen for in high school, the one that the girl dates through all four years and thinks it will be forever - and in some cases it is. (but not always).
***
@ Acadian - Thank you so much Acadian !!! I loved that scene where Janus eavesdrops on Fathis, Velus, and Hannibal too. That scene popped up when I was editing the chapter somehow, and I made room so I could keep it in.
Having visited the basement at Gweden Farm, I happen to know Pinarus was a visitor there...so it had to come out in the story, lol.
TRIVIA: The Imperial woman that winked at Maxical in chapter 50 was Faustina Cartia from Gweden Farm.
***
@ Zalphon - Thanks Zalphon !!
***
@ Destri - Thank you so very much Destri !!! These are some of my favorite chapters, I miss the comedy in my story too much and had to inject some. Laralthir's documented jealousy of the Countess offered the perfect answer. To be honest I never meant Pinarus's meeting to be funny, the two of them took over my keyboard !!!
** Fixed the nits, thank you so much for pointing them out for me!!! You ROCK !!!!
***
@ Remko - I hate to admit it, but I am a huge fan of Mel Brooks. I think I was only put off by one of his efforts, the rest I can quote lines from at any given time, lol. Thank you so much Remko !!!
***
@ Treydog - ROFL !!! (bend over and relax) - ROFL !!!! I should have consulted you, that section with Hannibal could have been extended, lol. There actually is quite a bit of sex going on in Anvil, so oysters is a good guess.
Mirabelle Monet, Proprietor of the Fo'C'sle is sleeping with all 5 of her tenants. Her fave is Thurindil, that crazed Wood Elf. She admits openly that she only allows "Seamen" (get it?) to stay at her rooms, but as far as I can tell, Thurindil is no seaman.
If you check out the basement of Gweden Farm when doing the "Siren's Deception" quest, Penarus Inventius had to be naked when he left that house! His pants, armor, and prize Minotaur horn were left behind. You will also find Heinrich Oaken-Hull has left his clothing and family jewels (I didn't embarass him by returning them).
Oaken-Hull tells his wife he is at sea nine months out of the year. She thinks he's gone, but he really spends his time between Mirabelle's, the Gweden Farm, and the Flowing Bowl.
Don't feel too bad for Oaken-Hull's wife, though. She is having an extended affair with Enilroth, who works at the Morvayn's Peacemakers. You can find a love letter in the Oaken-Hull house upstairs behind a table. She meets him in the stables for a "roll in the hay." (find them there between 4-8 pm)
Here's my fave part of that story:
If you ask her how she handles it with Heinrich being away at sea nine months out of the year, she says:
"The nine console her."
I wouldn't touch that line with a nine inch pole.
Thank you so much Treydog, you ROCK !!!!
***
@ Rachel - Thank you so much Rachel !!! I give Fathis a little credit because he has never been in a relationship that lasted more than an hour or two (if you count re-dressing afterward) - but he seems to be learning slowly as the story progresses, so maybe he's got potential. There are three things about Fathis that will come out, two affect his actions, one has already come out in the story. The other two won't come out for at least a month. (after Foxy's "Damien Reynard" makes his appearance).
I'm with you, I have to root for Gils. He is like the first real boyfriend every girl has fallen for in high school, the one that the girl dates through all four years and thinks it will be forever - and in some cases it is. (but not always).
*
Chapter 57: Go Fish
******* Gils
“I’ve got something that drives women mad.” Pinarus bowed his chest out.
“I’m afraid to ask, you may tell me.”
“No, - well that does too. But I’m talking about this.” Pinarus turned around and showed Gils how long his hair was. “I keep it tied back in a pony tail unless I’m doing my business.”
“I’m going to laugh all the way to the Imperial City in spite of the fact my girlfriend dumped me and I’ve been crippled by your healer. I was surprised to see my feet facing the front when she was done.”
“Everyone says Newheim the Portly used to be a good looking woman till Laralthir healed him.”
“SPEW! I believe it. Your wife is going to kill you when she has to clean all this mess up I’m making.”
“Here, let me refill that for you.” Oh, before I forget, I got your pack and dagger for you.”
“How did you find them?”
“I saw you in town earlier with your pack full, knew you had one. I figured you had to remove it or drown. I went back the next day to look for it. That’s a real nice dagger. The sun glinted on it or I wouldn‘t have seen it. I stitched your straps back together, cleaned everything up and repaired it all. You selling any of that armor?”
“You can have whatever you like including my dagger for saving my life. I don‘t want to remember what I had to go through to get it, to be honest. It wasn‘t worth the trouble. The only thing I want is the bow, it was my fathers.”
“Here, I restrung it for you and seasoned the wood.”
“Pinarus, you‘re a good man. You take what you like of that armor.” Gils reached over and shook his hand. “Say, you know any way I can get a horse ride to the Imperial City? I need to get back quick.”
Pinarus scribbled something on a piece of paper and handed it to Gils. “Take that to the stable. She’ll take good care of you. I’ve thrown a little action her way.” He lowered his voice and pointed at the ceiling, indicating his wife may hear.
Gils stood up.
“Hey, hold on there…you promised me a song.” Pinarus grabbed a broom and pounded the tip of the shaft on the ceiling above him.
“ASTIA! GET YOUR [censored] DOWN HERE, WE GOT COMPANY!”
“SPEW!”
“BRING A TOWEL TO WIPE UP THE MESS HE’S MAKING!”
“While we’re waiting, how much do you care to write correspondence? I’d like to keep in touch.”
“You got it, man! I’ll keep you filled in on what’s going on around here. If Anvil blows sky high and comes down as little islands you can figure what happened without me writing it, but look for a note floating in a bottle.”
“SPEW!”
“ASTIA! MAKE THAT TWO TOWELS!” Pinarus pounded again with the broom.
They exchanged business cards and then Gils started warming the guitar up.
Astia walked down the stairs stunned. “Is that…Gils?”
“Yeah, but we’ll have to hire a maid if he comes to stay.”
“SPEW!”
“Told you.”
“I can‘t sing if you keep making me laugh.”
“Alright, now make it good. My wife’s turn doesn’t come around too often…”
“SPEW!”
“Hey, watch the guitar!”
“Sorry. Quit making me laugh now.”
Lay beside me, tell me what they've done
Speak the words I want to hear, to make my demons run
The door is locked now, but it's open if you're true
If you can understand the me, than I can understand the you.
Gils watched Astia’s cheeks turn pink and her knees get rubbery. Her eyes glowed with desire as she looked at Pinarus. Maxical’s words came back to Gils...she felt that way about him when he sang to her. He had to fix things with her. Pinarus had given him hope at least.
Gils finished the song and looked to see if Pinarus wanted another song.
Pinarus jerked the guitar out of his hands. “Get your gear and go while she’s warmed up, this’ll be better than the Countess. I’ll write you.“
“Thanks for saving my life…”
Pinarus shoved him out the door. Before Gils limped away he could hear their noisy lovemaking beginning and his mind went to Maxical and what they would have been doing right now if he hadn‘t screwed up. The urge to feel her in his arms was overwhelming.
***
Gils limped hurriedly to the stables. The white horse he rented was swift, and made the trip to the Imperial City in record time.
He nearly trampled what looked like a one legged man standing in the middle of the road when he reached Weye. Leaping off the horse, he hurried over and helped the man up.
“I’m sorry, man. Will you be alright? I wasn’t watching…was going too fast. I have to get back to my fiance‘…we had a fight. I’ve got to make up with her so we can get married. She gave me this ring, see it? I plan to get her one and ask her to marry me proper. We’ve said vows already, but…women like things done right.”
“Well maybe we can help each other out on that.” The man said, sticking out his hand. “You‘re Gils, right? My wife and I met at a concert you had in the arboretum near thirty years ago. Swore vows that same day after one of the songs. She’s gone now, rest her soul. My name is Aelwin Merowald.”
“Good to meet you Aelwin. I’m sorry about running you down. I fight at the Arena now, if you need to see a healer I’ll pay.”
“I’ve seen you fight, lad. You’re good…but so are a lot. Never heard one could beat you singing though. What made you get out of music?”
“Er…It’s a long story.”
“You want a ring, right? Something…unique? How about this? You’ll never see another like it. It’s called the ’Jewel of the Rumare’. That stone…blue topaz, the color of the Rumare. Anyone wears this…they’ll never drown. You help me with a little job, and I’ll give it in payment.”
“What kind of job?”
“You’re smart to ask. Scales. Not just any, but those you only find here in the upper Rumare I need ’em. Can’t get any with this leg. I see you’re limping too, and your hand is busted. Maybe you’re not the right one to ask, but I’m asking. What say you?”
“Can’t drown with the ring on? You swear to that? I just barely survived drowning not days ago. And I don‘t have anything but this bow, no armor…”
“You can‘t wear armor to swim, lad. No wonder you nearly drowned. Aye, I’ll swear to it. I’ve got a short sword you can borrow, but I’ll need it back. I found this ring in the belly of a slaughterfish, you know.”
“Inside? Er…did it eat…er…slaughterfish can bite that bad?”
“That bad? Look at my leg, lad.” Aelwin raised his trouser leg. “That’s why I’m not getting them myself, I can‘t.”
“GAAAH! Slaughterfish did that?”
“Yep. A brood mother bit clean through my leg when I accidentally came up on her nesting. They don’t like to be disturbed...now I can see that’s got you scared, but don‘t you worry. I‘ll give you some tips that will keep you safe.”
“Are these tips you learned after your leg got bit?”
“No! I’ve been a fisherman damn near all my life! I learned from my dear daddy, an’ he learned from his.”
“But you still got your leg bit off!”
“Well…accidents happen, lad. We just need to see none happen to you.”
***
“Carry this basket of my lunch for me, lad. I’ll call instructions to you while you’re out there.”
Aelwin pointed to a folding seat in his rowboat. “Here, lad. Set that up for me on this dock. …Well you have to unfold it, I can‘t sit in it like that!“
Aelwin plunked down into the seat and began digging in the basket. “You get out there and practice using that ring to swim. When you see a fish you give me a yell and I’ll call instructions to you.” Aelwin then proceeded to keep up a running commentary.
“You have to go under the water to see the fish, lad! …How do ye’ expect to see them fish with your eyes shut? Open your eyes, lad!” Aelwin shouted from his perch on the dock, then muttered under his breath, “Oh gods, he’s going to be killed.”
“I heard that…” Gils called.
“Well what are you doing just standing there? You have to go in the water to fish, lad!”
“I’m praying to Vivec, who gives the gift of water breathing.” Gils called.
“What the hell do you think the ring I give ye’ to wear does? You don’t need a god when ye’ got that ring on!”
Memories of being stuck at the bottom of the Brena River flooded in on Gils till he struggled to breathe even standing with his head above the water. They say if you fall off a horse to get right back on, maybe it was the same with drowning…get right back in the water so the fear doesn‘t have a chance to settle in…
Taking a deep breath, Gils plunged his head below the surface of the water. He stayed in the shallow water, just squatted down so his head was below the surface. The first feeling of the water closing over his head sent a panic through him. Gils fought it off, forcing himself to stay under…holding his breath.
Aelwin’s harangue could be heard underwater.
“Are you holding your breath? What good is that ring doing ye’ if you’re going to hold your breath? I thought you had some sense…”
Gils counted to ten, then took a tentative breath. What felt like hundreds of air bubbles filled his lungs. Straight oxygen, it gave almost a heady feeling…how did the ring do that? He breathed a few more times.
“What the hell are ye’ doing now, lad? You expect the fish to come to you?”
Finally Gils felt confident enough with the breathing underwater. He took a tentative step toward the deep and slid over the edge of a drop off, sinking rapidly to the bottom. His initial panic eased as his lungs remained filled with air. There was a slight movement to his left, Gils turned his head and found himself looking straight into an open mouth full of jagged teeth.
“GAAAAH! Holy [censored]! Them mother [censored] are huge!” Gils’ bellowing echoed off the bridge supports as he raced in leaping bounds to the shore.
Aelwin slapped his leg and doubled over laughing. “You shoulda’ seen your face! What did you think they’d be an’ be able to bite a man’s leg off? You addled lad? Go back in and get it.”
“You’re going to call instructions to me, right?”
“Sure, just hurry before he moves on.” Aelwin took an overly large bite of his sandwich and chewed it as Gils headed back into the water.
“HEEELP! Aelwin…tell me…GAAAH! Help me, Aelwin!”
“Mph gwa bu! Wu ba ya!” Aelwin shouted, flecks of sandwich spewing as he tried to speak.
Gils came barreling out yelling, a slaughterfish in hot pursuit. “I thought you said you were going to help me!”
“Gmph! Gmph!” Aelwin pointed behind Gils with the hand that wasn’t holding the sandwich.
The slaughterfish had followed him onto the land, and was flopping towards him with its teeth gnashing.
“GAAAH!”
“Kmin gummy!”
“Oh.” Gils drew the short sword out and pierced the underbelly of the huge fish.
***
Gils hurried into the Bloodworks. Owyn was up drinking brandy.
“Here Gils, have a wee Deoch an Dorus wi’ me.”
“Nae Owyn, one only. Where’s Maxical?”
Owyn pointed to the bathing room.
“Thanks.” Gils turned up the snifter and emptied it. He paused in front of the bathing room door and then tugged on it. It was deadbolted.
“Oh, she gave me this to give you.” Owyn fiddled in his pockets and produced a note.
Gils, Your things are back where you used to sleep. M.
“Did she bolt you out?”
Gils nodded.
“Well, you can go through Pork Chops cage…”
“Give me one more brandy Owyn.”
Gils limped down the chute and entered Pork Chop’s cage. He tried the door into the bathing area, but it was locked from the inside.
Gils put his face close to the door. “Maxical, you know I won’t lay on my mat dirty. Please let me bathe, I won’t bother you and I’ll leave as soon as I’m finished, I promise.”
No answer.
“Maxical please? …Maaaaxicaaal”
No answer. She always got weak-kneed from his singing…
“Lay beside me, tell me what they've done
Speak the words I want to hear, to make my demons run
The door is locked now, but it's open if you're true
If you can understand the me, than I can understand the you.”
Pork Chop began snorting loudly.
“PORK CHOP! NO! WHAT ARE YOU DOING? PORK CHOP, LEAVE ME ALONE! HEEEELP! PORK CHOP NO! HEEEELLLP!”
*
Chapter 57: Go Fish
******* Gils
“I’ve got something that drives women mad.” Pinarus bowed his chest out.
“I’m afraid to ask, you may tell me.”
“No, - well that does too. But I’m talking about this.” Pinarus turned around and showed Gils how long his hair was. “I keep it tied back in a pony tail unless I’m doing my business.”
“I’m going to laugh all the way to the Imperial City in spite of the fact my girlfriend dumped me and I’ve been crippled by your healer. I was surprised to see my feet facing the front when she was done.”
“Everyone says Newheim the Portly used to be a good looking woman till Laralthir healed him.”
“SPEW! I believe it. Your wife is going to kill you when she has to clean all this mess up I’m making.”
“Here, let me refill that for you.” Oh, before I forget, I got your pack and dagger for you.”
“How did you find them?”
“I saw you in town earlier with your pack full, knew you had one. I figured you had to remove it or drown. I went back the next day to look for it. That’s a real nice dagger. The sun glinted on it or I wouldn‘t have seen it. I stitched your straps back together, cleaned everything up and repaired it all. You selling any of that armor?”
“You can have whatever you like including my dagger for saving my life. I don‘t want to remember what I had to go through to get it, to be honest. It wasn‘t worth the trouble. The only thing I want is the bow, it was my fathers.”
“Here, I restrung it for you and seasoned the wood.”
“Pinarus, you‘re a good man. You take what you like of that armor.” Gils reached over and shook his hand. “Say, you know any way I can get a horse ride to the Imperial City? I need to get back quick.”
Pinarus scribbled something on a piece of paper and handed it to Gils. “Take that to the stable. She’ll take good care of you. I’ve thrown a little action her way.” He lowered his voice and pointed at the ceiling, indicating his wife may hear.
Gils stood up.
“Hey, hold on there…you promised me a song.” Pinarus grabbed a broom and pounded the tip of the shaft on the ceiling above him.
“ASTIA! GET YOUR [censored] DOWN HERE, WE GOT COMPANY!”
“SPEW!”
“BRING A TOWEL TO WIPE UP THE MESS HE’S MAKING!”
“While we’re waiting, how much do you care to write correspondence? I’d like to keep in touch.”
“You got it, man! I’ll keep you filled in on what’s going on around here. If Anvil blows sky high and comes down as little islands you can figure what happened without me writing it, but look for a note floating in a bottle.”
“SPEW!”
“ASTIA! MAKE THAT TWO TOWELS!” Pinarus pounded again with the broom.
They exchanged business cards and then Gils started warming the guitar up.
Astia walked down the stairs stunned. “Is that…Gils?”
“Yeah, but we’ll have to hire a maid if he comes to stay.”
“SPEW!”
“Told you.”
“I can‘t sing if you keep making me laugh.”
“Alright, now make it good. My wife’s turn doesn’t come around too often…”
“SPEW!”
“Hey, watch the guitar!”
“Sorry. Quit making me laugh now.”
Lay beside me, tell me what they've done
Speak the words I want to hear, to make my demons run
The door is locked now, but it's open if you're true
If you can understand the me, than I can understand the you.
Gils watched Astia’s cheeks turn pink and her knees get rubbery. Her eyes glowed with desire as she looked at Pinarus. Maxical’s words came back to Gils...she felt that way about him when he sang to her. He had to fix things with her. Pinarus had given him hope at least.
Gils finished the song and looked to see if Pinarus wanted another song.
Pinarus jerked the guitar out of his hands. “Get your gear and go while she’s warmed up, this’ll be better than the Countess. I’ll write you.“
“Thanks for saving my life…”
Pinarus shoved him out the door. Before Gils limped away he could hear their noisy lovemaking beginning and his mind went to Maxical and what they would have been doing right now if he hadn‘t screwed up. The urge to feel her in his arms was overwhelming.
***
Gils limped hurriedly to the stables. The white horse he rented was swift, and made the trip to the Imperial City in record time.
He nearly trampled what looked like a one legged man standing in the middle of the road when he reached Weye. Leaping off the horse, he hurried over and helped the man up.
“I’m sorry, man. Will you be alright? I wasn’t watching…was going too fast. I have to get back to my fiance‘…we had a fight. I’ve got to make up with her so we can get married. She gave me this ring, see it? I plan to get her one and ask her to marry me proper. We’ve said vows already, but…women like things done right.”
“Well maybe we can help each other out on that.” The man said, sticking out his hand. “You‘re Gils, right? My wife and I met at a concert you had in the arboretum near thirty years ago. Swore vows that same day after one of the songs. She’s gone now, rest her soul. My name is Aelwin Merowald.”
“Good to meet you Aelwin. I’m sorry about running you down. I fight at the Arena now, if you need to see a healer I’ll pay.”
“I’ve seen you fight, lad. You’re good…but so are a lot. Never heard one could beat you singing though. What made you get out of music?”
“Er…It’s a long story.”
“You want a ring, right? Something…unique? How about this? You’ll never see another like it. It’s called the ’Jewel of the Rumare’. That stone…blue topaz, the color of the Rumare. Anyone wears this…they’ll never drown. You help me with a little job, and I’ll give it in payment.”
“What kind of job?”
“You’re smart to ask. Scales. Not just any, but those you only find here in the upper Rumare I need ’em. Can’t get any with this leg. I see you’re limping too, and your hand is busted. Maybe you’re not the right one to ask, but I’m asking. What say you?”
“Can’t drown with the ring on? You swear to that? I just barely survived drowning not days ago. And I don‘t have anything but this bow, no armor…”
“You can‘t wear armor to swim, lad. No wonder you nearly drowned. Aye, I’ll swear to it. I’ve got a short sword you can borrow, but I’ll need it back. I found this ring in the belly of a slaughterfish, you know.”
“Inside? Er…did it eat…er…slaughterfish can bite that bad?”
“That bad? Look at my leg, lad.” Aelwin raised his trouser leg. “That’s why I’m not getting them myself, I can‘t.”
“GAAAH! Slaughterfish did that?”
“Yep. A brood mother bit clean through my leg when I accidentally came up on her nesting. They don’t like to be disturbed...now I can see that’s got you scared, but don‘t you worry. I‘ll give you some tips that will keep you safe.”
“Are these tips you learned after your leg got bit?”
“No! I’ve been a fisherman damn near all my life! I learned from my dear daddy, an’ he learned from his.”
“But you still got your leg bit off!”
“Well…accidents happen, lad. We just need to see none happen to you.”
***
“Carry this basket of my lunch for me, lad. I’ll call instructions to you while you’re out there.”
Aelwin pointed to a folding seat in his rowboat. “Here, lad. Set that up for me on this dock. …Well you have to unfold it, I can‘t sit in it like that!“
Aelwin plunked down into the seat and began digging in the basket. “You get out there and practice using that ring to swim. When you see a fish you give me a yell and I’ll call instructions to you.” Aelwin then proceeded to keep up a running commentary.
“You have to go under the water to see the fish, lad! …How do ye’ expect to see them fish with your eyes shut? Open your eyes, lad!” Aelwin shouted from his perch on the dock, then muttered under his breath, “Oh gods, he’s going to be killed.”
“I heard that…” Gils called.
“Well what are you doing just standing there? You have to go in the water to fish, lad!”
“I’m praying to Vivec, who gives the gift of water breathing.” Gils called.
“What the hell do you think the ring I give ye’ to wear does? You don’t need a god when ye’ got that ring on!”
Memories of being stuck at the bottom of the Brena River flooded in on Gils till he struggled to breathe even standing with his head above the water. They say if you fall off a horse to get right back on, maybe it was the same with drowning…get right back in the water so the fear doesn‘t have a chance to settle in…
Taking a deep breath, Gils plunged his head below the surface of the water. He stayed in the shallow water, just squatted down so his head was below the surface. The first feeling of the water closing over his head sent a panic through him. Gils fought it off, forcing himself to stay under…holding his breath.
Aelwin’s harangue could be heard underwater.
“Are you holding your breath? What good is that ring doing ye’ if you’re going to hold your breath? I thought you had some sense…”
Gils counted to ten, then took a tentative breath. What felt like hundreds of air bubbles filled his lungs. Straight oxygen, it gave almost a heady feeling…how did the ring do that? He breathed a few more times.
“What the hell are ye’ doing now, lad? You expect the fish to come to you?”
Finally Gils felt confident enough with the breathing underwater. He took a tentative step toward the deep and slid over the edge of a drop off, sinking rapidly to the bottom. His initial panic eased as his lungs remained filled with air. There was a slight movement to his left, Gils turned his head and found himself looking straight into an open mouth full of jagged teeth.
“GAAAAH! Holy [censored]! Them mother [censored] are huge!” Gils’ bellowing echoed off the bridge supports as he raced in leaping bounds to the shore.
Aelwin slapped his leg and doubled over laughing. “You shoulda’ seen your face! What did you think they’d be an’ be able to bite a man’s leg off? You addled lad? Go back in and get it.”
“You’re going to call instructions to me, right?”
“Sure, just hurry before he moves on.” Aelwin took an overly large bite of his sandwich and chewed it as Gils headed back into the water.
“HEEELP! Aelwin…tell me…GAAAH! Help me, Aelwin!”
“Mph gwa bu! Wu ba ya!” Aelwin shouted, flecks of sandwich spewing as he tried to speak.
Gils came barreling out yelling, a slaughterfish in hot pursuit. “I thought you said you were going to help me!”
“Gmph! Gmph!” Aelwin pointed behind Gils with the hand that wasn’t holding the sandwich.
The slaughterfish had followed him onto the land, and was flopping towards him with its teeth gnashing.
“GAAAH!”
“Kmin gummy!”
“Oh.” Gils drew the short sword out and pierced the underbelly of the huge fish.
***
Gils hurried into the Bloodworks. Owyn was up drinking brandy.
“Here Gils, have a wee Deoch an Dorus wi’ me.”
“Nae Owyn, one only. Where’s Maxical?”
Owyn pointed to the bathing room.
“Thanks.” Gils turned up the snifter and emptied it. He paused in front of the bathing room door and then tugged on it. It was deadbolted.
“Oh, she gave me this to give you.” Owyn fiddled in his pockets and produced a note.
Gils, Your things are back where you used to sleep. M.
“Did she bolt you out?”
Gils nodded.
“Well, you can go through Pork Chops cage…”
“Give me one more brandy Owyn.”
Gils limped down the chute and entered Pork Chop’s cage. He tried the door into the bathing area, but it was locked from the inside.
Gils put his face close to the door. “Maxical, you know I won’t lay on my mat dirty. Please let me bathe, I won’t bother you and I’ll leave as soon as I’m finished, I promise.”
No answer.
“Maxical please? …Maaaaxicaaal”
No answer. She always got weak-kneed from his singing…
“Lay beside me, tell me what they've done
Speak the words I want to hear, to make my demons run
The door is locked now, but it's open if you're true
If you can understand the me, than I can understand the you.”
Pork Chop began snorting loudly.
“PORK CHOP! NO! WHAT ARE YOU DOING? PORK CHOP, LEAVE ME ALONE! HEEEELP! PORK CHOP NO! HEEEELLLP!”
*
Pinarus shows some dimension (as do all your characters) with his efforts to retrieve Gils pack. Then he reverts to form with the shout to his wife. Gils wasnt the only one to lose some of his beverage over that one
Yes, why not ask the guy called Lefty for tips on using a chainsaw safely.
The scene with Aelwin was so vividly written, I could see it clearly.
Apparently, Gils singing has charms that inflame the savage beast. I know, I know- the correct word is breast, but I was paraphrasing anyway.
Loved it.
QUOTE
Are these tips you learned after your leg got bit?
No! Ive been a fisherman damn near all my life! I learned from my dear daddy, an he learned from his.
But you still got your leg bit off!
Wellaccidents happen, lad. We just need to see none happen to you.
No! Ive been a fisherman damn near all my life! I learned from my dear daddy, an he learned from his.
But you still got your leg bit off!
Wellaccidents happen, lad. We just need to see none happen to you.
Yes, why not ask the guy called Lefty for tips on using a chainsaw safely.
The scene with Aelwin was so vividly written, I could see it clearly.
Apparently, Gils singing has charms that inflame the savage beast. I know, I know- the correct word is breast, but I was paraphrasing anyway.
Loved it.
Bad mALX!!! BAD BAD BAD BAD BAD BAD GIRL!!!
NOW MY HEAD IS FULL OF VISIONS OF PORK CHOP MAKING GILS INTO HIS....GIRLFRIEND....
... and what will we get in nine months? A sheety porkee babee???
NOW MY HEAD IS FULL OF VISIONS OF PORK CHOP MAKING GILS INTO HIS....GIRLFRIEND....
... and what will we get in nine months? A sheety porkee babee???
The scene in Pinarus' house was humorous, yet became rather poignant. Nicely done!
And finally, Gils gets out of that sex pit known as the Kingdom of Countess Iwanna Humpanox. I had visions of Gils' rented horse with an Avis butt sticker on its rump.
You did a wonderful job of weaving the Jewel of the Rumare into the story. The fishing expedition was great fun to read. I enjoyed your neat explanation of Gils' perceptions of how the ring worked, overshadowed by his recent near drowning.
Who needs charm spells when you can sing. Hmm. . . seems Gils' aim is no better than Maxical's. . . either that, or it is an area effect weapon. Regardless, it seems the result may be Gils and Pork Chop makin' bacon. Oh my. . . I thought Anvil was bad. Lol.
And finally, Gils gets out of that sex pit known as the Kingdom of Countess Iwanna Humpanox. I had visions of Gils' rented horse with an Avis butt sticker on its rump.
You did a wonderful job of weaving the Jewel of the Rumare into the story. The fishing expedition was great fun to read. I enjoyed your neat explanation of Gils' perceptions of how the ring worked, overshadowed by his recent near drowning.
Who needs charm spells when you can sing. Hmm. . . seems Gils' aim is no better than Maxical's. . . either that, or it is an area effect weapon. Regardless, it seems the result may be Gils and Pork Chop makin' bacon. Oh my. . . I thought Anvil was bad. Lol.
Okay, its official . . . Pinarus is now one of my favorite characters in the Maxical-verse!
The idea of Gils doing Go Fish as a way to get an engagement ring for Maxical is inspired!
And at least now we know that Gils singing works on both boars and Imperials (though I imagine that sometimes it is hard to distinguish between the two )!
The idea of Gils doing Go Fish as a way to get an engagement ring for Maxical is inspired!
And at least now we know that Gils singing works on both boars and Imperials (though I imagine that sometimes it is hard to distinguish between the two
)!
Pinarus rocks!
@ Treydog - Thank you so very much!!! Oddly enough, the "Go Fish" quest was just one paragraph long when I started the final edit the day before posting. I thought I would change the "telling" paragraph to dialogue. Once Aelwin got talking I could not shut him up, lol.
- oh yeah, the one armed guy giving safety tips - ROFL !!!! It reminded me of a panhandler at the race track telling you this system he uses to bet on horses that will make ME a millionaire. Unless it was bumming a buck off everyone in attendance, his system wasn't working, lol.
Pinarus - I like to find a truth about the character in game and expound on it. (like the healer's jealousy over the Countess) Knowing Pinarus cheats on Astia with the Gweden Farm girls in the game, I figure he cheats other places too.
I never meant that scene to be funny, but the first time I had him lower his voice and point to the ceiling I lost control and it was on. I wrote every bit of the Pinarus sketch around that action...which led to having him bang the broom on the ceiling and shout for her.
***
@ Foxy - SPEW!!! EW !!! I think Gils ran fast enough to avoid getting...porked !!! BWAAAHAA !!!!! Thank you so much Foxy !!!
***
@ Acadian - Oh, I should have called on you when I was trying to think up different names to call her - that was great! Thank you so much Acadian !!!
***
@ Destri - Pinarus - I like him a lot too, in spite of his being a rogue. He took over the keyboard when I started doing his character, (see my comment to Treydog above)
The "Go Fish" segment consisted of one paragraph when I was doing the final edits, I only meant to change it to dialogue and that is what came out of that. Aelwin obviously had a lot to say, he wouldn't shut up from the first time I gave him a line of dialogue. When I sat back and read it - I loved it and bumped a whole bunch of stuff to keep it in there, lol.
Thank you so much Destri !!!!!
***
@ Zalphon - Yeah Zalphon !!! I am tickled you liked Pinarus !!! My favorite characters are always the ones that make me laugh, lol. Thank you so much Zalphon !!!
- oh yeah, the one armed guy giving safety tips - ROFL !!!! It reminded me of a panhandler at the race track telling you this system he uses to bet on horses that will make ME a millionaire. Unless it was bumming a buck off everyone in attendance, his system wasn't working, lol.
Pinarus - I like to find a truth about the character in game and expound on it. (like the healer's jealousy over the Countess) Knowing Pinarus cheats on Astia with the Gweden Farm girls in the game, I figure he cheats other places too.
I never meant that scene to be funny, but the first time I had him lower his voice and point to the ceiling I lost control and it was on. I wrote every bit of the Pinarus sketch around that action...which led to having him bang the broom on the ceiling and shout for her.
***
@ Foxy - SPEW!!! EW !!! I think Gils ran fast enough to avoid getting...porked !!! BWAAAHAA !!!!! Thank you so much Foxy !!!
***
@ Acadian - Oh, I should have called on you when I was trying to think up different names to call her - that was great! Thank you so much Acadian !!!
***
@ Destri - Pinarus - I like him a lot too, in spite of his being a rogue. He took over the keyboard when I started doing his character, (see my comment to Treydog above)
The "Go Fish" segment consisted of one paragraph when I was doing the final edits, I only meant to change it to dialogue and that is what came out of that. Aelwin obviously had a lot to say, he wouldn't shut up from the first time I gave him a line of dialogue. When I sat back and read it - I loved it and bumped a whole bunch of stuff to keep it in there, lol.
Thank you so much Destri !!!!!
***
@ Zalphon - Yeah Zalphon !!! I am tickled you liked Pinarus !!! My favorite characters are always the ones that make me laugh, lol. Thank you so much Zalphon !!!
*
Chapter 58: Never Make Promises You Don’t Intend To Keep
Gils never returned from Anvil, days have passed with no sign of him…no word. The thought occurred that he may not come back. It left me with a hollow feeling in the pit of my stomach. Worse, if Gils returns…living together but no longer a couple…the thought of seeing him with other women. That would be unbearable.
My mind knows Gils for a mistake, but my body is a huge vacuole that aches for him. I crave what we had as a lung craves air.
It feels like I’m hanging in a pending state. For the life of me I can’t understand why Fathis would have me stay in the Bloodworks knowing Gils and I will be in here together…knowing our relationship was intimate. Is he testing the strength of my commitment to him? Why would he not just start me and assure himself of it?
I moved Gils mat and clothing back to the main area; had to do it for the sake of my own weakness that found me burying my nose in them, breathing in his scent.
It was past midnight when I heard the Bloodworks door open, some Pits calling greetings…and then Gils‘ voice. I was up in a flash pressing my ear to the bolted bathing room door, but couldn‘t make out the words. My stomach knotted up and it felt like acid was eating holes through it. This was it then. Dear gods please don’t let him be with another woman in front of me.
******* Gils
“You should have known better than to serenade Pork Chop, now he thinks you’re courting him!” Owyn roared laughing.
“Real funny Owyn. I’ve got to talk to her.”
“What the hell is going on between you two? Hell, she nearly ripped my head off for trying to keep you apart before you left, said she was calling the truce off!”
“She said that? I screwed everything up Owyn. Aggie showed up. I didn’t handle it right. I could have straightened it out on the trip home if Fathis hadn’t popped up.”
“You idiot, you going to lose her over that crazy Orc?”
“Not if I can help it. Aggie was controlling my mind, Owyn. He’s been doing it since he was a child and I never knew it.”
“Mind control! You better come up with something better than that.”
“I know it sounds crazy, but it’s the truth. Even being sickly as a child, he was faking it so I would give up my music. He was powerful even then…and manipulative. It was something like being hypnotized, I was doing his will without even knowing it…”
“When he was a child? No one is going to believe that crap!”
“I know, but it’s the truth. You’ve known both me and him all these years…seen it happen with your own eyes. If you don’t believe me, no one will. It’s some power he was born with…from his father being an ancient vampire. You were right about his other half not being human, Owyn. Hannibal is an expert on ancients, ask him if they use mind control. Find out if they can read minds too, because Aggie could read mine.”
“You’re serious?”
“Dead serious. Aggie killed his father with his bare hands, even your stomach would be turning if you saw it. He planned to murder me and Maxical, and you were right about him murdering his mother…I got proof he murdered my father too. That Elven sword he always carries, he said Haki sold it to him. I believed him all these years. He admitted it was my father’s. Those swords are generic, they all look alike. I never suspected. And my father was green when he died too, Owyn.”
“All this was in the Courier…well, all except the mind control. They did a whole expose on it. They even printed excerpts from that vampire‘s journal, he was a nut! It had the evidence Agronak murdered his mother, and that he was suspected of murdering your father for that sword.“
“Maxical gave the interview? How did she know about my father?”
“Hell no, she’s been locked in the bathing room bawling like a calf since she got back. Fathis found the journal, he gave the interview. S‘Jirra told Hassiri off record about your father being murdered for that sword, but he got Fathis to tell him on record and quoted her as ’A reliable source’ to keep her name out of it. She tried to tell you that twenty years ago but you wouldn’t listen.”
“Why don’t I remember that? Aggie…”
“Gils…why the hell are you still calling him Aggie? It sounds like you’re talking about a toddler that needs protected, not a crazy murderer. If he can shred up an ancient vampire with his bare hands, he ain‘t no Aggie. I don’t know what the hell he is, but it ain’t that. If you’re serious about being free of him, you need to break that habit. I know I don’t want to hear it said in my Bloodworks anymore. And I’m telling you this, if you get in that Orc’s corner after this I won’t know you anymore. I’ll throw you out of my Bloodworks for good.”
“You won’t have to worry about that, I think he died at Crowhaven.”
“Dead! What crap you trying to pull on me?” Owyn’s expression made it evident he didn’t believe Gils. “I want to know what you are going to do, because I’m one second away from throwing you out of here.”
“I want you to set my fight schedule back up on a three day rotation. I’ll do the Cage Match too. I won’t fight him, but I’m going for the Championship so my contract with you will be finished. Then I‘m buying out Maxical‘s contract like Alix did for S‘Jirra. I want to marry Maxical and move to Anvil.”
“Now you’re talking. You’re a good man, Gils. Agronak is the only weak point you’ve ever had. Get rid of him and you could write your own ticket, music or the Arena.”
“I do want to go back to my music. Aelwin, Pinarus and his wife…they recognized me, reminded me what my music meant to me…what it did for them. Maxical’s been saying the same thing.”
“Pork Chop was pretty excited by it.“
“Don’t remind me.”
“Well you better hope Fathis didn’t get as far with Maxical as you have. Count Terentius said he had to dig that moat to keep women from climbing the walls of the castle to sneak into Fathis’s bedroom. The only one I’ve seen banging on your door is Horski.”
“Thanks Owyn, I’m sure I’ll have no trouble getting my game on after hearing that. You really know how to kill a buzz! Better fill my brandy again.“
Gils limped over to the cabinet and held out his snifter.
“What the hell’s wrong with your legs?”
“I almost died, and that nutty healer in Anvil…”
“Oh crap, you been touched by that butcher? Hell, I heard she turned some damn good-looking woman into a man by accident, Manheim the Flabby or something.“
“Newheim the Portly?”
“Yeah, that’s it…oh hell, look at your ankles! Get up on the fount…damn! YOUR HAND! What the hell did she do to it?”
“What about being exposed to vampires? She said she cured me…I’m worried now.”
Owyn shot to his cabinet and pulled something out. “Drink this and pray to the gods it’s not too late. I need to know exactly how long ago it was.“
“I don’t know, I was out of it for days.”
“I better get Jeelius up here. Have you had any nightmares or strange symptoms?”
“I haven’t slept since I came to at the Chapel.”
“What the hell did she do to you? That butcher! Look at your ankles! Let me see that hand. Ah geez! That [censored] don’t know what the hell she’s doing! Lay down, let me see if I can fix this.” Owyn unlocked the fount and cranked it up, then started activating it.
“How the hell did you make it back, Gils? You sure didn’t walk on these feet. Hell, she may have crippled you for life. I’m filing a complaint to get her thrown out of healing for good. That mother [censored] butcher!”
******* Maxical
I pressed my ear onto the keyhole, but was only able to catch a word here or there. When I heard Owyn cursing and activating the healing fount, I shot back the bolt and ran out just in time to hear Owyn say Gils may be crippled for life. Gils lay prostrate on he fount while Owyn was working feverishly over him, cursing the whole time.
“Maxical, get your [censored] down to the Temple and get Jeelius. Tell him it’s an emergency exposure with a tight timeline, to bring his stuff. Then get Hannibal here right away. I need his help for this, and I want him to see what that [censored] did to Gils.”
It felt like my lungs constricted and refused to expand. I flew at top speed, but before I even left the district I was heaving for breath…not from exertion, but from fear for Gils. When I reached the Temple I ran in without knocking. I just kept bursting in doors till I found Jeelius sleeping on his cot. I darted in and grabbed him by his webbed hand, pulling him up.
“Owyn needs you, it’s an emergency exposure with a tight timeline. The Blue Bloodworks. He said bring whatever you need…please hurry, Jeelius. It‘s Gils.“
“Vampire exposure, huh?”
“What?” I felt the room dipping and swaying. Gils had been gone days…oh dear gods.
“An ancient Jeelius. An ancient.”
“Oh my.”
Jeelius jumped up and seemed to be a blur gathering items into a sack. “Are you coming with me?”
“No, I’m going after Arch Mage Traven.”
“Go then.”
When the teleported stopped I leaped off it and had Hannibal’s black leather bag in my hands before he had sat up in bed. “Hurry Hannibal, it’s Gils. Owyn said some butcher did something to him, that he might be crippled for life. And he‘s been exposed to an ancient vampire and it‘s been days. I already sent Jeelius.”
“Was he in Anvil?”
“Yes.”
“Damn her!” Hannibal hurried behind me.
***
I stayed out of the way on the other side of the fount, holding Gils’ good hand throughout. I’ve never heard Hannibal curse before, nor ever seen him that mad either. He was in a rage.
“Maxical, when did you and Fathis leave Crowhaven? Timing is crucial here, we need to know exactly when Gils was exposed.” Hannibal asked, watching me closely.
I tried to think, sliding my ring on Gils’ finger. “I don’t remember…maybe noon three days ago?”
“That’s right on the line.”
“Too many people here. Get that ring off him.” Jeelius pointed me out of the way.
I pulled my ring off Gils and backed to the other side of the room, but kept watching them work on him.
I never prayed to Akatosh even though Alix always told me I should. I did now; blurting out whatever popped into my head, promising who knows what if he would save Gils. For all I know I could have promised my life, maybe my firstborn…maybe both.
The wait was interminable…helpless…it’s a terrible feeling when you know you can’t help, and someone you love is in trouble. After what seemed like hours Owyn carried Gils to the bathing area. I ran ahead and held the door open for him. Owyn lay him on my mat.
“Listen up, Maxical. I need him watched carefully. If he moves, breathes funny, acts like he’s having a nightmare, anything whatsoever different you come get me right away. Don‘t try to handle it yourself, I mean it!”
Hannibal stepped in to check Gils, then came and took my hand. “You look terrible. Why don’t you tell me what’s going on.“
“Fathis showed up in Anvil. Somehow he knew about Gils. I admitted the affair, but had already ended it with Gils over his Orc before Fathis came.”
“I warned you.”
“I know Hannibal, everyone did…and they were right. Even now, knowing it myself…all of it means nothing. I still crave him. It’s as if I am bound…but I can’t be because my flag is still blue.”
“Fathis didn’t…”
“No! I tried kissing him…I even turned my back on him and swished my tail in his face to entice him. He refused to start me, then leaves me in here with Gils knowing we‘ve been intimate. If he is testing the strength of my commitment to him, he is setting me up for failure.”
“How did you part?”
“He made me vow fidelity. I gave my word…but he can’t expect me to live here with Gils and keep it. There are different ways of abandoning people…you know?”
“What happened when you kissed Fathis?”
“Nothing happened. He is powerfully skilled, I know now why he is so sought…but I never had…response.”
“It certainly sounds like you are already bound. Maybe you better come by the Arcane and let me check you again.”
*
Chapter 58: Never Make Promises You Don’t Intend To Keep
Gils never returned from Anvil, days have passed with no sign of him…no word. The thought occurred that he may not come back. It left me with a hollow feeling in the pit of my stomach. Worse, if Gils returns…living together but no longer a couple…the thought of seeing him with other women. That would be unbearable.
My mind knows Gils for a mistake, but my body is a huge vacuole that aches for him. I crave what we had as a lung craves air.
It feels like I’m hanging in a pending state. For the life of me I can’t understand why Fathis would have me stay in the Bloodworks knowing Gils and I will be in here together…knowing our relationship was intimate. Is he testing the strength of my commitment to him? Why would he not just start me and assure himself of it?
I moved Gils mat and clothing back to the main area; had to do it for the sake of my own weakness that found me burying my nose in them, breathing in his scent.
It was past midnight when I heard the Bloodworks door open, some Pits calling greetings…and then Gils‘ voice. I was up in a flash pressing my ear to the bolted bathing room door, but couldn‘t make out the words. My stomach knotted up and it felt like acid was eating holes through it. This was it then. Dear gods please don’t let him be with another woman in front of me.
******* Gils
“You should have known better than to serenade Pork Chop, now he thinks you’re courting him!” Owyn roared laughing.
“Real funny Owyn. I’ve got to talk to her.”
“What the hell is going on between you two? Hell, she nearly ripped my head off for trying to keep you apart before you left, said she was calling the truce off!”
“She said that? I screwed everything up Owyn. Aggie showed up. I didn’t handle it right. I could have straightened it out on the trip home if Fathis hadn’t popped up.”
“You idiot, you going to lose her over that crazy Orc?”
“Not if I can help it. Aggie was controlling my mind, Owyn. He’s been doing it since he was a child and I never knew it.”
“Mind control! You better come up with something better than that.”
“I know it sounds crazy, but it’s the truth. Even being sickly as a child, he was faking it so I would give up my music. He was powerful even then…and manipulative. It was something like being hypnotized, I was doing his will without even knowing it…”
“When he was a child? No one is going to believe that crap!”
“I know, but it’s the truth. You’ve known both me and him all these years…seen it happen with your own eyes. If you don’t believe me, no one will. It’s some power he was born with…from his father being an ancient vampire. You were right about his other half not being human, Owyn. Hannibal is an expert on ancients, ask him if they use mind control. Find out if they can read minds too, because Aggie could read mine.”
“You’re serious?”
“Dead serious. Aggie killed his father with his bare hands, even your stomach would be turning if you saw it. He planned to murder me and Maxical, and you were right about him murdering his mother…I got proof he murdered my father too. That Elven sword he always carries, he said Haki sold it to him. I believed him all these years. He admitted it was my father’s. Those swords are generic, they all look alike. I never suspected. And my father was green when he died too, Owyn.”
“All this was in the Courier…well, all except the mind control. They did a whole expose on it. They even printed excerpts from that vampire‘s journal, he was a nut! It had the evidence Agronak murdered his mother, and that he was suspected of murdering your father for that sword.“
“Maxical gave the interview? How did she know about my father?”
“Hell no, she’s been locked in the bathing room bawling like a calf since she got back. Fathis found the journal, he gave the interview. S‘Jirra told Hassiri off record about your father being murdered for that sword, but he got Fathis to tell him on record and quoted her as ’A reliable source’ to keep her name out of it. She tried to tell you that twenty years ago but you wouldn’t listen.”
“Why don’t I remember that? Aggie…”
“Gils…why the hell are you still calling him Aggie? It sounds like you’re talking about a toddler that needs protected, not a crazy murderer. If he can shred up an ancient vampire with his bare hands, he ain‘t no Aggie. I don’t know what the hell he is, but it ain’t that. If you’re serious about being free of him, you need to break that habit. I know I don’t want to hear it said in my Bloodworks anymore. And I’m telling you this, if you get in that Orc’s corner after this I won’t know you anymore. I’ll throw you out of my Bloodworks for good.”
“You won’t have to worry about that, I think he died at Crowhaven.”
“Dead! What crap you trying to pull on me?” Owyn’s expression made it evident he didn’t believe Gils. “I want to know what you are going to do, because I’m one second away from throwing you out of here.”
“I want you to set my fight schedule back up on a three day rotation. I’ll do the Cage Match too. I won’t fight him, but I’m going for the Championship so my contract with you will be finished. Then I‘m buying out Maxical‘s contract like Alix did for S‘Jirra. I want to marry Maxical and move to Anvil.”
“Now you’re talking. You’re a good man, Gils. Agronak is the only weak point you’ve ever had. Get rid of him and you could write your own ticket, music or the Arena.”
“I do want to go back to my music. Aelwin, Pinarus and his wife…they recognized me, reminded me what my music meant to me…what it did for them. Maxical’s been saying the same thing.”
“Pork Chop was pretty excited by it.“
“Don’t remind me.”
“Well you better hope Fathis didn’t get as far with Maxical as you have. Count Terentius said he had to dig that moat to keep women from climbing the walls of the castle to sneak into Fathis’s bedroom. The only one I’ve seen banging on your door is Horski.”
“Thanks Owyn, I’m sure I’ll have no trouble getting my game on after hearing that. You really know how to kill a buzz! Better fill my brandy again.“
Gils limped over to the cabinet and held out his snifter.
“What the hell’s wrong with your legs?”
“I almost died, and that nutty healer in Anvil…”
“Oh crap, you been touched by that butcher? Hell, I heard she turned some damn good-looking woman into a man by accident, Manheim the Flabby or something.“
“Newheim the Portly?”
“Yeah, that’s it…oh hell, look at your ankles! Get up on the fount…damn! YOUR HAND! What the hell did she do to it?”
“What about being exposed to vampires? She said she cured me…I’m worried now.”
Owyn shot to his cabinet and pulled something out. “Drink this and pray to the gods it’s not too late. I need to know exactly how long ago it was.“
“I don’t know, I was out of it for days.”
“I better get Jeelius up here. Have you had any nightmares or strange symptoms?”
“I haven’t slept since I came to at the Chapel.”
“What the hell did she do to you? That butcher! Look at your ankles! Let me see that hand. Ah geez! That [censored] don’t know what the hell she’s doing! Lay down, let me see if I can fix this.” Owyn unlocked the fount and cranked it up, then started activating it.
“How the hell did you make it back, Gils? You sure didn’t walk on these feet. Hell, she may have crippled you for life. I’m filing a complaint to get her thrown out of healing for good. That mother [censored] butcher!”
******* Maxical
I pressed my ear onto the keyhole, but was only able to catch a word here or there. When I heard Owyn cursing and activating the healing fount, I shot back the bolt and ran out just in time to hear Owyn say Gils may be crippled for life. Gils lay prostrate on he fount while Owyn was working feverishly over him, cursing the whole time.
“Maxical, get your [censored] down to the Temple and get Jeelius. Tell him it’s an emergency exposure with a tight timeline, to bring his stuff. Then get Hannibal here right away. I need his help for this, and I want him to see what that [censored] did to Gils.”
It felt like my lungs constricted and refused to expand. I flew at top speed, but before I even left the district I was heaving for breath…not from exertion, but from fear for Gils. When I reached the Temple I ran in without knocking. I just kept bursting in doors till I found Jeelius sleeping on his cot. I darted in and grabbed him by his webbed hand, pulling him up.
“Owyn needs you, it’s an emergency exposure with a tight timeline. The Blue Bloodworks. He said bring whatever you need…please hurry, Jeelius. It‘s Gils.“
“Vampire exposure, huh?”
“What?” I felt the room dipping and swaying. Gils had been gone days…oh dear gods.
“An ancient Jeelius. An ancient.”
“Oh my.”
Jeelius jumped up and seemed to be a blur gathering items into a sack. “Are you coming with me?”
“No, I’m going after Arch Mage Traven.”
“Go then.”
When the teleported stopped I leaped off it and had Hannibal’s black leather bag in my hands before he had sat up in bed. “Hurry Hannibal, it’s Gils. Owyn said some butcher did something to him, that he might be crippled for life. And he‘s been exposed to an ancient vampire and it‘s been days. I already sent Jeelius.”
“Was he in Anvil?”
“Yes.”
“Damn her!” Hannibal hurried behind me.
***
I stayed out of the way on the other side of the fount, holding Gils’ good hand throughout. I’ve never heard Hannibal curse before, nor ever seen him that mad either. He was in a rage.
“Maxical, when did you and Fathis leave Crowhaven? Timing is crucial here, we need to know exactly when Gils was exposed.” Hannibal asked, watching me closely.
I tried to think, sliding my ring on Gils’ finger. “I don’t remember…maybe noon three days ago?”
“That’s right on the line.”
“Too many people here. Get that ring off him.” Jeelius pointed me out of the way.
I pulled my ring off Gils and backed to the other side of the room, but kept watching them work on him.
I never prayed to Akatosh even though Alix always told me I should. I did now; blurting out whatever popped into my head, promising who knows what if he would save Gils. For all I know I could have promised my life, maybe my firstborn…maybe both.
The wait was interminable…helpless…it’s a terrible feeling when you know you can’t help, and someone you love is in trouble. After what seemed like hours Owyn carried Gils to the bathing area. I ran ahead and held the door open for him. Owyn lay him on my mat.
“Listen up, Maxical. I need him watched carefully. If he moves, breathes funny, acts like he’s having a nightmare, anything whatsoever different you come get me right away. Don‘t try to handle it yourself, I mean it!”
Hannibal stepped in to check Gils, then came and took my hand. “You look terrible. Why don’t you tell me what’s going on.“
“Fathis showed up in Anvil. Somehow he knew about Gils. I admitted the affair, but had already ended it with Gils over his Orc before Fathis came.”
“I warned you.”
“I know Hannibal, everyone did…and they were right. Even now, knowing it myself…all of it means nothing. I still crave him. It’s as if I am bound…but I can’t be because my flag is still blue.”
“Fathis didn’t…”
“No! I tried kissing him…I even turned my back on him and swished my tail in his face to entice him. He refused to start me, then leaves me in here with Gils knowing we‘ve been intimate. If he is testing the strength of my commitment to him, he is setting me up for failure.”
“How did you part?”
“He made me vow fidelity. I gave my word…but he can’t expect me to live here with Gils and keep it. There are different ways of abandoning people…you know?”
“What happened when you kissed Fathis?”
“Nothing happened. He is powerfully skilled, I know now why he is so sought…but I never had…response.”
“It certainly sounds like you are already bound. Maybe you better come by the Arcane and let me check you again.”
*
My dear little Cat...
I suggest you stand in front of Fathis, wriggle your cute little a.s.s,
and sing...
"Push the Button" by SugaBabes.
I suggest you stand in front of Fathis, wriggle your cute little a.s.s,
and sing...
"Push the Button" by SugaBabes.
QUOTE(D.Foxy @ Oct 11 2010, 09:39 AM)
"Push the Button" by SugaBabes.
Just don't try anything by the Hoff.
Speaking of which, Gils doesn't sing (or strut) like the Hoff, does he?
(I was just reading Ol' Andy's latest over on Beth and made the mistake of clicking on the link in his post - owww, brain bleach!)
QUOTE(haute ecole rider @ Oct 11 2010, 11:10 AM)
QUOTE(D.Foxy @ Oct 11 2010, 09:39 AM)
"Push the Button" by SugaBabes.
Just don't try anything by the Hoff.
Speaking of which, Gils doesn't sing (or strut) like the Hoff, does he?
(I was just reading Ol' Andy's latest over on Beth and made the mistake of clicking on the link in his post - owww, brain bleach!)
OMG, I will never wipe that horrible image from my mind - the Hoff...and that vid!
Here is "Gils" singing "The song" everyone requests:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GdvJXxNTPV0...feature=related
Obviously it is Metallica, The Unforgiven II
QUOTE(haute ecole rider @ Oct 11 2010, 01:25 PM)
I like Metallica concert vids better too, but I chose the other vid because the screenies looked like Anvil, lol.
You are spinning quite a balancing act here making both Fathis and Gils likeable and unlikeable at the same time. I couldn't even begin to hazard a guess. Fathis is behind door #1. Gils is behind door #2. Perhaps Janus is lurking behind door #3. I find myself wishing our kitty had a door #4. Brilliantly woven, mALX! You certainly get inside everyone's head.
Nit?
QUOTE
Oh crap, you been touched by that butcher? Hell, I heard she turned some damn good-looking woman into a man by accident, Manheim the Flabby or something.
I got a kick out of this, after the antics in Anvil. Nit?
QUOTE
It sounds like youre talking about a toddler that needs protected, not a crazy murderer.
I know it is dialogue so you can sort of do what you like. Did you mean to say 'needs protected' here? I would have thought 'needs protection' or perhaps 'needs to be protected'. Just see what you think.
Poor Maxical, she just can't seem to get a break! The one time she stands by her guns and refuses Gils entry into the bath area he is dying of vampire wounds, reprehensible healing practices, and overt Porkchop advances. How is she not supposed to feel for him now? I know that Janus is secretly to blame for Fathis lapse in swordsmanship, but he cant be so dense as to not notice that he has no feeling for the woman that he loves.
Thus endeth the speculation of why Gils would not recognize his fathers sword. Well played, mALX.
There are moments of action or dialogue that are perfectly timed. This conversation is one of those moments!
QUOTE
Those swords are generic, they all look alike. I never suspected. And my father was green when he died too, Owyn.
Thus endeth the speculation of why Gils would not recognize his fathers sword. Well played, mALX.
QUOTE
I do want to go back to my music. Aelwin, Pinarus and his wife . . . they recognized me, reminded me what my music meant to me . . . what it did for them. Maxicals been saying the same thing.
Pork Chop was pretty excited by it.
Dont remind me.
Pork Chop was pretty excited by it.
Dont remind me.
There are moments of action or dialogue that are perfectly timed. This conversation is one of those moments!
QUOTE(Destri Melarg @ Oct 12 2010, 03:12 AM)
I know that Janus is secretly to blame for Fathis lapse in swordsmanship, but he cant be so dense as to not notice that he has no feeling for the woman that he loves.
The very top of chapter 56 when Fathis wakes up Hannibal in the middle of the night as soon as he gets back to the Imperial City...asks him for a full physical, vitamins, etc - (he noticed, he was in a panic! Lol. obviously inability is something that he hadn't encountered in the past).
Alarums and excursions, as they used to say. You again display your amazing ability to turn a humorous episode on its head and show the tragedy that may lurk behind the laughter. In this case, Gils' botched "healing" in Anvil.
Despite the distractions of Gils' exposure to porphyria, Hannibal seems to be asking the right questions about another matter.
I feel the same as Acadian, wishing Maxical had a "Door Number 4."
Despite the distractions of Gils' exposure to porphyria, Hannibal seems to be asking the right questions about another matter.
I feel the same as Acadian, wishing Maxical had a "Door Number 4."
QUOTE(treydog @ Oct 12 2010, 07:30 PM)
the tragedy that may lurk behind the laughter. In this case, Gils' botched "healing" in Anvil.
Not to mention what happened to poor Newheim the Portly !!!
@ Foxy - I'm just glad you didn't post that Hoff vid on here, that is the stuff nightmares are made of, lol. Thank you so much Foxy!
***
@ Naughty Haute - I don't think...was Hoff...strutting? GAAAH! ARGH! That vid will haunt me! ROFL !!! Thank you so much Haute!!!
***
@ Acadian - Wait, three boyfriends isn't enough, you think she should have four? GAAAH! ROFL !!!! I'm leaving the nit as it stands because it is Owyn talking, to reflect how he would phrase it. (he says "ain't, too, lol.) Thank you so very much Acadian !!!
***
@ Destri - Thank you so much Destri !!! You nailed a bunch of stuff on the head in your comment. Timing is everything, and Gils coming back injured was about as perfect timing as it could get for him - and Fathis's timing in getting her angry then leaving her there - yeah, bad timing.
If you look at the top of chapter 56 you'll see Fathis ran to the Arcane the second he dropped Maxical off when they came back from Anvil - woke up Hannibal in the middle of the night asking for a full physical exam and some vitamins - he noticed the problem, and was anxious to fix it. I figured with Fathis's reputation and pride, he would not tell anyone about a problem like that, especially after all the rhymes and jokes about the Orc and his lack, lol.
***
@ Treydog - Gils got the lesser botched healing - what about poor Newheim the Portly? ROFL !!!! Good grief I hope I don't have to drum up a fourth man, she's got to get out and do some quests, ROFL !!! Seriously though, I really would like to pare them down to just one and get her moving onto doing some actual work. Thank you so much Treydog !!!!
***
@ Naughty Haute - I don't think...was Hoff...strutting? GAAAH! ARGH! That vid will haunt me! ROFL !!! Thank you so much Haute!!!
***
@ Acadian - Wait, three boyfriends isn't enough, you think she should have four? GAAAH! ROFL !!!! I'm leaving the nit as it stands because it is Owyn talking, to reflect how he would phrase it. (he says "ain't, too, lol.) Thank you so very much Acadian !!!
***
@ Destri - Thank you so much Destri !!! You nailed a bunch of stuff on the head in your comment. Timing is everything, and Gils coming back injured was about as perfect timing as it could get for him - and Fathis's timing in getting her angry then leaving her there - yeah, bad timing.
If you look at the top of chapter 56 you'll see Fathis ran to the Arcane the second he dropped Maxical off when they came back from Anvil - woke up Hannibal in the middle of the night asking for a full physical exam and some vitamins - he noticed the problem, and was anxious to fix it. I figured with Fathis's reputation and pride, he would not tell anyone about a problem like that, especially after all the rhymes and jokes about the Orc and his lack, lol.
***
@ Treydog - Gils got the lesser botched healing - what about poor Newheim the Portly? ROFL !!!! Good grief I hope I don't have to drum up a fourth man, she's got to get out and do some quests, ROFL !!! Seriously though, I really would like to pare them down to just one and get her moving onto doing some actual work. Thank you so much Treydog !!!!
*
Chapter 59: Promises And Darkness
Gils slept heavily, the brandy on his breath brought back strong memories of that night on the Rumare. It seemed like forever ago, for what we’ve been through since.
Somehow inside the Bloodworks everything took on a different perspective. In Anvil Fathis was my savior, now I was angry that he left me untouched in here with Gils. I broke with Gils…now he lay injured, and every instinct in me ached to bring him comfort. Then Owyn…what was with him? He was forking us together like he worked for Dibella as a matchmaker.
“You’re off training to take care of him, Maxical. Don’t let your huff get in the way of his health. Here Gils, I thought you might like this.” Owyn held out his bottle of good brandy, showing it to Gils but then handing it to me.
“Maxical, uncork that for Gils.” Owyn’s eyes looked conspiratorial.
A hundred useless retorts popped into my mind as I took the bottle. And then suddenly it hit me…he had cooked this up with Gils! When Owyn left I spun around and glared at Gils.
“How much did you pay him to weasel yourself in here with me?”
“Twenty Septims.”
The only way to keep my promise to Fathis would be to never be alone with Gils, never even glance into those intense eyes. I moved my things back to the corner behind Andronicus.
“What the hell do you think you’re doing? I told you he needs to be watched, his health comes before your snit…what‘s this?”
“Thirty Septims. I stay out here and watch him.”
“GILS! You stay out here so Maxical can watch you…what‘s this?”
“Forty Septims.”
“MAXICAL! I told you to stay in the ba…oh [censored], she’s going to blow!” Owyn reluctantly glanced down at the Septims in his hand and then back up at me.
***
Gils moved next to me in Andronicus’s corner. I began bolting the doors when I bathed so he couldn’t catch me in there alone. Knowing they would be my downfall, I avoided Gils’ eyes at all costs…meaning when his health returned and we sparred I took extra damage.
After the clean and quiet of the bathing room, or maybe because of all that was on my mind…I found sleep didn’t come at all out in the main area. The odor nearly made me ill…snores split the silence from all directions, echoing off the stone walls…it was like sleeping in a bear cave. Instead of the light colored tiles bathed in moonlight, everything about this area was steeped in darkness and shadows at night.
I breathed in deeply, hating myself for the weakness that would make me inhale the stench of that corner just for the minute scent of Gils mingled with it. That failure of strength made me grateful for standing my ground and sleeping in the main area…if one could call this sleep.
The scent of Gils and that damned brandy tantalized…evoking memories like specters rising out of the mist that covered the Rumare and taunting me with that night spent on it…my first kiss, swearing vows with Gils.
As if a manifestation of the memories, Gils’ voice came softly through the darkness.
“Maxical, I’m setting my fight schedule back up. When my contract ends I’m leaving the Arena and getting back into music. I wish you could have seen Pinarus and his wife when I sang to them…just like how it is…was between us after I’d sing to you. I needed you in my arms badly after seeing them together like that…”
“Fathis made me promise I wouldn’t see you anymore. I can’t break that, Gils. The next time he won‘t stop until you‘re dead.”
Maxical, we swore marriage vows…you belong to me. I heard you talking to Hannibal, you’re bound to me…it was meant we stay together.”
“Gils, I can’t trust you again. You have all the right words and moves till Agronak is involved, and then you let it all go to hell for his sake.”
“He had control of my mind. Hannibal said it is some form of hypnosis, you obey without knowing what you do. You know me, Maxical. I would have dragged you to the inn before you had second thoughts. When I realized…it was like a sealed vault in my mind was opened and memories that had been locked inside flooded out.”
“I’d have to trust it wouldn’t happen again, and I don’t.”
“I think he‘s dead, Maxical. I hid the sword well, knowing he’d never leave there without it….when he wanted something he became obsessed till he got it. The place was burning down…”
“He’s not dead, Gils. Evil people don’t die when it would be convenient if they did. They always manage to return somehow, worse than ever…like the gas one gets after eating haggis. He‘ll be back, and everything you say to me now will mean nothing.”
“No! I know what he’s doing now, I’ll fight it.”
“Gils, it’s much worse now. He was exposed, he’ll have the vampire disease. Hannibal said as a full vampire those powers he inherited at birth will be extraordinary. Agronak will make sure there is always a connection between you two till one of you dies. I want as far away from him as possible, and that means staying away from you.”
***
Gils sat up and lit a candle.
“Maxical…I want to buy out your contract and we’ll leave here together. Pinarus told me about a mansion for sale in Anvil that I can afford. Alix said he won’t stand against us if Agronak is out of my life.”
I sat up, gaping at him. “You talked to Alix about this?”
Gils nodded. “I know him, we were friends. I told him that we swore marriage vows, he knows I’ve never done that before in my life.”
“Gils…”
“The mansion needs fixing up, remember we passed it going to the library? Pinarus said the owner is all but giving it away, furniture and all. I can go back to giving concerts in the park there.”
“That huge one sitting off all by itself? It must cost a fortune!”
“Nope, the owner is selling it for only 5,000 Septims furnished. It needs a lot of work of course. I already sent the cheque to Pinarus by courier.”
“There must be something terribly wrong with it for it to be so cheap and no one has bought it, I wonder what it could be?”
“Er…Pinarus said it was owned by a necromancer who somehow became a…er…lich. He was…er…interred there and…uh…haunts the place looking for his…uh…severed hand…er…along with a dozen or so…uh…initiates. But for that price I’d give the lich its own room and wait on it hand and foot. Maybe we can find his…er…hand and he’ll leave when we give it back.”
“Haunted! Oh…I don’t like the sound of that, haunting scares me. You remember what I did to the Arena?”
“If you blow it up I’ll build you another. You can’t even buy an empty lot in a resort town like Anvil for that price. It’s overrun with tourists year round, I‘ll make enough off my music that you won’t have to work. Just stay home and fill the mansion up with little Dun-jiit. Have a nice home cooked meal waiting on the table when I come home…”
I flushed, his charm was edging through the barrier. “I can’t cook, Gils.”
“What? Hold up then, let me go see if Horski can cook…GAAAAH!” Gils kept the pillow I threw, propping it under his arms and laying across it at an angle so he faced me.
“Aw Gils, I want to believe you. If I break another promise to Fathis he’ll not stop till you’re dead. And I can’t be around you and not break it, not when everything in me craves you. To see you with another would kill me. I’m moving out of here as soon as I find somewhere to go, I have to.”
“Don’t leave me Maxical, we swore marriage vows well before you made this new promise to Fathis. He ignored you for months, do you think it coincidence that he showed up right after the Courier hinted we were affianced over the ring? He’s just stepped in long enough to threaten off the competition, can’t you see that? Why else would he leave you in here with me and not bother to start you? All he did was stake you out as his territory…like a dog urinating on a bone he has no desire to chew, just to keep the others from taking it.”
Gils’ words were an echo of my own thoughts since Fathis brought me back. Nothing could adequately explain him leaving me in the Bloodworks to live with the man I had been intimate with.
***
“You may as well stay, because I will follow.” Gils slid over and sat beside me, taking my hand.
He stopped me when I tried to pull away.
“We have to talk about something serious, Maxical. According to Dunmer law I either broke tradition or validated our marriage vows by sharing Azura’s gift, the marital mysteries. They are only allowed in the first marriage or face severe consequences. Fathis is the Arbiter for all of Cyrodiil, and he adheres rigidly to doctrine.”
“Fathis is…I never knew he did anything but Court Mage and Mages Guild. I don’t know what an Arbiter does, it sounds ominous…and important.”
“It is, to Dunmer. Your promise to Fathis was well known beforehand, and Fathis knows I was very aware of his position as Arbiter. I acted with full knowledge, proving my intent was serious. He’ll have to decide now either that I consider you my true wife, or bring me up on charges for breaking tenets.”
“He said you broke tenets.” I barely whispered, unable to look Gils in the face.
“Was that in rage when he discovered you had been taught them?”
I nodded, keeping my face averted.
“It’s too serious an accusation to decide in anger, he’ll weigh it carefully before bringing charges. His hands are tied by Dunmer law, he can’t take you from me now even if his promise came first…I’m bound to you by Azura‘s gift, and can never teach the mysteries to another.”
“What will he do?”
“As Arbiter he can find me guilty of breaking tenets and sentence me to death by his sword, or as a man he can kill me for taking what was his. I knew what I faced before fulfilling the Dunmer tradition of marriage with you…but I showed Fathis the highest respect by honoring his promise and leaving you intact, that may save me.”
“If you knew…why did you do it?”
“Fathis held a promise over you, we could never marry except the old country way…swearing vows. By Dunmer law, Fathis could still rend us apart because his promise came first…unless Azura bound our destinies together. It’s our oldest tradition, dating back to when we were the Chimer. By law, what she binds together none are to put asunder. If he tries to separate us now, he’ll be the one breaking tenets…unless he brings charges and proves them.”
Is that why Fathis left me in here with Gils?
“You sound like one of those wily lawyers that finds loopholes…but Fathis won’t be bested. Will he be able to prove charges against you? We didn‘t have witnesses, the marriage won’t stand up…”
“I don’t need a stamp of approval from Ocato saying we are married. I feel it in here.” Gils cuffed his hand over his heart.
******* Vicente Valtieri
Antoinetta Marie pushed her lip out into a pout that would have looked cute on her a number of years ago. Now it just gave image to a sourness of personality that eroded desire in Vicente in spite of her beauty. Lucien Lachance had tired of it as well, dumping her off on Vicente to rid himself of the constant drain of her narcissism.
“We never go anywhere! Everyone in Tamriel went to that funeral, even Telaendril and Gogron were there! Everyone except me. I’m tired of being cooped up in here, I never get out unless I’m on an assignment.”
“Go by yourself, why do I have to go with you?” Vicente attempted to keep the irritation from his voice.
“I’ll ask Lucien to take me, he likes going out.” She stamped her foot.
“You do that. Vampires can‘t go out in sunlight, and can be killed on sight thanks to that law Uriel Septim passed. A crowded event like that is too high risk, even in a cowl and at night.”
“Ocheeva and Teinaava rented a suite, we can take Teinaava’s room and he can sleep on the couch. You’d be inside then.”
“Don’t you think you should ask before making plans?”
“Ask what?” Ocheeva stepped in the doorway.
Vicente indicated Antoinetta.
“Teinaava doesn’t need a whole room to himself, why can’t he sleep on the couch and Vicente and I use the room?”
“Teinaava paid for his room, why should he give it up?” Ocheeva scowled at Vicente.
“I have a contract for Teinaava, he’ll be missing the music festival.” Vicente spoke quietly, but his eyes reflected the challenge.
“That’s not fair!” Ocheeva fumed.
*
Chapter 59: Promises And Darkness
Gils slept heavily, the brandy on his breath brought back strong memories of that night on the Rumare. It seemed like forever ago, for what we’ve been through since.
Somehow inside the Bloodworks everything took on a different perspective. In Anvil Fathis was my savior, now I was angry that he left me untouched in here with Gils. I broke with Gils…now he lay injured, and every instinct in me ached to bring him comfort. Then Owyn…what was with him? He was forking us together like he worked for Dibella as a matchmaker.
“You’re off training to take care of him, Maxical. Don’t let your huff get in the way of his health. Here Gils, I thought you might like this.” Owyn held out his bottle of good brandy, showing it to Gils but then handing it to me.
“Maxical, uncork that for Gils.” Owyn’s eyes looked conspiratorial.
A hundred useless retorts popped into my mind as I took the bottle. And then suddenly it hit me…he had cooked this up with Gils! When Owyn left I spun around and glared at Gils.
“How much did you pay him to weasel yourself in here with me?”
“Twenty Septims.”
The only way to keep my promise to Fathis would be to never be alone with Gils, never even glance into those intense eyes. I moved my things back to the corner behind Andronicus.
“What the hell do you think you’re doing? I told you he needs to be watched, his health comes before your snit…what‘s this?”
“Thirty Septims. I stay out here and watch him.”
“GILS! You stay out here so Maxical can watch you…what‘s this?”
“Forty Septims.”
“MAXICAL! I told you to stay in the ba…oh [censored], she’s going to blow!” Owyn reluctantly glanced down at the Septims in his hand and then back up at me.
***
Gils moved next to me in Andronicus’s corner. I began bolting the doors when I bathed so he couldn’t catch me in there alone. Knowing they would be my downfall, I avoided Gils’ eyes at all costs…meaning when his health returned and we sparred I took extra damage.
After the clean and quiet of the bathing room, or maybe because of all that was on my mind…I found sleep didn’t come at all out in the main area. The odor nearly made me ill…snores split the silence from all directions, echoing off the stone walls…it was like sleeping in a bear cave. Instead of the light colored tiles bathed in moonlight, everything about this area was steeped in darkness and shadows at night.
I breathed in deeply, hating myself for the weakness that would make me inhale the stench of that corner just for the minute scent of Gils mingled with it. That failure of strength made me grateful for standing my ground and sleeping in the main area…if one could call this sleep.
The scent of Gils and that damned brandy tantalized…evoking memories like specters rising out of the mist that covered the Rumare and taunting me with that night spent on it…my first kiss, swearing vows with Gils.
As if a manifestation of the memories, Gils’ voice came softly through the darkness.
“Maxical, I’m setting my fight schedule back up. When my contract ends I’m leaving the Arena and getting back into music. I wish you could have seen Pinarus and his wife when I sang to them…just like how it is…was between us after I’d sing to you. I needed you in my arms badly after seeing them together like that…”
“Fathis made me promise I wouldn’t see you anymore. I can’t break that, Gils. The next time he won‘t stop until you‘re dead.”
Maxical, we swore marriage vows…you belong to me. I heard you talking to Hannibal, you’re bound to me…it was meant we stay together.”
“Gils, I can’t trust you again. You have all the right words and moves till Agronak is involved, and then you let it all go to hell for his sake.”
“He had control of my mind. Hannibal said it is some form of hypnosis, you obey without knowing what you do. You know me, Maxical. I would have dragged you to the inn before you had second thoughts. When I realized…it was like a sealed vault in my mind was opened and memories that had been locked inside flooded out.”
“I’d have to trust it wouldn’t happen again, and I don’t.”
“I think he‘s dead, Maxical. I hid the sword well, knowing he’d never leave there without it….when he wanted something he became obsessed till he got it. The place was burning down…”
“He’s not dead, Gils. Evil people don’t die when it would be convenient if they did. They always manage to return somehow, worse than ever…like the gas one gets after eating haggis. He‘ll be back, and everything you say to me now will mean nothing.”
“No! I know what he’s doing now, I’ll fight it.”
“Gils, it’s much worse now. He was exposed, he’ll have the vampire disease. Hannibal said as a full vampire those powers he inherited at birth will be extraordinary. Agronak will make sure there is always a connection between you two till one of you dies. I want as far away from him as possible, and that means staying away from you.”
***
Gils sat up and lit a candle.
“Maxical…I want to buy out your contract and we’ll leave here together. Pinarus told me about a mansion for sale in Anvil that I can afford. Alix said he won’t stand against us if Agronak is out of my life.”
I sat up, gaping at him. “You talked to Alix about this?”
Gils nodded. “I know him, we were friends. I told him that we swore marriage vows, he knows I’ve never done that before in my life.”
“Gils…”
“The mansion needs fixing up, remember we passed it going to the library? Pinarus said the owner is all but giving it away, furniture and all. I can go back to giving concerts in the park there.”
“That huge one sitting off all by itself? It must cost a fortune!”
“Nope, the owner is selling it for only 5,000 Septims furnished. It needs a lot of work of course. I already sent the cheque to Pinarus by courier.”
“There must be something terribly wrong with it for it to be so cheap and no one has bought it, I wonder what it could be?”
“Er…Pinarus said it was owned by a necromancer who somehow became a…er…lich. He was…er…interred there and…uh…haunts the place looking for his…uh…severed hand…er…along with a dozen or so…uh…initiates. But for that price I’d give the lich its own room and wait on it hand and foot. Maybe we can find his…er…hand and he’ll leave when we give it back.”
“Haunted! Oh…I don’t like the sound of that, haunting scares me. You remember what I did to the Arena?”
“If you blow it up I’ll build you another. You can’t even buy an empty lot in a resort town like Anvil for that price. It’s overrun with tourists year round, I‘ll make enough off my music that you won’t have to work. Just stay home and fill the mansion up with little Dun-jiit. Have a nice home cooked meal waiting on the table when I come home…”
I flushed, his charm was edging through the barrier. “I can’t cook, Gils.”
“What? Hold up then, let me go see if Horski can cook…GAAAAH!” Gils kept the pillow I threw, propping it under his arms and laying across it at an angle so he faced me.
“Aw Gils, I want to believe you. If I break another promise to Fathis he’ll not stop till you’re dead. And I can’t be around you and not break it, not when everything in me craves you. To see you with another would kill me. I’m moving out of here as soon as I find somewhere to go, I have to.”
“Don’t leave me Maxical, we swore marriage vows well before you made this new promise to Fathis. He ignored you for months, do you think it coincidence that he showed up right after the Courier hinted we were affianced over the ring? He’s just stepped in long enough to threaten off the competition, can’t you see that? Why else would he leave you in here with me and not bother to start you? All he did was stake you out as his territory…like a dog urinating on a bone he has no desire to chew, just to keep the others from taking it.”
Gils’ words were an echo of my own thoughts since Fathis brought me back. Nothing could adequately explain him leaving me in the Bloodworks to live with the man I had been intimate with.
***
“You may as well stay, because I will follow.” Gils slid over and sat beside me, taking my hand.
He stopped me when I tried to pull away.
“We have to talk about something serious, Maxical. According to Dunmer law I either broke tradition or validated our marriage vows by sharing Azura’s gift, the marital mysteries. They are only allowed in the first marriage or face severe consequences. Fathis is the Arbiter for all of Cyrodiil, and he adheres rigidly to doctrine.”
“Fathis is…I never knew he did anything but Court Mage and Mages Guild. I don’t know what an Arbiter does, it sounds ominous…and important.”
“It is, to Dunmer. Your promise to Fathis was well known beforehand, and Fathis knows I was very aware of his position as Arbiter. I acted with full knowledge, proving my intent was serious. He’ll have to decide now either that I consider you my true wife, or bring me up on charges for breaking tenets.”
“He said you broke tenets.” I barely whispered, unable to look Gils in the face.
“Was that in rage when he discovered you had been taught them?”
I nodded, keeping my face averted.
“It’s too serious an accusation to decide in anger, he’ll weigh it carefully before bringing charges. His hands are tied by Dunmer law, he can’t take you from me now even if his promise came first…I’m bound to you by Azura‘s gift, and can never teach the mysteries to another.”
“What will he do?”
“As Arbiter he can find me guilty of breaking tenets and sentence me to death by his sword, or as a man he can kill me for taking what was his. I knew what I faced before fulfilling the Dunmer tradition of marriage with you…but I showed Fathis the highest respect by honoring his promise and leaving you intact, that may save me.”
“If you knew…why did you do it?”
“Fathis held a promise over you, we could never marry except the old country way…swearing vows. By Dunmer law, Fathis could still rend us apart because his promise came first…unless Azura bound our destinies together. It’s our oldest tradition, dating back to when we were the Chimer. By law, what she binds together none are to put asunder. If he tries to separate us now, he’ll be the one breaking tenets…unless he brings charges and proves them.”
Is that why Fathis left me in here with Gils?
“You sound like one of those wily lawyers that finds loopholes…but Fathis won’t be bested. Will he be able to prove charges against you? We didn‘t have witnesses, the marriage won’t stand up…”
“I don’t need a stamp of approval from Ocato saying we are married. I feel it in here.” Gils cuffed his hand over his heart.
******* Vicente Valtieri
Antoinetta Marie pushed her lip out into a pout that would have looked cute on her a number of years ago. Now it just gave image to a sourness of personality that eroded desire in Vicente in spite of her beauty. Lucien Lachance had tired of it as well, dumping her off on Vicente to rid himself of the constant drain of her narcissism.
“We never go anywhere! Everyone in Tamriel went to that funeral, even Telaendril and Gogron were there! Everyone except me. I’m tired of being cooped up in here, I never get out unless I’m on an assignment.”
“Go by yourself, why do I have to go with you?” Vicente attempted to keep the irritation from his voice.
“I’ll ask Lucien to take me, he likes going out.” She stamped her foot.
“You do that. Vampires can‘t go out in sunlight, and can be killed on sight thanks to that law Uriel Septim passed. A crowded event like that is too high risk, even in a cowl and at night.”
“Ocheeva and Teinaava rented a suite, we can take Teinaava’s room and he can sleep on the couch. You’d be inside then.”
“Don’t you think you should ask before making plans?”
“Ask what?” Ocheeva stepped in the doorway.
Vicente indicated Antoinetta.
“Teinaava doesn’t need a whole room to himself, why can’t he sleep on the couch and Vicente and I use the room?”
“Teinaava paid for his room, why should he give it up?” Ocheeva scowled at Vicente.
“I have a contract for Teinaava, he’ll be missing the music festival.” Vicente spoke quietly, but his eyes reflected the challenge.
“That’s not fair!” Ocheeva fumed.
*
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