@ Foxy - ...Er...Geeks build it so you will cu...oops ...er... come...
Er...Geeks do it with role play...
Er...Geeks have been berry berry good to mALX...Er... (the last one spoken in a Roberto Clemente voice)

***
@ Rachel - ROFL !!! Someone's finger is pointing at grumpy, was he getting a lecture? And the Devil ... SPEW !!!! Thank you Rachel !!!!

***
@ Foxy - there is always something triple X on my PC ... (me).

Future Home Sweet Home for Maxical:


http://www.kingps3.com/screenshots/Elder%2..._1294461306.jpg

WooHoo! Waterfalls!!! Buffy is dancing around tossing off her clothes and singing, "It's beautiful! When do we leave!"

Can't wait for Haa-Rei to go for a swim in Skyrim! (I'll figure something out to sort the 200 year time difference )

Indeed, quite beautiful. Going to be odd, being an Argonian in the birth place of Human civilization on Tamriel.... Not to mention cold....

Oh, I almost forgot! I'm on chapter 56 and loving the new story! SO very awsome Fathis has become!

Hi mALX. I've been catching up on your story and I was planning to hold all my comments until the end until I came across this from Chapter 39:



I've never heard the song before, but its everywhere and to see it here of all places made me burst out laughing in tears! In your word: SPEW! ♥

Here it is, it is hard to hear the words on this, I think it was a personal recording and not off the studio equipment:


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TKayCCKKUIs

Here is the original interview after the attack on his sister where the lyrics came from:


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W9lwh8J33pw...feature=related


Here is a remix of the song where you can hear the lyrics better:


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WrxjmyRAJ1U



*

@ Acadian - And Maxical will join her at that waterfall! Thank you Acadian !!

***
@ Hazmick - I heard about that 200 year time difference too, I hope it is not true - but if it is, we can always have our characters become frozen in the Jeralls and a great thaw wakens us just in time to troop down into Skyrim, lol. I am getting more excited as the time nears - have the game reserved for both the PC and 360 - can't WAIT !!!! Thank you so much Hazmick!!

***
@ Arcry - It is so good to have you back reading Maxical again, Arcry! You have been greatly missed! As you probably noticed, this version is not the same at all as the one on the BGSF, I hope you like it as well. I kind of like it better in a lot of ways - but there are some things I miss about the original Maxical (stupidity and clumsiness, lol). Thank you so much Arcry !!

***
@ Jacki Dice - GAAAAH! You stopped Champion of Madness! How could you? GAAAAH !!!! I am begging for you to finish it, don't mess with perfection !!! GAAAAAH !!!

I am so glad to see you reading Maxical again! I changed a lot in this version, I hope you like it - and believe it or not, you are absolutely the only one that noticed Antoine Dodson! Thank you so much Jacki!!

Finally caught up! Oh goodness I loved it! See, when you first started posting, I figured I'd wait until you were at the same place as at the other forums. By time I realized that things changed majorly, I was so far behind and procrastinating.... I did the same with SubRosa's story too

Antoine Dodson? Is that the guy who sings that song? Its that lyric! Its everywhere! Even someone in my Sorority Life house has it as their screen name Of all places I never expected to see it here

And I'm not stopping Champion of Madness, I just gave it a better title and edited a few things. When I was off for that time, I wasn't writing at all...so I forgot about some major things in the story or I would rush to get done with chapters so I could get to the juicier bits. I promise I'm not quitting. "Wrothken" wouldn't let me if I tried!

It is either Antoine Dodson or Antoine Dotson - I've seen it spelled both ways by the news media. I saw the original newscast before he made the song - and just had to add him as a character. He fit perfectly as Owyn's nephew, and it spread the story of his needing a way to get his family out of Lincoln Park (not Linkin Park, no one would want to get out of them, lol). Anyway, it was my way of supporting him for saving his sister and helping his family get out of the projects. I liked both his personality and his sister's, once you see that original newscast you never want to forget them. For him to take that situation and make it the song that saved his family was Awesome!

Thanks so much for reading, Jacki !! I really appreciate you taking the time to catch up, it is a total re-write from the original story after the first few chapters - thank you <3

It's my pleasure! The rewrite turned out so wonderful! I didn't think it could get any better but it really, really did. And it was so funny, it took a couple days to get through the entire thing and I read it right before bed so for two nights in a row I dreamed of Maxical

*


@ Jacki Dice - Thank you so much, that really means a lot to me to hear you say that!!!


*



Chapter 89: Azura’s Gift



******* Fathis


Fathis restlessly pestered the boys in the band as the night wore on to see if Traven had returned. The festival was over hours ago, where could he be?

Hassildor could realize he’d been duped at any time, Fathis couldn’t keep sitting here waiting for Traven. Raminus Polus and Josey were his only back-ups right now, statistically that was bad odds that the messages would reach Traven. Fathis got no response banging on the door of the Courier office. Protocol was to go to Ocato in the event Traven couldn’t be reached. Reluctantly, Fathis went to the Palace.

“I’m under strict orders, no one is to enter the Palace until further notice…“ The guard broke off mid-sentence and deftly pocketed the bribe from Fathis. “I‘m not supposed to tell, but they found some tourists murdered. That‘s all I know.�

No protocol existed for the event neither Traven or Ocato could be reached. Fathis had to do something…Jack Thompson.

Jack opened his door, scowling. “Aren! What do you mean by waking me at this time of the morning? You look awful, have you not slept?�

“No. No, I haven’t. Jack, I need help with a situation…and can’t give you any information about it.�

Jack stared hard at Fathis, then opened the door wider. “Come in. I can‘t offer you wine or coffee, we don’t drink it…have a seat. I’ve got freshly squeezed orange juice...�

“That will be fine, thank you. I need to get a message in code to Traven, Jack. It is imperative he get this right away…I may not be able to tell him this in person when he sees me next. Will you help?�

“I know you and Hannibal well enough to know it is nothing illegal. I’ll help, but I can’t go looking for him. You do remember I have to oversee the matches?�

“I understand.� A sudden thought occurred to Fathis. “Say Jack, in the event I can’t get hold of Traven in time, I’m supposed to meet someone outside the administrative gate…would you mind if I sat in your box this morning with a…guest?�

“Slipping around behind Maxical’s back already?�

Fathis gave a tense half laugh. “No. But I plan to rudely demand her presence so she‘ll be angry and refuse the invitation to join me…and hope she forgives when this is over.�






***


“You don’t want her there?� Jack’s eyes lit in appreciation of the irony. “Married just last night and already fighting…you could easily smooth any ruffled fur that hasty marriage caused, according to your reputation. It‘s too late for second thoughts…�

“It’s nothing like that. I don’t want her to meet this man…but can’t let him know that.�

“A man?�

“Yes…a very oddly dressed man. Cowled, in fact.�

Jack looked intrigued.

“I can’t say more unless something occurs and it ends up in the Courier.�

“You are becoming quite the newshound.�

Fathis cuffed Jack’s shoulder. “Thank you for your help, Jack. Here’s the message. I don’t care if Traven is sitting on the urn, see he gets this…that’s how urgent this is.� Fathis handed him one of the coded messages.

“That’s an image I didn’t need stuck in my head, especially at this time of the morning.�

Another thought occurred to Fathis. “Jack, may I invite some others to your box, just for today?“

“You may as well, my curiosity is rarely perked…but I must admit you have it.�

“I need some fancy parchment and a dab of your wife’s perfume as well.�

“I ‘d better eventually learn what is going on here.“

Jack returned with the items and watched Fathis craft the letters, deliberately disguising his handwriting with feminine loops and flourishes. Instead of a signature he put an illegible scribble. When he was done he dabbed a touch of perfume on the parchment, then started on the next…doing it the same way.

“That’s not your handwriting…you’re deliberately making them think a mysterious woman has invited them! Hassiri…?�

“Exactly. He’s a newsman…and Khajiit. The curiosity will eat him, he’ll show. I hope you don’t mind, but I intend to fill up your box a bit with curious men. I want this man in the cowl to feel extremely uncomfortable.�

“Curious men…like who?�

“All three brothers from the Courier, Antoine Dodson, maybe that ‘Hero of the People‘.�

“Oh my, this will be like a play unfolding…I may have trouble watching the matches.� Jack gave a rare laugh.









******* Maxical


As soon as Gils and I entered the Bloodworks he pulled me into the bathing area. All our stuff was back in there.

“How did our stuff get in here?�

“Before we left the Merchants I paid Owyn to have it moved in here when we got back tonight. You told me we would be together tonight, remember? The truce was off...�

Gils pulled his bottle of brandy out and tipped up the bottle, taking a long pull on it…and then the dam broke.

“How could you raise your palm to him? You already swore vows with me! You were supposed to end it with Fathis!�

“He never showed up for me to break it off with him. I planned to try again tomorrow. Gils, what happened? Why did he challenge you that way? That means he won’t stop till you’re dead. We’ve done nothing together other than that kiss, what was that challenge all about? And to beard me suddenly with marriage vows? Hassiri was there, the promotion going on…I couldn’t make a scene by turning him down publicly there.�

“He knew that, it’s why he chose that time and place. Maxical…are you going to honor our vows that came first, or his?�

“Ours.�

“Then take his ring off.�

I pulled the ring off and stuck it in the bottom of my pack. When I started to slip Hannibal’s ring back on, Gils stopped me.

“Nae Maxical. You’re my wife, I want you to wear a ring of my giving.� Gils reached in his pocket and pulled out a beautiful ring, unique. I had never seen anything like it before.

“What is this?�

“It’s called the Jewel of Rumare. The man I got it from said you’ll never drown as long as you wear it. I meant my vows to you, Maxical.� Gils slid the ring on my finger.

“The Rumare? That's a symbol of us, our beginning! Our first kiss was on the banks, we swore our vows overlooking it! And it‘s the name of my ring?� I turned around and held it up to the candle so I could see it better.






***


Gils turned me around to face him, it was all there for me to read; the love and the fire, the promise of forever. Whether he was able to keep them or not…I was in love with Gils.

Being together with him at the end of this day from hell…and suddenly nothing that went before now mattered. We were here together, and all that meant anything of today was the kiss we shared at the Merchants and right now…the love in his eyes, our plans for a life together in Anvil...

He drew me into his arms as if in slow motion, or maybe my memory was locking on to this moment to look back on later. There was no romantic setting, only the tiles of the bathing room that had been the site at which our relationship had developed. The scents were the intoxicating aroma of Gils and Owyn’s brandy, his kisses tasted of it just as they had that first night on the Rumare.

Making up after thinking it was over is a powerful force. I had already made the decision that Gils was the one I wanted to be with before Fathis did what he did. The ring…having a wedding ring made the vows we’d sworn together feel that much more real; having the name of the Rumare, the place that was a symbol of our whole beginning…a lot of factors came together and fueled the fire between us beyond where we had ever allowed it to go. I pulled no stops, didn’t use Hannibal’s potions. There was no doubt in either of our minds Gils had already started me…till it happened.






***


Like cosmic tumblers falling into place I felt everything inside me suddenly aligning as a powerful force, unlocking dormant impulses from ancient leopard ancestry…

There was a feeling of weightlessness, of being suspended in a pitch black void…then being pulled backward through it, witnessing the splitting of the original cell that bound leopard to human.

Suddenly I found myself in a forest looking up to the night sky. The scent of green moss filled my nose, I could feel its dampness on my knees and hands. The moons above me parted and Azura appeared between them. Her voice was all around me, inside me…the words echoed.

“Child of the forest…�

She stretched her arms out to the moons and a beam of light shone off her foot, touching my face. A sweetness came on my tongue where the light hit it and I found myself tilting my head back and opening my mouth wide for more. My eyes closed as I savored the sweet taste; when I opened them…there was Gils. When I started to reach toward him the last tumbler fell into place and the lock was sealed.

In a blink I was standing in front of an ancient Khajiit, so old his muzzle was absent of whiskers, sagging. The sides drooped against the bones below it. He raised a bony finger and pointed it at me. His claws were over-long, curled and softened from age. When he spoke his voice crackled and shook.

“What Azura has bound, let none put asunder.�

When I opened my eyes again I was back in the bathing room with Gils. His voice echoed off the stone walls and was all around me, but I couldn’t make out any of the words. The taste of moon sugar was sweet on my tongue watching his lips moving, the expressions in his eyes, his hair brushing the side of his cheek…his breath filled my nostrils…I inhaled deeply to fill my lungs with the scent of it…Gils.

The next thing I know, I was waking with the morning light streaming in the high air vents. Had it all been a dream? I was cradled in Gils arms. I looked up, he was watching me. The sight of him brought the sweetness of moon sugar to my tongue. It hadn’t been a dream. Gils had started me…I was bound to him for life.






*

Oh my word!! Fathis! The poor man! Oh goodness I wonder what he'll do! Damn cliffracers-- I mean, cliff hangers

...




...





...





*shocked*

Excuse me, I need to take a few minutes to get my head on straight.

So, Maxical, you've finally made your choice. I sure do hope you are ready to accept the consequences.

Let me say right off the bat that this was one of the most powerful scenes I've ever read, not just because of the emotions at play, but rather the simple fact that there was a real choice involved. You set up two men, both of which heavily flawed, neither the greatest example for love, but who both stole the heart of a young, white leopard-girl. So many people over the course of this story have pointed out these flaws, but it simply was not possible for Maxical to try for others, she was too engrossed in both of their lives. Neither man was, vis a vis, the "right" choice, but Maxical loved them both dearly, and love is the perfect counter to rationality.

Which man would it be? The one who is so deep in the Vampire's pocket that it is almost certain to strain their relationship to the breaking point, or the other who's obsession over her is enough that it could destroy the foundations upon which their love had been erected, and is also a known womanizer. Both are endearing in their own way, but neither are ideal, and Maxical was all but forced to choose which evil she would be most comfortable with, which set of consequences she wished to bear. This is choice. It's not about what to wear in the morning, or what brand of cereal is your favorite. Choice works hand-in-hand with consequence.

The buildup to here was flawless. You presented both men, their flaws, and what Maxical stood to get into with either one. She has now decided which man she preferred... accepting every last one of his vices with the full understanding that there is no going back. She must now accept her commitment, no matter how much pain it may cause her in the end, because the road back is now shut. I will be very surprised if Fathis even talks to her again after this.

True choice is a hard stone to get your readers to swallow, but all I can say is you did it.

All I can say is..









MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE !!!!!

@ Jacki Dice - Thank you so much Jacki!! I feel for Fathis too, he is really doing the right thing here - but it def bit him in the butt.

***
@ Thomas Kaira - Thank you so very much Thomas!! Wow, you said it all, thank you !!! Maxical is just as flawed as her choices, of course, lol. I just hope she doesn't regret it.

***
@ Foxy - Oh, thank you so much Foxy !!! Boy have you been missed!!

Oh. My. Goodness. I thought things were complicated for Maxical before, but I think I'm going to have to stay on the edge of my seat!!

Now I'm really worried about Gils! Gaaaaah!

I was so hoping that your next story would strongly feature Maxical herself. Oh my, did this ever. I think the word that comes to mind is magnificent. Yes, magnificent and magnificent some more. This was truly one of your finest efforts. Finally, Maxical has made her choice. I know she's a loyal kitty and she will try her best. In all her imperfect vulnerability and strong emotions, you captured everything perfectly.

Somehow, I think imp chips all over Cyrodiil are now going to hit the fan. . . .

Well done, mALX!

Wait... is this story different from the one on here?

http://www.fanfiction.net/u/2096789/mALX

Very. You should start from the beginning, or you might end up lost.

(A gasp was taken so deep, it reflected on the rolling breeze as a mere whisper of a shockened mind. A gasp was taken to slowly fill the void where bewilderment snatched away. A gasp, borne out of the unexpected sting of things, was taken so deep my lungs burst out and I had to cough to full minute, and even then, my lifeblood was flowing from nostrils as my once healthy lung exploded with a pop. Before I left this world, there was one thing in my mind...

What am I doing?)

mALX.. That chapter was one of the most awe-inspiring things that I ver read. Bravo for Gils and BooHoo for Fathis.. BooHooo!

Malx, I really don't like when you bully Fathis Kidding!

@ Grits - Thank you so much Grits !! Great to see you back !! I agree, Gils may have to watch his back - but poor Fathis, lol. Thank you so much for reading, Grits !!!

***
@ Acadian - WHEW !!! Your kind words mean so much to hear, Acadian !!! I put a huge amount of research into Azura and other Lore for that scene - so glad it paid off !!!! Thank you so much, Acadian !!!

***
@ King Coin - I am tickled you stopped by to see a bit of Maxical on here, and thank you so much for reading the original on the Fanfic !!! I was excited to hear about your character, will you be writing them for us on here? (insert pleading puppy eyes) Thank you, King Coin!

***
@ Thomas Kaira - Thank you so much Thomas !!! (again !!!)

***
@ Ureniashtram - WOO HOO, Ureniashtram !!! Thank you so much !!!! You made my day with your kind words !!!!

***
@ Zalphon - Aha! Zalphon (the character) has a loyalty to Fathis because of the quest he did for him over a year ago ... on another site !!! Thank you so much Zalphon !!!

I read the first version of 126 chapters of your story about Maxical on fanfiction.net and thought it was great, now I've just begun reading this version and I think it's even better Though I've just read to chapter eight this far. But still, it's a huge improvement! Keep up the good work mALX

Thank you so much Saqin! I was originally going to just cut a whole lot out and meet it to the story on the Fanfic (and BGSF) - but kind of wanted to expand the Arena a bit this time (then couldn't get out of it, lol.). I appreciate you reading it!

**

There is a certain catch phrase in this chapter, borrowed from the tremendous wit known as "Cardboard Box" of this forum. Hope you enjoy it as much as I did (along with two others on this site that have also borrowed it).

Of course, I am sure everyone knows where the name Docada came from when referring to “The Adoring Fan� - but for anyone who doesn’t, it is the gem of Rachel the Breton - from her Awesome “Edward the Imperial� story.


*


Chapter 90: Trouble Comes In Threes



******* Hannibal Traven - Continued from Chapter 84, Page 37


It was morning when Hannibal left the palace…a good time to beard a vampire in their lair. He hurried to the Talos Plaza district and banged the knocker continuously till it was answered by an elderly Imperial.

“Here, here! What do you mean by pounding steadily like that! The master doesn’t wish to be disturbed. I am Gemellus Axius, manservant to the Earl of Imbel. What is it you require? Sir! Take your foot out of the door this instant!�

Hannibal pushed the door open the rest of the way and strode past Gemellus. “I am Arch Mage Hannibal Traven. You tell your master that he can speak to me or the Imperial Legion can enact Uriel’s law. I believe he’ll see me.�

The manservant Gemellus scurried up the nearby stairs like a rat. It wasn’t long before he returned, announcing from the top of the stairs, “Jakben, Earl of Imbel.�

“Arch Mage Traven. You have given my manservant quite a fright. To what do I owe this injudicious demand to see me?�

“Your life. I am here to save it…at a cost. After that I wish to speak to your houseguest…Count Skingrad.�









******* Jack’s Runner Br'itsa


Docada nudged his sister Br'itsa and pointed at the Dunmer standing at the administrative entrance of the Arena.

“That’s Fathis Aren, that fancy pants I was telling you about. His tips are like getting an extra week’s pay. Try to run for him anytime he is here…look, he is signaling you now! Hurry, and call him Serjo.�

Fathis signaled again before they approached. “Good to see you again, Docada. Br'itsa, will you run this note to the white Khajiit in the Blue Team Bloodworks for me please? She is called Maxical. Here, this is for your troubles.�

Br'itsa took the note and Septims. “Yes, Serjo Aren. Thank you.�

Docada pulled Br'itsa around the corner. As soon as they were out of sight, he stopped his sister.

“That white Khajiit, she is the one I told you about with the terrible temper…the one that slaughtered all her teammates in the Bloodworks that day.�

“That day you quit working for Jack?� Br'itsa’s face paled as Docada nodded.

“I heard she cut some guys head clean off too.� Docada pointed to the note. “You better glance at that, make sure it isn’t something that will set her temper off.�


** NOTE: Docada is refering to the incident (Chapter 23, Page 9 and Chapter 26, Page 10)





Ma'Thjizzrini Qa;

Part of your duties as my wife require you to entertain visiting dignitaries. I insist on your presence immediately in Jack’s box so you can join me in welcoming a member of the Nobility.

Yours, etc.

Fathis.



Docada‘s eyes started from his head. His already pale skin turned sheet white. “You better not hand her that note, not unless you want your head to be the next one rolling! She’ll leave a trail of bodies all the way up to your desk!�

“What should I do?� Br'itsa was trembling in fright.

“Lose the note, just tell her to go to Jack’s box. That way you have completed your task…without getting murdered.�









******* Maxical


“Gils…don‘t get me wrong, I‘m sure it was great and everything…but I don‘t remember…er…I mean …well…I don‘t feel different or anything…er…I mean…�

“Believe me, if we had…you’d remember it.�

“You mean we didn’t? But I thought…�

He shook his head no. “Something weird happened, like you went…dead or something. I ain’t no corpse-humper. What was that all about?“

“Azura took me to the original forest where she made Khajiit and sealed me to you. It’s right here, on my tongue…like moon sugar when you’re near. I’m bound to you for life now, Gils. I hope you mean what you said.�

“What are you doing?“

“I want to bring Fathis his ring and a cheque right away, end it formally with him before we…do anything more. I’m hoping to keep his friendship through this somehow…he’s been in my life almost as long as I can remember.�

“It’s the right way, but he’ll pull something. Fathis isn’t one to let anyone best him.�

“I‘m paying him back, doesn’t he have to accept it? Khajiit can‘t be separated from the one that starts them. Gils, I just want to do everything correctly.�

“But why are you bathing before you see him? I’d rather you roll in Pork Chop’s cage so he gets no ideas about demanding his promise now.� Gils scowled.

“Should I black out a tooth with boot polish?� My nerves were on edge at the thought of confronting Fathis, clearly Gils’ were too. With an apologetic glance at Gils I began pulling on the glass armor Fathis had bought me.

“You’re wearing his armor?“ Gils exhaled loudly and stomped out of the bathing area.

Gils came back in just in time to see me slide his ring off and replace Hannibal’s ring on my wedding finger. He gaped at me.

“Just till this is over.� I folded Fathis’s ring inside the cheque that emptied my savings account and slid both into my pocket.







***


Scowling from the tension in me, I barreled through the caged alcove outside the Bloodworks door and promptly plowed hard into Jack’s new runner Br'itsa.

“I’m so sorry…� I grabbed Br’itsa’s arm to keep her from falling.

She cringed, cowering like a cornered animal. Her skin was paler than even her brother Docada’s, and her over-large eyes held a look of terror.

“What’s wrong, dear…� I began, but was interrupted by Docado’s shriek piercing through the morning air.

“ARGH! Unhand my sister!“

He hurried up, his unnaturally yellow buff of hair bouncing wildly as he positioned himself beside Br’itsa.

“Hello Docada, how have you been? Er…it was an accident…�

They looked like a pair of petrified twin statues; frozen expressions of terror appearing marbleized by their overly pale skin that accentuated the blue veins beneath.

“Br'itsa, dear…are you unwell? Is everything okay?�

“Er…you need to go directly to Jack’s box.� She choked out.

“Jack’s? Oh no! Of all the worst times to be summoned!� I fumed, digging in my pack for a few Septims to tip Br’itsa.

When I looked up again both Docada and Br’itsa were running back toward the administrative entrance as if Daedra were chasing them. For what seemed like a minute I stood there, stupidly staring at their disappearing figures with my arm and hand extended out to give the tip. Why were they acting that way? What had I done wrong now that Jack was summoning me?

“You looking for work as a coat rack?� Haki’s voice cut into my conscience. He then made a braying sound that could still be heard after the Bloodworks door slammed shut behind him.

My face flamed in embarrassment as I pulled my arm back in. Today was not starting off right. Haki had today’s Courier clutched in his hand, I could see the words ‘Cage Match’ in huge letters. All hell was about to break loose in the Bloodworks.





***


I hurried up to Jack’s office and cut across to his balcony, which surprisingly was heavily crowded today. The Hero was sprawled comfortably in a seat talking to Owyn’s nephew Antoine Dodson. Velus from the Merchants was there, Hassiri and his brothers…I recognized several other men…what was going on?

As I reached the door onto the balcony all the men turned as if on cue, their expression could only be described as expectant. Most of the eyes flickered to disappointment on seeing it was me, a few were arching their eyebrows in my direction. Jack was in his vantage seat where he watched for illegal moves, but he turned around and stared at me as if he expected me to break into song and dance.

I shifted my weight from one foot to the other, unsure what I should do. There were no other females in the box, it felt like I was invading a stag party.

Hassiri was sitting out in the seats by the rail, the sun gleaming off his red fur. He flagged me and smiled. As I turned my head toward him a movement in my peripheral vision caught my attention. Oh dear. Fathis was sitting along the back wall in the covered, shaded area of the box.

Next to Fathis sat a man wearing a cowl and a very expensive looking cloak. The cowled head spun around as I stepped out onto the balcony. I couldn’t very well break up with Fathis in front of this crowd, especially not Hassiri. Dear gods.

Trying to be inconspicuous, I made a beeline for Jack’s vantage chair. “Did you send for me, Jack?�

Jack pointed to Fathis. “You’ve been invited, Fathis has someone he’d like you to meet.�

The shock of that pronouncement was followed in a flash by a heated anger that burned my cheeks and neck till I probably was as red as Hassiri. I could barely choke out my response.

“Jack, I can’t intrude in your manager’s box, I’m just a Gladiator rank.�

“Not anymore, you are now the wife of Fathis Aren.�

A huge lump that made swallowing impossible seemed to have formed in my throat at his words. “Er…but how do you feel about it? This is your box.�

“Like watching a play.�

“Well I apologize for the disruption. Er…would you mind if I gave passes to my parents and Hannibal for the Cage Match?�

Jack waved one hand to signal assent and gave his pleasant smile.

“Thank you Jack.�




***


Rage that Fathis had summoned me to what was obviously a stag affair was overwhelming any sense I may have had. I decided to treat him to the sight of me ignoring him, and moved to Hassiri‘s side instead.

“Thank you for the time you gave us yesterday, I wanted to give you some extra passes for the Cage Match in case there is someone you wanted to bring.“ I spoke in polite Khajiit, slipping him the passes before continuing.

“The Brotherhood of Khajiit that have been picket protesting outside the Arena to strip the Gray Prince of his title…have I not seen one of their hats in your home? I wondered if they have a Sisterhood as well? I think I would like to join it.�

He grinned. “You would be a most welcome member. I will get the information for you.� He raised his eyebrows and jerked his head towards the cowled figure beside Fathis.

“I don’t know.� I shrugged, then leaned over, whispering into Hassiri‘s ear. “Maybe Fathis has brought me his father to meet…�

The cowled head snapped toward me, strangling off any further speech. There was no way he could have heard that…still, it was unnerving. I squeezed Hassiri’s hand spasmodically and moved to the other side of the box.

“Velus, I hope you are enjoying this balmy weather. How are you fairing with these crowds?� I slid him a gate pass and continued heading away from where Fathis sat, approaching the Hero and Antoine.

The Hero looked tired, as if he had spent the night awake. I slid him a pass to Jack’s box for the Cage Match.

“You were right in your warning, good sir. I was attacked after the show. This is my thanks to you for the advice.�

“Why don’t you call me Azzan?� He arched an eyebrow up and gave me a knowing look. What was that about?

Antoine leaned across Azzan with his hand held out for a pass. He was dressed in a fancy fur vest and skin tight leather pants. His usual Redguard afro was tamed down into surprisingly long braids.

“Antoine, you look like you’re on a date instead of the Arena.� I teased, sliding a pass into his open palm.

“Well…OB-viously, the girl who invited me today isn’t you.� Antoine pocketed the pass.

“You have a date…in Jack’s box...with a girl?� I’m sure I looked stunned.

“Not if she doesn‘t show up.�

After speaking with them for a few minutes I headed up toward the sheltered area, trying to keep the militant look off my face at being bearded thus. Fathis and his companion stood up as I neared.

“Fathis, Jack says that you sent for me?�

He reached out for my hand, but it still clutched my stack of passes.

“Here, I have passes for the manager’s box to watch the Cage Match. These are for Alix, S‘Jirra, and Abhuki if she can come. If you see Hannibal, can you give him one as well?� I hesitated deliberately before handing him two more.

“And here is one for you and your guest.� I nodded toward the cowled head and gave a stiff smile.



*

“You mean we didn’t? But I thought…”
You mean they didn’t?! But I thought…

I decided to treat him to the sight of me ignoring him, and moved to Hassiri‘s side instead.
That is classic Maxical!!

As usual, you have me on the edge of my seat!

Still lots going on here! I'm very interested to see what Hannibal has in mind with Jak. And also what Fathis is doing with Janus and how he reacts to Gils.

“Gils…don‘t get me wrong, I‘m sure it was great and everything…but I don‘t remember…er…I mean …well…I don‘t feel different or anything…er…I mean…”
Don't you hate it when that happens? So they did but they didn't or they did but it didn't count? So she is, or maybe she isn't.

“Should I black out a tooth with boot polish?”
Hee! That's Maxical all right!

When I looked up again both Docada and Br’itsa were running back toward the administrative entrance as if Daedra were chasing them. For what seemed like a minute I stood there, stupidly staring at their disappearing figures with my arm and hand extended out to give the tip. Why were they acting that way? What had I done wrong now that Jack was summoning me?
This worked so very well! You really built this up nicely. Sort of like a rumor that gets passed around the room. Next thing you know, everyone thinks our kit is a rabid killer. This is an excellent example of what you can do as you so smoothly shift from one perspective to another in your unique style of weaving a story!

Go, Fathis go!

Uh oh... I sure hope Maxical isn't regretting her decision already. That never pans out to a happy couple.

I wonder what Hannibal has in store for us? For Jack-be-nimble with the candlestick?

(hastily changes subject)

Okay, cage match, that's good, right? Blood n' guts?

Considering what she has just done, I feel that her anger towards Fathis is completely unwarranted. More likely she is using it as a mask for the emotion running far deeper... guilt. Guilt for taking a man's heart, throwing it to the ground, and squashing it beneath her boot.

Maxical, did it ever occur to you that you are taking your time and pouting away not because you are mad at Fathis, but that deep down your heart might not be able to bear the anguish you would place on his shoulders when you tell him you went behind his back and gave your soul to the man he hated most? Knowing Fathis, his response would leave you an emotional wreck. You did just shatter his one dream of true love, after all, how else would he take it?

As a certain band would say:

Shot through the heart!
And you're to blame!
You give love a bad name!

Wouldn't you be utterly heartbroken if someone told you that to your face? This is what she can expect, knowing Fathis's temper. She had better be ready, not pouting.

(You have my emotions building from your character's emotions, by the way. That's not easy, well done!)

Ut ohhh!!! So it never happened? Or he stopped in the middle? And poor Fathis!!

-puts on a Team Fathis" t shirt

@ Grits - Thank you so much Grits! You are right, that was extremely Maxical, lol.

***
@ Acadian - Actually, probably due to the long holiday break I took I maybe should have refreshed the memories on that one - (Chapter 84, Page 37 - I will add the chapter to the segment). Hannibal is offering Jack diplomatic immunity if he stops acting on his nature.

And OH YES, that is exactly how rumors get spread, lol. Docada is still clinging to that horrible vision in the Bloodworks (Chapter 26, Page 10) - anyone who has ever had "The Adoring Fan" as a follower knows his mouth runs constantly, he will def spread the tale, lol.

Thank you so very much Acadian - and for pointing out that I needed to refresh the info !! You ROCK !!

***
@ Zalphon - ROFL !!! On Fathis's side, huh? So is Jacki Dice, lol. I can't pick a side, it may influence the outcome, ROFL !!! Thank you so much Zalphon!!!

***
@ Thomas Kaira - You are absolutely spot on correct - guilt is feeding her nerves. She created the situation by marrying Fathis when she was already married to Gils - public place or not, it was wrong if she was going to consider herself married to Gils.

She is making a ton of mistakes and bad choices ... some excuse may be that she was overprotected her whole life and is out on her own for the first time. A lot of this could have been avoided had she not run away from home - having her parents to talk to and advise her. It's a little too late for that now, though.

Cage Match - YEAH! Blood n' Guts !!! WOO HOO !!!

Thank you so much Thomas Kaira - you are always appreciated !!!!

***
@ Jacki Dice - WOO HOO !!! Another on Fathis's side !!! Thank you so very much Jacki !!!

First they didn't
Then they did
DID they diddle
and dip the wick?
Get it hard
and push it in -
but wait, the plot
says HE DID NOT!
So her posse's
still a rookie -
So no joy
and no nookie!
I think MaLX really
deserves a cookie -
for getting our interest
completely hookie!
This is looking
Like a game of soccer -
200 chapters already
and nobody's bonked her!
Oh, the blue balls
And ditto ..er...can't
I really applaud
MaLX's writing stunt!!!

I am... Caught up. I...This is a rare moment for me. I hardly ever lose my ability to vocalize, or rather in this case, type a string of congratulatory praise to honor a wonderous piece of work. After a good four minutes of thinking, my fingers now have hammered this mental delema into words, as well as the following, although inadequate, praise.

Dear gods and Daedra! I simply love your cat! So emotional, so powerful, so very awesome! I am dumbfounded, dumbstruck, dazed, addled! Ehem, to say the least, I am flabbergasted by the power you have imbued into the story of Maxical. And, to speak the truth, what tickles me most is that the Oblivion Crisis has yet to fully begin!

mALX, this is awesome! Not sure if I should ask yet in case we're going to find out later...in which case, feel free to ignore the question. But, I'm curious...what happens when a Khajiit is bound to someone, but that person abandons them/dies/otherwise disappears from their life? Do they remain single forever? Or can they remarry, but never recapture that Khajiit "spark" they had with the first person (like, the way she feels when Gils is around her now that she is bound to him)?

Anyhow, poor Fathis. It's a true measure of your skill when every new chapter fills the reader with the same confused emotions that the character experiences...and I'm still not sure if I like ("like" as in, think it is a remotely good choice in Maxical's life -- I definitely "like" it in the story!! ) her and Gils, or her and Fathis, better...they're each preferable to the vampires, but... Anyhow, she seems to have made her choice...and yet, we all know that nothing is as straightforward for our poor, favorite Khajiit as it seems. Can't wait to find out what happens!!

(BTW, love the appearance of Docada )

@ Foxy - Oh Foxy, you just don't know how much you are missed when you go AWOL! Who else could write filthy odes to our stories and make us cry (with laughter)? You are the king of AWESOME, and have been so missed !! Thank you, Foxy !!!!!

***
@ Arcry - Now THAT tickled me to death to hear from you !!! Thank you so much Arcry! Your kind words mean tons to me !!!

***
@ Rachel - I never thought anyone could make "The Adoring Fan" any more obnoxious and irritating than Bethesda did, but you achieved it in your brilliant story, and now he is stuck in my head as Docada forever, lol.

Thank you so much Rachel!! It means so much to me to hear you say that !!! You ROCK !!!

*


Chapter 91: Meeting The Chosen


** Please note that the sections italicized are what Maxical is thinking to herself. As Janus can read minds, these places are what he is hearing.



******* Maxical



Fathis’s facial expression was unreadable; or rather, if I was reading it correctly then he was upset to see me. That couldn’t be, since he had sent for me to be there.

It was impossible not to be consciously aware of the man sitting next to Fathis. Not just the mysterious obscuring of his face with that cowl, nor the obvious wealth the rich material of his clothing bespoke…although my curiosity was instantly peaked by these.



None but a Noble could have access to a velvet so thick it must be warmer than fur; and the cut of his cloak and suit beneath…definitely imported, probably from Daggerfall. But why hide his face? He must be of political importance…Oh! Maybe he is one of the Daggerfall Royal families! But which? Drat! I slept through all those classes! The only thing I remember is that dirty song Delphine taught me, …


In Daggerfall,
they hold a ball
And all of society indulges in a variety
Of scandal, they can handle -- A lot.
The Captain of the Guard
Has to search very hard
For a bean that the Queen
Has in her pants.

And the Court Sorceress
Will grant you a wish
To cause the King
to fling
About his lance


Drat! It speaks of the Queen and King, but not which ones. Oh no! Now that song will be stuck in my head…



The cowled man’s shoulders were shaking. I turned around to see if something funny had happened in the Arena. The quick movement left me feeling dizzy, or maybe that was caused by the sudden thickness overwhelming the air…a combination of male and testosterone to such a powerful degree that it left me feeling heady.

Even Fathis‘s manly aroma could not be detected through it, although I was but inches from him. With a shock I realized it was exuding from that cowled man. Who was he, that his manliness could overpower Fathis’s?

Something inside me brushed a chord of memory…a familiarity I couldn’t connect. Was it the scent? The odor was delicious, creating a feeling of hunger inside till I was afraid a purring would start.






***


“Ma'Thjizzrini Qa, there is someone I invited for you to meet today.� Fathis indicated his companion.



Oh dear, it must be his father then. No wonder Fathis spent his life repopulating Tamriel, with such a strong male as his pattern-card. No telling this one didn‘t repopulate all Nirn and half the void.



The man’s shoulders were shaking again. I looked back at the Arena. Again there was nothing funny going on.


Is my hair sticking up? Has a bird left its droppings on me? Dear gods, could I be unbuckled? Maybe I should find a looking glass and return after an inspection.


Trying to be inconspicuous, I looked down and felt around to make sure my greaves and cuirass were buckled properly; then reached up and felt of my hair and face. The cowled man turned away from me with a choking sound.






***


“Ma'Thjizzrini Qa, do you remember our conversation coming back from Anvil?� Fathis caught my attention.

I leaned close to Fathis‘s ear and whispered low enough that his companion couldn‘t hear. “Er…you mean about the large protrusion under Irlav Jerol‘s robe being found not to be an oversized endowment, but a scroll of my ill deeds?�

The cowled man staggered slightly, clutching the seat behind him. His shoulders heaved spasmodically and he began emitting strangled gasping sounds.

“Er…should you check your companion? Is he choking? Should I whack his back?� I asked aloud.

“No…� Fathis paused. “Do you remember what we discussed, Ma'Thjizzrini Qa?�

I gave one quick glance at the cowled man bent over the chair back before leaning back in close to Fathis. “We did discuss that.“

“Yes, Ma'Thjizzrini Qa. We did, but I am talking about other things we discussed.�

“The time I made Raminus Polus release his bladder in his bed? Painted Irlav Jarol‘s head with boot-blacking? Short-sheeted Hannibal‘s bed or switched his salt and sugar out? Am I to be in trouble now for it? I‘m no longer a student there…�

“No, Ma'Thjizzrini Qa. Not any of those things…�

“That pompous boar Ilmiril?�

“Much closer, Ma'Thjizzrini Qa. We were discussing that, then right afterward…�

The cowled man was obviously laughing now. Although I had been whispering into Fathis‘s ear…somehow I was sure it was directed at me. A flash of humiliation heated my cheeks till I was sure they were bright red.


Is this man laughing at me? Did Fathis call me up here to be mocked by this Noble?


This time I didn‘t whisper. “Speak then, Fathis. I do not like to be taunted before your friends. Did you bring me up here to your stag ritual to make a game of me?�

Fathis took my hand and shook his head. “This is not my bachelor send off, Ma'Thjizzrini Qa.“ He paused again, searching for the right way to phrase it, no doubt.

The man turned around then. His cowled head seemed to be honed in on me to the point that I could feel his aura physically touching me. Then suddenly it hit me.


The Immortal…



It was just a thought, not spoken aloud…yet the cowled head nodded. A gasp escaped me, and my chest tightened suddenly till it felt I could barely breathe.


I didn’t speak aloud…did I?







***


My plan to give Fathis the snub for summoning me thus was discarded, instead I found myself intrigued to the point of near giddiness.

The scientists in Hannibal’s tomes all sought the finding of an Immortal as if it were the ultimate goal, one they knew in their lifetime they would never attain…yet here he stood before me, his hand stretched out to greet as any mortal would…the rarest of all ancients. It was the equivalent of meeting one of the gods, or a Daedric Prince…No! It was even more exquisite, because there were so many of those, and only one known Immortal…

I must have looked like the village idiot, standing there gaping at the hand he had extended toward me. Embarrassed, I shifted my focus onto my own hand as if willing it to reach out.


Should I grip his hand tightly or…GAAAH! Is my hand damp? I can’t wipe it on my armor! Should I reach into my greaves and wipe it on the drawers? No, that won’t look right…better to reach under my cuirass and dry it on the shirt beneath…


The Immortal stretched his hand forward and took mine before I could dry it, raising it to his lips in an old fashioned salute instead of clasping it. I gawked like a loon at my trembling sweaty hand being drawn into the shadows of the darkened cowl.

For a split second I feared what hid beneath the cowl…would there be just a skull under there like the King of Worms? My arm tensed, ready to jerk back if bone was felt. It was with an audible sigh of relief I felt the soft moistness of lips touch my hand.

No one ever kissed hands anymore; the act itself was ancient, archaic. I wasn’t sure how long my hand was supposed to remain with the searing heat of his lips pressed against it; was he holding it there longer than necessary? Somehow I thought it should be briefer than this…it was getting hard to think. A tingling was moving down my arm and what felt like lightning shot down my back. My heart pounded and I struggled to breathe till he released my hand.


Good gods, my toes are curling and it feels like my hair just drew up tight like a Redguard's Afro…


I reached both hands up and felt my hair to see if it had. His shoulders began shaking again.

That’s when it suddenly hit me; the cut of his cloak and suit beneath…not imported like I originally thought. That style was ancient, outdated long since…as was the thickness of the velvet material. Delphine and I had pored over our textbooks ogling the styles back then, the richness of the cloth in the portraits from those olden times…wishing we lived back in those days so we could have a dress made of it. It was as if the Immortal had stepped out of the past without changing, like one of those old-time portraits had come to life and now stood before me. I wondered if his hairstyle beneath that cowl would be just as outdated.






***


He spoke for the first time then. “I apologize for the unceremonious invitation. Had I known Fathis was to be married sooner, I would have extended a more formal invitation to the wife of my good friend.�

I found myself exhaling slowly, not wanting to disturb the sound of his voice in the air.


His accent is intriguing, cultured…is it Colovian? The sound of his voice pleases…deep, intelligent…manners as if…from another place in time … riveting.



With a jolt I realized he was waiting for a response…when did he finish speaking? As I was struggling for the most correct way to accept his polite apology I heard a twangy whine with what sounded like a thick brogue contrasting the symphony of his voice that was still echoing in my mind.

Glancing around quickly…and by Fathis’s concerned look…I realized that it had come from me.

“Nae, you dinna need to apologize.� I had blurted. I gasped, and promptly turned purple.


What is wrong with my voice? I sounded like a thirteen year boy whose voice was going through the change! Dear gods, how humiliating!



I cleared my throat and spoke quietly, hoping he would think someone else had said the other. “Er…think nothing of it. Hannibal wrote you about my need for alternative healing measures…are you here for me, then?�


At least my voice is back, but why did I ask him that? Dear gods…


“You are the one he wrote me of? Actually, that is why I came to town. I would like very much to discuss it with you, if you have the time.�

“May I?� I indicated the seat next to him and he nodded.


**

That was great!

I loved Maxical trying to remember all that they had talked about, but saying all the wrong things! Hilarious as always ♥

The way you portrayed Janus being able to read Maxical's thoughts was very well done (and entertaining). I thank you for the brief introductory note of explanation.

'Is my hair sticking up? Has a bird left its droppings on me? Dear gods, could I be unbuckled? Maybe I should find a looking glass and return after an inspection.
Trying to be inconspicuous, I looked down and felt around to make sure my greaves and cuirass were buckled properly; then reached up and felt of my hair and face. The cowled man turned away from me with a choking sound.'
This was pure Maxical at her best!

If Janus is going to read minds, he needs to learn how to control his reactions much, much better - or at least avoid reading the swirling mind of our Maxical!

Dirty deeds! (Done dirt cheap!)



Dirty deeds! (Done dirt cheap!)



Dirty deeds! (Done dirt cheap!)

GAH! Damn... now I've got that song stuck in my head.

I'm sure I'm not the only one who thought Maxical was absolutely adorable in this episode.

Just a few pics:


Original Vanilla Janus:








*** Younger Janus after I modded him:

Thanks for sharing, mALX! I was getting ready to say, "Gee, can't that wealthy count spring for a robe or something to cover up the poor girl? Then I got to the last picture where I guess he finally gave her a dress. Wonderful pictures of our beautiful kit!

mALX...EPIC! Janus is by no means the most brilliant Ancient -- to spy on someone's thoughts but not be able to control his reaction, LMBO! Although, in fairness, I guess I wouldn't expect someone's thoughts to run in quite such a delightfully jumbled way if I was reading minds either, lol.

As always, fantastic!!

Maxical's reaction to meeting Janus is wonderful - typical of a young girl meeting her crush face to face for the first time! I remember mine! Yikes, how embarrassing!

Oh my goodness! Nekkid Maxical wins!!

@ Jacki Dice - Thank you so much Jacki !! That line almost got edited out, it was part of a bigger dialogue that ended up cut - I just had to slide it back in there, hated losing it, lol. Thank you again, Jacki !!!

***
@ Acadian - You are right, he never got to actually hear her mind in action when she was at the castle, lol. Can you imagine Maxical trying to be inconspicuous while she checks to see if "buckled up?" I doubt she has the savoir faire to pull "inconspicuous" off, lol. Thank you so much Acadian !! (and for the great comments on Maxical's screenies)

***
@ Thomas Kaira -


Thank you so much, that meant TONS to hear !!! This is to help get that out of/into your head:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z_t5GPbp5IY

***
@ Rachel the Breton - I agree, Janus picked the wrong person to eavesdrop into their mind !!! We may end up with another loony vampire in the IC before this is over, lol. Thank you so much for your kind words Rachel !! And I hope everyone sees todays chapter on Edward - I nearly died laughing !!!

***
@ Haute Ecole Rider - Yeah !!! I am tickled to hear you liked that chapter, and that you stopped in again !!! WOO HOO!! Thank you so much, Naughty Haute !!!

***
@ Grits - Actually, Acadian started it, then SubRosa ... and then Subrosa more or less threw a challenge out there that went something like this ... "Who's Next?" Er... Maxical is !!!

Unfortunately, my aim with the camera is as good (or technically I should say bad) as Maxical's aim with magic or the bow and arrow ... so I settled for all "shots from behind" to keep everyone from being shocked.

Not to mention my notoriously poor eyesight which on one occasion caused me to inadvertantly post a pic of a man on SubRosa's thread ... lets just say that ... "IT" ... was not the "pattern of his pants or a tatoo" in his nether regions as it appeared when I looked at it.

Thanks to Destri's immediate intervention and comment ("GAAAAH!") I pulled out a magnifying glass and looked at the pic more ... closely ... the offending pic was immediately taken down and my membership on this forum remains intact. (WHEW!!)

Thank you so much Grits!

@ Everyone - just so you know - those screenies were taken for the original story on the BGSF when Maxical was living at Castle Skingrad.

What on EARTH were you doing posting a pic of a MAN on SUB ROSA's thread!

O, the humanity!

Er...

Wait, that's not right for Rosie..


O, the pullisimanity!!!

I don't think Pulls-his-manatee is apropos either.

Hmmpf! Well, he pulled his Man-a-tee so hard it became a Man-a-DONG!!!

Meh meh meh!!!