A New Sun Rises - Maxical's Adventures, The Truth Behind The Oblivion Crisis Options

[mALX]

*


Chapter 50: The Day Of Truth



“Agronak can’t take care of himself, Maxical. His mind isn’t…right.“ Gils was looking away from me. “He’s always been like this…but he has periods where it gets worse.�

Hannibal had told me that if Agronak’s mental problems were congenital he would have required more care as a child, creating a stronger bond in Gils since he practically raised Agronak.

Still, something wasn’t fitting right between Gils’ words and his actions. It was like a jigsaw puzzle where a piece looks like it should fit, but the edges stick up slightly when you try to press them into place. Then suddenly it hit me, like a flash illuminating the right piece…the real questions.

“Wait! If you knew Agronak wasn’t right, why did you let me spend unsupervised time with him or give me no word of warning? Why was he even with me if you cared for me right from the beginning?�

“He couldn’t hurt you…he just likes to be seen with women.�

“Couldn’t hurt me! He crushed my shoulder, had me falsely arrested, and ruined my reputation! And his ‘problem’ shouldn’t have involved me, not if you cared from the start as you vowed. Why did you let him display me if you loved me? Wait! Why didn‘t you stop him from doing those things to me?� Why won’t he look me in the face?

“I never thought he’d actually…hurt you. Owyn noticed he got worse…out of control…whenever I was serious about someone. I’ve always been there for him…maybe he fears that will end if I marry, I don’t know. Agronak can’t stand being around any woman for long, they irritate him. I thought he’d tire of you quickly, not harass you like he did…the other Khajiit.�

My chair scraped loudly back, nearly falling over I stood so fast. “I’m not a toy rattle for you to pacify your Orc with! You’re acting like he was two and you feared a tantrum! He’s over thirty, Gils. It‘s time to stop changing diapers and breast feeding. If he gets worse the Legion can handle it. As long as you follow him around wiping his butt for him he will keep manipulating you with these fits. You’re allowing him to destroy your career, your happiness. Don’t think I will.“

“What does that mean?�

A terrible ache was building inside me as the realization struck…this was it. There was no sense talking anymore. I forcibly stifled my rant, struggling for a more rational tone.

“You told me it was love and I was dumb enough to believe you. You can keep your habit of protecting ‘Aggie‘, Gils…I’m stepping off. When we get back to the Bloodworks I won’t be sleeping with you anymore.�

“Maxical, don’t do this! I know you love me.�

“Aye…I do. But I can’t rely on you to rescue or protect me when Agronak is your main priority. And you let his whims dictate your commitment to me from day one. I won’t settle for second place to him, Gils.“ I turned to leave, nearly plowing into the bug-eyed librarian that was obviously eavesdropping.

A feeling of emptiness and pain surged up inside me, I had to fight the keening from rising in my throat. Everyone warned me. I’d let Gils slip by all the warnings. When charm is used against someone it becomes wiles; even Agronak had warned me of Gils’ wiles.

This was my mistake, and might have consumed me had I not remained intact and unstarted. I believed him after everyone said not to…naivety. He hadn’t changed in twenty years…stuck in his own hell, and would never be free while Agronak lived. But dear gods I loved him still, even knowing. Breaking from him…it’ll tear me apart living in the Bloodworks with him.

The seduction and allure of the Bloodworks…it’s like a country within a country. When you cross the threshold you step into another realm with its own governing laws, its own freedoms and hierarchies. You become so immersed that you don’t see clearly what is in front of you. I could easily have succumbed many times with only the thought of the sensations that blinded reality…thrown the years with Fathis away. Gils is very good at what he does. I don’t know the skills Fathis possesses except by reputation. But he could never match Gils in charm.






***

Gils followed me talking. I couldn’t hear what he was saying, my ears were pinned down to muffle the sound of his voice. When we rounded the corner to the main gate we were treated to the sight of Agronak punching out a guard. Three other guards lay on the ground at his feet and more were running towards him. Citizens were running forward to help the guards.

“Gee, he made it out of Crowhaven without your help, Gils. His drawers may be soiled though, better run check him.� I cringed at the bitterness of my own words, but was unable to stop the hurt and anger that was fueling my mouth right now.

An overly large Argonian ran forward and jacked Agronak’s jaw with an uppercut that would have put a horse down. The Orc literally flew backwards, landing in a heap at the guards feet.

“Oh my gods, that is Hauls-Ropes-Faster! He was at the Arena when I first came. How did he know about Aggie’s glass jaw?� Gils was looking stunned.

“Maybe it’s another thing you only thought was a secret.� I followed Gils up to the crowd around the prostrate Orc.

‘Hauls’ confirmed my theory when Gils asked him. “Who doesn’t know that? And about his…er, shall we say difficulties when it comes to pleasing the ladies. It is common knowledge. Speaking of ladies, I hope you plan to introduce me…� He smiled at me, raising mobile eyebrows several times over half-closed eyelids.

Whatever was going on between Gils and I, there was a large crowd here and we represented the Arena. Owyn’s training was very strict on representing our persona in public. The state I was in, I doubt I could have pulled it off without the comic relief provided by Hauls‘s overt flirtations.

It took enormous effort to suffocate the raw ache and anger inside, it felt as real as any wound. I choked out a laugh at the Argonian’s facial antics and made my tail into a question mark.

He pointed at me. “You’re the one with the tail! The white Khajiit I read about! What brings you to Anvil?� He pushed by Gils.

“I came on a mission that has ended. I was just leaving to get back to the Imperial City.�

“Ah, the sun won’t shine as bright in Anvil when you leave, you aren’t walking the roads of Cyrodiil alone are you?�

“It looks that way. My escort abandoned me to protect that Orc you just laid out.�

“We can’t have that…�

Gils pushed by him and grabbed my arm, his molten eyes were glowering. “I’m escorting her home. She has no need of your…services.� A man nearest us in the crowd raised his head, obviously anticipating another fight.

Gils turned towards me then, giving me the full brunt of the emotions that were infusing his face. “Maxical what are you doing? You think you’ll make it back intact with him escorting you? He’ll take it from you by force, please let’s work this out. I don’t want to break up.“

Three more men’s heads raised, giving intrigued looks at us. An Imperial woman looked me up and down, then winked at me. Hauls‘s eyes gleamed before he dropped the lids halfway and arched one eyebrow several times at me.

“How churlish of you to announce that publicly Gils.� He said, winking in my direction.

“Yes Gils, maybe you should take out a billboard…but I will accept your escort home if you are leaving your Orc here and it is just you and me.�

Hauls would have me laid down in a field before leaving Anvil County even if I was just a female mud crab, that was obvious.

“I’m sorry, I should have phrased that better. Maxical, we need to talk this out, not break up.�

“Ma'Thjizzrini Qa!�

I spun around and there was Fathis, standing like the statue of a hero in the middle of the open gate.

“Fathis!� I breathed more than spoke.

“Now there is one that won’t abandon you for an Orc.� Hauls muttered.

He was right. Tears crowded my eyes, burning. Everything in me wanted to throw myself into Fathis’s arms like I had the first day I met him. I imagine it’s how sailors feel coming into their home port from a bad storm when they kiss the soil as they alight. I had always turned to him when I had a problem, sought comfort from him. The pain and turmoil inside me felt like acid eating through my stomach. But I couldn’t turn to Fathis to ease it, not when it was wrought by another man. Guilt held my feet planted.

“Are you here for me Fathis?� I asked him in Khajiit.

“What else is there? What is it then Ma'Thjizzrini Qa? Why are you here?� He answered in Khajiit, his eyes sliding rapidly over the crowd till they fell on Gils.

Fathis’s hand slid to his sword hilt then; his molten glare never wavered from Gils, giving credence to the challenge.

Hauls saluted Fathis, grinning as he wandered back to the crowd around the Orc. He stayed turned toward us, his eyes riveted on Fathis and Gils. This town must love a fight.

I pointed to Agronak‘s prostrate body. “I promised to get proof of his heritage for him. It is very bad, Fathis. His father was a 200 year old insane vampire named Lord Lovidicus. When I fought all the vampires and it was safe, suddenly the Orc showed up. He argued with his father over the proofs, so I left.�

“Traven told me you were in Anvil right in front of the Orc. I laid the cretin down for hurting your shoulder, and for trying to ruin you with that ring and deed. The Orc must have overheard him. I searched for you here first. Finally a guard mentioned Crowhaven, but had no directions. When I finally reached the place, I saw the Orc leaving it covered in blood. I followed him first to make sure you were safe…and to finish him for hurting you. If I hadn‘t had to stable my horse you may have seen me knock him out again.“

“Will you bring me home Fathis?�

“That was my purpose for coming, my Ma'Thjizzrini Qa. You are still mine, are you not?� Fathis touched his sword hilt again, glaring into Gils’ eyes with the promise of his death if I wasn’t.

We spoke only in Khajiit. Gils couldn’t understand the words but read Fathis’s look and challenge easily enough, comprehension was clear in his eyes. I suddenly felt terrible for having doubted Fathis. I had nearly given everything we had together away for Gils and the flirtation he spewed.

The realization of how close I came to not keeping myself for Fathis shamed me. I buried my face in his shoulder, unable to look him in the eye when I answered. If he saw my guilt, Gils would be decorating his sword.

“I am still yours, I’ve kept my promise to you.� I barely whispered the words into his shoulder. It was the truth…so why did it feel like a lie?

The tension seemed to ease out of Fathis at my words. He squeezed me then quickly released me.

“That is good. Had he been your lover I would have killed him for what he took from me.� He spoke as if talking to me, but changed to speaking in Cyrodiilic and glared directly into Gils’ eyes as he said it.

Somehow in a crowd of people Fathis had singled out Gils as the one that may have been my lover. I don‘t know how.

The crowd around Agronak shouted suddenly, he was sitting up. He stared hard at me, then lunged toward us roaring.

In a split second Fathis pushed me behind him and stepped forward, his arm shot up like a lightning bolt and the sound of crushing bones followed. Agronak was back out again.

Gils was gaping, stunned. I had a moment of petty gratitude that he witnessed Fathis lay out his Orc to protect me…dear gods. I don’t remember ever being bitter and hateful before…please don’t let me become a product of what I’m feeling right now. I couldn‘t stand myself…nor Agronak having the power to change me.

Fathis’s eyes were darting back and forth between my face and Gils‘, noting every nuance of expression with a building rage. His right hand kept making intermittent swipes at the hilt of his sword. If I didn’t get Fathis away I was liable to see Gils' death.

“Fathis, can we go now?�

With one last glare at Gils, Fathis put his arm around me and escorted me away. I didn’t dare glance back at Gils again, Fathis would have run him through.


*

This post has been edited by mALX: Aug 4 2016, 03:52 AM

[haute ecole rider]

Now all becomes clear (or comes back to me!)

I have to admit this version of Fathis is soooo much more satisfying to the hopeless romantic in me than the one in the other forum. This Fathis can give Janus Hassildor a run for the money - and probably win!

[Acadian]

Another one of your best!

Being inside Maxical's head as she assessed that Gils was not for her was a treat! Her internal and external dialogue blended beautifully.

I have no doubt that Maxical will grow beyond Gils (and his girlfriend Agatha the glass-jawed orc).

You managed Fathis magnificently. He may have just as well knocked down the gate to Anvil with a white horse and shining armor. You are showing us what Maxical sees in him.

This entire episode was just pure joy to read and had me cheering.

[D.Foxy]

Now, Hautee...WHY have you not commented on this, the most powerful post out mALX has written, the one that delves deep in the psyche of the female?

Here we see:

That our Khajit finally understands the meaning of the conflict between her sexual and emotional drives in her psyche, and how Fathis is the only man who can reconcile the two...

That certain men (and women, too!) like Gils...are deeply flawed emotionally: that they appear to be likeable and charming on the surface, but deep down inside have a terrible, jawning chasm that splits their soul from end to end...and if you get too close to them, you will fall into that chasm, and never get out.

And the terrrible thing about them is that you can't even get mad with them when you find out about that flaw. It was built into their emotional DNA. You always end up kicking yourself and saying "Why, why didn't I SEE what was RIGHT IN FRONT OF MY FACE?"

That .... and this is found more often in women than men.... emotional bonds are hard to break....you know he's a heel, and you know it was the right thing to break up....and yet there is a part of you that aches and yearns for the the love that is a lie.


All this depth was MISSED by you because out mALX is such a good writer of comedy that even when she writes deep and searing emotional truths it is masked by her writing skills...readers, learn to read her posts twice. You may find something you missed the first time around.


I shall be off TDY for a week or so, so this is a loooon post. AND a deserved one.

Kudos to mALX!!!

[Destri Melarg]

^Wut he said.

@ Destri - Never used "Enemies Explode?" Watch this vid:

Enemies Explode

OH. MY. LORD!! THE BOOTS!!!

I am riding to Bravil RIGHT NOW to buy that spell from Delphine!

The seduction and allure of the Bloodworks…it’s like a country within a country. When you cross the threshold you step into another realm with its own governing laws, its own freedoms and hierarchies. You become so immersed that you don’t see clearly what is in front of you. I could easily have succumbed many times with only the thought of the sensations that blinded reality…thrown the years with Fathis away. Gils is very good at what he does. I don’t know the skills Fathis possesses except by reputation. But he could never match Gils in charm.

Sorry mALX, but Remko called it a few chapters ago. This whole chapter puts paid to any notion that Maxical is dumb. And this paragraph makes her brilliant! After all, how many 'dumb' people would be able to pull off the use of the words 'seduction', 'allure', 'threshold', 'hierarchies', 'immersed', and 'succumbed' within a single paragraph?

This post has been edited by Destri Melarg: Sep 26 2010, 10:31 AM

[treydog]

“I’m not a toy rattle for you to pacify your Orc with! You’re acting like he was two and you feared a tantrum!"

I mentioned wanting to stand up and cheer for a line in the previous chapter- doubly so for this statement!

I still have some suspicions about Gils and Agronak and the Green Weenie's heritage...

And, just to keep things from getting too overwrought, you bring in Hauls-Ropes-Faster.

"Ah, the sun won’t shine as bright in Anvil when you leave, you aren’t walking the roads of Cyrodiil alone are you?”

That is just an absolutely outstanding moment of writing. The tension is getting unbearable- things might turn ugly at any moment- and then we are introduced to a charming rogue of an Argonian! If I could think of a way to get away with it, I would steal the technique you display there. But, just as there is only one Maxical, there is only one mALX.

I don’t remember ever being bitter and hateful before…please don’t let me become a product of what I’m feeling right now. I couldn‘t stand myself…nor Agronak having the power to change me.

No, not a dumb kitty at all.

And Fathis earns a bit of credit for using her true name at this moment of loss and understanding. I still distrust him, still have my E. Tennessee contrarian reaction to anyone "owning" or "buying" someone else's affections or favors. Yes, Fathis has done many good things for our girl kitty- but... a "gift" is something freely given, with no thought of recompense.

But what I want to end with is- this is one of your best chapters ever.

[haute ecole rider]

Before anyone else jumps all over me for my comment -

This is in reference to a PM conversation I had with mALX - up until her unplanned absence from the forums, I had no problems following the complex plot she was weaving. However, my swiss cheese memory did not stand up well to her prolonged absence, and when Maxical returned to her story, I had forgotten much of the plot details. I knew Gils was a smooth operator (read con artist of the heart), and that Agronak was not the Mr. Nice Guy we know from the game. I was having trouble picking up the plot threads, but knew it would all come back to me eventually as the story progressed. That comment was aimed for for mALX to let her know that the holes in my memory has now been filled, thank you very much.

The characters are all well crafted and real, and Gils is like my sister's ex-boyfriend - all nice and charming on the surface but just deeply flawed beneath in many, many ways.

And I do agree with treydog, this most recent post is one of the best chapters yet - no nits to pick, really.

[mALX]

Before anyone else jumps all over me for my comment -

This is in reference to a PM conversation I had with mALX - up until her unplanned absence from the forums, I had no problems following the complex plot she was weaving. However, my swiss cheese memory did not stand up well to her prolonged absence, and when Maxical returned to her story, I had forgotten much of the plot details. I knew Gils was a smooth operator (read con artist of the heart), and that Agronak was not the Mr. Nice Guy we know from the game. I was having trouble picking up the plot threads, but knew it would all come back to me eventually as the story progressed. That comment was aimed for for mALX to let her know that the holes in my memory has now been filled, thank you very much.

The characters are all well crafted and real, and Gils is like my sister's ex-boyfriend - all nice and charming on the surface but just deeply flawed beneath in many, many ways.

And I do agree with treydog, this most recent post is one of the best chapters yet - no nits to pick, really.

I knew exactly what you were talking about, and was tickled with your comment !!!! I was trying to get everyone to tell me if there was a part that (either I wrote ambiguously or was too far back to hunt out) that they weren't getting - so I could insert a chapter and refresh that part of the storyline rather than have people trying to dig through 50 chapters hunting for it.

TRIVIA: Chapter 50 of the original story is where Maxical got killed !!!

[mALX]

@ Naughty Haute - ROFL !!! A cold shower, ROFL !!! I am glad the memories came back. Just in case others were struggling too, I made a few insets in todays chapter to re-describe some aspects of the stuff I made up for my story.

I agree with you about Fathis, I like him better in this one too. He was a buffoon in the original !!

Thank you so much Haute !!!

***
@ Acadian - Thank you so much Acadian !!! I edited that chapter about eighty times before posting it, and really liked the end result myself !!! You pegged the scene with Fathis!! It didn't show up in that chapter (to cut down on the word count) but it will later - a ray of sunlight was gleaming off Fathis's armor when he was standing there - Gils saw that and comments on it, ROFL !!!!

***
@ Foxy - You could not have made me happier !!! To get a comment like that from the Black Fox - AWESOME !!! Thank you so much Foxy, You ROCK !!!!

***
@ Destri - Oh, I couldn't wait to post the comments and show you that vid !!! RE: Maxical's purported intelligence: She could have read the word 'succumbed' in the Black Horse Courier !!! ROFL !!! - Thank you so much Destri !!!!

***
@ Treydog - Thank you, Thank you, Thank you Treydog !!!!! Your comment on this chapter, (and several others) left me speechless !!!

That whole chapter was written around that first comment you quoted.

***
@ EVERYONE - You all ROCK !!! Thank you so much for reading!!!

[mALX]

*


Chapter 51: And The Day From Hell Continues



Fathis led me to one of the beautiful Inns that dotted the town and got a suite so I could bathe before making the trip back.

As I scrubbed the filth of Crowhaven off me, my mind churned over everything that happened today after leaving that stinking place…peppered with memories of Gils and I together. Afterwards I propped my head against the rounded back of the tub and lay there, just thinking.

Quiet tears made erratic paths through the fur of my cheeks; my throat strangled back the sounds that would have accompanied them. I must have been there quite a while…I wished I could have laid in there till my heart was reconciled to the loss of Gils, but Fathis tapped on the door.

“Ma'Thjizzrini Qa, are you ill?� Fathis called in.

“I’m just tired Fathis…today didn’t go well till you arrived. I’m just…soaking.� I sat up and splashed some of the water over my cheeks, wiping away the streaks left by tears.

“You shattered the Orc’s jaw with one punch Fathis, should I look for your challenge in the Arena?�

“No worries.� Fathis called in, laughing.

“But you used fists, and street moves. When did you start practicing hand-to-hand?� I called, stepping out of the tub.

“Alix has been teaching me.�

“He has? Alix was in town?� I shot into the room with Fathis.

“Ma'Thjizzrini Qa…you’re naked!� Fathis quickly turned his back toward me.

In the Bloodworks it was common at any given time to see someone nude or in various stages of undress. I had become used to not even thinking about it. Fathis’s shock brought the sudden realization that what was acceptable in the Bloodworks would not be understood outside of it. It may even make him angry to know I’d been thus in front of the men in there, or that I saw them naked as well.

I flushed in embarrassment. “I didn’t want to put the smelly armor back on when I’m clean. I’ll get a towel.�

“Don’t you have a change in your pack?�

“No.�

“I saw a nice glass armor in the window at the Peacemakers shop. It was a pretty green shade that would go well with your coloring. I‘ll run across the street and get it…� Fathis started toward the door, keeping his eyes averted.

“Wait, I want to hear about Alix. I haven’t heard from him since graduation. Let me just cover up.� I hurried to the bathing room and grabbed the largest towel, wrapping it around me.

“He and S’Jirra were both coming to see you, but you left town. They were taking care of the Orc first so you would be safe. Let me tell you about the chain Alix ran on that cretin after he hurt your shoulder…� Fathis called from the other room.

He averted his eyes when he saw me, but continued talking. I plopped down beside him, making sure the towel stayed closed.

The towel covered me well, there was nothing to see except legs, arms, and my neck. Fathis’s prudishness was at odds with his reputation, did the thousands of women he bedded keep their clothing on in the act? They couldn’t if they wore greaves or pants, surely some wore these.

Did he only mate in the dark? A vision of Fathis snuffing candles while a woman waited on his bed crossed my mind…no. I listened to every scrap of gossip about Fathis, it would have come to my ears by now if he behaved thus in the act of romance.

With a sinking feeling another thought struck me. Could it be because I was Khajiit? Fathis had never bedded Khajiit before…was it possible he found the fur offensive?

As he detailed the people who helped run the chain, my thoughts stayed distracted by his averted face…and wondering what Gils was doing.

“Do you regret the promise between us, Ma'Thjizzrini Qa?� Fathis interrupted my reverie, watching my face closely.

“If we are together, no. But you broke with me over the armor and never contacted me since. I didn‘t think you were ever coming back, and felt…unforgiven, left on a shelf like an unwanted toy. Time waiting alone palls quickly. Then I regret promises.�

“Ma'Thjizzrini Qa, we need to settle this. I planned waiting till you were older, but now I think it best to announce you publicly as my intended as soon as you turn eighteen.�

“You mean it? And we’ll be together like we were before graduation?“ I squealed, wrapping both arms around his neck and squeezing him nearly to death.

“Now that’s my Ma'Thjizzrini Qa!� Fathis laughed, caressing my cheek gently like he used to at the Arcane. His eyes were not passionate or intense like Gils’, but they clearly held love for me.






***

If Gils had escorted me home he would have been charming and romantic, we would probably be together again by now. He is like a drug in my system, a weakness that binds me to his side through anything. Even now the fire in Gils’ eyes burns into my memory evoking thoughts of him while I am here with Fathis.

The promise to Fathis could have been called in anytime, how much more painful it would have been if I hadn’t realized Gils was a mistake beforehand…that would help me forget him. Still…this was tearing me inside, I was in too deep.

Having to live broken from Gils in the Bloodworks…that will be my downfall. Unless Fathis removes me, there is only one way to guarantee I never again fall for Gils’ charms in a moment of weakness. Fathis would have to start me. If I was bound to him, it should seal all those feelings onto Fathis.

“Fathis…er…I need to discuss something…uh…important. Er…the blue show…it drives Khajiit powerfully inside…er…uh…to mate. It really drives us quite mad till we are…uh…er…started. When a man starts us, we become bound to him for life. It keeps us faithful to him forever. Er…uh…can you…er…will you…start me now? Seal it between us so there can never be another?�

“How does a man start you?�

“You just have to…uh…er…bring arousal. Just squeezing my tail like this works.� I showed him then turned my back to him and waved my tail in his face.

“Ma'Thjizzrini Qa, you don’t understand how it works. A man isn’t built for starting and stopping, just doing. You will be eighteen soon, legal age. We can’t be kissing and touching before then.�

“You don’t have to stop, Fathis. It was saved for you, is yours to have whenever you wish. Just please make me bound to you, it is a lifelong commitment that I will belong to you and no one else. I’ll feel better…er…you’ll feel better knowing…�

His eyes showed a negative response was imminent, I broke in before he could speak it.

“Fathis, the Legion didn‘t even know I was Khajiit when they found me. They just guessed at my age. Hannibal is sure I’m older, he said the blue show only appears at twenty years old. The legal documents can be appealed. Look, we are behind walls and doors.� I pointed.

“No one knows what we do in here. When the flag is blue, men know I’m untouched. They try to be the one to take it from me. When you start me the flag turns purple. Men will know I‘m bound to someone and they’ll leave me alone.�

That caught his attention.

“Fathis, we are together in this place that breathes romance…I’ve never seen such a view. The scent of the sea and sand…everything here is white like me, even the horses. No one knows us here…it would mean everything to me for it to be here in such a place…please?�

Fathis kissed me then.

Dunmer men are sought for their expertise, but until they marry rarely find a partner that pleases them. After marriage they can teach only their first wife the sacred Dunmer mysteries - the secret tricks to pleasing and keeping the men faithful to the marriage.

It is rigidly adhered to, bringing severe consequences to any man who breaks tenets. That law keeps polygamy and divorce out of their culture.

Gils taught them to me because we swore marriage vows together. I’ve never claimed to be the brightest, but to be honest it never occurred to me to pretend I was ignorant of them when I kissed Fathis. He is a Dunmer after all.

Not having kissed any but Gils before, I didn’t know there would be differences. There was. I suddenly was faced with what it felt like to be with someone really experienced and why Fathis got chased by women all the time. He had all the skilled moves of a courtesan, a maestro directing an orchestra of sensations.

Oddly, for it felt so good…I found only minute passion building in me. My body fought arousal for some reason…Oh dear gods! Could I have been started already by Gils?

And then I noticed Fathis was having little response as well. The kiss I gave him was a full passionate kiss designed to bring Dunmer arousal to its peak. It wasn’t working on Fathis. I tried several different mysteries…still no response.

An unsettling feeling came over me as it had earlier when he averted his face. Could his lack of passion be because I am Khajiit? He couldn’t have earned his reputation without arousal…does he think me less than all those human women he bedded? I felt an involuntary flicker of anger at the thought. What other explanation could there be?

Suffocating those thoughts, I doubled my efforts and tried every single trick Gils taught me to evoke the passion from Fathis even one of them would have brought out in Gils. I finally got a response, but not the one I was looking for. Fathis was in a rage. The only desire reflected in his eyes was to see Gils’ lifeless body

“Should I have waited to see what else you’ve learned? If I see that Dunmer I will kill him! I know it is him, don’t deny to me, Ma'Thjizzrini Qa!� Fathis jumped up, his eyes boring into mine while he buckled his sword on.

My nerves were rapidly shattering. Tears crowded my eyes and began spilling out in a flood as a terrible fear gripped me. Fathis didn’t make idle threats, he would kill Gils.

“What are you doing, Fathis? Are you leaving me?�

“Nae, I will escort you, and we will seek your lover on the way. He has taken from me what was mine, and broken Dunmer tenets. You will see him die before he does either again, Ma'Thjizzrini Qa.�

“Fathis, that which I held for you still waits. None have been before you with it. You ended it with me and never returned to tell me different, how would I know our commitment to be valid still? Yet I remained intact, this is not enough for you? My lips are in the same place they’ve always been, they were not hard to find if you sought to be the first to kiss them.�

“You are under legal age, I awaited your eighteenth birthday as any decent man would.� He emphasized the word ‘decent’.

He paced to the end of the room and was looking out the window. Dear gods don’t let Gils be out there…

“Nature made those documents invalid with the blue flag, Fathis. And age wouldn’t keep you from sending me word that you still cared.�

Fathis turned his head slightly my direction, was he listening?

“The proof awaits you and I begged you to take it, Fathis. If anger is the only passion I can arouse in you then withdraw your suit and find someone who fuels your desire. I’m obviously not experienced enough, or maybe not human enough to do that. Or will some magic happen when I turn eighteen that you will suddenly feel what you could not here today?�

Fathis spun around, staring hard at me. His molten eyes were raw with rage and…pain?

“Human! You think that of me? Aye Ma'Thjizzrini Qa. I could have taken you twenty times off just one of those mysteries. The desire is there, but knowing another taught them to you will eat through me till I kill him for it. You see the pain you’ve caused me in my eyes, you know it.�

“Fathis, you broke with me. It was over between us. I have a blue flag on my forehead that tells everyone I am ready and up for grabs. It drives needs in me that you know of and ignored. If something is important to you, do you not watch over and protect it? You don’t abandon and ignore what you care for, expecting no one will steal it.�

Fathis looked like he had run into a brick wall. He came slowly over and sat beside me, then took my hand.

“Aye, Ma'Thjizzrini Qa. Traven and your father both said as much, many times. We need to forget what is past and make a fresh start together. I’ll give you no more cause to seek attention from others. Will you end it with the Dunmer then?�

“I already have.�


*

This post has been edited by mALX: Aug 4 2016, 03:54 AM

[Remko]

The tension between Maxi and Fathis reaches boiling point...
I liked how you had Maxi confront Fathis with his lack of attention. Dumbass should know better

[haute ecole rider]

Maxical is a very sly kitten indeed.

She did right calling Fathis on his boneheaded neglect of her after he saw the golden armor. Instead of asking her about it, he just assumed the worst and went off in a huff and never spoke to her. No wonder Maxical felt abandoned. That much has been clear throughout the story.

Now he is angry because she learned some of the Dunmer mysteries from another Dunmer? He only has himself to blame.

The only thing I could add to this is Maxical cuffing Fathis up the back of the head to knock some sense into that dense head of his.

[Acadian]

You have me on the edge of my seat with Fathis. I sort of want to like him, but my goodness, he is so dense! You presented this episode beautifully. Maxical's actions and words flowed perfectly from her wonderful internal dialogue. Arrgghh! How can Fathis be so dumb!?!

My lips are in the same place they’ve always been, they were not hard to find if you sought to be the first to kiss them.”

This is brilliant.

This is actually a cliff hanger. Despite Fathis' words, I hope to see some evidence that he understand what Maxical has so eloquently laid before him.

Oooh. VERY well done mALX and a joy to read!!!

[treydog]

Another chapter that shows your skill at writing relationships- and that shows Maxical's mixture of wisdom and innocence....

"And age wouldn’t keep you from sending me word that you still cared.”

"If something is important to you, do you not watch over and protect it? You don’t abandon and ignore what you care for, expecting no one will steal it.”

I note those two, because they are absolute gems (or hot coals, which should burn upon Fathis' foolish head).

Fathis is certainly more likable in this version of the story- which does not mean I like him... That is not a comment on your ability to draw compelling characters- just the opposite. Some of the best characters ever written are the ones you would really rather not bring home to dinner....

Maxical has learned that she has the will to break from a charmer like Gils- which she had managed before Fathis "rescued" her- now to see if she can overcome biology and habits of thought where Fathis is concerned...

[mALX]

@ Remko - She's fighting with all her beau today, ROFL !!! Thank you so much Remko !!!

***
@ Naughty Haute - Thank you so very much Haute!!!

The only thing I could add to this is Maxical cuffing Fathis up the back of the head to knock some sense into that dense head of his

ROFL !!!!

***
@ Acadian - Thank you so very much Acadian !! That line you quoted was one of my favorite in the chapter.

***
@ Treydog - Thank you so much Treydog !! And you are right, she is trying to make Fathis realize he is to blame...hoping he won't kill Gils.

[mALX]

*


Chapter 52: Revelations


“I want your promise you will stay true to me after this, Ma'Thjizzrini Qa. Will you give it?� Fathis tried to look deeply into my averted eyes.

“Aye, if we are together I‘ll have no need of another. I thought it was over between us, Fathis.�

“Then come to me.� He held out his arms.

The tension in him was palpable, like taut wires rippling below the surface. Oh dear gods he is still going after Gils.

When Fathis left to buy the armor I ran to the window, pressing my face to the glass. He was walking slowly down the main thoroughfare, his head swiveling like an owl. Fathis suddenly seemed to freeze in his tracks, then almost in slow motion turned to stare at the front of a dilapidated house…Oh no…dear gods no…please don’t let him kill Gils…

“NOOOO!“ I screamed through the closed window, then tried to lift the sash but it wouldn’t budge. I pounded my fists on the glass but it wouldn‘t break.

It seemed he stared at that house an eternity before moving on. My breath came out in a loud gasp as he finally began walking again. I slid to the floor under that window sill, my knees like jelly…I was crying too hard to see now anyway. But with everything in me I prayed he would not find Gils.

Fathis was gone what seemed like hours. The sound of the key in the door jerked me to my feet. In an instant I was hyperventilating with loud whooping gasps that I couldn’t make stop. My body seemed almost to be convulsing it was shaking so badly. I had to look, but dreaded the thought of seeing the evidence if he had found Gils. There was no blood on his armor…Fathis‘s bearing spoke of frustration rather than victory. I exhaled in relief, then found myself struggling to keep the nausea from rising in my throat.

He stared at me, anger…and devastating pain in his eyes…but then without a word he helped me to the urn to vomit. A glimpse in the looking glass as I washed my face afterward showed bloodshot eyes with bright red rings around them from crying. They looked sunk in, my face ghostly pale even for an albino. I looked like a vampire except no fangs.

Fathis was staring at my hands, they were bruised and swollen from beating on the window. Without saying anything he healed me, and rallied me with a spell. I saw him inspecting the bloody marks on the window and sill before he turned to me and spoke.

“We’re leaving, Ma'Thjizzrini Qa, get ready.“







***

Fathis lifted me up on his horse and mounted behind me. He left the stables and headed west.

“Where are you going?�

“I stopped in and talked to the jailer. The Orc had no proofs on him. We are going to see if there are any to be had.�

“Lord Lovidicus is an ancient vampire, can you fight him?�

“Yes Ma'Thjizzrini Qa, I wouldn’t risk having you with me if I couldn’t.�

Fathis didn’t have to kill Lord Lovidicus, he was in pieces all over that vault. I have never seen so much gore and became physically ill from the sight. Fathis scoured around till he found a journal that revealed Lord Lovidicus was Agronak’s father….and an insane vampire. He tucked it in his pack.

“What will you do with it?�

“I‘ll give it to Hassiri and leave it up to him what to do. Unfortunately the Orc can‘t go to jail for killing his father since it’s lawful to kill vampires. I saw many remnants in there, you incinerated quite a few vampires. Do you know what they were?�

“They were all feral, Lord Lovidicus was the only ancient. I have a sack full of vampire dust to give Hannibal.�

“Was this your first time seeing one?�

“Yes. I wet myself when it made that horrible hissing and that blood curdling death scream. And its face looked like an inside out butt hole.“

Fathis smiled. “Believe it or not you get used to the sound after you kill enough of them. How did you know they were feral?�

“Fixed fangs.�

“What professor did you have?� Fathis asked.

“Oh, I learned nothing from my professor. I guarantee he never saw one in real life. He droned on and on till he even put himself to sleep.�

“Was it that pompous boar Ilmiril?� Fathis looked stunned when I nodded. “How could he still be alive? He was decrepit when he taught me! He put me to sleep with his lectures over 50 years ago!�

“You slept in class?�

“His class, yes. Someone needs to shake that Arcane up. They need new professors, younger ones. And classes in things that will really prepare the students, make them fit for the dangers they’ll face outside school walls. The mages coming out of there aren’t up to snuff. And Jarol!� Fathis snorted to indicate his opinion of Irlav Jarol.

“Don’t remind me of him! He always kept a list of all my ill deeds on his person so it would be handy to add to. He even slept with it. It was quite large. Whenever I got in trouble he would reach inside his robe and pull it out. Everyone thought he was extremely well endowed till they found out it was just a giant scroll filled with my ill deeds….are you okay Fathis?�

Fathis nearly choked laughing.

“He wrote me the whiniest letter, said you were biting other students on the neck claiming to be a vampire, do you remember getting in trouble for that?�

“We were all biting each other on the necks and saying that. Delphine took a chunk out of one boys neck by accident. She didn’t get in trouble for it, but I did because Jarol caught me doing it.�

“How did you learn about vampires then?�

“The majority of my time at the Arcane was spent confined in Hannibal’s quarters for my ill deeds. I eventually got tired of pulling pranks on him…“

“Like what?�

“Short-sheeting his bed, switching his sugar and salt, creasing his loin cloths with potato starch…well, I only did that once. Please don‘t ever remind him of that one, Fathis. I think he’s forgotten it. Anyway, I started reading his tomes. He has an excellent one on vampires, it’s huge. It has everything about them, even the spells they use. Delphine and I memorized the love slave spell and tried to cast it on all the boys. It didn’t work, though.“

“Lucky for me, I’d have to slay the whole graduating class.�

“Not the women. Did you know Hannibal is friends with an ancient vampire?�

“Yes. I’ve met him.�

I turned in the saddle, staring bug eyed at Fathis. “I want to hear everything!�

“I can’t tell you who it is, of course. But he is quite friendly and benign.�

“What line is he from?�

“He is an Immortal.�

“Oooh!� I breathed. “They are the rarest! Fathis this is exciting! Tell me everything.�


I kept a constant chatter up to distract him from searching for Gils, and swished my tail in his face incessantly till I was sure he couldn‘t see where he was going. The whole time we rode I watched intensely for Gils, silently praying we wouldn’t come across him.

Fathis did stop the horse and kiss me a few times. Although he seemingly enjoyed the kisses, his passion never roused from them, nor did mine in spite of all the new sensations he evoked. I quickly added praying Gils hadn’t started me to the prayers for his safety.









******* Gils

Gils’ hope of patching things up with Maxical on the walk back to the Imperial City was shattered by the sight of Fathis Aren stepping through the gate. The suns rays glinted off his armor creating a halo effect around him. He looked every bit the heroic vision Gils was sure Maxical thought he was.

The timing couldn’t have been worse. His fight with Maxical had been over Gils’ lack of protection of her...and Aggie. In one punch Fathis covered both aspects just minutes after his arrival, and did it as smoothly as if he was brushing off a mosquito.

Dunmer instinctively know their rivals, Gils wasn’t surprised Fathis had singled him out for the challenge. Had it been anyone but him Gils would have fought for her, but Maxical made it clear from the beginning that Fathis was her intended. Gils had to honor that unless she told him different.

Maxical said that if Fathis ever showed she would choose either to stay with him or keep her promise to Fathis. If that whole Crowhaven fiasco hadn’t happened, Gils was sure she would have picked him.

Everything Maxical spoke of being romantic Fathis gave to her…including the Inn with a view of the beaches. That was Gils’ own fault.

Maxical said outright that the truce was off, she wanted to get a hotel room together instead of going to Crowhaven. Everything he’d waited for since day one, bound to him for life…his. What idiot would have turned her down? What maggot got in his brain to push onward to Crowhaven with an offer like that made? She was right, it was obvious he had made Aggie a priority over her…but why? Why didn’t he realize what he was doing at the time?

This wasn’t the first time he had found himself losing something important over Aggie…and not knowing why. Walking off from the height of his musical career that meant everything to him…and never understanding how those decisions could have been made by him, but they were.

As if on cue Aggie showed up each time, just as he did today. Through the years Gils repeatedly wondered if Aggie had a way to control others thoughts and actions. The idea was always discarded as ridiculous, paranoid…until now. Maxical said these ancients had extraordinary powers. An expert like Hannibal might know if such control over another exists…and could be passed on to the offspring.

Gils’ father had said the same thing. Everyone thought he was going senile, blaming a child for actions he obviously had done himself. He could barely tolerate Aggie, but changed his will to add Aggie as the primary heir, then denied he ever would have done that. That was just one of many incidents before he became ill. Neither Gils or his father had such episodes before Luktuv and Aggie came.

The superhuman strength…Owyn always said it was inherited from something, not someone…and Owyn said Luktuv had been murdered with poison. Gils’ father had been green too. Aggie was there with both the nights they died.

Gils found something chillingly familiar between Aggie’s delicate mental balance and Lord Lovidicus today.






***

Gils watched from the window of an abandoned house as Fathis scouted around, seeking him. At one point Fathis stared hard at the very window he was looking out of, coming to a full stop in front of the house. Gils backed from view, but Fathis continued staring…glaring.

Gils glanced around, the only escape if Fathis entered would be out that window. There was no doubt Fathis was seeking his death. Finally, after what seemed an interminable time Fathis moved on. Gils let out his breath loudly, not even realizing he had been holding it.

When Fathis and Maxical stepped out and headed for the main gate, Gils was surprised to see them carrying their packs. Fathis wasn’t staying overnight with her? Why?

Maxical was glancing around nervously. She may have called an end to their relationship, but it was obvious she didn’t want Fathis to kill him either. That may be reason to hope they could patch things between them.

Gils slid through the gate and followed them. To his shock they turned toward Crowhaven. He followed at a distance, keeping ducked low in the high grasses and brush. Maxical didn’t want to come back here…she wouldn’t have. Fathis must have insisted, but why?

When they went inside Gils climbed to the top of the enclosure, crouching on the highest parapet amongst the pieces of charred skeleton that littered the thin walkway...evidence of damage from Maxical’s fire spell. With a pang Gils remembered how close they were still at that point, teasing her with the bony hand of the other skeleton.

The creaking of the door caught Gils by surprise, they hadn’t been in there long at all! He honed his ears to catch their words as they emerged and mounted up. Drat Fathis speaking in Khajiit, Gils couldn‘t understand a word, only that they seemed in good charity with each other.

Gils balanced on crumbling wall of the parapet and watched them ride away, the horse picking its own path down the hillside from Crowhaven. Fathis pulled his horse to a stop at the bottom and kissed Maxical…that said it all.

With a strangled yell Gils picked up the charred skull of the skeleton and threw it as hard as he could, half hoping it would bean Fathis and end that kiss...even if it meant they would draw swords right afterward.


*

This post has been edited by mALX: Aug 4 2016, 03:56 AM

[treydog]

This chapter expertly weaves the differences between Gils and Fathis.... And, to no one's surprise, the person who emerges as the best is Maxical.

You also begin to reveal that my deleted spoilerish speculation from an earlier comment may be correct.

creasing his loin cloths with potato starch…

Drat Fathis speaking in Khajiit, Gils couldn‘t understand a word,

That small moment there reveals far more than Gils would care to realize. Although he claims to love Maxical, he never bothered to learn her language- only the methods to seduce her. Credit to Fathis for his scholarship, at least.

And the reminiscences about the Arcane were great fun- have to wonder if the ancient lecturer on vampires is some other kind of "ancient."

[haute ecole rider]

Yes, Treydoggie, every college has a few "ancients" tucked away in a corner classroom here and there. I've had a few of them!

mALX, I really liked this - you've captured the intense rivalry between Fathis and Gils beautifully. Gils's POV was effective and felt particularly authentic - now he is kicking himself for making Agronak his priority instead of Maxical. He has every reason to fear Fathis - the man is a formidable mage when he chooses to be.

[Acadian]

My goodness. You have built Fathis and Gils both into such deliciously complex characters. No one-dimensional good/bad simple fellows here. Nosireee.

I feel sorry for Gils, but would never, ever consider him redeemable. He has spoken, and his flaws seem fatal.

Fathis has clearly demonstrated that he cares greatly for Maxical, but it is unclear whether he cares for her as a pet or perhaps a piece of property. He doesn't seem to consider the questions: "How can I best fulfull Maxical's needs? Do I even know what those needs are?"

Maxical, on the other hand, although young and full of swirling emotions is the only one of the three who seems to really factor in the needs of those she deems important to her.

Wonderful, mALX!

This post has been edited by Acadian: Sep 29 2010, 04:00 PM

[Destri Melarg]

How did you sneak a chapter past me??!!

Chapter 51: And The Day From Hell Continues

I find it ironic that everyone is willing to berate Fathis for jumping to conclusions about the golden armor while saying nothing about the fact that Maxical attributes his lack of arousal to her being Khajiit. TWICE! Did she think he had never noticed the fur before? Then there is the wonderful incongruity of her speculation of Fathis’ past dalliances while mentioning Gils’ name no less than SEVENTEEN TIMES (yes, I counted) during this chapter. Ah, the mystery that is woman!

I loved it all, mALX.

Chapter 52: Revelations

It was good to see Maxical and Fathis laughing again. That has been too long absent! I can’t imagine what Hassiri will write when given the evidence of Agronak’s parentage. I see another special edition coming.

I think there is far more than protective impulse in Gils and Agronak’s relationship. Hopefully the long walk back to Cyrodiil will give him time to see the insidious connection in all the deaths that have befallen those that surrounded them.

And we only blew a seven on the Gils-o-meter. Maxical is improving. But, then again, half of this chapter was told from Gils’ POV where we don’t count the number of times his name is mentioned!