Sampson and Devilah #7

Meanwhile, Sampson and Devilah had made camp just off the road to Markarth… “A castle. We must be cautious when we get there. The fiend will have minions. They always do.” “I’m sure they do. Say, it’s kind of cold out here. Can I snuggle in with you just for tonight?” “Devilah, how many times must I tell you? My vow is inviolate. I know how much you want to thank me for my kindness, but it will have to wait. It’s a pity you have such sensitive fur that you can’t wear something warmer. Now go to sleep, we must get an early start in the morning.” Devilah sighed. “Alright. Well, goodnight master.”
Soon Devilah heard his heavy breathing and rose from her mat and sat before the fire. “You there?” “Eternally,” said a small voice from within the flames. “No luck yet. He’s killed all the Brotherhood but still insists on his vow.” “The vow of his kind is a hard thing to break.” “He’s a clod, but he’s my clod. How’s things down there?”
“The Master is still busy in Cyrodil. But the Good/Evil meter for Skyrim swung even farther to the Good today It’s only a matter of time before he notices, Devilah.” “Damn. I’m going to get in trouble aren’t I?” “I’ve told you that from the beginning! Look, Sweet, you know I’m fond of you. But I’m beginning to question your allegiance. Your pursuit of this ‘clod’ has caused far more Good than Evil. I just don’t think you’re looking at the big picture.”
“You don’t really think I’m going to abandon him NOW do you? He must be so pent up he’s about to burst! Besides, how Evil do you think this Black Cat person can possibly be? The loss of one more surely won’t make any difference.” “Now that you mention it, I’ve looked her up. She’s not even IN the Evil column! He’s chasing a Good!”
“Well, there you go. If he kills her, that can only help bolster my case, right?” “I suppose. But I’m still worried about that Sword. It’s blurred in my sight. It must be enchanted in some way, and we still don’t know what that is.” “Seems normal enough to me. Cut through those assassins like butter!” “Even so… Be careful Devilah. Your personal meter seems to be swinging awfully close to Good too. Your actions have resulted in Net Good all across Skyrim you know!”
“That’s why I’m up here and you’re down there. I just need a little more time. We’ll find this Black Cat and then he will succumb.” “For your sake, I hope so. I wouldn’t want to have to subject you to an Intervention.” “ That is not in my plan. Now go back to your meters. I’ll be in touch again as soon as I can. Devilah out.”
The cat returned to her mat and pulled an intriguingly shaped instrument from it. Thumbing a recessed button on the base, it began to hum. She looked towards the sleeping hulk and then back to the device and considered. Then she passed a hand over the device and it grew a bit larger. “Looks like it’s just you and me again tonight, Mr. Sparky. Don’t let me down!”
“Oh Sampson, Oh SAMPSON!” she cried some time later, though the object of her passion only shifted and grunted before turning over in his sleep.
>Suddenly the instrument went silent. “What? Now?! NO! Not now! I was almost there!” she cried, shaking it with all her might. The plastic simulacrum gave a final hum and stopped again. “Oh goddammit. My last battery too. There’ll be no more of those in this plane!”
Devilah looked at the big man, now snoring heavily, as she lay back down. Though she would have said it was impossible, in fact a very small – almost microscopic – tear fell from her eye.

Sampson and Devilah #6

“What about your husband?” asked the brave vigilante, shivering not from cold but embarrassment before the fire in nature’s finest attire after his Ointment ordeal. “Oh, he won’t mind. He’s been through that before. You’re lucky though, he got the full dose! That trap you sprang just releases a focused spray. Your armor should even be fine after another hour’s soak. Now you just sit there and let that ointment do it’s job.” “Traps. I’m… not very good at traps.” “So I saw. You know, you’re quite a specimen for a human, Mr. Sampson.” “ Hey!” Sampson shouted and closed his legs.
“Thickheaded, but in more ways than one,” suggested Devilah in a whisper. “So I also saw,” smiled Shabhira. “You’re a lucky girl!” “Someday,” said Devilah with a wistful glance at her man, “…someday”. “Oh, it’s like that is it?” Devilah nodded.
“Well, so tell me, what’s this quest you’re on. Who is this Black Cat?” “Ah, my nemesis. She is a demon, rejected even by the Dark Brotherhood. A purveyor of evil. Who knows how many lives she has snuffed out? I seek to rid the earth of her foul life!” “I see… and where are you going to find her?” “A haunt known as the Tails of the Khajiit, where she hides in plain sight. She now goes by the appellation ‘Kitty’.”
“We met a man who has seen her,” Sampson went on, “and lucky he is that he escaped with his life. She even had the audacity to pose for the smut rag openly! Oh her countenance and pride in her misdeeds will soon see an end!” “I seem to recall you were particularly affronted by that picture of her rear. You seemed to study it quite closely,” Devilah noted. “I’ve committed that heinous image to memory. When I find her, no disguise shall deceive me.” “Not if you see her from behind I guess.”
Meanwhile Shabhira’s mind was racing furiously behind her calm exterior. “Ah, yes. Perhaps I can help you! This… Kitty. She left the Tails some time ago as I understand. My poor husband had the misfortune of meeting her before he met me. I understand she now lives in a castle near Markarth. I’m sure if you go there, they’ll know how to direct you to her. She only just arrived recently and the new owner of a castle isn’t likely to go unnoticed!”
“Ma’am, you are a delight! But now I must be off! Come Devilah, there’s no time to waste! Oh, but I have no coin to pay you with for your helpful information. Perhaps, Devilah, you would like to do her a favor as you have so many others?” Devilah looked to her fellow female Khajiit, “I… don’t think she’d be interested.” “Then let us be off!” said the hero, striking his best heroic pose. The Black Cat awaits!“
"Um…” Sabhira said as she found herself staring a bit too close at Sampson’s manhood. “Sampson… your armor?” Devilah pointed out. “Oh!!! Sorry!!! Ma’am? Can I get my armor back?”
Shabhira retrieved the metalwork from a tub of greenish water. “That should be sufficient. The leather bits will still have some lingering odor, but when you replace them they’ll be fine. And you will replace them. I guarantee it.” And with that, the hero and his companion took leave of Shabhira.
Three hours later FarSeer came home to an empty cabin. He soon found a note left on the table from his wife however that read: Dear Lover, That warrior and his ‘supposed’ servant are looking for Kitty and aim to kill her! I’ve GOT to go warn her. I’m worried about him, but I think Ubergard can handle him. But that Devilah worries me, there’s something not right about her. I’ve pointed them to Markarth but at best that will only buy her a couple of days. Please don’t follow me, you know Kitty still has feelings for you and I don’t want to bring all that up again. I’ve made you dinner, it’s in the icebox. Don’t bring your buddies in the house. I have traps set if more than two feet tread the floorboards. I’ll be back in a few days. And don’t forget to drink your vegetable puree. It’s good for you. Love, Kisses and that other thing I do… Shabhira
The werewolf sniffed the air and considered following, but decided his wife was usually right, and instead went to check the icebox.

Sampson and Devilah #5

“I think you must be the single most charitable person I know, Devilah! You must have been in there two hours! Did you clean his plumbing around the whole house?” “Around the world would be a more apt description,” Devilah replied, rubbing her rump. “He’s insatiable! Must be a Furry!” Behind them, Kalolf was on his knees, still begging Devilah to marry him. “I only wish I could have spared you and allowed you to stay with him. But you know you are precious to me, my long suffering Beatrice.” The Khajiit, walking somewhat bow-legged, looked at the hulking hero. “That’s… actually nice of you to say!” she smiled. “Well, at last we have a name… Kitty.”
“You seem to be walking oddly. Perhaps you would like some relief?” “ Now you ask me to ride? I don’t even think I can sit! Kalolf may look like a pudgy middle-aged man, but I tell you he has the stamina of a lion!” “Oh no. I was going to stop to let Horse rest. You know I must ride. I must maintain my strength…” “Yeah, yeah, yeah,” Devilah finished for him. “I know, I know. Fucking lazy prick,” she said trailing off.
Nightfall found the hero and the Khajiit walking back from Falkreath. “A pity we turned down the wrong road. I think we could have been in Whiterun tonight.” “Hey, you fucking turned! I thought you read the signpost!” “Nonsense, I just followed the arrow.” “There were lots of arrows on that sign you dolt! I swear, if you weren’t such a hunk…”
“Hush! Did you hear that?” asked Sampson. A howl from the hills behind them stopped Sampson is his tracks. He immediately dismounted and tied Horse up to a nearby tree, out of sight of the road. “Werewolf,” he stated, “We must investigate.” “Figures.” whined Devilah, unheard.
“It came from that cabin ahead!” Sampson whispered. “You know, we could just pass on by. That’s what normal people do. Or run.” the hero’s partner suggested. “I am Lawbringer, the hand of Justice. Evil is my foe, in any form. The maw of the werewolf shall not escape my blade!” “Okay, okay! Quiet down! How you’ve stayed alive all this time I don’t know. Well, actually I do…”
“Wait here, dear companion and I shall vanquish the evil creature!” “Be my guest! Your funeral.” As Sampson approached the door, he heard another voice within. A female voice. With Sword drawn, he crept across the threshold.
Suddenly the air was filled with a stench the likes of which he had never smelled before. It seemed to surround him and bind itself to him. “Gotcha!” cried the voice he had heard before. He whirled around, blade before him, other hand to his nose, to see a Khajiit head in the side window looking at him. “State your business or regret your life, thief!” “My pardon, but I am no thief,” he choked. “We heard a werewolf. Was that you?” “Oh, no. That’s just my husband, FarSeer. He’s such a baby. I was picking burrs out of his pelt.” Behind the head, Sampson now perceived a dark coat of fur heaving in pain.
“Ok, FarSeer. That’s enough for now. But please take the trash out. I’ve asked you twice today already.” The whimper from the dark form was just about as un-werewolfly as it could be. “Please lady, can you do anything about this stink?!” “Oh, sure. FarSeer, after you take the trash out, there’s a grocery list on the table. Would you drop into Falkreath and pick those up for me?” The answering whimper contained a note of resigned acceptance.
“That’s a good boy!” the Khajiit ruffled the huge werewolf’s fur as he shuffled past, carrying the list and heading down the path. Now, as for you Mr…“ "Sampson. I am called Sampson, Lawbringer and Hand of…” “Ok Mr. Sampson. Take off that armor and any underclothes you have on. Those will need to soak for a couple of hours.” “Naked? You ask the Son of Justice to expose himself here?!” “Oh. A shy one are you? Oh, you’re going to LOVE the ointment!” “Is it really necessary?”
“Only if you don’t want to smell like that for the rest of your life. Totally your choice. Now, you said ‘we’ earlier. You have partners?” “May I present to you my faithful companion, Devilah!” The Khajiit came up from the road, laughing heartily. “Go on Sampson. Drop those drawers. Let’s see the goods!”

Sampson and Devilah #4

“I really don’t see why you even bought this place, Kitty. Don’t you think it’s a little over-the-top?” “Well, at least no one bothers me in here. And do you know, I’ve made more money from the farms and the tenants that come with the castle than I ever dreamed! It won’t be long at this rate till my investment is completely recovered!” “And the leaseholders do like you, that’s a plus. I guess the old landlord must have been pretty harsh.” “That’s what they say. A real bloodsucker.”
“Ah, Ubergard! Come in! Sit down and eat with us. We have a plate all ready for you. So what’s been going on at the Tails?” “All is well. The new guards are proving competent. In fact, I’ve promoted K’riss to take my place permanently now. I will just drop in on them to make sure they keep up my standards.” “Well, I do thank you for everything Uber. It will be a lot more comforting to know you’re around. Red and I get a little lonely in this place all by ourselves.” “What about your bat problem?” “I had a man out from Whiterun earlier this morning,” Muz-Ra replied, “He claims they’re all gone now.”
“Oh, this looks quite good Red! You are becoming quite the chef,” said the big Argonian. “Well, I don’t know about that, but I know my way around a kitchen by now. Oh, Kitty, did you see the new issue of Tails that came out?”
“Yeah! Isn’t Cheetah making a splash? This is her third feature in a row!” Ubergard gulped down a healthy portion of steak before replying, “H thinks she’s getting as popular as Udaran!” “Any rivalry there? They did seem to be a happy couple. I’d hate to think this might get in the way.” “Udaran might be feeling a bit hurt. She’s pretty prideful of her status there you know. But it can’t last forever.” “No, I guess not.”
“Are you going in town tonight Kitty?” asked Muz-Ra. “Yeah, later. Mikael is back and I promised I’d dance again.” “I don’t know why you do it, Kitty. Surely you don’t need the gold anymore?” “No, I certainly don’t. But I enjoy it. Besides, Mikael is fun to be around.” “Are you two… close?” “Not like that. Just physically. He’s never going to settle down, and I really don’t want him to. But it’s nice to have a man appreciate you now and again.” “Hmph,” Ubergard grunted, disapprovingly. “Well, for some of us anyway.”
Muz-Ra sighed. “What?” asked Kitty, concerned. “What about your guard friend? Aren’t you two still…” “His wife found out.” “WIFE? You never said he was married!” “I didn’t know he was! …Men,” Muz-Ra sighed again, adding “She doesn’t know it was me, but he said we had to call it off. She thinks it’s some girl in the Whiterun market. She’d probably be horrified to know he was with an Argonian!”
“Well at least it wasn’t a Khajiit!” Ubergard smiled at Kitty. “Well no, ANYTHING is better than that!” agreed Muz-Ra, played along. Kitty laughed, then a thought occurred to her. “Hey, wanna play gargoyle again?”
Kitty burped. “Ah! I’m stuffed. Thanks again Red!” “You want me to clean up?” “No, I’ll do it later. With only the two of us… oops! I mean THREE now that Ubergard’s here! We need to share the chores. I’ll do my part.”
“Well thanks Kitty, but I don’t think you really understand this whole Employer/Employee relationship thing very well. Say Uber, want to go to the archery range later?” “I don’t know why. You always trounce me.” “That’s why! You should learn to shoot better anyway.”
“Hey! Did you see that? A shooting star!” the little Khajiit exclaimed laughing. “I saw it. Do you suppose it means something?” “They’re supposed to be good omens I think,” said Ubergard. “Something good must be coming our way,” Muz-Ra surmised.

Sampson and Devilah #3

Drawing near to a farmstead, the hero drew up Horse and dismounted. “Come, Devilah. This farmer at least has not been rendered mute by the fiend! Listen to how he beckons the soil to be fruitful! Lo, good tiller of the earth! Might I bend your ear for a word? I am a stranger to this land and have need of your wisdom.”
“Do WHAT to my ear?” “He wants to ask you a question,” Devilah purred. “Oh! Sure, if you promise not to stick me with that sword! Come inside.”
“So you dwell alone out here then?” “Well, Markarth is pretty close, and I am friendly with the Forsworn so they don’t bother me as long as I give them some food now and then.” “It is well you have been able to avoid the maiming then. Tell me, do you know of a book titled Tails of the Khajiit?” The farmer looked to Devilah, who was pawing him up and down and purring seductively. “Why sure! My neighbor Kalolf has all the issues! He let’s me borrow them sometimes. Quite racy. He’s just down the road.”
“AH! Devilah, a clue! Thank you kindly good sir! Alas, I fear I have no coin to give you, but I shall leave you a word of wisdom that is worth more than gold. Beware the Black Cat!” “Well… uh…” stammered the farmer, now being groped by Devilah, “…thanks?” “You go on ahead, Sampson. I’ll be right along. I’ll thank him in my own way.”
“Your charity is an example to us all, Devilah. Thank you again good sir!” And with that, the mighty champion departed, not hearing the cry “Be CAREFUL with those fangs!” behind him.
Later, Devilah emerged from the farmhouse with the farmer staggering out behind her. “Let us depart comrade, the day wanes! I too understand the depth of gratitude we owe this humble man, but surely you have graced him with enough of your time by now!”
“Poor old man. I be he hasn’t had his pipes cleaned in 20 years.” “I am impressed, Devilah. I didn’t know you knew plumbing!” Devilah just rolled her eyes, smiling back at the farmer.
“Come back again anytime!” the farmer called weakly. “Another couple of hours even! I can tell you more!” The Khajiit waved to him a final time and turned back, a new spring in her step.
“Well you certainly seem more lively now, Devilah! Say, have you grown taller?” “Oh, you know… Doing good does give you a lift. And I definitely did him good!” “Indeed, it does fair maiden. Well, let us go visit this Kalolf and view this Tails. Perhaps it will point us towards the foul assassin.”
“Sure! Maybe he’ll need some plumbing done too!”

Sampson and Devilah #2

Meanwhile, in a castle near Whiterun, a dark form sits upon a dark throne. “What news, minion?” A sinuous voice, siblant and reptilian echoed in the empty hall, “Your dessire hass been fulfilled, my misstressss. "Oh? And which desire is that?”
“Tonight you sshall dine on beef and potatosss.” “…and salad? You didn’t forget the salad did you?” “Never. With extra tomatoess and cucumberss, just like you assked.” “And the blue cheese dressing?”
The scaled creature winced, as if struck a blow and knelt even lower in humiliation. “Damn. I forgot the dressssing. We have Italian,” the Argonian replied hopefully. “Oh, alright. But you know I really like blue cheese, Red. Now get up and stop talking that way. It’s stupid.”
“Yess, my misstressss…” “RED!” “Okay, okay. It just seems appropriate here.”
“I guess maybe buying a castle was a little… excessive.” “You think?”
“So what’s your plan to find this last assassin, Sampson?” “Hmm… We must inquire of the local pheasantry, noble cat. Perhaps they have knowledge of this Tails.”
“Pheasantry can’t talk, m’lord,” sighed Devilah. “You mean peasantry.” “My god! Have they had their tongues ripped out? Such evil lurks in this land! We must be getting close!” The Khajiit slapped her hands over her face and drew them down slowly. “Yes, mighty one. We must be.”

Sampson and Devilah #1

Author’s Note: This one’s going to be significantly different. It will be short, lighthearted and I’m having a hell of a good time writing it. In fact, I’ve probably already written ½ of the whole thing. Getting screenshots, unfortunately, takes more time. But I’m having such fun with it that I HAD to post what I have so far. Visually, it will likely be much less lewd than previous Tails. Textually (if that’s a word) it will be worse. So it’s closer to SFW to view, as long as they don’t actually READ it. So consider this a taste of what’s to come. Blatant references to ASOTIL and Evil Quill Weave from http://prequeladventure.com are blatant. Biblical references are also common, and yes, I think I’ll probably be spending some quality time in hell for writing this. ————– …In those days there was no law in Skyrim; but every man did that which was right in his own eyes. Yet in those days arose a mighty hero, Sampson, who brought justice to the land. Riding down from the north he came, clad in shining armor and his mighty sword, Sword. Sampson. Like Samson, said to have the strength of ten men. Like Simpson, the wisdom of Homer.
Astride his trusty steed, Horse, he rode with his dark thoughts bent on a single quest. To rid the land of the guild known as the Dark Brotherhood. Beside him, his faithful companion, Devilah, her tail ever-twitching as she watched for danger with her keen cat-eyes.
Long had they striven to find the Lair of the accursed Brotherhood, until at last the hero had reached his quarry. All now lay dead within and the Brotherhood was defeated. At long last, justice had prevailed and the land would no more live in fear of the arrow in the night, the dagger in the back, the silent death of the Assassin.
“So, Sampson, now that you’ve killed all of the Brotherhood, I guess your vow of chastity is complete, right? What say we take Horse back to that river we crossed, tie her up and take a bath together?” asked the coyly undulating Khajiit. “Indeed, the Brotherhood is vanquished. But the gore and charnel filth will take more than water to cleanse, I fear. For now, however, that must suffice. As to my vow… nay. Your virginity is safe from my earthly desires for yet a bit longer, good companion.” “WHAT? But dammit you said…”
“Ah, Devilah, you still have much to learn. You did not comprehend the annals of the dread guild.” “I read them to you, you illiterate bastard,” the furred one muttered under her breath. “Nay, all have not yet been brought to my master, Justice. One remains, and that one the cleverest and most heinous of all. Her crimes must have reached the heavens, for even the vile Brotherhood rejected her. Of her it is said she was the most stealthy, the most cunning. She remains, oh devoted one. And while she takes breath in this world, my vow must remain. I must not lose an ounce of my manly strength to the temptations of the flesh, for all will be needed in the final battle.”
“Fucking hell.” “The Black Cat, as she was known to the Brotherhood. Khajiit born, as are you my dear servant. Yet while you have risen above your bestial nature to become pristine and virtuous, her path lay not upwards but down into the depths of depravity. Alas, the tome was unclear as to her dark destiny, hinting only at some mysterious document known as the Tails of the Khajiit. We must continue our quest, dear Devilah, until we rid the world of this final Evil.” “Goddammit, and I’d bought oil and toys and everything…” the Khajiit complained forlornly.

Sabhira’s Daughter – EPILOGUE

“Are you sure about this Shabhira? It’s awfully sudden for such big decisions,” Udaran asked as they were getting ready to leave. “I know it’s cliche, but I’ve never been more sure of anything in my life.” “FarSeer’s not coming to see us off?” asked Kitty, feeling a bit disappointed.
“No. He thought it would be awkward, after last night. He’s going to meet me back at the fork in the road that leads south. It’s just a little way.” “He is a coward and you can tell him I said so!” Kitty said, but not with malice. “Yes,” Shabhira agreed. "He is. I’ll try and work that out of him.“ "Well, then we’re on our way. Good luck Shabhira! You know where to find us. Come and visit sometime!” called Udaran as they went their separate ways.
Kitty just caught a glimpse of Shabhira meeting up with FarSeer in the distance as they rounded a bend and were taken out of sight. “So, Kitty,” Muz-Ra turned to the quiet Khajiit. “Or should I call you Lady Kitty? What are you going to do with your new-found wealth now?” “Well, FIRST thing I’m going to do it take that damned bag of gold away from Udaran! I saw how much you left in the cabin. She’s been passing out my gold like it was candy!” “I don’t remember you protesting before,” laughed Udaran. “It wasn’t my MONEY before! Go on, give it here…”
“That’s it? That’s all that’s left?” “Well… there’s expenses, wages, bonus for hazardous duty pay in Helgen…” “WHAT?” “Sorry Kitty, now that you have money, you’re going to have to be more careful with it!” Muz-Ra added helpfully. “Moochers. You’re all a bunch of moochers!”
“But seriously, what ARE you going to do?” “I don’t know yet. Too soon. I’ll stay at H’s till I come up with a plan.” “Think you’ll stay with us?” “Probably not to be honest. You girls are great and all, but… I think I’d like a place of my own.” Udaran nodded.
“I’ll need security. Hey Ubergard! Wanna work for me?” The giantess smiled back, “How much are you paying?” “What does H pay you?” “Nothing!” “I’ll double it!” “Done! What’s the job? Guarding your gold?” “No… conversationalist. You’ll be the life of my parties!”
*Three months later…* “Hi Kitty. Hey, I got another letter from Shabhira.” “Oh really? What does she say? Did she blow something up again?” “No. It’s an invitation for the four of us actually… to a wedding! FarSeer and Shabhira are getting married!” “Married?! They do move quickly don’t they?” “I’m sure Red and Uber will go. It’s in a couple weeks. Will you come too? They need to know how many to expect.” Kitty paused and reflected for a minute. “Not if my life depended on it. Send my best regards,” said Kitty and walked off without another word.
“Oh, hi Ubergard. We’re going to go take a leisurely soak in the hot tub. Want to come along?” “Why thank you Udaran. Actually, I’d love to. Those two new guards from the Cathouse are working out fine. I think I deserve a bit of relaxation.” “Yes, you do. Come on. Red’s off to get some bath oil!”
“Come on in Red, the water’s JUST right. Did you bring the bath oil?” asked Udaran. “Sure did! And you got Ubergard out of her chain mail I see.” Ubergard nodded in greeting to Muz-Ra. “What about Kitty?” Cheetah asked, concerned. “Isn’t she coming? She usually joins us about this time.” “Guess not,” purred Udaran, burrowing her head farther between Cheetah’s breasts. “I saw her in the maintenance room. Crying her poor heart out. I thought it best to leave her alone. I wonder what that’s all about?” Udaran sighed. "I don’t.“
And that concludes our little story. Thank you for spending your time with us. Look for another Tails of the Khajiit coming soon, fates willing. If you would like to express thanks or encourage the author to continue these stories, likes, comments and signal boosting work wonders. Jus’ sayin’. Your major players for this story have been: Muz-Ra (Red), Ubergard, Udaran, FarSeer, Shabhira and, of course… The Khajiit Formerly Known As Kitty. (That will make more sense after the next Tails story)

Sabhira’s Daughter #52

The night passed slowly for Kitty. While it was obvious that Muz-Ra and Udaran were sleeping fitfully after their first close-encounter with an active werewolf, she wasn’t sleeping at all. Fright was not her problem. Though it was every bit as traumatic as the first time, the sight of FarSeer in his altered form was no longer a new experience. She’d already been through that days ago. The first of the morning birds had begun their annoying trill outside in the pre-dawn trees when Shabhira crept back in, as silently as possible, and reeking of love to a Khajiit nose.
Their eyes locked then when Shabhira realized that Kitty was still awake. Shabhira looked away somewhat shamefully, then with a sigh she gestured for Kitty to follow her back outside. This was bound to happen, and even Kitty had no idea how she felt about it herself. But she rose and followed Shabhira out quietly. On the porch, Ubergard had begun snoring again after Shabhira’s return so they walked farther away before they spoke. Kitty was embarrassed to find herself shaking with emotion. She’d intended to be cool about this, but her body was betraying her.
Shabhira was the first to break the silence. “So… I guess we need to talk.” Kitty nodded. “Sometimes I wish I were human. These Khajiit noses sense too much.” “I know it. Yes, FarSeer and I… well. Just yes. We did.” Kitty didn’t need the confirmation, but it helped to know where she stood. “He didn’t take long to get over me I guess!”
Shabhira knew better than to point out that Kitty had, in effect, dumped FarSeer. It didn’t matter. Instead, she remained silent. “Not as a werewolf surely?” Kitty looked at her rival. “Oh no. In fact, that was one of my discoveries tonight. The beast form has no genitalia. I suppose it wouldn’t need it. The host form provides that function.” Kitty nodded, not really caring.
“Can you forgive me, Kitty? I’d really like to remain friends if that were possible.” “I forgive you, but I’ll never be your friend. I can NOT be your enemy though. If I were thinking dispassionately, I’d be glad he found someone… compatible. I’d be happy for you too. You’re practically made for each other. But I’m not dispassionate. Right now I hate you. I hate you both. Passionately,” Kitty said, trembling visibly as she said it and hating herself for doing so. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean…”
“The hell you didn’t!” Kitty shouted. “THE HELL YOU DIDN’T! I’m a female too you know. You knew damn well what you were doing!” Shabhira backed down. “Ok. I did. I won’t lie and say I’m sorry it happened, because I’m not. But I am sorry to have hurt you. I wish I could have avoided that.” Kitty looked away, trying to calm her anger. Justified or not, it wouldn’t help this situation. “I’m sorry too Shabhira. You’re a good person, I know. I’m just hurting right now and you’re the only target around for me to scratch.”
Some time passed before Kitty spoke up again. “It helps to know it was you, Shabhira. Really it does. It’s like a sharp needle through my heart instead of a jagged saw. It still hurts like hell, but I know it could be a lot worse.” “Can I hug you, Kitty?” “I know you mean well, but no. Your arms have held him. It would remind me too much. But don’t worry. I’m not your friend, and never will be. But I don’t hate you. I just wish I were you. How do you stand it? The wolf form I mean? You didn’t even flinch! Dammit, you fucking plucked it’s FUR out!”
Shabhira smiled weakly. “‘His’,” she corrected. “’HIS fur out.’ You know, I’ve seen a lot. A lot of very ugly things, bad things… even dead things. It’s part of what I do. The werewolf form, it’s pretty scary. But scary is a relative thing. I’ve seen worse. When you’ve seen people you know wracked by disease… death. You learn to see beyond the form to what lies within. FarSeer was within. The form doesn’t matter.” “Sure as hell mattered to me!” “Again, it’s experience.” Kitty sighed, “Well, I guess we’d better get back. Dawn’s coming and it’s going to be a long walk tomorrow… TODAY I guess.”
“Kitty, that’s another thing…” Kitty looked back at Shabhira. “What?” “I’m not going with you.” “WHAT?” “I’m staying… with FarSeer.” “And he’s good with this?” Shabhira nodded, not looking at Kitty. “Damn, you two really DO move fast! And the gold?”
Shabhira stepped close to Kitty. “Kitty… it’s yours.” Kitty looked up uncomprehending. “I’m giving it all to you, Kitty. You gave up FarSeer because you knew you wouldn’t be happy together. Before he even met me. You risked your life to find me, and you didn’t even know my mother! You’ve gone through hell for others, Kitty. I don’t need it – you’ve given me a new life with FarSeer, and that’s worth far more than gold. Besides, we’re people of the wild. We have no use for gold.” Kitty’s eyes grew wide. “Really? You mean it?” “Yes Kitty. ALL of it.” “Damn Shabhira, you do make it hard to not be friends,” Kitty choked out. “I’m not immune to gold, I’m afraid. Oh dammit, give me that hug.”
The two hugged then and, if all wasn’t right with the world, at least it was reasonably acceptable. On the other side of the valley, a pair of eyes glittered. A distance that would have suggested only two vague shapes to anyone else, was like nothing to those eyes. The brain behind them couldn’t have been happier as it watched them walk back into the cabin. Not hand-in-hand, but close enough. Acceptable.

Sabhira’s Daughter #51

“Ubergard! Glad to see you, we were getting worried about you!” Udaran said when the big Argonian entered. “FarSeer? What on earth are you doing here? And what are you wearing?!” “Hi Sis! Long story. But we’re starving! Catch anything?” “No. I was damn close to getting a nice buck, but it spooked at the last minute.” “Sorry Uber, I should have gone with you,” said Muz-Ra. “I must admit your arrows would have come in handy. I guess it’s just more travel rations tonight.” “Oh, I’m sure I can do better than that,” Shabhira spoke up unexpectedly. Let’s go out to the fire and see what I can come up with.“
"So are you coming with us FarSeer?” asked Ubergard of her brother. “No, just staying the night. Well, SORT of ‘staying’. I’ll be here in the morning though.” “He’s taking me out with him!” Shabhira declared happily. “You? Why would you want to do that?” “She seems to have taken an interest in my ‘condition’,” FarSeer shrugged. “I bet I’ll learn more tonight about lycanthropy than anyone in the last 100 years!”
“I daresay you may. Though you may regret it anyway. You’re sure about this FarSeer?” “Absolutely. I’ll keep her safe.” “See that you do. I’d have hell to pay if I came this close to success and then lost her now.” “You won’t. Besides, I suspect I have more to fear from her than the other way around!” “Huh?” “Let’s just say that Shabhira is full of surprises,” FarSeer smiled. Shabhira smiled back and nodded, “that’s right, and don’t you forget it!” Then she turned to the business of cooking.
“That was DELICIOUS Shabhira! And you say there was no meat in that stew at all?” FarSeer asked after they had eaten. “None. Some beef broth, but no actual meat. I always carry some dried vegetables when I’m out in the wilds. With the right preparation, they’re almost as good as fresh.” “Indeed! My complements to the chef!” FarSeer bowed. "And now, if you girls don’t mind, I think I’ll try my own hand at doing a little hunting. With luck, I may have something for your breakfast that’s NOT reconstituted!“ "Hey, would you mind changing right here? I’d love to see it happen in the light!” Shabhira said excitedly. “I don’t know. It’s a pretty nasty looking business as I recall. I don’t know if the others would really find it so… interesting.” “Oh, go ahead. How bad can it be?” Udaran suggested.
“Well, unless I want to have to search for another pair of underwear, I have to take these off first.” “Now THAT sounds like nasty looking business. If you don’t mind, I’ll head inside,” Ubergard declared and went indoors. “Ok, girls, if you really want me to. Don’t stand too close though. It takes me a moment to get oriented afterwards.” And with that, FarSeer removed his clothes and… changed.
Ubergard ran outside immediately just as the last echoes of the screams had died away, blade at the ready. Fortunately what she saw was far less serious than she’d imagined. Muz-Ra had stumbled off the porch and was busily emptying the contents of her stomach while Udaran had her back to the wall with eyes wide at the beast in the corner. Kitty was curled up with her hands covering her head while a huge black shape stood breathing heavily in the firelight, it’s mouth open and salivating wildly. But something about the eyes conveyed a look of sadness… “Where’s Shabhira?!” Ubergard demanded, having noticed her brother was not attacking anyone and not seeing her around. It was then that the black shape turned slightly and even gestured to Sabhira’s daughter who had been hidden behind it’s bulk. Amazingly, she was stroking the thing’s fur! No, not stroking… gathering fur!
“Shabhira, are you alright?” she asked, reflexively moving her blade constantly. The beast’s eyes tracked it warily. “What? Of course! Please put that down. He’s done nothing wrong!” “But… what happened?” Udaran recovered her composure somewhat and replied, “Sorry Ubergard. We were all just overwhelmed.” “More like scared out of our minds!” Muz-Ra corrected. "That is something I never want to see again. Oh god, I’m sorry FarSeer, but I can’t look at you. I’ve got to go inside.“
"Take Kitty, Red. She looks worse off than us even.” But Kitty protested wordlessly when Muz-Ra tried to help her to her feet, finally whispering, “No. I’m ok. Just… need a minute. FarSeer, please do me a favor. Let me know you’re in there. Nod for me please.” The beast clearly nodded. “Ok, thank you. I think I’m ok now.”
FarSeer waived a long-taloned claw out to the forest beyond. “You’re ready to go then?” Shabhira asked cheerily. Again, the thing nodded in assent. “Ok, just hold on one second. If I’m going to try and keep up with you, I’m going to need to get rid of this outfit.” A look of surprise came over the beast’s features, not to mention her friends on the porch. “Hey, I can run fast. But I can run faster on all fours without encumbrance. All Khajiits know this. There, now let’s go!”
And with that, Shabhira raced away naked, practically daring FarSeer to keep up. FarSeer gave chase instinctively and they were gone in seconds, the sound of Shabhira’s laughter fading into the distance, mixed with the howl of a werewolf.

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