Sabhira’s Daughter #40

“Welcome to the Cathouse gentlemen.  I presume you’ve all left your weapons at home tonight.  If not, please see the guard at the door.  Do’jaar is bartending tonight so step right up and have a drink.  Mead is on special tonight, and Bahriba is our bard for the evening,” Ashasha called out as a few Nords filed in.

“Who’s on table duty tonight, Bahriba?”

“Dahlavi, but she’s not feeling well Ashasha.”

“Table duty?” Kitty asked Cheetah.

“Oh, yeah we usually have a girl dance on the table or bar.  Gets the patrons in the mood,” Cheetah explained.

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“Anyone want to take her place?”

“Hey Ashasha, I’ll do it!” Kitty volunteered.

Ashasha turned around.  "Kitty?  Can you dance?“

"Oh sure.  I’d love to!”

“Ok then, and thanks!  GENTLEMEN, we have a special visitor tonight.  This is Kitty from Tails of the Khajiit.  She will be dancing for you tonight!”

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A round of applause broke out among the girls as well as the customers at this.  As Kitty climbed up onto the bar a bit awkwardly, she noticed Cheetah give her a worried look.  But when the bard began to play, she soon got comfortable.  Within minutes, she was having a great time and even found some customers were tossing coins upon the bar, which Do’jaar quickly swept away.

“Shake em Kitty!” an older Nord called out, and she obliged happily.  

In what seemed like no time, Do’jarr was tapping her on her leg.

“Sorry, yes?  Was I getting too wild?”

“Oh no, not at all Kitty!  But you’ve been up there an hour.  Aren’t you getting tired?”

“Really?  An hour?  Yeah, I guess so a little.”

“Well come on down and take a break for a bit.  It’s a long night if you’re going to keep that up!”

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“Thanks Do’jaar,” Kitty said as she was helped down from the bar.  "Say, where’s Cheetah?

“She took a customer up to room 2A.  Young Harnold.  Don’t worry, he won’t take long!” she smiled.

“Oh!  Ok.  Say, do you think I could get some wine?  I’m a bit thirsty.”

“Here you go.  No charge!  You’ve earned quite a bit already.  You’re a good dancer, Kitty!”

“Why thank you.”

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“Kitty!  Kitty!” called a Nord she didn’t know as she stepped around the bar.

“Yes?  Can I help you?’”

“Kitty, my name is Kalolf.  I’ve got every issue of the Tails for the last 3 years.  I saw you in last month’s Tails!”

“Oh, thanks!  I hoped you liked it!”

“Always, always.  It’s so great to meet you in person.  Can I ask you a question?”

“Sure, let’s go sit over here.”

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“So, I heard a rumor that Udaran is here.  Is that true?”

Kitty couldn’t help but feel a bit of let-down at the mention of Udaran, but she tried hard not to let it show.  "Oh yes, but she’s tired and in bed.  We’re just visiting.  We’re headed back tomoorrow.“

"Oh,” Kalolf look a bit dejected.  "Anyone else here from the Tails?“

"Just me, Ubergard and Muz-Ra.”

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“Oh!  I’d LOVE to meet Ubergard!”

“Sorry, she’s with Udaran.  But I think Muz-Ra is around somewhere.  She may come down later.”

“Muz-Ra?  Oh, she’s the Argonian with the huge…”

Kitty looked at him with an odd light in her eyes, “Oh yes, that’s her!”

“Say, I don’t suppose you could get Udaran to sign something for me could you?”

“Sign something?  Like what?”

“Well, er… something personal.  If that’s ok.  I’ll give you 100 gold right now if you can just have her leave something for me!”

Gears began turning in Kitty’s head.  Mischievous gears.

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“Oh my!  What, like… a bra or something?”

“Preferably ‘or something’” Kalolf said with a leer.

“Why sure! hang on a sec,” smiled Kitty, “I’ll go get you something right now!”

“GREAT!”

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With that, Kitty hurried upstairs and dug up a pair of someone’s panties from a random drawer.  She quickly found a quill and scrawled ‘From Udaran to Kalolf’ on it. Then a grin crept over her face as she got another idea… image
She decided to add some authenticity to it by rubbing it in her rear a bit.  Some part of her mind she couldn’t quite get under control was laughing.  ‘Sniff that!’ it said, and she found herself smiling evilly at the thought before she banished it. image
On the way back, she heard Cheetah’s lowered voice nearby but decided it would be rude to bother her while she was working.  Instead, she went back down to the bar area and found Kalolf.  In a few minutes, she was back on the bar, 100 gold richer.  She noticed Kalolf left immediately, his hand in his pocket holding his precious treasure.  For the next hour, she kept breaking out giggling uncontrollably and losing her dance step. image

Sabhira’s Daughter #39

“So, do you all, like, sit around and wait for a customer to pick you or what?”

“Hah!  No, not at all.  We sort of have a party where we mingle with them a bit.  Heck, sometimes they just come for that.  Lets them get to know us better as people instead of just meat, and that’s good for everybody. Us too.  Once you have a few drinks with someone, you get to know them a bit at least.”

“And if someone likes you but you don’t want to?”

“Well, it depends on how MUCH you don’t want to.  Ashasha would never ask us to do something or someone we didn’t feel comfortable with, but this IS our job after all.  If we didn’t like the job, we wouldn’t be here.”

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“Hmm… and do you like the job?”

“Pardon the pun but, it has it’s ups and downs.  The money’s pretty good, and the customers are usually fine.  But in any group of people who live together, cliques form and grievances come up.  Ashasha’s pretty good at keeping tension under control, but if there’s anything I DON’T like here, that’s it.”

“Yeah, I can see that at the Tails too from time to time.”

“So, wanna be a hooker for a night?”

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“Me?  No.  Not me.”

“Oh you don’t have to DO anything.  Just hang out at the party with the girls and the customers and pretend.  If someone comes on too much, just be honest and tell him you don’t work here.  It’ll be fine.  And you’ll never know what it’s like unless you try.  Afraid?”

“AFRAID?  I’m NOT afraid of anything.  Well, not much.  And Ashasha wouldn’t mind?”

“With your looks?  She’d be thrilled!  And if you find a customer particularly interesting, well, Ashasha will be even MORE thrilled.”

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“THAT is NOT going to happen!”

“Maybe not, but you’ve got to keep in mind – the customers are just people.  Maybe unusually horny people, but they’re still just people.  They have lives outside of the Cathouse.  Some are regulars too for that matter.  Once you get to know them, sometimes they’re people you’d not mind hanging out with.”

Ashasha had walked in while Cheetah was talking and added her own thoughts on the subject.

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“But there IS a wall between the girls and the customers, Kitty. As long as they work here, they have to maintain that wall.  Sometimes the regulars, they get TOO close and they start fantasizing about ‘taking you away from all this’.  Those are the most dangerous, seriously.  The next step after infatuation is possessiveness, and if they think you’re theirs, trouble starts.  I’ve seen it happen, and it can get very serious.  I’ve got a lot of guards here.  They’re not needed often, but when they ARE needed, they’re needed quick and desperately.”

“Sounds kinda dangerous.  Speaking of guards, where’s K’rris?  I haven’t seen him since this morning.”

“Oh, he took our Herb witch into town to pick up some stuff she needed.  He won’t be back until tomorrow,” she said.

“Now Cheetah, you’d best get ready.  We’re opening in just a few minutes.”

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Ashasha left and went downstairs to open the business.  

Kitty then turned back to Cheetah, “So how do you keep that ‘wall’ up?”

“Basically you have to shut them down cold when you see that happening.  Even better, let them see you flirting with someone else.  Usually they get the hint.”

“Sounds complicated.”

“It is.  49% of this job is physical, 51% is psychology.  It’s not an easy job.”

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After drying off, Cheetah began to dress.

“So, besides the money, why do you do it?” Kitty asked.

“I like the sex!” Cheetah shot back instantly.

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“Really?  I’d have thought if it was your JOB, it would… well… be WORK.”

“I dunno, maybe for some of the girls.  But you really can’t separate the mind from the body.  Sure, I fake orgasms a lot – but not all the time!  Males are just fascinating in their variety, don’t you think?  Burly, lean, cuddly and aloof.  So many types, so many WAYS.  But after they’re satiated, they all become little boys again.  I suppose some day I’ll leave here, but right now I just can’t imagine a better job – strange as that might seem to you.”

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“Well YOU are obviously hetero!  I always imagined there would be a lot of girl/girl relationships in a place like this.”

“And there are.  It’s that wall Ashasha was talking about.  There’s a limit on how well you can get to know a customer personally.  You can get to know the other girls though.  And with that comes bonding, relationships, intimacy.  For some, it’s the only release.  But not for me.  I like the males too much.  They say some people are made to like the same sex.  I suppose that must be so, because I’m pre-wired to get pounded!”

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“Oh!  You REALLY aren’t shy are you!”

“Around here, that’s NOT a job asset.  Especially when our rooms are left open!”

“For security purposes I assume?”

“Yeah – you never know when someone will go too far.  Sex is inherently a loss of control after all.”

Suddenly a bell rang from somewhere downstairs and Cheetah took Kitty’s hand.  "Time to go to work!“ she sang happily.

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TailsoftheKhajiit Mods

I had a reader ask what mods I was using, and besides just wanting to tell a story, TailsoftheKhajiits is also intended to highlight sexy mods I really like. So I just went through my entire Mod list and gathered a list of them and thought I’d post them here in between posts.

I don’t have URLs for these all, but some Google searches should reveal most of them at least.  Most of them come from the Nexus – http://www.nexusmods.com/skyrim/?

Some from LoversLab (NSFW!  You’ve been WARNED!) http://www.loverslab.com/files/category/1-skyrim/

Some are simply no longer available as far as I can tell, and a very few are my own homebrew.  (Notably Khajiit texture and the Cloak of Gray Tomorrow) 

Though ALL the people who created these mods are undoubtedly great, there’s a few I’d like to single out whose work has been so fundamental to my enjoyment of Skyrim that I remember them without looking them up!

Cherry Hotaling – Author of CHSBHC body, as far as I know the first mod to have bouncing boobies and, I believe, all bouncing mods since then have been based on (her?) work.  

Halo – Author of both Halo’s Poser mod and Halo’s Pinup Poser (an earlier work but some poses are still in there and not, apparently, in his main Poser mod.

Turbosnowy – Author of some of the sexiest outfits I’ve yet seen.  Though some are admittedly so over the top that even I won’t use them, I respect his imagination.

mrLenski – Author of Coverkhajiits, the single most necessary mod if you like Khajiits.

tktk – Author of Pretty Khajiits.  Bigger, more expressive eyes and the single most distinctive feature of Kitty.

Edhildil – Author of NUMEROUS great sexy outfits.  Most of my outfits are either Turbosnowy’s or Edhildil’s.

Ok, without further ado, here’s all the mods I’m currently using, and the load order they;’re in.  Good luck finding them – no really!

SkyUI
Coverkhajiits
Pretty Khajiit
Female Khajiit Hand Normal Fix
Marriable female khajiit followers
Marriable female argonian followers
CHSBHC – BBP – Nude and Jiggly Mod
MyKhajiitTextures
Alternate Argonian texture
Argonian
Beast Race Beautiful Khajiit Tail Mover
Beast Race Beautiful Argonian Tail Mover
turbosnowyfetish
EdHilDilsDistractionLatex
SkimpyAssassins
Underground Bathhouse and Paradise Valley
DaedricChainmail
Fores New Idles in Skyrim – FNIS
KISS – Khajiit Cat Sprint and Sneak
Pinup Poser 150
Halo’s Poser
Pinup and KISS animations
MFG Console
Out of my Way – Anti NPC Push mod
nocturna
Nocturnal Rose Brothel
Immersive Saturation Boost
KURESE Gloria
New487774
UNP Leather Clothes
Sweet and Sexy Lingerie 3
Dominions More Khajiits
CoverkhajiitsMales
Better males – Beautiful nudes and faces
Better CoverKhajiits Body Texture for Better males
Better CoverKhajiit Hands
Summer Wear V2
IMAGINATOR – Visual Control Device
Nezzars
DandelionML

Sabhira’s Daughter #38

“Wow!  I wouldn’t have thought that was POSSIBLE!”

“Oh sure!  They can’t be fully erect of course, and they have to be unusually long. But yeah!  I’ve seen it!”

“Incredible.”

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Muz-Ra appeared at the door, tapping her foot.

“Oh, I’m sorry Cheetah, I’ve got to go.  Well, nice talking to you!”

“You too Kitty!  I’ll see you later then?”

“Sure!”

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“Cheetah?” asked Muz-Ra.

“It’s just her nickname.  Her real name is Rabiji… or something like that.  Say, did you know…”

“That’s NOT what we’re supposed to be asking about Kitty.”

“I know.  And Cheetah’s not her.  Her parents are in Windhelm.  She moved out a couple of years ago.  Too cold.”

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“Well, I’ve talked to all of the girls on my list.  Nothing.”

“Cheetah was the last on mine too.  Maybe Udaran or Ubergard has found out something.”

“Yeah.  It’s getting late.  Opening hours are going to start soon.  And maybe we can stop and get something to eat.  I’m starving.”

“Me too.”

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Back in the dining room, Kitty and Muz-Ra were just sitting down to eat when Udaran and Ubergard came in.

“Find out anything?” Udaran asked Muz-Ra.

“No.  Not really.  Though Kitty found out some interesting trivia.  Want to hear?”

“Not now.  Maybe later,” Udaran sighed.

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“No luck?  How about Ubergard?”

“I… wasn’t very good at it,” Ubergard admitted.

“Turns out that threatening to cut off someone’s head off doesn’t, in fact, make them very talkative,” Udaran said looking sternly at Ubergard.

“Who’da thought?” Ubergard asked sincerely.

“Oh, it’s OK Uber,” Udaran relented.  Then turning back to Muz-Ra added, “I met with the rest of the girls.  But no, nothing at all.”

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“Any other ideas?” Kitty asked.

“No.  Regardless of what you felt, Kitty, Ashasha was right.  She’s not here.”

“Could be.  I’m sorry Udie.”

“I guess we’d best turn in early, unless you want to fraternize with the customers, Red?”

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Red gave her a shocked look. “What?  Surely you don’t think I…  I just make boyfriends easily, I’m not a professional!”

Udaran smiled weakly, “No, you’re just a very proficient amateur.”

The jibe was there, but her heart obviously wasn’t in it.

“That’s right.  I’m just looking for my Mr. Right.  Looking HARD for Mr. Right.  Besides, the customers here won’t be looking for Argonians.”

“Maybe you can expand their horizons?” Kitty suggested helpfully.

Muz-Ra shot her an angry look, then appeared to reconsider.

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“Well, I’m not up for it.  I’m going to bed.  And to think.  Maybe we’re overlooking something,” Udaran said, getting up.

“I’ll go with you, Udie.  I too have no wish to see what goes on here at night,” Ubergard said, rising to join her.

“Goodnight then Udie.  I think I’ll hang out with my new friend Cheetah a bit.  I do admit to being… curious.”

“You know the old phrase about curiosity and Khajiits, Kitty.  Watch yourself.”

“Oh, you needn’t worry about me.  Besides, I just thought of a new use for my cloak!”

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After the U’s had left, Kitty turned to Muz-Ra.

“What about you Red?  Are you going to stick around?”

“Naa.  I talked to Ashasha about those clothes though.  She said I could have one of them if I wanted.  I think I’ll try on a few for size.”

“Oh!  Good luck.  I did see some I thought you might like.  Very revealing.  Seems like your style.”

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“That it is Kitty, that it is!  See you later.  I know Udaran can be a bit overprotective of you, but remember that the customers here won’t know you from one of the employees.  Especially if you’re going to wear your normal clothes like that.”

“I will.  I wonder if any of them will be interested in me?”

Muz-Ra shrugged as she got up to leave.  "Who knows?  Probably.“

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Sabhira’s Daughter #37

“And what of the children?  Surely that’s an issue?”

“The majority of our customers are Nords.  That’s not a problem with them.  There’s a few Khajiit males that come in too though.  There are methods and potions for that though.  In fact, we have our own Herb magician on staff for such needs.  She’s really quite skilled in the craft.”

“Abortion then?  Is it mandatory?” Kitty asked, sincerely curious.

“Abortion?  Heavens no!  The girls simply take a potion that keeps them from ovulating.  It would take a pretty determined Khajiit to get pregnant here.  Anyone THAT determined to have a child would surely not want to abort it after it’s conceived!  We’ve not yet had any situation where that’s been a concern.  Which is good too, as our Herb witch is quite opposed to anything that would oppose Nature.  But enough about us, what can I do for you?”

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Udaran drew a deep breath before explaining, “It’s about a dear friend of mine Ashasha.  She was murdered some time ago, through no fault of her own.”

“Skyrim,” the Madam sighed.  "This land is in desperate need of Law.“

Udaran nodded and continued, "Well, her name was Sabhira.  She worked at the Tails and we became very close.  She confided in me before her death that she had once been mated to a Khajiit named Hasskir and they had a child together.  A daughter.  I don’t know her name.  Sabhira never said.  But Hasskir fell in with a group of bandits.  Sabhira tried to get him to leave them, but his heart was stone.  When the group began to abuse her, she began to plan an escape.  But things went wrong somehow and Sabhira was not able to take her daughter.  Hasskir threatened to kill her if Sabhira tried to take her.  So she didn’t.”

“I see.  But what has this to do with us here?”

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“When Sabhira died, I came into possession of a large amount of money.  I would like to give it to her daughter – if I can find her.  Some days ago, we found Hasskir.  Things turned violent though, and before we could find out more… Hasskir was dead.”

The old Khajiit nodded in understanding at the unstated cause of death.

“But during that battle, the leader of the bandits said something.  He implied that Hasskir had sold the child to a whorehouse.  A whorehouse in Markarth.”

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Ashasha looked thoughtful, and remained silent for a long time.

Finally she looked at Udaran directly.  "Udaran, what you are doing is a noble quest.  And one I would support if I possibly could.  But… we don’t buy children.  That would be monstrous.  All my girls are their own women, and come and go as they like.  I bought this business from the old Madam about 10 years ago, and even then it was respectable – given our trade.  I don’t think she would have done so either.  Frankly, there’s simply no one here that matches that history.  I’m sorry, but the story you were told couldn’t possibly be true.  Or at least, not concerning THIS… whorehouse.“

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The dejection in Udaran’s face was clear.  "But…  Well, do you know of any others around Markarth?  Or any others that may have existed back then?  That offered Khajiits I mean?”

“No Udaran.  I don’t know what could have become of your friend’s daughter, but she doesn’t work here.”

“Could I…. maybe talk to the girls?  Maybe one of them has an idea or a clue?”

“Look Udaran, I’m a businesswoman.  Maybe not as bad as a caravaneer, but if I had any hope of you finding your friend’s daughter here, I’d try and find a way to profit from it.  But when I see no hope, I don’t want to mislead you into thinking there is some here.  You may speak to whom you will, but your girl is not here.”

Udaran swallowed hard, perhaps suppressing a tear.  "You’ve been kind to us, and honest – LADY Ashasha.  It is appreciated.  I suppose we all knew there was little hope.  But, since I have nowhere else to go, if you don’t mind I’d like to talk to the girls.“

"Certainly.  You may stay the night in my room here if you like.  But you should probably stay out of sight during business hours.  The top floor is forbidden to customers.  You will want to stay here unless you’re curious.  But for now, why don’t you relax in the bath.  It’s just down the hall and to the left.”

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“This hot bath is going to feel SO good!” Muz-Ra said as she stepped into one of the three tubs in the bathing area.  

Ubergard had already made the surprising decision to climb out of her armor and relax for a bit herself, keeping her armor and blade nearby of course.  With Udaran in the third tub, Kitty was left to explore the area while waiting for one to be vacated, though she did take the opportunity of privacy to shed her overweight clothes.  Udaran looked likely not to be in for a long soak.  She was obviously not in a leisurely-bath state of mind.

“Dammit,” she muttered, “I really thought we would find her.”

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“It was at best unlikely Udie,” Muz-Ra consoled her.

“You know, they’ve got some REALLY interesting clothes here.  Red, you were thinking of changing your outfit right?  You should check some of these out!”

“Kitty, we’re not exactly here for clothes shopping,” Muz-Ra replied. “Did you notice Udie was feeling bad?”

“Oh, yeah.  Sorry Udie.  You DO know she was lying right?”

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“WHAT?” Udaran asked, incredulous, “What on EARTH makes you say that Kitty?  Lady Ashasha is right, why would she not tell us if there was profit in it for her ANYWAY?”

“I don’t know, but I know she’s lying,” Kitty responded with a matter-of-fact tone in her voice that would admit of no mistake.

“How do you know?  Just tell me how.  I know people pretty well Kitty, and I didn’t detect a hint of a lie there,” Udaran said.

“When you said Sabhira’s name, there was recognition there.  She knew her NAME, Udaran.  If everything happened as we think it did, she STILL wouldn’t know SABHIRA’s name.  Hasskir wouldn’t have mentioned it.”

“Maybe she knew Sabhira from the Tails?” Muz-Ra offered.

“I didn’t notice anything,” Udaran said.  "I think I would have caught it.“

"All I know is that she’s lying.  Beyond that, I’ve no idea.”

“Well, I think we’ve got a long afternoon in front of us before the Cathouse is open for business again.  Let’s get talking to these girls.  Part of me hopes you’re right Kitty, but I don’t know if I believe it.”

“Believe it Udie.  She’s lying.”

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Sabhira’s Daughter #36

Kitty’s eyes adjusted quickly to the dim light within after the brilliance of the morning sun outside.  Before her a Khajiit dressed in a frankly rather outlandish outfit was greeting Udaran while K’rris stepped behind his mistress.

“Welcome, Udaran, and I DO think we can dispense with the formality don’t you?  Just call me Ashasha.  Welcome to the Cathouse,” said a suprisingly petite Khajiit with just a touch of grey about her.

“I’m sorry, Ashasha, but have we met before?” Udaran asked as graciously as she could.

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“Oh no.  But I know H well.  I’ve heard you’re one of his top models in fact.  When he’s in need of new recruits, he often comes to visit here.  Though I must say, he has a tough time of it.  My girls aren’t keen to leave.  But we can go into that later.  First, who are your lovely friends?”

“This is Kitty.  She’s our newest model at the Tails.  Ubergard you apparently know as well, and this is Muz-Ra – known informally as Red.”

“Very good to meet you all.  Yes, H had mentioned Ubergard before.  He has a very high opinion of your skill and loyalty Ubergard.  When K’rris told me the famous Udaran was here, it was not hard to surmise who the giant Argonian must be.”

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“But… then surely you didn’t doubt who I was!  What was that whole business about stripping for?” Udaran asked, suddenly giving K’rris a menacing look. image
“Oh, don’t blame him.  I just wanted to get a good look at you myself.  I’ve not seen the Tails you see.  But I saw an opportunity to get a good look, and I took it.  I must say, I got a bit more than I bargained for with K’rris too!  You’re quite quick you know Udaran.  You would make a good… merchant.” image
“I see.  And now you must know that I’d go to some length to talk to you, so your information must be valuable,” Udaran surmised though narrowed eyes.

“Oh yes, quite quick.  But please, let me show you around a bit and then let’s go sit down out of the way in my room so we can talk privately.  I would introduce you to the girls here, but I’m afraid we’ve got quite a few.  It would take some time.  Follow me please,” and with that the Madam led them up a flight of stairs to the second floor.

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Along the way, Kitty noticed many rooms – most without doors.  They also passed an illuminated shrine to Dibella.  As they passed, Udaran spoke up.

“Are you a devote to Dibella, Ashasha?”

“Me?  Oh goodness no.  Certainly she has much to offer, especially to those in our line.  Many of the girls are, but I’m more in the Zenithar line myself.  Business you know.  Though frankly I find worship of the Divines tends to cause more problems than it’s worth.  Not the Divines themselves mind you, just their worship.  Causes strife and division that’s unnecessary.  But that’s just my view.  Unjassa here would certainly disagree!”

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“…and this is our main dining area.  The Cathouse has 3 floors.  The third is private and no customers are allowed there, but it’s where the bath and my quarters are, and where we can talk.”

“Bath?” Kitty blurted out.

“Oh, I’m sorry – I’m sure you must be dying for a bath after your travels!  You’re certainly welcome to use ours.  Let’s talk a bit first, and then I’ll show you to them.”

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Here we are.  Please, make yourselves comfortable.  And please forgive me, I’m afraid I’ve picked up a nicotine habit and do indulge myself when I can.  A drink perhaps?“

"No thank you, Ashasha.  I’d really like to get to why we’re here,” said Udaran, a bit impatiently.

“Yes, what brings you all the way out here to the Cathouse?  Somehow I doubt you’re here to enlist, though you and Kitty would certainly make a lucrative career here should you ever consider it.  But no, I see the disdain in your eyes.”

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“I won’t deny I’m not comfortable with sex for money, Ashasha.  But I’ve seen much, much worse in Skyrim.  Recently in fact.  Your reputation in Markarth is proof that. For a House of Ill Repute, you in fact have fairly high repute!  And the place itself seems to be clean and comfortable.  I no longer have fears of you selling your girls as sex slaves.”

“Slaves?  Indeed NOT.  My business is set up where each is a sort of independant contractor.  I collect a percentage of course, which goes to maintain the house, the guards, and other necessary expenses.  Which is why H has a hard time recruiting girls for his magazine here.  They tend to be quite happy.”

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“Can I ask a question, Ashasha?” Kitty interjected.

“Of course young one!  What is your concern?”

“What happens… when they get older.  What future does this life hold for them?”

“Well, that’s a concern of course.  Some find patrons or husbands.  Others just find different lines of work.  Still others have been known to start houses of their own.  But you aren’t wrong.  Men are a fickle lot and once the grey starts coming in, the men stop coming in.  In fact, I have set up a pension system that some of the money goes into.  Not enough for everyone, but as I said, many leave for various reasons of their own by then.”

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Sabhira’s Daugher #35 pt 2

“I’m dreadfully sorry Lady Udaran, but Lady Ashasha has a request before I allow you in.  She doesn’t believe you are really THE Udaran.  She’s asked me to confirm it.  She’s really quite adamant.”

“Confirm it?  How do you… oh… OH.  You know me THAT well do you?” Udaran smiled.  After all, this WAS one of her admirers.  

“Well, let’s just say that I’ve spent a LOT of time, um, looking at your pictures. I’m your biggest fan!”

Kitty couldn’t help but laugh at the embarrassed look on his face.  To think, a guard at a brothel could even BE embarrassed!

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“If I weren’t in such need of her help, I’d refuse.  But so be it.  Go ahead, you first.”

“WHAT?”

“Surely you don’t expect me to expose myself out here in front of the gods and nature by myself do you?  You DID say she was insistent right?”

The guard hesitated and glanced back towards the door.  He gave one last pleading look to Udaran, but she didn’t relent.  

“Go on then, let’s see you!” she insisted.

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Then with an embarrassed shrug, he removed his armor and stood naked before them.  "Satisfied?“

Muz-Ra whispered to Kitty who couldn’t quite suppress a giggle, "I doubt he’s her BIGGEST fan!”

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Udaran gave him an appraising look.  "You’re a braver Khajiit than I gave you credit for K’rris.  You deserve this.“

With that, in a moment she also stood naked before the guard.  She struck one of her famous poses.  "So?  Do I pass?”

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The Khajiit’s eyes weren’t the only thing that grew large at the sight of her.

“Your pictures don’t do you justice, Lady Udaran!  You’re even more beautiful than I expected!”

“Ok, NOW he’s her biggest fan,” Muz-Ra said appreciatively.

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Both Udaran and K’rris glanced down at his erection, which K’rris covered quickly.  "I’m sorry Lady, I can’t help it.“

"No need to be embarrassed, K’rris.  I’m flattered – by BOTH your compliments!  Now let’s get dressed and go see Lady Ashasha, shall we?”

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The moment they were both finished dressing, a voice came from within.  "Welcome to the Cathouse, Udaran.  You and your friends may enter.  And Ubergard is welcome as well.“ image

Sabhira’s Daugher #35 pt 1

Kitty and the others stepped out of the main Markarth gates after a leisurely breakfast provided by Kleppr free of charge.  However, as Udaran pointed out, this might have been expected given the exorbitant amount she had paid for a single night’s stay on essentially a polished rock bed.  Still, the breakfast was good and they didn’t want to arrive at their destination TOO early given the Cathouse’s late-night hours of operation. image
The mood was quiet among them.  Kitty noticed that even Muz-Ra’s attitude was subdued, having made only a single crude comment concerning the breakfast sausage.  In no time they had arrived at the building.  Udaran pointed to a sign over near the door which read, “Only weapon allowed is that between your legs.  If you bring more, you will lose them both.”  While humorous, Kitty was none too sure that it was entirely in jest.  Skyrim was, after all, quite a lawless and violent land.  Sill, it did help to lighten the apprehensiveness. image
“What do you think Ubergard?  Do you want to stay out here, or risk your blade to the local security?” asked Udaran.

“I’ll remain out here.  Just yell if you need me.  I doubt there’s anything to worry about here.”

“I agree.  Well Kitty, Red,  I guess this is it.”

“Good luck Udie,” Muz-Ra said, “But don’t be too disappointed if she’s not here.”

“Thanks,” replied Udaran, and then knocked on the door.

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It took a few tries before a bleary-eyed male Khajiit came out to meet them, closing the door behind him.  

“Yes?  What is it?  We won’t be open for hours yet,” he stated with some annoyance.  Then, as if reappraising them, he added, “Or perhaps you’re applying for a position?”

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“No sir, we need to speak with the owner, Lady Ashasha.  We need to talk to her about a matter of some importance, and we’re prepared to pay handsomely for any information she can provide,” Udaran said, and then shook a pocket that clinked with the unmistakable sound of coins.

His eyes brightened at that.  "Well, you DO know how to make an introduction lady!  I’m K’rris, one of Lady Ashasha’s guards.  Please forgive the rude introduction.  We’re really a pretty friendly lot, just not morning people.  Can I tell her who is asking for her?“

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"Call me Lady Udaran.  I doubt she would know me, we’ve never met.  But I… WE have come a long way to speak with her.  I assure you we mean no harm.  Our guard here, Ubergard, will wait outside.”

“Udaran?  THE Udaran?  From the Tails?!” the Khajiit’s eyes grew large.

“Oh!  You know my work?  I didn’t expect anyone would know me this far from Whiterun.  Then perhaps you know Red, Kitty and Ubergard too?”

“Sorry, I don’t go much for Scalies.  And I don’t recognize Kitty I’m afraid,” he said, nodding in greeting.  "I don’t get the Tails often, just occasionally a friend will loan me a copy.  I’m awfully glad to meet you Lady Udaran!“

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"That explains it.  Kitty’s pretty new.  She’s only been in a couple of issues.”

“Well, wait a moment, I’ll be right back!”  With that, the guard retreated back inside the Cathouse.

“Who’d have guessed, Tails readers way out here?” Udaran remarked.

“But only the Khajiit issues,” snorted Muz-Ra in mock indignation, to which even Ubergard had to laugh.

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The door opened again and K’rris emerged, once again closing the door behind him.  That, Kitty realized, was not a good sign. image

Sabhira’s Daughter #34

“So this is Markarth.  Impressive,” Kitty said as they walked the steps up to the main gate of the city.

“They do love their stone!” Muz-Ra agreed.

“Have you been here before Uber?” Udaran asked.

The big Argonian shook her head, “No.  Though I have heard stories.  They say they sleep on stone beds here.”

“That’s just a myth I’m sure.”

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“My pads are killing me.  A stone slab sounds pretty good to me right now!” said Kitty, groaning slightly.

“Unfortunately we can’t rest just yet Kitty.  We’ve got to get some civilian clothes first, right?” Muz-Ra reminded her.

Udaran agreed, “She’s right Kitty.  It’s too bad we didn’t come across any merchants on the way, but I do think we should change as soon as possible.”

Then, stepping up to the guard, she purred in supplication, “Sir, I’m afraid we’re new to your great city.  We are in need of a merchant.  Can you advise us where we might find one?”

The guard removed his helmet and smiled at her, looking her up and down appreciatively.  "You’ll want Arnleif’s.  Just stay to your right as you enter, you can’t miss it.“

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"And, there’s no restrictions for Khajiit and Argonians here?” she added hopefully.

“Naa, not for you.  You’re welcome anywhere in the city – but do change out of your working clothes.  Some people might object.”

“That’s just what we’re looking for.  Thank you sir!” Udaran smiled her sweetest smile, trying not to reveal too much fang.

Kitty noticed the guard’s eyes widen somewhat as Ubergard passed him before he donned his helmet again.

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“Hello Ma’am.  Are you Arnleif?  We have need of some more… standard shall we say… clothing,” Udaran said in her sulkiest Nord voice.

“No cat, and you can turn off the heat.  I’m not into your kind. I am Lisbet, the owner of Arnleif.  He was my husband.”

“Oh,” Udaran said, reverting to her normal accent, “I’m sorry to hear that.”

“Spare me.  And this better not be on credit.  Ash still hasn’t paid me from her last visit!”

“Ash?  Oh no, we have coin.” Udaran said, revealing a small coin purse.

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“Oh! I’m sorry.  You’re not from the Cathouse?” Lisbet lightened up considerably at the sight of the purse.

“The Cathouse?” Udaran asked, suddenly more interested.

“Yes, I’m sorry – it’s your clothes.  The only Khajiit around here that dress like that are from there.  Please forgive me.  Here, Imed will show you our clothing line.  Though I’m afraid we’ll have nothing that will fit your tall friend here.”

“Kitty, would you mind checking out the clothes with Imed?  I’d like to hear more about this Cathouse.”

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Kitty chose what she considered to be conservative clothes and one with somewhat more elegant for Udaran as their leader, before returning to the counter where Udaran was speaking.

“I do thank you Lisbet.  I will call on lady Ashasha at the Cathouse in the morning.”

“That may be a bit too soon I’m afraid.  They don’t open till after dark.” Lisbet warned, adding “…or so I hear.”

Udaran smiled, “Oh, we’re not patrons OR prospective employees.  We’re just looking for someone who may be there.”

“Uh huh.” Lisbet didn’t sound convinced, but brightened as the purse was opened.  

“Will that do?  And do you mind if we change in here?” Udaran asked, leaving an abundant supply of gold on the table top.

“Oh yes!  Thank you!  Do come back again if you find yourself in need of anything.  And good luck with Ashasha tomorrow.  As for the inn, The Silver-Blood Inn is just across the road back towards the entrance.”

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A few minute later found the group standing in front of the main Markarth Inn.

“Well THAT was lucky!  And it certainly sounds like the brothel we’re looking for,” Kitty said happily.

“Definitely. There CAN’T be more than one around here.  Where is it Udie?” asked Muz-Ra.

“She gave me some directions.  It’s not in Markarth proper, but it’s not far outside, just across the river.  Now let’s go get a room and let me get out of this BLANKET!”

“Really!  How Nords survive inside these clothes is beyond me.  Can’t feel a WISP of air!” Muz-Ra observed.

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“So, good sir,” Udaran said to the bartender/manager of the Silver-Blood Inn, “No rooms at all for a few weary travellers?”

“Kleppr, miss.  Please call me Kleppr.  No, I’m sorry, but all our rooms are taken this night.  It’s those damned Forsaken.  Everyone within miles comes into Markarth to avoid them at night. Unless you would consider sleeping out here for the night?”

“Oh, I don’t think that would be wise Mr. Kleppr,” Udaran purred, “You see, I can’t sleep in clothing at all and I fear the sight of my naked, exposed body would offend your guests.”

Kleppr raised an eyebrow at that.  "Oh, well… hmm… Maybe there’s something I could do for you…“

Udaran plopped a fat bag of coins on the counter, "and for my friends too of course.”

“Of course.  We’ve a nice room just up the stairs.  Our cook and houseboy stay there, but they can sleep out here tonight.  However, er… I’ll need to drop in from time to time during the evening to get the food.”

“Oh, that would be JUST fine Mr. Kleppr!  I’m sure a man of your dignity wouldn’t disturb four sleeping females under your roof.  I just hope my lack of nocturnal dress doesn’t disturb you too much.”

“Yeah, um… I mean no!  Right this way.

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After a somewhat disrespectful scene in which Kleppr evicted his employees from their room unceremoniously, the four were finally left alone.

"Oh my god, I didn’t know how sore my pads were until I took my weight off them!” Udaran sighed.

“Red?  Are you sleeping Au Naturel too?” Kitty asked, rubbing her own feet.

“Well, you got me thinking Udie.  I think I’ll leave my bikini off for tonight.”

“Oh? Don’t relish the thought of some mystic eyes watching you Red?”

“In fact, no.  I don’t.  Kitty?  Aren’t you sleeping with me or Udie tonight?”

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“Not tonight.  Besides, the fire feels awfully good.”

“Well, you’re not missing much sleeping on the floor I have to say.  Too bad it wasn’t a myth eh Udie?”

“I’ll say!  But at least it’s warm in here.  Goodnight everyone.  With luck, we’ll be on our way back home tomorrow.”

Kitty noticed that during the night, Kleppr only sneaked inside a few times to take a peek.  Lecher he may be, but he was a harmless lecher – which was well for him since Ubergard was not snoring.

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Sabhira’s Daughter #33

“What do you suppose happened?” Muz-Ra asked quietly to Udaran as they turned onto the road to Markarth.

“No idea, Red.  Something serious. But we should let her decide if she wants to talk about it.”

“Did she go out last night?”

“Not that I know of.  But I don’t think it was just a bad dream either.”

Muz-Ra nodded, “Me neither.”

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After hours of walking, Kitty’s mood had finally lightened enough to consider the future. “So, Udie, what’s your plan once we get to Markarth?”

“Well, we’re probably going to get there pretty late, so we’ll need to stay at an inn.  If Markarth is like most large cities, it will have a combination tavern/inn somewhere near the entrance.  I’m hoping the barkeep or maybe some locals will know about a whorehouse that offers Khajiits.”

Kitty considered this for a minute.

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“You know, they won’t be used to us there, like they are in Whiterun.  Maybe we should buy some ‘normal’ clothing.  Otherwise they might think we’re looking for jobs there!”

“Good point.  Ubergard, do you think there will be any traders along this road before we get there?”

“It’s always possible.  It’s even possible that we might meet Ri’saad and Atahbah’s caravan.”

“Well, if so I think Kitty’s right.  Let’s try and see if we can get some more conservative clothing before we get there.”

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Ubergard turned with a raised eyeridge, “I hope you aren’t suggest I change?!  This armor is worth more than half of Blue’s treasure.  I’ll not leave it in some inn’s room to be stolen by a Markarth burglar.”

“Ok, ok!  You can keep yours on.  I doubt anyone would ever mistake YOU for a prostitute anyway.”

“I should hope not!”

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“What about after,” Kitty continued.  "I mean, what if we find this place?  We don’t even know what her name is.“

Udaran shrugged.  "I’ve no idea.  I’m open to suggestions.”

Muz-Ra offered, “Well, we could ask the owner if anyone was sold to them from a Khajiit matching Hasskir’s description.”

“If the owner is still even the same.  And we’re assuming she’s still there.  That’s a lot of assumptions,” Kitty pointed out.

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“I just thought, even if we find her, she’s going to have some hard news.  Her mother was murdered and…” Udaran mused.

“And I killed her father,” Kitty concluded.  "She’s probably not going to be overjoyed to hear that news.“

"No, I suppose not.  But my duty is clear.  I just have to find her and tell her what happened.”

“And give her the gold.”

“Yes, and give her the gold that her mother died for,” Udaran elaborated.

Kitty nodded and sighed once again.

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“Kitty?” Muz-Ra ventured as the overcast sky began to darken into late afternoon some hours later.

“Yes Red?”

“What happened back there?  At FarSeer’s place?  It’s ok if you don’t want to talk about it, but sometimes it helps.  We’re all friends here.”

Kitty walked on without replying.

“Ok,” Muz-Ra accepted Kitty’s reluctance.

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A few minutes later Kitty relented, “I saw him…  I went out in the morning to the outhouse, and on the way back, I saw him in werewolf form.”

“Did he see you?” Udaran asked quietly.

“Oh yes.  He came up to me.  But I…  <sniff> Oh Udie, I couldn’t accept it.  It was too terrible.  All claws and teeth and the stink of blood.  I knew he was FarSeer, he was my… friend.  But I couldn’t see him.  All I could see was a thing.  A monster.  To choose to BE that.  I’ll never be able to understand it.”

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At that, Ubergard turned to her. 

“Nor I, Kitty.  He always was a hunter though.  We talked last night about it.  He saw it as a way to become the ultimate hunter, without tools or weapons.  It was always his dream to live that way, alone and needing no one’s help.  He’s living his dream, and I do believe him when he says that he’s not a danger to anyone now.  I too have seen his other form though.  It seems to be designed to elicit fear and loathing.  Hircine is a terrible Prince to worship, but perhaps not the worst of the lot.  My brother was drawn to him years before he became what he is now.  He loves the hunt, and always will.  You were right to understand your limits.  I fear he has lost all chance of any lasting relationship for that love, but you mustn’t think it a weakness within you.  Your reaction is ingrained into any civilized being.”

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“Thank you Ubergard.  I think you’re right.  I have to believe it really.  When he came close to me, I was overwhelmed with fear.  Like I had no control over my own body.  That’s a feeling I hope never to have again.  But I learned something about myself.  I’m not as strong as I thought I was.”

“You tried, Kitty.  FarSeer appreciated that, I’m sure.  You tried, and that’s more than I can say for myself.  I’ve fought werewolves before, and when I learned he had become one, I rejected him outright.  I don’t understand the lure of the hunt, to go to that extreme for it.  But I have learned something too.  That even someone who would willingly accept – seek out – that disease may still be sane.”

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