Arkuss <Athena walked back out onto the training sands, a loud roar coming from hir fellow gladiators. Chain Boss Nerr used his quiet lethality to focus the gathered on their duties. Athena took up a position as the Royale begun, the Chain dividing into two groups, one facing hirself the other facing House Champion Surrek. While the zebra toyed with many of his opponents, his skill so vastly superior the theirs, Athena dispatched her adversaries with brutal efficiency. The sand slaves took the beaten fighters off the sand as soon as they fell and before long Athena and Surrek stood alone upon the sands, staring at each other with well-earned respect. Stepping forward, the pair was ready to come to blows, but Nerr raised his hand and spoke softly, "Stop. That is enough for the day. Tend your wounds, clean yourselves and prepare for the evening meal." Smirking at each other, the zebra and human gave each other a wink and turned to walk off the sands.>

Neflari shakes his head as Athena heads back out to the sands, taking a moment to get himself focused again and let the reality sink back in, though he still felt a mix of excitement and anxiety both. By the time he got outside, the Royale had begun and the lion took a short time to watch the two gladiators taking on so many opponents. He noted especially their tendencies in handling those they fought, Athena's actually being closer to his own preference should he ever have need to fight. As the first fighters fall he looks around again, spotting the wren at the House Champion's platform and headed in that direction. He finds himself a little nervous as he approaches but after what he had experienced so recently it seemed rather pale in comparison. "Umm...you are Xian, the Song of Surrek?"

Arkuss <Turning to face the questioner, the skinny female avian studied the lion for a time, her large eyes blinking a couple of times, as if trying to figure out who he was and why he was speaking to her. Sighting that wrist-band, she chirped softly, finally nodding. "And you are?" the sing-song way she spoke was no doubt rather hypnotic if one listened to her long enough. Offering a position on the raised platform near her, the slight creature looked totally out of place compared to the mass of many of the combatants upon the sands now "You are Athena's second, are you not?”>

Neflari he could feel that long gaze taking him in, something not exactly unfamiliar to the lion given his previous role though it made him blush a little regardless. He smiles some as she offers him a place on the platform, the lion slowly stepping up, taking in the lovely wren's appearance though avoiding too long of a look. "Ah, yes I am. My name is Neflari. I only became Athena's second today." He glances out towards the fight for a few seconds. "It was...not something I expected, and I must admit I know nothing about this new role. Shi said you could teach me of what is involved..."

Arkuss <"I know who you are. Your quite the topic of discussion with the House slaves. Just bear in mind that your activities within the House, are not permitted here without the express consent of you Chain Fighter at the minimum." She paused a bit hearing that Athena had offered you her services, throat trilling loudly as her feathers rippled "Well, the House Second has always been quite indulgent with certain aspects of the Chain." She lets out a loud trill in excitement as Surrek felled a human and fox with a single blow "The most important thing for you to learn is that I am not your friend.">

Neflari blushes more at the fact he was apparently so well known even as just a House slave. He takes in what the wren says, giving a small nod here and there as she spoke, finding himself enjoying the chance to watch some of Athena's strong attacks though he did his best to keep attention on Xian's words. He gives a blink as that last part is spoken, turning to look at her. Well, that was a small hope downed it seems. "Hmm. And...why is that exactly?"

Arkuss <The avian looked at him with a perplexed look. "Because she is a direct threat to my Champion. It is only a matter of time they will be forced to fight. And that is a day I dread." She trilled lightly, looking back to the zebra for a time, and watching as he fells a skinny gazelle with a single glow, after playing with him for several minutes "We are to tend to their every need. Keep their weaponry clean and maintained, either by our own hands or through the weapon smith's of the House. The same with their armor and clothing. We are to ensure they are focused upon one thing only, training for the next arena or pit they should battle in." she whistled loudly as the zebra lifted the gazelle into a bear-hug and squeezed the breath out of the smaller creature.>

Neflari mms, seeming to become lost in thought for a moment, it made sense and was something he hadn't entirely considered. It made sense of course. "I...see. Perhaps it is best anyway." Slowly the true reality of his duty sank in, the lion finding himself a mix of emotions though determination had begun to sprout and grow deep within as the wren continued to speak. He would no doubt need every bit of it as he learns and tries to adapt to this. He took a moment to watch Athena again, a smile of admiration forming as she took in an opponent with relative care before suddenly dispatching them with a single quick blow. "It's...a lot of responsibility, isn't it?"

Arkuss <It is of extreme importance that you do not allow for anything you do to distract her. That means you cannot become involved in the usual gossip and backbiting House slaves are notorious for. WE are better than that, WE have to be. Though we are not officially above them, the vast majority of House and Pit slaves will obey any reasonable instruction given to them." she paused a bit, wincing as Athena plants a foot square on the chest of a newly branded cheetah-boi, the feline squealing as something breaks inside "Another duty is to watch the other fighters and gladiators, learning their strengths and weaknesses, and give them our observations if asked." looking over the lion, she understood why he was so popular being this close.>

Neflari had never been too bad as a House slave. A little gossip perhaps but he largely refused to indulge in the nastier behaviors slaves tended to exhibit. In some cases it had improved the attitudes of some others and gained him respect though he had once in a while suffered at the hands of those who grew jealous or resentful. His tail flicked slowly as he took in the fighting, silks shifting in a rather teasing manner when the appendage moved. What House slaves wore often seemed simple but was more carefully designed than most would believe and he seemed to naturally take full advantage of it. A pride was building alongside determination as he watched Athena's skill, finding himself making occasional mental notes. "That should prove an interesting challenge."

Arkuss <"True. Surrek knows she is the only one of the Chain that can challenge him. I fear when that day comes, only one will leave the sands alive. Their respect for each other would dictate nothing less." She tremble sighed softly, removing the thought from her mind "You should move to Athena's position now. You are her second and it would do her spirit well, even now, to see you there." The wren lifted a wing arm and gestured to the smaller platform on the opposite side of the sands. There were only a hand full of combatants left now, including Surrek and Athena. He fought a pair of lizard men, while she was man-handling a hyena.>

Neflari a small nod at that, the fighting was indeed winding down now, though neither of the two main fighters seemed to have slowed down much. "It is an inevitable thing I guess. I appreciate what you've shared with me this day. In respect and thanks, I will make sure Athena can give hir all when that time comes." He gives the wren a warm smile before turning to step down from the platform, the gesture odd given what she had already said but sometimes he saw no point in suppressing his nature. "You are right that fate will not allow us to be friends...but I do not find myself counting you as a true enemy, either." And with that footpaws rest upon the sands again, the lion quickly heading for his rightful place now, even as the last challengers to the fearsome gladiators make their attempt.

Arkuss <Surrek finishes the lizards in brilliant fashion, catching ones tail swipe and using him as a club against his fellow. Grinning widely, he fists his hand and punches the stunned remaining lizard in the snout, releasing the tail and letting him fall to sand. He turns to watch Athena, her naked body glistening with sweat and effort, bear-hugging the hyena into her cleavage. A wish most males greatly desire, this was certainly not the way to go about it, as the amazon held that head firmly between the palms of her hand and pressed the snout into the softness of that fatty mammary. She gave a grunt and looked at the zebra and casually tossed the hyena aside and walked toward the striped House Champion. They stared at each other for what seemed like eternity until Chain Boss Nerr stepped up to finish the session, his eye glaring at the pair. The top two gladiators nodded to each other then to Nerr before walking to their respective platforms. Athena looked at Nef, and gestured to the water cup and towel laying upon the nearby bench, giving him a little nod.>

Neflari arrives at the smaller platform about the time that battle of stares began, the lion watching curiously until Nerr finally broke it up. He smiles as the amazon approaches, finding his cheeks growing a little heated as he had the chance to take in the sight of her body, glistening from hir exertion and only making hir more attractive. As shi gestures he returns the nod and gets the water, a bit of a reach as he pours it over that large body, rinsing away sweat and sand. He sets the container down, picking up the towel now and moving to dry hir. "I've never gotten to see you in a full fight like that...it was amazing."

Arkuss <"It was...efficient. How are you with those fingers of yours? I think I am going to need quite an extensive deep muscle massage before the evening meal." shi spoke lightly, settling down onto her knees and bending forward a bit, her hand resting upon those thick legs as her gargantuan tits hung down beneath her, allowing him to better towel off that form "Do you know my quarters?" shi asked lightly, turning to look at him "I want you to meet me there after I bath.">

Neflari he works over hir body with the towel quickly yet with care, having to fight himself a bit to not become distracted by that body. "Um...I suppose I'm fairly good at that sort of thing." And oh, those cheeks grew warmer as the amazon spoke further, meeting hir gaze as shi looked to him, though taking in those purple and pink hues really didn't help his focus much. "Ahh...y-yes, I think I know where your quarters are. I will meet you there, then." He gives a slight nod, finishing his drying of hir after a moment more of effort.

Arkuss <Shifts a bit, deliberately causing an 'accidental' misplacement of his hands, her face staying rigid and unemotional as possible. Hearing him, she reaches out and grabs his arm, lifting his wrist so he can see that bracelet. "This shows all who see it you are my second. I have seen how others lust after you. Most will be subservient enough to leave you be. Those who do not, take note and extricate yourself form the situation. Those who belong to the House will now look upon you differently, even those you have called friend." She released his arm and stood closer to him that at anytime save the night before, in the cubby. "Do not make me wait.">

Neflari blinks, that deep blush remaining a bit longer thanks to hir shift. As shi stands fully again and takes hold of his wrist, eyes moving to that band as he takes in those words of warning. Shi was correct he realized, it was another danger that came with this role and he foolishly might not have even considered it one. While possibly difficult, he could extricate himself in most cases...and simply have to hope with a little caution, the remaining ones simply did not come about. As the amazon moves closer his gaze lifts to meet hirs, the lion's eyes holding a more serious look than normal. "I...I will do my best, Athena."" to Arkuss

Arkuss <Shi lifts a brow and laughs. "What, you will not TRY to do your best or you MAY do your best? You WILL do your best? That is quite encouraging. Ohh, and as much as I greatly love your silks, you will be needing to get some better attire for the sands." Shi turned about and walked off. Was there a bit more of a feminine sway to her hips at the moment? Passing behind the doorway into the Chain bathing house.>

Neflari gives  small smile at the compliment as well as another of those surprised blinks. Well, yes, that did make sense. He would have to get hold of something more suitable...though he would eventually see about other silks as well. Oh yes. He watches hir enter the bath house, remaining slightly dazed for a brief moment before he puts down the towel and out of habit checks to make sure his silks and mane were in place. That done, he makes the brief trip to his present slave quarters, needing to pick up a few items from there first.

Arkuss <The lion could feel the change within the house immediately. Knowing how quickly news and gossip and rumor spread through the house, this was still a bit of a surprise. Those who might speak with him at the drop of a hat, looked away from him or down at their feet or the floor. Those who disliked him now tossed even more lethal daggers in his direction, speaking softly under their breath as he passed. But, as he moved into his new position the house would continue to function. In the slave quarters two were waiting for him. First was the House's head slave, the goat Zane who at one time was a fighter on the chain until the former House Champion deliberately took his right arm from him. The other was a human that had come into the house upon the same chain as Neflari, the human Miles. He was rumored to be a mage of some sort and had captured the fancy of the Mistress of the House and spent most of his time at her villa doing what no one knew or certain, but rumors did swell. Approaching slowly, Zane stretched out his good left arm and smiles "I do not know what you did to curry favor with the House's Second, nor do I really wish to. But I still am at a loss as to congratulate you or pity you?". Zane chuckled and shook his head lightly "Congratulate him today, pity him tomorrow.">

Neflari began his trip back to quarters at a normal pace, but as he passed one after another, many slaves he knew for good or ill, his steps increased a bit, senses a bit sharper. As he reaches the area where his quarters were he slowed again, forcing himself calm once more as he steps inside. He gives a nod to the two presently inside as he goes to his bedding area and begins collecting several of the items he kept stored beside it. A glance given back to the two as they speak, pausing in his actions for that moment. "I am not entirely certain myself, but my duties fall to Athena now regardless. I prefer to think it will be a good thing." He finishes gathering his things into a bag, leaving only the bedding itself and a few minor items. His actual belongings did not amount to all that much really.

Arkuss <Zane nodded a bit, lifting a brow as the young lion moved with guarded precision "You are not quite at ease, young lion. Though you are now hir Chain Slave, you are still a member of the house. You need not be afraid here. Honestly, we have more to fear from you." the goat spoke quietly.>

Neflari hmms and sighs a bit, looking at Zane then taking the offered hand for a moment. "Well, maybe you are right. I cannot say this change has gotten much of a warm reception from the other slaves so far, though." He stands, giving a small stretch now before lifting the bag. It would be plenty for his duties right now. "It has been an...overwhelming day. And I have things yet to be done." A brief glance around the quarters, a place he likely would not see too often after today.

Arkuss <The goat and human gave him a simultaneous nod. The human spoke lightly "If you can manage it, you might want to learn some healing that does not come out of a bottle or tube. From what I gather, the next few weeks will be trying for us all." Zane looked over the lion and smiled "Server hir well and make a name for yourself while you are at it. This is a gift you have been given." The pair would allow him to leave at his discretion, several slaves milled about the hallway, tending to their assigned duties. The route back to his new home was mostly cleared due to it being meal time.>

Neflari mms and seems to think on the human's words, a smile given to him after a moment. "Yes, that would be good to learn. Even with my limitations in using magic." A small blush formed, the lion looking to Zane once again. "I certainly plan to.   Thank you, both. I would remain a little while but I am expected and it would not be good to keep hir waiting." He gives a nod before heading out of the quarters, taking the hallway at a calmer pace this time though not entirely off guard. He should have enough time to arrive, likely a bit before Athena would return.

Arkuss <The lion made it back to his quarters and sure enough Athena was not present. His smaller bed was along the opposite wall to the House Second's own, larger mattress and simple sheet combination. Before long, the amazon returned and shi smiled to him. "Any problems getting your things? That is your area over there. Feel free to make it as much yours as you can." The amazon sat down on hir own bed and sighed "When you are done, go to the eating area and fetch me a bowl of soup and some bread, I plan on eating here tonight. You may join me if you wish.”>

Neflari lets out a small breath of relief as he reaches hir quarters, finding much of the tension slipping away from him, realizing it must have been building gradually all day. But that was understandable, considering he began the day with no more concern than the floors being clean and having to perform his 'services' in the evening and was now facing one of the most important roles a slave could hold. He was looking around at the room when shi arrives, turning to face hir and nods, moving to the simple bed and setting down his bag as well as the few other things he had carried here. "No, no problems...though you were right. It was...different, going there this time." He smiles some, giving a nod as he moves towards the door. "I will do so. And...I would enjoy eating with you, tonight." With that he slips out the door, heading for the eating area this time.

Arkuss <Athena waited for Neflari to return, placing his belongings upon his bed and returning to settle into a kneel before the small table near the window, offering a prayer to hir namesake goddess. Enjoying the evenings coolness, shi shifted a bit, turning hir head with each footfall by hir doorway. Turning slightly, shi looked into the hallway and heard the low tones of Bernak, a crazed hyena speaking to two of the house slaves tending their duties. With a growl, shi rose up slowly and walked to the doorway, gazing at the trio unto the hyena noticed hir. With a snort, he turned a bit to face hir, smiling "You know, where I come from, your little toy wouldn't even be a snack for my kind." His mismatched eyes glazed slightly as he took a step forward. Letting out a sigh, the amazon spoke softly "You should go where you are almost tolerated, Bernak. Or do I have to break you...again?">

Neflari makes his way to the eating area, many of the House slaves giving similar glares or whispering to each other as he passes though it didn't bother him as much as before. A few friendly faces did greet him and he would pause briefly to speak with them. Eventually he arrives, going about getting the requested soup and bread, a second bowl for himself as well as a little bit of chicken and vegetables. The process did not take very long thankfully and he set out to Athena's quarters again, finding himself increasingly hungry as he could smell the food now, realizing he hadn't eaten much for most of the day. Oh well, it had happened before. As he gets close to the hallway their quarters were on, he can overhear those two familiar voices, one of which he had never particularly liked the source of.

Arkuss <Smirking at the hyena, seeing a bit of hesitation in those eyes, the amazon walked into the hallway, shaking hir arms lightly "If I recall the last time we fought was for the position of Second of the Chain. Care for a rematch?" shi smirked, forcing the hyenas hand. That psycho growl-yipped and took a step forward "Tell me, mighty Second...how did it feel to have him in control of your cock? Ohh, you think that could happen in a vacuum? I have eyes and ears EVERYWHERE!" he growled and leapt forward, the pair smacking loudly as her legs tensed and ground was held, the gladiators engaging with the house but breaking one of the cardinal rules of the Chain.>

Neflari slows down as he reaches the hallway, their quarters weren't far down from that intersection and any time that particular one was involved, there was usually not a good outcome for someone. Thankfully it was usually the hyena but not always. Setting the food down he slips to the corner, filing away the words spoken both as idle interest and things to be investigated later. He peeks around the corner only a few seconds before the hyena launches himself at the amazon. He was glad to see shi held hir ground well as he would expect, but even so this was not a good situation.

Arkuss <Athena squeezed the hyena in her arms, using her strength to lift the smaller anthro. Looping his arm over the right arm, his claws dug into her shoulder, as he gnashed with his teeth. Suspended as he was, there was little leverage for him, but his wiry frame wiggled strongly, learning from his losses to this opponent. Smiling, he glared at her and threw his head forward, knocking skulls once..twice...three...four times. Shaking his head, the amazons grip slacked as her nose was bloodied and she grunted angrily, tossing him into the wall, then stepping back to gather hir senses "Tell me something, bitch...did you allow him to suck you off because of fond memories of me?" Bernak taunted, steadying himself first and rushing her, shoulder slamming into the large gut and lifting her to slam back flush into the edge of the doorjamb, eliciting a scream from the amazon that shook the walls.>

Neflari winces as the hyena tries to gain the upper hand, clearly not just lashing out randomly which made this all the more dangerous. Even as the amazon tossed the hyena back he opened himself to what trickle of magic he was able to access on his own but did not grasp it just yet, something felt very wrong here. That next rush before shi was quite ready yet was enough, a grasp of magic and a minor spell that was almost instinct to him now pushing the flow into his legs. A quick shift past the corner then he leapt at the hyena, a single bound closing the distance before Athena's scream had even finished. Claws dug into the hyena's back with a roar louder than one his size should be able to conjure and only muffled as jaws clamped down upon his target's neck.

Arkuss <The amazon slumped to the ground, arms reaching to grab the opposite as blood coughed from her lungs. Shi could feel the ribs inside her lungs, felt the suck as it collapsed and coughed again, agonizingly so. Her left arm was limp, the shoulder dislocated and useless now. Shaking hir head, she lifted to her feet, and the roar shook the walls, vibrating the floor and causing old plaster to drop form the high ceiling. Her eardrums vibrated with the noise and she watches the small lion pounce form around the corner, quicker than shi had seen all but a few in the arena. About to command him to stop, she watched him land upon the surprised hyena, obviously as disoriented by the attack as by that roar. With a yowl, Bernak flailed away at the biting, clawing attacker, spinning about the hallway and smashing into a table nearby, trying desperately to toss the assailant off.>

Neflari growls as he holds securely, he would not get a second chance if he let go and he knew it. Claws and teeth drew blood as he forced them in as far as he could but attacking from the back he would not be able to inflict anything lethal. The hyena seemed disoriented trying to fling him off, a wince as they smashed into that table. After a moment of this he feels a shift in weight just right to adjust his own balance, jaws and claws of one paw keeping as secure as possible as his other paw pulls back only to return to the hyena's body, this time claws sinking into his spine halfway down.

Arkuss <Athena watches, mesmerized for a few seemingly eternal seconds and then hauls hirself to hir feet through grit and will alone. Just as the hyena howls as that claw strike finds home, the amazon unleashes an upper-cut to his chin with that good arm. The hyena yips and goes limp, falling to a heap unconscious. Staggering back, Athena looks at her Second and shakes hir head, blood dripping from her mouth as she chokes heavily and falls back onto the floor. By this time a half dozen denizens of the house had arrived, not counting the five guards and Mistress of the House Claudette. Immediately, the guards went to the lion and hauled him off the hyena, the Mistress of the House glaring at him "WHAT IS THE MEANING OF THIS DISRESPECT?">

Neflari once the hyena falls the lion's hold loosens, easily pulled away by the guards as he felt adrenaline leave him, the lion rather dazed at this point. He shivers at the feel of blood on his paws and muzzle, body mostly limp in the guard's hold. He shakes his head some, barely looking up as he's given that question. "H-he attacked hir..." His glance moved for a moment to where Athena remained, oddly once again more concerned over hir condition than his own wellbeing.

Arkuss <The Mistress of the House glared at the lion and then to the fallen bodies. Pushing passed the Mistress was a pair of the house physicians. One went to the hyena and the other the Amazon. The guards holding Neflari, turned him to face the Mistress, pushing a foot into his knee and forcing him to kneel. The middle-aged human looked as if she was about to rip his body apart herself "AND YOU ATTACKED HIM? Take them to the blocks, all of them. When my husband returns, HE will deal with them." And without a second order, the trio was hauled down the hallway, the physicians pleas to tend to the Amazon falling upon deaf ears...before long they were each chained to the heavy cinder blocks at the center of the punishment square. The hyena had regained consciousness and stared daggers at lion, while Athena lay in a heap, breathing raggedly as the handful of guards surrounding them looked back at hir every so often but did not dare disobey..."Heh, looks like I finally got the bitch. Not the way I wanted but I will take it." He then spit heavily onto her face, grinning in his apparent triumph "Die horribly slow, you fucking pain-slut.">

Neflari mmfs as he's forced to kneel, knowing there was not much to give in reply, at least not that would help so he remained silent. He gives little resistance as the three of them are chained, a sigh as he considers what went wrong with this day. A brief glare given in return to the hyena and that comment ignored as he takes the risk again, opening himself to just a bit of magic, enough for a detection spell to reach the amazon, the lion slowly monitoring the damage. Only one part was really of consequence and he was honestly ill-equipped to treat it, especially since giving any indication of what he was doing might cause more trouble.

Arkuss <Bernak watched the lion for a bit, lifting a brow as he seemed to take quite and interest in the amazon "Don't worry about hir, shi won't be around for too much longer. Dumb bitch never has learned to mind hir surrounding. Always trying to use strength over finesse. That works in the arena or a pit, but not in a fight. That is the reason she only beats me in the controlled battles and also why she won't EVER be House Champion. A shame, Im going to miss that ass." Grinning, the hyena turned to look at the main house.>

Neflari growls a little as those comments continue, breaking the magic link as he feels his control begin to waver though he had managed to shift some of the ribs enough they were not piercing hir lungs any more. He would have to wait a few minutes before doing anything else. A look was given to the hyena, perhaps a bit smug but overall fairly neutral. "I think you are wrong, but even if you are not...you still lost. To a pretty little lion. If what you say is true, I hope for your sake it was worth what you may have gotten from hir..."

Arkuss <The hyena turns and gives the brave lion a lingering look "What I TOOK form hir is something your scrawny ass will most likely never get." He licked those lips. "Even if they do manage to save hir, shi will be unable to compete in the upcoming events, which opens the door for me to advance. Either way, by the end of this season, I will have her ass AND her mouth to service me." he barked loudly. "You beat me from behind, and you know it. Face to face, your ass is dead and shi is going to be.">

Neflari hmmfs and gives a shrug at that. "We will see. I have been told that before and I'm sure shi has many times." He touches the magic again, feeling it calm and reaches out with that basic telekinetic spell and the healing probe, gradually working bones as close to their proper place as he can, though he could not heal them. It would hopefully be enough until someone with real abilities could help hir...or they met a fate which rendered the entire matter inconsequential.

Arkuss <Shaking his head, the hyena turned his back on the lion, huffing a bit. As the lion focused upon his task, he felt another shift in the mystical flow, softly caressing his own and amplifying it slightly, the positioning of those broken bones setting nearly perfectly. The new sensation then sifted through the background noise, working to mend the tissue of the lung, the effort needed to do this more than the lion knows at the moment. As suddenly as it came, the surge fell off.>

Neflari blinks, surprised at the odd shift in the magic, definitely not something of his doing but as he realizes it was managing to heal the amazon much better than he could have hoped for, he figured no point in questioning things right now. He allowed it to continue, trying to make note of exactly how it was doing this but only able to grasp a very basic idea. Once the surge falls away he focuses on the probing magic, taking a careful look now. Sure enough, while it was not perfect and shi would need a little recovery time, the amazon was well out of mortal danger and likely would regain consciousness before too long. He releases the magic entirely, settling down with a small sigh to rest and await whatever might come next.

Arkuss <It was nearly midnight when the Master of the House returned and was told of the incident within the House itself. Still wearing his worn traveling robes, the aged man stalked through the courtyard to the place where the slaves were chained, followed by Chain Boss Nerr and a towering new female acquisition, easily Athena's height but where the amazon was plump this brown skinned one was muscle. Completely naked, she gazed forward with mis-colored eyes of red and green. Pointing to the lion, a pair of guards pulled Neflari to his feet and positioned him before Master Crennus "Not one day in your new role and you rest against the Punishment Blocks. Explain yourself well.">

Neflari groans, blinking as he hears sounds in the dead of night, the lion tired, hungry and honestly rather scared at this point. A glance up at the tall woman, noting those eyes though averting his gaze quickly as he really didn't need the distraction. He was moved with a small grunt, a small sigh as he collects himself. "Athena sent me to get food and upon returning found Bernak at the quarters. I did not...witness why he was there or what provoked it, but he attacked hir." A gulp as he briefly sorts out more of the story. "As shi is a capable fighter I would have allowed hir to resolve it on hir own, but he was causing...severe injury, and did not appear to be relenting. So...I attacked him, in hopes of breaking up the fight...it worked. By then, the fight had drawn attention and we were placed here to await your return. While shi is doing better now, two medics came with the guards...and can verify Athena's condition at the time." He pauses there, settling into a more formal slave position almost out of reflex. "I believed it was correct to protect Athena at the time. If I have acted wrongly, I can only claim ignorance of proper action and will accept punishment as deemed fit."

Arkuss <Running his hand through his thin head of hair, the Master of the House shook his head and looked to Nerr "You were right, he did speak with intelligence and manner. His bearing is...adequate and his demeanor respectful. AND since he is new to all this," he gestures to a guard and the man walks over and unchains the lion from his block "the fault does not lay with him." Looking at the lion sternly, those hard eyes seem to soften a bit "You find yourself in most interesting situations. I am beginning to think you are a bit of a magnet for this sort of thing. Go to your quarters and sleep. After breakfast tomorrow, come to my foyer and I will teach you your duties properly. As for those two," he looks to Nerr directly "I trust Freya here can dictate my displeasure with them. Ready your arms Nerr, you and she will instruct them the price of stupidity in  my house at first light." With that, the man strode off, his guards following close behind.>

Neflari somewhat unlike his usual tendency, he remained in that respectful poise, even after the chains were removed, only lifting his eyes as he was instructed in what to do, giving a small nod of understanding. He did not like the sound of sentence pronounced for the other two...well, the hyena was fine, but the lion was a bit biased. As the others leave, he finally takes the moment to rub the places those shackles had been, slowly bringing himself to his feet, a bit wobbly at first but finding his balance. He looks to where Athena remained, still unconscious and steps closer, a hand resting against hir back for a short moment, feeling her breathing steadily, skin warm and soft under his paw, confident the amazon would recover. He comes upright again, looking to Nerr. "If I may ask...when shi wakens, please let hir know that I am ok."

Arkuss <The giraffe looked at the lion and nodded "I will do so and it will be of comfort to her. I do not wish to do what I must upon the dawn, but the Master decrees it. You did the right thing, though it was NOT the proper thing. Tomorrow, I believe our Master will instruct you the difference between them." Stepping to the side, he motioned for the lion to proceed on his way. Shaking his head he soon departed for his quarters, the female standing a long while beyond before heading to those quarters herself. The dawn came quickly for the pair upon the blocks, their fellow Chain-mates forming about the center circle in mostly subdued silence. They learned of the sentence handed down as they each awoke. And it was rare for this to happen before breakfast. As they stood in the cool air, Nerr and his towering Chain Enforcer made their way to the circle. He wore the hardened leather armor of his days within the arena...she was completely nude, save for the bracelet upon her wrist. Looking about, Nerr watched as Athena and Bernak were led to the circle by a sextet of guards, both unclothed and chained together at the wrist and ankle. Upon the overlooking balcony, the Master and Mistress of the House stood, with their elder children joining them with looks of uncertainty upon their faces. An ominous weight hung in the air as the guards departed the circle and the fighters and gladiators closed tight. Looking to the balcony, Nerr looked to the their Master and awaited the command he dreaded.>

Neflari nods slowly, eyes lingering upon the amazon again before he turns quietly, heading for his quarters. It was difficult to sleep at first but before long exhaustion overtook him. He awake a little before dawn as he always had been required as a House slave. Working through some remaining grogginess he remembered what was said the night before and found himself taking Athena's advice and dressing in a leather wraparound top and form-fitting pants he had retrieved earlier. They were normally worn during dirtier cleaning duties and when silks might be damaged. Having no current duties due to Athena's present fate and not due to report until after breakfast he soon had made his way to where the punishment was to be carried out but only close enough to see, hoping to remain out of sight. The lion did not really want to watch but somehow he felt it best to witness this.

Arkuss <The Master of the House placed his hands upon the balcony rail and spoke firmly "Chain members Athena and Bernak have brought shame to you all. The penalty for fighting within the walls of the Master's house traditionally would be hobbling and banishment to the wells. But as I have noticed these last few weeks, a sense of familiarity has crept into this chain. And with it an erosion of order. That ends here, today, now. Chain Boss Nerr, commence the punishment." Stepping back, he stared daggers into the two bound slaves. With but a nod, the giraffe lifted his hand and dropped it. Charging from behind the wall of slaves, House Champion Surrek appeared, his chain slave Xian moving swiftly behind. Behind the pair, they never saw the attackers coming.>

Neflari shivers a little in the cool morning air, watching the proceedings from one of the smaller doorways leading to a storage area and allowing himself a look at the amazon, taking in those features and blushing a little. Even in such a situation, shi was something to behold. Quietly he listened as the Master spoke, a bit of dread pooling inside the lion as he understood a little more of the rules and just how serious this predicament was. That final command given and he watches as the giraffe brings his hand down. That moment more and his eyes went a bit wider as Surrek appears, followed by Xian no less, the two an impressive sight themselves moving so quickly.

Arkuss <Athena turned just as the wrens talons sliced into her back, the spray of her blood spattering the dirt. As shi fell to one knee, the short chain connecting her wrist to Bernak, yanked the hyena sideways and straight into Surrek's shoulder block, the mangy creature flying back and yanking Athena along for the ride. The hyena landed on his stomach, while Athena lay upon her side, gasping as she ate a bit of the soft sand. Looking up, she saw Xian in mid leap, those talons extended again. Rolling toward the hyena, shi was barely missed by the lean avian. Growling shi shot her arm out to the side of that thin leg. Her arm was intercepted by Surrek's thick calf as he stepped between them. Letting out a grunt as he felt the impact and then Athena's hand buckle and fingers dislocate and snap, the zebra shook his head and reached down to grip the amazon by the throat and hauling her up to hir knees. As this happened, Xian had leapt to the Bernak as sliced the hyena's fore arm with her feet, dodging back again as he tried to swipe at her. Having had neither food not water over the night, the chained pair were at an obvious disadvantage. Again using her speed, Xian literally floated forward, using her wings to glide to the hyena and slash his cheek deeply, her cold brown eyes assessing him like a surgeon. Upon the balcony, Master Crennus gripped the railing and glared at his Chain Boss. "COMMAND YOUR CHAIN, GLADIATOR NERR! OR I WILL!">

Neflari that admiration of their movements shatters as he is forced back into reality as the brutal fight starts. Every strike at Athena almost felt as though it had been struck at him as well, realizing in full now that this was the kind of life Athena dealt in and he would have to get used to it...if he ever really could. Claws dug into the wood of the doorframe a little as he watched tensely, just hoping the amazon would at least make it through this and bringing himself to analyze the two attackers as well as he could, Xian in particular as it was rare for her to fight. Only the shout of Master Crennus drew his attention away, and only then for a brief moment.

Arkuss <The giraffe tensed a bit and then nodded his head, gesturing to the brown skinned female at his side and she stalked forward, the predatory grace of her movement causing her muscles to ripple as she made a slow b-line for Athena. For his part Nerr would move slowly in the direction of the hyena, gesturing to several of the surrounding gladiators and indicating which of the chained pair was their intended target. Athena landed a glancing blow to Surrek's shoulder, she and the hyena managing to get to their feet. For his part Bernak, took another talon blow to the forearm and his blood now dropped to the sand. Growling, he looked to Athena and shi turned to him, hir eyes raging as shi nodded to hir one time adversary. Smirking, shi tugged the wrist chain hard and sent the hyena into the zebra, causing the wren to miss her next attack completely, landing dangerously close to the amazon. Bernak used his non-chained fist to rabbit punch the House Champion quickly in the crotch and stomach area, causing the zebra to fall to one knee in severe discomfort. The wren forgot about Athena for a moment, moving to assist her Chain mate and paid for it dearly. The amazon back-spinning her fist into the side of the tiny avian's head, causing a sickening sound to leave her and blood to spurt from the wrecked beak. The avian crumpled to the ground and moved to protect her face, but Athena was already swinging full force and connected just below the eye, breaking the nasal cavity and shattering the eye socket as the wren screamed and thrashed upon the ground.>

Neflari pulls his gaze to the large brown-skinned female as she moves despite everything finding a hint of attraction to her. A quick shake of his head and he focuses as other members of the chain are directed to their targets even as the two chained warriors seemed to have formed some kind of truce for the sake of survival. And there the fight seemed to shift, the Champion temporarily hindered but it was those next blows that he would remember, for a very long time. He recognized that costly error immediately, hoping he would it if such a time ever came about. Like himself Xian mostly had speed but being avian was of even lighter structure than he and he felt sick as bone gave way to the amazon's blow.

Arkuss <Athena was about to strike the wren again, but her arm was hooked by the massive brown female. With the slightest of movement, the appendages shifted and the scream came from the amazon, her elbow visibly dislocating, followed by her shoulder. Holding the weakened House Second, the muscled female thrust her palm into her chest, knocking breath from her opponent. She did all this without blinking, only tilting her head and staring at the slumping gladiator. Chain Boss Nerr reached Bernak just as the hyena let out one of his signature cackles, looking to Athena before the giraffe extended his long leg, tips of his hoof digging into the ribs and pushing him back. Looking to Surrek, the Chain Boss shrugged as the four chosen gladiators made it to their targets, joining in the attack on the amazon and then the hyena. Surrek pulled himself straight and rushed to Xian, kneeling down over the avian and then his head snapped to Athena and he rose slowly, muscles tensing below his furred hide. With barely contained rage he soon was raining hammer-fists down upon the amazon, the brown skinned female, holding the quickly unconscious amazon upright by that shattered arm. The meaty fists bruised tissue down to the bone, breaking some of those as well as he glared at her, shouting repeatedly "HOW DARE YOU HARM MY SONG!">

Neflari feels another of those shivers as the large female makes her first moves into the fight and further damages the amazon's body, beginning to wonder if he really should have come to see this...maybe it was a bit too soon to be exposed to such a battle but there now, he would remain. His attention moved to Surrek as he finally moved again, a greater fear forming as to the reaction the Champion would have to that. Only a second later was it proven right, Neflari feeling truly sick now as the amazon's body was beaten harshly, very glad that he had chosen to hide himself as his strength began to wear down.

Arkuss <By now the combination of the eight were over-powering the still awake hyena and raining blows upon him, Chain Boss Nerr focusing upon him with quick, sharp strikes form those long legs. He stepped back after the hyena fell to the sand whimpering and lifted his hand, spinning it three times "CHAIN! YOUR MASTER DEMANDS PUNISHMENT!" stepping back, he walked over to Surrek and blinked, the zebra was holding the amazon's hair and screaming at her in his native tongue. The female holding her arm seemed quite bored with it and looked to Nerr as he approached. "Surrek, tend to your Song." The Chain Boss spoke softly, placing a hand upon the zebra's shoulder firmly. That was an order, not a request and his training told the equine to not test the giraffe. Releasing the hair, he brought his knee upward into her chest, just below those heavy breasts. Walking over to his broken Song, Surrek smashed several chain-mates who got too close, either of their own accord or by accident. Nerr looked about and shouted..."NEFLARI TO THE SANDS! NOW!">

Neflari breathing a little heavily he tries to pull himself together as the active brutality seems to focus onto the hyena more. It was just as well he had not eaten in a while and he doubted he would be able to handle much for breakfast either. One final blow and the bloodied amazon was finally released though he had barely a moment to feel relief before that shout was heard. Was this it, was hir punishment done? He hesitated a few seconds before moving quickly, opening himself to that trickle of magic though not using it to enhance anything of himself, simply a natural quick run on all fours to where Nerr stood, skidding a bit on the sand as he came to a stop there.

Arkuss <Nerr looked at the lion, lifting his hand and twirling it "CHAIN CEASE!" stepping to the lion, he pointed to the hyena and the amazon "This is the difference between what is right and what is expected. You will go to Master Crennus as directed and once completed there, you will come to me. I will see to it that you are instructed properly in the ways of the Chain. Now, you are of the Chain now, choose your target and strike. Or be struck." He looked to the large female, who held Athena off the ground by her damaged arm and she just dropped the amazon nonchalantly, looking at the lion for a time.>

Neflari takes in this next harsh lesson, a quiet voice responding. "What is expected." His gaze meets that of the large female for a short moment, a slight twitch as she seemed so detached but rational mind prevented any real anger. She was not the problem, no. "Choose...or be struck..." A familiar instinct began to grow inside him as his eyes moved to the two choices, perhaps oddly he did not move immediately, but seemed to take in both fighters. His face did not remain still however, a deep growl coming as a feral expression began to form. "You..." He steps once closer. "Your fault...yours!" With that the lion fell upon the hyena with a roar, not nearly as loud but impressive nonetheless. This time poured magic into his right arm, fist coming down at unnatural speed onto his target's left arm, a loud crack heard instantly as it impacted. Only a second allowed the harsh snap to echo before claws came down, soon buried deep in the hyena's opposite shoulder.

Arkuss <The gathered gladiators step back a bit, as a whole not expecting this from the dainty former house slave. As he struck the hyena, Nerr smirked and looked up to the balcony, the Master of the House nodding in the affirmative before turning and walking inside with his family. The Chain Boss let Neflari express his appreciation for this whole situation up until he threatens the hyena's life. Shifting a bit, he walked to the large female and spoke to her softly, to which she only nodded and reached down to gather Athena up and toss her over her shoulder as easily as the amazon might the lion himself. Walking in the direction of the infirmary, Nerr stepped to the lion and gripped his shoulder "ENOUGH." He spoke only to the feline, the tone in his voice calm but also decidedly firm. Looking to the gathered gladiators and fighters with his single eye, the giraffe had had enough self-inflicted pain this day>

Neflari yanks those claws out, a splash of blood following as another magic-infused blow lands to the hyena's side, catching the bottom rib with another sharp crack. Enraged blow after blow lands, most after those two not using magic but damaging nonetheless. As that feral anger fills him his blue eyes tear up with each strike, emotions striking at each other within him as much as directed at the hyena. Magic begins to flow into another blow when that strong hand is felt, the lion halting and just staring at the beaten hyena for a moment then the blood on his paws. Finally he breaks, falling to the sand, crying as the toll of recent events is finally revealed. "No...this i-isn't me...I c-can't...I...just...must protect hir..."

Arkuss <Nerr looks at the lion and kneels down, gripping his shoulder tightly and whispering in his ear "You are part of my Chain now. The first thing to do is quit this blubbering. You are hir second now. Your actions reflect upon her as well as yourself. If you appear weak, what does that say of her choosing you for this honored position. Lift your eyes and look around you now. ALL those about you are hungry for hir position. And they will use you to take it from hir if you do not steel yourself. I will not offer you this advice again. As it stands now, in their eyes, that hyena holds more strength than shi does, due to this...display." With that the giraffe stands and walks to Surrek and the injured Xian, speaking to the zebra no doubt in the same manner he had just spoken to the lion. Before long the Chain was filtering out of the combat circle, the hyena carried off to the infirmary as well. In the distance the chimes for the morning meal could be heard:>

Neflari it required a moment but he did get those words, a small growl as he finds a surprisingly sudden balance to those emotions. As he stands a paw brushes the remaining tears away, the lion feeling both a bit empty yet resolute, perhaps for the first time. He had a duty and a promise and he would make good on that, somehow. A glance was given to where Xian and Surrek were, remembering the promise he had given the wren as well, that only building him up further. He brushes sand from his fur and shakes off what blood he could then heads to where the infirmary was, just to check on the amazon before he went about the rest of his day.

Arkuss <Surrek would look up as the lion walked by, those eyes bloodshot and severely weakened as he held watched the wren being tended by the physicians. With a snort, he spoke lightly "Athena's Roar. Can you help her?" his voice sounded on the verge of cracking, those powerful hands gripping the sand as the wren was lifted to a litter and carried away. Continuing, he rose up and moved closer "I have heard rumors, from the house slaves that you are Touched. If you would help her...." He stopped short of saying anything that might violate his position as House Champion, First of the Chain "I want you to know that I bear no ill to hir for this outcome. Were roles reversed, I would have done the same thing." The zebra quieted as Nerr approached, the giraffe speaking lightly "To the infirmary with you both, you are needed there more than here.">

Neflari hmms, considering that for a moment as he pauses, looking to the Champion again, then to the battered wren. "I do understand, now. I must see to Athena first. However...if I can, I will see what is possible otherwise." He sighs a bit and continues for the infirmary, asking after the amazon once he arrives. The lion had no idea what he might be able to do, that odd surge was still a mystery and his natural ability was weak, possibly more so after using his magic while attacking the hyena. He had gotten something of an idea about the technique used that previous time, once he had slept on it and that might prove enough.

Arkuss <The amazon was being tended to by a couple of house slaves and the chief physicians attendant. Hir body was heavily bruised and broken in several places, the efficiency of each blow now readily apparent. The difference between a gladiator and a fighter lay before his eyes now, in all its ugly truth. Seeing him arrive one of the house slaves, a meek mouse he did not know all that well, but knew to be of consistent character approached "We have reset hir arm, elbow and shoulder. We can only due so much until the swelling diminishes. I am sorry." He frowned and returned back to his duties assisting. The hyena lay a couple of beds away, looking worse than the amazon, at least in outer appearance. As he stood there, he felt a light tickle of mystical flow caress his own, the sensation similar to that he experienced last evening at the blocks. The strength of the tingle meant it was coming from somewhere nearby.>

Neflari a small shiver as he sees clearly now the damage wrought, drawing the trickle of magic and forming the probing spell, beginning to quietly take stock of the further injuries. Hir arm would be ok for now since they had managed to reset the bones though hir hand would be a much trickier thing. As he takes his mental notes of hir condition, that odd caress was felt again, the lion resisting the urge to seek out the source right now. Not knowing who or how, he wanted to act while it remained to assist, bringing out that telekinetic spell and beginning with hir torso, carefully moving bones back into place as he did before, though he was better rested this time and it seemed an easier process.

Arkuss <There was a surge in the process, the background element assisting the lion in the desired healing adjustments. It was piggy-backing without much effort so who or what-ever was using this flow was obviously quite skilled as the lion was able to perform subtly in minutes what the mundane physicians might never be able to accomplish. As the lion worked, the brown skinned female stepped to his side, standing there silently as he concentrated. After a time, the flow returned to his usual levels and he was again doing the healing on his own. But through the mysterious benefactor, he was able to stabilize and assist the amazon greatly.>

Neflari blinks, feeling the skilled surge come in now, the process going rapidly much to his relief, and this time fortunately being able to understand more of the methods used. The most crucial areas healed now and thankfully there was not a large amount of external damage aside from deep bruises which could be dealt with in more mundane ways. His attention went to the one hand, slowly resetting the bones and joints, then attempting part of what he had observed, managing to speed the healing process so it would finish within the day, given time though he could not fully heal it then and there. A breath exhaled as he releases the magic, blinking as he becomes aware of the tall female standing beside him. Wait...no. Could it be? "Did you...?"

Arkuss <The female tilts head and looking him over, remaining silent, the red eye glowing slightly as she reaches up and lightly strokes his upper arm "Shi chose well." The words came from her mouth in a voice much lighter than that body should have made. A pair of small ears poked through her hair at the top of her head, wiggling slightly as she looked over to the hyena "Should he live or die?" she asked bluntly, that small mouth pursed as it in contemplation. Around them the house slaves move to treat the pair and then the wren as she was brought in, her more fragile form being the focus of attention suddenly, the sight causing some of the slaves to sob lightly.>

Neflari mmfs, purring softly as he feels her touch, blushing a little when she speaks. It was a very pleasant voice. He moves his attention to the hyena, a small sigh as he shakes his head. It really was an obvious answer, though many would have trouble making it. "No...not like this, at least. No victory would come of such an end and life would be a more fitting justice, now." He glances up as he notices those ears from the corner of an eye, smiling a bit before looking to the wren as she was brought in. "I have one more debt to repay first...for teaching me when it would have been of advantage to withhold." He relaxes and lets magic flow again, cringing a bit as he senses over the wren's wounds. Not life-threatening but somehow they felt worse. Slowly he gathers several spells, beginning the delicate process.

Arkuss <Beside him, the female shifts a bit, blinking her red eye...he can feel the surge come again, this time it caresses over his body as well as merging with his flow. The wrens beak was dislocated and her left cheek was shattered with a cracked orbital. Athena had been efficiently brutal to her. As he would stretch to assist, the calm presence of the female shifted to a more protective feeling, and he felt a gentle press into his mind, the extra ummph of the magic steadily increasing until he had sufficiently assisted the wren.>

Neflari hmms, feeling that surge again, though it did feel much different this time. He would not likely have guessed at the source, but he of anyone really should know not to judge shallowly. He opens himself to that assistance, giving his trust as he works at the wren's crushed face, even with the help it takes several minutes but he manages it. The form was restored though it would remain bruised for several days no doubt.

Arkuss <Resting a hand upon the lion's shoulder, the female squeezed lightly "There is somewhere you need to be. You should not be late." That voice actually sounded...innocent in a way. "You go, I will see that they are well attended. Even that one." She gestures to the hyena, that facial expression never changing from its stoic state. Standing this close to the female, the lion could tell she was a couple inches taller than Athena and though looking leaner, she probably weighed the same. Quite unique this creature was.>

Neflari blinks, giving a nod as she spoke, he had almost forgotten that in the moment. "Yes, you are right." He glances at the three, satisfied he had done what was needed and moves to leave but stops again, turning back to look at the large woman. "Thank you." He blushes again, clearly finding something to like in her. He then exits the infirmary area and heads for his next destination, pausing briefly to wash the rest of the blood from his fur before continuing on." to Arkuss