Arkuss <Surrek's Song paced nervously as the crowd's thunderous applause arose once again. She looked toward the short departure tunnel that led to the arena proper. Her feathers were raised slightly, and hands rubbed together softly. She hated not being allowed to watch her Chain Master, but sometimes that was what was dictated. Looking around, she spied the lion and wondered how he could be so seemingly calm in this situation. Surrek and Athena had drawn the short straws and were on the sands together, facing the same opponent. Sighing lightly, she moved over to Neflari, nearly all of the other slaves present deferring to her status and stepping aside respectfully. Stopping a couple steps away, she let out a startled coo as the beast roared and the crowd began chanting. "How do you do this all the time, Neflari. I do not like being able to clearly see Surrek.">

Neflari himself hated these kind of situations though he had gotten rather good at finding little places to watch from sometimes even when denied a place at the entrance or edge of the sands. Being stuck away from the sands he had decided to wear one of his old silks, the purple and pink set that resembled a style of harem outfit though rather more sheer and seeming to hang delicately from his frame but practical enough not to hinder his duties. He glances at the pacing songbird, having found out she rarely was denied the chance to watch and her reaction was quite normal. Seeing her come over he turns a bit to the wren, a paw reaching up and brushing a couple fingers against her cheek, a look in his eyes would show how much of his composure was little more than practice and focus. He speaks softly enough that only she would really be able to hear clearly. "I do not like it either, Xian." He sighs a little, looking back out towards the tunnel. "It is frightening for me now, not knowing what condition shi may return in or if shi will return at all. I have to be ready to help though, whatever the result may be. Don't let my appearance fool you...this is merely a facade. I promised once after...that fight...I would not disgrace hir again in public view and mean to keep it."

Arkuss <Giving the lion a forced nod, the smaller Chain Slave looked up the tunnel again as a loud gasp was heard and dust particles fell lightly downward from the rafters above as the crowd pounded their feet heavily. Shaking her head, she looked back at the lion, her eyes looking over his form in those silk if for any other purpose but to distract herself from the troublesome thoughts that ran rampant through her brain. Over the last few weeks, she had seen him almost as much undressed as dressed, and she had to admit to herself that he was quite the pretty thing. Chirping lightly, she tilted head into the brush upon her cheek and nodded. "I am used to being there, able to see and help and inspire." The wren herself was dressed in a simple yet luxurious Togo like wrapping. The spun gossamer silk gave hidden hints of what lay underneath, but hung perfectly to keep the songbird decent. She was about to speak again, only to be cut off by a massive cheer and a dreadful roar from the beast.>

Neflari took a short moment to admire her wrap for much the same reason, the wren was rarely as showy as he tended to be but somehow made what she did wear incredibly alluring. She herself had begun to enrapture him over the weeks though he was never certain why. As his fingers linger for a moment on that cheek the memory of a moment when it was not so pretty flickered in his mind. He pushes it from his mind, turning towards the tunnel again as that cheer and roar came, a small harsh flick of his tail in uncertainty the only real sign he gave in reaction. "That I know...it is a thing which you are exceptionally good at. I have no doubt my presence would inspire but healing is my greater talent. No matter what happens to hir out there, shi knows I will be here to take care of it afterwards."

Arkuss <"We both aid in our own ways, Athena is very fortunate to have you. I am glad to see that you are growing so well into your role." She gave a look of her own as she sees a look within his expressive eyes, her own looking away at times. “Do you ever have to use your healing upon yourself? Or does it not work that way?" she moved a bit closer and stood close by the lion, feathers ruffling. He could tell she was trying to distract herself no doubt, the wren feeling nearly as comfortable and safe near the feline as she did in the presence of the House Second and her House Champion. The move to him had the extra benefit of him feeling that nice taught rear against his hip. Looking back at him, she gave a long whistle as the crowd cheered with a deafening roar once again, the sound shaking the ground beneath their feet. "Do you think it will be over soon?">

Neflari gives a gentle smile despite the uncertainty and fear both of them were experiencing, catching that look in her eyes as well. He feels her move closer, that lean, tight body against his own somewhat softer though well toned one. "I owe much of that growth to your example and teaching. And it is possible to use in a limited way but healing oneself is far more difficult for several reasons. I usually seek another when I need such assistance." He rests a paw lightly upon her shoulder, fingers idly brushing along her neck and cheek again. "I do not know for sure but it has gone for a good time. They should not be too much longer."

Arkuss <She listens, focusing on the sound of his voice and finding it calms her just enough to make the situation bearable. There was a heavy crash down the entry way, the sound of wood cracking as something heavy struck the double doors. Jumping a bit, the wren shifted herself and back into the lion, her hand reaching instinctively to hold something, and Neflari suddenly felt her small hand upon his sheath, squeezing slightly as she stared wide eyed at the entry way. "Are we safe here? It sounds like the beast wants inside." She asked, turning to look up at him, her hand not moving in the slightest. She swallows and completes the turn to face him. "I can see how healing oneself could be...difficult. But do you ever need to heal Athena after anything other than fighting?">

Neflari blinks at that crash, the doors could withstand incredible impacts though it was true they were not indestructible. "I don't know for sure. One of them might have simply been thrown against the door." He listens as another impact is heard, noticing the wren's growing nervousness as well as the actions of the other slaves around them. It was heartening to see so many preparing themselves, however futile it likely would be. He watches the songbird removing the caps from her talons, having to repress a giggle at her show of puffing up and trying to look fierce. Not that he would want to tangle with her in that way, she could be a nasty opponent despite size. He manages a smile after her little declaration, nodding a bit and deciding to let her have that even as he shifts is stance slightly. "Thank you, Xian. It's nice to have someone protecting me."

Arkuss <There was a sound of muffled screaming from above and a heavy THUD, as if something very heavy had just landed upon the seating area above them. The impact was enough to dislodge chunks of plaster and send it onto the dirt floor around the gathered slaves. Most looked up and their determination was waning, but several seemed to be making a good show. And those who did seemed to be looking at the wren and lion either out of deference to rank or respect of even hope that they would know what to do. There was another roar and a second thud from above, followed by screams and shouts. Looking upwards, Xian gave a sharp whistle and pushed Neflari back a bit, just in time for a hunk of a beam to drop where they had stood. The sound of fighting was closer than nearly all had probably wanted and several of the slaves nerves left them and they fled to who knows where. A large rat slave approached the pair and looked upwards, sniffing. "Hmmm, definitely chimera blood above, equine and Amazon. Though I can't rightly tell who is worse off at the moment. The scents are very faint and the currents not too strong down here.">

Neflari hmms as the noises shift and even the ceiling above them begins to give a little. He gives a startled yip as that beam falls, the wren apparently having noticed a moment before he realized it was coming down. He smiles warmly and gives Xian a nuzzle. "Thank you..." He listens to the rat slave, nodding as he ponders the possibilities. He looks to the other slaves still gathered. "Anyone who has training or wishes to fight back away to the intersection behind us. Anyone else move into the other halls and prepare to run if needed. Feel no shame in it." He takes his avian companion by the hand and draws back with her to where the space between the stands above and the ceiling was much thicker and unlikely to break. He glances at the two nearby with him. "If they are in the stands then Surrek and Athena are no longer in control of the fight but apparently they are still alive and strong enough to be moving. If the beast falls down here it will bring considerable debris with it and will have difficulty moving for a short time. Hopefully those two will follow soon after."

Arkuss <The rat blinked and gave a crooked smile. "Heh, if they follow it down here, that would be quite the disappointment for the crowd. Master Postumus was told the safety rails were too low." He huffed and gripped the small pin hammer in his hand tightly as his ears twitched. There was a horrid beastly roar, followed by another series of scream and then a heavy thud was heard. Over the following moments, slaves looked to the ceiling and wondered, some stepping from their hiding places, while others kept close to the exit gates. "I think it might be over." Xian spoke lightly, talons digging into the ground just before a roar of cheers erupted from the crowd. The vibrations caused plaster, dust and grit to rain down upon the area but it would appear that the fight was over. It would be several more minutes before the Arena boss, a hulking porcine boar would get the slaves back to their wits. Several guards entered as well, and the heavy double doors into the arena opened slowly, one only partially due to the due to the damage sustained. From safety, the physicians staff rushed by and up the short chute to the arena. The rat looked at the lion and wren with a glint. "You two should probably go out there and see how your Chain Master's fared, no?">

Neflari waits there with them as the noises and roars above continue, the lion showing a few slight twitches as even his own anxiety begins to eat through while he remains on guard. Hearing that final thud then much closer to silence he smiles as the cheer comes, having heard enough to know who came out on top this time. He watches as guards and others finally appear, giving a little nod to the rat before turning to Xian. "Yes, now comes the interesting part. Lets get going." He grasps the wren's hand and gently pulls her along as he begins up the ramp to those doors, any remaining fear either gone or well suppressed once again.

Arkuss <The wren shifted and pretty much sprinted down the chute and out into the blinding sunlight. Letting eyes adjust to the change, the smallness of this partially domed private arena was a bit startling to her. As was the amount of destruction that had been caused. Looking about, the area directly above the fighters hold was in shambled. The protective lip and barrier were mostly gone and there were injured and dead free and slave laying about. Within the arena itself, several grievously wounded individuals were being tended to by the physicians staff. The body of the chimera was slumped partially over the remains of a private box, it's inhabitants either fled or among the wounded. As guards moved quickly to secure the area, a group of them were gathered around the zebra and Amazon, both battered and bleeding from numerous wounds. Surrek was favoring his left shoulder and had a sizable gash in his right leg that had been momentarily covered by heavy cloth. His right eye was swollen shut and cloth hung from his nostril, dark form the blood flow it tried to stop there. Athena was in similar condition, though her flesh showed the bruises, cuts and scrapes far more easily than his hide did. Shi was getting her left arm tied about hir waist, having already been secured into a sling by Thirty-Three. The Amazon's head was also wrapped with a cotton gauze, though the gashes there seemed determined to discolor the pale fabric sooner rather than later. As Neflari and Xian approached, a guard stepped before them, hand upon his still sheathed sword. HIs eyes studied them for a moment before moving to their wrists, and seeing the bands there, stepped aside to allow them to proceed.>

Neflari emerges with the wren into the light of the arena, blinking as his eyes adjust a bit and he has a chance to take in the scene around him. The damage both to property and life was much worse than he had imagined and the lion couldn't help feeling a hint ill as he often did when faced with such. The two had their duties however, eventually spotting their Chain Masters and going over immediately. As they both get closer the damage the two had sustained becomes clearer, though the lion looks somewhat more relieved as he sees 33 there already. Pausing for that moment till the guard lets them pass he then heads towards Athena, allowing Xian to divert towards Surrek, grasping at the bit of Flow he could hold and doing the usual method of checking through the Amazon's body for the true state of things though he actually held a smile. A second branched to check Surrek, something he had learned very recently though his handling of multiple spells was still quite limited. "You two had us all worried down there. Even the ceiling started to crack."

Arkuss <The Amazon looked the lion over and shook hir head, biting back hir words on the matter for the most part. 33 on the other hand was her usual, diplomatic self. "The safety railings were too low and unsupported to keep the beast at bay. Unfortunately for those in that area." She head tilted towards the demolished portion of the stands. Finishing with Athena, the felinoid shifted to move to Surrek, her red eye glinting as she shifted her own Flow form the Amazon to the equine. Athena would be sore for and there were pulls and strains within hir muscles, but nothing shi had not been through before. Hir armor though was completely trashed, having done its job in saving hir life. Surrek was likewise alive, though he was in considerably more discomfort. As if on cue, the Amazon exhaled and shook hir head. "He was riding the damn thing.">

Neflari nods as 33 spoke, he could feel her Flow working through hir body and finding nothing of significance left in Athena's to be healed by the time the felinoid changes her target. "Another slave suggested as much. Seeing it now, perhaps it really was better to be left in the dark as to exact events..." He shakes his head, drawing back his spells and releasing the Flow for now. 33 had things well in hand and what remained could be handled with his more mundane talents. Approaching the Amazon he gives hir a hug, exhaling deeply as he feels hir heartbeat, the first outward sign of how his emotions had been during this whole fight. He eventually draws back from the hug slowly, a blink then a giggle as shi describes that. "Really? That sounds like him..."

Arkuss <Grumbling lightly, the Amazon shook hir head. "He killed it too. I was laying over there after this." Shi gestures to a spot on the arena floor and then to the wound on hir head. "Dumb bastard." Looking around at the injured and worse, the Amazon's eyes steeled. "This should not have happened. I will take my leave of this place. You stay with them, and help where you can. I wish to be alone now," pushing the lion back lightly, the Amazon walked to the opened gate, stopping to assist with carrying of a litter bearing an injured free person. Surrek had separated himself from a frustrated 33 and Xian, walking over to put a hand on the lion's shoulder. "It would appear that our Amazon does not appreciate stupidity in any form, from anyone.">

Neflari glances at the spot and nods a little, then turning to look at the Amazon again, seeing those eyes steel. As shi speaks he nods and reaches out to give hir hand a squeeze before releasing it, watching hir go. He looks up at feeling that hand upon his shoulder, a small shake of his head. "That is nothing new. Shi only speaks what I already feel." He notices the other two females looking a bit frustrated and nods towards them. "I suggest finishing your own healing first." He pauses and grins a bit at the big zebra. "Xian was very brave, by the way. Saved me from a falling beam and was quite insistent about protecting me."

Arkuss <The zebra gives the lion a look, patting his shoulder. "Well, who do you think taught me all of what you see back on the training sands and here in the arena. You could do worse for a teacher." Winking, the equine walked back to the two and let them do their thing. For a time, the lion was alone with his thoughts as the world moved about him. There was surprisingly little sound from the wounded, the healers both in ways of the Flow and more mundane seemed quite capable. Xian moved up to his side and nudged his arm. "Athena is displeased with Surrek again I think." There was an exasperated sigh. "Or is shi more upset with the end result of this? Try as I might, shi is someone that I cannot truly read." Looking back over her shoulder, Surrek waved his hand to her and allowed himself to be escorted back inside by 33. "We should head back inside, no doubt shi will need your presence.">

Neflari hmms and laughs some. "True enough." He stands there, watching the two work on the zebra for a time before slowly taking in the mess around them with more care, quite impressed with the skill an efficiency shown by the healers. The number of dead really was not that terribly high but even one was a shameful testament to carelessness and it ground on the lion's nerves. He blinks with a grunt as she nudges him, sighing softly as he realizes his own frustrations had been building there. He looks to Xian, those eyes more calm but she could probably read the frustration and slight hollowness in them. "Surrek shi is used to. For all his show he is a capable fighter though it does annoy hir at times. No, it is the outcome of this that upsets hir. " He gestures to the broken stands and barriers. "Nothing like that should have happened yet it did, and many innocent paid the price for another's foolishness somewhere in the past. We might have been among them, Xian, had we been out here." He stops himself as a faint growl had begun growing, letting himself calm a little and shaking his head he stops the train of thought there. Clearly there were more than a few things the lion had in common with the Amazon. "Yes, lets go check on hir." He takes the songbird's hand, squeezing it a bit more strongly than normal as they head back inside.

Arkuss <Xian nods softly, moving her other hand to pat his lightly as she sensed that frustrations and concern. She did not truly understand it, since she herself was not of that mindset, but it was true that such a thing ought never to have happened. She felt her breast full of pride as he one again reaffirmed the Amazon's appreciation and respect for her Surrek. He felt the same for hir, possibly more-so since he had allowed hir into his personal spaces. Watching the lion, the wren did see a certain ruggedness within him, not shown often but his time with the Amazon had certainly been for the best. They found the Amazon kneeling over the covered forms of a couple of unfortunate slaves. They had been laid out with only a slight cloth to cover their bodies. By the marks on their bodies, they did not belong to their House. But that seemed to not comfort the Amazon much. Athena would rise slowly, speaking firmly as they arrived. "Those of House Gallus are to gather ourselves and all that we brought here immediately. It would appear that Master Postumus and the Mistress had a rather heated exchange over who and what was responsible for this mess." Looking around, shi stared at Neflari directly. "Keep her close and keep each other at no more than arms length." Those violets darkened as they often did when shi was feeling, disquiet within hirself. "I will go find Surrek and 33. Remember, gather our belongings and straight to the wagons.">

Neflari was not sure if Xian really understood the full depth of either of their emotions on the matter but she seemed to understand what it was that upset them both and that was enough for the lion. As they come upon the Amazon he feels that tinge of sadness looking at the covered bodies, unable to keep from wondering who their loss might affect, even if they would not have been aware of such individuals themselves. He knew House would not matter to his Athena and he let those thoughts roam his mind to keep him motivated to the task given. "Understood. It should not take long." He nods to Xian, keeping hold of her hand as he heads for their temporary quarters, spotting a couple familiar House slaves along the way, drawing the ones not already busy along to assist, giving the same instructions to remain in pairs or greater.

Arkuss <The slave are of this arena was compact and rather unkept, but easily navigated. The songbird would eventually remove her hand from the lion's, gathering the belongings into a pair of satchels. Looking over to Neflari, she spoke bluntly. "Athena thinks we are in danger doesn't shi? Because Master Crennus is not here and Mistress Claudette is." She looked about and found Surrek's waist-cloth and stuffed it into the bag, closing the flap and cinching it tightly. Making her way to the doorway, she looked outward, seeing several other House Gallus slaves moving down the hallway to the exit leading to the staging area. "Mistress Claudette was always one to speak louder than women should." She looked back to Neflari and was about to speak when the lion felt a terrible pressure within the movement of the Flow, seemingly focused upon the songbird herself.>

Neflari quickly collects the things of Athena's and himself, limiting it to a few satchels he could carry himself, leaving many of the unimportant or easily replaced items behind. This was a single trip only, they would not be returning to the room. "That is perhaps part of it but regardless, the fact things have become heated as such means the situation is worse than we believed though we do not know the details." He finishes and joins her at the door, about to head out with her. " You should not speak that way...Xian, prepare to run. Do not question." He feels that surging pressure coming, grasping Xian's shoulder strongly and opening himself up to his limits, feeling some pain as he weaves everything he can into a shield within the songbird and a conduit into himself, hoping it would be enough for whatever was coming.

Arkuss <The pressure stops at the lion and Neflari feels every nerve open up simultaneously. There was a darkness to this Flow, a malevolence that bordered on intelligence. The energy coursed through over him, his channeling pushed to the limit immediately. There were words within his mind's eye, brilliant words that hurt to look at, let alone think about. And each time he would mispronounce one, his body would be wracked with lightning from nerve endings to brain and back. Slowly the words faded and he felt himself reaching the point of backlash....For her part Xian felt an odd feeling and had moved back into the room, eyes wide as the lion's fur stood upon end, light flickers of mystic energy snapping from his fingertips, ear tips and even his teeth. Stepping forward, she whistled lightly, trying to muster the right song for the moment. Within his mind, the lion heard a soft voice, be it male of female he could not tell:'Pretty, soft kitty. So protective of the little birdy. Don't you know you are supposed to eat the birdies.':the voice ebbed and flowed, while the pressure of the Flow remained constant. This was like a gaping wound in the fabric of the mystical and he was but a band-aid already over-saturated.>

Neflari felt only a fractional second of relief as the power focuses into him, but that was soon lost in the intensity and darkness of the assault. As he was pushed towards his absolute limits he actually seemed to regain a degree of control over the rest of his mind, enough to realize Xian was unharmed so far. Slowly working through the sensations he manages to shift attention to the voice to the side, keeping focus on the strong Flow, constantly allowing small releases at the cost of painful shocks, maintaining a balance on the edge of his limits. He could not send Xian for help, the conduit would weaken if she was too far away, and he could not spare even the slightest additional spell now, the only thing he could do is try to hold until it was noticed. The clash of any resistance to a Flow this powerful would be easily tracked by anyone on the House grounds with even a small ability.

Arkuss <The pressure then shifted, edging back nearly halving itself and Neflari felt himself gaining a respite. The attacking Flow receded, becoming more manageable for him now. The wren stepped forward, but stopped seeing the energy still abundant about him. Her eyes blinked quickly and she trilled loudly, voice uttering the words 'HELP!' and 'QUICKLY!'. The pressure against him kept edging itself back until he could allow himself to breath normally again. There was a heavy smell of singed fur and spent energy in the room, so palpable that Xian could feel the residue upon her feathers. Uncertain what to do, she hesitated to leave him in this state, remembering what Athena had said, and she chastised herself for thinking even momentarily of leaving. The voice within the flow returned and softly caressed his mind. "Strong kitty, skilled kitty. Want to see what happens when kitty goes BOOM!” The pressure then rose again, steadily and slowly.>

Neflari was honestly amazed he had not been crushed already or killed by backlash as he felt the Flow halve itself, though he did not stop the releases, that probably being the only reason he was not defeated yet. He was more aware of Xian's voice now, and the smells within the room though he did not need them to know his fur had been burned and he could feel places where his skin beneath had been burnt or damaged. He was holding out but it came with a price though an easier one to pay than the alternative. He growls slightly at those words, feeling the power begin to increase again. "I...will not..." And those were all he could utter before too much attention was needed to resist once again. He faintly heard the songbird begin her effort, sensing and soon experiencing the changes in the assault. He groans softly at the attack becomes more personal though something nagged at  him from the back of his mind as the sheer force began to wane. The images coming, the feelings, threatened to overwhelm him utterly for a moment until he found a balance at the appearance of several images he knew could not be real. The assault continued to press him direly, he needed to make no show of that but a corner of his mind away behind that struggling front was working now, considering the nature of this assault, analyzing.

Arkuss <The Flow ebbed and flowed around the lion, pulsing as if a living and breathing thing. In the back of his mind there was a  rhythmic beat, that increased as the flow rose and decreased when it would fall off. There was not the same all out assault like before, this one was more constant around the edges of his mind, and when it struck deeply it wormed towards the most intimate parts of his mind. Possibilities and realities jumbled in his brain as the energies coursed over his form. Xian watched the mystical lightning jump slightly from his body. She had no voice to combat this, this was beyond her understanding but she did try to sing anyway. Focusing upon what he knew and cared about, letting the light notes flow upon the air to his ears, offering what little comfort and aid to him she could.>

Neflari began to get an idea as the images and emotions would strike as they were dredged up then fall away, more taking their place, ever wearing on him. A bit of that song filtered through the jumble and strain, an idea finally coming. He watched those images, seeking out certain ones, certain emotions that came from them. Using the faint sound of Xian's song as a focal point he drew on those similar feelings...love, caring, positive desires. Each was drawn off to the point, collecting and growing there, held in an intense ball of emotion which grew faster than he could have expected yet still hidden from this attacker. He continues this, even as the additional strain threatens to make the entire resistance collapse but he managed to hold it all together, preventing those harsh probes from digging too deeply into his mind.

Arkuss <Xian saw the strain on the lion and closed her eyes, shifting her song to one familiar with him. From a moment in time not too long ago. A bath house, a tub, the avian's head resting against the chest of a newly discovered friend. She hoped that those were feelings she could dredge up within him. She focused her entire being for this, knowing that he was weakening. It was nearly too much for her and she was not the one under attack. The flow rose again, stronger now and much more potent, and it latched onto an image from his mind of a chained Athena being pummeled by the Chain, shifting then to the intimate moments between the Amazon and Surrek the Zebra. As he peeled away parts of memories and desires, there was suddenly a presence near him. Strength radiated from it and he felt powerful arms surround him, the energy leeching from his body onto the Amazon. 'Leave him alone. He is mine. Hurt him further and I WILL KILL YOU!'>

Neflari did not know if Xian actually had an idea of what he was attempting or simply following her heart but it helped. Exactly the kind of memories he needed and she managed to bring them out. The ball of emotion and desire was growing faster and faster, so many sources coming for it now it seemed almost as though it was drawing automatically. He then feels that presence, smiling inwardly and outward as those strong arms hold him. It brought more feelings and he drew off of that, coming to the very edge of containing that growing ball. Now it was time for the real gamble, a message projected back to the attacker. 'You want my secrets...I will give you the very core of what I am.' It was not long before another of those probes struck, trying to gather whatever it might contact and that was the vulnerability. This time he let the resistance fail, only to reveal the almost searing purity of his collected love and desire behind it. That instant he releases the entirety onto the probe and the Flow, letting the surge ride them back to the source.

Arkuss <Xian looks on as the Amazon steps into the fray, without hesitation, the mystical lightning slicing her flesh like razors. The Amazon only squeezed him tighter, hir eyes remaining open to watch the entire thing. As Neflari released his surprise, the Flow enveloped it and took it as its own, the true potency not indicated until it was returned to the source like a sledgehammer. In less than the speed of a thought, the assault ceased, the contact removed totally. The smell of the magic hung in the air, along with that of singed fur and scalded flesh. Surrek's arms surrounded the pair, his strength despite the long battle not an hour earlier held them both upright, his nose sniffing heavily as he motioned for his Song. "I will walk with them Xian, YOU clear the pathway. Mistress Claudette is no doubt wishing to leave." The wren set herself and talons dug into the floor of the room before she set out, lightly touching the lion's arms as she exited before them, violent intent building within her dark eyes.>

Neflari blinks as the entire assault suddenly cuts off, his own grasp of the Flow releasing at the same time, the lion remaining stunned for a moment as he realizes that actually worked. Pure Flow he had short limits on but his mind was much sturdier and creative. He hears the others around him again, realizing not only Athena but Surrek as well were present. But with that returning awareness also came the condition of his body, a groan and whimpers coming fro the lion now as he goes a bit limp, the pain was immense and he was physically and mentally exhausted and frightened as well though that last was tempered by the presences around him thankfully.

Arkuss <The Amazon gritted teeth as her body bled, the wounds feeling as it rock salt were embedded within them. Shi looked at Surrek while holding Neflari upright and then slipped hir arms in a manner to lift him gently. Placing hir head to the lion, shi spoke softly. "There is nowhere you go that I will not follow, you silly kitty." The Zebra smirked at the lion, arm still about the Amazon until shi indicated that shi was ready to proceed. Finally, the exhausted trio made their way out of the room and into the hallway. Surrek carried the satchels Xian had packed and what Neflari had chosen to bring, his heavy footfalls sounding off the wall quite loudly. Nearly to the end of the hallway, Xian peered around giving them a nod in the affirmative. Turning the corner, Neflari felt the power of Mistress Claudette's magic immediately. The sensations caressing his battered body as well as his tormented spirit. Though the Amazon and the Zebra could not see it, the lion recognized his teacher's barrier immediately, the dark red of her rage showing clearly through the silver of her Flow. As Thirty-Three stepped to assist them, the House Mistress growled. "Neflari and Xian will ride within my wagon. Surrek, Athena and Thirty-Three will walk with the guards. ANYONE tries to interfere in our departure, kill them. I am done with this facade of a House." The tone in her voice told them that she was not in an argumentative mood. The felinoid opened the rear entry to the Mistress' wagon and stepped back to allow Athena to place the lion inside, patting his shoulder lightly. Surrek aided Xian inside, winking to his song before turning to join the Amazon and the felinoid in their assigned task. Lowering the barrier finally, Mistress Claudette walked to her wagon and climbed inside.>

Neflari lets out a small whine as he is picked up, stimulating different areas that had been burned but he seemed to calm enough once in the Amazon's arms. He just smiles a little at hir comment, seeking the steady sound of hir heartbeat as he often did when close to hir. He is surprised at the first instant by the new source of magic though this one he recognizes quickly, allowing it in and trusting fully its intent. Already he began to feel some relief but it would take time, something they fortunately seemed to have enough of now as those orders were given. Soon he felt himself placed on the wagon, feeling the presence of Xian a moment after and listening to the various sounds as everyone prepared to depart, the lion letting himself relax again.

Arkuss <Xian looked to the lion and shook her head, brown eyes blinking softly as she took in his form more closely now. "Neflari, I am sorry. I did not know how to help. I hope, I hope the song was good enough." She spoke lightly, as Mistress Claudette slipped from her outer robe and flicked her hand lightly. "Xian, the water basin please. I am certain you helped him greatly." The Mistress of the House smiled to the songbird, not knowing if she spoke truth or not, but she could ill afford the wren to be melancholy at this point. As the bird held the basin, the Nubian goddess placed her hands within and spoke several spells of cleansing, restoration and rehabilitation. Lifting the hands, she flicked the digits softly before dabbing a cloth within the water and looked to Xian. "This will hurt him, so you will need to distract him my dear.">

Neflari couldn't really get his voice to work right but he manages to nod his head a bit and smile at her words. He would tell her later. He simply leaves his eyes closed, allowing himself to relax and rest a bit better. Hearing the voice of Mistress Claudette he feels himself truly safe now, as much as was possible. He was not too sure about that last part mentioned though, more pain did not sound fun right now but it was a silly thought. Anything painful would be to heal him at this point, after all though he was starting to wonder how the songbird would distract him exactly.

Arkuss <Mistress Claudette moved the cloth to his forehead and her words proved prophetic, the assault upon his body both internally and externally. Much like the magic that injured him, this magic was forcing his body to react, but only for healing and regeneration. It stimulated his naturally occurring traits and enhanced them to their peak. Xian took a deep breath and let loose a with a sharp tweeting melody, targeting as best she could the positive side of the lion's being. The sound shifted in the air and lightly touched his being, the tone and inflection vibrating only slightly as she reached out and took his hand, lifting it to her breast. Slipping it against her feathered chest, she let him not only feel her heart racing, but the vibrations that song sent through her entire being.>

Neflari feels the cloth places against his forehead then the magic rushing into him, pain once again but he trusted this enough, allowing his guard down so it could work with little resistance. Soon that new melody reaches him, the pain seeming to fade some as the song soothed his body in full. He soon felt her grasp upon his hand, then that flat chest and the heartbeat within were felt, gentle vibrations in the wren and running through himself now. A smile came to him despite the pain lingering beneath it all from the healing. 

Arkuss <Mistress Claudette bathed the lion from ear tips to toe tips, muzzle to tail, stopping to change the water several times, restoring the spells as need be. Xian sang lightly, shifting from one melody to the other. Each tune aimed at a different part of Neflari's being. A song to strengthen his heart, to restore his mind and offer comfort for his soul. The wren closed her eyes, both of her tiny hands upon his and kept it pressed to her jackhammering heart, tones shifting to lightly stimulate the flesh being restored as well as lightly massage the muscles beneath. As the wren sang, Mistress Claudette noticed something between the avian and the feline, smiling broadly as she continued to clean him, leaving no part of his body untouched.>

Neflari found himself feeling quite well as that song continues, only a little pain from the healing and cleansing coming through the power of Xian's song. As both progress he feels the strain of that battle fading further and further, the strain of keeping his battered body going waning, leaving him with calm and comforting sensations. He could feel the wren's rapid heartbeat and the feel of those small hands holding his own against her chest, drawing a contented purr from the lion as that connection with his rival Second surfaces more fully.

Arkuss <Mistress Claudette rocked back, placing the cloth back into the basin and let out a contented sigh. Standing up, she looked to the wren and the lion and rose, moving to sit upon the large cushioned bench near the front of the slowly rocking wagon. Finally finishing her songs, the avian looked at the resting feline. Holding his hand to her chest, her mind raced as she glanced up to the Mistress of the House. "Thank you, Mistress." The human only smiled for a long while, her heavy bosom rising and falling as she leaned back and closed her eyes. "Follow your heart dear Xian." her words caused the wren to blink rapidly, then looked downward not realizing her hand slowly lowered the felines from her breast to her stomach.>

Neflari felt quite calm and refreshed, still listening to the songs even after the healing was complete. Those too eventually faded, the lion mrring softly and shifting some, testing the feel of movement again and finding no pain, only the normal sensations and perhaps a touch lighter than normal. As the two finish speaking he finally opens his eyes, blinking a couple times as he adjusts to the light, looking to where his hand was held and smiling as he sees the wren there. "Umm..." A short test, his voice seemed fine as well now. "Thank you, Xian...for now and back then. Your songs helped during that struggle...especially the last. It allowed me survive.”

Arkuss <Shaking her head, she let loose of his hand, rocking back a little bit, head dipping down. "I did what I could. Athena was there too. Shi no doubt helped too." The wren slid back and then rose up as if to back off. Suddenly, the wagon striking a rough spot and she fell forward landing atop the kitty as light as she could. Blinking quickly she chirped loudly. "Ohh, I...I am sorry. Are you alright?" she asked quietly. From her place on the bench, Mistress Claudette smirked, her hand lowering as fingers relaxed from the snap. Watching closely, those dark eyes continued to study the pair, seeing what so many others had only whispered about. Her student did have a connection with the House Champions First. Though it was not clear exactly how deeply the connection went at this time.>

Neflari a curious look as she seems to begin backing off from him, a gentle sigh as he words come. As he was about to speak that harsh bump of the wagon brought the wren down upon him, her light frame causing little distress to the lion. "I am fine. Do not worry." A paw comes to rest against her cheek, the other sliding around behind her. "Athena helped, yes, but it was your song that let me focus first. You saved me, Xian...you know I would not lie about such a thing." He leans up a bit and kisses the songbird gently, feeling the smooth beak and its sharper tip against his lips. 

Arkuss <The songbird let out a gentle chirp, feeling that feline muzzle along the slope of her beak. Lightly her slim tongue flicked out to lock along his whiskers. Nodding her head lightly, the wren swallowed heavily. "You're...you're welcome, Neflari." her brown eyes shimmered as she held his look. Feeling his hands moving, she shifted that light body, still tense against the lion but his hand was placed nearly perfectly in support of her back. Mistress Claudette watched this and tilted her head, tapping long fingernail to her lips and not believing that she had never seen this side of the songbird before. It was most pleasing to the woman.>

Neflari mrrrs as that slim tongue brushes against his whiskers, holding that gaze, taking in the depths of her brown eyes. Both paws come to rest against her back soon, fingers stroking slowly along the avian's spine and outward to her sides, simply enjoying the relaxed moment with the songbird, something which came only rarely for them. He gives another of those soft kisses, his own tongue slipping past those lips to trace along her beak curiously, something else he had never really tried with her before.\nArkuss <The wren shivered as the lion's hands lightly stroked over her back. Feathers ruffled under the fingertips, the lighter avian pressing to his larger form. Snapping her beak nervously, not anywhere near his tongue, she shook her head and swallowed deeply. "Umm, perhaps I should move. You should rest." Laying as she was, it was apparent to him that her heart was trying to either pond through those light ribs of hers or she was either quite excited or possibly nervous. As she lay against her, he could smell her nervousness under the light air of her natural scent.>

Neflari pauses as the nervousness seems to come out in the avian, purring softly as he holds her there gently. He could hear that heartbeat, so rapid and strong. "I am fine now, Xian. And even if I need to rest...I would rather have you with me right now." His paws simply continue to caress along her back and sides, the lion not making any more moves for the moment. It was easy to forget sometimes how skittish and nervous the songbird could be under that exterior shown to everyone else. He leans closer, whispering. "You can trust me, Xian. You know I will not push you..."

Arkuss <From the bench, Mistress Claudette smiles and slides off to kneel down on the floor of the wagon, her eyes watching the pair closely before speaking. "I am beginning to see why Surrek and Athena are such a dominant pair. Tell me something, do your Chain Master's act this way with each other as well?" the House Mistress' dark eyes flashed with mystical flare, hand lifting to lightly rub her chin lightly. Xian blinked, looking at the woman and her breath caught in her throat as she fought to decide how to answer that question. Looking from Neflari to the Mistress, the songbird's heart actually increased in speed.>

Neflari glances over as the Mistress comes to kneel on the floor, for once even her amazing form did little to distract him, the lion was so close to the songbird just then. The question given was rather intriguing somehow. He feels Xian's nervousness spike again, giving another nuzzle. "It's ok." He rests back again, looking a bit towards Claudette as he considers how to phrase the answer. "They do sometimes behave in a similar manner, yes."

Arkuss <Nodding her head lightly, Claudette gave a smile then laughed loudly. "I had my suspicions. I had heard the whispers inside the house and out. Though I am wondering what might come of these relationships if you four were ever to face upon the sands in a Ranking Tournament. Or something more serious." Those hard eyes settled upon the songbird, tongue licking lips heavily. Seeing the lion with the wren twinges a bit of jealousy within her breast, but also granted her insight into something that she suspected. For her part, Xian slipped a bit off of Neflari, those hard dark human eyes staring at her on occasionally. For as strong as she was with any other slave, she knew where she stood in the pecking order, as it were. Hearing the Mistress, she blinked quickly, stomach twisting as she herself had thought those exact same things.>

Neflari listening to the Mistress he nods a little, she did have a point about that and he had considered the very same before however there was no certain conclusion to the line of thought. Feeling Xian shift off him he lets her shift but his embrace does not release her, the lion in fact finding himself feeling rather protective. If Claudette insisted I whatever way there was little they could do but he did not intend to let her go as it was. "I doubt anyone could say for certain, but we will deal with it when the time comes. Personally...I do not believe it would harm things that much."

Arkuss <The Mistress blinks, then laughs loud. "Truly? Death would not harm things that much? My little lion, you might wish to be careful with the terms and words you use." Rocking forward, she sees the positioning of the pair and enjoys the slight irony of the sight. "If I recall, Athena did quite a number on the little bird the last time they were on opposite sides. And it was your abilities in the healing arts that helped her maintain the ability to sing. So I think that any conflict between the four of you would change things quite efficiently upon the Chain as well as in the House. What do you think, little Xian?" staring at the wren, the human female awaited the inevitable nobility to surface. For her part, Xian chirped lightly and dipped her head letting out a shaky sigh. "I would not want to find out how much things would change, Mistress.">

Neflari hmms and sighs softly at the response he gets back. It was not as though she did not have a point in most of that. "I am not always so good with words, Mistress." He listens to the rest of it and the question posed to Xian this time, glancing to the diminutive wren. He moves a paw forward, brushing it against her cheek as that answer comes out. He pauses a moment before speaking again. "I must say I agree with her, at least in part, and would not wish to find out either. If I may be bold however...all four of us have changed since that punishment match. I do not believe death or grave injury is the only outcome possible from such a situation."

Arkuss <Listening to the lion and the wren, Mistress Claudette grinned and leaned back against the bench. "Yes, you have all changed so very, very much." She ponders her next action for a time, then exhales sharply. "What I truly wish to order I cannot out of deference for what you have been through today. But I will keep your assessment of situations in mind." Locking eyes upon the wren, she spoke softly. "You are such a strong presence on the sands and in the bedroom and you now act with such deference. You truly do know what is expected of you." Lifting her hand she gestured the lion to approach.>

Neflari settling back after saying his piece, such as it was he listens to the Mistress speak, finding himself somehow a bit uneasy. Perhaps that was part of the intent and in any case this was a reminder of his position, something he did at times lose sight of. Noticing her gesture he nods a little, reluctantly releasing his embrace of Xian as he gets up, moving to kneel in front of the one above them both, the movements graceful and seemingly natural as they always appeared, head bowed partially as he awaits whatever may be spoken or ordered next.

Arkuss <Reaching out to lightly stroke the feline upon his cheek, she gives him a look. "You are sometimes too smart for your own good, Neflari. That is not looked upon with approval by most. But since you and I have an arrangement, I am allowing certain latitudes. Still, I would hate for you to become too close to any you might one day call adversary. That includes the little one over there." She gestured to Xian lightly, remaining focused upon him the entire time. "I am curious if you have figured out what school the attacker earlier was from?">

Neflari takes those words into consideration, a moment before he responds this time. "You are correct in all regards, Mistress. I can show deference and obedience but I admit to difficulty in truly learning it. I am lucky to receive such patience. Perhaps someday I will succeed more fully in that." He smiles a little. "I have been...warned of such attachment before and it is wisdom. I find I must follow my heart in some things though, even when it may cause pain in the future." A small tilt of his head at that inquiry, a faint shiver running through him as he forces himself to recall the event. "I...am not certain. It was immense power, far greater than any Flow I have felt before. I am not sure how I held up against it for so long, I should have been crushed in seconds." He breathes deeply, before continuing. "There was a darkness to it as well. After a time the attack...changed. They went after my mind directly, pulling up memories and emotions as though to overwhelm me though it ended up allowing me to counter the attack.”

Arkuss <Listening, the Mistress smiled. "You misinterpret the intent of the attack. It is true you should have been killed. And I felt the shift in motivations as well. Whoever was attacking had power I have not felt before. And it is true that your were able to counter the attack, but you have to ask yourself what they may have found out about you. And the ones you call ally." She looked to the wren and then back to the lion. "They might have even touched upon parts of yourself you do not even realize yet." Stroking his cheek lightly, she ponders a bit more. "Whatever reasons behind the attack, we have to be extremely careful now. There may be a power struggle in the works.">

Neflari seems somewhat troubled by the whole matter as well as her judgements on it. "They said they wanted to learn my secrets...I cannot answer as to what they may have learned from me, their attack was so broad though I am certain they learned something. I do not believe they left any marks of concern upon me but I will keep the possibility in mind, Mistress." He leans into the stroking a little, nodding in agreement and remaining silent for a moment. "I give my sincere apologies if I have been less than well behaved today, Mistress. Even before the attack, this day was stressful and then took that darker turn for everyone." He did not say more, she knew him well enough to understand his sensitivity to such things whether or not she truly understood why.

Arkuss <Claudette nods and gives that fuzzy cheek a swat. "I understand that. And I have been negligent in my training. Far too attentive in other affairs concerning you." Her hand lowers to lightly rub across her belly for a time. "You should go and rest now, with or without the wren it is your choice. While on the road we will have time to renew our deal and I will be sure to actually teach you things of importance." Leaning forward, she kissed the lion on the lips. "She wants you terribly badly. Before you do anything with her though, be sure you know exactly what it is she wants. That is a special one there. But you already knew that didn't you?">

Neflari watches as she rubs over her belly after those words, eyes widening slightly at the possible interpretation but that seemed rather unlikely. It was not something he could ask in any case and perhaps it was better not to know sometimes. He does smile after that, however. "I look forward to your teachings Mistress. Rest seems a good idea for now, though." A slight blush under his fur at that kiss, nodding slowly. "Yes Mistress, she is indeed special." That brought a warmer smile to him, the lion clearly felt much the same as the wren.

Arkuss <The Mistress smiled and noted your look, biting her lower lip for a time. "It is a shame that the only thing from brave Surrek she can handle is his finger. She is such an exquisite creature. And yet so fragile in many ways. You are free to choose your path until I decide otherwise, Neflari." leaning forward, the human kissed the lion upon the forehead and then rose to return to sit upon the bench as the wagon moved and jostled lightly. Xian had maintained a respectful silence all through the conversation, hearing them well enough and her large brow eyes blinked as  the lion spoke in such a manner on her behalf. Though she now understood he relationship between the two a bit better.>

Neflari that got a deeper blush, most likely a bit visible on the lion though he says nothing about it. "Thank you, Mistress." He mrrs gently at the final kiss, bowing respectfully until she had retaken her position on the bench before moving back to where Xian was, he had a number of things in his mind now to ponder at a later time, not all of them involving magic or the pretty wren. "Every time I begin to lose sight of things, there is someone to push me back to where I should be. I am quite fortunate." He settles down there, taking one of her small hands within his paw with that warm smile. "We both know our feelings for each other and I know you heard what was said. So I will again leave the choice in your hands...what is it you want, Xian? Answer now or answer later, in words or action, whichever suits you best."