Neflari lets out a brief sigh as Master Lannus agrees to the challenge though he smiled inwardly as Masami seemed to shift himself into a more cooperative mindset. He found himself under hir harsh gaze, the crowd swayed behind hir intentions but he manages to hold himself, not enough to challenge hir look but he did not cower either. In another situation, without that feeling he would think hir quite attractive with a bust larger than any he'd seen. Any admiration was lost on the lion though...a blink coming then as he hears the counter move to that challenge. The pair's prospects had just improved considerably though it was still nothing to be taken lightly. He glances down to his now-ally. "Yes, that one has such an intent. Neither of us is helpless though...you seem to be underestimating yourself as well, now." He rests a paw lightly on the other feline's shoulder for a short moment. "I meant what I said. Neither of us will die this day and now that we are on one side, we will not lose either." He leans in closer, speaking softly. "And after my Amazon wins, perhaps you will still get to see how far I bend...but in a different manner." He straightens himself again, shifting his mindset to address this new challenge now.

Arkuss <Masami blinks several times, tilting his head as the lion speaks. Thought ran through his head, but he only verbalized a couple of them, orange eyes flaming up as he shifted into a ready position. "I know the enemy that you have never faced and I have heard those words before. Do not make promises before the sands are stained." Growling as the buffalo shrugged and walked slowly across from the two, his chin lifting upwards before there was a snort and he charged toward the pair as the crowd cheered the Chain Boss's name. Toma slipped back slowly to the edge of the sands, watching from the best place in the arena.>

Neflari nods once, shifting into a more ready stance as well, glad to see that burning in the feline's eyes. His own nervousness and uncertainty were flowing away as he digs into himself for that side normally left buried. "I'd rather risk a promise than allow failure to be an option in my mind." He tenses his body some, his form compacting a little and back arching out as though to spring yet the direction was not clear. As the Chain Boss moves into the position facing them, the lion spares a few words. "You know this enemy better. I trust you." He remains tensed as the buffalo charges, teeth baring with a deep growl.

Arkuss <Poulous digs hooves into the sands, shifting in the direction of the ocelot, recognizing him as the more obvious threat. Masami, back stepped shortly, legs tensing and then lifted the ocelot into a jump sideways, his smaller form gliding out of the way of the charge as the crowd let out a heavy groan of disappointment. Skidding to a halt, the Chain Boss threw an arm in the direction of the lion, hoping to catch him unawares as that singular eye struggled to locate the evasive ocelot. Landing lightly several feet away, Masami hissed and was launching himself toward the thick skinned buffalo's wide torso. As the action began, Toma glances about the arena and spied the two shi sought, that evil smile spreading across wicked lips as the Amazon and croc watched their links with steeled eyes, worry not within the gaze, but shi knew it was within them both somewhere.>

Neflari notices the shift in direction immediately and confirming some of his conclusions about the buffalo. The Chain Boss would be disappointed however as the lion barely spared the attention to Masami's jump and was not caught unaware at all, the purpose of his stance becoming clearer as he falls to all fours just barely slipping under the heavy arm and launching himself forward to land behind Poulous. Hitting the sands there he pushes himself around rapidly, paws skidding across the sand before finding a solid position and launching himself again, this time at the buffalo's left leg, claws ready to dig in and test this one's durability.

Arkuss <The ocelot barely caught the lion's movement, his own claws fully extended and knowing exactly where the Chain Boss was weakest. Being caught in a classic, but totally unexpected high/low attack, the buffalo snorted as he tried to move away from the combined assault. Managing to swing his arm in the direction of the furry missile that was Masami, he was struck in a leg by the larger lion. His hide was weathered and worn but not exceptionally thick in the lower region and he let out a startled howl as claws sank in. With a satisfying THUD! his arm knocked the ocelot to the side, but the feline twisted in mid flight and landed on his hands and feet. Snarling unheard under the noise of the crowd, the ocelot would scramble forward again, once more aiming at the wide back of the Chain Boss, who's attention was switching to the lion at his leg, elbow falling downward between those wings.>

Neflari felt the weathered hide make contact with his claws and somewhat surprisingly give way even as the ocelot was knocked back. His movement pauses only a second to remove his claws from flesh as he spots Masami in his peripheral vision, quickly setting a note in his mind of the target the other feline was aiming for again. He barely had a chance to realize that elbow was coming down, pushing himself down towards the sands to lessen the inevitable impact and stretching out his arms, paws securing their spot and ready to pull him into motion again.

Arkuss <The lion was pushed downward toward the sands, the effort leaving the buffalo open to the ocelots impact. Sinking his claws into the leather adorning that broad torso, the ocelot bites down on the upper arm that had struck his sudden teammate. Teeth bit into the hide and the buffalo bellowed, and stepped away from the lion, unable to grip a wing as intended. Instead his free hand groped for the ocelots wiry limbs. Unable to capture any of them, he huffs and turns his attention back to the lion, moving steadily back in his direction to attempt to capture one of those wings.>

Neflari grunts at the pain of the impact though the result would be no worse than a deep bruise and the minor sacrifice proved worthwhile as he hears the buffalo let out that bellow. As soon as he feels the pressure vanish he pulls himself forward, quickly scrunching up and regaining all four paws on the sands, a bit clumsily at first but soon the lion was moving again. Taking advantage of the small distance he gains from those efforts to grab hold of the ocelot he turns to face the two seconds after their opponent gives up and begins moving in his direction, crouching into another strong leap but something kept him mindful of those wings being a target. Rolling to the outside and keeping those wings from being in one position he aims his claws at the leather along the left side of the waist, hoping to tear it open as he goes past.

Arkuss <Snorting and huffing, Poulous swings his forearm and barely misses Masami's head, the weight of the ocelot over-balancing him suddenly as the feline scrambles about, claws keeping him hooked on his back and those teeth closing together and crimson begins to flow from the upper arm. Feeling the lion below him, a leg kicks out strongly, that hoof seeking the soft tissue of Neflari's body. Masami adjusts upon his back and releases the arm, blood dripping slightly as Masami lifts a bit and catches a glancing blow to his own shoulder, those claws momentarily retracting and the smaller feline was suddenly scrambling to keep himself upon the target. Unsuccessful, the spotted feline landed on the sands behind the buffalo and butt bounced to the side just before a hoof dented the sands where he had just been. Feeling Neflari below his waist, the buffalo felt his leathers slacken a bit as the lion succeeded in his intended action to a degree.>

Neflari thankfully only took the one hit from the Poulous' elbow though it was a narrow miss with that hoof afterwards. The pair had gotten several reasonable blows in but the process would not be as easy now he realizes as his claws release the leather. He continues his spin as he passes the buffalo, having at least exposed a part of that torso and manages to land on his right paws, barely stopping his motion before his wings impact the sand. He uses the sand to slide to a stop, quickly trying to regain all fours and recover a small distance, glancing over to where the ocelot was.

Arkuss <Poulous stepped back from the pair, hands reaching to that bit on his arm and the loose leathers  around his body. Letting out a bellow, hoof stomping strongly, the buffalo watched the ocelot scramble forward, muscles tensing just before he leapt. Grinning at the telegraphed action, those experienced arms rose up to catch the ocelot by the throat, momentum kicking the felines legs forward and into his chest. On instinct, claws tried to extend into the leather but they failed. Coughing and hissing at the buffalo, the skinny feline dug his finger claws into the softer area of his hide, eyes shifting to the lion and hoping that he was wise enough to take advantage of this opening.>

Neflari had just the chance to see the ocelot begin his next leap, the lion taking stock of their opponent as well as he could in that too-brief moment. As Masami was caught he shoved a brief concern for the feline's welfare into a corner of his mind, he knew it would take more than that to bring him down and it did leave an opening, one that would likely not come again. He growls and pushes himself forward hard, a couple quick bounds before he leaps at the buffalo, aiming for the spot his previous effort had left exposed in those leathers, pushing his claws against it forcefully as soon as he feels the first hint of contact.

Arkuss <Poulous squeezes Masami's neck tightly, thick fingers encircling it totally. That singular eyes glints as the buffalo huffs and bears down. The claws in his arms were nothing new to him and he managed to keep the pain in the back of his mind as he shifted his position, swinging the feline a bit to add to the pressure. The sound of the crowd chanting his name brought him back to his days of glory and reminded him  of what he could be again. So lost in his own thoughts, the Chain Boss left himself slightly open for the lion's press and as soon as the weight of the Winged One was upon him again, striking into the area of that weakened armor.>

Neflari feels the claws pierce that hide and sink in solidly, one time again slightly surprised that such an opening was left and the buffalo had never reacted to his approach, whether or not he could stop it in time. If he had been in motion perhaps it would have helped stop the lion but he would have enough time now, letting his momentum bring the weight from the rest of his body to slam against the buffalo's upper leg, foot-claws moving to take hold as well lower down. Once he had just enough balance he roars and yanks one arm to the side, claws working to tear through hide and flesh the other going the opposite towards the buffalo's back. Fortunately for the Chain Boss his claws were not long enough to reach organs given his large frame but that brief moment of reliving old glory would cost him.

Arkuss <Half screams in pain, and half bellows in anger as the lion starts to rend and tear. Lifting the ocelot high over his head and then tosses him away, driving and elbow down into the lions back. The pain of the wounds are a reminder of how dangerous distraction could be. And now he was bleeding from the arm and the waist. Those leather still keeping the majority of his torso covered. Kicking out a strong leg, Poulous aimed for anywhere Neflari might have an opening. The ocelot had twisted in mid-air and rolled himself along the sand after being thrown. Pulling himself upwards, a hand rubbed his throat as he took several long breaths before sighting in the Chain Boss, eyes flaring brightly as he saw his partner of the moment holding his own quite nicely.>

Neflari doesn't wait for the buffalo's reaction, as soon as those claws pull free he aims one to the back, intent on tearing that leather again, the other stretching across the waist. The elbow found his back before he hooked at his targets but the force effectively pushing him against the buffalo's body served to keep him in range, claws hooking into the leather as he fights through the pain of the impact. As the thick leg strikes out at him he shifts enough to catch the momentum and pulls his arms inward, bloodied claws tearing into the leather as both forces work to good effect for the time he still has in close proximity.

Arkuss <Masami darts inward, seeing Poulous is focusing upon Neflari for the time being. The ocelot skids on his knees, and twists himself so that he was now flanking the buffalo. Watching Neflari work, Masami gave the Silken Kitty a mental note of approval. Watching the larger feline form, he took the advantage and leaped forward to land upon the Chain Boss's back. Yowling as the felines worked in unison, uncoordinated or not, the buffalo reached back to grip the shoulder of the ocelot and twisted, strong fingers driving into the joint before the exertion popped the shoulder out of joint. Eliciting a half-scream, half-yowl from Masami, the feline tried to keep himself upon the back, but once more he was sailing through the air but this time he would not land on his feet, but skid to a halt dozens of feet away. With one feline down and away, Poulous turned his attentions to Neflari and lifted his elbow, starting to jab repeatedly at the lion's head and back.>

Neflari manages to keep hold of the leg, claws coming loose as two more areas of leather were shredded, seeing the other feline take advantage of one opening. He growls as the larger opponent manages to get in a more serious injury on the ocelot, taking the brief moment spent throwing the other feline away to stroke at the front area exposed, digging in those claws and tearing into flesh, as he was met with blows from the descending elbow, yowling as they begin to take their toll. As his claw comes free at the end of its strike he uses the bit of momentum to help push himself sideways, releasing the buffalo's form and falling away, landing roughly several feet behind and working to regain his footing as quickly as possible. The lion hated giving up that close position but it was too dangerous alone.

Arkuss <Masami snarled and gripped his bad arm with his good, shifting the positioning until he would push upwards and then twist as he tried to relocate the ball into its nook, the scream that accompanied it drawing another roar from the audience. While at first Poulous was the favored, the   felines were now gaining momentum with chants of their own. Enraged by the pair, his singular eye turning darker as he felt the places the lion had clawed. Nodding his head several times before charging toward the ocelot and catching him on the hip as he leapt in avoidance of the charge, sprawling him messily upon the sand on his stomach. Turning quickly, he looked for the lion and bellowed before charging him at full bow, lowering his head and losing sight of his adversary completely.>

Neflari felt relief as he heard the scream as the ocelot shifted his joint back into place, the blows taken worth the time it bought. The lion sets his stance again and watches as the buffalo goes after the other feline again but doesn't press that advantage, instead turning to come at him in a rage, blind in fact with that head lowered. Instinct pushed through his thoughts as the rapid approach reaches him, pushing as much force into his legs as he could to jump just in time to avoid impact and uses his paws and arms to flip himself over Poulous' head. As the Chain Boss continues moving forward beneath him he twists himself to hopefully land paws-down against his back, planting all four and digging those claws in as teeth go for the back of the buffalo's neck.

Arkuss <A gasp comes form the crowd as the lion maneuvers himself up and about, winds unfurling momentarily in assistance to aid in his placement upon the back of the buffalo. Masami watches and allows an impressed smile to cross his lips as he pulled himself upwards off the sand, spitting out globs of what had been swallowed. His eyes watched the lion clinging to the back of the enraged Chain Boss, who flailed about with his elbows and hands, nearly catching the lion on several occasions, but somehow the lion avoids being caught. Rising to his feet, Masami charges forward and twists, launching him self into the back of those legs, knowing if Poulous is take to even one knee, the match could end swiftly. Sensing the danger coming somehow, the buffalo bellowed and snorted, foam coming from his mouth as the lion bit deeply into his neck, ears flicking as he tried to side-step the ocelot and managed with one leg, but the other hoof landed on Masami’s side, and the weight along with gravity did the rest. Letting out a primal scream, Masami first felt his ribs bend inwards as the hoof seemed to slide aside, the leather keeping him together. But as he fell, the hoof shifted back and pressure increased and the ribs snapped. Writhing in pain, claws slashed at the leg, cutting into the hide in messy red streaks as those jagged edges penetrated his lung certainly but hopefully nothing else vital. Orange eyes blazed as his only thought now was to hope that the lion could finish what was started now that the Chain Boss crashed onto his hands and knees.>

Neflari once attached to the buffalo's back pulls those wings in tightly and presses himself against his back, minimizing the chances of being grasped. His teeth found their mark, the lion tasting blood as they manage to sink in though as with his claws, not so terribly deep to risk being fatal. He felt the large form move aside and lose balance, releasing the hold on his neck and riding the buffalo's form as it falls. Keeping his foot-claws embedded securely he roars loudly as the impact occurs, taking the opportunity to lash out with his front paws, clawing into the buffalo's arms and tearing into the flesh at an angle, hoping to damage or sever enough muscle to disable their use. A solid effort to each arm and the lion shifts quickly, almost losing his balance as he releases his foot-claws and pushes back down the large form, arms striking at the back of those upper legs this time, aiming to cripple as he had done with the arms.

Arkuss <Masami struggles to crawl away from the Chain Boss, who kicks out a leg in anger at the ocelot. Avoiding all the blows, a grin came across the felines lips as he watched the lion work. Attention diverted on the sands though never goes unpunished. As Neflari adjusts and slices his toes into his flank, Poulous kicks out one last time and catches a glancing blow off the ocelot's head, right behind the right ear. Letting out a barely audible YOWL, the other feline went limp as blood began to stream from the torn ear. For his part, the buffalo had watched the lion grow under the Amazon's insistence of more training upon the sands. He had many times scoffed at the former silk slut being on HIS chain, and longed to humiliate and humble him. But now, the precision of those strikes and the adjustment to his thrashing told him all he needed to know about this silk. And about himself. Snorting loudly, he at least had taken out that damnable ocelot, just too bad he would never taste the elf flesh that he so violently wanted. The felinoid physician had seen to that and told him in no uncertain terms to leave HER prize be. Shaking his head, the buffalo slowly lifted his arm and moved his hand into the universal sign of surrender, hoping that Master Lannus may still think enough of him to spar his life.>

Neflari feels his claws meet muscles, the lion making two more slashes at the back of the lower legs, breaking away once he was certain the strikes had worked as intended. He growls deeply as he remains poised with claws extended just out of immediate reach, ready to strike violently if the buffalo made any move to strike out or get up. Even if he managed to get to his feet his power and speed would be reduced and he didn't want to risk bloodlust taking over at this point, especially with the last blow the ocelot took. He tenses as the buffalo does begin to make a move but soon recognizes the sign of surrender, the lion not standing down yet regardless but he does not attack further.

Arkuss <Shaking hir head from hir position on the sands, House Champion Toma feigned disappointment, but had seen exactly what shi wanted to see. Those deathly eyes of hirs moved from the lion to the ocelot and then the buffalo, before stepping forward to address Master Lannus, having to lift hir hand to somewhat silence the crowd, amazed at what they are seeing upon the sands. As Toma addressed the crowd, Poulous rested his head against his forearm, breathing heavier than he had in years. Finally looking upwards, he glared at the lion with that one good eye but remained silent as Master Lannus called for the crowd to choose his fate. He knew what was coming and when the sentence of death was passed, followed by the House Master's thumb dropping down. Toma turned to look at Neflari with a grin that bore nothing but evil and wickedness. "Carry out the sentence, First Link Neflari." shi commanded without a hint of remorse or sympathy.>

Neflari glances over as Toma moves from hir spot, hearing the crowd cheering and the sentence they give, then seeing Master Lannus give his decision on the matter. He had feared this, something for all his time and experience he had never been forced to do. He hesitates for a moment, shivering a little at the looming prospect. Still he pulls together enough of himself to move up to the buffalo again and for the first time in the bout draws on the Flow, focusing enhancement into his arm and drawing it back, slamming a fist into the back of the fighter's neck and crushing the spine at its peak, killing him almost instantly.

Arkuss <Toma watches this, the sounds around hir ignored as hir attention was solely on the lion as he moved. Feeling the shudder of his Flow against the background of hir own, shi licked hir lips as the deed was done. Waving to the physicians to enter, shi walked to the lion and gripped is wrist, lifting his arm high into the air, letting him feel the full acknowledgments of his actions and deed upon the sands. Pulling him closer, shi spoke quietly directly to him. "You did well, Neflari. It is a shame that you are so loyal to my deficient Sister. I could have made you a god. Now, you will be forced to watch the thing you most love perish at my hands. It is nothing personal towards you, I have the utmost respect for your race." Releasing his arm, the giant warrior knelt down over Poulous' body and dipped hir head slightly. A pair of physicians assistants carried the unconscious ocelot to the infirmary while another came to check on him, walking with him as he exited the sands and back into the relative silence underneath the bleachers.>

Neflari found himself feeling rather numb, pulling back his fist after a few seconds and blinks as Toma approaches, grabbing hold of his wrist and holding it in the air to the cheers of the crowd. He manages a smile of victory though anyone who knew him would realize every bit of his actions were fake. He shivers a bit as the huge Amazon speaks, though fortunately for his current state of mind it would take a little time before the weight of them truly reached the lion. He simply nods as shi releases him, exhaling and watching the ocelot carried off and following soon after, allowing the physicians to check him though he could tell there was little worse than a few deep bone bruises. Once back in relative silence, away from the crowd and with Masami out of harm's way for now his mind begins processing again, working through everything he had just experienced. He watches as Masami is taken away to the infirmary, the lion himself turning away assistance at the moment and telling them he'd go there soon. Taking a few deep breaths he finally sighs and gets himself focused again and calm, ignoring the splatters of blood and several small tears in the leather covering he still wore. It certainly had done its job and it made him very glad the centauress had insisted the way she did. Shaking his head a bit he ventures to the staging area in search of the non-evil Amazon, smiling some as he spots hir fairly quickly among the remaining fighters and works his way through, approaching hir. He really wanted to just glomp the big warrior and snuggle into that softness but it certainly would not do in this setting. "Well Athena...your lion has experienced his first battle now."

Arkuss <The Amazon stood in the preparation area, her own armor secured to her form. The squeeze of the leathers did cause her to spill over a bit in the bosom area, but accentuated the rest of hir torso quite nicely. The leather bands around hir forearms and shins added weight to the severity of the next bout, only three more until a new House Second would be crowned. Holding a leather cap of her own in hir hand, shi turned to the lion as he approached. Those violet eyes steeled in concerted effort. There was a slight twitch of hir cheek, but that was the only relaxation from hir. Nodding hir head as eyes scanned him from head to toe, wings to...well shi could not exactly see his sheath or cock, so would assume they were intact. "I watched it. You did quite well, I am pleased." Shi lifted hir hand and rested it upon his shoulder before squeezing firmly. "You made me proud, My Roar. And now your name will be upon the lips of all those who witnessed the bout, for you KILLED a Chain Boss. Heavy is the head who wears that crown. Take account of your situation, for it has been forever changed.">

Neflari preferred seeing the Amazon nude or in something a little more feminine but he had to admit shi looked appealing in a way with that armor. As he figured shi was quite focused on hir own fights and he did not want to disturb hir for long. "Thank you, Athena. It was...quite an experience and not at all what I was expecting obviously. I think it may be a little time before I truly understand that weight of my accomplishment, however." He looks up at hir again, nodding slightly. "Both of us should be ok though Masami seems to have taken most of the damage. I am going to check on him and make certain there is no injury to myself that I have been unaware of." He rests a paw against hir arm and smiles again. "Good luck with your next battles, my Amazon. I will watch what I can of them."

Arkuss <Shaking hir head a bit, those eyes seemed to darken a bit more as she stepped forward and knelt to a knee before hir First Link, drawing several stares from the free and slave milling about. Resting a hand on the right shoulder slope of the lion, she leans in to touch hir forehead to his leather cap. "Go and make sure you are not internally injured. Take care of Masami, he fought beside you and did what he could to allow you to do what you did." Shi paused a bit and the actually smiled, something shi had never done before any duel or combat in any arena that he had seen or had not seen. Hir face softened greatly and shi wrapped hir arms around that slighter torso and hugged gently. "He will need someone to teach him the way of our Chain, once I remove him form Zebek's shadow.':releasing the hug, shi stood up and spun him about quite easily, showing off hir strength. "To the infirmary with you. And try to stay out of trouble. I shall be there shortly." Giving a hard swat to his rump, the Amazon's face returned to its usual steel, hir eyes daring any of those about to challenge hir show of emotion. There were no takers this day.>

Neflari mrrs softly when shi kneels that way, feeling the touch of hir forehead and hir strong presence so close and focused on him, though he knew it would be brief. "I will do so, Athena. Masami will be good to have with us, I know it truly, now." He nuzzles into the hug for a short moment, feeling more calm now even once shi releases him. "Of course, Chain Mistress." He grins slightly at the swat and heads off as shi brings hir steel focus back. That done he leaves the staging area, seeking out one of the equines from earlier as they would likely be nearby. He felt a need to be back in something lighter and the leathers would need repairs anyway.

Arkuss <St'lil was on his way to find the Winged Lion when their paths crossed, a wide grin exposing his large blunt teeth. Letting out a heavy exhale, he walked up to the feline and nodded quickly, his body shaking from his apparent excitement. "That was absolutely brilliant. I was worried that you and Masami were going to have to duel that big Toma person. But instead you had to defeat the Chain Boss. I have only seen that happen one time before, and it was three on one. Two of them died." Stepping up close to the lion, he was reaching for the leather cap as he continued to speak. "I will have you out of this quickly, you no doubt want to go check on the other feline. And you probably want to find you Chain Mistress too." His hands worked over the straps releases expertly, even if the lion did not stop. As his uncovered the lion, he did not remove the leathers unless given an indication the lion wanted him too.>

Neflari was thankful to find him quickly, giving a smile in return and shaking his head some at the young horse's enthusiasm. "Well, I am not certain yet what to really think of it all, I need a little time. It is certainly good the opponent we were given though. It would have ended very quickly against that House Champion..." His expression falls a little, showing hints of fear for a brief moment before the lion composes himself again. He had grown too good at that, it disturbed him sometimes. "I already found Athena and wanted to change back before visiting Masami. I seem to have put these leathers through a good workout." He laughs a bit, allowing the equine to get him out of the leathers fully and feeling much better as the restrictive material leaves his form. "Give my thanks to La-Lala as well. I would be much worse off if I had not been wearing all of this..."

Arkuss <Standing there looking at the lion in only his fur, St'lil's eyes roamed a bit longer than they should as he nodded his head absently. With a blink, he looked away for a time and held the leathers over his arm as he gestured to the closet again. "If you want to bathe first, I could bring you some warm water for the tub, otherwise your clothing is still there." A soft whicker came from his throat and he grinned a bit wider as he looked around to see if La-lala was anywhere to be seen before he spoke again. "I think you are very pretty, First Link Neflari, Athena's Roar." He then stepped away a bit, lifting the leathers to examine the damage done to them.>

Neflari didn't give any indication of minding those roaming eyes and honestly rather liked it. He giggles a bit as the young horse snaps out of that mild daze, stretching out some and feeling a few point of soreness and pain he had missed earlier but none seemed to indicate anything serious. "Thank you. I think I just need to clean my paws, not too badly off otherwise and I would rather not delay checking on Masami too long. I can bathe later." He grins at the compliment, expecting something of the sort though he was a bit bold about it. "Well, you are rather attractive as well, St'Lil." He gives a teasing shake of his exposed rump before going to change, slipping into the familiar silks quickly. "I would enjoy another encounter with you under more relaxed circumstances maybe..." He steps out, despite the remaining blood on his paws and some hints of dirt and sand remaining in his fur he still would draw eyes easily. "Just be mindful of Athena. Shi can be very protective."

Arkuss <The equine nickered a bit, huffing a pout as the lion departed to change. Even though the lion was a member of the Chain, he knew that as a Free he could just as easily demand the felines attentions. But that would be cheating. And as he watched the lion remove himself to change, his mind did wander a bit into areas not quite so wholesome. It took him until Neflari had returned that his compliment sunk in, a warmth crossing over those cheeks and forcing him to squirm. Letting out a soft nicker as those silks were added to the furry form, he certainly liked the feline MUCH better in those. Stepping a bit closer, the equine reached out a hand and shifted those pants a bit, letting them settle in a more enticing manner on the hips. "I have heard that and will do my best not to incur hir wrath. Unless you have other plans, I would very much enjoy bathing you. But I will delay you no longer, go and see to your Chain-mate.">

Neflari hmms and smirks as he sees the reaction his words and appearance had drawn. "Well, when I am ready to bathe, if you are around perhaps I will allow that." He steps close to the younger male, giving a brief, teasing lick to his ear with that slightly textured tongue. "But if not today, then another day." He smiles and turns to leave. "Athena is not mean or unreasonable, just protective. Give hir time. I hope to see you later." With that the winged lion departs, tail flicking slowly as he gives a bit more of a sway in his walk just for the equine's sake. Feeling much more comfortable he heads for the infirmary now, finding it quite busy now as the tournament injuries have mounted though he knew his way around enough to keep out of the way while searching for the ocelot.

Arkuss <Masami was laying on a table near an isolated window, his armor had been removed and Shanna was just finishing the wrapping of his torso. Though he did not show it, the sparkle in his eyes showed that he was in pain. The proud feline gritted his teeth as the elf tied the ends of his bandages together, ignorant of approaching lion. Through the controlled chaos of the infirmary, Neflari maintained his distance from the assorted injured parties, but several of them noticed his presence and pushed away the physicians and assistants to rise up. Some sat upon their tables, while those that could stood. Masami likewise did the same, followed by the elf as well, who supported him as he stood  by his table. Slowly, each of the fighters raised their right arm, hands positioned with the V for victory extended in the direction of the lion. Once all who wished to give the signal of victory, Shanna let out a war cry that echoed and the room shouted his name three times. If he did not stop his advance, he would see that around the corner, blocked mostly form his view by a partition, stood the felinoid, her own arm extended like all the rest; an action which left the free within the room most perplexed indeed.>

Neflari blushes a little as he garners that attention but smiles and slows to a stop as Shanna lets out that war cry and the others shout his name. He looks around and nods in acknowledgement to those gathered, gaining some understanding of what his Amazon experiences after hir victories. It felt good even if he was not certain how he felt about the circumstances or the ending of the fight. As the others settle back down he catches sight of the felinoid's gesture; some ties never really die, wherever you may go in life. He favors her with a warm look before moving to where Shanna and Masami were, looking over the ocelot for a moment and speaking softly, perhaps just to himself "My life never seems to take the path I expect..." He shakes his head. "You gave me that opportunity to end it, Masami. I certainly could not have won that by myself." He glances to Shanna then. "He will recover I take it?"

Arkuss <After the expression of respect, the infirmary returns to its normal state, with the occasional Chain mate adding a nod or light hand upon the back as he passes, making sure to avoid those wings. The felinoid looked smaller in size, the wasting continuing, and that red eye seemed to glow a more ominous shade now, but she returned his look with another nod and stepped gingerly from the area, her presence was no longer to be with the Links of the Chain. Shanna smiled wide at the lion and dropped all pretense of seriousness, hugging him tightly, her nose rubbing to his cheek as she delivered a kiss, much to the enjoyment of some watching as a series of hoots and hollers and cat-calls came forth. For his part, Masami just shook his head, those orange eyes locking to the lions own greens. "Next time, you play the bait." That response quite enough for Shanna to not have to answer the inquiry.>

Neflari purrs as the elf hugs him so tightly and gives him the kiss, returning the hug and blushing more at the various calls from others nearby. He grins a bit as he hears the ocelot's reply, taking in those eyes and nodding a little. "Well, that seems fair." Releasing the elf finally he leans in and gives the ocelot a brief kiss, purring more deeply. "I hope it does not become necessary too often though. It is good to know I can survive and win on the sands but I still prefer healing and the softer arts." Exhaling some he stretches out some, those wings spreading a little as well. "It is good to see you are recovering. I need to have myself checked though while I'm here, be sure everything is still where it should be." He smirks.

Arkuss <Masami swats instinctively, realizing his mistake instantly as the pain shoot through his chest again and he sputter hisses. "Stop that, Silkie. I am not your soft type." Those orange eyes flared, not with anger but with an emotion Neflari knew quite well, the burn of wanton lust. "Silly, soft kitty." He murmured as Shanna stifled a giggle and help him lay back down upon the bed. She gave the ocelot a kiss on the forehead and then the cheek," You hush and rest, brother. Or I will have Mistress Thirty-Three come back over." Masami just scowled and sputtered again, wincing as he went to move his arm to swat her affections away as well, speakings softly. "Leave me be, elfie. Go and tend to the Champion of the Sands of House Narro. Just make certain you do not end up with kitties in you tummy." Smiling broadly, he knew that would not get a slap because he was injured, but the reddening of her cheeks and the scowl was worth the price of later pain. "You hush, you ungrateful little pussy." She sneered playfully and looked at the Winged Lion, gesturing to a nearby empty table."You, sit there." She half growled, and for a time, her face seemed to take on the features of a certain Amazon.>

Neflari giggles and licks along his own muzzle briefly. "Silly, soft kitty I may be yet I quite enjoy someone strong. You are my type more than you realize. You will get to see how far I can bend...but in the way I desire to show. Just as promised." He winks. As the elf and ocelot proceed to take verbal jabs at each other he can't help laughing then, they were a fun dynamic as he had been learning of late. He blinks and nods as the elf directs him to the table, finding that familiar look both intimidating though quite hot as well. The lion obediently sits where indicated, in a better mood than he had been earlier.

Arkuss <Shanna shakes her hands lightly, facial features returning to what for her was normal, those blue eyes looking over the lions form. Those fingers slowly began touching and poking lightly over the furry chest and then his arms. Her lips curled into a slight smile as she roamed, testing out any areas that caused any flinch, sound or waver in those eyes. Running hands down over his legs, the elf finished with a satisfied sigh. "You know, the smell of the sands befits you. It mixes well with your essence somehow," looking over at the ocelot, she leans in a whispers softly into the lion's left ear. "Two inches above the base of his tail." Licking the edge of his ear, Shanna backed away and gave a light slap to the lion's cheek. "You are fine. You just need a good soak and some rest.">

Neflari relaxes as he settles on the table and watches the elf as she comes over and begins checking his form. The process gets a number of small flinches and tensing as bruised areas are contacted but none that would get him to respond more strongly and as seen his movements had little hindrance. He found himself quite enjoying her touch though he blinks as she whispers that tidbit in his ears, blushing a bit again and tucking away the advice in his mind. He smiles once she finishes, nodding. "That is good to know for sure I'm ok. Athena's day is not yet finished though. And the last is the most important battle yet to come." He thinks on something briefly, looking slightly less cheerful for a moment. "I have a few things still to face myself."

Arkuss <Shanna looks at the lion for bit, offering a smile as she sees that look. Lifting her hand to touch his shoulder, she speaks lightly. "If you need to talk about something, we are here for you. We may not look it, but we are actually some fairly good listeners." She tried to liven the mood as she found several of his more sensitive areas and applied some salve and wrappings. Looking over her shoulder, she started a bit as Thirty-Three loomed near them, her approach as quiet as ever. Before the elf could speak, the felinoid spoke lightly to the Winged Lion. "How are you feeling, First Link Neflari." her green eye glowed softly and he felt a familiar surge within his flow, mingling with it and eventually caressing his mind and body with renewing energies. For her part, Shanna blinked and then shook her head as she realized what might be happening. Speaking quietly, she placed a hand on her Mistress' arm. "Mistress, please not too much.">

Neflari mms and looks up at her, smiling a bit more as she gives the offer to listen. He lets out little sounds as she finds those sensitives spots, happy to let her treat his body at least and he did appreciate her effort. "Mmmf...I know you are and I trust both of you." He notices the felinoid's approach just a second before Shanna became aware, feeling that familiar sensation as she searches through him, one of the very few he would allow such openness. "Mistress Thirty-Three. I am actually rather well, thank you. Please do not strain too much, my body will not be long in healing." He pauses for a short moment. "I do have another matter to address though. If you have the time, I could use some guidance."

Arkuss <The felinoid nods her head and offers her now expected half smirk-half smile, that red eye glowing as she retracts her flow from his body slowly. "I figured you would. And do not worry about me, Shanna does that enough for the entire House." She lightly touches the elf on the cheek with the back of her hand, causing Shanna to dip her head and press to the caress like a cat might do. Speaking lightly, the elf's eyes close tightly. "That I do, Mistress. Simply because you seem determined NOT to worry." There was a sweetness in her protestations that brought a glow to Thirty-Three's face that hid her deterioration completely. She appeared to choke slightly, but fought back the emotion, that determination returning as best it could. "Sweet Shanna, your concern is appreciated more than you know. But I need you to tend to Masami now. Neflari and I have things to speak of in private. You will have your time to play with the kitty." Shanna was about to speak in protest, but the last line forced her to balk and she looked away and her cheeks reddened once again. There was just something about that topic that always seemed to strike her hard. Nodding softly, the elf went to look upon the ocelot leaving the  Winged Lion and the felinoid by themselves.>

Neflari nods, actually feeling a bit better for the moment. "Thank you. I do try not to worry too much but I can never stop entirely." He watches the interaction between the two, feeling warmed at the obvious bond they held now, one that seemed to be stronger every time he saw them. The almost overwhelming shift he saw from her emotion was certainly heartening, the lion wondering if he had looked as such sometimes. Smiling to Shanna he watches her reaction, he had figured out some time ago the desires within her, however she might protest. He waits till she has gone back to check on Masami then looks up to the felinoid again, the smile fading away as he sighs deeply. "It is unusually slow in hitting me but I know it's there..." He pauses for a moment, sorting out his words a bit of hollowness in them that only those familiar with him would pick up on. "That fight...I have fought before, though none quite so bloody. But the end...everyone cheers me for my victory. It does not feel much like one. I did it as quick and painless as I knew how..."

Arkuss <The Mistress took the lion by the hand and gently shifted him off the table he sat upon, wrapping an arm about him while walking slowly through the infirmary until they were outside upon one of the balcony. The sounds from the sands were still heard, but greatly diminished here. Closing the door behind her, the felinoid slumped a bit, bracing herself with those shaking arms. Breathing a bit heavier, she looks at him affectionately. "Now you have tasted what Athena does daily. I am wondering how it made you feel. Truly, deeply feel. It is important that you know this truth about yourself before you will ever be able to cope and learn from what you had to do." She paused to swallow strongly, her body shaking as she pushed off the door and walked to the edge of the balcony. "It is the only way that you will be able to live with yourself, to know exactly how it makes you feel to take the life of another for the satisfaction of the people.">

Neflari follows with her, oddly still not crying though she no doubt could feel the emotional weight that was coming over him. As they are given privacy he blinks, seeing her strength suddenly seem to give out like that. He listens carefully as she speaks then, taking in the words and considering their meaning but not responding till a moment after she had finished. "I wonder...did shi have the same trouble the first time?" He shakes his head. "How it feels...I have never killed before, not an intelligent being. I have always been able to avoid it...I could have this time. But it would have shamed me and Athena both. I promised back then...I would not do such again." He crosses his arms, a few tears escaping. "How do I feel? Sick. Disgusted I did such a thing because a crowd wanted me to. Not defense, not revenge just for entertainment. He was already defeated...all I did was pointless murder."

Arkuss <The Mistress let her former Chain-mate finish, her head tilting slightly upwards. "I do not know how Athena felt at first, you will have to ask hir yourself. Though, being an Amazon I have a thought that she has delivered death long before shi ever stepped onto the sands." Walking to the Winged Lion, the felinoid hugged him firmly and kisses his forehead lightly. "I am pleased in your reaction, Neflari. Time will come when you are asked to do it again, and you will do it. But remember, there is a difference between doing what is right and what is expected. But I assure you of this, what happened on the sands was not unexpected. You were the instrument by which Athena's enemies measured hir. Had you not done the deed, it is unlikely either of you would have lived out the day. In committing this act, you have shown them a strength and resolve they might not have seen. And proven your worth to be upon the sands with them." She paused to use her thumbs to wipe away any tears present. "And THAT is a value not easily measured. And something never understood by the people. It is the burden that we are forced to endure.">

Neflari presses against her when he feels that embrace, sniffling some as more tears follow though he never completely loses it. "I always thought...I could find the better way. What's right and what's expected. I'm growing to hate those words some days." He exhales, body relaxing a little. "I have never looked down on Athena for what shi must do. I have never liked it, but shi has little choice...and I know if given a better choice, shi would take it. It's the same, isn't it?" He blinks a few times, loosening his hold a little and lifting his head some. "If I had not...we both may have perished. Poulous...I could sense it. He would have been killed anyway by that...monster. It was all bad choices one way or another..." He feels the felinoid wipe away his tears, sighing again but not one of depression, it seems relieved. "Thank you, Mistress. So much...you've done so much for me and still do. It will take time to...accept this but I can work through it now." He looks up at her, smiling some again. "Shi was so proud of me...and I understand hir words, now. It is heavy indeed."

Arkuss <Giving the lion as broad a smile as she could, the Mistress bent to give him a strong hug, allowing her Flow to touch his once again. "You are the First Link of Athena's Chain, shi chose you for this position because shi felt and knew something about you that you did not even know in yourself. Or maybe perhaps shi felt that you were the one who could keep hir from becoming the monster instead of fighting the monsters. Whatever the reason, you are here now and your Blooding has taken place. You are now part of the Chain in word and deed. And all of the hazards that come with it." Letting out a sigh, she backed away as a trembling roar was heard and felt from the sands.>

Neflari feels that mystical touch and the increased awareness of her presence, mrrring softly for a moment. "Hazards indeed. But there are benefits, too..." He gets to enjoy that feeling for a moment longer, his mind working down the strong emotions that had been building as he pulls himself together more fully. The lion was amazed how quickly he was able to begin coming to terms with this, wondering when he had grown this strong. He blinks as that roar is heard, stepping towards the balcony edge to look out though one paw remains holding her arm gently. "That...was rather loud."

Arkuss <"That was probably for either Zebek or Athena. The Chain wants to see them in battle, to see if Athena fares any better than the first time they...interacted. The House has also become rather keen on the possibility of change within the ranks." She pauses a bit and frowns. "Then again, it could be the House Monster creating another spectacle. It does not matter, I must return inside to tend my duties, just as you must undoubtably have your own affairs to entertain." She gave a slightly wink, pulling herself straight and tall with a grimace that was partially hidden. "Before you depart, do speak with Shanna and let her know where you are going, she does worry so much." Turning she walked back to the door and opened it wide, pausing to take in the controlled chaos of her workplace.>

Neflari hmms and nods a little. "True...there has been some excitement about the whole thing for a while now." He watches her straighten up, even the better hidden strains she could not hide from him. They were both good at reading each other in some ways. He smiles at the wink and phrasing of that. "Well, I suppose we both have things to attend. I'll be sure to speak with Shanna though." He follows her to the door, watching with her for a few seconds before speaking more softly, a paw briefly rubbing against her arm. "Take care of yourself, Mistress. For my sake and hers. We will not lose you." He withdraws his paw and smiles, stepping carefully into the busy area and making his way back to where Shanna and Masami were.

Arkuss <Watching the lion depart, the Mistress has to chuckle lightly to her own thoughts, but did catch herself gazing at him as he walked away more than she probably should have. The ocelot was sitting up, his ribs rewrapped again by the elf, who was kneeling down to inspect his feet and ankles. The scowl upon his face told Neflari that he was as usual, enjoying it so much...not. A grumbling yowl came forth as she found a more sensitive area than he was prepared for. The elf looking up and shaking her head. "You are really such a kitten sometimes." She purred, yes the elf actually purred, as he scowled harder. "I would think that a House silk would know ways to make anything feel pleasurable. Perhaps if I had wings you would be more...tender." His comment was met with only a scowl upon the pretty face and a push to his bruised area, eliciting yes loud hiss.>

Neflari returns to the ocelot and the attentive elf, watching for a moment at how good she was proving to be in this. It suited her well, better than the role she was in when he and Athena had first arrived. He giggles a bit at Masami's grumpy demeanor and the pretty elf's teasing of the ocelot. "Now now, it's not good to tease a kitty. Well, not too much." The lion steps over beside the bed smiling though a hint of weight on his mind still showed through if one looked. "I think one winged playmate is plenty for our enthusiastic friend." He leans over and gives Masami a brief nip to his good ear. "Just don't mistake me for a birdy some night and try to eat me."

Arkuss <The ocelot shifts and gives the lion a glare, lips curling at the nip on the ear. His eyes showed to be wild enough, but there was a control there that few would notice. Lifting his hand, he poked the other feline in the chest softly. "You are just upset that Toma screwed us out of the duel we BOTH wanted. Tricks or no," he looked to Shanna with a slightly accusing glare for a moment. "you and I know who is better on the sands." Pausing for a time, he actually purred lightly. "Just go tell that Amazon of yours to make sure Zebek doesn't remember me." With a huff he returned his attention to the elf, who had remained silent through the entire discussion, strangely enough. Only the smile on her lips belied her intense interest. Tying off the wrappings, she patted Masami on his shoulder. "Not lay back and relax. Of I will have Mistress Thirty-Three tend you again." Growling lightly, the ocelot shifted and laid down upon the flat surface, letting out a quiet sigh and nod. Turning to face Neflari, Shanna leaned in and gave the Neflari a light kiss on the cheek. Stepping back, her eyes looked him over very carefully and her face lit up more. "You look better now. I am glad she could help you, if just a little." The elf caught her breath and for a moment her true feelings of sadness and fear showed upon that visage. Wiping her welling eyes quickly, the cheer returned quickly enough, though her eyes still would not lie," She is a very good Mistress. And to think, she was once just like us. I have never met anyone like her. Ever. You should go to your Amazon though. I believe that last roar might have been for hir.">

Neflari shakes his head a bit. "You have much to learn about me, still. In time, though. And I would not worry much about Athena, shi will take care of things. I know hir potential, more than probably anyone else..." He quiets for a short moment, blinking as he receives that light kiss and smiles a bit more. "Yes, she is quite something." He moves closer to her, a paw reaching up and brushing soft pads of his fingertips across the elf's cheek for a moment and he speaks softly . "Let her share your love to the fullest and trust that things will be fine in the end." He gives her a gentler smile for a moment before withdrawing his paw. "I think it is time to get back to Athena. If for no reason than to see hir truly in motion..." He blushes a little, purring softly as he thinks of that. "I will find you two later I'm sure. Don't be getting into too much trouble." He winks before turning and maneuvering his way through the infirmary again, heading back out to see what his Amazon was up to now.