FSE

Furry search engine

formerly SoFurry search engine

A miraculous answer to his fury the blade appeared and cut through the stand that held the orb ceasing its vision as it hit the floor. "Be gone from here you vile thing. I have stomached your nonsense and childish vendetta for far too long. You wanted to even the score well now you've overdone it and now I will find a way to correct it," Zero threatened not at all concerning about the blade that had seemingly come from nothing to his hand. Pulsar began to usher Byakko away from the Wolf's sanctuary but not before she could spout one last remark, "There is nothing you can do. They should be dead but now you have to watch them serve our kind for the rest of their lives. Feel privileged I don't do the same to you!"

The area was quiet after the two were gone but still remaining were Sirius and Maxin who were still in shock. "Zero... what... and how..." Siri began but couldn't finish her thought as she starred. Looking at the glowing blade he said nothing only continued examining it. It was a sharp silver blade that was oddly translucent seeming to not even be a physical object. Maxinimus went to face Zero using roots to lift the orb again and form into a podium to hold the silver sphere. "Were you aware that you possessed such an ability?" the Deer asked as he too examined the phantom weapon. It disappeared as easy as it had appeared seeming to return into Zero, "If I had known any sooner I could have saved them. I could have threatened her life and made her change her mind." "Don't look to the past and say what could have when we can look to tomorrow and think what can be," the Fox chimed in with a hopeful tone. Maxin too had his hopes, "She's right, I believe we all have more abilities that have yet to be tapped into or at least we have yet to master. In fact I believe that your blade just now may be linked to how you saved your family after you had arrived here."

"How are you settling in Imfay?" Messam asked with more on his mind than his mentor. The older Elk could see through the veil of deception, "I think you mean more for me to ask you that question." "It hasn't been easy and I don't know how to ask for help other than coming to you," he admitted feeling as though he had failed the man. Imfay looked to his successor with a proud face, "You are afraid of failure, I can see it in your eyes. It is good because a man without fear is dangerous to himself, his people, and all he touches." "How do I control it so I can make the right choices with some semblance of confidence?" Mes responded confused and a bit frustrated. The old king would be of little help, "I am no ordinary man of course so I do not entirely know but what I do know is that you are better this way. With the fear your ability to decide may be clouded yet you are capable of deciding when the time comes and the pressure comes to its greatest weight. Trust me that it is better to have a leader who fears what his actions can do than to be the man without fear who does whatever he pleases."

The territory of the Elk was not yet in peril but to the south the Worms had reemerged and verged on outbreak. Messam had no idea if Imfay was aware, "But your advice I must have, what am I to do when refugees come from the south? They could carry disease with them and I don't want to risk our people's lives." "Refugees?" the old one questioned making it clear he was oblivious to the rumors that had gone about the town. The young Elk starred his eyes wide, "The Worms have come back in the Deer towns, they seem to lack any form of cure and I know soon they will come north for aid. They don't respect me or trust me I know this already but if I allow the sick in and we begin to succumb they'll kill me." "Worse still is allowing those who are healthy and in need of help to die before your public. This decision is not one easily made no matter who you are," Imfay remarked being of no help. Mes was about to lose his nerve as the old man spoke with empty words, "I am serious Imfay, I need your help! They still do not believe me your successor and question how it was I attained the throne. I don't think I can do this sir, you have to come back before it is too late."

"Our kind are safe are they not? The sickness stays south as do the victims as well as the survivors, correct?" Imfay asked with only sincerity in his tone. Messam paused before his answer as he judged the sound of his mentor's voice, "Yes all is well here beside what could be an uprising if they public so decides to turn against me." "Than my boy you do not worry nor ask me such a thing. I have spent my life watching over our people doing all I could to protect them and serve their interests. If and when the time comes I will do what is needed if you falter but until that day comes I will not return to that throne or face the public," the old Elk tried hiding his anger despite it being all too obvious. Mes bowed to his elder, "I am sorry to have offended you sir, I will take my leave now."

In the lands of the west, those formerly controlled by the Jackals, the conquerors staked their claims to land and the enslaved masses that remained there. They had been gifted onto every ranking military man each receiving a grander share based on their rank. The lands were divided and given to the nobility that wished to remain on the there and continue to cultivate the earth as the former occupants had. With the massive amount of slaves many were sold and traded amongst those in the new territory as well as exported back to homelands to serve as manual laborers. None thought much of it, the disgusting way the slaves were treated, to the Jackals however deep scars were carved in their hearts and minds.

Families were ripped apart as most soldiers and able-bodied men were given to the war heroes and wealthy leaving the rest to be bought or awarded to another. Seldom were those able to keep those they loved close but almost worse for them was to see their loved ones in such terrible ways. As the men worked tirelessly the women too worked most as maids or somewhat lighter work but worse than the men's labor they became more often than not concubines. Children were not spared as the young were to labor in the same ways as the adults, learning young their role and job growing knowing only that never ceasing until death. The most sickening of moments came for those who had been bought with their children; being forced to watch them not only suffer in manual labor but at the perversions of their masters. Death was kindness, a luxury, sought by most only to give them reprieve from the nightmare that was their life.

The fate of the Fennecs was yet to be decided as Pulex's high council deliberated on the issue as to use military strength to force surrender or the use of diplomacy. "In a situation amongst any other tribe I would agree with you however like these savage Jackals the Fennec have been isolated for far too long for us to know what to expected from them. I am certain they will not simply hand over their lands to us and if we engaged them in war without striking the first blow ourselves we leave our selves open to the unknown arsenal they possess," one Leopard spoke out with confidence. A Tiger would respond with contradiction, "I have seen these Fennec and I assure all of you that they are a meek and small breed of people. Any weapon be a blade or war machine they possess would still fail against us in such weak hands. We send our representative, if a diplomatic solution will not due you can have your war." "I will have to rule in favor of diplomacy in this matter. Indeed they are unknown but the Jackals were as well and now are beneath us as servants. Send them forth to the Fennec lands with the treaties and let us dwell on this no longer," Pulex announced with a member of his harem chained at his side.

The representatives traveled to the Fennec territory with an unknown one lingering just beyond the horizon, watching them hidden beneath a thick cloak. The stranger stalked them to the foreign land without confrontation or notice of their very existence. They watched the men seeing in them a sinister intent as they made their way however would not engage them. Watching, waiting, the stalker followed them even into the Fennec land and with ease creeped into the city before they arrive. The vibrant blue eyes shown against the sun from under the hood but went unnoticed by the Leopards being escorted to the Fennec king Jagae.

"Your terms are not satisfactory I must say, this is especially so in your demands for gold and of our harvest. You see we had an arrangement with the Jackals, we looked out for ourselves and watched the sea while they protect passage by land. We never gave them any of our harvest nor much anything else for that matter," Jagae informed trying to reason with the foreigners. The lead Leopard would not take an excuse back to Pulex, "This isn't some misunderstanding. We don't care what deal you had made with the Jackals, they are gone now and if you wish for peace you answer to Pulex." "We never answer to the Jackals. Their rule was never imposed over us and never was there a threat of war for us protecting our own interests," the elderly Fox was becoming irritated. The response was unkind to put it simply, "Then your answer is no. We will return to Pulex with your answer and when war finds you let us hope he is willing to parley with you to save your miserable life."

As the Leopards were escorted out the hooded figure struck leaping from their hiding place upon a lower building's roof. Landing in the middle of the three foreigners all became silent and still as nothing could be said in response to this action. Without another moment of hesitation the cloaked figure produced an ax and slid it up to the neck of a Leopard. "You three are going to leave this land and tell your master that it is to be left alone. Tell him that a Lord protects this land and will rain down upon him with furious violence and rage if he attempts to take this land," the words came from a soft tone with such harsh subject matter. One chuckled, "You think one standing against the might of three nation's armies is enough? You'll be just one more on the pile if you think you can battle us and win Lord or not." The laughter was cut short as an icy pin skewered through the mans shoulder leaving a narrow hole opening flesh and bone.

The hood removed revealed sharp ears wrapped in the muted grey tones, the face of a stranger to the lands. "You boys see now that we too are protected by a divine hand, one that still walks this earth mind you. Now please return to your land with our message to your master; we do not seek to oppose you yet we will not be subjugated, all we ask for is peaceful coexistence," Jagae informed as he joined Gresh. She splintered the spike and allowed it to shatter freeing the Leopard, "This isn't the last you'll hear of us old man. We will be back and we'll string up your bitch for standing against Pulex." Gresh was about to attack the man before the King's hand caught her arm, "Let them go my dear, if they do dare return you can do whatever you please with them." The Leopards were escorted from the city all the while still swearing revenge for Gresh's actions.

"Sire, do you think they will return? I do not wait anxiously nor fear such a day but do you think they see me as one of their Lords?" Gresh questioned the old Fox. The Fennec puffed on his pipe, "I know very little of these Lords they worship but miss Gresh I do believe you to be quite capable and gifted with an ability I doubt another possesses. After today I wouldn't think they would return with any hope to fight us with you on our side and if they do not my people will be eternally grateful with you to thank for the continued peace in Samma." The Lynx exited the chamber but before returning to her own was encountered by Prince Ethra, "Miss Gresh I have some information that may interest you if your in a helpful mood. It would seem that my father had helped a few groups of Jackals before their entire nation fell. He helped them to escape and find shelter in a very well hidden location safe from any who seek to destroy them. If you want to be of help to anyone they are going to need as much as they can get where they are hidden."

"My Prince I want nothing more but to help those in need but does your father not need me here? Those foreigners today all but declared war on Samma should I not stay to protect the king?" the Lynx asked curious to the motive of the boy. Ethra was still certain of his idea, "Miss Gresh there is no reason to worry about such a thing. They would never dare attempt to attack us with you protecting us and even if they would you would not be terribly far." "I see but what help could I be? I've only ever served to be a pathfinder and your father's guard, I am not skilled in much else," she admitted a bit confused. The Prince didn't bother to consider the thought, "I assure you they will have use for you there especially with your unique skills." "What about your father?" Gresh looked to the closed doors behind her. Ethra smiled wide, "Don't worry I will explain everything, he will likely be happy to hear you're so willing to help. Now hurry along and pack your things I will have a guide to bring you to the Jackals post haste."

It had take months but finally Kovu was once again operating with a full crew all be it a ragtag group they worked quite well, yet something was missing. No matter how he tried the Cougar could not replace the companion he had left in those distant lands. Gresh was one he could confide in no matter what but now she was gone leaving a hole not even a lover could fill in Kovu. Charting had not lost its purpose for the man so he buried himself in this work to which he had all ready devoted such a sizable chunk of his life. Much progress had been made but no matter how much he could do there would always remain so much to expand on.

The mist was thick floating heavy around the Black Current allowing the surrounding waters to be invisible entirely devote of visibility. From the top sail came the order, "Call for the Captain, we may be off course and could surely be lost." Informing the Captain of the rigger's message fell upon the lowly cabin boy who the older mates delegated to such tasks. None were willing to interrupt the Captain and his first mate whilest they were sequestered in his chamber. The young boy stood staring at the door in panic as to what Captain Kovu would say or do if he interrupted him.

"Captain, Captain I hope I am not interrupting however the fog is quite thick, we may be lost or off course," he said with a trembling voice. After a moment filled with a plethora of odd noises and banging around Kovu exited the room. He wore a look of disdain however did what he could not to direct the feeling at the young boy. The slender Cougar's eyes looked drained of life despite their vibrant colour, his walk was slow and sluggish as though he was without rest, and he reeked of foul odors. Kovu followed the boy up stairs onto the main deck that had become so entirely veiled by the fog that the ship had begun to disappear in it even to those who were aboard. Only his eyes could cut through the problematic clouding in doing so however he found something odd in the nearby water.

Another ship was floating not far from his own though as he scanned the ship he could see nor sense any life aboard. It was bizarre to think the ship was sitting entirely empty out on the ocean without land in sight for days. Unable to neglect his curiosity nor his nature to help those in need to the possibility that he simply could not detect the crew. Moving in closer the fog began to clear slightly allowing the rest of Kovu's crew to gaze upon the foreign ship with wonder. The true wonder was that the ship was still sea worthy as it was in a horrible state of disrepair. The sails were shredded, the hull was opened wide just above the water line, and only the main mast stood though for how long was debatable.

One chain was flung over to the railing of the other ship with Kovu standing at the other end placing his daggers on his belt. "I'll go over and see if anyone is inside or if there is anything of value." "Captain," a weathered looking Tiger called, "I'll go scouting instead, no need to risk your own neck." Before he could debate the thought the man was crossing the rope with ease nearing the other ship in no time. As the Tiger was aboard the fog once again grew thick making the ship vanish in the heavy cloud leaving Kovu the sole witness to what would occur.

After the mist rolled in the crew became hushed as all watched waiting for the return of their fellow crew member. Kovu could see him through the fog all be it for only a moment as just a short time after setting foot on the ships deck he vanished. A cold chill ran through the Cougars spine leaving with him a feeling not felt since he was many years younger. He stood frozen his eyes no longer watching instead without use as his mind rolled back time to so long ago and far away; before he had set a course for the sea, before Gresh, a time even before he had acquired his gift.

Apprenticing beneath a veteran of the craft Kovu left into the woods with the hunting party on a humid and sunny summer afternoon. He was still a bit green about things but had seen enough to understand and though not entirely confident was capable of performing. Traveling light they carried few arrows in their quivers and only one blade each to be used for field prep on their prey. Their prey were Yana-Shren, these Shren were less bulky and far more agile movers than those used as livestock by the Fox. Their skeleton thin frames and tough leathery flesh made them not only swift and acrobatic movers but tough enough to move through harsh surroundings with little issue. The Yana could rush through bushed, climb trees, and when airborne slice through the wind like an arrow. These omnivores could easily kill a Cougar with their incredibly long talons however would rarely do so unless starved or threatened.

The six man group broke into thirds with each consisting of one seasoned hunter and their apprentice in tow. It was not the type of hunt Kovu enjoyed, being alone with the old hunter, he wanted to remain in the complete group along side the other young men, one more so than the other. Iden was a boy who was nearly a year younger than Kovu who he had grown more than fond of despite the lack of notice. Kovu was shy, afraid, and just a little ashamed to say anything, to confess to him the obsession he had developed. What plagued him the most was the worry of what Iden would think of him, there was no telling if he would feel the same or even if he was of the same way. His mind was clouded daydreaming of such things so much so that he hadn't even realized the situation he created.

Without notice he had lost his teacher and in the process gotten himself lost as well in the thicket of evergreens. Kovu lost his sense of direction and was beginning to panic as the realization of his predicament set in. Should he try to find his way back to the main path or should he wait in the hopes someone would return for him his thoughts read. An actual decision would not make up his mind in the end but the sounds of rustling in the near by trees. With haste he got low and drew an arrow readying it to be fired within the blink of an eye. A Yana's broad head stuck through the lower bit of pine and as it did so slowly peek Kovu lost his composure and let fly the arrow. The Shred was grazed, the arrow had ripped open wide part of its face however it was nothing more than a flesh wound.

The Yana retreated with Kovu quickly racing behind it loading another arrow to bring it down once and for all. As he breached the tree line he saw the Shren not far into the clearing but as he continued down the brief incline he found blood. The source was his teacher, horribly shredded to the point it was more likely that he was no more rather than holding loosely to life. His choice should have been obvious but glory too was something obviously greater than failure. It would be risky but he continued after the Shren following it across the valley into the forest across the way.

Over head the limbs and leaves created a dense canopy making the wood dimly lit at best and covered the blood trail Kovu was tracking. Not only was it difficult to track within but remaining silent whilest crushing leaves and twigs underfoot was impossible. It was daring to pursue this prey even as an experienced hunter but still the young Cougar proceeded almost unknowing of what trouble he was taking on. He followed what he could only guess to be the Yana's trail, a path of freshly broken sticks and rustled leaves. With any luck he would catch up the creature which was likely trying to seclude itself to lick its wounds and recover.

Kovu was brimming with excitement with every step he took never having been so far from home and hunting on his own was unbelievably fulfilling. The thought of Iden rattled through his mind and how impressed he would be if he could bring back the prey alone. If he could he knew then he would have to tell Iden how he longed for him and hope he could reciprocate the feeling. Even the thought of being loved in return made the Cougar quiver slightly with anticipation. The daydreams were interrupted as he heard a horrible howl coming from deeper in the forest.

Coming upon an path where the foliage was slightly thinner he came across another brutal scene soaked in even more blood than his instructor. He had found the Shren however it looked to have been gutted with almost every bit of usable meat ripped out. The cuts were clean and precise as though done by a butcher who was just about to leave his prime their skills so perfectly honed for his craft. It was all so impossible, such a process could not have been done so quickly not with such skill. Kovu rose from the cadaver feeling more than the feeling of defeat but curiosity and a faint jolt of fear. It wasn't a thought he wanted to consider but it was weighing heavy on his mind, were the stories about the woods true?

All the people of the village were told at a young age to never enter the woods alone be it night or day within creatures were lurking at all times. Children were told tales of demons and monsters that waited for them to come close enough to be taken away for their next meal. Kovu was old enough to think of more realistic things than demons awaited him however deep inside he could not remove the stories he had been told all his youth. Daydreams of Iden were replaced with dark shadows with jagged claws and massive jaws of fangs breaking out at him while red eyes watched him constantly. He shuttered thinking of such vile things but as he the imagination began to cease reality kicked in as a shadowy figure moving at an unreal pace moved past him knocking him down.

As he pulled himself back up he was in panic and without taking his time to assess where he was and where he needed to flee to he simply ran. Kovu would not stop running until he was out of the woods but this soon became a challenge as now the forest seemed endless. Not realizing his mistake the Cougar had gone further and further from home until he was nearly on the other end of the forest. Having reached a point in which the trees were slightly more sparse he rested in the light. feeling safe from any shadowy thing lurking within. As he caught his breath he began to conclude that thought that had only just occurred to him to be true, something was lurking within and had targeted him.

Unbeknownst to Kovu the humidity had grown as with the heat and as he caught his breath he could see in the sky dark clouds rolling in. Storms were coming and now eying the sun he found that he had spent far longer hunt his prey than he earlier perceived. Both the night and rain would soon be upon him as he sat alone and lost without the slightest notion of how to return home. Luck wasn't quite on his side but his fortune was not so entirely bleak as he could see a glimmer of hope in the distance. Not far past the tree line he could see what looked to be a cave or at least an overhanging rock for him to shelter beneath. Only one obstacle was in his path that being the strange and shadowy figure that moved all around him within the woods.

Timing was everything now as Kovu could only hope to make it out of the forest before whatever pursued him could reach him. It darted back and forth avoiding directly entering the clearing where the Cougar stood watching. As it rushed around the other side of the clearing Kovu would make his move hurrying as fast as he was able to make it out without complication. He wouldn't dare look back as it felt as though the figure was right on his heels, a presence could be felt pushing on him as though just about to reach out for him. Still in a full sprint he leapt through the last set of trees tumbling down a slight incline where he remained for a moment unsure if he should expect the figure to have followed him.

A rain drop popped on top of his head followed by another, a trio, and then the sky opened up and began to let the rains downpour on top of him. Kovu made haste to the cave which he as happy to find to be deep and still quite warm with the heat of the day most notably on the stones by the entry still hot from baking in the sun. He pressed his cold wet self against the warm stones and relaxed while the pitter-patter of the rain soothed his mind recovering from such panic. The longer he sat Kovu became increasingly more drowsy until he pulled himself up and moved deeper into the cave wherein he collapsed from such an exhausting and mentally taxing experience.

As though finding himself in a void all that surrounded Kovu was darkness, deep pitch black darkness, that stretched high into the sky and in every direction. He was hesitant about getting up as he felt as though he were blinded with only this blackness to be seen. Lying half on his legs while supporting himself on one hand he brought a hand close to his face, checking his vision, but was unable to see it. All that could be seen was a distant point of light that looked as a star in the sky on a clouded and stormy evening. Despite feeling so unreal it was all taken serious as the Cougar quaked and worried of what stood between him and the point in the distance. No matter what he tried to incentivize himself with he could not bring himself to rise and proceed towards the light. Kovu closed his eyes and curled into a ball in the darkness, too afraid to move from his spot he would lie waiting hopelessly.

Could he really wait for it all to be over, he thought, or should he fight to survive while he still could before it was too late. As he tried to muster up his courage he opened his eyes and while sitting up found the area now lit dimly as though by moonlight. He sat in the center of a circle of twelve trees that reached the sky high enough to make the stars above them look to be resting at the peaks. Coming to his feet he could see that something sitting where he just was reflected the star light. Kovu stepped back to see the rounded indent he was lying in was filled with some liquid that for one reason had been unnoticeable up until that point . Stranger was that the water level all ready at a height that would have completely submerged Kovu however if it had would have drowned him.

Far off in the distance the light sat however now it seemed almost to move closer to him as though it were not a beacon for him to follow. In fact the light moved closer still until he could see the face of the holder of the lantern. Iden was holding out the lantern struggling to see, "Hello!? Is someone there?" "Iden it is Kovu! Please tell me you know the way home," he cried with joy more than just ecstatic to be found. Still struggling to see Iden called out again, "Kovu can you see at all it is nearly impossible even with this light. I don't even know where you're standing." "Iden don't be silly it isn't too horribly dark. I can see you just fine, I will come to you," Kovu replied. The Cougar backed away before raising the light, "I don't know where you are but don't come near me, there are two bizarre orange lights that are coming at me." "Where I don't see them?" he said after scanning the area and stepping directly in front of Iden. He paused a moment before he could speak, "Kovu... where are you?" "Don't worry I'm right in front of you, I'll protect you from whatever those lights are," he assured his friend before grabbing his hand.

Iden broke away and held the lantern out between the two of them revealing to both of them something that neither had seen taken place. Kovu's fur was black as the night and his eyes turned bloody orange glowing with the intensity of a star. "What happened to you, why do you look like that?!" the Cougar nearly screamed as he continued to back away. Studying himself Kovu was without an answer, "Maybe it was whatever I was lying in back there. It doesn't matter though, all that matters is that you came to find me and now here we are." "What about your eyes they look like two suns sitting low in the sky at dusk, how are they glowing like that?" his fear was noted as he faced his strange looking friend. He could go on no longer playing safe and coy so he closed the gap and pulled Iden close, "It doesn't matter, looks will change but shouldn't change how people feel about one another."

The embrace lasted only a moment as Iden pushed him away and knelt beside the lantern a moment while his head was a buzz with noise. "You look like a demon not like Kovu at all. Demons are known to tempt and try their hand a persuading one into giving away their soul. You can't be..," he stopped as he saw a glimmer of silver from Kovu's tail. The shine was from the ring that he wore around his tail as the rest from Alureon did. The other Cougar knelt too, "It is me, I know you might not recognize me but I am Kovu I.." Before he could finish his thought Iden had pounced upon him and they tumbled down the brief incline into the open valley between the forest and cave.

It truly was Kovu's dream as during their tumble Iden kissed and bit softly at his neck before their lips connected once stopped. Wasting no time he undressed Kovu and went on his way dominant as ever as though he had dreamt of such a moment his entire life. "Oh Iden! I never knew.. you felt this way!" he screamed with joyful lust. Iden was lost in the moment, his senses were overloaded and blocking out everything from his mind but his actions. The night was young as the men and neither were willing to stop short of their wildest fantasy, carrying on until neither were physically able to any longer.

Dawn was coming shortly, the two had made their way to the cave at some point in the night, and all Kovu could do was sit and watch his love sleep. They both reeked of one another and the cave too was filled full with the scent of lustful passion from the night. It was then that it began to occur to him that it was no dream, the two were in love but as earth shattering as that was the truth of his change in appearance was true. His mind was quickly thrown from the subject as the sun rose and its rays entered the cave hitting him and shining off his black fur. As the light shown he was blinded, his eyes began to burn and sting as though having had ash in them. Kovu stumbled around the cave until his vision returned slightly, finding he could stare into dark without issue but light was far more problematic. Finally feeling the wear of the night he curled up next to Iden and fell asleep after wrapping his arms around him.

A frigid splash of water greeted the young lovers followed by an overly brilliant sun ray now at the perfect position to shine in the cave. Iden's instructor stood over the boys neither of whom were dressed yet from the night prior. His stare was unforgettable so filled with shame and disgust that it looked as though it would never be changed. Both of the young men hastily dressed while the older man stood waiting for one of them to make the first excuse.

"Unnal, I.. I found Kovu," Iden spoke with worry as he faced the older man who still stood with the same frozen expression. Kovu interjected, "Sir I know how it looks but you have to believe that this is in no way Iden's fault." "Save it the both of you. You both disgust me first and for most but not only that you waste time for the rest of us looking for you. Iden getting walking as for you, don't follow," Unnal directed without hesitation or concern. The orange eyes grew wide in the black fur, "Sir you can't.. you can't do this to us. We are in love." "Kovu don't.." Iden tried to speak out before being interrupted. The old hunter towered over the other Cougar, "You listen good, what you two have is not love it is lust and an impurity that should be purged from this world. This one exception I make means you both live however you so marked with impurity must remain behind else you both face the consequences. Never return home, never interact with another soul, forevermore you are a creature of these woods and nothing more, understand?!" "Yes," Kovu whimpered lowly as his miserable look turned to match Iden's as they locked eyes. A rock hard fist smashed into his diaphragm followed by a boot that pushed him from his knees to the ground before Unnal left with Iden taking Kovu's tail ring with him.

He did not get back up for a time, Kovu simply lied waiting for nothingness, the end of it all, to wash away all that was left of him. The sun was setting the red hues of the sky almost blocked out by the treeline making the cave darker than it otherwise would be. What was left for him now forced from his love never to return to his side. Rising to sit he took his knife from its sheath and gazed upon it, the markings, the hushed tone of grey, and every scuff and scratch that made it his. The remainder of the evening it would set among hot ember glowing vibrantly as the flames danced atop it.

Kovu was destroyed yet not entirely ready to give as he made his fire and scavenged near the cave for a small bit of sustenance. All night long he thought on many of things no subject more than his allegiance to the only home he had ever known Alureon. Every citizen was given a band with the markings and material showing the rank or class in society. Kovu felt nothing for the hierarchy and labeling despite descending from a lineage of elite hunters fetching him must respect in the world. It was all for nothing when his love, the only thing he cared for, was forbidden and condemned. If he returned he would face death, he would be burnt at the stake as would Iden and his tone of fur would be only more wood on the fire.

Lost in his thoughts Kovu neglected to notice the stranger that the night had produced who had seated himself across the fire from him. "Might not be any business of mine but I wouldn't keep that in there, time comes to get it back your going to regret it," the strange creature spoke. Kovu ready to respond was halted as he saw what looked to be a black coated Yana seating upright within an arm's reach. He struggled to respond thereafter, "Maybe.. maybe I don't want it back, maybe I don't care." "Oh yes you do, you're a man of commitment. You wouldn't turn your back on Alureon anymore than that sweet young man you love so much," it replied with so much knowing but in such a casual tone. The Cougar was dead set on proving him wrong, "I can't go back because even if I do we can never live that way there." "Well than it would be a pretty simple answer to your little problem wouldn't it?" it asked with an obviousness to his words.

After a moment of thought Kovu stood and came to the cave entrance, "You're right, I know I could do it but.. No, no I have waited and wished too long to say turn my back on this." "Than why wait you could have been on your way a moment ago," the creature retorted. The Cougar looked back at him, "Because I really want to know who and what you are and how you know so much about all of this." "In due time now be on your way boy," it responded plainly. As he turned to leave again Kovu could feel a hand on his tail pulling him back followed by an immense and intense burning. "For luck," the creature said with a smile after putting the knife into Kovu's hand. His fur and skin were scorched however the creature seemed unaffected its hands though looked rough and course like volcanic rock.

The night was dark but to Kovu it was as clear as day while he moved through the forest at the fastest pace he could. His hand pulsated with and his mind with confusion as the burn ached and in the back of his mind he tried to understand what he had encountered. Kovu was reminded of the strange thing moving through the woods the day before that was absent even when Iden had come looking for him. Both the creature in the cave and if it were a creature that stalked the woods both gave him an eerie shutter that crept down his spine. He was more than glad it was not up and about as he made his way home however it troubled him all the same that it had so simply come and gone. With the latter half of the night he found himself outside Alureon with only Iden on his mind and their future together.

Sneaking about the outskirts he made his way to the southern end and located his love's home approaching from outside as to avoid being seen. One lone candle lit the main room sending its rays into the two bedrooms connected to it. In the first were his parents both asleep however the bed in the next room was empty. Worry struck Kovu as the memory of the figure in the woods once again flashed in his mind leaving him to imagine the worst. Unnal escorted Iden however, Kovu knew he would have to check for the instructor before he could be certain of his assumption.

Moving with much care in his steps the Cougar made his way closer to the water front hoping to sneak along the beach to the hunter's lodge. The lodge was the training facility where all young hunters learned hunting and tracking techniques. Inside however there were no rooms that would make for a sufficient bedchamber for anyone even the harden and harsh Unnal Kovu knew he wouldn't be there but was left with waiting for him in the lodge until morning as he did not know where he called home. Creeping inside he could hear a low echo it was indistinct but constant enough for him to follow through the hall to where it originated.

Coming to the end of the hall Kovu stood before a room he had never before entered nor had he been permitted to see. Now as loud as could be he could distinguish that it was crying that he had heard, but who was there? The door was locked from side making him wonder who the hunters would be keeping prisoner inside their own lodge. His wonderment did not last long when he heard his name slip nearly silently from the room's occupant. There was no doubt in his mind that Iden was locked inside but for what reason he could not figure.

"Iden? Are you there?" Kovu asked at a volume just louder than the cries. The lodge was silent for a few moments before the inevitable response, "Kovu? Kovu is it really you?" "Of course it is, what are you doing in here? Why have they locked you away?" he asked while he gently pushed the door open. Iden was chained to the floor, bloodied with bats and other blunt instruments strewn about the room, "I told him that no matter what, how far or long we are apart, I still love you. They said they would teach me, fix me, until I knew our love is wrong and forbidden." "I'm getting you out of here, understand? If they would persecute us for our love than this is no home," the black Cougar spoke while embracing his lover. Foot steps filled the lodge, "I saw someone enter but no one I have seen before, what do you think an outsider would be doing here?" "Kovu get out of here, if they catch you I'll never forgive myself. Come back for me once they're gone," Iden whispered hoping the guard would not hear the echo.

Slipping quickly into the shadows in the hall outside of the room Kovu watched as the night watchmen led Unnal room to room. "No one else stepped foot in here after I left correct?" the old instructor asked in a suspicious tone. The guard seemed unfazed by what he saw, "No one except for the vagrant I told you about." "I see, it would appear that someone has tried to meddle in business not their own. I need a favor from you, I need you to alert the other huntsmen tell them to meet north of town," Unnal instructed with his orders carried out to the letter. As the watchmen exited the old Cougar unchained Iden and led him out of the room, "If it is you here then realize now you have forced my hand to use the harshest punishment for your crimes."

Outside Unnal lifted a heavy post and placed it upon Iden's back before threading it through the chains that remained. He pushed him forward urging him to follow along the path leading north out of town towards the mountains. With grace and speed Kovu quietly followed along staying constantly hidden in the dark of the night. Outside of town a group of men were convening seemingly waiting on Unnal to arrive with Iden. Once in the center of the group Iden was thrown to the ground and the post removed as other young hunters followed the elder Cougars every order.

For a moment Kovu failed to grasp what was being prepared but as they bound Iden to the post he was able to make a certain conclusion. Unnal approached with a torch while the younger men finished lying dry brush at Iden's feet making a flammable mound surrounding him. Kovu did not hesitate, he moved as fast as he could from his vantage point hoping he could reach the spot in time. The torch was thrust into the pile with Kovu still far outside of the semi-circle the group had formed watching the ritual. He wouldn't let it happen he could still save him if he could move fast enough.

The black Cougar broke through the line of elder hunters and with all the strength he could muster slammed into the post hoping to topple it. Unsuccessful he tried to lift the beam though consumed and feeling the flames he was to concerned for Iden to stop. Unable to lift the post he pulled himself up and tried to find where the chain had been secured finding it driven into the top. Climbing higher he pulled as hard as he could but it would hardly budge. He dropped down a bit and began to pry it up with his knife before simply jabbing at the area around it loosening its hold in the wood. As the chain came loose Kovu caught it and nearly fell into the flames himself as he swung Iden on to the ground nearby.

Falling with the post Kovu attempted to steer it away from Iden however his intent seemed less like that of protecting life. The beam came crashing down and rolled towards the men who had been watching on during the daring rescue attempt. His mistake gave Kovu the chance to untie Iden and carry him off heading west towards Lynx territory. The Cougar ran for quite a spell before coming to rest beside the lake setting his love close by the water hoping to cool him. Iden however was silent, his eyes remained shut tightly, and he did not move even the slightest bit.

"Iden.. Iden please wake up," Kovu muttered hurriedly as he collected water by hand to give to his love who lay just within reach. Looking down on him he was not certain anything he could do would help to bring Iden back around. He washed his face with a few handfuls of water hoping it to revitalize him enough in to speaking but it was little help. Tilting his head up Kovu tried to assist him in taking a drink but Iden wasn't able to drink instead he coughed out black phlegm. It seemed so very hopeless to proceed, nothing seemed to be of worked and he had nothing more he could think to try.

"Kovu," Iden's voice came quiet and shaky. "Kovu you beautiful fool why did you come back? In that room all the night long I knew you would come but wished you wouldn't." Kovu was at his side listening closely to his lover, "Why wouldn't you want me to come save you?" "I didn't want you to risk your life for me. Even if you had gotten me out of there before the ritual I am no long for this world," he confessed his eyes sealed shut with his pain. The Cougar looked over Iden his eyes wide and as bright as the moon, "Why do you say that? Is there something that I don't know?" "Since I was little every full moon a mark would appear on my back. At first the mark looked like nothing more than a spot but every moon it grew in size and elaboration of detail. A Shaman of the Wolves once lived not far from Alureon, fearing a lack of an answer in medicine my folks turned to such practices. He told them it was curse, when they told me I realized my time was now less abundant than I thought," he explained before a series of deep coughs. Kovu fought hard to keep his tears in, "Why are you telling me this now?" "I've only known for a short while but once I learned of it the first thing I thought of was you. I knew that before I was gone I had to confess my feelings for you weather you could return them or not," Iden's voice was low and fading with each word. Taking his hand he kissed it and held it tight to his face, "Just rest now, you'll pull through it all, I will find a way." "Kovu, I love you I.." his thought ended incomplete as he succumbed to smoke inhalation.

"Iden! Iden!" Kovu screamed shaking his lover's body that was still, cold, and limp in his grip, he knew but couldn't accept it. A presence could be felt behind him but Kovu paid no mind even as whispers floated on the wind, "He's gone, you've done your best but this is the end." The creature extended its hand reaching out to a pulse of light that seemed to originate from Iden and redirecting it towards Kovu. As the light surrounded him his burns healed and his flesh and fur regrew almost instantly until the cloud disappeared. "Why did you fix me? Did you ever think that I just want to die now?! Did you consider that I don't have anything left?!" the Cougar shouted as his eyes welled with tears. It looked at him with remorseful eyes, "It is hard to move on from this point but you will, you have a destiny to fulfill. Do not take my words lightly Kovu, there is a whole world out there just waiting for you, don't take long." Kovu curled up next to Iden's body crying while the chilling feeling disappeared leaving him and his departed with only a pair of twin obsidian daggers remaining in place of their creator.

No this feeling, this presences was not the same but Kovu could detect some similarity to that wide eyed creature and what lurked on the ship. As he came back to the moment he realized the Tiger aboard the other ship had completely vanished. The crew was still silently waiting the return of the man before Kovu leapt to the rope anchoring them to the ship. His men shouted trying to call him back but he wouldn't return he had to know why he had these feelings stirring in him.

Aboard Kovu paused listening for any noise on the deck or below but nothing but the breeze echoed across. With slow and careful steps he crept about looking for anything to help him establish a clue to the connection. Making his way closer to the cabin he felt the floor quake and suddenly open up beneath him dropping him inside in one black flash. As quick as he had landed he was to his feet but as Kovu looked about the ship's interior he realized he had stepped into a trap one he would never had conceived.

A horrible stench hung in the air leaving a rotting taste in Kovu's mouth as though the walls were layered in dead flesh. On the contrary the interior was line with living pulsing veins and what otherwise looked to be organs. It was as though this was not a ship but some form of creature a drift on the ocean luring in its prey with its deceptive exterior. The Cougar looked in both awe and disgust at the marvel that he stood within. However his amazement lasted only a brief moment before the sound of terrified screams began to fill the area.

Looking to the direction of the screams he sighted the Tiger being dragged away behind one of the most massive organs. Kovu made his way around the corner in a hurry only to find the man sealed within a transparent membrane that was half filled with a vibrant yellow fluid and filled the rest of the way by a strange vapor rising from the liquid. He stepped to it and slashed open the side allowing the liquid to ooze out at a slow rate. As he reached in to grab the Tiger a minor stream of the fluid touched his fur burning through it into his flesh. Pulling away Kovu concluded that his friend was being digested, odor of the gas and burn of the acid made the idea very clear.

For a moment Kovu watched with revulsion as the membrane resealed and his crew member became one with the liquid. Something suddenly gripped tightly to the Cougars ankle and tried to pull him from his place. A strange tentacle of sorts had latched tightly to him and was intent on dragging him into a second membrane next to that of the Tiger's, just another in the row. He wasn't about to be some beast's meal if he could help it. Wasting no time Kovu tore into the tentacle repeatedly but slash after slash it seemed to be doing him very little good. It gripped his leg tighter cutting off circulation and throwing him to the ground allowing him to be pulled closer to the membrane.

Kovu panicked but tried to maintain composure as he buried one dagger in the ground and used the other against the tentacle. No matter how many times he swiped at it, no matter how hard, or from any angle did the Cougar make progress. It felt a hopeless effort, he too would become one with the acid, until a ray of light peaked from around the corner. Members of the crew, all of which armed, had entered the ship, and unexpectedly come to the aid of their Captain in peril. Despite using all their might and arms the tentacle would not release Kovu even as weapons broke from the use of such excessive force.

The situation only grew worse as now each membrane produced a tentacle causing the crew to be taken within seconds. Coming upon them so unexpectedly they had little time to fight if any before they were on their way to the pods. Only Kovu remained snared but not encased he was forced to watch as his crew, his friends, fought desperately in vain as their demise came closer, slowly, second by second. As he watched them struggle only to inevitably lose he had, had enough and began to lose himself. Kovu searched for a grander weapon than his daggers finding nothing it his reach but the lantern. No longer did he care if he was to perish he would destroy the vile thing. Taking the lantern he used a dagger to jab a hole in its side allowing the fuel to leak. The final move he knew should be his end, he let go and taking the lantern in both hands threw it into the membrane with enough force to break the glass.

As flames engulfed the pod the tentacle went limp and seemingly was finished as it was set ablaze and burnt away. In no time the fire began to spread across the membranes burning faster than the dead foliage of fall. The flames began to rupture and burst the pods creating a massive pool of acid surrounding them like a moat does a castle. Flames spread further and the acid began to eat away at the interior melting away the floor with ease. Kovu watched as the floor opened up and in only a brief moment the hull became compromised allowing water to enter. There was no way back up to escape leaving his options fairly narrowed down to that which had presented itself to him.

The crew had been cut in half something he would not remark as he returned leaving the sinking ship as a sufficient statement. Kovu uttered not a one more word than, "Go," as he made his way towards his cabin. Shivering from his dip in the cool ocean waters he had no other intention than returning to his chamber. "What about the others, sir?" the cabin boy asked but to receive nothing for a response. The Cougar felt ill as he locked his chamber door but as he turned to face the Coyote that waited in his bed the feelings were put on hold as raw aggression and fury were transformed into lust.

"This is a very unique hideaway you've got here, hiding in plain sight, undermining your foes with the greatest of ease," Gresh praised the once exalted Anubis. The Jackal had been friendly but was not entirely warm to the Lynx, "Yes, now may I ask again you explain how it is you have come to my land and for what purpose do you help us? Your kind overthrew mine yet instead of living a life of luxury you care to lend your self to help our dire cause. It all seems a bit peculiar to me." "I assure you sir my intention are nothing if not good. You may think that I am much like those Leopards and Tigers however I come from a land where one is taught of civility, where enemy or not a person is not kept as another's property," she informed remaining humbled despite the subtle accusations. Anubis looked to her still with an unsure expression, "Any help is good help I suppose. Do what you can to help with the acquisition of food and water we can always use more of it."

Before Gresh left the Jackal a younger Jackal reported to him, "Sir on your word we are ready to make our move tonight." "Thank you Peram, proceed as intended, you're dismissed" Anubis responded. Peram lingered however, "Sir we have one minor issue. We are one man short due to my cousin's illness, can you spare someone to aid us?" "I'm sorry son we are low on manpower around here at the time as you can see we are taking in strays and other outside help," he spoke looking to the Lynx. Gresh would have remained humble but saw a better use of her time, "I will go with you. Whatever it is you need me for I am happy to be of service." "Calm down girl this isn't tending to the crops or hauling supplies, what we are doing tonight requires muscle and a lot of it," Peram returned hoping to put her in her place. She laughed, "Than you would do well taking me, up until now I served as King Jagae's personal guard. So what is the job?" "Break out. Taking as many of our people out of their owner's hands as we can," the young man reported. Anubis sat facing the Jackal, "A mission in which she will not be involved in. As an outsider we can't be entirely sure who you really are working for, that's why you will be helping haul supplies until I say otherise." "Well when you boys want some real help," she said while pushing a pillar of ice from the floor, "you know where I'll be."

Far beyond the world of flesh and almost parallel to the world of Lords yet in entire opposition the demon leader Paga sat alone in his throne room looking into the adjacent chamber. Within lie the well of souls from which he picked those who would become his servants. Only those with the darkness in their hearts would he pick to make into his vicious killers. But he thought not on the soul but the body on what it was that allowed him to create the forms that remained inanimate without these life forces. For what felt to be eternity he resided in his own space with the husks of soulless creations which had no origin in his knowledge. Their inevitable end was the focus more so than their past but as he looked to the past he began to realize how the two were connected.

After his defeat through the divine will of Zero he began to question much of himself and as he meditated on all that had come to pass his mind began to clear, new ideas formed. Returned to his world he could feel something in the husks, a feeling that harkened to him to offer something more than just a life force. His blood felt alive as though wanting to burst from his pores while he looked over the empty specimen that made up his army. The feeling was almost that of pain and moved from simply feeling to overwhelm his other senses. As the taste and odor of fresh blood took him by surprise his vision becoming tinted pure red was not so unexpected but no more welcomed. Once his hearing was replaced with the sound of pumping blood sloshing through his veins he became enraged by the unbearable sensations. Taking blade in hand he slashed his throat open wide, aware he would survive, aimed to end the madness with the alleviation of an ample amount of blood.

His vision faded to black but in a moment return to normal however from a different perspective from which he had been seeing. He had not moved far from the position he stood just seconds before but now was inexplicably steps forward. Turning back he faced his own body lying limply on the floor, his death seeming real however with a lack of blood that surely should have been. Paga was unsure of what his next move would be but as he stood idle something seemed to awaken in him. A forgotten skill, knowledge once lost now returned by an act unplanned. The halls of his fortress were filled with his maniacal laughter as he realized the untapped potential of his blood.