{"sf1_id":1195204,"sf2_id":"Rm0R9dp1","title":"A Tail of Two Peoples - Arena","author":"Kythl Moonpaw","words":4496,"posted_at":"2017-06-14T23:41:00.000Z","tags":["A Tail of Two Peoples","Bear","Clean","Fox","Ocelot","Otter","Puma","Reptile","Slave","Violence (Not In Yiff)","Wolf","prisoner"],"url":"https://fse.anthro.fr/stories/1195204-a-tail-of-two-peoples-arena","original_url":"https://sofurry.com/s/Rm0R9dp1","image_url":"https://cdn.sofurryfiles.com/submissions/thumbnails/01/57/0157d7cd-02b2-4135-84e5-2e3d801b8dc5","description":"#7 of A Tail of Two Peoples\n\nSo, I've switched my schedule. Snow Cat on Mondays and Tails on Wednesdays. This is so I can get covered what I want to before my summer hiatus. Enjoy this chapter, one of my personal favourites.","content":"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Come on, dog, get up.\u0026nbsp; You have an audience with Lord Malis.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Kar'na stirred and sat up, blinking away the sleep from his eyes.\u0026nbsp; The group had all been taken to the keep and stashed in separate cells.\u0026nbsp; Though he'd been worried, Kar'na insisted that everyone get some sleep, for they didn't want to get caught unaware if the chance came.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; The door to his cell was open, revealing a large Falskin standing there, a set of shackles in his hands.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"I said, get up!\" he growled, stepping into the cell.\u0026nbsp; Kar'na readied himself, but stopped when he noticed the rest of the guards standing outside, weapons ready.\u0026nbsp; He let the large guard shackle him and lead him outside.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; They walked through the dungeon, a massive maze of corridors and passages.\u0026nbsp; The air was foul, with the scents of waste, sickness, death and fear.\u0026nbsp; A horrible place.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Thankfully, they soon left the dungeon and entered into the massive, opulent halls of Lord Malis, which Kar'na quickly realized was almost worse.\u0026nbsp; The graceful, soaring columns and marble ceilings gave the palace the unmistakable feel of wealth and power.\u0026nbsp; A power built up on the backs of the poor and enslaved.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Once in the grand room, Kar'na noticed a raised dais on the far end of the room, where a figure of ample girth was seated upon the throne.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Ah,\" the figure said, as the guards drew nearer with their prisoner.\u0026nbsp; \"If it isn't the famed Kar'na!\u0026nbsp; You know, you're a lot less impressive in person.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; _I could say the same thing about you_, Kar'na thought maliciously, staring at the figure that was undoubtedly Lord Malis.\u0026nbsp; _And at least I have a reason for my appearance.\u0026nbsp; A cold cell and only a loincloth to wear._\n\n_\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;_ Instead of saying that, he answered with, \"Call off your dogs and I can show you where I get my reputation.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Oh,\" Malis' eyes twinkled with laughter.\u0026nbsp; \"But I only see one dog here, Kar'na.\u0026nbsp; And that'd be you.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Kar'na laughed, along with Malis.\u0026nbsp; A guard joined in and Kar'na kicked him.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"So,\" Kar'na said a second later, as the guard staggered away, groaning with the unexpected kick.\u0026nbsp; \"Are you going to let us go?\u0026nbsp; Or am I going to have to make you?\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Make me?\" Malis smirked.\u0026nbsp; \"You?\u0026nbsp; Bound and weak before me?\u0026nbsp; I could have you killed with a snap.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Kar'na grinned and shrugged his shoulders, the manacles falling off his wrists.\u0026nbsp; In the stunned silence, Kar'na whirled about, kicking a guard in the face and sending him flying backwards.\u0026nbsp; He ducked below a sword slice and jabbed the Falskin under the chin.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Deftly taking the lizard's sword as he fell, Kar'na whirled about and stabbed it hilt-deep in the massive guard, who fell backwards with a scream.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Give me one reason I shouldn't kill you now,\" Kar'na growled at Malis, levelling one of his 'borrowed' swords at him.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Well,\" Malis said.\u0026nbsp; \"For a start, if you did, the archers in the alcoves would be forced to kill _you_.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; The ominous sounds of arrows being nocked to bows echoed throughout the chamber.\u0026nbsp; No way could Kar'na survive that many arrows.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Also,\" Lord Malis continued.\u0026nbsp; \"Please remember that I have your comrades held hostage in the basement.\u0026nbsp; Any attempts to kill me would result in their deaths as well.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"I said _one_reason,\" Kar'na growled, dropping the sword.\u0026nbsp; \"And you're going to kill all us regardless, aren't you?\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Not necessarily,\" Malis said breezily.\u0026nbsp; \"Master Sanvar would _love_ to see his children again.\u0026nbsp; And I would sooner see your friends sold into slavery than have them killed.\u0026nbsp; It's more profitable.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Kar'na ground his teeth, wanting every second to strangle the life out of Malis' fat body.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"But you, assassin, you amuse me.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Glad you think so,\" Kar'na snarled.\u0026nbsp; \"I hope you still find it funny when I strangle you to death with the shackles you gave me.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Yes,\" Malis beamed.\u0026nbsp; \"You amuse me a lot.\u0026nbsp; Which is why I have something...else, planned.\u0026nbsp; Something I think you'd enjoy very much.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Kar'na stared at him, waiting.\u0026nbsp; The wolf was amazed at how down-pat Malis had the whole evil villain thing.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Live combat!\" Malis cheered.\u0026nbsp; \"I put you in an arena and have you fight to the death!\u0026nbsp; Great entertainment!\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"You're insane!\" Kar'na cried.\u0026nbsp; \"Live combat?\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Yes!\" Malis clapped.\u0026nbsp; \"You, versus some of my slaves!\u0026nbsp; One on one!\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"And what delusion of yours has you convinced that I'll kill innocents whom you've enslaved?\u0026nbsp; You're a monster!\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Malis's eyes darkened a tad.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Don't test me assassin.\u0026nbsp; I could still order your entire group's execution...if that's what you'd prefer...\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Kar'na stayed silent and Malis nodded once.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Good.\u0026nbsp; Very good decision you've made, Kar'na.\u0026nbsp; Now, guards!\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; A group of guards entered the room, wearily regarding the unbound assassin standing over the bodies of the last group of guards.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Take this one back to the dungeon,\" Malis ordered.\u0026nbsp; \"And get me my attendant!\u0026nbsp; This is an event I want people to witness!\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; The guards nodded and roughly grabbed Kar'na by the arms, dragging him back to his cell.\u0026nbsp; Arriving in the dungeons, they threw Kar'na roughly to the cold and dirty floor.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Kar'na,\" Kiri's voice came from the cell across the hall after the guards left.\u0026nbsp; \"Are you alright?\u0026nbsp; What'd he want?\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Kar'na sighed.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Seems he wants me to kill.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; The roar of the crowd was thunderous and loud.\u0026nbsp; Clearly, they were people who wanted to see blood.\u0026nbsp; This wasn't the first tournament Malis had held, apparently.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Kar'na was in one of the ready rooms, with only a few silent guards for company.\u0026nbsp; He was to carry no weapon, while his foes would be armed and, likely, armoured.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; And here he was in traditional Ch'kiliil clothing.\u0026nbsp; That is, a loincloth.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Still, he was likely to be pitted against slaves, with no combat training whatsoever and terrified for their lives to boot.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Attention, fair people of Juxtpa and beyond,\" the announcer's voice boomed.\u0026nbsp; \"Today is a grand day!\u0026nbsp; A day of sport and competition...to the death.\u0026nbsp; Today's fighters are all to be pitted against the famed Kar'na, the White Wolf of Winterwrath.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; The crowd started booing and Kar'na had no choice but to smile.\u0026nbsp; If he managed to get this many people to hate him, that meant that he had been doing his job.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"As you all know, anybody who brought a slave, or even themselves, to be entered into the competition, gets their chance.\u0026nbsp; So up first is the slave J'inuan, property of Menven Sor'a!\u0026nbsp; This slave accepted a gift from the White Wolf himself, resulting in the death of an innocent clothing merchant.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; The crowd booed again and Kar'na quirked an eyebrow.\u0026nbsp; Who would he be fighting?\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"So in cage one, we have the White Wolf of Winterwrath!\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Kar'na, correctly assuming that that was his cue, walked through the gate and out into the ring.\u0026nbsp; The arena was full of people, most of them alternatively cheering or booing.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"And from cage two, we have the slave of Juxtpa's wealthy, J'inuan!\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; The other door opened and a nervous-looking young jaguar was pushed out into the arena, to the boos and cheers of the crowd.\u0026nbsp; A jaguar that looked very familiar....\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Of course, it was the jaguar from the market!\u0026nbsp; The one who'd gotten robbed.\u0026nbsp; The one whose debt Kar'na had paid.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; The jaguar, J'inuan apparently, was wearing only a chest plate and armguards of leather.\u0026nbsp; In his hands he nervously carried a massive pike.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"And let the fight begin!\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; The two combatants circled each other, eyeing them and waiting for the other to make the first move, though both knew that there was no way J'inuan could win.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Kar'na feigned a slight trip, hoping to provoke the slave into attacking first.\u0026nbsp; He found that that trick usually worked.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; And so it did.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; J'inuan rushed the wolf with a loud cry and swung his pike low, towards the wolf's feet.\u0026nbsp; Kar'na obviously saw the strike coming and, a half a second before impact, stomped on the pike, pinning it to the ground.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; He stepped closer and grabbed the slave, flinging him over his shoulder to the ground.\u0026nbsp; The young slave started to get up, but Kar'na pivoted and jabbed two of his fingers into the other's neck, rendering him unconscious.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; The crowd booed and began flinging items into the arena to show their displeasure.\u0026nbsp; Lord Malis had a heavy frown.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Wolf!\" he cried.\u0026nbsp; \"You fail to understand my arena!\u0026nbsp; In my arena...You.\u0026nbsp; Are.\u0026nbsp; To.\u0026nbsp; Kill.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Then send me competitors!\" Kar'na shouted back.\u0026nbsp; \"This is one will be out cold most of the day!\u0026nbsp; Bring me warriors, against whom I can pit my talent!\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Two guards entered the arena and nervously carried the unconscious jaguar away.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Cage two opened again and revealed a panther.\u0026nbsp; The panther was sleek, but clearly almost starving.\u0026nbsp; Her eyes held a feral light and she was covered in scars, a veteran of pit and arena fights.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"And next up, Ra'visha!\u0026nbsp; This famed fighter hails from a northern city, one of the many we've sacked!\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; The panther's eyes scoured the arena and then locked with Kar'na's, a mad light dancing within.\u0026nbsp; With a yowl, she rushed the assassin.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Kar'na, caught off guard by the unexpectedness of the assault, backed up furiously from her flashing silver blade.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; He ducked a slice and pivoted out of the way of the recovery strike.\u0026nbsp; The panther didn't have much style, but she made up with that in sheer ferocity.\u0026nbsp; Slash, slice, stab, hack, Kar'na dodged them all.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; The crowd started growing restless.\u0026nbsp; \"Blood, blood, blood, blood!\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Kar'na growled and ducked another strike of the blade, this time using his duck to strike the panther in her unarmoured belly.\u0026nbsp; She grunted and staggered away briefly.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Kill!\" Malis bellowed.\u0026nbsp; \"Or death will come!\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Kar'na scowled at Malis in the stands and noticed that the reptilian lord had Kiri bound at his feet and was holding a knife.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Now, kill!\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Kar'na stared at Kiri and, the next time the panther came, he struck.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; She swung at him, which Kar'na ducked as before.\u0026nbsp; Except this time, he caught the sword arm and twisted, making her drop the blade.\u0026nbsp; He caught it as it fell and plunged it into the other's chest.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; The crowd cheered and hollered and Kar'na dropped the blade as the panther staggered backwards and fell to the ground, her blood turning the sand a rich, red colour.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Excellent,\" Malis boomed.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; The sound of the gate occurred again and Kar'na listened as the announcer spoke.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Our next competitor hails from our very own Parai.\u0026nbsp; He was born a slave, but trained a pit fighter after he slew three of his fellow slaves and an overseer in a fit of rage.\u0026nbsp; Ready for La'malik, the bear of Kinic!\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Kar'na grew cold.\u0026nbsp; Did he just say bear?\u0026nbsp; Bears were amongst the most dangerous of Ch'kiliil breeds, their fierce size and power making them a challenge to fight.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; And stepping out of the gate was the biggest bear Kar'na had ever seen.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; He stood well over seven feet tall, easily topping the wolf's own 6'4\".\u0026nbsp; His plate armour glinted in the sunlight, proudly showcasing the decorative spikes on the shoulders, knees and elbows.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Kar'na sighed.\u0026nbsp; Well then.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; The bear roared and stomped the ground, before advancing on Kar'na.\u0026nbsp; However, unlike Ra'visha or J'inuan before him, La'malik was clearly surveying the wolf, waiting for him to move.\u0026nbsp; The bear's massive broadsword was held in a ready stance.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; And here Kar'na was with only Ra'visha's silver blade.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; The two circled each other before Kar'na darted in, blade ready.\u0026nbsp; La'malik swung the massive weapon of his far faster the Kar'na anticipated and the wolf hastily dropped, coming up in a roll and swinging his sword into La'malik's side.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; The weapon bounced off the bear's armour and La'malik elbowed him in the face, sending Kar'na back a few feet and flat into the dirt.\u0026nbsp; Kar'na was lucky he hadn't been impaled by La'malik's elbow spikes.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; The assassin groaned in pain and started to get up, only to notice the bear cleaving downwards with his broadsword.\u0026nbsp; Kar'na rolled out of the way and the sword impacted harmlessly into the dirt.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; He kicked the bear in the side and sprung to his feet, blinking dizzily.\u0026nbsp; The impact with the ground had burst his stitches open a little and blood was trickling from the wound.\u0026nbsp; Thankfully, the guards hadn't taken his bandages.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; However, the bandages in question were still letting the blood show through.\u0026nbsp; The crowd cheered that the massive bear had apparently gotten a strike.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; La'malik grinned as well, swinging his blade in a massive cross sweep that Kar'na barely managed to jump over.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; The crowd began chanting.\u0026nbsp; \"Kill the wolf!\u0026nbsp; Kill the wolf!\u0026nbsp; Kill the wolf!\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; _Thanks_, Kar'na thought sarcastically.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; La'malik swung across again and this time, Kar'na realized he wouldn't be able to dodge in time, at least not without getting gutted in the process.\u0026nbsp; So the white wolf attempted a deflecting block.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; With a powerful _crack_, La'malik's blade impacted with Kar'na's own, splitting the silver blade to pieces and throwing the wolf backwards.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; La'malik grinned and sauntered over, looming over Kar'na.\u0026nbsp; Kar'na coughed, spitting up blood.\u0026nbsp; It hurt to breathe.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; La'malik raised his greatsword high, high above his head, ready to cleave the wolf in two.\u0026nbsp; It was at this moment where Kar'na struck, leaping to his feet and plunging the jagged hilt of the silver sword deep into La'malik's chest, right in a chink in the armour.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; The gargantuan bear looked down at the weapon in disbelief, his own sword tumbling from his hands.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"I...lose?\" he asked in surprise.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"That you did,\" Kar'na wheezed. \u0026nbsp;\"Now, rest.\u0026nbsp; Sleep in peace.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; The bear toppled backwards, impacting the ground with a crash that echoed through the silent arena.\u0026nbsp; Kar'na waited for the crowd to turn nasty.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Instead they erupted into cheers, hooting and hollering.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Well folks!\" the announcer boomed.\u0026nbsp; \"It seems that against all odds, our enemy has yet prevailed.\u0026nbsp; But he still has many fights before him.\u0026nbsp; Meet back here in a half hour, giving him some time to rest.\u0026nbsp; Three battles have been won in this crazy beast's favour.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; The crowd began to disperse and cage door one opened, revealing a young otter slave who beckoned Kar'na over.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; The assassin limped over and entered into the underworks of the arena, already dreading the next battle.\u0026nbsp; Fighting that bear had taken quite a lot out of him.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; The slaves were quiet and efficient in the underworks of the arena.\u0026nbsp; Practiced hands kneaded the kinks out of Kar'na's muscles, helping to make him more prepared for his next duel.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"You were fantastic out there,\" one of the slaves, the young otter who'd called him under, mentioned.\u0026nbsp; \"Most of us had hedged that we'd be serving La'malik after that last fight.\u0026nbsp; The bear had never lost to anyone.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Neither has Si'iquai,\" another of the slaves said, opening Kar'na's bandages and taking a look at the wound below.\u0026nbsp; \"And his style could make it tricky for you to beat him...\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Why?\" Kar'na asked, somehow recognizing the name.\u0026nbsp; \"What's his style?\u0026nbsp; Who is he?\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; The slaves all looked at each other, the otter warning the tiger who'd spoken with his eyes.\u0026nbsp; The tiger nodded and went back to examining the wound.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"It's not our place to say,\" the otter said, working on a tight muscle in Kar'na's shoulders.\u0026nbsp; \"But we can say that his never having lost a fight is not due to a large size or wild attacks.\u0026nbsp; He's clever.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; The other slaves nodded in agreement.\u0026nbsp; One of them brought a hot tub of water over and a cheetah walked over and handed Kar'na a strip of leather.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"What's this for?\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"To bite on,\" the cheetah explained.\u0026nbsp; \"We're going to have to sanitize and re-stitch that wound.\u0026nbsp; We don't want it splitting open further or infection setting in.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Understanding flooded Kar'na's eyes and he clamped his teeth around the bit of leather the slave was offering.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; The other slaves stepped back, a few securing his arms and legs so he didn't thrash, as the boiling water was poured into the wound.\u0026nbsp; Kar'na jerked, his teeth gouging deep into the strap, as the water entered the wound.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; However, the agony was short lived, only to be replaced by another pain as the slaves immediately started stitching the wound back together again.\u0026nbsp; He bit the strap and held the sides of the stone table as the slaves went about their work with a professional air.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Finally though, the wound was re-stitched and Kar'na spat out the strip of leather.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Nice job,\" the tiger commented.\u0026nbsp; \"La'malik gave us much more trouble than that with the last wound he received.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Now let's get that blood out of your fur,\" the otter said.\u0026nbsp; \"You've still got fights to win.\u0026nbsp; In three more battles, I hope to see you back here.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; The next battle was rather simple.\u0026nbsp; A Falskin, highly overrating his own skill as a warrior, or underestimating Kar'na's, came in with twin swords and black armour.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Twenty seconds later and Kar'na had two swords.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Was that a fight or a weapon-delivery boy?\" Kar'na called out to Malis, actually enjoying himself for once in the arena.\u0026nbsp; He had become the crowd favourite since defeating La'malik and it was actually nice, with the crowd cheering like wild whenever he proved himself again victorious.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Malis himself smiled at Kar'na's question.\u0026nbsp; The wolf had proved himself far more than the Falskin lord had expected.\u0026nbsp; Soon, he knew, he'd either have to get rid of Kar'na or call off the fights to spread themselves over more time.\u0026nbsp; Maybe he'd even let the wolf go.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Kiri had been sent back to wait with the others, as it was clear Kar'na understood the rules of engagement in his arena.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Very good, Kar'na,\" Malis said.\u0026nbsp; \"A few more competitors are all you have to fight through.\u0026nbsp; Continue to impress and I may just have to release you.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; The crowd cheered, though many cast odd looks at Malis.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"But first,\" the reptilian lord continued.\u0026nbsp; \"You have fights!\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; The roar of the crowd after this statement was deafening and the announcer waited for it to settle down a bit before speaking.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Our next competitor,\" he boomed.\u0026nbsp; \"Hails from the Ch'kiliil homeland of Arlea.\u0026nbsp; A dangerous figure, he slew Lord Malis' father as an assignment for the very same guild Kar'na here represents.\u0026nbsp; Let's have a cheer for Si'iquai!\u0026nbsp; Former Master Assassin of the Assassin's Guild!\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Kar'na was incredulous.\u0026nbsp; A former Master?\u0026nbsp; Here, in this arena?\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Gate two slid open and a figure in Assassin's Guild light armour emerged from it.\u0026nbsp; He was a coyote, with many scars across his face, a marked contrast to Kar'na's single one, through his left eye.\u0026nbsp; The coyote had a staff and he held it in a knowledgeable grip.\u0026nbsp; He knew what he was doing.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Kar'na studied his opponent as the other drew near.\u0026nbsp; The last master assassin to be replaced before T'safra, the one he took over from, was an assassin that had just gone missing on his mission, presumed dead.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Yet here he was.\u0026nbsp; Kar'na only had a vague recollection of meeting the coyote while the wolf was still a trainee.\u0026nbsp; But if the coyote had made it to master assassin he was a figure to be feared.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; The coyote stopped about eight feet in front of Kar'na and planted the end of his staff into the sand of the arena floor.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"So,\" he said, in a gravelly voice.\u0026nbsp; \"You're the famed Kar'na I've heard so much about.\u0026nbsp; You don't look too impressive.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Kar'na felt a brief flicker of irritation.\u0026nbsp; That was the second person in as many days who said he didn't look impressive.\u0026nbsp; What were they expecting to see?\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Sorry to disappoint,\" Kar'na said.\u0026nbsp; \"Are you really a former master?\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Yes, wolf,\" the coyote sniffed.\u0026nbsp; \"I'm almost surprised you didn't recognize my name when it was first spoken, but Grandmaster Khej always was good at burying his mistakes.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Do not speak ill of the Guildmaster,\" Kar'na growled.\u0026nbsp; The crowd was getting impatient at the chatter, but Kar'na didn't care.\u0026nbsp; This needed to be said.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Why?\" Si'iquai demanded.\u0026nbsp; \"I went missing from the guild thirteen years ago, when you were but a trainee.\u0026nbsp; Did Khej send anyone?\u0026nbsp; Did people lament the passing of a master assassin?\u0026nbsp; No! \u0026nbsp;Instead, they blot out my name, so that the newer generations don't even learn of me.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; The assassin sounded so bitter that Kar'na could not help but feel some sympathy.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"You don't have to fight me,\" Kar'na said, lowering his swords.\u0026nbsp; \"Together, the two of us might be able to escape.\u0026nbsp; You can head North with us to Arlea!\u0026nbsp; You can rejoin the guild.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Look around you!\" Si'iquai snapped.\u0026nbsp; \"Even if I wanted to, do you see those guards?\u0026nbsp; The archers?\u0026nbsp; The crowd itself?\u0026nbsp; We'd be cut down in moments!\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"You're a brother assassin,\" Kar'na said.\u0026nbsp; \"How could we fight?\u0026nbsp; In doing so, we spit upon the very first tenet of our guild.\u0026nbsp; Do not harm a brother!\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"I would gladly spit upon it myself, if I but had the stupid tablet before me.\u0026nbsp; You don't understand.\u0026nbsp; After this battle, when you lie broken and defeated at my feet, I will show Lord Malis where our guild is located.\u0026nbsp; And he will burn it to the ground!\u0026nbsp; As it should be!\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Traitor!\" Kar'na cried, leaping into battle.\u0026nbsp; He sliced wide from the right, a short stab also coming from the left.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; With a twirl of his staff, Si'iquai blocked both swords and swung about at Kar'na, which the wolf had to duck.\u0026nbsp; Though Kar'na had always been comfortable with a sword, the staff had always been his weapon.\u0026nbsp; Whenever he had one, he was nigh-on undefeatable in combat.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Now, facing an opponent with the same weapon and more skill than any he'd faced before, Kar'na had serious doubts.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Slice, stab, dodge, block, counter, pivot; Si'iquai had serious skill.\u0026nbsp; And as far as Kar'na could see, his style was unbreachable.\u0026nbsp; Now, Kar'na had taken many opponents to their graves who had unbeatable defense, but that usually involved using his environment against them.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Kar'na utilized a tiny lull in combat to look around.\u0026nbsp; Walls and a floor.\u0026nbsp; Three corpses.\u0026nbsp; Nothing else.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; As the combat picked up again, Kar'na started analyzing his opponent.\u0026nbsp; Who was he?\u0026nbsp; He was an assassin, a former master.\u0026nbsp; One who had failed his mission and been captured as a result.\u0026nbsp; One who had been, for all intents and purposes, ignored by the Guild.\u0026nbsp; He could use that.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"There was probably a reason your name was blocked out,\" Kar'na hedged.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Ooh,\" Si'iquai chuckled, his stave missing Kar'na's head by mere inches.\u0026nbsp; \"Trying to get me angry and careless?\u0026nbsp; Old but ineffective trick.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"More effective than you,\" Kar'na said, blocking one strike and returning another.\u0026nbsp; \"Considering you failed a mission.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"I did _not_fail,\" Si'iquai said calmly, though his eyes flared with momentary anger.\u0026nbsp; \"I succeeded.\u0026nbsp; I murdered Malis's father.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"And got captured in the process,\" Kar'na taunted.\u0026nbsp; A momentary break in Si'iquai's defense appeared and Kar'na struck, his sword clanging harmlessly off Si'iquai's armor.\u0026nbsp; But the assassin was still surprised nonetheless.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Yes I got captured.\u0026nbsp; But so did you.\u0026nbsp; Hence this fight in the first place.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Strike, dodge, kick, parry.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"I got captured escorting a group of freed slaves through a city that shouldn't have even been aware of us,\" Kar'na retorted.\u0026nbsp; \"You had just yourself!\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; With a furious yowl, the coyote swung at Kar'na's head.\u0026nbsp; Kar'na tried to duck, but the coyote got a glancing blow.\u0026nbsp; Kar'na's ears rang as he blocked the next strike.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Anyone can fall Kar'na!\" Si'iquai shouted.\u0026nbsp; \"Anyone can fall to anyone!\u0026nbsp; I got unlucky.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Keep telling yourself that,\" Kar'na replied.\u0026nbsp; \"It will make your failure to the guild easier for you to bear.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Another strike and Kar'na spotted something.\u0026nbsp; Si'iquai had gotten careless.\u0026nbsp; Very careless.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Kar'na pivoted out of the way and brought his foot, heel down, into Si'iquai's knee.\u0026nbsp; With a nauseating _crack_, the knee bent sideways and Kar'na used this lucky break...so to speak...to bat Si'iquai's staff away and stab him in the gut.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; The coyote gasped, his brown eyes staring into Kar'na's gold, before he toppled backwards.\u0026nbsp; Once on the ground, broken and dying, he gestured Kar'na close.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Forgive me, Kar'na,\" he gasped softly.\u0026nbsp; \"I not only failed you, nor the guild, but myself.\u0026nbsp; I let myself down until I was...blinded by my own hate.\u0026nbsp; By my own self-pity.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; He blinked away tears, not of pain, but of genuine regret and grasped Kar'na's arm.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Tell Khej that I'm sorry,\" he wheezed.\u0026nbsp; \"Tell him that I failed.\u0026nbsp; That I let the guild down.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Kar'na pursed his lips and said, \"You never let the guild down.\u0026nbsp; You let yourself down only.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"I'm sorry Kar'na,\" Si'iquai said again.\u0026nbsp; \"I...should never...have given up.\u0026nbsp; Get your friends free of here.\u0026nbsp; In the underworks...there lies...a tunnel...out of... the arena.\u0026nbsp; Use it.\u0026nbsp; Get them...home.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; He coughed a blood speckled cough and Kar'na lay him back gently.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Rest now,\" Kar'na said softly.\u0026nbsp; \"Assassin.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; The coyote locked eyes with Kar'na and smiled before the light vanished and he lay still, not to move again.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Kar'na stood up and glared in Malis's direction.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"I've defeated your prize fighter!\" he shouted furiously.\u0026nbsp; \"Could anyone top that?\u0026nbsp; Do you have yet more competitors for me to fight?\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Yes, assassin,\" Malis said breezily.\u0026nbsp; \"I have many, many competitors for you to fight.\u0026nbsp; But, after a battle like that, you deserve a rest.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Alright folks,\" the announcer boomed.\u0026nbsp; \"You heard the Lord.\u0026nbsp; Today's games are over.\u0026nbsp; Remember to return tomorrow to view more fights!\u0026nbsp; This whole week, we will be pitting this master against anything we can throw at him!\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; The crowd cheered and began to disperse.\u0026nbsp; The wolf glared at them all for a minute before bending down and closing Si'iquai's eyes.\u0026nbsp; Then it was off to the underworks.\n\n  \n  \n\n","series":{"name":"A Tail of Two Peoples","previous":"https://fse.anthro.fr/stories/1193332-a-tail-of-two-peoples-nightfall.json","next":"https://fse.anthro.fr/stories/1199468-a-tail-of-two-peoples-the-lords-of-parai.json"}}