# A Tail of Two Peoples - Arena

Author: Kythl Moonpaw
Tags: A Tail of Two Peoples, Bear, Clean, Fox, Ocelot, Otter, Puma, Reptile, Slave, Violence (Not In Yiff), Wolf, prisoner

#7 of A Tail of Two Peoples

So, 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.

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Come on, dog, get up.&nbsp; You have an audience with Lord Malis."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Kar'na stirred and sat up, blinking away the sleep from his eyes.&nbsp; The group had all been taken to the keep and stashed in separate cells.&nbsp; 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.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The door to his cell was open, revealing a large Falskin standing there, a set of shackles in his hands.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "I said, get up!" he growled, stepping into the cell.&nbsp; Kar'na readied himself, but stopped when he noticed the rest of the guards standing outside, weapons ready.&nbsp; He let the large guard shackle him and lead him outside.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; They walked through the dungeon, a massive maze of corridors and passages.&nbsp; The air was foul, with the scents of waste, sickness, death and fear.&nbsp; A horrible place.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Thankfully, they soon left the dungeon and entered into the massive, opulent halls of Lord Malis, which Kar'na quickly realized was almost worse.&nbsp; The graceful, soaring columns and marble ceilings gave the palace the unmistakable feel of wealth and power.&nbsp; A power built up on the backs of the poor and enslaved.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 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.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Ah," the figure said, as the guards drew nearer with their prisoner.&nbsp; "If it isn't the famed Kar'na!&nbsp; You know, you're a lot less impressive in person."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; _I could say the same thing about you_, Kar'na thought maliciously, staring at the figure that was undoubtedly Lord Malis.&nbsp; _And at least I have a reason for my appearance.&nbsp; A cold cell and only a loincloth to wear._

_&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;_ Instead of saying that, he answered with, "Call off your dogs and I can show you where I get my reputation."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Oh," Malis' eyes twinkled with laughter.&nbsp; "But I only see one dog here, Kar'na.&nbsp; And that'd be you."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Kar'na laughed, along with Malis.&nbsp; A guard joined in and Kar'na kicked him.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "So," Kar'na said a second later, as the guard staggered away, groaning with the unexpected kick.&nbsp; "Are you going to let us go?&nbsp; Or am I going to have to make you?"

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Make me?" Malis smirked.&nbsp; "You?&nbsp; Bound and weak before me?&nbsp; I could have you killed with a snap."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Kar'na grinned and shrugged his shoulders, the manacles falling off his wrists.&nbsp; In the stunned silence, Kar'na whirled about, kicking a guard in the face and sending him flying backwards.&nbsp; He ducked below a sword slice and jabbed the Falskin under the chin.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 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.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Give me one reason I shouldn't kill you now," Kar'na growled at Malis, levelling one of his 'borrowed' swords at him.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Well," Malis said.&nbsp; "For a start, if you did, the archers in the alcoves would be forced to kill _you_."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The ominous sounds of arrows being nocked to bows echoed throughout the chamber.&nbsp; No way could Kar'na survive that many arrows.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Also," Lord Malis continued.&nbsp; "Please remember that I have your comrades held hostage in the basement.&nbsp; Any attempts to kill me would result in their deaths as well."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "I said _one_reason," Kar'na growled, dropping the sword.&nbsp; "And you're going to kill all us regardless, aren't you?"

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Not necessarily," Malis said breezily.&nbsp; "Master Sanvar would _love_ to see his children again.&nbsp; And I would sooner see your friends sold into slavery than have them killed.&nbsp; It's more profitable."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Kar'na ground his teeth, wanting every second to strangle the life out of Malis' fat body.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "But you, assassin, you amuse me."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Glad you think so," Kar'na snarled.&nbsp; "I hope you still find it funny when I strangle you to death with the shackles you gave me."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Yes," Malis beamed.&nbsp; "You amuse me a lot.&nbsp; Which is why I have something...else, planned.&nbsp; Something I think you'd enjoy very much."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Kar'na stared at him, waiting.&nbsp; The wolf was amazed at how down-pat Malis had the whole evil villain thing.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Live combat!" Malis cheered.&nbsp; "I put you in an arena and have you fight to the death!&nbsp; Great entertainment!"

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "You're insane!" Kar'na cried.&nbsp; "Live combat?"

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Yes!" Malis clapped.&nbsp; "You, versus some of my slaves!&nbsp; One on one!"

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "And what delusion of yours has you convinced that I'll kill innocents whom you've enslaved?&nbsp; You're a monster!"

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Malis's eyes darkened a tad.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Don't test me assassin.&nbsp; I could still order your entire group's execution...if that's what you'd prefer..."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Kar'na stayed silent and Malis nodded once.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Good.&nbsp; Very good decision you've made, Kar'na.&nbsp; Now, guards!"

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; A group of guards entered the room, wearily regarding the unbound assassin standing over the bodies of the last group of guards.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Take this one back to the dungeon," Malis ordered.&nbsp; "And get me my attendant!&nbsp; This is an event I want people to witness!"

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The guards nodded and roughly grabbed Kar'na by the arms, dragging him back to his cell.&nbsp; Arriving in the dungeons, they threw Kar'na roughly to the cold and dirty floor.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Kar'na," Kiri's voice came from the cell across the hall after the guards left.&nbsp; "Are you alright?&nbsp; What'd he want?"

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Kar'na sighed.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Seems he wants me to kill."

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The roar of the crowd was thunderous and loud.&nbsp; Clearly, they were people who wanted to see blood.&nbsp; This wasn't the first tournament Malis had held, apparently.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Kar'na was in one of the ready rooms, with only a few silent guards for company.&nbsp; He was to carry no weapon, while his foes would be armed and, likely, armoured.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; And here he was in traditional Ch'kiliil clothing.&nbsp; That is, a loincloth.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Still, he was likely to be pitted against slaves, with no combat training whatsoever and terrified for their lives to boot.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Attention, fair people of Juxtpa and beyond," the announcer's voice boomed.&nbsp; "Today is a grand day!&nbsp; A day of sport and competition...to the death.&nbsp; Today's fighters are all to be pitted against the famed Kar'na, the White Wolf of Winterwrath."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The crowd started booing and Kar'na had no choice but to smile.&nbsp; If he managed to get this many people to hate him, that meant that he had been doing his job.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "As you all know, anybody who brought a slave, or even themselves, to be entered into the competition, gets their chance.&nbsp; So up first is the slave J'inuan, property of Menven Sor'a!&nbsp; This slave accepted a gift from the White Wolf himself, resulting in the death of an innocent clothing merchant."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The crowd booed again and Kar'na quirked an eyebrow.&nbsp; Who would he be fighting?

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "So in cage one, we have the White Wolf of Winterwrath!"

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Kar'na, correctly assuming that that was his cue, walked through the gate and out into the ring.&nbsp; The arena was full of people, most of them alternatively cheering or booing.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "And from cage two, we have the slave of Juxtpa's wealthy, J'inuan!"

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The other door opened and a nervous-looking young jaguar was pushed out into the arena, to the boos and cheers of the crowd.&nbsp; A jaguar that looked very familiar....

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Of course, it was the jaguar from the market!&nbsp; The one who'd gotten robbed.&nbsp; The one whose debt Kar'na had paid.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The jaguar, J'inuan apparently, was wearing only a chest plate and armguards of leather.&nbsp; In his hands he nervously carried a massive pike.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "And let the fight begin!"

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 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.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Kar'na feigned a slight trip, hoping to provoke the slave into attacking first.&nbsp; He found that that trick usually worked.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; And so it did.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; J'inuan rushed the wolf with a loud cry and swung his pike low, towards the wolf's feet.&nbsp; Kar'na obviously saw the strike coming and, a half a second before impact, stomped on the pike, pinning it to the ground.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; He stepped closer and grabbed the slave, flinging him over his shoulder to the ground.&nbsp; 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.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The crowd booed and began flinging items into the arena to show their displeasure.&nbsp; Lord Malis had a heavy frown.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Wolf!" he cried.&nbsp; "You fail to understand my arena!&nbsp; In my arena...You.&nbsp; Are.&nbsp; To.&nbsp; Kill."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Then send me competitors!" Kar'na shouted back.&nbsp; "This is one will be out cold most of the day!&nbsp; Bring me warriors, against whom I can pit my talent!"

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Two guards entered the arena and nervously carried the unconscious jaguar away.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Cage two opened again and revealed a panther.&nbsp; The panther was sleek, but clearly almost starving.&nbsp; Her eyes held a feral light and she was covered in scars, a veteran of pit and arena fights.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "And next up, Ra'visha!&nbsp; This famed fighter hails from a northern city, one of the many we've sacked!"

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The panther's eyes scoured the arena and then locked with Kar'na's, a mad light dancing within.&nbsp; With a yowl, she rushed the assassin.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Kar'na, caught off guard by the unexpectedness of the assault, backed up furiously from her flashing silver blade.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; He ducked a slice and pivoted out of the way of the recovery strike.&nbsp; The panther didn't have much style, but she made up with that in sheer ferocity.&nbsp; Slash, slice, stab, hack, Kar'na dodged them all.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The crowd started growing restless.&nbsp; "Blood, blood, blood, blood!"

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Kar'na growled and ducked another strike of the blade, this time using his duck to strike the panther in her unarmoured belly.&nbsp; She grunted and staggered away briefly.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Kill!" Malis bellowed.&nbsp; "Or death will come!"

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 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.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Now, kill!"

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Kar'na stared at Kiri and, the next time the panther came, he struck.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; She swung at him, which Kar'na ducked as before.&nbsp; Except this time, he caught the sword arm and twisted, making her drop the blade.&nbsp; He caught it as it fell and plunged it into the other's chest.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 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.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Excellent," Malis boomed.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The sound of the gate occurred again and Kar'na listened as the announcer spoke.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Our next competitor hails from our very own Parai.&nbsp; 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.&nbsp; Ready for La'malik, the bear of Kinic!"

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Kar'na grew cold.&nbsp; Did he just say bear?&nbsp; Bears were amongst the most dangerous of Ch'kiliil breeds, their fierce size and power making them a challenge to fight.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; And stepping out of the gate was the biggest bear Kar'na had ever seen.&nbsp;&nbsp; He stood well over seven feet tall, easily topping the wolf's own 6'4".&nbsp; His plate armour glinted in the sunlight, proudly showcasing the decorative spikes on the shoulders, knees and elbows.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Kar'na sighed.&nbsp; Well then.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The bear roared and stomped the ground, before advancing on Kar'na.&nbsp; However, unlike Ra'visha or J'inuan before him, La'malik was clearly surveying the wolf, waiting for him to move.&nbsp; The bear's massive broadsword was held in a ready stance.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; And here Kar'na was with only Ra'visha's silver blade.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The two circled each other before Kar'na darted in, blade ready.&nbsp; 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.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 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.&nbsp; Kar'na was lucky he hadn't been impaled by La'malik's elbow spikes.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The assassin groaned in pain and started to get up, only to notice the bear cleaving downwards with his broadsword.&nbsp; Kar'na rolled out of the way and the sword impacted harmlessly into the dirt.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; He kicked the bear in the side and sprung to his feet, blinking dizzily.&nbsp; The impact with the ground had burst his stitches open a little and blood was trickling from the wound.&nbsp; Thankfully, the guards hadn't taken his bandages.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; However, the bandages in question were still letting the blood show through.&nbsp; The crowd cheered that the massive bear had apparently gotten a strike.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; La'malik grinned as well, swinging his blade in a massive cross sweep that Kar'na barely managed to jump over.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The crowd began chanting.&nbsp; "Kill the wolf!&nbsp; Kill the wolf!&nbsp; Kill the wolf!"

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; _Thanks_, Kar'na thought sarcastically.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 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.&nbsp; So the white wolf attempted a deflecting block.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 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.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; La'malik grinned and sauntered over, looming over Kar'na.&nbsp; Kar'na coughed, spitting up blood.&nbsp; It hurt to breathe.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; La'malik raised his greatsword high, high above his head, ready to cleave the wolf in two.&nbsp; 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.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The gargantuan bear looked down at the weapon in disbelief, his own sword tumbling from his hands.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "I...lose?" he asked in surprise.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "That you did," Kar'na wheezed. &nbsp;"Now, rest.&nbsp; Sleep in peace."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The bear toppled backwards, impacting the ground with a crash that echoed through the silent arena.&nbsp; Kar'na waited for the crowd to turn nasty.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Instead they erupted into cheers, hooting and hollering.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Well folks!" the announcer boomed.&nbsp; "It seems that against all odds, our enemy has yet prevailed.&nbsp; But he still has many fights before him.&nbsp; Meet back here in a half hour, giving him some time to rest.&nbsp; Three battles have been won in this crazy beast's favour."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The crowd began to disperse and cage door one opened, revealing a young otter slave who beckoned Kar'na over.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The assassin limped over and entered into the underworks of the arena, already dreading the next battle.&nbsp; Fighting that bear had taken quite a lot out of him.

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The slaves were quiet and efficient in the underworks of the arena.&nbsp; Practiced hands kneaded the kinks out of Kar'na's muscles, helping to make him more prepared for his next duel.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "You were fantastic out there," one of the slaves, the young otter who'd called him under, mentioned.&nbsp; "Most of us had hedged that we'd be serving La'malik after that last fight.&nbsp; The bear had never lost to anyone."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Neither has Si'iquai," another of the slaves said, opening Kar'na's bandages and taking a look at the wound below.&nbsp; "And his style could make it tricky for you to beat him..."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Why?" Kar'na asked, somehow recognizing the name.&nbsp; "What's his style?&nbsp; Who is he?"

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The slaves all looked at each other, the otter warning the tiger who'd spoken with his eyes.&nbsp; The tiger nodded and went back to examining the wound.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "It's not our place to say," the otter said, working on a tight muscle in Kar'na's shoulders.&nbsp; "But we can say that his never having lost a fight is not due to a large size or wild attacks.&nbsp; He's clever."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The other slaves nodded in agreement.&nbsp; One of them brought a hot tub of water over and a cheetah walked over and handed Kar'na a strip of leather.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "What's this for?"

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "To bite on," the cheetah explained.&nbsp; "We're going to have to sanitize and re-stitch that wound.&nbsp; We don't want it splitting open further or infection setting in."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Understanding flooded Kar'na's eyes and he clamped his teeth around the bit of leather the slave was offering.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 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.&nbsp; Kar'na jerked, his teeth gouging deep into the strap, as the water entered the wound.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; However, the agony was short lived, only to be replaced by another pain as the slaves immediately started stitching the wound back together again.&nbsp; He bit the strap and held the sides of the stone table as the slaves went about their work with a professional air.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Finally though, the wound was re-stitched and Kar'na spat out the strip of leather.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Nice job," the tiger commented.&nbsp; "La'malik gave us much more trouble than that with the last wound he received."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Now let's get that blood out of your fur," the otter said.&nbsp; "You've still got fights to win.&nbsp; In three more battles, I hope to see you back here."

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&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The next battle was rather simple.&nbsp; A Falskin, highly overrating his own skill as a warrior, or underestimating Kar'na's, came in with twin swords and black armour.&nbsp;&nbsp; Twenty seconds later and Kar'na had two swords.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Was that a fight or a weapon-delivery boy?" Kar'na called out to Malis, actually enjoying himself for once in the arena.&nbsp; 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.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Malis himself smiled at Kar'na's question.&nbsp; The wolf had proved himself far more than the Falskin lord had expected.&nbsp; Soon, he knew, he'd either have to get rid of Kar'na or call off the fights to spread themselves over more time.&nbsp; Maybe he'd even let the wolf go.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Kiri had been sent back to wait with the others, as it was clear Kar'na understood the rules of engagement in his arena.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Very good, Kar'na," Malis said.&nbsp; "A few more competitors are all you have to fight through.&nbsp; Continue to impress and I may just have to release you."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The crowd cheered, though many cast odd looks at Malis.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "But first," the reptilian lord continued.&nbsp; "You have fights!"

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The roar of the crowd after this statement was deafening and the announcer waited for it to settle down a bit before speaking.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Our next competitor," he boomed.&nbsp; "Hails from the Ch'kiliil homeland of Arlea.&nbsp; A dangerous figure, he slew Lord Malis' father as an assignment for the very same guild Kar'na here represents.&nbsp; Let's have a cheer for Si'iquai!&nbsp; Former Master Assassin of the Assassin's Guild!"

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Kar'na was incredulous.&nbsp; A former Master?&nbsp; Here, in this arena?

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Gate two slid open and a figure in Assassin's Guild light armour emerged from it.&nbsp; He was a coyote, with many scars across his face, a marked contrast to Kar'na's single one, through his left eye.&nbsp; The coyote had a staff and he held it in a knowledgeable grip.&nbsp; He knew what he was doing.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Kar'na studied his opponent as the other drew near.&nbsp; 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.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Yet here he was.&nbsp; Kar'na only had a vague recollection of meeting the coyote while the wolf was still a trainee.&nbsp; But if the coyote had made it to master assassin he was a figure to be feared.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 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.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "So," he said, in a gravelly voice.&nbsp; "You're the famed Kar'na I've heard so much about.&nbsp; You don't look too impressive."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Kar'na felt a brief flicker of irritation.&nbsp; That was the second person in as many days who said he didn't look impressive.&nbsp; What were they expecting to see?

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Sorry to disappoint," Kar'na said.&nbsp; "Are you really a former master?"

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Yes, wolf," the coyote sniffed.&nbsp; "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."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Do not speak ill of the Guildmaster," Kar'na growled.&nbsp; The crowd was getting impatient at the chatter, but Kar'na didn't care.&nbsp; This needed to be said.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Why?" Si'iquai demanded.&nbsp; "I went missing from the guild thirteen years ago, when you were but a trainee.&nbsp; Did Khej send anyone?&nbsp; Did people lament the passing of a master assassin?&nbsp; No! &nbsp;Instead, they blot out my name, so that the newer generations don't even learn of me."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The assassin sounded so bitter that Kar'na could not help but feel some sympathy.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "You don't have to fight me," Kar'na said, lowering his swords.&nbsp; "Together, the two of us might be able to escape.&nbsp; You can head North with us to Arlea!&nbsp; You can rejoin the guild."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Look around you!" Si'iquai snapped.&nbsp; "Even if I wanted to, do you see those guards?&nbsp; The archers?&nbsp; The crowd itself?&nbsp; We'd be cut down in moments!"

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "You're a brother assassin," Kar'na said.&nbsp; "How could we fight?&nbsp; In doing so, we spit upon the very first tenet of our guild.&nbsp; Do not harm a brother!"

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "I would gladly spit upon it myself, if I but had the stupid tablet before me.&nbsp; You don't understand.&nbsp; After this battle, when you lie broken and defeated at my feet, I will show Lord Malis where our guild is located.&nbsp; And he will burn it to the ground!&nbsp; As it should be!"

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Traitor!" Kar'na cried, leaping into battle.&nbsp; He sliced wide from the right, a short stab also coming from the left.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; With a twirl of his staff, Si'iquai blocked both swords and swung about at Kar'na, which the wolf had to duck.&nbsp; Though Kar'na had always been comfortable with a sword, the staff had always been his weapon.&nbsp; Whenever he had one, he was nigh-on undefeatable in combat.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Now, facing an opponent with the same weapon and more skill than any he'd faced before, Kar'na had serious doubts.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Slice, stab, dodge, block, counter, pivot; Si'iquai had serious skill.&nbsp; And as far as Kar'na could see, his style was unbreachable.&nbsp; Now, Kar'na had taken many opponents to their graves who had unbeatable defense, but that usually involved using his environment against them.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Kar'na utilized a tiny lull in combat to look around.&nbsp; Walls and a floor.&nbsp; Three corpses.&nbsp; Nothing else.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; As the combat picked up again, Kar'na started analyzing his opponent.&nbsp; Who was he?&nbsp; He was an assassin, a former master.&nbsp; One who had failed his mission and been captured as a result.&nbsp; One who had been, for all intents and purposes, ignored by the Guild.&nbsp; He could use that.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "There was probably a reason your name was blocked out," Kar'na hedged.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Ooh," Si'iquai chuckled, his stave missing Kar'na's head by mere inches.&nbsp; "Trying to get me angry and careless?&nbsp; Old but ineffective trick."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "More effective than you," Kar'na said, blocking one strike and returning another.&nbsp; "Considering you failed a mission."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "I did _not_fail," Si'iquai said calmly, though his eyes flared with momentary anger.&nbsp; "I succeeded.&nbsp; I murdered Malis's father."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "And got captured in the process," Kar'na taunted.&nbsp; A momentary break in Si'iquai's defense appeared and Kar'na struck, his sword clanging harmlessly off Si'iquai's armor.&nbsp; But the assassin was still surprised nonetheless.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Yes I got captured.&nbsp; But so did you.&nbsp; Hence this fight in the first place."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Strike, dodge, kick, parry.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "I got captured escorting a group of freed slaves through a city that shouldn't have even been aware of us," Kar'na retorted.&nbsp; "You had just yourself!"

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; With a furious yowl, the coyote swung at Kar'na's head.&nbsp; Kar'na tried to duck, but the coyote got a glancing blow.&nbsp; Kar'na's ears rang as he blocked the next strike.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Anyone can fall Kar'na!" Si'iquai shouted.&nbsp; "Anyone can fall to anyone!&nbsp; I got unlucky."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Keep telling yourself that," Kar'na replied.&nbsp; "It will make your failure to the guild easier for you to bear."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Another strike and Kar'na spotted something.&nbsp; Si'iquai had gotten careless.&nbsp; Very careless.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Kar'na pivoted out of the way and brought his foot, heel down, into Si'iquai's knee.&nbsp; 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.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The coyote gasped, his brown eyes staring into Kar'na's gold, before he toppled backwards.&nbsp; Once on the ground, broken and dying, he gestured Kar'na close.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Forgive me, Kar'na," he gasped softly.&nbsp; "I not only failed you, nor the guild, but myself.&nbsp; I let myself down until I was...blinded by my own hate.&nbsp; By my own self-pity."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; He blinked away tears, not of pain, but of genuine regret and grasped Kar'na's arm.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Tell Khej that I'm sorry," he wheezed.&nbsp; "Tell him that I failed.&nbsp; That I let the guild down."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Kar'na pursed his lips and said, "You never let the guild down.&nbsp; You let yourself down only."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "I'm sorry Kar'na," Si'iquai said again.&nbsp; "I...should never...have given up.&nbsp; Get your friends free of here.&nbsp; In the underworks...there lies...a tunnel...out of... the arena.&nbsp; Use it.&nbsp; Get them...home."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; He coughed a blood speckled cough and Kar'na lay him back gently.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Rest now," Kar'na said softly.&nbsp; "Assassin."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The coyote locked eyes with Kar'na and smiled before the light vanished and he lay still, not to move again.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Kar'na stood up and glared in Malis's direction.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "I've defeated your prize fighter!" he shouted furiously.&nbsp; "Could anyone top that?&nbsp; Do you have yet more competitors for me to fight?"

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Yes, assassin," Malis said breezily.&nbsp; "I have many, many competitors for you to fight.&nbsp; But, after a battle like that, you deserve a rest."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Alright folks," the announcer boomed.&nbsp; "You heard the Lord.&nbsp; Today's games are over.&nbsp; Remember to return tomorrow to view more fights!&nbsp; This whole week, we will be pitting this master against anything we can throw at him!"

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The crowd cheered and began to disperse.&nbsp; The wolf glared at them all for a minute before bending down and closing Si'iquai's eyes.&nbsp; Then it was off to the underworks.

Source: https://sofurry.com/s/Rm0R9dp1
Part of the series A Tail of Two Peoples
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