FSE

Furry search engine

formerly SoFurry search engine

DISCLAIMER: All publicly recognizable characters, settings, etc. are the property of their respective owners. The original characters and plot are the property of the author. The author is in no way associated with the owners, creators, or producers of any media franchise. No copyright infringement is intended.

THE THINGS WE DO TOO... Part 2 of the story series:

Kyaara woke the next morning pressed against a soft human body, and with a naked arm draped gently across her chest. Warm, rhythmic breath against her neck informed her that the human was still deeply asleep, face against her neck in uncaring abandonment. She stretched carefully, reaching out with forepaws and claws extended, before leaning back firmly against his chest, as he responded with a subconscious caress of the fur of her stomach.

Sparing a moment, she considered the prior night's activities, smiling to herself in satisfaction.

Yes, that'd been fun, she decided, slipping carefully from his grasp and standing to stretch again, this time fully, while giving herself a quiet shake to reseat her fur.

Turning back to her sleeping lover, she leaned forward to nuzzle his cheek affectionately, smirking as he wrinkled up his face at her tickling whiskers, before sneezing as her nose brushed his own. He may not be her kind, but he sure knew how to behave properly, she considered with a silent chuckle. Sitting back on her haunches, she regarded his naked, sleeping form for a time, considering her options. That she had begun feeling a great deal of affection for the male was not in doubt. However, the suddenness of their encounter left her a bit confused as to her options; did she want to stay with him further and expand their new friendship, or should she simply continue on her way as before? She was used to a solitary existence; her kind rarely formed any sort of long term partnership, even between mates.

Hell, she snorted to herself, her other male partners had only one thing on their minds; a quick rough and tumble followed by an even quicker exit, leaving her to face the consequences of their mating. The fact neither episode resulted in a viable pregnancy saddened her at times, but she shrugged off the experience as just a fact of life.

Still undecided, she slipped from the cave entrance to find a convenient patch to perform her morning ablutions, giving the sleeping human one more quick glance as she departed.

_____________

Simon woke some time later, shivering in the chill morning air. The fire had died down during the night, and without the warm presence of his new friend, the cold cave air was unpleasant. Realising he was alone, a stab of disappointment and loneliness shot through him. So she'd left, huh. Damn.

Sighing, he lay back, scratching his chest absently, while picking off loose strands of fluff from her pelt that had tangled in his own chest hair. The prior night's activities still felt surreal; that a creature such as her could ever consider lying with him, let alone respond so positively, was almost unbelievable. That he felt so satisfied by the intimacy of their lovemaking was even more confusing; he suddenly found himself missing her presence almost desperately.

Confused, horny, perverted human, he chuckled to himself dryly. New proof you'd stick your dick in anything warm and alive, to get your rocks off. The smile lasted a few moments, before slipping away again, replaced by sadness.

Oh well, he sighed again, clambering to his feet with a groan and heading to the dwindling wood pile. Grabbing some smaller pieces, he returned to the fire pit, digging through the ashes to uncover some live coals, which he used to reignite the fire. On hands and knees before the small flame, he blew heavily on the rekindled flames, coaxing them into a steady flicker.

So intent on his work, he didn't hear the soft padding of large paws behind him until he leapt to his feet with a shriek as an icy cold nose buried itself between his butt cheeks.

Hands tightly behind his back to protect his offending tackle, he spun on his knees, only to encounter his erstwhile lover sitting back on her haunches regarding him. A large toothy grin was plastered across her muzzle, and a forepaw muffled her lips as she gave a loud, growling giggle at his predicament.

"Bitch!" he said to her with a grin, leaning down suddenly to throw his arms around the startled creature's neck. Pressing his face deeply into her fur, he whispered "I thought you'd gone..." surprised at the tears suddenly blurring his vision.

Kyaara returned the embrace, wrapping both forepaws around his neck and purring deeply into his hair. She kneaded his back gently, claws retracted, while enjoying the closeness. Yes, she decided, she'd made the right choice to stay with him a while longer.

It was some time before the pair separated, the human releasing her with a final hug, to sit before her regarding her curiously. She leaned back, returning his gaze as he reached out and ran soft fingers through her chest fur. Closing her eyes, she hummed her approval at his actions, as he traced a path across her rather impressive musculature through the dense hair.

Suddenly, a thought crossed his mind; one almost audacious in its formation.

Rubbing his chin, he sat back and regarded her thoughtfully as she blinked at him, somewhat confused at his sudden intense scrutiny.

Thinking through his magi training, he recalled one spell designed to allow the user to understand the thoughts of the person it was cast upon. Designed for use in diplomatic situations, where a simple encounter could quickly turn unpleasant if one party misconstrued what the other was thinking, he'd never had a chance to use in a real life situation; his training always keeping him sequestered in the bowels of some dusty library, somewhere. At the university, most of the students spoke the common tongue. While he'd practiced the incantations thoroughly for his oral examinations, it had been two years since that part of his training had completed.

The fact he'd never heard any such incantation used on a different species made him wary, but as he regarded her, the intelligence lurking behind those golden, slitted eyes was beyond doubt. She was no dumb animal, he thought, watching her tilt her head to regard him. Besides, what's the worst that could happen?

Decision made, he shuffled forward, seating himself closer to her and rested his hands on either side of her head gently. While her eyes followed his movements, she did not flinch as he grasped the sides of her face with firm fingers, palms pressed against her cheeks and fingers curled around the base of her ears. Leaning forward, he brought his nose to hers, feeling her warm breath across his lips. Her eyes never left his own, as he stared deep into them, while mouthing the words to the spell.

"Espy arachnis turalla bevaara... Syerra!"

With the incantation complete, the air in the cave suddenly chilled, before the fire flared brightly besides them. His eyes rocketed open as he drew back sharply, realising that something had clearly gone badly wrong. Releasing her now fearful face, a sharp explosion detonated in the space between them, throwing him violently backwards against the wall behind. His head contacted the sandstone hard; bright stars and stabbing pain flashing through his vision, and he could only cringe as he saw her recoil to smash into the wall opposite, sliding down the rock to lie in a groaning heap on the floor at its base.

As the pain receded, he crawled across the sandy cave floor to her side, laying a hand against her as she shook her head groggily. When her eyes finally focussed sufficiently to make out his worried features hovering over her, she let out a deep growl, swiping out with a paw to send him tumbling to the ground besides her.

Lying there, momentarily stunned, he cringed as her snarling face came into view overhead. Leaning her head down before his, lips curled and teeth bared, she snarled at him menacingly....

"You idiot!"

Eyes widening in shock, he sat up sharply to reply, but the darkness hovering overhead finally descended, and he dropped unconscious before her.

Looking down at the prone human, she shook her head, clearing her ears of the last of the ringing noise.

"Idiot" she said to herself again, more softly this time, leaning down to gently lick clean the trail of blood from a small cut on his forehead. With a sigh, she settled against him, pressing her back against his side and putting her head on her paws, eyes closed as she slipped into a light sleep, waiting for him to awaken.

_______________

When he did, his first thought was that she was still there. Snuggling against her, he stroked her shoulder softly, listening in on her breathing.

Headache or not, he was feeling surprisingly content.

Even if she thought he was an idiot.

Blinking suddenly, he realised he'd understood her. The spell had worked, obviously, although perhaps not quite as expected.

Wondering just how far it had taken effect, he kneaded her neck, hoping to wake her up without startling her. He watched her muscles tense at the sensation, before the long lashes fluttered, and she opened her golden eyes to

stare up at him.

Leaning closer, he stroked her cheek, receiving a rumbling purr in response, and said "You OK?"

The response was somewhat unexpected.

Eyes shooting wide and with a growling shriek, she tumbled away from him, before launching herself from the cave, sand scattering in her wake. Even as fast as he followed, his parting glimpse of her was of a long bushy tail tearing through the undergrowth.

Oops.

Guess she hadn't expected that!

Cursing, he ran back into the cave, donning his clothes in haste, and while strapping his sword against his thigh, raced after her, following her wide tracks as they passed through the greenery.

____________

Kyaara just ran.

As fast as she could.

Her mind couldn't cope with the thoughts tearing through it, so she just let her paws do the walking.

Or in this case, running.

It wasn't till she skidded to a stop in the clearing near the pond where she'd been attacked by the boar that her brain started working again. She stood on quivering legs near the water's edge, panting harshly and considered what had happened.

WHAT THE HELL! Her mind screamed at her, sending new tremors running through her.

What the hell did he do?

He talked! To her! In her head!

Shaking herself suddenly, she leaned down and took a long drink of the chill water. As her nerves subsided, she went over what had happened; clearly he'd done something to make himself understood, exactly what escaping her for the moment. The episode hadn't done her any permanent harm; in fact, he seemed to have come off much worse than she had. He'd had ample opportunity to cause her injury at numerous times over the past days, and had never done so.

Quite the opposite, in fact, as last night had shown.

So, why was she so freaked out by it?

Because it was unnatural! The thought snuck into her mind, corrupting her musings. Shaking her head at the idea, she smiled dryly to herself. A bit hypocritical, considering how she'd jumped him last night, she thought.

So bent on her thoughts, it wasn't until he crashed through the underbrush into the clearing, tripping on a wayward tree root to land face first before her, that she even became aware he was following her.

Lifting his face while spitting out leaves and dirt, he looked up at her sitting in front of him, before sitting back and dusting his clothes off. Finally somewhat clean, he turned catch her eyes staring directly into his own, before turning away guiltily.

She approached him, dropping to her haunches in front of him, and leaning forward into his face.

"So..." she said hesitantly, and he turned back to her in surprise.

"Umm, so..." he replied, before his lip quirked into a grin, seeing the same expression on her face.

She rubbed at her face a moment with a padded paw, before continuing.

"I'm guessing that the big bad bang thing wasn't part of what you'd planned, then?"

Shaking his head, he replied "Umm, no. The incantation was not supposed to do that at all."

Looking at her briefly, he sighed, and said "I'm really sorry about that. Honestly, the last thing I wanted to do was to hurt you. I just thought...."

But he stopped as she got up and rubbed against him, face against his, purring loudly.

"It's OK", she rumbled, humour quirking across her muzzle. "I forgive you for being an idiot"

He chuckled in reply, stroking her neck gently. "Actually, my name is Simon"

Sitting back again, she tilted her head at him "Simon idiot?" she smirked.

Nodding dryly, he said "Well, close enough. I'm sorry I startled you before, beautiful"

Raising an eyebrow, she regarded him "Kyaara" she said.

Leaning forward, he gave her a hug, "Beautiful Kyaara" he mumbled, and she gave a growling snigger.

"I think I'm starting to like you" she said drolly, and he chuckled, before getting up and gesturing towards the cave.

"Umm, well.... I feel like some breakfast. I still have a couple of those food bars left. Do you want to join me?"

Getting up, she shook the dust from her coat, before leading the way, tail raised.

"Only as you've ask so nicely" she murmured, and he followed her with a grin.

_________________

Splitting the remaining bars, they both felt much better with something substantial in their stomachs. Simon leaned against the cave wall, the heat from the fire somewhat excessive in the late morning air. He watched her cleaning her paws carefully, long tongue flicking between the "fingers", and swiping across her extended claws.

"Kyaara?" he asked hesitantly, and she looked over towards him, tongue still poking through her lips, almost making him giggle.

"Hmm?" she replied.

"Errr, not wanting to be rude, but what exactly are you? I've never heard of anything like you in this area?"

She got up and surprised him by dropping against him, on her back with her head in his lap. Hesitant at first, he began slow stroking down her neck and across her chest, eliciting a deep rumble from the contented creature.

Eventually, she opened her eyes, regarding him solemnly.

"Kiama. We live in the frozen wastes. We never normally come this far from our homes way up north. It's hot here, and the humans hunt us."

He nodded, before surprising her by leaning down and planting a gentle kiss on her muzzle. A kiss she readily returned until, breaking from him with a gasp, she shot him a sudden glance and continued.

"Yes, well, most humans hunt us. You being the exception, I guess. So, we avoid your territories. When I found myself needing some space, I thought this would be the perfect direction to travel, putting some distance between myself and my home"

She shrugged both shoulders, which sent a quirky grin across his features as the sight of her, head in his lap and spreadeagled across the floor, struck him as awfully amusing for a moment. However, as he considered her words, his brow furrowed, and he paused in his caressing strokes.

"Why did you leave? Didn't you like it there?"

She sighed, pressing her head back and closing her eyes. "It was a bit more complicated than that" she said quietly, "I needed some space from... someone. He... He was becoming a problem"

Staring down at her, he resumed his fondling. "I hope I'm not a problem for you" he whispered, and she brought her eyes to meet his suddenly.

"No. I don't think you're a problem" she said, and he leaned down to kiss her again, as she wrapped her arms around him, drawing him to her.

_________________

With the weather holding and the day progressing, Simon eventually brought up the question he'd wanted to ask her all morning.

"I need to go back" he said sadly, knowing he needed to return to his studies if he had the slightest hope of ever becoming independent in the future.

She blinked at him, before nodding slightly.

Looking at her again, he said "Do... Do you want to come with me?"

She started, looking at him searchingly.

"Come where?" she said finally, and he looked away a moment.

"Back to my home" he said simply, searching her face for a reaction.

"With you?" she asked, and as he nodded, she continued "Yes. I want to go with you"

He stared at her, as a smile crept across his face. Then the reality hit, and he frowned suddenly, giving her a searching look.

"It will be a lot different to the sort of life you're used to, you understand? It could even be a little dangerous for you."

She gave a surprisingly human shrug, before replying philosophically "Life is dangerous. Every day is one you might not live through. Can it be any harder than here?"

Not to have his concerns dismissed so readily, he shook his head slowly. "Seriously, Kyaara. You will be subject to a lot of notice. Some of it may be quite negative. Are you sur..."

His reply ended in a grunt, as she pounced onto him, dropping her weight on his chest with an "Oooof!"

"I am coming!" she replied simply, nose pressed to his own.

The smile they exchanged was more than proof her decision was the correct one.

____________________

By early afternoon, they began the long journey back to his parent's land, taking advantage of the clear spell of weather gifted them by the Gods. Striding side by side, Simon bombarded her with questions about herself, her life and her homeland. She replied amicably enough, although on some topics she was quite reticent, giving him a sideways glance before deftly changing the subject. Most of these topics centred around herself inflicted exile from her homeland, as well as her place within it. After a few attempts, he abandoned the topic, not wanting to pry into what was obviously a sore topic for her.

However, he did gain an incredible understanding of the Kiama society; one that he knew even his own university had little knowledge of. Her somewhat dry description of the humans living in the areas adjoining the northern waste was amusing, if apt. Barbarians they were, and not particularly civilised ones at that, although she had never met one herself as they were rarely captured alive. The fact they considered her kind to be shadowy snow demons, hell bent on killing any human brave (or stupid) enough to enter the wastelands, was likely a good contributing factor to this. She seemed resigned to the fact; in general, humans and her kin were antithesis for each other, and avoidance was better than confrontation. Especially given the likely outcome of such an encounter resulted in the death of one or the other.

Regardless, the Kiama had a flourishing society shared with other winter species inhabiting the wilds, including snow dragons, of which Simon had only heard vague, mysterious rumours. That such creatures not only existed, but were contributing members to a civilisation totally outside humanity's understanding was incredible, but he never for a moment doubted the truth of her words.

In reply, he spoke freely about his own life and family, not glossing over the more morbid bits of their history. She studied him on a number of occasions, at his dry description of their often confused and backwards ideas and theology. Nor did she fail to see the pain hidden behind some of the words; certainly he had issues there she felt uncomfortable in broaching. In respect to his sire, his comments were particularly troubling. As far as his brothers were concerned, though, his feelings were quite clear. While he didn't specifically state he loathed them, he certainly felt a great deal of anger towards them, which could be felt simmering beneath his words. When he recounted some of the more "amusing pranks" they had played on him as a child, her lip curled in a silent growl, hackles raised slightly in sympathy.

What a bunch of ground grubs, she thought to herself, not as willing to dismiss their more atrocious actions as simply the juvenile playing of the young. Had their situations been reversed, she'd have ripped the lot of them new rectums.

His university days were discussed in a much more positive light, and she was fascinated at the world he described, filled with nothing but learning and intellectual advancement. Kyaara herself, while the superlative warrior, preferred the outdoor life, although her family had insisted her "education" was as complete as could be made, given her position...

Shaking her head, she let those thoughts drift from her mind. Another land, another life, she whispered to herself, before returning to his rather amusing, and animated, description of the experimental failures he'd made during his early studies.

The days swept by way too quickly, spent in a daydream of talk and laughter. Truth be, neither had enjoyed themselves anywhere near this much before, and their nights spent in close contact further cemented the bond already formed between them.

Everything was perfect, he thought, until after a week's travel they finally entered his families lands, and encountered his brother and his cronies patrolling the borders.

Kyaara was the first to sense the approaching horses, pausing in mid step while cocking her ears alertly. After a moment, realising she was no longer besides him, he turned to her, receiving a hissed "quiet" to his query. Trusting in her judgement, he stood watching her intently until she turned to him with dropped ears.

"Large four legger's" she said tersely, "In a group. Not alone, either. I can sense humans with them"

His face dropped. It could be only one thing; border patrols sent out by his father.

Worse still, he knew who had been rostered on for this season. His brother Kale and his "friends".

Shit.

It wasn't that he hated his brother.

He did, with a vengeance, but it wasn't that.

It was more that being caught out here, alone, was reminisce of the many unpleasant situations they'd placed him in as a child.

The fact he was no longer one was academic. Even upon his recent return home, he'd bore the coarse remarks and innuendo, even during formal dinner with the family. His father, always one for the ribald, did nothing to stem their ongoing harassment, often joining their laughter as they made fun of his choice of lifestyle, and lack of what they considered "manly essence".

He'd bore their torments stoically, determined not to give them the slightest satisfaction knowing their comments were biting deeply. In a few weeks he'd be gone, and they could be forgotten; a pox on the lot of them!

Damn it! Why was he unlucky enough to encounter them now, alone, so far from home?

A sudden pressure against his legs drew his gaze downwards, to meet Kyaara's worried stare. Dropping down, he gave her a sudden hug, surprising her with its fervour.

He held her head gently, staring into her golden eyes, and told her his fears.

"It's probably a border patrol, beautiful. If it is, it's also likely to be my brother and his cronies. I can deal with them, but if they spot you, they might do something... unfortunate. I need you to stay hidden until they're gone. Will you do that for me?"

She stared at him in return, noticing the worry, and even fear, now darkening his gaze. With a sigh, she nodded, reluctantly slipping from his side to disappear into the nearby bushes.

He watched her go with relief. No telling what the fools might do if they spotted her; of the few things they did best, thinking wasn't one of them.

However, as he turned to meet the now audible sound of horses approaching, he heard her quiet voice from behind.

"I am hidden, but I am watching..."

Nodding, he set his chest and met the riders with lips tightly set.

__________________

Kale was having a bad day. Truth be told, his entire month had been a disaster.

Especially since the runt had returned home for his "manhood" ceremony.

He snorted to himself, tugging sharply on the reins to bring his mount to task. The animal responded with a whinny, weary beyond measure and mouth sore from the constant abuse. The hunting had been appalling; with nary a decent kill to be had, and topped off with the ongoing nagging jokes from his friends, his temper was on edge to the point of exploding.

"Hey Kale!" shouted his erstwhile friend, Tay. "Simon has sprouted a good few inches on you since he was last here. Perhaps in more ways than one! Pray we should be renaming him "the giant" and using his old title of "runt" elsewhere?"

Teeth grinding, he spun on the man in question, bringing his horse alongside. Dwarfed beside the huge soldier, Kale stared up at his grinning countenance with ill humour.

"Oh, how very amusing, Tay! How about we give you the title of "halfwit" in return?"

Tay grinned broadly at his friend's discomfort. "Oh, Kale, it be only a jest! We all know of your prowess, in so many ways! After all, you ensure we are kept informed often enough on how you "measure up". I'm sure Simon has nothing on someone as fruitful as yourself"

Snorting angrily, Kale returned to the trail, replying "Don't you forget it!"

Tay rolled his eyes to his colleagues behind his back, receiving a quiet snort of laughter in response. They all knew how much Kale loathed his younger sibling, and his long awaited return had done nothing to soften the animosity. Simon had always had the looks, and now both the height and build to match. Kale... well... Kale didn't and, unfortunately, he clearly knew it. Inferiority complex aside, his constant obsession with his brother since his return left his friends amused, although only in secret. Knowing Kale's foul humour and often violent tendencies, they kept their teasing muted.

It was the horse's sudden snort that alerted them to the shadowy presence leaning against a tree on the trail ahead.

Tay squinted, trying to identify the stranger. Breathing sharply, he recognised Simon's lanky form, just as his brother did.

Shit. This wasn't good.

Kale drew his mount to a stop before his brother, who regarded him silently. With a false smile crossing his face, he dismounted and approached his kin, enveloping him in his arms in welcome.

"Brother!" he shouted. "Fancy seeing you here!"

Simon regarded his brother without expression, secretly hoping he'd simply vanish. Such luck was beyond him, as his brother wrapped an arm around his shoulders, turning him to his friends and crying "Look who we have here! The runt has returned a man!"

Shaking himself free from the suddenly grasping arm, Simon rounded on his brother, ready to retort angrily. Sensing Kale was waiting for such a reaction, he instead let a tight smile cross his lips, turning to the rest of the small group and nodding in recognition. Tay, dismounting to join the pair, approached and grasped Simon tightly by the arm, a brief, true smile lighting his features.

"Good to see you, Tay" he said quietly, and received a nod in reply, before being pulled into a tight hug.

"Good to see you too, Simon" Tay said loudly, before whispering into his ear "Ware. He's in a foul humour today"

Pulling away, Simon eyed Tay cautiously. Of his brother's friends, only Tay had ever shown him any courtesy whatsoever, often stepping in to deny his brother his more brutal attention. Over the years, they had formed a discrete friendship of their own, and he had a deep respect for the huge guardsman. Not that they had ever let this on to Kale, as Tay had joked that he was too ill suited to understand the concept of "shared acquaintances", but on more than one occasion, Tay had been there to pull him out of trouble.

Kale interrupted their reunion with a snide laugh.

"So, where is it, brother?"

Rolling his eyes, he turned his attention back to Kale, and replied. "Where is what?"

"Your bloody beast, of course!! Wasn't that what you came all the way out here to find?"

Simon groaned. Of all the...

"It's a boar, Kale. Nothing that exciting."

Turning back to Tay, he felt a hand grip his shoulder, yanking him back around to the frowning face of his brother.

"I did not ask you what it was. I asked you where it was!"

Pulling away sharply, Simon snapped, staring down at Kale grimly.

"I don't have it anymore. A huge reptile took the carcass after I killed it"

Kale's anger evaporated, replaced with a look of smug satisfaction.

"Oh, brother! How unfortunate! Do you hear that?? Kale has lost his pig head!!"

At the collective laugh from his friends, he waved his arms expansively and continued.

"And where is this huge lizard of which you speak, brother? Why did its head not replace that of the pig you sought and found, only to lose so disappointingly?"

Simon, losing patience with the ragging, replied angrily "Oh, I don't know, Kale. Perhaps we should ask Charles where it is? He had a close enough view of it. From the inside anyway!"

Tay cringed, ready to step between the pair as needed. He knew just how sore the subject of their older brothers demise sat with Kale, who had idolised the lad since he was sold enough to walk, and for Simon to bring it up now was unwise.

Kales eyes narrowed, and he glared at his sibling. "You dare mention that now?" he hissed, hand reaching for the pommel of his sword.

Simon, aware of his brothers growing anger, let a grim smile play across his face.

Enough is enough, he thought.

No more of this. He can find someone else to torment.

Leaning forward, he smiled broadly, and spat into the dust at his brothers feet.

"The truth often hurts, brother. Probably not as much as being disembowelled and eaten alive by a great big lizard, but as they say in the city, it does suck to be him!"

With a roar, Kale drew his blade and attempted to rush his brother, standing so mockingly before him. Tay lunged forward, catching his arm, but received a clout from the pommel to his head in reply, sending him spinning to the dirt unconscious. Unhindered, Kale returned his gaze to Simon, whose hand rested on his own weapon, and began a steady advance towards him.

Until a deep, menacing growl rumbled through the surrounding forest, halting him in his tracks.

Simon cursed silently, knowing he wasn't in any real danger from his idiot sibling. Kale couldn't pick his nose properly, let alone a fight, but the damage had been done. Seeing his brother spin to seek the source of the disturbance, as his friends draw their weapons uncertainly, he backed towards the bushes behind, hoping to hide her presence a little longer. He knew it was fruitless, when all eyes suddenly turned upon the huge creature that materialised behind him, advancing to his side while growling deeply.

Kale's jaw dropped, and he turned to his friends for support; all of whom were backing hurriedly away in fear. He brought up his weapon, and turned back towards Simon, who smiled grimly at him unperturbed.

"Still want to discuss this further, Brother?" Simon said, dropping a hand to caress Kyaara's side.

"This isn't over!" Kale hissed. "Your demon there won't protect you forever!"

Kyaara stared at him, eyes narrowing dangerously as she growled louder, before she rumbled and stepped forward "I wouldn't be so sure of that, human. You won't be causing much trouble if I simply kill you now!"

His face blanching at her words, he began a hasty retreat, scrambling over Tay's fallen body as he went. She began her own menacing approach towards him until, with a gape of her jaws, she screamed her defiance at him.

Courage failing, he bolted to his horse, spinning in a cloud of dust as he galloped after the friends who had long since departed, leaving him to his uncertain fate.

Kyaara snorted, turning to Simon who had gently rolled Tay onto his back and was examining the nasty lump on his head in concern. Rubbing against his side, she gave him a satisfied look, receiving a wry grin in return.

"I was handling that, you know" he said dryly, and was answered by a snort of amusement.

"Certainly you were. I bet the boar had thought similarly, before being stuck by your sword".

Chuckling absently, he gave her ears a quick rub, returning to the fallen human with a groan.

"Oh well, might as well spend the night here. We're not going anywhere with him like this"

Kyaara nodded, before looking at him again and sighing.

"I'm sorry. It's just...."

Shaking his head and giving her another hug, he told her "It's OK, beautiful. I'm glad you're here. It shortened a situation that could have otherwise gotten quite unpleasant."

Sighing, he turned his gaze to where his brother's party had retreated, and pulled on his goatee thoughtfully. "It's not over though, I'm afraid" he said, and received a silent nod from her in reply.

Standing suddenly, he took in the surroundings. "Good a place as anywhere, I guess. Let's set up for the night"

____________

Tay slowly regained consciousness to hear the quiet whisper of something very large walking around him. Cracking an eyelid slightly, he made out a huge grey furred paw step before him, as a cold nose touched his ear. Frozen in fear, he lay motionless as the nose withdrew, and the creature stepped away from him. Daring to open his eye further, he watched the beast move away towards the fire, approaching the human who sat with his back to it.

Shit! It was Simon!

Suddenly tense, he prepared to shout a warning, only to have the cry die off his lips as the creature rubbed itself against him, receiving a warm smile and caress in return. He could hear it begin to purr loudly, as Simon wrapped his arms around it, drawing it close against him.

What the hell was going on?

Sitting up gingerly, hand to his throbbing head, he coughed quietly, startling the two, who turned to regard him warily.

"Where's Kale?" Tay asked with a groan, wincing as new spears of pain shot through his temples. Hands trembling, he rose unsteadily to his feet, moving to the space opposite the fire from Simon and his "friend", and dropped heavily to the grassy ground. Reaching upwards, he grabbed the water skin Simon threw toward him, taking a long pull from the icy water before wiping his beard with a sleeve, and tossing the skin back with a nod of thanks.

"Probably still running" Simon replied absently, returning to caress the huge beasts head as it dropped beside him in obvious pleasure at his ministrations.

Raising an eyelid, Tay regarded it for a long moment, before raising his eyes to see Simon staring at him intently.

"Soooo..." he said uncertainly, returning his gaze to the hand brushing its fur. "What...?"

Looking down at his furry companion, Simon smiled, and said "Tay, meet Kyaara. Probably the closest thing to a heraldic beast I'll find. She's accompanying me back to the university"

"She?" Tay said with confusion. "You're taking a wild, untamed beast back to the city? Are you crazy?"

The creature raised its head, regarding him so intently he began to feel more than uncomfortable.

"Who are you calling an untamed beast, human?" it clearly said in a deep voice, before returning its head to Simon's lap.

Tay froze, staring at the thing in fear until Simon gave him a grin, and told him to relax.

"Kyaara is more than capable of understanding you, Tay. She saved my life after I ran into Charles's lizard friend near the bad lands. She's decided to keep me company for a while, as well as send Kale packing, with loaded breeches."

Grinning wryly, Tay regarded them both for a time. "Kale won't like that very much" he said, rubbing his aching forehead absently. "In fact, he's probably already telling your father about the demon you sent to attack him. Shit, it's likely he's even now organising a mob to track you down."

Simon snorted, and the furred creature in his lap sat up to regard Tay intently.

"We will deal with them" she growled ominously, receiving a wary look in return.

"In the morning!" Simon said with finality. "We need sleep. We can discuss it further then"

Tay gave a tired yawn, regarding the pair as they curled up together across from him. Leaning back with his arms behind his head, he stared at the stars, and wondered not for the first time about the humour of the Gods, and why they felt throwing him into the joke was so hilarious.

With that thought, he dropped off into a deep sleep.

____________

The next morning Tay woke with the dawn, rubbing the large bruise on his temple absently as he slowly sat up, groaning as his cold bones creaked in abuse at the uncomfortable sleeping arrangements. Looking around warily, he spotted Simon still curled up deeply asleep underneath the oak tree near there fire. Of the creature, he could see nothing, and he squinted into the underbrush uncertainly after it.

"Looking for something?" a deep growling voice spoke into his ear from behind, sending him lunging forward with a curse!

"By the Gods! Give a man some notice before doing that!" he gasped, turning to confront the huge grey beast sitting behind him, with what was clearly a large grin across its muzzle.

The beast giggled (yes, giggled!) at him, before approaching him, its muzzle inches from his face,

"Not scared of me, are you?" she purred, a smirk clearly evident, and he dropped with a chuckle, eyeing her curiously.

"Well, if you managed to tame Simon, then you have to be somewhat civilised." he replied, receiving a gruff chuckle in return.

Looking her over, he unconsciously reached out a hand tentatively, before withdrawing it quickly. "So, you are real then?" he said, receiving a wry look in reply.

"That depends on what you choose to define as "real", I would imagine", she said. "I know a few ice dragons who would debate that conundrum with you until the world ends; the scaly windbags! Am I flesh and blood? Why don't you find out?"

Seeing the dare in her eyes, he reached out again, this time with more conviction, and drew his fingers through her chest fur, admiring the way his fingers sank into the deep pelt. The rumbling purr he received in response initially startled him, but it wasn't long before he was caressing her head in bemusement, as her closed eyes belied her enjoyment.

"Not corrupting my friend, are you, Tay" said Simon from behind him, and he jumped slightly, removing his hand guiltily.

As Simon dropped beside Kyaara, resting an arm over her shoulders, she leaned against him with a smile, resting her head against his neck affectionately. When he saw Tay's raised eyebrow, he chuckled, rubbing her head and saying "Long story. We can discuss it as we go. But if we want to even dream of making the keep by nightfall, we need to get going now"

Tay looked around. "I don't suppose my horse stayed behind, did it?" and groaned at the double negative head shakes he received from them. "Oh well. Walking it is. Lucky I wore my heavy boots yesterday"

"You're going to need them" said Simon wryly, and the trio got up to start their long journey home.

_______________________

It was mid afternoon before the first signs of "civilisation" came into view; the mud brick houses squatting untidily in their haven of filth and grime, slotted together in dirty abandonment. Kyaara eyed them curiously, but stayed close to Simon's side after his caution not to wander. Last thing she needed was a jab in the side with a sharpened stick, or worst, so she complied without argument.

Perhaps it was the presence of the two well dressed keep folk that kept the peasants away. Perhaps it was the huge cat creature strolling beside them. Either way, they were not bothered by the usual rabble of beggars and well-wishers as they left the wild lands and travelled through increasingly inhabited lands.

The cultivations seemed to be doing well enough; a decent rainy season followed by a milder winter keeping the produce growing. But still, they encountered no one in their travels, tending the crops.

Kyaara spoke up softly, the two humans regarding her intently.

"The humans are there, hidden inside" she growled, eyeing the buildings with ears laid back.

"I'm not surprised" said Tay, giving her a wry glance. "You scared the shit out of me. Imagine what you do to them"

She snorted softly, returning her gaze to the empty country around them. "Something is wrong" she stated pointedly. "There is no human noise anywhere I can hear. Even if they were scared of me, there would be some noise. Human screeches are painful on the ears!"

Simon, surprised, looked around, seeing the grim look suddenly appear on Tay's face.

"She's right" said Tay, hand edging to his weapons. "This isn't normal"

They continued further for a time, still encountering no human presence. Finally, having had enough, Tay strode to one dwelling, banging sharply on the rough timber door, and demanding to be let in. A high pitched scream answered his knock, along with a shriek to "Go away!"

Having had enough, he told the inhabitants in a threatening voice if they didn't open the door immediately, he was going to break it down and come in anyway. A hurried whispered conversation could be heard through the rough walls, before it was cracked open slightly, revealing a rough, bearded face clearly fearful of the big human's presence.

Deciding against giving the door a hard boot to open it properly, he leant down to the man, wrinkling his nose slightly at the musty, unwashed smell coming from within, and said "What on earth is going on here? Where is everyone, and why are you all hiding inside?"

The elderly man whispered through cracked, rotting teeth. "Demons, sire! There's a plague of them coming from the deep woods! We be all told to keep within, or risk being mauled, or worse!"

Eyebrows raised, Tay looked thoughtful, before saying "What demons? Who told you about demons?"

Eyes widening, the whites glaring in the dim interior light, the man replied "Why, Sir Kale! He came back with his party yesterday, yelling out that demons had taken his friend Sir Tay, and had only retreated when he chased them off with his sword. He is the best of us all, Sir... Umm...?"

Grin splitting his face, Tay replied drolly. "Sir Tay, actually. Kale's friend."

The old man nearly collapsed, hanging onto the door frame in fear. "But you're dead, sire! Sir Kale told us such!"

"Yes, well news of my death is greatly exaggerated, I'm afraid. I'm quite fit and healthy, as you can see."

"What about the demons?"

"There are no demons! Kale is an idiot! Lord Naffrey's son Simon has befriended a forest creature, and has brought it back for examination by the university. One look, and brave sir Kale shit his lordly breeches, before running away like a scalded rabbit! By the Gods, do you people believe every banal rumour that you're told?"

The old man, less fearfully, replied "He is the son of our lord, Sir Tay. Why should we not believe him?"

Thinking quickly, Tay threw open the door, grabbing the man by the front of his jerkin, who let out a shriek of fear. "Look! You have nothing to worry about! I'll show you the creature myself!

Dragging the man out to where Simon and Kyaara were seated in the shade, he plonked the villager before the startled pair, where he hovered with eyes downcast, shaking visibly.

Leaning down, he brought the old man's head up, pointing it at the pair. "Now, what do you see?"

Looking up in fear, he replied in a wavering voice "A... a really, really big cat, Sir Tay!"

"Can you see a demon?" he said?

Searching around, the villager returned to looking at Kyaara. "Nnnooo. Just a big cat!"

Looking up at Simon's wry look, Tay winked, before glancing down at her and clandestinely putting a finger over his lips, indicating silence, and said "Simon, bring Kyaara here"

Simon looked down at her, before rubbing her ears and motioning her forward, to where Tay grabbed the peasants hand, and rubbing it in her fur. While terrified, he continued stroking the cat creature, even when Tay released his hand. In a few moments, much of the fear departed, although he still gave the fang filled muzzle a dubious look.

Finally, indicating the man to sit back, he looked him in the eyes, and said "OK. You've seen it. You've touched it. Is it a demon?"

The old man sighed, eyeing the creature tiredly while leaning back against the oak tree, and said "No, Sir Tay. It's a big cat. T'is no demon."

Satisfied, Tay said "Alright. Now we're getting somewhere. Go get your family, and bring them out here! NOW!"

With his trembling returning, the man motioned frantically for his family to join him, from where they'd been eyeing the proceedings from the doorway in fear. His wife, hesitating, fell behind, as the two children raced forward, confronting Kyaama, who gave Tay a look clearly inferring he was going to get it later. As the children threw themselves against her, stroking and pulling at her long fur, she gave a long suffering sigh, and dropped to her haunches to accede to their ministrations.

Soon enough, other doors opened, the owners cautiously approaching to see what was occurring. Within a short time, the entire village was in the square, children all over the patient Kiama, who bore the attention stoically. With Simon animatedly providing the story of his rescue by the creature, they stood amazed (albeit somewhat doubtful), gazing down at her in disbelief.

Then the crunch time came.

Simon tensed, ready for any reaction, and said "So, as most of you know, I am a mage in training. Since she was obviously intelligent, I cast a diplomancy spell on her, to see if I could get her to understand me. It worked a bit too well, I'm afraid, and she now has the power of speech, also. I am aware of what Kale has told you all, but the fact is, she's not a demon. Just a wanderer from a distant land, who was caught up by a spell I cast, gone awry."

The village leader, a hulking brute of a man, stepped forward and sneered. "Are you telling us it can talk?"

Simon stood tall, giving him a steely look, and said "No, I'm telling you she can talk. Very well, in fact. Now you know what she is, she can tell you herself anything you like!"

"It's about time" Kyaara grumbled, spilling a hoard of peasant offspring from her back, and joining Simon before the startled town leader.

"So, what do you want to know?"

_____________________

There was a party, of course.

Hell, no large group of peasants can even sneeze without turning it into a celebration, replete with mead, roast suckling pig, and a wealth of well-wishers.

By the time midnight approached, half tanked on something that smelt nearly as bad as it tasted, but with an alcoholic content likely combustible, Tay joined Kyaara and Simon near the fire pit, where she'd been enthralling the villagers with tales from the northern wastes.

"...so as the Ice Giants attacked, the dragons surrounded their leaders from above, dropping boulders to crash haphazardly on their heads, breaking the assault and ending the war. T'was many an Ice Giant who ran home that day several inches shorter, I can tell you!"

Lying in front of the glare from the fire, the flickering flame gleamed across her coat, casting dull, flickering shadows on the ground behind. A large group of enthralled children (and an even larger group of enthralled adults) surrounded her, listening with gaping mouths to her tales of battles in places beyond their comprehension.

Kyaara lowered her head, golden eyes gleaming ferally in the firelight, and continued with her story.

"It wasn't the end of it, though. Ice Giants are as stubborn and pig headed as wild boar. Rather than cut their losses, many regrouped to assault the fortress walls the following morn. This time they were less fortunate. Rather than boulders, the dragon leaders had a better plan. This time, they rose carrying mighty, dripping barrels beneath them, releasing them to unleash unholy hell on the poor, pitiful enemy below."

Voice dropping to a whisper, the eager crowd leaned forward, as she quietly finished the saga...

"The barrels contained a month's worth of privy soils! How they ran away that day! Even now, the Ice Giants can amass no further trouble, as they can always be smelt well before they are seen!"

The crowd erupted in laughter, adults and children alike. Kyaara sat back on her haunches with a smirk, accepting the accolades and cheers from the audience with aplomb. When the amusement finally died into excited conversations, she took her bow, much to the disappointment of the crowd.

With a wry smile, she told them "leave off, you lot! I need to do my part to stave off the Ice Giants! Where is the privy?"

The crowd broke into laughter again, and it took another few minutes before Simon could rescue her from their clutches, as they pleaded for yet another story.

As the pair finally made their way into the chill night air, he turned to her with a chuckle.

"For someone not having met a human in the flesh before, you certainly know how to impress them. But, really? Privy soiling?"

She sat back chuckled nastily, rubbing both paws together in glee. "Bah, peasants!" she scoffed, before they sought some privacy from the wild excitement behind them. "Furred, scaled or bare flesh, simply mention the unmentionable, and you have their attention every time!"

Simon laughed loudly, bowing gracefully to her "Oh, my princess, your experience in these matters is beyond reproach!"

He rose to continue, only to step back in surprise as she paused at his words, a look of consternation and fear clearly evident in her face. Recognising something was wrong, he dropped down before her, giving her cheek a caress, which she responded to absently.

"Kyaara, what is it? What did I say?"

She turned away with a growl, trying to ignore his words. "Nothing" she said abruptly, rising to leave.

Given she was becoming increasingly upset, he rose with her in concern.

"Don't give me that. Something is wrong, and we both know it. Can't you share this with me, given everything else we've shared?"

She gave him a hopeless look, staring into his eyes, before spinning suddenly, crashing through the underbrush as she made her escape.

Cursing fluently, he followed her diligently.

Why was it always brambles, he asked himself.

Damn it!

_____________

She wasn't hard to find, fortunately. Her short flight had ended with her lying crumpled beneath a mighty oak tree, moonlight lighting her ghostly form to identify her resting spot.

A low keening croon whispered through the night, replete with desolation and loneliness.

Gods, she was crying, he realised, hurrying to her side and drawing her against him with a sigh.

"S'okay, beautiful. I'll always be here for you. Never fear."

Her wild sobs continued for some time, as she let the sadness escape from the depths it had lain until, finally spent, she collapsed into his lap, paws wrapped tightly around him and face pressed firmly into his chest.

"I'm sorry" she said, the words muffled in his clothes.

He hushed her quietly, stroking his fingers through her dense fur and comforting her as best he could.

"It's ok, sweetheart. You have nothing to be sorry for. I should have taken the hint, and left the sore subject alone"

Silent for a moment, he felt her twitch a few times, before she spoke.

"My father is the ruler of the frozen plains." she stammered, expecting his rejection.

Simon sat silent for a moment, taking in the amazing revelation.

"I'm not surprised, Kyaara. I've had suspicions for a while now."

She pushed away from him, regarding him in disbelief until, with a smile, he kissed her softly, her long whiskers tickling his nose.

"I may be human, but I'm not totally an idiot" he said with a grin, reminding her of the first words they exchanged. "I have known you were hiding something for a while, and given your silence on certain subjects, I pieced together quite a bit of it myself. Princess, I hadn't known. But that you were running away from something your family were forcing you to do, related to a partner you didn't want, was clear enough. I also knew you were of good breeding, by your attitude and actions. You may not be human, but some things transcend species boundaries."

Looking at her stricken face, he touched noses with her, eliciting almost a smile, before continuing softly.

"Do you really think it makes a difference to me, beautiful? I love you for being you, not for who you were. I will always be here for you, regardless of your past. I promise you, I will stay by your side as long as you want me to."

When she dropped her head he nuzzled her ears, causing a giggle to escape her before she gave a deep sigh and rested herself against him.

"It was my fault, in part" she whispered, hiding her eyes from his. "He was the ruling prince in waiting of our neighbouring kingdom. He was so strong, and seemed so sincere, no one knew the evil that resided deep within him. With his history; his father's death, his mother vanishing, older siblings lost; we'd thought him simply a victim of unfortunate circumstance, not realising his "misfortunes" were calculated from the beginning. By the time this became clear, it was too late to call off the life-bonding ceremony. My father tried, for my sake if nothing else, but when war was threatened, he had no choice but to continue with the bonding. Given that, I took the only recourse I could; I ran away, freeing him from his promise, and putting the onus for the situation on myself. Saved my father face, and redirected their anger elsewhere. So I ran and ran, escaping the soldiers they sent after me, eventually crossing the borders into human lands, where we eventually met after many months. I hope they choose not to continue pursuing me, but that is always the risk I face. Not thinking about it is my only relief"

He gave her a hug which she returned, and they exchanged a long stare, blue human eyes gazing into golden ones.

"I will be with you always, beloved. You face nothing alone, and nothing is beyond the two of us."

She nodded, and they hugged again, before separating.

"We should return to Tay. No telling what mischief he'll get up to, if he's left alone"

With a swish of her tail, they made their way back, his hand caressing her neck as she strode besides him, almost happy at last.

____________________

Tay had found trouble aplenty, but for a change, it came from elsewhere.

With a billow of dust and jingle of harnesses, Kale rode into the village at the head of a twenty strong party of keep militia, halting in the village square before dismounting to confront the locals. Many of them eyed the soldiers with disgust, picking themselves up from the dirt where they had dived to avoid the sharp hooves of their horses. Celebration terminated, they began grouping in the dark within the clearing behind the fire pit, angry mutterings at the interruption taking over their conversations.

"Where is the elder!" he demanded, staring at the peasants mingling around the soldiers.

Pushing through the throng, the huge elder approached Kale, bowing slightly in respect, before asking "Here, Milord. What can we help you with this evening?"

Striding angrily over to the village leader, Kale drew himself up to his full height, barely reaching the man's shoulder, and yelled "What the hell are you ignorant idiots doing? Did I not warn you that there was a demon loose in the area?"

The angry mutterings from the crowd rose in volume, with several of the soldiers eyeing the villagers nervously, hands resting on swords as they took in the belligerent mob.

Crossing his hands over his chest, the elder frowned down at Kale, irritated at his attitude.

"Yes, you did, Milord. Same as you mentioned that Sir Tay was dead, and that Sir Simon was possessed by this demon. However, we have had contact with Sir Simon, and he seems quite in possession of his senses, milord."

Almost screaming, Kale yelled at the man, spitting into his face in his fury.

"Are you telling me you have harboured this demon lover? By the Gods, are you mad?"

While attempting to maintain his respectful demeanour, the elder leant forward, bending to meet the angry face of his lord's son, and said quietly "I consider the safety and security of this village with my every thought, milord. I am well aware of what you told us, and acted on the information in my possession. This suggested milord may be mistaken."

Face turning white, Kale stepped back, ready to draw his blade, before being restrained by the lieutenant of the party, who eyed the elder with displeasure.

"The understanding is that Sir Tay has been killed, Elder" said the soldier, giving Kale a steely look to quell his fury.

A voice broke through the crowds muttering, causing the soldiers to react with surprise.

"Oh, I'm quite alright, Patrick" said Tay, swaying slightly as he pushed through the crowd to join the group. "Somewhat inebriated, thanks to the generosity of my friends here, but quite, quite alive, as you can see."

Turning somewhat drunkenly, he glared at Kale, who gazed in shock at his erstwhile friend.

"No thanks to you, arsehole!" he spluttered, pointing at Kale with a wavering finger. "Had it been a real demon we met, I'd have been dead, for sure. Instead, you left me there to an unholy fate, after striking me unconscious! A pox on you, bloody coward!"

Turning red at his words, Kale pulled from the soldier, replying with almost a shriek. "How DARE you! You would dare talk to your lord in that manner?"

Flicking off his response with an upturned finger, he turned to the lieutenant, and said "I was left to the mercy of the Gods, thanks to the bravery of our lordling, here. Thankfully, Simon was at hand to minister to me, while his friend, nothing more than a large cat, kept him company, and better company I couldn't ask for!"

"The demon spoke!" Yelled Kale, trying to escape the grip of the soldiers the lieutenant had signalled to hold him. "My men and I saw it with our own eyes!"

Eyeing the lieutenant, Tay explained "Simon's doing, I'm afraid. A spell gone awry. She is simply a visitor from far lands, who may look different in skin, but is as civilised as you or I. Smart she is, and friendly. She's been entertaining the villagers here all evening with tales of her homeland. By the Gods, Kale, if even a lowly peasant can readily come to comprehend that, I'd have thought you'd have less difficulty in doing so. Seems I was mistaken!"

With that, he turned to the rude timber benches lining the fire, drawing a tankard of the evil mead from the barrel, and drinking heavily.

Of course, Simon and Kyaara chose just that moment to return to the village.

"DEMON!" shrieked Kale, struggling against his minders as he reached for his sword. The lieutenant looked to him with a frown, gesturing to the soldiers behind, who moved forward to assist their fellows in holding down the furious lordling.

Turning back to the crowd, he set his lips as the peasants moved forward, initially a few but then en masse, to stand between the soldiers and the Kiama. The elder, face set in return, again crossed his arms, and said "No one is hurting lady Kyaara, milord. She has been good with us, especially the young-un's, and she doesn't deserve no harm."

Sighing, the Lieutenant rubbed his face wearily, as Simon and Kyaara forced their way through the crowd, joined by Tay who stood somewhat unsteadily besides them. Looking down at the huge cat, the Lieutenant shook his head, turning to his fellows and ordering them to stand down. When a few hesitated, he barked the order again, as they hurriedly obeyed, excluding those supporting the raving Kale, who was all but frothing at the mouth in fury.

Turning back to them, he dropped to a knee before Kyaara, removing his helm and running fingers through his long, greying hair as he regarded her.

"You speak, I believe" he said to her, and at her somewhat surprised nod, he said "I have met your kind before in the northern wastes. As I recall, we were trapped in a blizzard, desperate for shelter, and all but dead. I was only young then, thinking I'd not make my next name day. When all was thought lost, one of your kind came to us, guiding us all to shelter, before departing just as mysteriously. When we had thought we were all dead, at our gravest moment, we were saved through an act of kindness by your people. For that, you have my thanks, milady"

She regarded him with unblinking eyes, before nodding. "I remember the story. It was one of the few positive meetings between our people, I understand?"

At his nod, she grinned suddenly, toothy smile showing. "On behalf of my people, you are welcome, then!" she said, and received a wry grin in reply.

Rising, he turned to Simon, reaching out a hand, which was gripped firmly in return.

"I believe we can be of assistance in getting you home, milord" he said, a small smile quirking his craggy face.

Looking at his brother, Simon nodded, before asking "And Kale?"

The lieutenant considered a moment. "Under my command, he is expected to control himself as regards to his rank. He has not done so. I will be reporting his behaviour as unsuitable for command in my report to his father"

Kale, overhearing the conversation, ceased his struggling with a gasp.

"You would not dare!" he almost shrieked. "I am your lord! When my father hears..."

But what the lieutenant dared was unknown, as Kale received a vicious slap to the face by the officer, dropping him into the dirt in stunned silence.

"Enough!" roared the officer at the cowering lordling, "Your father is well aware of your aberrant behaviour. Your attitude has been well noted even by him, and rest assured he is less than pleased with your progress. Your clear lack of leadership qualities is most displeasing to him, and I would suggest you begin to think very carefully as to your future if you continue in this manner!"

Dismissing the now humbled lordling, he turned back to the village Elder, thanking him for his generous courtesy in looking after his guests, before returning to Simon, Kyaara and Tay.

"Tay, I can assume you are still sober enough to manage these two?" he said dryly, giving Simon and Kyaara a wink.

Drawing himself up, Tay nodded. "Not a problem, sir. We will see you in the morning."

Nodding decisively, the Lieutenant advised his men they would be setting up for the rest of the evening in a field nearby, before turning to the Elder with a grin.

"I think we've disturbed your celebrations enough this evening. We will take our leave, and let you get back to it"

With a whoop, the crowd cheered as they departed, as the party really started!

_______________

Soon enough, Simon dragged Kyaara back to the rude hut the Elder had readied for their use. Hanging his oil lantern from a hook protruding from the low roof bearers, he dropped his pack on the dry dirt floor with a sigh. While little more than mud brick walls and a timber framed thatched roof, he made sure the straw filled bedding was fresh, and few bugs inhabited the makeshift mattress. He stripped off his jerkin, shirt and breeches, dropping them across the rough bench lining the wall, before throwing his blanket over the pallet. Dropping onto his back onto the surprisingly comfortable bedding (at least comfortable compared to the ground he'd been sleeping on the past few weeks), he closed his eyes as Kyaara sniffed around the interior curiously. He'd almost slipped into a doze before she dropped on top of him, spread across his chest as she nuzzled his neck affectionately.

He opened his eyes with a start, gazing into her clearly amused ones, before she said with a sultry giggle "Hi there".

Mouth quirked into an ironic grin, he gave her whiskered muzzle a long, long kiss, before leaning back with a gasp for air, and choked back "Hi there!"

The pair shared a long stare, before Kyaara rested her head into the crook of his neck, breath playing warmly across his chest, as he nuzzled her between the ears affectionately, running fingers along the fur of her spine, causing her to quiver in pleasure.

"I like your fur" he whispered to her, and received another gurgling giggle in reply.

"So do I" she replied sombrely, causing him to laugh quietly, hands reaching down her spine to caress the dense fur above her tail.

"I also like your fur against me" he said, even more quietly, running soft fingers across the base of her tail, feeling it arch under his caress as she expressed her pleasure with her deep purring, breath catching as he began caressing lower and lower until....

The door swung open with a crash, and Tay staggered into the hut, grabbing the centre pole, the large grin frozen on his face as he stared at the pair in shock.

After several loaded moments, with the silence becoming unbearable, he turned his gaze from their embrace, coughing suddenly as his eyes scanned the room; anywhere but at them.

Finally, desperately, he simply sighed, looking at the two frozen in mid caress, and let out a wry chuckle, grin plastered across his bearded face.

"Uuh, perhaps I'll find somewhere else to sleep tonight" he said loudly into the room, before Kyaara turned to him and said "Yes, I'd do that. This one's all mine!"

Closing the door behind him with a laugh, Tay leaned against the outside wall, trying to assimilate what he'd just witnessed with his drink addled brain. Certainly, he'd gathered they were close; very close from the contact he'd witnessed, but this... this was a bit more than he could readily process at that moment.

Finally, thoughts somewhat collected, he shrugged to himself, and left to find the Elder, seeking lodgings elsewhere. What the hell, he thought. He loved her. She loved him. Who was he to judge...

_______________

As the door softly closed, Simon turned to Kyaara, who was staring at him in amusement. He couldn't help the wry grin from spreading across his face, chuckling as she broke out into quiet laughter, her chest heaving silently against his own.

Finally, as the amusement broke, she asked "Do you think he might cause any trouble?"

Simon resumed his caress of her back, as she arched against him in pleasure.

"Honestly, I doubt it." He said, running his lips across her long, soft ears. "Far as keep folk go, Tay's pretty easy going. He's seen life outside the boundaries of these lands, and has no delusions things can get... interesting... once outside my father's borders. My family is a different story, but of anyone in the keep, I trust him, Ky. I don't think he'd tell anyone..."

She sighed under his administrations, as his hands resumed their wander to her nether regions. Groaning as they again slipped beneath her tail, she arched against him again, before raising a paw and pressing a long clawed finger against his lips.

"Bide a moment" she said, before getting up carefully, and flipping over onto her back next to him, legs splayed as she pressed against him, gazing at him intently.

"It's only fair" she said, a smile quirking her muzzle, as he leaned over with a smile, running fingers across her chest, before replacing them with gentle lips. A groan escaped her as he began tracing them lightly through her fur, his breath hot against her flesh as he explored her body with lips, fingers and tongue. Nuzzling into her neck, he lifted his head to give her a long, deep kiss, tongues entwined as she returned the contact affectionately.

Pulling back, his lips mere inches from her own, he whispered "I love you, Kyaara", staring into her beautiful eyes as she returned his look, lids half shut as she leaned forward, kissing him again.

"And I, you, my human" she whispered, the heat from her lips searing against his own.

________________

The next morning, the pair woke cuddled together under Simon's travel blanket. He removed his face from its bed in her ruff, breathing deeply of her musky scent as she stirred under his hands.

"Good morn, sweetheart" he murmured, planting a gentle kiss on her ear, which twitched beneath his touch.

"...tickles!" she grunted, swatting at the annoyance with a paw, near catching his nose with her claws.

Chuckling, he slid from underneath the blanket, stretching in the frigid air, before donning his breeches and slipping to the privy. The ground was icy; frost coating the nearby grass; and he stepped quickly across the crackling soil, wincing as the cold bit into his naked feet.

Once done, he closed the makeshift door behind, walking swiftly across the village common, only to spy Tay nursing both a warm brew, and an obvious hangover, sitting on a bench near the remains of the previous evening's fire. Feet outstretched and eyes closed, he looked to be slumbering, so Simon thought to slip past and make his escape, when he saw one eye open, and Tay look at him with a grin.

"Morning" he said, slipping over to allow Simon space to sit. Wincing internally, Simon did so, hands outstretched towards the fire, rubbing his palms together for warmth.

Nodding at the hot mead Tay was drinking, Simon said "That won't help, you know"

Tay grunted, sipping the drink while wincing. "Won't hurt wither" he said, wry grin on his lips.

After a few minutes silence, Tay turned his head to regard him, before saying. "Last night. Did I see...?"

Simon nodded mutely, keeping his gaze on the flickering fire.

Hesitantly, Tay continued "Umm, and do you two... You know...?"

Simon nodded again, this time eyeing Tay for a response.

Turning away, Tay studied the flames himself, before eventually saying "Oh. OK."

Raising an eyebrow, Simon looked at him in surprise. "That's all you have to say about it?"

TY shrugged. "Hey, you two obviously care for each other. Not my business really", while sipping his slowly cooling brew.

Simon sighed, before asking him the question that had worried him since the previous evening.

"Tay? Will you keep it to yourself? If Kale, or worse, my father, found out..."

Giving him a droll smirk, Tay nodded. "S'okay, Simon. As I said, not my problem. Besides, she'd rip me a new one, figuratively and literally, if I did so, right?"

Simon chuckled, and nodded. "Most likely, yeah"

Leaning back, Tay grinned. "Well, if its any consolation, you two make a cute couple. Although she could probably do much better!".

Looking back into the fire, Simon agreed. "Yeah, I know it. But I've fallen head over heels for her. I know she isn't human, but that just doesn't matter anymore. She's smart, funny; hell, not to mention incredibly, amazingly sexy. I love her, Tay, and I've never felt this way about anyone before. So looks like we're stuck with each other."

Regarding him sombrely a moment, Tay nodded, before they both returned to their fire gazing in silence.

______________

After Simon left, Kyaara slipped from the hut to perform her own morning necessities, only to overhear the two humans talking quietly near the fireside. Curious about what had them so distracted she crept closer, only to overhear Simon's declaration of love for her.

Keeping to the morning shadows, she froze uncertainly, mind numb at his words. Her internal voice kept warning he wasn't her kind, but her emotions didn't care. He truly loved her. That's all that mattered.

Sneaking up behind him, she rubbed herself against his back, causing him to let out a sharp cry in surprise. Seeing who it was, he grabbed her into a hug, rubbing her ears vigorously as she pressed against him tightly, with Tay laughing at their antics.

The morning couldn't have been more perfect.

_____________

By mid morning, the keep militia had packed their gear and were ready to depart. Simon and Tay had been offered horses, although Kyaara refused the dubious honour of riding in the supply wagon, making both the quartermaster, and the nervous draft horses pulling it, very happy. Instead, keeping pace alongside, the three spent the trip in conversation, occasionally accompanied by the Lieutenant, who dropped back from the head of the party to join them. Of Kale they saw little; with his privileges revoked he'd been banished to the dusty rear of the troop, a guard left with him to ensure he behaved.

Simon spent considerable time explaining to Kyaara the inner workings of the keep and its staff, as well as details on his family. Much of what she heard was inexplicable; trust humans to complicate what should otherwise be as simple an exercise as living together; but she bore the explanation stoically.

"I think this keep is going to take some getting used to" she eventually muttered louder than she intended, and received a chuckle from Simon in reply.

Tay gave Kyaara a sly grin before replying "I think you'll make more of an impression on the keep, than they will make on you, Kyaara" and she nodded solemnly.

Simon sighed. "It's only for a few days, after which we can leave for the capital and the university. Once we're there, things should be saner. Maybe. Just try not to claw up anyone while we're there, even if they're as irritating as they're likely to be, and we'll be fine"

Rolling her eyes at him, she said "I'll refrain from eating anyone, I promise." and received a smile in reply.

"Oh, I never said you couldn't eat them. Just make sure you finish what you start" he grinned, and Tay nodded with a laugh.

While the trip home was long, dusty and tiring, the time passed quickly, and it was approaching sunset when the weary riders reached the keeps gates, and the welcoming party awaiting them.

But, that's another story....and another chapter.