{"sf1_id":486805,"sf2_id":"znJR4jQn","title":"Off Guard: Chapter Five","author":"Cyan Argent","words":6557,"posted_at":"2013-01-13T18:29:00.000Z","tags":["Cougar","Fantasy","Fox","Gay","Gay Relationships","M/M","Story Series","Violence (Not In Yiff)","Wolf"],"url":"https://fse.anthro.fr/stories/486805-off-guard-chapter-five","original_url":"https://sofurry.com/s/znJR4jQn","image_url":"https://www.sofurryfiles.com/std/thumb?page=486805\u0026ext=.jpg","description":"Here's chapter 5! And the plot thickens! I am seriously enjoying writing this story so much and I hope you all enjoy reading it!","content":"\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\"That's it!\u0026nbsp; Keep your feet moving now!\u0026nbsp; Don't stand in one place for too long now!\u0026nbsp; Move about!\u0026nbsp; Let your legs do most of the work!\u0026nbsp; Good, good!\u0026nbsp; Just like that!\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Jarik was panting as he dodged another swift strike from the black wolf who he was facing.\u0026nbsp; The older wolf had been his sparring mentor ever since he was old enough to wield a blade. \u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Now you've got it!\u0026nbsp; Keep it up!\u0026nbsp; And one and two and one and two-\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Joffery, we have been at this for almost three hours now!\u0026nbsp; I can't even feel my arms anymore.\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik panted as he bent over, his paws resting on his knees.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Well how else do you think you will improve?\"\u0026nbsp; The older wolf snorted as he sheathed his practice blade.\u0026nbsp; \"Fine, fine.\u0026nbsp; We are done for today, but I will be expecting to see you on the training grounds early tomorrow morning.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Jarik grinned slightly as he bowed to Joffery, which the wolf returned.\u0026nbsp; He sheathed his practice blade and walked over to the outer ring of the sparring ring where Darsden waited.\u0026nbsp; The pure white wolf smiled as he handed Jarik his white cloth shirt that he had held during the training session.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"You were really moving out there.\"\u0026nbsp; Darsden smiled as he gazed at Jarik.\u0026nbsp; \"You really are quite the swordsman.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Joffery always makes me look like a pup out there in the ring though.\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik chuckled as he pulled on his shirt.\u0026nbsp; \"Never actually bested him in a session before.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Well he's only getting older.\u0026nbsp; Maybe you will have a chance in a few seasons.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Jarik snorted.\u0026nbsp; \"I don't believe that.\u0026nbsp; Have you seen Orren and Ashton today?\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"The two lovers?\"\u0026nbsp; Darsden chuckled.\u0026nbsp; \"I believe they are down by the river.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Of course.\u0026nbsp; Orren would always sit on the banks and watch the boats float by.\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik commented as he started walking on the path that would lead him back to the palace.\u0026nbsp; \"What do you want to do today?\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Anything that you want to do, m' lord.\"\u0026nbsp; Darsden smiled as he tilted his muzzle.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Jarik smiled back.\u0026nbsp; \"Well we could travel to the town and browse the market.\u0026nbsp; Or we can take a walk through the olive grove.\u0026nbsp; Maybe even join Orren and Ashton by the riverside?\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Or...\"\u0026nbsp; Darsden replied as he turned around and pulled Jarik close against his body.\u0026nbsp; \"I can take you into the tree line over there and pleasure you.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Jarik smiled and licked his lips as he ran his paws down the wolf's toned and muscular frame.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Well...I would not object to that now.\"\u0026nbsp; The black cougar replied.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; The two moved forward to kiss but stopped when a young fox ran up to them on the path.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"My apologies, m' lord, for interrupting your afternoon.\"\u0026nbsp; The young fox said quietly as he bowed his head.\u0026nbsp; \"Your brother wishes for you to speak to him in his study right away.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Ah.\u0026nbsp; Did he say why?\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik asked as he moved away from Darsden's muzzle and did his best to look presentable.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"No m' lord.\u0026nbsp; That was all he had told me.\"\u0026nbsp; The fox replied shyly.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Jarik glanced at Darsden, who only shrugged in reply.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Well thank you for informing us.\u0026nbsp; I will report to him right away.\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik said as he nodded at the fox.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; The fox bowed and scurried off, leaving them alone again.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"So much for our afternoon.\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik grumbled as he started walking again.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Hey come on now.\"\u0026nbsp; Darsden chuckled as he followed alongside the cougar.\u0026nbsp; \"We have the evening to ourselves too.\u0026nbsp; And there is always tomorrow.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"We will probably be busy tomorrow too.\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik replied as his tail lashed.\u0026nbsp; \"He probably just wants me to tell the story again and point out all of my wrongs.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"He just cares for you.\"\u0026nbsp; Darsden chided.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Then he should not blame me for this entire mess.\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik objected.\u0026nbsp; \"He still thinks that I am still a young cub who does not know how to take care of himself out in the realm.\u0026nbsp; I am still his younger brother, but I am no longer a youth.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Darsden opened his muzzle to say something, but decided against it and fell silent.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Besides, what else could I possibly contribute to this civil war?\u0026nbsp; I am a wanted criminal now.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Well you're safe here now.\"\u0026nbsp; Darsden replied with a comforting smile.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"I do hope so.\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik sighed as he fingered the bandage on his face.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; The walk back to the palace was quite enjoyable and almost made Jarik forget his bitter mood towards his brother.\u0026nbsp; Unfortunately, it returned when he walked into his brother's study and found the older cougar hunched over several ragged maps and documents.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Sit.\"\u0026nbsp; The older cougar motioned towards a chair on the other side of his desk.\u0026nbsp; \"Darsden, you may stay if you wish.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Jarik sat down in the chair while Darsden closed the door to the study and also sat down in the chair beside Jarik.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"This is an absolute disaster.\"\u0026nbsp; Jaren growled as he rummaged through the papers aggressively.\u0026nbsp; \"Every soldier loyal to Lord Maren is out searching for you.\u0026nbsp; There have been several attacks reported on my men.\u0026nbsp; I've lost three carriages of supplies in the past four days. \"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Jarik swallowed as his claws dug into the fine wood of the chair.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"So you're blaming me for all of this?\"\u0026nbsp; He asked angrily.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"No, I am not blaming you, although you are at some fault.\"\u0026nbsp; Jaren replied as he closed his eyes.\u0026nbsp; \"If we do not figure out something soon though, we will be looking at an army knocking on our front gates within a few months.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"So what do you suggest we do?\u0026nbsp; I could always just turn myself in.\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik scoffed as he folded his arms.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Could you please try to act like an adult for this conversation?\"\u0026nbsp; Jaren asked with a depreciating glare.\u0026nbsp; \"I'm trying to help you.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"You're treating me like a child!\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik shouted as his tail lashed against the chair.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"And you are certainly acting like one.\"\u0026nbsp; Jaren growled back as his claws dug into the wood of the desk.\u0026nbsp; \"I suggest you change that attitude of yours if you do not want to find yourself locked in your quarters.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Jarik remained silent as he glowered at his brother.\u0026nbsp; Darsden shifted uncomfortably in his chair.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"I should leave you two alone.\"\u0026nbsp; The white wolf said quietly as he went to stand up.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"No, stay.\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik growled slightly.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Darsden's ears folded back but he kept quiet and sat back down in the chair.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Listen, I know that you want to help with what is going on.\"\u0026nbsp; Jaren said, his voice softer.\u0026nbsp; \"But you are in great danger and I need you to stay here in the city.\u0026nbsp; I cannot afford you getting captured again.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"So what can I do?\u0026nbsp; Read over some boring documents?\u0026nbsp; Maybe count out your gold coins?\u0026nbsp; Or maybe even shine your blade and-\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Enough!\"\u0026nbsp; Jaren shouted angrily.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Jarik fell silent again.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"What I do want you to do is go speak to an old friend of yours.\u0026nbsp; The fox still works at the same place so you should have no trouble finding him.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Jarik huffed as he rolled his eyes.\u0026nbsp; \"I really have to go there?\u0026nbsp; Rydan probably doesn't even remember me.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Of course he remembers you.\u0026nbsp; How could he not with all of the visits you made to him?\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Jarik felt his face grow hot as Darsden looked at him with a puzzled look.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"As I was saying, Rydan interacts with several clients a night.\u0026nbsp; I am sure the fox has some kind of information for us.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Jarik swallowed as he stood up.\u0026nbsp; \"When do you want me to go see him?\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Now, if you are able to.\"\u0026nbsp; Jaren replied as he sat down in his own chair.\u0026nbsp; \"If you leave within the hour, you should make it back here by supper.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Jarik only nodded in reply as he turned around and headed towards the door.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"M' lord.\"\u0026nbsp; Darsden said as he stood up and bowed to Jaren.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Jaren nodded as he returned to his papers.\u0026nbsp; \"Please keep an eye on Jarik.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Of course m' lord.\"\u0026nbsp; Darsden replied.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; The white wolf exited the study, nodded to the guards who stood outside the room, and ran to catch up with Jarik.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"So who exactly are we meeting?\"\u0026nbsp; Darsden asked despite the cougar's bitter disposition.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"An old friend.\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik muttered as they exited the palace.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"And where does he work?\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Down at the brothel.\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik sighed as he kept on staring straight ahead.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Ah.\u0026nbsp; So I am guessing you-\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Yes, I have visited him a numerous amount of times years ago, but I guarantee you that nothing is going on between us.\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik interrupted reassuringly.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Oh.\u0026nbsp; Well I was not concerned about that or anything.\u0026nbsp; I was just surprised that a handsome lord like you would even visit a brothel.\"\u0026nbsp; Darsden replied with a smirk.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"The Golden Lion is the cleanest and most prominent brothel in the entire realm.\u0026nbsp; Of course I would have to check it out.\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik smiled.\u0026nbsp; \"And do not even tell me that you have never heard of it.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"I have.\"\u0026nbsp; Darsden shrugged.\u0026nbsp; \"Just never had the time or money to actually check it out.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Well I will treat you then.\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik chuckled.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Why would I want to sleep with a prostitute when I have you?\"\u0026nbsp; Darsden replied as his tail brushed against Jarik's.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Jarik's unpleasant mood lifted as he conversed with the wolf through the city.\u0026nbsp; The two made a few stops at some of the market stands and grabbed a quick bite to eat at one of Jarik's favorite taverns.\u0026nbsp; It was late afternoon by the time they reached the brothel.\u0026nbsp; The Golden Lion's exterior had changed since the last time Jarik visited.\u0026nbsp; The brothel used to have only consisted of one floor, but now a second floor had been added.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Do you wish for me to wait outside?\"\u0026nbsp; Darsden asked as Jarik walked towards the entrance.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Oh stop being so modest and come inside.\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik snorted.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Yes m' lord.\"\u0026nbsp; Darsden replied.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; Jarik pushed the velvet curtain away that served as the door and walked into the building cautiously.\u0026nbsp; The smell of heavily scented oils mixed with several different types of musk hit his nose.\u0026nbsp; The smell was intoxicating but not overly irritating.\u0026nbsp; Jarik noticed Darsden's nose wrinkle slightly as he walked into the lobby.\u0026nbsp; A few benches served as the waiting area, where a brown bear and a black wolf sat patiently.\u0026nbsp; Jarik walked up to the desk where a male white snow leopard stood with a warm smile.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"Do my eyes deceive me?\u0026nbsp; Is this really Lord Jarik standing in front of me?\"\u0026nbsp; The leopard purred.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \"It is me.\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik smiled.\u0026nbsp; \"You have not aged a bit since the last time I saw you Sabal.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; The snow leopard chuckled.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \"You have changed quite a bit Lord Jarik.\u0026nbsp; For the better though.\"\u0026nbsp; He replied as he eyed Jarik's body.\u0026nbsp; \"I am guessing that you are here to see Rydan?\"\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \"Yes, but not for pleasure.\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik lowered his voice.\u0026nbsp; \"I do wish to speak to him though.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \"Ah.\u0026nbsp; Well I am sure he will most certainly be thrilled to see you again.\u0026nbsp; Unfortunately he is with another client at the moment but I will notify you as soon as he is done.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \"Thank you Sabal.\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik replied.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \"Now how about your friend here?\"\u0026nbsp; Sabal said as he turned his gaze to Darsden.\u0026nbsp; \"My, my.\u0026nbsp; You are quite the handsome thing here.\u0026nbsp; You would not happen to be looking for a job here?\"\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \"What?\u0026nbsp; No!\u0026nbsp; I-I am with Jarik.\"\u0026nbsp; Darsden stammered.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \"Really now?\u0026nbsp; You certainly do know how to choose them.\"\u0026nbsp; Sabal purred as he gazed at Darsden's figure.\u0026nbsp; \"Are you sure wolf?\u0026nbsp; With a body like that, you could be pulling in several gold coins a day.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; Darsden coughed before he replied.\u0026nbsp; \"I-I am really not interested.\u0026nbsp; I am just here to accompany Jarik.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; Sabal shrugged as he sauntered out from behind the desk.\u0026nbsp; The leopard only sported a silk waistcloth that wrapped around his toned hips.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \"Well if you ever change your mind, come speak to me.\"\u0026nbsp; Sabal chuckled.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \"How have you been lately?\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik asked as he changed the subject for Darsden's sake.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \"The same unfortunately.\u0026nbsp; Still trying to keep this business up and running.\"\u0026nbsp; Sabal sighed.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \"Business is slow?\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \"Just a little.\"\u0026nbsp; Sabal replied quickly.\u0026nbsp; \"This damn war though has really caused a decrease in some of our usual clients.\u0026nbsp; Not enough though to really hurt our income though.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; Sabal paused as a young male wolf walked out from the backroom and brushed past Jarik with a slight nod.\u0026nbsp; He paused at Sabal and dropped two silver coins into the leopard's open paw, and then left the brothel.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \"Well it looks like Rydan is free to talk to now.\u0026nbsp; I will come back and notify you when he is all cleaned up and ready to see you.\u0026nbsp; Is there a specific place you would like to talk to him?\u0026nbsp; Somewhere private I suppose?\"\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \"His quarters will be just fine.\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik replied.\u0026nbsp; \"I will not be long.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \"Wonderful.\u0026nbsp; I will be back soon.\u0026nbsp; Please, make yourself at home.\"\u0026nbsp; The leopard smiled as he disappeared behind the silk veil that led to the many client rooms.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; Jarik turned to face Darsden, who still looked uncomfortable.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \"I will go talk to Rydan alone.\u0026nbsp; You can just wait for me out here.\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik commented.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \"I think that would be best.\"\u0026nbsp; Darsden replied as he shifted his feet.\u0026nbsp; \"You two probably have a lot of catching up to do anyways.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; Jarik shot the wolf a funny look.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \"Are you implying something?\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik asked.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \"What?\u0026nbsp; No!\u0026nbsp; Not at all!\"\u0026nbsp; Darsden replied quickly as his eyes went wide.\u0026nbsp; \"I am sorry, that probably sounded wrong.\u0026nbsp; I really mean that you two have a lot to discuss and I do not want to be there to intrude.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \"Well you are more than welcome to meet Rydan.\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik replied.\u0026nbsp; \"You would not be intruding on us at all.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \"No, I will be fine out here.\u0026nbsp; Besides, I have your friend Sabal here to talk too.\"\u0026nbsp; Darsden replied with a teasing grin.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \"He is quite the character.\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik chuckled.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; There was a rustle as Sabal returned to the room.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \"Rydan is ready to see you now, Lord Jarik.\u0026nbsp; Room number five.\"\u0026nbsp; Sabal said with a grin.\u0026nbsp; \"Please take your time.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \"Thank you Sabal.\u0026nbsp; Darsden will be staying here until I return.\u0026nbsp; Promise me you will not try to stow him away or anything?\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik replied with a grin.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \"Mmm no promises.\"\u0026nbsp; The leopard purred as he eyed the white wolf from the corner of his eyes.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; Darsden averted his gaze and shifted uncomfortably.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; Jarik chuckled again as he drew back the silk curtain and walked back into the hallway.\u0026nbsp; The smell of scented oils and musk was even stronger back here.\u0026nbsp; The combination of so many scents began to give him a slight headache.\u0026nbsp; His ears perked up to the muffled moans and yelps of pleasure as he passed by the closed doors that lined the hallway.\u0026nbsp; He finally came to a wooden door with the number five carved into a wooden piece above the doorframe.\u0026nbsp; He raised his paw and knocked twice.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"Come in.\"\u0026nbsp; A soothing voice replied from behind the door.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;Jarik cautiously opened the door and poked his head inside.\u0026nbsp; The room was furnished with just simple furniture.\u0026nbsp; A bed for two and a wooden table was the only furniture that filled the room, besides a nightstand and a wardrobe.\u0026nbsp; Jarik walked into the room and closed the door behind him.\u0026nbsp; He looked towards the bed and met the eyes of Rydan who was sitting on the edge of it in a seductive pose.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"The return of Lord Jarik.\"\u0026nbsp; The white fox hummed as he stood up delicately.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;The white fox only wore a silk waistcloth, much like the one that Sabal wore, except this one was much tighter and more revealing.\u0026nbsp; Jarik tried to avert his gaze from Rydan's toned body as the white fox sauntered up to him.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"You disappear for several years with no letters or anything, and then you appear out of the blue on a fine day like this.\"\u0026nbsp; Rydan whispered as he ran a paw up Jarik's side.\u0026nbsp; \"And not taking care of your beautiful body either.\u0026nbsp; Shame on you.\"\u0026nbsp; The fox whispered as his soft fingers gingerly brushed the bandage on Jarik's face.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"I...I have been busy.\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik stammered as he tried not to shiver against the fox's touch.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"Busy indeed.\"\u0026nbsp; Rydan replied with a grin as he pushed Jarik up against the door, his slim body pressed against the cougar's muscular frame.\u0026nbsp; \"I have heard that you are a thief and a murderer now?\"\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;Jarik's eyes went wide with surprise.\u0026nbsp; \"You heard about that?\"\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;Rydan chuckled as he slipped a paw up Jarik's cloth shirt and kneaded the muscles underneath his black fur.\u0026nbsp; \"Of course I have.\u0026nbsp; I meet up to fifteen clients a day.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"Ah yes.\u0026nbsp; I forgot how recognized you are here.\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik muttered as he shifted his body away from the fox's touch.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"One of the best.\"\u0026nbsp; Rydan replied with a wink as he backed away from Jarik and sat back down on the bed.\u0026nbsp; \"So if you are not here for sex, than why are you here?\"\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;Jarik coughed as he soothed his clothes and tried to hide the stirring erection in his trousers.\u0026nbsp; \"My brother sent me here.\u0026nbsp; He suggested that you might have some information for him.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"Information?\u0026nbsp; What did he send in return?\"\u0026nbsp; Rydan asked with a smug grin.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;Jarik shifted his feet.\u0026nbsp; \"I...uh...nothing.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"Nothing?\u0026nbsp; Well I suppose we can make a deal.\"\u0026nbsp; Rydan replied as he stood up again and pressed his paw against Jarik's crotch.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"Rydan!\u0026nbsp; I-\" Jarik gasped, but stopped when the fox held a finger against his muzzle.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"Quiet now.\u0026nbsp; You do not want Sabal to know that you are receiving a free session.\"\u0026nbsp; Rydan whispered as he rubbed his paw harder against Jarik's growing erection.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;Jarik gasped slightly but managed to grab the fox's wrist and push his paw away.\u0026nbsp; \"Rydan...I cannot do this.\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik replied softly but sternly.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;Rydan blinked as his ears twitched.\u0026nbsp; \"Why?\"\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"There is...someone else.\u0026nbsp; A wolf who had rescued me.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;Rydan's eyes went wide as he smiled.\u0026nbsp; \"You are with someone?\"\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;Jarik nodded.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"Jarik, that is wonderful!\u0026nbsp; I am so happy for you!\"\u0026nbsp; The fox genuinely shouted as he gave Jarik a hug.\u0026nbsp; \"Will I get to meet him?\"\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;Jarik pulled away from the hug as he gave Rydan a small smile.\u0026nbsp; \"If you want to.\u0026nbsp; He is just out in the lobby waiting for me.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"Wonderful!\u0026nbsp; Let me change into something more appropriate.\"\u0026nbsp; Rydan replied as he walked over to the chest and opened it.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"You want to meet him now?\u0026nbsp; Do you not have any more clients today?\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik asked.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"Tonight is my night off dear.\"\u0026nbsp; Rydan purred as he slipped on a pair of black leather trousers and a royal red tunic with a silver trim.\u0026nbsp; Expensive garments, no doubt about that.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"Oh.\u0026nbsp; Well would you like to join us for dinner tonight?\u0026nbsp; That way you and Jaren can discuss things.\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik suggested.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"Sounds lovely.\u0026nbsp; Only if you promise that you and I will have some time alone to catch up.\"\u0026nbsp; Rydan replied with a wink.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;Jarik nodded with a slight grin.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;He followed the fox out of the room and down the hall to the lobby.\u0026nbsp; He brushed past the curtain to find Darsden still standing in the exact same position as he was, still looking just as uncomfortable too.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"So just taking a gamble here, I am guessing that you are quite passionate in bed?\u0026nbsp; Or are you the more aggressive and dominating type?\"\u0026nbsp; Sabal asked with a curious smile.\u0026nbsp; \"Which one is it?\"\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;Darsden's eyes shot over to Jarik, signaling for help.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"Stop torturing the poor wolf.\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik chuckled as he walked by the leopard.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"Just asking some friendly questions.\"\u0026nbsp; Sabal purred as he gave a wink towards Darsden.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;Darsden just laughed nervously in reply and twitched his ears.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"I am heading out for the night.\"\u0026nbsp; Rydan mentioned as he waved to Sabal.\u0026nbsp; \"I will be back here tomorrow morning.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"Very well dear.\u0026nbsp; Have fun and be safe.\"\u0026nbsp; Sabal replied.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;The three exited the brothel, where Darsden finally seemed to relax once they had started walking through the city.\u0026nbsp; Jarik glanced towards the setting sun.\u0026nbsp; Dinner was probably being served right now.\u0026nbsp; His stomach grumbled just at the thought of food.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"So this is your wolf?\"\u0026nbsp; Rydan asked as he licked his lips and grinned.\u0026nbsp; \"He really is quite handsome.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;Darsden's face shifted back into a sense of awkwardness.\u0026nbsp; Rydan chuckled softly.\u0026nbsp; \"Do not worry wolf.\u0026nbsp; I am not like Sabal.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"Sometimes.\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik scoffed.\u0026nbsp; \"Rydan, this is Darsden. \u0026nbsp;Darsden, this is my friend Rydan.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;The two nodded in greeting.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"Nice to meet you Rydan.\"\u0026nbsp; Darsden smiled.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"Pleasure is mine.\"\u0026nbsp; Rydan replied.\u0026nbsp; \"Jarik told me that you rescued him?\"\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;Darsden rubbed the back of his neck.\u0026nbsp; \"Well I guess you can say that.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"Stop being so modest.\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik snorted.\u0026nbsp; \"I would not be here right now if you had not shown up.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"Mmm your own prince in shining armor.\u0026nbsp; You will have to tell me the story tonight.\"\u0026nbsp; Rydan commented.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;The three exchanged small talk as they made their way through the city and finally passed through the main gates of the palace.\u0026nbsp; The sun had completely set by the time they entered the palace and walked into the dining room where Jaren waited.\u0026nbsp; Orren and Ashton were also seated at the table.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"Where have you guys been?\"\u0026nbsp; Ashton asked as his eyes lit up when they approached the table.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"Yes, we are quite starving here.\"\u0026nbsp; Orren replied as he glowered at his empty plate.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;Ashton elbowed the gray wolf in his ribs as Jaren stood up from his seat.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"I see that you have brought us a visitor.\"\u0026nbsp; The older cougar commented dryly as he eyed Rydan.\u0026nbsp; \"I do hope that you have cleansed yourself before coming to the dinner table.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"Jaren!\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik shouted, horrified.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"No it is quite fine for him to be cautious.\"\u0026nbsp; Rydan commented politely as he bowed to Jaren.\u0026nbsp; \"I am completely clean, m' lord, which means I am ready to pleasure you tonight.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;Jaren grinned slightly and snorted.\u0026nbsp; \"I see that your cynical disposition has not changed.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"Still the same, m' lord.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;Jaren sat back down in his chair and motioned towards the empty chairs.\u0026nbsp; Jarik sat down into the chair closest to his brother, while Darsden sat next to him and Rydan sat next to Darsden.\u0026nbsp; The servants filed out into the room with plates piled high with roasted fowl, boiled potatoes, and steaming vegetables.\u0026nbsp; Once the food was set down and everyone had their plate filled, did Jaren begin to speak.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"I believe that I do not need to tell you all how bad of a situation we are all in.\"\u0026nbsp; The older cougar addressed to everyone as he took a sip of red wine.\u0026nbsp; \"Anyone who is loyal to Lord Maren is out searching the entire realm for Jarik and Orren.\u0026nbsp; They have been labeled traitors and have quite the bounty on their heads.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"How much?\"\u0026nbsp; Ashton piped up through a mouthful of vegetables.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"Five-hundred gold coins.\"\u0026nbsp; Jaren replied.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;Rydan whistled.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"As long as you two do not leave the city, you will be safe.\u0026nbsp; However, they must know that you two are hiding here and I will not be surprised if Lord Mason is forming an army right this very moment to bring down our city walls.\"\u0026nbsp; Jaren chewed thoughtfully on a potato.\u0026nbsp; \"I need to know what the tricky bastard is planning.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"Do we have any available spies?\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik suggested as he stabbed a piece of fowl and shoved it into his muzzle.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;Jaren shook his head.\u0026nbsp; \"Unfortunately no.\u0026nbsp; None are close enough to Jerhall and I cannot risk having any of them move from where they are now.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"So send me then.\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik replied.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"Absolutely not.\u0026nbsp; There is no possible way you can pass the gates of Jerhall without being recognized immediately.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"There are hundreds of black cougars in the city.\u0026nbsp; And it is not like as if I have never scaled the walls of the city before.\u0026nbsp; There is even a sewage passage that you can easily crouch through to get into the city.\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik argued.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"I realize that you know the city better than anyone around here.\"\u0026nbsp; Jaren sighed.\u0026nbsp; \"But I cannot afford you getting captured again.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"You do not seem to have many options left!\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik protested.\u0026nbsp; \"What good am I if I just sit here in the palace?\u0026nbsp; You have a problem, and I am the one who can solve it!\"\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;Jaren stared at his plate in deep thought.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"I know you are worried about me, but you really do not have anyone else who knows the city like me or Orren does.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"I will sleep on it tonight, and I will let you know my decision tomorrow.\"\u0026nbsp; Jaren finally replied as he dabbed at his muzzle with a napkin.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"But-\"\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"Do not try and argue with me.\"\u0026nbsp; Jaren warned as he gave Jarik a stern stare.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;Jarik returned to his meal but found that he was not so hungry anymore.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"May I be excused?\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik muttered as he stood up from the table.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;Jaren stared at him for a long time, before finally giving him a nod.\u0026nbsp; Jarik turned away from the table and stomped out of the dining room.\u0026nbsp; Darsden watched Jarik leave with concern.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"I...should go check on him.\"\u0026nbsp; The white wolf sighed as he set his utensils down and stood up from the table.\u0026nbsp; \"If...I have permission to do so, m lord.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"I think you would be the best one to go talk to him.\"\u0026nbsp; Jaren sighed as he took another sip of wine.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;Darsden nodded as he padded quietly out of the dining room and began searching the palace for the troubled cougar.\u0026nbsp; He hurried up the steps to Jarik's quarters and quietly pushed the door open.\u0026nbsp; He sniffed and caught Jarik's scent.\u0026nbsp; He noticed that the doors to his balcony were open and he stepped outside into the cool night air.\u0026nbsp; Jarik was leaning against the balcony railing, just staring off into the distance.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"Mind if I join you?\"\u0026nbsp; Darsden asked quietly.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"Not at all.\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik sighed.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;The white wolf walked up behind the cougar and wrapped his arms around his lover's waist.\u0026nbsp; Jarik sighed contentedly as he melted into the wolf's warm embrace.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"You do know that your brother is only doing what he thinks is best for you.\"\u0026nbsp; Darsden said as he rested his muzzle on Jarik's shoulder.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"My brother is being foolish.\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik replied bitterly.\u0026nbsp; \"He needs to stop worrying about me so much.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"Brothers are meant to look after each other.\"\u0026nbsp; Darsden said as he licked the cougar's neck.\u0026nbsp; \"My older brother would never let me go anywhere without him.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"Yes, but the difference is he let you go out on your own once you grew older.\u0026nbsp; I am almost as old as you and my brother still treats me like a youth.\u0026nbsp; He even sent you to keep an eye on me when I became a spy!\"\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;Darsden hugged the cougar tighter as he sighed, his breath hot against Jarik's neck.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"Could you please just try to talk to him without storming away?\u0026nbsp; I really hate to see you two fight.\u0026nbsp; He saved your life, you know.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;Jarik sighed.\u0026nbsp; \"I do not know...\"\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"For me?\"\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;Jarik smiled slightly.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"Very well.\u0026nbsp; Just for you though.\"\u0026nbsp; He purred.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;The two remained standing together as they looked out over the city and into the distance.\u0026nbsp; Jarik could just make out the shadowy outlines of the Jarath Mountains in the distance.\u0026nbsp; The White River looked like a sparkling silver snake in the moonlight.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"It's beautiful.\"\u0026nbsp; Darsden whispered as he kissed Jarik on the neck.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"It really is.\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik replied as he placed his paw onto Darsden's.\u0026nbsp; \"I'm glad I get to share it with you.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"You are absolutely wonderful, you know that?\"\u0026nbsp; Darsden whispered as he moved his muzzle closer to Jarik's.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;Jarik moved his head up and met Darsden in a passionate kiss.\u0026nbsp; Jarik closed his eyes and melted into the heat between him and his lover as he prodded the wolf's muzzle open with his tongue.\u0026nbsp; He savored the wolf's taste as he dominantly explored Darsden's muzzle with his tongue.\u0026nbsp; The world melted away as he inhaled deeply.\u0026nbsp; The wolf's musky scent, the cool night air...and...\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;Jarik opened his eyes and pulled away from the kiss.\u0026nbsp; He sniffed the air again.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"Is something wrong?\"\u0026nbsp; Darsden asked.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;Jarik sniffed the air again.\u0026nbsp; \"Do you...smell smoke?\"\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;Darsden tilted his muzzle up into the air and inhaled deeply.\u0026nbsp; \"I...I do smell smoke.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;A servant suddenly burst through the balcony doors, causing the two to jump.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"M' lord!\u0026nbsp; There's a fire in the servant's wing of the palace!\"\u0026nbsp; The young leopard shouted.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"Fire?\u0026nbsp; How?\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik demanded.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"I-I don't know m' lord!\"\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;Jaren suddenly appeared in the doorway, along with several guards.\u0026nbsp; He had his sword belted to his side and at the ready.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"Jarik!\u0026nbsp; Stay here!\"\u0026nbsp; The older cougar demanded.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"Let me come with you!\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik shouted back as his brother started to leave.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"Not now!\u0026nbsp; I will send a guard for you once I've determined that it's safe enough!\u0026nbsp; For now, just stay put!\"\u0026nbsp; Jaren demanded.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;Jarik huffed in frustration as his brother and the guards rushed out of the room.\u0026nbsp; The smoke was heavy in the air now and was starting to sting Jarik's eyes.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"Can you believe him?\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik asked furiously as he stomped back into his room and slammed the balcony doors shut.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;Darsden winced as the doors slammed shut loudly.\u0026nbsp; \"This is what I'm talking about dear.\u0026nbsp; He just really cares about you.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"It's just a fire!\u0026nbsp; It's not like as if an army is attacking the palace!\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik shouted angrily as he sat down on his bed.\u0026nbsp; \"When he returns, I'm going to really tell him-\"\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;Jarik went silent as the balcony doors suddenly creaked open.\u0026nbsp; A raccoon dressed in all black slipped into the room, but froze when he sighted Darsden and Jarik.\u0026nbsp; Jarik stood up cautiously as the intruder continued to stand frozen in place.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"Who are you?\u0026nbsp; And what are you doing here?\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik asked as he kept his distance.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;The raccoon remained silent.\u0026nbsp; Jarik sniffed the air and wrinkled his nose.\u0026nbsp; The harsh smell of oil and smoke was heavy in the air.\u0026nbsp; His eyes widened as he suddenly pieced together what was happening.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"You...you started the fire?\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik asked the raccoon.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;No answer.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"Answer me!\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik demanded.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"You weren't supposed to be here.\"\u0026nbsp; The intruder finally whispered.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"What?\u0026nbsp; What do you mean I wasn't supposed to be here?\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik asked.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"They said you weren't going to be here.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;Before Jarik could reply, the raccoon suddenly brandished a crude dagger and leaped at Jarik.\u0026nbsp; Jarik stumbled back and managed to catch the raccoon's wrists and drive the dagger away from his body.\u0026nbsp; His attacker was quick though and gave a swift kick to Jarik's stomach, causing him to double over in pain.\u0026nbsp; Darsden went to grab the raccoon but he slipped out of the wolf's reach and leaped at him instead.\u0026nbsp; Darsden was not so lucky at blocking the attack and he yelped in pain as the cold steel cut into his upper arm.\u0026nbsp; His lover's cry suddenly lit a fire in Jarik's eyes, and he snarled as he leaped at his attacker and tackled him to the floor.\u0026nbsp; His paws found the raccoon's wrist and he twisted it until he heard the snap of bone.\u0026nbsp; The dagger clattered to the floor.\u0026nbsp; Before the raccoon could even cry out, Jarik had taken the dagger in his own paw and raised the blade high over his head.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"Jarik!\u0026nbsp; Stop!\"\u0026nbsp; Darsden shouted at him.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;He then felt a pair of strong paws pull him off of his assailant.\u0026nbsp; He stared at the raccoon as he writhed in pain on the floor.\u0026nbsp; His paw clutched the dagger tightly but he did not raise it.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"Jarik...I...\"\u0026nbsp; Was all Darsden could say as four guards rushed into the room, along with Jaren.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"Jarik?\u0026nbsp; What the...what the hell have you done?\"\u0026nbsp; Jaren asked in shock as he stared at the bloody scene.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"Me?\u0026nbsp; You should be asking him!\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik panted as he pointed towards the raccoon on the floor.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;Jaren's eyes shifted to the writhing and moaning figure on the floor.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"Guards!\u0026nbsp; Seize him immediately!\u0026nbsp; I want him put in a cell with four guards watching it!\"\u0026nbsp; Jaren barked.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;Jarik watched as the four guards pushed themselves into the room and roughly brought the raccoon to his feet.\u0026nbsp; He was quickly dragged out of the room, leaving just Jarik, Darsden, Jaren, and two other guards in the room.\u0026nbsp; Jaren gave Jarik a long and hard stare as he figured out what to say.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"You should tend to Darsden's wound and clean yourself up as well.\u0026nbsp; Once you're done, I would like to speak with you in my quarters.\"\u0026nbsp; Jaren finally spoke.\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"I...yes brother.\"\u0026nbsp; Jarik sighed.\u0026nbsp; \"What exactly is there to talk about though?\"\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;His brother looked back over his shoulder as he began to leave the room.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\"It seems that I may need your help sooner than I had anticipated.\"\u0026nbsp; Jaren said as he walked away.\u0026nbsp; \"It seems that we have enemies living among us, brother.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n  \n  \n\n"}