# Off Guard: Chapter Five

Author: Cyan Argent
Tags: Cougar, Fantasy, Fox, Gay, Gay Relationships, M/M, Story Series, Violence (Not In Yiff), Wolf

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!

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;"That's it!&nbsp; Keep your feet moving now!&nbsp; Don't stand in one place for too long now!&nbsp; Move about!&nbsp; Let your legs do most of the work!&nbsp; Good, good!&nbsp; Just like that!"

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jarik was panting as he dodged another swift strike from the black wolf who he was facing.&nbsp; The older wolf had been his sparring mentor ever since he was old enough to wield a blade. &nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Now you've got it!&nbsp; Keep it up!&nbsp; And one and two and one and two-"

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Joffery, we have been at this for almost three hours now!&nbsp; I can't even feel my arms anymore."&nbsp; Jarik panted as he bent over, his paws resting on his knees.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Well how else do you think you will improve?"&nbsp; The older wolf snorted as he sheathed his practice blade.&nbsp; "Fine, fine.&nbsp; We are done for today, but I will be expecting to see you on the training grounds early tomorrow morning."&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jarik grinned slightly as he bowed to Joffery, which the wolf returned.&nbsp; He sheathed his practice blade and walked over to the outer ring of the sparring ring where Darsden waited.&nbsp; The pure white wolf smiled as he handed Jarik his white cloth shirt that he had held during the training session.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "You were really moving out there."&nbsp; Darsden smiled as he gazed at Jarik.&nbsp; "You really are quite the swordsman."&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Joffery always makes me look like a pup out there in the ring though."&nbsp; Jarik chuckled as he pulled on his shirt.&nbsp; "Never actually bested him in a session before."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Well he's only getting older.&nbsp; Maybe you will have a chance in a few seasons."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jarik snorted.&nbsp; "I don't believe that.&nbsp; Have you seen Orren and Ashton today?"

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "The two lovers?"&nbsp; Darsden chuckled.&nbsp; "I believe they are down by the river."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Of course.&nbsp; Orren would always sit on the banks and watch the boats float by."&nbsp; Jarik commented as he started walking on the path that would lead him back to the palace.&nbsp; "What do you want to do today?"

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Anything that you want to do, m' lord."&nbsp; Darsden smiled as he tilted his muzzle.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jarik smiled back.&nbsp; "Well we could travel to the town and browse the market.&nbsp; Or we can take a walk through the olive grove.&nbsp; Maybe even join Orren and Ashton by the riverside?"

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Or..."&nbsp; Darsden replied as he turned around and pulled Jarik close against his body.&nbsp; "I can take you into the tree line over there and pleasure you."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jarik smiled and licked his lips as he ran his paws down the wolf's toned and muscular frame.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Well...I would not object to that now."&nbsp; The black cougar replied.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The two moved forward to kiss but stopped when a young fox ran up to them on the path.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "My apologies, m' lord, for interrupting your afternoon."&nbsp; The young fox said quietly as he bowed his head.&nbsp; "Your brother wishes for you to speak to him in his study right away."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Ah.&nbsp; Did he say why?"&nbsp; Jarik asked as he moved away from Darsden's muzzle and did his best to look presentable.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "No m' lord.&nbsp; That was all he had told me."&nbsp; The fox replied shyly.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jarik glanced at Darsden, who only shrugged in reply.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Well thank you for informing us.&nbsp; I will report to him right away."&nbsp; Jarik said as he nodded at the fox.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The fox bowed and scurried off, leaving them alone again.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "So much for our afternoon."&nbsp; Jarik grumbled as he started walking again.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Hey come on now."&nbsp; Darsden chuckled as he followed alongside the cougar.&nbsp; "We have the evening to ourselves too.&nbsp; And there is always tomorrow."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "We will probably be busy tomorrow too."&nbsp; Jarik replied as his tail lashed.&nbsp; "He probably just wants me to tell the story again and point out all of my wrongs."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "He just cares for you."&nbsp; Darsden chided.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Then he should not blame me for this entire mess."&nbsp; Jarik objected.&nbsp; "He still thinks that I am still a young cub who does not know how to take care of himself out in the realm.&nbsp; I am still his younger brother, but I am no longer a youth."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Darsden opened his muzzle to say something, but decided against it and fell silent.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Besides, what else could I possibly contribute to this civil war?&nbsp; I am a wanted criminal now."&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Well you're safe here now."&nbsp; Darsden replied with a comforting smile.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "I do hope so."&nbsp; Jarik sighed as he fingered the bandage on his face.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The walk back to the palace was quite enjoyable and almost made Jarik forget his bitter mood towards his brother.&nbsp; Unfortunately, it returned when he walked into his brother's study and found the older cougar hunched over several ragged maps and documents.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Sit."&nbsp; The older cougar motioned towards a chair on the other side of his desk.&nbsp; "Darsden, you may stay if you wish."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jarik sat down in the chair while Darsden closed the door to the study and also sat down in the chair beside Jarik.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "This is an absolute disaster."&nbsp; Jaren growled as he rummaged through the papers aggressively.&nbsp; "Every soldier loyal to Lord Maren is out searching for you.&nbsp; There have been several attacks reported on my men.&nbsp; I've lost three carriages of supplies in the past four days. "

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jarik swallowed as his claws dug into the fine wood of the chair.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "So you're blaming me for all of this?"&nbsp; He asked angrily.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "No, I am not blaming you, although you are at some fault."&nbsp; Jaren replied as he closed his eyes.&nbsp; "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."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "So what do you suggest we do?&nbsp; I could always just turn myself in."&nbsp; Jarik scoffed as he folded his arms.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Could you please try to act like an adult for this conversation?"&nbsp; Jaren asked with a depreciating glare.&nbsp; "I'm trying to help you."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "You're treating me like a child!"&nbsp; Jarik shouted as his tail lashed against the chair.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "And you are certainly acting like one."&nbsp; Jaren growled back as his claws dug into the wood of the desk.&nbsp; "I suggest you change that attitude of yours if you do not want to find yourself locked in your quarters."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jarik remained silent as he glowered at his brother.&nbsp; Darsden shifted uncomfortably in his chair.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "I should leave you two alone."&nbsp; The white wolf said quietly as he went to stand up.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "No, stay."&nbsp; Jarik growled slightly.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Darsden's ears folded back but he kept quiet and sat back down in the chair.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Listen, I know that you want to help with what is going on."&nbsp; Jaren said, his voice softer.&nbsp; "But you are in great danger and I need you to stay here in the city.&nbsp; I cannot afford you getting captured again."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "So what can I do?&nbsp; Read over some boring documents?&nbsp; Maybe count out your gold coins?&nbsp; Or maybe even shine your blade and-"

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Enough!"&nbsp; Jaren shouted angrily.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jarik fell silent again.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "What I do want you to do is go speak to an old friend of yours.&nbsp; The fox still works at the same place so you should have no trouble finding him."&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jarik huffed as he rolled his eyes.&nbsp; "I really have to go there?&nbsp; Rydan probably doesn't even remember me."&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Of course he remembers you.&nbsp; How could he not with all of the visits you made to him?"

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jarik felt his face grow hot as Darsden looked at him with a puzzled look.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "As I was saying, Rydan interacts with several clients a night.&nbsp; I am sure the fox has some kind of information for us."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jarik swallowed as he stood up.&nbsp; "When do you want me to go see him?"

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Now, if you are able to."&nbsp; Jaren replied as he sat down in his own chair.&nbsp; "If you leave within the hour, you should make it back here by supper."&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jarik only nodded in reply as he turned around and headed towards the door.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "M' lord."&nbsp; Darsden said as he stood up and bowed to Jaren.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jaren nodded as he returned to his papers.&nbsp; "Please keep an eye on Jarik."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Of course m' lord."&nbsp; Darsden replied.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The white wolf exited the study, nodded to the guards who stood outside the room, and ran to catch up with Jarik.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "So who exactly are we meeting?"&nbsp; Darsden asked despite the cougar's bitter disposition.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "An old friend."&nbsp; Jarik muttered as they exited the palace.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "And where does he work?"&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Down at the brothel."&nbsp; Jarik sighed as he kept on staring straight ahead.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Ah.&nbsp; So I am guessing you-"

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Yes, I have visited him a numerous amount of times years ago, but I guarantee you that nothing is going on between us."&nbsp; Jarik interrupted reassuringly.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Oh.&nbsp; Well I was not concerned about that or anything.&nbsp; I was just surprised that a handsome lord like you would even visit a brothel."&nbsp; Darsden replied with a smirk.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "The Golden Lion is the cleanest and most prominent brothel in the entire realm.&nbsp; Of course I would have to check it out."&nbsp; Jarik smiled.&nbsp; "And do not even tell me that you have never heard of it."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "I have."&nbsp; Darsden shrugged.&nbsp; "Just never had the time or money to actually check it out."

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Well I will treat you then."&nbsp; Jarik chuckled.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Why would I want to sleep with a prostitute when I have you?"&nbsp; Darsden replied as his tail brushed against Jarik's.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jarik's unpleasant mood lifted as he conversed with the wolf through the city.&nbsp; 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.&nbsp; It was late afternoon by the time they reached the brothel.&nbsp; The Golden Lion's exterior had changed since the last time Jarik visited.&nbsp; The brothel used to have only consisted of one floor, but now a second floor had been added.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Do you wish for me to wait outside?"&nbsp; Darsden asked as Jarik walked towards the entrance.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Oh stop being so modest and come inside."&nbsp; Jarik snorted.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Yes m' lord."&nbsp; Darsden replied.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jarik pushed the velvet curtain away that served as the door and walked into the building cautiously.&nbsp; The smell of heavily scented oils mixed with several different types of musk hit his nose.&nbsp; The smell was intoxicating but not overly irritating.&nbsp; Jarik noticed Darsden's nose wrinkle slightly as he walked into the lobby.&nbsp; A few benches served as the waiting area, where a brown bear and a black wolf sat patiently.&nbsp; Jarik walked up to the desk where a male white snow leopard stood with a warm smile.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "Do my eyes deceive me?&nbsp; Is this really Lord Jarik standing in front of me?"&nbsp; The leopard purred.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "It is me."&nbsp; Jarik smiled.&nbsp; "You have not aged a bit since the last time I saw you Sabal."&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The snow leopard chuckled.&nbsp;

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; "You have changed quite a bit Lord Jarik.&nbsp; For the better though."&nbsp; He replied as he eyed Jarik's body.&nbsp; "I am guessing that you are here to see Rydan?"

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; "Yes, but not for pleasure."&nbsp; Jarik lowered his voice.&nbsp; "I do wish to speak to him though."

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; "Ah.&nbsp; Well I am sure he will most certainly be thrilled to see you again.&nbsp; Unfortunately he is with another client at the moment but I will notify you as soon as he is done."

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; "Thank you Sabal."&nbsp; Jarik replied.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; "Now how about your friend here?"&nbsp; Sabal said as he turned his gaze to Darsden.&nbsp; "My, my.&nbsp; You are quite the handsome thing here.&nbsp; You would not happen to be looking for a job here?"

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; "What?&nbsp; No!&nbsp; I-I am with Jarik."&nbsp; Darsden stammered.&nbsp;

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; "Really now?&nbsp; You certainly do know how to choose them."&nbsp; Sabal purred as he gazed at Darsden's figure.&nbsp; "Are you sure wolf?&nbsp; With a body like that, you could be pulling in several gold coins a day."

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Darsden coughed before he replied.&nbsp; "I-I am really not interested.&nbsp; I am just here to accompany Jarik."

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Sabal shrugged as he sauntered out from behind the desk.&nbsp; The leopard only sported a silk waistcloth that wrapped around his toned hips.&nbsp;

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; "Well if you ever change your mind, come speak to me."&nbsp; Sabal chuckled.&nbsp;

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; "How have you been lately?"&nbsp; Jarik asked as he changed the subject for Darsden's sake.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; "The same unfortunately.&nbsp; Still trying to keep this business up and running."&nbsp; Sabal sighed.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; "Business is slow?"&nbsp;

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; "Just a little."&nbsp; Sabal replied quickly.&nbsp; "This damn war though has really caused a decrease in some of our usual clients.&nbsp; Not enough though to really hurt our income though."

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Sabal paused as a young male wolf walked out from the backroom and brushed past Jarik with a slight nod.&nbsp; He paused at Sabal and dropped two silver coins into the leopard's open paw, and then left the brothel.&nbsp;

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; "Well it looks like Rydan is free to talk to now.&nbsp; I will come back and notify you when he is all cleaned up and ready to see you.&nbsp; Is there a specific place you would like to talk to him?&nbsp; Somewhere private I suppose?"

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; "His quarters will be just fine."&nbsp; Jarik replied.&nbsp; "I will not be long."

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; "Wonderful.&nbsp; I will be back soon.&nbsp; Please, make yourself at home."&nbsp; The leopard smiled as he disappeared behind the silk veil that led to the many client rooms.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Jarik turned to face Darsden, who still looked uncomfortable.&nbsp;

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; "I will go talk to Rydan alone.&nbsp; You can just wait for me out here."&nbsp; Jarik commented.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; "I think that would be best."&nbsp; Darsden replied as he shifted his feet.&nbsp; "You two probably have a lot of catching up to do anyways."

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Jarik shot the wolf a funny look.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; "Are you implying something?"&nbsp; Jarik asked.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; "What?&nbsp; No!&nbsp; Not at all!"&nbsp; Darsden replied quickly as his eyes went wide.&nbsp; "I am sorry, that probably sounded wrong.&nbsp; I really mean that you two have a lot to discuss and I do not want to be there to intrude."

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; "Well you are more than welcome to meet Rydan."&nbsp; Jarik replied.&nbsp; "You would not be intruding on us at all."

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; "No, I will be fine out here.&nbsp; Besides, I have your friend Sabal here to talk too."&nbsp; Darsden replied with a teasing grin.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; "He is quite the character."&nbsp; Jarik chuckled.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; There was a rustle as Sabal returned to the room.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; "Rydan is ready to see you now, Lord Jarik.&nbsp; Room number five."&nbsp; Sabal said with a grin.&nbsp; "Please take your time."

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; "Thank you Sabal.&nbsp; Darsden will be staying here until I return.&nbsp; Promise me you will not try to stow him away or anything?"&nbsp; Jarik replied with a grin.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; "Mmm no promises."&nbsp; The leopard purred as he eyed the white wolf from the corner of his eyes.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Darsden averted his gaze and shifted uncomfortably.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Jarik chuckled again as he drew back the silk curtain and walked back into the hallway.&nbsp; The smell of scented oils and musk was even stronger back here.&nbsp; The combination of so many scents began to give him a slight headache.&nbsp; His ears perked up to the muffled moans and yelps of pleasure as he passed by the closed doors that lined the hallway.&nbsp; He finally came to a wooden door with the number five carved into a wooden piece above the doorframe.&nbsp; He raised his paw and knocked twice.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"Come in."&nbsp; A soothing voice replied from behind the door.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Jarik cautiously opened the door and poked his head inside.&nbsp; The room was furnished with just simple furniture.&nbsp; A bed for two and a wooden table was the only furniture that filled the room, besides a nightstand and a wardrobe.&nbsp; Jarik walked into the room and closed the door behind him.&nbsp; He looked towards the bed and met the eyes of Rydan who was sitting on the edge of it in a seductive pose.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"The return of Lord Jarik."&nbsp; The white fox hummed as he stood up delicately.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;The white fox only wore a silk waistcloth, much like the one that Sabal wore, except this one was much tighter and more revealing.&nbsp; Jarik tried to avert his gaze from Rydan's toned body as the white fox sauntered up to him.&nbsp;

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"You disappear for several years with no letters or anything, and then you appear out of the blue on a fine day like this."&nbsp; Rydan whispered as he ran a paw up Jarik's side.&nbsp; "And not taking care of your beautiful body either.&nbsp; Shame on you."&nbsp; The fox whispered as his soft fingers gingerly brushed the bandage on Jarik's face.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"I...I have been busy."&nbsp; Jarik stammered as he tried not to shiver against the fox's touch.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"Busy indeed."&nbsp; Rydan replied with a grin as he pushed Jarik up against the door, his slim body pressed against the cougar's muscular frame.&nbsp; "I have heard that you are a thief and a murderer now?"

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Jarik's eyes went wide with surprise.&nbsp; "You heard about that?"

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Rydan chuckled as he slipped a paw up Jarik's cloth shirt and kneaded the muscles underneath his black fur.&nbsp; "Of course I have.&nbsp; I meet up to fifteen clients a day."

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"Ah yes.&nbsp; I forgot how recognized you are here."&nbsp; Jarik muttered as he shifted his body away from the fox's touch.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"One of the best."&nbsp; Rydan replied with a wink as he backed away from Jarik and sat back down on the bed.&nbsp; "So if you are not here for sex, than why are you here?"

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Jarik coughed as he soothed his clothes and tried to hide the stirring erection in his trousers.&nbsp; "My brother sent me here.&nbsp; He suggested that you might have some information for him."

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"Information?&nbsp; What did he send in return?"&nbsp; Rydan asked with a smug grin.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Jarik shifted his feet.&nbsp; "I...uh...nothing."&nbsp;

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"Nothing?&nbsp; Well I suppose we can make a deal."&nbsp; Rydan replied as he stood up again and pressed his paw against Jarik's crotch.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"Rydan!&nbsp; I-" Jarik gasped, but stopped when the fox held a finger against his muzzle.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"Quiet now.&nbsp; You do not want Sabal to know that you are receiving a free session."&nbsp; Rydan whispered as he rubbed his paw harder against Jarik's growing erection.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Jarik gasped slightly but managed to grab the fox's wrist and push his paw away.&nbsp; "Rydan...I cannot do this."&nbsp; Jarik replied softly but sternly.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Rydan blinked as his ears twitched.&nbsp; "Why?"

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"There is...someone else.&nbsp; A wolf who had rescued me."&nbsp;

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Rydan's eyes went wide as he smiled.&nbsp; "You are with someone?"

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Jarik nodded.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"Jarik, that is wonderful!&nbsp; I am so happy for you!"&nbsp; The fox genuinely shouted as he gave Jarik a hug.&nbsp; "Will I get to meet him?"

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Jarik pulled away from the hug as he gave Rydan a small smile.&nbsp; "If you want to.&nbsp; He is just out in the lobby waiting for me."

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"Wonderful!&nbsp; Let me change into something more appropriate."&nbsp; Rydan replied as he walked over to the chest and opened it.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"You want to meet him now?&nbsp; Do you not have any more clients today?"&nbsp; Jarik asked.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"Tonight is my night off dear."&nbsp; Rydan purred as he slipped on a pair of black leather trousers and a royal red tunic with a silver trim.&nbsp; Expensive garments, no doubt about that.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"Oh.&nbsp; Well would you like to join us for dinner tonight?&nbsp; That way you and Jaren can discuss things."&nbsp; Jarik suggested.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"Sounds lovely.&nbsp; Only if you promise that you and I will have some time alone to catch up."&nbsp; Rydan replied with a wink.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Jarik nodded with a slight grin.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;He followed the fox out of the room and down the hall to the lobby.&nbsp; He brushed past the curtain to find Darsden still standing in the exact same position as he was, still looking just as uncomfortable too.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"So just taking a gamble here, I am guessing that you are quite passionate in bed?&nbsp; Or are you the more aggressive and dominating type?"&nbsp; Sabal asked with a curious smile.&nbsp; "Which one is it?"

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Darsden's eyes shot over to Jarik, signaling for help.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"Stop torturing the poor wolf."&nbsp; Jarik chuckled as he walked by the leopard.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"Just asking some friendly questions."&nbsp; Sabal purred as he gave a wink towards Darsden.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Darsden just laughed nervously in reply and twitched his ears.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"I am heading out for the night."&nbsp; Rydan mentioned as he waved to Sabal.&nbsp; "I will be back here tomorrow morning."

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"Very well dear.&nbsp; Have fun and be safe."&nbsp; Sabal replied.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;The three exited the brothel, where Darsden finally seemed to relax once they had started walking through the city.&nbsp; Jarik glanced towards the setting sun.&nbsp; Dinner was probably being served right now.&nbsp; His stomach grumbled just at the thought of food.&nbsp;

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"So this is your wolf?"&nbsp; Rydan asked as he licked his lips and grinned.&nbsp; "He really is quite handsome."

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Darsden's face shifted back into a sense of awkwardness.&nbsp; Rydan chuckled softly.&nbsp; "Do not worry wolf.&nbsp; I am not like Sabal."

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"Sometimes."&nbsp; Jarik scoffed.&nbsp; "Rydan, this is Darsden. &nbsp;Darsden, this is my friend Rydan."

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;The two nodded in greeting.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"Nice to meet you Rydan."&nbsp; Darsden smiled.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"Pleasure is mine."&nbsp; Rydan replied.&nbsp; "Jarik told me that you rescued him?"

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Darsden rubbed the back of his neck.&nbsp; "Well I guess you can say that."

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"Stop being so modest."&nbsp; Jarik snorted.&nbsp; "I would not be here right now if you had not shown up."

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"Mmm your own prince in shining armor.&nbsp; You will have to tell me the story tonight."&nbsp; Rydan commented.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;The three exchanged small talk as they made their way through the city and finally passed through the main gates of the palace.&nbsp; The sun had completely set by the time they entered the palace and walked into the dining room where Jaren waited.&nbsp; Orren and Ashton were also seated at the table.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"Where have you guys been?"&nbsp; Ashton asked as his eyes lit up when they approached the table.&nbsp;

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"Yes, we are quite starving here."&nbsp; Orren replied as he glowered at his empty plate.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Ashton elbowed the gray wolf in his ribs as Jaren stood up from his seat.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"I see that you have brought us a visitor."&nbsp; The older cougar commented dryly as he eyed Rydan.&nbsp; "I do hope that you have cleansed yourself before coming to the dinner table."

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"Jaren!"&nbsp; Jarik shouted, horrified.&nbsp;

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"No it is quite fine for him to be cautious."&nbsp; Rydan commented politely as he bowed to Jaren.&nbsp; "I am completely clean, m' lord, which means I am ready to pleasure you tonight."

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Jaren grinned slightly and snorted.&nbsp; "I see that your cynical disposition has not changed."

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"Still the same, m' lord."&nbsp;

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Jaren sat back down in his chair and motioned towards the empty chairs.&nbsp; Jarik sat down into the chair closest to his brother, while Darsden sat next to him and Rydan sat next to Darsden.&nbsp; The servants filed out into the room with plates piled high with roasted fowl, boiled potatoes, and steaming vegetables.&nbsp; Once the food was set down and everyone had their plate filled, did Jaren begin to speak.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"I believe that I do not need to tell you all how bad of a situation we are all in."&nbsp; The older cougar addressed to everyone as he took a sip of red wine.&nbsp; "Anyone who is loyal to Lord Maren is out searching the entire realm for Jarik and Orren.&nbsp; They have been labeled traitors and have quite the bounty on their heads."

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"How much?"&nbsp; Ashton piped up through a mouthful of vegetables.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"Five-hundred gold coins."&nbsp; Jaren replied.&nbsp;

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Rydan whistled.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"As long as you two do not leave the city, you will be safe.&nbsp; 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."&nbsp; Jaren chewed thoughtfully on a potato.&nbsp; "I need to know what the tricky bastard is planning."

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"Do we have any available spies?"&nbsp; Jarik suggested as he stabbed a piece of fowl and shoved it into his muzzle.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Jaren shook his head.&nbsp; "Unfortunately no.&nbsp; None are close enough to Jerhall and I cannot risk having any of them move from where they are now."

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"So send me then."&nbsp; Jarik replied.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"Absolutely not.&nbsp; There is no possible way you can pass the gates of Jerhall without being recognized immediately."

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"There are hundreds of black cougars in the city.&nbsp; And it is not like as if I have never scaled the walls of the city before.&nbsp; There is even a sewage passage that you can easily crouch through to get into the city."&nbsp; Jarik argued.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"I realize that you know the city better than anyone around here."&nbsp; Jaren sighed.&nbsp; "But I cannot afford you getting captured again."

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"You do not seem to have many options left!"&nbsp; Jarik protested.&nbsp; "What good am I if I just sit here in the palace?&nbsp; You have a problem, and I am the one who can solve it!"

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Jaren stared at his plate in deep thought.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"I know you are worried about me, but you really do not have anyone else who knows the city like me or Orren does."

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"I will sleep on it tonight, and I will let you know my decision tomorrow."&nbsp; Jaren finally replied as he dabbed at his muzzle with a napkin.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"But-"

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"Do not try and argue with me."&nbsp; Jaren warned as he gave Jarik a stern stare.&nbsp;

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Jarik returned to his meal but found that he was not so hungry anymore.&nbsp;

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"May I be excused?"&nbsp; Jarik muttered as he stood up from the table.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Jaren stared at him for a long time, before finally giving him a nod.&nbsp; Jarik turned away from the table and stomped out of the dining room.&nbsp; Darsden watched Jarik leave with concern.&nbsp;

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"I...should go check on him."&nbsp; The white wolf sighed as he set his utensils down and stood up from the table.&nbsp; "If...I have permission to do so, m lord."

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"I think you would be the best one to go talk to him."&nbsp; Jaren sighed as he took another sip of wine.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Darsden nodded as he padded quietly out of the dining room and began searching the palace for the troubled cougar.&nbsp; He hurried up the steps to Jarik's quarters and quietly pushed the door open.&nbsp; He sniffed and caught Jarik's scent.&nbsp; He noticed that the doors to his balcony were open and he stepped outside into the cool night air.&nbsp; Jarik was leaning against the balcony railing, just staring off into the distance.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"Mind if I join you?"&nbsp; Darsden asked quietly.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"Not at all."&nbsp; Jarik sighed.&nbsp;

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;The white wolf walked up behind the cougar and wrapped his arms around his lover's waist.&nbsp; Jarik sighed contentedly as he melted into the wolf's warm embrace.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"You do know that your brother is only doing what he thinks is best for you."&nbsp; Darsden said as he rested his muzzle on Jarik's shoulder.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"My brother is being foolish."&nbsp; Jarik replied bitterly.&nbsp; "He needs to stop worrying about me so much."

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"Brothers are meant to look after each other."&nbsp; Darsden said as he licked the cougar's neck.&nbsp; "My older brother would never let me go anywhere without him."

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"Yes, but the difference is he let you go out on your own once you grew older.&nbsp; I am almost as old as you and my brother still treats me like a youth.&nbsp; He even sent you to keep an eye on me when I became a spy!"

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Darsden hugged the cougar tighter as he sighed, his breath hot against Jarik's neck.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"Could you please just try to talk to him without storming away?&nbsp; I really hate to see you two fight.&nbsp; He saved your life, you know."&nbsp;

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Jarik sighed.&nbsp; "I do not know..."

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"For me?"

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Jarik smiled slightly.&nbsp;

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"Very well.&nbsp; Just for you though."&nbsp; He purred.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;The two remained standing together as they looked out over the city and into the distance.&nbsp; Jarik could just make out the shadowy outlines of the Jarath Mountains in the distance.&nbsp; The White River looked like a sparkling silver snake in the moonlight.&nbsp;

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"It's beautiful."&nbsp; Darsden whispered as he kissed Jarik on the neck.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"It really is."&nbsp; Jarik replied as he placed his paw onto Darsden's.&nbsp; "I'm glad I get to share it with you."

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"You are absolutely wonderful, you know that?"&nbsp; Darsden whispered as he moved his muzzle closer to Jarik's.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Jarik moved his head up and met Darsden in a passionate kiss.&nbsp; 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.&nbsp; He savored the wolf's taste as he dominantly explored Darsden's muzzle with his tongue.&nbsp; The world melted away as he inhaled deeply.&nbsp; The wolf's musky scent, the cool night air...and...

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Jarik opened his eyes and pulled away from the kiss.&nbsp; He sniffed the air again.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"Is something wrong?"&nbsp; Darsden asked.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Jarik sniffed the air again.&nbsp; "Do you...smell smoke?"

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Darsden tilted his muzzle up into the air and inhaled deeply.&nbsp; "I...I do smell smoke."

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;A servant suddenly burst through the balcony doors, causing the two to jump.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"M' lord!&nbsp; There's a fire in the servant's wing of the palace!"&nbsp; The young leopard shouted.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"Fire?&nbsp; How?"&nbsp; Jarik demanded.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"I-I don't know m' lord!"

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Jaren suddenly appeared in the doorway, along with several guards.&nbsp; He had his sword belted to his side and at the ready.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"Jarik!&nbsp; Stay here!"&nbsp; The older cougar demanded.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"Let me come with you!"&nbsp; Jarik shouted back as his brother started to leave.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"Not now!&nbsp; I will send a guard for you once I've determined that it's safe enough!&nbsp; For now, just stay put!"&nbsp; Jaren demanded.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Jarik huffed in frustration as his brother and the guards rushed out of the room.&nbsp; The smoke was heavy in the air now and was starting to sting Jarik's eyes.&nbsp;

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"Can you believe him?"&nbsp; Jarik asked furiously as he stomped back into his room and slammed the balcony doors shut.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Darsden winced as the doors slammed shut loudly.&nbsp; "This is what I'm talking about dear.&nbsp; He just really cares about you."

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"It's just a fire!&nbsp; It's not like as if an army is attacking the palace!"&nbsp; Jarik shouted angrily as he sat down on his bed.&nbsp; "When he returns, I'm going to really tell him-"

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Jarik went silent as the balcony doors suddenly creaked open.&nbsp; A raccoon dressed in all black slipped into the room, but froze when he sighted Darsden and Jarik.&nbsp; Jarik stood up cautiously as the intruder continued to stand frozen in place.&nbsp;

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"Who are you?&nbsp; And what are you doing here?"&nbsp; Jarik asked as he kept his distance.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;The raccoon remained silent.&nbsp; Jarik sniffed the air and wrinkled his nose.&nbsp; The harsh smell of oil and smoke was heavy in the air.&nbsp; His eyes widened as he suddenly pieced together what was happening.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"You...you started the fire?"&nbsp; Jarik asked the raccoon.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;No answer.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"Answer me!"&nbsp; Jarik demanded.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"You weren't supposed to be here."&nbsp; The intruder finally whispered.&nbsp;

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"What?&nbsp; What do you mean I wasn't supposed to be here?"&nbsp; Jarik asked.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"They said you weren't going to be here."&nbsp;

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Before Jarik could reply, the raccoon suddenly brandished a crude dagger and leaped at Jarik.&nbsp; Jarik stumbled back and managed to catch the raccoon's wrists and drive the dagger away from his body.&nbsp; His attacker was quick though and gave a swift kick to Jarik's stomach, causing him to double over in pain.&nbsp; Darsden went to grab the raccoon but he slipped out of the wolf's reach and leaped at him instead.&nbsp; Darsden was not so lucky at blocking the attack and he yelped in pain as the cold steel cut into his upper arm.&nbsp; 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.&nbsp; His paws found the raccoon's wrist and he twisted it until he heard the snap of bone.&nbsp; The dagger clattered to the floor.&nbsp; Before the raccoon could even cry out, Jarik had taken the dagger in his own paw and raised the blade high over his head.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"Jarik!&nbsp; Stop!"&nbsp; Darsden shouted at him.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;He then felt a pair of strong paws pull him off of his assailant.&nbsp; He stared at the raccoon as he writhed in pain on the floor.&nbsp; His paw clutched the dagger tightly but he did not raise it.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"Jarik...I..."&nbsp; Was all Darsden could say as four guards rushed into the room, along with Jaren.&nbsp;

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"Jarik?&nbsp; What the...what the hell have you done?"&nbsp; Jaren asked in shock as he stared at the bloody scene.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"Me?&nbsp; You should be asking him!"&nbsp; Jarik panted as he pointed towards the raccoon on the floor.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Jaren's eyes shifted to the writhing and moaning figure on the floor.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"Guards!&nbsp; Seize him immediately!&nbsp; I want him put in a cell with four guards watching it!"&nbsp; Jaren barked.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Jarik watched as the four guards pushed themselves into the room and roughly brought the raccoon to his feet.&nbsp; He was quickly dragged out of the room, leaving just Jarik, Darsden, Jaren, and two other guards in the room.&nbsp; Jaren gave Jarik a long and hard stare as he figured out what to say.&nbsp;

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"You should tend to Darsden's wound and clean yourself up as well.&nbsp; Once you're done, I would like to speak with you in my quarters."&nbsp; Jaren finally spoke.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"I...yes brother."&nbsp; Jarik sighed.&nbsp; "What exactly is there to talk about though?"

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;His brother looked back over his shoulder as he began to leave the room.&nbsp;

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"It seems that I may need your help sooner than I had anticipated."&nbsp; Jaren said as he walked away.&nbsp; "It seems that we have enemies living among us, brother."&nbsp;

Source: https://sofurry.com/s/znJR4jQn