FSE

Furry search engine

formerly SoFurry search engine

Chapter XIII - Dancing Sabers

Footsteps quietly walked up a hallway, barely creating an echo. Numerous windows filled the corridor with light and gave beautiful views of the palace's courtyards. Lush plants and fine pottery, including vases and glazed pieces, decorated much of the space inside the hall. Making another turn, a feline figure was visible not too far ahead. It was a leopard was standing by one of the windows, looking outside deep in thought. The Emir was dressed exquisitely in fine silken robes that graced the ground. Even several richly designed necklaces hung around his neck. It was a serious sight that was much different than the leopard's usual nude lounging around his private chambers or private garden. A spotted ear turned and the leopard spotted the visitor and turned to face him.

"Ah, Joseph. Six months can pass by faster than a ship powered by a strong wind." He simply spoke with a typical friendly smile.

"Yes, time seems much faster now than when I first arrived here." He happily shook the Emir's hand.

"And you still dress very modest for someone on my council." The leopard pointed out the human's plain robes and clothing.

"I'm afraid Chiba spends the money, not me." Joseph laughed.

"I think I understand what you mean." He grinned. "So have you decided on what you wish to do after today?" The feline inquired. "You're no longer on my council."

"I will choose to work at the docks on the harbor." Joseph answered. It would be more work than being on the Safaviyya, but it was something he preferred to do over other occupations.

"I am glad to hear that." He nodded. "Anything involving trade suits you well. Merchants adore you, and I haven't seen so many of their families in Al Lishbunah at a single time: the Ghisolfi, Choniates, La Roche, and so many more will be bringing their wealth and goods here. I think you were entirely correct six months ago."

'Giuseppe or Nizam the Tuareg let a lot of people know about my involvement with that.' Joseph thought to himself. Everyone who traded across the sea or desert seemed to know who he was.

"You have worked very hard to help me out. All I can say is thank you." He gave a short bow.

"You don't have to thank me! You are the one who allowed me onto your council." The human bashfully spoke.

"Nonsense." He waved with a hand. "You have enabled more wealth to travel into city. Albeit all of this wealth does appear to be at the expense of a few..."

"The Kakuyids?" Joseph guessed. The fierce desert tribe of lions had barely crossed the human's mind since their leader had left Al Lishbunah and returned to the arid regions of Sham. Very little had been heard of the lion over the past six months, but there were no complaints about that.

"Mmm... I wonder if Bulus is plotting something." The Emir's mood changed to a more serious tone.

"What do you mean?"

"There is a situation developing between two tribes in an oasis town named Sabha. The Harsusi factions and Tuaregs that inhabit the area have been at ends. They both wish to control the desert route that links the town to the coast."

"Is this a big war?"

"Well, there is no serious fighting from what has been told to me. The town's Atabeg has tried mediating but nothing has come through. Tribal affairs are always closely watched. I don't like intervening because it creates further problems, but Sabha is a different matter. It's close enough to home for concern so I want a bloodless resolution or else we could have fighting making its way to the outskirts of Al-Lishbunah." He explained. "Members of both groups live in this city and call it home. Moreover, I don't want to wait for Bulus to strike and add another oasis town under his influence."

"Has Bulus been up to things since I took over his spot on your council?"

"Well, I wouldn't say you took his spot." The leopard grinned in amusement. "He was long overdue to leave, and the lion has always been up to conquest and furthering his tribe's expansion. This is something he has always been doing."

"That doesn't surprise me." Joseph didn't like the news. "I would not want Bulus to return. I think he would like to settle a score with me."

"I don't think that will happen anytime." The leopard mused.

"I hope that you are right, and I hope the best for any effort in Sabha. It sounds very difficult." He said. The Emir nodded and looked outside the window briefly. His gaze was long, evident that something was on his mind.

"Before you leave, I'd like to ask a favor of you." The leopard began and returned his eyes to the human. "I have Nehru traveling with a small group to Sabha. He's going to assist in any way he can to avoid an outbreak of fighting. Would you like to accompany him?"

"You want me to travel to Sabha?" Joseph was surprised.

"It's up to you." He plainly spoke. "The entire journey may last two or possibly three weeks."

"That's very sudden to ask me this." He thought about it for a moment. Leaving the city, a place he had only dreamt of reaching before, for the desert, a place he had nearly died in, appeared ridiculous at first. However, going on a diplomatic venture was an interesting opportunity. It would be an eventful experience, but of course there was some risk involved. Becoming involved with two tribes ready to fight each other could lead to a dangerous situation. On the other hand, he owed the Emir everything for granting him a position in the council. There was no doubt that he would be protected from any threat, and he wouldn't have to rely on the charity of strangers to survive.

'Why not?' The human thought to himself. 'I can go with Chiba and we can travel before I have to work at the harbor and customs area.' He reasoned.

"Okay. I will go." He agreed.

"Wonderful." The Emir smiled. "I think this will be a good experience for you. I'll notify Nehru immediately, and those at the harbor."

"Thanks. Not just for this, but everything." The human spoke. "I wouldn't have a single coin to my name without you." The Emir smiled kindly and waved his hand dismissively.

"You are a capable man Joseph. Take care. I trust you." The leopard shook his hand.

"Thank you." He bid the Emir farewell and walked back down the lengthy hallway. A familiar white tigress was standing towards the end of the hallway. 'Bashira.' He recognized the buxom tigress tending to a few plants situated near a window. She was wearing very little compared to him. A green silk was tied around her wide hips, leaving both ends to hang between her legs. However, there was nothing covering her body above her waist. It appeared like a tribal fashion, but the feline apparently loved gracing the palace topless.

"Hello." He approached the buxom feline.

"Joseph. You are leaving?" Bashira guessed.

"I suppose. I may not be back for some time without the Emir sending for me."

"Ah, So your time on his council has finished?" She guessed.

"Yes. Although, he asked me to go somewhere with Nehru soon."

"To Sabha, if he told me correctly." She nodded knowingly.

"You already know?"

"My husband consults with me about many issues. I'm not just sitting on that lounge making people uncomfortable." She grinned and patted her chest.

"I'm very relieved to hear that. I always imagined that you seduced the Emir to marry him..." He admitted.

"Hahaha!" The tigress laughed. "You're too funny Joseph, but I don't think I can seduce him easily. That would take a lot of effort!"

"How did you two end up married?" He wondered.

"It was an arranged marriage." She thought back years ago. "I had two sisters and a younger brother who was very ill most of the time. We lived on a small island across the sea just off the mainland, born into a noble family. It was an easy life. I am the eldest so I was chosen to marry a prince from somewhere I had never heard of."

"Weren't you worried? Being sent to here must've been a big change."

"I didn't care." The tigress shrugged. "I knew that I would be married off to someone, but I didn't realize how different things would become. It was an important alliance between two very different cities. I had never heard of Al Lishbunah until I was halfway across the sea. It was a big shock arriving in a giant city situated between the sea and desert."

"I've heard how merchants describe their homelands compared to here." Joseph nodded. "It's different."

"Yes, it is very different." Bashira nodded knowingly. "I'm used to green grass and the crashing of waves against the rocks. Then there's the food, what people wear, and everything." She motioned with her hands. "Among the whirlwind of new things was a young male leopard who I was supposed to wed."

"What was he like back then?"

"The same to me." She smiled. "He was very charming and handsome, but very cautious around me. I think he was more nervous than me about being married to a stranger from across the sea. After a few days we got to know each other and an agreement was reached to marry."

"Do you spend a lot of time with him?"

"He has his duties, and I do anything I can to help, but I cherish the moments we spend together. You're a young man, aren't you married or beholden to someone?"

"Me? No." Joseph waved his hands low.

"Young men usually marry quickly." She found his situation peculiar. "It's your life, so I shouldn't be prying for answers!" The tigress admitted with a bubbly laugh. "Even though you are no longer on my husband's council, you can stop by anytime if you need anything, or if you just was to relax and talk." She promised.

"Thank you. I'm glad you were my first and only test to see your husband." He extended a hand. The large feline giggled with a smile and stepped forward instead.

"You're welcome." She hugged him instead. The warm fluffiness of her fur was felt through the human's clothes. Joseph patted her back, enjoying her softness. "Take care." With a final wave, they bid farewell for the time being.

'Back out here.' Joseph's eyes adjusted to the direct sunlight where two caracal guards stood watch at the side entrance along the lobby. They watched the human depart to the outer gate, and then the wide cobblestone street. The human felt a sense of pride swell deep inside his chest as he walked back home.

'I set out and accomplished what I wanted to do.' He thought. 'I reached my goal.' It seemed impossible, but it was true. The human who nearly died in the desert ended up reaching the coast. Not only that, he managed to gain a prized position on the Emir's council. He earned plenty of money and felt secure. It never occurred to him that he could relax and do what he wanted for the time being.

'Although, I have a little more to finish.' He thought about the Emir's request. Traveling to a small oasis town not far from Al Lishbunah seemed trivial by comparison. 'Will Chiba go with me?' He wondered. She was a stay at home type of person, but didn't mind exploring the city with him. The lioness sort of became a housewife, advisor, and oddly enough a dependable friend to Joseph. It was a stark contrast to their early antagonistic relationship, but Joseph was happy with how things had turned out. He arrived at the place he now called home with a large grin across his face. Entering through the door, Joseph quickly spotted a lioness with her back turned to him.

Chiba usually graced the home naked, in typical Kakuyid fashion, but she was still wearing a pretty set of robes from the morning. Joseph never complained either way. Her ears moved as he approached.

"Back so soon?" Chiba looked over her shoulder.

"Yes!" The human happily declared.

"Yes-?" The lioness turned around and found herself being fully embraced by Joseph. He felt the feline stand still without any movement. Looking up, he found Chiba glaring at him with a disturbed expression. The human stepped back with a sheepish grin.

"Sorry. I should've said something first." The lioness rolled her eyes and folded her arms. It was the kindest way she forgave him. "My six months are finished." He returned his hands to his sides with a satisfied sigh. "My term on the Emir's council is over."

"It's been six months already..." She quietly remarked. "Now what are you going to do?"

"I have a few ideas." He shrugged. 'I never want to get used to having so many options available.' Joseph silently told himself. "We have plenty saved, and we have a good livelihood now. Not to mention no more Bulus."

"Sounds perfect to me." She hummed.

"Well... I do have one last thing to do as a member of the Emir's Safaviyya." Joseph wondered how to explain himself.

"What do you have to do?" Chiba looked at him curiously.

"We need to travel a few days into the desert with another of the Emir's Safaviyya, Nehru, to help negotiate conflict between Harsusi and Tuareg factions."

"We?" Her ears dialed around.

"Yeah, both of us."

"What? Why do I have to travel with you and the Emir's entourage?"

"I want you to go with me."

"You... want me to go with you?" She was surprised.

"Yeah." He shrugged. "I mean, why not?" Her ears turned back briefly in thought.

"Who is going to watch the house while we are gone?" She pointed out.

"Sabha is not far from Al Lishbunah. We will be gone for around two weeks. Besides, I can have someone keep watch over everything. We live in a decent neighborhood." He explained, but the lioness remained unconvinced. "It'll be like a small journey we could've taken... If things hadn't gone awry after we escaped Fez." Chiba's ears fell flatly at the mention of the little desert border town. The lioness turned to the side and thought for a moment.

"I guess I can go with you..." She mumbled. Her tail swayed behind her.

"Great!" Joseph happily exclaimed and placed a hand on her shoulder. The feline eyed Joseph, but didn't shrug him away.

The early morning sunlight was bright, but the city was quiet while Chiba and Joseph walked along a street. Although, it was by no means desolate or empty. Hens at a nearby house were being fed a meager amount of grain and given a mixture of water and flour. The elderly Ethiopian wolf feeding them kindly waved at the human and lioness pair. A few steps ahead a black furred feline mother was seated by a fountain. Two children of the same species were playing around the rippling waters. She was tightly wrapped in robes leaving only her face visible.

"Momma! Momma!" One of the kittens yelled with something in its hand. Looking up, the gate facing the south was visible.

'There's Nehru.' Joseph spotted the lion standing with a few guards, but there were also several archers waiting, mounted on horseback.

"Hello Joseph!" The lion waved at the approaching human. "Who is the lovely lady with you?" She eyed Nehru suspiciously.

"Who is he?" Chiba asked.

"Don't worry. He is not from Sham." Joseph quickly explained.

"I am Nehru, a Cypriot." He introduced himself. "My parents are an odd mix, a lioness and a rat. Although I am a lion, I have no connections to the Kakuyids." She appeared reassured by the news.

"I am Chiba." The lioness plainly introduced herself.

"Ah, so you are Chiba." Nehru smiled. "Joseph has told me about you, but he didn't tell me that you would be the one traveling with us."

"A whole entourage is going too?" Joseph looked at the mounted archers close by.

"Yep." Nehru answered. "You can never be too careful when it comes to bandits." His caution was warranted. "Everything that will be needed has already been packed. We can leave as soon as you are ready." He showed them to a trio of camels ready to be mounted.

"So we are the only ones going with you?" Joseph asked.

"As far as a diplomatic team, yes. The Emir doesn't want a large group to go down because that would bring a lot of unnecessary attention."

"That makes sense." Joseph liked how it was being handled. Although it revealed the tedious nature of simply sending someone to talk.

"Why did you choose for us to ride camels when they have horses?" Chiba asked.

"I want the archers to be more mobile, just in case." The lion explained as they mounted. The archers lined up as Nehru waved for them to depart. After an order, the gate was raised. They filed through the gateway facing the grassy hills where a few young shepherds were tending to a large flock of sheep. Others in the distance were gradually making their way on foot or camelback to the gate to enter Al Lishbunah. Joseph glanced over his shoulder at the walls and buildings visibly looming above.

'I guess we will return in a week or two.' The human looked at Chiba and then Nehru. In a matter of hours the patchy grassland became scrub and then complete dirt and sand. As much as Joseph couldn't believe he had survived the dangerous journey through the desert, he was right back in it.

The sight of small sand dunes was nothing significant to Joseph. The small hills between the flat stretch of parched dirt reminded him of his former homeland of Fez. It was just as desolate and the air was dry as the sand. Even though it was their second day of travel, they had only noticed a single lone traveler along the desert route.

'It is always hot...' The human envied the shade of a tall building or colorful awning while his camel lumbered steadily along. Having a refreshing drink from a well, or even at the busy marketplaces of Al Lishbunah enchanted his thoughts. Shielding his eyes, Joseph looked ahead at the line of horses leading them through the desert. To his left, Chiba appeared stoic, all wrapped up in white robes where only her brusque feline face was visible. The lioness hadn't said much, but at least there were no complaints from her. Directly ahead, Nehru was bundled up in his own robes but his mane was left uncovered.

"Hmm?" Squinting his eyes, the human could make out structures in the nearby horizon. Low walls of brick stuck out plainly against the flat horizon before them. As they gradually neared, an imposingly large stone structure rose from the ruins and desert horizon. In the shape of a tall rectangle that could've resembled a tower, it was several meters high.

'Is this Sabha?' He briefly wondered to himself. The uneven walls were worn away and silent, unable to tell their history verbally. Nehru slowed his camel to walk alongside Chiba and Joseph.

"These are the ruins of an ancient place which we know little about." Nehru pointed out the giant structure in the sand. "All that is left are these ruins."

"I thought this was Sabha for a second." Joseph admitted.

"Thankfully it isn't." Nehru smiled. "I believe this is where the stone bust of that fox came from."

"That stone sculpture on your table?" The human recalled the partially worn head.

"Yes." He nodded. "Artifacts are priceless and if something is found out here, you will easily become a target." His voice was foreboding despite his typical cheerfulness. They turned and avoided passing directly by the ruins. Joseph stared at the building remnants, likely half buried with sand. Lines between bricks were still visible. Archways as well as doorways and staircases could be distinguished apart from other walls and rubble. The silence of the abandoned ancient town made chills run up his back.

'I wonder why this place was abandoned.'

"Ahwoo! Ahwoo!" A loud whooping noise cut his thoughts short. Everyone stopped and looked around in confusion. Joseph looked behind and noticed a cloud of dust as several riders were quickly approaching on horseback.

"Uh oh." The human didn't like the situation.

"Round up!" The mounted archer behind them waved. All of the others quickly dashed by, brandishing their bows. Arms moved quickly as arrows were notched. The figures dashing towards them slowed down as a volley of arrows arched through the sky. There was distant yelling as two slumped forward. All of them quickly turned around and rode away. As suddenly as it had begun, they retreated into the horizon and out of sight. The trail of dust behind them gradually dissipated as well.

"Looks like we can move on." Nehru spoke and commanded his camel to move again. Joseph hastily followed by his side alongside Chiba. The archers guarding them returned to single file.

"Where do you think they came from?"

"They likely live in the ruins or a nearby well." Nehru guessed. "Rather than search for valuables themselves, gangs of bandits will try to attack travelers or anyone else searching the ruins." He explained. "Going through would've resulted in an ambush."

"If I had a weapon, then I could fight." Chiba spoke. The lioness grasped her empty hand as if a spear or knife would fit perfectly in her palm.

"I would be afraid if you had a weapon." Joseph smiled. She eyed him without a word as they continued their journey through the desert.

***

As the sinking sun touched the horizon, the traveling group came upon a welcome sight. It wasn't the color of sand, but enchanting greens promising what a desert should never be able to offer.

"I hope this isn't a mirage, Nehru." Joseph remarked at the trees and small bushes ahead.

"You will be glad to hear that it is not." The lion told him. "This is the Baalbek Oasis. It is the only one that remains year round in this area. Without it, towns like Sabha and its surrounding trade route may not exist." With that being said, everyone hurried to the hidden body of water, faintly visible through a few trees. Walking through the vegetation, they were greeted with a large pool of water, but it was plain to see that they weren't the only ones using the valuable source of water. Several people were already at the oasis. Jackals, sand cats, and cheetahs were present in their own little respective groups. Camels, other steads, and supplies were scattered about the soil's odd mix of sand and dirt. Nehru, Joseph, and Chiba stopped and dismounted along the edge of a grouping of bushes and small trees. The archers were more than eager to dismount and bring their steads to the water for a drink at the wide pool.

"There are a lot of trees and bushes around this oasis." Joseph was surprised. Looking around, they were virtually enclosed from the desert. It could've been easy to forget that one was in the middle of a harsh environment.

"Wherever there is water, there is life." Chiba stated.

"We'll stay here and sleep for the night." Nehru told them as he unpacked a few blankets to lay on.

"Will that be safe? There are a lot of people already here." Joseph observed.

"We should be fine." Nehru didn't seem worried at all. "They're part of the Toba tribe." He looked at the group of lightly dressed felines first. "And I believe the rest are from Al Lishbunah or another desert town that's close by. Besides, we are guarded well enough." The lion pulled out a few empty containers. "Do you want to collect water, so we can leave early?" He handed them over.

"Sure." Joseph went to the calm pool while Chiba and Nehru set up their encampment. 'It is nice to walk around again.' He stretched his legs before crouching down at the water's edge. Dipping his hands, the water was exceptionally cool compared to what was stored in a regular pouch or container. He drank the handful before filling each container.

'It is impressive how easily Nehru and Chiba can tell where they are from.' He looked over at the others around the vegetated oasis. The sand cats were indeed wearing fairly open robes or simply half dressed in comparison to the jackals and cheetahs. Joseph looked up as Chiba knelt down beside him. The lioness had removed her outer robes and was only wearing a loose, but closed garment. It was much more fitting for her to wear as a Kakuyid.

"Hey." He spoke while she dipped her paws into the water. The feline sat down in the sand without a word. "You've been very quiet since we left the city." Joseph mentioned.

"It wasn't my idea to return to the desert." Chiba stated while cleaning her paws. "But I don't have a lot to say right now." She added.

"That's fine. Nehru talks a lot anyway." He watched the lioness clean over her paws before using the bottom of her robe to dry them.

"Need any help?" He asked.

"No." She briefly looked at him with suspicion.

'Hmm...' Joseph looked away and waited for her to finish. The lioness was impossible to pry open. "Do you miss being in the city?" He asked.

"I don't know... I guess." Chiba stood up. Joseph hastily rose to his feet and followed her back. Nehru had blankets readily spread out for them. They settled down in the surprisingly cool shade of the waning sun. It would become dark very soon. Behind them, the archers were laid back. Their armed entourage attracted some attention from the other groups, but none cared to approach. Since Chiba's lips were sealed, the human turned his attention to Nehru.

"What do you know about Sabha, Nehru?" Joseph asked.

"Not a lot." The lion admitted. "It is a small oasis town ruled by an Atabeg."

"A who?" Joseph's brow arched in confusion at the word. Chiba shook her head at his cluelessness.

"That's their ruler, like our Emir." He explained. "Although he has good relations with us, because he relies on our city for support, especially when it comes to trade."

"Oh. What do you know about the two tribes ready to fight each other?"

"We don't need to worry about it until we arrive at Sabha in two days." The lion waved a hand dismissively and laid down. "Everything important will be told to us then."

"I am surprised that you are so laid back about something this serious."

"There's nothing that we can do right now. Just be patient." He advised. "Rest while you can." Joseph looked over at Chiba.

"He's right." The lioness plainly told him.

"As far as I see it." Nehru added. "This is part of fate, and you must never waste yourself by worrying about it. Prepare to face it."

Chapter XIV - Diplomacy

"There's the town of Sabha!" Nehru cheerfully pointed ahead. An outline of buildings became clearly visible along the horizon. Joseph held his hand over his eyes and gazed ahead. The hot sun made the horizon appear blurry and hazy, but the human could see buildings appear. Their short days of travel were quick compared to the journey Joseph had to make from Fez to reach the coast.

'Thank goodness.' Joseph felt glad that they had few incidents to speak of. Glancing to his left, Chiba was silent as they lumbered closer to the town. Small earthen walls encased most of the oasis town from what Joseph could see. A small grouping of treetops were all encircled behind the walls, meaning that all of Sabha's water was safely kept inside. Two sand cat guards were stationed by the main entrance. They were lightly armored and carried spears with shields, but effective in groups to police the town.

"I will talk to someone." Nehru motioned for them to wait. The lion approached one of the guards and spoke to him from his camel. Words were exchanged before one disappeared. "They are sending for someone." Nehru spoke with a smile as he returned. Joseph nodded and looked around Sabha. It was a busy, compact little town despite its size, and fairly dusty. The ground was all dirt and no sand, creating the opportunity for little clouds of dust to form wherever someone walked. The sound of brooms sweeping weren't easy to miss. For a desert town it was fairly diverse in terms of species. Leopards, fennecs, African wild dogs, coyotes, jackals, sand cats, and even a few humans were visible. Everyone was dressed for the desert. Long robes, concealing turbans, and other protective clothing were commonly worn. There were no tunics or simple tight fitting clothes like the city.

'It's a lot like La Selva.' Joseph thought back to the oasis town where he worked as a blacksmith's apprentice. A well dressed jackal in pristine robes soon emerged from a building with a fast step, followed by a few more armed males.

"I am glad that you three are here!" He exclaimed with open arms.

"Who is he? The Atabeg?" Joseph whispered to Chiba.

"I have no idea." The lioness shrugged.

"Take their camels and horses to the stable, and give the archers a place to stay." The jackal quickly ordered. Everyone dismounted at the behest of the canine. The archers followed the other guards leaving Chiba, Joseph, and Nehru with the jackal. "You three were sent by the Emir?"

"Yes." Nehru answered. "We are all here to help."

"I am very thankful that you all came here. I'm afraid that if the Tuaregs and Harsusi can't reach an agreement, the town will suffer greatly." He spoke while taking them across the street and into a large building. "We can barely keep them from crossing each other in the streets." The noise from outside disappeared as they walked down a hallway.

"Here is where you three will be staying." He led them through a large entryway and into an open room. Carpets and cushions were collected in the center, but there were no windows in order to keep a strong sense of privacy. Walls were also very thick to prevent loud noises from disturbing its inhabitants. The room had two more entryways along the wide walls, towards the back. "These are your rooms." The golden jackal presented the two. Both were identical small spaces with modest living quarters: two beds in each room as well as carpets, candles, as well as other necessities.

"Thank you for providing us with a nice room." Nehru curtly nodded.

"It's my pleasure." The jackal lightly bowed before hurrying back to the entryway and making a clapping gesture. "Let's sit down and eat." He gestured to the carpet. Servants began entering the main room with trays of food and drink. Everything was laid out before them like a tiny banquet. A growling stomach made Joseph reach out towards a plate.

"Everything looks delicious!" Joseph reached out only for Chiba to slap his hand.

"You don't do that!" She hissed at him.

"Ow. Why not? I'm hungry." He mumbled.

"You wait until they're done serving." Chiba eyed him.

"I don't see the big deal..."

"Never slight your host. If someone offers you food then at least wait for everyone to finish serving you." She bitterly told him. "I thought I taught you better." Her words cut deep like a sword.

"Okay..." John quietly sunk back in his seat like a scolded child. Nehru merely smiled in amusement.

"It's okay." The official meekly grinned. "Please eat. You three traveled all of this way. I'm sure you all must be hungry for well prepared food." With that said, all three ate with a voracious appetite. After eating meagerly for several days in the desolate desert, the small banquet of food and cool water tasted heavenly.

"Let's talk about the Harsusi and Tuaregs." Nehru said as he finished eating. "How serious do you think this will become if we don't act immediately?"

"I am very afraid that this will lead to open conflict no matter how soon an agreement is reached." The official explained. "If that happens then I am afraid an outside force will intervene."

"An outside force?" Joseph questioned.

"Yes." The jackal nodded. "I am worried about the Kakuyids. They always appear when a town is weak and take it for themselves. Towns close by to the southeast are already under Bulus's control. If he gets involved then anyone associated with the Atabeg will be slaughtered when he invades." His fate was very much involved with the diplomatic outcome.

"We do not wish for that to happen." Nehru acknowledged. "Keeping the peace is our top priority." The jackal looked relieved, but very cautious towards the lion's words.

"Where is your Atabeg?" Joseph expected to be meeting with the person in control of the town.

"Unfortunately, he is gravely ill and cannot deal with the situation himself. He is a human like you." The jackal looked at Joseph.

"He should focus on becoming well again. We will do what we can tomorrow." Nehru told him.

"Thank you." The jackal bowed. "I cannot thank you enough." The servants returned to pick up lingering plates. The official bid them goodnight before departing as well.

"Well, I guess we should get a full night of sleep since it is late." Nehru said as the room became quiet.

"Yeah. I am tired." Joseph lazily stood up. It was nice having a full belly and a place to stay. They retired to their rooms, Joseph and Nehru to one, and Chiba to the other. Candles were lit to brighten the darkening room.

"It's a gloomy room, but at least it is quiet." Nehru laid onto one of the beds and propped himself up. The lion ruffled his mane while Joseph approached his own bed. A hand prodded the simple spread.

'No feathers?' He was used to the finer bed at his house. The human sat down with a silent huff. Looking at the plain walls aglow from candlelight, he felt a little lost.

"Are you excited?" Nehru guessed.

"Not really." He shrugged. "Maybe nervous." His answer made the lion snicker.

"Well, that's natural." The lion concluded. "But do not let it overwhelm you."

"Do you have any sort of plan?" Joseph rubbed his shoulder. "Have you been involved in a situation like this before?"

"Not this exact problem since each one is unique, but I have mediated plenty of disputes."

"Any plan?"

"First, we will have to listen to each side bring forth their complaints. Second, something fair needs to be agreed upon. Third, each tribe will have to agree to the terms of what is fair so a bloody fight doesn't ensue."

"You make it sound fairly simple." Joseph furrowed his brow in thought. "But why isn't there fighting in the desert? Both tribes are nomadic. Why does it have to happen in a town?" Joseph asked.

"A good question." Nehru hummed. "Think of it this way. People rarely cross paths in the open stretches of sand. There are preferred routes of course, but even then it is seldom to run into strangers... Now where do nomads meet other people?"

"Towns, I guess." Joseph shrugged.

"Correct. They cross paths with many people at towns, but also wells and oases. This is why conflict arises in these areas between nomads. Fighting for territory usually means fighting for control or passage through those places. However, this can cause harm to surrounding people. That's why we are here." The lion explained.

"Right..." The human's gaze stared at the blank wall ahead. The feline lazily watched him for a moment.

"We will need a healthy night of rest, so our thoughts focus for tomorrow." With that said the feline blew out the lingering candles and they prepared for bed. Joseph couldn't find sleep in the funny bed even though the lion nearby fell asleep like a blown candle.

'Hmm...' He exhaled. Nehru's light snoring wasn't an issue, but the human's mind didn't seem ready to settle down yet. After tossing and turning for some time, the human sat up. His eyes blinked at the darkness of the guest room. 'What's wrong with me?' He stared at the room's entryway where a faint glow of light was still visible beyond the corner. Without anything else he could do, Joseph slipped out of bed and left the room. He walked across the open space to Chiba's room. Rounding the corner, he found two candles brightly lit, giving the modest guest room a cozy glow. The lioness was sitting on the bed completely naked with a sheet in her lap. She looked up.

"Joseph? What are you doing?"

"I can't sleep."

"Huh? Why not?"

"It's a new place and I'm uneasy." He admitted. "Can I sleep with you?" Her ears dialed around, perhaps in amusement.

"Are you serious?" Chiba finally asked.

"Yes. I haven't slept in a room without you for months."

"Fine. You can sleep with me tonight." She didn't appeared enthused about her decision, but at least she didn't flat out tell him to leave.

"Thank you." Joseph quietly approached the lioness and sat down beside her. "What are you doing up this late?" He asked.

"Thinking..." She didn't elaborate.

"About what?"

"I don't know..." Chiba shrugged. "I can't sleep either." Her gaze returned straight ahead. Joseph watched her for a moment, but like a statue the lioness never spoke about what was on her mind. It was impossible to pry into her mind anyway. He felt a little idea creep into his tired head. Without much thought, Joseph laid down and rested his head in the feline's lap. He felt her legs under the back of his head briefly tense up before relaxing once again.

'She is warm.' Joseph liked the cozy warmth of her lap. She placed a hand on his chest but didn't say anything. The human stared up at her, but could not see her feline face. It was a different view he never had of her white furred front. Just beyond his gaze was the gentle, subtle swell of her breasts, and further up was her white furred throat. Looming overhead was her fuzzy white chin. Joseph reached up and touched it. The short fur was very fuzzy, but also very soft. Chiba ignored him and continued staring ahead. His fingers curiously combed through her chin, rubbing and exploring along the way.

"Do you want me to bite you?" She asked as his fingertips touched along her lip.

"No." He said but he moved to pet under her jaw instead. The human ventured along the soft white fur towards her throat. With his entire hand, Joseph carefully pet the lion's jaw down to her collarbone. Lightly rubbing through the short white fur, his hand traced by the edge of her breast. Chiba still remained silent even when he reached her taut tummy. Keeping his hand over the center, Joseph could feel her steady breathing through the gentle rising and falling of her softer flesh.

"Do you do this on purpose?" He eventually pulled away before deciding to rest his hand over her own.

"Do what on purpose?" Her gaze didn't move, but he felt her fingers splay out along his chest, underneath his own hand.

"Lounge around naked."

"I wasn't expecting you to come in here." She quietly answered.

"I know, but I mean everywhere else like home." Joseph thought of all the times she undressed, bathed, slept without anything on, and walked around in her bare fur while around him. "I always look... Do you mind?" He quietly admitted. His ears barely heard the lioness softly exhale in thought. Her tail lightly thumped on the sheets behind them.

'Is she angry, indifferent, or... does she like this?' Unable to see her facial expression, all Joseph could do was wonder. The human didn't want to suddenly leave her lap either. Her lap was very cozy to lay in, but he also felt closer to her than before. It was a nice feeling. The subtle glow of the room didn't change as the candlelight barely flickered from nearby. Time seemed nonexistent until her jaws opened in a protracted yawn.

"Alright... I'm ready to go to sleep." Chiba started to shift. Joseph sat up and moved to the other side. The lioness blew out both candles, enshrouding the cozy room to complete darkness. "Don't roll around either." She warned him.

"I won't." Joseph promised, knowing that she would easily back up the threat. He settled down facing the wall. He felt the covers and bed shift as she joined him. The feline's backside felt soothingly warm as she lightly pressed against him. He felt safe being close to her, even thought she had once left him for dead.

"Thank you, Chiba." He closed his eyes.

"Mmhm." She hummed and tapped him with her tail to go to sleep.

"Mm..." Joseph stretched in bed. He felt fully rested from a good night of sleep. 'Hmm?' He rolled over but didn't encounter any obstacles. Remembering the previous night, he felt confused. An eye peeked open only to find that the spot beside him was already empty. 'Where did she-?'

"Get up." A stern voice shook the last ounce of sleepiness from him.

"What?" He jumped up and found Chiba standing before him. She was already dressed. The lioness grinned in good humor at his reaction.

"Get dressed and eat." She told him. "We have a long day of diplomacy ahead of us."

"Right... Right..." Joseph rubbed his head and quickly pulled himself together. 'You could at least sleep in more.' He thought to himself as Chiba left the bedroom. Joseph quickly dressed himself and left the bedroom. Nehru was already awake and seated on a cushion in the center of the main room. Food was already laid out and a young jackal servant was waiting by the entryway. The lion caught sight of the human.

"Finally awake, Joseph?" Nehru's deep voice echoed in the little space. The male lion's cheeky grin made the human frown.

"Yes. I didn't sleep in very long, did I?" He smoothed his hair before sitting down with him and Chiba.

"No, but I'm sure you must've slept very well."

"What do you mean by that?" The human started eating.

"Oh I know all about Chiba and you." He hummed. "I can see the way you two act together..." Chiba looked up and her eyes narrowed at the easy going male lion. Joseph shook his head with a bewildered look and resumed eating. A male brown furred mouse servant entered the room with another tray of food and drink. As soon as they were finished, the jackal official entered the main room.

"Good morning. I hope that our food was tasteful." The slim canine humbly smiled.

"Mmm... Delicious." Nehru happily said. "But I take it that you are ready for us?" The lion guessed.

"Yes. I will take you." He led them through the hallway and outside to an adjacent building. Joseph could hear soft voices as they entered a short hallway that led to an entrance concealed by lengthy curtains.

"Be prepared." The jackal forewarned them. Passing through the curtains, Joseph found himself in a modest room. However, it was filled with tough looking Tuaregs and Harsusi warriors and chieftains. The Tuareg African wild dogs to the left, and the Harsusi fennecs to the right. Many wore hoods or turbans with their robes and long shirts. Armbands, necklaces, rings, and anklets were prevalent on most bodies. Plenty of robes were not tied closed and left open, not only revealing their plainer underclothes, but also sheathed knives and scimitars along their waists. If either side deemed an unfair compromise then fighting could easily erupt.

'This looks difficult.' Joseph could almost feel the heaviness in the air as all eyes settled on them.

"We do not need the Kakuyids involved." A Tuareg chieftain spoke. Chiba glared at the wild dog.

"Like me, she is not here on their behalf." Nehru held up a hand. The jackal stepped forward.

"These three have arrived from Al Lishbunah to help negotiate an agreement." He gestured to Nehru, Joseph, and Chiba. "As an outside group, they will hold no grudges or favors to anyone." He kindly bowed out and many sets of eyes rested intently on the three.

'No pressure...' Joseph wondered what Nehru would do.

"What are all of your complaints?" Nehru simply began. "Why have the Harsusi and Tuaregs been at odds recently?" A Harsusi motioned and spoke first.

"The Harsusi are a kind group of nomads who have endured difficult years. We have herds of camels and horses to tend to. Recently we have had trouble when crossing Tuaregs. There have been disputes at the edges of our lands. There has been stealing and raiding."

An African wild dog was next to speak. He wore lengthy robes and several necklaces that quietly clacked as he moved.

"As Tuaregs we are proud of our nomadic heritage. We are accustomed to trading goods over long distances over difficult sands. We are tolerant of many people, urban or nomadic, but we do not allow anyone to take advantage of us." He spoke with murmurs of approval from other Tuaregs. "We have seen the Harsusi intrude and use our wells without permission."

"They let rogues pass through the desert and rob people." One fennec pointed an accusing finger.

"The Harsusi have taken horses left at our oases!" A canine yelled.

"Just like when you stole a dozen horses from my brother!" Another fennec yelled back. The wild dogs started yelling only for the fennecs to start yelling back. Spears, bows, and other weapons were held tightly in hand. The shouting reached a fevered pitch.

'I think I am going deaf!' Joseph covered his ears. Guards were quickly summoned to intervene and all three were ushered out of the boisterous room. In the hallway, they listened as the room gradually calmed down.

"They're a tough bunch." Nehru grumbled and stretched.

"What should we do?" Joseph didn't want to go back into the room.

"We need to de-escalate things. I don't believe a war can be avoided if we are unable to separate their leaders." Nehru explained. "If they are kept together then nothing good will come of this."

"What do you think we can do?"

"I'd rather talk to them alone."

"What about us?" Joseph asked.

"You two can do what you like for the time being." The lion answered. "If they feel outnumbered then they may become defensive."

"That's fine." Chiba didn't seem to care and started walking away.

"Are you sure?" Joseph asked Nehru.

"Yes, but if you see any of the Harsusi or Tuaregs, try to build some trust with them. That will definitely help. Come back here when you are done."

"Okay." The human nodded before quickly hurrying up to Chiba. The lioness walked to the building's entrance and stared outside. "You walked away quickly." Joseph mentioned. The feline's tail swayed back and forth for a moment.

"Why did you want to come here with me?" She suddenly asked.

"Huh?" The human was taken off guard as the lioness looked over at him. Her golden stare seemed to cut right through him. She looked away and folded her arms.

"I'm just curious. That's all." She plainly answered.

"Well... I just wanted you to come here with me. I thought you might enjoy it." The lioness didn't respond. "What do you want to do?" He finally asked.

"I want to go to the market." Chiba told him.

"Ok. Let's go." Joseph didn't mind and walked with the lioness into the crowded streets. The mid morning warmth of the sun was already becoming hot for the entire area. People and occasionally camels were walking in every direction. Those who lived in the town were dressed in robes that covered much of their bodies. Nomads wore more open clothing, but nothing too revealing in comparison.

The scenes of the town were a lot like the desert towns of Ubari or La Selva. A line had gathered at a nearby well to collect water. Two noisy kids were incessantly tugging at the robes of their mother, who was preoccupied with an infant in her arms. Two older jackals were chatting under the shade of an awning while a younger one unloaded a cart of bricks. The people were quaint and humble, but also hardy from the harsh desert world they inhabited.

"I think this is their market." Joseph pointed through the crowd and towards several people seated in the shade, beside a row of buildings. Vast carpets and blankets were spread out with many different foods and wares to be sold. Children were helping their parents sell and watch after everything.

"Apricots! Grapes!" A seated pudgy feline enthusiastically called out the dried fruits she had available.

'Chiba seems happy.' Joseph watched the lioness peruse what the oasis town had to sell. The single market had little to offer compared to the grand bazaars of the city, but good grapes, apricots, and apples were plentiful. Chiba's gaze remained steady, only glancing on occasion to see the ripe fruits.

"You do not seem very interested in the food." Joseph pointed out.

"I'm not looking for food. I want to buy a knife."

"Why do you want a knife?"

"To protect myself, and I'd like to have one." Her answer was simple. To Joseph, she was the last person who needed a weapon, considering her entire body was practically a weapon.

'Your tongue is sharper than any knife.' The human kept his thoughts to himself. Unfortunately for the human, they crossed a vendor selling small weapons and equipment. An old cheetah sat calmly before the blanket of knives, short swords, scimitars, and leather items. The cheetah was flanked by two younger cheetahs wearing tight fitting robes.

'Of course she would find what she is looking for.' Joseph watched as she talked with the cheetah. The lioness knelt down and picked out a knife. "Do you know how to use it well?" He watched her. Chiba gripped the handle firmly with satisfaction.

"Yes. All you have to do is hold it like this." She held the item up to demonstrate. Joseph regretted asking her as the sunlight reflected off the shining surface.

"Are you buying?" The old cheetah asked.

"How much?" Chiba asked.

"What coins do you have?" He scratched his chin. The lioness reached into her robes and counted through several coins.

"Is that... my money?" Joseph couldn't help but notice the money in her hand.

"Well... Yes." She exchanged some for the weapon.

'I really need to hide my money better.' He watched with a sense of helplessness as she happily held onto the blade. The human suddenly felt a very real, but subtle tug on his robe. Looking over, his eyes widened seeing a furry hand delving into his robes. "Hey-!" Joseph spun around, nearly bumping into a sand cat trying to pickpocket him. A much faster lion's hand seized the sand cat's wrist. Chiba towered over the scrawny feline dressed in dusty beggar's clothes.

"Gah!" Her clenching grip showed no mercy. "Let me go!" The pain on his face was very real.

"What did you steal?" Chiba's voice made Joseph feel uneasy.

"Nothing!" He quickly showed his empty hands, and Joseph double checked himself to make sure nothing was stolen.

"Back off!" Chiba growled and shoved the annoying sand cat away. The feline fell onto the ground before scurrying away. Looking around, Chiba and Joseph found themselves in the center of several onlookers.

"Huh-?" Joseph felt a firm hand grab ahold of him.

"Stay closer to me." Chiba sternly told him. Joseph was pulled by her strong hand until he was standing by her side. They walked away from the small crowd of curious eyes watching them. Finding the shade of an awning, they took a moment to cool off.

"Thanks for not using the knife."

"Sure." She answered. "But you need to defend yourself better."

"Yeah..." He mumbled to himself. Gazing around the end of the busy marketplace, they noticed a small group approaching them. A Harsusi fennec walked up to them with a female by his side. Both were middle aged and despite their simple robes, they had a wealthy standing. A bejeweled saber at the male's hip matched the jewels of the female beside him. Joseph noticed a third Harsusi fennec standing behind them. She was much younger, very small and petite, but without a doubt pretty. Dressed more plainly, she could've been a second wife, daughter, or a concubine for all he knew.

"Hello." He quaintly bowed. "You are part of the group sent here from the city?" The male assumed.

"Yes." Joseph answered.

"I saw how she defended you," he gestured to Chiba, "so you must understand the feeling of being protected and cherished."

"Well, uh, yeah." Joseph dumbly agreed while Chiba half grinned.

"My uncle is a prominent member of the Harsusi tribe, and he would protect everyone in his family the same way."

"We aren't here to favor anyone." Chiba spoke up.

"I don't expect you to. We don't want violence, but we will fight for any inch of ground taken from us." The fact that he was armed wasn't a joke. "There is a large gathering of Kakuyids in the oasis town of Ubari." Joseph and Chiba exchanged glances at the unexpected news. "We know that opportunities arise when one is tired after fighting. I am hoping that you both will understand that." He finished.

"Thank you for telling us all of that." Joseph nodded. Just as mysteriously as they had appeared, the Harsusi fennecs left and disappeared into the market crowd.

"That sounded like a warning." Chiba thought aloud.

"Hm..." Joseph wondered about the reported presence of Kakuyids nearby.

"Do you think Nehru has gotten somewhere with talking?" Chiba turned to Joseph.

"I don't know, but we can check." They returned to the guarded meeting hall only to find it empty. No fennecs or wild dogs were present.

"Where did everyone go?" Chiba folded her arms.

"I will go look for him." Joseph offered. After looking around the building, her returned to their room only to find it empty.

'Where did Nehru go?' He looked around perplexed.

"Oooh." Joseph heard a moan and paused.

'What the...' The human stared around the room only to hear whispering. Quietly stepping across the room, he reached the entryway to the guest room. The sight made his eyes widen. The tall lion was sitting on the edge of his guest bed with a greatly pleasured look on his face. A lithe female jackal was kneeling between his legs and sexually servicing the burly feline.

'Yikes!' Joseph slipped out of view and quickly left the room. Returning to the meeting hall, Joseph sat down beside Chiba.

"Did you find Nehru?" She asked.

"Uh... Yes. I did find him." Joseph blankly spoke. "He's busy." The lioness frowned but patiently waited. He could tell that the lioness wasn't keen on waiting for Nehru to show up whenever. Her tail tapped idly as neither said a word.

"Alright." The lioness rose to her paws. "I'm going back to our room."

"Wait!" Joseph was quick to jump to his feet. The lioness gave him an odd look of confusion. "I mean... He will probably return soon."

"Right..." Chiba walked past him.

'She is not going to like what she sees.' Joseph cringed at the thought and hurried after Chiba. Joseph held his breath when they reached the room. Turning the corner, they found Nehru standing alone, merely adjusting his robes. The little jackal lady was nowhere to be seen.

'Thank goodness.' The human sighed with relief. Chiba didn't bother to stay and promptly retired to her room.

"Hey! I think we have a deal." The lion happily proclaimed.

"What? Really?" Joseph was surprised.

"I talked with each leader separately, and they agreed to a compromise."

"That's great! And it only took you barely half a day..." He imagined a drawn out negotiation.

"Well, both feared an imminent invasion from Sham." Nehru admitted. "They knew a protracted fight would create the perfect opportunity for the Kakuyids to come in and take control. Everything else in the meeting hall earlier was posturing."

"Oh. That reminds me. One of the fennecs told me that there was a large gathering of Kakuyids in a nearby oasis town. I think it was Ubari."

"Then it is a good thing we helped the Harsusi and Tuaregs reach an agreement so quickly." Nehru grinned.

"I didn't do anything to help." Joseph felt some guilt over it.

"Don't feel that way. Be happy that the conflict is solved. Sabha won't see any violent clash, and both tribes will continue their ways."

"What exactly did they agree to?"

"First, they will 'share' this town, and by that I mean there will be no favor towards one versus the other when inside Sabha. They're on mutual ground, and it will be treated no different than if they were inside Al Lishbunah."

"How will that work?"

"This town, just like the route leading to it will be the border in a sense." Nehru held up an arm. "Anything there is considered a neutral place where both can go without trouble. This also means that each side is treated as their own, so this will solve their border dispute evenly. As far as the theft is concerned, each member of each tribe is responsible to returning what they stole or paying equal value for it."

"Something tells me this is a nice summary." Joseph imagined that there were details where the chieftains had a temper.

"Maybe." The lion grinned. "We will attend a little ceremony where both leaders exchange swords tomorrow to make it official. I will write something on paper to give to the Emir."

"Wait. What about earlier when that female jackal..." Nehru's face opened up in surprise.

"What?!" He roared only to cover his mouth. "How did you... see me?" He discreetly whispered.

"I heard someone moaning and saw everything in your room." Joseph frowned.

"Oh, uh... Hmmm..." The lion found himself without words to reply.

"Why did you-"

"Hey!" The lion cut him off only to nervously chuckle. "We all have our preferences." The human stared at him with a not too pleased look. The light cream furred lion sat down beside him. "Ah. We can relax a for a few days Joseph." Nehru smiled and patted his fellow companion's shoulder. "Take it easy."

"You're right." Joseph finally leaned back and relaxed. Things were looking up for the oasis town.

***

After a congratulatory evening with the jackal official, Nehru and Joseph retired to their room for the night.

"That sweet drink was delicious." Joseph could still taste the rich flavors on his tongue. He sat down on his bed and leaned back contently.

"Mhm. You're right." Nehru rumbled a purr of pleasure as he lit a few candles. The ensuing glow made the room cozy, and reminded Joseph about sleep. Thoughts about his eventual work at the busy docks and harbor of Al Lishbunah crossed his mind. The soft sound of someone padding caught their ears. They both looked up and found a lioness standing in the doorway to their shared room. A moment of awkward silence passed.

"Hey. What's going on?" Joseph managed to ask. The lioness looked at him intently.

"Are you coming to bed with me?" Chiba quietly asked.

"Oh." He blinked in surprise. "Well, since we're pretty much done with negotiating I thought I would sleep here." Joseph shrugged. Her ears turned back.

"Oh... Ok." She quietly said before turning to leave. They watched her tail slip around the corner.

'That was odd.' Joseph thought to himself.

"I can't believe you turned down her offer." Nehru was surprised.

"It's not like we have to be up at sunrise or anything..." The human was interrupted by his own prolonged yawn. It had been a long day of negotiating. Nehru blinked in partial disbelief.

"Joseph..." He slowly shook his head. "She wants to be with you."

"I definitely didn't hear those words." His brow furrowed in confusion.

"Go to her." The lion insisted with a push. In a matter of steps Joseph found himself before the entryway to Chiba's room. Unlike their first night in Sabha, her room was completely dark. The human was unable to make out anything without any candlelight.

"Hey, uh Chiba." He quietly spoke through the darkness. The sound of someone shifting in the bed roused his ears.

"What?" Her voice quickly broke the dark silence.

"Is it still ok if we sleep together?" He approached the bedside through the darkness. Quietness ensued around him. "I-I didn't mean to-"

"Get in." She pulled the covers down for him. Without a word, Joseph took off his outer robe before creeping over the lioness to the other side of the bed. He laid down and made himself comfortable. Feeling an exhale of breath, he realized that they were facing each other. He stared through the darkness, barely able to distinguish the outline of her head. Joseph shifted and his hand accidentally brushed over her own.

"Sorry." He started to pull back.

"You're fine." She mumbled without moving. "Just go to sleep." She breathed a calm sigh.

"You're so blunt." Joseph quietly said and closed his eyes. After eating well and celebrating, sleep was not far away. It felt odd, but he was glad that he came back to her room for the night. "Goodnight Chiba." He whispered. There was a brief pause.

"Goodnight." Her voice answered through the darkness.

Chapter XV - The Red Emperor

Their extended stay in Sabha lasted over a single week, and their travel back wasn't rushed in the slightest. The desert heat seemed oblivious to everyone as they reached the edge of the desert.

"I liked that town. It was nice." Joseph mentioned.

"It's nice now." Nehru chuckled. "The Harsusi and Tuaregs were ready to tear each other and tear that town apart." The human did feel happy about the outcome of their diplomatic venture.

"But I can't wait to get home." He stated. The thought of relaxing in his own bed, in his own house made him eager to return.

"Mhmm." The lion hummed in agreement.

"Did you enjoy staying at Sabha?" He asked the lioness next.

"It was nice." She simply spoke. "And I bought a knife." Chiba added with a grin.

'Of course she would be excited about that.' Joseph thought to himself.

"Hey... Another caravan." Chiba spoke up. Looking ahead, many figures were visible before a rising trail of dust. A few camels trekked along with people riding atop, and others were full of packed supplies or belongings. Some people were even walking on foot.

"We've seen a lot of travelers recently..." Joseph remarked. Many groups of people had passed by them for days since they left Sabha.

"That is odd." Chiba acknowledged.

"Nehru, is this a time when a lot of traders leave to travel?"

"No. Not that I am aware of." The lion seemed concerned as well. They watched as the caravan passed by from a short distance.

'Is something happening in the city?' Joseph could only wonder as they continued. He didn't think much about it. Scarcely had the latest caravan disappeared, another figure appeared in the horizon. A horse galloped at the speed of a swift wind towards them over the parched ground, leaving a visible trail of hot dust in its path.

"Easy..." Nehru and everyone stopped, wondering if the rider was going to gallop straight through them. Right before them, the rider stopped. A cloud of dust followed and settled, revealing a male caracal.

"An army has invaded Al Lishbunah!" He cried out. "You should turn around and leave!"

"What?" All three were shocked to hear what he had said. The caracal didn't wait for a coherent answer and quickly rode out to the southwest, leaving a trail of dust in the air. All three looked at each other in confusion. Nehru rubbed his chin in thought.

"Are we continuing?" The lead horse archer trotted up to them.

"Yes." The light furred lion decided and they resumed their trek towards the city.

"Do you think what he said is true Chiba?" Joseph whispered to the lioness.

"Who knows?" She shrugged. It was troubling to think about, but was it true? The ground gradually changed from parched earth and sand to shrubs and grasses. Rising against the grassy horizon like a mountain, walls became visible. The lack of shepherds and livestock gave them a clear view of the city's southern wall across the flat landscape of grass.

"Al Lishbunah..." Joseph hummed the city's name. A sense of happiness overcame the human. The thoughts of the large bazaars, his house, the busy docks, and even Chiba bathing crossed his mind. As they neared the closest gate, a figure rode towards them. On horseback, his limbs were golden like Chiba's fur, but a cloak masked him from distance.

"Who are you?" They stopped as the hooded figure asked.

"He is a Kakuyid!" Chiba whispered a growl. The face was easy to see despite the hooded cloak. The lack of clothing was apparent as well. Joseph briefly thought about what the Harsusi fennec told him in Sabha. A chill ran up his spine.

"Weren't a lot of Kakuyids in Ubari recently?" Joseph whispered back. The potentially hostile lion gazed at them for an answer.

"We are with the Emir's Safaviyya." The lighter furred lion answered.

"Ah. I will escort you to the gate then." Everyone exchanged looks as the new lion accompanied them. They resumed their trek towards the city walls where the odd situation became even stranger. Faint trails of smoke could easily be seen rising into the air from several places. It was nothing endemic of a city wide blaze, but possibly localized burns. As they reached the gate, a gruesome sight caught their attention. Lumped without organization, as if thrown from atop the walls, vultures and crows had gathered around bodies piled outside the city's walls. The trio's hearts sank at the dark sight of death.

'Was there a sickness that spread?' Joseph wondered and covered his mouth as they passed under the gateway. Once inside they were surrounded by a small pack of Kakuyid lions, and a group of very strange people. Nearly a dozen people of varying species; wolf, lynx, and badger among others, were wearing partial suits of armor and carrying heavy, burdensome shields. The strangely armored people were soldiers, evident of the weapons they carried. But even the clothes they wore underneath appeared very different. The difference between them and the Kakuyids was like water and land. Where were they from?

Long spears of several armored soldiers crossed, blocking their exit.

"What's going on here?!" Nehru roared as several Kakuyid lions and a few soldiers intervened. Joseph and Chiba were separated from Nehru and the mounted archers.

"Don't touch me!" Chiba growled, baring her fangs, as two lions forced her to dismount.

"Chiba!" Joseph called out only to be pulled from his camel next. "Hey! Let go!" He yelled as hands seized him.

"Leave them! They're part of the old council." A lion intervened. The lions backed away from the human and lioness. Joseph looked at their brief "savior." He was middle aged, but possessed a body of solid strength. A ruddy golden mane surrounded a stern feline face.

"Who are you?" Joseph asked. The burly lion's grin made the human's skin crawl.

"I was told that if I found you then I needed to bring you to the palace." He explained.

"We're going home!" He blurted out. His mind was still reeling from whatever was happening in the city.

"We can go there first." The lion said indifferently. Joseph looked at Chiba, but the lioness didn't say anything. "But then you will need to go to the palace." Without any choices, Joseph and Chiba walked down the normally busy street back to their house. The Kakuyid followed them within arm's reach every step. Although, it was busy for a different reason.

The sharp sounds of glass breaking startled them. Inside one home Joseph could see the shadows of figures rummaging through a few rooms. A family outside was cowering together, unable to do anything for fear of retribution or worse. A wailing child went unanswered while a pair of armored canines loaded a cart full of wine barrels. Others were hurrying away from any presence of soldiers. It was only the beginning. Screams, chaos, and fear were prevalent wherever they went.

Down one street a pack of half naked male lions were ransacking several households. A stained white sheet was draped over a motionless body laying in the street. Those not involved could only watch from a distance. In the middle of a small square a small crowd was watching a few of the metal wearing soldiers rummage through a pile of miscellaneous furniture, goods, and belongings that they had gathered for themselves.

'What in the world...' Joseph couldn't believe what he was seeing and hearing. At one of the larger markets several awnings were being taken down as a large blue flag was unfurled beside a white and green flag. The unknown markings added another layer of confusion to the city.

'Was the city invaded?' It didn't seem possible. He was in the city just a few weeks ago! But every sign pointed to the obvious fact. Street after street played similar sights as the others. Soldiers were looting, families hid in fear, and everyday life was at a complete standstill. His footsteps felt heavy and his stomach nauseous from the chaotic scenes across the city. It was the longest walk to his house that he had ever taken. He barely missed his own front door, even when his hands touched the wooden frame. As soon as it was opened, Chiba quickly stepped inside without a word.

"You can go to the palace now." The male lion stepped inside and watched Chiba. A flare of anger burned inside Joseph.

'I need to keep him away from her.' The human quickly realized. Leaving her alone with a male lion wouldn't end well. "I am not going by myself." He stepped up to the lion. The large feline merely flicked an ear in response without taking his sights off Chiba. "Aren't you taking me there?" Joseph egged on the lion. "It's dangerous for me to go alone."

"Fine." The lion growled. Joseph felt better as they both left the house.

'I know she will lock the door.' He thought to himself, but now he was vulnerable. The human was taken through the chaotic streets to the Emir's palace. From the outside the walls appeared the same, but the guards along the entrance were new. Both were sturdy grey wolves, dressed in the same peculiar armor that the other invaders wore. Their shields were beautifully designed with odd symbols to the human's eyes. Neither said a word as they let Joseph and the lion through. The human wasn't prepared for what he saw next. Entering the palace, the human hardly recognized where he was standing. The walls once decorated with artistic vases, pottery, curtains, and decorative plants were now barren and void. Small furniture was missing. The place where Bashira once watered leafy vines and flowering plants was a mess of broken pots and dirt. Muddy, even bloody, prints covered the floor tiles. Small columns and marble pillars were gone or toppled over, broken into several pieces.

Footsteps and a soft clinking sound drew the human's attention. A small group of armored raccoons, wolves, and badgers walked past them wearing valuable jewels around their neck, and carrying brilliant silks in their arms. The elated smiles across their muzzles were marks of successful conquerers. Joseph stopped and couldn't help but stare sullenly, mouth gaping at what they were doing. The heavy thuds of their boots softly echoed as they merrily left with plunder. More distant echoes of others raiding through the palace were audible from disruptive clattering sounds and shouts.

"Come on!" A firm push cause the human to walk forward again. Joseph was taken to the meeting hall where the Emir normally held gatherings ranging from day to day meetings to special banquets for tribal leaders and foreigners alike. However, the grandiose expanse was reduced to that of a simple large room. Stripped of its valuables: curtains, stone busts, porcelain, and even plain pottery; it held little of its former glory.

"Is that the human?" A voice made Joseph blink his eyes. Standing in a group were several newer members of the Safaviyya that had been rotated through Joseph's six month tenure. Felines and canines of various backgrounds and expertise were well dressed, but a few lions were present as well. The rough bushy maned Kakuyids stuck out sorely in the meeting hall among the urban intellectuals. Much like the lion beside Joseph, they merely wore a scarf piece around their necks and possibly abdomens, leaving themselves otherwise proudly naked.

"What is happening?" Joseph didn't know what to say as he approached them. Their facial expressions were grim, worried, and even irate.

"Where did they dig you up?" A short sand cat questioned only to sigh. "Most of us have been here for days."

"If I remember," a lanky red wolf wearing a white and purple turban spoke next, "you left more than a week ago."

"I just came back!" Joseph exclaimed. "Today!"

"There was an invasion from land and sea." The red wolf explained. "It's still hard to believe, but it happened..." His voice trailed off as their attention turned to the end of the meeting hall. A strongly built lion approached them.

'I don't believe it...' Joseph watched the burly male stride into the meeting hall. He wore a fine red silk cape, and was dressed more like a foreign king than a desert going Kakuyid.

'Bulus...'

"It took several days to assemble all of you." The lion standing before them proudly announced. "I have offered my services to the crusaders to help manage the city. Now I am Al Lishbunah's ruling Emir." He explained much to everyone's disgust.

"Where is the real Emir?" A sand cat questioned much to Bulus's ire.

"You should be careful what your tongue speaks." The lion growled. "I am in command of the city."

"You're just the invaders' puppet, Bulus." One of the other Safaviyya spoke up.

"Humph." The Kakuyid glared at them before a cheerful smile briefly returned to his brusque golden muzzle.

"The last Emir was a coward who relied on the strength of others to rule. I have no such weakness!" The lion roared causing a great echo to permeate through the meeting hall. Everyone was silent as he drew in another breath. "A lot has changed recently, and I suggest becoming used to it." He spoke. "If I sense any disloyalty among you then I will be sure to have you locked away like prisoners." He made eye contact with every single person. Joseph felt a shiver run down his spine when the golden glare of the lion's eyes met him last.

"I know that some of you should belong in the same cell as that leopard." He looked away wearing a smirk.

'The Emir is locked away?' Joseph wondered what the lion meant exactly.

"I want all of you to return tomorrow at sun high for the next few days." Bulus requested. "We will have a lot to discuss." He casually waved a hand before walking away. The Safaviyya looked at each other with worry and discontentment. When the rest of the lions began to approach, everyone was quick to leave the meeting hall. The group began murmuring to one another.

"I witnessed a group of those foreign soldiers ransacking a brothel and abusing its residents." Joseph overheard one of them speak.

"The crusaders don't trust any of us, and we can't trust Bulus or any of those Kakuyids anyway!" Another fretted. "We'll be killed by them or Bulus!"

"The Tuaregs have already left the city as well, threatening to attack the invaders."

"I am going to leave before my body is quartered." The sand cat gravely hummed in agreement. Joseph leaned his back against the wall as they talked. The shock from arriving in the city hours ago hadn't left Joseph in the slightest. Looking down at his hands, he was still visibly trembling.

"This is really happening..."

***

During the second meeting, the next day, a few people went missing. The following day for a third meeting, more went missing. The missing Safaviyya were replaced by others, half of them Kakuyids, to serve in the council. Each meeting was easily seen as pointless. All Bulus wanted was a group that appeared independent to agree with whatever he said; or at least not raise any doubts.

'I am the only one left...' Joseph quietly sat amongst a few minor city officials too scared to speak against the lion rambling on before them. The meeting hall was quiet except for a single voice.

"The Emir is planning to change how taxes are collected as well..." The Kakuyid was sitting comfortably in a chair, perched on the edge. He was completely oblivious, or perhaps happily content knowing that his malehood was openly dangling before them. It felt like a direct taunt to the urban people. The Sham way of life; being proud, boisterous, tough, and open was very different from the city way of life.

"So we will transition from local collectors to Kakuyids in certain neighborhoods." He continued, but Joseph knew that everyone else in the room who wasn't a Kakuyid was simply waiting for him to finish, so they could peacefully leave. At the very least, Bulus wasn't present.

'Having half naked lions collect taxes from wealthy houses will not end well.' Joseph kept his thoughts to himself. He didn't want to suddenly disappear like other vocal members of the Safaviyya had been.

"Any who disagree?" The lion asked. Not a sound came in reply. "Good." The lion grinned and rose to his paws. Everyone else was quick to depart while he talked to another lion. Joseph glanced around the room and noticed that none of the Kakuyids were following them out of the meeting hall yet. He couldn't help but think about what Bulus had said before about the Emir being locked in a cell.

'I need to find the Emir.' He wondered where the rightful ruler was being held prisoner. As everyone else eagerly exited the meeting hall, Joseph lingered behind. When no one was watching, he stepped aside and hid behind a column. The quiet steps of the officials left the area, but Joseph remained hidden as he heard others approaching.

"You know what? It wasn't very important..."

"Hardly!" Another quickly replied. The human detected a voice. Glimpsing around the corner, he could see two of the male lions strolling out of the meeting hall.

"I wouldn't mind throwing that yapping official's body over the wall." One of the lions said. "All they do is complain about everything." Joseph pressed his back against the column and held his breath.

"All of that chatter bores me." The second quietly laughed. The mostly naked felines gradually padded away, returning the halls to quietness. Joseph collected his thoughts and slipped away down the hall.

'If I can find a guard, then maybe there's a chance I can pay for answers.' He pulled a coin from his pocket. Not everyone in the palace was a Kakuyid. Turning it between his fingers, the shiny metal seemed to glow even from indirect light. The human had never bribed anyone, but maybe now would be the best time to try. He crept along, searching for someone before someone found him. The human hid at the sound of any distant echo or occasional servant seen running. His search ended when he reached the corner of a wide, well lit hallway. Guarding a passageway that led downstairs, a well armed caracal stood at attention despite no one else being present.

'He can't be there by accident...' He clenched his fist and gathered his courage. After several breaths, he was ready.'Okay...' Heart pounding, Joseph stepped forward.

"Who are you?" The guard questioned in a firm voice.

"I need to see the Emir." He explained with a forced grin and produced a valuable coin. Without a word the caracal took the coin, and turned away. Joseph forced his tense muscles to move and follow the feline. The human was led down a series of hallways that turned and twisted like a maze. His eyes adjusted to the dimmer light. The caracal paused and pointed ahead. In a lonely makeshift cell Joseph found a figure sitting in the shadows. Slumped forward, it could've been anyone, but tell tale spots gave the human a clue.

"Leave when you are done." The guard spoke before walking down the hallway, to return to his post. Joseph didn't move until the feline had disappeared. Without hesitation, the human crouched down and approached the edge of newly installed iron bars. It was almost as if the human was staring at his former self in Kefir.

"Who is there?" The familiar voice spoke up.

"Joseph..." He answered with disbelief. An instance of silence was replaced with the sound of the prisoner shuffling forward. Out of the darkness, Joseph could see the leopard behind the bars. "Why are you here?"

"Everything went well in Sabha, but then we came back..."

"I wish you hadn't." The Emir pointed out the obvious.

"Where is your wife, Bashira?"

"She managed to escape to a western town on the coast." They both breathed a sigh of relief at the news.

"Well, I would be surprised if she hadn't." Joseph admitted. "She's very smart."

"I know that very well." The leopard briefly hummed as if they were having a normal conversation. "I constantly seek her advice, but she doesn't wish to interfere with policy. How has the city been through all of this mess?"

"Not well. Houses were raided, people were killed, and it's terrifying." He couldn't begin to describe the horrendous situation Al Lishbunah was in. "What happened?" Joseph begged the question.

"I'm just as surprised as you are." The feline admitted. "This feels like a dream that hasn't ended yet." His tone was somber, but firm. "A large force invaded from the sea while another made landfall somewhere west of the city. At the same time Bulus led a force of Kakuyids from the southeast... It was a complete surprise and we were quickly overwhelmed."

"So Bulus was a part of this." Joseph had hoped that it was by coincidence. "He must've known about this invasion beforehand, but withheld it from you." The human guessed.

"I don't know how he managed to conspire with the invaders," he shook his head without an answer, "but he was without a doubt involved."

"Now he calls himself Emir."

"Maybe in name, but he has to answer to whoever the crusaders are." The leopard explained. "He will be held accountable if they don't like what the Kakuyids are doing."

"Most merchants in the city are not from the invader's lands, and they don't like the new changes that Bulus wants to enforce because they're too foreign and restrict trade... Not to mention how much this invasion has disrupted everything... It's all just a big mess. Some local tribal groups don't like Bulus and the invaders either, and are threatening violence."

"The entire region along the coast will be in turmoil as Kakuyids and crusaders march west." The Emir guessed. "This can only become worse."

"It's already worse." Joseph mentioned the state of the city.

"If Bulus is forced out, and he does so peacefully, then the city will only be under the crusaders' control. That might be better than what is happening now."

"I wish Bulus would leave." Joseph frowned. "He can make people disappear for saying things."

"I'm not surprised, but what do you mean?"

"He holds meetings with your council, or installs anyone he wants. Lions listen carefully if he isn't present, and if you say something that he doesn't agree with then you're banished if you don't leave the city fast enough."

"How many of my original council are left?" The leopard asked. Joseph bit his lip and a long silence passed.

"I think just me." He finally answered. The feline's head hung low at the news. "Everyone else either fled to desert towns, disappeared, or was banished."

"Where are you planning on going? Aren't you going to leave?" The Emir asked.

"I don't know yet." Joseph admitted.

"It's too dangerous for anyone, especially you, to remain here." The leopard explained.

"I know that, but I'm not sure how I can leave."

"Can't you set sail for another land or city?"

"I don't know. I will have to ask someone." Joseph had barely given much thought of escaping. So much had happened since his return that he half expected to wake up from a bad dream. It was all overwhelming. "Chiba mentioned something about traveling to the Neb. It's a scruffy far away land, northwest of Al Lishbunah, but inland from the coast. Hopefully rugged enough so no one follows us."

"I don't know what exists beyond the Neb, if anything, but I suppose there aren't many safe places remaining." The Emir agreed. "You could try reaching the land of Sa. You will reach it before the Neb, and I personally know the official residing there. Although, I do not know what might become of him if the crusaders march that far west." Joseph couldn't help but sigh at what had been said.

"I can't believe this is all happening..." He slumped down, pressing his forehead against the cold metal bars. There was a brief shuffling before a hand grasped the human's wrist. Emerging from the shadows, bright eyes pierced through the darkness, staring intently at the human.

"Do not feel despair for me... You better leave before he does something to you next." The former Emir warned him. "You're still alive, and that should give you more than enough hope." Joseph nodded as he let go. "Good luck."

"Thank you." Joseph bid him farewell and quickly left the dark area. Emerging from the hallway's twists and turns, the same guard he bribed took him outside. The human breathed a sigh of relief as he left the palace grounds. 'We have to leave.' He told himself and entered a narrow street. As much as he didn't want to, and after nearly dying on his journey to reach Al Lishbunah, he needed to leave.

"Joseph?" A voice caught the human's attention. He spotted a familiar foxy face peering at him through an open window.

"Raina?" Joseph approached the window. The fennec lady grinned. The brothel worker was dressed very plainly in the simple clothes of a commoner, it was starkly different than the jewels she normally wore while naked.

"I haven't seen you in so long... Joseph." She simply spoke. "I'm glad to see that you're alright."

"Yeah. It has been a while." He remembered the time he spent with her. "Have you been well? Um, since everything happened?" Her grin fell a little.

"All of the places I would normally work at have been shut down and ransacked." She told him. "People like me went into hiding. We are hoping that the city will return to normal, but... I don't know." Joseph nodded understandingly. She was without a livelihood and had to hide for the time being. "What about you?"

"I was out of the city when all of this happened. I was shocked when I came back..." He recalled the miserable scenes when re entering the giant city.

"Do you plan on staying here?"

"No." He shook his head. "I don't know when I will exactly leave, but it will probably be soon."

"Oh..." She quietly mentioned. Her gaze fell to the ground for a moment. "I'm glad that you visited me in the brothel as much as you did." She grinned. "It was nice talking to you... and having fun at my place."

"I'll admit that I got carried away..." The human bashfully spoke about the passionate night they shared together.

"Don't feel sorry. Males always fall for sex." She giggled. "Although you are impossible to swoon."

"I don't know about that... I remember falling for you very easily." His cheeks felt warm at the thought. He should tell that she felt proud from that accomplishment. A brief noise inside the house drew their attention away.

"I need to go." Her voice softened as her ears turned away slightly.

"I understand."

"Maybe when everything returns to normal you can come back, visit the brothel again, or maybe we could just meet here to talk." The fennec smiled hopefully.

"Yeah. That would be nice." He wanted things to return to normal too. "Take care." The parted ways once more.

***

Entering his house, Joseph found several items moved. A pair of cushions, a folded sheet, and small furniture was resting against the opposite wall. The nights were difficult to sleep through when they feared a sudden knock on the door.

"Joseph?" A voice was quick to call out.

"Yes, it's me!" He quickly answered.

"Thank goodness..." A sharp sigh echoed as Chiba appeared from the main room. The lioness was rightfully suspicious of anyone entering their home. "You were gone for a while, again." She frowned.

"Sorry..." He walked to her. "After the meeting I managed to meet with the Emir."

"The Emir?" Her eyes looked at him peculiarly. "How?"

"I bribed a guard. It was easier than I expected." He admitted.

"So what did he say?"

"We talked briefly about a few things. What's that?" Joseph noticed the long parchment in her hand.

"I looked through the few maps that you own." She quickly told him. "Well, you only had two." Unraveling the parchment, she pointed out where they were.

"What are our options?"

"We will have to travel west, overland." Her answer made him frown.

"What about by boat?"

"We cannot leave by boat." Chiba firmly stated and stomped her foot.

"Why not? Oh... The enemy has every galley and ship anchored or tied up to the docks." He remembered.

"Besides, I don't trust boats." She added. They were left with few options, if any. "We can travel through the desert to the land of Sa or the Neb further west."

"The Emir told me about the Land of Sa. He personally knows the local leader, and believes we should try to go there."

"Then we will go there." She decided and rolled up the map.

"However, the crusaders are moving westward, so it will be even more dangerous traveling any route."

"We will stay away from the coast." She told him and walked over to a few belongings she had gathered. Joseph watched her arrange a few things.

"How are we going to leave here? We can't walk on foot through the entire desert either." Joseph pointed out.

"We can escape at night."

"When the gates are locked?" He questioned. The lioness paused and looked over her shoulder at him.

"We don't have many choices, and that's how I am leaving." She told him. The human sealed his lips shut and thought for a moment. An idea came to mind.

"I'll check with someone I know." Joseph said as he tightened the sash around his robes.

"Where are you going?" A swift hand caught him, and grasped his shoulder. Turning back, Joseph could see her face fraught with worry.

"I can talk to a few merchant families... Like the Cioffi. They'll know what to do.

"Don't leave me here alone for long." Her ears folded back. "You know what will happen to me..." Chiba's worries weren't unfounded in the slightest.

"Keep the door locked, and stay hidden." He held her hand.

"Please be safe." She whispered. Her golden eyes stared at him, wishi that he would stay.

"I will." He promised before leaving. As soon as the door shut, the human hurried along the street to the first place he could think of. 'The caravansary.' It was a short walk from his home, but it was anything but ordinary. The sight of damaged homes and buildings from fire or plunder was seen in nearly every street. Soldiers, foreign as well as Kakuyid, weren't as prevalent as before. Without the large presence of force, some people were assessing the damage to their homes. A destroyed cart was being picked apart by two adolescents while someone inside could be heard weeping. The marketplace didn't fare much better. Only a handful of people were present instead of the typical crowds, trading for meager items.

'It's like the city is afraid.' Joseph could physically feel the difference. The once vibrant urban scene was quiet than an oasis town. There were no musicians playing silly tunes or ladies singing songs of the past. The immediate fear of the invasion was transitioning into sorrow. Joseph reached the closest caravansary without trouble, but the entire area was empty at first sight. No camels or horses were present, and goods were nowhere to be seen. The entrance, normally bustling with activity from merchants and wealthy alike was empty. Yet, the human could hear plenty of activity inside, echoing out to him. Joseph felt a chill as he peered around the corner and down one of the walkways. Niches normally meant for goods to be stored hade become a refuge of families whose homes were ransacked or relatives were killed. Without any other place to live, the caravansary had become a temporary home. The whining of infants paired with the consoling coos of mothers created the tone for a sorrowful scene. Belongings scattered amongst the newly homeless, there was a sense of desperation but also hopelessness. They were unable to do anything except endure the misfortune bestowed upon them.

Joseph quickly left and covered his eyes from the sun. With a sense of urgency he headed for a wealthy neighborhood where a few merchant families were known to live. Instead of finding a vibrant and aloof group, he spotted several of the foreign crusaders lingering outside a building.

"I better stay away from them." The human told himself and went down another street where a young feline was collecting scraps of cloth beside one house. A dirty wad in her hands was likely going to be sold or sewn together into a patchwork garment. The closest house was owned by a Lut family. However, no aardwolves were present, reading or weaving in front of their homes. Joseph briefly hoped that they were able to escape or hide. Looking up, the building itself was very familiar to him. A set of stone stairs made him realize exactly where he was at.

'Nehru-!' He had completely forgotten about the light furred lion. Joseph had to walk around rubble from a partially collapsed building that littered the area. A pair of jackals were sweeping debris off the street, mumbling unhappily as they worked.

"Does anyone still live here?" He asked one of the canines.

"Live here?" One of them looked up. "Who knows?" He shrugged and resumed sweeping.

'No help...' Joseph walked past them and ascended the stairs. Reaching the top, he found that the door had been beaten down and nearly split across the middle. It was difficult to tell if someone had been in a hurry to leave, or to enter. 'He is not here...' Joseph quickly realized. The front room was a mess, taken apart from corner to corner. Books were torn, shelves knocked from the walls, and bowls were smashed to pieces. He could even see the pigeon cage smashed to pieces in the next room. Shutters to the window were completely gone, and feathers were scattered everywhere. Joseph felt his heart sink at the sight of his friend's private home, but there was no time to weep. He quickly descended the outdoor stairs and crossed the street.

'Is there anyone who I can find?' He worried. Pausing to look around, Joseph could see a few people walking about like him, but plenty of activity was kept inside and buildings. Through open windows he could glimpse people trying to retain some semblance of normal life. Likely for safety, many people wanted to avoid getting into trouble wherever they could while order was being restored. However, a familiar panther lingering outside a home of brick caught Joseph's eye. Normally lounging about any of the city's brothels, the Cioffi merchant was anything but relaxed and happy. His clothes were disheveled some as he picked up the shattered remains of a clay pot, cursing under his breath.

"Nero?" Joseph called out.

"Joseph!" His eyes lit up.

"What happened here?" The human glanced at the broken pottery. The smell of scented oils was still fresh in the air. Nero angrily set aside the pieces he had collected.

"A bunch of half naked young lions harassed me yesterday, and then those metal wearing soldiers scoured through my entire house. I don't know how much longer I can take this hostile environment!" The head of the Cioffi family fretted. "You're part of the Safaviyya Joseph, can't you do anything?!" He pleaded. As much as Joseph wanted to help, he had to shake his head.

"This is Bulus's Safaviyya, and he is in the position of Emir."

"Expecting good change from a Kakuyid..." The panther sighed. "That will never happen." Joseph feared that the merchant was correct. "What are you going to do?

"I need to escape with someone else. Both of us will need supplies."

"Is it that lioness you are always with?" He questioned with an arched brow.

"I'm not always with her." Joseph felt the need to explain that. "But yes, her name is Chiba."

"She is a Kakuyid. You can go wherever you want."

"The Kakuyids see her as a slave and traitor... If anything, they see her as my slave and nothing else."

"Oh? You're stuck here like me." He frowned.

"You're a merchant, and from the same area as these crusaders. Can't you leave when you want?" Joseph hoped, but the merchant shook his head.

"I am not from the same area as the crusaders!" He frowned. "They're from a mountainous region. It's completely different. And I cannot leave so easily. What I own can be stolen and I don't want to abandon what I own here..." He looked at the broken shards on the street with sadness. "Even if I could leave by boat and smuggle you on board it would be foolish."

"Why?"

"Everything will be searched and anything of value will be seized by both marauders. When you are found, you will be killed." He predicted. "Your only escape route will be overland through the desert. Hopefully some of the other towns haven't fallen yet."

"I was afraid you would say that." Joseph blew an exasperated sigh. Although, the good news was that their only option of escape wasn't impossible. "Can you help me and Chiba escape?" He quickly asked.

"Hm..." The merchant thought. "I will see what I can do. It may not be much, but I can give you some supplies and hopefully a camel or two so you can leave during the night."

"That's better than nothing." Joseph was grateful for anything he could do for him. "Thank you." He shook the merchant's hand.

"I should have thanked you when everything was still normal in this beautiful city." He managed a warm grin, but it wasn't a time for introspection.

"You there! Joseph." They were approached by a Kakuyid lion with a clear swagger in his step. The urban panther merchant frowned at the haughty tribal lion's unabashed nudity. "Emir Bulus requests your presence." The young burly male stated. "I'm here to take you immediately." The human exchanged glances with the merchant.

"Tell Chiba." Joseph murmured to the Cioffi member. "She's at my house. Make sure she is safe."

"I will." He nodded. The human reluctantly followed the mostly naked lion along the streets to the former Emir's palace. Instead of regular guards, Kakuyid lions prowled the royal grounds. He was taken to a wide room not far from the meeting hall.

"Bulus will meet you here shortly." The lion disappeared, leaving the human to his own thoughts. Looking around, the main hallway was empty and eerily quiet. No one else was present except for a few guards who were standing vigilantly by a few side doors and entrances. It felt as if everyone was waiting for something to happen.

'Something is not right.' An awful heaviness formed in the human's gut. He didn't have to wait long to find out. Emerging from an entryway was Bulus himself. All that the lion wore, other than his simple armbands, was a midsection band of cloth over his abs leaving the rest of his naked body proudly presented in Kakuyid fashion. Bulus walked with a clear sway in his step, letting his tail shake side to side with every step. He was entirely different from the true Emir. Joseph didn't like the Kakuyid lion's manner, and he definitely didn't want to be here.

"Ah, Joseph. I'm glad that you could make it so swiftly." The lion's deep voice hummed in a pleasant tone. "Your skin is still fair. I see that you have stayed out of the sun." The compliment struck the human as odd and creepy.

"What did you need to discuss?" Joseph held his nerve. The lion glanced away with a pleasant smile while meandering closer to the human.

"There is no big discussion. I was hoping for a more personal time with you this evening. I am sure that you will understand." He paused and looked over at a lingering small vase by the wall. The crusaders hadn't stolen it during the invasion. "Unlike you, I have fought hard to simply keep my limbs attached!" He boasted with a modest chuckle. His hand ruffled into the fur along his inner thigh. "I received a scar here when I was a young warrior..." He tried parting his fur to reveal a faint line. The Kakuyid had no shame using his other hand to move his genitals to make the invisible scar more visible. Joseph kept his eyes averted entirely. "There is a saying that the greatest strength of the body is the arms, and another, the legs. But I believe the... softer parts are the most valuable." His voice dropped as he gave a slow pet of his male hood.

'This is wrong.' Joseph glanced around at his possible exits, but the lion was keen to detect the human's inattention.

"Hmm..." Bulus returned his hands to his back. "You were so eager to talk when you challenged my position on the Safaviyya half a year ago, but now you are silent." The lion spoke with a hint of disappointment.

"Why did you do all of this?" Joseph hardened his gaze. "I know you plotted to invade the city with those crusaders."

"Oh, Joseph." Bulus lightly chuckled and ruffled his mane. "I don't want to talk about serious things right now." He feigned a tired voice. "My paws are sore from walking these hard floored halls all day, but this is a nice and secluded place. Don't you agree?" His gaze lifted back to the human as he walked even closer, within arm's reach. Joseph attempted a half step back, but a hand grabbed him by the shoulder. Bulus stepped forward until their fronts were lightly touching. The tribal lion's size and height advantage were imposing, but also terrifying. Joseph secretly clenched his teeth in anger. He felt the lion's male hood touch him through the linen.

"I was hoping you would understand... I can have anything that I want." He whispered. The lion's warm breath washed over the human's skin like a groping hand. "There's rich lacquered hardware, exquisite vases, the finest food. Women..." His voice dropped. "Men..." His salacious voice dropped even lower, sending a frightful chill up Joseph's spine. A hand touched the human's waist, sending him into panic. Joseph screamed and lashed out at the mighty lion to everyone's surprise. The guards immediately restrained the terribly shaken man as a bewildered Bulus regained his cool. Joseph's terrified echo finally faded into silence leaving the room in a disturbing silence.

"Beat him." Bulus calmly ordered and walked away. The guards scrambled and retrieved a long wooden bench. The crack of a whip soon stung the air with the lion watching from a distance.

***

Chiba stalked around the edge of the former emir's palace. Darkness aided her stealth but increased her curiosity.

'What's going on inside there?' She paced around the empty grounds. 'It never takes Joseph this long. What did Bulus call him in for? If he did anything to Joseph I'll rip his throat out!' Chiba suppressed a growl. The lioness clenched her fists in frustration. But the strong feline was powerless to do anything at the moment, other than wait.

'Please let him be ok...' She silently prayed. A sudden clatter alerted her. Chiba ducked behind a pillar as a side door suddenly flew open. A group of guards dragged someone outside into the street. Jeers and taunts were quick as the figure was thrown into the dirt. The guards returned inside and slammed the door shut. Chiba's eyes returned to whoever was in the dirt. Her ears perked up seeing the person writhe on the ground and groan. With a sense of urgency she hurried towards the pitiful whines. Her heart sank seeing that it was human and male. She rolled him onto his side and received a weak groan in response. Her jaw dropped.

"Joseph!" The feline tried containing her shocked voice. He was half naked and disoriented. She was taken back at the raw cuts on the human's back. Red marks glittered in the moonlight. "Oh my..."

***

The quietness of a wet cloth dipping into water was the only sound inside a home for a long moment. Four candles illuminated a clay bowl of water, and two figures sitting down and facing each other. A grunting sound painfully whimpered next.

"Easy! Please!" Joseph gritted his teeth and strained to sit still as tears rolled down his cheeks.

"I'm trying." Chiba delicately washed the fresh cuts on the human's back. She set the cloth in the bowl of water. Chiba wiped some dirt off his cheek with a consoling thumb.

"I know you are." He mumbled.

"You're finally talking." She sighed with relief and looked at his face. The anguish in his eyes didn't fade. "You need to tell me what happened." She touched his arm. Chiba knew the obvious that he was beaten, but everything about his sudden meeting with Bulus was a mystery to her. The human's lip quivered as his reddened eyes watered up again. His body started shivering as words escaped him.

"I came inside, and he walked... towards me. He... His..." The human could barely talk through a shaky voice and trembling body. Chiba pursed her lips. "He stood... here." His hand managed to raise up. "And he... wanted to..." Joseph was unable to finish as he dissolved into more sobs.

"I would have bit it off for you if I had the chance, but I'm afraid my tongue would turn to stone from his evil taste." Her joke fell flat in the silent air. "I'm trying to help you feel better." She sternly spoke.

"I-I know!" Joseph's voice choked as he wiped his watering eyes. He fell into her arms and cried his emotions dry. The lioness sighed sympathetically and coddled the human in her embrace.

"Don't worry Joseph." She rubbed his side consolingly. The strong lioness hadn't felt so powerless in her entire life. "You've been through some terrible things." The lioness whispered to herself. 'Maybe more than me.'

"We can't stay here. It isn't safe." Chiba spoke. The lioness was standing near the door, keeping watch as the last rays of sunlight fell below the unseen horizon. The entire house was dim and was steadily growing darker.

"You're right..." He sullenly stared at the ground. They had remained inside for the entire day. His back felt like a burning fire. Any wrong movement he made sent a searing pain across his skin. The rest of his body ached from the numerous bruises inflicted on him the day before. He had spent most of the day laying on his front or side, trying not to move very much at all. Sleep had evaded him entirely from his traumatic ordeal, and the human was left tired and blank. Fear also kept them inside. Neither felt any lingering sense of safety since Joseph had been beaten. Even being part of a remnant Safaviyya had become a mirage in itself, and they knew Bulus wasn't finished with them. Both were in a very dangerous situation.

"Where can we go?" Chiba thought aloud.

"You're pacing again." He heard the lioness walking back and forth, between him and the door. At first she didn't say anything.

"We need to leave now." She reaffirmed.

"But where will we go?" Joseph muttered. The human felt resigned to a restless night of sleep. Everything was overwhelming to him at the moment. The feline's pacing halted.

"I have an idea." The lioness suddenly told him. "Get dressed." She started removing furniture from the doorway as quietly as possible. Joseph carefully turned and reached for his outer robes. Simply grabbing the garment was tedious enough, and he strained to dress himself. "Here. Let me help you." Chiba stepped forward.

"Okay..." With a sigh, Joseph held his arms out. The lioness reached around and put the garment on his arms.

"Can you stand?"

"Yes." He quietly nodded and gradually rose to his feet. Dull aches and tenderness kept him slow. Chiba led him to the door where a few things they could carry were packed into a folded sheet.

"I'll carry this. We will leave when it is completely dark, okay?" She looked over her shoulder at him. Joseph had a difficult time reading her facial features, but nodded anyway. She kept a watchful eye outside while he looked around the main room. Darkness, usually spent asleep, encased the rooms with a sense of peace. He could feel it was turning into a final goodbye to their house, a place that had become their home after the unlikeliest of circumstances. Not even a year had passed, barely more than half of one since they had moved into the house. He couldn't say anything until Chiba was ready.

"Alright... Are you ready?"

"Yeah." His mouth was dry as he spoke. The lioness quietly pushed open the door, and they crept into the cooler night. Slow moving clouds blocked some of the sky, but there was enough starlight to see by. Chiba locked the front door as a final goodbye and approached the edge of the street. The eerie quietness of the city at night was odd to witness. Joseph had never seen the city so desolate before. It physically hid the damage the city had sustained, and would give them enough cover to wherever Chiba wanted to go.

"This way." She grasped his hand and took him around the side of the house. His steps were marred by discomfort, but he could walk fast enough for her. Sidestepping a wet spot from an overturned jar, the street ahead was dimly lit with starlight. Looking around the corner, they didn't see anyone, and resumed walking. They trekked quietly but quickly with purpose. Patrols and lingering brutes were likely out, waiting for someone unfortunate enough to encounter them. Remaining unseen was a top priority. Ducking and hiding at every turn, they made their way through each street undetected. Approaching another starlit area, Joseph and Chiba paused under an awning. She tightly held his hand and glanced around the next corner. The still darkness was quiet except for the distant sound of a public fountain. A loud clatter made their hearts jump. Looking over, a shadowy figure was lumbering along the next street. Whoever it was, they didn't want to run into him. Chiba pushed Joseph back roughly into the shadows. Joseph's back grazed the building's wall, sending a searing hot pain through his skin. Covering his eyes and straining his neck, Joseph managed to withhold a yell.

"Chiba!" He hushed his voice through clenched teeth. The lioness whipped around and realized his pained expression. For once, she looked genuinely guilty and sorry.

"Sorry..." She softly told him. He nodded without a word and they hurried along the edge of the street. Doors and dark entryways were a shady blur as they arrive to the front of a particular building.

"Where are we?" He looked around, feeling a sense of familiarity about the place.

"Hello? Open up!" Chiba pounded her fist against the door, but kept her voice down. A hand quickly pulled at her clothes.

"You're going to alert someone." Joseph worried.

"Shut up. Tell me if someone is coming." She continued beating the door. "Please let us in!" Chiba kept her voice quiet, but hoped to be loud enough for an occupant to hear.

'Please open.' Joseph felt his heart race as her loud knocking persisted. Each moment he expected a shout or yell to interrupt them. Distant voices from behind made the human turn around. Fear gripped him as he spotted a torch bearing group entering from the opposite side of the open square. The faint glinting of foreign armor and faces hidden by iron helmets resembled a living nightmare. Joseph quickly grasped onto the feline's arm.

"Chiba..." He was suddenly cut off. The lioness and human nearly fell forward as the heavy door opened up. 'Bright!' Joseph briefly covered his eyes as a source of light shocked his eyes. A figure holding a small candle peered at them, revealing a familiar feline face gazing at them through the warm glow.

"It's you..."Joseph sighed as he recognized the owner of the wet nurse and midwife building. Chiba had brought him to where the wet nurses lived. She was quick to shut and lock the door behind them.

"Quiet." She pressed her ear to the door. Chiba and Joseph held their breath for a few seconds and waited. "Okay..." The feline breathed a sigh of relief and stepped away from the door. "There's no one else."

"How did you know it was us?" Joseph couldn't help but ask.

"We have a little peephole built into the side." She pointed. "And soldiers usually never beg when knocking on a door."

"Who is it ma'am?" Another voice spoke at the edge of the candlelight. Peering over, Joseph could see the faint image of a female canine figure wrapped in a simple sheet.

"There is no need to worry. It's Sahabah's friends, the human and lioness."

"You're Joseph?" A different voice spoke as a young female leopard stepped into the candlelight. "Sahabah has talked a lot about you."

'Sahabah...' Joseph remembered the white mouse he had saved.

"We can go to a back room and talk." The feline owner gestured for them to follow. "You two can go back to sleep." She told the leopard and canine ladies.

"Yes ma'am." They disappeared into a dark hallway.

'It is very quiet here.' Joseph could hear every footstep taken. No whining infants were heard at the late hour. The owner led them down a short hall. She motioned to a small carpet and they sat down in a close circle. Joseph slumped forward, feeling exhausted from the entire ordeal he had been through.

"I am surprised to see both of you alive right now." She began soberly.

"You're not the only one thinking that." Chiba admitted. "How has everyone here managed?"

"I have kept everyone here since the city was overtaken. I go with a group to buy anything we need, but I'm afraid that something will happen to anyone who walks alone."

"What do you mean?" Joseph asked.

"It's terrible..." She started. "An army from the sea invaded while the Kakuyids invaded by land. Everything happened so quickly. People were killed in the streets, and I have seen females taken away by men like they're mere objects no matter how much they scream." She told them. "The ladies are rarely harassed here, but it is still terrifying. Soldiers have scoured this building for valuables too." She added. "Thankfully we don't have much for them to steal."

"Is Sahabah alright?"

"Yes. She is fine." The feline nodded much to his relief. "We're very busy since several mothers and their children came to us for help as well as to hide. I am very grateful for her help." Joseph couldn't help but smile at the fact that the once fearful mouse had found something that she loved. "Now, what are you two doing?" She got down to the point. "You came at night, so it must be urgent." Chiba briefly looked at Joseph and wondered how much she should tell her.

"We are going to leave the city." The lioness answered.

"Where are you two going to go?" She asked.

"Westward, through the desert." Joseph told her. The domestic feline looked concerned at the idea.

"We need to get back in touch with someone first." Chiba explained. "But it should be someone from a merchant family."

"We can help with that." The feline nodded. "You two are more than welcome to stay here for the night, or as long as you need to." She offered the entire building to them. "We can find or make an empty room, unless you don't mind sharing one of the rooms with a midwife or a nurse."

"Thank you. We'll sleep anywhere you can spare the room." Chiba kindly answered. The sound of soft whispers nearby and scuffling of clothes caught their attention.

"Ladies, you can come out from hiding." A voice from nearby spoke. Everyone looked up as quiet footsteps emerged from a nearby doorway and wall. Several ladies were visible through the candlelight. Most were half dressed or completely naked. "Sorry for eavesdropping ma'am." A familiar raccoon stepped forward. Her uncovered body revealed a pudgy, but hearty build that was well suited for her duties as a wet nurse.

"We wanted to know what the commotion was about." A modest red vixen wearing a single sheet around her waist apologized.

"It's fine." The seated feline grinned. "Joseph and Chiba are here."

"Is that you Joseph?" A familiar soft voice asked. Looking over, the human could see a white furred mouse standing beside the naked raccoon.

"Sahabah?" Joseph recognized the mouse wearing only an open robe. The mouse knelt down by his side.

"I'm glad that you're alive." She tearfully spoke and tried to hug him.

"Wait. Stop." He confused the mouse. "Please don't touch my back." He held her arms at bay.

"What happened?" Worry was evident in her voice, but Joseph did not want to answer. Chiba looked at the human before speaking.

"Joseph was beaten and whipped..." The lioness quietly said. Consoling murmurs passed through the group of ladies.

"How severe is it?" The raccoon wet nurse sat down behind the human.

"It's bad." He managed to say.

"May I see?" She softly spoke. The human didn't budge at first. Taking a deep breath he glanced at Chiba. The lioness was as difficult to read as ever.

"Okay." Joseph carefully maneuvered his arms so that she could uncover his back. It took several tries, but they managed to remove the upper half of his robe. With the candlelight, nothing was left hidden. The silence was almost as painful as the wounds on his back. The feline who headed the entire group even peeked to see. The expression on her face was fraught with concern.

"We have something that can help." He felt a warm hand touch his shoulder.

"We do?" One of the midwives asked.

"Mhm." The raccoon nodded. "An ointment that we use." She was quick to get up and hurry into a dark hallway.

"What is she talking about?" Chiba asked.

"It's an ointment that we make ourselves." The red vixen said. "We use it on our skin if it cracks. A teething infant will sometimes bite while nursing." She explained and pointed to her nipple.

"It works well for any cut." Another added. The raccoon was quick to return and sat down behind the human again.

"This will numb your skin and help you heal faster." The raccoon told him. He nodded and felt her delicately touch his skin. Warm leathery palms carefully applied the ointment onto his back.

"Thank you..." Joseph managed to say through clenched teeth. A pair of soft, pink hands gently held his arm. Through the glow of the candlelight he could see a hopeful expression on the mouse's face. To his other side he had Chiba closely watching him. Even though Joseph had been whipped and beaten, he was at least momentarily surrounded by several people who cared about him.

"Everyone else, let's help prepare a bed for these two." The feline owner rose to her paws.

"Yes ma'am." They readily nodded.