Ashes of Corazan [Private]

[Deleted]

Ares never got accustomed to walking through savannah. The sand and ash that was puffed with each step got into his nostrils constantly, making him sneeze. The further away they moved from Xaxios’h borders, the more he started to think that maybe they should’ve wait more, but time was not the luxury they could afford.

Hearing the question asked by Xaxas, he lowered his head “What you see here is how every place in Corazan looks right now, warchief. After our conflict with Nedra, Roshan have culled all of castless or any other animals.” His voice taken a sad tone “And as you know he crippled not only Julan’s pride but every single one, including mine. And when we thought we can recover, another war came together with that crazy lioness.” He slowed down and raised his head to look in the distance “But we still manage somehow, at least water is clean and grass will grow back.” He turned his head towards Xaxas and smiled “So you don’t have to worry about us. But with your permission if I could suggest something.” Xaxas nodded his head allowing him to continue. Ares leaned a bit closer towards his lord and lowered his voice “When we get to Julan’s pride, know that since he lost all of his children, he’s… different. It’s not that I want to discredit my high general but it’s best not to get on his bad side.” He looked around to reassure that no one else have heard what he just said.

Spreading rumours is one thing but because of his position, saying something like that could be easily considered as treason and he was almost sure that V’dan would take every opportunity to put him in place.

[Leto]

The soldier listened to Ares’ words not because he intended to eavesdrop but because he was close enough to catch it. Leto shook his head as the pale male warned them to not get on Julan's bad side, “Little late for that." the young seeker spoke up, gaze locked on the horizon, "I’m already on his bad side.” Leto pointed out drawing a concerned frown from Xaxas, the whole debacle with Reyan even if it was a decade old was still a public secret, it was something not known to many people, except the parties directly affected and keeping it that way was paramount for the safety of those involved, especially Leto.

“In fact I’m not just on his bad side, I’m on his hit-list.” The soldier stated turning to Hlela, she likely didn’t know the story barring maybe if she had caught the rumors back then. “He lost one of those children, his eldest and heir by my paws.” He explained basically stating flat out that he had killed Reyan, “So whatever diplomatic relation we seek with Julan.” His gaze turned to Xaxas, “if I am present, it’ll go down the drain.” He murmured, “Unless he just has me arrested on sight that is.” He male chuckled amused at the notion, it would be rich if the moment they crossed the border they’d be swarmed by guards.

[Zorayda]

Hlela walked along with the guard on her back-left flank, the others at her right. They'd left Strider behind to scout and report to the army when they came. Hlela didn't really feel badly about doing this, since Strider would get to rest his paws and enjoy the cool water as he wished between his scouting missions. Xaxas and Ares spoke about the latter's home being destroyed by war and destruction--Hlela did feel as though they had the right to feel badly about it, but what others didn't truly consider was the impact it all had upon the ones involved in the war. True, it was hard to feel sorry for the ones who carried out Roshan's orders, but it didn't make the pain of loss any less.

Leto pulled her from her dark thoughts as he trotted up next to her, murmuring what she took to be something of a secret, or at least a topic he never talked about out loud--the death of the eldest, killed by some unknown lion. Except that apparently, Leto was that unknown lion. Hlela hadn't known exactly what happened--the death was something else Roshan could top his rantings of war with, something to motivate them to kill.

The cocoa lioness looked Leto in the eyes and held his gaze for a second, reading him. To divulge such a secret was to trust someone, and though Hlela considered herself a trustworthy and responsible lioness, she wondered why he suddenly had decided this on his own. She gave a slow nod of her head as if to tell him she wouldn't go about shouting this news from the rooftops and continued walking.

"You will be protected, Leto, sir," she told him matter-of-factly. Not really out of comfort, but more of a promise to uphold duty.

[Deleted]

“No one is going to arrest anybody.” Xaxas stated coldly, loud enough for all to hear “Anyone who travels with me is under MY protection.” he added, gazing at Leto with a smile “Julan would be suicidal to lift a paw on anyone in this group… regardless of what crime they committed. Unless he would risk a war with the rest of the Ti’wenkai.”

V’dan coughed, interrupting the bold declaration “I think you put too much trust into what rest of the Ti’wenkai would do, boy…” he muttered lowly “…there is plenty who would not lift a finger to protect you.” The old male reminded Xaxas of his precarious position “And those who would, would not pursue the military channels, but diplomatic ones, boy.” V’dan looked around “Everyone is tired of war… I doubt anyone would start one now, not for you… not for anyone.”

Xaxas sulked into thoughts, it was true. Most of Ti’wenkai regarded him as a joke and some sort of trickery that took place after Roshan’s fall. But he would not let that hinder his work. After all, he was sworn in by all four High Generals, Julan included. “I doubt Julan would confront me.” He finally spoke, more wishful thinking out loud rather than actual conviction in his voice “And if he would, Akalaz would gather the group and come for us.” He stated, encouraged by the thought “That I am certain off.” He gazed to Leto with a smile “If he wants to risk Tian and the gang storming his land, then he’s crazier than I thought.” He chuckled.

[Leto]

The soldier listened to his mate’s protest but V’dan soon brought them back to the brutal reality, even if the case was ten years old no one had been tried for the crime and even if it was common knowledge to the people that had anything to do with the incident who the criminal was, Julan had in essence been denied justice for his son’s death, circumstances had protected Leto thus far. Not only had the war broken out barely a year after incident but the war had ended relatively recently so they had been stuck with a decade of warfare, and turmoil that had prevented justice.

The soldier knew that unless he was acquitted in a court under custom of law Reyan’s shadow would never stop stalking him, well until Julan and what remained of his house died out that is, but that wasn’t going to happen any time soon. “It’s not you he’ll target anyways, love.” Leto reaffirmed his husband, gaze shifting to the ground and consequently his paws. “If Julan demands-” Leto began his voice solemn, but Xaxas knowing exactly what Leto was about to propose silenced him with a sudden snuggle. “Then he can forget it!” the blond snapped almost growled, V’dan uttered a deep sigh of defeat trotting up to the couple.

“If the success of our mission stands between sacrificing Leto.” His gaze trailed between the couple, “or risking Corazan breaking away from Ti’wenkai.” The old lion paused his brows narrowed, “One lion’s sacrifice for the continuation of this nation is a small price to pay.” He stated plainly, the game of politics and diplomacy was as brutal as the battlefield, at times even worse. “I don’t want to see Leto go, any more than you do.” He stared at Xaxas, “But if Julan presents such an ultimatum, not complying would be a decidedly bad idea.” The old lion warned.

[Deleted]

Xaxas gazed at V’dan sternly. Although the boy looked most frail of their company, he bore the highest rank of all Ti’wenkai and with that came power, power he would command if needs be “Anything Julan will want from Leto, he will have to demand through me!” Xaxas stated “I AM the Warchief and I AM the Ti’wenkai.” He regarded the old male angered “Unless of course the High Generals would rather point someone else to take up this mantle in my stead.” He sneered “In the meant time, Julan should keep in mind that he answers to ME. Not the other way around.” He growled lowly “And issuing threats and demands towards your liege’s spouse is a deadly mistake.”

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Ares walked beside the others listening to whole argument. Everyone was right to some extent. Since Leto is responsible then Julan could demand trial but at the same time how you put on trial warchief’s spouse? Nor Xaxas could risk giving him away, since that would be taken as show of weakness, while open conflict with Corazan is also out of discussion. Just thinking about this whole situation gave him a headache.

He turned his head towards V’dan “Are we definitely without options here?” Old lion looked back at him and smiled “No, of course we have an option. We could always say that this was your idea and you volunteer to take Leto’s place.” The old male laughed “Of course losing such valuable asset as you would be painful but I think I could live with that” he said with noticeable satisfaction in his voice.

Sheer thought of what Julan was doing to those that wronged him, gave Ares a chill in his bones. He never heard of anyone who walked away from offending the High General without scar, not to mention those who insulted his pride. He couldn’t even imagine what he would do Leto if they would ever allow him to lay his paws on him.

[Zorayda]

Hlela waited for Leto's response to her comment, but Xaxas interjected vehemently, his normally calm face ablaze with protective anger. He was practically bristling as he thought about his husband getting attacked or arrested--even if he did kill Julan's son, Xaxas would back Leto up to the end. It was admirable, but the lioness thought it was a bit foolish of him to promise when they could be outnumbered. She didn't truly understand what it meant to be protective of someone you loved, but she did understand the comradery and the need to stick together as a team. It was vital to survival, though selfless sacrifice had no meaning to her. It was a silly, wasteful thing to do--she'd seen it too many times among other lions and it only made her shake her head in disapproval.

V'dan only served to antagonize the small blonde further, resulting in him tossing around his title as a last threat. Hlela had to agree with V'dan, though--the Ti'wenkai were sick of war, and needed to recover from the scarring and injury they'd attained throughout the years. It would be a long, arduous process, but once they rid the Corazan of that blasted lioness, things would hopefully go back to a recovery phase.

Hlela listened and nodded along with them. "As I said--it is our duty to protect Leto, along with the rest of you," she stated coolly, casting her eyes around at the other lions. "With luck, we won't need to act--but I doubt Julan will accept our arrival with open arms. We will be prepared for the worst case scenario."

[Deleted]

The walk was exhausting in the heat of the afternoon, becoming only slightly more bearable as the sun rolled down beyond the horizon. The evening was cool thanks to the cold breeze, but the earth was still scorching hot, from the whole day of being fried. Their paws ached, bruised and seared. Corazan became a wasteland unable to sustain life. It was hard to find anything that could be a good place for a camp. They needed shelter, they could not stop out in the open. This forced their march to prolong all the way into the night.

Just before midnight they reached a small oasis. It was burned down of course and the waterhole was filled with rotten, decomposed cadavers. The stench filled the air causing nausea in most of them. Their stomachs weren’t strong enough to endure the stink of death, no one would be able to endure such thing. Xaxas gazed at the pool, filled with remains of what would seem at least a dozen of dead antelopes. From what he could read from the putrefied cadavers, none of them were eaten, even a bit. Just killed and dunked into the water. “Such a waste of life…” he sighed, turning his gaze away.

“It’s almost an entire herd….” V’dan sighed “…even a whole pride wouldn’t eat through so many.” he admitted. Killing of such amounts of prey was pure madness. Malicious evil completely unjustified. Unnatural, cowardly behaviour. “He intended to starve them to death.” V’dan mused the intention of such reckless action. Starving a lion pride into submission, by killing of its prey. Polluting the water and burning off the land was just additional measures to ensure there would be no return “It will take years for Corazan to recover from this. I won’t live to see it…” he revealed in sadness.

[Leto]

The soldier stared at the corpse filled waterhole, he agreed with both Xaxas and V’dan swallowing down the male approached the banks of the filth infested waters, it was almost as if the very air was as poisonous as the waters, making being near to it potentially hazardous but this was a gamble the soldier was willing to take. His ears flipped back as he heard V’dan’s comments on how he wouldn’t live to see Corazan recover, “And neither would any of us if these corpses are left to fester.” He spoke glancing over his shoulder at the rest of the group.

“The corpses should be dragged out of the water and then burned.” He spoke turning around to face the group removing his gaze from the horrid sight, “The fact that Julan hasn’t done this either speaks to his ignorance, or poor leadership.” the seeker mused, “Though removing something you can't touch, isn’t easy, not impossible just not easy.” He added softly staring at the pile of putrid cadavers clogging the water. Leto almost felt an obligation to clean up this land, to heal it return it to former glory... not over any sentiment he may have had for the Corazan nation, and definitly not towards Julan, no, to the soldier this was a simple question of balance of keeping nature in balance. The spirit of this land wasn't dead... yet, only dealthy ill and dying but she could still be saved.

[Deleted]

Despite getting hungry, the stench of decomposing bodies made Ares to completely stop thinking about that. Now his main purpose was not to vomit all over. He was used to such sight. Almost every water source within the kingdom was poisoned in such way.

Leto was right about moving the corpses, but he knew that it is much likely a death sentence. He remember how after first war, they lost every soldier that volunteered to help clean the pools. But those were not thrown there on purpose and not so many. “Since they left it like this I think they still stick to the oasis that are closer to pride.” He turned his head away from the pond so the stench would not go directly into his nostrils “After all Roshan troops never got to them. We knew that they were key to our survival so I guess every pride have done the same” he continued “I just ponder, whether Rezan had enough water left to stay here”.

V’dan stepped up “You PONDER?” older male said angrily “We have chosen this path, because you staked your hide, that Rezan is fine and they will welcome us.” he added with noticeable threat in his voice “Better pray they’re still there or jump into this water to save me trouble of skinning you.”

[Zorayda]

The sun beat down on the lioness's shoulders and spine--the heat was becoming almost unbearable, but having had water recently, she felt much better than she had earlier. Her paw pads had long since lost feeling due to the scorching sand, and her thin ear membranes felt as though they were severely sunburned. Looking around, she could see the faces of her guard. All of them looked either blank or uncomfortable. She hoped they would find respite soon.

Hlela looked at all the dead animal life with a disgusted gaze. What a waste--Xaxas was right. This could have fed so many soldiers. Leto mentioned burning the corpses, but the lioness shook her head.

"They're so waterlogged and bloated, I doubt you could light a fire anywhere near them," she countered. "They will provide nutrients for the plant life, anyway. That's likely the best we can do for these corpses. Though it would likely be better for them to be all in one place so they don't cause more of the water reservoirs to become tainted with death."

As Ares spoke up, a low rumble sounded in her throat out of anger and irritation. Damned fool! Taking them somewhere when he didn't even know what lay in wait for them. V'dan voiced her thoughts aloud. She agreed wholeheartedly with his sentiment, though being lower in rank and respectful of the chain of command, she didn't tell him how much she wanted to clobber him right in the snout.

"Let us hope they are there as you told us they would be," she directed at Ares, her voice sending a chill through some of her soldiers despite the awful heat.

[Deleted]

The blond listened to the argument at hand. He understood Leto’s sentiment, but it was both impractical and unfeasible. Xaxas shook his head. “We don’t have time for messing around with diseased corpses and risking any of us falling ill.” He uttered “We need to leave, now. Before we’ll become contaminated and spread this plague further.” He said, striding off from the ‘oasis’. The soldiers fall in right behind their warchief, giving a signal for the rest to follow.

He looked at Leto, who still struggled in his mind. “Hlela’s right. They were too bloated…” he gazed at the desert of ash and charcoal “Besides, we would have to find a fire first… and there’s not much with which we could maintain it.” He explained apologetically “I’m sorry love.”

Roshan’s troops obtained their fire from the ever-burning pit located in the south-eastern part of Xaxios’h. Before the war it was used as a sacred burial ground reserved only for the most venerable, a focal point of the shamanistic religion that gripped the Ti’wenkai. Roshan defiled the sanctity of the place and against the shamans turned it into a weapon. From there, his troops were dragging huge burning trees to their destination, feeding them along the way. No lion was capable of starting a fire on his own.

They continued their march, exhaustion slowly creeping in. It was before the break of dawn as they reached another rockery. This time, two boulders were rested against each-other, creating a spacious cavern beneath them. They would rest here, all the way till the afternoon of the following day. They needed to rest, sleep and above all, avoid the midday heat.

[Leto]

Leto was loathed to leave things in such a state as this but he recognized the wisdom in the other’s words that there was truly little they could actually do. Not that they had time anyways, but the soldier would make a point to come back to this place once things calmed down and the process of cleaning up could start. Hearing his mate’s apology the young seeker’s ears folded back, “No, it’s alright love. I understand.” He stated giving his mate a tender prod to his jawline.

As they reached shelter Leto was quick to snuggle himself near his mate his bearded chin resting over the blond’s neck a paw draped across his shoulder. “I worry for Xoren.” He murmured absently, almost as if he was thinking out loud, “This is the first time we’ve let the boy be alone for any extended length of time.” He added through a sigh, the soldier’s eyes were closed as he made himself comfortable yet he knew Xaxas had enough on his mind right now, but Leto couldn’t let the topic rest.

The talk about what they were potentially heading into strayed his mind towards the one that would suffer the most of this went south, if something was going to happened to them. “He’s only four years old.” The soldier’s ears folded against his skull not that he doubted his mother’s capability to care for the child, indeed it was placed in the best possible care. But given the dangers they potentially walked into, it was always the risk.

[Deleted]

Ares was glad that they started moving again, just to get as far as possible from festering corpses. The view not only was unpleasant but it brought him memories of how the land looked right after invasion, the only thing missing was sky red and covered in smoke from raging fires and smell of burned flesh. It’s something that he won’t forget until the end of his days.

Group continued walking until they have reached another rockery. Within the shadow they could stay here until rested, while it provided them with cover from heat. Using the situation he wanted to talk with warchief about Julan but seeing that V’dan was nearby he quickly dismissed that idea. He could feel that the old lion was just waiting to shove his head against anything again and that was something Ares wanted to avoid.

Looking around he decided to sit with the soldiers. After all the trip would take them few more days and he would rather get more familiar with them in case the old fool would not step away from warchief even for a moment.

When he walked closer towards them the soldiers got straight on their feet but with gentle gesture he let them understand that it’s not needed. “You don’t mind if I sit with you?” he asked politely, trying to sound as casual as he only could “Don’t worry, I’m not here to spy on you lot, I just wanted some less formal company” Soldiers just looked at themselves. He noticed that his joke was not as funny as it sounded in his head. He smiled at them and pretended like he didn’t said anything dumb.

[Zorayda]

Hlela listened as Xaxas reasoned with his mate, talking Leto down. She could understand the need to make their lands better or to try rectifying the horror that Roshan had caused, but right now it simply wasn't practical. They had to move on--energy used on the bodies would be energy wasted marching towards their destination. The temporary captain heard Leto murmur something to Xaxas--something about a young child? But she didn't catch most of the conversation. She didn't figure the words were for her ears anyway, so she discreetly ignored them and kept up the marching pace.

Soon enough they came to a stop under a bit of shade, resting their paws in the cool sand. Hlela sat near her guard, perking her ears in something close to confusion when Ares made his way over. Like the others, she'd begun to stand, but the young lion insisted that he wanted 'less formal company'. Whatever that meant. The second-in-command raised an eyebrow at him but said nothing more. He probably just wanted to get away from V'dan for a while. The old codger did pick on Ares quite a bit, so it made sense that he'd want a break from it all.

One of the more confident guards plucked up the courage to smile and greet Ares, a civil smile on her muzzle. Her name was Morana, as Hlela recalled. She was friendlier than Hlela by a long shot, but not altogether bubbly or anything. Just polite. Her silver eyes and fur were quite pretty (as Hlela had heard from others), so Hlela guessed Ares would probably enjoy chatting.

The cocoa lioness took in a deep breath and sighed, eyes watching the horizon in the direction they were going. She just hoped Corazan wouldn't prove too difficult to handle in the near future... Y'shenna was not one to underestimate, nor her followers. Meanwhile, Rezan really needed to have to respite they needed. They all needed proper food and sleep, or they wouldn't last very much longer in this unforgiving sun.

[Deleted]

Cain Bloodpaw awaited their arrival at the border of his pride. It was windy and from what he could tell the weather took the turn for worse. Or at least it would’ve been worse few years ago, but now a storm was a blessing Rezan along with the rest of Corazan treated with veneration worthy of a miracle. The heavy clouds were pushed westwards by a strong gale. The lion smiled as the first droplet splattered on his muzzle. “My lord?” one of the soldiers asked “They’ll be here soon enough.” Cain replied, still gazing at the horizon.

Rezan has been reduced to nothingness, once mighty and one of the biggest prides in Ti’wenkai now composed of merely eighteen individuals. Half of his troops were most of what remained from his once great family. But Cain would not show shame, or regret. They survived the storm that ravaged their land twice, he did not bow to Roshan, he did not bow to Goldrin and he would most definitely NOT bow to the castles b***h.

“It’s not safe here, my lord.” The guard protested after another hour of waiting in the rain “Y’shenna’s-“ “Y’shenna be damned!” Cain sneered “I will not be chased off from my own land by a ravenous c**t!” he returned his eyes to the horizon. And there he saw them, just as the birds have told him. A convoy from Xaxios’h… reinforcements they so much needed “Gather the troops!” he commanded to his men “We can finally deal with this problem without begging Julan for favours.” He scoffed “The old fool can rot in his den, but I won’t let my pride being trampled over.”

[Leto]

The party that met them compromised a scant few lions, indeed under any other circumstance Leto would assume they were dealing with a squad but this was in fact almost all that remained of the pride that once inhabited Rezan. Their leader looked formidable Leto had to give him that, the soldier for one welcomed the change of weather the wind soothed the unbearable heat though if it started raining the ash and dust could quickly become nothing but dangerous mud. The soldier allowed Xaxas and V’dan to deal with the talks with the leader while the rest of the entourage remained behind.

Meanwhile the seeker kept his attention to his surroundings, they were practically sitting ducks out here, visible for miles, and adding the fact that they were at the bottom of shallow depression in the landscape, essencially stuck between two shallow hills didn’t make it any better, and indeed this place was almost too perfect for an ambush. As much Leto was on the alert, near constantly sniffing the air and his ears were swirling for noises.

[Deleted]

Cain gazed at the frail blonde that was surrounded by what he assumed was an escort. He heard the rumours of the castles and his exploits… as well as him becoming the Warchief. But he never imagine him to be so… puny. He immediately recognized V’dan at his side and approached brashly “Is this all you’ve got?” he enquired, trailing the six soldiers they have brought. The question, although rude caused V’dan to gaze sternly at Xaxas “Our Warchief thought it would be best not to come across like a war party.” “Everything here comes across as a war party, kid!” he snarled at the blonde “You either are a war party or you’re dead!” “Temper, Cain… you’re addressing a Warchief.” V’dan reminded the male of the boy’s position.

The anger quickly dispersed from Cain’s muzzle. He was strained and tired and in fact on edge most of the time. It wasn’t anything personal, but… the boy’s physique made challenging and crude addressing very instinctive and almost natural reaction. He sighed and was about to apologize when he noticed Ares amongst the group “What is he doing here?” he asked, remembering the folly of Kilimaro’s firstborn “Being Warchief’s jester?” the male scoffed “More or less…” V’dan smirked, gazing at the lion in question.

[Deleted]

Ares’ ears folded back upon hearing the remark. Despite being the same size and probably as strong as Cain, he knew that lion had little respect for him. Whole of Corazan knew that because of his foolishness, he lost all his rights to lead the Kilmaro pride in favour of his brother. Only because of good will of his father he still holds any position.

“General Cain.” he tried to make it official “After agreement with my brother, Julan decided to send me as an ambassador of Corazan to Xaxios’h. We’re here because-“ Before he finished, the general started laughing. At first Ares wasn’t sure what to do. Confused, he stood there until Cain was able to talk again “Boy, I haven’t heard such good joke in ages” still laughing he continued “But if Julan thinks that you’re going to do anything good, then he could ask us to lie down and die as well. The result would be the same”. Ares held back his tongue. He was not in position nor was it the place to retaliate with any remark regarding Rezan.

Rain became more intensive and the sand started turning into mud. “Well I guess we shouldn’t be standing here, let’s welcome our “warchief” as he deserves.” Cain nodded at his soldiers who lead the party towards the pride.

[Zorayda]

After Morana and Ares chatted the wiles away, they got a quick rest before getting back into formation to march into Rezan. They finally reached the small establishment, met by a rather grumpy-looking lion. Cain took one look at Xaxas and sneered at his physique. Hlela couldn't really blame him; as far as first impression went, the newly appointed warchief wasn't exactly intimidating. But as a small lioness herself, Hlela knew that looks were very deceiving. Size could be a burden to quickness and stealth, not to mention the use of momentum against a heavier opponent. However, when Cain started to act disrespectfully, her hackles rose slightly in silence. Not really out of loyalty--more out of the sense of Cain being disobedient to the chain of command. Cain also directly insulted her guard as well as herself, looking directly at them while sniffing down upon them like useless bags of meat.

She checked her anger, choosing to follow the decorum of a soldier, and allowed the higher-ups to handle the situation. Not for the first time, it was V'dan who said aloud what Hlela was thinking, putting Cain back in his place. Even after that, the lion still did not take them seriously, scoffing at Ares and their troupe. With extra stiffness in her steps, Hlela led the guard, following Cain into Rezan. Out of the corner of her eye, she could see the darkened expressions on her soldiers' faces. They did not appreciate the reception, though honestly Hlela was expecting much worse.

[Deleted]

They were led into a small plain tucked neatly between two hill ranges. It was the first grassy patch of land they have seen in days, green and almost serene. Some distance from the centre of this land was a rocky den composed of several caves and alcoves able to house two dozen of lions. It gave shelter and shade, but above all was a very defensive position. “So this is Rezan…” Xaxas mused, trying to sound impressed, as to not offend their host “No, boy…” Cain replied “This s**thole used to be our castless dens… before your predecessor killed them all.”

Xaxas stopped in his tracks and gazed at the area. He realized why Cain was acting as he was… his people were reduced to living where they housed their slaves before. “Rezan is gone, forever most likely.” He stated plainly “Our pride took residence on a Rezan hill which had a waterhole at its southern base and a large rock formation on its top. It made for our stronghold.” He brushed a stone away with his paw “The water was filled with carrion, the hill burned to the ground… along with my father, mother, two sister and a dozen of other pride members.” He turned back facing V’dan “So forgive me my lack of courtesy, but the last Xaxios’h visit wasn’t exactly friendly.”

Xaxas’ ears laid backwards as he took reluctant step forward, intercepting V’dan’s reply “It is I who ask for your forgiveness…” the boy stated “…the travesties that were inflicted on this land and your family are a damage I most likely won’t ever be able to atone for.” He hung his head low “But I’ll try to help you rebuilt whatever’s left… for the future of your people.”

Cain gazed at the youth with initial confusion “It is not your sin to recompense.” he replied “I know you fought against Roshan, even before the rest of us did.” “But by taking up the mantle of the Warchief… by taking reins of the Ti’wenkai, those sins became mine to bare.” Xaxas protested, gazing steadily the general. Cain smiled “I can see why they elected you…” he turned his gaze to the horizon “F***ing cowards!” he spat “All of them! They found themselves an escape goat.”

They stood like this for a while in silence, until Cain regarded the group again “Follow me.” He uttered. They were taken into the den and fed whatever Rezan had to spare. It wasn’t much, considering the land was picked clean, but each had at least small chunk of meat to swallow. Once they ate, Cain addressed his ‘warchief’ “Who is commanding your men?” he asked “Hlela.” Xaxas replied turning his head towards the coca lioness. “Tell me, girl.” The general mused “How worthy are those lions? You think they can stand their ground against castles?” the question, although serious was smelling of mockery as it was lined with a large dose of cynicism.

[Zorayda]

Hlela snapped to attention when addressed by Cain, a small wrinkle in her nose the only outward sign of distaste she showed towards his behavior. She didn't approve of how he acted, but then again, he had good reason... Roshan really did a number on him and his people in Rezan. She took the question literally, looking at her guard and the lions with them.

"I do not doubt that we will not back down," she answered him slowly, thinking. "If you are asking if we can take down Y'shenna's army, then no, I do not think this troupe alone will have the capability of taking her down... sir." She waited for his reaction before adding. "However, for every one of ours they would take, this guard will take that by three times. Our skill and training are far superior to those who walk under that lioness." Hlela said all this with in a monotone, respectful even when deeply insulted by Cain's doubt.

[Deleted]

Cain laughed wholeheartedly at the reply “She’s honest, you have to give her that…” he gazed at V’dan as if sharing a joke “…but-“ he calmed down his laughter “-your men don’t stand a chance even in one-on-one combat.” He uttered seriously “Her slaves are those who actually manage to stay alive for six years of this bloody war.” He made a statement “They stood against Roshan army of perfect warriors… and while his perfect warriors bite the dust now.” He trailed his own men “Her slaves are still amongst the living. Now, if that doesn’t stand for skill and training, I don’t know what does.” He gazed back at Hlela, mocking her with her own words.

One quick glance around the cavern and one could see that every single one of Rezan lions bore scars proving experience in vicious combat… and above all, walking out of it alive. They were strong, fierce and above all- tough. “Tell me, girl…” Cain mused “Where does YOUR experience come from?” he asked “Who were you fighting for?” Cain seemed as if he knew the answer and wanted the girl to spill her sinful past.

“I don’t think this is important.” Xaxas interrupted the interrogation “On the contrary…” Cain regarded the ‘warchief’ “You were amongst the Castles Rebellion in its early days.” He stated “In fact… you triggered it in the first place. If I’m not mistaken, we are still struggling with your ‘inspired’ fellow slaves.” He sneered “So since I already have a castles rebel in my den, I’d like to know if the b***h that leads your troops was fighting for the murderer who RUINED our lands!” his roar thundered across the hall.

[Zorayda]

Hlela's eyes narrowed at Cain's mocking laughter. His words stung her pride in her soldiers, reminded her of the ones who had died to those castless rebels Roshan had tortured so much. His next statement left a sour taste in her mouth.

“Her slaves are still amongst the living. Now, if that doesn’t stand for skill and training, I don’t know what does.”

"Roshan was insane," she retorted coldly. "And that is why his soldiers are mostly dead." Inadverdently, she'd said "mostly", leaving Cain a small clue... which he picked up on quickly. His leering face got closer to hers. If he intended to intimidate her, he was sorely mistaken in that regard. His brutish posture was only making her calculate how quickly she could take him down using his own bulk versus her quick moving attacks.

“Tell me, girl… Where does YOUR experience come from? Who were you fighting for?”

Xaxas butted in quickly, trying to defend Hlela, at which Cain only roared back in anger. Hlela's body stiffened. She was not going to be ridiculed by this ***.

"ENOUGH!" She roared, and Cain's head whipped her way, anger still written in his features. "Yes, I fought for Roshan. Is that what you wanted to hear? It's no secret," Hlela stated coolly, standing her ground. "We were tortured into obedience. We were soldiers, trained to follow the chain of command. We did what we did because the Ti'wenkai way orders us to behave as drones--slaves to the system. Personally, I did what I did to save my own comrades from a fate worse than death. None of us agreed with what Roshan did. And we did it anyway, because we were taught to do as we are ordered. In the end," she finished quietly. "Many of us paid a heavy price for that. Some, like myself, were pardoned..." Hlela gave the larger lion a steely look, oceanic eyes unwavering. "We were given the chance to undo what was done by that madman. The question is... would you deny a soldier the chance to take back her honor?"

[Leto]

Leto sat in silence watching the gathering he had little to nothing to add the conversation, he partially understood why Caine was so bitter. Yet it did not excuse his overly rude behavior and also felt the pecking of Ares had gone on for long enough, yet he didn’t want to add any more kindling to the blazing inferno that was stirring between the various parties. “The important thing here is that we deal with Y’shenna, people’s pasts hardly matter!” Leto sneered drawing what almost constituted as a death glare from Caine.

“It matters!” the male growled bearing down on Leto, which sat unmoving in face of the much larger male. “The loyalty of your troop’s matters!” he spat, “I have zero reasons to trust any of you!” he snapped eyes trailing the gathering, “But I have put aside my better judgment and accepted the help of an old enemy to defeat a new threat that won’t be purged!” he growled at Leto as he sat himself back down. "That maybe so, but without our help, you and what's left of your pitiful corpse of a land. Is doomed!" the seeker emphasized, putting it out there that Caine couldn’t really afford to bargain nor be picky.

[Deleted]

Seeing how Caine started picking on everyone in their group, anger started rising in Ares. He could stand being picked on, but outright humiliation and complete disrespect was crossing the line for him. When he saw how the general started chewing on Hlela and then jumped right on the seeker, something broke within him.

He stepped right in front of Cain, standing face to face and roared “Enough! This is your Warchief and his council you’re addressing so at least show some damn respect!” his voice echoed across the hall. Cain was ready to snap male’s neck but he dug his claws in the ground and said through clenched teeth “Don’t you dare raise your voice at me boy” he growled “Or you can regret-“ “You are the one who should think what you’re doing!” Ares interrupted him “Look around, there’s barely anything left of your pride. Y’shenna could pick all of you any day like flies! Don’t be foolish and better accept this help or live in those slave pens with your tail tucked in.”

That last sentence pushed it too far. Cain roared and tried to slash Ares’ face with his clawed paw, but the sandy male was ready for the hit. Ares turned his face away saving himself from losing an eyeball, but still claws of his opponent sunk into his cheek. The pain and adrenaline caused him to retaliate straight away and he head-butted the older male right in his neck. The general lost his balance and stumble on his paws.

Guards gathered around ready to attack while something equally unexpected happened. Cain started to… laugh. Lying on the ground he shook his head and while getting up he started talking “Stand down.” He ordered “Looks like our ambassador finally grew a pair.” He cleared his throat “This is the support we need, not some pretty words and guarantees of a feeble ex-slave. Words mean nothing to me, strength however…” he continued “Strength is something I understand.”

Ares just stood there, still not sure why exactly he have done that. When V’dan approached him “Looks like you’re learning fast about Xaxios’h diplomacy” old male smiled.

[Leto]

He sighed shaking his head these were all freaking brutes, but the fact that he expected something else surprised him even more, as he should be long used to it. As Ares found himself drawn into the argument as well Leto decided to back out of it and turn his attention to his mate, after all reception Xaxas had gotten so far was hardly worthy of a warchief. “Brings back memories doesn’t it?” he spoke almost humor lingering in his voice, “No one taking you or us seriously.” He added softly, indeed most of their lives for the past decade had revolved around them not getting listened to, even if they turned out to be right in the end.

Xaxas finding himself dismissed and belittled, that even if Leto saw some reminiscent irony in it, he still didn’t accept that kind of behavior, it was not worthy of a warchief. And as he had pointed out, Caine was no position to argue, “Will you all SHUT UP!” Leto raised his voice a notch drawing everyone to silence, “The longer we sit here chewing each other out, the more danger a certain batsh*t crazy lioness out there is posing!” he gestured towards the entrance, “So Caine, I suggest you start talking business if you want there to be anything left of your lands worth saving!” the seeker spat and sat himself down.

[Deleted]

Cain scoffed at Leto’s outbursts “I don’t take orders or advises from f**ktoys.” He knew exactly what Leto and Xaxas were and he would not pretend one moment that he approved or even tolerate such behaviour. He regarded Ares with more respect and thought for a moment. “Alright…” he nodded “I will talk with you… as I have no one else to talk to.” He muttered, turning his gaze to Hlela “But I will talk with a soldier, not an old fossil…” he trailed V’dan “…a pretender…” Xaxas “…a warrior-wannabe…” Leto “…and a rogue.” finally Ares.

He approached the lioness, sitting down in front of her “So tell me, girl.” He regarded her head to toe “You had to have some pretty tight escapes since you were in Roshan’s army.” He smiled “After all, in the final days it was just you against the rest of the world…” he purred through satisfied grin “How does one fight against the rest of the world?” he murmured “Or at least against four dozen or ravenous castles?” he shrugged “That would be a good start.” He smiled.

Before she replied, he rose up and walked towards the entrance “Oh, wait… I forgot. You know s**t about fighting against odds…” he turned his cold gaze back to her “…you f**king lost the war.” “We’ve got reinforcements.” Xaxas stated, seeing that the conversation had suddenly turned to its nasty tone “I’ve sent for Riverland and Lowland prides.” The boy revealed “Plus we have a team of seekers on stand-by. It’s not just us.”

The words caught the general’s attention, his smile turned from wickedly unpleasant into a content one. “Very well…” he regarded the gathering “You can stay as our guests, but if your troops won’t arrive within a week-“ he issued a threat, hanging it’s punchline in the air.

[Zorayda]

Honestly, Hlela could not stand this ***. Cain backed off--physically, at least--after Ares's and his brief scuffle. The guard had tensed, ready to intervene, but Hlela had stopped them, seeing that Cain was pulling his punches. He didn't intend to kill Ares, but if it got too bad, she planned on interrupting the fight herself with her precise skills. It ended quickly with Cain on the losing side, though Cain was the one looking like the cat that ate the canary. Apparently he appreciated those that spoke their minds. That was just fine with Hlela--she had quite a few things she'd like to say to him.

This meeting was not going well. Like Leto mentioned, they were not being taken seriously by Cain, and likely for good reason. They were all the reason his home was desecrated, destroyed so badly that there was almost no hope of redemption. More specifically, Roshan was the reason. But Roshan was dead, and the most this guard could do would be to defeat Y'shenna and her army to prevent Rezan from becoming nothing more than a graveyard of dust. Hlela snapped to when Cain addressed her again, her muzzle curled to reveal a pearly canine. After directly insulting all of them, he sat before her, calm as a deep lake. His height was large enough to tower over her still, despite her standing and his sitting down. She tilted her chin up defiantly.

His questions were dripping with sarcasm, all of them rhetorical. She didn't bother gracing him with an answer, and sure enough he snapped his own sarcastic reply, turning his back on her in a show of extreme disrespect. Hlela would have felt that she deserved this treatment as one of Roshan's ex-soldiers, but his terrible attitude kept her guilt in check. Finally he turned away and left them in uncomfortable silence, until Hlela gave Ares a look. Arching an eyebrow, she spoke.

"I see you were right, Ares," she said dryly. "This was a most warm welcome, indeed."