As we're walking towards the town, the distant sound
of thunder erupts, making me even more glad that this leg of our
journey is almost over. This past week the weather had been beautiful,
but today had started out slightly overcast and had gotten increasingly
darker as we walked along. It was still several hours before sunset,
but it already looked a bit like twilight from all the clouds
overhead.
As the second thunderclap announces its presence,
we both begin to pick up the pace, bound and determined to reach
sanctuary before the rain hits. "Well, it looks like the
weather has pretty good timing, wouldn't you say?" I ask,
remarking on the wonderful luck we'd experienced with the weather
so far.
"Yes, we've been pretty lucky not to get caught
in the rain before now, and if we hurry up we shouldn't get too
wet."
Picking up our pace a little more, shuffling slightly,
weighed down by our packs, we make very good time for the last
half a mile or so. Still, we aren't quite fast enough, just before
we reach the edge of the town, the rain comes like a quick summer
shower. Trying to run the last hundred feet or so, we become slightly
drenched in the warm downpour. Had I not been carrying the pack,
and a little nervous about what lay ahead in town, I may have
enjoyed the feel of the rain on me, but right now it is nothing
more than a nuisance.
Jogging at last under the cover of the wooden porch
roof of one of the nearest buildings, we get out from beneath
the onslaught of raindrops, and quickly catch our breath. Looking
around and surveying the town, there are about twenty or so wooden
buildings along what could be called main street, with buildings
scattered off behind them. Beyond that were several farm houses,
set along the open land in this large expanse of open country
amidst the woods. Looking at what lies before me, I'm reminded
of the typical image of a small town in the old west. However,
I think, this town happens to be inhabited by rather large cats.
'"Little House on the Prairie" this is certainly not.'
Right now there isn't anyone walking through the
small dusty streets of the town, or visible in any of the buildings,
but that could be from the sudden shower. Looking at the buildings,
several windows are lit by the flickering light of candles or
oil lamps.
Then looking at Marissa, who is surveying the situation,
I notice how her hair is rather wet, along with her fur and shirt.
Realizing I shouldn't be doing this, but for the moment indulging
in the view, admiring how different and beautiful she looks when
wet. Her hair and fur are beautiful this way, not all plastered
down like most animals look when they're wet. Perhaps it's because
she's not totally drenched, just wet enough to look a little different,
as her fur glistens with moisture.
Still, looking at her like this stirs up all those
feelings within me once again, as I feel a familiar lump forming
in the pit of my stomach. These past few days have been really
hard on me, and sometimes I'm surprised I've been able to keep
it together as well as I have. She's been somewhat understanding,
and has tried to minimize the pain, but even that doesn't help
a lot of the times. In fact it might have been a lot better if
she wasn't as considerate and had been more callous, that way
it might have been easier to get over her. Then at least I could
get angry, and that might have helped quench this burning desire.
But no, instead she had to try and be caring and
help me get through this, all the time tearing me apart inside.
Whenever becoming angry at the situation or her, I'd feel like
a total jerk, and end up beating myself up even more, for thinking
such hateful thoughts while she was trying to be nice to me. Maybe
if she had just let me alone more, which would have been a bit
hard given our situation, things would have been better, but I
needed any attention she'd give me.
She had let me alone in my thoughts when it seemed
I wanted to be alone, but then she was always there when I wanted
to talk. This helped some, but there's only so much rational discussion
and emotional unloading that you can do. In the end, I guess she
has been a good friend, but may have started to get a bit tired
of the whole situation. Lately she's also been sure to remind
me, even if subtly so, that we can never be anything more than
this, and that I've got to keep my hands to myself.
Turning to look at me, she notices where my gaze
had been and flashes a quick warning glare, as I quickly try and
pull my eyes away, but obviously not quick enough. "Ben,"
she replies with a slight sigh and just the tiniest bit of tension.
"You've really got to stop doing that... it's not going to
do either of us any good, and I need you to keep your wits about
you..."
Feeling like a scolded child, all I can do is avert
my gaze, wishing I didn't feel so low. Then her voice softens
as she suggests something I'm totally unprepared for. "If
you're really that interesting in mating, perhaps we can find
a local harlot who could keep you busy tonight. She'd probably
want extra since you're not a felenzi, but it would be worth it
if it would help you get over this."
As my face heats up enough to feel that it must be
radiating bright red, all I can do is shake my head. The thought
that she would even be implying such an act astonishes me. How
could she possibly think that any warm body could compensate for
hers, and how could she possibly expect me to take her up this
offer. I don't know how the hookers are here, if they're cleaner
or not, but I really don't want to find out. I'd never bought
sex before, and no matter how hard up I'm feeling, I certainly
don't want to start now.
Seeing my obvious disapproval, she simply shrugs
it off, as if I was refusing something as simple and common as
an offer to help me with my laundry or take me out to dinner.
"Alright Ben, I just figured you might want a way to release
all of that tension... if not then I just hope you can keep things
under control." Nodding numbly toward her, she continues,
"We need to stock up on supplies, I think I see the store
down there. Then we can find the local inn and get settled down
for the night."
Following her back out into the rain, we are further
drenched as the downpour has increased its speed. Crossing the
dirt road which has now started to turn muddy, we come diagonally
to a business two buildings down, which turns out to be the general
store. Coming in through the glass door, shaking off the rain,
its surprising warm, dry and well lit in here, with several oil
lamps burning on the walls, lightly covering the areas behind
them with a small film of smoke.
The shopkeeper, a dark-gray and black striped cat,
only slightly taller than me, is rather surprised by our appearance,
and does not know what to make of me as I stand there, running
my fingers through my hair, extracting as much water as I can
and shaking it on the floor. "Is there something I can help
you folks with?" he finally asks after eyeing us suspiciously
for several moments.
"Yes my good man," Marissa responds, with
just the slightest bit of sarcasm, barely even detectable. "We've
been traveling for several days and are about out of rations and
would like to buy another week and a half's supply of dried kalmar
meat."
The shopkeeper simply nods and goes about the quick
task of filling our order, all too eager to get us out of his
store. After wrapping up the dried strips of meat, and taking
Marissa's money he simply stands there, looking very uncomfortable,
waiting for us to leave. Marissa responds with a "thank you,"
cutting the silence, and then adding "we wish to stay in
town for the night, where's the local inn?"
He narrows his eyes ever so slightly, as if even
the thought of this crazy woman and her strange freak of a traveling
companion spending any more time within his town than absolutely
necessary rather appalls him. Hesitating yet again to offer assistance
he finally answers coldly "It's down that way, the fifth
building on the right."
Turing wordlessly to leave, following Marissa out
the door, we are once again pelted by the shower. I had been rather
detached through most of the encounter, my mind busy on other
things, but as we're leaving, I think to turn my head and quickly
offer a sarcastic "thanks" to the uncooperative and
befuddled shopkeeper.
It's obvious we're going to get almost completely
drenched on the journey to the inn, so we don't expend too much
energy trying to get there quickly, instead walking only slightly
faster than usual, feeling out clothes becoming almost completely
saturated. It feels bad enough for me in just my shirt and shorts,
and moderately short hair, it must be terrible for Marissa as
all of her fur becomes drenched.
When we do finally reach the inn, her fur is plastered
somewhat against her body, but even like this she still looks
pretty good, as I wish that I could be the one to slowly towel
her off. Luckily for both of us, her shirt is of very durable
material and hasn't become anywhere near transparent from the
water. Still it does manage to cling to her a bit, offering more
than a suggestive glimpse of her supple curves. Glancing at her
quickly, I then force myself to avert my gaze, not wishing to
elicit another reprimanding from her. If she'd noticed this time,
she decides not to mention it, perhaps figuring I'm a lost cause.
Shaking off as much of the water as we can outside
on the porch, and knocking most of the mud from our feet, we open
the door and trudge inside. At first it's bit hard to see since
it is much darker than the store had been, with only a few lamps
on the walls, all burning somewhat dimly. As my vision compensates
slowly, and the scenery around me becomes more visible, my slight
fear abates as the place appears to be empty. Empty that is except
for what appears to be the innkeeper, a small ocelot standing
near the bar. He appears as if he'd been coming to greet his patrons,
perhaps the only this day, but upon seeing me enter, he must have
stopped dead in his tracks. Now he simply stares back at us, giving
us a look similar to that of the shopkeeper.
Striding up to him, with me in tow, Marissa simply
asks "we'd like two rooms for the night... that is if you
have the vacancy."
Stiffing up ever so slightly, the ocelot looks up
at her and humbly replies, "yes I have the rooms... and I
don't mind renting them out to you... but I really don't like
the looks of him there... He might cause trouble."
Keeping her composure, and just barely extending
her claws, she rests one hand on his shoulder, lightly pricking
his flesh, keeping her other hand in plain view in front of his
face. Ever so slightly exposing her teeth, she speaks slowly and
deliberately to the small cat. "Now I don't really think
you want to think that way... My friend here is from a long ways
off and would very much like a room for the night... I'm sure
you can find it within you to show him some descent hospitality."
With that she quickly reaches in her pocket, causing him to momentarily
flinch, and then retrieves several silver coins. "This should
be enough for two of your finest rooms, hot baths, some laundry
service, and a couple of hot meals... okay?"
Upon seeing the coins before him, the little cat's
eyes widen. Apparently how ever much she has given him is sufficiently
enough of a tip to warm his heart towards me. Forcing a smile
toward her, he holds out a paw and states, "well since you've
put it that way ma'am, I'm sure no harm will come from it."
Taking the coins he darts off as soon as she releases his shoulder,
returning quickly with two keys. "There, you can have the
two rooms up near the back. I'll have someone come up and take
your dirty clothes to be washed and bring some warm water for
bathing, and when you're ready I'll have something special cooked
up for you." Dropping the keys in her hands, he quickly scurries
away once again.
Hesitating briefly, with a slight smile on her muzzle,
Marissa watches him retreat into the back of the inn, and then
turns and hands one of the keys to me. Following her up the stairs
I'm able to get a better look of the place. It's definitely obvious
that we're in a small town, as it looks rather rundown, but not
without a homey feel to it, and after close to a week of sleeping
out under the stars, it's very inviting. Not that camping out
has been all that bad, it's been very nice most of the time, but
the lack of certain facilities was beginning to get to me.
Opening my room, I'm pleasantly surprised by what
lies waiting for me; it's not the Hilton, but it will do. It's
clean and dry, and the large bed looks very comfortable, especially
when compared to the ground. Thankfully dropping my pack to the
floor, I turn to the lamp on the table near the bed. It's still
a few hours before the sun sets, but on account of the clouds,
it is already somewhat dark out, and this room is a bit too gloomy
for my taste.
Finding a wooden box of matches near the lamp, and
striking one on the rough side of the box, it quickly glows to
life and I'm able to light the lamp burning its clear oil. As
the flame grows to light the room with a warm glow, a small amount
of smoke leaks out of the glass enclosure around it. Satisfied
with the light level, turning to my pack, I open it up, spilling
its contents, mostly clothes on the floor. Sorting through them,
and setting the other items aside to dry, I am appalled at how
bad some of them smell, having been lying there damp and sweaty
for several days.
I really need to get out of these wet clothes, but
these are the last clean pair I have. Unfortunately there's no
other choice than to sift through the pile that lies before me
and find the cleanest ones amongst the lot. After much debate,
and a little revulsion, I finally come on a shirt and a pair of
shorts that are fairly dry and with a little airing out are somewhat
passable. I think I can manage to go the night without underwear,
since there's no way in hell that I'm going to recycle those.
As I've finished sorting through the clothes, and
beginning to think about a bath, there is a slight and hesitant
knock at the door. Rising and walking towards it, not sure just
who it could be, I pause briefly, then slowly open it. Standing
before me is a young felenzi female with orange fur, and long,
straight, red hair, carrying a large metal bucket with a little
bit of trouble. Smiling shyly at me, trying in earnest to hide
her surprise at my looks, she says softly "I've brought some
hot water for your bath."
Backing up and letting her enter, she walks into
what must be the bathroom and after a few moments returns. Smiling
at me again, as she steals furtive glances at me, she states "There,
I've added that water to your bath, so it will be nice and warm
for you... also I can take your laundry if it's ready."
Hesitating once again, her behavior catching me of
guard, I finally point to the crumpled, wet and slightly pungent
heap of garments on the floor, having already set aside the cleanest
of the lot to dry hung over a chair. "That's all of them,
well except for what I'm wearing now... if you wait a moment I
can take these off in the bathroom and throw them out to you."
At the mention of this she quickly becomes more amused,
and perhaps a little eager. "Okay," she responds bubbly,
widening her smile. "Father said that you were from a strange
land from far off and that you were very tired from your journey,
and to be very nice to you... if you'd like I could help you with
your bath."
Catching me completely off guard, a million thoughts
flash quickly through my head. 'Does she really mean what I think
she does? And if so why is she so eager... is it because living
in this little hole of a town she actually finds me exotic? Would
it be so bad if I was to take her up on this? How old is this
girl anyway, is she even eighteen? What if I'm reading her wrong
like with Marissa? Could I live with myself if I took advantage
of this?'
Finally standing there, and looking into her expectant
eyes, I surprise even myself with my restraint, not sure until
the moment I said it, what would actually tumble from my lips.
"No I don't think so..." I answer almost apologetically
as her face quickly registers disappointment. Then quickly adding
"I don't really feel up for that tonight... but perhaps when
we return in a couple of weeks..."
As her face brightens slightly at this promise, I
do my best to offer her a reassuring smile, and acting on impulse
reach out and lightly stroke her shoulder. She jumps lightly at
my touch, but then eases back into it, registering obvious approval
on her face. Petting her quickly, with my voice faltering ever
so slightly, I finish with "thank you for the offer though...
it was really sweet of you... and very flattering... it's just
that right now I have a lot on my mind..." Then realizing
that I've said far too much, I quickly detach myself and duck
into the safety of the bathroom.
Upon entering the tiny room, two thoughts cross my
mind. The first and most pressing of course is how the hell could
I have let an opportunity like that pass me by, then secondly
I'm disappointed to find that this bathroom is lacking several
of the amenities of Marissa's. First of all there seems to be
no toilet present, 'damn they must have an outhouse out back...
so much for a big improvement over using the woods.' Also, instead
of a normal bathtub like I had expected, there is only a large
metal tub in the center of the room.
Getting over the primitive facilities, my mind turns
once again to the offer I had just refused, and to the poor confused
kitten standing just outside of the door. Perhaps I could still
salvage the situation and invite her in, there was still time
for that. The though of her helping me out of these wet clothes
and into a nice warm bath sure was inviting, but I couldn't bring
myself to do it. 'Damn, why do I always have to be such a nice
guy in these situations? Or perhaps I'm just a wimp... I mean,
here I am leering at Marissa all week, with no reward, and then
this attractive girl offers to act out some of my fantasies, and
I blow her off... Yes, she's not Marissa, but does that really
matter all that much?'
After a couple of minutes of internal debate, I decide
that yes it must matter, at least enough for me to turn her down.
Still feeling rather upset, I decide that it's probably for the
best and try and get over it. 'Damn... some vacation this is turning
out to be.' Quickly peeling off my clothes, I cautiously open
the door, standing behind it and leaning out so only my upper
body is visible. She's standing there, looking very confused,
and almost on the verge of tears as she waits to pick up the last
of my laundry.
Feeling incredibly guilty, wishing to walk out to
her and embrace her tenderly, but knowing I wouldn't be able to
get through it. Instead, all I can mutter before handing her my
wet clothes is "I'm sorry... I really am," feeling my
eyes beginning to glaze over. She takes the clothes from my outstretched
hand, still looking incredibly hurt, but then for my benefit forcing
a tiny smile. Turning quickly she gathers up the rest of my clothes
from the floor and hurries out from my room, closing the door
behind her, as I watch my chance for a little pleasure dissipate
before my eyes.
Shutting the bathroom door, I try to force all of
these thoughts still raging in my head to quiet down. Still feeling
like such a jerk, for hurting that girl like that and also for
denying my instincts and not acting on my urges. 'Fuck, why do
I have to be so damn smitten over Marissa?' Turning back to the
tub in front of me, I hope that a warm bath will help to ease
my mind a little.
There's a lamp on the wall lighting my way, which
the innkeeper's daughter must have lit while she was in here preparing
the bath. The tub, which is about two feet deep and three feet
long, is three quarters of the way filled with water. Sticking
my foot in, I'm pleasantly surprised by its near-perfect temperature.
Quickly getting in, and grabbing the cake of soap and wash cloth
lying nearby I get to work. It isn't nearly as comfortable as
Marissa's tub had been, since it's a little cramped, but it sure
beats washing in a stream.
After a somewhat relaxing bath, and dressing in clothes
that are mostly dry and don't smell all that bad, I feel a little
better. Still the mental turmoil within me is festering in the
back of my mind. After dinner, I definitely feel like going to
bed early and sleeping as long as I can. To hell with my lessons
tonight.
As I'm standing there, still feeling rather sorry
for myself, another knock at the door catches my attention. Hesitating
briefly, then crossing the room and opening it, Marissa stands
before me, her fur clean and dry, brushed neatly back to its pristine
state. Giving me a light smile she asks "are you ready to
get some supper Ben?"
"I guess so," I reply, not bothering to
hide my current state of depression.
Looking at me with deep concern registering in her
light-green eyes, she speaks softly. "Are you okay Ben?"
"Yeah... I'm just tired and need a good night's
sleep," forcing a tiny smile.
She must know it's more than this, but she decides
to leave well enough alone, at least for the moment. "Okay...
let's get a decent cooked meal then... then we can get you off
to bed."
Following her down the narrow hall, we come to the
stairs and descend down to the main room of the inn which not
only functions as a dining room for the guests, but also appears
to serve as a pub for this small town. Coming into the dimly-lit
room, the eyes of most of the patrons turn to fall on me. As I
feel their steely gazes cut through me, quickly becoming a little
uneasy, rather nervous about having strayed into the lion's den.
There are about twelve to fifteen felenzi in the
bar, all males, spread out around several tables, slowly lapping
frothy liquid from the bowls before them. Most of them resemble
house cats and are similar in height to humans. However, there
are a few that seem to have descended from predator stock, and
they are absolutely huge, towering over the others, looking very
fierce indeed.
Marissa seems to sense my growing apprehension, and
quickly moves to one of the vacant tables in back of the room,
getting us as far as possible from the crowd. Watching nervously
as I follow her, their beady eyes follow us as if stalking prey.
Sitting at the table, with my back to the wall, looking
nervously at her, I state in a shaky voice, "I'm not too
sure about this Marissa..."
"It's okay Ben. They should leave us alone,
as long as we don't provoke them... and try not to look so scared..."
This is easier said then done, but I try and feign
easiness, keeping my eyes off the cats only half a room away.
Looking at Marissa, I try and lose myself in her beauty, hoping
this will pass very quickly, but even that doesn't seem to help
too much. The subtle presence of all these felenzi still rather
interested in me, and so near within striking distance, keeps
my brain quite alert to the fact that this is no ordinary trip
to a bar and I'd better keep all my wits about me.
Trying my best not to make direct eye contact, I
nervously scan the room with my peripheral vision. Most of the
locals have eased up a little and have gone back to their drinking,
only shooting casual glances toward us, as if I'm a novelty more
than anything else.
Within a couple of minutes, the innkeeper, now turned
barkeep, quickly makes his way back to our table. Carrying a glass
pitcher full of dark-brown liquid, with a healthy head of foam
on it, he places it and two drinking bowls before us. Looking
a little nervous he quickly speaks, "there you go... your
food will be out shortly." Then without as much as an "enjoy
your drink," he's gone as quickly as he came.
Smiling briefly at me, Marissa takes the pitcher
and pours both of us a bowlfull of this malt beverage. "I
think you'll like this Ben. It'll be a nice treat after what we've
had this week... Don't drink to much of it though. It's kind of
strong, and I don't need you losing your head on me now."
Lifting her bowl up to her muzzle, sniffing it briefly,
enjoying its hearty aroma, she then slowly begins to lap at it.
Hesitating briefly, looking back at her, bringing the bowl up
to my lips, but then remembering what happened the last time I
tried this, I decide to try something different. Peering over
the bowl, and out the corners of my eyes, many of the patrons
are watching me with keen interest and amusement.
Slowly bringing my tongue out, I experimentally lap
the surface of the fluid, cutting through the thin layer of foam.
Its taste is much like beer, but a bit stronger and more bitter.
At first its not quite what I was expecting, but after a few more
laps its taste becomes a little more appealing to me. Anything
different from water is a pleasant change in pace. However, lapping
just doesn't seem to be working out too well for me. It's just
too inefficient, and I change over to slight sips from the side
of the bowl, being extra cautious not to spill any this time.
After drinking several mouthfuls, bringing the bowl
down to the table, I smile at Marissa, feeling a little more at
ease. Then realizing I have a thick coating of the foam on my
chin, smiling sheepishly I quickly wipe it off with my arm. Marissa
too puts down her drink, smiling warmly at me. She also has remnants
of the foam on her muzzle, although it must have looked stupid
on me, it looks really cute and attractive glistening on her fur.
As she slowly wipes herself clean with her tongue, another impulsive
thought darts through my mind, wishing I could have been the one
to slowly clean her muzzle, delighting in the bitter taste mixed
in with her own subtle flavors.
Then glancing quickly back to the patrons in the
bar, they're all still watching us, but with smiles on their muzzles
now. Talking amongst themselves it seems that they are enjoying
the show I'm putting on for them. I feel a slight flash of anger
at being laughed at like this, but then it's better to be seen
as a clown then as prey. Smiling a little idiotically and once
again lifting the bowl to my mouth, I take a couple more sips
as my fear slowly abates.
Feeling a little more at ease, I glance around the
room. Most of them have again gone back to drinking and talking,
every once in awhile looking over at us, but more for entertainment
value than as if plotting something nasty for me. Things seem
to have made a turn for the better, and I let my guard down a
little more. I think that things are going to be alright, that's
until I notice the three big cats sitting at a table at the other
end of the bar eyeing us intently.
As my gaze lands on them, I feel several small shivers
running down my spine. Sitting at this table are three felenzi
that definitely represent large Earth felines. In the middle of
the table sits a huge tiger, while next to him sits a cougar and
a panther; both smaller, yet still very terrifying. While the
others in the bar have ceased paying us all of their attention,
these cats are still very focused on us. Trying not to make eye
contact, I look back at them, feeling my fear quickly return,
looking at the cold gleams burning in their eyes.
Looking at their predatory gazes, feeling my pulse
quicken, I once again start thinking that this wasn't the brightest
idea and am quickly looking for an exit nearby, if a quick escape
becomes necessary. Looking at these large cats, shuddering again,
their steely eyes seem focused intently on me, I stare back at
them, frozen with fear. For a long moment I'm caught like a deer
in the headlights, unable to look away, caught in what seems like
the tigers murderous gaze on me.
Then something flashes in the back of my mind, bringing
up a subtle clue I might have missed. Taking a moment to figure
this out, it suddenly becomes clear to me. Looking at the tiger,
and following my gaze downward to something I'd seen from the
corner of my eye, I'm both a little relieved and terrified at
the same time. One of his paws rests in his lap, and glancing
under the table, he's lightly stroking himself there, making his
intentions quite clear to me.
Watching him, knowing full well what he's thinking,
I'm still pretty scared, even knowing that he's not planning any
direct attacks on me. Still, I'll have to help Marissa fight him,
and possibly his two cohorts, and the possibility of this chills
me to the bone. I don't know if we could take the tiger, let alone
the other two cats. They're huge, and they look ready for action.
I'm not sure how powerful Marissa's magic is, but I hope she's
got a lot of it. Otherwise, they'll be picking up what's left
of me off the floor tomorrow morning.
Frightened and revolted, I'm frozen yet again, unable
to move or think, until the tiger decides to push back his chair
and slowly and deliberately rise, with his two partners in crime
doing the same. As they start their slow journey toward us, I'm
snapped out of the trance and quickly look frightenedly at Marissa.
She flashes me a knowing glance and looks to be keeping track
of them from the corner of her eyes.
Trembling in anticipation of the confrontation quickly
approaching us, time seems to stretch out, as the terrible cats
make their way slowly toward us. The tiger stands towering at
what looks like close to seven feet, and he's heavy and massive
to boot. He's not wearing a shirt, so his huge rippling muscles
are clearly visible beneath the white striped fur of his chest.
His arms look thick and powerful, and I'm cringing at the though
of having to spar with him. He's wearing a pair of black and dirty
boots, which are starting to develop cracks in the leather. There
is a growing bulge in the crotch of his dusty, brown pants, frighteningly
complimenting the nefarious gleam in his amber eyes.
The panther's fur is the deepest shade of jet black
I've ever seen, with no other trace of coloring to be found on
it. He stands about a head's length beneath the tiger, but still
several inches above six feet, and were it not for the presence
of the tiger, he would be quite terrifying in his own rite. He
too is dressed like a poor farmer, wearing dirty and old clothes,
with worn and cracked boots. He wears a faded blue button-down
shirt, tucked half-heartedly into his dingy gray pants, smeared
with several stains, long ago set in and not able to be washed
out.
The cougar is the smallest of the three, but still
very impressive in size. He stands a couple of inches below the
panther, which still has him above six feet. Like his companions
he wears shabby clothes, looking every bit like a feline version
of one of the good-old boys. His shirt isn't tucked in and is
unbuttoned, and open, exposing some of his tan chest and abdomen
and the firm muscles beneath. Like the other two cats, the expression
of his face is an eerie mixture of arousal and cold determination,
and the spectacle of them approaching us sends cold shivers throughout
my entire being.
When they finally reach our table, I glance up nervously
at them, unsure of how to present myself. Marissa still has her
back angled towards them, but is carefully watching them out of
the corner of her eye. The tiger steps forward and extends his
powerful arm, bringing it down to the side of her back and lightly
stroking her there.
She reacts with lightning-fast reflexes, fluidly
spinning around and rising to a crouched stance, swiping at his
arm and pushing it away from her. Glaring at him with her pupils
constricted down to small points, her eyes flashing angrily, she
bares her sharp teeth and snarls at him. "Do that again,
and you might not live to regret it!"
Seeming unfazed by her confrontation, the tiger laughs
evily, exposing his own razor-sharp teeth. "I don't know
about that my dear... I think I'll live to enjoy it immensely...
as will you."
As this exchange is happening, I quickly push back
my own chair, and rise to my feet, still uncertain at what to
do, but determined to do my best, even if it kills me. And with
these odds, that's a definite possibility. As I'm doing this,
the two other cats have clustered nearer, standing on either side
of the tiger, and slightly behind him.
Out of the corner of my eyes, I notice that the rest
of the patrons in the bar are watching, most with smiles on their
faces, in anticipation of the show about to go down before them.
I briefly scan the crowd, silently pleading for help, but that
thought quickly dissipates, as it's obvious that the onlookers
have no intention of intervening. The innkeeper is nowhere to
be seen, perhaps he's too timid to do anything, and is going to
let this run its course and deal with the aftermath later.
Marissa snarls again at the tiger standing so close
before her. "I wouldn't flatter myself if I were you."
At that she growls deeply, further pulling back her thin lips,
and exposing her teeth more fully. With her ears flattened back
against her head, she brings up one of her hand, showing her fully
extended claws and her intent to use them if need be.
Again the tiger faces her challenge, looking steadily
at her with his cold eyes, refusing to back down. Then with actions
just as quick as her own, he brings his claws to bear on her shoulder,
gripping her tightly and slightly piercing her flesh as she emits
a small hiss of pain. Then growling deeply, he brings his face
a little closer and lets out a deep roar.
Taken back from his show of force, she instinctively
backs away, looking momentarily terrified, trying to get out from
under his grip. She recovers quickly though, as the look on her
face flashes once again to anger. Bringing her hand up higher,
she quickly curls her fingers, gathering energy there, then disperses
it in a huge flash of light, blinding all of us within range.
Being farther away than the tiger, my sight isn't
as affected as much. Although being severely dazed, I'm still
able to see a fuzzy image of Marissa pushing him away as he instinctively
brings his hands up in front of his face. He staggers back several
feet and takes several moments to recover with his friends huddling
next to him.
Looking back at Marissa, as my sight slowly returns
to normal, she has that feral hunting look on her, as her eyes
gleam with adrenaline. As the tiger regains his composure, he
takes a cautious half step towards her, and regards her with a
newfound respect, yet still intent on claiming his prize. "You're
good kitten... and you'll be even better in bed tonight..."
Coming out of my trance, I feel as if I should be
doing something here, at least offering my show of support. So
without even thinking of what a stupid thing it is, I step forward
slightly, and trying to sound as tough as possible state "look...
it's obvious she's not interested... and you've seen what she
can do. Why don't you just leave us alone?"
Looking briefly at me with a cold stare, piercing
me down to my soul, he then turns back to Marissa. "Who's
your pet?" he asks with a slight snarl, the salvia dripping
from his fangs. "He's kind of cute... but not really too
useful now is he? Why don't you let me show you a good time honey?"
Snarling back at him she responds "so you really
fancy me do you? We'll see about that."
With that the tiger steps forward again, slow and
deliberate, with the cougar on his left, moving towards Marissa's
side. The panther on his right, moves a little nearer, coming
closer to me, a cold gleam in his eye, as he half smiles, half
snarls at me.
Replying in a serious tone, the tiger simply states,
"Yes. We lost our last bar girl a couple of weeks ago, and
since you have no male, you'd make a wonderful replacement...
You look pretty nice in those clothes your wearing, and you'll
look even better out of them, on your knees and in front of me..."
"I wouldn't count on it buddy, but if you want
it, you're gonna have to come and get it," she replies snarling
loudly, with her hands up defensively; her claws ready to strike,
and her tail swishing wildly behind her. Taking another slow step
toward her, the tiger comes into striking distance, his claws
up and ready.
Grinning at him wildly, flashing her teeth, Marissa
simply points her curled hand at him, then quickly spreading out
her fingers she releases an invisible bolt of energy. As this
unseen force plows into the tiger, looking like it hits him squarely
on the chest, he's pushed backwards quickly and stumbles and falls
on a table, bringing it and himself crashing towards the ground.
Reacting quickly, the cougar reaches out and grabs
at her wrist. She's just as quick though and spins around, her
claws fully unsheathed and brings them to bear on him, leaving
four red stripes across his tan chest. As he doubles over in pain
and surprise, she springs snarling on his back, grabbing his neck
and digging her claws into the soft flesh there.
Reacting instinctively, yowling loudly, the cougar
drops to a roll. Jumping off from him, and taking a step backwards,
getting out of reach, she once again is ready for the fight. The
panther had positioned himself between her and I, and was getting
ready to strike. Reacting on instinct, not thinking of the consequences,
I rush forward and throw a punch, hitting him squarely in the
small of the back, just above his tail.
Howling in surprise and a little pain, he turns around
and regards me with a little shock, which is quickly replaced
with seething anger, as I stand there just as amazed, a little
surprised at what I've done. His eyes narrowing on me, he quickly
slashes out at me. Trying to duck out of the way, I'm marginally
successful, since his blow only glances off me. However it's enough
to drag his claws through the fabric of my shirt sleeve and puncture
the flesh of my upper left arm, leaving four bloody slices along
it.
The pain is quick and sharp, but the adrenaline helps
to compensate for it. Luckily it was only a light blow, and he
wasn't fully able to connect. The wound isn't too deep, but it
does hurt like a bastard, and it threatens to affect my concentration
which I need every once of if I hope to come out of this at all.
Looking at the black cat before me, standing close
to half a foot above me, he's getting ready to strike again. He
looks extremely pissed that this slippery little monkey managed
to evade him once, and he doesn't seem to want that to happen
again. Thinking quickly, and impulsively, I do something which
catches him completely off guard. He'd been expecting me to come
at him with my hands out and ready, but instead I strike with
my leg, bringing my right knee up quickly and planting it squarely
in his crotch.
The expression on his face would have been quite
comical under different circumstances, as his eyes widen with
pain and surprise. Letting out a choked yowl, he doubles over,
clutching his abdomen, and for the moment is put out of commission.
Shoving the panther to the floor, he offers no resistance, and
falls in a heap, huddled there caught in the grips of pain.
Smiling a little bit with satisfaction as the adrenaline
rushes through me, I turn to survey the situation. The panther
lays at my feat, curled up in a fetal position, his eyes glassy
with his suffering, panting deeply. The tiger was in the process
of picking himself off from the floor, pushing the broken table
away from him. The cougar stands off to the side, a little behind
Marissa and as I watch, he quickly comes up, reaching out to grab
her from behind.
Letting out a startled "Marissa" as a warning,
she surprises both of us by crouching slightly, reaching behind
her and taking him in her claws. Then putting all of her strength
into it, in an impressive show of her abilities, she literally
throws him several feet against a nearby wall. He comes in contact
to it with a heavy thud, then falls crumpled to the floor; still
for the moment.
The tiger is now up and ready, and he charges at
her snarling fiercely. She returns his growls, as her face is
awash with feral emotion. As he lunges into her, she hits him
hard, but his momentum carries him against her, grabbing her tightly.
From where I'm standing I hear him growl into her ear. "Hmm
I like a girl with spirit, I'm going to enjoy you tonight... Here
this ought to calm you down."
She retorts "don't flatter yourself, oaf,"
snarling back at him.
Just then he reaches up quickly and grips her muzzle
with his large hand, as her eyes go wide with surprise. Desperately
clawing at his hand as it clings to her face, she fights him,
panicking, trying to get away from his grasp. Again reacting on
instinct, completely overshadowing common sense, I advance from
behind the tiger, and give him a quick and powerful jab to his
side, guessing where his kidney should be.
Howling with surprise and pain, he spins around dropping
Marissa, then faces me looking extremely angry and out for blood.
Having learned my lesson with the panther, I'd quickly backed
up after my attack, expecting him to turn around quickly on me.
Marissa falls to the floor on her knees and looks dazed or half-drugged,
but okay for the moment, and right now I've got much more pressing
problems to deal with.
Again, as expected, this huge cat lunges toward me,
using my experience with the panther, I'm able to duck out of
the way once again. Then thinking quickly, and remembering some
of the martial arts I'd learned back in college, I grab for the
beast's wrist. Using his own force against him, just redirecting
it, I'm able to throw him into another table which splinters and
crashes loudly beneath his weight. He weighed more than I was
expecting though, so that move, while successful, was very hard
on my arm and a dull pain is shooting through it, starting from
my shoulder which got pulled on rather hard. 'We need to finish
this as soon as possible, otherwise they're gonna wear us down
rather quickly' I think as I survey the situation.
Watching the tiger lay, dazed for the moment, amongst
the remains of the wooden table, I turn to look at Marissa. She
seems to have gained her senses and is picking herself off from
the floor. Then looking off to the side I see that the panther
is still recovering from the harsh treatment I'd given him. Moving
quickly towards Marissa, it's my intent to help her up and make
a stand next to her. However, I never make it, as halfway there
I feel a quick blow to my back, as claws dig into my flesh, and
the full weight of my assailant throws me forcefully to the ground.
'Fuck! I forgot about the cougar,' is all I think, landing with
a jarring thud, with him on top of me.
The pain jolts through me, as I gasp for breath,
then trying to struggle up, I fight briefly against the big cat
on top of me. My efforts are useless though, as his weight keeps
me pinned, his claws digging deeper into me, pulling and tearing
slightly, and his sharp hissing in my ears, convinces me to finally
lie still. Lying there in pain and terror, I force my head up
so I can look at Marissa. She had been getting up and it looks
as if her head was clearing. However, seeing me go down, her concentration
had been lost, and that was a fatal flaw. For the tiger had gotten
up quicker than both of us had expected, and as she stares at
me, trying to regain her thoughts, he screams and rushes her,
pounding against her and throwing her to the ground, with him
on top of her.
She hisses with fear and anger, fighting madly to
get him off of her, as I watch, terrified at what's to become
of us. Her struggles are in vain as he again forces his hand into
her face, completely covering her muzzle with the shear size of
it. Her fighting slowly stops, as she becomes more relaxed, and
then to my utter surprise and horror, she begins to slowly lick
the fur of his fingers. Laying panting on top of her, he smiles
evily, as she continues to run her tongue across his hand. Then
stroking her muzzle softly, that familiar nefarious gleam returns
to his eyes, and to my disgust she begins to softly purr.
Getting up slowly, he stands and helps her to her
feet. She stands there swaying lightly, looking again half drugged,
with her eyes softly clouded over. Putting his arm around her,
her pulls her closer, as she purrs yet again. Then nodding to
the cougar on top of me, I feel him get up and drag me to a standing
position, holding my right arm pinned behind me, as pain shoots
throughout my entire body. The next moment, the panther who had
been crouched in pain, is also beside me, all too happy to take
my other arm behind me, making sure to dig his claws in extra
hard in the process.
Staring back at the tiger, the two other felenzi
hold me firmly, helpless and scared. He grins back evily at me,
once again placing his hand under Marissa's muzzle, as she melts
against his grip and laps absently at his fingers. Glancing around
the bar, hoping in vain for someone to intervene, the rest of
the patrons are sitting there, watching the show before them with
rapt fascination and excitement. Then turning my gaze back to
the tiger and watching in horrified anger, he looks down at her
and begins to caress her side, as the bulge in his pants slowly
returns. Reaching one of her breasts, he slowly cups it, stroking
her beneath the fabric of her shirt, as I blurt out "leave
her alone asshole" in fear and anger.
At this outburst, the two cats holding me so firmly
both growl slightly, digging their claws further into my flesh,
shaking me quickly as I gasp out in pain. Jerking his head upwards,
a snarl forming, the tiger gruffly replies, "you little platuke...
you almost messed things up pretty good for us. I should teach
you a lesson for sticking your muzzle someplace where it doesn't
belong, but right now I've got more important matters to attend
to."
Turning back to Marissa, still holding his hand near
her muzzle, he grins again and takes a single unsheathed claw
and runs it down the front of her shirt, quickly separating the
buttons, until it lies open, exposing the white fur of her chest
and abdomen slightly. Then reaching the rim of her breeches, and
pulling roughly on the fabric, he quickly untucks her shirt. As
her shirt's ripped open, it further exposes her flat belly, but
for the moment the two halves of the garment are still partially
covering her breasts, although it's painfully obvious that she's
not wearing a bra.
Having tackled her shirt, his fingers go to the button
of her breeches. As I watch, struggling in vain against the solid
grips behind me, my anger burning inside of me, the feeling of
total helplessness clenches me, and I feel my pulse raging out
of control. Also, in all of the confusion of emotions screaming
within me, I'm horrified to notice that amongst the anger and
fear, the sight of Marissa being revealed like this before me
sets off some arousal in a dark corner of my mind. Gritting my
teeth, and struggling further, the situation is totally helpless.
There's nothing I can do to stop this, and I'm unable to turn
away or close my eyes.
He deftly undoes the button of her breeches, while
Marissa offers no resistance, just leaning against him with a
dreamy look on her face, still licking the paw before her muzzle.
Then parting the fabric aside, and forcing his huge hand down
inside the garment, he grins lecherously, feeling the warmth of
her crotch; Marissa purrs deeply at this intrusion, and grows
even limper, sinking further against him.
Laughing at this, he chuckles "I see you're
more than ready... why don't we go upstairs..."
"Okay", she purrs and nods dreamily at
this request, rubbing softly against him.
"No... you fucking bastard... leave her alone!"
My voice is loud, but also rather high-pitched, and on the verge
of cracking with all of the emotion surging within me.
Once again his eyes narrow on me. "Look you
little runt... if you know what's best for you, you'll stay out
of this. If you bother me again, I'm gonna rip your little head
off..."
Keeping one paw down her open breeches, and moving
the other from her muzzle to part her torn shirt and cup a naked
breast, he turns and guides her back to the stairs. Fighting again
against the iron grips of the two felenzi behind me, I struggle
fiercely, ignoring the pain shooting through me, as they restrain
me with their strong arms and sharp claws.
As they reach the foot of the stairs, he turns his
head and mutters to his companions. "Take care of him, then
meet us upstairs..."
Watching them walk slowly up the stairs, feeling
helpless and weak, the panther releases my shoulder from one of
his hands. Still holding my arm behind me with the other one,
he walks in front of me, eyeing me coldly. As I'm locked in his
seething gaze, trembling and unable to look away, he strikes quickly,
and using a newfound fighting technique, forcefully brings his
knee up into my crotch. As the waves of pain surge through me,
ripping through the pit of my stomach and knocking the wind out
of me, I crouch forward, only to be caught by his strong arm.
This isn't a comforting or helpful grip though, as I rest there
caught in the throes of agony, there is a heavy thud, as something
solid comes quickly and abruptly in contact with the back of my
head. With that, everything is mercifully blotted out, as blackness
overtakes me.
Consciousness seeps back into me gradually, as I
become painfully aware of my body once again. Lying there on the
floor of the bar, my head is throbbing heavily, and moving to
sit up, my whole body is racked with pain. Still confused and
cloudy, Bringing my hand up towards my temple, I concentrate,
calling forth the healing powers within me. I still need some
practice at this skill, but it works with marginal success, as
the pain is somewhat dulled, and my head begins to clear.
Glancing to the windows at the front of the room,
and judging from the light outside, it's probably an hour or so
after sunrise. 'Shit, I've been out all night.' Then recalling
the events of last evening a single thought echoes through my
head, 'where's Marissa... I've got to get to her.' Jumping up,
another spasm of pain travels through me, but goes mostly unnoticed,
eclipsed by my frightened sense of urgency. As soon as I get to
my feet, the innkeeper, who must have been watching me from the
corner, rushes over to me, impeding my progress to the stairs.
"Where's Marissa, I need to help her,"
I pant at the little ocelot, feeling the adrenaline start to course
through me.
"That's not your worry," he replies firmly,
not moving from in front of me. "You caused a good bit of
damage last night... you'd better have money to pay for it."
As the anxiety continues to build within me, I quickly
lose patience with this little cat, who stands a few inches smaller
than me. Darting out my left hand and grabbing him by the collar,
my eyes afire with determination, and a snarl on my lips, I quickly
bring my right hand a few inches from his frightened eyes. Producing
a small ball of pure energy in my curled fingers, he tries to
pull away from my firm grip. Having caught him completely unprepared
for this attack, his eyes are wide with surprise as his ears are
standing straight up with fear. I pull the trembling felenzi towards
me, bringing his terrified face quite near my own. "Listen
here you little furball" I yell at him. "I wanna know
where the hell they've taken her, and I wanna know right now!
Don't make me ask you again..."
Shrinking away from me, trying to look as non-threatening
as possible, he shudders, then manages to stammer, "they're
still upstairs... but you'd better stay out of this... they won't
like it."
Anger seething within me, I narrow my gaze on this
frightened little cat and belt out "I don't need your advice
kitten. Leave me alone, or I'll bury your head in the litter box!"
Spreading my fingers quickly, dispersing the energy in a small
burst of light, further confusing him, I then give him a rough
shove, and he falls quivering to the floor.
Darting up the stairs, my mind on fire with angry
emotions, I come quickly to the hallway and pause a little uncertain.
Panting briefly, trying to collect my thoughts, I scan the empty
hallway and figure they'll be in the room Marissa rented. Moving
quietly down the hall, my heart pounding in my ears, both from
rage and fear, I come to the door and crouching slightly throw
my weight against it.
The door gives way on the second thrust, and as it
splinters, opening quickly, I stumble into the room. Quickly gaining
my footing, I first notice Marissa spread out before me, lying
naked and supine on the bed, her fur, normally brushed smooth,
is completely messed up, as her hair is also in a terrible state
of disarray. Upon my entrance, she turns her head and looks at
me dreamily. Holding out a single black-furred hand she beckons
towards me, and with a soft purr asks "hello Ben... come
here lover..."
The next moment a powerful scent hits me, causing
me to gag slightly. It seems that the heavy musk of these three
obviously excited males, trapped all night in this small room,
has built up a rather powerful smell, much like a locker room,
only more musky, and stronger. Taking several breaths to adjust
to their strong presence, I'm caught a little off guard by the
sight of the three males, all likewise naked, standing up and
eyeing me coldly.
Then half grinning, half snarling, the tiger laughs
and speaks with a condescending tone in his voice. "Well
look boys, her little pet's back... I guess he's dumber than we
gave him credit for..." Chuckling again, he adds "your
lady here has just agreed to stay on as our new bar girl and entertainment...
so why don't you just get lost before I have to hurt ya."
Having assimilated to the male pheromones flooding
the room, I've regained my composure slightly, pumped up and ready
to fight. Still, looking at the massive body of the tiger manages
to send shivers through my spine, as I wonder if I should be doing
this. 'Dammit Ben, you can't chicken out now, you're in this to
the end... at least you've got to go down fighting.'
Feeling the anger pulsing through me, again eclipsing
the fear, I flex my fists and shift into a ready stance, trying
to look as menacing as possible. "You fucking rapists...
Leave her alone!" They seem a little confused by this, so
I add "I may die trying, but I'll take on all three of you
if I have to..."
At this the tiger throws back his head, laughing
madly, fully exposing his teeth. Then looking at me grinning evily,
his eyes flashing coldly, he replies, still chuckling mildly,
"what? You're gonna be her protector... now that's a good
one."
"I'm gonna kick your tail, that's what I'm gonna
do you slimeball!"
Smiling wickedly at this challenge, as if he's anticipating
taking this little shaved ape apart bit by bit, he motions to
his cohorts to stay out of this as he steps forward. His face
quickly becoming feral as his fighting instincts overtake him,
he gets down into a crouch and readies himself for the first attack.
The sight of this huge beast before me further awakens
the fear in the back corners of my mind, but luckily by now I'm
pretty much running on automatic, as the single goal of surviving
this fight is hammered through my brain. Luckily for me, my instincts
don't totally cloud over my rational though, and a wild idea springs
into my mind. Taking a deep breath, forcing myself to regain my
composure, I keep a close eye on the tiger, getting ready to strike,
concentrating on controlling the energy building within me.
His tail is lashing wildly, as he eyes me coldly
with a predatory stare, and snarls loudly. Figuring he's going
to charge me like any tiger would, like he'd done last night,
I keep my concentration firm, watching him for signs of the impending
strike. Then like a bolt of lightning, he screams and leaps forward,
charging quickly at me. I'm ready for him though, and quickly
jump off to the side. As he's flying by me, I turn with him, pointing
my hands at his upper body and commanding a release of the force
within me.
It's not as impressive as I'd hoped, since I'm still
a novice, and it's hard to completely concentrate under these
conditions, but it works well enough to get his attention. As
the invisible energy flows at him, several puffs of smoke appear,
emanating from his back and side. Howling in pain, he quickly
spins around and madly swipes at the source of the pain with his
hands, eyes wide with surprise. The spell wasn't successful enough
to catch his fur fully on fire, but it's smoldering lightly in
a couple of places.
Taking advantage of his confusion, I carefully approach
him, quickly developing another wild straggly, one that springs
to mind from memories of playfully teasing cats. As he notices
my presence and looks up at me, I deliver a sharp and forceful
blow with my fist, connecting squarely with his big nose. He howls
again with pain, bringing one of his paws up to it as blood slowly
runs out of his nostrils. Grinning wickedly with my accomplishment,
it seems that indeed a cats nose is a rather sensitive place,
and while blowing on it aggravates them to no end, a quick punch
delivers even better results.
Backing up slightly, wary of him even in the throes
of pain, I take another step backwards, watching him intently.
He manages to recover quickly though, turning to glare at me,
snarling, with his ears flattened back. He looks absolutely terrifying,
the added effect of the blood dribbling down his muzzle only helping
to make him look more frightening. As I take another couple of
steps backwards, he charges me yet again, reaching out for me.
Ducking out of the way at the last moment, I almost make it, but
the tips of his sharp claws connect ever so briefly with my right
arm. 'Luckily it's only a glancing blow, otherwise the bastard
could have taken my whole arm off.' Even so, the four slashes
left by his claws are quickly filling with blood, and it hurts
more than I'd care for. 'Damn... this is going to make fighting
him a little harder... he's also learning my tricks. Better come
up with something new quick.'
He circles again, eyeing me with anger but also a
little respect among fighters. As he lunges toward me again, this
time I surprise him by ducking through his legs, instead of dodging
off to the side. Going quickly beneath him, I look briefly up
to see Marissa, still on the bed, clad in only her soft fur, looking
up with arousal in her eyes. Spinning around quickly, I further
surprise the big cat, by landing a kick firmly against his knee.
Howling yet again, and turning quickly, he spins,
his hands ready, and claws bared. Trying to get out of the way,
I quickly step back, but he again catches me with his claws, this
time across the chest with his huge paw swipe. His blow neatly
shreds the front of my shirt, and unfortunately also some of the
flesh underneath, leaving four trenches, letting the bright red
blood flow.
The pain grips me intensely, and for an instant threatens
to cloud out any reasoning I have left. 'These wounds are much
deeper than the ones on my arms.' However, the possibility of
him getting in another swipe at me, is enough to jar me back to
the task at hand. Reacting almost instinctively, bringing up both
of my hands, I quickly call forth a simple spell, giving off a
moderately bright flash. It's nothing fancy, I'm not skilled enough,
nor do I have the concentration for that right now, but it's enough
to buy me a little time as he blinks, momentarily stunned.
Stepping quickly behind him, wanting to get as far
away as possible before he recovers, the pain shoots through me
yet again. 'I don't think I can last too much longer... I've got
to end this soon, before he can another shot in.' Then getting
a desperate plan, I take a step forward, eyeing him intently as
he recovers from the brief effects of that simple spell.
Then leaving myself open for another strike, I wait
for him to make his move. However, as he does so, I suddenly shoot
in, grabbing his huge arm between the wrist and elbow, ignoring
the pain screaming throughout me. Stomping hard on the tiger's
foot, he snarls loudly, not expecting this tactic. Then, with
his attention diverted from his arm, I grab his wrist, turning
it toward the roof and spinning, so my back's toward him.
Brining the arm down while standing up, my shoulder
then catches his extended elbow. There's a sickening crunch, as
his arm bends backwards at a weird angle. He roars in pain, looking
at me with a strange mixture of anger and respect in his eyes.
There's was no fight left in him though, as the pain eclipses
his rage. Looking at me a little sheepishly he turns and makes
a hasty retreat out of the room, followed quickly by his two companions,
after briefly flashing me nervous and awed glances.
Watching them flee, I shudder slightly, coming down
from the fever of the fight, a bit surprised at how well it turned
out. Shaking as the rage seeps from me, the force of the pain
then hits me hard, catching my full attention. Almost falling
over from its abrupt onset, once fear wasn't overshadowing it,
I steady myself and take several deep breaths, calming down and
gaining my wits once again. Then being slow and deliberate, concentrating
deeply, I call forth the healing powers within me. I'm still somewhat
frazzled, and also very tired from the fight, so it takes longer
than usual to build the spell; even then I can't get up to full
power. Clutching my hand to my bloody chest, feeling the healing
warmth spread through me, I manage to stop the bleeding, and diminish
the pain, but it's far from completely gone. Now the pain is reduced
to a dull throbbing, it's nowhere as gripping as it was, but it's
a subtle reminder of the wound there. Looking down, the tears
have healed a little bit, and the blood has clotted, but it will
need closer attention in a little while. 'The damn thing's probably
gonna leave a big scar too... fucking cats...'
Then remembering the situation, and the reason for
the fight in the first place, I quickly turn to look at Marissa,
still lying naked on the bed. Pausing ever so briefly I take in
the sight of her before me, then snapping to attention, mentally
scolding myself, I quickly look away, scanning the room for her
clothes. They're lying neatly folded on a table to the end of
the room. Walking quickly to them and gathering them up, I then
turn and walk a little nervously towards her; still feeling some
of the effects of the adrenaline from the fight.
Now she's gotten into a sitting position, still making
no attempt to cover herself, and she still has that rather dreamy
look in her eyes. 'Damn she's beautiful... shit, I can't believe
I'm thinking this...' Forcing those thoughts out of my head yet
again, I reach the bed, as she looks up at me, but makes no attempts
to move. Taking her ripped shirt and gently wrapping it over her
shoulders, I do my best to cover her up. Hesitating briefly, not
knowing quite how to handle this, I finally ask "Marissa,
are you okay?"
Continuing to look into my eyes, she purrs deeply
replying "yes lover." Then adding with a little surprise,
"you fought for me?"
Taken back by this, I reply a little confused, "of
course I fought for you... they were... raping you."
Staring blankly back at me, she seems confused for
a couple of moments, then purring again, she shocks my by reaching
up to take the fabric of her shirt near the collar. Then slowly
moving it back, she slides it off her shoulders, letting it drop
softly behind her, again exposing her full beauty to me. The with
a sultry smile on her muzzle, she leans backwards against her
hands, spreading out somewhat before me.
Even the best of intentions are momentarily blotted
from my mind, as I'm unable to turn away and I let my eyes peruse
her supple body. Looking at the soft black and white of her fur,
and the way she lies so inviting to me, it's hard to remain pure
and sympathetic. Even with her fur messed up the way it is, she
still looks very attractive, making it very difficult to keep
my senses about me. As she lies there smiling, purring before
me, her breasts rise and fall ever so slightly with her breathing.
Standing there looking at her, I'm lost in the picture
before me for several moments. Then snapping myself back to attention,
driving these urges further back in my brain, I regain my composure.
Gently pleading with her, trying to be compassionate, I softly
speak. "Marissa, we need to get you dressed..."
She looks at me, still somewhat dazed, then sits
up partially, slowly reaching out her hand, as if wanting support
to help her stand. Walking slowly towards her, trying to keep
my eyes focused on her face, I reach my hand out to hers, taking
it in at first a loose grip, waiting for her to indicate she wants
to be helped up. She surprises me yet again, gripping my hand
tightly, then leaning back abruptly and pulling me forcefully
towards her.
Apparently my equilibrium's still a little messed
up from the fight, and her quick move catches me completely off
guard, as I topple onto the bed, almost on top of her. Quickly
and fludily she rolls over, pushing me on my back, and laying
partially over me. Scared and confused I look into her deep eyes,
still somewhat cloudy, but definitely registering arousal. As
her hand comes quickly up to my cheek, I try and intercept it,
but she simply pushes me away. Making contact with my cheek she
strokes it softly, letting out another purr.
I manage to pant "No Marissa..." as my
troubled brain tries to comprehend this strange situation.
Tracing her fingers down my cheek, she reaches my
already tattered shirt, and running a clawed finger down it, making
sure not to come in contact with my wounds there, she fully tears
the fabric. Then smiling at me she parts the cotton, revealing
my chest and abdomen to her. As I struggle briefly against her,
she holds my arms firmly in hers. Then looking at me, she speaks
in a soft and seductive tone. "Come on lover, this is what
you've wanted..."
My fighting slowly ceases, finding her logic very
persuasive. As I become still, she smiles and then brings her
muzzle down to the wound on my chest. Gently licking, she cleans
the four slashes slow and methodically. It hurts some, but the
feeling of her tongue running against my flesh makes up for it.
Getting into the spirit of the moment, I slowly bring my hands
up to her sides and back, and begin to softly stroke her, eliciting
several deep purrs. As she lavishes me with her attentions, any
doubts within me are quickly replaced with my growing arousal.
When she's finished attending to my wound, she rolls
off a little, onto her side, giving me a better look at her. Gasping
as her beauty overtakes me, she smiles again, taking her hand
and dragging it down my chest to my shorts, resting on my belt
buckle. Forcing off my shoes with my feet, they land with dull
thuds on the floor as she slowly undoes my belt, and then the
metal button of my shorts.
Hesitating slightly, then having second thoughts,
I dart one of my hands to grasp hers, tugging lightly. Looking
back at me a little confused, she then purrs, rubbing her furry
body against my side, slowly coaxing me along. Finally my overtaxed
brain can't hold back any longer, and I give in to her gentle
persuasion. Releasing her hand and letting her undo my shorts,
I lift my hips, allowing her to easily remove the last stitches
of clothing from me.
Then rolling over on top of her, all thoughts wiped
from my tired brain, I press against her soft, furry and so inviting
warmth. Stroking her gently, as she purrs appreciatively, I slowly
begin to move against her. Then letting our passion build, as
our movements begin to pick up speed, we lose ourselves in moment,
clutching tightly to one another. Feeling her against me, purring
deeply beneath me, all of the tension of the past few days, all
of the rage from the fight, all of my fear and uncertainty completely
melts away from even the darkest recesses of my consciousness.
All that's left are thoughts of her, and the growing desire between
us, as we continue to move together, climbing the pinnacles of
ecstasy.
Copyright 1994, Will A. Sanborn - was1@shore.net