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Shaking, or being shaken, Ra'aisha didn't know. His body shivered, so cold, he wanted to sleep. Hearing a voice, he followed it, eyes flickering. Hands on his shoulders, a voice spoke, he couldn't make out the words. He was standing, unsure how he got to his feet. Something soft draped over his shoulders and a hood pulled up over his ears, was it a cloak? He couldn't tell. Someone grabbed his hand, and tugged.

He heard a door open, then warmth flooded around him. Laying on something soft, he felt the weight of blankets covering him, a pillow under his head. Someone spoke, but he couldn't understand the words.

Zahari sat nearby after settling the distressed Khajiit on the couch. Concerned, he continued talking to him, coaxing him back to awareness. The Khajiit's bright blue eyes flickered open and wandered, fighting against the cloud of fatigue that clawed at him, eyes closing again.

As awareness slowly returned, words made sense again. Opening his eyes, looking toward the chair, he saw an all black Khajiit, like himself, with dense fur and amber eyes. "Are you feeling better?" Zahari said. "What's your name?"

"A little. This one is Ra'aisha." he said, mumbling.

"This one is glad you're recovering," Zahari said. "Luckily Zahari found you when he did. He went to the caravan camp for some supplies and they were gone. He heard moaning and found you in the snow."

Ra'aisha struggled to sit up, his head pounding. Zahari helped him, adjusting the blankets around him. He touched Ra'aisha's nose, which still felt cold, then turned and put more wood in the hearth.

"That's quite the bump on your head, this one will clean it up for you." said Zahari, retrieving a bowl of warm water and some cloths from beside the hearth.

Zahari knelt beside Ra'aisha. "This may hurt, but Zahari will be gentle." Ra'aisha nodded, closing his eyes. Zahari washed the wound, cleaning the matted blood from his fur, then patted his fur dry with a soft towel. Ra'aisha winced and hissed once or twice, but remained still.

Zahari set the bowl and cloths aside. Fetching two tankards he filled them with warm cider, handing one to Ra'aisha. "Sip this slowly, the cold still has it's claws in you," Zahari said.

Returning to his chair, he sipped the cider, watching Ra'aisha. The flickering flames danced in their eyes as they shared the soothing heat. Ra'aisha gradually felt warmer as he basked in the comforting warmth of the fire.

Once Ra'aisha was more comfortable, Zahari walked into the kitchen, returning with bowls of fragrantly spiced meats. Handing one to Ra'aisha he sat in a nearby chair, glancing at Ra'aisha who sniffed first at the food, the scents making his mouth water. He ate slowly, savoring the delicious flavors.

As afternoon turned into evening, Ra'aisha continued to improve. A flash of memories; being ambushed and beaten, a Khajiit standing to the side smirking, the world going black.

Zahari saw his distress and sat beside him, putting one arm around his shoulders. Ra'aisha cried while Zahari stroked his mane, comforting him as Ra'aisha's sobs slowly quieted. Exhausted, he fell asleep leaning against Zahari.

When Ra'aisha's eyes opened again it was night. "Are you feeling better?" Zahari asked. "Zahari could get you some water, some more food."

Ra'aisha nodded. "Some more food, please." his voice soft, looking down at his folded hands. His speech was clearer, his high voice pleasant and smooth like a Bard.

Zahari refilled the bowls, returning to place one in Ra'aisha's hands. "This one's glad you like his cooking." he said, smiling.

As the cold night lengthened, Ra'aisha's fatigue clawed at him while Zahari kept watch. When his eyelids drooped, Zahari helped him, gently guiding his head to the pillow and tucking the blankets around him. Ra'aisha's breathing became slow and steady, falling asleep.

Zahari put more wood in the hearth, banking the fire to burn through the night, and blew out the candles. At the bedroom door Zahari turned, glancing at Ra'aisha, smiling.

In the morning Zahari put fresh wood in the hearth, checking on Ra'aisha, who slept soundly. He wondered how Ra'aisha wound up freezing in the snow, but these were questions for later. Zahari ate a light breakfast, then pulled a book off a shelf and returned to his chair. He glanced now and then at Ra'aisha, keeping watch.

It was mid afternoon before Ra'aisha stirred, opening his eyes and yawning. "This one's glad you're awake," said Zahari, smiling.

Zahari helped Ra'aisha sit up, filling a tankard with water and handed it to him. Ra'aisha took a long drink then set the tankard down. Zahari refilled it, then sat in his chair.

"Zahari's from the deserts of Elsweyr. By the length of your fur, this one knows you are as well. He's been here for many moon cycles, adapting to the bitter cold, though there are times Zahari misses warm sands under paw."

"Ra'aisha grew up in Hakoshe, he traveled to Rimmen for work in a tavern, but nobody would hire him," he frowned at the memories. "He couldn't return home, there was nothing there for him."

Zahari listened to Ra'aisha's story, refilling their goblets with more warm cider.

"Ra'aisha's parents told him never to return, so when this one left, it was only with the clothes on his back and his jewelry." Wiping back a tear, he took a sip of the warm cider. "Ra'aisha's father wanted him working his caravan. He hated the idea of this one entertaining for a living. When Ra'aisha explained entertaining was his passion, his father became angry, and disowned him." Ra'aisha paused, taking another sip of cider before continuing. "He thought he'd find work in Rimmen... all the stories this one heard from travelers. It didn't live up to it's reputation."

"This one understands. How do you earn coin?" said Zahari, nodding.

"Ra'aisha dances, and sings, but no one needed his talents. He also cooks."

"Speaking of food, are you hungry?"

"If it's no trouble." Ra'aisha said, looking down at his folded hands. Zahari went to the kitchen, returning with bowls of venison stew, placing one in Ra'aisha's hands.

After dinner Ra'aisha settled back into the couch. Zahari opened a book and read, until he noticed Ra'aisha's head droop. Helping Ra'aisha get comfortable he covered him up, smiling. Thinking to himself 'such a pretty Khajiit to be out in the cold'. He blew out the candles and went to bed.

A few days later, after Ra'aisha had recovered from his ordeal, Zahari woke to the scent of bacon, eggs and sweetrolls. Intrigued, he put on his crimson robe and entered the living room, the hearth crackling.

"Good morning. I wanted to thank you for helping me. Please come eat, it's coming off the fire," said Ra'aisha. Wrapped in a blanket, Ra'aisha brought two plates filled with eggs and bacon to the dining table, setting one in front of Zahari and returned with a platter of sweetrolls, and hot herbal tea.

Zahari smiled, surprised by the gesture, and sat down at the table. Ra'aisha placed a steaming mug of tea in front of him, and sat down across from Zahari.

They enjoyed a leisurely breakfast, talking together about the town, their lives and Ra'aisha spoke more about his dreams. "Ra'aisha very much wishes to find a large city where there are many inns, to hone his dancing skills."

"There'll be time for that," Zahari said. "With the snow storm outside, it's not a day for going out. You're welcome to stay here as long as you need."

Ra'aisha looked down, placing his hands on the table. Zahari reached out taking Ra'aisha's hands with a gentle squeeze "You'll be alright now," Zahari said. "Zahari will help. First thing, he'll find you some clothes from his wardrobe, they should fit you." Ra'aisha looked up into Zahari's eyes and smiled.

After breakfast, Zahari rummaged through his wardrobe. Pulling out a pair of soft black wool trousers, a long sleeved light grey linen shirt with a crimson leather doublet, he handed them to Ra'aisha.

Setting the blanket down, Ra'aisha's black fur shone in the light. Shades of deep blue shone in his fur and his long mane which extended to the middle of his back. His ears topped with tufts of longer fur. Lithe and graceful, Ra'aisha moved fluidly. Taking a few moments he stretched his muscles, tight from inactivity, then gratefully took the garments.

He slipped into the clothing, drawing the string of the trousers snug at his waist, pulled the shirt over his head adjusting the sleeves and buttoned the doublet. The clothes fit loosely, but were warm.

Zahari handed Ra'aisha a grey fur lined cloak which he tried on and spun around gracefully, the fabric of the cloak billowing around his legs. Zahari looked on with approval, walking past Ra'aisha, giving him a light squeeze on the shoulder.

Ra'aisha hung the cloak on a peg by the door and returned to the couch. Zahari brought tea over and sat down.

"How exactly did you wind up freezing in the snow?" asked Zahari.

Ra'aisha was silent a while. "K'garro's caravan had been here a few nights. He had an argument with K'garro about his daughter."

Zahari listened, one ear slicked back. "Ahhh, Zahari knows K'garro, his reputation is well known around here. It's better you're no longer with them. How did you come about working for him?"

"Ra'aisha was in Rimmen, performing on the streets for a few coins to buy food. K'garro's daughter, Kazeera'Jo, found him one day and introduced him to her father, who was looking to hire someone."

Ra'aisha paused and took a sip of water. "K'garro told this one there would be plentiful coin, and at first there was, so during the day he danced in front of the tent to attract patrons, and at night he cooked for everyone. There was little time left over to do much more than sleep." Ra'aisha paused, taking a sip of cider.

"Why didn't you leave his caravan?" asked Zahari.

"K'garro also," Ra'aisha sighed. "Introduced this one to skooma."

Zahari frowned. "Wait, you got mixed up with skooma?"

Ra'aisha looked down at his hands, and nodded.

"Are you still using it now?" Zahari asked, his voice tense, the tip of his tail twitching.

"No, this one stopped!" said Ra'aisha, his voice shaky, seeing how upset Zahari had become.

"How can Zahari be sure? Is that why you were out freezing in the snow? Are you just telling him what you think he wants to hear?" Zahari's tail lashed.

"No! Ra'aisha is not using skooma anymore!" he said, looking into Zahari's eyes. "This one left the caravan because of skooma!" said Ra'aisha, his voice breaking.

Zahari listened, his expression unreadable.

"Skooma was... skooma messed up his dancing. K'garro got him using the stuff, and into debt, and that's how he kept Ra'aisha on with him. This one had been saving coin from tips to square up with K'garro, had to hide it from him. Then, there was also Kazeera'Jo. Ra'aisha had no interest in her and that made K'garro even angrier. This one swore off skooma one morning as he was practicing. His body wasn't moving right. Ra'aisha was forgetting dance steps, and that never happened before."

Zahari continued to listen, his expression neutral, his eyes never left Ra'aisha's.

"Ra'aisha threw a pouch of coin at K'garro's feet to square up his debt. He told K'garro he could go to Oblivion, his caravan could go to Oblivion, skooma could go to Oblivion and so could his daughter. It was then K'garro had one of his enforcers hold him, pinning his arms back and forcing him to watch while the others went through his tent, stealing everything.

"Then they beat Ra'aisha, leaving him for dead in the snow. Ra'aisha lost all his clothing and jewelry to K'garro... cloak, fine silks, earrings, bracelets and finger rings. All of it stolen. The jewelry was a gift from his mother." Tears welled up in his eyes, wetting his cheek fur.

Zahari continued looking into Ra'aisha's eyes, his expression softening.

"Please trust this one," Ra'aisha said plaintively, eyes brimming with tears as he looked into Zahari's eyes. "Ra'aisha swears to you he doesn't use anymore."

Zahari nodded and spoke, his voice low. "Zahari's younger brother J'narri got mixed up with skooma. Zahari tried to get him away from it, but after a while it killed him."

Ra'aisha drew in a quick breath and flinched, looking down. "This one is sorry," he said, quieter. "He swears to you he'll never touch it again."

Zahari nodded. "Now Zahari has one more reason to dislike K'garro. Skooma ruins lives. Zahari is glad you got away from it before you got in too deep. He's spoken to the guard captain about K'garro. Unfortunately they've not seen enough yet." Zahari walked over to Ra'aisha and squeezed his shoulders.

Ra'aisha looked at Zahari. "This one apologizes, he didn't mean to raise his voice. The memories of working for K'garro are painful."

"Zahari didn't mean to either, it brought up painful memories for him as well." said Zahari, his voice low, looking into Ra'aisha's eyes.

"You've been very kind to this one," said Ra'aisha, returning Zahari's gaze. "He's glad you've let him stay."

Zahari touched Ra'aisha on the shoulder. "Zahari is glad you've stayed. Don't worry about earlier, it's in the past."

Ra'aisha nodded and touched Zahari's hand. "What do you do to make coin?"

"Zahari is a wood crafter. Bowls, cups, tavern wear. The occasional carved statue, like those above the hearth." said Zahari, gesturing toward the mantle.

Carvings of various wildlife rested on the mantle. Bears, wolves, deer. One carving, more intricate than the others caught Ra'aisha's eye. A statue of Khunzar-ri stood out. "These are beautiful, you do good work." he said.

"Thank you, Zahari comes from a family of crafters, he learned from his father." he said, smiling.

At midday they shared a light meal of simmered quail and mushroom soup. Ra'aisha helped with the preparation of the quail as Zahari made the soup.

"You're an excellent cook," said Zahari. "Where did you learn to cook like this?"

"Ra'aisha cooked for his family. He has two brothers and one sister, so he had a lot of practice. His mother left the chore to him, so he got good at it. She also taught this one how to make clothes. Do the traders here sell bolts of cloth?"

Zahari shook his head. "Only finished clothes, that's all this one has ever seen at their stalls, and not much at that. Zahari usually needs to make a hole for his tail."

After lunch, Ra'aisha picked up a book, sitting on the couch. Lighting some candles he settled in to read while Zahari went to his craft shop. "Zahari's shop is out back, and there are boots near the door if you want to see it."

"Ra'aisha is going to read for a while, and then do some stretching, his muscles are getting tight."

Zahari smiled and nodded. "This one will return before sundown."

As Ra'aisha read he thought of the circumstances, or was it fate, that led him here. He thought of the kindness shown to him by Zahari, and realized he thought Zahari was a very attractive Khajiit. The insides of his ears felt hot as he blushed.

After reading for a while, Ra'aisha rose and went through his stretching routines, easing out kinks in his back and carefully stretching his leg and arm muscles through light exercises and dance. Floating gracefully across the floor and rising on one leg, he spun in a circle, moving his hands as if they held one of his silk shawls.

Dancing always relaxed him, settled his nerves. This was his passion, exhilaration filled him as he went through his routines.

Once satisfied his body was still supple despite his ordeal he grabbed the cloak, put on some warm boots and followed the path to Zahari's workshop.

Inside, he found Zahari working on a large ornate wooden bowl. Off to one side, a hearth crackled. The scents of wood and finishes drifting in the air. Hanging his cloak on a peg, he looked around.

Zahari looked up and smiled. "Zahari just needs to finish this bowl, the client is expecting it soon."

"Ra'aisha will look around a bit," he said smiling.

Zahari nodded. "If you have questions, please ask."

Ra'aisha looked around the small shop, and examined some of the unfinished wares, running his fingers over their surfaces. He glanced toward the corner and stopped, seeing a lute leaning against the wall.

He went over and picked it up. Sitting on a stool in an open area he strummed the strings. The notes were clear and warm, revealing fine craftsmanship. Ornate wood adorned the fret board, inlaid with some sort of shell. The body of the instrument made from cherrywood.

As he plucked at the strings, he didn't notice that Zahari had stopped, looking at him. Zahari set down his tools and removed his apron, walking over to Ra'aisha.

"This was J'narri's," he said, his voice low. "Zahari made it for him, it was to be a gift."

"It's beautiful," said Ra'aisha. "Ra'aisha can't play well, he can't do it justice."

Zahari gently took the lute from Ra'aisha's hands and sat down on a stool. He played, weaving a tune from memory. As Ra'aisha listened, he moved to the center of the space and began to dance. Slowly at first, his movements graceful. Picking up a piece of cloth, he used it like his silk shawl. Circling, dipping and weaving the makeshift shawl around, losing himself in his impromptu performance.

He didn't notice Zahari watching him. Ra'aisha put more energy into his dance, rising up on one leg to spin in an arc. His movements sensual, fluid and precise, following the rhythm of Zahari's music as he moved across the floor, almost floating. When he stopped, he bowed to Zahari, acknowledging his applause.

Ra'aisha smiled and stretched his back, with his hands over his head.

"That was wonderful," said Zahari, setting the lute down. "This one's not seen such a beautiful dancer before."

Ra'aisha blushed, his inner ears turning red. "Ra'aisha's glad you enjoyed it," he said, sitting on the stool next to Zahari.

"About your dreams," Zahari said, thoughtful. "Zahari knows the innkeeper of the Windpeak Inn, he's a customer of mine. Let Zahari talk to him for you. You're an excellent dancer, this one might be able to arrange a meeting."

Ra'aisha blinked, surprised by the gesture. "You'd do that?"

Zahari nodded. "With a talent like yours, it should be seen by others. Thank you for dancing for me." Zahari touched Ra'aisha on the forearm, smiling. Ra'aisha looked into Zahari's eyes, a blush creeping up the insides of his ears.

The two spent more time talking about their lives and where they both hoped to go. Sharing their dreams, their desires and their hearts with each-other.

"Zahari likes it here, just wishes there were more customers. The innkeeper pays well for what Zahari makes, but he's this one's main customer. There are a few in the village who buy his wares, but only a few. It would need to be a port city."

"There's a large port city to the south of Hakoshe in Southern Elsweyr called Senchal, but this one's only heard of it through stories told by travelers."

Zahari nodded. "Perhaps after winter fades, we can look over some maps, and talk to the Innkeeper, he seems to hear a lot of rumors."

Ra'aisha stood up and stretched. "Ra'aisha is going to get something to drink, would you like him to bring you something?"

Zahari shook his head and smiled. "Zahari won't be much longer."

With a smile, Ra'aisha headed back to the house, sweeping his cloak around him. He set some more wood in the hearth, and coaxed the fire to life. Taking a long drink of water, he sat down in front of the hearth, thinking about Zahari. He'd not met another Khajiit this warm and compassionate

When Zahari returned, it was dark out. Hanging his cloak next to Ra'aisha's he thought about the changes in his life. Waking to a prepared breakfast, coming back to a warm house. So much changed since Ra'aisha came into this life, and in such a short time.

He sniffed, and smelled something cooking. Ra'aisha was busy preparing dinner for him. "That smells wonderful," said Zahari. "Do you need any help?"

Ra'aisha looked up and smiled. "You could prepare those potatoes for me, but then you should relax. Ra'aisha will have this ready soon."

Zahari helped with the preparation, adding the potatoes to the stew. After washing his hands he sat on the couch in front of the hearth. Ra'aisha joined him not long after. "It needs to cook for a while longer," he said as he relaxed. "He hopes you like it."

"If it tastes half as good as it smells, it'll be delicious."

"Were you able to finish the bowl for your client?" Ra'aisha asked.

Zahari nodded. "He'll be coming by to collect it tomorrow. His name is Rogash. He owns the Windpeak Inn. He is not Khajiit like us, but a Nord."

As they sat together, Ra'aisha reached down, covering Zahari's hand with his. Zahari clasped Ra'aisha's hand, the two looking in each others eyes, and moved closer. Ra'aisha closed his eyes and relaxed. How quickly his life improved from what it had been in K'garro's caravan, he let out a contented sigh.

After dinner, Ra'aisha started to arrange the blankets on the couch when Zahari touched him on the shoulder, picking up the blankets and gesturing toward his bedroom. Ra'aisha stopped, looking nervous.

"It's warmer in there and you'll be more comfortable," said Zahari. "He'd like it if you'd share his bed."

Ra'aisha's heart leapt at the thought and he blushed, his inner ears turning red.

"If... if it's alright, Ra'aisha would like it too," he said whispering.

Zahari set the blankets down on his bed and walked over, touching the side of Ra'aisha's neck, caressing it with his thumb in a gesture both affectionate and intimate. Ra'aisha ran his hand through Zahari's mane, feeling it's softness and looked into his eyes.

Wrapping his arms around him, Zahari pulled Ra'aisha close in a warm embrace, and nuzzled his cheek. Ra'aisha sighed and leaned into Zahari, closing his eyes as the first recognition of a love deeper than he'd felt before suffused his soul.

The two stood there in front of the hearth, both of them feeling a warmth in the other that had been missing, and tears filled Zahari's eyes. To be alone for so long, only to realize it when Ra'aisha entered his life. Ra'aisha ran his thumb along Zahari's cheeks, wiping away the tears.

There were no need for words as the two explored each other. Carefully at first, Zahari kissed Ra'aisha's cheek while Ra'aisha stroked his back. Ra'aisha turned his head and their lips met in their first kiss. Fleeting at first, it grew in intensity.

Zahari withdrew for long enough to blow out the candles in the main room and returned to take Ra'aisha's hand, guiding him to bed where they settled into the warm blankets, their passion growing stronger as each explored the other.

Surrendering themselves to their feelings, their shared love banishing the loneliness each of them felt as their energy rose, peaked, then ebbed. Settling in to hold each other in their arms, Ra'aisha snuggled against Zahari, who held him close.

Early morning sunlight streamed in through the window as Ra'aisha stirred. Beside him, Zahari's slow steady breathing and warm presence. He realized this wasn't just a happy dream.

Reaching over, he brushed Zahari's hair back from his eyes as he lay there looking at him, laying his head against Zahari's chest. Content he listened, feeling his every breath, his heartbeat steady and strong.

Zahari opened his eyes, finding Ra'aisha laying against him. A tender smile crossed his lips as he reached up to stroke Ra'aisha's mane.

"Good morning," said Ra'aisha, his quiet voice smooth as velvet. "Thank you, for last night."

Zahari ruffled Ra'aisha's mane. "Zahari is glad you are here." his gentle voice warm and soft.

After breakfast Zahari said, "The client will be here soon, Zahari will be right back. Need to put finishing touches on his item. He owns the Inn, and this one would like you to dance for him."

Ra'aisha looked up into Zahari's eyes. "Do you think there's a chance he would hire Ra'aisha?"

"I've known Rogash since first moving here, he's a good man, and with your wonderful dancing Zahari thinks so, yes."

Ra'aisha's smile was warm, as he hugged Zahari and stroked the side of his neck with gentle fingers.

Parting after holding hands, Zahari went out to his shop to retrieve the bowl for his client. "Zahari will be right back. If Rogash gets here before this one returns, please let him in," Ra'aisha nodded and smiled.

A few minutes later Ra'aisha, sitting by the hearth lost in thought heard the knock at the door.

"Good morning," said a deep voice. "I'm Rogash, is Zahari about? I'm here to collect something he's working on for me."

"He's expecting you," said Ra'aisha, his light voice gentle. "Please come in, the fire's warm. This one is Ra'aisha."

Rogash stepped in removing his hat. Tall and stocky, his Nord ancestry clear in his chiseled appearance. He walked over to the hearth warming his hands. "I've known Zahari ever since he moved here, but I've not seen you before. Are you family?" Rogash said thoughtfully.

"Ra'aisha is..." his voice trailing off, ears splayed. Who is he to Zahari, he thought. Friend? No, more than friend. Lover? Companion?

Seeing Ra'aisha's pause Rogash said, "Sorry lad, didn't mean to pry."

Zahari came in carrying the bowl under one arm, his lute slung over his shoulder. "Rogash, old friend. Zahari has your bowl." handing the item to Rogash who looked it over appreciatively.

"Nice work, as always. My daughter will be thrilled." said Rogash, handing Zahari a coin purse.

"There's something else Zahari wants to show you. You've been looking for a performer." he said, glancing at Ra'aisha and smiling, who smiled in return.

Zahari sat down and played, while Ra'aisha danced and Rogash sat on the couch. At the end of Ra'aisha's impromptu performance Rogash said, looking at Ra'aisha, "That was a fine dance. Why don't you come by the Inn later on, and meet our lute player. Perhaps you could perform tonight."

Ra'aisha nodded. "This one would like that, who's your lute player?"

"She's Jenarri," said Zahari. "The best lute player Zahari has ever heard."

"Well, gotta get back to the Inn," said Rogash. "And thanks again for the bowl." with that, Rogash saw himself out.

"Zahari hopes you didn't mind the unannounced audition."

"No, it's fine. He's seen what Ra'aisha can do now, wait until he sees later, after this one's warmed up." Ra'aisha said, drawing a finger down Zahari's nose and smiling.

Ra'aisha spent the next hour going through a full set of stretches and warm up routines, and while Zahari played for him, practiced the routine he had in mind.

Starting slowly at first he floated gracefully across the floor, his movements flowed like water. Up on one leg, high kick and turn, his hands touching the calf of his extended leg. Down on one knee to spin and lay on his belly, arching his neck to look at Zahari. More and more energy he put into his routine until in his final move he jumped up and pirouetted in the air to land silently in front of Zahari, his arms in a graceful pose.

Zahari put down the lute and applauded, then stood up as they embraced.

"You're marvelous, Jenarri's going to like performing with you." said Zahari, rubbing Ra'aisha's shoulders.

"Ra'aisha is looking forward to dancing at the Inn, he likes dancing for you, too." he said, touching the side of Zahari's neck.

After lunch, Zahari and Ra'aisha made their way to the Inn, and took a seat at a table. Jenarri was by the hearth, playing a slow tune, looking up as they entered. Seeing Zahari and Ra'aisha together, and how they sat close, she grinned and continued playing.

"Jenarri, this is the dancer I told you about earlier. Why don't the two of you practice some." said Rogash, coming over to sit with Zahari.

As Ra'aisha stood up Zahari clasped his hands in a wordless gesture as Ra'aisha looked into his eyes, their touch lingering as their hands slipped apart.

Ra'aisha approached Jenarri and smiled. "This one hears you play well." his light voice warm and confident.

"Is there anything you want me to play?" asked Jenarri.

"Something that starts slowly and gets more lively should do." he said as he prepared to dance. Jenarri handed him her silk shawl so he could use it in his routine.

Jenarri played and Ra'aisha danced. The small number of patrons stopped their conversations, mesmerized by their performance. Zahari watched intently, and saw Jenarri glancing over toward him, then back at Ra'aisha.

When they finished, the patrons applauded, and Ra'aisha bowed gracefully to the crowd.

"You're really good," said Jenarri her voice like silk, grinning mischievously. "You even put Jenarri to shame!" tilting her head "Are those the only dances you do?" she said with a wink.

Ra'aisha's ears canted sideways and he looked at Jenarri, not sure what to say.

"This one jests!" she said laughing softly, holding up her hands. "Jenarri saw the two of you earlier, only a fool wouldn't recognize a couple when they see one." Ra'aisha's ears turned red, blushing. Coins dropped into her tip jar from some patrons.

"You know Zahari?" Ra'aisha asked.

"Of course, who do you think taught him how to play the lute? Now go to your Zahari, dancer. We'll perform again later," she said, smiling.

Rogash smiled up at Ra'aisha as he returned to sit beside Zahari. "Lad, that was about the best entertainment this Inn has seen in a long time. I'd like you to come by every other evening, that's when Jenarri performs. I saw the looks of the patrons, and I'm sure word will get around."

Zahari and Ra'aisha went back to their house, sitting side by side on the couch, Ra'aisha resting his head on Zahari's shoulder.

"When Rogash was here earlier, he asked about our relationship, whether this one was family." Ra'aisha said, thoughtful.

Zahari was silent for a while, content with Ra'aisha's closeness.

"Zahari was alone, for a very long time. Zahari is very glad to have met you, and that you stayed. Zahari would like it if you'd stay with him." he said, clasping Ra'aisha's hand in his.

"Ra'aisha was alone since leaving home. There were friends, and the occasional night with someone, but it didn't last or mean anything. You're different," he said. "He likes being with you."

For the following weeks, they spent all their time together. Doing chores around the house, taking walks hand-in-hand on the warmer days as winter receded. Visiting the various traders in the village, rebuilding Ra'aisha's wardrobe. Ra'aisha had his daily routine of stretching and practice. Some days Ra'aisha would sit reading while Zahari worked in his shop, and have dinner prepared for him.

Other days were spent cuddling on the couch in front of the hearth, sharing more of their life stories and always spending their nights in bed, sometimes not getting much sleep.

Every other night Zahari and Ra'aisha went together to the inn. Ra'aisha performed and afterward the two enjoyed a hot meal, served by Rogash. Walking hand-in-hand together, they returned home.

One performing night they headed back to the Inn. Zahari taking a seat at a table where he could watch. Rogash stepped over to Ra'aisha and clasped his shoulder. "Lad, you're the best dancer ever performed here."

Ra'aisha smiled. "Thank you, he enjoys performing here." Ra'aisha stood and clasped hands with Zahari, their hands slowly parting as he went over to where Jenarri was tuning her lute.

A hooded figure entered the Inn, only the tip of his muzzle and whiskers were showing, and took a seat at a table facing the hearth.

"What can I get you, traveler?" asked Rogash.

"Mead." came the clipped reply.

"Anything else? Some food?"

"No. Mead." the voice gruff.

"You sound familiar, have we met?"

The stranger dropped three coins on the table, staring straight ahead. Rogash turned to get the mead.

Jenarri began to play, and Ra'aisha danced, the Inn more full now as it was evening. The crowd stopped their conversations to watch him. Ra'aisha's moves were graceful, and sensual, his tail counterbalancing every turn.

As Ra'aisha danced the stranger looked up and froze, staring at him. He stood, sweeping the coins from the table and exited the Inn, his long dark cloak sweeping behind him.

Rogash returned with the mead to the now empty table, glancing at the door to see the stranger leaving. He muttered. "Cheap customer. Well, no sense wasting this." he said tipping the mug back.

Finishing his routine, breathing heavily from exertion, Ra'aisha bowed and smiled at the applause, then made his way back to Zahari's side.

Rogash came over, smiling from ear to ear. "Your performance this evening was even better than earlier. Now, is there anything I can get the two of you? On the house." The two ate a meal of venison stew and some crusty bread.

As they turned to leave, Rogash placed a pouch of coin into Ra'aisha's hand. "Here's your cut, lad. Good work."

Stepping outside into the crisp night air, Ra'aisha pulled his cloak around him, and clasped hands with Zahari as they walked toward home.

"So, you're the one who found my little dancer." K'garro stepped out of the shadows, blocking their path, his voice gravelly and harsh.

Ra'aisha's ears flicked. "Leave Ra'aisha alone!" he shouted, accentuating each word. Zahari placed a hand on Ra'aisha's shoulder in an unspoken restraint.

At Ra'aisha's shout, Rogash came out of the Inn. "Here now, what's going..." he started to say, then saw K'garro blocking their path. He stepped along side the two, flanking Ra'aisha, facing K'garro.

"Oh dear, my little dancer has some guts after all," sneered K'garro.

Zahari's tail lashed. "He's not yours. Ra'aisha belongs to no one but himself." Zahari's voice hard and brittle. "There's something else that doesn't belong to you, K'garro," Zahari's eyes narrowed. "You will return his jewelry to him."

K'garro growled, and spat. "Oh, so now he's your little dancer, is he," he said mockingly. "This one will keep your little dancers pretty things. Maybe take your little dancer too" he said menacingly.

Ra'aisha's ears lay back. "Haven't you done enough? Ra'aisha told you before, to Oblivion with you, skooma dealer!" He yelled, his tail lashing.

K'garro snarled and took a step forward, hand on the hilt of his sword.

Donnik, the captain of the guard, overheard the argument and went to investigate, asking Ra'aisha. "Do you have proof of this?"

Ra'aisha looked at Zahari, then faced the captain, nodding. "At his camp. This one knows where they keep it." The captain motioned to his men, who flanked him watching K'garro's every move, arrows at the ready.

Looking at Zahari he said, "It ends here, Ra'aisha must deal with this." his voice gentle, but firm.

"Zahari will be by your side," Zahari said as the two of them walked toward the caravan camp.

K'garro spat and growled menacingly. One of the guards came up to him nocking an arrow, gesturing. "Get moving, don't make any sudden moves, cat."

As they came in sight of the camp, K'garro yelled "We've got company!" Everyone in the camp came alert. K'garro's enforcers appeared from the dark to stand nearby.

"So, where's the proof? I'd suggest you find it quickly." said Captain Donnik, assessing the situation.

Ra'aisha went into K'garro's tent. K'garro's eyes narrowed and his ears lay flat back, realizing there was no way out of this and prepared to fight. Ra'aisha returned with a large sack. Dropping it on the ground, he untied the top and kicked it over, scattering the contents. Skooma bottles rolled everywhere.

Captain Donnik glanced around at the caravan guards. "You've enough trouble as it is, drop your weapons." The guards glanced at each-other, one by one they set down their longbows and unslung their quivers, laying them down on the ground and stepped back.

K'garro growled, looking around. His enforcers had slipped away, he could see their backs as they left the camp at a run. Captain Donnik held up two fingers in a silent signal to his men, and pointed in the direction they went. Two of his guards followed after them.

"Don't worry, we'll catch them," he said to Ra'aisha. Looking at K'garro he said, "You're under arrest for skooma dealing. You'd best come peacefully."

K'garro glared at Ra'aisha, growling. He drew his sword and lunged. Ra'aisha jumped out of the way. Kazeera'Jo shouted "Father, no!" The guards loosed their arrows. K'garro fell, sliding to a stop, his sword clattering on the ground.

Kazeera'Jo knelt beside her father, her expression unreadable.

Captain Donnik raised his voice "There's been enough trouble here today. The rest of you, you've got until tomorrow morning to be gone. Don't show your faces here again." he said in a tone that brooked no argument. His men confiscated the skooma.

Zahari held Ra'aisha close as he trembled. "You going to be alright?" Zahari asked.

"Take me home..." he whispered.

The two walked hand-in-hand. When they got home, Ra'aisha undressed, hanging up his cloak. Zahari added wood to the hearth, and undressed. Ra'aisha crawled into bed, pulling the blankets up over his shoulders. Zahari lay next to him under the blankets, tucking up against him, wrapping his arms around him.

The following morning was bright and sunny, the air warmer than it had been for some time. As Ra'aisha sat on the couch in front of the hearth Zahari made them breakfast. While it cooked, Zahari opened the door to look out on the day, and found a leather bundle laying on the steps and footsteps in the lingering snow.

He brought it inside to a table and started to unwrap it, catching a glint of gold. "This is for you," he said softly, looking over at Ra'aisha.

Ra'aisha got up, walking to the table and unwrapped the bundle. Laying inside, wrapped securely, was all his jewelry and a note.

'This one is sorry. This one is going to Bandaari, have family there. If you are ever there, come find me. -Kazeera'Jo'

Ra'aisha stared at the note, tears welling up. Turning, he faced Zahari and hugged him close, sobbing with a mix of sadness and relief. Zahari held him, caressing the side of his neck until Ra'aisha's sobs quieted, then looked into his eyes.

"Zahari promises to be here for you, always."

Ra'aisha whispered, "Ra'aisha loves you."

Zahari smiled "Zahari loves you, too." helping Ra'aisha put on his jewelry.

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Story Copyright (c) 2023 David 'Shasari' Needleman

Editor: Barry 'Shunaka' Needleman