"While silently wishing I make a single mistake and bring shame to my kingdom..."

Nawra stared blankly towards the distant walls and harbors of Alzamard as her royal yacht was rowed slowly onwards to her doomed destiny. Jubril had made certain to see her off with the most warm and loving smile he could hide behind, his departing words continued to sting and haunt her while both asleep and in waking world even now. A speed had been set for her craft but once they had left her home behind the desire to arrive slightly ahead of schedule so as to appease Fareed was quickly forgotten by all but four of her crew and servants. No one was in any hurry to get there and deal with Fareed nor his minions so the pace had been slowed for the rowers so as to get there on time but also a day or two later than what had originally been planned.

Sadly the trip was an utter bore, and while she enjoyed viewing her kingdom and the surrounding lands the river banks here were little more than overgrown jungles of brush, reeds, trees and open space; and this was intermittent only by the fields planted on the flood plains with their slowly burgeoning crops. It was good to see the fields closest to her homeland busy with farmers and laborers tending the fields as the land had been bought with blood, a trade during a war some time ago with Fareed. Her father had lost Tuli to Fareed when his mercenary general swept the city like a firestorm let loose upon the dry grasslands during a strong wind, but... Her father had also managed to stop him from encroaching further and even driven out the tiny few outposts Fareed held on the far southern bank of the Thriti and thus secured vast swaths of farmland for the kingdom.

It was a bloody affair, the city of Tuli had been reduced almost to rubble on the first day. The mercenaries and soldiers stormed the city cutting down anyone who got in their way while setting fires left and right to drive out those in hiding. Not a single house was spared as they were turned out into the countryside and boxed in by the army before being given an ultimatum: either bend their knee to their new sultan and go home, or face "punishment." One of the surviving spies in the city working for her father witnessed what happened next as Xerin had ordered two hundred hauled before them on a small rise and nailed them to poles, thus ended any hope of resistance to his regime for many years. Fareed had chafed when he discovered his adversary had put up a bolt defense east of Tuli and he would be unable to break them thus sealing Labrad away from his grasp, but what had truly angered him was the loss of the riverbank.

How long would it be before he set his sights on reclaiming it? The campaigning season would be coming in the not to distant future, the rains would come and the mud would be so thick the wagons could not move but once it dried off the various kingdoms would go to war be it raids or full scale sieges. But before that, there would be a brief lapse where those bold enough would risk marching on their neighbors to seize or burns crops and land. Jubril wanted to march east and seize the iron mines while keeping up a strong front against Fareed who for all they knew was going the opposite direction, west. His army was already mustering supplies and once the harvest was in they would be putting those supplies to use against someone, somewhere. They had shown no interest in departing before the crops came in, but who was the target?

To siege Labrad would invite Samati to take him from the rear, Fareed also lacked the ships to try and force the river to take Esu but that would mean sailing right past Labrad. Perhaps Salai? Samati? Salai most likely, they were the stubborn thorn in his side and were even trying to find a way to make their own ferry system and thus open a new trade route which would cut Fareed's tax revenue if a new road was opened in the west. Somehow it never worked though, bandits always seemed to plague them or Fareed's army was always not far away to burn out their latest attempt in a bloody back and forth war that never ended. Samati was even in on it but they too suffered the same from time to time, it was a standoff but at some point something would break for one side or the other. Thinking on the never ending war it was clear they were daring but wasteful, every spy had reported that the floodplains made it impossible to pull off what they desired, it was always just too muddy or outright flooded for bridge building. Terrain was against them as well but they kept trying and Fareed kept burning them out in short order. Opening a ferry system would allow a mere trickle of movement at best, but even that trickle was enough to draw the ire of Fareed as precious revenue would dry up. Unfortunately, it also meant a drying up of revenue for Labrad if such a ferry system were made feasible and thus her parents never intervened while Fareed campaigned against their westerly neighbors. It was a bloody trade-off.

Nawra closed her eyes and leaned back against her supporting cushions as the wind picked up for a brief moment making the colorful linen shade-cloth ripple and flap slightly before going still again. Despite all the problems weighing down it was not that bad a trap though, the yacht was luxurious and well stocked for both the trip to and from Alzamard. Madinat Alzamard she corrected herself, proper etiquette required the full name of the city to be spoken despite the fact no one actually used it.

Letting out and errant sigh she reached an arm out and plucked a random piece of fruit from the gilded tray and popped it in her mouth, chewing slowly she opened her eyes and looked with a degree of pity towards the slaves on the southern bank. Fareed owned every single farm along this stretch of the river and more, thus keeping his nobles limited in how much wealth they could accrue. A very wise move she mused, without the coin to hire assassins or wage silent war they were severely limited in what they could do to undermine his authority. Her own family practiced this to a degree but nowhere near the extent Fareed did, after all it was a wise practice indeed.

Eyes scanning the masses of hunched forms toiling in the various fields she cringed a little as her eyes caught sight of an old graying form that stumbled in the heat before falling to their knees. Without missing a step the well oiled machine singled them out, removed them and there was no doubt a newer, fresher and younger one would fill the gap. The machine would grind on. How Fareed treated his property was abysmal, such treatment was not allowed in Labrad as there were laws against most of what Fareed and his ilk considered acceptable. Slaves were useful and needed to keep costs down but they were also a considerable investment that required a lifetime of care and maintenance, to beat them or kill them was insane but he could afford it. There was also no hope as it was impossible for a slave to buy their freedom in his glorious kingdom unlike her own where becoming a slave was not the end of the world. One of her own had purchased their freedom and gone on to own a small farm and became rather successful, a prospect she imagined those on the far bank would kill for.

None on the yacht were slaves however as loyalty could be purchased under such circumstances, each one was here willingly and paid quite well for services rendered. Upon returning her safely they would be rewarded again for having embarked on the "dangerous journey" to the city though they all understood it was not, as the imaginary threat of river bandits was mostly rumor or severely limited by season but more their fears were centered around having to survive Fareed's laws.

Watching her guards stand again Nawra leaned up and glanced at another river ship that had put to full sail and was moving quickly in their direction. They did not move close to them but hugged the current which her own craft avoided rather than be driven back whence they came, the ship picked up more and more speed and was soon gliding past them at a short distance. Sitting upright to examine their ship and its painted prow with the usual eyes gazing out Nawra squinted at the crew as they moved past to see if she recognized the captain, it was quite normal for captains to change ships every so often if they were in a certain line of business. It kept guards guessing and helped them avoid detection but only until the guards learned, then the captain would dress as crew and a game of charades would ensue.

The distance was too great however and leaning back she motioned to the wine bearer and after they removed the cover to her goblet which kept the flies away, opened their sealed container and poured a small amount. Presenting tho goblet to her Nawra took a sip and felt bored once more. Ships were plentiful on the river along with larger cargo boats but it was off season and most were hidden away in smugglers coves hidden by rushes and trees or in dry-dock for repairs awaiting the sudden explosion of trade that would take place after the distant harvest. Some months from now though she was not certain how many, the crops would be harvested and the rains would begin not long after. The rain would make the river rise rapidly and all the fields on the bank would disappear under several feet of water, security and peace would reign for the duration and then hell would crawl forth once again as things dried off.

Hell... What had her forgotten people in Tuli suffered? Reports were slim and rarely had anything new to add but it was never pleasant. Reduced from a fledgling city to a large town after a large portion were hauled off in chains, the neighboring port town burnt to the ground to stop all trade outside Fareed's domain and gods only knew what else that they never learned of.

Nawra took another sip and forced the thoughts from her mind, it would be bad for the health of everyone on board to dwell on that and make a slip of the tongue while in the presence of Fareed.

"Captain, how much longer?"

Turning his head back to the princess, Captain J'Lail squinted slightly. "Within the hour princess, we could land sooner if we picked up-"

Nawra waved quickly. "No, no. That will not be necessary."

"With all due respect my princess..." Nawra and J'Lail shifted their eyes to one of the guards assigned by her brother Jubril that was watching them. "I am under orders to remind you that we must make good time less we anger Fareed."

"It is not your place to remind-!" Captain J'Lail was cut off quickly with a raised hand from Nawra.

"An hour or thirty minutes will make no difference but the concern of my... Brother, is noted."

Giving a short, bowing nod to her the guard turned his attention once more to the surrounding waters which was once more devoid of visible life. J'Lail turned away and moved to the front of the yacht again as Nawra wondered if they were guarding her from a sudden wall of water that would threaten to sweep her off the deck or a giant fish which would dare to leap aboard and gnaw on her hooves. Perhaps an assassin had swam out into the river and lay in wait floating under the water breathing through a pipe? Just waiting for her yacht in particular to get close enough for them to grab onto an oar, swing up and throw a knife at her before diving off again...

"I am too bored, these thoughts are ridiculous!" Sitting up again Nawra looked around at her hand picked servants and remembered something about one of them and pointed. "You sing, correct?"

The stallion opened his mouth before halting himself and then spoke slowly and haltingly. "No- Yes... Sometimes when I am working in priva-"

"Sing something to help pass the time."

"I do not mean to offend you with-"

"Sing."

"Yes, princess."

Closing her eyes and sitting back again Nawra listened to the stallion's stuttering attempt at singing, she knew he could do better when he thought no one was listening but as he continued his voice became clearer and a small smile formed on her face as the song finally becoming clear and crisp. Now, if only he would sing for another hour, an impossible prospect but she could dream.

"Princess? It is time to wake up, we have arrived."

Nawra's eyes opened slowly and stared at the captain before closing them again as she slowly sat upright. "Are we docked?"

"Not yet, but we are entering the city now and I believe you might want a minute to... Fix your appearance."

Furrowing her brows at the captain as he left she called for a mirror and after putting her mane and jewelry back in place Nawra stood and brushed her silken dress off before stepping forward to have a look at the famed city. A plate of food was presented to her and remembering that it was noon she picked a piece of flatbread off and dipped it into the flavored oil before taking a bite and chewed slowly. Perhaps it would be wise to not eat too much? Fareed might request her presence at his table for the afternoon meal and being unable to eat would be bad manners. Finishing off the piece of bread slowly as they glided closer her eyes turned down to the rowing team, one for a very brief moment looked up and caught her gaze before looking away quickly. Her look was troubled and full of worry as were all their expressions now that they were here, at first they had been blank faced and ready to simply do the job but now doubt had slowly cropped up.

Swallowing the last of her bread Nawra took a sip of wine and waved the servant away. "After I have landed and my possessions brought ashore give the leftovers to the crew along with whatever else you have prepared, it will no longer be needed." Staring up and straining her neck Nawra marveled at the massive walls and towers that guarded the river. "They are so tall, taller than anything in Labrad. Our own walls and towers pale in comparison."

"I would not envy anyone who seeks to scale them." Captain J'Lail pointed. "These are solid stone, not mud brick like our own. For us the depth of the wall makes it strong but these are both made of stone and deep. It would take a team of twenty... Maybe forty or more to move one of those stone bricks."

"Truly a marvel to behold and I imagine it would have been even more mesmerizing to see it being constructed."

"Indeed princess." He nodded. "I would kill to see how they achieved this."

"Do you believe such knowledge would be worth it?" Nawra turned her head towards him slightly while still keeping her vision attached to the city.

"With walls such as this our newest addition to Labrad would be neigh impregnable by ladders, catapults and I might dare say most means of siege engines. Such knowledge would be invaluable to our defense."

"Hmm..." Nawra turned her attention back to the city and the inner wall that prevented anyone from sailing in and immediately leaping into the city. Everything was cordoned off by interior walls that sectioned everything off including the grandiose bridge that spanned the second widest river she had ever read about in the world. A feat no one was capable of anymore, an art lost to time and war.

Everything about the city was ideal from where she stood, the piers were clean, orderly and the buildings were very well maintained. Not a single building had gone without adobe plastering or new roofing material though it was still obvious that they had not been entirely replaced. Her craft shifted slowly to the left as the stallion at the back turned the rudder and guided them along the southern side of the river and around the small central island that the bridge leapt to and then from in one final, grand lunge to the north bank.

Admiring the white washed bridge she could make out ancient carvings that had been eroded away with time and then washed over so heavily with lime that they were blurry and impossible to make out. Squinting at the bridge she turned north and stared at the white washed buildings along the bank of the river before walking from under her cover and climbing the steps onto the raised part of the yacht. Standing on the raised platform with the nervous stallion who manned the pole that controlled the rudder she squinted her eyes hard and gazed intently at the far side while tracing her eyes slowly back to the south side.

"This city is too clean..."

"Princess?" The stallion looked around before focusing on his job again.

"Have you ever seen a city so pristine? Town? Village?"

"No princess."

"Exactly."

Nawra focused her attention on the figures moving over the bridge and as they drew closer she could make them out better, it was clear as to who the slaves were in their state of undress and shuffling movement. But, it was everyone else that truly got her attention. Everyone was well dressed, no rags, beggars, dirty laborers, wagons were ever present crossing the bridge but there was no sign of normal everyday traffic. In Labrad even the best parts of the city had dirty laborers moving to and fro at all hours of the day along with cart teams pulling garbage or making deliveries but here, they were curiously absent.

"I suspect you have noticed to princess?" Nawra jumped a little as J'Lail spoke, he had snuck up on her again but she nodded as he turned his attention to the bridge. "There, it is hard to see but wait until we get closer."

Following his hand before he slowly lowered it Nawra watched the spot he had pointed to and after they got closer a pinkish color was visible, it stood out from the white wash and once oozed down the side of the bridge before falling away.

"What is it?"

"Blood. And there is more down there on the side closest to the water, someone tried to wash it off but failed. Must have dried and they were in a hurry to get the job done."

"Why is there blood on the bridge?"

"The same reason we do not see any regular folk walking around, someone drove them off quite violently. Look there!" Nawra's gaze moved up as they began to cross under the bridge. "Someone got stabbed off and fell, caught themselves on that worn engraving, brought a leg up and it left that mark before they fell into the water. I guess they forgot to wash the blood from the underside of the bridge in their rush to get the job done."

Nawra looked at the dark stain before looking into the water. "Do you suppose?"

"Probably had some boats come and scoop them out so the corpses did not stink up the river before the arrival of the envoys."

"There is one building they did not touch..."

Nawra motioned towards an immense complex on the far side of the river and both herself, the captain and the navigator stared at the ancient complex. Its walls were worn heavily, and discolored with age and countless lifetimes of the burning sun scorching them clean. As for the structures some appeared as if they might give way in a few more years unless repairs were made, but despite their worn condition they all knew it was the ancient temple at a single glance.

"Captain, why do you suppose Fareed went through all of this elaborate deception only to ignore... That?"

J'Lail considered it a moment before shaking his head. "I do not know, he is willing to tear a city to the ground as he did Tuli... But will not touch that one building?" He shook his head again. "It is indeed strange my princess."

"Maybe someone does not want him to touch it?"

"Fareed!? Not be allowed?" J'Lail let out a small laugh before becoming serious again. "Forgive me, I do not mean to mock you but the idea that someone could say "no" to Fareed within his own city no less!"

"I understand captain but the legends tell that the gods protected certain places and would smite those who dared to defile them."

"Hahah- Hmm. Your mother would not approve of you consorting with witch doctors! Those are nothing but myth and legend, it is all nothing but a bunch of nonsense. It is well established that the gods do not exist and that we were not "created" but-"

"But, suppose the myths are real?"

J'Lail paused and shook his head. "It has been... A thousand or more years now? At least? Since any such myth existed, even now we know the cause was probably someone flinging magic about."

"Perhaps they left us because it is as those "witch doctors" say, we turned our backs on them and so they have abandoned us to our fates."

"Then it is good I say, I do not like the idea of some powerful, invisible force driving our fates. What a horrible prospect."

"Maybe it is give and take, we sacrifice part of our fate in return for their guidance."

"You sound like the priestess that used to inhabit the city before she left for her homeland. Princess Nawra, you are more than just some... Lowly priestess or even worse one of the local witch doctors or shaman, you are a princess! Do not give this peasant nonsense any further thought, do not put your faith not in some... THING that does not exist but in cold hard steel and those who wield it in your name, it will take you far further in life than waiting on some phantasm to appear."

Nawra stared at him blankly wondering if this was the captain speaking or her father as they often times sounded similar but after giving a small sigh nodded and turned away from the ancient temple. Something about just looking at the structure was soothing but the captain was right, it was just a myth and a structure built by equines and not the hand of gods. Praying to them was more public formality that honest truth. He was also right about trusting in steel and her servants rather than that which did not exist, they had not aided them in preventing Tuli from falling nor lifted a finger in the aftermath. Any so called "divine beings" that would permit such horror to exist had no place in the world let alone in her kingdom.

"I see Fareed has rolled out the royal carpet for you, fitting but I doubt it is out of honest respect." J'Lail nodded towards the royal pier which had three other yachtes already moored.

"At least he is trying to keep up the appearance and is acting civil. For now."

"Make no mistake princess, he is always civil, the perfect gentle stallion but of a different kind. He follows the law on these matters and upholds it with an iron fist that is worthy of fearing but do not forget that if slighted he will hammer you into the earth just as hard as he would a common peasant who slighted him. Perhaps even more so as a slight from you would be far worse."

"I am thankful for your deep concern as to my well being captain but now we must stand on ceremony."

Captain J'Lail gave a curt nod and after giving a short bark of instructions at the crew drew himself up into a far more formal and ceremonial posture as they drew closer to the pier. Watching quietly Nawra noted the sudden arrival of long lines of servants in immaculate dress along with heavily armed soldiers. A carpet was standing by as two slaves struggled to keep it held up due to its considerable weight, another stood at the far end of the pier waving them in and once they drew closer called out to slow and be ready to toss a rope.

The rowing teams slowed and began to push back slightly when called for and slowly but steadily the royal yacht drew closer. A call went out to bring the oars in and in well practiced unison they pulled their oars up from the water before drawing them in, one of the oarsmares stood quickly and then grabbing one of the two mooring ropes checking that the rope was secure before standing quietly while waiting for them to draw closer. Drifting slowly into range she tossed it to the slave who grabbed it and after wrapping it around a post passed the length steadily back as the slack was picked up drawing them in. In a matter of minutes the yacht was tied securely with two ropes so it would not drift and the walking plank was thrown across and steps prepared.

J'Lail went first followed by Nawra and as she walked up the slaves carrying the carpet arrived and began hurriedly unrolling it for her so as to prevent her hooves from touching the wooden pier. Stepping gently onto the carpet after the slaves had finished unrolling it across the entirety of the pier Nawra nodded to the captain who followed her up to the greeting party. Ranks of servants stood still as stone statues bearing various platters of food, drink, damp clothes and other luxuries. Looking closer she nearly faltered in her step when it was realized the soldiers were not soldiers but ranks of the infamous battalion commanded by now General Xerin, the same ones responsible for the torching of Tuli.

Two stallions stood in full combat dress at the end of the pier while a mare dressed in noble regalia was standing just a few steps in front of them with a broad, practiced smile on her face. When Nawra was close enough the three bowed to her as the mare spoke.

"His lordship, the great Sultan Fareed, ruler of the illustrious city of Madinant Alzamard and the great kingdom of Alzamard, welcomes you honored guest to his grand royal palace."

Nawra's fur felt like something was crawling in it as the grayish furred noble spoke, she was used to having all eyes on her but not under such dubious circumstances, but never with such forced and fake sincerity.

Forcing a smile to her face Nawra returned the bow. "I am most honored by his invitation and humbled by his hospitality."

"Allow me to introduce..." The noble stepped aside and waved to the first. "General Xerin, responsible for your security while you are staying within the palace and lastly General Adil, commander of the army."

Xerin took two steps forward and gave another bow. "It is an honor to meet you princess Nawra, I have been looking forward to your visit and would like to mention that our illustrious host, Sultan Fareed, was overjoyed at knowing you would be visiting us in your mothers stead. I also understand you may have misgivings due to our two nations past transgressions with one another but let me assure you it is merely water under the bridge. You will find no ill will towards you nor your servants here."

"Thank you... General Xerin." She nodded to him slowly. "Who wrote that for you and how long did you have to practice it?"

Nawra watched as Xerin stepped away and Adil moved forward but not before making a sideways glance at the other, giving a deeper bow the elderly stallion then stood upright but unlike Xerin he did not make eye contact.

"Princess Nawra, it is a pleasure and I hope you enjoy your stay within the city." Adil just as quickly stepped back into place and she watched as Xerin gave him an odd look before returning to his "normal" expression.

It was sickening, she was surrounded and even greeted by those who had thoroughly trampled her nations pride and put many to the sword because they could. Condemnation, hatred and a large dose of fear boiled inside her as she turned back slightly to the captain and crew. Their own eyes mirrored what she would have had it been possible but to do so would be suicide, for them it was permissible, but never her. Every last member of her entourage had looks of hate or fear clearly written on their faces and even Captain J'Lail was showing cracks as his eyes locked on General Xerin. The same general who was responsible for the entire loss of his family until he re-married a few years ago.

Giving J'Lail the best and most calming smile she could Nawra turned back to the noble who once more stepped forward and beckoned them forward. "Princess Nawra, you will have no need for your servants here nor personal guards. Sultan Fareed has willed it that you be provided with no less than five of General Xerin's finest and hand picked fighters, they will obey your every command within reason of course... And protect you day and night. You need not worry though, contingents of guards are patrolling the streets at all times and ever more guarding the palace so that your stay will be as peaceful as possible!"

Nawra remembered seeing the patrols on the bridge and despite their grand state of dress she imagined they were probably no different than her kingdoms own soldiers any other day of the week and normally dressed rather casually while going about their duties. However, as she finished listening and was about to protest the changing of the guard Captain J'Lail beat her to it.

"I must protest, your offer is most gracious my lady but we are honor bound to protect our princess and I myself along with others are under direct orders to never leave her side."

"Sultan Fareed-" The mare began but was cut off by Xerin who put a hand on her shoulder making her flinch.

"Of course." Xerin gave a short nod of the head. "Captain J'Lail I understand your concerns but our sultan decreed it and therefor it must be so, you may accompany your princess but I ask that no more than two as we must provide accommodations for you. They were long arranged but it was also understood we would not need room for more than two others since I would be providing the rest. I would humbly request of the princess that she pick two from her entourage to accompany her while the rest will be sheltered in servants quarters so they may watch and protect your boat, though that will hardly be necessary."

Before J'Lail could protest Nawra spoke. "Captain J'Lail and Sergeant Btwanis, also my personal attendant shall be joining me, the rest accept your most kind offer of shelter." Staring at him to see if Xerin would protest her inclusion of one extra he finally nodded.

"I see... Then it is done."

Xerin stepped back again as the noble seemed to sigh in relief after his hand left her shoulder. "Princess Nawra, servants will also be provided though it is understood that you have the right to bring your own poison taster."

"Yes." Nawra nodded and motioned to the servant behind her. These were the only three she had any choice in choosing to bring with her on the trip as her brother had picked the other four guards and crew.

"Splendid! Would you please accompany me to your quarters? Servants will unload your belongings and bring them directly to your room."

Following the noble up the stone path and towards the wall that sealed off the pier from the palace itself Nawra noticed that the wooden construction stood over the top of much older stone piers that were set at two levels. One at the base for when the river was low and one that was higher up for during the annual flood, it was much like the harbor in Labrad but much older and more thought out. Someone had spent a great deal of time measuring the floods to set the two piers to such exact heights and the city itself was higher up than the water below.

Climbing the stairs that zig-zagged back and forth up from the wharf Nawra marveled at the small, ancient gateway that led into the palace. It was engraved richly with designs and motifs of various styles but still remained fully functional and undoubtedly strong. Time had long faded things though and only the faintest hint of color remained but as she took one last look before passing under wondered at just how splendid they must have been so long ago. Beyond the small gatehouse was a sight worthy to behold though and it captured their attention. Stretching out before them was a vast garden fully stocked with wildlife. Peacocks, small animals and even two chained, caged lions sat to the side for all to see upon entering, a show of just how much wealth Fareed's line had built up.

Flowers were in full bloom, trees and bushes trimmed with the greatest care and large mats of soft grass stretched out to provide as much or as little sunlight as one wished to enjoy. A very ancient pavilion sat towards the middle but was off center as that was graced with a large pool of water covered in colorful, flowering and floating plants. From the fountain the water spread out in small channels to various parts of the gardens with small bridges going over them, providing both another level of decor and also functionality as it helped water the plants.

It was not the garden that ensnared her attention however, but after becoming enthralled by the beauty of the colorful nature that made her families garden look abysmal her eyes moved down. A vast mosaic covered the area around the central pool and despite age having worn it down the colorful design with lions, giraffe, elephants and other animals, plants and birds was still clear for all to enjoy, if only they were permitted to. Slowly walking them through the gardens the noble never looked back and Nawra suspected they were being led around on purpose so that they could marvel at Fareed's wealth.

"A question." Nawra spoke up and watched as the noble slowed to a halt before turning around with a smile. "You said that servants will be provided?"

"Ah yes! You would like to know more about that arrangement, understandable as staff is so hard to train... Worry not princess Nawra, they have been well trained and are eager to serve! Every guest receives two but my lord, Sultan Fareed, decided that due to our two kingdoms past... Animosity, that he would have three hand picked just for you as a show of good faith."

"He did not do so when your mother was here after the war ended." Captain J'Lail whispered into Nawra's ear before moving away to pretend to admire the scenery.

Smiling, Nawra did not break eye contact with the noble. "His offer is most generous, I assume that three is, uncommon."

"The guests receive two but since you are new he wished for you to have a guide in case you got lost while exploring his marvelous palace but also as a sign of good faith."

"I see. Two servants and a guide."

"Correct princess Nawra, though you shall find he is trained for far more."

"Two servants and a spy... Or maybe two spies and an assassin?" Nodding to the noble the mare turned and continued to show them the way. "These servants, they will handle the daily requirements of cleaning and other such droll things?" Nawra remembered what her mother had said but had to ask anyway and dreaded the inevitable response.

"No princess Nawra, these are special servants. There are crews who will handle all your cleaning requirements, draw water for bathing and anything else you require."

"Special how?"

"You shall see and I am certain you will be most happy with what Sultan Fareed procured especially for you! He wishes his guests to feel most at home, welcomed and to truly relax in every possible way."

Nawra felt like demanding an immediate answer but did not want to visibly wretch in front of everyone and a quick glance backwards revealed her two guards and a line of mercenaries following closely. Just in case.

It took them quite a while to reach the massive building that she would be housed in and the mercenaries outside opened the door quickly. The noble clapped her hands and servants rushed out to offer drinks and damp clothes in case they were needed but a wave of the hand from Nawra was all it took for them to lower themselves and step aside. She noticed it was not discipline that moved them however, but sheer terror.

Entering the building and looking around at its plush interior Nawra tried to keep a straight face, she had never seen anyone go to such extreme lengths to put on a show of wealth. Silk pillows, silk curtains, everything was silk, gold or silver and then encrusted with gems. Above, the ceiling was decorated with ancient frescoes of long forgotten rulers and battles while the walls were much more simple and had tile-work designs or had been white washed on those where the tiles had long fallen away or the color dulled creating a dull, faint bluish tinge to show through. The pillars were dressed up in silk sheets to hide their age but there was only so much one could do but then it was also amusing to her that he would and could cut corners in such a way. Somehow it was cheaper to buy silk than to paint the pillar or was it to show off he could hide problems with the sheer quantity of gold he commanded?

Stopping in front of a door the noble turned. "Here princess Nawra, your room has one of the best views in the building and is more isolated from the other guests who share this building."

"Whom am I sharing this building with?"

"All the neighboring kingdoms have sent ambassadors but you will also be enjoying the company of several nobles from other locations within the kingdom but also those living within the city itself."

"Are you one from the country?"

"No princess Nawra, I am from Madinat Alzamard. Which servant shall hold your key?"

"I handle security and therefor I shall take the key." Captain J'Lail quickly stepped forward and accepted the key.

The noble nodded. "Very good! Your servants are already awaiting you inside."

"Why did Sultan Fareed send a noble to greet me? Would it not be more appropriate to have a servant do that?" Nawra kept a straight face as she slighted the noble but also enjoyed getting back at her for all the fakery.

The noble twitched at Nawra's question. "He believed it would be more welcoming to have one of proper noble birth greet the guests rather than a mere peasant, it would not be appropriate to greet guests in such an informal manner."

"I see."

Nawra held back a smile and beckoned to her servant who hesitated to open the door but after informing them it was unlocked the noble pushed it open and stepped inside followed quickly by Captain J'Lail who returned after looking around.

"It is safe to enter princess."

"Thank you. Oh and what was your name?" Nawra looked at the noble who gave a small bow of the head.

"Lady Duttarriyati."

Giving them a small nod in return Nawra entered the room with the last of her entourage following including the noble but not before glancing at the door. Someone had attached a golden plate to the door stating that this was the room of princess Nawra, heir to the throne of Labrad and the usual etiquette jargon following. After looking away from the elaborately engraved plate she stared at the three "servants" who stood in a row waiting quietly and staring ahead blankly like corpses.

"Princess Nawra." All three spoke the same dead words in unison but with an eerie degree of happiness in their voice before getting on their knees prostrate with heads touching the floor.

Nawra stared at them a moment, the room was fit for royalty but these three held her rapt attention as they stayed in position without moving. Looking back at Duttarriyati she raised an eyebrow.

"Stand." They stood immediately but kept their heads lowered and eyes riveted to the floor. "Names?"

Lady Duttarriyati let out a small cough catching Nawra's attention. "They lack names. Some guests wish to assign names which is their right but for now they have designations, allow me to introduce them though before you make your decision."

Waiting until Nawra gave her a slow, cautious nod Duttarriyati quickly walked up to them and pointed to the first, a young but tall zebra stallion with unique stripes. Like the others he was dressed in absolutely nothing but his mane, fur, and stripes. Nawra had to admit he was incredibly eye catching and handsome if not for the dead expression in his eyes.

"State your designation."

"#18, guide, bed chamber assistant." He lowed himself towards Nawra before standing upright again and after moving his legs slightly apart he shifted fur and flesh beneath his sheath to reveal a shriveled up sack of black, leathery skin. "I have been gelded for your convenience but am still capable of pleasing. It is my greatest pleasure to assist you in all your needs Princess Nawra."

Moving to the next Duttarriyati looked down at a dusty amber colored colt that barely reached her waist. "And you?"

"#9, pers-onal ma-sse-us-e and bed ch-amb-er a-ssis-tant." He struggled with the words and finally stopped until the noble glared at him.

"Ahem..."

"I have not been gel-ded for your pers-onal co-nve-nie-nce but am-... Una-ble to im-preg-ne-nt mares." The colt shifted himself somewhat to emphasize the point with his tiny sack. "It is my gre-ate-st pleas-ure to as-sist you in all your needs! Prin-cess Na-wra."

"Good, now you."

Lowering her head even more than the others the last servant, a soft pink Arabian mare with turquoise eyes and flowing mane finally looked up and then clasping her hands together pushed her perfect breasts forward. What scared Nawra was that with a hazed over expression she smiled the sweetest, purest and most dead smile she had ever seen in all her life that both melted hearts and made the soul clench violently in instant rejection before finally speaking in a beautiful, silky, enticing voice.

"#22, bed chamber assistant. I also manage your other servants and handle any issues that may arise. Should you desire anything ask and it shall be yours. I am also trained as a masseuse but unlike #9 I am trained to please mares and stallions in far more exotic ways. It would be a great honor to service you with the skills I have been taught but if I am not pleasing to you, it is your choice to reject my offer and assign me to servicing your guards and servants unto death. Should I or the others expire for having failed to please you at least one more shall be sent to replace us with better results. Our bodies are yours to enjoy in whatever way you desire or when you desire but our glorious Sultan Fareed asks that you not disturb the other guests while using us. This includes any damage you wish to inflict upon us, it brings us nothing but pleasure to know we have satisfied you. Should it be asked I have also been trained to inflict both great pain and pleasure on demand in the event you wish to watch instead of partake, even if it is asked of me to do so unto this body I offer you. A myriad of potions are also in stock and readily available should you wish to make us feel pain, pleasure or desire. I can guide you over what potions are available for other purposes such as a potion to make #18 erect for hours, lubricants and even ones that will induce other functions such as greater pleasure if that is what you desire. It is yours but to ask. It will be my greatest pleasure to assist you in all your needs Princess Nawra."

Duttarriyati nodded and smiled at Nawra. "Princess Nawra, these are the gifts from Sultan Fareed, to you. Each was hand picked by the best, trained by the best and finally hand picked for you personally." Staring at the stunned expression on the faces gathered the noble looked back the servants before looking worried. "Are they not pleasing to the eye? Is something wrong?"

Nawra swallowed a moment before moving her jaw in attempt to speak before adopting the blank expression her captain now held. "They are most pleasing to the eye, Sultan Fareed has my deepest thanks for these chambers which are fitting of my status as a royal princess. I to come bearing a gift that I can only hope will be suitable after the..." She motioned to the servants. "Grandest of generousity and deepest of foresight shown."

Clapping her hands Duttarriyati beamed. "Perfect! You are slightly early in your arrival but so are the other guests, they had much farther to travel except for Ambassador Babak of Samati. He arrived early this morning so that makes you the last to arrive, but that is not a bad thing! Your early arrival is pleasing to his great majesty Sultan Fareed!"

"Yes and I would like to present my kingdoms gift to him when it is pleasing to his majesty."

"But of course! His majesy Sultan Fareed will see all of you tonight for the welcoming banquet! It is asked however, that in good taste and manners that you bring but two servants and no more than two guards of course. So as to not over clutter the banquet hall with unwanted persons and property during the festivities. Tomorrow at noon he will then see each of you in turn so you can properly present your gifts to his greatness. Oh, and tonight you shall receive your tokens."

"Tokens?"

"He will explain then but I am pleased to tell you now that if any one of these three please you greatly it will be considered his honor to allow you to take his property home with you."

Nawra dreaded asking the next question. "And the other two who did not please me as well?"

"They will be disposed of at once! His majest Sultan Fareed does not make a habit of keeping useless property within the palace." Duttarriyati glared at the three who were watching her from the corners of their eyes. "Most likely they will be sold in the market or used in the fields, who knows, it is none of my concern how the trash is taken out. However, whichever one you decide that is worthy is yours to do with as you wish. Either keep, use, sell, loan out for use as a barracks toy or even free them." Duttarriyati gave a small glance towards the three.

"Hmm. And should one of them break from being, overused? I will be granted one more."

"Correct! These three are your personal servants. They will in no way service the other guests unless you expressly order it! There is also quite obviously a host of other servants kept in stock which will be stationed for use in various capacities be they whatever you wish for course... But their function is more, how should I say... General purpose? Any guest may use them and they will be continuously available for the duration of events."

"These three respond only to me?"

"Your servants are trained to respond to Sultan Fareed, officers of the guard and yourself. As for myself, they were ordered to respond so that I can better introduce them."

"I see. When will the banquet begin?"

"A servant shall be sent both at one hour before and then lastly thirty minutes before the banquet begins. Your guide, #18 will show you the way but #22 is also reasonably well trained in navigating the halls. Should you get lost there are guards and servants posted regularly and roaming so that you may ask any of them for assistance if required."

"And #22 will handle my personal requests then... Thank you for explaining things and I hope you will tell his majesty Sultan Fareed, that I am most gracious with what has been presented and most humbly and eagerly look forward to finally making his fine acquaintance."

Duttarriyati smiled almost genuinely at Nawra a moment before bowing deeply and leaving the room. Letting out a pent up breath Nawra loosened her jaw and shifted her neck before walking towards the cushions that had been laid out in advance and after sitting looked at the three slaves still facing the other other way. Snapping her fingers to get their attention they turned and continued to look down save for #22 who seemed to be paying slightly more attention, no doubt in case she pointed at something.

"Just to be clear, #18."

"Yes Princess Nawra."

"If I ordered you to rape #9-"

The words hardly left her mouth before she deeply regretted saying it, afterall it was entirely unthinkable, but without hesitation #18 grabbed the colt with his penis already sliding out of its sheath and hardening but the colt did not resist nor scream which terrified her even more.

"Stop!" Nawra quietly cursed herself, she could not believe for a second that it was even possible but it had just been proven not only as possible but as fact.

"My Princess?" #22 looked in the general direction of Nawra.

"What?"

"#18 has failed to obey, you said "if" and he disobeyed by seizing #9. By order of his majesty Sultan Fareed I must now punish him so this does not happen again."

Captain J'Lail looked utterly confused as did Nawra, the two staring back and forth at each other trying to figure out what was unfolding as #22 quickly opened a small box on a nearby table and withdrew a clay jar along with a dipping stick. Popping the cork she dipped it inside and began stirring while walking towards a hyperventilating #18 who tried to stand rigid.

Nawra sat upright. "You will not do, whatever it is you are about to do."

#22 froze a moment before looking back confused. "I must obey his majesty Sultan Fareed, #18 has disobeyed and must be punished. That is the law. The law must be obeyed. The law is absolute."

"And as I command you, no means no!" She was lost for what the effects of the potion was but had an idea, a means of punishing those who did not obey.

"This is the law. The law must be obeyed. The law is absolute."

"Fareed's laws are anything but absolute! He violates them on a whim when it suits him! There is no law here and there never has been!" Nawra opened her mouth to say something that the brain washed slave would understand but it was too late, logic and reason had been removed from them and they knew only to obey no matter the price.

#22 removed the brush and as #18's eyes bulged and his head shifted aside only slightly in a silent scream she dabbed him once on the sheath before returning to the box, put the brush in a special container that stood upright to prevent any of the ooze spreading and then corked the open bottle before returning it to the potion case.

"I appologize for the inconvenience but I must call for a servant to dispose of this brush, unless you wish to have it used again within ten minutes. After that there is a chance the liquid will have spread and there is risk of exposure before the desired time."

Nawra stared at the stallion who had begun to hyperventilate harder and harder before suddenly collapsing onto the floor screaming in hideous agony while clawing at his partially missing genitals. Writhing uncontrollably he continued to scream until Nawra covered her ears and almost on cue and in mute understanding #22 retrieved a gag from another container and with practiced precision muffled the howling stallion. Only his moaning and the clacking sound of his thrashing hooved could be heard and returning to her place in the line #22 lowered her head again.

"It will wear off within five minutes, he received a minor dose but I am trained to administer up to ten times the dosage be it externally and or internally . If you desire a higher dose I shall but I am not trained for such."

"I ordered you not to-"

"This is the law. The law must be obeyed. The law is absolute."

"And I ordered-"

#22 looked up in realization and nodded before walking back to the table and removed the brush from its sealed container. "I obeyed the law but also disobeyed you, I have spoken against you, therefor I must be punished."

"Captain!"

Captain J'Lail bolted for the mare but it was too late, she had dabbed the brush against her tongue just as the officer seized her arms and with one violent move wrenched her arm, yanked the brush free and held it away at a safe distance. A sickening silence pervaded the room as Nawra and her staff watched as the mare stared blankly down before the same symptoms struck. Backing away Captain J'Lail put the brush in the container and sealed it before picking up the box and carefully tucking it under his arm so no one else could access the potions held within. #22 laid on the floor howling at the top of her lungs and closing her eyes Nawra covered her ears.

"#9, muffle #22. Captain, Pijasiros, help hold her down."

The colt nodded. "Yes Prin-cess Nawra."

She listened blind and silent as #9 did as ordered and muffled the mare with great effort despite the assistance from both J'Lail and Pijasiros, once accomplished and the screaming had become heavily muffled she opened her eyes and looked at Captain J'Lail who returned the same look. Fareed was toying with them, he knew she would never consent to such activities so he had these three specially trailed, just for her. Trained by unknown forces but by unquestionably effective means they would cut each others throats if asked and that was about as mild a request as she could ask considering what they were trained to do. Each of them would rape, torture or murder without question with great eagerness, including their own persons. #22 had proven this by torturing herself in order to please her for having failed to obey both sets of contradictory instructions without question nor any hesitation.

Nawra also knew this was a deadly trap, Fareed had decided not just to toy with her but subject her to horrors beyond her control. Long before this gathering was over new orders and requests would be made that they could never hope to be accomplished and even now were slowly growing to fruition. These three were sex slaves and had no doubt been ordered to pleasure her day and night but should they fail there would be hell to pay. An offer of freedom no matter how faint, a carrot on a stick had been held before them and now they would ignore anything she would say, because each knew only one could ever hope to escape and after whatever horror they had been put through in training they would do anything, no matter how evil or depraved to achieve it. To make matters even worse each slave knew that only Fareed himself could give the final approval and if they jinxed this game of his they would all suffer whatever nightmare he had promised. Everyone had a part to play and the one who brought not her but Fareed the most joy in this game was the ultimate victor; she was but the scrap of meat held out over a hungry pack of hyenas. Hyenas that had stopped thinking, feeling and were dead inside. They jumped and snapped out of trained instinct.

Their minds were shattered, souls utterly broken and departed. All that remained was a carrot on the stick and nothing else mattered to them anymore, he had succeeding in reducing them to a controlled, mindless state.

It made her stomach clench and judging by the look on Captain J'Lail's face he felt the same, it would be impossible to get out of this without these three doing something that would result in more pain and agony being dealt out. Nawra had an idea of which one would play what part though, Fareed had set her up but his intention was not invisible. Two that could play the part of personal maid or butler in case one was killed, two to bed her each and every night and two to releave the stress that he was burdening her with. A vicious cycle had been created to provide a hellish loop of temptation and rejection, pulling her in but casting her out while hopefully incuding a mental breakdown.

He was attacking her mind and the only way out was either to indulge in what was offered or watch them die by slow inches. Opening her eyes slowly and staring at #9 a moment before looking at the captain again Nawra's mind scrambled for solutions to the problem she had been thrust into. She could not refuse his charity but neither could she accept such a hiddeous offering. Her family was counting on her to make a good impression and she had to play along without destroying her image.

But how?

Author's Notes:

Long, long chapter. Hope you enjoy reading it! Nawra has now arrived and is the guest of Fareed... But what will happen?

61 Chapters in and would like to know what my readers think so far, trying to keep my pacing without doing a rat race nor dragging things out terribly so later on it leaves questions for as to how things happened or why. So what do you think my readers? I know some have lost interest, changed their minds from up to down and others undecided. This chapter also marks where the fires have been turned on.