"How long until you enter your heat Naiyo?" the panther demon asked as he turned to face his cloaked companion. In response, a hand appeared from beneath the heavy brown covering displaying three extended fingers. "Three weeks?" A nod of the covered head was his response. The two figures continued walking toward the rising sun. The panther demon was surprised when his usually silent guard spoke to him in a calm voice, "They will find us soon, Durako. It is just a matter of time." Durako stopped in his tracks, "You have never been concerned about our followers before."
"These are different. Stronger."
"How many?" The cloaked figure turned to face the direction of the wind. Durako heard three sharp inhalations.
"Three humans and a fire demon."
"Humans?" Duraka snarled, "Humans pose no threat to us. We will continue on with our task. The mission is all that matters."
"That will prove difficult with this new opposition. You underestimate them."
"But you have never been beaten."
"There is a first time for everything." The panther demon was extremely concerned with his partners change in his usually cocky behavior. "We should confront them now. It will be more difficult later."
"You will remember your place! You serve ME and I say what actions we take!" The hooded figure said nothing nor did he turn to face his enraged master. Indeed the line was crossed, but Durako's haughtiness had cost them in the past more than once. Naiyo's thoughts were halted by Durako's knowing chuckle, "But there is more to it, isn't it?" he asked stepping forward to stand beside his servant. "I know that you have yet to find a proper bed mate. Everyone that has tried has died… if you were merciful." Naiyo did not answer, "Are we being silent again?" Durako asked amused. Servants were trained to be silent in the presence of their master. Naiyo was the exception stop Durako from forcing his opinion even when they were not the best course of action; and perhaps this was one of those moments. "Are you certain that we should face them now? The next territory is just a few miles away and we are close to completing our goal." Naiyo gave a curt nod. "Very well." Durako heaved a sigh and they changed directions heading toward the scent. "Besides, I am interested in meeting whomever is strong enough to have captured you attention." Unbeknownst to Durako, his companion was smirking.
