Slave to the Underdark Emotions {darkest_fate&KnightofLight}

[darkest_fate]

Princess Rallathia Silverwood, Heir to the Wooded Throne, Speaker for the Wood, Embodiment of Rillifane Rallathial strode confidently before the table in the small room. The striking elf moved with the same purpose and gait as she would were she parading before her troops in battle, or in the tent formulating an attack with her trusted lieutenants, or even presenting before a Council of War. Her garb reflected this, the chains of polished wood no doubt seeming strange at first glance. While it fit the wood elf's lean body well, it seemed to shimmer as though helping to hide something that lay beneath. This likely wasn't the apparent strength of the cleric; she possessed the tight leanness that came with fighters of her people, even if they were more likely to wear leathers or light elfish chain.

"I am glad you have all gathered here today," she said. She spared a glance at the motley crew she'd assembled. Rallathia had requested they all gather at the Sundappled Canopy, an upscale inn within eyeshot of the Palace. At first she'd considered a normal tavern, as she'd met with adventurers there before, but Rallathia knew that for a mission such as this, she needed to establish credibility and authority quickly. Naturally she could do this by simply announcing herself and her titles, displaying her royal signet ring, and all but demanding their aid. But Rallathia thought it better to take a more subtle approach given the... circumstances.

"This mission shall prove vital not only to the High Forest, but to the entirety of the Realms," she said, before realizing that she had slid a little too much into her natural royal tone. She paused for a moment, as if to let the information sink in, but in reality to gather herself. Thankfully she'd put her hands behind her back, and she could rub her fingers to help still her nerves. This group... unnerved her. Whenever she swept the room with her gaze, she saw beings that traditionally stood opposed to her kind, along with one of those with the devilish blood, though she knew better than to judge (no, she reserved that for the outfit: Rallathia couldn't let her gaze linger there long before skipping away, fighting a slight flush). She nodded. "Several caravans of people have gone missing along certain routes that venture close to lands that traditionally lead into the Underdark," she explained. "We naturally sent scouts and rangers to further explore... but most have turned up missing. The handful that have returned tell us tales not of the usual horrors of the Underdark," she paused there, realizing that two such horrors were sitting at the table, though she could be forgiven for misremembering: neither looked much like the traditional evil drow, "but of a ring of what appears to be slaves taken for the sole purpose of--of pleasuring their captors," Rallathia's coloring usually veered toward a light copper, with just the slightest hint of green running throughout, but for a moment, it flared a russet color, those leaf eyes flashing first in embarrassment, then in anger.

"Thus I have sought you out. You come... mostly well recommended," her gaze flicked to the tiefling, before looking over the rest, "and have beings who have vouched for your trust. If nothing else," she produced a heavy sack, which spilled not only golden coins, but a handful of platinum across the top of the table as well, "you will be well rewarded."

There, she'd delivered that well, summed things up. The elfish princess nearly smiled, just barely suppressing her slight fluttering of relief. This group would require a leader, and the lean elf was determined that she be it.

For her part, Chastity thought this all sounded pretty damn amazing. Teaming up with a motley group to venture into the Underdark and bust up a slave guild? She was already figuring that she'd "liberate" some cute elves of her own, or, failing that, at least find some of the leftover treasures and the like. Hey, the perky tiefling had her priorities well in order. Plus, she'd actually stolen the official invitation to this meeting, and then argued that because she'd managed to steal it, that meant that she was a better fit for it then the older human she'd pinched it from. So what if he'd been some established freedom fighter? Guy wasn't hot and didn't watch his pockets.

The tiefling, however, was both. Well, okay, even she would probably call herself "cute" first, given her rounded face and the dotting of starry freckles. But she had that sleek, sexy midnight blue skin thing going for her. Plus her rogue gear, on top of being top notch, looked fucking hot as hell. Yes, the skimpy, enchanted black leather top might struggle a bit to keep her breasts in (because the stupid armorer had messed up the measurements, not because she kept sneaking too many candies). It pushed her chest together well, keeping everything in place. Fingerless gloves, also enchanted, also black, extended up just past her elbow. Black leather bottoms, also, yes, enchanted, covered everything below. Okay, they were, like, technically lower cut than was usually considered proper. But that was because she had to make room for her tail, and she didn't want to start with a hole in her pants! Also it meant she'd had to dump a potion on her cute pubes, but hey, she had a smattering of starry white freckles there too. And of course, long laced up black boots that were, yes, also enchanted.

Not that she was the only hot one here. Nearly everyone looked ready to bang, particularly their esteemed leader. This elf chick, obviously a noble of some kind, looked like someone horny had drawn an elfish general, but then felt bad about it and covered her up with too much armor. Pretty eyes that were almost too deep of a green, and the whole sharp face. Oh, and that hair! Coppery with a slight threading of gold! Chastity thought her own deep blue, almost black hair with that slight curl looked pretty hot, but this elf's looked like she probably had, you know, bunches of servants or magic.

Oh, Chastity realized she hadn't said anything: "I thin' this all sounds like a job ta me," she announced, nodding confidently. "We jus', wha', nip in, bust up a few slave rings, an' nip out?"

While Baeeyl Aleanrae hadn't been paying too much attention, she was pretty sure that it would take more than that. But she figured she'd leave it to one of the other adventurers to say. They all looked like sturdy folk. In fact, there seemed to be another drow among them, which threw the druid off considerably. For one thing, she usually didn't see another drow just sort of walking around like this, and if she did, they were usually, you know, carrying scimatars and glowering at everyone. This one didn't wear the right armor or anything.

What was really bothering Bae was she was pretty sure she'd seen her before. Maybe out in the spider pens? She might have been a rider. Bae had spent a lot of time working there. And the druid would likely have stood out. Not because she was a druid, though that was decidedly odd among a dark people like hers, but because even then she sort of looked at things different. Oh, she'd definitely wanted honor for her house, and all, but she'd been the one gently cooing to spiders as she stroked their chins. The elf who'd tied the usual bone white hair back into a set of braids that she just kept rebraiding about every week or so, letting them grow further and further. She hadn't started mixing berries and the like into the strands then, but she did often have spider webbing or bits that she just wasn't quite paying attention to.

She tilted her head, scrunching her face, which probably looked exceptionally odd, given that she still had the drow red eyes and sharp features. Really her body just sort of matched drow all around: tall, though not quite as tall as the wood elf prattling on, willowy, but with some slight curvature to her body. One could see flashes of the coal black skin, also splotched with berry juice and tribal paints, underneath the mismatched bits of bark, flowers, and plants that formed her garb. Really she should ask about armor like the wood elf had.

But really: she thought she knew the other drow. Maybe they'd been in house training together? Bae tapped her finger to her cheek, trying to consider, again far more focused on that then what she was sure was a very important conversation about an Underdark slave trade.

Very important indeed.

 

[KnightofLight]

A gathering of adventurers was often something to be met with awe for it meant that in the near future something grand would be done. Not always grand in a good way to the common people but something spectacular to behold. A tale to tell in the future. All three of them had received their invitations to meet with someone about some sort of Underdark business.

Kar'zah had strode into the inn with purpose. He drew eyes to him because he looked more Orcish than human despite being a half-blood. His mother's Orcish blood ran strong through him and he bore that strength in his every step while he carried his father's wit with every glance. He was not the most clever of men but his presence demanded attention and his intellect demanded that he be respected even if his strength and stature didn't. The scarring across the right side of his face that continued down his side and onto his stomach also drew eyes even though no one could see the scars lower than his neck thanks to the plate armor he was currently wearing. Scarred as a child by an assassin aiming to take something his mother held dear he had not only survived the poisoning but earned a title for it. Ironblooded.

He stood at 6'6" towering over most people who weren't goliaths and he was built broad and strong. Muscles were on display even with the armor on as he moved with ease despite the heaviness of the armor and other items he had on him at the time. His hair was short and well kept while his eyes were a sea green color that surveyed all that they gazed upon. Underneath his armor he wore plain clothes seeing no need for frivolous nice things. His life was about battle and conquest not showing off. He didn't need to show off to have stories told of his deeds. Actions, as ever, spoke far more loudly than words and often echoed into legend better than simple speeches ever would.

Sitting at the table he eyed the others as they arrived letting his keen eyes narrow as he weighed each of them in terms of their value to the cause. The tiefling had, if nothing else, proven her value to the team by stealing the invitation from someone unworthy. Her personality, from what little she'd talked, left him a little less enthusiastic though. The supposed leader came across as someone with status but who wasn't entirely confident in it. At least not in this moment which was understandable given that he was in the room. He had a tendency to command respect and the title of leadership by virtue of who he was and how he carried himself. It was part and parcel of who he was and his goal after all. Still, she must have money and some measure of skill so he was willing to overlook it. For now. The two drow both seemed to be differing levels of useful from just a look at them. The one named Rilryne seemed to have the poise of a warrior and he could respect that. The other one was most clearly a druid and he'd seen some of their power first hand so that earned a measure of his respect as well. Drow came from a harsh place which also increased his estimation of them even if he thought their society was foolhardy at best in service to a Goddess that he felt hated them more than cared for their prosperity. The half-elf was the hardest to place though. He seemed social enough, too social to some degree, but he was hiding more than he revealed. A warlock certainly, given the attitude he carried and way he spoke of things, but one he would need to keep an eye on.

Seten was perhaps the exact opposite of that. He strolled in dressed in finery that looked ill-suited to the battlefield at a glance. Flowing clothing that was not quite a robe but not quite a jacket embroidered with a design that could only be described as nonsensical to anyone except him. Still, for all of his odd attire he too drew eyes when he entered the room. There was something about him that was just impossible to ignore. A sort of presence that extended beyond himself drawing attention even managing to get some of it away from the large orcish man. He was only 6' tall with long bluish-silver colored hair that fell past his shoulders inherited from his eladrin father. No weapons were obvious on him and his body bore no imperfections. He was here as himself for the sake of the meeting but he could be whomever he wanted most of the time. There was power in that and he, and his Goddess, knew that. With blue eyes that shined like stars in a most odd way, yet another blessing from his Goddess, he took a seat at the table and smiled as he allowed his mind to reach out.

They were fascinating to read. Rilryne's mind was mostly empty. A consummate monk that was obvious from the way she thought and moved. Chastity was already thinking along lines that he enjoyed. Oh, they would be free to do all kinds of things to those slaves if they wanted to. She might be fun after all. The other drow was focused, unsurprisingly, on her fellow drow and he was curious to see how that would pan out. Their leader was not so fearless and was practically mentally screaming to be taken serious. That was something he could use to his advantage if he needed to for certain. The orc was sizing up everyone else much like he was but in a very different way. It didn't take much for Seten to see he was going to try and take the reins sooner or later.

Rilryne had walked in disregarding any eyes on her. She was dressed in plain leather armor that covered her body well enough but didn't attempt to hide the supple curves of her figure. She was muscled from years of combat and training but that didn't take from her appeal. Long white hair flowed down to her mid-back though she had it up in a ponytail at the moment for the sake of ease. It was one of the few things she didn't change for the sake of combat. Dark eyes took in a quick look over tthe others here before she sat down adjusting her longsword so that it was still easy to reach while she sat just in case. The blade itself was incredibly ornate and clearly brought from the Underdark where it's motif could be noted in the spider-like etchings along the steel when drawn or the spider's silk used to make the handle that much more pleasant to hold. She'd taken it when she left and never gotten rid of it.

She noted the other drow looking at her and tilted her head to look at her. The woman did seem somewhat familiar but in a passing sort of sense. Perhaps they'd run into one another before but Rilryne didn't think it had been for long if it had happened. She'd never been a rider nor connected to the spiders. She'd spent the amjority of her life learning politics, hating them, and eschewing that in favor of wielding weapons. It was part of the reason she'd left. The drow were so focused on political movement or some expectation of playing the game and all she craved was combat and viable outlets for her passions. They provided one of those but not the other and thus she'd left them.

"It is not as simple as busting in and nipping a few circles of slavers."

Kar'zah's deep voice echoed lightly in the room.

"People who resort to this kind of thing need to be crushed. A message sent that this will not be tolerated."

He crossed his arms. Seten smirked as he considered what the man was saying. Rilryne nodded before crossing her own arms under her bust pushing it up some in her armor though she didn't pay it much mind.

"If those doing this are, in fact, drow like myself then the only way to dissude them from taking others will be to slit their throats. Drow are incredibly difficult to persuade to what you would call a good ending."

"Though we could always enslave them and see how they like it."

Seten smirked as he spoke and looked to the others.

"I mean, is anyone going to really complain if we take slavers and make them slaves? It feels poetic."

 

[darkest_fate]

Oooo, the half-orc looks all grr and bloodied an' stuff. Oh man, could you imagine him with, like, one of the elves? How would that even fit? It would be like a ferret squeezing into a mouse hole, right? Chastity let her gaze drift again, at least mostly looking like she was paying attention to the conversation. The boy elf's cute. Very fancy... isn't that from that one tailor on Waterdeep? He'd look so good without a shirt! Oooh, mebbe I could find a slave like that down there? And he's be all "Chastity, you freed me from my bondage, let me know show you what I learned from all those years working for my cruel drow mistress."

At least she wasn't drooling?

Rallathia nodded in agreement. "I do want to send a message," she agreed, taking a deep breath. Show force. Just act like they're your troops and treat them with respect. Rillifane... did you and yours have to send one of orcish blood? I feel unclean standing in the same room as him. "I would like to refrain from outright slitting their throats, and we will not be taking them for slaves," she paused, considering. Would that be an acceptable reward? if it came down to it? Would not a life of servitude toward one of mixed blood be worse than death? Rillifane guide me. "Our goal will be to find the head of this organization. Cut off the head, and the snake dies."

"Oh, I'd rather not kill snakes, if it's alright with you?" asked Bae, tilting her head. She looked around, taking a few moments to mentally play the rest of the conversation. "Oh, but my cousin here is quite right," she gestured toward the other drow. "But you could severely dishonor the house , and they'd probably fold. That seems the best way to right this imbalance." This party seems unbalanced too. I hope we can find group unity together. Maybe we should do a sharing circle? Oh, I bet it would make everyone feel better if we all stripped down until we were sky clad and exposed ourselves to the world! No, wait, there's a wood elf, and she looks stuffy.

"Our goal will be to pose as a group of slaves and slavers," continued Rallathia. "You'll have the backing and supplies my people can provide. Our dark elf companions," she gestured, "will be the owners in some form or fashion. Sir Kar'zah," she nodded to the half-orc, "will be an already trained slave, one allowed loose for the journey. The rest of us will pose as recent captives." Considering what I've heard of the garb these slaves wear, that is for the best. The tiefling looks comfortable baring a good deal of skin, but I know I wouldn't be comfortable.

There was pause for more input, Rallathia looking primarily to the two drow, but knowing that she'd hired an arcanist of shady background and an orcish brute for a reason.

 

[KnightofLight]

Seten positively relished all of this conversation as well as the mental backlog. The more this tiefling noted her interest the more he made a note that she seemed like she'd be fun. Perhaps he could see what she could be convinced to do this night. His Goddess wouldn't mind an extra portion of pleasure this night he assumed. He smiled when she looked in his direction and offered her a playful wink. As the conversation turned to the drow posing as slavers he chuckled before using his Mask of Many Faces to turn himself into a drow that looked not too unlike them though he was a male.

"I could pose as the man they use to keep the slaves in line. They wouldn't want to sully themselves with handling merchandise."

Rilryne offered a half-hearted nod.

"Dishonoring the house would be possible and would be easily done. There are a number of methods by which we could do just that and send them scurrying off. That being said we will need to kill some of them. To go into this assuming that there won't be death is foolish."

She looked towards Seten and then towards Kar'zah.

"And he shouldn't be a slave. Any slave of that size would not be allowed to walk free and especially not armed. He's a hired hand used because we have information about people attempting to strike at the slave trade. They won't detect a lie, because we are planning to do just that, and it will allow us to slip past suspicion."

Kar'zah nodded at this and leaned back.

"This is acceptable. Even if they know who I am it wouldn't be farfetched for me to work with the drow in pursuit of my goals. I should think that with our companions ability to wear other faces that once we reach even a splinter of this trade group it shouldn't prove overly hard for him to pull information from them by coaxing the information out of them while distracting them so that our rogue here can break into their havens and steal anything we might need from them before we stamp them out."

Seten's illusion shifted with a starry glimmer before he was himself again.

"I can agree to this plan. I do so enjoy tempting them. I still would like to keep one though for myself. Trust that I won't be a cruel master. No offense to the drow among us but there is something fun about forcing those drow who still firmly believe in supriority to kneel before me in service."

His smile belied his clearly wicked thoughts but even then somehow it seemed entirely natural.

 

[darkest_fate]

Ah, it did make sense to have at least one handler on board. Though Rallathia hadn't realized that the half-elf could alter his appearance so easily. That was quite the useful trick indeed, and it made her wonder just where he received his magic from. According to the scout reports, he was known for being charismatic, moving in certain circles, with a willingness to get his hands dirty. There were rumors that he was involved in something in Waterdeep as well.

Rallathia looked toward Rilryne as she offered her piece, flicking her attention to the other drow. The druid seemed a little dreamy, but wasn't disagreeing. "I expect us to kill," agreed the wood elf, nodding her head. "I just want us to use it as a last resort."

"Too many bodies makes things' messy," offered Chastity. She let out a giggle. "Not enough won't get the job done. Well," she paused, "that goes more fir thievin'. Not sure you can 'ave enough bodies for other fun stuff."

Gods, this had to be some sort of trial for Rallathia. And now they were mentioning leaving Kar'zah free... which had Rallathia frowning. Not so much that she didn't see the reasoning: it matched what she knew, and they had a story. But it meant that, well, so far it sounded like they'd have exactly two slaves with them, one of which was Rallathia herself. "Would they have such a guard for only two slaves though?" she asked, looking around.

"They would if one's a wood elf noble," offered Bae. She was still mostly looking at Rilryne, though she was pretty sure they actually were cousins, if distant, but she glanced over at Rallathia. Clearly that bit of the plan was a little obvious. Then again, how else would a wood elf pass in a band like this?

Bae looked to Seten, meeting his gaze with her own, her red eyes almost sorrowful. "You know females are usually bigger than males in the wild, right?" she said. "Though I guess you only need one male to many females, if you're looking for something along those lines. I wonder what a child begotten of you and a drow would look like," she seemed to ponder. "Oh," she gave Seten an almost beatific smile, "I'm sure I could find out. But they would be quite lovely."

"Getting back on track," said Rallathia. "It will be just the six of us going. They can offer no support, as stealth is of the utmost importance. We have supplies readied, including some of what we believe matches the usual garb and chains for slaves, though the collars have, of course, been disenchanted." Yet another thing Rallathia wasn't looking forward to. But she would rise to this test and pass it well, as she did all others set before her.

 

[KnightofLight]

"There is no such thing as a last resort. They will try to kill us. Do not assume that I will hesitate in my attacks because of your sense of morality. I will not be killed trying to uphold values I do not ascribe to."

Rilryne met the eyes of the one who had brought them together. The coin on the table was nice but she was a woman of conviction. She would kill and she would not hesitate. She did not sharpen her skills with her blade to dull them at the last moment on the whim of a wood elf. She was chosen for this because she was good at what she did. That was all that was to be said. After a long moment she leaned back.

"And she is right. A noble would be worth a great deal and worth protecting. The drow would love to toy with a girl like that. It would provide easy bait as long as we determine our story for how we apprehended her. You can play the part can't you? And you too tiefling. If you are supposed to be slaves and pets then you will need to be prepared for the sexual advances of those who we will encounter otherwise our cover will fall apart."

"The drow speaks the truth. You both must be up for the task. You will likely be forced to service us to prove that you are tamed."

Rilryne nodded but Seten smirked at Bae. He shifted from himself to a smaller drow man.

"I do know that mistress but rest assured I can prove quite large should the situation arise where I need to serve my mistresses in any capacity as they demand of me."

Seten played the meek man for them but his eyes told a very different story. He could play the part but he would do so much more. There was promises in those eyes of things not yet done and of things that could be done. A testament to his Goddess's power and to his own perversion perhaps. Regardless he shifted back to himself before looking towards Rallathia.

"I don't believe I'll be needing any thanks to my powers but I'm ready to leave as soon as we want."

Kar'zah tapped the tabletop.

"I see no reason we can't set out this evening. We'll need to spend some time on the road getting used to one another, settling into our roles, and training our two 'slaves' in how to act. Does anyone have a reason we shouldn't begin this process this very night?"

As ever the half-orc was asserting himself naturally by taking command looking everyone else in the eyes to see if there was dissent or disdain for his plans while Seten enjoyed reading all of their minds ever so casually.

 

[darkest_fate]

"I understand you have your own values, but I'll not have you slaking bloodthirst on the mission or causing any unnecessary violence. If you're so untrained that you cannot hold back, then perhaps you are not a good fit for this mission," said Rallathia, keeping her tone steady, though some part of her wanted to strangle the drow already. Weren't these two supposed to be good drow? Or at least not the bloodthirsty, false-goddess-worshipping monsters that lurked below. This one seemed all too eager to kill, and already Rallathia was wondering if she would have to watch her back.

"I can play the part," insisted Rallathia, "but I need to be able to trust my team to do so," she looked them all over, trying to communicate that she wanted that, that she wanted to believe they would support her, that this was the right one for the job. Of course, her look faltered as they not so politely suggested that she may have to... service them. The thought had Rallathia started a moment. "I... don't think that will be necessary..." Though she could already see Rilryne nodding.

"It probably will be," offered Bae, though her attention was more on the shapeshifting warlock. "Most drow aren't that open with slaves, but we're---they're," she waved a hand, "quite big on the whole power thing. Plus, if you run into any males that have been trusted on their own, they may try and, you know, do things. They'll probably listen to us though," she leaned toward Seten, looking up at him, her red eyes curious. "Can you just change certain parts of you? Specifically your penis," she pointed down, "because the echnida has five different members and I was---"

"Right, this evening," agreed Rallathia, who probably would've said anything to get the conversation off echnida genitalia and/or having to service various members of the party. "I had originally intended to stay the night here... but you make sense, and I suppose our group would be more likely to travel by night," she cast another look, realizing that she was well and truly outnumbered by the night creatures here: even the half-elf appeared to be more comfortable in darker shapes.

"Trainin' sounds a bit like work, bit like fun," said Chastity. "I got dibs on the bigger elf," she pointed to Rilryne, "I like those muscles; looks like she can 'eft me up, righ'? Make so I ain't jus' left starin' at all ya chests?" Since Charity, who was really only a little below average height, was at least a head shorter than literally everyone else in her party. As she was looking, she realized something: "Hey, did we do th' name thin' an' I missed it? I'm Chastity---" and what would probably follow is a round robin of various names, save for one slight alteration.

"I am Rallathia... Liadon," which was fairly close to a translation of her real name, sure, but it had become a little fashionable to name your children after the princess who happened to be named in turn after a goddess.... and Liadon was one of the most common elfish family names.

 

[KnightofLight]

"Tell me, noblewoman, have you spent decades or more of your life devoted to a single thing? Pursuing that art and pushing that until you can achieve the apex of that craft and knowing you have centuries more to go?"

She narrowed her eyes for a moment having a point firmly pressed for her.

"Would you take kindly to someone who has never stepped foot into your field of expertise telling you how best to go about what you do?"

She let the question hang before taking a breath.

"I am not one to slaughter wholesale for it is a fruitless endeavor but do not expect me to show mercy to those would not do the same in return. If they surrender then they will live. If they draw steel to kill me then they will fall."

Kar'zah nodded with appreciation. She understood the values of her talent but she was pragmatic. He wondered if their supposed leader was too soft for a mission like this. She seemed to wilt some when the point was made that she would need to service them. Clearly she was a noble if she treated this as something to be looked down on. Or at least something to dislike.

"You will, there is no way to adequately sell the idea of you being a noble slave without you performing the deeds expected of someone who would be in your position."

The half-orc tapped the table again with some irritation at her seeming sheepishness. She wanted to fight the drow slave trade but was against doing what needed to be done? He would assert control if the reins needed to be taken.

Seten, meanwhile, smirked at the questions coming from Bae and the thoughts playing across her mind.

"Well, dear, you'll have to find that out for yourself won't you? It wouldn't be good to reveal all my secrets without a little give and take would it?"

His smile promised things all the same before he turned his head back Chastity.

"I probably could Chastity. I am Rilryne and I will not be claimed. However, if you wish me to mentor you I can likely do so."

Rilryne gave a simple nod after speaking and that was it.

"Seten is my name. At least one of my many names and the one you all are welcome to use."

Seten gave them a half-bow of sorts from his seated position.

"I am Kar'zah the Ironblooded. I hope this group proves up to the task ahead of us."

 

[darkest_fate]

If the drow thought she was going to intimidate Rallathia, she should think otherwise. The elf princess let the drow have her ramble. She was tempted to point out that she was the one hiring, that she'd sought professionals, by the very nature of being the client she would be the one whose whims would be served, but no good leader demanded service from others. Best to let Rirlryne get through her spiel, particularly as, at the end, it seemed like they weren't truly in disagreement. "That is to be expected," was all she said, tempted to add: and what I said from the beginning. The drow monk would obviously be difficult.

On some level, the half-orc seemed to be the same, but at least his concerns had more merit. "I don't think it will be absolutely necessary that I service you," she pointed out, her voice harsh, "and you're not to take advantage of the situation. With me or with anyone else wearing drow chains, enslaved or otherwise."

"We have to bend, or else we'll break," offered Bae, though she was smiling at Seten's followup questions. She tilted her head to the opposite side, obviously wanting to see him from a new angle. There was something unusual going on there, wasn't there? That seemed like it should be fun. Oh, wait, they were giving names, or, well, they were all looking at her, because it was apparently her turn. "I'm Baeeyl Aleanrae, but you all can call me Bae,' she smiled, shrugging her shoulders, "it's much easier to remember." Bae looked between her cousin, the masculine one, and the noble. There was a great deal of tension there, wasn't there? She sighed, almost dreamily, looking down as she started forming a growth, a willowy branch, from the wood of the table.

"Rilryne, my cousin," she said looking up, "no one is besmirching your prowess, but you must realize that Rallathia is on her own, venturing into the unknown, and that she has just realized that only she and Chastity are to be chained. And Chastity can free herself of those at any time," she shifted, twirling her fingers over a candle on the table, letting the flames dance, "Kar'zah, you must learn to follow females in this, for it shall be necessary for our success. Should you seek tension, it will be better to ask it of us then to simply seize it," she paused, tilting her head, "well, until it becomes apparent that we will always be ready, I suppose," she gestured, and a small twinkling star appeared in her hand, "Rallathia, you must learn to trust those who do not look like you, and to be willing to bend in your convictions, lest they break," she paused, tilting her head again, "also it will be better if we do things to you so that you are not experiencing your first among slavers. It is far better to control such things."

She smiled again, before turning back to Seten. "If I transformed into a giant snake and wrapped you tight in my coils, would you still wish to lay with me?"

There was likely a beat of silence, during which Seten may very well hear the loudest of thoughts: how does that even work? Does the pussy, like, move?

 

[KnightofLight]

Rilryne felt satisfied that she'd been heard. Her point was merely that she did not like someone questioning her methods but it was what it was. She took another deep breath before looking to the wood elf.

"Do not misunderstand, I have no intention of acting against the goals of the group nor am I looking for some kind of revenge if that is what my words implied to you. I simply want to make it clear that that I do not view killing as a last resort. It is not the first either but it is a tool to be considering in this kind of filthy work we will be embroiled in."

She listened as Bae made her point clear. Seten was amused by her smiles even as the conversation continued before she addressed him. It was natural that tensions would run high. They had just met and likely had idealogical differences. Kar'zah shook his head.

"I do not intend to misuse my position. I do not take kindly to the implication that I, a Paladin of Bane, would abuse my strength and position. I understand the need for firm rule but do not label me like some kind of tyrant. I do understand that, however, you will need time to learn my code and my ethics which are not the same as yours."

He nodded his head.

"For now, however, I think we must agree that regardless of anything else we will need to discuss further action whether this so-called training happens or not. There is much to cover about this whole thing and it is not the kind of discussion to have in an inn I believe."

He looked to the others. Seten smirked.

"A snake? That would be different. Can't say I've ever tried something with a druid taking a different form but perhaps you'll enlighten me."

He was either calling her bluff, entirely serious, or playing along for the sake of amusement. All of that was on the table as he smiled back at her.

"I agree, a discussion as...interesting as these should be done elsewhere."

 

[darkest_fate]

A paladin of Bane?! Rallathia looked to him, eyes wide. How could they possibly trust someone like that in their party? She very nearly said as much, before remembering to think cautiously. Rillifane was a god of life, one who cautioned balance and thought. Bane was evil, yes, but he was a lawful evil, one that suffered strictures and guidelines, if only to allow him and his people to... enslave others. She flicked her gaze at the half-orc, wondering if he realized that invoking the name of the tyrant god right before insisting he wasn't a tyrant. Perhaps he meant he wasn't that kind of tyrant?

"Wait, there's more talking?" said Chastity, nearly gaping. "Wha' th' bleedin' 'ell is left to talk about? Me an' Rally here have to play pretend as the two hottest slaves in the Underdark. The two drow bitches are th' boss, an' Seren's gonna make his dick do tricks. Done deal," she slapped her hands together, rising as if she'd just solved all their problems instead of jumping in during the last bit of the conversation. "Let's hit the road!"

"Yes, lets," agreed Rallathia, trying to ignore literally everything else the rogue said (could she possibly start trading in party members? Keep the druid and the warlock, reshuffle and see if a halfway decent half-orc, other drow, and rogue showed up?). "Table the side conversations," she looked at the two she had just admittedly thought worth keeping. "There's gear and horses nearby," she held up a hand, "and yes, I'm aware that we'll have to be rid of the horse's when we reach the entrance. It's still half a day's---well, night's ride to reach the nearest entrance, and there is a slight time issue."

She adjusted her armor, nodding to them, before heading toward the door. Rallathia was determined to pull this group together, or at least earn enough of their respect that when she turned the reins over in the Underdark (gods knew to which one), they'd still listen to her somewhat. She had volunteered for this mission herself, was the only one not receiving an overt reward, and had done so knowing that she would be put into chains. She knew the others would be falling behind, but she could hear one last comment as she left:

"She needs to find someone to lay with," said Bae, sighing. "But this rise of slavery is unusual," she rose, gathering her things, including the small crook made out of a hardened mushroom she used to cast with, "it disturbs the balance," she looked to Rilryne. "I do think we are cousins. You are from the family that runs the mandatory training, yes? You look like their eldest daughter did," Bae considered. "No, wait, I think she died,' she tapped her finger against her chin, before shrugging, waiting for everyone else to start filing out.

There would be horses and supplies waiting outside, precisely as Rallathia said. The rations had even been divided according, matching the dietary needs and preferences. Perhaps most interesting was that Chastity's and Rallathia's packs matched the same coloration as the drows', making it evident who was to carry their gear when they were masquerading.

And it is just that: a facade. Though perhaps... the arcanist may have magic that can temporary alter the mind, make it easier. There is the spell of suggestion. I could simply let him cast it upon me unresisting, then I could say that I wasn't of my right mind when it happened. No, no, I will simply find a way around it. Aha! They can disguise Chastity as me and have her do it in my stead. They shouldn't be any the wiser.

 

[KnightofLight]

The reaction he got to invoking his God's name was not unsurprising. Most viewed Bane as a God of Tyranny who ruled with an iron fist and proved to be vile monsters. However they did not understand the nuance of Bane. While some viewed the kings who ruled with his power as tyrants they failed to see the lack of infighting, the unified purpose, and the peace that allowed for the advancement of thought that it could bring. Nothing was built that could last without peace to hold it together. Bane would provide that peace even if not everyone saw it in the same light. Still, he let the words hang. It made Rilryne raise an eyebrow but it wasn't something of her concern. He wasn't going to conquer her so she wasn't perturbed by his claims. Seten didn't care much either since he could slip away any time he desired by his own estimation.

"I like you Chastity, right to the heart of the matter."

Seten smiled as he spoke and the conversations were brought to a succinct close by their supposed leader. All of them stood but Seten offered a little smile to Bae before using his awakened mind to connect to hers.

I don't think they appreciate the side conversation so I'll bring it here if you'd like to continue it. I'm happy to discuss such unorthodox things without prying ears.

His voice was soft in her mind as he made eye contact with Bae, or tried to, as he spoke with her mentally. He could still sense the thoughts of the others though.

"She can make her decision on that on her own."

Rilryne gripped the scabbard of her sword and held it tightly in her hand. The walk to the horses wouldn't take overlong as far as she was concerned and she didn't mind being seen with this strange group. Let people talk. They always did anyways.

"My family did handle mandatory training. And yes, my elder sister died. She attempted to kill me in my sleep since I was threatening to usurp her position with my growing skill."

Rilryne didn't finish the story because the implication was rather clear. She was still here and Bae had heard that her sister was dead. Not hard to put that together.

"Now then, once we're out of the town on horseback we can continue our conversation if we wish. I suspect more talking will be done around a campfire tonight though."

Kar'zah's voice rumbled some as he spoke his piece before looking to Rallathia. He had his own horse but he'd stabled it for this journey. He wasn't going to have his steed go into the Underdark nor ride just to the outskirts. It seemed a bit excessive to do that. For the time being all three walked towards the horses and packs, mounted up, and moved to ride. Seten, however, kept that mental connection open to Bae for the moment if she wished to continue chatting about things though he could just as easily shift it if someone elses thoughts proved interesting enough to warrant a conversation.

 

[darkest_fate]

Chastity practically skipped up to the horse. Everyone was super tense for what sounded to her like a pretty fun mission. Like, the big part of it was "pretending" to be a sex slave to a bunch of ridiculously hot people. Oh no, whatever will Chastity do? Finally lose her virginity? She let out a giggle, flicking her tail. She'd get some nice and proper sex training; she was betting that between those four they could teach her loads, then she'd pick up a hot little elf, maybe split with Seten. He seemed pretty fluid, not to mention pretty. She wondered if she could get him to sleep with Kar'zah... oh, both at once would be nice too.

"Ah," Bae said aloud, as if she were the one reading thoughts. She nodded. This explains a good deal, she loudly thought, before nodding to Seten. I hope you learn from my thoughts, but I would advise against letting Rallathia know that you read her mind without her permission. It is entirely likely she will take offense... and I could see Kar'zah and Ril-ril being much the same. Aloud, with nary a beat: "She can, but the stifling constraints of society and bad teaching seem to have given her poor ideals. As bad as drow culture can be," she looked to Ril-ril, who had that killing her sister story, "at least we were allowed to experiment. Men were often considered inferior, but still pleasurable. Personally I find all creatures appealing."

"I mostly like th' hot ones," offered Chastity, sticking out her tongue for a moment.

Could they talk about anything besides sex for five minutes? Though, Rallathia supposed this plan did hinge on it. "The horses should be good. They're well trained, meant for rangers," she said, before easily hoisting herself into the saddle. "There's a supply drop for the rest of our equipment," she had arranged everything. She turned to the others.

Chastity mounted with obvious practice, sliding into the saddle then leaning down, cooing at her horse. Bae stepped in front of hers, pressed her forehead, and spoke softly gently stroking its nose. These were indeed ranger bred horses; she could tell that much, but for an elite force. Seten? Are you still in my mind? she asked, waiting for a response. If yes: Was not the princess of the wood elves of the High Wood called Rallathia? Said to have hair of copper and the blessings of Rillifane Rallathial?

 

[KnightofLight]

Chastity proved to be the heart of the group, or at least the most likely to remain optimistic, given her skipping to the horses. Some could mistake that for childishness but Seten considered it to be charming. She didn't have to hide who she was or attempt to act proper around others. There was value in that if nothing else. Kar'zah found it irritating though. Rilryne didn't pay it too much mind as she moved steadily and with purpose forwards. The three were mostly silent for the better part of it. Rilryne had little to add to the conversation and Kar'zah found the carnal nature of what was eventually spoken did not need his added words.

Seten, however, smiled. Rilryne shrugged lightly at the words about her dead sister. She didn't much mind and why would she considered she was the one who had put her down. Seten noted the words thought back to him.

Rest assured they will only know if they need to. I think the tiefling would enjoy it though. She seems eager for something more. I've learned interesting things from all of you already.

"There are things to appreciate about all things. As one who can take many forms I've discovered most of them personally."

He smiled before winking at Chastity.

"Yes, they seem a rather well trained bunch. Perhaps not warsteeds but we aren't fighting a war."

Kar'zah nodded his approval even as he spoke it. Before long he was in the saddle and the mount firmly in hand. Seten pulled himself into the saddle slowly before patting the horse's neck. It was a fine steed and he could sense from it's animal mind that it was ready to move. Like most animals whose minds he'd bothered to read they seemed to be most interested in what was next. Rilryne moved with effortless grace into the saddle in one fluid motion and tied her scabbard to her hip rather than firmly carrying it for the first time since they'd seen her.

Of course I am. Considering her thoughts it wouldn't be a hard bet to make. She's certainly got the noble or royal mindset firmly lodged into her mind. It'll be fun to see a princess play at being a slave.

He looked ahead and brought a hand up to block some of the sunlight.

"Come then, you know where we are headed Rallathia. Lead the way and let us be off."

Kar'zah nudged his horse forward to imply that they ought to get going. He was a patient man but there was no reason to linger here.

I wonder how long she'll try to keep up the facade if it really is her.

 

[darkest_fate]

"I mean, I fuckin' guess,' said Chastity, her accent rough. It seemed to come in go, her voice. When she seemed a bit more in control, she sounded like a badly written character in an equally badly written play: spouting of lines of dialogue that barely made sense and sounding almost inane. Yet in times of high emotion... which for Chastity was nearly most of the time, she slid into a perky voice, almost musical, with a slightly refined accent, like someone had taught her elfish before making sure she learned Common. She pulled a face at the mention of war, bending down to rub her horse again.

"I'd like to avoid war at all possible,' said Rallathia, pursing her lips for a moment. That was obviously another reason she'd wanted to avoid violence. The Drow households were complicated, warring frequently with one another, but they'd band together against outsiders if something like a full force attack appeared to be happening. The princess was hoping they'd discover this the work of a rogue house; she'd settle for it just being a house instead of a kingdom or more.

"Indeed," said Rallathia, turning to see the others mounting up. She nodded to Kar'zah, before kicking her own horse into action. This felt almost a relief, after the tension that had been in that war room. The simple roll of the horses, journeying out like this, prepared for a harrowing journey. The familiarity felt almost pleasant. "I---" Rallathia said after a moment, pausing, "I don't wish there to be ill blood between us. I'm still adjusting to working with those of other races and backgrounds, but I swear I will do my part when it comes. I simply ask that you be patient with me, particularly, ah, during the---training process." She flushed, looking straight ahead.

Bae kicked her own barebacked horse (she'd removed the saddle, though she did tie the bags over after asking if it would be okay), coming alongside her cousin. She gave Rilryne a slight look, though it was possible that the other drow was considering that all behind them. Just acknowledging or changing the conversation would help. honestly, people made things so difficult.

I'd ask that you not reveal it until she does so, or circumstances mandate, the druid thought, feeling again for that mental link. She is trying... though perhaps more lessons in humility would be wise. The biggest spider learns from the tiniest of flies. She paused, considering. Have you heard of a drider? Drow bodies atop spiders, strange creatures. I always thought they were particularly attractive. Another beat. I suppose that's odd... but then again, we are having a conversation through a mental bond and not telling the rest. I should tell them, right?

 

[KnightofLight]

"If you'd like to learn you'll find me a gentle teacher. Unless you prefer it rough Chastity."

He kept that same smile upon his face as they got on their horses. It was teasing but that was part and parcel of who he was. He loved moments like these where he could simply speak and act without worry about being misread in a major way. This was a bunch who seemed to think along similar lines whether they wanted to or not. Still, he was quite pleased with the way things were going talks of war aside.

"If this plan works there will never be a war. Simply a task done with only a few bards to tell the tale somewhere down the line."

Kar'zah smirked more to himself than anything else. While he didn't mind a war his people had been mired in them entirely too long. It led to destruction rather than building. Chaos rather than order. He would resist the urge in his orcish blood to go to war in favor of something more lasting. He nodded again at Rallathia's words and then moved beside her at the front of the group cementing, in his mind, his position as someone with a measure of authority.

Rilryne rode and listened. It wasn't that she had nothing to say it was more that indulging this sort of raunchy conversation would only push her to act and she suspected that not all of them would be ready for her to indulge in her passions at the moment. So she merely nodded and followed their leaders.

Seten smiled as ever when the response came. Bae had taken to this rather well.

I am familiar with the concept. Unfortunately at this time I can only shift my body to a shape similar to my own. I cannot simply become a drider yet. However, if you would like something exotic that would require only a shift of my lower half rest assured that I could accomodate a number of different...sizes and shapes shall we say.

Seten chuckled a little under his breath.

You could tell them but where's the fun in that? Let the possible princess think she's free from worry. I don't plan to sow discord among the group. As it stands all I'm getting is interesting thoughts from you and Chastity. Everyone else is rather mission focused unless the conversation forces more to the front of their mind.

 

[darkest_fate]

"Wow, you make this sound really fuckin' borin'," drawled Chastity, leaning forward on her horse. This was not how the stories went. They'd probably leave this out. No, wait, it would be a sentence: and the incredibly sexy Chastity and her various harem rode boldly into the night... well, actually, Rally made a better heroine, with Chastity more as that sexy side character that everyone liked better anyway and got all the fun scenes.

Ah, fun: I am still quite concerned about the mission, like I said. The Drow are always trying to be on top, but it doesn't make any sense. The world's too filled with things for anything to be on top. Even the highest predator on the chain can fall to a lucky shot, or to disease, becoming dirt for the ants to consume. It all passes in a great spiral of existence, time marching forward, but also inevitably spiraling backward into the repeated cycles of seasons, magic and nature and the gods going on forevermore.

"The Drow have a stick up their collective tight bums about order and organization," offered Bae as they rode. "So that means we'll need to make sure we've got the hierarchy in place. I mean, I guess me and Ril-ril could be on the same level, but it would be awkward unless we try to pass me off as a priestess, at least... I think that's what they were called?" she pursed her lips, before sighing. "I really don't remember all that much about the details and stuff. I just know people yelled at me a lot when I didn't do what I was supposed to," a beat, "or what I was supposed to," she looked out into the woods for a moment, enjoying it.

"Is there anything else we should know before we get into lands where there may be danger?" asked Rallathia. "Regarding the situation ahead or even one another," she turned slightly, looking at the gathered party. They were motley, certainly, but they at least looked determined. Well, Kar'zah and Rilryne did; Chastity fidgeted, Bae looked everywhere but at the party, and she was fairly certain Seten was outright staring at the various females. Rallathia sighed: this was going to be a long journey. At least it would only be a few more hours' journey until they reached the entrance to the Underdark. Of course, there they'd be in a great amount of danger, and they would have to strip Rallathia of her weapons, armor, and possibly other... things.

The ride should be uneventful, at the least. The ranger kept the area cleared with regular patrols, though it was possible one may raise from below the surface.

 

[KnightofLight]

"Sometimes things are boring. I somehow doubt this will. You don't take apart a drow slave trade without a good story or two."

Seten smirked as the sentence played across Chastity's mind. He leaned back in the saddle as they road. He noted Bae's thoughts and she was, to some degree right, but he didn't share the exact same phliosophy. Still, he wasn't here to wax poetic too much so he merely nodded idly.

Very true. I find that life might well be a cycle where a stray shot can remove you, or anyone, from it. With that in mind I've always strived to enjoy every second of it to the maximum.

"From the few I've met, present company not included, I'd be willing to back that statement. Drow from the Underdark have a thing for hierarchy and screwing each other over. The legends and stories are pretty clear about that."

Seten considered what he said to be quite true.

"She's right. One of us will have to be the leader of the group. We can decide that later though perhaps after letting the night pass before we enter the Underdark. I don't think either of us would pass as a priestess so we will need to get some thought in about this. It might be as simple as which of us is older or it could simply come down to a matter of strength. Given my martial might they might assume my dominance to some degree over her druidic arts."

Rilryne laid out her case rather simply but didn't push for answers now. There was no need to rush deciding on a hierarchy right this very moment. Kar'zah merely stayed silent on that matter since he knew little of the drow society beyond what Seten had already mentioned. When there was the matter of anything else that needed to be mentioned before they went further Seten smiled.

"Ah, I suppose I don't know when it will come in handy but it is worth noting that I am capable of talking telepathically. Just in case someone gets seperated I might well be able to find you and keep you in touch. A useful gift I've found since I can't speak every language but most people don't realize they're talking in their head."

He didn't come out and say he was reading thoughts but he was curious to see their reactions. Kar'zah grunted in annoyance at the revelation. His thoughts were his own and if the half-elf thought he was going to influence him then he was in for a world of pain. Rilryne, as before, kept her mind mostly blank of surface thoughts. Monk meditation made her likely one of the most skilled at keeping her thoughts to herself especially once she was aware someone might be reading them.

 

[darkest_fate]

"This may sound bad, but that's why I hired you specifically," offered Rallathia. "We needed a drow, ideally a female, who was willing to help lead this little expedition, and I wanted someone who wouldn't mind potentially disrupting her society. Baeeyl, as wise as she is, wouldn't pass for a leader among your stringent people, but you would," she gave the other female a nod of respect. "I'm nominally still the one who makes last calls," she held up a hand, "I'm not trying to set down a law, but this is my responsibility in the end. I'll cede to you, particularly when there's someone around," she twisted, looking to the rest. "Objections?"

"It all makes sense to me," offered Bae, shrugging. She supposed she could offer more argument, possibly jostle for a position herself. But she knew they actually wouldn't respect her powers. They hadn't then, insisting that she attempt to focus her efforts toward their spidery ways, or to pray to Lolth. The spider goddess wasn't bad: she was, you know, related to spiders and all, but she was still rather a little destructive and controlling for Bae's tastes. That and she'd just about gone through the entirety of her knowledge of Drow politics with that last statement, and she really didn't want to reveal that her knowledge ended there.

Ask her about how they took care of their spiders, on the other hand...

"Can we focus on th' whole, this guy can' bleedin' talk wit' 'is brain thin'?" asked Chastity, pointing to Seten. "Kinda feels like tha's a big thin', idn't it?" she looked around a few moments, before leaning toward Seten, nearly falling off her horse, saved only by a remarkably strong set of thighs and obvious good balance. "Can ya bleedin' read minds too? Wha' am I thinkin' of righ' now," she narrowed her eyes, and, possibly in an effort to throw him off, wasn't thinking about her hot elf slave or the weird sexual dynamics of the party, but was instead mentally reciting one of her favorite tavern songs, about a particularly altruistic hero known as "The Bluejay."

"C'mon, mate, use yir bleedin' brain powers on m'noggin!" Her eyes narrowed, trying to shoot the thoughts at him louder or faster, but not in the artful way that Bae, who clearly knew and understood how telepathy worked managed.

 

[KnightofLight]

"No, I understand the reasoning. It's sound. Part of the reason I left the Underdark was because of their misguided thoughts on power. They would never see Bae as someone with abilities worthy of their respect. I, however, have seen what a druid can do. We would be wise to lean on her skills when we're there. If she can even turn some of their spiders against them then we will have an incredible advantage."

Rilryne nodded her head towards Bae. She knew, as someone whose skill was marked but considered lesser by the drow that she was in much the same boat. It was merely a matter that her own prowess was much more outwardly noticeable and especially now that she'd honed it more. Bae seemed rather fine with the arrangement but likely would have wanted more for herself. If she was a drow even a little she would crave some kind of control even if she escaped that life. It was part of who they were. Still, she nodded towards Bae as a sign of respect among drow.

"I concur with the assessment as it stands."

Kar'zah didn't feel a need to add more. His position was what it was. Injecting more wouldn't achieve anything.

Seten, however, smiled as Chastity focused on him. He raised his eyebrow as she spoke and nearly fell out of her seat. With a little I'll talk with you again in a minute perhaps message sent to Bae he connected himself to Chastity's mind.

Interesting tale to tell there. I've heard it before. Sadly I don't find it nearly as interesting as all the things you were thinking of doing to those elven slave boys you were going to rescue and then enjoy.

He smiled at Chastity.

Though I do adore the way you think.

 

[darkest_fate]

Hearing an assessment of her abilities laid so bluntly like that gave Bae pause. She blinked, again tilting her head just a little to the side, clearly needing a new angle to view the stern monk. "Perhaps you have taken the better parts of our people, cousin," she said, before nodding. "I mostly took the spiders," she gave a smile, before focusing back on her mount, though her gaze flicked to the monk, curious. The others all made varying degrees of sense: balance, family, conquest, arousal, but was was Ril-ril's driving force? Competition? Hopefully she didn't see Bae as one.

At least there didn't seem to be much of that going on between the other members of the party. Bae almost sighed, leaning back a little on the horse to look skyward. Playing the peacemaker was exhausting; animals were just so much easier on the whole. She closed her eyes, listening to the steady clop of the horses' hooves, the distant calls of birds, letting her senses spiral out into nature and just---

"Oh my gosh, you can read minds!" yelled Chastity, pointing. "That is---wow, I always read that was a thing and--" she giggled, giving a little wiggle on the saddle as she realized that reading minds meant he'd read all those dirty thoughts she'd had. Chastity immediately returned to her earlier vision of a particular half-elf in scanty slave garb. He wore merely a brilliant purple cloth between his legs, with only enough fabric in back to hide where precisely his asshole actually was, but leaving that butt on display. A smooth chest had just a few pink lines on it, indicating maybe a little whipping. Chastity had imaginary Seten suddenly holding a whip, which he stretched slightly, as if looking at a particular onlooker.

He might regret sharing that.

"You---" began Rallathia, before taking a breath, "should have told us a little earlier, but I suppose you didn't want to share when ears could overhear, or perhaps you simply wanted to unsettle us a little. If so, well, done," she allowed, gesturing, though she looked around. Chastity seemed mostly thrilled by the situation, and the druid just seemed confused as to why they were even discussing it. Rallathia wasn't sure about the other two: the monk was hard to read, and she still couldn't quite let her gaze linger overlong on the half-orc. She kept imagining all the stories she'd ever heard or read, how... how rapacious they were, particularly around elves, and it made her nervous, particularly when her mind returned to those earlier words: you will likely be forced to service us to prove that you are tamed.

No, focus on this issue. "We should be able to use that to our advantage, for certain," her brow furrowed, and she felt a little of her natural curiosity rising forth, perhaps pushed by a desire not to linger on earlier thoughts: "Is this through a regular use of a magical spell? Or has perhaps some being granted you this power?" She tried to recall if she knew of any gods or goddess that would grant abilities. Oghma, perhaps, or maybe Savras... or is there some other being that would grant such abilities... mayhaps he earned it himself?

 

[KnightofLight]

Rilryne was a skilled warrior. Assessing others was one of the few drow skills she had maintained at a sharp level. While most of that was meant for sizing up potential rivals that was not always the case. While she respected Bae's skills it was not a skillset she wished to fight. Her blade was honed to ight warriors. Her skillset was very different and while a fight would be useful for learning it wasn't the kind of sparring she wanted. So she could afford her the respect she deserved. The monk looked forward taking calming breaths and especially after the loud tiefling spoke up.

Seten smiled at her as the visions and words flowed into his mind. She had pointed him out but there was no avoiding the issue now. It would be fine as it always was. Those who knew would just be more careful. He smirked looking at Chastity though as he looked at her vision. He responded with a vision of his own showing her slowly bending over and presenting herself. Rather than being whipped by Seten, however, she was given a spanking. Her body rocking with every resounding smack to her butt even as she bit her lip seemingly enjoying it as she wiggled her ass at him and asked for more. He met her eyes as the vision played out proving that two could play at this game.

"If I had told you would you have taken it any better. You asked if I had anything more to hide and so I revealed it. In the spirit of honesty."

He nodded to her. Kar'zah sighed.

"So long as you remain out of my head we will be fine."

"Oh, don't worry, I won't remain there. Not enough of interest there."

The half-orc scoffed at that and looked ahead.

"Ah, that's a secret I'm afraid. Suffice to say it isn't a spell though I can cast spells. It's more a part of who I am now."

Seten tilted his head looking at the wood elf.

"Though I suppose I did find a few strange altars as a child so perhaps I am blessed by the gods."

He shrugged as if to say who knew. Rilryne, stoic as ever, didn't care much. He could do what he could do. If he presented himself as a threat she'd kill him and if he was reading minds, and he was, he would be keenly aware of that.

 

[darkest_fate]

Chastity took in the delightful counter vision, wincing slightly as the imaginary tiefling took a few blows to a cute bubble butt. For not having really seen it bared, he'd gotten the details remarkably right. Though, it wasn't like the shorts hid all the much to the imagination. The tiefling didn't just smile: she could feel herself grinding a little on her horse, feeling some warmth gathering there. If they were going to just be riding, she could continue the game, right? The conversation almost never bothered her, and she was kinda curious if she could tease Seten enough to actually do something.

So she pictured herself, dressed in strange, loose garments that vaguely looked like the illustrations she'd seen of pleasure slaves in harems. needless to say, it did little to hide the tiefling's impressive curves. The thin fabric even let one see the dotting of slight starry freckles across Chastity's breasts, a little secret she usually kept, and confirmed that there wasn't a speck of hair between her legs... though it proved just translucent enough to prevent him from seeing all the details there.

She knelt before an image that looked like a drow-ized version of him, with a pretty impressive cock. Said cock was between her lips, which drooled spittle all about, the girl seeming to almost gag on it. A hand on her horns showed why, as they thrust her head down onto the thing with each movement...

Bae thought she heard some awkward shifting along with the conversation. Curious, she looked around, noting the way Chastity's eyes locked on Seten, and noting the half-elf's condition in return. Ah, right, they'd found that out. And no one who dressed like the tiefling would have but one thing on her mind. she surely must be a virgin, just as surely as the princess. Virgins so often acted like this: either desperate or too reserved. they really needed the freedom to understand their pleasures.

Bae sighed, looking to the others as they spoke. "I'm sure there are great battle plans and prayers to your god---um,---Torn?" she offered, trying to sooth what she thought were hurt feelings.

The evasive response likely meant that the arcanist was a warlock, or possibly a wizard from a distressed order. "Part of who I am now..." so not a wizard, perhaps a sorcerer? A sorcerer or a warlock... which meant that Rallathia now traveled with two drow (though she wasn't sure Bae counted), a greenskin, a horny devil teenager, and a warlock. "This has to be a test," she muttered under her breath, fighting a sigh. still, she felt that niggling curiosity; she'd have to observe him closely, see what made his magic work, how quickly he got it back, and, well, if he used eldritch blast.

"Well then, is there anything further that anyone wishes to share? Or questions?'

"I can turn into a giant poisonous snake," offered Bae calmly. There was something in her smile that suggested that she figured they all knew that.

At least it made Rallathia smile for a moment, fighting the urge to offer up more prayers. She'd need them to get through this group.

 

[KnightofLight]

Seten was more than happy to play that game with her. She seemed to react wonderfully to the vision put before her. He could see her grinding a little in her saddle. It seemed he was right in his assessment of her. She was eager. Soon her own response came with a vision of her clad in harem attire. Little details of her body added from her own memory rather than him assuming and guessing. He smiled at her as she moved to her knees before a drow version of him. A dark elven cock springing free and her kneeling. Her head bobbed along the vision's length as she looked up at him. This version of him had grabbed her horns and was forcing her to take him deep. He smirked at her.

A fun game. Are these your plans for tonight?

He looked back at her for a moment and then used a little magic to create a little sound for Bae. A whisper that would be only loud enough for her to hear. A minor illusion like that was easy enough to craft.

"Our little tiefling has such wicked thoughts. Perhaps you'd like seeing what wickedness is in this mind."

Once that was done he smiled at Chastity. The vision shifted but not greatly. The vision of him pulled Chastity's head back by the horns and lited her up. With a simple command the vision of Chastity smiled up at him and lifted her top just enough to slide his cock underneath and into the valley of her breasts. In the vision she bounced her breasts along his cock, licked at the beads of pre-cum from his tip, and cutely begged him to cum on her face. What would be unexpected as him using Mage Hand. It was a simple spell and he let the mage hand rub her side gently and slowly as it moved up from her side to her stomach and teased moving towards her breasts.

Is this what you desire Chastity?

Rilryne was increasingly aware of the tension forming between two of their party, perhaps three, and she slowed her horse to give them a little room. She listened and actually chuckled too at Bae's words.

"I imagine you can become a great many more things that that. A useful skill for scouting and more no doubt."

She nodded.

"I, for the record, am capable of great feats with my ki. Most of them relate to fighting as you'd expect but exceptional feats of athleticism are not beyond me."

Kar'zah nodded rather ignoring the two mentally talking ones.

"My powers are divine, as you know, and my skills mainly reside in crippling or smiting my enemies though I can heal if we come to dire straits."

The half-orc looked towards Rallathia.

"Is there anything further you wish to know? You reacted poorly to my God. I understand that but we are supposed to be working together. If you have questions I think this would be a good time to ask them."

His voice was still gruff but they were meant to be a team. He would not be weakened by attempting to hide anything. If she asked a question it would only be right to answer her.

 

[darkest_fate]

Wickedness? For a moment, Bae wondered if she needed to be concerned, before realizing that he meant a sort of sexual desire. She almost laughed at that. As if she couldn't read how a body reacted naturally, particularly such an animalistic creature. No, the harder ones to read were the stoic ones up front, who seemed to be keeping all their desires locked up tight. Bae found them a little more interesting, but...

Are you inviting me? I would be more than willing to watch, she thought, almost more considering to herself. It would be a rather interesting coupling, would it not? Someone is going to have to begin training, but you may want to check with the others first... including the tiefling herself. What we imagine and what we want are sometimes different.

Watching a vision of herself, one done increasingly more accurate, kneeling before that same drow, her tits out, ready to go, made Chastity shiver slightly. She bit her lip, her tail flicking for a moment, delight rolling through her body. She started her own next imagining: the drow reaching down, pulling her up, his cum still decorating her tits like further stars. Hands dug into hips as he pulled her needy sex--- but before that could be fully realized, Chastity felt something caress her.

She giggled, squirming a little, feeling the shiver of delight that came from such caresses... and from tickling. Of course, usually people didn't tickle her impressive bust, or at least, not like this. Chastity just let herself enjoy it for a few moments, before remembering that she could sent back, almost as if editing. So, with a wicked grin, she almost imagined looking over her own shoulder right now. A hand trailed downward, teasing her belly for a moment, before dancing around her waistband.

And just as she sent that, Seten would feel something pinch his butt. You ain't th' only one wha' has th' mage 'and goin', sirrah.

"I have found my abilities useful," offered Bae, still continuing the conversation, while almost acutely aware of the flirting going on around her. It felt almost unfair that these three more buttoned up individuals didn't, but perhaps Chastity and Seten were enjoying their secrecy. "Oh, and I still have some native drow magics too." She shrugged, knowing that even her cousin, martial as she was, would have those.

Knowing what they could do would prove vital to battlefield success, and to passing themselves off as legitimate, to be sure. Rallathia nodded as they explained, before sighing. "I have heard, been taught, that Torm is a god of tyrants and despots. He is known for being rather powerful, and I know that not all who wield a god's power necessarily follow them precisely." Oh, she was trying, biting down what she truly felt: that he was a green skinned barbarian who worshiped and evil god. Not exactly the most diplomatic thing.

"I'm sure you shall be quite powerful and follow your word to the letter."