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The Elven gift Silvamoon & Flassche

DamianRuyin

DamianRuyin

Star
Joined
Jul 26, 2010
The soldier scurried towards the now opening door as he stumbled inside, quickly glancing from left to right as he stood frozen in place, his mouth hanging open. In front of him were the most powerful men in the Empire. He stood there for a second until a herald approached him, he exchanged a few words and quickly left the room again. The herald stood erect as he cleared his throat. "Your highness, High generals" His voice was clear and well practised, it cleared the large room without effort. "May I present, Lancius Odesian Valerian. Heir to the throne" He bowed gracefully and stepped back in line.

Boots hitting the stone floor where heard in the distance, as a few soldiers looked towards the door. A tall youth appeared, 6"2 at the age of seventeen was something else even in the Valerian blood line. His chest was erect as he moved in long strides, his short dark brown hair dancing because of the movement. "Father.... Generals" He said, his words polite, yet carrying a sharpness within. He glanced across the room from left to right, and back again, his bright grey eyes flickered in the light. "You summoned me, father?"

He took his place next to his father as he smiled, his gaze fell on the map, it displayed the western realm, formally known as the To'ra's region. He looked to his right and smiled to the general in charge of the enslavement division. "I take it the last of the To'ra's have been captured or killed?" He spoke lightly as if it was common to discuss enslavement or murder, hey exchanged a few words as he was brought up to speed of the situation. The Empire had utterly destroyed the To'ra and captured all of its lands, only small pocked off resistance was still being offered here and there. The To'ra lost heart last month when their elven queen was captured, rumor had it she was captured alive and brought towards court. Lance and the generals exchanged worried glance as the emperor pointed at the lands beyond the elven region, unknown to them. The Valerians where an ambitions bunch.
 
In all of her 3500 years of life, Maewyn had never been as angry or as fearful as she was currently. She wasn't fearful for herself, however, she was afraid what would become of the race she had formerly been Queen of. The To'ra were a mostly peaceful race of elves, but when provoked they could be vicious. In this horrible coup she had done all she could to save her race, but since humans procreated so quickly there were just too many more humans than elves to put up any sort of resistance. Maewyn had been hopeful that at least some of her race would survive and go into hiding, but since she had been captured the past month and had spent time in the presence of the soldiers she knew for certain there was little hope.

After the initial waves of attack that wiped out the majority of her people the rest of the elves had gone into hiding, small groups doing the best they could against the larger human army. Maewyn had retired into hiding herself, only taking a handful of her most trusted guards with her. For a few weeks she had thought they were safe, until that one fateful night when a small scouting group of humans had discovered them and slaughtered her guards. As a woman and the queen she had not been taught to fight officially, though she did know a little hand to hand combat. It of course wasn’t enough to defeat the plethora of humans, and instead she had ordered them to kill her so she could join the rest of her people. Unfortunately for her the royal gown and crown she still wore gave her station away, and instead of killing her the group of soldiers had captured her.

That was a month ago, and from what she had understood they were taking her back to the person who ordered the attack in the first place. The Elven queen was happy, for once, to get the chance to see face to face the person who had destroyed her whole life. Perhaps she could even get in a few words before they killed her. The long month of travel had given her a lot of time to think, as well as a lot of time to get scratched up. Her once splendid gown was now torn in a multitude of places and stained with mud, her auburn hair was windswept and tangled and her normally pale porcelain skin was littered with bruises when the soldiers would get a little too rowdy. Although she looked like a defeated queen, on the inside she was brimming with ire.
 
The war council was almost over when Lance exhaled. "I.. Suggest caution father. This last war has spread our forces thin, perhaps we need some time to gather our numbers again?" A small smile appears on his fathers face as he places a hand on his shoulder. "In time lad. I agree with not going on another full out war, but we must begin scouting for new opportunities." The youth nodded and they proceeded with the war council. After half an hour a large nod is heard on the large oak doors.

A herald quickly enters the door and rushes to one of the generals side, whispering some words. "Ah.. my liege, I have the honour of bringing you these gifts." The doors open wide and twelve soldiers enter the room, armed to the teeth with blunt weapons and iron chains. Between two soldiers are prisoners. two male elven warriors, two elven girls, a little elven boy, and a elven woman. The general smiles as he nods to the soldiers. The rough hands force the six men and women to their knees.

The Emperor and his son stand up and move towards the six prisoners, inspecting them from head to toe. "Well, Lance... What do you think?" The boy stares intently looking at the sullen mood of the prisoners, only one really looks deviant. "you there.. " The boy speaks as he points at the Elven female, "Name, rank, occupation and age" His voice strict and commanding.
 
As queen Maewyn had powers above and beyond the normal elf, mostly centering around nature and the manipulation thereof. Unfortunately for her the human soldiers were ready for that, and had snapped a pair of iron shackles around her wrists as soon as they were able. The tough metal sapped her abilities, leaving her only with the little physical strength she possessed. On their journey she was joined by two elven soldiers, two young girls and a small boy. Her heart ached to think of their futures, and she had promised herself she would try and bargain for their freedom if she had the chance.

After an eternity of traveling they finally reached a fortress, and the queen assumed this was the end of the road for her. She set her resolve and mentally promised herself she would do all she could for her fellows, until they ended her life. It was humiliating for a queen to be marched into a room like the prisoner she was, but Maewyn held her head high and met the eyes of every man in the room with her deep violet irises. Briefly she resisted the calloused hands that forced her to her knees, and she was the last to submit after a moment.

When the richly dressed older man and a younger man came to inspect them, she kept her chin high and defiant until they reached her. When the younger man addressed her she sneered and defied him. “Who are you, boy, to speak to me like that?” She hissed, malice in her tone. “I assume it was you who ordered the destruction of an entire race.” Instead she addressed the older man. “I hope you and your descendents die a painful death.” For such a peaceful and immortal race it was one of the strongest oaths she could speak.
 
The Youth showed no sigh of shock as he was addressed like this. He mealy glanced at the prisoner in front of him. His father laughed out loud as he padded his son's shoulder. "feisty one isn't she." The emperor moved in front of her, and grabbed her by the front of her shirt. He lifted her up with his powerful arms and stared in her eyes. "Mind your tongue in this court, or I shall cut it out" He threw her back on the ground painfully as he stepped back, and moved towards the war table, grabbing a small goblet of ale. He nodded to his son to continue.

The youth smiled as he neared the two elven girls. "If what we hear is true of elven age, these will make a fine price in the slave market as whores, Just imagine being reduced to a whore, each day, for centuries. They will learn to love it. And the boy." He grinned as he grabbed the boy by the hair and grabbed a knife from his belt.. "I suppose I should end his life, just to be merciful" The young human notices the shock on her eyes as he grins.. "Name, Rank, occupation... And be quick about it" His knife slowly draws blood on the side of the neck, the boy starts whimpering as a small trail of blood runs downwards.
 
Maewyn’s gaze was hard as she watched the two men in front of her, and although outwardly she showed no change of emotion on the inside she was surprised when the older man laughed. This wasn’t a laughing matter! How dare they treat her like this. She was fuming, and it showed. During the journey the once rich fabric of her gown had frayed and torn so much at the bodice that her breasts had almost been visible, so she had pilfered a shirt from one of the men that now kept her covered up. This was what the man grabbed when he lifted her up, and even though he threatened her she still kept the defiant glare in her eye.

Under any other situation she might have responded to such a threat, but instead she kept the wince off her lips and ignored her throbbing knees as she was dropped. With pursed lips the queen watched the young human approach the two elven girls, her anger rising again when he spoke of their future. While she wasn’t happy to hear about it, she was spurred to action when the youth picked up the young boy and put his knife to the poor thing’s neck. With grace she rose to her full height, almost 6’ and glowered. “I am Maewyn, the Elven queen. Now unhand that child before I make you.” It was an empty threat with her wrists still shackled, but she hoped the shock of revealing her rank would make him drop the boy.
 
The boy grinned as he withdrew the knife and let the boy fall to the ground, sobbing quietly. He stood up and towered the female elven queen, grinning he turned around, his cloak whipping against her face as he walked towards his father. His father handed him a goblet as the both drank deeply. "I take it our business is done here?" The emperor asked, already knowing the answer. His word was law, everyone in the room knew this. He stood up and used his powerful voice. "The boy shall be raised in servitude as a house slave, if he shows skill, he may live - if not.. The Ore mines of Ter'asha" He glanced at the boy and heard him weeping louder by the second. "They." Pointing at the two male warriors. ".. shall be send towards the Ore mines, providing they shall not offer resistance, otherwise give them to our physicians, to hone their skills upon." He lifted his goblet to his lips and drank deeply again, his eyes a bit blurred from the heavy drinking. "The whore's to be shall be brought to my chambers, I shall instruct them in the ways off the court" He laughed as well as the rest of the court, The elven captives looked terrified, their fates decided by pubescent drunken men.

The Emperor moved with a steady pace as he turned around. "My son, I leave the spirited beast to you, see If you can tame her" He waited for his household guard to accompany him towards the door. "We shall discuss how we shall divide the lands an populace tomorrow, I bid the a good day gentle men" He turned his back on them as he walked out the door, his hand up in the air as he waved. The generals in the room clicked their heels together and saluted. "Sire!" they said in one voice.

Lance finished his goblet as he finished cleaning his knife on a table cloth. "tssk" he said softly as he turned around. He nodded towards the soldiers to proceed as he walked towards the two holding his 'prize'. "Take her down to the chariot, and let my man servant escort her to my estate, let him take 20 soldiers as a precaution. He knelt before the the elven queen as he placed the blooded table cloth between her breast. "A reminder of your place in this world, do not tempt me." His eyes cold and calculating. "We shall talk further soon" He stood up and motioned for the guards to take them away.

Lance threw his cape back around his broad shoulders as he checked his leather and chain-mail armour for flaws,it was a habit of his in battle- and stuck in his court routines as well. After toasting a short while with the generals he made his way to the door, his man servant following him, informing him about the situations of his estate and populace. He would arrive in his estate in four hours, by then the queen should be fed and cleaned by the maids. He tried to picture her in regal clothing before he laughed out loud. The whole idea was preposterous, tree-huggers looking regal.
 
The poor child’s sobs echoed around the chamber noisily, and Maewyn felt her despair grow as the helplessness of the situation made itself very apparent. Clearly she was dealing with barbarians here, and in her gut she knew words would solve nothing. If she had an army behind her they maybe they would listen to her speak, but since they had already killed off her race that was impossible. The queen fought back the urge to huff as the human boy stalked off without a word, and she did not flinch when the edge of his cloak brushed her cheek. Within a moment she had wrestled away from her guards and rushed over to the young elven boy, enfolding him the best she could in her shackled grasp.

The child cried into her arms as the older human decreed what his job would be, as well as the stations for the remaining elves. Maewyn felt heartsick at the terror on the elven girls’ faces, and her mind raced for something she could do. Sex was supposed to be a pleasurable and fun act, not meant to be degrading or fearful. “Wait. Wait!” The queen finally found her voice just before the Emperor walked out of the door. She continued to clutch at the boy and didn’t move from her spot, but her voice was powerful. “I am Queen of these fair people, and I would like to bargain for their freedom…” While she had not thought the man would be happy to speak with her, she had not expected his brazen disregard for her when he did not even stop walking and continued out of the chamber.

Maewyn bit the inside of her cheek to stop from shouting out in anger, the hopelessness of the situation threatening to overwhelm her. For 3000 years she ruled as Queen of the To’ra, and in a few short months she was reduced to this, a warprize meant for a human boy. With steady violet eyes she watched as the youth approached her, and did not shy away when he threatened her. Instead of yelling her voice was quiet, snapping with the anger she was keeping bottled inside. “You disgust me. I would rather be dead then spend a day in your presence.” If all else failed, at least they could have the courtesy to kill her instead of keeping her alive and prolonging the torture.
 
The boy and the queen where dragged off as the nobles and generals laughed at the sight. "Pathetic.. Tree huggers... nothing but whores" These words where thrown towards the prisoners as they where dragged outside. The soldiers where rough in their treatment, any hesitation was met with a fist in the ribcage, or a kick in the shins. The ragtag group where pushed outside and guided into separate carriages, the elven boy had to be forced off the queen as they threw him in a separate carriage. "Hold your tongue, whore" A soldier spoke as the queen wanted to speak up. He dragged her to the carriage and threw her inside.

She was forced in a seat next to two armed guards, they held the iron chains, and wore no weapons, in case she made a dash for them. In front of her was a thin man, he had a shaven had and the deepest blue eyes a man could posses, he smiled gently as to calm her. His whole expression was flawed, he tried to calm her, yet he only gave off death and coldness. "I take it thou are the fair elven queen". His eyes examined her as if she was cattle. "Mewyn, or Maewyn right?" He held his fingertips underneath her chin as he lifted it and guided it to the sides, examining her bruises. "O pardon me, Where are my manners" He leant backwards and grinned. "I am Eldric, family retainer of Lancius, heir apparent." He looked outside the carriage as he spotted the elven boy, "Me and the lad will be spending a lot of time together, perhaps even daily." He noticed her eyes widening as he said this.

"But I am sure we will get along splendidly, after all your represent the elven race, so we will act accordingly". He tapped against the side of the door, the carriage began moving, Slowly at first - but increasing speed by the minute.
 
All of her words fell on deaf ears, the ringing laughter of the rest of the men in the chamber sure to haunt whatever tortuous nightmares that were to come. The queen and the boy were dragged outside, and she couldn’t help but put up a little fight. She was the queen afterall, she couldn’t just go quietly. While being dragged she jerked and pulled against the men, but it only resulted in a smarting blow to her ribs and spine. Maewyn gasped against the pain but didn’t cry out, also briefly thankful that they did not bruise her face anymore than it already was. Her heart ached when the small boy was pried out of her arms and and she snarled an elven curse at the soldier that dragged her away.

As much as she wanted to kick and scream and carry on, she knew it would do little for her situation except to give her more bruises. In the carriage now she was wedged between two burly men, the iron chains they held clanking and jingling ominously just like the shackles that bound her hands. The man opposite them was clearly of some importance, but the queen didn’t even deign to acknowledge him until he touched her. Angrily she yanked her chin out of his grip, her gaze poisonous as she dared him to touch her again. “Only barbarians such as yourself would not know the ruler of the race you have destroyed.”

Oh, how she wished they would have just killed her when they killed all of her guards. She would not have to deal with the humiliation of being a prisoner and knowing the fact that all of her loved ones were dead. As she man spoke she catalogued facts, noting that the young human that had threatened her was named Lancius..and that the elven boy would be at the same estate? Her eyes widened in surprise at this, and she felt a burst of happiness that perhaps she would still be able to shield the young lad somewhat. The carriage lurched forward now, and she turned baleful eyes upon Eldric. “Somehow I doubt your hospitality.”
 
The man smiled as he noticed her expressions. He lifted his left leg and crossed it over his right knee. "Now then on to business" Grabbing a leather-bound book, he opened the locking mechanism and flipped through the pages. Using his long delicate fingers he began scribbling away, asking questions here and there. During the entire carriage ride, he questioned her about her former position, accumulated wealth, foreign lands, he even went as far as to ask for her sizes. The man simply smiled as the girl refused to answer, or curse his entire family. After two long hours the carriage stopped in front of the mansion, it was an old keep, now refurbished into a more 'delicate' design. The old defensive walls where still intact, and a large moat surrounded the area.

They stopped in front of the keep and the soldiers escorted her out. "This way please" a young and gently voice said, as a young lady opened a large wooden door. She was short and had long black hair, her skin was brown- and had a delicate look to it, she appeared to be around the age of fourteen. The soldiers escorted the servant and the queen up the stairs and through a maze of corridors, finally coming to a halt in front of a wooden door, two sentries where posted at the sides, clad in plate-mail. The servant led the group inside and closed the door behind them. The soldiers did not speak a word as they removed the chains around her wrist and quickly left the room. The servant brought up 2 chairs and a small dining table, she then disappeared. A few minutes later she came back, humming a small tune, as she placed a bowl of fruit in front of the Elven female. "Please.. eat"

The room was large but well decorated, it was kept in a clean state. The windows where barred with thick iron rods, and the door consisted of 2 locks. The servant smiled gently as she cleared her voice. "I.. I am Amelia, I am a servant of the Valerian bloodline, and have the honour serving you for the time being" She kept her head down and did not stir.
 
Maewyn knew this journey, and the rest of her time as a captive, was going to be extremely hard to get through. Idly as the carriage moved she wondered why they hadn’t just killed her, and she could only think of a few reasons. Perhaps humans thought it was good sport to keep her alive and watch her suffer? Elves were a mostly peaceful race, so drawn out torture was something she was blatantly unfamiliar with. Earlier the Emperor was speaking about acquiring more land, so perhaps they thought she knew information that would help them out? Unfortunately for them her lips were sealed on that matter. Why else then would they wish to keep her captive? She would long outlive any human they sent to guard her, so it was only a waiting game for her. Then again.. for years there had been rumors circulating that elves knew special herbs and potions that could keep a person young forever, maybe that’s what they were after?

Whatever the reason, the queen was jolted out of her thoughts when the irritating man began to question everything about her life. Alternately she stayed silent until he got to a particularly invasive question, after which she would swear at him in the human or elven tongue. Humans were barbarians through and through, and Maewyn hoped to escape as soon as she was able to. After an eternity of time spent in the carriage, the elf was almost happy to arrive at their destination. She was quiet as the soldiers lifted her out of the carriage, and instead of more soldiers to greet her she was surprised to see a young woman standing there. Auburn eyebrows raised in surprised, the queen was led through a maze of corridors and into a large and clean room.

What surprised her even more was the fact that her shackles were removed! They had been her constant companion for nearly a month, and to prove it the skin of her wrists were bruised and raw. Tentatively rubbing the irritated skin, Maewyn glanced around her new quarters as the young servant hurried to and fro. When a bowl of fruit was produced the queen actually smiled, and drifted over to the table. “Thank you, child.” All she had been given to eat lately was slop, and although her body had always been an hourglass shape lately she was looking a little thin. Picking up an apple from the bowl, Maewyn acknowledged Amelia. “Tell me Amelia, just exactly how long do you think you will be serving me?” She hoped to hear anything about her future.
 
The young lady smiled gently as she heard her name being spoken. "How.. how long?" She contemplated the question and her answer as she looked at the elven queen take a bite out of the apple. "As long as is necessary my lady" She stood up and walked towards a large dresser, it was old antique even, she slowly undid the locking mechanism and slid open the doors, she moved her hands inside and slowly grabbed a few clothing items. "These seem to be your size, I hope I guessed correctly" She bowed as she place the items on the table in front of the queen. "I hope these are to your liking, I was not told of your taste or your..." she blushed as she whispered. "form" She stood up and folded her hands. "My lord has instructed me to help you strengthen and get cleaned. I can prepare a bath for you, and even accompany you, if you so desire" All the time she remained polite and showed no signs of emotion.

An hour passed as Three knocks where heard on the wooden door. Amelia moved towards the door and spoke. "Yes... hmhm.. I understand. Yes I will" She returned to the princess as she folded her hands again. "I have been informed that My lord wishes to speak to you now, to.. discuss the current arrangement" She bowed as she blushed. "They..The soldiers.. Requested that you should be shackled again, in case you tried to.. escape." She stared at the floor as she moved her left foot gently. "Would you be willing to cooperate? I beg thee"
 
How she had missed the simple pleasure of eating an item grown out of the earth! Elves ate relatively simple foods and dishes, and the heavy porridge and stew the soldiers had offered her had not sat well with the queen. Just the simple bowl of fruit raised her morale, if only slightly. Maewyn was not surprised that the servant could not help her, it wasn’t the girl’s fault of course. Without replying she finished her apple and watched Amelia fetch a pile of clothing, a smile finally curling up on her full lips. “Thank you child, I appreciate your thoughtfulness.” Easily she sorted through the pile, picking up petticoats and a plainly embroidered dress. “I think these shall do nicely, and a bath would be wonderful.”

Although she wasn’t happy to be a captive, she would not take out her frustration on a servant. Maewyn had had her maids assist her in bathing all of her life, so she did not order the girl away. Elves were not ashamed of their bodies like some humans seemed to be, and it was a very pleasant experience to have the girl wash her hair. After stepping out of the bath she got dressed, only needing Amelia’s assistance to lace up the back of her gown. It seemed no time at all had passed before there was a knock at the door, and the queen’s good mood slowly deflated. No doubt she would not like what was to come. The serene look on her face faded as her lips thinned at the request, but Maewyn nodded. “Of course I will cooperate child, lead the way.” These humans were barbaric, and she didn’t wish the girl to get in trouble if she resisted.
 
The soldiers entered the room and noticed the Elven queen in the gown, one of them actually blushed by the sight. Clearing his throat the other man stepped forwards. "I see you are willing to cooperate?, tsk.. fine" They led the queen between them as they exited the door, they closed the door behind them and moved in the direction of the light at the end of the corridor. They went this way for five minutes. Amelia was busy explaining the way the city was build, the history, customs and a hundred other things, all at once. She stopped talking when one of the guards explained how much force was necessary to decapitate a servant girl. Standing before a large room the guards stood at the side, Amelia whispered "This is the lord's chamber"

They pushed open the doors in front of her as she made her way inside, a second later a dull thump was heard as the doors where shut again. She now stood in the private quarters of Lancius. It was specious, filled with armour standards, hunting trophies, maps and and old tombs. Most impressive of all was the large window at the end of the room, it almost covered the entire room and illuminated the room. Lance was sitting half on his desk, his arms folded. At first she did not see him, as the sudden change in light blinded her. "Welcome" he said slowly, his voice still sharp and cold.

His leather boots scraped across the marble floor as he straightened up, not wearing his chain-mail any more, he was now dressed in a grey sleeveless tunic. His well trained arms where across his chest as he was staring straight at her, his eyes met hers as he smiled. "I see that captivity has not diminished your grace" He gestured to a small wooden chair on his left, as he moved towards it. "Let accusations and our past out of these walls for today, I am offering my ear if you are willing to set aside your hatred towards me, at least for this meeting" He took a seat and filled his and her cup with a fine wine. A drank deeply as he closed his eyes.
 
Under the proper conditions and with the right tools, Maewyn was radiant. During her reign all of the elves raved about how she was the most beautiful queen ever, how none could compare to her. Most of it she took to be stroking her ego, but she certainly was beautiful. Hair the color of red autumn leaves hung down to her hips, usually bound by a circlet or crown was now plaited into a plain braid that hung over her shoulder. Under her gown the pale flesh of her midsection and legs were discolored and bruised, but since the fabric of the gown kept her modestly covered the only bruising that was visible was the faint purple shadow over one cheekbone. The gown, although plain, and although she was thinner than normal, was clearly meant for a smaller woman. Therefore the bodice was tight against her chest and torso, before flaring out slightly around her hips.

The queen ignored the soldiers, not deigning to speak with her jailors as she was led down a corridor. Indulgently she listened to Amelia prattle on about the city and the history, though at one man’s threat to her she reprimanded him. “Do not speak to my maid like that sir, or I shall have you removed.” Her words were sharp and scathing. Maewyn did not speak again until they reached a set of doors, and silent still she walked inside until the door shut behind her. Pausing to get her bearings, the elf squinted in the sudden flood of sunlight and after a moment could make out the younger man from before sitting atop a desk.

Lancius, she recalled his name being, was staring at her. So, the queen met his gaze squarely. Even when he smiled and complimented her she remained motionless, not moving to take the proffered chair. Maewyn waved away the wine and crossed her arms under her chest, glancing out the window longingly before turning back to the youth. “You say you are offering your ear, but I doubt you will do anything to help my people. So what am I really here for?” Her voice rang out melodiously in the space, not loud but not quiet either.
 
Lance met her gaze as he inhaled. "let us speak plainly then" He leant against the wooden furniture as he placed his right foot on the other. He was quiet for a few seconds as he tightened his left hand and relaxed it. "Let us face facts, we conquered your race utterly, what resistance you people could offer have fallen to the blade. Our forces outmatched yours by at least 5 to 1, and our losses where few. We have without a doubt won" He let the thought sink in before he continued. "This land, this empire is ruled by the Valerian's - has been for the last 15 centuries. I am Lancius and hair to this empire, I am responsible for the genocide to your country by blood, not by act." He stood up and grabbed his drink, placing his lips on the cup, he tasted the sweet wine. "In the eyes of my people I am still a youth, I have had no command in the war with the elves, nor have I fought with one." He started to move towards the desk as he placed the cup on the wooden desk.

"You hate me for my heritage, you despise me because my father gave you to me. I.. I can understand that you harbour these feelings, and I will not try to persuade you otherwise. I find my self in a position of power, I hold not only your life, but the life of your people in my hands. I could remove the females from my fathers circle, and buy the elven warriors from the mine." He let the thought dwell for a second as he stared at her, he thought hard while his eyes imprinted her perfect form.

"I believe myself nor evil nor good, I only act in my own and my country's best interest. I need things to strengthen my position, bargaining chips in the court."
He walked towards her and placed his hand underneath her chin as he lifter her chin up, staring deep in her perfect eyes. His fingers where powerful, he held her chin gently but he could hold his fingers in place if he wanted it "I suggest a trade, I will personally guarantee the safety of the elven adults, and possibly freedom to the elven boy, If.." He let the words linger. "If you swear to submit yourself to me, and only me. I desire your knowledge of the land and history, as I do of your own being" He let go of her as he moved towards the desk and sat down. "What say you, lady Maewyn "
 
There was clearly no love lost between them, and clearly Maewyn was not happy to be in the position she was in, but she didn’t rule a kingdom for 3000 years without gaining some wisdom along with the post. If he wished to speak or give her a proposition, she would listen. Arguing would do her no good, except to perhaps anger him and make her situation even worse. So listen she did, only wincing slightly when he detailed just how much of a victory his kingdom had over her’s. In silence she watched him enjoy his wine, listening and pondering on the facts he brought up. While it was true she hated his father and his heritage more, she would not forget how he held a knife to the elven boy’s neck.

Maewyn was standing a few feet away from the desk, but when Lancius mentioned freedom for the other elves in her party she took a step forward. Clearly, this was a subject she wished to discuss. “Freedom, you say?” Finally she speaks, knowing he will explain just what he wants in return. It was always a trade off with these humans, they never do or give something without wanting something in return. When he approached her and lifted her chin up she met his gaze with no fear, the thoughts in her head churning quickly. “So you wish my knowledge and wisdom, as well as my body?” She cut straight to the point, not wanting to dance around. This was her chance to bargain, and she was not going to waste it.

Watching him sit down at the desk, she took another step forward but did not sit down. “Obviously you know what I want my people freed, and I am prepared to give a lot for that to happen.” She paused, trying to organize her thoughts into a cohesive unit. “Why do you wish for me to submit? Would not it be easier to simply torture the knowledge out of me?” There was a small hint of malice in her tone, but the queen was trying to stay diplomatic. “I will only agree to trade my knowledge, if you will surely free the elven boy and the rest of my people.”
 
The young man sighed as he walked around the room. "Alas it is more complicated than that, while I can make life better for your subjects I cannot free them. My fathers law decrees all elven born to be enslaved, unless trained from childhood." He grabbed a small note and glanced over it. "The youth can be set free, if given an education and position in the keep, In time he could make his own path. The others I am afraid would remain in captivity, the environment of their captivity is something I can change, even make bearable"

He thought for a minute as he kept quiet, after a few minutes he spoke. "I could arrange the elven girls to be kept in your presence, to serve you as servants. That would be the extend of my power in court" He smiled slowly as he walked towards her. "Yes I desire all you have to offer, you can increase my standing in the realm and relieve me of my urges." He grinned as he took in her body once more. "You have been with men before so this won't trouble you to much."

"What say you to my terms?" He asked, his tone cold and demanding. "If you refuse, I shall not force myself upon you nor torture you for the information, yet I shall not lift a finger for your people" he turned around and placed his hands on the table. "speak"
 
Even as she spoke a plot was beginning to form in her mind, something devious that would solve all of her problems. Once Lancius agreed to free her people, Maewyn would play the part of being submissive and obliging. After enough time had passed that she could be assured her brethren were safe, she could stop the charade and stop helping him. The queen didn't mind if he killed her after that, as long as she knew she had helped some of her people out. Her morale was improving as she though up the plan, but just as quickly as she had thought of it he poked a hole through it. He could not free the elves, and therefore if she were to stop cooperating they would most likely be in an even worse position than the first time. Melancholy filled her momentarily, and she couldn't help but echo his sigh. "You're sure you cannot have them smuggled away?"

The Elven queen was cheered a little to hear the young boy could have a good future, but now was the time to negotiate for the girls and the soldiers. She wouldn't mind having them as her servants, at least that way she could shield them. "I would be pleased to have the girls as my maids, however I also wish my soldiers to have posts here and not in the mines." While she spoke it was hard to ignore the way the youth was looking at her, and also his abrupt changes in mood. To test how far his demands went, she glanced up at him demurely and then looked away. "What if I have never been with a man? Would you defile me in such a manner?"

That was a blatant lie, as the queen had had many lovers during her reign, but she wished to see just how far she could push this human youngster. He says he would not force himself upon her, but the look in his eyes says otherwise. "I say that we need more negotiation."
 
The boy's expression did not change during the negotiation, when he heard her speaking of defiling her, he did not stir. "It would depend on the results of our negotiations" He paced around the room casually, not demonstrating an inch of feeling pressure. "The maids I can guarantee, they pose no threat to our national defence." He walked towards her again, stopping a few feet in front of her. "I can transfer the males to the diamond quarters, it would still be a rough life style, but there would be little violence or hostility directed towards them. A servitude of 25 years usually means freedom, if they work hard. That is as close of freedom as they can get"

"That is all I can do, a lord of the court cannot be seen as a 'smuggler'. Understand that I am only negotiating because of your value to me. If you would continue to stalk me with demands, I would be forced to re-evaluate your worth." The man closed the distance to the queen and towered over her, his posture was tense, his expression showed signs of agitation. "You have 5 minutes to decide, after that time, I will be forced to act as if you refused the request" He stepped back and moved over towards the wooden desk, taking his seat behind it. He let his elbows rest on the wooden surface, as he peered into an open book.

Lost In thoughts, the boy wondered what choice she would make, he needed her sure, but his pride would not allow her to deny him. Should she refuse, he would dispose of her, send her to the soldiers quarters. He began to read the text in front of him. It was a collection of the War with the elves, he wanted to know as much as possible, from both points of view.
 
The important thing to have while in negotiations was a face blank of emotions, and it seemed they were evenly matched. For the most part, anyway. Lancius did not react to much of their conversation, but on occasion she could see a flicker in his eyes and could tell by his pacing that he was becoming impatient. That was one thing an elf, having infinite time in front of them, had a lot of. If it was a waiting game between them Maewyn would surely win, but she knew it would never come to that. “I can assure you that my men will not pose any threat to your kingdom, once I command them to stand down. As for smuggling, do you not have any special confidence with anyone? Surely you could pay someone to do the dirty work.

Perhaps he thought with her guards close she would try and escape? It was a nice plan, except for the fact that no doubt they would all be wearing some sort of iron on at all times. Without their full abilities it would be suicide to try and escape. The queen was not surprised when Lancius tried to intimidate her, but the centuries old elf did not back down. “You are just a baby, compared to my longevity. I understand you need the knowledge I have, so forgive me if I do not believe your threats.” Maewyn watched as the youth seemed to get lost in a book, but she believed he was more likely to be lost in his thoughts.

Walking over to the large window, she gazed out at the grounds longingly to pass the time. She was not worried that he would harm her, perhaps foolishly. He said that if she refused he simply wouldn’t help her people, but if she didn’t answer would be see that as a refusal? The queen would find out shortly.
 
The youth remained patient for the duration of the time, he used it to clear his mind. He thought of her words as he dissected them carefully, while it was true he needed more power, knowledge was not the only way. "one minute left" he casually commented as he flipped another page. The page he was reading described elven battle tactics, the way they seemed to disappear in a forest. He studied the handwriting and recognised the scribing of a uncle of his. He tried to memorise the words and finally he closed the book. All of his actions where controlled as he stood up. He carried the book towards a shelve and gently placed it inside, sliding the cabinet closed again afterwards.

He turned around and made his way towards the queen as he grabbed both chairs and placed them back in position, on the way back he removed her cup and placed it next to his own. He spoke not a word during this time. "The five minutes are up" He stated as he walked towards her. He noticed the defiance in her eyes as he walked casually. The moment she opened her mouth to speak he attacked - His fist hitting the area just below her chest. He felt the wind leave her longs as he grabbed her by the throat and threw her against the desk.

"Guards!" he shouted calmly, within minutes the two man stationed at the door rushed in. "Find the Eldric, and tell him he can do as he wishes with the boy, I have no further need of it" He turned around and heard the soldiers rush outside. "I needed your knowledge because you know the lands surrounding your former country. I would use your knowledge to further my position in court when we invaded them." He looked at his fist and tensed it again, He used his other hand to grab the fabric of her clothing and force her upright again. "I can further my standing with the soldiers, by offering you as a play thing. You would last for a long time. The men would love me for it, cheer my name. To be in the good grace of the army is another way of gaining favour in the court"

He used his other hand to grab her throat, using is thumb to press against her throat. "DO NOT TEMPT ME SLAVE" He let her drop to the floor as he turned his back on her, moving towards the door. "In a few seconds my guards will 'escort' you to the guard barracks. I house over two and a half thousand men. I advice you to get used to some... attention"
 
Maewyn truly thought that this young man would back down and give into her negotiations, so therefore she didn’t comment on his countdown. There were at an impasse for the moment, and the queen was content to look out the window and dream about the life she would never have again. It seemed he was not willing to give up the stipulation about her body, but it would be worth it if her soldiers were given a nice post and the elven girls came under her protection. Even more so she was glad that the young elven boy would have the chance to receive and education and make something of himself. While the elven women dreamed about the future she was unaware of Lancius’ actions, not noticing how he tidied up his quarters.

She became aware of his presence again when he announced the time was up, and she turned to address him. “Well—“ The queen was cut off by his sudden attack, the hard blow of his fist into her upper abdomen releasing the breath from her lungs in a whoosh. Maewyn struggled to draw another breath, but it was difficult with his hand grasping her throat. She managed to draw half a breath as she hunched across his desk, her formerly calm violet eyes brimming with anger yet hiding the physical pain. This was not what she had expected to happen, did he not promise to let her alone if she refused his bargain? She drew a quick breath in when he called for the guards, and released it in a gasp of outrage when he told them to dispose of the young boy.

The Elven queen struggled to sit up on the desk, not paying attention to how he would have used her. She did begin to listen, however, when he lifted her up by the bodice of her gown and instead threatened to send her to the guard barracks. “So humanlike, to just throw me to the dogs.” Her tone was disgusted, still defiant in the horrifying face of her future. “You mean to tell me your soldiers, despite their low post, have no honor? That they would defile the Queen of another race?” It was a horrible fate, one that would help none of the surviving elves. Whatever she was going to say next was cut off when he tightened his grip on her throat, and then she fell to the ground with a low thump. Glaring at his back, she spoke again. “I refuse to go. I will not be abused in such a barbaric manner.”
 
The youth walked towards her and raised his hand, with the backhand he slapped her against her cheek, reddening it. He pulled her upright again and struck out again. "Squire" He shouted as a young boy around the age of 12 came running in. "Who is this?" The boy looked at the woman on the floor as she pulled herself up. "An elven captive, sire" He smiled as if he had preformed a great task. "Is she a queen?" The boy shook his head furiously as he looked down at the elven queen. "No sire, she is not. The elven slave have no queen, nor an country" He stood erect again as he awaited further orders. Lance took of his signet ring and threw it to the boy.

Take this to Eldric and tell him to take the elven boy outside to the execution block. The boy's eyes shoot open wide as fear struck him. "E... El... Eldric sire?" Lance nodded as he placed his hand on his shoulder. "Have heart boy, the man will not harm you" The boy saluted as he ran out of the room, echo's could be heard throughout the hallway as he sped off. Lance turned around and walked towards a dresser, pulling out a thick grey travellers coat. He flung the coat around his shoulders as he fastened them on his tunic. He moved towards the elven queen as he began to speak.

"What race.. you are of a different species. Our rules do not apply to beast, nor do they to a people utterly crushed." He grabbed her by the hairs as he pulled her upright, letting go of her hair he pushed her towards the door. "Last chance, submit and the boy shall live.. Speak another word besides Yes, and I will let Eldric the butcher loose upon his tendons, as my father wanted me to do earlier.
 
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