ROLEPLAY HQ - core-memory

A knock echoed from the door, filling the silent void of the large room. Freya awoke from her slumber in a disgruntled manner, immediately peering out the dark window. What ungodly time was it? Why was she being awoken at this hour? A knock came again, this time louder, she jumped slightly, shaking her head and trying to awake from her groggy state. “Who is it?” She called out, and was immediately met with a response. “It’s General Cain, miss. Your father needs you in his quarters immediately.” The voice replied. General Cain? What would the General be doing here at this time? “Okay!” She called out, stretching slightly before she pulled the warm covers away from her. She swept her legs off the bed, placing her feet on the cold wood floor and standing up. She grabbed her gown, pulling it over her shoulders and tying it over her torso before stepping into a pair of slippers and exiting her room. She walked down the quiet halls of the manner towards her fathers quarters as she spotted a clock. “4:40 in the morning” she said in disbelief and she rounded a corner and walked the final straight away to his quarters. What could possibly be needed at 4:40 in the morning? She opened the door softly and stepped into her fathers quarters, the room was already filled with various people. Her father stood above a table, his brow furrowed as he looked down at whatever he was working on, he was surrounded by the General, and various other high stature people in their community. “Yes?” She spoke clearly as she closed the door behind her. Her father turned away, his look of dismay immediately faded away as it was replaced by a smile when he saw his daughter. “I’m sorry to wake you so early my dear, but there is something I needed to inform you of.. it could not wait.” Her father began to go into explicit detail of the war that would be starting come sunrise. Tensions had been building between Virie and the mercantile family that travelled the kingdom. They had never seen ey

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e to eye on things, had disagreed about prices, and trade routes, and all sorts of things, but had managed to work together despite their differences all this time. “This would be foolish.” Freya spoke as her father finished. “The Xlyvire’s run the trade route in the city. They’re the head of commerce, going to war with them would be the end of us receiving supplies and goods, not to mention that they more or less own the routes of traveling, getting in or out of the city would be impossible.” Her tone was calm but stern, she knew all together that going to war with the group that ran the market in the Kingdom was far from a good idea. “Do not fret my angel.” Her father spoke lowly, “For this will be a short and simple war, one will we rein victorious of, and then we can create a commerce that better suits the Kingdom.” Freya shook her head, she understood the frustrations her father felt, she felt some of them herself, but surely war wasn’t the answer. She opened her mouth to speak but was quickly cut off. “We’ve tried to speak to them, we’ve threatened war and they still won’t back down. They’ve called us on our bluff and now it’s time to take action.” General Cain said, his eyes were stern, and Cain and Freya’s history was vast. He knew what she was going to say, he knew that she’d try to communicate her way out of any issue, so he shot down her idea before she could even state it. “They are businessmen, not solider… let me speak with them.” She pleaded, she knew many of them well from their years of working together, she was certain she could get through to them on the matter. Her pleads were useless, they’d already made up their minds and set out their plans, but that didn’t mean that Freya wasn’t going to be involved. She knew she needed to work quick. @PhoggyΨυχη

Alwin sat in the council room as the other merchants of the Xylvire Clan. While it was led by his father and other members of his family, many families existed under the umbrella. Though they had less influence and power, they were allowed to have some say - or at least offer suggestions - in the day-to-day operations of the merchant guilds. For his part, Alwin was not paying too much attention. He was reading a book of some sort, or at least pretending to. This whole thing was a sham. These merchants were all idiots. Only his family knew what was best - not because of some misunderstood sense of importance. Rather, they knew what exactly would happen if they did not have a run on the markets and the trade routes. It was more than business. It was magic. Ancient. But the Xylvires wouldn't let anyone know about it. They couldn't tell anyone, lest they start an uproar. As it stood now, though, the Emrys were about to bring war to their doorsteps. "...so what is the point in the war?" Alwin asked, his face still hidden behind the book. "They try to wrest the trade routes from us and then they unleash- pandemonium?" He caught himself on the tail end of his sentence. "We've set up the trade routes strategically. We have strategically set up our relationships with vendors and sellers and the Emrys think they can just... slip in there?" He rolled his eyes and set the book down. His father was not here, per usual. He was technically the head of the family in his father's stead and was supposed to be leading the meeting. Everyone had been arguing before he spoke up. "Here's what's going to happen: they are going to try to wage war on us, we're going to react defensively- not fighting back, and the kingdoms will see how we are being attacked unprovoked by the Emrys as they seek to undo the centuries of trade that have been established across the country." Alwin stood up and rubbed his forehead. He looked over at one of the young women in the crowd - a young female dwa

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rf; she was a representative of the adventurer's guilds. "Let's have adventurers start to acommodate them at the traders along the routes to keep them safe. Once the Emrys attack, and they will attack, we will start to set up outposts and checkpoints. This will inconvenience the traders and the kingdoms by slowing down trade. However, it will be a necessity. This will make the Emrys out to be the villains they are." His strategy was sound. Of course, there would be immediate losses; there always were, but this wasn't their first time dealing with something like this. He wasn't sure what the talks above his head were. That was, between his father and the Emrys, but they had apparently fallen through for one reason or another and he was left to handle the mess that had fallen into his lap. "Apparently, an emissary of the Emrys Family will be here soon. I'll greet them and let them know our intentions. You are all dismissed," Alwin waved his hand and sat down again, grabbing his book. As everyone left, now he would just wait. @idgafashlee

Freya sat back, closing her eyes for a moment as she played back through the conversation in her head. The gradual bumps of the carriage ride soothed her mind as she breathed slowly. This was all a feud between two families, nothing to rage war over, and if she could just convince the Xylvires to see their side of things, she was hopeful everything could be resolved without conflict. She repeated the conversation over and over in her head a million times, making sure she best understood her father's wishes, whilst also keeping her kingdom's best needs in mind. The carriage began to slow to a lull, the clatter of the wooden wheels creaking to a halt on the gravel road. Freya slowly opened her eyes, letting out a soft sigh and then gathering her belongings from the carriage. She slowly stepped off the carriage, grabbing the carriage driver's hand as he offered it to her to get out. "Thank you again." She smiled, pulling a gold coin out of her pocket to tip the driver and then turning towards to building. She was greeted by friendly faces, but none familiar, as she walked up to the door. She tucked her hair behind her ears as a passer-by recognized her, offering to lead her to where she needed to go. She gladly accepted the gracious help and followed the man down the corridor, arriving at a large wooden door. "I appreciate the help," she said with a small smile before turning and knocking softly on the door. She felt a mixture of nervousness and confidence, she'd met Mister Xylvire many times before, and she knew she could reason with him and come to an agreement much kinder than war. She was ready to settle any old family drama and finally put differences to rest with the leader of the Xlyvire Clan. @PhoggyΨυχη

Alwin hadn't exactly been expecting a young woman to show up. To be fair, said emissary was most likely expecting his father. The elven man thumbed through the pages of his book before setting it down again. As normal as it looked, it was his own personal audit of their operations. Who did what, where they went, and his personal review of them; he studied them all and made adjustments where necessary. The woman, however, was an unknown quantity. She seemed to have some affiliation with the Emrys Family, but Alwin couldn't be bothered to keep track of every little name in the kingdom. He only kept notes of the ones who mattered, and, as of right now, he was unsure if she mattered or not. Her entrance was not grand. In fact, it was more courteous and respectful than he would have thought and irate noble would enter. "If the Emrys are trying to send someone to seduce me or as a present to get us to agree, you may run on back and tell them I am not interested." @idgafashlee

As the door opened Freya was slightly shocked at the man standing on the other side of the door. This was not the man she remembered as the leader of the Xlyvire Clan, but seeing as some time had passed since she'd seen the clan yet, she shook things off, figuring that this was his secretary or something. War was at stake and the leader couldn't even give the Emrys family a moment of their time to try to settle things civilly? She stepped into the room with only one thought in her mind, resolving this madness. She opened her mouth to speak but was quickly cut off by his introduction. She listened to the words that left his lips and fire ran through her veins, clearly this was some kind of joke? Who did this man think he was? An audible scoff departed her lips as her eyes narrowed and her head shook in a displeased manner. "I am Freya Emrys, daughter of Allanon Emrys, rightful heir to the throne of Virie" she snapped back sharply, she was not here to play games, and she was certainly not here to be disrespected. "You know, you shouldn't assume that every woman you encounter is just here for the utility of servicing you through sexual pleasure, some of us are running empires. Now where's the leader of the Xylvire's Clan? I have no time for this nonsense." The interaction was already off to a rocky start at best, only moments ago she'd stepped off the carriage after a lengthy ride, and with tensions high and the threat of war inching closer, the last thing she needed was some commoner referring to her as a gift. She now understood why the two families had been feuding since the dawn of time, if these were the type of people the Xylvire's let represent their clan, they may be far beyond saving. @PhoggyΨυχη

"Running them into the ground, more like," he scoffed, rolling his eyes. He reclined in his chair with an air of superiority and apathy. Why should he be cordial to the family that was threatening war? "While my father is away, Freya, I am the leader of the clan. You would do well to remember that, as I am making the decisions in his stead. I care not for thrones or titles; what I do care about is what you have come to offer." He picked up his book and drew a pen from his pocket before writing in the ledger. "Your family has already threatened war— unprovoked, might I add. If you have come to throw more wood into the fire by threatening me, it will not work. We already have our plans in motion to counter your banal attempts at a coup." He had little patience for people this like; if she was a supposed heiress, then she should hold herself like one. Instead, she seemed like some petulant child who had never been told 'no.' @idgafashlee

She bit softly on the inside of her lip, having half a mind to tell this jerk exactly how he felt about his moment, but she kept her cool. She now more than ever understood why their families had feuded for so long, it was evident that this family knew nothing of basic human decency and respect. "Unprovoked?" She raised an eyebrow, so much for a leader. "It seems in your father's time away, he's left you in the dark..." she shook her head displeased. "My family went to your father with a simple proposition some time ago. We want simple things, an extra day with your vendors in Virie, to not always be the final stop on your route, but your father felt our requests were blasphemous." She sighed, directing her eye contact away from the man as she wandered the room momentarily. It seemed that disrespect wasn't the only admirable trait of the Xylvire clan, but also disorganization and miscommunication. With her back still turned to him, she let out a small laugh, "I believe his exact words were 'I'd go to war before with Virie before I went out of my way to help you lot', so do not be mistaken in believing we are unprovoked." She turned back around slowly to face him, her eyes narrowing to meet his. "I would like to re-discuss the proposal my father brought to yours. Civilly." @PhoggyΨυχη

"Is that what you heard?" He rolled his eyes and stood up. "Well, Freya, why don't you tell the traders that have been attacked, injured, and killed by your kingdom for refusing to ally with them." He rubbed his forehead and sighed loudly. "Your kingdom's rising taxes make it impossible for the vendors to make a reasonable profit in Virie. It's, what, twenty-two percent now? We don't decide how long these vendors and traders remain where they are. They all have the freedom to go where they wish; we mandate the routes, make sure the prices are consistent and fair, and ensure their safety on the routes... well, we were able to ensure safety. Hired guards can fight mercenaries and bandits, not trained royal soldiers." She was naive if she thought this was only about trade disputes and money. His eyes closed as he did his best to keep his composure. "How much do you really know about the trade routes? Why they are so important? Why they do not change? Your kingdom did not ask for simple trade adjustments; your family wants to take over trade for the entire country. Though, I doubt it is only about trade." @idgafashlee

She had heard enough of his insistent complaining about Virie, he had clearly formulated his opinions on her family and she had made her's on him and his. "Show me the trade routes then." She took a few steps closer to him. "If you're the master on the trade routes, if you have this understanding and knowledge that no one else does, then teach me." She moved her hand to tuck her hair behind her ears, he was right that she didn't understand the trade routes, certainly not to the degree in which he did. "Change is a good thing, the kingdom is progressing and the trade route should progress with it. We have no desire to take over the trade for the whole country, only to improvements be made for the better of everyone." Her voice for soft and calm, she did not come here to fight she came here to speak, to understand, and to find agreement. "So show me the trade routes, that shouldn't be too difficult, no?" She placed her belongings down on the ground beside her, doing another small glance around the room and giving the man a moment to take in her offer, but she wouldn't be taking no as an answer. "So when do we leave?" @PhoggyΨυχη

Alwin wasn't about to go out on the trade routes alone with this woman, especially knowing what their soldiers were doing. "We're not leaving. I'm not going anywhere. Not yet." He deftly strode across the room to a large credenza. His hand gripped the knob, turning it in different directions a few times, before pulling it open. Large scrolls adorned the shelves, wrapped in dark red ribbons. He ran his hands along them before plucking one out and closing the door. He set the scroll down and unraveled it. On it was an ancient map of the country, perhaps thousands of years old. While the locations and kingdoms were in different places, the trade routes were in the same location. "Your family—and all of the other ruling families in the country—are precisely aware of why we run the trade routes. First, we have no allegiance to any kingdom. Our trade routes are not restricted and we cannot be bought or bribed to prefer one kingdom over another. Second," he paused and waved his hand over the map. Green lines of light flowed along like veins, running under the trade routes and kingdoms. "The trade routes follow key leylines in the country. We maintain, monitor, and protect them. This prevents any one kingdom from acquiring or starving magic from the other kingdoms. Of course, that is not the only reason why the leylines are important, but the other reasons are for more pointy ears," he winked, tapping the tips of his elven ears. "So, we will not roll over and allow anyone else to control these trade routes and leylines. Our family has been the protectors of this land long before the kingdom of men and we will be here long after." @idgafashlee

She slowly lingered behind him, taking a few steps after him as he plays with the door knob and revealed the various scrolls, she took a step out of the way and he unraveled the scroll to reveal a map. She stepped in once more, looking over the map. It was old, tattered, and definitely outdated, but she could make out most of it. She stepped in closer to him, peering over the map and studying the lines, trying to understand what all of it meant. "My family is not the only family with offers of improvement, I promise you. A frequent topic of council meetings is the trade routes, the complaints people have, and what they'd like to be seen done differently. I understand you guys are likely doing what works best for everyone, but that doesn't mean it couldn't improve." Her voice was kind, just offering advice as opposed to judgment. She listened carefully to what he had to say, taking into consideration his experience in the matter. Her eyes lit up as the lines of the map glowed green, she traced the lines carefully with her eyes, trying to gain a better understanding of it all. "Our intention has never been to starve anyone of anything. I assure you." She truly just wanted to strategize, to find a better way to make things run smoothly, Virie had always been willing to offer help, the Xlyvire's were just never willing to take it. @PhoggyΨυχη

"We cannot veer off from the trade routes." He stated plainly. "More than that, it involves more than just our family. The other merchant families are getting greedier... antsier. We do a fine job in keeping up with the inflating and deflating market, but they do not like having a regulated market." Alwin rolled the map back up to stow it away. "You say that your intentions are good and pure, yet your soldiers attack the vendors and merchants on the trade routes. You are not the first to threaten to take them from us and you will not be the last." The odds were that his father had explained this to them as well. Alwin had been but a boy when his father had told him of the importance of the routes. "How much do you know of guardian spirits, Freya?" @idgafashlee

"My soldiers certainly should not be attacking vendors and merchants, but if there is truth to that statement we'll know soon enough and put an end to it." She didn't love what he was implying, but she knew deep down that there was a possibility of it being true. Virie was one of the most thriving kingdoms in the country, it was growing rapidly in population and strength. She couldn't help but wonder if the growing strength of their army meant room for corruption to leak in through the cracks. Perhaps it was time to thin the troops. "I do not want to take for your clan, I want to find a compromise." She reiterated, she was persistent on them finding a way to all work together. "I've heard about them over time, why?" She asked curiously, it seemed more than ever that he wasn't interested in listening to her or working with her, but instead continuously explaining to her why her family was wrong and his clan wouldn't change their ways, but she'd play along for now. @PhoggyΨυχη

"They live along the leylines. They protect the trade routes from monsters attacking. That's why the only thing vendors need to worry about are the bandits and mercs. However, the guardians are unique and each has a pact with a different merchant or vendor. A pact that we facilitate. A pact that will be broken should someone else intervene." He crossed his arms and turned to the young woman. "No system is perfect, but this is as good as it will get. It's an extremely delicate balance and your kingdom threatens to destabilize it." The only way he could see things working again was if Virie backed down. His people were often trampled on by humans, but his father and his family remained as steadfast and strong as possible in the face of opposition. "You may not want to take for our clan, but your family certainly does." Alwin walked to a desk and opened up a drawing. Casting his arms around a large set of parchments, he carried them over and threw them into the table. "First, there was three offer to buy the whole trade system from us. Then half. Then a third. Then threatening us. Then telling us that we would be met with force if we did not comply. We've been receiving these for years. I'm more so surprised that your kingdom has the foolhardy bravery to attempt this. Surely they know the other kingdoms won't sit by and watch." @idgafashlee

"You're correct." She said with a simple nod, "Other kingdoms have offered to help." She said plainly, he was foolish if he truly believed that Virie would do something to blindside the Country as a whole. "But it shouldn't have to come to that." She stated once more, it seemed that he wasn't understanding what she was saying, or maybe he simply wasn't listening at all. She didn't want war. She was doing everything in her power to stop the war, but she couldn't do it alone. "I understand that you believe the trade routes are as near perfect as they'll ever be, and maybe they are, but just show me. Take me." She persisted in her desire to physically see the routes in their entirety, to better understand them so she could best make offers for improvement if there were any. "I'm certain that if I have a better understanding of these routes I can make this whole issue go away. If I see areas where improvement is possible, I'll share those ideas with you. If we finish the route and there truly is no room for adjustment, I have enough insight to go back to Virie and explain that to everyone, to stop any chaos before it ensues." Her voice was pleading, she knew that seeing things for herself was the only way it would truly all make sense for her. "Here." She stated, walking closer and putting her finger on the map. "This is where we are currently, roughly." She drew a small circle with her finger on the parchment paper, "Where does the route generally begin for you?" @PhoggyΨυχη

She was persistent. More than most, in fact. "Fine. Fine. If it will get your kingdom off of our backs and you out of here, we will visit the routes. But, first, you need a guardian spirit of your own. Otherwise, you will attract monsters to the leylines and draw the ire of the other spirits." He held out his hand and a small, green ball-like flame appeared. "This is Kofuku. He is a spirit without a pact." He let the small ball of energy float over to Freya. It circled her for a moment before shooting into her chest, vanishing. Alwin pulled his hand back and the spirit exited. "It is now bound to you. He's not very strong, but maybe you will be able to compensate for that with your stubborn iron will." He lifted the parchment and stowed it in his bag. "We may leave out of the guild hall and make for the road. The first trade route is on the way to Elysia. That will be the best way to reach the others." @idgafashlee

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She smiled at the small ball of radiant light, watching it carefully as it floated over to her. "Hello Kofuku." She said softly as the energy floated closer to her. A small gasp escaped her lips as it shot out from her hand into her chest. She quickly spun around, looking for the ball of energy before releasing that it had vanished inside her. She was momentarily mesmerized, hearing about such things but never truly experiencing such a phenomenon. "How long will the route take? Start to finish estimate preferably." She asked curiously as she gathered her belongings off the ground. She needed to send a message home, letting her father know how long she would be. "I should probably let the kingdom know how long I'll be gone and exactly what I'll be doing, that way they realize that any attack against the route is an attack against me." She knew she was simply buying time, the longer she was on the route and away from Virie, the longer her father and General Cain had to bide their time and wait to begin any wars. All of this time would give her time to think, time to figure out how to convince her father to stop, time to figure out if Cain was to blame in all this, and how to overthrow him if he was the mastermind behind this unnecessary war. @PhoggyΨυχη

"You're essentially asking how long it will take to cross the country," Alwin replied with a hint of frustration in his voice. "A few months? This is not a simple task if you're wanting to see every trade route and experience everything there is to see in the various markets." To him, this seemed like a waste of time. But the longer he entertained this... princess, the more it would defer any potential conflict. "Whatever the case, make sure you're prepared before we go. I will need to requisition a few things as well as confer with my guardian spirit about the stability of the leylines and if there is anything I need to do while we are visiting them." That was one benefit. While his father was off who-knows-where, the leylines needed to be observed and tended to. That part along would take a while as each required an incantation and a ritual that he was less-than-enthused to do. "I will need to make sure we have enough money to pay our way through the trip as well, unless your family is willing to divulge the kingdom's resources to this diversion." @idgafashlee

"Months?" she muttered lowly under her voice, not realizing it would take that long but not wanting to back down now. "Let me just prepare my things," she said with a small nod and walked back out to the carriage. She grabbed a small piece of paper, and a pencil to write out a note to home. "Head back to Virie and give this to my father." She said softly as she folded up the paper into a small square and handed it over. "It's of the utmost importance that my father awaits my return before making any moves, it could mean my life." She looked into the carriage driver's eyes, assuring her understood before he verbally agreed. She gathered her extra belongings from the carriage, she'd packed enough for roughly a week, but she'd make due for the month. She waved as the carriage took off, making its journey back to Virie with the news of her adventures, she'd bought time and postponed this silly war if nothing else, and that she was proud of. She walked back into the building, with a small huff, placing her things on the ground beside her. She had no idea what this journey would offer, but she knew she'd gain valuable insight regardless of the outcome. "Ready when you are." She spoke after softly clearing her voice, she wasn't sure how thrilled her company was to have her along, but she wouldn't let it bother her. "Though I believe I should know the name of my travel companion before we begin, as you haven't yet mentioned it." She added the two had been arguing for quite some time now and he still hadn't formally introduced himself. @PhoggyΨυχη

"Yes, months..." He said, eyeing her carefully. "Did you think that a trip across the country would take a few days? Hours?" Alwin was not regretting this choice yet, but this girl was definitely someone who could test his patience. His guardian spirit was wary of this trip, though he found it quite humorous that Alwin had given Freya someone like Kofuku as her guardian spirit. Alwin had requisitioned a few specifics that would be awaiting them when they reached their steeds. As she came back in, he noted her huff. "Don't get tired on me yet, princess. We haven't even started the journey." He tossed his own bag over his shoulder and motioned for her to follow him to the stables. "Hopefully you know how to ride a horse. We won't be taking a carriage or anything of the sort." "My name is Alwin, though I would have expected you to know that since you were coming to speak with my family. Perhaps the princess is not as well-versed in the wild world of politics as she thinks she is?" He shot her a wink and opened the stable doors. There were two horses, saddled and bridled, packed and ready to go. "Take your pick. They're both equally fine steeds." @idgafashlee

She rolled her eyes at the term 'princess', she'd never liked it, it felt belittling, and demeaning in nearly every manner, although most meant it in a kind way. She slung her bag over her shoulder as he did, mentally cursing herself for sending away the carriage so soon, but her faith did not falter. "I remember the names of those whom are important." She jested back, making it none that he wasn't the only one with quick-witted remarks. She walked past him, walking over to the talk black horse and gently placing her hand on the horse's nose. "Hello lovely" she spoke softly, a small smile tugging at the corners of her mouth as she looked at the magnificent creature. Memories of her childhood flooded her mind, the first horse that her father purchased for her, spending long nights out riding with her mother as a child before her mother's untimely death. She smiled warmly at the horse, patting it gently as she took in it beauty and showed her appreciation. She placed her foot in the holster, grabbing the horn of the saddle and in one swift motion she pulled herself into the riding position. She adjusted her belongings, carefully placing everything comfortably and assuring they were tightly secured. She dusted herself off before turning back to face Alwin. "Shall we?" @PhoggyΨυχη

"And yet here you are, beseeching me, the man whose name is not important, to assist you in your insane task." He replied, unfazed by her remarks. There was little she could do to shatter his confidence... thankfully. Though perhaps a bit misplaced, it was not as if it was weak enough to be broken by some small remarks. Alwin had carefully built up this strong persona and some entitled princess wasn't going to get through it. "If you're ready, princess," he said, letting the word hang for a moment. He took a small lick of joy at the twinge in her face when he called her 'princess.' Granted, he needed to be careful. He was, as of now, the emissary for his entire family and it would not due to have something happen to her while he was out with her. "Two things to go over before we leave: One, your spirit guardian will assist you with a great many things, but he is also affected by your own spirit. Now that they are tied, it will reflect your emotions, which, in turn, will effect his usefulness. Spirit Guardians help many of our vendors by concealing their identity while they are on the roads - that way, no one knows the schedule or routes of any particular vendor." He lifted himself up onto his own horse before turning to look at her, a rather serious twist on his face. "Second, I can promise that, while we are out on this venture, I will to my utmost to ensure your safety and protection. Comfort is not something I can guarantee, however. That being said, Elysia awaits us." @idgafashlee

She exhaled at the word again, 'princess', surely he was doing it now just to get under her skin. She let her face remain unscathed, smiling kindly in response despite his desire to push her buttons. "Ready." She nodded giving the horse a gentle kick in the side so it would begin walking, she lined herself up beside Alwin, following his lead and listening along. She had a million questions buzzing in her head. What dangers awaited them on the trail? Just how long would they ride each day? Were their stops? Where would they sleep? Her intuitive mind buzzed at a speed in which she could not keep up with. She opted to not overwhelm the man with her bubbling curiosities and keep questions to a minimum. "Elysia." She said with a small nod, it was a place she had been to before, a beautiful growing city with a lot of promise. She held on to the reigns steadily, enjoying the rhythmic movement of the start of the ride, knowing she was a long way away from Virie and it would be one of their last stops on this adventure. "So the spirit guardians, If you're stressed or upset they're less useful? Is that what I'm gathering?" She asked quizzically, still curious about the small ball of energy that had disappeared inside of her. She'd learned about them, heard stories, or general chatter about the spirits, but she'd never exactly possessed such a thing inside of her. @PhoggyΨυχη

"They are spirit guardians, after all. Think of them as an extension of yourself now. Spirits do not have a technical form to speak of. This is why they often appear as an elemental being - something of energy. Much like the earth beneath our feet, we go through cycles of good or bad or anything in between. Our own spirits dance in tune to our emotions; should we allow them to overwhelm us, then it affects our own spirit in a negative way, yes? This is the same with a spirit guardian." He paused for a moment to let the information set in. "But the only thing you will need to worry about is your guardian becoming slightly moody. To have a higher spirit guardian such as my father, mother, myself, or... well, it takes a lot of emotional and spiritual control. If we were to lose control, our emotions would be the least of peoples' concerns." It was of benefit, then, that they were going to Elysia first. It was such a peaceful kingdom. Unlike the others, this one was under the matriarch rule of The Church of the Open Palm. It was supposed to be a place of free flowing water, greenery, and resplendent walkways. A veritable paradise, per the name. Though, it had been several years since he had been there. Their guardian spirit was on his list of things to check out, so this would be a good first stop. @idgafashlee

She listened carefully, trying to gather all of the information he was giving her and thoroughly understand it. The takeaway from everything was that her mood affected the spirit's mood, but clearly, there was much more to it. A slightly ominous feeling settled at the bottom of her stomach in regards to his last comment, 'If we were to lose control, our emotions would be the least of peoples' concerns'. She wondered what higher spirit guardians possessed. She decided to hold her tongue for a while, not bothering him with a million questions, and boosting his ego that he was somehow more educated than her because they were clearly well-versed in vastly different topics. She hummed softly as they rode alongside each other, she enjoyed the scenery that the land had to offer and felt excitement at her newly-bestowed chance to better explore her country as a whole. She lifted her hand up, tucking her auburn red curls behind her ears as the breeze shifted in directions. They had set out on a beautiful day, and she was choosing to be naively hopeful that her new adventure would continue to proceed peacefully. If all she had to deal with was the occasional jest from a know-it-all elvish man, she'd make out just fine in the month-long adventure. @PhoggyΨυχη

Trade routes closer to the Xylvire's were the safest of them all due to their increased security and proximity to the Merchant's Guild. Thus, trade to the branching kingdoms were often the safest as well. So why has trade with Elysia slowed down? He couldn't help but display his thoughts as he furrowed his brow. The horse trotted along, bouncing the pair down the well-worn path. The closer they got to Elysia, the more his own guardian stirred. The leylines felt... sick. The magic emanating from the kingdom felt less like purity and more like... His skin held a blue shine as his spirit guardian infused him with protection. "Be on your guard. We are nearing Elysia." @idgafashlee

She nodded as she noticed the distress in his face. She turned back to face forward, watching carefully in front of her, a small stir coming from the pit of her stomach. Was it anxiety? Or was this her guardians way of trying to warn her. She watched her surroundings cautiously, despite seeing nothing out of the ordinary. The Elysia she remembered was a beautiful town, filled with purity and kindness, although it had been a few years, surely nothing had changed? At least she hoped nothing had changed from the once beautiful city she’d once stepped foot in. The land was quiet, the wind had died down and for a moment nothing was stirring. Maybe everything was fine, this all was surely just a false alarm. @PhoggyΨυχη

"Much like every route has a minor guardian spirit, every kingdom does as well. However, they are more of a public... Consciousness. Spirits come from many things— most usually, the magic in the planet. But if a kingdom is formed and their collective ideal is strong enough, a spirit will take shape." A blue, draconic serpent-like tattoo wound its way up his arm as the hair on his neck pricked up. "Elysia's guardian spirit, Fione, is supposed to be a beacon of light and purity," Alwin's gaze narrowed as they closed in on the entrance to the kingdom. The once armor-clad guards were now in more revealing underwear, if it could even be called that. Both men and women alike stood guard, barely protected, proudly displaying their skin. "But this doesn't seem like it has anything to do with Fione." @idgafashlee

She listened to him speak as they rode closer to the city. She nodded slowly as she better understood the guardian spirits, trying to make sense of everything that was going on. Her eyes narrowed as she saw the kingdoms gate in the distance, hearing the words he spoke beacon of light and purity. Her eyes widened as they arrived at the gates, their guards dressed in barely loin cloths. “Well this is most peculiar.” She said softly, only barely audible over the sound of the horses huffing as their hooves collided with the ground once more as the group came to a stop at the front gate. She looked over at Alwin with wide eyes, searching for guidance as to what the next step was. @PhoggyΨυχη

"Peculiar is not how I would describe it," he narrowed his eyes and took in a whiff of air. The stench almost caused him to double over — not something that could be sensed normally. It was a sickly magic; something dark. It did not sit well with Alwin. He waved his hand as he approached the two scantily-clad men at the gate. "Ho! I hail from the Merchant Guild. I have come to check in on the trade routes." "If you would like to go in, you will need to strip down. Clothes are an affront to the goddess!" One of the guards said. The hells I will. "Ah, unfortunately, that does not sit well with my faith, so if you could—" he tried to move his horse forward, but their spears came down to block the way. "No clothes or no entry." @idgafashlee

She pulled back gently on the reigns, the horse whinnied softly as they stopped slightly behind Alwin. He could handle this, right? Her eyes widened at the guards request, strip down into nothing to gain entry? There was no way in hell she would be caught dead wandering around in a foreign kingdom with nothing but her under garments. She stifled a small laugh as the guards quickly cut off Alwin’s attempt to enter the city fully clothed. She quickly bit her bottom lip to contain her quiet laughter. The matter at hand certainly wasn’t funny, they needed to enter this city and she preferred to do it clothed. But she couldn’t help but to find a small bit of joy in the jest between Alwin’s and the nearly nude guards. @PhoggyΨυχη

The guards looked over at Freya and then back to Alwin. "You and your girlfriend over there will need to strip down if you want to enter. We can strip you down if that would make it easier for you," the guard gave them both a smirk. "One moment, please," Alwin said, pulling his horse around to move next to Freya. "Okay, so, I don't particularly want to strip down, but it does not seem like we have any other option. You wanted to see the trade routes, so I assume you're willing to do what it takes, right?" @idgafashlee

“Oh, that won’t be necessary.” She said as her eyes widened, the only thing she could think of that could possibly be worst than having to strip down to enter this city, was having someone undressing her themselves. She was more than capable of doing that herself if that’s what it would take, and she would not be taking any helping hands in this task. She shrugged her shoulders, still coming to terms with the thought. This all had to be some kind of historical joke right? Maybe they just needed a little persuasion? She cleared her throat and spoke sternly. “I’m Freya Emrys, caught of Alannon and heiress of Virie, as a council member of one of the eleven kingdoms I seek audience with your leader, and would prefer to do so clothed.” She pushed the matter once more, hopeful they would oblige in her final attempt to gain entry before resorting to ditching her clothes to get through the gate. @PhoggyΨυχη

The two of them looked at each other before turning back to her. "I don't give a damn who you are," one of the guards snapped back. "The great mother said we can't let anyone into the kingdom if they are clothed. It will offend the goddess." It was Alwin's turn to stifle a snicker. It seemed her rank held no meaning here either. "Well," Alwin shrugged and put his hands to his hips. "Any other bright ideas? Or are we stripping down?" @idgafashlee

“Fine.” She said with a small huff, her small figuring turning away from the guards to face Alwin once more. She didn’t know when the new “no clothes” policy was adopted, but they had played their cards and were running out of options. “We strip I suppose.” She didn’t even recognize the words coming out of her mouth, if her father could see her now. The embarrassment he would feel knowing she had fallen into whatever trap this was. She prayed she wouldn’t see anyone she knew as she climbed off of the saddle, giving Alwin one last look as her fingertips gripped the hem of her shirt, a look of ’are we really doing this?’ @PhoggyΨυχη

Alwin sighed and hopped off his horse and began to disrobe. For his part, there was nothing shameful to hide. Like most elves, his body was a work of art — something he both loved and hated. He wished for just one imperfection; something that would make him feel less commoditized. Instantly, he felt a wave rush over him. Something made contact with his bare skin, causing a small sense of arousal to spread throughout his body. Despite his reddened face, he kept his composure. "Are we allowed to enter now?" @idgafashlee

She slowly and dreadfully peeled her clothing from her body, she was not shy about her appearance, just unhappy with showing it to the entire village. As she placed her clothing back into her pack, she felt a small feeling of relief rush over her, she no longer worried about the oddity of the request to enter the kingdom. Standing bare she was hopeful this task would suffice to allow them to enter. She shifted momentarily, her eyebrows raising as she waited for the guards command to allow them entry. @PhoggyΨυχη

The guards nodded and let them pass. Alwin led his horse by the rope as they entered into the city. What was once a kingdom of white roads and pure people was now seedy and corrupt. The churches had been turned into brothels and the nuns were now workers. At the center was a large statue of an unfamiliar woman as she displayed herself in an unseemly manner. "What in the hells happened here?" He could take a guess, but even that would no doubt fall short. There was a lust curse hanging in the air and the longer they were here, the more susceptible they would be to it. "We need to get in and get out or else we will be in trouble." @idgafashlee

An unwelcome feeling slowly stirred inside of her, something was wrong here, the once pure and beautiful city was now quite the opposite of what it once was. A dark presence loomed over the once light and bountiful town. “You’re right.” She said with a nod, something she wouldn’t usually say to someone giving her so much grief, but she had a bad feeling. “We should leave now.” She said, a hint of worry in her voice. They’d only been in the city gates for a short time, but she had already ventured much farther than she wanted to. @PhoggyΨυχη

"We can't," he replied, sounding equal parts worried and dejected. "I don't know what is going on here, but if it spreads down the leylines, we're in trouble. As the interim head of the Xylvires, it is my duty to take care of problems like this." He crossed his arms over his bare chest and looked around, noting the barely-clothed and even nude townsfolk as they walked about their daily lives. "I should start at the church. You should head to the local merchant's guild and see if they can get you a lay of the land. You'll accomplish your goal and I'll accomplish mine. How's that sound?" @idgafashlee

“We’re just going to split up?” She asked, completely awestruck they would be staying in this god forsaken place. Her voice gave off a hint of whining as she wondered what she had gotten herself into. She wanted to see the towns trades, not play investigator in some clearly doomed kingdom. “I… fine. Yeah.” She shook her head, knowing better than to argue with him, he had a look on his eyes, this was clearly something important to him, and she wasn’t going to waste her breath trying to convince him others. She turned on her heels, wanting to seem independent and confident in herself. She let out a shaky breath as she navigated her way through the town to the merchants guild. It had been some time since she’d been in the town last, and the eery feeling shook her to her core. @PhoggyΨυχη

She was right; there was definitely something important he needed to check on. Alwin snuck through back alleys until he reached what appeared to be a solid brick wall. He held his hand up to it and watched as his guardian spirit slid over his arm and engaged with the wall, opening a passage and letting him through. He needed to get to the temple to see what was going on. For Freya, the merchant's guild wasn't too far, but it also wasn't too busy. Inside were a few men, all dressed down as well. "Oy, we're not- oh," one of the men said. Despite the nature of the kingdom, they did not seem to be entranced by the lust curse. "Not sure who y'are, but as ya can see," he waved his hands around, "we're a bit out of stock and business at the moment. Seems this place would rather traffic in orgies than actual money. What can we do ya for?" @idgafashlee

Freya quickly put her hands over her chest, trying to cover all of her body to the best of her ability. In a room full of unclothed and unknown men, she wasn’t comfortable to say the least. “What is going on in this god forsaken kingdom?” She asked audaciously, she wanted answers, and she wanted them now. She scanned the mostly bare tables, there was little to nothing for trade to say the least. “Traffic for orgies? What in gods name…” she shook her head softly, when she took on this adventure she knew there would be it’s ups and downs, but she certainly hadn’t expected anything like this. The temple was anything but the ordinary. Lofn, had weaved her grasp onto the city of Elysia, the dark elf temptress had struck a deal with the right demon, using dark magic to cast a wicked spell on the kingdom. She sat in her temple thrown, her bare skin and voluptuous features on display for all those around. She leaned back with a satisfied sigh, having recently finished one of her ritualistic orgies. Nude men and women scattered the room, answering to her every command with delight and joy, the kingdom was flourishing in its lustrous ways under her ruling.

"It's a figure of speech," the man replied with a roll of his eyes. "Can't say it's too far off now. There's not really a purpose in us operating here. All goods and services here are traded via, well, sex. So we can't exactly make any more coin. That kinda leaves us fucked, and not in the way that everyone here seems to enjoy," he said, leaning back in his chair. "Gotta say, though, it's been a while since anyone came in here. You lookin' for something?" Alwin made his way down to the temple where he found a dark elf on a throne. She was, well, very well-endowed, among other things. The others around her seemed to be off in their own worlds. "What in the gods' names is going on here?" He murmured as he grew closer to the thrown. "Who the hells are you?" He shouted at the drow. "And what have you done to the temple and guardian spirit?" @idgafashlee

She let out a soft huff, not wanting to believe what she was hearing, but the need to strip down to even enter the city confirmed everything they were saying. “I’m Freya, a…” she paused for a moment, deterred from using her normal introduction as the heiress to a throne. “A representative sent from Virie, I’m learning the travel routes of trade and the start of my journey has been a peculiar one starting here.” Lofn’s eyes narrowed at the man whom had entered her room practically yelling. “You have quite the attitude don’t you, and far too much clothing on for my liking” the sultry words dripped from her mouth as her eyes scanned up and down his body. She didn’t know who he was, or what he wanted, but she was curious if nothing else. She snapped her fingers, the sound echoing through the room and pulling the sex-focused slaves out of the haze momentarily to follow her next commands. “My loves, I believe our new guest needs assistance removing his linens.” She said with a small smirk as all eyes in the room turned to Alwin. @PhoggyΨυχη

(Lofn for reference)

"Freya, eh? Well, as ya and Virie can see, we ain't got much in the way of trade here. In fact, we're still waiting on a few shipments that have been stuck at the docks for days now. Every time we go down there, they try ta rope us into one a' them orgies. As much fun as the first, like, five were, it gets stale after a while. Listen to me! Complaining about how sex is boring!" He huffed and rested his head on his arms as he leaned onto the desk in front of him. "I'm afraid we don't have much to teach you here right now." "As fun as that would be," Alwin sighed, doing his best to push the allure of the woman out of his mind. "I'm afraid I am not here for the sex. I would also caution against coming closer, if I were you." Not that he wouldn't relish the opportunity to let [ ] out and run rampant, violence and fighting was not his first approach. Nor should it be. He would hate to ruin this temple. "How about you send away your naked monkies and the two of us can have a civil conversation?" @idgafashlee

“Orgies…” her voice was low and she was unsettled by the thought, what in the hells was happening here? “Your things are waiting at the docks? Right? Why don’t we try to go get them, surely all of us working together can get the goods unscathed by any nefarious offers.” She was hopeful, they had numbers, a limited number, but enough of them to hopefully try to secure the shipments. “A fighter hmm?” She stood up from her throne, her breasts bouncing and jiggling as she slowly took steps towards him. She lifted her hand slowly, snapping her fingers once more. Everyone in the room went idle once more, completely enthralled in pleasuring themselves and one another and no longer interested in Elwin as they were before. “It’s just us now, you have my attention.” Her voice was lustrous as she swayed her hips softly, her eyes lingering up and down his body as she awaited his response. @PhoggyΨυχη

"Oh-ho, no. You're welcome to try, little missy, but we ain't going over there again. They have this way of just... dragging you into their debauchery. Don't wanna try it again. We may be bored, but at least we get fed like everyone else." He eyed her up and down. "Would caution against going. A pretty young thing like yourself would get eaten up." "Oh, fun. Parlor tricks," he rolled his eyes and centered himself. "Right, well, you're standing on sacred ground, Drow. Only High Elves have the right and the ability to use the leylines. I'm curious: how did someone such as yourself gain the ability to manipulate the flow of magic and life itself?" He crossed his arms, standing his ground as best he could. @idgafashlee

She let out a huff as she crossed her arms, she was mentally in limbo with herself. She couldn’t just sit around, hiding in a vacant building when she came here on a task. “Fine, if you won’t go with me, just point me in the right direction and I’ll figure it out myself.” She didn’t know if she was making the right decision or a terribly wrong one, but her stubborn nature wouldn’t allow her to sit around and wait on Alwin. “You dare believe you come in my temple, and start making your demands.” Her eyes narrowed but her sultry facial expression never waivered. “If you want answers it’ll come at a small price..” a smirk begin to tug at the corners of her mouth, the immense amount of magic coursing through her veins excitedly. @PhoggyΨυχη

The man showed her where the docks were. He was hardly hopeful to get his shipments, but at least he wasn't the one risking his neck. "Good luck, lassie. I'm sure you'll need it!" "Your temple, hm?" He looked around at the defaced statues to another god. He kept his arms crossed; defiant. "What is this price?" He had a pretty good idea of what it was, but he was prepared for anything right now. @idgafashlee

She nodded, not happy to make this journey alone but to stubborn to stop herself now. She stepped out of the merchants guild, keeping her head down and her movement quick as she headed in the direction that had been explained to her. She was thankful to not meet anyone yet in her travels, the streets of the city were mostly vacant, but she knew the docks would prove to be a more challenging venture. “I’m sure you’re already aware of the currency this city now pays in.” She said softly, her hands running slowly up her body, gliding gently from her hips, up her sides, and to her perky breasts as she continued walking closer to him. She wondered why her casted spell had not entranced him like the others, she still hadn’t determined why some were simply immune and non compliant to her powers, but this didn’t yet deter her. @PhoggyΨυχη

When she reached the docks, she saw the men, naked, lounging around and relaxing. It seems their hedonism extended beyond sex and into laziness. "Oh! Hello, there, Ms." One of the sailors said. The scent of lust and the curse was far strong out here for some reason. Perhaps because of the concentration of people? "What can we do to help a beautiful woman like yourself?" Alwin was doing everything he could to resist her magic. He could feel it trying to reach out to entangle him. "Fine. What will it cost to get this information from you? I don't want to resort to violence unless necessary, so it better be a fair price." @idgafashlee

She narrowed her eyes softly, preparing herself for what the merchants had warned her of. “I come seeking a shipment, that of traders goods, it’s been accumulating here for sometime and I need to get it to the merchant’s guild.” Her voice was kind but firm, and she prepared herself for the offer that was likely coming next. She was getting that damned shipment if it was the last thing she did in this god forsaken kingdom. “A simple orgy shouldn’t be too much to ask.” She said as her eyes undressed him, “i pleasure you, and then answer your questions.. that seems like quite the fair price.” Her eyes slowly scanned over his body once more, her glance finally meeting his as she seductively licked her lips. “What do you say?” @PhoggyΨυχη

"Hm, well, let's talk about it. You come over here and sit in my lap and then we can figure out where this shipment of yours went and what to do with it. Sound good?" He gave her a seductive smile as he patted his own naked lap. "Counteroffer: no orgy. Just you and me." I'm sure I can resist her one-on-one. "But what do you get out of this? It seems awfully one-sided in my favor, no? What's the catch?" @idgafashlee

“Or!” She said with an excited and sweet tone, “You can help me with the shipments, I’ll get everything back where it needs to be, and pay you generously upon my return.” She said with a small smirk, hoping she’d be able to play their own games against them. She’d get creative if she had to, but she would not be sitting on anyone’s lap today. “Interesting.” She said, walking closer to him still, getting nearer and nearer with each step. “Fine, I’ll allow everyone to continue tending to themselves, it’ll be just me and you. No catch.” She was within reaching distance by now, her lustfilled voice softening as she approached. @PhoggyΨυχη

"Where's the fun in that? Besides, money has no weight here," he smirked as he stood up. The other men started to crowd around her, "why are you still wearing these?" The first man asked, tugging at her bra. "Don't you want to just relax and have some fun?" She was indeed the source of all of this. He could feel the magic coming from her. "What first?" He asked bluntly. He didn't even know her name, not that he would need to right now. He needed information and she would give it to him. He stripped down and set his stuff off to the side. @idgafashlee

“Oh, I’m not talking about money.” Freya said, a small twinkle in her eye. She grabbed the mans hand gently from her bra strap, slowly pulling it away. “Half the fun is the chase, am I right boys?” She said with a small wink, pulling the strap back into its correct place. “So we get this shipment settled, and then i reward you greatly.” She let out a soft sigh in pleasure as he finally removed the rest of his clothing, revealing his assets. Her fingertips moved to her chest, slowly lingering down his torso as she eliminated the space between them. “Don’t sound so harsh, I’ll take care of you.” She whispered softly as she leaned into his ear, the sweet sound of her siren voice coming through. @PhoggyΨυχη

"We'll need some sort of downpayment, girlie. Can't just have you running away with our precious cargo without tending to our... precious cargo." He let out a small laugh as he eyed her body. The only thing between them was the thin layer of underwear guarding her body. Alwin was no slouch when it came to his physique. Her touch felt like lightning as it cascaded throughout his body. "Take... care of me?" His mind was growing fuzzy. The closer she was, the stronger her magic seemed to be. @idgafashlee

“And how am I supposed to trust you’ll hold up your side of the deal gentlemen?” Her voice was filled with confidence, she planned on faking it until she made it. “How about this..” she said, slowly and seductively moving her bra straps down her shoulders. “I’ll give you a peak at the goods you’ll get to receive, and once the shipment is secured back at the guild, I’ll pay in full.” She moved her hand to her chest, holding the bra up with one hand as she unclipped the back. “Take care of you.” She whispered once more in his ear, knowing her siren powers were taking control of his free will. Her hand moved down his hips until her fingertips finally found their way to the base of his cock, her hand enclosing about the width of his cock, and slowly moving up the length of his shaft. @PhoggyΨυχη

"Seems to me you're pretty desperate to get this shipment," he laughed. "Not up to you to set the terms and conditions, is it? How about this: you entertain us for a bit and then we decide if that was enough to give you the shipment?" He brushed a calloused hand against her soft face and took in her appearance. "Yea... Take care of me..." He replied back as her hand found its quarry. The lust and overwhelming magic seemed to be taking complete control is his mind and body. Her touch sent his body into overdrive as she began to tease his cock. @idgafashlee

Fine… she thought to herself, frustrated in the moment, want to be entertained? She took a small step back, moving her hand and letting her bra fall to the ground in front of her. Her fingertips moved to her panties as she slowly pulled them below her hips. “Do you like dancing?” “Mhm..” Lofn hummed softly, her hand slowly stroking his length as it got harder and harder at her touch. She took a small step back, her hand still firmly planted to his cock with slow strokes as she got down on her knees in front of him. Her eyes looking up at him through her eyelashes as she leaned forward, her tongue making contact with the tip of his cock. @PhoggyΨυχη

"How about a bit of a lapdance. Treat me to one and we'll call it even?" The supposed leader said, sitting back down, erect. He motioned for her to come over. "Don't worry. I'm sure we'll both enjoy it." Alwin couldn't help but give in to the fog that clouded his mind. This woman... this goddess; she was giving him such pleasure. He kept her gaze, maintaining eye contact with her. He would do anything for her. He let out a soft moan as her tongue flicked against him. His body moved forward, desperate for more. @idgafashlee

She nodded in agreement, swaying her hips slowly as she turned away from him for a moment. She rolled her eyes when no one could see her, annoyed she was going along with this, but determined to get the supplies. She bent over slightly, pushing her butt out as she pulled down her panties, slowly stepping out of them and softly backing up to him. I can’t believe I’m doing this…. she thought to herself, that journey had taken an awful start. Lofn smirked as Alwin crumbled at her touch, she had cast her spell and he was now her for the taking. She continued slowly stroking the base on his cocked as her lips sucked softly on the tip of his cock. She enjoyed the sounds of his moans as he melted under her touch. She began slowly bobbing her hand, her hands moving to his hands as she took his full length down her throat with ease. @PhoggyΨυχη

He rested his hands on her hips as her naked body touched his. "Atta girl. Get comfortable. Sit right on my lap." He guided her to sit down fully, his own arousal pressing against hers. He took in a whiff of her scent and reached his hands up to her chest. "You have some nice assets here, lady." Alwin felt his body give in to her expert touch. "Feels... amazing..." He let out another pleasurable sigh as his hands rested on her head. Still, he let her have complete control. He could feel his mind was at war with itself and he was losing the battle to this seductress. @idgafashlee

She felt sick to her stomach and violated at his words, wanting the dance to end just as quickly as it started, but she didn’t she her distaste. She slowly grinded her soft skin down against his bare lap, her hands placed on his knees as her body rolled slowly and rhythmically against him. The only thing that made the dance worse than the fact it was happening, was the many viewers of the dance. The other workers stood around him, watching as if it were a show. Lofn had sunk her list filled daggers deep into his mind, body, and soul. Slowly turning off his human rationale to fill the void was desires of pleasure. She softly grabbing his balls, massaging them gently as she began bobbing her head quicker, spit dripping from her lips as his erect length hit the back of her throat each time. She was winning, and he would be one of her favorite pieces to add to her collection.

11:48 AM

@PhoggyΨυχη

The man rubbed his cock against her as she ground into him. He kept his hands on her breasts before moving one up to her face to turn her towards him. His lips met hers with a ravenous hunger, his tongue pushing past her lips and into her mouth. His other hand trailed down her body and cupped between her legs, teasing her. He couldn't hold back anymore. Alwin tossed his head back as he came down her throat, his body shaking and shivering as it gave into this woman. His eyes closed as wave after wave of pleasure washed over him and crashed down onto her. When he opened his eyes once more, he looked down to see her. @idgafashlee

She smirked against the man’s lips, knowing his hunger was building quickly and she was closer to getting what she wanted, the shipment. She continued grinding down on his lap, her back arching softly as her hips moved in a rhythmical motion for a few moment more. She broke away from the kiss slowly, her hips still grinding against his in but in a slow and soft motion, as she spoke quietly, “You have to give me what I want if I’m going to give you what you want..” Lofn swallowed his warm cum with ease and excitement, a small smile playing on her face as she looked up at him. She slowly pulled away, a mixture of cum and spit dripping from her mouth as her hands began to slowly make their way back up his body. “See? I said I’d take care of you.” @PhoggyΨυχη

"Oh, is that so?" The man asked, still yet sure of himself. He absentmindedly ran a hand through Freya's hair. "How about a small wager? If you win, you can take the shipment and we will reestablish trade with the merchant guild, returning to our original deal. If you lose, you become our sailor slut. What do you say?" He helped her back to her feet. How could he have been so wrong about her? "Yes, mistress." He couldn't help but feel deeper into her spell as he stared into her eyes. He felt compelled to tell her everything. To give her everything. So he did. He told her all about who he was, as the head of the merchant guild and trading family; what his mission was; how powerful his spirit guardian was. He told her all she wanted to know. @idgafashlee

“Seems a little unfair I’ve held up my end of the deal and you’re striking a new one..” she stood up, crossing her arms over her chest and giving him a pouty look. “A lap dance to ensure trust, you give me the goods, and I will return to pay my debt.” She repeated, she wasn’t interested in anymore deals, she’d wasted enough time as it was, and had no idea where Alwin was. Lofn returned to her throne, this time was a new toy. Her hands rubbed up and down his toned body as she listened to the words he spoke. Her ears perked up at the words, “Spirit guardian…” she said with a smirk, using her power of pleasure to her advantage. “Tell me more about that. Just how power is it?” Her hand once again found his cock, stroking it slowly as she kissed up and down his neck. Soon she would know all she needed to, and the power would become hers.

12:23 PM

@PhoggyΨυχη

The man seemed to mull it over for a moment before nodding. "Half of the goods now, half when you return to pay your debt." It was a surprisingly sober thought for a supposedly lust-addled man. "You upheld your end of the bargain, but we don't know who you are, where to find you, or how to collect. Unless you have something to leave here as collateral, you're only getting half of the shipment since we're only getting half of the payment." "Yes. Extremely powerful. If I wanted to, I could level cities...kingdoms. I imagine you have one as well. It must be why I could not resist you. If your spirit guardian has an affinity to mine, we are weak to one another." He replied, less in a daze now, but still lost in her spell. Perhaps she did not even have a spirit guardian. Maybe she was just this powerful. @idgafashlee

“Deal.” She nodded in agreement. Leaning down and grabbing her undergarment from the ground. “I will take half of the shipment now.” She said with a small smile, tossing her bra at the man. “And I’ll be returning for the rest later.” If half the shipment was the best she could do for now, she’d take it, knowing it was more than what the merchants had probably seen in a while. “You’re right, it’s clear that the spirit guardians are what brought us to one another.” Her fingertips slowly trailed up his torso to his chin, she grabbed it softly, turning his face to hers. “Do you believe in fate?” She asked curiously, because although she didn’t have a spirit guardian, she was sure it was some type of fate that delivered this elf and his power to her. @PhoggyΨυχη

The men agreed with the boss and carried off a portion of the shipment. It was... a little awkward as they were naked. Not from a morality sense, but they were carrying to shipment in such a way that they needed to avoid hitting their more sensitive areas with the boxes. Finally, they reached the merchant's guild and dropped it on the ground before returning to their port. The merchants came out, shocked at the sight in front of them. Freya was standing there, naked, with part of the shipment. "I'll be damned..." The lead merchant stepped forward and began looking over the shipment. "Yea, it's all here. What did they do to the rest? Lost at sea?" "Yes, mistress. I believe in fate," he replied. "Be it the gods or our spirits, I was brought here to be with you. Where I was meant to be." He could feel the heat of her breath on his face; he wanted so desperately to kiss her and taste her lips. Despite the history of elves and dark elves, he was no trouble submitting to Lofn. @idgafashlee

Freya crossed her arms, shaking her head softly, before putting on the underwear she had been carrying in her hand. “If you guys were participating in orgies, and I had to give a simple lap dance for this, I’d work on your creativity for getting the things you want.” She said with a small huff, standing up straight after getting what she had left of her clothing on. “I struck a deal with the leader, told him I’d return for sex for the other half of your shipment.” She turned around, making sure that his men were gone before she spoke again. “But if you want the rest of your shipment, you’ll have to go get it yourself.” She had no desire to pay anyone in sex or go anywhere except the gates to get out of this place. “Now let’s head inside, I helped you guys, now I need your help locating someone.” She wondered what was taking Alwin so long, and she couldn’t help but to feel worried. “You are where you’re meant to be.” She said with a sultry smile, leaning forward so their lips could meet in a lustful exchange. Their lips moved against each others rhythmically, her tongue gently parting his lips to swirl around curiously in his mouth. She wondered what the next right move was, she could kill him, and take his power, or keep him around, and have him serve her with the power capable of destroying cities. @PhoggyΨυχη

"We're just a little stunned. It's not that we had to put wanted to; there's like... some weird force that made us. Like we'd fuck and then forget why we were there only to wind up back here. Seems like it didn't affect you, though." He crossed his arms as the others brought the shipment into the building. "As for finding someone, I'm not sure how we can help. We didn't exactly know the city super well." He kept up the embrace, his lips crashing against hers. He sighed in contentment as her tongue dominated his mouth. Mmm... He moaned, further melting into her. He couldn't think of anything or anyone else. The only one he wanted to please her in any way he could. @idgafashlee

“Do you know Alwin Xylvire? Surely you must.” She was hopeful as they were merchants they’d know him and be inclined to help, she thought it was odd that whatever magic possessed the kingdom had no effect on her, but she didn’t care, reuniting with Alwin was her priority now. “He told me he was headed to the church. Any lead at all would help me. Please.” The sun had already set in the kingdom, the streets were dark and she didn’t want to spend the rest of the night here, she had to find him and get out of here. Lofn slowly pulled away from the kiss, a small smile on her lips, this elf would truly be her favorite toy yet, and the power he possessed made it all worth it. She leaned back in her throne, looking amongst the room of sex-driven individuals and she clung to Alwin. She had created a masterpiece, and the once holy church was now filled with people in the act of pleasuring one another or themselves. Her power continued to grow despite those who attempted to stop her. @PhoggyΨυχη

"Of course we do. He's the big boss's son." The man put his hands to his hips and sighed. "He should be back at the Xylvire Household. He's not usually free enough to be out and about. Kid's usually up to his pointy ears in work. In terms of a church, we ain't got one of those anymore. If you're wanting to go to the church here, it's in the center of town." @idgafashlee

"I fear he may be in danger, and I have to find him so we can get out of here." She shook her head, a concerned expression moving to her face. She wasn't sure what this feeling was, but something was telling her things weren't right, that Alwin was in danger. Maybe it was the spirit guardian in here, maybe it was just an eerie feeling. "Center of town. got it." She said with a nod, getting ready to head out to find Alwin. @PhoggyΨυχη

"We?" The man raised an eyebrow. "Ah, yea. You get to it, lass. We have to get to work on this shipment and figure out how we're supposed to get the latter half." He seemed both grateful, but also upset at the half-finished job. "Why don't you-" The door to the guildhall opened revealing Alwin and Lofn. "Well, there's your man. And, uh, dark elf, I guess." Alwin gave her as small, tired wave. "How'd it go on your end?" He was supporting Lofn on her shoulder like she was unable to walk. "I wasn't able to figure out what was going on with this place, but I found her. She was surrounded by crazed citizens... I kinda had to take a few of them out to save her." @idgafashlee

Freya turned out shocked, "Alwin!" She exclaimed, confused at her initial feeling that he was in danger, but relieved he was okay. "He's not.. my man." She shook her head, a little flustered in the moment, it was the second time someone had said that today. "Thing's um.. well, they went." She was still entirely overwhelmed and exhausted from the events of the day. "I made it through the day without being forced into sexual favors, so I guess that's something." She blew a small piece of hair out of her face, looking at the dark elf woman standing beside him. She looked over at the woman, imagining the horrors she'd probably experienced here. "How long have you been here? I can't imagine what you've been through."

She quivered softly, holding onto Alwin for support, her free hand making an attempt to cover her nude body. "I grew up here, but the city took a turn for the worst only recently." Her voice was soft and concerned as she looked over to Alwin for reassurance. @PhoggyΨυχη

Alwin took off his shirt and put it over her, revealing his own toned chest. "Here. Sorry, I should have done that earlier." He brought her over to a table and helped her sit down. He turned back to Freya: "it seems like there is some sort of demonic influence making deals with people and establishing themselves along the leylines. Unfortunately, it's pretty deeply-rooted here. Whoever it was that started this problem was long-gone by the time I got there." He put his hands on his hips and sighed before walking around the room. "I did my best to stop the flow from this leyline to others, which is a stopgap, but it's not a permanent solution." Alwin leaned against the wall and rubbed his forehead, "I don't know how a demon would even get the power to influence Gaia's leylines like this. I hate the idea that we're playing catch-up with this person, or demon, whoever they are, but we don't have much to go on right now." He looked over at Lofn and gave her a half-smile. He was glad he was able to save her, but it had been touch-and-go there. He had to take out a lot of what he assumed were cultists. He hated bloodying his hands - and [ ]'s claws - but it had to be done. "What did you find here?" @idgafashlee

Lofn took the shirt gratefully, pulling it over her bare body and give him a small smile back. The act almost felt natural, she knew she'd keep this up with ease.

She rubbed her temples, not even understanding what was going on in this god-forsaken kingdom. "So what's next? We get the hell out of here, pass on this information to the council that this kingdom desperately needs help and we hopefully never returned?" She crossed her arms across her chest and let out a small huff, she examined the girl next to Alwin, still having an uneasy feeling about all of this. "The shipments are coming into the bay but being held hostage and not making it to the merchants, I was able to secure half a shipment, but the prices are high to bring the goods into the city." @PhoggyΨυχη

"Let me go down to the docks and take care of that," Alwin said, biting his cheek. He didn't know what was going on or what had happened in this kingdom, but they had little chance of fixing things the way things were. "I could go with a rather extreme option." He looked at the others in the guild - they seemed to know what he meant by that. "I could completely clean and wipe the leyline. It would reset the magic for the kingdom and weaken it quite a bit. I would need to redirect some magic flow to this kingdom to help it get back up on its feet, otherwise it'll be beset by monsters in no time." He shook his head and took a deep breath, "it would take me out of commission for a day or two, though. It might slow down our journey here." @idgafashlee

"What are you talking about?" She shook her head softly as he talked about completely wiping out people. "These people are victims, don't you think? Trapped against their own will? We shouldn't resort to harm.. we should just go Alwin, we can bring this to the council." Freya had never seen eye to eye with Alwin, but for someone who didn't want a war to begin, he certainly seemed to think violence was the answer now. "What has gotten into you.." She said quietly under her breath as she shook her head, she had no idea what he experienced when he went to fix things at the church, but her sinking feeling of something being off was still present. @PhoggyΨυχη

"It wouldn't hurt the people," he said, shaking his head. "The leyline being cleansed wouldn't hurt the people. It would simply lower the magical defenses of the city. We could address the council, but they wouldn't be able to mobilize without their usual bullshit politics. Do you really think they'd help?" Alwin looked at the merchants, "this will give me an opportunity to test something, though. We could set up a merchant-run interim kingdom while we wait for the city to rebuild its defenses." It wouldn't go well with the other kingdoms, but he needed to take action. He needed to protect these people and stop them from falling further into this debauchery. "So, my plan: Cleanse the leylines, establish an interim council of merchants, wait for them to rebuild their defenses, then continue on." @idgafashlee

So you lower the city's magical defenses and then what? Everyone stops being sex fiends? The city's defenses are vulnerable? We wait around and try to help rebuild a city when their leader is gone and there's potentially something darker lingering around?" She felt anger bubbling inside of her, why couldn't he just listen to what she was saying? They needed to ensure their own safety and call for backup, they were out of their element in this kingdom, and there was too much at stake.

Lofn gave Alwin a small and reassuring smile, followed by a nod of agreement, she wanted to back him up. She held back her devilish desires, feeling turned on and excited by watching Alwin's dominance once again, the dominance he once demonstrated when he entered her temple but she had quickly tamed. She didn't demonstrate her thoughts, continuing her vulnerable and innocent demeanor. @PhoggyΨυχη

"So, your plan is to call the council so they send in more people to be turned into sex fiends? Whatever darker thing was around here is long gone. It's moved onto the next kingdom, which means we need to find where it went next. I can follow it along the leylines, but it's faint. It would take a bit to track, but cleansing the darkness from the kingdom would be the first thing for us to do. That would help me track it better. I know what I'm doing. I've done this before." He crossed his arms and shot a look over to Freya. "It's not an easy call, but sitting and waiting for political beauracrats to decide what they want to do about this isn't going to help." @idgafashlee

“How can you be so sure that they’re gone if you never knew what you were looking for to begin with?” She mentally cursed at herself, she was worried and concerned for a guy that had barely shown her an ounce of respect this entire time, she didn’t know what she was thinking. “Fine, do things your way. Trust whatever gut feeling of yours walked us into the cursed trap to begin with.” She threw her hands up in defeat, tired of jumping through hoops for a group of people that were less than grateful at her efforts. She walked over to the corner of the build, sitting herself down in one of the chairs and crossing her arms. If he wanted to get the shipments, she’d let him. @PhoggyΨυχη

Typical royal behavior. Everything has to be done her way. He sighed and rolled his eyes before walking out. The room was awkwardly quiet until he returned a few hours later with the shipment in tow. "Before you ask, no. There was no sex." He took out his family writ: "this is all I needed to negotiate a new deal. Now, as for the cleansing of the leyline, as loathe as I am to admit it, I do need your help, Freya. You're the only other one with a non-corrupted Spirit Guardian, so I need your help here. Ours are mostly compatible, so... You'll need to come with me to the temple." @idgafashlee