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Sep 10, 2017

The Rich are a Funny Bunch

Writing from a DnD oneshot DM’d by the always amazing @scarysans

And the wonderful flustered lesbian gunslinger by the best @oh-look-what-ive-done-now. These pieces are best read together because we constantly split the party.

2,000 gold pieces, why pay when you can sneak on? It’s just for a good time. I wouldn’t be hurting anyone, and it’d get me away from this place. Tradoshia has gotten boring, old and holding some less than desirable memories.

I had seen the entire construction of the ship, The Future’s Voyage, it was truly fascinating. But a better thought to board it. A massive and luxurious ship, and only the finest accommodations.

The rumors of what awaits passengers is tempting, the finest food and entertainment, and of course the passengers themselves are far more interesting to myself.

The dawn breaks, with that, so do the people around.

“Did you hear? I hear…” people’s gossip is only interesting when it is about you, or something very important. The rich are a funny bunch, either enjoying the most confusing thing or being disgusted by the best joys life has to offer.

“I heard the grandest piano player in all of the Liao’Drinson has agreed be on this voyage.”

With the sounds of more people boarding, and the ship and its surroundings coming to life, in the safety of the cargo deck, I don some finer clothes than my usual get up. Pieces picked up from less than polite clients, but all together a rather flattering ensemble.

Going towards the stairs to the upper deck, I run into another. Surprising, but also not so. But she looks to belong, so why sneak aboard? Interest slightly peaked, but my own agenda is currently more important than why someone else choose to be a stowaway. Shock is on her face as well, before she gathers herself and brushes past me and up the stairs. Watching her retreating form, an elf if I’m not mistaken, I turn to look if there is maybe another way up. Not good to draw suspicion of two people walking up from the same place. No other options come to mind, maybe some where, the ship is rather large. Before I can trail the woman,

-Thunk Thunk-

“Aye, do you remember locking this. I can’t remember. Who was in charge, who was here last night?” A gruff voice calls from above the hatch. Damn.

More rustling comes from above. As the other one with me move to hide, my eyes glow, and what others might call a sadistic smile cross my lips, and a whisper I’m sure reaches the other side comes out.

“I suggest you look behind you” the voice different from my own, a similar quality, and yet entirely foreign to my ears.

“What was that? Must have just been one of the obnoxious children of the guests” The sounds continue. More fiddling with the lock.

“Charlie is this what you’re looking for?”

The lock pops, and I slink behind one of the crates. The hatch opens and I suck in a breath, praying that he doesn’t see. Either of us. Where one rat is, there are surely others. With the light streaming down, I can make out the form of a gruff man, human, and surely one to have seen his share of sea days.

“I thought I heard something down here…” he trails off, and the rhythmic sound of a quill checking off spots on a paper fill the room. The steps move further away, possibly making his way from back to front. There is a sudden halt in the sound, a muffled shout before the there is a clatter on the ground.

Getting up, the main threat gone, through unknown reasons, but enough for me. I start making my way towards the stairs, the elven woman hissing through her teeth, “What are you doing?”

“What do we have here?” a black clad man steps forward. The only visible portion of his face, his eyes. At his side rests two knives and a couple vials.

“Oh well well well don’t exactly want to deal with you or you, I'll save this poison for later then.”

Shit. This is not what I needed.

Before ducking away, they throw two daggers. There’s a grunt as one sinks into the elf, and I book it towards the stairs. I don’t like fighting, and running is never not an option.

“You can come here and fucking help me!” I hear from the upper deck. When it becomes a threat to me, I will do something.

He bolts up the stairs behind me, flinging a dagger into my side. Instead of staying there, it reappears in his hand. What the hell?

If you want to play with magic, buddy…

With a curl of my hands, a strange and comforting power begins flowing, a wispy purple, before shooting out at the masked man. He flinches, bowing down a bit. I snarl at him as the elf runs up behind him and pulls out a rapier.

Two daggers slam into my side, the second one shaking me, the spell flickering. Heavy growls sound from me as the elf misses. One more dagger has me stagger down. It’s been awhile since I’ve been knocked out, Marxriel was usually the cause of that happening, and he hasn't been around for years.

Coming to, I see the elf, long hair and green eyes alight with slight concern. Seeing me not dead, she walks off. Getting my head, I notice we seem to have deported, a relief. Away from wherever she went, I begin looking through the body of our attacker. Pocketing his gold, I find a small note held closed by a black ribbon. Getting the attention of the other, we both read it:

You’re goal here is to simply remove the captain from her position before we arrive at Brigmeet. From there, you and two other associates of mine, will also deal with the council members waiting to greet the ship. Any inability to complete these actions will result in no payment and the possible eradication of the contract’s member.

“Maybe we should, inform authorities about this body and this note? Might be a good idea?” It's a simple suggestion, one that would probably work in any other situation. But, given the less than legal circumstance on myself…

“Either way, I think we’re stuck together. As much as I hate to say.” The last part is almost growled.

With a raised brow, “Do you have an issue with tieflings?” And I can't help the bit of disdain leak through. Yes, she saved me, but there are somethings that don't change in people. “No, I just have an issue with other people.” So we have a lone wolf.

“Fair enough.” The quicker an agreement can be made, the faster I can get out of this. I have enough problems to deal with.

“You can call me Cass. Ofriel.” An interesting name. Ofriel… where have I heard it before? Oh, not to mind, it will hardly matter. I don't stay long in people's lives, nor do they stay long in mine.

“Dez.”

“Dez…?”

“Just Dez for now.” The less she knows. Though she already seems to be reluctant about this alliance.

“Given the fact that we aren’t supposed to be on this ship, we should maybe try and just, lay low.”

Resting for just a bit, we collect ourselves and freshen up, a bit of magic cleaning away any traces of a fight. Together we walk up to the top deck, hundreds of people milling around, fancy outfits and crew members bustling around. What a sight. It's mildly overwhelming, the crowds I deal with never reaching more than 20 or so people at a time. But there is a thrill in the number the people.

Cass begins walking towards the back, I look into the crowd. A smile pulls my lips, and begin walking towards where people crowd a bit. Slowly, my gait changes, as does the way I hold myself. Taking in the others around, I mimic and twist their gestures, suiting them to myself. Apparently, adapting works rather well, as it seems to have caught the attention of many of the other guests. Swishing hips and looking at the others dancing, several people move to ask for a dance.

The first to offer a hand, a nobleman’s child and with an air of sophistication.

“May I have this dance?” with practiced confidence, I lift a brow at the boy.

“You may, if I may have a name.”

“My name? Brieane of course.” Accepting the hand, the dance starts slowly. The boy seems shaky on his feet, the confidence when asking gone. Perhaps a crueler smile pulls my lips as I begin leading, but the laughter that follows lacks anything malicious. Slowly he tries to match, and we make our way across the deck. The dance comes to an end, and with a small bow, he winks before turning away. He was cute, I think as I turn around, tail flicking with the momentum, giving a light tap just under his butt. He gives a start, and chuckles and walks off.

Scanning the crowd, I step towards an elven couple. The woman sneers at me, turning back. I murmur,“...racists” and turn on my heel, only to look into Cass’s eyes.

“Did you find anything?”

“No, I’m getting to know the passengers.”

“We need to do something,” her voice is tense, I see she's taking this very seriously. “There is people’s safety at risk.” and I can’t tell if it is for herself or me, but there is a threat in those words. Being too tense draws suspicions, and you can't get anything done if you can't find a person.

“If you can move through a crowd, you can find anyone.” Maybe it’s a bit rude, but knowing a crowd has its advantages, anyone knows that. Strange girl.

The crowd begins murmuring and moving towards the back of the ship. The last of land disappearing on the horizon, the official start of being at sea beginning.

The musicians suddenly stop, and a horn and whistle sound from behind, making me jump just a bit. Turning around, I see a tall human woman, sun kissed skin and hair wavy from a life spent on the sea.

“Well then, hello there. I’m your captain for this voyage.” Her voice is rough and lively, with confidence that no doubt has more bite than bark.

As mummers in the crowd begin breaking out, she gives a huff that is all too familiar

“No no, I'm your captain. I don’t have any interests in any of your own interactions, I just ask that you don’t go to the cargo deck below.”

“After all you snobs wouldn’t even want to, you have all the money you could want.” The last bit under her breath. I couldn’t imagine any of these people, not even Cass if she were a normal passenger, to below deck anywhere other than their rooms.

“But, you’ll find that the first deck below are your quarters, as you all have paid,” I can’t help but chuckle at that. But I would never want to be rich. But I see where the captain is coming from in her dislike of the upper class. I too have had my fair share of experience with the rich and entitled.

Out of the corner of my eye I do see a rather amusing sight. The tall elf I’ve come to be acquainted with, absolutely smitten at the sight of the captain. The lovestruck look is hard to miss, and I can’t help but chuckle at the drop in the serious attitude I’ve come to know from her. Only a few of the woman’s words strike an interest, but I do show my respect and give her my full attention. Why anyone would give her anything less is beyond me.

Cassandra seems in a daze at the end of the captain’s speech, still looking at where she once stood after jumping down from her spot and retreating to her quarters. The crowd moves back, dispersing around the deck and milling around with each other.

Strolling near some kids, well I would certainly call them kids. Never would I see them in my line of work. I watch as the four of them point out and laugh at the other guests. And I certainly can't blame them, the rich are frequently stupid and make fools of themselves.

Moving closer,their eyes are drawn to me, funny as it seems almost everyone has been doing that.

“I see you're enjoying watching the other guests” I chuckle out.

“Why, yes, of course. I mean after all, they are quite hilarious with what ridiculous actions they take. Just look at that one over there”, and the boy points out a woman, low cut dress, trying to poorly seduce and hang off of any man within reach.

“or that one, look at her,” the girl points, snickering. And I see the familiar form of Cassandra, leaning strangely against the railing. A weak attempt at an aura of mystery. What is she doing?

“They think they’re so interesting. I bet she couldn't tell a dagger from a small knife. And that outfit-”

There is only so much I can stand for hearing, especially know how hard she's trying to save everyone's collective asses. Closing my eyes and sighing through my nose, I turn to face the girl.

A grin that could easily be described as predatory pulls my lip up, exposing the elongated canines. “Well I suggest you make better insight into those you laugh at, dear. As she happens to be a very close friend of mine, and holds quite the position, as does the rest of her family.”

Either at my words or the show of teeth, probably both, the girl swallows hard before letting out a nervous laughter.

“Oh course, I mean, after all. She's really quite impressive. With the ability to pull of an outfit like that.” her face is flushed as she tries to avert my stare. People should know their place. Laughing at the woman very obviously trying to gain the favor of someone through sexual means, is very different than pointing out and assuming someone’s life story.

Getting my attention, is one of the human boys of the group, a stylish suit with a vest and boots laced up to his mid calf.

“So tell me, why are you here?” an innocent enough question.

“Perhaps you'll find out another time,” I turn my back and begin walking away, but not before hearing,

“I do always like a mysterious one” in a wistful tone.

Maybe if I dated, or if I even settled. But I’m not someone for long term relationships of any sort. Much less someone you bring home to a wealthy family. I am what you bring to make someone jealous or to get disowned by your family. I am a trophy to these people and nothing more.

Looking out at the deck, several different discussions seem to be going on, important deals most likely. Maybe mingling with these folks will give me better insight for what we’re looking for. An elven woman and a man most certainly her husband seem to be speaking closely with a dwarven individual.

Making my way toward them, just as I become within hearing distance for their conversation, it stops and the woman turns toward me.

“Excuse me, can I assist you?” her voice is curt with a hidden edge.

Caught, words that are not completely false slip out, “Oh, I was just admiring your dress.”

“Why thank you,” she smiles and straightens her dress.

“May I ask your name?”

With all the politeness and proper etiquette I was never raised with, I extend a hand and bow towards the lady, “You may call me Dez.”

Satisfied with the response, she leads me somewhat into the previous conversation,“You see, right now my husband and I are discussing land trade between and this kind dwarven man’s family.”

Giving a polite bow towards the man, the elven woman takes my attention again.

“You may call me m’lady. Or as you were so kind,” I smile at the cheeky response, ”you may call me Landrelia.”

“Landrelia, a lovely name for an even lovelier face,”

“You’re too kind. And this is business in which no one need be kind,” the sharpness of her words catches me off guard, but I do suppose, business is business, and these folks are especially ruthless.

“Thankfully I’m not one to do business.” Stepping away from the conversation, I slip my tail carefully around her leg.

“Now, now. You may want to watch while you put that thing around people’s ankles,” but the tone is anything but disapproving.

Scanning the crowd, there isn’t anyone that seems to stand out. No lone wolves, or anyone particularly strange. Giving a pout, I continue walking around. Seeing nothing else of interest, I make my way back to the open portion of the deck where a few are still dancing.

Two individuals stand out, an older male and a younger one, both in armor and shields. Just watching, strange. Looking closer, I recognize the symbol of Sarenrae on each of them. And the boy’s shield, shaped like the holy symbol as well. The boy, is cute. And there are a few others that I recognize.

Surprisingly, I see Landrelia without her husband. Making my way toward her, she looks and smiles. A hand extended, she takes it.

In her own way, a way of someone used to subtly being in control, she tries to dominates the dance. The music almost seems to pick up and the surrounding nobles watch and back up. It is elegant, but almost a battle. Back and forth, trying to best the other, while still keeping the elements of the dance.

Ending with a bow to each other, and a bow to the spectators.

There is a smile on her lips, “a pleasure, truly.”

The music changes suddenly and she perks up with recognition. A more genuine smile than the last passes her face and she shoots a wink at me. A song I’m not familiar with is enhanced by her voice, gentle a floating. An enchanting sound, that I try to follow. Pulling out my lyre, while not as grand as the elf’s voice, adds a nice touch to the piece. The dancing begins again, not as intense as before, but none the less stunning. The song comes to a close, and she smiles once again. Looking taken aback by either my ability to keep up, or my ability to impress, but she pulls out a kerchief from her pocket. Presenting it with a small bow, she winks and walks off.

It’s been a long while since I last received any favors of a lady. Especially one so formal.

As the sun begins setting, the band plays a softer song, one especially fitting for the sight.

“So, you seem to be having a wonderful time up here.” Is that bitterness, or just annoyance? It’s hard to tell with this one.

“Surprisingly, yes.” It’s not often I get along well with people of this class, especially being treated as if I’m even close to the same standing.

“And as much as I hate you ruin your fun, I think we’re going to have to start making moves. At least when people start clearing out. No?” Ah, straight to business.

“Yes, that fair enough,” it seems I’ve been saying that much more than normal. Though, today has been full of deals that I would probably never make given the choice.

“We need to get the captain’s attention somehow. I was thinking we could grab that body and stick it in front of the door and make an addition to the thief's note. Because I don’t believe we’ll be able to talk to her.” Frustrated for good reason, but getting upset doesn’t help anything. Except maybe in Marxriel’s case, though it just made him hit harder.

“I can at the very least do something to get her attention, she might not be happy about it, but..” playing tricks with magic isn’t my favorite thing in the world to do, and especially not to the captain.

“I don’t think we want her upset at us before we do something, just a thought. So we can maybe slip the note under the door or we can get the body to prove it.”

“Bringing just the note might make it seem as though we are the threats. But dragging up a body will certainly draw attention”

“How do we get her notified and the note for her? Because we can’t get near her and nobody will trust us.”

I watch her studying the office, and maybe the people going in and out of it. Seeing as she has this covered, or at the very least does not require me for the time, I scan through the crowd again.

While rude, the kids did certainly have something right. The drunk and stupid are the best type of people, in the way they are the worst. I spot a man I saw Cass talking to once, obviously drunk with another man.

They’re mumbling and can barely tell what they’re doing, the massive goblets going to their heads.

“Yeees, it was absolutely hilarious and,” his words begins slurring more. “Oh sorry I need a bit of a pick me up,” I watch him rummage around his pockets, shock in his eyes. I continue walking near with a raise brow as he begins asking about a ‘snuff box’.

Walking past, I feel their eyes on me as I brush my tail across both their legs.

“Now that’s what I like to see!” cat calls, now this feels more at home. Though, if actually wearing clothes that cover me can get this type of reaction, I can only imagine how one of my costumes would make them act.

“Hey, you- you wanna come to my cabin tonight?” It’s the man I saw Cass speaking with earlier, I can’t imagine why she would do such a thing.

Coyly I tilt my head, “Depends.”

With confidence only the drunk and wealthy have, one of the men saunters up, wobbly and getting entirely too close for my taste. His breath reeks of alcohol and is blown directly into my face. Either too drunk to notice, or most likely even if he were sober, not one to care, I scrunch up my face.

“Depends on what, sweetheart?” he tries to stretch out the words to make them languid, but just makes a fool of himself.

“On not calling me sweetheart,” there are few things I tolerate, fewer things that are pet names. Not an outright stomp on his foot, but a slow lean before pressing down with my heel.

Turning away, a mumbled and defeated, “well I guess that piece of meat isn’t coming with me.”

The sneer that crosses my face makes many people stay clear of my as I walk off.

A small boy running around the deck and most importantly running to Cassandra surprises me. Watching the interaction, her head shoots up and she gives me a very pointed look. Curiosity peaked, I make my way over. He leads the way to the captain’s quarters, and I can’t help but wonder about the boy. He can’t be more than 12. Opening the door, he steps in and a nervous stutter echos.

“Ma’am, I-I brought them,” I don’t think he’s ever lifted his head.

Stepping into the office, the sight of the captain casually sitting at her desk, feet up on the table and a smile playing on her face.

“Thanks, Nair. Don’t worry, it’s fine” slips out as she tosses the boy a silver piece.

As the boy leaves, I see the two armored guards from before. The younger awkwardly looking around and the other standing stoic.

Seems like Cass made some serious progress in terms of alerting the captain. Carefully dropping the sword and rapier I kept on me, I lift my hands in a gesture of surrender. Lila nods at me as Cass gives a bow.

“Now then, tell me, which one of you is the Ofriel?” Seems like those two have something in common already.

“That would be me,” someone’s voice sounds strained. I look over at her and see the faint blush.

“Ofriel, interesting. Now then, why have you given me this letter? “

“Well it’s kind of a matter a safety-”

“No shit,” aggressive, but not overly so.

“And we wanted to alert you and help in any way we can. We aren’t exactly here to watch people get hurt.”

“Well, you may just be in luck. After all, there’s been no threat on my life yet,” a bitter chuckle, “and according to this letter there’s supposed to be one.”

“The cabin boy, Nair, the one you just say walk out, he came to me a while back talking about how he saw a man and a halfling woman hidden in the cargo deck. I don’t know anymore than that, but the boy might. The ship will be reaching Brigmeet on the morrow. If anything happens to this ship or to the council members of Kai’air, it could mean the destruction of the new treaty between Authoxien(?) and all of Kai’aire.”

“We, will do our best to take care of it.”

There air is tense as we make out leave.

There is a period where we’re at odds. I see no issue in trying to head to the cargo deck at this point, going about the rooms and such would hardly be strange. But Cassandra suggests sneaking down, with the help of a distraction.

A head tilt prompts her to elaborate, “You seem to be quite the eye catcher, so it’s possible that at least I can get down there and wait for you?”

“Fair enough,” as most things tend to be.

“Then it’s a plan. I’ll wait for you,” and unlike most times, I do trust her. It’s been awhile since I’ve actually believed any words said to me.

The sun long set and only a few passengers remain on the upper deck. I walk up to the platform the musicians are set up on, watching them slow and most likely finish playing for the night. Pulling out the pouch of gold from the assassin, “30 gold each if you keep playing. Keep playing and follow my tempo.”

The leader, looks up to me, “And what would you have us do?”

Drawing out the words, in a way to make them lean in just a bit, “I have a bit of an act I do back home, if you can follow the tempo…”

“We can follow anything, we are after all, the best in the Liao’Drinson,” a confidence that isn’t just fueled by cockiness.

“Very glad to hear,” a challenge resting in the last comment. If they really are the best, they wouldn't turn that down.

Sauntering down to the deck, I throw up a few small sparks of magic, I begin slowly swaying my hips, a seductive dance. It's strange to dance in such a public place and not in costume, it's uncomfortable to be without the thin veil that gives me whatever sense of false anonymity. And the distance being on a stage provides, but the best way to get attention, is to be in reach of all that want a touch.

The movements begin flowing together, drawing the attention of the few remaining on the top deck.

As the crowd grows, so does my boldness along with the tempo of the music. Drawing in people in the inner circle, teasing and as flirtatious as I can manage, but it's enough for these people. The crowd grows, distantly I can hear the sounds of people going down a floor to get more people.

“Hey! Look what we’ve got up here. Apparently the life of the party decided to get even better!”

Glancing around, I even see some of the crew watching. Either way, it seems that my routine will still work. I can only imagine how they would react were I fully prepared for this. The moves begin picking up speed and drawing in those close by a cheek or chin, and few kisses and flicks of the tongue.

The show comes to an end, with one last kiss on the cheek. Slowly licking my lips, I give a bow. Many of the viewers a much more flustered than I would expect, but I do suppose they might not be used to such an act. The crowd reluctantly parts, eyes watching the sway of my hips as I move forward, this makes slipping away a bit more troublesome. Inhaling and whispering, just after I start towards the stairs, a small smoke cloud blocks their view. Making my way down the two sets of stairs as quiet as I can, rolling through the hatch of the last set, I pause. From a distance, I can hear the applause. Letting out a breath, I move toward to cargo deck, down the stairs I see Cassandra between some of the crates.

Shuffling closer, she whispers, “There are two people, I know the direction, I don’t know what they’re saying. I think they might be our people,” with that she slowly moves off. Sticking close to her, I’m able to eventually pick up on the two voices she was talking about.

“Are you absolutely certain?” the voice is hushed,

“I don't think-”

Both of them are unsteady, and I can’t make out all of what is being said. They begin start talking about weird things like ‘tears’ and ‘viper’s tongue’ and poisons.

I see Cass slowly pull out the rapier from earlier and coat it with something from a vial, much like the one from the assassin. Handing me one, she instructs me to do the same.

Slinking between boxes and staying what I assume is out of view from where I heard the voices coming from, I can only gawk at Cassandra. Brazenly walking about, almost clumsily, I try to reach out and stop her, but the voices notice first.

“It sees we have company, quickly.” and the small light snuffed out.

Slinking down, I try to listen carefully and stare where the voices were last heard. I manage to make out one of them in the shadows.

As Cass moves forward to the desk, moving to sweep off the vials. Four daggers fly forward, and I see her crash to the floor.

Damn it.

Muscles tense as I hurry to find the other, before taking a deep breath, “Now, now. No need for that right now.”

Looking at the limp body and quickly turn and let loose a small ball of fire at the farther one. Two daggers sink into my side, while another set go wide. Breathing deeply, the impact of the first daggers lessen, the wounds almost closing.

Looking intently at the first one I hit, I feel a surge of arcane power, the same purple energy swirling around my hands before blasting into the halfling’s body. A surge of adrenalin pushes through as I force more energy into the spell, and watch him fall. I rush forward to Cass’s body and another dagger hits me. I give a hiss as I try and stabilize her.

Rushing up to the man, I pull out my rapier, a strange glint on it due to poison coating it. The slash digs deep, him hissing in pain at the poison. I hiss at him as he sinks a blade in my side and my vision goes dark.

Warmth fill me, and I gasp. The pain of the the slashes dissipates as the boy continues pushing out healing magics.

“I’m sorry, but it seems that’s all I’m able to do for now,” he sounds a little disappointed.

“No, no thank you, it’s more than enough. Well, we found those two shady people the boy talked about, and there they are,” I hope she’s doing alright, it seems the cleric used a majority of his magic on me.

“You rest easy now, thank you.”

I see Cass gather up the vials on the table, and head up and decide to make my way back up to the top deck as well. Going straight for the bar. I loath alcohol, and anything that makes me any less in my right mind, but there are some things that need something stronger than just myself. Sauntering up, not even bothering to clean off my clothes, I ask for the strongest drink they'll make while also covering the hiding the taste of alcohol with fruit.

“Uh, that'll be 15 gold,” damn rich people. Placing the rest of the assassin's money on the bar, I take my drink and settle down and watch the moon. The sweet fruity syrup helps ease the burn of the alcohol. I eventually feel someone move up to me, glancing up I see Cass, disheveled and a look of poorly contained jealousy.

“We’re done here, and she says you’re a good dancer.”

“I can teach you if you wish,” the amusement not hidden.

She stomps off and gets a few drinks, and we sit in a companionable silence. It's strange to have someone want to be near you, and not necessarily want anything from you. Drinks long finished, we both head towards the passenger deck, intent on turning in for the night.

Walking down to the lower deck, I remember neither of us have a room. Letting out another sigh, I weigh my options. Strolling forward and picking a door at random, I give a light knock.

Slowly, the door opens, out peers a woman, a light silk nightgown covering her. There is relief at it not being a man, something gentle after today's events are needed.

“Uh, yes. You- you were the dancer weren’t you?” her voice groggy and confused.

I hum in response and she continues, “I must say, I’m sorry I am quite tired,”

“No worries, darling,”

“You were quite impressive, well done. Can I help you?” and I begin trailing a hand under her chin. Her skin feels hot, and I shift my own expression through practiced ease, till she draws me into her room.

She falls asleep before I do, content. I smile at her, a sweet person from what I experienced, and very vanilla. Curling around her, it's nice to be next to someone.

Stretching out, my spine gives a satisfying pop and I roll out of the bed. The woman who so kindly shared her bed with me for the night still fast asleep. Funny how these people have the chance to enjoy everything and choose to sleep through it. Strolling out, fixing myself up with some prestidigitation, I spot Cass. Rumpled, but surprisingly rested looking.

“Did you have fun last night?”

“Why yes, it’s part of my job,” I smirk at the notion.

“Well that’s good.” taking a deep breath, “Do we have anything to do today, besides trying to not get caught as stowaways?”

“I don’t think the captain would allow that at this point.” I watch her duck away at the mention of the captain.

The morning comes around, as do the rest of the passengers. Every once in awhile, I look and see Cass pause in the middle of her conversations- really how is it she’s a stowaway, she looks right at home in these crowds.

I'm not sure if Cass is trying to be subtle. But it's hard to miss the flush the covers her face and the little squeak she makes every time the captain makes an appearance. Cute. It reminds me of the the young women who would sometimes show up at the clubs. Easily flustered and just trying to navigate their feelings. I took it upon myself whenever these types of guests would walk into either mother or mentor them. Whichever one suited the individual.

Watching the woman duck away each time the captain showed up, while endearing, would get her nowhere.

Sliding up beside the elf, I move to shove her in the direction of the captain.

“Are you hitting on her for me?” embarrassed and a tad indignant, though, most would be.

“I can do that for you,” if that’s what she needs. She’s saved my ass frequently in the past 24-hours, and helping her out, in an unconventional way, not outside of what I would do for her.

“Do not, I can’t-”

“Then I suggest you do it for yourself, before I do it for myself,” It’s cruel to play, but it might just motivate her to make a move.

“Oh boy. I’m not exactly experienced- I, I live with my parents, I had no siblings, I didn’t interact with people… I’m not exactly the best flirt,” excuses, excuses. You don’t just, appeal and ease in a crowd or navigating people isn’t something you’re born with. It’s something you pick up, out of necessity in my case, but others just learn it.

“It’s endearing, she might like that.” Very few people don’t have a soft spot of the inexperienced and shy.

“I’m going to just stay here,”

Clicking my tongue, I reach for a hold around the elf. She squirms and struggles, but for now, she's stuck with me.

“Are you kidding me?!”

“You’re going to thank me later,” I saw as I continue dragging her toward where Captain Lila is positioned at the wheel.

“I don’t think I will. I saved your life, you don’t need to do this,” and the volume of her yells drop the closer we get.

Lila turns around as we approach, “Yes, uh, how can I help you?”

She stares at the two of us, most likely the scene Cass is causing, “Ofriel, are you okay?”

“Yes- Yes, ma’am. I am very ok. I’m kind of grappled right now, but that’s okay.”

There’s a crack in her voice, “Um, is there anything we can help you with?”

“Not necessarily right now, I think my crew has everything under control.”

“Okay, that’s great.”

“You uh… both of you are… now, this is a little personal, don’t worry I totally understand and I- and if you don’t want to answer. Are you two dating?”

I hear Cass choke at the question, and I quickly shake my head with a smile.

Both our voices overlapping, denying the question.

“No, it’s okay, I understand, I’m- I’m actually cool with it. It’s fine, don’t worry-”

“We like, just met like yesterday!”

“Oh”

“I don’t date,” and I’m surprised when Cass also says those words. That’s usually what I have to tell others.

“O-kay?” she seems rather confused by, probably all of this.

A smirk plays on my lips, “But I think she might be interested in dating you.”

I hear Cass, growl? Choke, I’m not too sure, but the blush that spreads across the captain’s face is well worth it. They’re both so cute.

In that moment, Cass finds it the perfect time to run away. Slipping out of my grip and booking it away with Lila calling after her.

“People these days are so interesting. She reminds me of the- no, the druid was less uh, shy.” and the captain sounds almost wistful. Curious.

After watching Cass, avoid and stare at Lilia whenever she passed by, I huff. You only live once, and humans have much shorter lives than elves. Walking back towards the captain, I begin speaking, “I don’t think she’ll come up to you. Maybe it’s something you have to chase down. I think she’s a little scared

“She just seems a little, she’s a little new to dating. They all learn eventually, we all do. It’s kind of cute though, to watch them.”

“But if you are interested, she’s rather good,” I don’t catch my words, nor did I think about them before speaking and most certainly how they would sound. Pretending as if I didn’t speak words that sounded like I bedded Cass, I wink towards the captain and walk off. I hear a chuckle and throughout the day I spot the two looking at each other, each time Cass dropping her head.

After Lila returns to her study, I see Cass storm up to me, and I can’t tell if she’s angry or embarrassed.

“Look, that didn’t need to happen”

“I think it did. My line of work is very-”

“I understand it’s your line of work, but I wasn’t looking to get embarrassed in front of nobility. I- I” a sigh,” I guess that’s it then. Just don’t, we don’t need to continue this.”

“This? Which part of this?” she’s so fun to tease.

“The part where you flirt with her for me,” the frustration in her voice keeps building.

“I wasn’t flirting with her at all,”

“You understand what I meant.”

“I don’t believe I do?”

“You can find me if you need me, but please don’t try to grab me again, that would be real nice.”

“Will do,” and she walks off, becoming part of the crowd. I’m sure my expression is similar to a cat at this point, the grin maybe a little sharp, but knowing Cass… I wonder if she’ll get anywhere. I truly hope so. While rough around the edges, she has a good heart.

I start a little at the tap on my shoulder. Turning around, I see Landrelia, once again without her husband. I thought noble couples usually stayed close to each other? The worry is forgotten when she extends a hand. The dance is much different this time, not nearly as much competition in it.

“I can’t imagine how horrifying those two assassins must have been, what with the woman and the man.”

“Surely nothing you haven’t seen before,” she does seem like a rather capable woman, and one of such status, surely there have been attempts on her life before.

“Ah, that you sure are right. As a woman of my stature, managing these things can be quite interesting. Especially three assassins to take out council members.” and her voice slowly sharpens as the sentence progresses. Slowly realization dawns on me, but before I can react...

Everything goes a little bit hazy, like being drunk. But it feels so nice, and Landrelia sounds so sweet. The words she’s saying are muffled, but I nod anyway. Leading me below deck, I smile as she opens a door and pulls me in.

She's saying something, it sounds nice.

“So you see, it really is quite interesting meeting two people who could somehow stop an entire plan for defeating this entire council. I could have taken them all out. You see, the council has been oh so against giving me and my delightful husband our land deals that we want. I’m afraid we can’t really have anyone going into it either.”

There’s a moment where everything becomes clear, and everything blacks out.

“Now then, sleep tight. It is really such a shame that you’re going to have to stay here on board this ship the whole time. I’m going to go take care of your friend now.”

I wake with a start. Quickly taking everything in, I snarl. She's the one behind this. And she put a damn charm on me.

Cass is holding something weird and smoking, and something just grazes Landrelia from it.

“Now, now, I don’t think you want to do that.”

Another shot fires, lodging something into her chest.

“I don’t know what the hell you have, but I’m certainly making it out of here alive,” she snarls before shooting a third bolt into Cass’s chest.

Getting up, I feel a now much more familiar every pulse through me, the swirling purple resting around my hands before shooting Landrelia.

“Now, now, didn’t we have such a nice time?” an almost regretful smile on her face causes my focus to drop for a second.

Frustrated, I try again. She just sidesteps the beam as if it were harmless. The audacity. She looks at me, some incantation spilling from her lips as everything tenses and almost freezes up. Shaking it off and baring my fangs I stare down at her.

“My, my, my, isn’t that appauling.”

“Catch me if you can,” the smirk on her face makes my blood boil.

With a wink, she leaves.

Dropping beside the body on the group, adrenaline makes my hands shaky, but I think she’ll be ok. That bitch.

Slamming open the door, dread fills me hearing the shouted, “Land ho! There it is!”

Murmurs of the passengers break out and I can see a few crew members running down the stairs.

“What was that-” confusion

“Get her!”

Collecting myself, “Help, her!” I shout before rushing up the stairs. Where is she. Scanning through the crowd, I almost miss her, but her hair catches my eye just as it had the first time I saw her.

Cleaned up and casually moving about the ship and other passengers, she looks towards me.

“Yes, Dez, come over here, won’t you?” and her voice almost soothing but I shake

“Oh how sad that is,” and she turns toward a man I’m not familiar with and pats him on the shoulder, telling him something.

“Landrelia!” my voice louder than it has ever been, “you fucking get your ass over here! You’re not getting away with this!” The crowd is taken aback, what a sight to see.

She feigns being offended at my words, “How could you?” How could I?

The man next to her pulls a crossbow, the bolt sinking into my side. And i just barely manage to shake off whatever poison they lathered it with. I feel more than see Cassandra run up, thank the gods she’s alright.

Next to her is the young cleric, and he, heals her?

The boat is slowing, and Landrelia takes it as her leave. Shrugging off part of her gown, she reveals a set of leather armor before jumping ship.

As the water breaks, I shout, “Captain! We have her, she’s jumped ship!”

Eyeing the man who shot me, I duck into the crowd, which is surprisingly still there. The bow once again pulled, a second bolt sinks in next to the first.

Whatever it is Cass is carrying, blasts the man before turning towards the cleric and shouting.

A blue door shape materializes on the edge of the ship, and out steps the captain, a red cape glittering and a long bow drawn. Hat discarded and hair flowing behind her, she is a fierce sight.

With speed I would never expect from any mortal creature, four arrows are fired,

“Now then, we can’t have passengers leaving the ship without captain’s orders, after all it would be-” one arrow flies,

“A pain,” two,

“In my ass,” three,

“To deal with the paperwork.” the fourth hits and a cry comes from the water. Running over to the edge, slowly blood dyes the water and the body with the arrows sinks out of view. Spinning around, I run up to that man who kept shooting me, rapier drawn and ready. One smooth slash has him stumble over the railing. The ship docks, and the council members are waiting to greet the passengers.

Just before departing, Lila pulls us aside.

I can’t tell what she spoke to Cassandra about, but I do see the kiss she gives her.

Nodding towards me, she makes her way over.

“Despite what you may think, you have a good heart, and your kindness speaks volumes. No matter who you try to fool.” It shocks me to hear that. From anyone.

We both watch as the ship departs, disappearing into the horizon.

The council members converse briefly, giving welcomes and so forth. But they congratulate the two of us. Hearing stories of what we did, when was there time for that?

“Is the name Landrelia familiar?” remembering her mentioning something about the council and them not cooperating with them.

The warlock smiles and explains how Ioun told him of an assassination attempt. Another member brings up some of the failed land deals with the woman. Bringing up her husband, they all look surprised.

“She never had a husband,” this information shocks me. Looking around, I spot the man in the crowd, and he looks at all of us before disappearing. Fuck.

#deer arts #writing #DnD #Dez #with sunshine #with poodleboi

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